A total of 162 games led to today for eight teams, as MLB’s four wild-card series begins today. Each game is intriguing for different reasons and should be great matchups. However, some outcomes seem more likely than others. Here are the MLB best bets among the four Game 1s on October 3, 2023.
MLB Best Bet #1: Blue Jays @ Twins Over 7.5 Runs (-110)
Both of these teams were stronger on the mound than at the plate in 2023. Yet, that won’t be the case this afternoon. Both starting pitchers in this matchup struggled against the other club during the regular season.
Toronto’s Kevin Gausman allowed seven runs in 10.0 innings pitched against the Twins. Minnesota’s Pablo Lopez gave up four runs over 5.2 innings, the only time he faced the Blue Jays. Don’t be surprised if those weak performances greet this game today.
MLB Best Bet #2: Diamondbacks @ Brewers Over 8.0 (-110)
Milwaukee’s offense finished the year hot, averaging 5.16 runs per game over the season’s past two months. Arizona’s pitching staff is weak, having allowed the 11th-most runs per game. Brandon Pfaadt gets the Game 1 start for the Snakes, bringing a 5.72 ERA with him.
Corbin Burnes and the Brewers are much better on the mound, but Burnes wasn’t sharp against Arizona this season. He gave up seven runs across 13.0 innings when facing the Diamondbacks. This game will also defy October expectations and be high-scoring.
MLB Best Bet #3: Miami Marlins Money Line (+136)
The Miami Marlins, as a franchise, don’t waste October. They have the league’s highest winning percentage in the postseason, .632, along with a title in both of their playoff appearances during a full season. Along with that, this year’s Marlins won the season series against the Phillies.
That included a 4-2 record in Citizens Bank Park, where tonight’s game will be. Jesus Luzardo started against the Phillies twice this year, earning the win in both contests. Despite a tough schedule, the Marlins went 17-10 to close the season and get this far. Miami stays hot with a win tonight.
(All odds via DraftKings Sportsbook)
