The Pittsburgh Pirates and Atlanta Braves kick off a three-game series today at PNC Park.The Braves have won four series in a row and would like to make it five, but despite all this success, Atlanta is still four games back in the National League East.NYM Stats@nym_statsNL East standings currently:1. Mets 79-44 (.642) -2. Braves 75-48 4.0 GB3. Phillies 66-55 (.545) 12.0 GB4. Marlins 52-69 (.430) 26.0 GB5. Nationals 41-82 (.333) 38.051NL East standings currently:1. Mets 79-44 (.642) -2. Braves 75-48 4.0 GB3. Phillies 66-55 (.545) 12.0 GB4. Marlins 52-69 (.430) 26.0 GB5. Nationals 41-82 (.333) 38.0 https://t.co/Cggl47fYDd"2. Braves 75-48 4.0 GB" - NYM StatsPitching in this one are Jake Odorizzi for the Braves and Roansy Contreras for the Pirates.Odorizzi is making his fourth start since being traded to Atlanta. However, the change of scenery has not seemed to help his inconsistent nature. He allowed just two runs in each of his first two starts for the Bravos but gave up five to the Mets his last time out.Contreras is making his 11th career start today. He's having a solid rookie season, all things considered. His 3-3 record is decent considering he is playing for one of the worst teams in baseball. Even with a few nasty starts, he still has managed a 4.02 ERA.Atlanta Braves vs. Pittsburgh Pirates Match DetailsFixture: Atlanta Braves @ Pittsburgh PiratesDate & Time: Monday, August 22, 7:05 p.m. EDTVenue: PNC Park, Pittsburgh, PA View this post on Instagram Instagram Post"PNC Park is a beauty." - peteabeglobeAtlanta Braves vs. Pittsburgh Pirates Betting Odds SpreadRun in the FirstTeam TotalBraves-1.5 (-125)Yes (-110)Over 5 Runs (-110)Pirates+1.5 (+104)No (-120)Over 3.5 Runs (-110)Atlanta Braves vs. Pittsburgh Pirates Best PicksRoansy Contreras enters play with 53 strikeouts.Both starters have had some rough games recently, and one of them is bound to be banged up today. In the plethora of runs that are likely to be scored, at least one should come in the first inning. Odorizzi has allowed a run in the first in four of his last five starts, and while Contreras has been better in the first, he has faced some pathetic offenses. Bettors can count on a YRFI today.A Run to be Scored in the First Inning (-110)Atlanta Braves vs. Pittsburgh Pirates PredictionThere is no reason for bettors to overthink this matchup. The Braves are on a roll, and the Pirates are one of the worst teams in baseball. Atlanta will be hoping to gain some ground in the division with this series.Atlanta -1.5 (-125)