Orioles (Akin, 2-10, 6.93) vs Phillies (Wheeler, 14-9, 2.83)

Just 2 games back of the Braves for top spot in their division, the Phillies need to take this series vs Baltimore to stay in the running. Their ace, Zack Wheeler is on the mound on Wednesday. Wheeler had a rough month in August, but it was probably fatigue. He has already pitched 200+ innings and had very long starts. In September, his starts seem to have been limited to around 6 innings and he has returned to form, allowing only 2 runs in three outings.

Keegan Akin has had a dismal season and is worse on the road. He did pitch 6 scoreless innings against the Jays, only to be smacked around in the 7th. Otherwise, his latest starts have been short and poor. Both bullpens have been poor and overused, but the Orioles’ is most likely to have more work with Akin on the mound.

It is hard to find a positive stat for the Orioles. They are 2-8 in their last 10 games and 25-52 away. They are 26-51 vs. right-handed pitching. The Phillies’ bats are very solid lately. They can struggle vs lefties but are better lately in this regard. With Wheeler on the mound, they are a huge favorite, but are worth the extra runs in this game. Take the Phillies -1.5.