Nick Martinez (CIN) Under 4.5 Strikeouts (-156)

Odds available at draftkings at time of publishing

As the Pirates gear up to face the Rays, all eyes will be on Nick Martinez's strikeout potential. While Martinez has shown flashes of brilliance, his recent outings indicate that he struggles to rack up K's against disciplined lineups like Tampa Bay's. The Rays boast one of the lowest strikeout rates in baseball, consistently making contact and capitalizing on pitches. In his last few starts, Martinez has averaged just over two strikeouts per game, a stark contrast to the 4.5 line set for this matchup. With Tampa’s patience at the plate and Martinez’s tendency to pitch to contact, the under feels like a wise play here. The Pirates' offense might not give him enough run support either, potentially keeping him on a shorter leash. All signs point to a night where Martinez's strikeout numbers fall short, making the under a compelling choice in this intriguing duel.

Luis Arraez (MIN) Under 1.5 Hits (-192)

Odds available at draftkings at time of publishing

As the Nationals face off against the Giants, all eyes will be on Luis Arraez, but taking the under on his hits might just be the shrewdest play. Arraez has been a fantastic hitter, no doubt, but tonight's matchup against San Francisco's ace, who boasts a 2.80 ERA, poses a significant challenge. The Giants' pitching staff has been particularly stingy, holding opponents to just a .220 batting average over their last ten games. Moreover, Arraez has struggled recently against right-handed pitchers, managing only a hit in three of his last ten at-bats against them. The Nationals' lineup has also been inconsistent, averaging fewer than four runs per game lately, which may limit scoring opportunities for their hitters. Given the trends and the tight contest expected, it’s wise to bet on Arraez staying under 1.5 hits this evening.

Taijuan Walker (PHI) Under 3.5 Strikeouts (-169)

Odds available at draftkings at time of publishing

As the Phillies host the Braves, all eyes will be on Taijuan Walker, who’s been a bit of an enigma on the mound. Despite his impressive stuff, Walker’s strikeout numbers have been surprisingly low, averaging just over 3 strikeouts per game in recent outings. The Braves lineup, stacked with contact hitters like Ronald Acuña Jr. and Ozzie Albies, excels at putting the ball in play and making pitchers work. With the Braves' recent offensive surge—averaging over 5 runs per game—they're not only hitting well, but they’re also forcing pitchers to avoid the strike zone. Walker’s tendency to nibble could lead to more walks than K's, making the 'Under 3.5' strikeouts a compelling angle. Given the matchup and Walker's current form, it’s hard to see him surpassing this number against a lineup that thrives on putting pressure on pitchers. Expect a game where he focuses more on pitching to contact than racking up strikeouts.

Nico Hoerner (CHC) Under 1.5 Hits (-217)

Odds available at draftkings at time of publishing

As the Cubs host the Mets on Friday, all eyes will be on Nico Hoerner, but this might not be the night for him to shine at the plate. He’s facing a tough Mets pitching staff that’s been lighting up the strikeout charts recently; they’re not only adept at limiting hits but have also seen Hoerner struggle against right-handed pitchers like Tylor Megill, who gets the nod for New York. Hoerner’s recent form has been shaky, with averages dipping against quality arms. Plus, the Cubs are currently mired in a slump, scoring just over three runs per game in their last series. With Megill’s ability to keep hitters off balance, it’s hard to envision Hoerner racking up more than one hit. The under on 1.5 hits feels like a smart play here, especially against a Mets team that’s been consistently stifling opposing lineups.

Bo Bichette (TOR) Under 1.5 Hits (-263)

Odds available at draftkings at time of publishing

As the Cubs host the Mets tonight, all eyes will be on Bo Bichette, but bettors might want to consider the "Under" for his hits total at 1.5. Bichette has been facing a tough stretch, hitting just .220 over the past week against right-handed pitching. The Cubs’ starter, with an impressive WHIP of 1.10, has been especially effective at neutralizing hitters in the first five innings, boasting a striking 3.00 ERA. Moreover, the Mets' offense has cooled off recently, making it hard for any player to find consistent rhythm. When Bichette squared off against similarly tough pitchers this season, he's often struggled to string together hits, averaging just half a hit per game in such matchups. With the wind potentially favoring the pitchers at Wrigley, and Bichette's recent form in mind, expecting him to be held to one hit or fewer seems like the smart play here.

Aaron Judge (NYY) Under 1.5 Hits (-244)

Odds available at draftkings at time of publishing

As the Yankees square off against the Royals, all eyes will be on Aaron Judge, but don't be surprised if he struggles to find his rhythm at the plate tonight. The big slugger has been facing some fierce pitching lately, and with Kansas City's starter showing impressive form, the odds might not be in Judge's favor. Consider that the Royals' pitching staff has been quietly effective, especially against right-handed hitters. Judge's recent performance reflects a troubling trend, where he’s been hitting well under the radar. In the past week, he’s averaged less than one hit per game, a stark reminder that even the best can have off nights. With Judge projected to record just 0.61 hits, the under on 1.5 seems like the play. As the game unfolds, the Royals' steady arms might just keep Judge grounded this time around.

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