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Chicago Cubs at Boston Red Sox odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Sunday’s Chicago Cubs at Boston Red Sox odds and lines, with MLB expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Chicago Cubs (17-10) and Boston Red Sox (15-13) wrap up a 3-game series at Fenway Park Sunday. First pitch is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET (ESPN). Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Cubs vs. Red Sox odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: Tied 1-1

The Cubs, who were -113 favorites, lost 17-0 in the 2nd game of the series Saturday with the Over (9) hitting in Boston. The loss snapped a 4-game winning streak for Chicago.

CF Ceddanne Rafaela finished with a HR and 7 RBIs for the Red Sox, who cashed as +104 underdogs. RF Tyler O’Neill also homered, helping Boston win for just the 2nd time in 5 games.

Cubs at Red Sox projected starters

RHP Hayden Wesneski vs. RHP Tanner Houck

Wesneski (2-0, 0.00 ERA) makes his 1st start and 3rd appearance. He has a 0.16 WHIP, 0.0 BB/9 and 4.3 K/9 in 6 1/3 IP.

Last outing: Win, 2 1/3 IP, 0 ER, 0 H, 0 BB, 1 K in relief appearance of 3-1 home victory vs. Houston Astros Thursday
Last start: No-decision, 2 IP, 1 ER, 2 H, 1 BB, 4 K in 3-2 win at St. Louis Cardinals July 28, 2023
2023 stats: 3-5, 4.63 ERA (89 1/3 IP, 46 ER), 1.28 WHIP in 11 starts and 23 relief appearances
Has never faced Boston

Houck (3-2, 1.65 ERA) makes his 6th start. He has a 0.98 WHIP, 1.4 BB/9 and 8.8 K/9 in 32 2/3 IP.

Last start: Loss, 6 IP, 2 ER, 5 H, 3 BB, 4 K in 4-1 loss at Cleveland Guardians Tuesday
2024 home stats: 1-1, 2.45 ERA (14 2/3 IP, 4 ER), 1.02 WHIP in 2 starts
Career vs. Cubs: 0-0, 4.50 ERA (2 IP, 1 ER), 1.50 WHIP in 2 relief appearances

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Cubs at Red Sox odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 10:57 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Cubs +110 (bet $100 to win $110) | Red Sox -135 (bet $135 to win $100)
Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Cubs +1.5 (-175) | Red Sox -1.5 (+145)
Over/Under (O/U): 9 (O: -115 | U: -105)

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Cubs at Red Sox picks and predictions

Prediction

Red Sox 4, Cubs 3

Moneyline

It’s unlikely that Boston’s offense will be able to maintain Saturday’s level of production; however, Houck will probably have a better start than Wesneski. Houck has allowed 2 or fewer earned runs in 4 of 5 starts, while Wesneski hasn’t even pitched more than 4 innings since June 28, 2023.

The Red Sox, who were 15th in runs per game at 4.33 entering Saturday, can’t be trusted to keep scoring runs over the course of a full game, but Houck is a good bet to keep them in position to at least win the 1st 5 innings.

BET RED SOX 1ST 5 INNINGS (-140).

Run line/Against the spread

Boston has struggled to win back-to-back games recently — let alone by multiple runs. The Cubs are also a bit too expensive to cover +1.5 at -175.

PASS. Bet the ML and/or total instead.

Over/Under

The Over has hit in the 1st 2 games of this series, but between Boston’s offense regressing toward the mean and Houck likely limiting Chicago to 2 or fewer runs, we should see a lower-scoring game Sunday. While it is a small sample size, Wesneski also hasn’t given up a run yet in 6 1/3 innings.

BET UNDER 9 (-105).

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Chicago Cubs at Boston Red Sox odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Saturday’s Chicago Cubs at Boston Red Sox odds and lines, with MLB expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Chicago Cubs (17-9) and Boston Red Sox (14-13) play the middle contest a 3-game interleague series Saturday at Fenway Park. First pitch is scheduled for 4:10 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Cubs vs. Red Sox odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: Cubs lead 1-0; Chicago won the series opener 7-1 behind LHP Shota Imanaga Friday as the Over (7.5) cashed

The Cubs have won 4 games in a row, all against AL teams, and Chicago has picked up 6 consecutive interleague victories dating back to April 13. The Over was a rarity Friday, as the Under is 5-2 in the past 7 games for the Cubbies while going 6-1 in the past 7 against AL clubs.

The Red Sox have dropped 3 of the past 4 games. The Over has hit in the past 2 outings, and the total has gone high at a slight 4-3-1 clip in the past 8 games for Boston.

Cubs at Red Sox projected starters

RHP Ben Brown vs. RHP Josh Winckowski

Brown (0-0, 3.72 ERA) makes his 3rd start and 7th appearance. He has a 1.03 WHIP, 2.8 BB/9 and 8.4 K/9 in 19 1/3 innings.

Last start: No-decision, 6 IP, 1 ER, 1 H, 2 BB, 4 K in 3-2 road win in 11 innings vs. Arizona Diamondbacks April 15
2024 road splits: 0-0, 5.11 ERA, 9 H, 5 BB, 10 K in 12 1/3 IP in 2 starts and 1 relief appearance

Winckowski (1-1, 4.20 ERA) makes his 2nd start and 9th appearance. He has a 1.80 WHIP, 4.8 BB/9 and 10.8 K/9 in 15 innings.

Last start: No-decision, 3 1/3 IP, 1 ER, 3 H, 0 BB, 1 K in 6-1 road win vs. Pittsburgh Pirates Sunday
2024 home splits: 0-1, 8.10 ERA, 13 H, 5 BB, 8 K in 6 2/3 IP in 4 relief appearances

Cubs at Red Sox odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 9:10 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Cubs -120 (bet $120 to win $100) | Red Sox +100 (bet $100 to win $100)
Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Cubs -1.5 (+135) | Red Sox +1.5 (-165)
Over/Under (O/U): 8.5 (O: -120 | U: +100)

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Cubs at Red Sox picks and predictions

Prediction

Cubs 5, Red Sox 4

Moneyline

The CUBS (-120) are a decent play as slight favorites in this middle contest.

There is plenty of concern here, as Boston is just 3-8 this season at Fenway Park. The Cubs (-115) are on a serious roll, too, and Chicago has won 5 in a row against AL teams, while posting a plus-32 run differential.

Run line/Against the spread

The Red Sox +1.5 (-165) will cost you plenty if you require a little bit of insurance and cannot fathom the idea of playing Boston straight up.

In Boston’s past 3 losses across the past 4 games, it has lost by 2 or more runs, with an average margin of defeat of 3.7 runs per game.

PASS.

Over/Under

OVER 8.5 (-120) is a worth a look in this battle between Brown and Winckowski. It’s not likely to be a pitcher’s duel, and neither will go very deep into the game. The bullpens will be thrust into action early. Chicago’s bullpen has a 3.62 ERA, while Boston’s pen has managed a 3.55 ERA.

The Over has hit in the past 2 games for the Red Sox, allowing 13 runs in the outings.

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Chicago Cubs at Boston Red Sox odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Friday’s Chicago Cubs at Boston Red Sox odds and lines, with MLB expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Chicago Cubs (16-9) and Boston Red Sox (14-12) open a 3-game interleague series Friday at Fenway Park. First pitch is scheduled for 7:10 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Cubs vs. Red Sox odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: First meeting; Red Sox won 2-1 in 2023 at Wrigley Field

The Cubs posted a 3-game interleague series sweep of the Houston Astros earlier this week, outscoring the ‘Stros 14-6 while cashing the Under in all 3 outings. The Cubs have won 5 consecutive interleague games. The total has gone low in 5 of the past 6 outings, and the Under is 10-3 in the past 13 games.

The Red Sox dropped 2 of 3 games on the road against the Cleveland Guardians, while the Under is on a 4-1-1 run for Boston. At home, Boston is just 3-7 this season. In interleague play, Boston is 3-for-3 this season after sweeping the Pittsburgh Pirates on the road April 19-21.

Cubs at Red Sox projected starters

LHP Shota Imanaga vs. RHP Kutter Crawford

Imanaga (3-0, 0.84 ERA) makes his 5th start of the season. He has a 0.75 WHIP, 0.8 BB/9 and 8.9 K/9 in 21 1/3 IP.

Last start: Win, 6 IP, 3 R (2 ER), 5 H (1 HR), 0 BB, 5 K in 5-3 home win Saturday vs. Miami Marlins
2024 road splits: Win, 5 1/3 IP, 1 R (0 ER), 5 H, 2 BB, 4 K in 4-1 win vs. Seattle Mariners on April 13 in his only road appearance to date

Crawford (1-0, 0.66 ERA) makes his 6th start. He has a 0.99 WHIP, 3.6 BB/9 and 9.9 K/9 in 27 1/3 IP.

Last start: Win, 6 IP, 1 ER, 7 H, 3 BB, 6 K in 4-2 road win vs. Pittsburgh Pirates last Saturday
2024 home splits: 0-0, 0.00 ERA, 4 H, 4 BB, 12 K in 10 2/3 IP in 2 starts

Cubs at Red Sox odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 6:04 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Cubs -110 (bet $110 to win $100) | Red Sox -110 (bet $110 to win $100)
Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Cubs -1.5 (+155) | Red Sox +1.5 (-190)
Over/Under (O/U): 8 (O: -115 | U: -105)

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Cubs at Red Sox picks and predictions

Prediction

Red Sox 3, Cubs 2

Moneyline

The RED SOX (-110) are a strong play in this interleague series opener against the Cubs (-110).

This should be a well-pitched game, and you’ll want to go lightly, as runs should be at a premium in a low-scoring pitcher’s duel. Back Boston, but have some patience, as things could get dicey.

Run line/Against the spread

The Red Sox +1.5 (-190) will set you back nearly 2 times your potential return, and that’s just too much risk for not enough reward. Over the long term, making bets with such tremendous risk will not pay off.

AVOID.

Over/Under

UNDER 8 (-105) is a slam-dunk play in this interleague series opener.

Imanaga and Crawford have each pitched amazingly well to date, with both pitchers posting sub-1.00 ERAs to this point.

Runs should be at a premium at Fenway Park, and winds will be blowing from 8-11 mph from right field to left field, somewhat limiting the potential of balls to the power alleys.

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Boston Red Sox at Cleveland Guardians odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Thursday’s Boston Red Sox at Cleveland Guardians odds and lines, with MLB expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Boston Red Sox (14-11) and Cleveland Guardians (17-7) wrap up a 4-game series Thursday at Progressive Field. First pitch is scheduled for 1:10 p.m. ET (MLB Network). Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Red Sox vs. Guardians odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: Guardians lead 4-2

The Red Sox took out a bit of frustration on the Guardians on Wednesday, winning 8-0 behind RHP Cooper Criswell. Boston cashed as an underdog (+115) as the total (8) pushed at most shops. The Red Sox have still won just twice in 6 meetings with the Guardians, with both victories coming via shutout.

The Guardians had a 5-game winning streak snapped in Wednesday’s shutout loss. Cleveland is still an impressive 8-2 in the past 10 games, while the Over is 7-3-1 across the past 11 outings.

This is the final regular-season meeting between the teams.

Red Sox at Guardians projected starters

RHP Chase Anderson vs. RHP Triston McKenzie

Anderson (0-0, 2.77 ERA) makes his 1st start and 7th appearance of the season. He has a 0.85 WHIP, 0.7 BB/9 and 5.6 K/9 in 13 IP.

Last start: Win, 5 IP, 0 ER, 5 H, 2 BB, 4 K in 4-1 win vs. Los Angeles Dodgers Sept. 26, 2023 (with the Colorado Rockies)
2023 road splits: 0-4, 7.20 ERA (35 IP, 28 ER), 41 H (9 HR), 13 BB, 25 K, .297 opponents’ batting average (OBA) in 7 starts and 1 relief appearance

McKenzie (2-2, 5.00 ERA) makes his 5th start. He has a 1.61 WHIP, 7.5 BB/9 and 5.5 K/9 in 18 IP.

Last start: Win, 5 IP, 1 ER, 3 H, 3 BB, 6 K in 10-2 home victory vs. Oakland Athletics on Friday
2024 home splits: 2-1, 3.68 ERA (14 2/3 IP, 6 ER), 10 H (2 HR), 13 BB, 9 K, .189 OBA in 3 starts

Red Sox at Guardians odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 6:11 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Red Sox +125 (bet $100 to win $125) | Guardians -155 (bet $155 to win $100)
Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Red Sox +1.5 (-160) | Guardians -1.5 (+135)
Over/Under (O/U): 7.5 (O: -115 | U: -105)

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Red Sox at Guardians picks and predictions

Prediction

Guardians 5, Red Sox 2

Moneyline

The GUARDIANS (-155) are worth a look on getaway day, as they have won 4 of 6 meetings this season with the Red Sox (+130), and the pitching scales are tipped in their favor.

Anderson was a disaster on the road last season, and he makes his 1st start for Boston away from home. McKenzie struggled in only road start this season, but he has enjoyed the home cooking.

Run line/Against the spread

The GUARDIANS -1.5 (+135) are much riskier on the run line, laying the run and a half. While we don’t want to double-up on Cleveland, consider going lightly on the run line, while focusing mostly on the moneyline.

Over/Under

UNDER 7.5 (-105) is worth a look in this afternoon affair, but go with a half-unit play at most.

While Anderson was a disaster last season with the Rockies on the road, the Guardians managed no runs on Tuesday against Criswell. The wind is blowing in from the right-centerfield power alley at a 9-12 mph clip, knocking down potential home run balls.

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Boston Red Sox at Cleveland Guardians odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Wednesday’s Boston Red Sox at Cleveland Guardians odds and lines, with MLB expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Boston Red Sox (13-11) and Cleveland Guardians (17-6) play the middle contest of a 3-game series Wednesday at Progressive Field. First pitch is scheduled for 6:10 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Red Sox vs. Guardians odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: Guardians lead 4-1

The Red Sox suffered the 4-1 loss in Tuesday’s series opener, just their 4th road loss in 14 tries. Boston frittered away a good start by RHP Tanner Houck, who allowed 2 ER and 5 H across 6 IP. It took a 1-0 lead into the 7th inning stretch, but the Cleveland bats struck against the bullpen.

Boston learned it will be without 1B Triston Casas, who is out indefinitely after suffering a broken rib on a swing in Pittsburgh. Casas had belted 6 HR in just his 1st 78 at-bats.

The Guardians are now 17-6, which is the best start in the club’s 124-year history. Switch-hitting All-Star Jose Ramirez hit his 1st opposite-field right-handed HR since 2017. Cleveland has won 5 in a row, and while the Over didn’t cash Tuesday, it is still 9-4 in the past 13 outings.

Red Sox at Guardians projected starters

RHP Cooper Criswell vs. RHP Carlos Carrasco

Criswell (0-1, 4.26 ERA) makes his 2nd start and 3rd appearance of the season. He has a 1.58 WHIP, 2.8 BB/9 and 5.7 K/9 in 6 1/3 innings.

Last start: No-decision, 4 IP, 2 ER, 5 H (1 HR), 1 BB, 4 K in 7-2 win vs. Los Angeles Angels April 13
2023 road splits (with Rays): 0-0, 7.65 ERA (15 1/3 IP, 13 ER), 20 H, 3 BB, 13 K, .308 opponents’ batting average in 5 relief appearances

Carrasco (1-1, 3.44 ERA) makes his 5th start of the season. He has a 1.53 WHIP, 5.9 BB/9 and 7.9 K/9 in 18 1/3 innings.

Last start: Win, 5 2/3 IP, 2 ER, 4 H, 3 BB, 5 K in 5-4 road victory vs. Red Sox Thursday
2024 home splits: Loss, 4 2/3 IP, 1 ER, 5 H, 5 BB, 2 K in 1 start vs. New York Yankees April 13
Career vs. Red Sox: 2-4, 7.55 ERA (39 1/3 IP, 33 ER — 6 HR), 63 H, 15 BB, 37 K, 1.98 WHIP in 8 starts and 2 relief appearances

Red Sox at Guardians odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 11:30 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Red Sox +120 (bet $100 to win $120) | Guardians -140 (bet $140 to win $100)
Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Red Sox +1.5 (-175) | Guardians -1.5 (+145)
Over/Under (O/U): 7.5 (O: -115 | U: -105)

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Red Sox at Guardians picks and predictions

Prediction

Guardians 4, Red Sox 3

Moneyline

The GUARDIANS (-140) are a strong value at home with Carrasco against the visiting Red Sox (+120).

While Cleveland has been rolling along, Cookie Carrasco has struggled in his career against the Red Sox. However, even he won in Boston in his most recent start, and there just seems to be something magical about this Cleveland team, at least in the early going.

Facts and statistics say to back the visitors, but with a short-innings starter in Criswell, that means more work for the bullpen. That bullpen was trampled last night, so it’s a good idea to back the home side.

Run line/Against the spread

The Red Sox +1.5 (-175) are a little on the pricey side if you are looking for a little bit of insurance. If you like Boston, just bet it straight up.

PASS.

Over/Under

UNDER 7.5 (-105) is the lean, so go with a half-unit play at most.

The total went low in the series opener, and the Under has cashed in 3 straight games for Boston while cashing at an 8-3 clip in the past 11 games. In 5 matchups with the Guardians, the Under has a 3-2 edge this season.

Cleveland cashed the Under Tuesday, but the Over had been on a 4-0 run in the previous 4 days. Of course, much of that streak came in the 3-game series sweep against the hapless A’s over the weekend, with Cleveland piling up 22 runs of offense.

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Cleveland Guardians at Boston Red Sox odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Tuesday’s Boston Red Sox at Cleveland Guardians odds and lines, with MLB expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Boston Red Sox (13-10) and Cleveland Guardians (16-6) open a 3-game series Tuesday at Progressive Field. First pitch is scheduled for 6:10 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Red Sox vs. Guardians odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: Guardians lead 3-1

Boston swept a 3-game interleague series in Pittsburgh to kick off a 6-game road trip, winning each outing as an underdog. The Under cashed in the past 2 games after opening with an Over result Friday against the Pirates. Boston has won 4 in a row on the road, and it is 9-1 in the past 10 away from home.

Cleveland swept a 3-game series against the Oakland Athletics, outscoring the A’s 22-7. The Over cashed in each game of the series, while going 9-3 in the past 12 outings. The Cleveland offense has racked up 5 or more runs in 4 straight games, and 7 of the past 8 contests.

Red Sox at Guardians projected starters

RHP Tanner Houck vs. RHP Ben Lively

Houck (3-1, 1.35 ERA) makes his 5th start of the season. He has a 0.90 WHIP, 0.7 BB/9 and 9.5 K/9 in 26 2/3 innings.

Last start: Win, CG, 9 IP, 0 ER, 3 H, 0 BB, 9 K in 2-0 win vs. Cleveland Guardians Wednesday
2024 road splits: 2-0, 0.00 ERA (12 IP, 0 ER), 7 H, 2 BB, 17 K, .167 opponent batting average (OBA) in 2 starts

Lively (0-1, 3.60 ERA) makes his 2nd start of the season. He has a 0.80 WHIP, 1.8 BB/9 and 12.6 K/9 in 5 innings.

Last start: Loss, 5 IP, 2 ER, 3 H, 1 BB, 7 K in 2-0 road loss vs. Boston Red Sox Wednesday
2023 home splits (for Reds): 2-2, 4.70 ERA (38 1/3 IP, 20 ER), 34 H, 16 BB, 39 K in 6 starts and 2 relief appearances

Red Sox at Guardians odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 3:16 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Red Sox -115 (bet $115 to win $100) | Guardians -105 (bet $105 to win $100)
Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Red Sox -1.5 (+145) | Guardians +1.5 (-175)
Over/Under (O/U): 8.5 (O: -105 | U: -115)

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Red Sox at Guardians picks and predictions

Prediction

Red Sox 4, Guardians 3

Moneyline

The RED SOX (-115) are a decent play in the series opener as they look to avenge a series loss at Fenway Park last week against the Guardians (-105).

Houck has been on fire so far this season, turning in 3 quality starts. In fact, he has 6 or more scoreless innings in each of those outings. His only poor outing was a loss April 12 against the Los Angeles Angels when he yielded 7 runs (4 earned) in 5 2/3 innings.

The Guardians turn to Lively, who actually pitched pretty well in Boston in his team debut. However, he hasn’t been on the same level as Houck, and he is likely to get outpitched again in Tuesday’s opener.

Run line/Against the spread

The Guardians +1.5 (-175) are a little on the pricey side in this series opener. While Cleveland has the best record in baseball during the early going, it’s hard to trust it with Lively on the bump.

PASS.

Over/Under

UNDER 8.5 (-115) is the lean, but go with a half-unit play at most.

While Cleveland has cashed the Over in 4 straight games, the total split 2-2 in the 4-game set with Boston. The Under cashed the first head-to-head matchup between Houck and Lively.

The Under has cashed in the past 2 games in Pittsburgh, while the total has gone low in 7 of the past 10 games for Boston.

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Boston Red Sox at Pittsburgh Pirates odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Friday’s Boston Red Sox at Pittsburgh Pirates odds and lines, with MLB expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Boston Red Sox (10-10) visit the Pittsburgh Pirates (11-8) on Friday with 1st pitch from PNC Park scheduled for 6:40 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Red Sox vs. Pirates odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: First meeting; Pirates won all 3 games last season

Boston finished its series against the Cleveland Guardians on Thursday with a 5-4 home loss while failing to cover as a home favorite. After going down 5-1 in the, a 3-run 6th was not enough to overcome the deficit. LF Jarren Duran scored 2 runs and had 2 RBIs while RHP Cooper Criswell gave up 1 ER in 2 1/3 IP to pick up the loss.

Pittsburgh lost 9-1 on Wednesday and was swept in a 3-game series by the New York Mets. C Henry Davis scored the team’s only run off a DH Bryan Reynolds RBI while LHP Bailey Falter allowed 2 ER in 5 innings and took the loss.

Red Sox at Pirates projected starters

RHP Brayan Bello vs. RHP Quinn Priester

Bello (2-1, 3.92 ERA) makes his 5th start. He has a 1.21 WHIP, 2.18 BB/9 and 8.27 K/9 through 20.2 IP.

Red Sox are 3-1 in his 4 starts; Bello has allowed just 9 total ER
In his 3rd season with Boston, Bello is on pace to have the lowest ERA of his career

Priester makes his 1st start of the season.

Went 3-3 with a 7.74 ERA last season in 10 games, starting 8
Was 1-1 with a 6.49 ERA in 5 road games in 2023

Red Sox at Pirates odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 8:15 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Red Sox +100 (bet $100 to win $120) | Pirates -120 (bet $120 to win $100)
Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Red Sox +1.5 (-200) | Pirates -1.5 (+160)
Over/Under (O/U): 8.5 (O: -105 | U: -115)

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Red Sox at Pirates picks and predictions

Prediction

Red Sox 5, Pirates 4

Moneyline

BET RED SOX (+100).

The Red Sox face a Pirates pitcher who struggled in his time in the majors last season and will be seeing his 1st action of the season. The Pirates are 0-3 in their last 3 games and 2-6 in their last 8. While they return home on Friday, the Red Sox have had hot bats recently, scoring 4 or more runs in 4 of their last 6.

Run line/Against the spread

PASS.

While Boston is expected to win against an unproven pitcher, neither team has played to par of late. The value is better on Boston’s moneyline.

Over/Under

BET OVER 8.5 (-105).

Boston has hit the Over in 2 of its last 3 games and has scored 4 or more runs in 6 of its last 9. Pittsburgh has hit the Over in 3 of its last 4 games and has given up 6 or more runs in 2 of its last 3.

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Cleveland Guardians at Boston Red Sox odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Thursday’s Cleveland Guardians at Boston Red Sox odds and lines, with MLB expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Cleveland Guardians (12-6) and Boston Red Sox (10-9) wrap up a 4-game series Thursday. First pitch is scheduled for 1:35 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Guardians vs. Red Sox odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: Guardians lead 2-1

Cleveland won the first 2 games of this series Monday (6-0) and Tuesday (10-7 in 11 innings), but Boston posted a 2-0 victory Wednesday as the Under (8) was never in question.

The Guardians had scored at least 2 runs in each of their first 17 games before Wednesday’s shutout loss. Cleveland had 16 runs in the first 2 outings of this series, and 24 total runs in the 3 games prior to Wednesday night. The Over has a slight 5-3 edge in the past 8 contests for the Guardians.

Boston allowed a season-high 10 runs in Tuesday’s loss, but it recorded a 3rd shutout win in just 19 games. The Under has connected in 5 of the past 6 games for the Red Sox.

Guardians at Red Sox projected starters

RHP Carlos Carrasco vs. LHP Brennan Bernardino

Carrasco (0-1, 3.55 ERA) makes his 4th start of the season. He has a 1.66 WHIP, 6.4 BB/9 and 7.8 K/9 in 12 2/3 innings.

Last start: Loss, 4 2/3 IP, 1 ER, 5 H, 5 BB, 2 K in 3-2 home loss to New York Yankees Saturday
2024 road splits: 0-0, 4.50 ERA (8 IP, 4 ER), 7 H, 4 BB, 9 K, .241 opponent batting average (OBA) in 2 starts

Bernardino (0-1, 1.69 ERA) makes his 1st start and 5th appearance of the season. He has a 0.75 WHIP, 3.4 BB/9 and 13.5 K/9 in 5 1/3 innings.

Last start: No-decision, 1 IP, 0 ER, 2 H, 0 BB, 2 K as an opener in a 13-1 home loss vs. Toronto Blue Jays on Aug. 6, 2023
Career vs. Guardians: 1-1, 1.59 ERA (5 2/3 IP, 1 ER), 3 H, 2 BB, 5 K in 6 relief appearances

Guardians at Red Sox odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 6:40 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Guardians +105 (bet $100 to win $105) | Red Sox -125 (bet $125 to win $100)
Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Guardians +1.5 (-185) | Red Sox -1.5 (+150)
Over/Under (O/U): 9.5 (O: -105 | U: -115)

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Guardians at Red Sox picks and predictions

Prediction

Guardians 5, Red Sox 4

Moneyline

The GUARDIANS (+105) are worth a look at plus-money as Cleveland looks to get back on track after Wednesday’s shutout loss.

Cleveland has posted an impressive 9-3 road record. The Guardians have lost consecutive road games just once (March 31-April 1) so far this season. They had won 6 road games in a row until Wednesday’s loss.

The Red Sox (-125) have managed just 3 victories in 9 tries at Fenway Park, and that isn’t likely to change with the opener Bernardino on the hill — before he turns it over the bullpen.

Run line/Against the spread

The Red Sox +1.5 (-185) aren’t worth playing. The -185 juice is too much the little insurance of a run and a half.

PASS.

Over/Under

UNDER 9.5 (-115) is a good play in this matinee series finale.

The Under is on a 5-1 run for the Red Sox, including 2-1 in the first 3 games of this series.

For the Guardians, the Over-Under has split 3-3 in the past 6 games. The Under has cashed in 4 of the past 5 games on the road, too.

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Cleveland Guardians at Boston Red Sox odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Wednesday’s Cleveland Guardians at Boston Red Sox odds and lines, with MLB expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Cleveland Guardians (12-5) and Boston Red Sox (9-9) play the 3rd contest of a 4-game series Wednesday. First pitch is scheduled for 7:10 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Guardians vs. Red Sox odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: Guardians lead 2-0 after posting wild 10-7 victory in 11 innings Tuesday as slight underdogs (+106) with Over (8.5) easily cashing

The Guardians have unexpectedly fired out to a 12-5 start, which gives them the best record in baseball at the moment. Their success has been aided by an ability to win on the road as Cleveland is 9-2 away from home, while posting a plus-38 run differential, 2nd-best in the majors behind the equally surprising Kansas City Royals (+39).

The Red Sox have been tripped up in 6 of the past 8 games as the pitching has conceded at least 6 runs in each of the 6 losses. The Under is 4-1 in the past 5, though, as the offense has cobbled together just 3.8 runs per game (RPG), including a pair of shutout losses.

Guardians at Red Sox projected starters

RHP Ben Lively vs. RHP Tanner Houck

Lively (4-7, 5.38 ERA in 2023 with Cincinnati) makes his 1st start of 2024. He had a 1.36 WHIP, 2.5 BB/9 and 8.0 K/9 in 88 2/3 innings last season.

Last start: Loss, 4 IP, 13 ER, 13 H (4 HR), 2 BB, 2 K in 20-9 road loss at Chicago Cubs Aug. 1, 2023 for Cincinnati
2023 road splits: 2-5, 5.90 ERA, 50.1 IP, 33 ER, 62 H, 9 BB, 40 K in 6 starts and 5 relief appearances

Houck (2-1, 2.04 ERA) makes his 4th start of the season. He has a 1.19 WHIP, 1.0 BB/9 and 9.7 K/9 in 17 2/3 innings.

Last start: Loss, 5 2/3 IP, 7 R (4 ER), 12 H (1 HR), 0 BB, 2 K in 7-0 home setback to Los Angeles Angels Friday
Career vs. Guardians: 0-1, 3.52 ERA (15 1/3 IP, 6 ER), 10 H, 4 BB, 14 K in 2 starts and 5 relief appearances

Guardians at Red Sox odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 2:11 p.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Guardians +110 (bet $100 to win $110) | Red Sox -130 (bet $130 to win $100)
Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Guardians +1.5 (-175) | Red Sox -1.5 (+145)
Over/Under (O/U): 8.5 (O: -115 | U: -105)

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Guardians at Red Sox picks and predictions

Prediction

Red Sox 7, Guardians 4

Moneyline

The RED SOX (-130) are a good play as moderate favorites against the surprising Guardians (+110).

After the season-ending injury to RHP Shane Bieber, and a doubleheader with the New York Yankees, the Guardians had to get creative with the starting rotation. Lively gets the nod here in his 1st start — coming off the 10-day injury list due to an illness — to make his Cleveland debut. It might be a bit rocky.

Run line/Against the spread

The RED SOX -1.5 (+140) are worth a look on the run line, as they try to turn things around and avoid slipping under .500. The Guardians have won the first 2 in the set, but they turn to the unproven Lively who was pounded last season, pitching for the Reds. He is likely to show some rust since it’s his 1st start of 2024, and the expectation is that Boston’s offense jumps on him early.

Divvy up 1½ UNITS between the 2 wagers — Boston ML and Boston RL — as you see fit.

Over/Under

OVER 8.5 (-115) is the play here with Lively being the driving factor.

He hasn’t pitched in a meaningful game since last summer — while with another organization. Expect nerves to be rampant as he debuts for his new team in a tough pitcher’s park.

In addition, while Houck pitched well in his first 3 starts, he is coming off a rough outing against the Halos, so the Guardians should be able to get to him.

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Cleveland Guardians at Boston Red Sox odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Tuesday’s Cleveland Guardians at Boston Red Sox odds and lines, with MLB expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Cleveland Guardians (11-5) and Boston Red Sox (9-8) square off for the 2nd time in a 4-game series on Tuesday. First pitch is scheduled for 7:10 p.m. ET (ESPN). Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Guardians vs. Red Sox odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: Guardians lead 1-0 after a 6-0 Patriot’s Day win in Boston, cashing as an underdog (+140) while the Under (9.5) hit

The Guardians have won 2 straight as an underdog after going 1-3 in the previous 4 outings. As an underdog, Cleveland is 8-1 on the run line, winning 6 of those games outright. The Over has cashed at a 4-2 pace in the past 6 contests.

The Red Sox have been shut out in 2 of the past 4 games, bookending a pair of victories against the Los Angeles Angels over the weekend. The Under has cashed in 4 in a row, too.

Cleveland has won 3 straight in the series, while the Under and Over has alternated in each of the past 7 meetings since April 28, 2023.

Guardians at Red Sox projected starters

RHP Tanner Bibee vs. RHP Garrett Whitlock

Bibee (1-0, 5.93 ERA) makes his 4th start. He has a 1.83 WHIP, 5.3 BB/9 and 9.9 K/9 in 13 2/3 innings.

Last start: No-decision, 4 1/3 IP, 5 ER, 6 H, 3 BB, 2 K in 7-6 win in 10 innings last Wednesday vs. Chicago White Sox
Last road start: Win, 5 1/3 IP, 1 ER, 5 H (1 HR), 0 BB, 9 K in 4-2 win vs. Minnesota Twins April 4

Whitlock (1-0, 1.26 ERA) makes his 4th start. He has a 1.19 WHIP, 3.8 BB/9 and 10.1 K/9 in 14 1/3 innings.

Last start: No-decision, 5 IP, 1 ER, 4 H (1 HR), 2 BB, 4 K in 9-4 loss in 10 innings Thursday vs. Baltimore Orioles
Career vs. Guardians: 1-0, 2.84 ERA, 6.1 IP, 2 ER, 2 H, 1 BB, 7 K, 2 SV in 4 relief appearances

Guardians at Red Sox odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 6:26 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Guardians -105 (bet $105 to win $100) | Red Sox -115 (bet $115 to win $100)
Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Guardians -1.5 (+155) | Red Sox +1.5 (-190)
Over/Under (O/U): 9 (O: $100 | U: -120)

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Guardians at Red Sox picks and predictions

Prediction

Red Sox 5, Guardians 3

For the Red Sox, the Under has cashed in 4 straight games, averaging 3.0 runs per game (RPG), while allowing 4.8 RPG.

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