Washington Nationals
The Nats have been solid but unspectacular this year, sitting 2nd in the NL East at 81-65. They are 41-29 at home this season, although they’ve won just 4 of their last 10 contests. Rendon and Soto have carried the offence all year, combining for 67 home runs and 222 RBI. Austin Voth will pitch here, going 1-1 with a 4.0 ERA through 27 innings.
Atlanta Braves
The Braves have been even better, dominating the NL East at 92-57. They’re a stellar 44-29 on the road and have won 7 out of their last 10 matches. 1st Baseman Freddie Freeman has been a stud all year, putting up 38 home runs and 117 RBI. Mike Foltynewicz will pitch in this one, going 6-5 with a 5.0 ERA through 99 innings.
Prediction: Nationals $1.85
Despite losing the series opener 5-0, I’ve got faith the Nationals can turn things around in this matchup. They’ve been an excellent home side this year and possess a very solid 2-headed batting lineup. If Voth can build on his early decent starts, I really like them at a value price of $1.85.
Texas Rangers
The Rangers’ playoff hopes are slipping away, the team sitting 3rd in the AL West at 74-75. They’re a solid 42-30 at home, with recent form allowing them to win 7 of their last 10. Rougned Odor has been their offensive leader so far, going for 26 home runs and 79 RBI. Mike Minor is slated to pitch here, going 13-8 with a 3.08 ERA in extensive action this season.
Oakland A’s
Oakland are sporting an excellent 88-60 record, one that has them 2nd in the AL West. They are 39-33 on the road this season, managing an excellent 8 wins in their last 10. Short Stop Marcus Semien has been a consistent offensive producer, taking the team lead with 83 RBI. Ace Mike Fiers will pitch here, going 14-4 with a 3.97 ERA through 170 innings.
Prediction: A’s $1.88
The A’s have been really consistent of late and have much more on the line here. Both sides have elite starting pitchers, although I think Oakland has the stronger batting lineup and bullpen. If Semien, Chapman, and Co can get going offensively, I think they win this one quite comfortably.