Regardless that the Dodgers and Padres have performed two video games, the actual MLB opening day isn’t till Thursday, so it’s time to start out 2024 opening day pitching matchups. Clearly, opening day is when groups ship their aces to the mound. That normally results in some top-notch pitching matchups.
Prime 5 Opening Day Pitching Matchups in 2024
MLB followers would possibly discover that this yr’s opening day matchups are somewhat completely different from what we’re used to seeing. Pitchers like Justin Verlander, Max Scherzer, or Clayton Kershaw who’re among the many greatest starting pitchers in MLB history aren’t scheduled to pitch on opening day this yr.
As a substitute, it’ll be a brand new crop of opening-day starters. Nonetheless, there have been nonetheless 2024 opening-day pitching matchups that we needed to spotlight as can’t-miss matchups for MLB followers.
Rockies vs Diamondbacks: Kyle Freeland vs Zac Gallen
After Zac Gallen’s postseason heroics in getting the Diamondbacks to the World Sequence final yr, it was a no brainer for him to be Arizona’s starter on opening day. He’s a bonafide ace and arguably the largest purpose why the D’Backs reached the World Sequence final yr.
To be truthful, Kyle Freeland makes this matchup fascinating too. The lefty has had a rollercoaster of a profession in Colorado. Nonetheless, He received 17 video games again in 2018 and is able to performing like a frontline starter.
Yankees vs Astros: Nestor Cortes vs Framber Valdez
Clearly, a Gerrit Cole vs Justin Verlander matchup would have drawn extra headlines. However there’s nothing mistaken with Nestor Cortes and Framber Valdez squaring off on opening day for 2 of the very best groups within the American League.
Cortes was sensible in 2022 and will probably be hoping that opening day is the beginning of a bounce-back season. Valdez, in the meantime, has been an all-star in back-to-back years and tossed a no-hitter final season. He might not be on Verlander’s stage, however he’s earned the opening-day starter this yr.
Cubs vs Rangers: Justin Steele vs Nathan Eovaldi
The Rangers will increase their championship banner on opening day, and so they’ll do it with Nathan Eovaldi on the mound. It’s a well-deserved opening day begin for Eovaldi, who was spectacular throughout the postseason final yr. He was the profitable pitcher in 5 of his six playoff begins, tying the report for many wins in a single postseason.
Eovaldi was additionally an all-star and an All-MLB Second-Workforce choice in 2023, so he’s coming off arguably his greatest season. However don’t sleep on Justin Steele, who was additionally an all-star for the Cubs in 2023. The lefty received 16 video games final yr and completed with a 3.06 ERA. Whereas he might not be a well known commodity exterior of Chicago, he’s earned the opening-day begin in opposition to the defending champs.
Blue Jays vs Rays: Jose Berrios vs Zach Eflin
These might not be the largest names in baseball proper now, however don’t overlook that Jose Berrios is a two-time all-star whereas Zach Eflin led the American League in wins final yr. They’re additionally the aces on two groups with playoff aspirations.
To be truthful, Berrios is benefitting from Kevin Gausman being unavailable for the Blue Jays. However he’s nonetheless a reputable frontline starter. Eflin, however, received misplaced within the shuffle with the Phillies early in his profession however had a breakout season with the Rays final yr. With Tyler Glasnow gone, he’s now the chief of Tampa’s rotation and has massive expectations heading into 2024.
Braves vs Phillies: Spencer Strider vs Zack Wheeler
That is undoubtedly the very best pitching matchup on opening day this yr. Not surprisingly, it comes within the recreation between two of the highest contenders within the Nationwide League. Extra importantly, each Spencer Strider of the Braves and Zack Wheeler of the Phillies have reputable Cy Young hopes.
Strider was the MLB chief in each wins and strikeouts final season whereas additionally being a First-Workforce All-MLB choice. He’s certainly the very best pitcher in baseball proper now on the subject of putting out opposing batters. In fact, Wheeler isn’t far behind in that regard. He’s additionally a confirmed big-game pitcher. On opening day, Wheeler is certain to have his greatest stuff and find yourself in a pitcher’s duel with Strider.
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