Atlanta Braves vs. Oakland Athletics 5-31-23 MLB Best Picks, Tips, and Odds

Atlanta Braves vs. Oakland Athletics 5/31/23 – Baseball fans and betting enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the upcoming clash between the Atlanta Braves and the Oakland Athletics. We will delve into the baseball betting lines and provide a comprehensive breakdown of both teams, including their offensive prowess and starting pitchers. We aim to make informed baseball betting picks for this highly anticipated game by examining the key factors and trends.

Atlanta Braves vs. Oakland Athletics

Date & Time: Wednesday, May 31, 2023, at 3:37 PM ET

Location: Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum

TV: Bally Sports Network

Atlanta Braves vs. Oakland Athletics 5/31/23 Betting Odds

Braves

Moneyline: -215

Spread: -1.5 (-135)

Total: 9 over (-115)

Athletics

Moneyline: +196

Spread: +1.5 (+115)

Total: 9 under (-105)

Atlanta Braves vs. Oakland Athletics Analysis

The Atlanta Braves have been a force to be reckoned with offensively this season. They have prowess at the plate, boasting a solid batting average of .259. Their ability to consistently get on base is evident from their on-base percentage of .331, allowing them to create scoring opportunities. Additionally, the Braves have been a home run-hitting machine, belting an impressive 90 homers so far. This power display has contributed significantly to their scoring, with 277 runs scored this season. Their slugging percentage of .463 further emphasizes their ability to hit for both average and power.

Jared Shuster is a promising young pitcher taking the mound for the Atlanta Braves. Shuster has appeared in five games as a starter this season, amassing a record of 1-2. While his win-loss record may not be outstanding, he has shown glimpses of potential. Shuster’s ERA stands at 5.33, indicating he has faced challenges on the mound. However, he has managed to maintain a respectable WHIP of 1.34, reflecting his ability to limit baserunners. In terms of his performance, Shuster has pitched a total of 25.1 innings, allowing 19 hits and 15 earned runs while striking out 20 batters. Although he has surrendered several home runs and walks, Shuster has shown the capability to generate strikeouts and keep hitters off balance.

The Oakland Athletics have encountered some struggles offensively this season. They currently hold a team batting average of .221, placing them at the bottom of the league. Their ability to consistently reach base has been a challenge, as reflected by their OBP of .300. However, they have demonstrated some power, hitting 57 home runs. Despite their lower batting average, the Athletics have scored 196 runs, showing they can capitalize on opportunities. Their slugging percentage of .359 further highlights their ability to generate extra-base hits and drive in runs.

On pitching, the Athletics will rely on James Kaprielian to lead their rotation. Kaprielian has faced difficulties on the mound, recording a win-loss record of 0-5. His struggles are evident in his elevated ERA of 8.45, suggesting that opposing teams have had success against him. Kaprielian has allowed 41 hits and 32 earned runs in 33 innings pitched this season. He has surrendered six home runs and issued 21 walks. Despite these challenges, Kaprielian has also shown promise, striking out 34 batters and displaying the ability to miss bats. However, he must adjust to improve his performance and stabilise the Athletics’ pitching staff.

Atlanta Braves vs. Oakland Athletics Against the Spread

The Braves have shown a tendency for high-scoring games, with the over-hitting in their last five interleague road games and four of their last five road games overall. Meanwhile, the under has been prevalent in Shuster’s last four starts against teams with losing records and in his previous four starts with four days of rest.

On the other hand, the Athletics have witnessed the under-hitting in Kaprielian’s last four Wednesday starts, indicating a trend for lower-scoring games. However, it is worth noting that the over has prevailed in their previous six home games against left-handed starters.

Atlanta Braves vs. Oakland Athletics Free Pick

Considering the betting lines, teams and pitcher’s performances, we offer the following picks:

Moneyline: Braves -215

We recommend betting on the Atlanta Braves moneyline to secure the victory. The Braves’ superior offensive firepower, coupled with the struggles of Kaprielian on the mound for the Athletics, gives the Braves a significant advantage.

Spread: Braves -1.5 (-135) 

Taking the Atlanta Braves with a spread of -1.5 (-135) is a viable pick. With the Braves projected to win by at least two runs, this offers an opportunity to maximize potential returns.

Total: 9 over (-115)

Considering the trends, we suggest betting on this game’s over 9 (-115). The Braves’ explosive offense and the Athletics’ struggles on the mound present a favorable environment for a higher-scoring game.

Prediction: 4-6 Atlanta Braves win

The Atlanta Braves and the Oakland Athletics are set to engage in a thrilling baseball encounter. By carefully analyzing the betting lines, team statistics, and baseball betting trends, we predict a victory for the Atlanta Braves with a projected score of 6-4. As always, exercising caution and adhering to responsible betting practices is crucial. Good luck to both teams and may the best team emerge triumphant on the field.