MLB Predictions and Best Bets – October 1, 2020

I don’t know if you’re keeping track, but my MLB playoff picks are on fire.

*pats self on back*

All jokes aside, these picks are coming in hot, and there’s more to come on Thursday. Of course, the betting pool is already shrinking with teams getting eliminated.

We still have plenty of games to work with, though. Let’s take a quick look at the games I like before diving into Thursday’s MLB predictions and top betting picks.

The Marlins shocked the Cubs at Wrigley Field yesterday, and if they do it again today, Chicago’s season is over. That’s going to be an interesting situation to monitor, as well as to bet on.

This is the playoffs, so I’ll be offering my insight for every game from here on on, for as long as we do this betting column. If you like my MLB picks, use my advice to place bets at the best MLB sportsbooks.

Luis Castillo is scheduled to face the Braves on Thursday, and I’m not nearly as confident in him as I would be with Sonny Gray. He’s still a tough matchup for the Braves and should keep this game total low, of course.

Ian Anderson has been sharp for Atlanta, and will toe the rubber on the other side. After getting a clutch win in extra innings yesterday, I think the Braves gut it out and get their first playoff series win since 1999.

I want to chase Miami’s stellar moneyline here – as well as cheer on a fun story – but I’m not betting against Yu Darvish. Darvish has been amazing all year, and it’d take a truly horrific performance by Chicago’s lineup to burn him here.

Sixto Sanchez has flashed nice ability in his rookie year, but he’s not reliable enough for bettors to aim high with the fish in this spot. Chicago should win, but check the way the wind is blowing before finalizing any and all wagers.

Lastly, I’ll call for the end of San Diego’s impressive season. The Padres have the offense to go the distance, but they’ve pulled the plug on their two best arms.

Morale has to be low, and it’s pretty arguable that Zach Davies is due for an unraveling. St. Louis will smell blood in the water, and I think they punch their ticket to round two with a solid outing by Adam Wainwright.

I like the Cards here, but the pitching and park should still point to the Under.

The Braves are insanely due for some playoff success, and they finally have the bats to get the job done. They don’t have an easy matchup in front of them, but don’t be shocked if they come out hot and leave no doubt about what comes next.

Atlanta to win looks good at -130, but I think they jump on Castillo a bit and ride to an easy win to sweep this series. You can go either way, but I love the run line at +155.

I will also go with the Cubs here, simply because Yu won’t allow them to go down without a fight. Their -181 price isn’t ideal, so hunt around for a better moneyline or an advantageous RL.

Lastly, I think St. Louis sweeps their series, and we can get really nice value with them at +139 if you’re with me on that one. The wind is just out of San Diego’s sails, so I think they wait until 2021 to strike.