Tag: Red Sox Astros odds picks prediction spread over/under betting line

Boston Red Sox at Houston Astros odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Thursday’s Boston Red Sox at Houston Astros odds and lines, with MLB expert picks and predictions.

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The Boston Red Sox (67-60) and Houston Astros (72-56) meet Thursday at Minute Maid Park for the matinee finale of a 4-game set. First pitch is scheduled for 2:10 p.m. ET (MLB Network). Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Red Sox vs. Astros odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: Houston leads 2-1

Over the first 2 games of this series (both BoSox losses), Boston managed a combined 21 hits. The Red Sox faltered, though, in clutch situations, going just 4-for-28 (.143) with runners in scoring position. The Crimson Hose went 4-of-11 in such situations Wednesday and won 7-5 in 10 innings.

The Astros have scored 21 runs in this series. Since Aug. 6, Houston has averaged 6.25 runs per game on the strength of an .840 OPS.

Red Sox at Astros projected starters

RHP Brayan Bello vs. RHP J.P. France

Bello (9-7, 3.70 ERA) makes his 22nd start. He has a 1.26 WHIP, 2.3 BB/9 and 7.5 K/9 through 119 1/3 IP.

  • Last start: Win, 6 IP, 1 ER, 6 H, 1 BB, 4 K in 8-3 win at New York Yankees Friday
  • 2023 road stats: 5-2, 4.05 ERA in 53 1/3 IP across 9 starts
  • Has never faced the Astros as a starter

France (9-4, 2.75 ERA) makes his 18th start and 19th appearance. He has a 1.21 WHIP, 2.6 BB/9 and 6.7 K/9 through 108 IP across.

  • Last start: Loss, 6 IP, 2 ER, 7 H, 1 BB, 7 K in 2-0 home loss vs. Seattle Mariners Friday
  • 2023 home stats: 4-2, 3.51 ERA in 56 1/3 IP across 9 starts
  • Has never faced the Red Sox as a starter
  • Owns a 1.98 ERA and 1.17 WHIP since June 29

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Red Sox 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 8:36 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline: Red Sox +105 (bet $100 to win $105) | Astros -125 (bet $125 to win $100)
  • Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Red Sox +1.5 (-190) | Astros -1.5 (+155)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 9 (O: -110 | U: -110)

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Red Sox at Astros picks and predictions

Prediction

Astros 6, Red Sox 5

Moneyline

We can chip away at both starters as far as expected results vs. actual. PASS.

Run line/Against the spread

There is an Over lean here and Boston is 1-4 across its last 5 get-away games on the road.

Look for more return on the Houston side. PASS on the current prices, but look to leverage an Astros -1.5 play if the tag gets north of +160.

Over/Under

The Over is 35-28-1 for Boston in road games and is 36-28-1 for Houston at Minute Maid. Seven straight Red Sox games and 10 of their last 12 contests on the road have hit the Over. Five straight Astros games and 5 of their last 6 at home have seen the Over cash.

Batting against right-handers was a 1st-half weakness for Houston, but the Astros own a .753 OPS against righties since the break. Overall, Houston has clocked an .836 OPS over its last 18 home games.

Boston has also been improving against right-handed pitching (.784 OPS in the 2nd half). The Sox own a solid .774 OPS overall on their current road trip.

Bello has been a better pitcher at home in his year-plus in the Majors. France has been aided this season by a .274 batting average on balls in play (BABIP) and a .233 BABIP with runners in scoring position.

Neither bullpen is in great shape at the back end. Figure this game having a probability of getting into double figures that outweighs pricing.

FanDuel Sportsbook has the better tag here: BACK THE OVER 9 (-105).

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Boston Red Sox at Houston Astros odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Wednesday’s Boston Red Sox at Houston Astros odds and lines, with MLB expert picks and predictions.

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The Boston Red Sox (66-60) and Houston Astros (72-55) meet Wednesday at Minute Maid Park for the 3rd game of a 4-game set. First pitch is scheduled for 8:10 p.m. ET (MLB Network). Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Red Sox vs. Astros odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: Houston leads 2-0

Boston had won 8 of its last 11 prior games to this series starting on Monday. Over the twin losses in this set, the Red Sox have managed a combined 21 hits but have gone just 4-for-28 (.143) with runners in scoring position.

The Astros have scored 16 runs over games 1 and 2. Since Aug. 6, Houston has averaged 6.33 runs per game on the strength of an .842 OPS.

Red Sox at Astros projected starters

LHP Chris Sale vs. RHP Jose Urquidy

Sale (5-3, 4.50 ERA) makes his 14th start of the 2023 campaign. He has a 1.12 WHIP, 2.4 BB/9 and 10.7 K/9 through 68 IP.

  • Last start: Loss, 4 1/3 IP, 3 R (2 ER), 2 H, 3 BB, 3 K in 10-7 loss at Washington Nationals Thursday
  • 2023 road stats: 1-0, 3.69 ERA in 31 2/3 IP across 6 starts
  • Last 5 vs. Astros: 2-2, 3.78 ERA in 33 1/3 IP (2016-2019)
  • Making his 3rd start off the IL (shoulder): went 58 and 65 pitches in his first 2 games back

Urquidy (2-3, 5.21 ERA) makes his 9th start and 10th appearance. He has a 1.42 WHIP, 3.1 BB/9 and 8.1 K/9 through 38 IP.

  • Last start: Loss, 5 IP, 1 ER, 3H, 0 BB, 7 K in 2-1 home loss vs. Los Angeles Angels Aug. 13
  • Pitched 2 scoreless innings of relief Friday vs. Seattle Mariners
  • 2023 home stats: 1-2, 4.35 ERA in 22 IP IP across 4 starts and 1 relief appearance
  • Career vs. Red Sox: 3-0, 2.50 ERA in 18 IP in 3 starts (2021-22)
  • Making his 3rd start off an extended stay on the IL (shoulder)

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Red Sox 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 10:30 a.m. ET.

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

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Red Sox at Astros picks and predictions

Prediction

Red Sox 5, Astros 4

Moneyline

Look for Sale to get a tad deeper in this match-up of injured-and-returned hurlers. Peg the Red Sox bullpen as being an undervalued group. Boston owns a relief ERA of 4.30 since July 1, but that figure has been registered alongside a .335 batting average on balls in play.

Impressive offensive numbers are not too far back in the Red Sox’ rearview mirror. Only some wonky clutch numbers have brought Boston down so far in this series.

FanDuel Sportsbook has the better price here: BACK THE RED SOX (-104).

Run line/Against the spread

Lots of extra juice here: PASS.

Over/Under

No indicators swaying expected production either way: PASS.

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Boston Red Sox at Houston Astros odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Tuesday’s Boston Red Sox at Houston Astros odds and lines, with MLB expert picks and predictions.

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The Boston Red Sox (66-59) and Houston Astros (71-55) clash in a Tuesday showdown at Minute Maid Park. First pitch is at 8:10 p.m. ET (TBS). Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Red Sox vs. Astros odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: Houston leads 1-0

Boston and Houston will be busy dance partners for the rest of the month. Monday’s series opener — with the Astros winning 9-4 — marked the front end of a 4-game set at Minute Maid. The AL foes will meet again for a 3-game set at Fenway Park in Boston from Aug. 28-30.

Houston snapped a 3-game skid with Monday’s win. The Astros hit 3 home runs in a game for the 4th time since last Tuesday.

Red Sox at Astros projected starters

RHP Tanner Houck vs. RHP Justin Verlander

Houck (3-6, 5.05 ERA) is making his 14th start of the 2023 season. He has a 1.26 WHIP, 3.1 BB/9 and 8.5 K/9 through 67 2/3 IP.

  • Returning from the IL to start for the first time since mid-June after being struck in the face by a come-backer and having surgery
  • 2023 road stats: 1-4, 4.26 ERA in 31 2/3 IP across 6 starts
  • Has never faced Houston as a starter
  • Registered 3.52 and 3.15 ERAs in 2021 and 2022, respectively

Verlander (8-6, 3.36 ERA) makes his 20th start. He has registered a 1.19 WHIP, 2.8 BB/9 and 7.5 K/9 through 112 1/3 IP for the Astros and New York Mets.

  • Last start: Win, 5 IP, 5 R (4 ER), 9 H, 2 BB, 2 K in 12-5 road win vs. Miami Marlins Wednesday
  • 2023 home stats: 5-3, 2.49 ERA in 61 1/3 IP across 10 starts
  • Last 5 starts vs. Red Sox: 1-1, 2.32 ERA in 31 IP (2016-19)

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Red Sox 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 11:44 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline: Red Sox +115 (bet $100 to win $115) | Astros -140 (bet $140 to win $100)
  • Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Red Sox +1.5 (-165) | Astros -1.5 (+140)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 9 (O: +100 | U: -120)

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Red Sox at Astros picks and predictions

Prediction

Red Sox 5, Astros 4

Moneyline

Houck flips the Astros to the lesser side of their platoon splits (.722 OPS, .159 ISO). He has been solid over three rehab starts for AAA-Worcester. Houck registered analytics-supportable 3.52 and 3.15 ERAs in 2021 and 2022, respectively.

Verlander has some indicators that put his expected ERA as high as 4.60 or 4.65.

FanDuel Sportsbook has a solid price here: BACK THE RED SOX (+120).

Run line/Against the spread

Houck returning from the IL brings a bit of risk for the Boston side. Some bettors may prefer a RED SOX +1.5 (-165) play on the run line.

Over/Under

No indicators swaying expected production either way: PASS.

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Boston Red Sox at Houston Astros odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Monday’s Boston Red Sox at Houston Astros odds and lines, with MLB expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Boston Red Sox (66-58) and the Houston Astros (70-55) kick off a 4-game series Monday at Minute Maid Park. First pitch is scheduled for 8:10 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Red Sox vs. Astros odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: First meeting of 2023; Red Sox won 4-2 in 2022

The Red Sox are coming off a 3-game road sweep of the rival New York Yankees over the weekend, outscoring the Bronx Bombers 22-9 as the Over cashed in all 3 outings. Boston has won 5 of the past 7 games on the road.

The Astros were swept at home in a 3-game set over the weekend by the division rival Seattle Mariners as the defending champs were outscored 19-9. The Over connected in 2 of the 3 battles. Houston is just 2-5 in the past 7 games overall and has lost its last 4 at home.

Red Sox at Astros projected starters

LHP James Paxton vs. RHP Cristian Javier

Paxton (7-3, 3.34 ERA) makes his 17th start. He has a 1.14 WHIP, 2.4 BB/9 and 9.7 K/9 through 86 1/3 IP.

  • Last start: No-decision, 6 IP, 2 ER, 5 H (2 solo HR), 1 BB, 3 K in 6-2 road loss vs. Washington Nationals Wednesday
  • 2023 road splits: 4-2, 3.94 ERA (48 IP, 21 ER), 8 HR, 1.15 WHIP, .220 opponent batting average (OBA) in 9 starts

Javier (8-2, 4.49 ERA) makes his 24th start. He has a 1.23 WHIP, 3.1 BB/9 and 8.4 K/9 through 122 1/3 IP.

  • Last start: No-decision, 4 2/3 IP, 5 R (4 ER), 6 H, 1 BB, 2 K in 6-5 road win vs. Miami Marlins Tuesday
  • 2023 home splits: 4-1, 3.19 ERA (48 IP, 17 ER), 4 HR, 1.26 WHIP, .240 OBA in 9 starts

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Red Sox 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 7:51 a.m. ET.

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

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Red Sox at Astros picks and predictions

Prediction

Astros 4, Red Sox 3

Moneyline

It’s a bit of a leap of faith to take the ASTROS (-135) as they were swept over the weekend while the Red Sox broke out the brooms against the Yankees on the road, but Javier has been money at home with just 1 loss in 48 IP across 9 starts. The key to Javier’s success has been his ability to keep the ball in the park, and that should continue Monday.

Run line/Against the spread

The RED SOX +1.5 (-175) are worth a look on the run line, although it’s a rather heavy price tag.

Still, Boston arrives on the Gulf Coast with a giant bit of momentum after brooming the Bronx Bombers. As an underdog, the BoSox are 12-2 in the past 14 games on the run line, including 9 outright victories.

Over/Under

UNDER 9 (-115) is worth a look, as Paxton and Javier should post plenty of donuts.

The Under has cashed in 4 straight starts by the southpaw Paxton, while the Under is 3-2 in Javier’s previous 5 assignments. Despite that the Over cashed in all 3 games for the Red Sox in the Bronx, the Under is still 10-5 across their past 15 games overall.

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Boston Red Sox at Los Angeles Angels odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Thursday’s Boston Red Sox at Los Angeles Angels odds and lines, with MLB expert picks and predictions.

The ice-cold Los Angeles Angels (27-31) host the Boston Red Sox (30-27) Thursday at Angel Stadium for the finale of their 4-game series. First pitch is scheduled for 9:38 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze Tipico Sportsbook‘s lines around the Red Sox vs. Angels odds with MLB picks and predictions.

Boston beat L.A. 1-0 Wednesday, handing the Angels their 14th straight loss. Angels OF Mike Trout missed the game with groin tightness after exiting the 2nd game of the series early.

Season series: The Red Sox lead 4-2 but the Angels have a plus-6 run differential.

Red Sox at Angels projected starters

RHP Nick Pivetta vs. RHP Shohei Ohtani  

Pivetta is 5-4 with a 3.50 ERA, 1.10 WHIP, 3.1 BB/9 and 8.5 K/9 in 61 2/3 IP over 11 starts.

  • Last start: Win, 8-0, Saturday at the Oakland Athletics with 7-scoreless IP, 2 H, 2 BB and 7 K.
  • 2021 vs. the Angels: One start — 4-3 home win May 14 — with 6 IP, 2 ER, 4 H, 1 HR, 0 BB and 7 K.

Ohtani is 3-4 with a 3.99 ERA, 1.16 WHIP, 2.1 BB/9 and 12.4 K/9 in 47 1/3 IP over 9 starts.

  • Last start: Loss, 6-1, last Thursday at the New York Yankees with 3 IP, 4 ER, 8 H, 3 HR, 1 BB and 2 K.
  • 2022 vs. the Red Sox: One start — 8-0 win in Boston May 5 — with 7-scoreless IP, 6 H, 0 BB and 11 K.

Red Sox at Angels odds and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 12:37 p.m. ET.

  • Money line (ML): Red Sox +102 (bet $100 to win $102) | Angels -125 (bet $125 to win $100)
  • Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Red Sox +1.5 (-205) | Angels -1.5 (+165)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 7.5 (O: -130 | U: +105)

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Red Sox at Angels picks and predictions

Prediction

Angels 4, Red Sox 2

Money line

LEAN ANGELS (-125) only because the sharp side appears to be the Red Sox (+102) since there’s a line freeze in the betting market.

Most of the action is on L.A. with Ohtani on the bump but the line hasn’t budged off the opener, according to Pregame.com.

However, the Angels need Ohtani to stop the bleeding and he has better advanced pitching numbers than Pivetta both on the year and vs. Tuesday’s opponent.

Ohtani is 2-1 in 3 career starts against Boston with a 2.81 ERA. He grades in the 86th percentile or better in expected ERA (xERA), exit velocity (EV) and barrel rate, according to Statcast.

Ohtani also has a .246/.293/.387 expected batting average (xBA), wOBA (xwOBA) and slugging percentage (xSLG) slash line, 28.0 K% and 85.9 mph EV in 50 plate appearances (PA) vs. active Red Sox batters.

Pivetta grades in the 40th percentile or worse in xERA, EV, hard-hit rate, barrel rate and chase rate this year. He has a .253/.323/.483 xBA-xwOBA-xSLG slash line, 21.4 K% and 90.8 mph in 28 PA vs. current Angels hitters.

BET a half-unit on the ANGELS (-125), if at all.

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Run line/Against the spread

PASS.

I’m not confident enough in the Angels -1.5 (+165) as they are just 10-14 RL as home favorites while the Red Sox are 13-6 RL as road underdogs.

PASS.

Over/Under

LEAN UNDER 7.5 (+105).

More than 90% of the bets placed at Tipico Sportsbook are on the Over 7.5 and there’s value in fading a lopsided market since Red Sox-Angels games are 3-8-2 O/U in their last 13 meetings.

It’s only a LEAN to the UNDER 7.5 (+105) because the Red Sox-Angels total should be raised to 8 if the public keeps betting the Over so we might get a better number by waiting closer to the first pitch.

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Boston Red Sox at Los Angeles Angels odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Tuesday’s Boston Red Sox at Los Angeles Angels odds and lines, with MLB expert picks and predictions.

The Boston Red Sox (28-27) meet the Los Angeles Angels (27-29) Tuesday at Angel Stadium for the 2nd of their 4-game series. First pitch is scheduled for 9:38 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze Tipico Sportsbook‘s lines around the Red Sox vs. Angels odds with MLB picks and predictions.

Boston shut out L.A. 1-0 Monday in the series opener behind a complete-game gem from Red Sox SP Michael Wacha, who only gave up 3 hits and  just 1 walk with 6 strikeouts. The Angels lost their 12th consecutive game Monday.

Season series: Tied 2-2 but L.A. has a plus-8 run differential in those meetings.

Red Sox at Angels projected starters

RHP Garrett Whitlock vs. LHP Reid Detmers  

Whitlock is 2-1 with a 3.02 ERA, 1.10 WHIP, 2.2 BB/9 and 8.9 K/9 in 44 2/3 IP over 8 starts and 4 relief appearances.

  • Last start: Won 7-1 Wednesday at home vs. the Cincinnati Reds with 6 IP, 1 R (0 ER), 5 H, 0 BB and 0 K.
  • 2022 vs. the Angels: No-decision in Boston’s 10-5 home win May 4 with 5 IP, 2 ER, 2 H, 1 HR, 0 BB and 9 K.

L.A. hasn’t officially announced its starter but Detmers is projected to get the nod. He’s 2-2 with a 4.20 ERA, 1.00 WHIP, 2.8 BB/9 and 6.2 K/9 in 45 IP over 9 starts.

  • Last start: No-decision in L.A.’s 2-1 loss Thursday at the New York Yankees with 4 1/3-scoreless IP, 5 H, 3 BB and 4 K.
  • 2022 vs. the Red Sox: One start, a no-decision in L.A.’s 10-5 loss at Boston May 4 with 4 2/3 IP, 3 ER, 4 H, 2 BB and 2 K.

Red Sox at Angels odds and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 12:18 p.m. ET.

  • Money line (ML): Red Sox -135 (bet $135 to win $100) | Angels +110 (bet $100 to win $110)
  • Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Red Sox -1.5 (+115) | Angels +1.5 (-140)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 8.5 (O: -135 | U: +110)

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Red Sox at Angels picks and predictions

Prediction

Red Sox 7, Angels 4

Money line

RISK 1 unit on the RED SOX (-135) since this is a pricey ML.

Boston is 7-4 overall vs. lefty starters and hits left-handed pitching much better than L.A. which is just 19-21 vs. righty starters. The Red Sox’s lineup is better against left-handed pitching than the Angels vs. right-handed pitching in wRC+ (118-110) and wOBA (.336-.318), according to FanGraphs.

Also, L.A.’s contact numbers have been terrible lately and Whitlock struck out 9 of the 17 Angels batters he faced May 4 in their 1st meeting. L.A.’s lineup is 26th in both contact rate and swinging-strike rate and 24th in hard-hit rate over the last 2 weeks, per FanGraphs.

If your standard unit is $100 then “FLAT-BET” that on the RED SOX (-135) to earn a tidy profit.

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Run line/Against the spread

PASS. 

The Red Sox -1.5 (+115) isn’t a big enough payout even though 6 of their last 7 wins in the last 10 games have been by at least 2 runs and Boston is 19-9 RL on the road. The Angels are 4-1 RL as home underdogs and have played in five 1-run games in their last 10.

PASS.

Over/Under

LEAN OVER 8.5 (-135) only because this is a sharp total, Angel Stadium is more pitcher-friendly and both teams play more to the Under in their respective location-based O/U trends.

But, Monday’s series opener went well Under the total so Tuesday’s Red Sox-Angels figures to ping-pong the other way. Also, neither bullpen is very good and both starters are back-of-the-rotation guys.

LEAN OVER 8.5 (-135).

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Boston Red Sox at Los Angeles Angels odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Monday’s Boston Red Sox at Los Angeles Angels odds and lines, with MLB expert picks and predictions.

The Los Angeles Angels (27-28) host the Boston Red Sox (27-27) Monday at Angel Stadium for the start of their 4-game series. First pitch is scheduled for 9:38 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze Tipico Sportsbook‘s lines around the Red Sox vs. Angels odds with MLB picks and predictions.

Boston enters on a 4-game win streak and is 6-4 straight up (SU) in its last 10 games. However, all 3 of the Red Sox’s opponents over those 10 games (Oakland Athletics, Cincinnati Reds and Baltimore Orioles) are last-place teams in their respective divisions.

L.A. has lost 11 consecutive games, which includes 3 straight series sweeps by the Toronto Blue Jays (home), New York Yankees (road) and Philadelphia Phillies (road).

Season series: The Angels lead 2-1 with a plus-9 run differential in those meetings.

Red Sox at Angels projected starters

RHP Michael Wacha vs. RHP Noah Syndergaard 

Wacha is 3-1 with a 2.43 ERA, 1.01 WHIP, 3.1 BB/9 and 6.0 K/9 in 40 2/3 IP over 8 starts.

  • Last start: Loss, 2-1, Tuesday at home vs. the Reds with 5 2/3 IP, 0 ER (1 R), 3 H, 0 BB and 3 K.
  • 2022 vs. the Angels: One start — a 4-0 home win May 3 — with 5 2/3-scoreless IP, 3 H, 2 BB and 2 K.

Syndergaard is 4-3 with a 4.02 ERA, 1.22 WHIP, 2.0 BB/9 and 6.0 K/9 in 40 1/3 IP across 8 starts.

  • Last start: Loss, 9-1, Tuesday at the Yankees with 2 1/3 IP, 5 ER, 7 H, 1 HR, 1 BB and 0 K.
  • 2022 vs. the Red Sox: One start — a 4-0 loss in Boston May 3 —with 7 IP, 3 ER, 8 H, 1 HR, 1 BB and 3 K.

Red Sox at Angels odds and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 2:45 p.m. ET.

  • Money line (ML): Red Sox -103 (bet $103 to win $100) | Angels -117 (bet $117 to win $100)
  • Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Red Sox -1.5 (+155) | Angels +1.5 (-190)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 9.5 (O: +105 | U: -130)

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Red Sox at Angels picks and predictions

Prediction

Angels 8, Red Sox 4

Money line

BET the ANGELS (-117).

L.A.’s 11-game losing skid obviously makes this a buy-low spot for the Angels who have edges over the Red Sox in the starting pitching matchup and hitting against righties.

Wacha’s impressive basic numbers are due for regression because he has a crazy-low .198 BABIP with whiff and chase rates that grade in the 19th percentile or worse, per Statcast.

Syndergaard has been inconsistent this season but has a lower FIP than Wacha. The most utilized pitch in Syndergaard’s arsenal is his sinker, which is also one of the most effective pitches in baseball.

L.A.’s lineup ranks ahead of Boston’s vs. right-handed pitching in wRC+ (112-106) and wOBA (.322-.319), according to FanGraphs.

More than 70% of the money is on the Red Sox at the time of writing (per Pregame.com) partially due to the Angels’ current losing streak. However, L.A.’s last 3 opponents were projected preseason to contend in their respective division races while Boston’s last three opponents are last-place teams. Both the Angels and Syndergaard are due for bounce-back performances back in L.A.

BET the ANGELS (-117). 

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Run line/Against the spread

SPRINKLE on the ANGELS -1.5 (+160) ALTERNATE RL.

Syndergaard is 3-0 SU at home with a 0.86 home ERA and 0.86 home WHIP and all 3 of those wins were by at least 2 runs. Also, Wacha’s ERA and WHIP are worse on the road and neither bullpen is any good.

Over/Under

PASS.

The Under 9.5 (-130) is a no-go because both bullpens are unreliable and both lineups have sluggers.

The Over 9.5 (+105) is a stay-away since Red Sox-Angels are 2-6-2 O/U in their last 10 meetings, Boston is 2-5 O/U in Wacha’s 7 starts and L.A. is 9-12-2 O/U as a home favorite.

PASS.

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Gannett may earn revenue from Tipico for audience referrals to betting services. Tipico has no influence over nor are any such revenues in any way dependent on or linked to the newsrooms or news coverage. See Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. 21+ only. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ), 1-800-522-4700 (CO), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA).

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ALCS Game 6: Boston Red Sox at Houston Astros odds, picks and prediction

Analyzing Friday’s Boston Red Sox at Houston Astros ALCS Game 6 odds and lines, with expert MLB picks and predictions.

The best-of-seven American League Championship Series shifts back to Texas as the Houston Astros look to finish off the Boston Red Sox Friday in Game 6. First pitch is scheduled for 8:08 p.m. ET (FS1). Let’s analyze the lines around the Red Sox vs. Astros odds with MLB picks and predictions.

Houston leads the series 3-2 after taking the last two games at Fenway Park, 9-2 Tuesday and 9-1 Wednesday.

Red Sox RHP Nathan Eovaldi (11-9, 3.75 ERA regular season) makes his fourth start and fifth appearance of the postseason. He was Game 4’s losing pitcher, entering in the ninth inning and allowing a leadoff double to SS Carlos Correa and a two-out, go-ahead single to C Jason Castro. He was then removed and Houston still added 6 more runs.

  • 2021 postseason: 2-1, 5.51 ERA (16 1/3 IP, 10 ER), 14 H, 4 BB, 21 K in three starts and one relief appearance
  • Career vs. Astros (regular season): 1-2, 3.93 ERA (36 2/3 IP, 16 ER), 1.28 WHIP in six starts

Astros RHP Luis Garcia (11-8, 3.48 ERA regular season) makes his third start of the playoffs. He was Game 2’s losing pitcher, yielding a first-inning grand slam to DH J.D. Martinez and a leadoff walk in the second inning before getting removed.

  • 2021 postseason: 0-1, 24.55 ERA (3 2/3 IP, 10 ER), 7 H, 6 BB, 5 K in two starts
  • Career vs. Red Sox (regular season): 1-0, 1.29 ERA (7 IP, 1 ER), 5 H, 1 BB, 6 K in one start this year, a 5-1 home win June 1

Red Sox at Astros odds, lines, picks and prediction

MLB odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports for a full list. Odds last updated at 8:55 a.m. ET.

  • Money line: Red Sox -103 (bet $103 to win $100) | Astros -117 (bet $117 to win $100)
  • Against the spread/ATS: Red Sox -1.5 (+155) | Astros +1.5 (-190)
  • Over/Under: 8.5 (O: -130 | U: +105)

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Prediction

Astros 8, Red Sox 7

Money line (ML)

BACK HOUSTON (-117) to WIN 0.3 UNITS.

Despite Boston being 10-1 in Eovaldi’s last 11 starts, including 3-0 in the postseason, the play is with the home team.

Houston is 54-31 at Minute Maid Park this year, including 3-1 in the playoffs.

The Astros lost their last home game 9-5 in Game 2. They haven’t dropped back-to-back home games since Aug. 22-23.

Houston’s bats turned it up a notch, too, in Games 4 and 5, while Boston struggled at the plate as the Astros outscored the Red Sox 18-3 and outhit them 23-8.

Run line/Against the spread (ATS)

PASS since the juice is a bit costly on the Astros +1.5 (-190). Plus, they’re 40-45 ATS at home.

ATS records:

  • Regular season: Red Sox 84-78 | Astros 77-85
  • Postseason: Red Sox 7-3 | Astros 5-4

Boston is a decent 49-36 ATS on the road, but the alternate line of Red Sox +1.5 (-205) is also too chalky.

Over/Under (O/U)

OVER 8.5 (-130) is the STRONGEST PLAY – 1½ times your usual wager – as both clubs are on 8-0 Over runs.

O/U records:

  • Regular season: Red Sox 74-85-3 | Astros 86-69-7
  • Postseason: Red Sox 8-1-1 | Astros 8-1

The Over is 5-0 in this series. Even Game 4, which was tied 2-2 after eight innings, went Over with the Astros scoring 7 runs in the ninth of their 9-2 victory.

The Over is also 48-36-1 at Minute Maid Park this season.

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW. Please gamble responsibly.

JOHNNY’S RECORD W-L SP ROI
SINCE JULY 8 62-42 26-14 +17.636
*–SP: Strongest plays; ROI: Return on investment

Follow @JohnnyParlay11 on Twitter. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

Gannett may earn revenue from Tipico for audience referrals to betting services. Tipico has no influence over nor are any such revenues in any way dependent on or linked to the newsrooms or news coverage. See Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. 21+ only. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ), 1-800-522-4700 (CO), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA).

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ALCS Game 2: Boston Red Sox at Houston Astros odds, picks and prediction

Analyzing Saturday’s Boston Red Sox at Houston Astros odds and lines, with expert MLB picks and predictions.

The Boston Red Sox and Houston Astros continue their best-of-seven American League Championship Series Saturday at 4:20 p.m. ET at Minute Maid Park. Let’s analyze the lines around the Red Sox vs. Astros odds with MLB picks and predictions.

RHP Nathan Eovaldi is the projected starting pitcher for the Red Sox. In the regular season, Eovaldi went 11-9 with a 3.75 ERA, 1.19 WHIP, 9.6 K/9 and 1.7 BB/9 in 182 1/3 IP over 32 starts.

  • Has allowed 3 ER on 7 hits in 10 1/3 IP across two starts this postseason (1 BB, 16K).
  • Posted a 3.47 ERA at home and a 4.21 figure on the road in the regular season. Owns a career road ERA of 4.54. He has allowed 6 ER in 12 career innings at Minute Maid Park.
  • Current Houston batters own a high-contact aggregate .962 OPS against him. Pitched against the Astros June 9: allowed 5 ER on 11 H in 5 1/3 IP.

RHP Luis Garcia is the projected starter for the Astros. Across 30 regular-season games (28 starts), he went 11-8 with a 3.30 ERA, 1.17 WHIP, 9.7 K/9 and 2.9 BB/9 in 155 1/3 IP.

  • Clocked a 2.39 ERA, 1.01 WHIP in 79 regular-season IP at home.
  • Went 7 IP, allowing just 1 ER against Boston June 1.
  • Has made one start in the playoffs, allowing 5 ER on 5 H and 3 BB in 2 2/3 IP at Chicago on Oct. 10.

Red Sox at Houston Astros odds, lines, picks and prediction

MLB odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports for a full list. Odds last updated at 8:10 a.m. ET.

  • Money line: Red Sox +110 (bet $100 to win $110) | Astros -135 (bet $135 to win $100)
  • Against the spread/ATS: Red Sox +1.5 (-180) | Astros -1.5 (+145)
  • Over/Under: 8.5 (O: -120 | U: -105)

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Prediction

Red Sox 5, Astros 4

Money line (ML)

Eovaldi has been the better pitcher since Sept. 1, and he gives the Red Sox a solid chance in leveling the series at 1-1. Boston advanced to this ALCS off a September grind against top-flight foes and after defeating a tough Tampa Bay Rays squad in the Division Series. The Crimson Hose have a slight bullpen advantage.

BACK BOSTON (+110).

Run line/Against the spread (ATS)

PASS on the juice-filled run line.

Over/Under (O/U)

Boston entered this series averaging 6.4 runs per game this postseason while the Astros came in averaging 7.8. Both clubs hit right-handed pitching best, and neither bullpen is dialed in and lock-down dangerous.

Consider taking the OVER 8.5 (-120), especially on any push-back on price. A play at -110 offers solid value.

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

Gannett may earn revenue from Tipico for audience referrals to betting services. Tipico has no influence over nor are any such revenues in any way dependent on or linked to the newsrooms or news coverage. See Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. 21+ only. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ), 1-800-522-4700 (CO), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA).

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ALCS Game 1: Boston Red Sox at Houston Astros odds, picks and prediction

Analyzing Friday’s Boston Red Sox at Houston Astros ALCS Game 1 odds and lines, with expert MLB picks and predictions.

The Boston Red Sox visit the Houston Astros for the opener of the best-of-seven American League Championship Series Friday. First pitch is scheduled for 8:07 p.m. ET (FOX). Let’s analyze the lines around the Red Sox vs. Astros odds with MLB picks and predictions.

Boston (92-70 regular season) upset the top-seeded Tampa Bay Rays 3 games to 1 in an ALDS and beat the New York Yankees in the AL Wild Card Game.

Houston (95-67), the AL West champ and No. 2 seed, knocked off the AL Central champion Chicago White Sox 3 games to 1 in their ALDS.

Red Sox LHP Chris Sale (5-1, 3.16 ERA regular season) makes his second start of the postseason. He lasted only one inning in that outing, giving up 5 runs on 4 hits and 1 walk with 2 strikeouts at Tampa Bay in Game 2 of the ALDS Oct. 8. However, Boston won 14-6.

  • Regular season: 1.34 WHIP, 2.5 BB/9 and 11.0 K/9 through 42 2/3 IP in nine starts
  • Career vs. Astros (regular season): 5-3, 2.20 ERA, 0.84 WHIP, 11.8 K/9 across 65 1/3 IP in nine starts

Astros LHP Framber Valdez (11-6, 3.14 ERA regular season) also makes his second start of the postseason. He posted a 1.25 WHIP, 3.9 BB/9 and 8.4 K/9 through 134 2/3 IP in 22 regular-season starts.

  • Last outing: No-decision, 4 1/3 IP, 4 ER, 7 H, 1 BB, 6 K in 9-4 home win vs. White Sox in Game 2 of ALDS Oct. 8
  • Career vs. Red Sox: 2-1, 1.59 ERA (17 IP, 3 ER), 0.94 WHIP, 19 K in two starts and two relief appearances

Red Sox at Astros odds, lines, picks and prediction

MLB odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports for a full list. Odds last updated at 7:30 a.m. ET.

  • Money line: Red Sox +120 (bet $100 to win $120) | Astros -145 (bet $145 to win $100)
  • Against the spread/ATS: Red Sox +1.5 (-175) | Astros -1.5 (+140)
  • Over/Under: 8.5 (O: -102 | U: -122)

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Prediction

Astros 6, Red Sox 3

Money line (ML)

HOUSTON (-145) is the STRONGEST PLAY – 1½ times your usual wager.

Valdez was 2-0 with a 1.26 ERA in two starts vs. Boston this season, yielding just 2 runs in 14 1/3 IP, while striking out 18. He held the Red Sox to 1 run in each outing, one being a 2-1 win at home June 2 and the other a 7-1 road victory June 8.

Houston is 53-30 at home this season, including 2-0 in the playoffs.

The Astros also were 5-2 vs. the Red Sox in the regular season, including 3-1 at Minute Maid Park.

Meanwhile, Chris Sale isn’t the Chris Sale of old. He had Tommy John surgery on his left elbow in March 2020 and didn’t make his 2021 debut until Aug. 14.

Look for the Astros to take advantage.

Run line/Against the spread (ATS)

PASS since we’re all in on Houston’s money line.

ATS records:

  • Regular season: Red Sox 84-78 | Astros 77-85
  • Postseason: Red Sox 4-1 | Astros 3-1

Houston is under .500 ATS at home at 40-43, while Boston is 47-36 ATS away from Fenway Park.

Over/Under (O/U)

BET OVER 7.5 (-130) to WIN a HALF UNIT though I’m a bit concerned about Valdez’s success against Boston.

O/U records:

  • Regular season: Red Sox 74-85-3 | Astros 86-69-7
  • Postseason: Red Sox 3-1-1 | Astros 3-1

The Over is 46-36-1 at Minute Maid Park this season, including 2-0 in the ALDS.

The Over is 6-4 in Sale’s 10 starts this year, including 3-1 in his last four outings.

The Over is 13-10 in Valdez’s 23 starts but includes 5-1 in his last six starts and 6-2 in his last eight starts.

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW. Please gamble responsibly.

JOHNNY’S RECORD W-L SP ROI
SINCE JULY 8 56-37 24-11 +18.566
*–SP: Strongest plays; ROI: Return on investment

Follow @JohnnyParlay11 on Twitter. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

Gannett may earn revenue from Tipico for audience referrals to betting services. Tipico has no influence over nor are any such revenues in any way dependent on or linked to the newsrooms or news coverage. See Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. 21+ only. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ), 1-800-522-4700 (CO), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA).

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