Few teams in baseball are hotter than the Red Sox. Boston has won 23 of its last 30 games, surging to second place in the AL East. Tonight, the visiting Royals will attempt to earn an upset win at Fenway Park. Kansas City, 56-58, is down but not out in a wide open American League wildcard race. Below, I’ve laid out my preview, prediction, and best bet for Wednesday’s matchup between the Royals and Red Sox.
The Red Sox are favorites (-144) over the Royals, with the over/under set at 8.5 runs. Let’s break down which side has the edge on DraftKings Sportsbook entering tonight’s contest.
Royals vs. Red Sox prediction, preview
Despite trading away Rafael Devers in June, the Red Sox find themselves firmly in playoff contention. What’s behind Boston’s recent surge? A few factors, none more important than at the plate. Since July 1st, the team ranks second in baseball with 162 total runs scored. Among the many names that have produced during that time, two stand out. The first, Alex Bregman, has been a revelation during his first season in Beantown. Over 69 games played, the third baseman is slashing .295/.373/.533 with 14 home runs and 45 RBIs. In addition, the Sox have gotten great production from Roman Anthony. The rookie, signed to an eight-year extension this morning, has an .828 OPS through his first 46 career outings.
A lethal lineup at one of the sport’s most hitter-friendly venues? Wednesday’s assignment isn’t for the faint of heart. Fortunately for the Royals, starter Michael Wacha has some experience in this spot. The former Red Sox starter is no stranger to the unorthodox dimensions of Fenway Park. This season in Kansas City, the veteran has recorded a 3.38 ERA, 1.17 WHIP and 95 strikeouts. Bregman is hitting just .167 against the righty; fellow infielder Trevor Story has a far better .375 career mark.
The biggest storyline entering Wednesday evening is the debut of Dustin May. During what was a relatively quiet trade deadline for Boston, the team acquired the former Dodgers hurler last Thursday. It’s been a shaky season for the right-hander, once considered a top prospect in Los Angeles’ organization. Through 104.0 innings of work, he’s recorded a lackluster 4.85 ERA and 1.35 WHIP. Still, it’s easy to see why the Red Sox fell in love with the 27-year-old. Swing-and-miss stuff (career 8.2 K/9) doesn’t grow on trees. As far as opponents go, they don’t get much easier than the Royals. Kansas City’s offense is averaging an American League-worst 3.67 runs per game.
Royals vs. Red Sox pick, best bet
Best Bet: Red Sox ML (-144)
There’s no denying that the Red Sox are scorching-hot right now. There’s some uncertainty tonight with May making his first start. Still, this lineup is good enough to erase any deficit. It helps that the Royals have looked inept at the plate for most of the season. Even at -144, Boston is worth backing on Wednesday.
