Dodgers at Diamondbacks Under 8 1/2
Alex Wood and Zack Greinke rank among the top six starters in the National League in my view.
So I’m surprised to see a total above 8 listed next to their names for this matchup. Yes, the Dodgers and Diamondbacks have potent offenses. But some of that offense is going to be negated by the roof being closed at Chase Field for this game. That’s a huge plus for pitchers. There also will be around a nine mph wind blowing in.
Oddsmakers may be skeptical about Wood’s arm since his fastball had recently lost some steam. But Wood looked strong in his last start this past Thursday holding the Braves to one run in six innings at SunTrust Park, which has played as a hitter’s park.
Just to make sure that Wood’s strength was still there, the Dodgers gave him a bullpen session Sunday. That session went well. I’m confident his velocity still is there. If it is, then this number is a full run too high.
Greinke has been the nuts at home going 10-0 with a 2.39 ERA at Chase this season. Greinke has struck out 95 in 79 innings in his home outings.
The Dodgers have an elite bullpen, while the Diamondbacks relief corps is underrated.
