The Blue Jays climbed into first place in the AL East with a 10-game win streak. That run is over, however, as they lost to the Chicago White Sox on Wednesday.
They still own the division lead and will play the Athletics to finish off their first half schedule. The Athletics are at the bottom of the AL West, but they are coming off a series win against the Braves.
The Blue Jays are -171 moneyline favorites, while the Athletics are +140 underdogs on DraftKings Sportsbook. The game total is set at over/under 11 runs.
Here’s my prediction and pick for Friday’s Blue Jays vs. Athletics matchup.
Blue Jays vs. Athletics prediction
If you enjoy lots of offense, this is the game for you. The Blue Jays have been on fire lately, winning 12 of their last 14. They’ve scored at least eight runs in five of those games.
They visit the Athletics, who are temporarily playing at Sutter Health Park for the next few years. This field is very hitter friendly, so an already hot Blue Jays team should take advantage.
Luis Severino will be on the mound for the Athletics in what has been a disappointing season. He’s 2-10 with a 5.30 ERA through 108.2 innings. These numbers get worse at home, where he has a 7.04 ERA and 1.17 HR/9.
On the other side, Max Scherzer will start for Toronto. He’s only started four games and holds a 4.76 ERA. His sample size is extremely small, but he has allowed two earned runs in three games and three earned runs in another.
He’s not the same elite pitcher he once was, but he’s still reliable enough as long as he’s healthy. The Blue Jays need to give him enough run support, which shouldn’t be an issue against Severino at home.
Blue Jays vs. Athletics pick, best bet
The 11-run total is a steep mark for this game, but it’s realistic considering the teams. The Blue Jays are on fire, and the Athletics aren’t quiet on offense either.
Toronto has the pitching advantage, but Scherzer isn’t going to pitch seven shutout innings. He’s likely going to allow a couple runs in a five-inning performance. Severino, on the other hand, is the main reason for betting the over. He’s struggled heavily at home, and he’ll have to face a hot Blue Jays squad.
For some extra wiggle room, bettors can take an alternate total of 10.5 runs at -125 odds.