MLB Friday Betting Preview and Best Bets: Full Analysis and Predictions
As summer approaches, Munaf Manji and Griffin Warner deliver an in-depth breakdown of Friday’s MLB slate, packed with sharp betting insights, team form breakdowns, and best bets. This episode highlights pitching matchups, bullpen strengths, and where bettors might find value.
Munaf opens with a reflection on the seasonal shift as hockey and basketball playoffs close, while Griffin celebrates a massive +22 unit run in May. They briefly touch on soccer’s non-stop calendar before diving into MLB. Munaf recounts his heartbreaking loss on the Diamondbacks’ run line after Arizona’s bullpen surrendered seven runs in the seventh inning. Griffin sympathizes and praises Corbin Burns for his strong outing that night.
Starting with Cubs vs Reds, Andrew Abbott is confirmed for Cincinnati, while Colin Rea is likely for Chicago. Rea’s 5-1 career record against the Reds is undermined by his 5.88 ERA. Griffin emphasizes Cincinnati’s bullpen vulnerability, especially with Emilio Pagan’s shaky late-game performances, and recommends early-inning bets for Reds backers. Munaf notes mild winds at Wrigley, supporting possible early scoring.
In Orioles vs White Sox, pitching uncertainty surrounds Chicago with either Sean Burke or Jared Shuster potentially starting. The Orioles sit as massive -215 favorites. Munaf is reluctant to back either side due to Eflin’s recent struggles and the White Sox’s poor form, while Griffin brands Chicago as a mess, cautioning against backing them.
Milwaukee faces Philadelphia with DL Hall vs Taijuan Walker. Philadelphia is a -133 favorite. Harper’s status is day-to-day due to an elbow contusion. Griffin criticizes Milwaukee’s reliance on speed and their exhausted bullpen. Munaf emphasizes Philadelphia’s home strength (19-9), making the Phillies a strong play.
In the A’s vs Blue Jays matchup, Jeffrey Springs faces Chris Bassett. Bassett boasts a 1.61 ERA at home. Springs has been solid, but Oakland’s bullpen consistently loses leads. Munaf leans toward the Blue Jays and the under 8.5.
Rockies vs Mets sees Peterson against Freeland with New York heavily favored at -306. Freeland has struggled at home but fared slightly better on the road. Munaf suggests Mets team total overs, while Griffin finds little reason to back Colorado at any price.
For Giants vs Marlins, Harrison faces Quantrill. Quantrill has turned his season around with four consecutive wins. Harrison’s limited innings add risk for Giants backers. Both lean toward Miami as valuable home underdogs.
The Guardians host the Angels with Luis Ortiz vs Jose Soriano. Soriano’s high walk rate (14 walks in 4 starts) concerns both analysts. Cleveland’s patient offense and superior bullpen provide a clear edge.
Boston meets Atlanta with Giolito vs Grant Holmes. The Red Sox locker room drama has destabilized the team, while Atlanta’s power makes them dangerous. Munaf prefers Braves team total overs.
Cardinals vs Rangers features Matthew Liberatore likely opposing Jack Leiter. With Texas going 24-6 to the under at home, both strongly back the under 8.5.
In Tigers vs Royals, Casey Mize opposes Seth Lugo. Griffin supports Kansas City as a home underdog, citing Mize’s IL return and the Royals’ strong home form.
Tampa Bay travels to Houston with Pepiot vs Valdez. Griffin respects Houston’s lineup against lefties, while Munaf points out Valdez’s 4-1 under record at home, leaning toward the under.
Pirates face Padres with Keller vs Pivetta. Griffin likes first-five unders due to San Diego’s offensive struggles, while Munaf notes Keller’s previous struggles against the Padres.
Washington visits Arizona with Irvin vs Kelly. Griffin leans over due to shaky bullpens, while Munaf suggests a D-backs team total over.
Seattle hosts Minnesota with Zebby Matthews vs Brian Wu. Wu’s 12-1 home record since 2023 makes Seattle attractive. Both favor the under.
Finally, Yankees face Dodgers with Max Fried vs Gonsolin. Griffin is stunned by the Yankees being favored and backs the Dodgers as home underdogs. Munaf concurs, leaning Dodgers ML and the over.
For best bets, Griffin selects Phillies ML (-126) and Munaf picks under 8.5 in Cardinals-Rangers.