Miami Marlins
The Marlins finally got on the board yesterday, with a 7-3 win being their maiden victory of the season. Pablo Lopez got a well-earned win for the pitching staff, whilst Nick Anderson closed the game out nicely. Leadoff hitter Miguel Rojas led the way with an impressive 3 RBI, supported by Curtis Granderson who had 2 himself.
Colorado Rockies
Despite the loss yesterday, the Rockies have started the season positively and look well-positioned going forward. Charlie Blackmon and David Dahl have led the way for a solid offence, both registering 3 RBI this season. The pitching staff also started the season nicely, only allowing 4 runs through the first 2 games.
Prediction: Rockies $1.62
Colorado is comfortably the better side in this matchup and I expect them to extend their dominance here. The right-handed pitching of Jon Gray is solid at this level and I see a strong day for the Rockies defence. Throw in some solid hitting from Blackmon and Dahl and you’ve got the recipe for another road win.
Texas Rangers
The Rangers got their maiden win of the season yesterday with an impressive 8-6 win over the Cubs. Joey Gallo led the way with 3 RBI, whilst Shin-Soo Choo and Asdrubal Cabrera both added 2 each. They also won in spite of a poor day from Edinson Volquez on the mound, who allowed 4 earned through 4 innings.
Chicago Cubs
After a promising opening day for the Cubs, yesterday was somewhat of a disappointment. This was primarily from the pitching staff, where Yu Darvish only went 2.2 innings. Things weren’t too bad from an offensive standpoint, with both Schwarber and Contreras having 2 RBI.
Prediction: Cubs $1.70
I’m a big believer in Cole Hamels and I expect him to win the pitching duel over Lance Lynn in this one. The Cubs offence has also come out the gate firing and I expect at least a few runs here. At $1.70, I think they’re well over the odds to take this one.
Philadelphia Phillies
The Phillies remain undefeated in the Bryce Harper era after getting their second win over Atlanta yesterday. Harper himself enjoyed an RBI in the win, but was overshadowed with 3 each for Realmuto and Franco. Nick Pivetta didn’t have his best day on the mound, but the bullpen was able to pick up the slack.
Atlanta Braves
It isn’t easy for Atlanta having to open things up in Philly but they would’ve hoped for a better start. Young Bryse Wilson struggled in his first start this season, going just 3.1 innings and allowing 4 earned in the process. Freddie Freeman managed an impressive 4 hits yesterday, whilst Dansby Swanson added 2 RBI.
Prediction: Phillies $1.65
Whilst the Braves will be motivated to turn things around, Philly will definitely be up for this primetime game. Jake Arrieta is quality as a 3rd starter and I expect another masterclass from him today. With Harper set to break out at any moment, I love the Phillies at this price.