We are calling this Longshot Monday, as we are taking bets with long odds today, including a HR prop for one of baseball’s most underrated sluggers and a strikeout parlay for two of baseball’s most heralded RH arms:
Mets @ Braves First Team to Score and Win
The Mets’ offensive struggles finally caught up to them this weekend against Tampa Bay, scoring just eight runs in the three-game sweep. Now they are also potentially facing injuries to top-of-the-order hitters Jeff McNeil and Michael Conforto, further shrinking their lineup. On Monday, they are facing Atlanta starter Max Fried, who has pitched much better in two starts since coming off the IL, allowing just two ER in 11 IP after allowing 14 ER in 11 IP prior to the injury.
To spice up this bet a little bit, we are also going to focus on the Braves getting out to an early lead. Taijuan Walker has been phenomenal for the Mets this season, pitching to a 2.20 ERA over 41 IP. However, his 4.13 xFIP and low .221 BABIP points to some regression for Walker and the Braves have the offensive firepower to score early against the 28-year old. At +134, I like the Braves here to start hot and cruise to victory against New York at home.
Pick: Braves First Team to Score and Win (+134 DK)
Gerrit Cole Total K’s O/U 10.5
Gerrit Cole has firmly entrenched himself as the best pitcher in the AL. If you have read any of my recent articles, you know that I love to pick on the Rangers offense for strikeout props. Texas has the third-highest K% against RHP (27.1%) and now they are facing the strikeout king in Cole. The Yankees ace has reached double-digit strikeouts in 5 starts already this year and should be a lock to get there again on Monday.
Pick: OVER 10.5 K’s (+114 FD)
Franmil Reyes to Hit a Home Run
Franmil Reyes is continually undervalued as a hitter in my eyes and I always fear having him in the box against a pitcher I am starting in fantasy. The lefty masher has had an excellent power start to his season, having already hit as many HRs as last season in 100 fewer ABs. His 30.0 HR/FB% and 46.5 HardHit% are right up with his career highs and he even has a low .299 BABIP. On Monday, the Angels are starting quasi-long reliever LHP Patrick Sandoval, who has already given up three HRs in just 7.1 IP. At +400 I know it’s a long shot, but sometimes you just have to take a chance to win big and Franmil Reyes can do that for you tonight.
Pick: YES (+400 DK)
Kyle Stanzel Overall Record: 19-16-0
Net Money (Assuming all wagers are $100): +$874.07
Featured Image by Justin Paradis (@JustParaDesigns on Twitter)