Cleveland Guardians betting odds line spread pick predictions best bets

Cleveland Guardians at Houston Astros odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Tuesday’s Cleveland Guardians at Houston Astros odds and lines, with MLB expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Cleveland Guardians (19-9) and Houston Astros (9-19) open a 3-game series Tuesday at Minute Maid Park. First pitch is scheduled for 8:10 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Guardians vs. Astros odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: First meeting; Astros won 4-2 in 2023

The Guardians dropped 2 of 3 games in Atlanta in a battle of 1st-place teams in Atlanta over the weekend. It was a well-pitched series, with the Under cashing in all 3 games. The Guardians offense has produced 4 or fewer runs in 3 in a row, and 5 of the past 6 outings.

The Astros played in the rarefied air of Mexico City against the Colorado Rockies Saturday and Sunday, sweeping a pair of games, while outscoring the Rockies 20-6. However, the totals were sky-high for that set, and the Under is on a 7-0 run in the past 7 games, while cashing at a 10-0-1 pace in the past 11 outings.

Guardians at Astros projected starters

RHP Carlos Carrasco vs. RHP Hunter Brown

Carrasco (1-2, 4.63 ERA) makes his 6th start. He has a 1.63 WHIP, 5.0 BB/9 and 7.7 K/9 in 23 1/3 IP.

Last start: Loss, 5 IP, 5 ER, 9 H (3 HR), 1 BB, 4 K in 8-0 home loss vs. Boston Red Sox last Wednesday
2023 road splits: 1-0, 3.95 ERA, 13 2/3 IP, 6 ER, 11 H (0 HR), 7 BB, 14 K with .212 opponents’ batting average (OBA) and 1.32 WHIP in 3 starts

Brown (0-4, 9.68 ERA) makes his 6th start. He has a 2.49 WHIP, 6.1 BB/9 and 8.7 K/9 in 17 2/3 IP.

Last start: Loss, 4 IP, 3 ER, 4 H (0 HR), 2 BB, 6 K in 6-0 road loss vs. Washington Nationals on April 21
2024 home splits: 0-1, 1.80 ERA, 10 IP, 3 R (2 ER), 9 H (1 HR), 5 BB, 8 K with .250 OBA and 1.40 WHIP in 2 starts

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Guardians at Astros odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 12:55 p.m. ET.

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

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Guardians at Astros picks and predictions

Prediction

Astros 6, Guardians 5

Moneyline

The Astros (-175) are a little pricey given the struggles of Brown this season. He has been much better in his home park, and Carrasco has been mediocre for the Guardians (+145). However, this is way too much to risk for Houston, based on its overall record, and the erratic pitching of its young right-hander.

PASS.

Run line/Against the spread

The GUARDIANS +1.5 (-135) have the best record in the American League, and it is the only team in the AL yet to incur double-digit losses. Cleveland also leads the AL with a plus-46 run differential. It should be able to pile up some runs against Brown and the Astros. Houston is just 4-9 in 13 games at home this season, so Cleveland could continue to add to those woes.

Over/Under

OVER 9 (-110) is worth a look based on the mediocre performances of Brown and Carrasco. We could have batting practice early on in this game, as both pitchers have had their ups and downs.

While the Under has dominated for Houston lately, with the offense struggling, it could be able to get to Cookie early.

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Cleveland Guardians at Atlanta Braves odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Sunday’s Cleveland Guardians at Atlanta Braves odds and lines, with MLB expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Cleveland Guardians (19-8) and Atlanta Braves (18-7) wrap up a 3-game interleague series Sunday at Truist Park. First pitch is scheduled for 1:35 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Guardians vs. Braves odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: Tied 1-1

Atlanta won Friday’s opener 6-2 as a heavy favorite (-267) as the Under (8.5) cashed, while Cleveland returned the favor Saturday for a 4-2 win in 11 innings as a moderate underdog (+146) with the Under (9) hitting.

The Guardians have alternated wins and losses in the past 5 games, going 3-2, while cashing the Under at a 3-1-1 clip. Cleveland is 7-2 in the past 9 games and is 11-4 on the road this season.

The Braves had a 4-game win streak halted with Saturday’s loss, but Atlanta was able to extend its Under streak to 5 straight outings. The Under is 9-2 in the past 11 outings, too.

Guardians at Braves projected starters

RHP Ben Lively vs. RHP Bryce Elder

Lively (0-1, 2.38 ERA) makes his 3rd start. He has a 0.79 WHIP, 0.8 BB/9 and 11.1 K/9 in 11 1/3 innings.

Last start: No-decision, 6 1/3 IP, 1 ER, 5 H, 1 HR, 0 BB, 7 K in 4-1 home victory vs. Boston Red Sox Tuesday
2024 road splits: Loss, 5 IP, 2 ER, 3 H, 1 HR, 1 BB, 7 K in 2-0 loss vs. Boston Red Sox April 17

Elder (1-0, 0.00 ERA) makes his 2nd start. He has a 1.20 WHIP, 0.0 BB/9 and 5.4 K/9 in 6 2/3 innings.

Last start: Win, 6 2/3 IP, 0 ER, 8 H, 0 BB, 4 K in 3-0 home victory vs. Miami Marlins Monday
2023 home splits: 7-1, 3.61 ERA (94 2/3 IP, 38 ER), 82 H, 12 HR, 34 BB, 73 K, .235 opponents’ batting average (OBA) in 17 starts

Guardians at Braves odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 3:36 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Guardians +145 (bet $100 to win $145) | Braves -175 (bet $175 to win $100)
Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Guardians +1.5 (-135) | Braves -1.5 (+110)
Over/Under (O/U): 9 (O: -120 | U: +100)

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Guardians at Braves picks and predictions

Prediction

Braves 4, Guardians 2

Moneyline

The Braves (-175) will cost 1.75 times the potential return. That’s too expensive for a matchup between 2 top teams.

PASS and look to the run line instead.

Run line/Against the spread

The BRAVES -1.5 (+110) are worth a look in the series finale. Atlanta covered the run line in Friday’s series opener, winning 6-2. In 5 of the past 6 victories by the Braves, and 9 of the past 11 wins, Atlanta has ended up winning by 2 or more runs. So, if you like the Braves, you should like them to cover the run line, too.

Over/Under

UNDER 9 (+100) is a strong play at even-money in this interleague series finale.

The Under cashed in the first 2 games, with Atlanta averaging 4.0 runs per game (RPG), while Cleveland has mustered 3.0 RPG. Lively and Elder do not have a large sample size, but in their previous appearances, each pitcher has kept scores down. Look for another low-scoring game in this matinee action.

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Cleveland Guardians at Atlanta Braves odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Saturday’s Cleveland Guardians at Atlanta Braves odds and lines, with MLB expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Cleveland Guardians (18-8) and Atlanta Braves (18-6) play the middle contest of a 3-game interleague series Saturday at Truist Park. First pitch is scheduled for 7:20 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Guardians vs. Braves odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: Braves lead 1-0; Atlanta won 6-2 as a heavy favorite (-250) in Friday’s opener as the Under (8.5) hung on

The Guardians have the best winning percentage in the AL at .692, and the Braves have the best record in the majors at 18-6 with a winning percentage of .750.

Cleveland has dropped 2 of the past 3 outings after a 5-game win streak and wins in 8 of the previous 9 contests. The Under cashed on Friday, but the Over had been 5-1-1 in the previous 7 outings.

The Braves have won 4 straight games and 10 of the past 11 outings dating back to April 14. The Under has cashed in each of the past 4 contests, while the total has gone low 8 of the past 10 outings. Atlanta has cashed on the run line in 7 of the past 10 games as a favorite.

Guardians at Braves projected starters

RHP Tanner Bibee vs. RHP Charlie Morton

Bibee (2-0, 4.44 ERA) makes his 6th start. He has a 1.60 WHIP, 4.4 BB/9 and 9.6 K/9 in 24 1/3 innings.

Last start: Win, 5 2/3 IP, 2 ER, 5 H (1 HR), 2 BB, 8 K in 6-2 home victory vs. Oakland Athletics Sunday
2023 road splits: 1-0, 3.14 ERA (14 1/3 IP, 5 ER), 16 H (2 HR), 7 BB, 16 K, .276 opponents’ batting average (OBA) in 3 starts

Morton (2-0, 4.70 ERA) makes his 5th start. He has a 1.26 WHIP, 3.9 BB/9 and 8.6 K/9 in 23 innings.

Last start: Win, 6 IP, 2 ER, 4 H, 2 BB, 4 K in 5-2 home victory vs. Texas Rangers April 20
2024 home splits: 1-0, 4.63 ERA (11 2/3 IP, 6 ER), 9 H (1 HR), 7 BB, 8 K, .214 OBA in 2 starts

Guardians at Braves odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 1:55 p.m. ET.

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

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Guardians at Braves picks and predictions

Prediction

Braves 6, Guardians 5

Moneyline

The Braves (-175) will cost you at least 2 times your potential return, which is just a little too much risk for a standalone wager. My personal limit for a straight-up ML play is -175, and even that’s a little risky. As part of a multi-team parlay playing Atlanta straight up is OK.

PASS.

Run line/Against the spread

The GUARDIANS +1.5 (-135) are a decent play catching a run and a half.

Cleveland has fared well on the road this season, going 10-4, although one of those losses did come in the series opener. Bibee has slightly better splits than Morton, so the scales are tipped slightly in Cleveland’s favor as far as the starting pitching is concerned.

Over/Under

OVER 9 (-105) is the lean, but play a half-unit at most.

The Under cashed in Friday’s opener, but the total has gone high at a 5-2-1 clip in the past 8 games for Cleveland.

While Atlanta has cashed the Under in 4 in a row, the Over is 2-2 in 4 interleague home games.

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Cleveland Guardians at Atlanta Braves odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Friday’s Cleveland Guardians at Atlanta Braves odds and lines, with MLB expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Cleveland Guardians (18-7) and Atlanta Braves (17-6) open a 3-game series Friday. First pitch from Truist Park is set for 7:20 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Guardians vs. Braves odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: First meeting; Atlanta won 2-1 last season

Cleveland came away with a 6-4 win over the Boston Red Sox Thursday while covering as a -123 home favorite. Cleveland scored 5 of its runs in the 2nd inning — all from HRs. The Guardians are 8-2 in their last 10 games.

Atlanta beat the Miami Marlins 4-3 in extra innings Wednesday while covering as a -262 home favorite. Atlanta led 3-1 until the Marlins tied the game in the 9th, but CF Michael Harris II hit a game-winning RBI double in the 10th. The Braves have won 3 consecutive games and 9 of the last 10.

Guardians at Braves projected starters

LHP Logan Allen vs. LHP Chris Sale

Allen (3-0, 5.06 ERA) makes his 6th start. He has a 1.39 WHIP, 3.0 BB/9 and 7.1 K/9 in 26 2/3 IP.

Last start: Win, 5 1/3 IP, 5 H, 3 ER, 3 BB, 4 K in a 6-3 home win over the Oakland A’s Saturday
First career start vs. Atlanta

Sale (2-1, 4.38 ERA) makes his 5th start. He has a 1.05 WHIP, 2.2 BB/9 and 9.9 K/9 in 24 2/3 IP.

Last start: Win, 7 IP, 5 H, 3 ER, 1 BB, 7 K in an 8-3 home win over the Texas Rangers on April 19
Career vs. Cleveland: 6-8, 4.60 ERA (135 IP, 69 ER), 137 H, 38 BB, 153 K in 21 starts and 11 relief appearances

Guardians at Braves odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 9:14 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Guardians +170 (bet $100 to win $170) | Braves -210 (bet $210 to win $100)
Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Guardians +1.5 (-120) | Braves -1.5 (+100)
Over/Under (O/U): 8.5 (O: -105 | U: -115)

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Guardians at Braves picks and predictions

Prediction

Braves 7, Guardians 6

Moneyline

PASS.

I like the Braves (-210) to pick up the win as they are 4-1 in their last 5 matchups vs. Cleveland (+170), but they are not worth the risk of betting on as such heavy favorites. It’s also risky given how hot both teams are currently. Bet on the spread and/or total instead.

Run line/Against the spread

BET GUARDIANS +1.5 (-120).

Both teams are hot and they’re 5-5 in their last 10 meetings. I trust Sale more than Allen, which is a big reason why I am sticking with the Braves to win, but I expect the Guardians to make this a very competitive game and series.

Over/Under

BET OVER 8.5 (-105).

The Over has hit in 6 of Cleveland’s last 9 games and is 15-8-1 this year. For Atlanta, the Over hit in its last home game vs. an AL opponent and is 12-10-1 on the season. The Over has also hit in 4 of the last 6 Cleveland-Atlanta matchup overall, being 2-1 in the last 3 meetings in Atlanta.

Be aware that the Under is 7-3 in Atlanta’s last 10 games overall.

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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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Oakland A’s at Cleveland Guardians odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Friday’s Oakland A’s at Cleveland Guardians odds and lines, with MLB expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Oakland Athletics (8-11) visit the Cleveland Guardians (13-6) on Friday with 1st pitch from Progressive Field set for 7:10 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the A’s vs. Guardians odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: Guardians lead 3-1

The A’s snapped a 2-game losing streak on Wednesday with a 6-3 win over the St. Louis Cardinals to avoid the series sweep and cover as a +114 home underdog. CF Esteury Ruiz had a HR and 2 RBIs and scored 2 runs while RHP Paul Blackburn allowed 3 ER in 5.2 innings for the win.

The Guardians got back in the win column on Thursday with a 5-4 win over the Boston Red Sox to win the series and cover as -105 road favorites. 2B Andres Gimenez had 2 RBIs while 5 Cleveland players scored a run. RHP Carlos Carrasco gave up 2 ER in 5.2 innings to pick up the win.

A’s at Guardians projected starters

RHP Joe Boyle vs. RHP Triston McKenzie

Boyle (1-2, 5.68 ERA) makes his 4th start. He has a 1.82 WHIP, 5.68 BB/9 and 10.66 K/9 in 12.2 IP.

Oakland is 1-2 in Boyle’s 3 starts this season with the team scoring just 2 total runs in his 3 starts
Has not allowed a HR and has given up just 1 total ER in his last 2 starts after allowing 7 ER in his 1st start

McKenzie (1-2, 6.23 ERA) makes his 4th start. He has a 1.77 WHIP, 8.31 BB/9 and 3.46 K/9 in 13 IP.

Cleveland is 1-2 in his 3 starts
Has allowed 4 or more runs in 2 of his 3 appearances
Has given up 2 HRs with 12 BBs and 5 Ks and has not made it out of the 5th inning in any start

A’s 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 8:46 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): A’s +145 (bet $100 to win $145) | Guardians -175 (bet $175 to win $100)
Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): A’s +1.5 (-140) | Guardians -1.5 (+115)
Over/Under (O/U): 8.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

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A’s at Guardians picks and predictions

Prediction

Guardians 5, A’s 2

Moneyline

PASS.

There is minimal value on the Guardians (-175), who are 4-1 in their last 5, to beat the A’s (+145) who are 2-3 in their last 5.

Run line/Against the spread

BET GUARDIANS -1.5 (+115).

The A’s have scored 2 or fewer runs in 6 of their last 8 games with 3 of their last 4 losses coming by 2 or more runs. Cleveland has scored 5 or more runs in 4 of its last 5 with 2 of its last 3 wins coming by 2 or more runs. While neither starter has had a strong start to the year, the Guardians offense is hotter than the A’s and will provide the boost to cover.

Over/Under

BET UNDER 8.5 (-110).

Oakland has failed to hit the Over in 8 of its last 10 games including 2 of its last 3. It has scored 2 or fewer runs in 6 of its last 8 games. It has allowed only 3 runs in each of its last 3 games and 3 or fewer runs in 8 of its last 10 overall.

Cleveland has allowed 4 or fewer runs in 3 of its last 4 while scoring 5 or fewer in 6 of its last 10.

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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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