Today's MLB Best Bets: Picks, Predictions and Odds (Saturday 09/20 Baseball Slate)

The New York Mets have a strong recent record, particularly against the Washington Nationals, with a 5-0 record in their last five encounters. The Mets' offensive and defensive performances have been superior, averaging 4.4 runs scored per game compared to the Nationals' 2.3, and allowing fewer runs (2.6 vs 3.7). This indicates a stronger team both offensively and defensively. Furthermore, the Mets' home performance is impressive, with a 4-1 record in their last five home games, and they maintain the same average runs scored and allowed at home. In contrast, the Nationals' away performance is weaker, scoring fewer runs on average (1.7). These statistics suggest a higher probability of a Mets win, making a bet on the Mets a good choice.

Arizona Diamondbacks vs Philadelphia Phillies : Over 9 Total Runs (+135)

The bet on 'Over 9' for the Total Runs in the Arizona Diamondbacks vs Philadelphia Phillies game is backed by several key statistics. Both teams have been scoring above the line, with the Diamondbacks averaging 4.6 runs in their last five games and the Phillies averaging 5.6. This totals an average of 10.2 runs, already above the line set. Additionally, the Diamondbacks have a strong home record, scoring an average of 4.2 runs in their last five home games. On the other side, the Phillies have been allowing an average of 5.8 runs in their last five games, pointing towards a high-scoring game. Furthermore, both teams have high batting averages, with the Diamondbacks at 7.4 and the Phillies at 10.2, indicating a high likelihood of runs scored. Therefore, the data suggests a strong possibility of the total runs exceeding 9.

Cincinnati Reds vs Chicago Cubs : Chicago Cubs Win (-112)

The bet on the Chicago Cubs is a solid choice considering their recent performance. Despite being the away team, the Cubs have a stronger record in their last five games compared to the Cincinnati Reds, which indicates a more consistent performance. The Cubs also have a higher average run score in their last five away games (5.6) compared to the Reds' average at home (4.8), suggesting a better offensive capability. Additionally, the Cubs have shown better defensive skills, allowing fewer runs (3.4) in their last five away games compared to the Reds' average at home (4.4). These statistics suggest that the Cubs have a higher probability of winning the match, making them a favorable bet.

Arizona Diamondbacks vs Philadelphia Phillies : Over 2.5 alternate_team_totals (-400)

The bet on 'Arizona Diamondbacks Over 2.5' for the Team Total Runs is a good choice due to a combination of the Diamondbacks' strong offensive performance and the Phillies' defensive weaknesses. The Diamondbacks have consistently scored above the line of 2.5 in their last five games, with an average of 4.6 runs overall and 4.2 runs at home. This is supported by their average of 7.4-7.8 bat hits in the same period. Meanwhile, the Phillies have shown defensive struggles, allowing an average of 5.8 runs overall and 4 runs away in their last five games. They have also been averaging 2.8-3.2 pitcher walks, which could provide additional scoring opportunities for the Diamondbacks. Therefore, the statistical trends favor the Diamondbacks scoring over 2.5 runs.

Cincinnati Reds vs Chicago Cubs : Chicago Cubs Win (-116)

The Chicago Cubs are a solid bet for this MLB game against the Cincinnati Reds. The Cubs have shown a stronger performance on the road, scoring an average of 5.6 runs in their last five away games, compared to the Reds' average of 4.8 runs at home. Furthermore, the Cubs have a better defensive record, allowing fewer runs (3.4) on average in their last five away games, compared to the Reds who have allowed an average of 4.4 runs at home. Despite the Reds having a slight edge in their last five games against the Cubs, the recent performance data indicates the Cubs have an advantage in both offensive and defensive play, making them a favorable choice for this bet.