Blue Jays vs. Reds Prediction and Odds for Friday, Aug. 18 (Fade These Starters)

The Reds turn to journeyman pitcher Brett Kennedy to start today’s game as they continue to wait for Nick Lodolo to complete his rehab assignment. 

That might shy some Cincinnati fans away from betting on this game, but there’s still value to be had, especially against Jose Berrios, who has been struggling on the mound for Toronto since the All-Star Break.

Keep reading to find out my best bet for today’s Blue Jays vs. Reds game. 

This might seem like a huge mismatch in favor of Toronto on paper due to Berrios’s season-long stats, but the Reds shouldn’t be counted out. 

Berrios has allowed 44 baserunners in 27 innings since the All-Star Break, including 10 walks and 12 earned runs – with seven of those earned runs coming across his past 10 innings.

The Reds are in the top-10 in MLB in walks per game (3.42) and their patience could pay off against Berrios today. 

On the other hand, it’s hard to trust Kennedy in this spot. The 29-year-old right-hander last pitched at the MLB level in 2018 before this season, and he hasn’t performed well in two appearances this year with a 5.40 ERA across seven innings. 

Kennedy threw 86 pitches in a start earlier this season, so there’s a chance he’s relatively limited – forcing the Reds to dip into their bullpen early. 

Bet on both of these starters to face their fair share of struggles today, with both helping to contribute to the Over 5.5 Runs in the First 5 Innings. 

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Pick: First 5 Innings Over 5.5 Runs (+100)

Game odds refresh periodically and are subject to change.

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