The All-Star Snub Is Cashing Tickets

Zack Wheeler may have been snubbed for the All-Star Game, but if anything, it seems to have fueled him. Then again, let's be honest—Wheeler has been dominant all season, regardless of whether he received an All-Star nod. What really stands out is the incredible strikeout run he's been on.

His last outing was another masterpiece, as he racked up nine strikeouts against the Dodgers. Before that, he posted double-digit strikeout totals in three consecutive starts, including a dazzling 14-strikeout performance just three weeks ago. The consistency has been remarkable. Wheeler has recorded at least seven strikeouts in six of his last seven starts, and he's reached nine or more strikeouts in five of those outings.

This matchup couldn't set up much better. Wheeler has already faced Miami twice this season and has completely dominated the Marlins lineup. He struck out nine batters in his most recent meeting and fanned eight in the previous matchup earlier this year. Simply put, Miami has had no answers for him.

The Marlins also come into this game in a complete freefall. They've dropped a franchise-record 12 consecutive games, and the offense has disappeared during that stretch. Miami has been held to three runs or fewer in five straight games and has failed to generate much consistent offense throughout the losing streak.

Everything points toward another big night for Wheeler. He's pitching with confidence, the strikeouts continue to pile up, and he's facing a lineup he's already carved up twice this season. Add in a struggling Marlins offense that looks completely out of sync, and this is a spot where Wheeler should be able to attack hitters from the first inning.

Best Bet: Zack Wheeler Over 6.5 Strikeouts. The number feels a bit too low considering his recent form, his history against Miami, and the Marlins' offensive struggles. I'm expecting another dominant outing from the Phillies' ace, and I like Wheeler to clear this total with room to spare.

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