This is a Free #MLB play on the #STL #Cardinals

The Pirates beat the Cardinals by a score of 4-1 on Opening Day, but I expect a different outcome here in the second game of the series. The Pirates hand the ball to veteran southpaw Jonahton Niese, and he has a history of struggling against St. Louis.

Niese was lit up for eight runs on 16 hits over 12 2/3 inning in two starts versus the Cards last year. He's also making the move away from pitcher friendly Citi Field, and hasn't had much success in his new home at PNC Park. He's posted a 6.75 ERA in five starts in Pittsburgh since 2013. The 29 year old got shelled in four appearances this Spring, going 0-2 with an 8.40 ERA.

The Cardinals counter with Michael Wacha, who was 2-1 with a 3.97 ERA in four starts versus the Pirates last year. Wacha was also good on the road, going 10-4 with a 3.53 ERA in 17 starts.

Matt Carpenter drove in the Cardinals only run in Game 1, and he's 4-for-8 lifetime versus Niese.

Take STL.

GL,

Jesse Schule