Rosters are getting pared down as spring training rapidly approaches its conclusion ahead of Opening Day this week. But we've still got a slew of betting options on today's spring training slate.
My MLB picks for Monday, March 23, are targeting a trio of moneyline picks, including the Los Angeles Angels at plus money over Roki Sasaki and the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Spring Training predictions for March 23
| Pick | Odds |
|---|---|
 SEA moneyline |
-135 |
 LAA moneyline |
+120 |
 CLE moneyline |
+110 |
Pick #1: Mariners moneyline
Luis Castillo has been extremely shaky this spring, but San Diego Padres right-hander German Marquez hasn't looked much better.
With Brendan Donovan, Cal Raleigh, Julio Rodriguez, Josh Naylor, and Randy Arozarena penciled in as the Seattle Mariners' first five batters in today's lineup, Marquez will be in for another rude awakening.
Castillo has been bitten by an abnormal number of home runs (five in 10 innings), and the gopher ball has not traditionally been an issue for the right-hander. With spring winding down, I expect a better performance from the rock-solid hurler en route to a win over the Padres.
Pick #2: Angels moneyline
Not to be a "hot-take merchant," but are we sure Roki Sasaki is a major-league starting pitcher? The Los Angeles Dodgers dumped him to the bullpen after a rocky start last season, and though they've treated him as a starter this spring, the results have been discouraging.
The strikeouts have been there, but he's issued nine walks in 6 2/3 spring training innings while also surrendering a pair of home runs. When he's not missing bats, he's giving free passes or getting hit around the ballpark.
The Los Angeles Angels aren't great, but they have some batters like Zach Neto, Jorge Soler, and, yes, even Mike Trout, who can do damage, especially when a pitcher is missing his spots. The potential for Sasaki digging the Dodgers an early hole makes the plus money worthwhile.
Pick #3: Guardians moneyline
Arizona Diamondbacks right-hander Merrill Kelly is headed to the injured list to open the season due to a lingering back issue, but he's still slated to start vs. the Cleveland Guardians tonight as he ramps up his workload.
Kelly has been largely ineffective in a super small sample size this spring, surrendering four runs on 11 hits in just 4 1/3 innings.
The rust combined with the injury makes Jose Ramirez & Co. an appealing option at plus money to win straight up.
Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change.
Not intended for use in MA.
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