We split a pair of MLB plays yesterday, which runs our yearly total to 105-81. The Pirates continued their hot hitting and easily took down the struggling Tigers. Unfortunately, the Mariners couldn't mount a comeback against the Red Sox after falling behind early.
Let's get back in the green with 3 MLB Best Bets for Wednesday, August 2. Thanks as always for reading and good luck with your action today!
Best Bet: Phillies (-120)
I'm kicking myself for not taking the Phillies last night. Oh well, it's time to jump back on the City of Brotherly Love on Wednesday. This team is playing solid ball and has won 6 of 10.
The Fish have been struggling of late, as they've only won 4 of 10 and the offense has scuffled over the last 2 outings. Things won't get any easier for Miami against Zack Wheeler tonight. I think Wheeler is one of the most underrated pitchers in the league.
The veteran righty has a strikeout rate of almost 28% and a walk rate of only 4.6%. Wheeler's got a 5-pitch arsenal that is just plain filthy when he's dialed in. Let's ride Wheeler and the Phils at this very reasonable price.
Best Bet: Orioles (+110)
The O's have owned the Jays this season, as they're 7-1 against them. Six of those seven wins were by more than 1 run, which is pretty impressive. I don't like the idea of fading Yusei Kikuchi, but Baltimore hits lefties extremely well.
Just how well you might ask? The Orioles have averaged 7.6 runs per 9 innings against southpaws over their last 5 games. This lineup is loaded with dangerous sluggers like Anthony Santander and Gunnar Henderson, who may end up winning the AL Rookie of the Year.
Toronto has a solid club, but I have Baltimore as having the better offense and the better bullpen. Let's exploit those 2 edges and play the O's at this underdog price.
Best Bet: Twins (-129)
The Cards are obviously calling it a season, as they dealt away Jack Flaherty last night at the trading deadline. The Twins are in a dogfight with Cleveland for the AL Central division crown. I like the starting pitcher edge with Joe Ryan getting the ball for Minnesota.
Ryan has a live arm and one of the best K-rates in the league at 29.6%. He's been knocked around a little bit lately, but his expected batting average against of only .216 is encouraging. Ryan's fastball is above average, and his splitter is nasty.
I'm not sure what to make of Cards starter Dakota Hudson. He'll be making just his 2nd MLB start since 2021, so he's a bit of an unknown. The Twins lineup is averaging 4.5 runs per game over their last 5, so they should be able to get to Hudson in this one. Let's go Twinkies!
