Last season, Jack Flaherty emerged as focal point of the Cardinals’ pitching rotation. After a tough start to 2019, he appears to be that guy once again. In his last six starts, he has an ERA of 0.94, and opponents are hitting just .144 off of him while striking out 11.5 times per nine innings.

The Royals counter with starter Glenn Sparkman, who has seen vastly different results at home and away. On the road, his ERA is 9.00, but at home it is 3.00. He is giving up about 60 percent fewer home runs in Kansas City and will be facing a St. Louis team that is 23rd since the All-Star break in runs per game.

The Cardinals back up Flaherty will a bullpen that ranks fifth in team ERA, while the Royals have improved their relief-pitching situation, ranking 11th in bullpen ERA since the All-Star break.

With the Cardinals having played 11 of their last 14 games Under the total and the Royals starting a pitcher who fares much better at home, this has the makings of a sneaky pitcher’s duel.

The play: Cardinals-Royals, Under 9 runs.