LA Dodgers (8-0) at Philadelphia (4-1)
- When: Apr 4 2025, 6:45 PM
- Where: Citizens Bank Park, Philadelphia
- Where to watch: Apple TV+
Game Preview
The Los Angeles Dodgers enter Friday’s matchup with the Philadelphia Phillies looking every bit like the powerhouse they were projected to be — and the betting market agrees, with LA opening as a -143 moneyline favorite and the total set at 8.0 runs.
Dodgers Outlook:
The reigning World Series champions are off to a blistering 8-0 start and are rolling into this three-game series with momentum after sweeping both the Tigers and Braves. Shohei Ohtani has been red-hot at the plate, batting .333 with a 1.126 OPS and leading the majors in runs scored. His walk-off homer on Wednesday served as another reminder that this Dodgers squad can strike at any moment.
Yoshinobu Yamamoto takes the mound for Los Angeles and has looked sharp in his first two starts, striking out 10 in his last outing. The Japanese ace carries a 2.70 ERA into this one and should be able to neutralize a Phillies lineup that hasn’t faced him yet. If Yamamoto can continue to dominate with his elite strikeout stuff, the Dodgers’ moneyline position looks even stronger.
Phillies Outlook:
Philadelphia is 5-1 to open the season and enters on a high note after sweeping the Rockies at home. Kyle Schwarber and J.T. Realmuto have led the offensive charge, while new acquisition Jesús Luzardo impressed in his debut with 11 strikeouts across five innings.
Luzardo faces a tall task against a Dodgers lineup that has been putting up crooked numbers on a nightly basis. He’s yet to beat LA in his career (0-0, 3.48 ERA) and will need to be sharp to keep pace. While Philly’s bats are capable, they’ll need early production — and ideally a lead — to have a shot against the Dodgers’ strong bullpen.
Betting Prediction:
This one has the feel of a tight battle early, but the Dodgers’ depth and star power give them the edge over nine innings. Yamamoto has the strikeout upside to suppress a streaky Phillies offense, while LA’s red-hot lineup should eventually get to Luzardo.
Final Score Prediction:
Best Bet:
Pick: Dodgers -143
Over/Under Lean: Under 8.0 (lean under due to starting pitching matchup)
Prop Bet Picks:
Shohei Ohtani Over 0.5 Runs Scored
Yamamoto Over 6.5 Strikeouts
Kyle Schwarber to Hit a Home Run (sprinkle for value)
The Dodgers look primed to extend their perfect start and make it 9-0 on the season behind another strong outing from Yamamoto and timely hitting from their loaded lineup.
- MLB Odds source: MYBookie Sportsbook
