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Athletics at Astros Prediction: Odds, expert picks, starting pitchers, betting trends, and stats for July 25

It's Friday, July 25 and the Athletics (43-62) are in Houston to take on the Astros (60-43). Jeffrey Springs is slated to take the mound for Oakland against Ryan Gusto for Houston.

Houston was on a four-game winning streak before taking a series opening loss to the Athletics, 5-2 and vice versa, the win snapped a four-game losing streak for the A's. The Astros are 4-3 versus the A's this season.

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 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 Athletics at Astros

  • Date: Friday, July 25, 2025
  • Time: 8:10PM EST
  • Site: Minute Maid Park
  • City: Houston, TX
  • Network/Streaming: NBCSCA, SCHN

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 Athletics at the Astros

The latest odds as of Friday:

  • Moneyline: Athletics (+135), Astros (-161)
  • Spread:  Astros -1.5
  • Total: 8.0 runs

Probable starting pitchers for Athletics at Astros

  • Pitching matchup for July 25, 2025: Jeffrey Springs vs. Ryan Gusto
    • Athletics: Jeffrey Springs, (8-7, 4.18 ERA)
      Last outing: 11.25 ERA, 5 Earned Runs Allowed, 9 Hits Allowed, 0 Walks, and 4 Strikeouts
    • Astros: Ryan Gusto, (6-3, 4.46 ERA)
      Last outing: 0.00 ERA, 0 Earned Runs Allowed, 1 Hits Allowed, 0 Walks, and 0 Strikeouts

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!

Expert picks & predictions for tonight’s game between the Athletics and the Astros

Rotoworld Best Bet

Please bet responsibly. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline at 1-800-522-4700.

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 Friday’s game between the Athletics and the Astros:

  • Moneyline: NBC Sports Bet is recommending a play on the Houston Astros on the Moneyline.
  • Spread: NBC Sports Bet is leaning towards a play ATS on the Oakland Athletics at +1.5.
  • Total: NBC Sports Bet is staying away from a play on the Game Total of 8.0.

Want even more MLB best bets and predictions from our expert staff & tools? Check out the Expert MLB Predictions page from NBC.

Top betting trends & insights to know ahead of Athletics at Astros

  • The Astros have won 29 of 42 games following a defeat
  • The Over is 7-3 in the Athletics' last 10 road games
  • The Astros have covered in 4 of their last 5 games showing a profit of 2.12 units

If you’re looking for more key trends and stats around the spread, moneyline and total for every single game on the schedule today, check out our MLB Top Trends tool on NBC Sports!

Follow our experts on socials to keep up with all the latest content from the staff:

  • Jay Croucher (@croucherJD)
  • Drew Dinsick (@whale_capper)
  • Vaughn Dalzell (@VmoneySports)
  • Trysta Krick (@Trysta_Krick)
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Islanders Matt Martin Compares Matthew Schaefer's Skating To Former Toronto Maple Leafs Star

Former New York Islanders forward and assistant to the general manager Matt Martin didn't talk much about his time with the Toronto Maple Leafs. However, we are well aware that during his two seasons in Canada, he became incredibly close with superstar Mitch Marner.

While a portion of the Islanders fanbase hoped that Marner would be Long Island-bound, the 28-year-old signed an eight-year deal with the Vegas Golden Knights worth $12 million annually. 

That's pretty high praise for the No. 1 overall pick, whose skating is, no question, his bread and butter. Shifty skating, as we'll call it, makes it very difficult not only for the opposition to slow a player down but also makes it harder to read their movements.

Guys like Schaefer, Marner and Mathew Barzal, amongst others like Connor McDavid and Nathan MacKinnon prey on defensemen who get caught flat-footed. 

Islanders prospect Matthew Maggio said that Schaefer's skating reminds him of Quinn Hughes, with Cole Eiserman adding that Schaefer is going to have a 15- to 20-year NHL career due to his footwork. 

Stay updated with the most interesting Islanders stories, analysis, breaking news, and more! Tap the star to add us to your favorites on Google News to never miss a story.

PHOTO:  John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images

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Will There Be a First-Time Stanley Cup Champion in 2026?

Breaking down the chances of a team to win the Stanley Cup for the first time during the 2025-26 season.

With the 2025–26 NHL season approaching, sportsbooks have posted season bets early on that betters can hop on now as the value of some teams will only get lower from this point on. One future bet that we wanted to explore and examine was a fun one: Will a team win the Stanley Cup for the first time?

Meaning do you think a team that has never won the Stanley Cup before, will do it in the 2025-26 season? Fortune favors a repeat winner as they are listed with massive -850 while a first-time cup winner is listed with +550 odds. Eligible teams that fall into the first-time winners category include the San Jose Sharks, Seattle Kraken, Nashville Predators, Columbus Blue Jackets, Vancouver Canucks, Minnesota Wild, Winnipeg Jets, Ottawa Senators, Buffalo Sabres, and the newly relocated Utah Mammoth.

The "No" side is supported by the deep field of past champions and future contenders in the Colorado Avalanche, Tampa Bay Lightning, Vegas Golden Knights, Washington Capitals, Toronto Maple Leafs, Dallas Stars and the back-to-back Stanley Cup Champion Florida Panthers. With the field stacked against them, we explore some teams that could win the cup for the first time and have the highest chance of carrying this bet over the finish line. 

Former Teammates, New Rivals: Marner vs. Matthews Prop Bet Heats Up DebateFormer Teammates, New Rivals: Marner vs. Matthews Prop Bet Heats Up DebateSportsbooks reveal head-to-head prop bet between former teammates in Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner.

Winnipeg Jets - Stanley Cup Odds (+2300)

Last season's President's trophy winner continued the history of the top team in the regular season being ousted and not winning the Cup. Next season will be different for the Jets as they've made adjustments to their lineup by allowing forwards Nikolaj Ehlers and Mason Appleton walk in free agency while bringing in talent like three-time Stanley Cup Champion Jonathan Toews, Gustav Nyquist and Tanner Pearson. 

Their defence is set up to repeat as the league's best backend for the third season in a row and will have back-to-back Vezina trophy winner and recent league MVP Connor Hellebuyck in net. They have all the pieces to make a deep run but will need a couple bounces their way to lighten up the elite competition in their way in the Central Division before making the Conference Finals. 

Minnesota Wild - Stanley Cup Odds (+3500)

After years of solid-but-not-spectacular seasons, the Wild may finally be ready to make the leap. It has to be their year eventually as they came close to upsetting the Vegas Golden Knights in the first round but were ultimately downed in six games.  With Kirill Kaprizov driving the offense and rising star Brock Faber stabilizing the blue line, Minnesota enters the season with one of the league’s most balanced lineups. 

A deep run is a possibility if they can catch a couple breaks their way like the Edmonton Oilers to have a down year or experience injuries at the worst time and even then they'll have to get past a revamped Golden Knights team that just added another superstar talent in Mitch Marner. 

Vancouver Canucks - Stanley Cup Odds (+6000)

The Canucks came close in 2024 and return with a roster built for another run. Star players in Elias Pettersson and Quinn Hughes lead the charge, while the net is more secured than ever with Thatcher Demko coming back healthy and Kevin Lankinen looking to have another stellar year after posting elite numbers in Demko's absence. 

They'll have a different looking middle-six with new acquisitions in Evander Kane and a full season with Filip Chytil. The defence will be elite once again with an elite group including Filip Hronek, Tyler Myers, Marcus Pettersson, Derek Forbort and rising talent Elias Nils Pettersson

Oilers' Howard, Blues' Snuggerud Present Closest Competition to Demidov For CalderOilers' Howard, Blues' Snuggerud Present Closest Competition to Demidov For CalderRookies Isaac Howard and Jimmy Snuggerud appear to be best cases behind Montreal's Ivan Demidov for 2026 Calder trophy
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Jets' Social Media Team Earns League Award

The National Hockey League has announced its yearly 'Stanley' Awards - no, not the Stanley Cup, but the Stanley Awards. 

The 2025 presentation included eight different award winners, which included one department of the Winnipeg Jets' behind-the-scenes teams.

Photo courtesy of Adam Krueger

The Stanley Award winners were announced from the Club Business Meetings in Seattle, which are presented for creativity, team achievements and fan engagement annually. NHL on TNT personality Anson Carter emceed the event, while Jayna Hefford, Walter Jones and Detlef Schrempf served as presenters. 

The eight awards were as follows:

  • Marketing Campaign -- Utah Hockey Club/Utah Mammoth (home opener campaign)
  • Social Impact and Growth Initiatives -- Nashville Predators (music heritage nights)
  • Social Media Club of the Year -- Winnipeg Jets (various posts, interactions and online content)
  • Sponsorship Activation -- Toronto Maple Leafs (Oreo - “Stay Playful")
  • Ticketing Initiative -- Detroit Red Wings (designer merch collaboration)
  • Game Presentation of the Year -- Tampa Bay Lightning (in-arena game day experience)
  • Venue Business Initiative -- New Jersey Devils (Center Pier Club and Eastback Kitchen)
  • Strategy, Analytics, and Innovation -- St. Louis Blues (Bluesnatics and Blues App)

Leading the charge for the Jets' social media team is director of content, Adam Krueger. He and his associates caught the eye of the NHL's team award staff, to the tune of the team's social media presence during games, at practices, in the dressing room and for key moments/signings/news pieces. The Jets' social media team's delivery is prompt, reliable and witty, serving up a perfect mix of content to its followers across various platforms. 

"This award recognizes overall excellence by a club's social media team, including maximizing the teams' official social media channels to engage existing fans and capture the attention of new fans with outstanding creativity, consistency, and proven instinct to innovate within the NHL."

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Guardians at Royals Prediction: Odds, expert picks, starting pitchers, betting trends, and stats for July 25

It's Friday, July 25 and the Guardians (51-51) are in Kansas City to take on the Royals (50-53). Gavin Williams is slated to take the mound for Cleveland against Michael Wacha for Kansas City.

Despite two homers from Steven Kwan on Thursday, the Guardians lost to the Orioles 4-3, but won the series 3-1. Cleveland is 5-2 in the seven games since the All-Star break and will go to Kansas City for a three-game series.

The Royals are 3-3 in six games after the break and coming off a series win over the Cubs (took 2 of 3). The Guardians are 4-2 against the Royals this season.

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 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 Guardians at Royals

  • Date: Friday, July 25, 2025
  • Time: 8:10PM EST
  • Site: Kauffman Stadium
  • City: Kansas City, MO
  • Network/Streaming: WKYC 3, Apple 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 Guardians at the Royals

The latest odds as of Friday:

  • Moneyline: Guardians (-101), Royals (-118)
  • Spread:  Royals 1.5
  • Total: 8.0 runs

Probable starting pitchers for Guardians at Royals

  • Pitching matchup for July 25, 2025: Gavin Williams vs. Michael Wacha
    • Guardians: Gavin Williams, (6-4, 3.54 ERA)
      Last outing: 1.29 ERA, 1 Earned Runs Allowed, 4 Hits Allowed, 1 Walks, and 11 Strikeouts
    • Royals: Michael Wacha, (4-9, 3.62 ERA)
      Last outing: 1.50 ERA, 1 Earned Runs Allowed, 3 Hits Allowed, 1 Walks, and 1 Strikeouts

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!

Expert picks & predictions for tonight’s game between the Guardians and the Royals

Rotoworld Best Bet

Vaughn Dalzell (@VmoneySports) likes the Guardians to reach 80 wins:

“In the first 24 games of the 67 one second-half of the schedule are the Athletics, Orioles, Royals, Rockies, Twins, Mets, White Sox, and Marlins -- beautiful!

Cleveland took the series against the A’s, 2-1 and beat the O’s in three of four — so far so good at 5-2 in seven games.

The Guardians have the easiest strength of schedule remaining in the MLB and need a 34-33 record over the second half to secure 80-plus wins, which I believe is more than possible.”

Please bet responsibly. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline at 1-800-522-4700.

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 Friday’s game between the Guardians and the Royals:

  • Moneyline: NBC Sports Bet is recommending a play on the Cleveland Guardians on the Moneyline.
  • Spread: NBC Sports Bet is leaning towards a play ATS on the Cleveland Guardians at +1.5.
  • Total: NBC Sports Bet is recommending a play on the over on the Game Total of 8.0.

Want even more MLB best bets and predictions from our expert staff & tools? Check out the Expert MLB Predictions page from NBC.

Top betting trends & insights to know ahead of Guardians at Royals

  • Cleveland is 5-2 in the last seven games
  • Kansas City is 3-3 in the last six games
  • The Guardians have won 4 of their last 5 road series
  • 5 of the Royals' last 7 home games stayed under the Total
  • The Guardians have covered the Run Line in 3 straight road games against the Royals

If you’re looking for more key trends and stats around the spread, moneyline and total for every single game on the schedule today, check out our MLB Top Trends tool on NBC Sports!

Follow our experts on socials to keep up with all the latest content from the staff:

  • Jay Croucher (@croucherJD)
  • Drew Dinsick (@whale_capper)
  • Vaughn Dalzell (@VmoneySports)
  • Trysta Krick (@Trysta_Krick)
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Nationals at Twins Prediction: Odds, expert picks, starting pitchers, betting trends and stats for July 25

It's Friday, July 25 and the Nationals (41-61) are in Minneapolis to take on the Twins (49-53). MacKenzie Gore is slated to take the mound for Washington against Zebby Matthews for Minnesota.

Washington enters 3-3 since the break and off a series win over Cincinnati, while Minnesota is 2-4 and dropped both tis series. Both teams had an off day, but Minnesota is traveling back from the West Coast after facing the Rockies, then Dodgers.

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 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 Nationals at Twins

  • Date: Friday, July 25, 2025
  • Time: 8:10PM EST
  • Site: Target Field
  • City: Minneapolis, MN
  • Network/Streaming: MASN2, MNNT, MLBN

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 Nationals at the Twins

The latest odds as of Friday:

  • Moneyline: Nationals (+114), Twins (-135)
  • Spread:  Twins -1.5
  • Total: 8.0 runs

Probable starting pitchers for Nationals at Twins

  • Pitching matchup for July 25, 2025: MacKenzie Gore vs. Zebby Matthews
    • Nationals: MacKenzie Gore, (4-9, 3.60 ERA)
      Last outing: 30.86 ERA, 8 Earned Runs Allowed, 8 Hits Allowed, 3 Walks, and 2 Strikeouts
    • Twins: Zebby Matthews, (1-2, 6.26 ERA)
      Last outing: 11.25 ERA, 5 Earned Runs Allowed, 8 Hits Allowed, 1 Walks, and 6 Strikeouts

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!

Expert picks & predictions for tonight’s game between the Nationals and the Twins

Rotoworld Best Bet

Please bet responsibly. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline at 1-800-522-4700.

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 Friday’s game between the Nationals and the Twins:

  • Moneyline: NBC Sports Bet is recommending a play on the Minnesota Twins on the Moneyline.
  • Spread: NBC Sports Bet is leaning towards a play ATS on the Washington Nationals at +1.5.
  • Total: NBC Sports Bet is recommending a play on the over on the Game Total of 8.0.

Want even more MLB best bets and predictions from our expert staff & tools? Check out the Expert MLB Predictions page from NBC.

Top betting trends & insights to know ahead of Nationals at Twins

  • The Twins have won their last 4 home games following a loss
  • 7 of the Nationals' last 9 road games have gone over the Total
  • Minnesota is 3-2 when Matthews pitches this season
  • Washington is 8-12 when Gore pitches this season

If you’re looking for more key trends and stats around the spread, moneyline and total for every single game on the schedule today, check out our MLB Top Trends tool on NBC Sports!

Follow our experts on socials to keep up with all the latest content from the staff:

  • Jay Croucher (@croucherJD)
  • Drew Dinsick (@whale_capper)
  • Vaughn Dalzell (@VmoneySports)
  • Trysta Krick (@Trysta_Krick)
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Padres at Cardinals Prediction: Odds, expert picks, starting pitchers, betting trends, and stats for July 25

It's Friday, July 25 and the Padres (55-48) are in St. Louis to take on the Cardinals (53-51). Nick Pivetta is slated to take the mound for San Diego against Miles Mikolas for St. Louis.

The Padres have dropped three consecutive games, losing two straight and the series to the Marlins, then the opener to the Cardinals. St. Louis won 9-7 as Willson Contreras and Brendan Donovan hit three-run homers in a six-run second inning to pull ahead.

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 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 Cardinals

  • Date: Friday, July 25, 2025
  • Time: 7:15PM EST
  • Site: Busch Stadium
  • City: St. Louis, MO
  • Network/Streaming: SDPA, FDSNMW

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 Cardinals

The latest odds as of Friday:

  • Moneyline: Padres (-135), Cardinals (+114)
  • Spread:  Padres -1.5
  • Total: 8.0 runs

Probable starting pitchers for Padres at Cardinals

  • Pitching matchup for July 25, 2025: Nick Pivetta vs. Miles Mikolas
    • Padres: Nick Pivetta, (10-2, 2.81 ERA)
      Last outing: 1.50 ERA, 1 Earned Runs Allowed, 3 Hits Allowed, 1 Walks, and 5 Strikeouts
    • Cardinals: Miles Mikolas, (5-7, 5.20 ERA)
      Last outing: 11.25 ERA, 5 Earned Runs Allowed, 4 Hits Allowed, 2 Walks, and 3 Strikeouts

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!

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

Rotoworld Best Bet

Vaughn Dalzell (@VmoneySports) likes the Padres to be in the postseason mix:

“Looking at the second half of the year per Tankathon, San Diego has the 4th-easiest strength of schedule remaining

The Padres open the second-half with three games at the Nationals (2-1 record), three more at the Marlins (1-2 record), then to St. Louis for three more road games as part of a nine-game East Coast road trip.

After that nine-game road trip, the next 27 games will be on the West Coast for San Diego, whether they are in California, Arizona or Washington (the state). San Diego will be in a prime position to make a run at the playoffs, but I still haven’t gotten to the best part.

The final month of the season is a great opportunity for the Padres to gain ground too -- in the final 28 games -- 13 of those are against the Orioles, White Sox, and Rockies!

I love the Padres to make the postseason as a second-half futures bet.”

Please bet responsibly. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline at 1-800-522-4700.

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 Friday’s game between the Padres and the Cardinals:

  • Moneyline: NBC Sports Bet is recommending a play on the San Diego Padres on the Moneyline.
  • Spread: NBC Sports Bet is leaning towards a play ATS on the St. Louis Cardinals at +1.5.
  • Total: NBC Sports Bet is recommending a play on the over on the Game Total of 8.0.

Want even more MLB best bets and predictions from our expert staff & tools? Check out the Expert MLB Predictions page from NBC.

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

  • San Diego has lost three straight games
  • San Diego is 4-1 in the last five starts for Pivetta
  • The Cardinals have lost 7 of their last 10 games
  • In the Cardinals' home games last season with Miles Mikolas on the mound the Over was 11-4 (73%)
  • The Cardinals have covered in their last 3 games against the Padres

If you’re looking for more key trends and stats around the spread, moneyline and total for every single game on the schedule today, check out our MLB Top Trends tool on NBC Sports!

Follow our experts on socials to keep up with all the latest content from the staff:

  • Jay Croucher (@croucherJD)
  • Drew Dinsick (@whale_capper)
  • Vaughn Dalzell (@VmoneySports)
  • Trysta Krick (@Trysta_Krick)
Posted on

Braves at Rangers Prediction: Odds, expert picks, starting pitchers, betting trends, and stats for July 25

It's Friday, July 25 and the Braves (44-57) are in Arlington to take on the Rangers (53-50). Joey Wentz is slated to take the mound for Atlanta against Nathan Eovaldi for Texas.

Texas is coming off a three-game sweep over the Athletics and is 5-1 in the six games since the All-Star break. The Rangers outscored the A's 15-5 in the series and its opponents 22-8 over six games.

Atlanta is 2-4 post-break and coming off two straight losses to San Francisco. The Giants outscored the Braves 18-3 in the last two games.

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 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 Braves at Rangers

  • Date: Friday, July 25, 2025
  • Time: 8:05PM EST
  • Site: Globe Life Field
  • City: Arlington, TX
  • Network/Streaming: FDSNSO, CW33, MLBN

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 Braves at the Rangers

The latest odds as of Friday:

  • Moneyline: Braves (+144), Rangers (-172)
  • Spread:  Rangers -1.5
  • Total: 8.0 runs

Probable starting pitchers for Braves at Rangers

  • Pitching matchup for July 25, 2025: Joey Wentz vs. Nathan Eovaldi
    • Braves: Joey Wentz, (2-1, 4.15 ERA)
      Last outing: 0.00 ERA, 0 Earned Runs Allowed, 2 Hits Allowed, 0 Walks, and 2 Strikeouts
    • Rangers: Nathan Eovaldi, (7-3, 1.58 ERA)
      Last outing: 1.17 ERA, 1 Earned Runs Allowed, 5 Hits Allowed, 1 Walks, and 8 Strikeouts

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!

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

Rotoworld Best Bet

Please bet responsibly. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline at 1-800-522-4700.

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 Friday’s game between the Braves and the Rangers:

  • Moneyline: NBC Sports Bet is recommending a play on the Texas Rangers on the Moneyline.
  • Spread: NBC Sports Bet is leaning towards a play ATS on the Atlanta Braves at +1.5.
  • Total: NBC Sports Bet is staying away from a play on the Game Total of 8.0.

Want even more MLB best bets and predictions from our expert staff & tools? Check out the Expert MLB Predictions page from NBC.

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

  • Texas is 3-0 in Eovaldi's last three starts
  • This is Wentz' third appearance with Atlanta
  • The Rangers have won 3 straight games with Nathan Eovaldi starting
  • The Under is 5-2 (71%) in the Rangers' home games this season with Nathan Eovaldi as the opener
  • With Nathan Eovaldi starting the Rangers have covered the Run Line in 9 of their last 11 games

If you’re looking for more key trends and stats around the spread, moneyline and total for every single game on the schedule today, check out our MLB Top Trends tool on NBC Sports!

Follow our experts on socials to keep up with all the latest content from the staff:

  • Jay Croucher (@croucherJD)
  • Drew Dinsick (@whale_capper)
  • Vaughn Dalzell (@VmoneySports)
  • Trysta Krick (@Trysta_Krick)
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Rangers rookie Brett Berard played through torn labrum, expects to be ready for camp

When you’re a young prospect grinding in the minors, you'll do anything you can to stick in the NHL. 

Rangers youngster Brett Berard revealed on Thursday at the third annual Shoulder Check Showcase in Stamford that he battled through a torn labrum suffered just four games into his debut.

The 22-year-old did miss three games right after the injury occurred against the Montreal Canadiens, but he quickly made his way back into the lineup in an effort to not waste his opportunity. 

“I was out for about a week or so,” he told Mollie Walker of the New York Post. “It’s one of those things where you’re up in the NHL, you work your whole life for it. I felt like I was playing good hockey too, so you don’t really want to lose that -- just tried to play through it.”

Berard did have to wear a brace on his shoulder the rest of the way, but he went on to appear in a total of 35 games during his rookie campaign. 

Despite the physical limitations, the youngster showed some positive signs, as he provided a much-needed spark to New York’s bottom-six with his all-out style of play on both ends of the ice.

He finished the year with six goals, four assists, 29 blocked shot, 53 hits, and 59 shots on goal. 

Berard performed well enough to crack Team USA’s roster for the World Championships, but ultimately ended up sitting out of the tournament with the injury -- the team went on to win gold for the first time since 1933.

“It definitely stunk sitting out,” he said. “It makes you a little bit jealous, but I know a ton of those guys, a lot of them I'm best friends with, so I was rooting for everybody and it was awesome to see them win gold there.”

The youngster didn’t require offseason surgery, so after taking the past couple of months to fully recovery and continue his training, he’s back to 100 percent heading into training camp.

This camp is shaping up to a huge one for Berard, who has spoken with new head coach Mike Sullivan several times since he’s been hired, but is still awaiting his opportunity to show what he can do on the ice.

The hope is now that he is fully healthy, he’ll be able to take his game to another level.

“You only get one tryout, you get one first impression,” Berard said. “So it’s kind of all in -- I’m a big believer in everything happens for a reason, so I feel like if I put myself in the best position I can that I’ll be good.” 

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Mets at Giants: How to watch on July 25, 2025

The Mets open a six-game West Coast roadtrip against with a meeting with the San Francisco Giants on Monday at 10:15 p.m.

Here's what to know about the game and how to watch...

Mets Notes

  • Brett Baty pushed his hitting streak to six games with a second inning single in Wednesday's victory
  • Baty is hitting .306 with three homers, five doubles, and a .870 OPS over 72 at-bats since June 23
  • Brandon Nimmo continues to stay hot out of the leadoff spot, hitting .300 with 10 homers and a .895 OPS since the beginning of June
  • Edwin Diaz hasn't allowed a run in 13 consecutive outings -- he's struck out 22 batters and has recorded eight saves over that span
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To watch Mets games online via PIX11, you will need a subscription to a TV service provider and live in the New York City metro area. This will allow fans to watch the Mets on their computer, tablet or mobile phone browser.

To get started on your computer, go to the PIX11 live stream website and follow the site's steps. For more FAQs, you can go here.

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Brent Rooker confirms he's ‘staying' with Athletics past 2025 MLB trade deadline

Brent Rooker confirms he's ‘staying' with Athletics past 2025 MLB trade deadline originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area

Athletics slugging designated hitter/outfielder Brent Rooker won’t be going anywhere before the 2025 MLB trade deadline on July 31.

The two-time MLB All-Star explained to Foul Territory’s Erik Kratz on Thursday that he has had conversations with the Green and Gold’s brass, and they have assured Rooker that he will not be dealt at the deadline — especially after signing a five-year, $60 million contract extension with the Athletics in January.

“Yeah, I’m not going anywhere. We’re good,” Rooker told Kratz. “I’m staying. We’re good,” adding that it “for sure” feels good to know he won’t be traded anytime soon.

Rooker has slashed .275/.352/.501 with 112 hits, 56 RBI and 21 home runs over 105 games during the 2025 MLB season. 

It would make sense for any club, particularly one transitioning from Oakland to West Sacramento to Las Vegas over five years, to want those numbers around for the long haul. 

Which is why Rooker and the A’s agreed to an extension in the first place.

“I signed the extension because I’m where I want to be,” Rooker told Kratz. “I believe in what we’re doing and believe in the people that we have on our team, on our roster, on our coaching staff, in the building. I believe in everything we have going on, and I want to be a part of that. 

Rooker, claimed off waivers by the A’s after being cut by the Kansas City Royals in 2022, has yet to make the MLB playoffs with the Green and Gold. He’ll probably have to wait another season, as the A’s carry a 43-62 record and trail the 55-49 Boston Red Sox by 12.5 games for the AL’s final wild card spot.

But the A’s limited success doesn’t agitate Rooker. The 30-year-old is proud to be the face of the franchise through the ups and downs and is glad to be a part of something bigger than this season.

“One of the reasons why I decided to sign that extension was to stay here, and I will not be going anywhere this trade deadline,” Rooker reiterated to Kratz.

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NBA offseason: Top 10 unrestricted free agents still available including Russell Westbrook

The NBA offseason has slowed down. Way down.

That doesn't mean the action is over, there are still a few things worth keeping an eye on. There are still four restricted free agents — Jonathan Kuminga (still seeking a sign-and-trade that nets him around $30 million per season), Josh Giddey, Cam Thomas, and Quentin Grimes. Additionally, a handful of veterans can receive contract extensions, including Luka Doncic (who is expected to re-sign with the Lakers, with minimal drama), Kevin Durant, Trae Young, and De'Aaron Fox.

And, there are still some open roster spots to fill. Here are the 10 best free agents still available, although at this point expect each of them to sign for the veteran minimum or some small exception a team still has available

Note: Not on this list is Malik Beasley, who is an unrestricted free agent but no team will go near him in light of the ongoing gambling investigation hanging over him.

1) Al Horford

There's not much drama here as Horford is expected to sign with the Warriors. The only reason he is still available may be the ongoing Kuminga restricted free agency, which has the Warriors holding off on other moves until that is finished.

Horford is the kind of high-IQ two-way player that should thrive with the Warriors and Steve Kerr's system. He can score inside, knock down corner 3-pointers, and is still a quality defender at age 37. Because of that age his minutes have to be monitored during the season, but that's a small price for the quality minutes he gives when on the court (and he can be trusted to play in the postseason).

2) Russell Westbrook

So far, no teams have signed up for the Russell Westbrook roller coaster for next season. Last season, he averaged 13.3 points and 6.1 assists per game for the Nuggets, and had good chemistry with Nikola Jokić. However, those solid numbers belie the ups and downs of the season. When he is on his game, his energy is infectious and he still comes up with dynamic, athletic plays that can be game-changing. Unfortunately, those can be followed by head-scratchingly bad decisions that could cost a team a game.

Denver could have re-signed Westbrook after he opted out of a $3.5 million player option, but chose to pivot and go another direction. That may be telling for other contending teams. Westbrook has been strongly linked to the Sacramento Kings.

3) Chris Boucher

Boucher is the kind of player in demand around the league (which makes it a bit of a surprise he's available). He is a solid, rotation-level stretch four who averaged 10 points and 4.5 rebounds a game last season for Toronto, and shot 36.3% on nearly four 3-pointers a game. He's the kind of player who could plug into a lot of lineups and help, and he's going to surprise fans of wherever he signs who didn't watch him in Toronto.

4) Amir Coffey

A key rotation player on a 50-win Clippers team last season, the 28-year-old wing averaged 9.7 points a game and shot 40.9% from beyond the arc, plus he is particularly strong on catch-and-shoot 3s. When it came time for the playoffs, Coffee was the odd man out of Tyronn Lue's rotation, but for a team looking for wing depth, Coffee can help.

5) Gary Payton II

It's a little surprising he's still available, with teams everywhere looking for defenders who can pressure on ball and knock down 3-pointers (although not known as a great shooter, he is a career 34% from beyond the arc). Payton averaged 6.5 points a game for the Warriors last season. A return to the Bay Area is not out of the question, but the Lakers, Heat, Bucks, and Suns have also been linked to Payton.

6) Malcolm Brogdon

Two years ago he was the Sixth Man of the Year, but injuries limited him to just 63 combined over the last two seasons (in Portland and Washington), dropping his stock around the league. If healthy, he is more than worth the risk for a team because he can be a solid part of a guard rotation. He averaged 12.7 points and 4.1 assists a game last season when healthy.

7) Seth Curry

Every team needs more shooting. Seth Curry shot 45.6% from beyond the arc last season in Charlotte. Plugged into a reserve role on the right team, he could be a boost to the guard rotation, and he has been linked to signing with his brother's team in the Warriors (however, like with Al Horford, everything in Golden State seems hung up waiting for the Kuminga saga to end).

8) Trey Lyles

Lyles' case is similar to Boucher's above: A lot of teams could use a stretch four/small ball five, and Lyles can fill that role off the bench. He averaged 6.5 points and 4.6 rebounds a game last season in Sacramento (playing part of this season and the previous one for Mike Brown, if you're looking for a team where he could have a connection). Some team will snap him up before the season starts.

9) Ben Simmons

There will be eye rolls from the fan base of whatever team signs Simmons. However, if you watched him when healthy with the Clippers last season, you saw a guy who can have a regular season bench rotation role in the NBA.

Last season with the Clippers, he averaged 2.9 points and 3.8 assists a game in 16 minutes a night, serving as a point forward running the offense for the second unit, and he is still a plus defender (he had a larger role in rebuilding Brooklyn). He isn't going to take 3s (or even jumpers outside the paint), he's not going to help in the postseason. However, in a limited role, he could help the right team for the first 82 games.

10) Monte Morris

A veteran rotation guard who is a career 38.9% from beyond the arc (36% last season). He showed flashes last season, but nothing fit together in Phoenix, and Morris was part of that. He is not the scorer at age 30 (his age when camp opens) that he was five years ago, but he could still help a team in need of guard depth.

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Ranking Every NHL Arena Media Meal Part 3, No. 9 Through 16 Revealed

Welcome to Part 3 of The Hockey News Toronto’s ranking of the media meals that are served around the NHL. This week, we move further down the rankings to look at the teams and venues

that ranked No. 9 through No. 16. Enjoy.

No. 16 Utah Mammoth

We have to cut Utah some slack since it’s their first year in the league and they don’t have a proper setup for hockey. They did provide a free voucher for $20 in concessions, which I used at Chick-fil-A. They had an upstairs area that provided coffee and snacks and elevated seating, which was really cool, but it was more fun to actually watch the game from the basketball media seating down low. We never sit this far down low, and you forget how fast the game is. 

TikTok · David AlterTikTok · David AlterCheck out David Alter’s video.

No. 15 Tampa Bay Lightning

This is a pretty good meal for $8, and they have a traditional salad bar with several different protein options. They always have a serving station at the end of the line, and this time it was pasta. Among the places that serve us ice cream, Tampa is known for having one of the hardest to scoop. Not sure why that is. Up in the press box, they usually have some chips and some form of intermission snack.

No. 14 Anaheim Ducks

This by far was the most improved spot this season. They started accepting credit cards, which pleased me greatly since their arena isn’t in a city and it’s not easy to get cash. There wasn’t a lot of choice, but where they lacked in quantity, they certainly made up in quality. The BBQ chicken was full of flavor. The corn was delicious; I couldn’t get enough of it. They had pulled pork, but surprisingly, no buns were provided with it. I’m a pretty picky eater, so when everything is amazing, you have to rave about it.

TikTok · David AlterTikTok · David Alter598 likes, 15 comments. “#media #meal in Anaheim for #Leafs vs #Ducks was quite delicious. Everything tasted good. Very happy.”

No. 13 New York Rangers

The Rangers switched to a voucher system: a $25 credit for a suggested $10 donation. They actually told me they got this idea from the Leafs, but at MSG, your voucher unlocks a lot of options. I’ve done sushi or poke bowls. On my most recent visit, I went to the Carnegie Deli, and I was not disappointed. I loved it. I always tell people that New York is where my soul lives, and MSG is always a great time.

No. 12 Dallas Stars

Their media meal is good. But one thing Dallas does that no other NHL arena does is provide the media with a free morning skate breakfast. How cool is that? Bagels? Coffee? It’s a nice touch. I believe Tampa does do something similar, but not to this magnitude. Also, they are the first and only building in the NHL to offer Dr. Pepper Zero Sugar in the press box. This is one of my fave soft drinks these days. They also have all kinds of snacks and ice cream up in the press box. Fun vibes.

Ranking Every NHL Arena Media Meal (Part 2): Venues 17 to 24 RevealedRanking Every NHL Arena Media Meal (Part 2): Venues 17 to 24 RevealedWelcome back to the second part of our summer-long series ranking NHL media meals. With the schedule revealed this week, I've started booking road trips for the upcoming season, which is also making me hungry and excited for the media meals next season. This week, we count down the No. 17 through 24 media meals in the NHL.

No. 11 Nashville Predators

Nashville is interesting. Every time I’ve been to the building for a media meal, I have no idea what to expect, but I know there will be a lot of it. The snacks they have at the meal are unique. It's the only place I can ever recall having sour cola bottles. They cost $10, and they're delicious. The Preds don’t really have a traditional press box but instead an open space up top for us to work in. One section over is a room where we can get notes and additional snacks. They keep them coming, and I even had this Hunk A Pizza, which was delicious.

No. 10 New York Islanders

Ever since they opened UBS Arena in Elmont, the Islanders went from having one of the worst to one of the best media meals in the NHL. It can be pricey at $20 US, but I’ve been on some sort of list that allowed me to eat for free, which helps a ton. Decent hot dogs and snacks. Their meal room is in the press box. The protein is usually a high cut of meat, and a local Long Island dairy provides the ice cream for the building. They also have cookies, hot dogs, popcorn—you name it—a very traditional hockey experience.

Ranking Every NHL Arena's Media Meal Part 1: The Bottom 8 Revealed (Nos. 25–32)Ranking Every NHL Arena's Media Meal Part 1: The Bottom 8 Revealed (Nos. 25–32)As I write this, I feel blessed that I get to travel as often as I do. And while on the road covering the Toronto Maple Leafs, I like to see what every city has to offer in terms of restaurants, amenities, etc.

No. 9 Carolina Hurricanes

The Carolina Hurricanes are known for one thing in their media meal: Pulled pork. It’s always at the very end of the food line of whatever they may be serving. But it’s really good, and it’s nice to know they have the option. They have other proteins, salads, and they serve Cheerwine on tap; it’s a cherry soda that is apparently widely available in the south. I had never heard of it until my first trip to Raleigh. It's decently priced at $11 and good quality.

So, which venue has the best media meal in the NHL? Find out next week when we reveal the Top eight venues.

(Top photo credit: David Alter on TikTok)

Mitch Marner's Return To Toronto And Other Key Dates As Maple Leafs Unveil Full 2025-26 NHL Regular Season ScheduleMitch Marner's Return To Toronto And Other Key Dates As Maple Leafs Unveil Full 2025-26 NHL Regular Season ScheduleThe Toronto Maple Leafs unveiled their 2025-26 regular season schedule on Wednesday. Maple Leafs Honor Rock Legend Ozzy Osbourne, The NHL’s Most Unexpected Hockey FanMaple Leafs Honor Rock Legend Ozzy Osbourne, The NHL’s Most Unexpected Hockey FanOn Tuesday, the world mourned as Ozzy Osbourne, the iconic frontman of Black Sabbath, passed away at age 76. Osbourne, who had been dealing with several health issues in recent years, including Parkinson’s disease, had performed in Birmingham, England, where he reunited with Black Sabbath in a performance dubbed his “final show”.
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Why tempered expectations for retooling Celtics are worth embracing

Why tempered expectations for retooling Celtics are worth embracing originally appeared on NBC Sports Boston

In an offseason full of painful departures for the Boston Celtics, there’s one change that actually might make the 2025-26 season more enjoyable than most currently anticipate: the absence of expectations.

After multiple seasons weighed down by championship-or-bust outlooks, a new-look Celtics squad is set to enter a season where it will be virtually impossible not to exceed most prognostications. The pendulum has swung so viciously that the team can endure the obvious bumps ahead in the road but embrace the little victories along the way.

You have to go back to the 2016-17 season to find the last time the Celtics were this devoid of expectations. That year, the Celtics jumped on the back of Isaiah Thomas, got a boost from the veteran addition of Al Horford, and watched a ragtag collection of role players pile up an Eastern Conference-best 53 wins before advancing to the Eastern Conference Finals.

It remains one of our favorite seasons, jockeying with the 2024 title team in terms of sheer enjoyment. Thomas blossoming from a Sixth Man into a top-five MVP candidate certainly injected joy, but so did watching how the likes of Jae Crowder and Kelly Olynyk thrived in their roles, all while Brad Stevens pushed the right buttons to get the most from a team that trekked to the East Finals against a peak-of-his-powers LeBron James.

Could the 2025-26 Celtics have a similar glow up?

OK, maybe a deep playoff trek is ambitious. But we’d submit that this year’s team with Jaylen Brown, Derrick White, and Payton Pritchard at the helm might have more top-end talent than that 2016-17 group. You can fret over the potential depth of this squad, but 1) We don’t suspect this is a finished roster, and 2) Gerald Green was starting key playoff games for the 2016-17 group, so it wasn’t like that team was swimming in depth, either. James Young and Jordan Mickey combined to play 54 games that year.

Sure, the 2025-26 Celtics have a rather obvious void at the big-man position after the departures of Kristaps Porzingis, Luke Kornet, and, presumably soon, Horford. But the 2016-17 Celtics squeezed 77 starts and 1,600-plus minutes out of Amir Johnson.

The margin for error for the 2025-26 Celtics is razor-thin. If Brown tweaks a hamstring or White turns an ankle, then winning games could be a real challenge. Regardless of how competitive they are out of the gates, the Celtics will lean heavier into development than they have in recent seasons with hopes that some pain points this season will aid the team when Jayson Tatum is back at full health.

Vegas prognosticators currently project the 2025-26 Celtics at 43.5 wins. That slots them seventh in the East behind the Cavaliers (55.5), Knicks (52.5), Magic (51.5), Hawks 46.5), Pistons (45.5), and Bucks (44.5).

No one yearns to be a play-in team. And there’s absolutely a case to be made that, if Boston is trending in that direction before the trade deadline, leaning even further into a youth movement and other priorities (like getting below the luxury tax) ought to be a priority.

But it is going to be refreshing to watch games and just embrace the small victories. Maybe Brown blossoms in the 1A role and returns to All-NBA form. Maybe White lands that elusive All-Star nod. Maybe Pritchard morphs from Sixth Man of the Year into a legitimate starting-level guard.

More important might be the development of role players who will comprise the future core of this team.

Can recent first-round draft picks Hugo Gonzalez and Baylor Scheierman use the 2025-26 season to prove they can eventually hold rotation roles on a title-contending team? Can Neemias Queta and Luka Garza evolve their games given the void in Boston’s frontcourt? Is Josh Minott capable of thriving in an expanded opportunity with the Celtics?

A quick aside here, too: Maybe it’s time Celtics fans embrace Georges Niang. The consternation with his addition, especially given his roots here, has been a little bizarre.

Yes, he put himself in the crosshairs a couple seasons ago by grabbing at Jaylen Brown’s knee during a game. Brown and Niang crossed paths at a WNBA game at the Garden last week and there didn’t look like there was any lingering animosity.

We also love how Niang acknowledged the fan angst, noting on a podcast last week: “You know how tough Boston fans are. They don’t give a s— if I’m from Boston or not. They’re like, ‘You just took our unicorn and replaced it with a minivan. Get the f— out of here!’ I’m like public enemy No. 1. They’re like, ‘What is this? This ain’t shiny, man, this got scratches on it, man.’”

Is Niang a long-term piece for this team? Probably not. But if this team is going to outkick expectations, he could be a big part of what’s ahead. If nothing else, he has an expiring — and very tradable — salary that could help future roster constructions. His self awareness, combined with his play style, ought to win over fans quickly.

All of which is our long-winded way of saying: Enjoy the ride. Expectations are going to spike the very second Tatum is back on a basketball court. We’ve been spoiled by the success of this team over the past decade — especially in recent seasons — but there’s nothing wrong with embracing a potential gap year.

We think there’s a very real chance this team performs well beyond expectations at the start of the season. Things might go sideways due to injuries or letting younger players take their lumps, but there are long-term benefits if that happens, too.

The Celtics have created flexibility with their roster. After waiving JD Davison on Thursday, the team is back below the second apron and carries an open roster spot. The team can lean into various pathways during the season, if potential roster moves don’t materialize sooner.

It’s easy to be discouraged by the talent drain. The Celtics needed to get their finances in order, and Tatum’s injury only made that a slightly easier to embrace. The absence of expectations is going to change the way we view games. It’s less about wins and losses and more about the process.

Sit back and enjoy the ride.