Philadelphia Phillies
The Phillies are still well in the hunt for a wildcard spot, now sitting at 63-58. They’ve been a relatively strong home side all season, going 37-26 in front of their home fans. Bryce Harper has emerged as their premier offensive weapon, leading the clubhouse with 25 home runs and 87 RBI. Vince Velasquez will pitch here, going 4-7 with a 4.3 ERA on the season.
San Diego Padres
A once competitive Padres team has faded of late, now sitting just 56-64. They’ve struggled both at home and on the road, going 27-31 away from San Diego. Left Fielder Hunter Renfroe has been a huge hitter all season, leading the squad with 31 home runs. Chris Paddack is slated to pitch here, going 7-5 with a solid 3.26 ERA.
Prediction: Phillies $1.92
While Paddack has outplayed his opposite number, I’m not sure this clash should have even odds. Philly have the more talented team here and have been stellar at home all season. I’m confident their offence gets the job done here and as long as Velasquez can pitch decently, they look great value for a home win.
Texas Rangers
The Rangers are looking in danger of missing the playoffs, now below .500 at 60-61. This is despite a stellar home record of 35-23 that has kept them alive this season. They haven’t had an offensive standout this season, with Joey Gallo still leading the side in home runs despite playing just 70 games. Mike Minor will pitch in this one, sporting a strong 11-6 record and 2.9 ERA on the season.
Minnesota Twins
The Twins continue to soar, winning 13-8 last time out to move to 73-48. They’ve also done the business on the road, going 37-22 away from Minnesota. In a team of excellent hitters, Max Kepler stands out with 32 home runs and 78 RBI. Jake Odorizzi is slated to pitch here, going 13-5 with a 3.44 ERA on the season.
Prediction: Twins $1.92
Two potential reasons to back the Rangers here would be their strong home field advantage and elite starting pitcher. However, I feel as though both of these are negated by the Twins excellent road record and their elite pitcher here. Odorizzi has been strong all season and I expect him to contain an average Texas offence. If the Twins can get going here, even money looks very good value.