MLB weekend best bets: Yankees will struggle against Giolito, White Sox
We carried our recent MLB betting success into this week, posting a 2-1 record heading into an appealing weekend slate. Here are our best bets for the next few days:
Mariners under 3.5 runs (-110) at Blue Jays
Aug. 13, 7:10 p.m. ET
Remember when the Mariners' offense was heating up in late July to spark a potential playoff surge? That's since chilled - Seattle has plated three or fewer runs in six of its last eight games, many of which came against pedestrian starting pitchers.
The Mariners will face a particularly stiff test against Blue Jays emerging ace Robbie Ray, who carries a 2.90 ERA into Friday's contest and has allowed three or fewer runs in 19 of his 22 starts this season. Save for a bullpen collapse, this should be an easy under play.
Cardinals over (TBD) at Royals
Aug. 14, 7:10 p.m.
After Brad Keller posted a 2.47 ERA in his third season with the Royals, it looked like the longtime prospect might finally have earned his spot in the rotation. He's threatened to lose it with his showing in 2021 - his 5.79 ERA is among the worst of qualified starters, and his 143 hits and 57 walks allowed both lead the American League.
He's due for a rough start against the Cardinals, who have scored at least four runs in an impressive eight consecutive games entering Friday and have been one of baseball's best offenses since the beginning of July. Keller allowed five runs to St. Louis in his last start and likely won't fare much better Saturday.
Yankees under (TBD) at White Sox
Aug. 15, 2:10 p.m.
Is Lucas Giolito fixed? After a subpar June sullied his overall numbers, the former All-Star pitcher has allowed exactly one run in four of his last five starts, including a complete-game gem against the Astros on July 17 and an eight-inning marvel against the Twins on Monday.
Giolito struck out eight batters in each of those contests and could have some success against a Yankees lineup that, while potent, is among the most swing-happy orders in all of baseball. New York's success at the plate should mean a decently high total here, so bet on Giolito to hold the Bronx Bombers in check.
C Jackson Cowart is a sports betting writer at theScore. You can follow him on Twitter (@CJacksonCowart) or email him at cjackson.cowart@thescore.com.