The second half of the Major League Baseball season gets underway Friday night, and I’ve got four bets I’m playing at Hard Rock Bet Sportsbook. Two of them are sides, but my favorite wager of the day comes from Kansas City, where I think the over/under is simply too high.
Let’s dive into my favorite MLB bets for Friday.
Padres vs. Royals Under 10.5 (-120)
This is my favorite bet on the board.
When I first saw this total at 10.5, it immediately caught my attention. It’s going to be hot in Kansas City with temperatures expected to reach the upper 80s or low 90s, and both starting pitching staffs and bullpens leave something to be desired.
Even with those factors, I still think this number is inflated.
San Diego ranks last in Major League Baseball in runs scored per game at just 3.95. Kansas City hasn’t been much better, ranking 21st at 4.24 runs per game.
The Royals were especially cold heading into the All-Star break, averaging just two runs per game over their final three contests. The Padres averaged 5.3 runs over that same stretch, which likely helped push this total into double digits.
But 10.5 is asking a lot from two inconsistent offenses. I don’t need a pitching duel to cash this ticket. A game that finishes 5-3, 6-3, or even 6-4 still gets us home. I’ll gladly take the Under 10.5 (-120) as my favorite bet of the day.
- The Pick: SD/KC Under 10.5 (-120)
Pirates Moneyline (+110)
My second favorite play is backing the Pirates on the moneyline.
- The Pick: Pirates Moneyline (+110)
Padres Moneyline (-115)
I’m also backing San Diego to win the game despite playing the under.
These two bets aren’t mutually exclusive.
I think the Padres are the better team, but I also expect this to be a relatively low-scoring contest.
- The Pick: Padres Moneyline (-115)
Reds vs. Rockies Over 11.5 (-125)
If you’re looking for offense, head to Coors Field.
Brady Singer takes the mound in one of baseball‘s most hitter-friendly environments, and that’s enough for me to expect plenty of runs.
Coors Field has a reputation for producing high-scoring games, and I think Friday’s matchup between Cincinnati and Colorado follows that script.
- The Pick: Reds vs Rockies Over 11.5 (-125)
Friday’s MLB Betting Card
- Padres vs. Royals Under 10.5 (-120)
- Pirates Moneyline (+110)
- Padres Moneyline (-115)
- Reds vs. Rockies Over 11.5 (-125)
Those are my favorite MLB bets for Friday’s slate. Good luck with your wagers!
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