Boston (1-4) at Baltimore (3-2)
- When: Apr 2 2025, 6:35 PM
- Where: Oriole Park at Camden Yards, Baltimore
- Where to watch: NESN
Game Preview
The Boston Red Sox head into Wednesday night as slight -128 moneyline favorites with the total set at 7.5, as they look to bounce back from a loss to the Baltimore Orioles in the second game of this early-season AL East clash.
Orioles Outlook:
Baltimore is hoping to string together back-to-back wins for the first time this season after an impressive 8-5 victory in their home opener on Monday. So far, the O’s have alternated wins and losses, but they looked sharp with a 15-hit performance that didn’t even require the long ball. Cedric Mullins drove in four runs, helping Baltimore manufacture offense through small ball and speed.
With power hitters yet to fully catch fire, Baltimore manager Brandon Hyde remains confident in the lineup’s pop. The Orioles have demonstrated versatility and aggression on the basepaths, something that could prove advantageous against a Boston team still ironing out its early-season kinks.
Baltimore will turn to right-hander Zach Eflin, who tossed six strong innings in his first start, giving up just two hits and two earned runs. Eflin has a solid 3-0 record in six career starts versus Boston, though his 5.10 ERA shows he’s had to navigate some trouble. Still, he was solid in both outings against the Sox last season, including a win at Camden Yards after being dealt to Baltimore.
Red Sox Report:
Boston’s lineup is still finding its rhythm, and despite sprinkling in wins, inconsistency remains an issue. The Red Sox continue to shuffle their lineup to give players early reps, but Rafael Devers has yet to record a hit this season, starting the year 0-for-19 with 15 strikeouts.
Rob Refsnyder and Romy Gonzalez offered some life at the plate Monday, each collecting two hits, but Boston couldn’t keep pace with Baltimore’s offense. Designated hitter Devers will need to break out of his slump soon if the Red Sox are to match the firepower of division rivals.
Southpaw Garrett Crochet will get the ball for Boston. In his season debut, he allowed two runs across five innings against Texas. He’s performed well in limited action against Baltimore, holding a 2.25 ERA over eight innings pitched (three appearances, one start). Crochet just inked a major six-year extension and will look to reward that investment immediately.
Betting Prediction:
This looks like a classic toss-up between two teams still settling into their rhythms. The Orioles have shown better consistency at the plate and have a favorable pitching matchup, with Eflin’s past success against Boston offering a bit more stability.
Prediction: Orioles 5, Red Sox 4
Baltimore’s offense finds enough to edge this one out, while their bullpen holds off a late Boston rally. Back the Orioles on the moneyline at +107 for a solid value play and consider the over 7.5, as both pitchers are capable but neither is bulletproof.
- MLB Odds source: MYBookie Sportsbook
