San Diego (45-39) at Philadelphia (50-35)
- When: Jul 2 2025, 1:05 PM
- Where: Citizens Bank Park, Philadelphia
- Where to watch: NBCS-PH
Padres vs. Phillies – Game #1 Betting Preview & Prediction
Moneyline: San Diego -120
Total: 9.0
Spread: San Diego -1.5 (+140)
San Diego Padres Preview
The Padres head into Game 1 of Wednesday’s doubleheader as slight road favorites at -120 on the moneyline, leaning on veteran right-hander Nick Pivetta to keep momentum rolling. Pivetta was electric his last time out, tossing seven shutout innings with 10 strikeouts and zero walks in a 1-0 nail-biter over the Nationals. That kind of dominance gives San Diego bettors reason for confidence, especially with a taxed Phillies rotation coming off an unexpected rainout.
However, Pivetta hasn’t exactly thrived against his former team. In two prior starts against Philadelphia, he’s posted a rough 9.00 ERA over eight innings. That includes a four-run outing back in June when he couldn’t get past the fourth inning. But with his current form and command locked in, the Padres will take their chances that recent performance outweighs past baggage.
Philadelphia Phillies Preview
The Phillies shuffle their rotation for Game 1, sending out rookie righty Mick Abel, who is still settling into major league life. Abel hasn’t pitched since June 21, when he was roughed up by the Mets for four runs in three innings. A rainout in Atlanta last week disrupted his rhythm, and now he draws a red-hot Padres lineup in a spot start with some pressure to follow up Zack Wheeler’s dominant showing from Monday.
Abel’s inexperience, paired with a bullpen that could get stretched early, puts Philly in a vulnerable position, especially if their bats don’t wake up fast.
Prediction & Betting Picks
With Pivetta locked in and Abel entering off a long layoff, San Diego has the edge in both starting pitching and situational form. Philly may battle, but this spot sets up better for the visitors.
Score Prediction: Padres 5, Phillies 3
Pick: San Diego -1.5 (+140)
Total: Under 9.0 (-120)
Keep an eye on the early innings if Pivetta settles in, expect the Padres to control this one from start to finish.
- MLB Odds source: MyBookie Sportsbook
- Get real-time live scores & latest betting odds here!
