MLB teams are looking to solidify their playoff position, while others are probably waiting for the season to end. Sure, it is a grind, but with so many games every day, it presents a ton of spots to find value in the betting market. Digging into the best MLB bets of the day, there is one spot that stands out as the Pirates travel to Minnesota to start a series with the Twins. Let’s dive into today’s Pirates-Twins pick and see where the value is for this interleague matchup.
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Best Pirates-Twins Pick & Prediction: Huge Pitching Mismatch
Minnesota is a sizeable favorite at home against the Pirates. The Twins are a respectable 63-59 (34-25 at home) and looking to win their division. They are coming off a small two-game set at home against Detroit, and they will start quickly in this series. There is no value in laying -230 for a moneyline, but the Twins at -1.5 (-108 at DraftKings Sportsbook) actually has quite a bit, as Minnesota has Pablo Lopez on the mound tonight. Lopez carries an 8-6 record and a 3.66 ERA into this start. It is far from perfect, but he should be fine, and despite some speed bumps this year, he comes in on fire. His three August starts bring a 3-0 record and a stupid 0.47 ERA. He has also allowed two earned runs or fewer in each of the last five starts.
Pittsburgh is mediocre at best, sitting 54-67 with a 25-35 road record. They continue this road trip in Minnesota, and naturally this is a bad spot. Andre Jackson gets the ball for the Pirates, and his 5.47 ERA is not making much impact. He came over midseason from the Dodgers but is not expected to go deep into games. His last start was his longest, and he lasted only 3.2 innings. It is not to say Jackson cannot be somewhat effective, but Minnesota should have ample opportunity against this bullpen tonight.
Backing a team on the run line at home is always dicey since they need to get it done in eight innings, but Minnesota is set up nicely. Staying at home with Lopez on the mound while a lackluster Pirates offense comes to town is a recipe for success. Look for the Twins to get to Jackson early and then add even more production once the bullpen is in play.
Best Pirates-Twins Pick Today: Minnesota Twins -1.5 (-108, DraftKings)
