Toronto (16-19) at LA Angels (14-20)
- When: May 7 2025, 9:38 PM
- Where: Angel Stadium, Anaheim
- Where to watch: SN1
Game Preview
Blue Jays vs. Angels Game Preview & Expert Predictions
Moneyline: Toronto Blue Jays (-130)
Total: 8.5
The Toronto Blue Jays and Los Angeles Angels square off in the second game of their three-game series. Toronto enters as the slight favorite, while the total is set at 8.5. Both teams are looking for a spark as their key hitters search for consistency at the plate.
Toronto Blue Jays Overview
The Blue Jays are coming off a tough loss in the series opener, but they’ll turn to Jose Berrios to even the series. Berrios has been steady this season, boasting a 1-1 record with a 3.98 ERA across seven starts. He’s coming off a solid outing against the Boston Red Sox, where he allowed just two runs over 6 2/3 innings, striking out eight while walking just one. Despite the strong performance, Berrios did not factor into the decision as the Jays won 4-2.
Historically, Berrios has struggled against the Angels, holding a 3-5 record with a 5.64 ERA in 10 career starts. However, with Los Angeles still hitting a league-worst .216 as a team, he has an opportunity to change the narrative. Key for Berrios will be limiting walks and containing Taylor Ward, who seemed to find his swing with a 419-foot blast in Game 1.
Player Prop Picks:
Jose Berrios – Over 5.5 Strikeouts: With the Angels’ struggles at the plate and Berrios coming off an eight-strikeout performance, this line feels attainable.
Anthony Santander – Over 0.5 Home Runs: Despite his slow start, Santander is always a power threat and coming off a homer in Game 1.
Los Angeles Angels Overview
The Angels snapped their offensive slump with an 8-3 victory in the series opener, thanks to a rejuvenated Taylor Ward, who smashed a two-run homer after putting in extra work in the batting cage. Ward’s recent struggles (.176 average with 13 strikeouts in his last 27 at-bats) led to the Angels bringing in a minor-league pitcher to help him regain his timing. That adjustment seemed to pay off, as Ward looked more comfortable at the plate.
On the mound, Los Angeles will start Yusei Kikuchi (0-4, 4.21 ERA), who is still searching for his first win in an Angels uniform. Despite his winless record, Kikuchi has pitched reasonably well, recording three quality starts and allowing three runs or fewer in five of his seven outings. He’ll look to build on his career success against Toronto, where he holds a 2-0 record with a 1.77 ERA in three starts.
The Angels’ offense remains inconsistent, but Ward’s breakout could be the spark they need. Los Angeles has been among the league’s worst in batting average, and they will need more contributions up and down the lineup if they want to keep pace with Toronto’s firepower.
Player Prop Picks:
Taylor Ward – Over 1.5 Total Bases: After finding his swing with a home run in Game 1, Ward looks poised to stay hot against a familiar opponent.
Yusei Kikuchi – Over 4.5 Strikeouts: Toronto’s lineup is aggressive at the plate, and Kikuchi’s stuff could lead to plenty of swings and misses.
Prediction and Final Score
Both teams have a lot to prove in this second matchup, but Toronto’s lineup has more potential to break through against Kikuchi, who has been solid but not overpowering. Expect the Blue Jays to bounce back with a more disciplined approach at the plate, while Berrios takes advantage of an inconsistent Angels lineup.
Final Score Prediction: Toronto 5, LA Angels 3
Lean: Blue Jays (-128)
Total Play: Under 8.5 (+100)
Look for Toronto to cover the moneyline and the game to stay under 8.5 as both starters find some rhythm on the mound.
- MLB Odds source: MyBookie Sportsbook
