MLB Friday Betting Preview: Game-by-Game Analysis, Picks & Best Bets
The latest episode of RJ Bell’s Dream Preview with hosts Munaf Manji and Griffin Warner offered a thorough breakdown of Friday’s Major League Baseball slate. The hosts analyzed 12 matchups, providing stats, insights, and betting strategies based exclusively on current team form and player performances. This article recaps their discussion with a game-by-game lens, highlighting trends, quotes, and wagers of interest.
Cubs vs. Pirates
Key Stats:
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Paul Skenes: 1.88 ERA, 0.84 WHIP, 92 Ks, 20 BBs (4–6 record)
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Cade Horton: 4.11 ERA, 3–1 record
Summary:
Griffin faded Paul Skenes despite his elite stats, citing Pittsburgh’s inability to score. Munaf noted Skenes’ lack of run support. Horton has struggled as well, particularly in his latest outing.
Pick: Cubs ML –108; Under 7 Total Runs
Phillies vs. Blue Jays
Key Stats:
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Gausman: 4 straight team wins; Suarez: 25.2 IP, 3 ER in last 4
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Phillies without Bryce Harper (injured)
Summary:
Gausman shows potential but inconsistent performance. Suarez continues to impress. Munaf and Griffin both expect a low-scoring affair.
Pick: Under 8.5 Total Runs
Nationals vs. Marlins
Key Stats:
Summary:
Cabrera could be challenged by fast Nationals hitters like CJ Abrams and James Wood. Parker has been decent at home but faltering on the road.
Pick: Under 9 Total Runs; Lean Nationals ML
Orioles vs. Angels
Key Stats:
Summary:
Both pitchers have struggled, and the park is conducive to home runs. Offensive momentum favors the Angels, but both sides could score.
Pick: Over 10 Runs; Lean Angels ML
Yankees vs. Red Sox
Key Stats:
Summary:
Despite Crochet's ability, both pitchers have struggled against opposing teams. Expect another high-scoring rivalry game.
Pick: Over 8.5 Runs; Lean Yankees ML +122
Mets vs. Rays
Key Stats:
Summary:
Holmes’ transition to starter has been seamless. The Mets are strong in openers and facing a vulnerable Taj Bradley.
Pick: Mets –1.5 Run Line (+128)
Braves vs. Rockies
Key Stats:
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Elder: 12 Ks in last start; Braves 0–4 in his recent starts
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Marquez: inconsistent, especially vs. good offenses
Summary:
Though the Braves aren’t scoring as expected, the Rockies are unreliable on the road. Griffin favors the over with Braves likely to handle run production.
Pick: Over 9 Runs; Braves Team Total Over
Rangers vs. White Sox
Key Stats:
Summary:
Griffin reported Rangers' chat optimism but remained skeptical. With White Sox errors and Rangers’ park effect, a low total is expected.
Pick: Lean Series Unders
Astros vs. Twins
Key Stats:
Summary:
Munaf suggested value on Twins, given Gordon’s shaky home record. Both pitchers might concede early.
Pick: Twins ML +102; First 5 Innings Over 4
Royals vs. A’s
Key Stats:
Summary:
Royals favored with Wacha thriving. Severino’s struggles and Athletics’ HR reliance don’t align well in pitcher-friendly Kauffman Stadium.
Pick: Royals ML; Royals Team Total Over; Under 8.5 Total
Brewers vs. Cardinals
Key Stats:
Summary:
Fedde performs better on the road but was rocked by Milwaukee previously. Brewers have pitching edge at home.
Pick: Brewers ML; RL if needed to reduce juice
Diamondbacks vs. Padres
Key Stats:
Summary:
Padres pen is elite; D-Backs pen is patchy. Kollek is in form and worth backing if price remains appealing.
Pick: Padres ML +101
Dodgers vs. Giants
Key Stats:
Summary:
Giants have performed well behind Webb at Dodger Stadium. Dodgers inconsistent and overpriced.
Pick: Giants ML +145; watch for Over if total drops to 7
Best Bets Recap
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