Red Sox Minor Lines: Brooks Brannon hits a game-winning home run

PORTLAND, ME - JULY 02: Brooks Brannon #11 of the Portland Sea Dogs looks on prior to the game between the Altoona Curve and the Portland Sea Dogs at Delta Dental Park on Thursday, July 2, 2026 in Portland, Maine. (Photo by Bryce Mosmen/Minor League Baseball via Getty Images)

Worcester: PPD (Rain), Make-Up Today

That same storm that compromised the Red Sox game ended up raining ou Worcester, too. And, in the same manner, the WooSox play the Jumbo Shrimp (Marlins AAA) in a double-header today, with first pitch at 4:05.

Portland: W, 4-3 (BOX SCORE)

The Sea Dogs had just five hits in Binghamton (Mets AA) in the series opener, but that’s all they needed due to the timing of these runs. Jack Winnay, who’s been scorching hot this month, hit a solo shot in the third. Ronald Rosario hit a two-run ball in the next inning, and, with the score all tied at 4, what do you know? Brooks Brannon came through in a big way in the ninth inning with what would become the game-winning home run. It’s worth noting before we start the “all he does is get on base narrative!” that Brannon struck out twice on the night before that home run, but he came through when it mattered, as he often has this season.

Realistically, does Brannon fit on this team in the long term? Who’s to say. The spot that belonged to Triston Casas has now never been more solidly Willson Contreras’, at least for the next couple of years. Brannon will be just 24 years of age when that contract expires. There’s also no one that immediately comes to mind near him save for Rosario who’s surely winning fans over with his propensity for the long ball. But how much can you get at the deadline for packaging a 22-year-old catcher/first base hybrid who put on a ton of muscle and hits nukes? Time may be able to tell us in just a few short days.

Greenville: L, 1-5 (BOX SCORE)

Twenty total runners stranded between the two teams in Greenville, but the Spartanburgers (Astros High-A) had a two-run home run in the eighth along with one other RBI (their only hit with runners in scoring position) and that made all the difference. Kyson Witherspoon had another okay start Tuesday. He failed to get out of the fifth, but he allowed four hits and two runs, so it could have been worse… unfortunately, on a night where the offense put up a single run, it wasn’t enough.

I want to go on record and say that I’d be fine with Witherspoon being dealt while he still has his prospect shine to see if some other team can get the most out of him. But if he survives the deadline and heads to Maine (not that he’s earned a promotion yet) Portland’s pitching coach Sean Isaac has already worked on so many prolific arms that maybe there’s some promising work to be done there.

Salem: L, 4-7 (F/7) (BOX SCORE)

My rally cap was on, man, what the hell!

After six innings of scoreless baseball from GreenJackets (Braves A) pitcher Davis Polo (such an awesome name) the RidgeYaks leveraged a Greensboro throwing error to load the bases, and speed demon (and other potential trade piece) Andrews Opata didn’t need any of that speed because he drilled a ball over the fence to make it a 7-4 ball game. Franklin Primera walked, and the tying run was on deck when Kleyvar Salazar came to the plate. But the only thing unraveling faster than the game for the GreenJackets was the weather above the RidgeYak’s stadium as the storm travelled south, and the umps called the contest with two outs, one on.

J.T. Realmuto’s brain just broke in game-ending baserunning blunder

Jul 21, 2026; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers infielder Tommy Edman (25) reacts after tagging out Philadelphia Phillies catcher JT Realmuto (10) in the ninth inning at Citizens Bank Park. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Ross-Imagn Images | Kyle Ross-Imagn Images

If you watched the end of Tuesday night’s 2-1 Phillies loss to the Dodgers at Citizens Bank Park, you likely woke up this morning asking the same question you were left with in the aftermath of J.T. Realmuto’s baserunning blunder.

“What on earth was he thinking?”

In case you missed Tuesday night’s gaffe, the Phils were mounting a 9th inning comeback. Justin Crawford was on third base and Realmuto was on second. There was one out in the inning with Brandon Marsh at the plate.

Marsh cued a ball down the third base line which was fielded by Max Muncy. Crawford hesitatingly took off for home, which manager Don Mattingly said was due to Crawford running on contact. However, one should not absolve Crawford of blame because, following the game, he admitted he was told to run on contact if the ball was hit to anywhere except third base. Crawford should have retreated to the bag, leaving runners and second and third with two outs. Once he took off for home, it was inevitable he would be tagged out.

His only choice was to try and stay in a rundown long enough for Realmuto to take his place at third base and for Marsh to try and get to second. That would have given the Phillies 2nd and 3rd with two outs.

Again, not ideal, but still breathing.

Then, with Realmuto standing on third, he suddenly bolts for second base, moving backwards 90 feet. As Crawford was being chased back to third, Realmuto should have just stood his ground and waited for Crawford to occupy the same base as him, rendering Crawford out.

Watching Marsh, it appeared he ran through the bag at first and didn’t make an immediate move to second. In all likelihood, the Phils were looking at first and third with two out.

That is, until Realmuto was tagged out at second.

After the game, the Phils’ veteran catcher admitted he goofed (quotes via MLB.com).

“Just a bad baserunning play, really,” Realmuto said. “We were going on seeing it through there, and once Craw gets in the rundown and I’m on third base, there’s no reason for me to go back to second. Just a lack of judgment. You can’t make two outs on that play. I’ve just to stay in scoring position.

“Just a lapse in judgment. I thought Crawford could get out of the rundown for some reason. The chances of that are so small, you just can’t take that chance there of making two outs on one play.”

In Realmuto’s mind, he thought Crawford could wriggle himself out of his pickle and that, by running back to second, he was giving the rookie outfielder a chance to do that.

This is J.T.’s 13th year in the Majors. He has played in 1,446 Major League Baseball games and hundreds of other games through little league, high school and the minors. He has likely never, in his entire baseball career, seen a player get out of a rundown situation like the one Crawford was in, let alone in the Majors.

And yet, he ran.

Without making excuses for Realmuto, what happened to him has happened to all of us in various scenarios during our lives.

Sometimes, our brains just break.

Most of the time, it’s only for a moment or two. We do something so dumb, so stupid, so against our character, that it’s impossible to explain why we did it after the fact. Our logic, sped up in the moment to a level that triggers a kind of temporary insanity, compels us to do something we know to be dumb, harmful or chaotic.

If you were to put Realmuto in that same spot another 100 times, he likely remains cemented to the third base bag every single time.

And according to the advanced metrics, the Phillies’ baserunning has improved this year. Fangraphs has the Phils with the 4th-most baserunning runs above average this season.

Tuesday night’s blunder calls back to last year’s 9th inning meltdown against the Dodgers in Game 2 of the NLDS where, after Nick Castellanos two-run double drew the Phils to within 4-3, putting a runner on second with nobody out.

The decision for Stott to bunt and get Castellanos tagged out at third for the first out of the inning sabotaged a late Phils’ rally in Game 2.

Tuesday night’s ridiculousness did not have the same stakes, but it did harken back to last October’s brain fart. In this case, Realmuto’s brain simply ran away from him, and a potential Phillies victory along with it.

One the Dodgers were only too happy to accept.

MLB players propose expanded draft eligibility in another sign of looming labor confrontation

NEW YORK — Baseball players proposed expanding eligibility for the amateur draft rather than decreasing it, maintaining 20 rounds of selections and moving it back to June in a signal the sport is heading to a labor confrontation this offseason.

During a two-hour bargaining session at Major League Baseball’s headquarters, the union proposed allowing college sophomores to be eligible for the draft along with those finishing their junior years, a group eligible under the current rules along with high school seniors.

Players proposed moving the draft back to June, when it was held through 2020. They asked that draft slot values continue to be increased at the same percentage as industry revenue through 2027 and may not be decreased for the remainder of the agreement.

Baseball’s five-year labor contract expires Dec. 1 and a management lockout is expected that would halt offseason trades and signings, and threaten the start of spring training workouts on Feb. 9 and opening day on March 24.

MLB in May proposed a salary cap for the first time since players fought off a proposal during a 7 1/2-month strike in 1994-95 that led to the first cancellation of the World Series in 90 years. Players vow never to accept a cap.

MLB said in June it wanted to eliminate eligibility for high school seniors and junior college players, arguing college programs offer better preparation for professional careers. MLB also proposed cutting the draft to 12 rounds in 2027.

The union also wants to maintain the ability for players to negotiate deals rather than have fixed slots, reduce penalties for exceeding signing bonus pools, allow more draft selections to be traded and keep competitive balance round selections.

It would allow a $2 million signing bonus pool increase for a revenue-sharing recipient team that is not in a large market in one draft from 2027-31 and also allow those teams to sign two players drafted before the third round to major league contracts rather than minor league deals.

Revenue-sharing recipients that reach the postseason would receive an extra $1 million in their signing bonus pool in the following draft.

Teams exceeding their signing bonus pools by up to 15% would not lose a pick in the next draft, up from 5%.

For players not drafted in the first 10 rounds, the signing bonus pool exemption would increase from $150,000 to $1,000 over the figure for the last 10th-round selection, which was $191,900 this year. For draft and follow players — those who play an additional junior college season after the draft — the signing bonus maximum would rise from $225,000 to $75,000 above the last 10th-round pick’s slot value.

Players would agree to MLB’s proposal that draft picks could be traded during a period of about a month starting in early November and for the month prior to the draft.

Selections acquired could be traded on to another team but cash couldn’t be included except to offset salary of a player involved in the trade. Each team would be required to retain at least one first-round pick in a two-year period and no team could obtain more than three additional selections within the first three rounds. A newly drafted player could not be traded for the first 90 days after he signs or the day after the World Series ends, whichever is later.

Players proposed only picks in the first 10 rounds be tradable.

MLB claims the union’s draft proposal in tandem with its revenue-sharing stance would not address payroll.

The union proposed that tax proceeds from penalties for exceeding amateur draft pools be split, with half going to joint funds and half to revenue-sharing recipients who made the playoffs in the prior season.

Kalshi Takes Nearly $200M in Trades on LeBron's Next Team

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Kalshi users have traded more than $197 million trying to predict where free-agent superstar LeBron James will land - and that number is only climbing.

Key Takeaways

  • The Warriors are now a long shot after surging to a 46% chance when free agency began.

  • Reports suggest James still has not made his decision.

  • The Heat accidentally scheduled a press conference for James on their YouTube channel, leading to a big probability swing.

Kalshi’s market data on Tuesday showed the Cleveland Cavaliers were a 38% favorite to attract James for a third stint in his hometown. That was slightly ahead of the Miami Heat (36%), whom James opted for when he left Cleveland for the first time in 2010 and with whom he eventually won two championships.

The market shifted dramatically when online sleuths noticed the Heat had an introductory press conference for James scheduled for July 27 on their YouTube channel. Miami subsequently surged to a 49% probability, while the Cavs plummeted to 28%.

Further down the board, the Golden State Warriors, once a dominant favorite, have dropped to a 13% chance. The decline was influenced by the Washington Wizards' reported refusal to trade Anthony Davis, a move that reportedly would have helped entice James to Golden State. Draymond Green's possible departure has also hurt the Warriors' chances.

The Philadelphia 76ers are the fourth and final realistic option for James, according to prediction markets. Their 9% chance suggests hope is still alive, although they are much less likely to land “The King” than the Cavaliers and the Heat.

Markets fluctuate amid James wait

The negotiating period of NBA free agency began at 6 p.m. ET on June 30. Players were allowed to sign contracts as of 12:01 p.m. on July 6, which was more than two weeks ago at the time of writing.

NBA commissioner Adam Silver said the league wouldn’t begin its schedule-making process until it knows where James will be playing his basketball next season.

“We have to finish up the schedule and where LeBron plays affects the schedule ... opening week, Christmas,” he said, per CNBC. “So I need him to make a decision.”

Prediction market sites have experienced significant movement over the past month. After James' departure from the Los Angeles Lakers was confirmed, the Cavaliers had as high as a 61% chance of signing him on July 10. They dropped to as low as 26% in the time since and are now only just above that mark following the Heat’s YouTube debacle.

The Heat were at 15% when free agency began and are sitting at their all-time high in probability.

The Warriors were up at 46% when free agency began but haven't kept momentum. Kalshi users did not elevate the 76ers above 18% since free agency began. 

Finals probabilities for LeBron’s possible suitors

Summer League is already over, but NBA Finals prediction markets could still undergo sizable changes, depending on where James signs.

Kalshi's NBA Finals market gives the Heat an 8% probability of winning the upcoming championship, tied for third with the defending champion New York Knicks. The 76ers are sixth (6%), the Cavaliers are seventh (5%), and the Warriors are tied with five other teams for eighth (4%).

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MLB Predictions and Moneyline Picks for Wednesday, July 22

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With 17 games packed into Wednesday’s marathon MLB schedule—thanks to a pair of traditional doubleheaders in the Bronx and Boston—bettors are treated to an all-day smorgasbord of moneyline value.

From early-afternoon matinees to high-stakes evening doubleheaders, today's massive card presents no shortage of prime spots to target straight-up winners.

Here are my MLB moneyline predictions as wedive into the full slate with my MLB picks on Wednesday, July 22.

MLB moneyline picks for July 22

MatchupPick
PiratesPirates
vs
YankeesYankees
Yankees
-160
MetsMets
vs
BrewersBrewers
Brewers
-135
GiantsGiants
vs
RoyalsRoyals
Giants
-111
NationalsNationals
vs
RockiesRockies
Nationals
-127
AthleticsAthletics
vs
DiamondbacksDiamondbacks
Athletics
+106
RedsReds
vs
MarinersMariners
Reds
+141
CardinalsCardinals
vs
AngelsAngels
Cardinals
+108
DodgersDodgers
vs
PhilliesPhillies
Dodgers
-111
TwinsTwins
vs
GuardiansGuardians
Guardians
-117
PiratesPirates
vs
YankeesYankees
Yankees
-153
RaysRays
vs
Blue JaysBlue Jays
Rays
+102
OriolesOrioles
vs
Red SoxRed Sox
Red Sox
-130
PadresPadres
vs
BravesBraves
Padres
+108
White SoxWhite Sox
vs
RangersRangers
White Sox
-102
TigersTigers
vs
CubsCubs
Tigers
+108
MarlinsMarlins
vs
AstrosAstros
Astros
-108

Prices courtesy of Polymarket as of July 22.

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Expert MLB moneyline picks for July 22

Pirates vs Yankees: Yankees (-160)

Yankees win probability: 62%

Despite Gerrit Cole allowing plenty of hard contact over his last few outings, he is still maintaining a 1.04 WHIP and 3.22 xERA. Meanwhile, Pirates right hander Mitch Keller has posted a 5.45 xERA and 1.41 WHIP over his last five starts, while allowing a 50% hard hit rate and a 10.47% barrel rate.

The Yankees offense is slowly coming back to life, generating nearly a 50% hard hit rate and an 8.7% barrel rate over its last six games.

I lean with the Yankees here.

Mets vs Brewers: Brewers (-135)

Brewers win probability: 57%

Over the last week, the Mets' offense has posted an 81 wRC+, .283 wOBA, and .621 OPS, while the Brewers have generated a 109 wRC+, .329 wOBA, and .732 OPS.

With how strong the pitching matchup is this afternoon, I think backing the hotter offense is the right move.

Giants vs Royals: Giants (-111)

Giants win probability: 52%

With Royals right hander Seth Lugo posting a 6.75 ERA, 5.48 xERA, and 1.62 WHIP over his last five starts, I am leaning heavily toward the Giants here. Sure, their offense has been a tad cold over the last week, but bad pitching has a way of getting an offense back on track.

Nationals vs Rockies: Nationals (-127)

Nationals win probability: 56%

Would you rather back the offense with a 147 wRC+, .380 wOBA, and .873 OPS over its last six games, or the one with a 73 wRC+, .291 wOBA, and .658 OPS?

Yeah, same.

Nationals.

Athletics vs Diamondbacks: Athletics (+106)

Athletics win probability: 48%

Death. Taxes. Fade Merrill Kelly.

Arizona's right hander has been brutal all season, and his expected numbers suggest he should be even worse. Over his last five starts, he owns a 6.36 xERA and a 1.45 WHIP, while allowing a 48% hard hit rate and a 12% barrel rate.

The Athletics offense has been turning it around, posting a 126 wRC+, .351 wOBA, and .794 OPS over the last week.

Reds vs Mariners: Reds (+141)

Reds win probability: 42%

Similar to most of my reads, I am not backing a frozen offense. Seattle has posted a wRC+ under 100 for more than a month, while the Reds own a 119 wRC+, .347 wOBA, and .224 ISO over their last 12 games.

I want the team that is playing its best baseball and at +141 is a great price to back the hotter team.

Reds.

Cardinals vs Angels: Cardinals (+108)

Cardinals win probability: 48%

Take the underdog for the value here. Both offenses are frozen, and both starting pitchers have been brutal.

I am not paying juice in this spot.

Give me the Cardinals.

Dodgers vs Phillies: Dodgers (-111)

Dodgers win probability: 52%

You think I am going to back Aaron Nola? Please.

Eric Lauer has been solid for the Dodgers over his last five outings, and with how bad Nola has been this season, I think the Los Angeles offense can get after him early and often.

Twins vs Guardians: Guardians (-117)

Guardians win probability: 54%

Neither Bailey Ober nor Slade Cecconi has been at his best over the last few starts, but Ober has been especially rough, posting a 6.00 ERA, 5.12 xERA, and 1.60 WHIP over his last five outings.

Meanwhile, the Guardians offense has finally awakened, posting a 148 wRC+, .381 wOBA, and .204 ISO over its last six games.

I like the Guardians here.

Pirates vs Yankees: Yankees (-153)

Yankees win probability: 60%

"But I always look to fade the winner of Game 1 of a doubleheader."

Cool. Anyway...

The Pirates turn to Bubba Chandler in Game 2. The right hander owns a 6.60 ERA and 1.80 WHIP, and he has been allowing a ton of hard hit balls over his last three starts.

With the Yankees finally starting to find their stride, getting back to back matchups against pitchers who give up plenty of hard contact should play right into their hands.

Rays vs Blue Jays: Rays (+102)

Rays win probability: 50%

We are getting the Rays as underdogs against the most lifeless team in baseball? Yes, please!

For those unaware, the Blue Jays own a 68 wRC+, .267 wOBA, and .595 OPS over their last 21 games.

This is not the 2025 team. This team has no life.

Orioles vs Red Sox: Red Sox (-130)

Red Sox win probability: 56%

If it is Ranger Suárez, I want to back the Red Sox.

The Orioles have struggled a ton against left handed pitchers, and I think Suárez can make a dominant return against this offense.

Plus, who does not want to see this winning streak continue?

Padres vs Braves: Padres (+108)

Padres win probability: 48%

The Padres are heating up, and Martin Perez has posted a 7.43 ERA and 1.80 WHIP over his last three starts.

Meanwhile, Michael King has been holding it down over his last five starts.

Give me the Padres to feast this evening.

White Sox vs Rangers: White Sox (-102)

White Sox win probability: 50%

Bounce back central, USA.

The White Sox will get their get right win and secure the series against Cal Quantrill this evening. The Rangers starter owns a 5.40 ERA, 1.47 WHIP, and a sub 9% strikeout rate over his last three starts.

On the other end, Anthony Kay has been turning things around, and I expect him to hold down the fort for the White Sox offense.

Tigers vs Cubs: Tigers (+108)

Tigers win probability: 48%

Yes, give me the Tigers as an underdog against Colin Rea, who owns a 4.41 ERA, 4.87 xERA, and 1.47 WHIP over his last three starts.

With the Cubs scoring 11 runs last night, I expect some regression from their offense.

Give me the Tigers as an underdog.

Marlins vs Astros: Astros (-108)

Astros win probability: 52%

With the Marlins' ice cold offense and the Astros heating up, I have to take the hometown favorite here.

Plus, Peter Lambert has been nails over his last five starts, posting a 2.54 ERA and 1.11 WHIP.

I expect the Astros to get the job done this evening.

Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change.
Not intended for use in MA.
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Yankees activate Max Fried from IL ahead of schedule to pitch in twinbill against Pirates

NEW YORK — Max Fried will come off the injured list ahead of schedule to pitch for the New York Yankees in the second game of their day-night doubleheader against the Pittsburgh Pirates.

The ace left-hander has been sidelined since May 14 because of a left elbow bone bruise and had been lined up to make a second minor league rehab start. But when the Yankees announced their starting pitching plans for the twinbill, they listed Gerrit Cole in the opener and Fried in Game 2.

Fried, a three-time All-Star, is 4-3 with a 3.21 ERA in 10 starts for New York this season. He tossed three innings in a rehab outing for Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre against Worcester, allowing two runs and five hits with three strikeouts and no walks. He threw 52 pitches, 32 for strikes.

The next day, Yankees manager Aaron Boone said Fried would make at least one more rehab start in the minors before rejoining the big league rotation.

“He looked really good. I watched his whole outing,” Boone said. “He felt really good. So 52 pitches, so another one in five days. We’ll up that and we’ll see what we’re at from there.”

But the Yankees’ plans changed when their scheduled game against the Pirates was postponed in the afternoon because of a rainy forecast. It will be made up as part of New York’s second doubleheader in a four-day span.

The regularly scheduled game begins at 1:05 p.m. and the makeup at 7:05 p.m.

Will Warren had been slated to start against fellow right-hander Bubba Chandler and the Pirates. The Yankees are then off before beginning a series at Philadelphia.

New York split a day-night doubleheader against the Los Angeles Dodgers after another rainout.

Chandler will pitch the nightcap after Mitch Keller starts Game 1 for Pittsburgh. The Pirates then are off before a home series against the Chicago Cubs.

The 32-year-old Fried went 19-5 with a 2.86 ERA over 32 starts in 2025, his first season with the Yankees after leaving Atlanta as a free agent to sign an eight-year, $218 million contract with New York in December 2024.

White Sox catcher Kyle Teel placed on injured list with high ankle sprain and could miss 6-12 weeks

ARLINGTON, Texas — Chicago White Sox catcher Kyle Teel is expected to miss a significant amount of time after being placed on the 10-day injured list a day after injuring his left ankle when trying to apply a tag at home plate.

Before the AL Central-leading White Sox played the Texas Rangers, manager Will Venable said Teel was still being evaluated but could be out six to 12 weeks with a high ankle sprain.

The White Sox recalled 22-year-old switch-hitting catcher Edgar Quero from Triple-A Charlotte.

Teel has been limited to only 19 games this season because of hamstring and knee injuries, including an earlier stint on the 60-day IL. The 24-year-old catcher is hitting .190 with two homers and 14 RBIs, after compiling a .273 batting average with eight homers and 35 RBIs in 78 games last season, when he made his big league debut.

“It’s going to be some time, but I think with a range that big and Kyle being a young, strong man that he can go about his treatment and rehab and hopefully make it as quick as possible,” Venable said.

Teel, the 14th overall pick by Boston in the 2023 amateur draft, was one of four prospects Chicago received in the December 2024 trade that sent left-handed starter Garrett Crochet to the Red Sox.

Teel got hurt in the second inning of Chicago’s 10-3 victory in the series opener at Texas. He was helped off the field while putting no weight on the ankle and replaced by Drew Romo.

Quero also made his major league debut last season, when he hit .268 with five homers and 36 RBIs in 111 games. He has hit .187 with two homers in 55 big league games this year, and was sent down to Triple-A Charlotte when Teel was activated June 22.

Padres vs Braves Prediction: Odds, recent stats, trends, and best bets for July 22

The series between the Braves (58-42) and Padres (50-51) is tied up after San Diego won 8-3 on Tuesday night. Both offenses rank top six in batting average to start the second half of the season and top three in SLG, OPS, and OBA.

Manny Machado homered twice and Fernando Tatis Jr. hit the longest home run of the MLB season at 472 feet in the win over Atlanta yesterday. The Padres have scored 29 runs over the last three games and have the second-most (36) to start the second half. Their 13 home runs are tied for the most in that span too.

Atlanta's offense is just as hot as San Diego's. The Braves have scored 35 runs over five games (3rd-most) with 11 home runs (3rd), which they've needed since the pitching staff has allowed a .274 OBA (24th) and rank 19th in ERA (4.40).

Let’s dive into the matchup and find a sweat or two.

We’ve got all the info and analysis you need to know ahead of the game, including the latest info on the how to catch first pitch, odds, recent team performance, player stats, and of course, our predictions, picks & best bets for the game from our modeling tools and staff of experts.

Follow Rotoworld Player News for the latest fantasy and betting player news and analysis all season long.

Game details & how to watch Padres at Braves

  • Date: Wednesday, July 22, 2026
  • Time: 7:15 PM EST
  • Site: Truist Park 
  • City: Atlanta, GA
  • Network/Streaming: MLB TV

Never miss a second of the action and stay up-to-date with all the latest team stats and player news. Check out our day-by-day MLB schedule page, along with detailed matchup pages that update live in-game with every out.

Odds for the Padres at the Braves

The latest odds as of Wednesday:

  • Moneyline: Atlanta Braves (-117), San Diego Padres (-103)
  • Spread: Braves +1.5 (-188), Padres -1.5 (+155)
  • Total: 8.5

Probable starting pitchers for Padres at Braves

  • Wednesday's pitching matchup (July 22): Michael King vs. Martin Perez
  • Padres: Michael King

2026 stats: 113.1 IP, 6-7, 3.34 ERA, 1.16 WHIP, 96 Ks, 45 BB

  • Braves: Martin Perez

2026 Stats: 81.1 IP, 6-6, 3.54 ERA, 1.19 WHIP, 62 K, 32 BB

Who’s Hot? Who’s Not

  • The Padres’ Fernando Tatis Jr. is hitting .286 with 112 hits, 8 home runs and 44 RBI over 392 at-bats
  • The Padres’ Jackson Merrill is hitting .222 with 85 hits and 104 strikeouts over 383 at-bats
  • The Braves’ Michael Harris III is hitting .301 with 107 hits, 18 home runs, and 59 RBI over 356 at-bats
  • The Braves’ Austin Riley is hitting .213 with 77 hits and 117 strikeouts over 361 at-bats

Rotoworld still has you covered with all the latest MLB player news for all 30 teams. Check out the feed page right here on NBC Sports for headlines, injuries and transactions where you can filter by league, team, positions and news type!

Top betting trends & insights to know ahead of Padres at Braves

  • The Padres are 53-46 ATS, ranking tied for seventh-best
  • The Braves are 54-44 ATS, ranking sixth-best
  • The Padres are 54-44-1 to the Under, ranking fifth-best
  • The Braves are 47-45-6 to the Over
  • The Padres are 24-22 ATS on the road
  • The Braves are 26-22 ATS at home, ranking eighth-best

Expert picks & predictions for tonight’s game between the Padres and the Braves

Rotoworld Bet Best Bet

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Our model calculates projections around each moneyline, spread and over/under bet for every game on the MLB calendar based on data points like past performance, player matchups, ballpark information and weather forecasts.

Once the model is finished running, we put its projection next to the latest betting lines for the game to arrive at a relative confidence level for each wager.

Here are the best bets our model is projecting for Wednesday's game between the Padres and the Braves:

  • Moneyline: NBC Sports Bet is recommending a play on the Braves on the Moneyline.
  • Spread: NBC Sports Bet is leaning towards a play ATS on the Braves at +1.5.
  • Total: NBC Sports Bet is recommending a play on the Over on the Game Total of 8.5

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Bobby Witt Jr. lands on the Injured List

SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA - SEPTEMBER 27: Bobby Witt Jr. #7 of the Kansas City Royals heads towards the dugout after the final out of the first inning against the Athletics at Sutter Health Park on September 27, 2025 in Sacramento, California. (Photo by Scott Marshall/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The injuries have piled up for the Royals this year, and now they’ve affected their best player.

Bobby Witt Jr. was placed on the Injured List for the first time in his career on Wednesday, after missing the last two games with lower back tightness. The Royals selected infielder Andrew Velazquez from Triple-A Omaha and placed pitcher Stephen Kolek on the 60-day Injured List to make room on the 40-man roster.

Witt was playing like an MVP candidate for most of the year, hitting .279/.350/.450 with 13 home runs and a league-high 30 steals. He led the American League with 4.9 rWAR, and lead all defensive players in Outs Above Average at +19. Recently, he made his first-ever start in the All-Star Game, drawing a walk and scoring a run. Witt has played in at last 150 games in each of his first four seasons, and missed just five games last year. He missed six games earlier this year with a knee injury, but avoided the Injured List.

The Royals signed Velazquez to a minor league contract last month. The 32-year-old has played in parts of six MLB seasons with the Rays, Guardians, Orioles, Yankees, and Angels, hitting .189/.244/.293 in 275 games. He last played in the big leagues in 2023, appearing in 54 games with the Angels. He began this year in the Diamondbacks organization, and was hitting .259/.328/.315 in 18 games with Omaha. Velazquez is a switch-hitter who has played who has played ever position except first and catcher.

Kolek was on a rehab stint with Omaha to ramp him back up after he missed time on a family emergency, but suffered forearm tightness in his start at Triple-A on July 18. The Royals will get a second opinion on his injury, as forearm tightness is commonly associated with elbow injuries that require Tommy John surgery.

2026 Cubs Heroes and Goats: Pete Crow-Armstrong is the Superhero vs. the Tigers

This past weekend was the celebration of the 2016 championship Cubs on their 10-year reunion. The various gatherings and events brought back a lot of nostalgia. Tuesday night’s Cub win also brought back some of that nostalgia. This was the blueprint of so much of that season. Jump all over the other team early and cruise to victory. Once Cub starter David Peterson was lifted from the game, there were just two more plays that registered any WPA. Aaron Civale allowed a single to the first batter he faced (-.001) and retired the second (.001). Each team had two turns at the plate, but neither dented WPA after that. 31 of the 86 plays in this game registered .000.

Perspective check: Four teams have more wins than the Cubs. The Cubs have solo possession of the first Wild Card position in the NL. The Cubs are on pace to win 91.4 games. They continue to have that tight projection in the 90-92 range. Overall, I think that range is probably something like 88-94, allowing for swings in either direction. As I keep saying, starting Friday, there is a significant test coming. The team has played well for over a month now. Hopefully, there is something they can take from that and bring forth into this stretch.

Ironically, the Cubs won this one the way they lost the one before. Granted, it was a much longer duration. But the Cubs weren’t particularly crushing Framber Valdez. But, they were patient, took what was given to them, got a couple of good breaks and poured it on, knocking Valdez out with more than 40 pitches thrown and only two outs recorded. That was the first time Valdez failed to survive the first inning since July 11, 2019 when he allowed four runs on four hits and three walks. This was only his second-ever start, in 185 total starts, where he didn’t throw at least three innings.

When it gets this lopsided this quickly, you end up with silly baseball. The Cubs faced two innings of position player pitching that accounted for three hits, four walks and two runs. So in the six innings against guys who get paid to pitch, the team had eight hits, seven walks, two hit batters and nine runs. Nine different Cubs had hits, six different Cubs drew walks, nine different Cubs scored runs, seven different Cubs had RBI’s. So it was a really balanced attack for the Cubs.

Leading the way was Pete Crow-Armstrong who started the game with a triple, walked later in the inning and ended up with two hits and three walks. That’s one very odd full house. He drove in two and scored a run. The Cubs only had one double, one triple and one homer. They stole one base. So this attack was death by a thousand paper cuts for the Tigers.

David Peterson threw a couple of pitches were crushed, but I do at least want to nod to pitching to the conditions with a huge lead and the wind howling in. On paper, Peterson’s results were terrific. He allowed three hits and a walk over 6.2 innings. He was so effective that the Cubs had a second straight day of coming up short on an odd stat. On Monday, the Cubs fell short of a potential 11th walk-off. On Tuesday, Aaron Civale was two outs short of becoming the 11th Cub to record a save. The three-inning save has been one of the more available vectors for the pitching staff to record saves.

This was definitely one of those wins that you hope you can carry some of that offense forward to Wednesday. It would be really nice to notch another series win before that 17-game gauntlet starts. There are definitely going to be some series losses in there. So you just want to bank as much as you can. With any luck, the team will see reinforcements from multiple directions during that gauntlet. They should have some of their own guys getting healthy and they should also trade for some live arms from other teams.

Keep marching on.

Three Positives and Pete:

  • David Peterson gets the top spot with 6.2 scoreless innings.
  • Dansby Swanson had two singles, drew a walk and scored three runs.
  • Ian Happ had a single, drew a walk and was hit by a pitch. He drove in a run and scored another.
  • Pete’s appearance here is more than obligatory. He was the star offensively, reaching base five times. Forget any mention of the word slump. As great a season as he is having, Pete added four points to his batting average, seven to his on base, and eight to his slugging percentage. The net result was four points on his wRC+. Always unbelievable.

Game 101, July 21: Cubs 11, Tigers 2 (57-44)

Reminder: Heroes and Goats are determined by WPA scores and are in no way subjective.

THREE HEROES:

  • Superhero: Pete Crow-Armstrong (.146). 2-2, 3B, 3 BB, 2 RBI, R
  • Hero: Carson Kelly (.121). 1-3, 2 BB, 2 RBI, R
  • Sidekick: David Peterson (.110). 6.2 IP, 24 BF, 3 H, BB, 0 R, 4 K (W 2-1)

THREE GOATS:

  • Billy Goat: Kevin Alcantara (-.035). 0-2
  • Goat: Dansby Swanson (-.013). 2-3, BB, 3 R, SB
  • Kid: Justin Dean (.000). 0-1

WPA Note: Dean, Pedro Ramirez and Aaron Civale all registered .000 WPA. Of the three, Dean’s was the most “negative” outcome of the three. While Civale allowed two runs, his job was clearly to eat outs and he did that. Obviously, Dean’s job was largely to give PCA a few innings off. But in these spots, I will make a choice for the last spot.

WPA Play of the Game: Carson Kelly’s two-run single in the first, driving in the first two runs. (.116)

Tigers Play of the Game: Framber Valdez’ strike out of Kevin Alcantara for the second out in the first inning. (.028)

Cubs Player of the Game:

Game 100 Winner: Ian Happ 38 of 55 votes.

Rizzo Award Standings: (Top 5/Bottom 5)

The award is named for Anthony Rizzo, who finished first in this category three of the first four years it was in existence and four times overall. He also recorded the highest season total ever at +65.5. The point scale is three points for a Superhero down to negative three points for a Billy Goat.

  • Pete Crow-Armstrong +21
  • Carson Kelly +17.5
  • Michael Busch +16
  • Ben Brown/Alex Bregman +13.5
  • Jameson Taillon/Phil Maton -10
  • Nico Hoerner -11
  • Caleb Thielbar -14
  • Dansby Swanson -16

Up Next: The third and final game of the series between the Tigers and Cubs. Colin Rea (7-6, 4.74) starts for the Cubs. Rea is just 2-3 with a 5.00 over his last seven appearances (36 IP). He does have two wins and a quality start over his last three starts. The Tigers start Keider Montero (6-5, 3.22). The 26-year-old Venezuelan hasn’t started a game since June 26. In five July appearances, he is 2-0 with a 2.08 (13 IP). His high pitch count in there is 58. He only threw 43 in his last one. That may help explain the Tigers going to position players for the final two innings. Montero feels unlikely to get deep in this one. Even when he was starting, he topped out at 96 pitches. Last June, the Cubs scored four runs in 5.2 against him. The four runs were four solo homers (Suzuki, Busch, Crow-Armstrong and Shaw).

Unlikely to be easy but go win a series.

MLB Home Run Predictions Today: Best HR Prop Bets, Picks, Parlay & Odds for July 22

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It might have taken until the 25th hour last night, but Jacob Wilson delivered my longest home run prop of the year at +1140, and let's hope it's the start of a home-run heater. Let's cash some MLB player props.

Fading Dean Kremer has to be on the card, and Masataka Yoshida is the left-handed bat I want, while Aaron Nola has been serving up long balls all year and nobody has seen him more than Freddie Freeman. 

Finally, how can we leave Jacob Wilson off the card after last night, and at a better price, today? Spoiler: We can't.

These are my favorite home run predictions and MLB picks for Wednesday, July 22. 

  • UPDATE: Added another HR pick + parlay.

Best MLB home run props today

Player to hit a HROdds
Red Sox Masataka Yoshida+1000
Dodgers Freddie Freeman+406
Reds Jacob Wilson+1180
💲Today's HR parlay+48476

Home run pick: Masataka Yoshida (+1000)

After backing Jacob Wilson at +1140, I'm like a vampire with a thirst for 10/1 home runs or better, and Dean Kremer at Fenway with the wind blowing out is my next target. I'm playing this down to +750 in the first game of a doubleheader, where Kremer could be asked to eat innings.

Kremer currently owns the worst HR/FB rate among qualified MLB starters and the third-worst HR/9. He's already surrendered nine home runs in just 26 innings, with left-handed hitters doing most of the damage.

Masataka Yoshida is one of only two Red Sox with an OPS north of 1.000 over the last 30 days and ranks near the top of the club in most offensive categories. He isn't known as a prolific home run hitter, but he's in the middle of a nice power surge with two homers and a .351 average over his last 10 games.

The matchup and the setting are there today to take a shot at a massive price. There is only one lefty arm in the Orioles pen today, as well. 

  • Time: 1:35 p.m. ET
  • Where to watch: NESN, MASN

Home run pick: Freddie Freeman (+406)

Citizens Bank Park still ranks as the No. 2 home run park on today's slate, according to Ballpark Pal, despite a slight wind blowing in.

That's great news for the Dodgers' bats against Aaron Nola, who has been one of the more home run-prone pitchers in baseball this season. He served up three homers in his last start on the 16th and has allowed multiple home runs in five of his last seven outings. It's a dinger upgrade across the Dodgers' lineup, and Nola doesn't discriminate, giving them up to both lefties and righties.

Only Tommy Edman owns a better OPS than Freddie Freeman over the last 30 days in the Dodgers' clubhouse, and Freeman has plenty of history against Nola with 76 career at-bats. Nola has gotten the better of him over the years with a .237 average and just two home runs allowed, but this version of the Phillies' right-hander is the most vulnerable Freeman has ever faced.

Almost the entire Dodgers lineup projects as +EV to go deep today, but Freeman at +370 or better is where I'm landing. It also helps that the Phillies have just one available lefty in the bullpen.

  • Time: 6:40 p.m. ET
  • Where to watch: NBC Sports Philadelphia, SportsNet LA

Home run pick: Jacob Wilson (+1180)

How about some damn respect for Jacob Wilson, who has gone deep three times over his last four games and cashed a monster ticket last night at +1140. The Athletics' leadoff man has seen at least five plate appearances in each game during this heater and is riding a nine-game hitting streak, batting .421 with a .721 slugging percentage and six multi-hit performances.

The matchup is in his favor again today against Merrill Kelly, who has been one of the hardest-hit pitchers in baseball this season. Kelly owns the worst BlastContact% of any starter on today's slate and ranks among the bottom 50 in both HR/FB and HR/9. He has also been far more vulnerable at home, posting a 6.69 ERA compared to a 4.28 mark on the road. Since the start of 2024, his HR/9 is also 0.4 higher at home.

I'm riding the Wilson train until this price drops. I'd play this dinger down to +800 today.

  • Time: 3:40 p.m. ET
  • Where to watch: NBC Sports California, Diamondbacks.TV
Josh Inglis's 2026 Transparency Record
  • HR picks: 22-135, -14.23 units

Today’s HR parlay

Red Sox Masataka YoshidaBet Now
+48476
Dodgers Freddie Freeman
Reds Jacob Wilson

Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change.
Not intended for use in MA.
Affiliate Disclosure: Our team of experts has thoroughly researched and handpicked each product that appears on our website. We may receive compensation if you sign up through our links.

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Victor Wembanyama, Derrick Rose revealed as NBA 2K27 cover athletes

San Antonio Spurs superstar Victor Wembanyama was named the NBA 2K27 Standard Edition cover athlete.

The game's Ultra Edition cover will feature former NBA player Derrick Rose, and the Deluxe Edition will have Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark gracing the cover. The three cover athletes have each been the No. 1 overall pick in their drafts and went on to win the Rookie of the Year award in their respective leagues.

Wembanyama is coming off a season in which he averaged 25 points, 11.5 rebounds, and 3.1 blocks per game.

He was named the NBA Defensive Player of the Year and a first-team All-NBA selection, helping the Spurs reach the NBA Finals, which they lost in five games to the New York Knicks.

"When you're truly obsessed with basketball, the game doesn't stop when you leave the arena. NBA 2K is the court that never locks up, it's always open whether you're in Paris or San Antonio. It's how you study the game, sharpen your IQ, and live basketball 24/7," Wembanyama said in a statement. "To be the face of a game that fuels that hunger for hoops and whose covers immortalize the all-time greats, that’s a dream come true for me."

NBA 2K27 will launch on Sept. 4, 2026, on PlayStation 5, XBOX Series X|S, PC via Steam, and Nintendo Switch. The standard edition of the game will cost $69.99; the Deluxe Edition will be $99.99, and for the Ultra Edition, consumers will have to fork over $149.99, with limited availability through Sept. 6.

The USA TODAY app gets you to the heart of the news — fast. Download for award-winning coverage, crosswords, audio storytelling, the eNewspaper and more.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Victor Wembanyama, Derrick Rose revealed as NBA 2K27 cover athletes

White Sox vs Rangers Prediction, Picks & Odds for Today's MLB Game

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This game is priced as a coin flip, with Chicago and Texas both carrying -110 odds on the moneyline.

Anthony Kay is not pitching as well as his results indicate, and the lefty-mashing Rangers should take full advantage of that.

Let's break it all down with my White Sox vs. Rangers predictions and MLB picks for Wednesday, July 22.

Who will win White Sox vs Rangers today: Texas Rangers moneyline (-110)

Anthony Kay’s 3.15 ERA has masked the fact he owns a 4.85 xFIP over the last 30 days.

The southpaw is playing with fire, and there’s real potential he gets burned against the Texas Rangers

They have hammered left-handed pitching unlike any other team, ranking first in average, OPS, and wOBA since June 1

The Chicago White Sox sit 21st in wOBA vs. right-handed pitching this month. They’re in a bit of a rut, which should help Cal Quantrill avoid a blow up.

Back the Rangers to take the rubber match up to -125.

Covers COVERS INTEL:Kay ranks in the 12th percentile with a 5.35 xERA this season.

White Sox vs Rangers Over/Under pick: Over 8.5 (-120)

Kay has posted an xERA of 5.05 or worse in three of his last four starts. He’s allowing a lot of quality contact and it’ll be tough to get the cat back in the bag against an offense feasting on lefties.

While the White Sox haven’t lit it up of late, this is a good spot to get on track. They’ll see a lot of Quantrill, who ranks in the 21st percentile in barrel rate and has allowed 2.14 homers per nine innings the last month. That should play well for their power.

Bet to -130.

Todd Cordell's 2026 Transparency Record
  • ML/RL bets: 62-50, +1.15 units
  • Over/Under bets: 62-45-5, +9.34 units

White Sox vs Rangers weather

This game will be played in a dome.

White Sox vs Rangers odds

  • Moneyline: Chicago -110 | Texas -110
  • Run line: Chicago -1.5 (+150) | Texas +1.5 (-175)
  • Over/Under: Over 8.5 (-120) | Under 8.5 (+100)

White Sox vs Rangers trend

Texas has hit the Game Total Over in 18 of the last 24 home games (+11.35 units, 42% ROI). Find more MLB betting trends for White Sox vs. Rangers.

How to watch White Sox vs Rangers and game info

LocationGlobe Life Field, Arlington, TX
DateWednesday, July 22, 2026
First pitch8:05 p.m. ET
TVCHSN, RSN
White Sox starting pitcherAnthony Kay
(6-4, 4.24 ERA)
Rangers starting pitcherCal Quantrill
(3-2, 3.93 ERA)

White Sox vs Rangers latest injuries

Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change.
Not intended for use in MA.
Affiliate Disclosure: Our team of experts has thoroughly researched and handpicked each product that appears on our website. We may receive compensation if you sign up through our links.

This article originally appeared on Covers.com, read the full article here and view our best betting sites or check out our top sportsbook promos.

Dodgers vs Phillies Prediction: Odds, recent stats, trends, and best bets for July 22

Los Angeles (64-38) tied up the series with Philadelphia (56-46) after a 2-1 win thanks to a base running blunder from JT Realmuto in the bottom of the ninth inning.

The Dodgers are 3-2 in the five games since the break and scored two or fewer runs in three of those five games. Los Angeles is holding a .218 batting average in the second half of the season (24th) and have the seventh-fewest amount of hits (36). Eric Lauer takes the mound for the Dodgers as they are a perfect 7-0 since acquiring him. Lauer has a 3.12 ERA with Los Angeles over seven starts after a 6.69 ERA in eight starts with Toronto this year.

Philadelphia has alternated wins and losses over the last five games to start the second half of the season. Despite hitting .244 (15th) to start the second half, the Phillies are tied sixth with nine home runs over five games and eighth in SLG (.476). The Phillies have lost four straight games with Aaron Nola on the mound as he's surrendered 15 combined runs in that span. Nola has a 5.60 ERA over his last five games and is coming off a June where he posted a 6.67 ERA.

Let’s dive into the matchup and find a sweat or two.

We’ve got all the info and analysis you need to know ahead of the game, including the latest info on the how to catch first pitch, odds, recent team performance, player stats, and of course, our predictions, picks & best bets for the game from our modeling tools and staff of experts.

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Game details & how to watch Dodgers at Phillies

  • Date: Wednesday, July 22, 2026
  • Time: 6:40 PM EST
  • Site: Citizens Bank Park 
  • City: Philadelphia, PA
  • Network/Streaming: MLB TV

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Odds for the Dodgers at the Phillies

The latest odds as of Wednesday:

  • Moneyline: Los Angeles Dodgers (-120), Philadelphia Phillies (+100)
  • Spread: Phillies +1.5 (-156), Dodgers -1.5 (+129)
  • Total: 9.5

Probable starting pitchers for Dodgers at Phillies

  • Wednesday's pitching matchup (July 22): Eric Lauer vs. Aaron Nola
  • Dodgers: Eric Lauer

2026 stats: 76.2 IP, 4-5, 4.81 ERA, 1.28 WHIP, 47 Ks, 27 BB

  • Phillies: Aaron Nola

2026 Stats: 103.0 IP, 3-7, 5.68 ERA, 1.45 WHIP, 108 K, 35 BB

Who’s Hot? Who’s Not

  • The Dodgers’ Shohei Ohtani is hitting .287 with 102 hits, 22 home runs and 60 RBI over 356 at-bats
  • The Dodgers’ Mookie Betts is hitting .234 with 60 hits and 34 strikeouts over 256 at-bats
  • The Phillies’ Brandon Marsh is hitting .290 with 104 hits, 16 home runs, and 47 RBI over 359 at-bats
  • The Phillies’ Alec Bohm is hitting .222 with 80 hits and 60 strikeouts over 360 at-bats

Rotoworld still has you covered with all the latest MLB player news for all 30 teams. Check out the feed page right here on NBC Sports for headlines, injuries and transactions where you can filter by league, team, positions and news type!

Top betting trends & insights to know ahead of Dodgers at Phillies

  • The Dodgers are 45-57 ATS, ranking fourth-worst
  • The Phillies are an MLB-worst 40-62 ATS
  • The Dodgers are 55-47 to the Under, ranking ninth-best
  • The Phillies are 55-42-5 to the Under, ranking second-best
  • The Dodgers are 27-25 ATS on the road
  • The Phillies are 20-31 ATS at home, ranking fourth-worst

Expert picks & predictions for tonight’s game between the Phillies and the Dodgers

Rotoworld Bet Best Bet

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Our model calculates projections around each moneyline, spread and over/under bet for every game on the MLB calendar based on data points like past performance, player matchups, ballpark information and weather forecasts.

Once the model is finished running, we put its projection next to the latest betting lines for the game to arrive at a relative confidence level for each wager.

Here are the best bets our model is projecting for Wednesday's game between the Phillies and the Dodgers:

  • Moneyline: NBC Sports Bet is recommending a play on the Dodgers on the Moneyline.
  • Spread: NBC Sports Bet is leaning towards a play ATS on the Dodgers at -1.5.
  • Total: NBC Sports Bet is recommending a play on the Under on the Game Total of 9.5

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Rays vs. Blue Jays prediction: Odds, recent stats, trends, and best bets for July 22

The first-place Tampa Bay Rays (58-42) will look to make it three straight this week against the struggling Toronto Blue Jays (46-55) tonight at Rogers Centre. Tampa Bay has dominated the first two games of this series, outscoring Toronto 19-3. With the Yankees rained out yesterday, the Rays’ lead in the AL East is now two games. Meanwhile, the Jays are firmly entrenched in the AL East cellar, 12.5 games behind Tampa Bay.

 

Last night was all Tampa Bay beginning with a three-run first. The Rays pounded out a 12-2 victory, following up Monday's 7-1 win with another offensive explosion. Yandy Díaz led the charge, going 2-for-6 with a home run, three RBIs, and a run scored. On the mound, Drew Rasmussen earned the victory, allowing just two runs on seven hits over five innings while striking out five. Toronto starter Kevin Gausman never found his rhythm, surrendering five runs (four earned) on nine hits in only 3.1 innings, suffering his ninth loss of the season.

 

Griffin Jax (5-7, 4.08 ERA) gets the ball for Tampa Bay tonight seeking his sixth win of the season. Through 26 appearances, the right-hander has logged 75 innings with 77 strikeouts and a respectable 1.27 WHIP. He is looking to right the ship after a brutal outing last week in which he allowed seven runs on eight hits over just five innings in a 10-0 loss to the Red Sox in Boston. His previous two starts this month yielded better results: one run allowed in five innings against Seattle on July 11 and three runs over five innings against the Yankees on July 6.

 

It’s a bullpen game for Toronto who counters with right-hander Braydon Fisher (3-3, 3.65 ERA). Fisher has quietly been one of Toronto's more effective pitchers this season but has yet to pitch more than 1.2 innings in any outing this season. He did throw one inning Monday against the Rays giving up a couple hits and a run. The Rays have limited history against Fisher, though Yandy Díaz is 2-for-4 (.500) with a 1.100 OPS against him.

 

Lets dive into tonight’s matchup and find a sweat or two.

 

We’ve got all the info and analysis you need to know ahead of the game, including the latest info on the how to catch first pitch, odds, recent team performance, player stats, and of course, our predictions, picks & best bets for the game from our modeling tools and staff of experts.

 

Follow Rotoworld Player News for the latest fantasy and betting player news and analysis all season long.

 

Game Details and How to Watch: Rays vs. Blue Jays

 

  • Date: Wednesday, July 22, 2026
  • Time: 7:07PM EST
  • Site: Rogers Centre
  • City: Toronto, ON
  • Network/Streaming: MLB.TV, Rays.TV, Sportsnet, TVA

 

Never miss a second of the action and stay up-to-date with all the latest team stats and player news. Check out our day-by-day MLB schedule page, along with detailed matchup pages that update live in-game with every out.

 

The Latest Odds: Rays vs. Blue Jays

The latest odds as of Wednesday courtesy of DraftKings:

  • Moneyline: Tampa Bay Rays (-107), Toronto Blue Jays (-112)
  • Spread: Rays -1.5 (+159), Blue Jays +1.5 (-194)
  • Total: 8.0 runs

 

Probable Starting Pitchers and their Stats: Rays vs. Blue Jays for July 22

  • Rays: Griffin Jax
    Season Totals: 75.0 IP, 5-7, 4.08 ERA, 1.27 WHIP, 77K, 26 BB
  • Blue Jays: Braydon Fisher
    Season Totals: 49.1 IP, 3-3, 3.65 ERA, 1.18 WHIP, 50K, 22 BB

Who’s Hot? Who’s Not! Rays vs. Blue Jays

  • George Springer has done damage against Griffin Jax with 2 home runs and a .429 average in 7 ABs
  • Vladimir Guerrero Jr. is just 1-for-9 (.111) against Jax
  • Junior Caminero has hit safely in 6 straight games (10-26)
  • Jonathan Aranda is 3-11 in this series
  • Andres Gimenez is 0-9 over his last 3 games and just 5-38 (.132) in July
  • Nathan Lukes is 3-8 in this series
  • Chandler Simpson is 5-8 in this series
  • Simpson has hit safely in 4 straight games (9-16)

 
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Top Betting Trends & Insights: Rays vs. Blue Jays

  • The Rays are 59-41 on the Run Line this season
  • The Blue Jays are 45-56 on the Run Line this season
  • The OVER has cashed 46 times in Tampa’s 100 games this season (46-49-5)
  • The OVER has cashed 52 times in the Blue Jays’ 101 games this season (52-45-4)

 

Expert picks & predictions: Rays vs. Blue Jays

 

Rotoworld Bet Best Bet

 

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Our model calculates projections around each moneyline, spread and over/under bet for every game on the MLB calendar based on data points like past performance, player matchups, ballpark information and weather forecasts.

 

Once the model is finished running, we put its projection next to the latest betting lines for the game to arrive at a relative confidence level for each wager.

 

Here are the best bets our model is projecting for tonight’s game between the Rays and the Blue Jays:

 

  • Moneyline: Rotoworld Bet is recommending a play on the Rays on the Moneyline.
  • Spread: Rotoworld Bet is leaning towards a play on the Rays on the Run Line.
  • Total: Rotoworld Bet is recommending a play on the Game Total OVER 8.0.

 

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