The MLB season is picking up in a big way. As the playoff picture comes into view, plans are forming before the trade deadline. And things are getting clear for the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Chicago White Sox.
At least for the White Sox, they’re not going to be the worst team in baseball history again. That title belongs to the Colorado Rockies. But they still have the worst record in the American League and will look to sell at the deadline. It’s going to be another long season of figuring out what works, and trying to discard what doesn’t.
The Dodgers are in the midst of organizing a title defense. The offense remains excellent, but injuries are destroying the pitching staff. Luckily for them, Yoshinobu Yamamoto has delivered on his massive contract last offseason. He’s been the best starter on their staff and, most importantly, available. Some help will come at the trade deadline, and Los Angeles will be a serious threat out west.
The Dodgers are favorites (-341) over the White Sox, with the over/under set at 8.5 runs. Let’s break down which side has the edge on DraftKings Sportsbook entering tonight’s matchup.
White Sox at Dodgers prediction, preview
At -341 on the moneyline, there’s little doubt who should win this one. The Dodgers are vastly superior in every aspect: hitting, pitching, and defense; they have big edges in all categories over the White Sox. On top of that, they’re throwing out their ace in Yamamoto while the White Sox turn to a rookie starter in Shane Smith.
Don’t sleep on this White Sox starter, though. Smith has been above average, a rarity for the White Sox. His quality off-speed mix has led to plenty of soft contact and ground balls. Against a Dodgers lineup looking to barrel everything into the upper deck, it’s the kind of approach that could produce results. It doesn’t change how I view my prediction, which is a Dodgers win, but it does change how I want to bet this game.
White Sox at Dodgers pick, best bet
Under 8.5 (-109)
If Smith can keep the Dodgers somewhat in check, I love the under in this one. Yamamoto should be able to carve through this sad White Sox lineup like a hot knife through butter. That aspect of this contest doesn’t worry me. To me, the question is how many runs the Dodgers put up.
One of the best offenses in baseball, they’re capable of clearing this total on any night and against any pitcher. But Smith has the kind of stuff that keeps them from putting balls into orbit, and creating crooked numbers. Is he going to pitch a gem? Not likely. But could he hold them to a few runs over 5-6 innings? That’s well within his capabilities.
