Jake Mangum (NA) Under 1.5 Hits (-270)
Odds available at draftkings at time of publishing
As the Nationals host the Pirates on July 4th, all eyes will be on Jake Mangum, but betting on him to go ‘Under 1.5 hits’ could be the smart play. Mangum has struggled lately, hitting just .230 over the last month and finding it tough to connect against left-handed pitching—something the Pirates will throw at him with their crafty southpaw on the mound.
The Pirates' pitching staff has been surprisingly effective, boasting a solid WHIP of 1.20 in their last 10 games, which suggests they’re limiting baserunners and making life difficult for hitters. Plus, with the pressure of a holiday crowd, the nerves might get to him. Given these trends and his recent form, it’s likely Mangum will find himself with fewer opportunities to make solid contact. Betting on him to stay under that 1.5 hit mark feels like a savvy move in this matchup.