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The Detroit Tigers have now made the MLB Playoffs in two straight seasons, but haven't been able to get past the ALDS. They'll look to take the next step this season, and it all starts with an interleague showdown against the San Diego Padres.
The back-to-back AL Cy Young winner, Tarik Skubal, will take the mound to face Nick Pivetta of the Padres. Let's dive into the odds and my best bets for this game.
Odds via FanDuel Sportsbook
Run Line
Moneyline
Total
I know it seems like blasphemy to fade Tarik Skubal on opening day, but the Padres have consistently been one of the best teams in the Majors in not striking out. Last year, the Padres struck out on just 19.1% of their plate appearances, the third-best mark in MLB. I'm going to bet on that continuing this season.
Neither of the lineups in this game is anything to write home about. There are some changes, but it's worth noting that neither team ranked inside the top 10 of the Majors in most offensive metrics last season.
Meanwhile, we have arguably the best pitching matchup of the day. Skubal is the back-to-back Cy Young winner, and Pivetta finished sixth in NL Cy Young voting after posting a 2.87 ERA and a 0.985 WHIP.
I'm going to trust the pitching and bet the UNDER on this interleague opener.
Pick: UNDER 7 (-114) via FanDuel
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Odds refresh periodically and are subject to change.
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You can check out all of Iain's bets here!
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Originally from Nova Scotia, Iain MacMillan is a senior editor covering betting, with a focus on NFL, NHL, and golf. He hosts the Bacon Bets Podcast and has been featured on VSIN, BetQL and Monumental Sports Network. He is a member of the Metropolitan Golf Writers Association and his beloved Falcons and Maple Leafs break his heart on a yearly basis.
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Tigers vs. Padres Prediction, Odds, Probable Pitchers, Prop Bets for MLB Opening Day – Sports Illustrated
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