All 30 MLB teams will take the field on Saturday for a loaded 15-game slate. Among the matchups to watch, the Giants will look for two straight road wins vs. the Yankees this afternoon. Later on, MVP candidates will clash in SoCal when Shohei Ohtani’s Dodgers host Kyle Tucker and the Cubs. Before the start of today’s contests, here are three MLB bets worth placing on DraftKings Sportsbook.
Miami Marlins -1.5 (+142)
A multiple-score win for the Fish? At first glance, it’s fair to be skeptical about Miami’s ability to beat any squad by a significant margin. It’s been a typical Marlins season: bad hitting (22nd-most runs scored) and mediocre pitching (19th-fewest runs allowed). Still, when Sandy Alcantara takes the mound, this team can beat almost anyone. Most recently, the former Cy Young winner allowed two runs over five innings against the Mets on April 1st.
An extended period of rest should have the right-hander ready to go this afternoon. He’ll face a Nationals lineup that’s recorded the tenth-highest OPS in baseball (0.735). While that sounds intimidating, the Marlins’ star has dominated this spot before. Washington has been held to nine earned runs over 39.1 innings during their last five meetings vs. Alcantara. Facing career journeyman Trevor Williams, Miami’s ace has a clear edge on the mound.
Rockies vs. Padres over 8.5 runs (-108)
San Diego’s Petco Park is considered a pitcher-friendly venue, and for good reason. It also offers a stark contrast to Coors Field, home of the Rockies. On the road, Colorado has scored 3.08 runs per game, the lowest mark in baseball. However, the Padres have averaged 5.5 runs at home, fifth-most in the league. On paper, those statistics cancel each other out.
If there’s any edge for the over, it’s due to a lack of quality on the mound. Colorado rookie Chase Dollander, despite his prospect pedigree, is unproven. The 23-year-old gave up four runs in five innings during his season debut last Friday. For San Diego, Kyle Hart will get the nod. In his most recent appearance vs. Chicago, the lefty got shelled for five runs in 0.2 innings. Given how little we know about both starters, nine runs feels like a reasonable total tonight.
Rangers vs. Mariners over 7 runs (-112)‘
Much like Rockies-Padres, Saturday’s AL West battle doesn’t have the usual makings of a shootout. Seattle’s Bryan Woo is underrated, having recorded an ERA of 2.97 over the last two seasons. For the visiting Rangers, rookie Kumar Rocker is a former Top 100 prospect with electric stuff. It helps that the Mariners play at T-Mobile Park, a venue that heavily favors pitchers.
With all that said, neither hurler is someone bettors should fully trust tonight. In four starts vs. Texas, Woo has surrendered 16 runs through 15.0 innings pitched. Rocker has yet to find his footing at the major league level. This season, the 25-year-old has allowed seven runs and 13 hits through eight innings. Even if one of these starters pitches well, this over could still cash. A pitcher’s duel, however? I’m willing to bet that someone, if not both players, struggle on Saturday.
