2025 hasn’t gone according to plan for the Braves, currently at 57-69. However, Atlanta has reeled off eight wins over its last ten games. That includes an 11-10 win on Tuesday against the White Sox. Chicago, despite its last place record of 45-81, has been far more competitive this season. Will that be enough to earn an upset win on the road? Below, I’ve laid out my preview, prediction, and best bet for Wednesday’s showdown between the Braves and the White Sox.
The Braves are favorites (-198) over the White Sox, with the over/under set at nine runs. Let’s break down which side has the edge on DraftKings Sportsbook entering tonight’s contest.
White Sox vs. Braves prediction, preview
Wednesday’s matchup isn’t exactly a marquee pitching matchup. Granted, White Sox hurler Martin Perez does have an extensive track record. The 14-year pro has an All-Star Game selection and a World Series ring on his finger. Over five appearances this season, the right-hander has been solid (3.09 ERA, 1.29 WHIP). It’s a small track record, but there’s reason for Chicago to have some optimism tonight. During Perez’s most recent outing, last week against the Tigers, he tossed 3.1 innings of one-run ball.
For most of the season, Atlanta’s offense has been stuck in a rut. Nagging injuries to stars such as Ronald Acuna Jr. and Austin Riley certainly haven’t helped. However, this recent hot stretch has been made possible by the team’s success at the plate. Since August 1st, the Braves rank third in baseball with 101 total runs scored. During that time, Michael Harris II (1.145 OPS), Jurickson Profar (1.104 OPS) and Matt Olson (.915 OPS) have all shined.
If the White Sox have any shot at a win tonight, they’ll need to give Perez some offensive support. Fortunately for the South Siders, they’re fresh off of a ten-run outburst last night. The standout hitter in Chicago is Colson Montgomery. The highly touted prospect hasn’t offered much contact (.220 batting average), but he has clobbered ten homers in 38 games. Still, this remains one of baseball’s weakest lineups. The White Sox are averaging 3.89 runs per game, second-worst in the American League.
It’ll be Hurston Waldrep toeing the slab for Atlanta. Much like Perez, the righty hasn’t had much time in the majors this season. Over three appearances, he’s notched a 1.02 ERA, 0.79 WHIP and 17 strikeouts. That includes a six-inning, scoreless masterpiece last week against the Guardians. Is this level of success sustainable for the 23-year-old? That remains to be seen. Regardless, it’s not unreasonable to think he can dominate once more tonight against this feeble Chicago offense.
White Sox vs. Braves pick, best bet
Best Bet: Braves -1.5 (+105)
For months, the Braves have underperformed all expectations. The past few weeks have been a glimpse at what could have been for this squad. Waldrep’s early success has been a pleasant surprise, having shown no signs of slowing down. I’m not anticipating a letdown start against the light-hitting White Sox. Back Atlanta to cover tonight against an inferior opponent.
