Fri Apr 18 23:30:00 UTC 2025: ## MLB Betting Expert Predicts Upsets on Friday’s Games

**NEW YORK, NY** – With Major League Baseball in full swing, Sports Illustrated betting expert Iain MacMillan is offering his predictions for Friday’s games. MacMillan, known for his insights on NFL, NHL, and golf, has identified three key matchups with intriguing wagering opportunities.

MacMillan is favoring the Tampa Bay Rays (-124) against the Atlanta Braves, citing the Braves’ struggling offense (.218 batting average) and the questionable performance of Braves pitcher Bryce Elder. Elder’s early season performance has raised concerns for the expert.

Another bold prediction sees the Los Angeles Angels triumphing over the Houston Astros, despite the Astros being home favorites. MacMillan highlights the Angels’ potent offense (7th in OPS at .767) contrasting sharply with the Astros’ weak batting (.583 OPS, 29th in the league). He also points to the shaky start of Astros pitcher Ronel Blanco.

Finally, MacMillan is betting the under on the total runs scored in the Chicago Cubs vs. Los Angeles Dodgers game. He notes the Dodgers’ relatively low batting average (.230) and expects strong pitching performances from both Yoshinobu Yamamoto (Cubs) and Matthew Boyd (Dodgers), who have both shown impressive form early in the season.

MacMillan’s picks represent a contrarian view of several matchups, suggesting potential value for bettors willing to take on the favorites. He reminds readers that gambling involves risk and encourages those with problems to seek help. The full details of his bets are available on the Sports Illustrated website. Remember to gamble responsibly.

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