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Detroit (64-47) at Philadelphia (62-47)
- When: Aug 2 2025, 4:05 PM
- Where: Citizens Bank Park, Philadelphia
- Where to watch: FDSDET
Tigers vs. Phillies – Game Betting Preview & Prediction
Moneyline: Detroit -115
Spread: Detroit -1.5 (+155)
Total: 6.5
Detroit Tigers Betting Preview
Despite being slight road underdogs, the Tigers enter Saturday’s matchup with a clear X-factor: Tarik Skubal. The reigning AL Cy Young winner is making a strong case to repeat, boasting a league-best 2.09 ERA and an elite 11.51 K/9 rate. He’s been dominant in July, striking out 18 batters and allowing just one run in his last two starts.
Detroit’s bullpen, however, remains a liability. That was exposed Friday when four relievers surrendered four runs, blowing a 3-0 lead in a 5-4 loss to the Phillies. To stay competitive today, the Tigers will need Skubal to go deep into the game.
Historically, Skubal has shut down the Phillies in limited action, allowing just three hits across seven shutout innings in his lone appearance. But Detroit’s offense hasn’t fared well against right-handed pitching, making run support a potential issue against a red-hot Zack Wheeler.
Philadelphia Phillies Betting Preview
Zack Wheeler continues to make a convincing Cy Young case of his own. The veteran right-hander leads the NL in strikeouts (172) and WHIP (0.890), while sporting a 2.56 ERA. Wheeler’s ability to mix six pitches effectively keeps opposing hitters off balance, something Detroit’s lineup has struggled with against power righties.
Philadelphia made headlines this week by acquiring closer Jhoan Duran, who immediately flashed dominance with a four-pitch ninth-inning save Friday. Combined with Harrison Bader’s impactful debut, the Phillies are making the kind of moves that signal a deep playoff push.
The Phillies have now won four of their last five and will be confident with Wheeler on the mound, especially given his past success against Detroit (2.45 ERA across two starts). Their offense may not need to do much if Wheeler is on his game and the bullpen holds up.
MLB Betting Prediction
This has the makings of a classic pitcher’s duel. With Skubal and Wheeler both in top form, scoring chances will be limited. The outcome may hinge on which team’s bullpen can hold up late. Lean toward Philadelphia in a tight, low-scoring battle. Take the Phillies on the moneyline and the under 6.5 as the smart play.
Score Prediction: Phillies 3, Tigers 2
Pick: Philadelphia (-102)
Total: Under 6.5 (-110)
- MLB Odds source: MyBookie Sportsbook
- Get real-time live scores & latest betting odds here!
