What's at stake

The game's winner decides which team gets the single-game win and affects each club's record and rotation scheduling.

Over/under outcomes determine whether combined runs clear thresholds like 7.5–12.5, and run-line results turn on a 1.5-run margin.

Who's in play

Starting pitchers set the tone for scoring and how long each bullpen must work.

Bench hitters, relievers and managers' late-game decisions decide whether leads are protected or come under pressure late.

What drives it

Weather, ballpark dimensions, and wind direction shift run expectations and favor pitchers or hitters.

In-game variables like pitch counts, bullpen matchups, and late scratches change totals, while recent offense trends and bullpen fatigue also influence scoring.

What to watch

Confirmed starters and lineups posted about an hour before first pitch are the primary pregame signals.

Watch the weather forecast and wind, recent bullpen usage, any last-minute injuries, and early-innings scoring or in-play market movement for clues to game flow.