2025-06-30 Cardinals at Pirates Matchup Preview

Starting Pitching Matchup

Erick Fedde is slated to take the mound for the St. Louis Cardinals, while Andrew Heaney will be pitching for the Pittsburgh Pirates. Fedde's repertoire is built upon a sinker-slider combination designed to induce ground balls and limit hard contact. The effectiveness of his sinker will be key, as its movement and velocity dictate his ability to keep the ball in the yard. Heaney relies more on deception and off-speed pitches, primarily a changeup and curveball, to disrupt hitters' timing. His success hinges on his ability to locate these pitches effectively and keep hitters guessing.

Cardinals' Hitting Approach

The Cardinals' offense, collectively, showcases a seasoned approach with an average age of 28 years. Their overall offensive capabilities are reflected in their team weighted runs created plus, showing the total offensive value that this team can bring. The Cardinals' batters will need to be patient against Heaney, forcing him to throw strikes and capitalizing on any mistakes. Identifying his tendencies early in the game will be crucial to their success.

Pirates' Hitting Approach

The Pirates' offense also carries an average age of 28 years. Their team weighted runs created plus is a significant indicator of their total offensive capabilites. Against Fedde, the Pirates will need to avoid being overly aggressive early in the count. Working the count and forcing Fedde to elevate his sinker or rely more heavily on his secondary pitches will be key to generating run-scoring opportunities.

Pitch Usage and Hitting Success

Fedde's effectiveness against the Pirates will depend on how well he can command his sinker. The Pirates hitters must be able to sit back on this pitch and drive it. Heaney will need to mix his pitches effectively against the Cardinals, preventing them from keying in on any one offering. The Cardinals' hitters have demonstrated an ability to adjust to different pitch types throughout the season, so Heaney will need to be unpredictable in his pitch selection.

Defensive Outlook

Both teams' defensive metrics will play a crucial role in the outcome of the game. Solid defense can help to minimize damage and prevent extra base runners, turning potential rallies into routine outs. Errors can be extremely costly, and which team can maintain defensive focus will have a significant impact on the game's momentum.

Bullpen Considerations

The bullpen performances for both teams will be essential, especially if either starting pitcher has a short outing. The ability to bridge the gap between the starter and the closer can be critical in close games. Each team's bullpen must be ready to come in and throw strikes and limit any potential damage.

Prediction

Given Fedde's ability to induce ground balls and the Cardinals' overall offensive efficiency, they have a slight edge. However, Heaney's experience and guile could keep the Pirates in the game. The Pirates will need to capitalize on any opportunities the Cardinals give them to keep this a close game. The Cardinals offense will be able to put up just enough runs for the win.

Cardinals 5, Pirates 4