If not for an error-filled top of the sixth against a team that was being no-hit at that point, yesterday’s Braves-Rays under more likely brings a different result. But that’s how the week concluded, and we start anew on Monday.
Speaking of starting anew, I’ll use that as a segue into tonight’s first over/under of the week — fittingly, one of the starting pitchers is in his first year with a new team.
That would be Tyler Alexander of the Milwaukee Brewers, set to start this series opener with the former division rival Detroit Tigers (the Brewers used to be in the AL Central, younger folks). He squares off with the reigning American League Cy Young Award winner — oh, not to mention pitching Triple Crown winner — Tarik Skubal.
Believe it or not, I’m more attached to this game because of Alexander than Skubal. Yes, the Tigers’ ace just etched one of the best seasons by a pitcher in recent memory, but we pretty much know what we’re going to get.
Skubal’s been as consistent as anyone, pitching into the sixth and yielding no more than three earned runs in 28 of his last 35 starts dating to the beginning of last year (including playoffs).
After a disappointing showing on opening day, Skubal has bounced back nicely his last couple of outings, compiling 11 1/3 innings of quality pitching while allowing three runs and punching out 14.
For his next turn, he sees a Milwaukee lineup that ranks 22nd in baseball with a team .621 OPS against left-handed pitching. While it’s still early in the season, this is significant because the Brewers have logged more at-bats with a lefty on the hill than any other ballclub.
Additionally, the Brew Crew have launched only four of their 17 home runs this season off a left-hander — that’s in 235 at-bats, to be specific.