The postseason is underway, with Padres-Cubs getting started this afternoon. Winning at Wrigley Field is never easy; San Diego has its work cut out on Tuesday. If the Friars are going to pull off a road victory, some of their best hitters need to step up.
That includes Manny Machado, arguably the most dangerous bat in San Diego’s lineup. The slugger has put together a Hall of Fame-caliber career. However, a World Series title has eluded him. Is this the start of a monster playoff run for Manny and the Padres?
Chicago is favored (-131) over San Diego, with the over/under set at seven runs. Before the start of Tuesday’s postseason matchup, here’s my favorite Manny Machado player prop bet on DraftKings Sportsbook.
Manny Machado 2+ total bases (+117)
Taking the mound for Chicago this afternoon will be Matthew Boyd, making his 32nd start of the season. It’s been a career year for the southpaw, who earned his first All-Star Game selection. Through 179.2 innings of work, he owns a 3.21 ERA, 1.09 WHIP and 154 strikeouts.
Those numbers, while impressive, aren’t the most intimidating for a Game 1 starter. It helps that Boyd has looked shaky in recent weeks. In ten starts since August 1st, the 34-year-old has recorded a lackluster 4.82 ERA. However, he’s been much better at home (2.51 ERA) than on the road (3.90 ERA).
Tuesday’s matchup is certainly no walk in the park. However, this is a spot that Machado has thrived in before. Over 13 career at-bats vs. Boyd, the third baseman has tallied five hits (.385 batting average). During that time, he’s accounted for two doubles and three RBIs. Granted, Machado did hit slightly worse vs. left-handed pitching this season compared to righties.
Still, this is one of baseball’s premier offensive threats. Through 159 games, the seven-time All-Star is slashing .275/.335/.460 with 27 home runs and 95 RBIs. Machado has hit better on the road compared to pitcher-friendly Petco Park.
There’s a good chance Chicago goes to the bullpen early, especially if Boyd struggles. It’s a good unit, but a few factors suggest some cause for concern. Closer Daniel Palencia was activated off of IL only five days ago. In addition, Cubs relievers have posted the ninth-worst ERA in baseball since July 1st.
This season, Machado ranked 22nd in the league with 33 total doubles. Put simply, few players are as gifted at racking up extra-base hits. At plus money, I’m willing to bet that the veteran picks up two more bags on Tuesday.
