MLB player props today: our 6 best prop picks for August 12, 2026

As the Braves prepare to take on the Mets, all eyes will be on Austin Riley, but betting on him to record a hit could be a tricky proposition. Lately, Riley has faced a tough stretch, and the Mets’ pitching staff has shown they know how to contain him. With an impressive strikeout rate and a solid ground-ball tendency, New York’s arms have been effective against sluggers like Riley. Furthermore, with the Braves struggling to find consistent offense against left-handers lately, it’s worth noting that they’ve managed just a modest.230 average in those matchups. Riley’s recent performance also hints at a slump, as he’s been fanning more often than usual. Given these trends, taking the under on Riley’s hits feels like the right move, especially as he looks to break out of this funk against a challenging Mets rotation.

Zach Thornton (NYM) Under 4.5 Strikeouts (-172)

As the Braves gear up to face the Mets, all eyes will be on Zach Thornton, but I wouldn’t be surprised if he struggles to find the strike zone. While Thornton has shown flashes of brilliance this season, the Braves' offense has been exceptionally aggressive, ranking among the top teams in the league for contact rate. They're not just making contact; they're putting the ball in play with authority, which can be tough on a strikeout pitcher. Historically, Thornton has had mixed results against patient lineups like Atlanta's, often falling short of that elusive strikeout mark. With a model prediction hovering around two strikeouts, it’s clear the odds favor the under on 4.5. Plus, the Braves are well aware of his tendencies and will likely adjust their approach accordingly. Given this matchup dynamic, backing the under seems like a savvy move for Wednesday night’s showdown.

Kyle Schwarber (PHI) Over 1.5 Hits+Runs+RBIs (-128)

As the Cardinals host the Phillies on August 12, all eyes should be on Kyle Schwarber. He’s been a force lately, making a strong case for hitting over 1.5 combined hits, runs, and RBIs. Schwarber thrives against right-handed pitching, and with the Cardinals sending a righty to the mound, this matchup could play right into his hands. Considering he’s been on a tear, with consistent multi-hit games recently, it’s clear he’s finding his rhythm at the plate. The Phillies’ pitching staff has struggled with command, allowing plenty of scoring opportunities. With Schwarber’s ability to capitalize on mistakes and the recent trends favoring high-scoring affairs in this matchup, backing him to exceed that 1.5 mark feels promising. The Cardinals’ lineup is also firing on all cylinders, creating a perfect storm for Schwarber to shine. Don’t miss out on this chance to ride the wave of his current form.

Luis Robert Jr. (CHW) Over 0.5 Runs Scored (+138)

As the Braves gear up to face the Mets, all eyes should be on Luis Robert Jr. This young star is riding a hot streak, consistently finding ways to cross home plate. Looking at his recent form, Robert has scored in multiple games against top-tier pitching, showcasing an uncanny ability to capitalize on mistakes. The Mets’ arms have struggled lately, with a collective ERA creeping north of 5.00 in their last few outings. This spells trouble for a lineup as potent as Atlanta's, which leads the league in runs scored. Robert's knack for getting on base, coupled with the Braves' aggressive approach, creates a ripe opportunity for him to notch at least one run tonight. With the model predicting a strong likelihood of him scoring, taking the over on 0.5 runs for Robert feels not just safe but smart. Expect him to come through in a big way.

Nathan Church Under 0.5 Hits (+114)

As the Cardinals host the Phillies, all eyes will be on Nathan Church, who’s currently battling a tough stretch at the plate. Despite his potential, Church has been struggling to find his rhythm, with a noticeable dip in contact rates against right-handers. With St. Louis's pitching staff, particularly their starter, who boasts a solid strikeout rate and has kept hitters off balance, Church could be in for a long night. The Cardinals have also proven adept at neutralizing opposing batters recently, holding teams under their averages more often than not. Given Church’s recent performance and the way the Cardinals have pitched, it’s reasonable to expect him to finish the night without a hit. This matchup aligns perfectly with the trend of unders in similar situations, making the under on 0.5 hits a savvy pick worth considering as the game unfolds.

Luis Robert Jr. (CHW) Over 1.5 Hits+Runs+RBIs (-106)

As the Braves host the Mets, all eyes should be on Luis Robert Jr., who’s been on fire lately, showcasing his elite bat in crucial situations. His ability to deliver hits, runs, and RBIs has been particularly impressive, especially against left-handed pitching, which the Braves will encounter from a Mets’ starter struggling to contain opposing hitters. Robert's recent form has him averaging well above the line of 1.5 in this category, and the Braves' lineup is known for driving in runs, especially at home where they thrive on the support of the crowd. With the Mets' pitching staff ranking in the lower tier for WHIP this season, it’s a recipe for Robert to not just meet, but exceed that mark. Given the stakes in this divisional clash, expect Robert to step up and contribute significantly, making the 'Over 1.5' a compelling play.

That is the whole read. Every prop above is our own number against the price on the board at the time we wrote this, and the price can move before you get on. Bet what you can afford to lose. If betting stops being fun, take a break.