Picks for 4/18/23
NBA
10:00 PM EST
Rotation #536
Suns -8 over Clippers (win)
The Clippers had a hot start in Game 1 and never looked back. Neither team is good inside the paint, but the Suns are better-shot blockers, making the Clippers shoot everything from extended range. Phoenix will grab more offensive rebounds for second-chance points, turn the Clippers over, and protect the basketball. Phoenix is a desperate team and should get a better game out of Chris Paul. Kevin Durant and Devin Booker should have big numbers again, and the Suns will even up the series heading to Los Angeles. Take Phoenix.
MLB
9:40 PM EST
Rotation #907
Braves -135 over Padres (win)
Strider/Snell
The Padres will start Benny Snell, who has struggled this year. It won’t get easier for Snell as the Braves hit left-handing, hitting well. The Padres don’t hit right-handers well. Spencer Strider is a strikeout machine averaging 15 strikes outs per game, making matters worse for San Diego. The Braves are the better team and should cash the ticket tonight. Take Atlanta.
9:40 PM EST
Rotation #907
Braves -135 over Padres (win)
Strider/Snell
The Padres will start Benny Snell, who has struggled this year. It won’t get easier for Snell as the Braves hit left-handing, hitting well. The Padres don’t hit right-handers well. Spencer Strider is a strikeout machine averaging 15 strikes outs per game, making matters worse for San Diego. The Braves are the better team and should cash the ticket tonight. Take Atlanta.