Reds vs. Marlins Prediction and Odds for Tuesday, August 2 (Garrett Due for Bounce-Back Performance)

Two of my favorite young pitchers square off in Miami today as Graham Ashcraft takes on Braxton Garrett. Thus, I'm conflicted.

Like a parent with just one sweet treat remaining, I'll try to pick my favorite child but know that I'm truly conflicted.

Ashcraft allowed three earned runs to the Marlins last week and in total, limited three of his last four opponents to three runs or fewer. His underlying metrics suggest he's been unlucky this year, though the Reds are 4-1 in his road outings.

Garrett suffered through his worst start of the year against these Cincinnati Reds, allowing five runs and seven hits over five innings. He did strike out eight batters and has a 3.21 ERA at home, so Garrett aims for a bounce-back performance.

Which young pitcher has the edge? Can Miami pick up a much-needed home win to keep its dim playoff hopes alive or will Cincy shut the door?

Here are the odds from WynnBET Sportsbook to analyze this Reds vs Marlins matchup:

Reds vs Marlins Odds, Run Line and Total

Run Line:

• Reds +1.5 (-185)
• Marlins -1.5 (+152)

Moneyline:

• Reds: +123
• Marlins: -133

Total:

• 7.5 (Over +100/Under -120)

Reds vs Marlins Prediction and Pick

Miami has four straight losses as a home favorite and desperately needs a win today. Their dim playoff chances are dwindling, and Braxton Garrett needs his best effort to keep the Marlins in the hunt.

Garrett has an improved repertoire and I think he's due for an excellent outing. He gave up four runs with two outs in the first inning to these Reds last week, but otherwise has been nails. Overall, he had a 3.00 ERA in July and that includes giving up five runs to Cincy. In his last three starts, Garrett has 30 strikeouts in just 17 innings, so he's been sensational at generating swings-and-misses.

On the other end, I have to admit Ashcraft is struggling. He's got a 6.63 ERA over his past eight starts and while Miami struggles against right-handed pitchers, I think they scratch some runs across the board tonight.

I'll back the Marlins as I expect Garrett to outduel Ashcraft. Cincinnati averages the sixth-most strikeouts per game against left-handed pitchers and with how well Garrett is throwing, I love him to clear his strikeout prop as well. You're my favorite child Braxton, don't blow it.

Pick: Marlins (-133) and Braxton Garrett Over 5.5 Strikeouts (+104)

Follow all of Joe Summers' betting picks here.