Free MLB Picks Today: Miami Marlins vs Kansas City Royals 6/7/23

The Kansas City Royals (18-43) are on the road to face the Miami Marlins (34-28) at loanDepot park on Wednesday with the home team in position for a sweep of the three-game Interleague series.

The Marlins lead the series 2-0 after winning 6-1 on Tuesday, their fifth straight victory overall. Starter Jesus Luzardo went seven innings, allowing one run on two hits and striking out eight, to get the win. Jesus Sanchez went 1 for 4 with a solo home run in the win. Nick Pratto was 1 for 3 with a double and one run for the Royals.

ON THE MOUND

Jordan Lyles (0-9, 6.89 ERA) is in line to get the start for Kansas City. The RHP allowed one run over five innings in his last start, a 7-2 home defeat against the Rockies on Friday. He yielded two hits while striking out eight and walking one in the no-decision.

Right-hander Edward Cabrera (4-4, 4.50 ERA) is on the mound for Miami. It’s his first appearance of the season against the Royals. In his last start on Friday, Cabrera got the win at home against the Athletics. He threw six scoreless innings and gave up four hits, striking out 10 and walking one in the 4-0 victory.

AT THE PLATE

Over the last five games, Kansas City has averaged 3.0 runs a game, a small drop compared to their season average of 3.9. Against right-handed pitchers like Cabrera this season, the Royals have a .663 OPS, fifth lowest in MLB.

Salvador Perez is the team’s best hitter against right-handers with a .893 OPS in 158 at-bats. Miami is averaging 7.6 runs per game in the last five, up from 4.0 for the season, with an improved slash line (.312/.364/.500).

The Fish have a .698 OPS against right-handers in 2023. With a .983 OPS over 157 at-bats, Luis Arraez has been their best hitter against right-handers.

HOME AND AWAY

Kansas City is on a three-game losing streak in road games, bringing their record to 9-20 in 2023. The Royals have scored 3.5 runs per game away from home, while allowing 4.7 runs. Miami has won five in a row at their home park.

The Fish are 20-13 at home this season, averaging 3.8 runs per game while surrendering 4.3. In eight games between the teams at loanDepot park, each club has won four, though Miami has the scoring advantage with an average final margin of 3.9-2.9.

STANDINGS UPDATE

The Royals are fifth in the AL Central, 13 games behind the division-leading Twins. The Marlins are second in the NL East, three games behind the Braves.