Let's dive into our top MLB picks for Thursday, August 29. There is a good slate of games to choose from, with a few games during the day, so let's look at our top MLB picks to play.
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Thursday's Best MLB Picks
(Odds courtesy of FanDuel Sportsbook)
Atlanta Braves (+128) at Philadelphia Phillies (-152) | O/U 8.5 (-110/-110)
This is the biggest series of the weekend because it can determine the National League East. Only five games separate these two teams; a sweep by the Phillies could secure the division, while if Atlanta takes all four, they will be right back in the race.
The Braves are playing some fantastic baseball at this important time, winning 15 of their last 18, including two of three from the Phillies last week. We know the hitting has dipped from their top-tier power last year, but even without Spencer Strider, the pitching has been fantastic, as they are second in ERA (3.65).
After nearly two decades in the MLB, Charlie Morton can still go out every fifth day and give his team a chance. Although he's pitched well recently, his .288 lifetime opponent average against a potent Philadelphia lineup could be worrisome.
The Phillies’ four-game winning streak was brutally snapped as they lost 10-0 to the Astros on Wednesday. Before then, the lineup had been producing, including back-to-back 11-run efforts during the previous four games.
Christopher Sanchez saw his first action against the Braves last week: he went six innings and allowed three earned. He would get the loss, as Philadelphia would only get two runs.
Look for a similar performance today, and Philadelphia should put out a better offensive effort against Morton.
Pick: Phillies Moneyline (-152)
Kansas City Royals (+132) at Houston Astros (-156) | O/U 8 (-115/-105)
This series should also be exciting, with each team having a lot to play for.
The Royals had an amazing start to the week as they took three of four against the Guardians and are now one game out in the American League Central. It's been a fantastic one-year turnaround for this club, and all the pieces have worked together to make this a balanced team. None more than Bobby Witt Jr., who should have the AL Batting Title locked (.346) and will prevent Aaron Judge from claiming a Triple Crown.
Brady Singer is one of the pieces that has completely changed this team. He went from 8-11 with a 5.52 ERA last year to 3.38 and is one win away from tying his career high (10).
The Astros have hit a slide recently, losing six of their last nine, but thankfully, the Mariners have completely tanked, and Houston hasn't lost much ground.
If you had seen how this team was playing early on, you would have never guessed that the pitching had been carrying them during their comeback to the top of the AL West. They have a league-leading 3.02 ERA since July 29th.
Happy birthday to Hunter Brown, who has turned his season around. Over his last ten starts, he's 6-2 with a 2.85 ERA.
Brown may not be in a great mood to sing Happy Birthday because of a Singer. Both pitchers should be great and keep the offenses quiet.
Pick: Under 8 Total Runs (-105)
