Michael Alexander

Rating: 2 Units

The pick is the Minnesota Twins on the moneyline at -138. This is a straightforward play on the better team, the better home starter, and a documented 19-14 trend against losing clubs, all lined up against an Athletics team that has lost 19 of 24 and sends a homer-prone lefty to the mound. Expect Minnesota to strike early, let Matthews work comfortably at home, and hand a lead to a bullpen trending upward. The moneyline is the recommended play, though confident bettors could consider the run line given Lopez’s struggles. 

Rating: 2 Units

New York comes into this matchup after winning three of their last four games, but they have scored three runs or fewer in four of their last five. The Yankees are 31-22 on the road this year, while the Phillies are 27-25 at home. Philadelphia has dropped three of their last four games and they have allowed 6+ runs in three of those four. The Phillies are starting Luzardo, who has allowed one earned run or fewer in four straight outings, while Schlittler has allowed 3, 2, 1, 6, and 0 earned runs in his last five starts. Take the under in this contest.

Rating: 2 Units

I like the White Sox in a bounce back spot at home with a red-hot Sean Burke on the mound, who has given up one run or less in five of his last six starts. On the flip side, Hunter Brown has been in a big slump for the Astros, having given up 13 runs across his last three starts. The White Sox have a better bullpen and have been averaging 7 runs per game against righties in their last 10 games, so take them to win this one at home.

Rating: 2 Units

The Boston Red Sox have been the hottest team in baseball as of late and will continue their push in Game 2 of this series on Saturday.  Sonny Gray’s elite recent form, a cold Toronto offense, and a scorching Boston home ledger make the Red Sox the confident side. Look for Boston to lean on their elite arm to do the job, leading to a victory against a divisional foe.