By Ryan Gilbert
MLB Pitcher Strikeout Props #1: Return of the Gons
Tony Gonsolin (LAD) over 2.5 strikeouts (-130 @ BetMGM) vs. COL
Tony Gonsolin returns from the injured list tonight to face off against the Rockies at Dodger Stadium. He is only expected to pitch three or four innings, but that should be all he needs to get three (or more) strikeouts.
Gonsolin has made two starts against the Rockies this season. He struck out three batters in three innings at Coors Field back on April 9th in his first start of the season — we’d take an outing like that tonight. On top of that, he had six strikeouts in five innings — including striking out the side in the second inning — on July 31st at Coors Field.
He had two strikeouts in two innings in his rehab start and should be able to get at least three tonight against a weak Colorado lineup that’s struck out the sixth-most (25.2%) against RHP over the past month.
MLB Pitcher Strikeout Props #2: Aaron Yesla
Aaron Nola (PHI) over 5.5 strikeouts (-139 @ Unibet) vs. HOU
Aaron Nola has a chance to help end the Phillies’ postseason drought tonight. They can clinch a playoff berth with a win or a Brewers loss, but it’d be much more fun if it’s the former.
Nola has stepped up as of late, at least in the strikeout department. He had eight strikeouts in each of his last three starts and has 6+ strikeouts in 24 of 31 starts this season.
Houston doesn’t strike out a lot, but the Astros don’t have anything to play for and a handful of pitchers on Nola’s level or lower got 6+ strikeouts against them recently: Zac Gallen (6), Austin Voth (6), Dean Kremer (6), Kyle Bradish (10).
Nola is going to exorcise his September demons tonight in October. I’d take him over 6.5 strikeouts (7+ in 21/31 starts) and 7.5 (17/31 starts) to climb the ladder as well.
MLB Pitcher Strikeout Props #3: Respect your Elders
Bryce Elder (ATL) over 4.5 strikeouts (-160 @ DraftKings) vs. MIA
Bryce Elder has taken full advantage of his chance to start for the Braves. He’s been up and down from the minors this season but struck out six batters in all three of his September starts. On the season, Elder has 42 strikeouts in 49 innings.
Elder has made three starts against the Marlins, striking out 20 batters in 17.2 innings. He had six strikeouts in six innings on September third, 10 in seven innings on August 14th, and four in 4.2 innings on April 24th.
The Marlins strike out the 12th-most vs. RHP (22.9%) this season and ninth-most (24.9%) in the last month. Elder has a chance to all but secure the NL East for the Braves tonight and should do so with at least five or six strikeouts.
thanks so much for providing the platform for these voices to be heard!!