MLB Odds, Picks & Predictions: Thursday (9/19)
Let's dive into our top MLB picks for Thursday, September 19. There is a good slate of games, with a few games during the day, so let's look at our top MLB picks to play.
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Thursday's Best MLB Picks
(Odds courtesy of DraftKings Sportsbook)
Atlanta Braves (+205) at Cincinnati Reds (+170) | O/U 8.5 (-102/-118)
Things are getting gloomy for the Braves as the regular season concludes. They've dropped three straight while the Mets have won two straight, and it has pulled some distance. Now they are two games out of the final Wild Card spot. The good news is they have three games upcoming against New York, so they're not done yet.
Over the weekend, the Braves had the best ERA in baseball, but they've allowed 24 runs in their last three games, including a seven-run ninth inning against the Dodgers.
As they say, "Momentum is the next day's starting pitcher." Atlanta has the best momentum going into this game, with National League Cy Young favorite Chris Sale on the mound.
The Reds are playing spoiler as they just took two of three from the Twins. This is a potentially great young roster, but they couldn't find the consistency to stay in contention all season.
They're continuing to see what the future holds. Rookie Reds starter Julian Aguiar hasn't been overextended yet, pitching six or more innings in just two of his six starts.
Pick: Braves -1.5 (-122)
Philadelphia Phillies (+120) at New York Mets (-142) | O/U 8.5 (-102/-118)
Speaking of the Mets, they could make the end of this season interesting. They're coming in having won five of their last seven. Unfortunately, the two losses are against tonight's opponent. The division title is still a slight possibility. They need to worry about winning games because they are still at risk of not making the playoffs, given how close the National League Wild Card race is. It will be tricky without Francisco Lindor, who could miss the rest of the regular season with a lower back issue.
They're doing it without high expectations, unlike last year. Last season, they brought in big-name pitchers like Justin Verlander. This year, they went with a guy like Luis Severino, but it's worked. He's remained healthy and is having a resurgent year with a 3.77 ERA.
The Phillies still have things to play for, as they could have the best record. They are one of the best teams in the league, with a potential lineup and a rotation of all-stars.
While the top of the rotation has been stellar, Taijuan Walker has struggled. He was demoted to the bullpen and will make his first start since August 28th.
It’s hard to see the momentum ceasing with this matchup. The Mets will roll to another win.
Pick: Mets Moneyline (-142)
Make sure to check out our other best bets for Thursday: