Atlanta Braves vs San Diego Padres Under 7 (-120)
(BetMGM)
Outcome
Loss
Analysis
National League Total of the Month. My selection is on the 'under' between Atlanta and San Diego at 4:10 pm ET on Thursday.
This season opener at Petco Park features a strong pitching matchup, setting the stage for a low-scoring affair. Atlanta sends out veteran left-hander Chris Sale, who is coming off a resurgent Cy Young-winning season in 2024. Sale posted a stellar 2.09 FIP and 1.01 WHIP last year and carried that form into the spring, recording a 2.79 ERA and 0.88 WHIP over 19 1/3 innings. His track record against current Padres hitters is solid, as they have managed just a .257 average and .753 OPS against him.
San Diego counters with Michael King, who also had a breakout 2024 campaign, finishing seventh in N.L. Cy Young voting. King posted a 3.33 FIP and 1.19 WHIP last season and, while not as sharp as Sale this spring, still put up a respectable 3.95 ERA and 1.02 WHIP. His limited exposure to Atlanta's lineup has worked in his favor, with Braves hitters managing just a .231 average and .490 OPS against him.
Adding to the appeal of the 'under' is the setting—Petco Park remains one of the most pitcher-friendly venues in baseball. With mild temperatures in the mid-60s and a breeze blowing in from left field, conditions should further suppress offense.
Expect a tight, low-scoring battle to open the season.
Take the 'under.' Projected score: Braves 3, Padres 2.