Today's MLB Best Bets: Picks, Predictions and Odds (Thursday 07/09 Baseball Slate)

As the Pirates face off against the Braves, we could be in for a fireworks show. Atlanta's offense has been lighting up scoreboards, averaging over five runs per game, and with their lineup packed with power, they can easily jump on any pitcher. Meanwhile, the Pirates have shown flashes of their own, especially on offense, where they've been more than capable of putting runs on the board. Looking at the pitching matchup, it’s worth noting that both teams have struggled with consistency on the mound lately. Pittsburgh’s starters have given up their fair share of earned runs, and the Braves' bullpen has shown vulnerability in tight situations. With the model projecting a total closer to 14 runs, it feels like a perfect storm brewing for a high-scoring affair. Expect plenty of action as these two lineups take center stage; betting on the over seems like a no-brainer in this matchup.

Pittsburgh Pirates vs Atlanta Braves : Over 10.5 Total Runs (+140)

As the Pirates host the Braves on July 9, 2026, all signs point to a high-scoring affair. Both teams have shown a penchant for offense lately, with Atlanta riding a wave of momentum, averaging over five runs per game in their last ten. Their explosive lineup, featuring sluggers who can change the game with a swing, is a constant threat to any pitcher. On the flip side, the Pirates' pitching has struggled, particularly against potent batting orders. With a shaky bullpen and starters who can be hit hard, especially at home, it’s hard to see them containing the Braves’ firepower. Moreover, the recent head-to-head matchups have leaned heavily towards the over, often soaring past the 10.5 mark. With a model predicting a total closer to 14 runs, taking the over here feels like a no-brainer. Buckle up—run production is likely to be the name of the game tonight!

Los Angeles Dodgers vs Colorado Rockies : Under 10 Total Runs (+230)

As the Dodgers take on the Rockies, it's hard not to feel that this matchup could lean toward a lower-scoring affair. While L.A. boasts a potent lineup, they’ve recently faced a series of stout pitching performances, and the Rockies’ staff has shown flashes of grit, especially in crucial situations. The Dodgers’ offense has cooled slightly, averaging around four runs per game in their last stretch. Meanwhile, Colorado has struggled on the road, often failing to cobble together enough offense against quality pitching. With the game being played at Dodger Stadium, where the air tends to play tricks on hitters, runs can be hard to come by. Given these trends and the model's projection of only 8.4 total runs, betting the under on 10 feels like a savvy play. With both teams in a bit of a funk offensively, it might just be the pitchers who steal the show tonight.

Pittsburgh Pirates vs Atlanta Braves : Over 9.5 Total Runs (+104)

As the Pirates host the Braves on July 9, we can expect a lively offensive showcase. The Braves, known for their explosive lineup, have been raking in runs, averaging over five per game recently. Their powerhouse trio of Ronald Acuña Jr., Matt Olson, and Ozzie Albies has been relentless, consistently putting pressure on opposing pitchers. Pittsburgh, while not as prolific, has shown flashes of offensive brilliance, particularly at home. They’ve been putting up runs against right-handed pitchers, and with the Braves’ starter struggling on the mound lately, the Pirates could capitalize. Moreover, with the over/under set at 9.5, the model is projecting a whopping 13.64 runs. That’s a significant gap, hinting at a high-scoring affair. Given the trends and the potential for fireworks from both lineups, betting on the over feels like a smart play in what promises to be an entertaining game.

Los Angeles Dodgers vs Colorado Rockies : Under 10.5 Total Runs (+176)

Tonight’s matchup between the Dodgers and Rockies presents a compelling case for the Under at 10.5 runs. The Dodgers have been on a roll, riding a wave of dominant pitching performances. Their starters have posted an impressive 3.30 ERA over the last month, with a strikeout-to-walk ratio that's among the best in the league. Meanwhile, the Rockies' lineup has been in a funk, struggling to find consistent rhythm against left-handed pitching, a trait the Dodgers' southpaw will exploit. Combine that with Dodger Stadium's tendency to suppress scoring, and you have the makings of a low-scoring affair. The Rockies have also been hitting under their season average lately, particularly in crucial divisional matchups. With the model predicting only about 8.4 runs, it’s clear the Under is a savvy play here as both teams battle it out, likely keeping the score tighter than expected.