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Beware the small sample size in the beginning stages of the baseball season.
Take Phillies’ starter Cristopher Sanchez.
The southpaw’s ERA sits at a bloated 4.09, but he’s pitched much better than that when you take a look under the hood.
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In 11 innings in 2025, Sanchez has struck out 16 batters while walking just two.
He’s done a solid job of limiting hits as well, giving up fewer than one an inning (10).
So, how has he given up his runs? A few unlucky home runs.
Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Cristopher Sánchez (61) reacts after allowing a two-run home run during the first inning against the Los Angeles Dodgers at Citizens Bank Park. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters ConnectPhillies vs. Cardinals pick
Sanchez has allowed three long balls already this season, although that rate is almost assuredly coming down.
His 33.3 percent HR/FB ratio is unsustainably high, especially for a pitcher who allowed just 0.54 homers per nine innings last season.
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Let’s take advantage of this probable bounce-back on Saturday when Sanchez takes the mound against the Cardinals.
The play: Cristopher Sanchez over 5.5 strikeouts (+105, bet365 Sportsbook)
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Dylan Svoboda is a versatile writer and analyst across many sports. He’s particularly knowledgeable about the big three — MLB, the NFL and the NBA.
