Free MLB Picks For Today, Sunday 9/22/2024

We conclude the penultimate week of the MLB regular season with 16 games (one doubleheader), so make sure to check out the MLB Picks for Sunday 9/22/2024.

Minnesota Twins vs Boston Red Sox Prediction MLB Picks 9/22/24

Twins at Red Sox at 12:35 PM ET

The Minnesota Twins are set to feature Pablo Lopez as the starting pitcher for the first game, boasting a record of 15 wins and 8 losses, along with a 3.84 ERA and 187 strikeouts this season. In the second game, Zebby Matthews will take the mound, currently holding a record of 1 win and 3 losses, with a 6.30 ERA and 32 strikeouts to his name this season.

In the opening game, the Boston Red Sox will feature Nick Pivetta as their starting pitcher. This season, Pivetta has achieved a record of 5 wins and 11 losses, with an ERA of 4.37 and 162 strikeouts. For the second game, Kutter Crawford will be the starting pitcher for Boston, holding a record of 8 wins and 15 losses, a 4.19 ERA, and 162 strikeouts as well.

The Pick:

I am going with the Twins to secure a sweep in the doubleheader. In the opening game, Lopez is clearly the more proficient pitcher, and although Nick Pivetta has provided some value at times, I believe he will be at a disadvantage here. In the second game, despite my lack of enthusiasm for Zebby Matthews, it is important to highlight that Crawford has experienced losses in his last six starts, which appears to be a recurring issue. The Twins are the stronger team and are highly motivated, thus I am choosing Minnesota.

Pittsburgh Pirates vs Cincinnati Reds Prediction MLB Picks 9/22/24

Pirates at Reds at 1:10 PM ET

In the upcoming finale, Pittsburgh will assign Paul Skenes to the starting position. Thus far, Skenes has achieved a record of 10 victories and 3 defeats, with a notable ERA of 2.07 across his first 21 starts in professional baseball.

On Sunday, Hunter Greene is set to be the starting pitcher. Throughout this season, he has compiled a record of 9 wins and 4 losses, with an impressive ERA of 2.83 in 24 starts. Over the course of his career, Greene has a total record of 18 wins and 24 losses, along with a career ERA of 3.94 in 70 starts.

The Pick:

Skenes is poised to deliver another effective start in this matchup, with the bullpen and the batting order tasked with ensuring a successful outcome. In his last three starts, Skenes has compiled a record of 2-1, permitting just two earned runs in 17.0 innings. Conversely, Greene has achieved a 2-0 record in his last three games, allowing four earned runs over 19.0 innings. The Pirates were unable to recover from a difficult start by Jones on Saturday, as the offense struggled to capitalize on their seven hits. The encouraging news is that Skenes is likely to provide a strong performance on Sunday; however, it is essential for the offense to step up and contribute. Back the Pirates here.

Detroit Tigers vs Baltimore Orioles Prediction MLB Picks 9/22/24

Tigers at Orioles at 1:35 PM ET

The name for the starting slot on Sunday was not announced by the Tigers right away.

The Orioles have announced that Albert Suarez will be their starting pitcher on Sunday. This year, Suarez has achieved an 8-6 record alongside a 3.60 ERA in 30 games, with 22 of those as a starter. Throughout his career, he has accumulated an 11-14 record and a 4.04 ERA in 70 games, with 34 starts to his name.

The Pick:

In the recent victory, Suarez delivered an impressive performance, completing 6.0 innings while allowing only one earned run against Boston. However, in the two losses, he accumulated a total of 10 earned runs over 7.2 innings. On Saturday, the Tigers showcased significant offensive contributions, particularly from Riley Greene, who recorded three hits, three runs, and an RBI, as well as Dillon Dingler, who added two hits and two RBIs. Although there were some challenges on the pitching front, Detroit managed to secure the win. I believe they have the potential to continue this momentum into Sunday. Go with the Tigers.

Atlanta Braves vs Miami Marlins Prediction MLB Picks 9/22/24

Braves at Marlins at 1:40 PM ET

Grant Holmes will serve as the starting pitcher for Sunday’s game. Throughout the initial 23 games of his career, which includes five starts, Holmes has achieved a record of 2-1 and maintains an ERA of 3.84.

On Sunday, Darren McCaughan will be the starting pitcher for the Marlins. In the current season, he has achieved a 7.64 ERA and remains without a decision in nine outings, four of which were as a starter. Throughout his career, McCaughan has maintained a 7.47 ERA in 14 games, with five of those being starts.

The Pick:

Holmes is expected to have a brief appearance, having recently pitched 4.0 innings and allowed two earned runs in a game against the Reds. In contrast, McCaughan has struggled, surrendering 10 earned runs in 13.1 innings across his last three games. On Saturday, the Braves benefited from a strong performance by Fried and the bullpen. Offensively, three home runs contributed to their scoring. While Atlanta may need to make adjustments on the mound for Sunday’s game, they are likely prepared to meet the challenge. Take Atlanta in this one.

Toronto Blue Jays vs Tampa Bay Rays Prediction MLB Picks 9/22/24

Blue Jays at Rays at 1:40 PM ET

Chris Bassitt is set to be the starting pitcher for Toronto, currently boasting a record of 10-13, a 4.16 ERA, and a 1.43 WHIP over the course of 166.2 innings pitched this year. In his recent performances, he has allowed just one earned run in three of his last four starts.

The starting pitcher projected for Tampa Bay is Shane Baz, who has achieved a record of 3-3, with a 3.21 ERA and a 1.11 WHIP through 67.1 innings pitched this season. Baz has consistently allowed two earned runs or fewer in his previous five outings.

The Pick:

As Tampa Bay enters this game, they aim for their fourth win in a row, bolstered by impressive pitching in their recent outings. Despite being one of the least prolific scoring teams in the MLB, the Rays’ pitching staff has been pivotal to their achievements. With Shane Baz taking the mound, who has been exceptional of late, I expect them to achieve another victory in this matchup.

San Francisco Giants vs Kansas City Royals Prediction MLB Picks 9/22/24

Giants at Royals at 2:10 PM ET

The San Francisco team is expected to start Blake Snell as their pitcher, who has achieved a 4-3 record, a 3.31 ERA, and a 1.08 WHIP through 98.0 innings pitched this season. He has successfully limited his opponents to one earned run or fewer in four consecutive outings.

Seth Lugo is set to be the starting pitcher for Kansas City, holding a season record of 16-8, a 3.05 ERA, and a 1.11 WHIP over 197.2 innings. In his recent performances, Lugo has successfully limited his opponents to one earned run or fewer in three of his last four starts.

The Pick:

The Kansas City team approaches this game with a critical need for a win to halt their ongoing losing streak. Presently, the Royals occupy a wild-card position, but they are being closely pursued by the Twins and Tigers. The Giants have shown impressive form in the last week and will have Snell on the mound, a pitcher who has been among the elite in baseball lately. Considering the Royals’ current struggles, especially against a skilled pitcher, I would support the Giants in this matchup.

LA Angels vs Houston Astros Prediction MLB Picks 9/22/24

Angels at Astros at 2:10 PM ET

Griffin Canning is set to take the mound for the LA Angels, holding a record of 6 wins and 13 losses, alongside a 5.16 ERA and 123 strikeouts this season. In his most recent 18.1 innings, he has permitted 16 hits and 10 earned runs. Over the course of 74.1 innings pitched on the road, Canning has recorded a 5.93 ERA and allowed a batting average of .269. Against the Houston Astros, his career statistics reflect a record of 0 wins and 3 losses, with a 6.49 ERA and 25 strikeouts.

Spencer Arrighetti is set to pitch for the Houston Astros, with a season record of 7-13 and an ERA of 4.68, alongside 161 strikeouts. Recently, he has allowed 20 hits and 7 earned runs across 12.1 innings. His home statistics reflect a 4.16 ERA and a .238 batting average against in 62.2 innings pitched. This will be the first time Arrighetti faces the Los Angeles Angels in his career.

The Pick:

This season has been challenging for Griffin Canning, and it is doubtful that he will perform well against the formidable Astros lineup. Although Spencer Arrighetti’s rookie season has been inconsistent, the focus of this game is on the experienced Astros, who are close to clinching the AL West and are adept at securing victories at this time of year. The LA Angels appear to be looking forward to the offseason, while the Astros have a proven track record of success in September and October. For maximum betting value, I suggest wagering on the Astros and the run line.

Arizona Diamondbacks vs Milwaukee Brewers Prediction MLB Picks 9/22/24

Diamondbacks at Brewers at 2:10 PM ET

The Arizona Diamondbacks are set to commence the game with Jordan Montgomery on the mound. This season, Montgomery holds a record of 8-7, accompanied by a 6.23 ERA and 77 strikeouts. In his previous five outings against the Brewers, he has achieved a record of 2-2, with a commendable ERA of 2.93 and 34 strikeouts.

The Brewers will assign Frankie Montas as their starting pitcher for this game. Currently, Montas has a season record of 7-11, with an ERA of 4.50 and 138 strikeouts to his name. Historically, against the Diamondbacks, he has a career record of 1-2, with a 7.24 ERA and 15 strikeouts.

The Pick:

I find it difficult to place my trust in either of these starting pitchers. Montgomery’s ERA remains over six as we near the conclusion of the season, while Montas’s acquisition by Milwaukee is perplexing, considering his subpar performance this year. In this matchup, the Diamondbacks have been dominating right-handed pitching, a trend that has been evident for much of the latter half of the season. As a result, I will lean towards the Over in this contest.

Cleveland Guardians vs St. Louis Cardinals Prediction MLB Picks 9/22/24

Guardians at Cardinals at 2:15 PM ET

Cleveland has appointed Gavin Williams to take the mound as the starter for Sunday’s game. Currently, Williams has a record of 3-10 and a 5.12 ERA over 15 starts. Throughout his career, which encompasses 31 starts, he has achieved a record of 6-15 with a 4.14 ERA.

Andre Pallante will take the mound for St. Louis on Sunday. This season, he has recorded a 7-8 win-loss record with a 3.87 ERA across 27 appearances, including 18 starts. In his career, Pallante has participated in 136 games, making 28 starts, and holds a record of 17-14.

The Pick:

Recently, Williams has struggled significantly, posting an 0-3 record in his last three games, with 10 earned runs allowed in 11.0 innings pitched. Meanwhile, Pallante has a 1-2 record in his last three starts, surrendering eight earned runs over 17.0 innings. In their most recent game on Saturday, the Guardians almost overcame a 6-1 deficit but were unable to complete the comeback. Cleveland recorded only two earned runs in that contest, suggesting that the pitching was not the main concern. I expect the Guardians to recover from this setback on Sunday.

Washington Nationals vs Chicago Cubs Prediction MLB Picks 9/22/24

Nationals at Cubs at 2:20 PM ET

The starting pitcher projected for Washington is Jake Irvin, who has a season record of 10 wins and 12 losses, with a 4.07 ERA and a 1.17 WHIP over 179.1 innings pitched. Irvin has demonstrated strong performance recently, allowing two earned runs or fewer in three of his last five starts.

Shota Imanaga is set to be the starting pitcher for Chicago, holding an impressive record of 14 victories and 3 defeats, complemented by a 3.03 ERA and a 1.03 WHIP over the course of 166.1 innings this year. Imanaga has successfully limited his opponents to two earned runs or fewer in three out of his last five outings.

The Pick:

After achieving a vital win on Saturday, Washington seeks to level the series in their upcoming game. They will, however, contend with an exceptional pitcher, Shota Imanaga, who has been a reliable asset for the Cubs this year, boasting a flawless 5-0 record in his last five starts. Washington’s Jake Irvin will take the mound, having displayed better form in his last two outings, yet he has been inconsistent overall this season. Considering Imanaga’s steadiness, I predict that the Cubs will triumph by a minimum of two runs.

Seattle Mariners vs Texas Rangers Prediction MLB Picks 9/22/24

Mariners at Rangers at 2:35 PM ET

Bryan Woo is set to represent the Seattle Mariners, entering the game with an 8-3 record, a 2.85 ERA, and 89 strikeouts this season. Over his last 16.1 innings, he has allowed 19 hits and 11 runs. His statistics on the road reflect a 3.00 ERA and a .227 batting average against him in 57 innings. However, his history against the Texas Rangers is less favorable, as he holds a career record of 0-2, with a 12.00 ERA and 15 strikeouts.

Taking the mound for the Texas Rangers is Andrew Heaney, who has recorded a 5-14 win-loss record this season, accompanied by a 3.89 ERA and 152 strikeouts. In his last 16 innings, he has surrendered 13 hits and 6 earned runs. Heaney’s home performance is impressive, featuring a 3.42 ERA and a .195 batting average allowed over 71 innings. His historical performance against the Seattle Mariners shows a 4-10 record, a 4.40 ERA, and 124 strikeouts.

The Pick:

This season, Bryan Woo has distinguished himself as one of the premier pitchers in baseball, recording a 2.85 ERA and a 0.88 WHIP. The Seattle Mariners are currently experiencing a positive week and must maintain their momentum to improve their prospects of claiming a wild card berth. In contrast, the Texas Rangers have reached a stage where they lack significant motivation. It can be argued that the Mariners should be regarded as stronger favorites. I will back the Mariners at the attractive price offered in this final matchup of the series.

New York Yankees vs Oakland Athletics Prediction MLB Picks 9/22/24

Yankees at Athletics at 4:07 PM ET

Luis Gil will be the starting pitcher for the Yankees, entering the game with a season record of 14 victories and 6 defeats, a 3.14 ERA, and 161 strikeouts. This will be the first time Gil faces the Oakland Athletics in his career.

The Oakland Athletics are set to commence the game with Joey Estes on the mound. This season, Estes holds a record of 7 wins and 8 losses, accompanied by an ERA of 4.78 and a total of 89 strikeouts. Notably, this will mark Estes’ inaugural start against the New York Yankees.

The Pick:

I understand that the Athletics present an appealing opportunity as a home underdog, particularly since they have secured numerous victories during Estes’ starts in Oakland, where he has performed significantly better this season. Nevertheless, the Yankees have a great deal at stake in this matchup, and Estes has faced challenges in some of his recent performances. Gil has been one of the more reliable pitchers for the Yankees throughout the year, and I believe New York will prevail in this contest. I am going with the Yankees in this duel.

Colorado Rockies vs LA Dodgers Prediction MLB Picks 9/22/24

Rockies at Dodgers at 4:10 PM ET

Antonio Senzatela is set to take the mound for the Colorado Rockies, currently holding a record of 0-0 with a 6.00 ERA and 2 strikeouts this season. Throughout his appearances, he has permitted 4 hits and 2 runs over the course of 3 innings. This marks Senzatela’s fourth start since the previous season. In his career against the LA Dodgers, he has a record of 4-5, accompanied by a 5.98 ERA and 37 strikeouts.

Yoshinobu Yamamoto is set to pitch for the LA Dodgers, where he has compiled a record of 6-2, a 2.63 ERA, and 95 strikeouts this season. Recently, he has allowed only 7 hits and no earned runs across 8 innings. In 43.1 innings pitched at home, he has achieved a 3.32 ERA and a .241 batting average against. This will be the second time Yamamoto faces the Colorado Rockies in his professional career.

The Pick:

The Colorado Rockies are struggling significantly, and Antonio Senzatela does not possess the necessary experience this season to effectively challenge the potent Dodgers lineup. The Los Angeles Dodgers are vying for a division title and must not squander opportunities in games like this. Yoshinobu Yamamoto has shown remarkable form in his rookie season, especially in his latest starts. I suggest placing a bet on the Dodgers with the run line for maximum betting value, as I doubt the Rockies will manage to win another game in this series.

Chicago White Sox vs San Diego Padres Prediction MLB Picks 9/22/24

White Sox at Padres at 4:10 PM ET

In this contest, the Chicago White Sox will present Sean Burke as their starting pitcher. He has achieved a record of 1-0, with an impressive 2.25 ERA and 8 strikeouts thus far this season. Notably, this will be Burke’s first-ever start against the Padres.

The Padres will be relying on Yu Darvish, who has a season record of 6-3, a 3.21 ERA, and 65 strikeouts. In his last five appearances against the White Sox, he has recorded a 2-1 record, with a 2.45 ERA and 34 strikeouts to his name.

The Pick:

A defeat in this game would equal the White Sox’s record for the most losses in a single season, reaching a total of 120. I suspect they are on the verge of making an unfavorable mark in history later this week. The Padres are nearing a Wild Card position, and Darvish appears to be regaining his form after returning from the injured list. I predict an easy victory for the Padres in this matchup.

Philadelphia Phillies vs New York Mets Prediction MLB Picks 9/22/24

Phillies at Mets at 7:15 PM ET

The Philadelphia team will likely start Zack Wheeler as their pitcher, who has achieved a record of 16 wins and 6 losses, with a 2.56 ERA and a WHIP of 0.95 through 186.2 innings pitched this season. Wheeler has consistently allowed two earned runs or fewer in his previous five starts.

The anticipated starting pitcher for New York is Tylor Megill, who holds a record of 4-5 with a 4.08 ERA and a 1.26 WHIP across 68.1 innings pitched this season. Notably, Megill has permitted one earned run or fewer in three of his last four outings.

The Pick:

Over the past two months, New York has maintained its status as one of the top teams in Major League Baseball, and they aim to secure a series victory in this matchup. The Philadelphia Phillies hold a significant advantage in the National League East and are set to start Zack Wheeler, who has demonstrated exceptional performance as a starting pitcher in recent months. While Megill has shown reliability for the Mets lately, my confidence in Wheeler is considerably higher. Therefore, I recommend backing Philadelphia for the win in this contest.