Par 3 stats, US Open record and recent form boost Mickelson appeal

Phil Mickelson decided to take the week off ahead of the US Masters earlier this year, with the result being a share of 54th position at Augusta.

A lack of mental sharpness was regarded as a potential reason for the disappointing effort and there was no danger of a repeat at the US Open, a major that Mickelson has finished second in on no fewer than five occasions in the past.

Mickelson opted to take part in the St Jude Classic and his second-place finish ensures that he will tee off at Merion Golf Club having finished in the top three in two of his last three starts.

The left-hander, who is 20/1 to win the US Open, was particularly happy with his iron play at TPC Southwind and this could be especially valuable heading into the second major of the year.

Playing the par 3 holes sensibly could prove the difference between winning and losing, given that three on the Merion layout cover a minimum of 236 yards.

Mickelson is especially prominent on the par 3 statistics on the PGA Tour in 2013, as he is one of only 11 players on tour to average under-par on the holes this season.

Furthermore, he is the only player on tour to average a birdie or better on every fifth par 3 hole.

Aside from the par 3 holes, Mickelson additionally ranks prominently in a few other areas, with the most notable being his lead in par breakers, third in approach shots between 150 and 175 yards and eighth in the strokes gained through putting category.

For punters believing that Mickelson may find one or two too good again at the US Open, Ladbrokes have extended their each-way terms to six places for this year’s event.

All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing.