Xam’s Gem(s):
Mets/Marlins Over 8.5 Runs -118
The Mets are starting someone with a career ERA over 5, and the Marlins are throwing someone with a 4.52 ERA. The Marlins spent the weekend scoring a ridiculous 36 runs, and the Mets have scored 7 or more runs in 4 of the last 6 games. Neither team has a particularly strong bullpen, either. With both starters capable of laying an egg, we should see plenty of runs scored in this game.
Saints/Panthers Over 39.5 Points -115
The Saints had almost 400 yards of offense in their first game together last week, and the Panthers didn’t fare well against Desmond Ridder last week. The Panthers didn’t do much offensively last week, but head coach Frank Reich is too smart to not get things going offensively. The weather should be perfect for the QBs and offenses to perform. If the Panthers can contribute just a little bit, we could see an unexpected primetime divisional shootout.
Brewers Money Line -178
Freddy Peralta has been one of the best pitchers in baseball recently, and Adam Wainwright has been downright terrible, pitching to a ghastly 7.95 ERA. The Brewers are still highly motivated, as they still have some work to do to wrap up the NL Central. The Cardinals seem to have checked out weeks ago, and even with Wainwright going for his 200th win, the Brewers should be able to do enough offensively to get the job done.
Red Sox/Rangers Over 8.5 Runs -114
Both teams feature better lineups than they do pitching. Kutter Crawford has pitched to a 6 ERA over his last 7 games. Montgomery pitched well his last time out, but in the 2 starts prior to that, he gave up 11 runs. Texas loves hitting at home, and there should be plenty of fireworks tonight with these star-studded lineups.
Astros Money Line -188
The Astros need every win they can get with the Rangers and Mariners breathing down their necks the division lead. Justin Verlander should be locked in tonight. He hasn’t been particularly good recently, but he’s earned more than the benefit of the doubt throughout his career. The Orioles also just clinched a playoff spot for the first time in recent history, and are coming off a much deserved epic celebration for the season they’ve had. They are motivated to keep winning in order to keep Tampa Bay off their back, but this is a tough matchup on the road.
Browns/Steelers Under 38.5 Points -105
Both teams feature better defenses than they do offenses. The Browns gave up only 3 points last week while the Steelers struggled mightily on offense, scoring 7 points in a home loss. Both teams should be running the ball early and often in this game, which should shorten the game. Amari Cooper is the best wide receiver the Browns have, and he’s out tonight. The Steelers are in a near must-win situation, so expect them to come out motivated on defense and potentially conservative on offense.