As we approach the highly anticipated series between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Philadelphia Phillies set for July 9-11, 2024, at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia, both teams want to make a strong statement heading into the All-Star break. The Dodgers enter the series with an impressive 55-36 record, while the Phillies boast an even better 58-32 record.
The Dodgers currently lead the National League West division and have performed well on the road this season, going 27-17. The Phillies have also dominated their division and have a 7.5-game lead over the Atlanta Braves. They have the best home record in baseball at 33-14 heading into the series.
Both teams’ impressive records set the stage for what promises to be an exciting and competitive series between two of the National League’s powerhouses. The outcome of this series probably won’t have significant implications for either team, as there are still a lot of baseball games to be played after the All-Star break.
Projected Starting Pitchers
The series opener on Tuesday, July 9, is expected to feature a compelling pitching matchup. The Dodgers will likely send right-hander Bobby Miller to the mound, while the Phillies are set to counter with their ace, right-hander Zack Wheeler. Wheeler has been crucial to Philadelphia this season, while Miller will be looking to get back on track after struggling in his last few outings.
Gavin Stone is expected to start the second game against Cristopher Sanchez, and Brandon Knack will start in the finale vs Aaron Nola.
Dodgers Injury Report
Both teams have been dealing with injuries as they enter this crucial series. The Dodgers will be without position players Mookie Betts, Max Muncy, and outfielder Jason Heyward, who recently injured his knee.
Series and Game Moneyline Odds
The Dodgers are rarely underdogs, but oddsmakers have the Phillies as slight series favorites at -145. Today’s MLB money lines peg them as -160 favorites to win the opening game of the three-game set.
Heading into the All-Star Break
Both teams are in strong positions as they approach the All-Star break:
The Dodgers are once again proving to be one of the top teams in the National League. Led by the phenomenal Shohei Ohtani, who boasts 27 home runs and a .320 batting average, they’ll be looking to maintain their momentum through this series and into the break.
The Phillies are having an outstanding season. Bryce Harper is back in the lineup and is batting .303 batting with 20 home runs.
This series presents an opportunity for both teams to make a statement before the All-Star break. The Dodgers will aim to prove their road prowess against a tough Phillies team, while Philadelphia looks to leverage their home-field advantage to solidify their position as one of the NL’s top contenders.
As the baseball world turns its attention to this clash of titans, fans can expect high-quality baseball and potentially series-altering performances from stars on both sides.
