2023 Spring Training officially begins on February 24 with a pair of Cactus League games. Next, all 30 Major League clubs play Cactus League and Grapefruit League games on February 25. One of the highlights of the Grapefruit lineup is the matchup between the New York Yankees and the Philadelphia Phillies, always a favorite with the MLB odds.
Both teams are looking for some revenge after how their seasons ended last year. The Yankees saw a quick exit in the American League Championship Series as the Houston Astros swept the series. The Phillies then met the Astros in the World Series before ultimately losing.
The Yankees and Phillies make for good MLB picks and will now look to get the new season started on the right foot with Saturday’s game. As they continue to finalize their lineups, which will impact the Yankees vs Phillies odds, both are putting their heavyweights out there to secure the win.
New York Yankees vs. Philadelphia Phillies Odds
The Phillies and Yankees have proven to be worthy adversaries, but New York has a slight advantage in overall wins. These two played five Spring Training games last season, with the Yankees taking three. However, this doesn’t mean it’s time to make a New York Yankees prediction for Saturday’s game.
Both teams had exceptional seasons last year and are ready to put their new playbooks to the test. They are fairly evenly balanced against the spread and the Yankees vs Phillies odds overall, and this game will come down to one good smack of the ball.
New York Yankees vs. Philadelphia Phillies Matchup Information
New York Yankees vs Philadelphia Phillies
Location of the Game: BayCare Ballpark, Clearwater, FL.
Date and Time: Saturday, February 25, 2023, 1:05 PM ET.
How to Watch: https://livestreamsports.co/
New York Yankees vs. Philadelphia Phillies Betting Preview
New York Yankees
It’s clear that this season will be a very challenging one for the Yankees when looking at the MLB team stats. After taking 99 games last year, they ran into the Astros and lost. They still have a lot to figure out this season, so they could use Saturday’s game to help make a few key decisions.
In spite of the team’s somewhat limited options, Oswaldo Cabrera is the only player that has the ability to play both left field and shortstop. Because of his excellent defense, he could be considered for either position.
At shortstop, Cabrera had two defensive runs saved (DRS) in just 28 innings. In addition, as a third baseman, he earned two more. At second base, he added one DRS. However, he also showed his versatility in the outfield. There, he had nine DRS in just under 280 innings. Cabrera has outstanding defensive ability and could be given a chance to start either inside the line or out deep.
Of course, Cabrera isn’t alone. The Yankees will likely start Jasson Dominguez, the outfielder who excelled in the minors before New York moved him to the big leagues. Putting him on the field with Aaron Judge and Anthony Rizzo could make a difference for the Yankees.
Philadelphia Phillies
In the Philadelphia Phillies stats, in terms of offense, the Phillies have less to prove than the Yankees, but this year will be crucial to show that their performance last year was more than luck. Since no one remembers how the Cinderella team fails, this will be their year to succeed.
Philadelphia tried to set itself up for victory in the offseason, and now it’s time to show it off. During the offseason, they acquired Trea Turner, who could be the piece they were looking for to give them that edge. He could prove to be the piece they needed.
It is still unknown whether or not the huge contract he signed was worth it to the Phillies in the end. In Spring Training, Turner’s ability to do it all will be tested, and he will have to respond properly to high expectations.
Kyle Schwarber and Nick Castellanos will also be on the field on Saturday, although the Phillies haven’t confirmed if Aaron Nola will start on the mound. Philadelphia has a strong pitching rotation, and can count on any to lead the way.
New York Yankees vs. Philadelphia Phillies Betting Picks
Both teams have strong rosters and a chance to win Saturday’s game. However, the Phillies are slightly ahead because of their run last season.
The Yankees vs Phillies odds aren’t available for the game, but Philadelphia takes a close contest.
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