Both the Nationals and the Cardinals fell short of a wild‑card berth this season, turning the Friday game into a de‑facto test of who can finish the year on a high note.
Washington’s left‑hander Cade Cavalli arrives in St. Louis riding a strong recent run – he is 4‑0 in his last seven starts and has allowed just six runs over his previous 36 innings, prompting a DraftKings line of –111 for the Nats.
St. Louis starter Kyle Leahy, who struggled early in a recent outing against Colorado by surrendering five runs in 2 2/3 innings, rebounded by shutting out the Blanco Sox for three innings, suggesting he may have found his rhythm ahead of the Friday start.
Betting analysts at the Post, including veteran handicapper Jeffrey “Box” Springs, have recommended a $50 wager on Cavalli and the Nationals, citing the pitcher’s recent form and the favorable odds.
The game also serves as a reminder of the volatile nature of baseball betting; the author notes a recent $50 bet on the Oakland Athletics that resulted in a loss, underscoring the risk inherent in daily wagers.