Toronto Blue Jays

The Blue Jays didn’t exactly get off to the best start this season, being held scoreless in a 10 innings stalemate against these same Tigers. Marcus Stroman threw 7 solid innings but really didn’t have the hitting support behind him. With hitters like Teoscar Hernandez and Lourdes Gurriel on the roster, I expect this Toronto offence to improve in a hurry.

Detroit Tigers

The Tigers got off to a very impressive start yesterday, with ace Jordan Zimmerman pitching 7 scoreless innings. They largely struggled offensively, but 2 clutch RBI from Christin Stewart in the 10^th inning was enough. As one of the stalwarts of this side, I expect another big season from Venezuelan Miguel Cabrera.

Prediction: Blue Jays $1.75

I think the Blue Jays are the better team in this matchup and they’ll be looking to get back to winning ways here. Matt Shoemaker is a very solid #2 pitcher, especially in his home environment. Assuming a bit more offensive firepower, Toronto takes this one.

Tampa Bay Rays

The Rays season got off to a predictably disappointing start as they fell 5-1 to Houston yesterday. Left Fielder Tommy Pham was the only bright spot offensively, registering 2 hits in the defeat. Pitcher Jake Snell wasn’t at his best and the remainder of the Rays pitching staff doesn’t inspire too much confidence.

Houston Astros

As most predicted, the Astros got their season off to a strong start with a comfortable win against Tampa. Justin Verlander again showed his incredible pitching quality, allowing just 1 earned run in 7 solid innings. George Springer led the way offensively with 3 RBI, whilst Jose Altuve had 2 solid hits.

Prediction: Astros $1.67

I think the Astros are arguably the best team in baseball and have a huge talent edge in this one. Gerrit Cole is another incredibly solid #2 pitcher and I expect a strong debut from him. Couple this with the roaring Astros offence and Houston should leave this match 2-0.

San Diego Padres

The Padres got off to a very solid start in this series yesterday, taking the opener 2-0. 23-year-old pitcher Eric Lauer was en fuego, delivering 6 solid innings and registering the win. Wil Myers and Fernando Tattis both had it going offensively, each leading the way with 2 solid hits.

San Francisco Giants

Whilst the season didn’t get off to a great start for the G-Men, it was good to see a solid return outing from Madison Bumgarner. Evan Longoria also got off to a solid start, registering 2 hits and a .500 average in this one. With a lack of offensive production in this side, it will be up to Longoria and Buster Posey to pick up the slack.

Prediction: Padres $1.62

Whilst these two sides are relatively even, I think the Padres have a huge pitching advantage in this one. Lefty Joey Lucchesi is a competent #2 whereas Derek Holland is inconsistent at this level. I just can’t see the Giants offense firing in what should be a low-scoring affair.

Washington Nationals

Despite the loss of Bryce Harper, the Nationals still possess a very talented and capable roster. Anthony Rendon, Juan Soto, and Ryan Zimmerman can more than replace Harper’s production as they lead this offence. From the pitching side, Ryan Scherzer and Stephen Strasbourg is one of the best 1-2 punches in the league.

New York Mets

The Mets had a solid conclusion to Spring Training, winning each of their last 3 games, including one against this Nationals side. Jeff McNeil was a consistent producer for this offence, as was star second-baseman Robinson Cano. After suffering a losing record last season, the Mets definitely have the talent and versatility to turn things around in 2019.

Prediction: Nationals to Win $1.75

For weeks the Nationals players have heard stories about how they’re finished without Bryce Harper. Especially in their first game of the year, I expect them to come out all guns blazing. With a quality pitcher in Scherzer on the mound, they look very strong value at $1.75.

Philadelphia Phillies

Whilst the Bryce Harper acquisition was understandably all the rage, Philadelphia has quietly done a fantastic job to build a deep and versatile roster. Harper and Andrew McCutchen will be tasked with leading the offence this season, whilst players like Rhys Hoskins and Cesar Hernandez provide great defensive value. Huge things are expected of Philly this season and they’ll look to get off to a flyer.

Atlanta Braves

The Braves come into 2019 off the back of a very solid 2018 season. They won an impressive 90 games and won their first division title in 5 years. They’ve had a very strong spring training run, winning 4 of their last 5 games. Whilst Philly is a tough test first up, they should definitely compete in the NL this season.

Prediction: Phillies to win $1.50

As with Washington, Harper and the Phillies have an absolute ton to prove this season. They’ll definitely face a ton of pressure in this one, but will have a talent edge and homecourt advantage. Especially with Aaron Nola on the mound, they’re still value at this short price.

Tampa Bay Rays

The Rays struggled somewhat as they finished spring training, losing 4 of their last 6 encounters. That said, with guys like Austin Meadows, Tommy Pham, and Carl Chester, they’ve got a strong offensive push. Likewise, a pitching staff led by Jake Snell can be expected to be very competitive most afternoons.

Houston Astros

As one of the clear favourites for the World Series, there will be a ton of pressure on the Astros in this one. They had a very strong finish to spring training, warming up for the season with 4 wins in 5. Jose Altuve and Yuli Gurriel were among the runs and will need to continue that going forward for Houston to succeed this year.

Prediction: Astros to Win $1.70

Even at 36 years of age, Justin Verlander remains one of the premier pitchers in the MLB. In addition to Houston’s talent advantage on the field, I think Verlander can outduel his counterpart in this one. At a tasty $1.70, expect the 2017 champs to start strong here.