After reaching the postseason last year, things have not gone according to plan for the Braves and Royals. Injuries and inconsistent play have left Atlanta out of playoff contention at 45-60. Things have been slightly better for Kansas City (52-55). However, a season-ending injury for Kris Bubic has left the team in dire straits. Which of these clubs will earn a much-needed win tonight? Below, I’ve laid out my preview, prediction, and best bet for Tuesday’s matchup between the Braves and Royals.
The Royals are favorites (-131) over the Braves, with the over/under set at 9.5 runs. Let’s break down which side has the edge on DraftKings Sportsbook entering tonight’s contest.
Braves vs. Royals prediction, preview
At this point, 2025 is looking like a lost year for the Braves. Still, the amount of talent on this squad is undeniable. Eight former All-Stars are currently healthy for Atlanta, headlined by Ronald Acuna Jr. The former MVP has been terrific this season (181 wRC+), as well as fellow slugger Matt Olson (133 wRC+). Unfortunately, the team ranks 22nd in runs scored per game (4.15). In the month of July, the Braves own baseball’s sixth-lowest batting average (.234).
Despite their up-and-down hitting, the biggest struggle for Atlanta has been on the mound. Reigning Cy Young winner Chris Sale (ribs) is sidelined, along with capable arm Grant Holmes (elbow). That’s forced the Braves to get creative by signing former Cardinals starter Erick Fedde. It’s been a nightmare season for the right-hander (5.22 ERA, 1.50 WHIP). Still, he’s just one year removed from a solid 3.30 ERA campaign. Atlanta’s front office is hoping that the veteran can bounce back in the second half. Facing one of the league’s worst offenses could be a boon, as well. The Royals are producing just 3.58 runs per game, the league’s second-lowest mark. In two career starts vs. Kansas City, Fedde owns a sparkling 0.84 ERA.
If the Royals are going to earn a victory tonight, it’ll likely take a stellar outing from Seth Lugo. On Monday, the former All-Star inked a two-year, $46-million deal to stay in Kansas City. It’s easy to see why the team prioritized bringing the hurler back. Through 113.0 innings of work this season, he’s notched a 2.95 ERA, 1.09 WHIP and 99 strikeouts. Going back to June 1st, the Braves possess baseball’s sixth-worst OPS against right-banded pitching. That’s bad news against almost any arm, let alone one of the American League’s best.
Braves vs. Royals pick, best bet
Best Bet: Braves vs. Royals under 9.5 total runs (-116)
Neither of these lineups inspire much confidence. In comparison, Lugo has established himself as one of the league’s most consistent pitchers. Fedde is the wildcard tonight; the veteran has shown little to earn the trust of bettors this season. Still, the same can be said for this light-hitting Royals offense. Following Monday’s 10-7 slugfest, a low-scoring showdown on Tuesday feels like a safe bet.
