The Toronto Blue Jays are looking to bounce back after a tough stretch, facing a vulnerable Los Angeles Angels squad. Toronto’s offense, stacked with power, looks to feast on Yusei Kikuchi’s erratic pitching. Berrios and the Blue Jays’ lineup provide a sharp contrast to all of Kikuchi’s mess, which sets up a favorable spot for the north-of-the-border visitors. Below, I’ve got my preview, prediction, and best bet for this Wendesday night baseball game between the Angels and the Blue Jays.
Here’s how I’ll play it. I’ll be pumping out these predictions for individual games all season, with plenty of coverage here on DraftKings Network. Follow my handle @dansby_edits for more betting plays.
Angels vs. Blue Jays prediction, preview
Jose Berrios (1-1, 3.98 ERA) has been solid on the road, posting a 2.60 ERA and limiting batters to a .246 average. His strikeout rate (8.0 K/9) and control (1.38 WHIP) are key to keeping the Angels’ hitters off balance. Despite his struggles in past outings against L.A. (5.64 ERA), Berrios’ overall command is the reason he’s a heavy favorite here. He’ll be well-positioned to handle an Angels offense that ranks near the bottom in OPS (.659).
Meanwhile, Yusei Kikuchi (0-4, 4.21 ERA) continues to struggle, surrendering a .262 batting average and a concerning 4.7 BB/9. His fastball velocity and strikeout rate have both dipped, making him vulnerable to hard-hit balls. Kikuchi is in the 14th percentile for exit velocity, which plays directly into the Blue Jays’ power surge. Woof.
Vladimir Guerrero Jr. leads the charge for Toronto. He’s on an eight-game hitting streak, batting .270 with three homers and an .827 OPS. Guerrero’s xBA, hard-hit rate, and exit velocity put him in the 91st percentile or higher. Kikuchi’s pitch selection and struggles with control make this a prime matchup for Vlad to drive in runs. With Bo Bichette (team-best .314 OBP) in front of him, Vlad should have no trouble getting RBI opportunities.
The Angels’ offense has not been nearly as potent, hitting just .216 and owning the worst OBP (.271) in the MLB. Despite good power from Logan O’Hoppe and Taylor Ward, the Angels struggle to capitalize on baserunners. Kikuchi’s inconsistency and poor command make him a prime target for Toronto’s hitters.
Blue Jays vs. Angels pick, best bet
Betting insights favor the Blue Jays. Toronto has covered the run line 61.8% of the time this season. Kikuchi’s issues are well-documented, and the Blue Jays are 5-2 as favorites with Berrios on the mound.
If you’re feeling spicy: o8.5 also feels like a strong bet, considering both pitchers’ tendencies to give up runs in bunches.
Best bet: Blue Jays -1.5 (+140) at Angels
Backing another east-coast visitor to cover a west-coast run line—tail it with me in the DKN Betting Group here!
Spicy total lean: Angels vs. Blue Jays o8.5 (-120)
Tail it here!
