Multiple times each week, Bally Sports’ resident action seeker, Brad Evans, will attempt to bang the ‘books with his favorite selections on sides, totals, props, teasers or parlays. As always, fade or follow Brad’s picks — fading is encouraged — but that’s up to you.
May 27, 2023; Bronx, New York, USA; New York Yankees first baseman Anthony Rizzo (48) at bat against the San Diego Padres at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John Jones-USA TODAY Sports
Batter Prop: Anthony Rizzo OVER 1.5 total bases vs. White Sox (+145, BetMGM)
Don a powdered wig. Break out the black robe. And slam the gavel. Court is very much in session for the Yankees even without their all powerful Judge.
The paper matchup against the White Sox is downright spectacular.
Rizzo has feasted on meatballs this month. Over the past 30 days, he is hitting .308 with nine extra-base hits, 18 RBIs and a .908 OPS. More specifically, he has greatly appeased Yankee Stadium patrons. In home games this season, he is batting a stupendous .362 while also posting a 1.060 OPS.
Over a sizable 37 career at-bats against White Sox starter Lance Lynn, "Tony" has shined on Broadway tallying a .324 BA, 1.090 OPS and seven extra-base knocks. Topping two total bags only once in his last seven games, many streak followers will shout "AVOID!" However, Lynn has liberally allowed long balls, posting a 2.00 HR/9 and 20.9 HR/FB percentage this season. The right-hander has also surrendered an advantageous 40.6 hard-hit percentage this year and a 6.00 career ERA against the Yankees.
Bottom line, Rizzo rakes once again in the Bronx.
May 17, 2023; Miami, Florida, USA; Miami Marlins starting pitcher Edward Cabrera (27) pitches against the Washington Nationals during the first inning at loanDepot Park. Mandatory Credit: Rhona Wise-USA TODAY Sports
Pitcher Prop: Marlins -0.5 RL first 5 innings vs. Royals (-125, BetMGM)
For those interested parties who are looking to push a bunt up the third-base line in order to beat the 'book for an acquired cash, laying down some action on an early Marlins lead is a money-making strategy. On the year, they are 33-29 on First 5 run lines. More recently, they’ve emerged victorious in five consecutive games and in 10 of their last 13 contests. Also, the Royals are 11 games below .500 in First 5 run line wagers. Stacking greenbacks is likely for those backing the Marlins blue.
Taking the mound for a likely short-lived batting practice session is Kansas City starter Jordan Lyles, unequivocally one of the worst starters in the big leagues. During the first and second times against opponent batting orders, he has posted a combined 6.21 ERA. Equally demoralizing, his 12.4 barrel percentage is highly generous. There's a reason why Lyles is 0-9 over 12 starts.
Miami starter Edward Cabrera isn't without his own occasional misadventure. His 5.59 BB/9 and 4.03 combined ERA first and second times through the order trigger queasiness. Still, his 11-plus K/9 and 52.9 ground-ball percentage paint a rosier picture. With a 3.06 ERA in his last three rotation turns, he shouldn't get pummeled.
Yes, chasing streaks in betting is beginner's folly. However, given how rancid the Royals and Lyles have been, it should prove to be fruitful.
MLB season record
- Overall: 23-26, -2.35 units
- Batter record: 11-13
- Pitcher record: 12-13
