Ronald Acuna Jr. will be looking to extend his 16-game on-base streak as the Atlanta Braves (52-27) host the Minnesota Twins (40-41) at Truist Park on Wednesday with the home team looking to sweep the three-game Interleague series.
The Braves lead the series 2-0 after winning 6-2 on Tuesday, their fourth straight head-to-head victory. Starter Bryce Elder got the win, giving up two runs on four hits over six innings.
Acuna Jr.’s on-base streak is now at 16 as he went 2 for 4 with two solo home runs in the win. Austin Riley added a home run and two RBIs.
Joey Gallo was 2 for 4 with a double and one run for the Twins.
ON THE MOUND
Kenta Maeda (1-4, 6.86 ERA) is in line to get the start for Minnesota. The RHP threw five scoreless innings in his last start, a 4-1 road win over the Tigers on Friday.
He was credited with the win, giving up three hits while striking out eight and walking two.
For Atlanta, right-hander Michael Soroka (0-1, 8.38 ERA) will toe the rubber. It’s his first appearance of the season against the Twins.
In his last start on June 4, Soroka took a no-decision on the road against the Diamondbacks. He threw 3.2 innings and gave up five runs on seven hits, striking out two and walking four in the 8-5 win.
AT THE PLATE
Over the last five games, Minnesota has averaged only 3.0 runs a game, down from their season average of 4.2, while slashing worse across the board (.225/.295/.370).
Against right-handed pitchers like Soroka this season, the Twins have a .724 OPS.
Byron Buxton is the team’s strongest performer against right-handers with a .799 OPS in 169 at-bats.
Atlanta is averaging 6.8 runs per game in the last five, up from 5.5 for the season, with an improved slash line (.315/.380/.657).
The Braves have a .808 OPS against right-handers in 2023, highest in the league. With a .603 SLG over 252 at-bats, Matt Olson has been their best power hitter against right-handers.
HOME AND AWAY
Minnesota is 17-22 in away games in 2023, scoring 4.0 runs per game while allowing 3.7 runs. Atlanta has won six in a row at home.
The Braves are 26-15 at home this season, averaging 5.5 runs per game while surrendering 4.5.
STANDINGS UPDATE
The Twins lead the AL Central by zero games over the Guardians. The Braves lead the NL East by six games over the Marlins.
SportsTips’ MLB Pick:
Atlanta Braves (-165)
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*Odds correct at time of publication, courtesy of BetMGM.
