Friday’s Major League Baseball slate is absolutely stacked, with a wealth of intriguing match-ups and no shortage of storylines for fans and bettors alike. From offensive powerhouses colliding at Wrigley Field to ace duels in Philly and streak-busting missions in Baltimore, this matchday serves as a true feast for baseball enthusiasts. It’s also a particularly important weekend for teams looking to shake off sluggish starts or solidify dominant stretches.
Eyes will be on key pitching duels, breakout hitters, and franchises trying to reverse fortunes, all of which makes 18 April a pivotal chapter in the early MLB season. Below, we break down every fixture, complete with detailed previews, score predictions, and top betting tips to help guide your selections.
Arizona Diamondbacks at Chicago Cubs
Match Info
- National League
- Friday 18th April 2025, 14:20 EST / 19:20 BST
- Wrigley Field, Chicago, USA
Arizona Diamondbacks
Arizona come into Wrigley blazing hot after a three-game sweep of Miami in which they racked up 22 runs, nine homers, and six stolen bases. Corbin Carroll, the ever-reliable leadoff man, continues to reach base every game this season, while Josh Naylor has flexed his power with homers in each of his last three appearances. Corbin Burnes is still searching for his first win in a Diamondbacks jersey, but his performances have trended upward. Although he’s struggled historically against the Cubs, his recent six-inning, three-run outing suggests he’s close to finding form.
Chicago Cubs
The Cubs boast the most prolific offence in the majors, with 124 runs scored and a lethal blend of power and speed. Colin Rea gets the nod on the mound as the team battles through a rotation crunch caused by Justin Steele’s injury. Rea’s last start was a short but effective one, and although his previous appearances against Arizona haven’t been memorable, Chicago’s offensive prowess could provide enough cushion. Dansby Swanson has historically tormented Burnes and will be a key figure in this series opener.
America Bet Match Winner Prediction
Arizona Diamondbacks to win
Arizona’s momentum and balanced attack give them the edge, especially with Burnes continuing to improve. If they jump on Rea early, the Cubs’ offence may not be enough to outgun them.
America Bet Score Prediction
Arizona Diamondbacks 7 – 5 Chicago Cubs
Expect a high-scoring affair with both teams flexing offensive muscle, but Arizona’s recent rhythm at the plate could make the difference.
America Bet Betting Tips
- Arizona Diamondbacks Moneyline
- Over 10.5 Total Runs
- Josh Naylor to Hit a Home Run
- Corbin Carroll to Steal a Base
- Dansby Swanson Over 1.5 Total Bases
- Corbin Burnes Over 6.5 Strikeouts
- First Inning to Have a Run Scored
- Total Team Runs – Cubs Over 4.5
- Arizona to Score First
- Game to Go Over in the First 5 Innings
Cleveland Guardians at Pittsburgh Pirates
Match Info
- Interleague
- Friday 18th April 2025, 18:40 EST / 23:40 BST
- PNC Park, Pittsburgh, USA
Cleveland Guardians
The Guardians arrive in Pittsburgh licking their wounds after a pair of frustrating losses in Baltimore. Despite tallying 15 hits across those games, Cleveland managed just three runs, an alarming inefficiency highlighted by a 1-for-9 performance with runners in scoring position. Luis L. Ortiz returns to a familiar mound, making his first career start against the Pirates — the team he spent three seasons with before heading to Cleveland in a three-team trade. His last outing was a career-best, striking out 10 Royals and showing elite velocity and control. If Ortiz can replicate that, the Guardians will be in with a real chance.
Pittsburgh Pirates
The Pirates are on a high after back-to-back dominant pitching performances, with Bailey Falter and Andrew Heaney tossing consecutive scoreless outings. The issue remains offence — even in Thursday’s win, they scored just one run via Oneil Cruz’s leadoff homer. Carmen Mlodzinski takes the mound, trying to establish himself as a reliable starter. He’s shown flashes of brilliance but has struggled after facing lineups a second time through. With Cleveland’s hitting woes and Mlodzinski’s inconsistency, Pittsburgh will need to rely heavily on defensive discipline and bullpen support.
America Bet Match Winner Prediction
Cleveland Guardians to win
Ortiz’s familiarity with PNC Park, combined with his electric stuff last time out, makes Cleveland a value pick — particularly with Pittsburgh’s lineup failing to inspire confidence.
America Bet Score Prediction
Cleveland Guardians 4 – 2 Pittsburgh Pirates
Expect a lower-scoring battle dominated by the starting pitchers. Ortiz should outduel Mlodzinski over five or six innings, while the Guardians do just enough at the plate.
America Bet Betting Tips
- Cleveland Guardians Moneyline
- Under 8.5 Total Runs
- Luis L. Ortiz Over 7.5 Strikeouts
- First 5 Innings – Guardians to Lead
- Total Hits – Guardians Over 7.5
- Jose Ramirez to Record a Hit
- Oneil Cruz to Hit a Home Run
- Game Total Runs – Odd
- Guardians to Win by 2-3 Runs (Winning Margin)
- Both Teams to Score in the First Inning – No
Kansas City Royals at Detroit Tigers
Match Info
- American League
- Friday 18th April 2025, 18:40 EST / 23:40 BST
- Comerica Park, Detroit, USA
Kansas City Royals
The Royals are in the middle of a worrying slide, having now lost four straight games while scoring just seven runs in that span. Left-hander Cole Ragans, however, has been one of the few shining lights. Ragans leads the majors in strikeouts and has been nearly unhittable in April, posting double-digit Ks in three consecutive starts. His ability to get ahead early in counts and force defensive swings has been clinical. With Ragans on the mound, Kansas City will feel confident about snapping their skid — but the lineup must provide at least moderate run support to give their ace a platform.
Detroit Tigers
The Tigers, on the other hand, are trending upwards and secured a 6-1 win in Thursday’s series opener. Young starter Jackson Jobe impressed in his first big-league win and will be tasked with going toe-to-toe with Ragans. Jobe’s deep arsenal of pitches gives him a lot of versatility, and his ability to settle down after a shaky first inning in his last start bodes well. Offensively, Spencer Torkelson and Riley Greene continue to lead the charge — they accounted for five of Detroit’s six RBIs in the previous game. If the Tigers can stay patient against Ragans, they could wear him down and strike late.
America Bet Match Winner Prediction
Detroit Tigers to win
Ragans may be dominant, but Kansas City’s lack of offensive bite is a concern. With Jobe looking composed and Detroit swinging the bats well, the Tigers have the edge at home.
America Bet Score Prediction
Kansas City Royals 2 – 4 Detroit Tigers
A close contest early, but Detroit’s hitters will make the difference in the middle innings while Jobe keeps the Royals at bay.
America Bet Betting Tips
- Detroit Tigers Moneyline
- Under 8.5 Total Runs
- Cole Ragans Over 9.5 Strikeouts
- Spencer Torkelson to Record an RBI
- Riley Greene Over 1.5 Total Bases
- Total Runs – Exact 6-8
- Tigers to Score First
- First 5 Innings – Tigers to Lead
- Royals Total Runs – Under 3.5
- Jobe to Record 5+ Strikeouts
Miami Marlins at Philadelphia Phillies
Match Info
- National League
- Friday 18th April 2025, 18:45 EST / 23:45 BST
- Citizens Bank Park, Philadelphia, USA
Miami Marlins
The Marlins limp into Philadelphia following a brutal sweep at the hands of the Diamondbacks. Offensively, they’ve shown flashes — Rob Brantly and Javier Sanoja continue to grind out hits — but the lineup lacks consistency and pop. Sandy Alcantara gets the start, and while he remains undefeated this season, he hasn’t completed six innings in any outing so far. Control has been an issue, with eight walks in his last two starts, and just one strikeout against Washington last time out raises questions. A long break to attend the birth of his daughter may have disrupted his rhythm, and the Marlins desperately need him to bounce back.
Philadelphia Phillies
The Phillies are back on home turf after splitting a four-game set with the Giants. Cristopher Sanchez’s dominant 12-strikeout showing has raised the bar for their pitching staff, and now it’s Zack Wheeler’s turn to deliver. Wheeler has been uncharacteristically shaky in his last two outings but historically owns the Marlins — with an 11-4 record and a 2.73 ERA. His velocity is down slightly, but he’s still limiting hard contact. Bryce Harper and Alec Bohm have excellent numbers against Alcantara and will be central to Philadelphia’s plan of attack.
America Bet Match Winner Prediction
Philadelphia Phillies to win
Home field, historical pitching advantage, and a deeper batting order give the Phillies the nod. Wheeler has a proven track record against Miami, and Alcantara looks out of rhythm.
America Bet Score Prediction
Miami Marlins 3 – 6 Philadelphia Phillies
Expect a bounce-back performance from Wheeler, while the Phillies’ power bats take advantage of Alcantara’s inconsistent command.
America Bet Betting Tips
- Philadelphia Phillies Moneyline
- Over 8.5 Total Runs
- Zack Wheeler to Record the Win
- Bryce Harper Over 1.5 Total Bases
- Alec Bohm to Record an RBI
- Marlins Total Hits – Under 7.5
- Trea Turner to Score a Run
- Total Walks – Over 6.5
- Phillies to Score in the First Inning
- Game Total Runs – Over 4.5 in First 5 Innings
New York Yankees at Tampa Bay Rays
Match Info
- American League
- Friday 18th April 2025, 19:05 EST / 00:05 BST
- Tropicana Field, St. Petersburg, USA
New York Yankees
The Yankees arrive at Tropicana Field riding a four-game win streak, powered by the emergence of Ben Rice as a formidable force at the top of the order. With Giancarlo Stanton sidelined, Rice has stepped up in a big way — batting .317 and collecting his first career four-hit game on Thursday. Carlos Rodón takes the ball in hopes of breaking his own personal slump, having dropped three straight decisions. While Rodón has shown flashes, long-ball vulnerability has haunted him, and he’ll need to be especially sharp against a Rays lineup that’s beginning to find its rhythm.
Tampa Bay Rays
Despite a three-game skid, there are green shoots of revival in Tampa. Junior Caminero has been red-hot with four homers in his last six games, while Richie Palacios impressed on his season debut with three hits. Drew Rasmussen is the ace-in-waiting — boasting a 0.60 ERA across three starts. His record against the Yankees is spotless, and he’s never allowed a run to them in 21 innings of work. If he can keep the Yankees quiet early, Tampa Bay could turn this into a chess match of pitching depth and timely hits.
America Bet Match Winner Prediction
Tampa Bay Rays to win
With Rasmussen in dominant form and Rodón struggling to contain damage, the Rays are well positioned to snap their losing streak at home.
America Bet Score Prediction
New York Yankees 2 – 5 Tampa Bay Rays
A composed, clinical outing from Rasmussen paired with timely offence from Caminero and Díaz should be enough to see Tampa through.
America Bet Betting Tips
- Tampa Bay Rays Moneyline
- Under 8.0 Total Runs
- Drew Rasmussen Over 6.5 Strikeouts
- Junior Caminero to Hit a Home Run
- Anthony Volpe Under 1.5 Total Bases
- Carlos Rodón to Allow Over 2.5 Earned Runs
- Yandy Díaz to Record a Hit
- Both Teams to Score – No in First Inning
- Total Hits – Rays Over 8.5
- Rays to Lead After 5 Innings
Cincinnati Reds at Baltimore Orioles
Match Info
- Interleague
- Friday 18th April 2025, 19:05 EST / 00:05 BST
- Oriole Park at Camden Yards, Baltimore, USA
Cincinnati Reds
The Reds enter this series on the back of a chaotic 11-7 extra-innings defeat to the Mariners, a game that summed up both the promise and the pitfalls of their current form. Despite flashes of resilience — including Jake Fraley’s eighth-inning grand slam — defensive errors and bullpen lapses continue to haunt them. With four errors on Thursday and Christian Encarnacion-Strand sidelined, the Reds’ road trip begins with questions hanging over both their fielding and depth. Andrew Abbott will take the mound after a sharp season debut and looks to repeat his previous success at Camden Yards, where he delivered a gem in 2023.
Baltimore Orioles
Baltimore is finally building momentum, having notched their first series win of the season with back-to-back victories over Cleveland. The Orioles have relied on steady starting pitching — Tomoyuki Sugano and Dean Kremer set the tone midweek — and now turn to Cade Povich. The young left-hander has been hittable this season, allowing 24 hits in just 15 innings, but he’s also shown composure under pressure. Ryan O’Hearn’s bat came alive in the last game, and with a few big hits and solid defence, Baltimore will fancy their chances at home.
America Bet Match Winner Prediction
Baltimore Orioles to win
The Orioles’ rotation has found some rhythm, and against a Reds side coming off a sloppy loss and a long road trip, Baltimore look poised to strike first in the series.
America Bet Score Prediction
Cincinnati Reds 3 – 6 Baltimore Orioles
Abbott may keep it close early, but Baltimore’s contact hitting and steadier bullpen should seal the deal in the later innings.
America Bet Betting Tips
- Baltimore Orioles Moneyline
- Over 8.5 Total Runs
- Ryan O’Hearn to Record an RBI
- Cade Povich to Allow Over 5.5 Hits
- Jake Fraley to Hit a Home Run
- Reds Total Errors – Over 1.5
- First 5 Innings – Orioles to Lead
- Game Total Runs – Over 4.5 in Second Half
- Total Team Runs – Orioles Over 4.5
- Total Strikeouts – Abbott & Povich Combined Over 12.5
Seattle Mariners at Toronto Blue Jays
Match Info
- American League
- Friday 18th April 2025, 19:07 EST / 00:07 BST
- Rogers Centre, Toronto, Canada
Seattle Mariners
The Mariners head to Toronto brimming with confidence after taking two of three in a wild series against the Reds. Cal Raleigh remains the headline act — the switch-hitting catcher is on a home run tear, with six blasts in his last six games and a proven track record against the Blue Jays. Seattle’s offence is finally heating up, and they’ve now won six of their past seven. Bryan Woo takes the hill with a tidy 2.84 ERA, and although he lost to Toronto in his lone previous start against them, the right-hander has shown sharp command and swing-and-miss stuff.
Toronto Blue Jays
Toronto return to action after a day’s rest, fresh from a gritty 3-1 series win over Atlanta. The bullpen was lights-out in the finale, racking up a franchise-record 19 strikeouts in a nine-inning game. Vladimir Guerrero Jr. finally broke his home run drought — a welcome sign for a Blue Jays offence that has been hit-or-miss early this season. Bowden Francis will get the start and has yet to face Seattle in his career. His ERA is respectable, but this will be a big test against a Mariners team that’s suddenly crushing the ball.
America Bet Match Winner Prediction
Seattle Mariners to win
The momentum is firmly with Seattle, and with Raleigh leading the charge and Woo throwing well, they look well-positioned to get the upper hand in Game 1.
America Bet Score Prediction
Seattle Mariners 5 – 3 Toronto Blue Jays
Expect Raleigh to remain a key figure, while Woo contains Toronto’s streaky bats and Seattle’s bullpen does enough to see it through.
America Bet Betting Tips
- Seattle Mariners Moneyline
- Cal Raleigh to Hit a Home Run
- Total Home Runs – Over 2.5
- Vladimir Guerrero Jr. to Record a Hit
- Bryan Woo Over 5.5 Strikeouts
- Bowden Francis to Allow Over 2.5 Earned Runs
- Game Total Runs – Under 9.0
- Mariners to Score First
- Seattle to Win by 1-3 Runs (Winning Margin)
- Total Team Runs – Mariners Over 4.5
Chicago White Sox at Boston Red Sox
Match Info
- American League
- Friday 18th April 2025, 19:10 EST / 00:10 BST
- Fenway Park, Boston, USA
Chicago White Sox
The White Sox are in freefall, having now lost four straight and scoring just four runs in their most recent series — a sweep at the hands of the Athletics. Offensively stagnant and defensively shaky, Chicago holds the worst record in the American League. Edgar Quero made his MLB debut on Thursday but failed to register a hit, and the team is grasping for momentum wherever it can find it. Lefty Martín Pérez gets the nod on the mound after a respectable five-strikeout outing last weekend against these very Red Sox. However, unless Chicago’s bats wake up, his margin for error remains razor-thin.
Boston Red Sox
Boston returns home after two much-needed wins over Tampa Bay, both of which featured clean defensive play — a welcome change for a team that still leads the league in errors. The Red Sox are expected to recall right-hander Hunter Dobbins, who impressed in his MLB debut earlier this month and will now look to solidify a spot in the rotation. Boston’s attack has been powered by Alex Bregman (if available post-paternity leave) and a resurgent middle of the order. Nick Sogard may fill in again if Bregman remains out, but the team’s versatility and depth should keep them in good stead.
America Bet Match Winner Prediction
Boston Red Sox to win
With Chicago reeling and Boston cleaning up its defence while finding some offensive rhythm, the Red Sox should take advantage of a favourable matchup at home.
America Bet Score Prediction
Chicago White Sox 2 – 6 Boston Red Sox
Expect the White Sox to continue struggling at the plate while Boston capitalises early and lets Dobbins work with a lead.
America Bet Betting Tips
- Boston Red Sox Moneyline
- Total Runs – Over 7.5
- Martín Pérez Over 3.5 Walks
- Total Errors – Over 1.5
- Boston to Score First
- Hunter Dobbins to Record the Win
- Total Hits – Red Sox Over 8.5
- Rafael Devers to Record 2+ Hits
- Red Sox to Lead After 3 Innings
- Chicago White Sox Team Total – Under 3.5
St. Louis Cardinals at New York Mets
Match Info
- National League
- Friday 18th April 2025, 19:10 EST / 00:10 BST
- Citi Field, New York, USA
St. Louis Cardinals
The Cardinals are looking for answers after a limp performance in Thursday’s series opener, managing just three hits and failing to record an extra-base knock for the first time all season. Miles Mikolas takes the mound still searching for his first win of the year, carrying a bloated 9.00 ERA into this start. While Mikolas has seen the Mets before — going 2-4 with a 5.31 ERA in eight career appearances — he’ll need to avoid the sort of mid-inning collapses that have plagued his early outings. With the bats going cold and the bullpen struggling for stability, the pressure is mounting fast.
New York Mets
The Mets, meanwhile, are riding high after a strong pitching display secured a 4-1 win in the series opener. Their staff boasts the best ERA in baseball, and Friday sees lefty David Peterson toe the rubber. Peterson is fresh off a six-inning, two-run performance against Oakland and continues to look more confident with every outing. Juan Soto remains the biggest talking point — although his bat has been quiet lately, he’s still getting on base at a high clip and drawing walks at a league-leading rate. If Soto starts heating up, this Mets team becomes even more dangerous.
America Bet Match Winner Prediction
New York Mets to win
The Mets have the pitching advantage and more consistent plate appearances across the board. Unless Mikolas produces something extraordinary, New York should take this one comfortably.
America Bet Score Prediction
St. Louis Cardinals 2 – 5 New York Mets
Expect another strong showing from the Mets’ pitching staff as Peterson keeps the Cardinals quiet and the New York offence grinds out runs.
America Bet Betting Tips
- New York Mets Moneyline
- Under 8.5 Total Runs
- David Peterson to Record 6+ Strikeouts
- Juan Soto Over 0.5 Walks
- Mets to Score in the First Inning
- Total Team Runs – Mets Over 4.5
- Miles Mikolas Over 2.5 Earned Runs
- Mets to Lead After 5 Innings
- Pete Alonso to Hit a Home Run
- Cardinals Total Hits – Under 6.5
Minnesota Twins at Atlanta Braves
Match Info
- Interleague
- Friday 18th April 2025, 19:15 EST / 00:15 BST
- Truist Park, Atlanta, USA
Minnesota Twins
The Twins arrive in Atlanta on a slight upswing after taking two from the Mets, but their broader form is still patchy — they’ve lost seven of their last 11. Chris Paddack will be hoping to build on his best performance of the season, a five-inning, two-run effort in a loss to Detroit. His start to the campaign was rocky, including a disastrous nine-run outing in his first appearance, but he’s showing signs of settling in. With several regulars nursing injuries — including Matt Wallner and Will Castro — the Twins may lean heavily on Carlos Correa and their bullpen to keep things competitive.
Atlanta Braves
It’s been an uncharacteristically inconsistent start to the season for the Braves, who enter this series with the second-worst record in the National League. Bryce Elder takes the mound hoping to reverse Atlanta’s luck and collect his first win. The right-hander has been hit hard in his first two outings and will need to manage traffic more effectively — opponents have tallied 15 hits in his 10 innings so far. Offensively, Marcell Ozuna and Austin Riley remain the most consistent performers, but the Braves are still waiting for Matt Olson and Ozzie Albies to hit their stride. This could be a breakout opportunity at home.
America Bet Match Winner Prediction
Atlanta Braves to win
Despite early-season inconsistencies, Atlanta have the stronger lineup and a higher ceiling overall. If Elder keeps things steady, the Braves’ offence should be able to capitalise on Minnesota’s vulnerability.
America Bet Score Prediction
Minnesota Twins 3 – 6 Atlanta Braves
Expect the Braves to pull away in the middle innings and take control with their deeper bench and home-field advantage.
America Bet Betting Tips
- Atlanta Braves Moneyline
- Over 8.5 Total Runs
- Austin Riley Over 1.5 Total Bases
- Chris Paddack to Allow Over 2.5 Earned Runs
- Total Home Runs – Over 2.5
- Matt Olson to Hit a Home Run
- First 5 Innings – Braves to Lead
- Marcell Ozuna to Record 2+ Hits
- Twins to Score in First Inning – No
- Total Strikeouts – Paddack & Elder Combined Under 10.5
Los Angeles Dodgers at Texas Rangers
Match Info
- Interleague
- Friday 18th April 2025, 20:05 EST / 01:05 BST
- Globe Life Field, Arlington, USA
Los Angeles Dodgers
The Dodgers hit Texas at full throttle, having just completed a sweep of the Rockies in high-scoring fashion. Shohei Ohtani and Freddie Freeman are leading the charge — both went deep in a thunderous seven-run first inning in their last outing. On the mound, Yoshinobu Yamamoto continues to dazzle. With a 1.23 ERA across four starts and 28 strikeouts in 22 innings, the Japanese ace is emerging as a genuine Cy Young candidate. He dominated the Cubs in his last start, throwing six scoreless innings with clinical command. This will be his first career appearance against Texas, but his confidence and poise suggest he’s ready for the challenge.
Texas Rangers
The Rangers are red-hot at home, having won nine straight in Arlington, and now go for double digits behind ace Jacob deGrom. While the former Cy Young winner has struggled with command this season, his 2.71 career ERA against the Dodgers suggests he relishes this kind of test. That said, deGrom has surrendered four home runs across his last two starts — a dangerous trend when facing this powerful Dodgers lineup. Texas’ offence, led by Corey Seager and Adolis Garcia, continues to do just enough to support its patchy rotation. If deGrom finds his form, this could be a classic.
America Bet Match Winner Prediction
Los Angeles Dodgers to win
Yamamoto’s control and confidence on the mound, coupled with a thunderous top of the Dodgers’ order, should be enough to outslug even a dangerous home side like Texas.
America Bet Score Prediction
Los Angeles Dodgers 6 – 4 Texas Rangers
Expect plenty of early fireworks, but Yamamoto’s ability to settle in and limit damage may be the difference-maker.
America Bet Betting Tips
- Los Angeles Dodgers Moneyline
- Total Runs – Over 9.5
- Shohei Ohtani to Record an RBI
- Yoshinobu Yamamoto Over 6.5 Strikeouts
- Corey Seager to Hit a Home Run
- Both Teams to Score in the First Inning – Yes
- Total Team Runs – Dodgers Over 5.5
- First 5 Innings – Dodgers to Lead
- Total Bases – Freddie Freeman Over 1.5
- Jacob deGrom to Allow Over 2.5 Earned Runs
San Diego Padres at Houston Astros
Match Info
- Interleague
- Friday 18th April 2025, 20:10 EST / 01:10 BST
- Minute Maid Park, Houston, USA
San Diego Padres
The Padres have been the best team in baseball so far, and it’s no fluke. Fernando Tatis Jr. is playing at an MVP level, and with Jackson Merrill, Manny Machado, and Jake Cronenworth all boasting OPS figures north of 150, this is one of the most balanced and dangerous lineups in the majors. Kyle Hart will take the mound after a rollercoaster start to the season. He’s coming off a gem in Colorado — six scoreless innings with just one hit allowed — but has also been shelled in shorter outings. When Hart finds the zone and avoids walks, he gives San Diego a very solid platform to unleash their high-octane offence.
Houston Astros
Nothing has come easy for the Astros in 2025. The team is still looking for back-to-back wins and ranks in the bottom tier for average, slugging, and OPS. Rookie Ryan Gusto makes just his second career start after being thrust into the rotation due to injuries. While his strikeout stuff is promising, Gusto will be tested severely by San Diego’s disciplined and powerful bats. Houston has been trying to manufacture runs with aggressive baserunning — they rank in the top half of the league in steals and baserunning metrics — but a lack of power is glaring. If the Astros can’t keep up on the scoreboard, it could be a long night.
America Bet Match Winner Prediction
San Diego Padres to win
With better balance, more weapons, and a red-hot Tatis leading the charge, San Diego are deserved favourites — even on the road against a proud franchise.
America Bet Score Prediction
San Diego Padres 7 – 3 Houston Astros
The Padres’ plate discipline and explosive offence should overwhelm the Astros, especially if Gusto struggles to keep the ball down in the zone.
America Bet Betting Tips
- San Diego Padres Moneyline
- Total Runs – Over 8.5
- Fernando Tatis Jr. to Record a Home Run
- Kyle Hart to Record the Win
- Padres Over 3.5 Runs in First 5 Innings
- Total Walks – Padres Over 3.5
- Ryan Gusto Over 4.5 Strikeouts
- Manny Machado Over 1.5 Total Bases
- First Inning – Padres to Score
- Game to Go Over in the Second Half (Innings 6–9)
Oakland Athletics at Milwaukee Brewers
Match Info
- Interleague
- Friday 18th April 2025, 20:10 EST / 01:10 BST
- American Family Field, Milwaukee, USA
Oakland Athletics
The Athletics arrive in Milwaukee on a mini high after blanking the White Sox 8-0 and completing a three-game sweep in dominant fashion. The resurgence has been sparked by Tyler Soderstrom, who leads the majors with nine homers, and a bullpen that has finally begun to hold leads. J.T. Ginn gets his second start since returning from Triple-A and looked every bit the gritty competitor the A’s have been searching for. He went 5 1/3 strong innings against the Mets, allowing one run while keeping hitters off balance with a blend of sinkers and sliders. Ginn’s challenge now is consistency — something that’s eluded Oakland’s rotation all season.
Milwaukee Brewers
The Brewers continue to play solid, no-frills baseball and are eyeing their third straight win. They’ll hand the ball to Freddy Peralta, their ace and one of the most reliable arms in the National League. Peralta has a 2.31 ERA this season and is fresh off a sturdy 5 1/3-inning outing in Arizona. He’ll be looking to improve on his rough history against the A’s — 0-1 with a 6.75 ERA in two appearances. Milwaukee’s offence, meanwhile, is beginning to show signs of life, with Christian Yelich and Rhys Hoskins both snapping early-season slumps with home runs in recent games. If they can get hot, this could be a well-rounded Brewers performance.
America Bet Match Winner Prediction
Milwaukee Brewers to win
With Peralta anchoring the start and the offence finally producing, the Brewers look well equipped to cool down an Athletics side coming off a weaker stretch of opposition.
America Bet Score Prediction
Oakland Athletics 2 – 5 Milwaukee Brewers
Expect Peralta to control the pace of the game while Milwaukee’s middle order does enough damage to give him the cushion he needs.
America Bet Betting Tips
- Milwaukee Brewers Moneyline
- Freddy Peralta Over 6.5 Strikeouts
- Total Runs – Under 8.0
- Tyler Soderstrom to Hit a Home Run
- Brewers Total Hits – Over 8.5
- Rhys Hoskins Over 1.5 Total Bases
- First 5 Innings – Brewers to Lead
- J.T. Ginn to Allow Over 2.5 Earned Runs
- Total Runs – Exact 7
- Milwaukee to Score in the First Inning – Yes
Washington Nationals at Colorado Rockies
Match Info
- National League
- Friday 18th April 2025, 20:40 EST / 01:40 BST
- Coors Field, Denver, USA
Washington Nationals
The Nationals stagger into Denver after a testy series in Pittsburgh, losing three of four and dealing with suspensions and injuries. They’ll hand the ball to left-hander MacKenzie Gore, who is coming off a solid start but has historically struggled mightily at Coors Field. In two appearances in the Mile High City, Gore has posted a 9.00 ERA, and he’ll be hoping to reverse that trend against the league’s worst team. Washington will be without Paul DeJong, who was hit in the face by a pitch earlier in the week, but Carlos Correa is back in the lineup and will be relied on heavily for infield stability and timely hits.
Colorado Rockies
The Rockies are reeling after a winless six-game road trip and now hold the worst record in the majors at 3-15. In response, the club sacked hitting coach Hensley Meulens and replaced him with former manager Clint Hurdle — hoping a new voice can jolt one of the league’s youngest and most strikeout-prone lineups. Rookie starter Chase Dollander takes the mound, and though he’s shown glimpses of potential in his first two starts, he’s still learning how to pitch at this level. With a lineup lacking power and coherence, the Rockies will need Dollander to keep things close and hope Coors Field’s altitude does its usual offensive magic.
America Bet Match Winner Prediction
Washington Nationals to win
Despite their issues, Washington has the superior starter in Gore and slightly more offensive balance. Colorado’s woes look set to continue, even with a new hitting coach in the dugout.
America Bet Score Prediction
Washington Nationals 6 – 4 Colorado Rockies
Expect some runs, as always at Coors, but Washington’s pitching edge should be just enough to edge out a floundering Rockies squad.
America Bet Betting Tips
- Washington Nationals Moneyline
- Over 9.5 Total Runs
- MacKenzie Gore Over 5.5 Strikeouts
- Chase Dollander to Allow Over 3.5 Earned Runs
- Total Team Runs – Nationals Over 5.5
- Rockies Total Hits – Under 8.5
- First Inning – Yes to Both Teams Scoring
- Total Errors – Over 1.5
- Carlos Correa to Record 2+ Hits
- Game to Be Decided by 1-2 Runs (Winning Margin)
San Francisco Giants at Los Angeles Angels
Match Info
- Interleague
- Friday 18th April 2025, 21:38 EST / 02:38 BST
- Angel Stadium, Anaheim, USA
San Francisco Giants
The Giants hit the road after a tough loss to the Phillies, but there’s plenty of optimism in the Bay Area thanks to breakout star Jung Hoo Lee. Batting .348 with 14 extra-base hits, Lee has emerged as one of the most electric hitters in the National League. Logan Webb takes the mound, boasting a perfect 2-0 record and a 2.63 ERA, and is coming off a solid, if unspectacular, outing in New York. While Webb has only faced the Angels once in his career, he’ll be confident facing an LA side that has struggled for offensive consistency. San Francisco will look to strike early and lean on Webb’s poise to silence the crowd.
Los Angeles Angels
The Angels return to Anaheim after a gruelling early-season schedule that saw them play 15 of their first 18 games on the road. Left-hander Tyler Anderson will start Friday’s series opener fresh off his first win of the season — a 5 2/3-inning, one-hit effort against Houston. Nolan Schanuel is starting to find his swing after an underwhelming rookie year, hitting two home runs in his last five games. The Angels rank third in MLB in home runs, but they’ll need more consistency from their supporting cast to compete with a Giants team that’s starting to click. This opener marks a big test for LA’s bullpen and defensive depth.
America Bet Match Winner Prediction
San Francisco Giants to win
With Webb’s command and a red-hot Jung Hoo Lee, the Giants have the pitching edge and offensive precision to outlast the streaky Angels in their homecoming.
America Bet Score Prediction
San Francisco Giants 5 – 3 Los Angeles Angels
Expect a well-fought contest with timely hitting and quality starting pitching, but the Giants’ momentum should carry them over the line late.
America Bet Betting Tips
- San Francisco Giants Moneyline
- Logan Webb to Record the Win
- Jung Hoo Lee Over 1.5 Total Bases
- Total Runs – Under 8.5
- Tyler Anderson to Allow Over 2.5 Earned Runs
- Giants to Score First
- Both Teams to Score in First Inning – No
- Nolan Schanuel to Record a Hit
- Giants Total Runs – Over 4.5
- Total Strikeouts – Webb & Anderson Combined Over 10.5
