Detroit (0-0) at LA Dodgers (2-0)
- When: Mar 27 2025, 7:10 PM
- Where: Dodger Stadium, Los Angeles
- Where to watch: ESPN
MLB Picks & Predictions: Tigers vs Dodgers
Los Angeles Dodgers: Opening Day Rings, Star Power, and High Expectations
The defending World Series champs kick off their home schedule with fanfare and firepower as they host the Detroit Tigers Thursday night. After sweeping the Cubs in their Japan Series opener, the Dodgers are back in Los Angeles and ready for their official ring ceremony – a celebration that should have Chavez Ravine buzzing.
Los Angeles sends two-time Cy Young winner Blake Snell to the mound for his Dodgers debut. Snell, who posted a 3.12 ERA across 20 starts for the Giants in 2024, will be under the spotlight early as he duels with the reigning AL Cy Young winner across the diamond.
Despite the return from overseas, the Dodgers aren’t quite at full throttle. Mookie Betts continues recovering from a stomach virus, though Freddie Freeman (rib issue) is good to go. Shohei Ohtani, fresh off offseason elbow surgery, isn’t pitching yet but did go deep in Tokyo – and he remains a nightmare for opposing pitchers with the bat alone.
The Dodgers’ depth, experience, and unmatched offensive ceiling make them dangerous even if they’re still shaking off travel rust. Expect a focused effort with the ring ceremony acting as fuel.
Detroit Tigers: Underdogs with a Chip and a Cy Young Ace
The Tigers head into Opening Day with something to prove – and they’ve got the perfect man to lead the charge in Tarik Skubal. The reigning AL Cy Young winner is looking for redemption after a disappointing ALDS exit last year where he was tagged for five runs in a deciding Game 5. In 2024, Skubal dominated with an 18-4 record and 2.39 ERA. He held the Dodgers to just two runs in six innings last season, and he’s clearly relishing the chance to spoil the champs’ homecoming.
However, Detroit enters with several injury concerns, particularly in center field where Parker Meadows, Matt Vierling, and Wenceel Perez are all sidelined. Rotation depth is already being tested too, with Alex Cobb beginning the year on the IL.
Still, the Tigers are dangerous. Riley Greene (24 HRs) and Kerry Carpenter (.932 OPS) bring legitimate pop from the corners, and if the Tigers can capitalize early, they could make this opener a grind for LA.
Gambling Outlook & Prediction
This is a premier pitcher’s duel with Snell vs. Skubal, and the Total set at just 6.5 reflects that. LA has the better depth and momentum, but don’t overlook the motivational edge for Skubal and the Tigers – especially with the Dodgers still adjusting post-Japan.
Best Bet:
Under 6.5 – Two Cy Young arms, early-season timing, and potential lineup rust say this will be a low-scoring affair.
Prediction:
Dodgers 3, Tigers 2 – Expect Snell and LA’s bullpen to narrowly outduel Skubal in a tight Opening Day pitcher’s clinic.
Lean: Dodgers ML (-177) but tread cautiously with the low total and elite opposing starter.
- MLB Odds source: MYBookie Sportsbook
