Exciting MLB Wild Card Action Continues
The MLB Wild Card series is heating up, and yesterday’s slate of games set the stage for another day of thrilling matchups. Today, fans can look forward to the same four contests, starting with the Tigers facing off against the Guardians at 1:08 p.m. ET and wrapping up with the Reds taking on the Dodgers at 9:08 p.m. ET.
While yesterday’s games didn’t showcase many home runs—a common occurrence in playoff baseball—today offers a fresh opportunity for power hitters to shine. With enticing betting boosts available across platforms like Fanatics, bet365, and DraftKings, all eyes are on potential home run predictions.
Home Run Predictions for Today’s Action
Here are some of the top home run picks with odds that could lead to substantial payouts:
Teoscar Hernandez +410 at Fanatics
Freddie Freeman +475 at bet365
Ben Rice +533 at DraftKings
Teoscar Hernandez Aims for Another Homer
Teoscar Hernandez enters today’s game with a head of steam, having launched two home runs in yesterday’s contest. The matchup against the Dodgers is particularly favorable for him, as Dodger Stadium is notably a hitter-friendly park. The weather in Los Angeles is neutral, unlike the other games scheduled today, which face a negative home run impact.
Hernandez’s performance yesterday was nothing short of impressive—he recorded four HardHits, with his two home runs coming off the bat at an eye-popping 108.7 mph and 104.3 mph, respectively. Additionally, he notched another hit at 106.5 mph and a flyout with an exit velocity of 98.9 mph. It’s clear he has found his swing, and going up against Zack Littell, who allowed the second-most home runs in the league during the regular season, presents an enticing opportunity for Hernandez to add to his tally.
Freddie Freeman Joins the Power Surge
Teammate Freddie Freeman is also in a prime position to go deep tonight. Sharing the same favorable conditions as Hernandez at Dodger Stadium and facing Littell, Freeman has an excellent chance to make a significant impact.
While his performance yesterday didn’t quite match Hernandez’s fireworks, Freeman still left his mark with two HardHits, including a double clocked at 100.5 mph and a flyout that traveled 345 feet. Adding to his confidence, Freeman concluded the regular season on a high note, hitting three home runs in the last week. All signs point to another stellar night for the Dodgers’ first baseman.
Ben Rice Looks to Shine at Yankee Stadium
Unlike Hernandez and Freeman, Ben Rice didn’t see action yesterday as the Red Sox faced a left-handed pitcher. However, with Brayan Bello taking the mound for the Red Sox today, Rice has a prime opportunity to make his mark. Despite less-than-ideal weather conditions for home runs at Yankee Stadium, the park’s dimensions favor left-handed hitters, making it a good spot for Rice, who has a 52.9% pull-rate over the last week of the regular season.
Rice concluded the regular season with a strong performance, including three barrels and nine HardHits in his last seven days. His two home runs on the final day of the regular season demonstrate that he is in solid form as he steps up to the plate. Given his favorable matchup against Bello’s pitch mix, Rice could very well add to the home run tally at a tempting price of +533 on DraftKings.
As the Wild Card series progresses, these hitters are set to be at the forefront, and fans will be eagerly watching to see if they can deliver the fireworks that make playoff baseball so thrilling.