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LA Dodgers (78-59) at Pittsburgh (61-77)
- When: Sep 2 2025, 6:40 PM
- Where: PNC Park, Pittsburgh
- Where to watch: SportsNet PT
Dodgers vs. Pirates – Game Betting Preview & Prediction
Moneyline: LA Dodgers -182
Spread: LA Dodgers -1.5 (-105)
Total: 8.5
Los Angeles Dodgers Betting Preview
The Dodgers open a three-game road series against the Pirates with veteran ace Clayton Kershaw taking the mound. MyBookie Oddsmakers list Los Angeles as the moneyline favorite at -182, with the total set at 8.5 runs.
Kershaw has rediscovered his form after offseason procedures, entering with a 9-2 record and a 3.06 ERA across 17 starts. August has been especially strong, where the 37-year-old has gone 5-0 with a 1.88 ERA, reminding bettors why he remains one of the most reliable arms in the league.
The Dodgers are also carrying momentum after avoiding a sweep with a dramatic 5-4 win over Arizona, capped by a Will Smith pinch-hit walk-off homer. Kershaw’s career against Pittsburgh is steady at 4-3 with a 3.00 ERA in 13 starts, and while his pitch counts have been managed, his efficiency has kept Los Angeles in control more often than not. With an extra day of rest before this start, the Dodgers look well-positioned to handle business in the opener.
Pittsburgh Pirates Betting Preview
Pittsburgh has leaned into a youth movement, calling on prospects like Bubba Chandler while recently debuting Cam Devanney. The club has been playing inspired baseball, winning nine of its last 13, and looks to continue that energy behind right-hander Carmen Mlodzinski.
Mlodzinski (3-7, 3.86 ERA) has worked in both starting and relief roles, and this will be just his third start since mid-August. He held the Cardinals to one run across three innings in his last outing, helping Pittsburgh secure a narrow 2-1 victory. Against the Dodgers, he’s logged three relief appearances without allowing an earned run, though this will be his first career start facing Los Angeles.
Even after a 5-2 loss to Boston on Sunday, the Pirates have been far more competitive of late, giving bettors reason to consider them as a live underdog, especially with their bullpen having held up well during this recent surge.
MLB Betting Outlook & Prediction
This matchup sets up as a contrast of proven postseason-tested dominance versus youthful energy. Kershaw’s resurgence and the Dodgers’ stacked lineup give Los Angeles the clear edge, but Pittsburgh’s recent stretch and ability to grind out games shouldn’t be ignored.
Score Prediction: Dodgers 5, Pirates 3
Pick: LA Dodgers -1.5 (-105)
Total: Under 8.5 (-115)
- MLB Odds source: MyBookie Sportsbook
- Get real-time live scores & latest betting odds here!
