Fri May 23 23:20:00 UTC 2025: ## Cardinals Look to Mikolas to Spark Series Win Against Diamondbacks

**ST. LOUIS, MO** – The St. Louis Cardinals are hoping veteran pitcher Miles Mikolas can continue his recent strong performances and provide a boost as they kick off a weekend series against the Arizona Diamondbacks tonight at Busch Stadium. Both teams are looking to snap a two-game losing streak.

Mikolas, 36, has rebounded from a rocky start to the season, allowing one earned run or less in four of his last five outings. This resurgence has given the Cardinals confidence, and they’re favored to win the first five innings of tonight’s game.

He will face Zac Gallen. While Gallen has maintained his strikeout ability, other metrics suggest he may be vulnerable. His ERA and underlying statistics like barrel rate and hard-hit rate are at career highs. The Cardinals’ offense, currently ranked seventh in runs per game, could capitalize on these weaknesses.

While Gallen’s off-speed pitches remain effective, the Cardinals’ lineup is strong against them. Conversely, Mikolas’ ground ball-inducing style is expected to be effective against the Diamondbacks, who rank among the league leaders in ground ball rates.

In addition to backing the Cardinals in the first five innings, analysts also suggest betting on Nolan Arenado to record over 1.5 bases. Arenado has a history of success against Gallen and is considered one of the Cardinals’ best hitters against off-speed pitches.

Early betting trends indicate the Cardinals have been successful at covering the 1st Five Innings (F5) Run Line in their recent games.

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