My MLB expert picks are back in your life. Yes, it's okay to cry from joy. It'll be even merrier when we win together.
Here are my two MLB expert picks for today's games:
MLB Expert Picks: April 17th, 2024
You can jump directly to today's picks here:
Pick 1: Orioles (+100) vs Twins
Matchup Preview - Game Time: 1:05 pm ET
Listen, the Twins hold the starting pitching advantage Wednesday. Pablo Lopez is an AL Cy Young threat, while Tyler Wells hasn't found it this year (0-2, 5.87 ERA). That said, vibes are very poor in the Twin Cities.
Royce Lewis, Carlos Correa, and Max Kepler are all on the injured list. The Twins' other key pieces are struggling. Byron Buxton is batting .208 and Carlos Santana has a .378 OPS. Minny has also lost three in a row. Oof.
I like the Orioles at plus-money, first because their lineup is better, but also because they have a fresh bullpen. Craig Kimbrel and Yennier Cano are ready to go.
Pick 2: Braves (-140) vs Astros
Matchup Preview - Game Time: 2:10 pm ET
After losing the first two games of this series, Houston faces more misery in Game 3. The Braves are a terrifying offense, averaging 6.47 runs per game. There are eight players on Atlanta with an OPS+ above 100.
JP France toes the slab for the Astros Wednesday, and that's where things get ugly. The lefty has allowed at least three runs in each of his three starts, including an eight-run disaster last time around vs Texas.
Given France's propensity for allowing runs (8.22 ERA) and walks (4.7 BB/9), the Braves lineup can stay patient and do damage.
