Pirates vs. Phillies Prediction and Odds for Friday, August 26 (Don't Be Shocked to See Runs Scored in Philly)

The Philadelphia Phillies will be looking in their rear view mirror the next few weeks as they desperately hold on to a wild card spot in the National League.

They should be able to breath a sigh of relief this weekend, when they start a favorable three-game series at home against the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Let's take a look at the odds for the series-opening game on Friday night.

Pirates vs. Phillies Odds, Run Line and Total

Pirates vs. Phillies Prediction and Pick

Zack Wheeler (3.07 ERA) will be getting the start for the Phillies today, and despite his strong season, I'm going to bank on him giving up at least a couple of runs today.

Wheeler has struggled in his last two outings, giving up 10 earned runs in his last 11.1 innings pitched. The Pirates, surprisingly, managed to a get a few off him in his last start against Pittsburgh as well, giving up two earned runs against them on July 28.

I'm aiming at the OVER in this game, so if Wheeler can give up just a couple, we're in a good spot.

Bryse Wilson (5.74 ERA) gets the start for the Pirates, and even if he survives the start, Pittsburgh will have to turn to its 27th ranked bullpen. Philadelphia's bullpen isn't a whole lot better, ranking 18th in bullpen ERA this season.

Let's sit back, and root for some runs in this one.