Philadelphia Phillies vs. Houston Astros Prediction & Betting Picks (June 24, 2025)

The Phillies open a three-game set in Houston after whooping the Mets 7–1 on Sunday (if you can’t tell, I’m a Phillies fan). They have had a pretty bad time this month, and they have to cobble together a few wins to stay in the mix in the NL East. The Astros took two of three from Seattle and have been solid at home in their last few series.

Tuesday’s matchup has two southpaws who can work late into games. Ranger Suárez has been one of the most reliable starters in the National League, while Framber Valdez is coming off good back-to-back outings after a little early season inconsistency. There are power hitters in both lineups, and this one could go in either direction; it all depends on which starter gets through the middle innings without giving up innings.

Keep scrolling for a complete breakdown of this one! We’ve got pitching and matchup stats, betting odds, and our picks for the best bets!

Game Overview

• Matchup: Philadelphia Phillies (47-31) vs. Houston Astros (45-33)
• Date & Time: Tuesday, June 24 at 8:10 pm ET 
• Location: Daikin Park, Houston (formerly Minute Maid Park)
• How To Watch: SCHN, NBCS-PH
• Weather Forecast: High around 85 °F at first pitch

Starting Pitchers

We’ve got two lefties starting for the Phillies and the Astros. Fun fact: Framber Valdez does most other things with his right hand, including batting. But he pitches with his left! Look below for the starter stats:

Recent Form & Trends

How have these two teams been playing as of late? We’ve got that info for you!

Framber Valdez

• Valdez is on an 8‑start win streak; the Astros have won every game he’s started during that run
• Last outing (June 18 vs. Athletics): 6 IP, 2 R, big performance in an 11‑4 win

Astros Offense

• Scored 8 runs on June 22 vs. the Angels
• Houston is 9‑3 SU in its last 12 games total 

Head-to-head & Public Backing

• The Phillies and Astros have split their last 20 matchups; both are 10–10 
• Public betting looks pretty even; it’s about 50/50 as of now
• Algorithmic models are favoring the Astros with a ~53% win probability

Current Betting Odds

DraftKings has posted the following odds and lines if you are betting on this one:

Our Best Bets & Confidence Levels

Time for our three best bets, why we like them, and how confident we are feeling about the picks! We also have two decent props that are worth taking a look at.

Bottom of the 9th & Final Score Call

Framber Valdez has allowed one run or fewer in three of his last four starts and hasn’t given up a home run since May. He’s gone at least seven innings in four of his last five and hasn’t had a walk-heavy outing in weeks. That kind of stability has kept Houston in control at home and on the road.

The Phillies scored seven on Sunday, but they were held to three runs or fewer in five of their last eight games. Schwarber’s power gives them a chance, but the lineup hasn’t done a lot against left-handed starters in June. Suárez can keep this close, but it’s really hard to trust the offense in a low-scoring matchup like this!

Best Bets Recap

• Astros ML (★★★★☆)
• Under 8.5 Runs (★★★☆☆)
• Schwarber HR Prop (★★★☆☆)

Final Score Prediction: Astros 4, Phillies 2

Valdez goes seven innings, Houston gets a couple of hits off Suárez in the middle innings, and adds one late off the bullpen. The Phillies threaten once, maybe twice, but they don’t push enough runs across to win it!

Inter Miami CF vs. Palmeiras Prediction & Betting Preview (June 23, 2025)

Inter Miami and Palmeiras have both secured their knockout spots, but Monday’s result? It will decide who finishes at the tippy top of Group A. Palmeiras leads the group with six points from two game wins. Inter Miami is number four after a 2–1 win over Porto, where Lionel Messi got the win from a free kick, but defensive lapses almost gave the game away.

Placement isn’t the only thing on the line with this game; Messi goes into the match with nine goals in Club World Cup history, which is only one behind Cristiano Ronaldo’s all-time mark!

Miami will be sans Ian Fray at the back, and they’ve let 11 into the net in their last 12 matches. Palmeiras haven’t been beaten yet in this tournament and haven’t been behind in either of their two games.

Who will be victorious? And will Messi tie up the goat’s Club World Cup goal record? Keep scrolling to see all of the details; we’ve got stats, betting odds and lines, and our choices for the best bets!

Match Details

• Matchup: Inter Miami CF vs. Palmeiras
• Date & Time: Monday, June 23, at 9:00 pm ET
• Venue: Hard Rock Stadium, Miami
• How to Watch: In the U.S., you can catch it on DAZN and TBS. Fans in the U.K. can stream it on Channel 5; Canadians, viewers in Australia, and Japan can also watch for free on DAZN

Betting Odds & Lines

Investing some scratch in this match? Here are the latest betting odds and line via DraftKings:

What’s at Stake

What are they playing for? A lot, actually!

Palmeiras have won both of their matches and sit at the top of the group with six points. Inter Miami has four after a win and a draw. If Miami wins this match? They’ll be in first place. If it ends in a draw or a loss, Palmeiras will take the group.

First place comes with a way bigger payout and a different quarterfinal matchup. It’s not really make-or-break for either team, but it absolutely affects the bracket and how much money they take home from the tournament.

And then there’s the Messi factor. The beloved footballer has nine career goals in the Club World Cup. If he scores once? He’s dead even with Ronaldo’s record. And if he scores twice, he passes him. That possibility will definitely affect how Miami manages the final third if they’re down a goal or pushing late.

It’s also the only group match between a South American champion and a roster that’s been built around Messi. The result won’t change how the leagues are seen, but both clubs will want to show that they belong in this bracket!

Team Form & Matchup Analysis

Inter Miami haven’t been up against a team in this group who defends with the kind of discipline that Palmeiras has. If they get stuck in their own half for long periods? They’ll be exposed.

Our Best Bets

Ok, now that we’ve gotten all of the technical soccer (or footie, for the Brits) out of the way, it’s time for our best bets! Here are the three that we think are worth your while:

X‑Factors to Watch

Messi is one goal shy of matching Ronaldo’s all-time Club World Cup total! If Inter Miami gets a set piece just outside the box, or even a soft foul near the corner of the area, everything will stand still. It’ll be a historic moment for Messi and everyone rooting for him.

This tournament now uses head-to-head results before goal difference, so whoever wins this game takes the group. If it’s a draw, Palmeiras still finishes top on goal differential unless something crazy happens in the Porto–Al Ahly match.

Hard Rock Stadium will be packed with Miami fans, and the noise will be on another level if Messi picks up the ball in midfield and starts driving at defenders. Palmeiras have played in the Copa Libertadores finals, but the tempo changes really fast when the crowd is reacting to every single Messi step-over and pass!

Final Prediction: Messi Magic or Brazilian Brilliance?

Palmeiras have looked like the more stable team on both sides of the ball. Why? Because they shut down passing lanes early and don’t give up any space around the penalty area. Inter Miami still has Messi, but without Fray? Their back line looks easier to pull apart, and they have trouble generating anything through the middle; most of their chances come from set pieces or Messi isolating a defender near the edge of the box.

Palmeiras don’t rush chances; they hold onto the ball, press in short bursts, and wait for their opponents to make mistakes. If they score, it’s likely to be in the second half, once Inter Miami’s midfield starts dragging and the back line gets pulled out of position.

Top Betting Picks

• Under 2.5 Total Goals (High Confidence)
• Palmeiras Moneyline or Draw No Bet (Medium Confidence)
• Both Teams to Score: Yes (Medium Confidence)

Final Score Prediction: Palmeiras 1 – 0 Inter Miami

Palmeiras plays on its own terms. They don’t rush forward, but when an opening comes? They are deliberate and composed. Inter Miami will need a big moment from Messi, whether that’s a free kick or a quick slip pass that catches the back line out. 1–0 feels like the most realistic outcome!

All picks are for entertainment purposes only. Please bet responsibly and within your means.

New York Yankees vs. Cincinnati Reds Prediction (June 23, 2025)

The Yankees are on their way to Cincinnati after losing two of three to Baltimore and dropping seven of their last 10 games.

On the pitching front, NY’s Allan Winans is making his MLB debut against Cincy’s Nick Lodolo, who’s held opponents to two earned runs or fewer in five of his last six starts, and that’s mainly on the back of a high-spin slider and better fastball control.

Cincinnati’s offense has cooled off; they’ve had zero games with more than four runs since June 16, their on-base rate has dropped almost 20% from the beginning of this month, and they’ve grounded into 10 double plays in their last five games.

The Yankees are still counting on Aaron Judge and Juan Soto, both of whom have picked up extra-base hits in three of the last five, but there isn’t much coming from the bottom third of the lineup.

At Great American Ball Park, homers happen, and they happen a lot. And under hot and humid skies? It could pull the rug right out from under a rookie. If Winans or Lodolo lose the strike zone or give up a crooked inning, don’t be shocked if they’re yanked before the fifth inning.

Keep scrolling to see a preview of this matchup, the latest betting odds, and our three handpicked best bets!

Game Snapshot

• Matchup: New York Yankees vs. Cincinnati Reds
• Date & Time: Monday, June 23, at 7:10 pm ET
• Location: Great American Ball Park, Cincinnati, OH
• Broadcast TV & Streaming: FDSN Ohio (FanDuel Sports Network), YES Network, Fubo
• Weather Forecast: Clear skies, with temps around 92°F

Starting Pitchers

We’ve got an MLB newbie on the mound for NY, and it’s more business as usual for the Reds. Here are the starting pitchers for the game:

• Advantage: Experience obviously wins here; the edge goes to the Reds’ Lodolo over a rookie arm for the Yankees.

Team Form & Trends

How have NY and Cincinnati been playing lately? We have the stats and more below!

• The Yankees are 44–32 and have covered the spread in roughly 62% of games as the favorite. They’ve held up really well against teams that they’re expected to beat.
• The Reds sit at 39–38 with a 20–20 road ATS record. At home, about 42% of their games have gone over the total, and that’s lower than you’d expect for such a hitter-friendly park.
• Public betting is really lopsided; all of the tracked volume is backing the Yankees on the spread, and that kind of one-sided action doesn’t happen every day!

Betting Odds & Lines

Curious about how the odds and lines look? According to FanDuel, here are the latest:

Our Best Bets

There are three angles that we think are the smartest plays for this interleague matchup; keep reading for our best bets and how confident we are in them.

Yankees vs. Reds: What to Expect

Final Score Prediction: Yankees 6 – Reds 4

Nick Lodolo has the stronger track record heading in, but he’ll be pitching to a Yankees lineup that’s built to do work against lefties. Judge, Stanton, and Torres all hit for power from the right side, and they’ll have lots of decent chances at Great American Ball Park.

NY rookie Allan Winans gets his start in a really hitter-friendly environment, and that adds some risk to backing the Yankees outright. If he keeps the ball down and avoids long counts? He will give his team a chance, but it’s a tough place to pitch for anyone, let alone someone who has no big-league experience.

Both teams will press for early runs; it’s gonna be a scorcher, and the relievers could be called in to do some work. Lodolo’s ability to pitch into late innings will matter more than it usually does, and if the Yankees get traffic early, Cincinnati could be playing catch-up before the middle innings.

The Yankees have more lineup depth and stronger splits against left-handed pitching, and that could give them an advantage as soon as Lodolo starts facing the middle of the order. Cincinnati’s bullpen has been giving up runs in the sixth and seventh innings on the reg, and if that trend holds? It’s hard to imagine them matching New York’s scoring output over nine innings.

Betting Recap

• Yankees –1.5 (Medium–High confidence)
• Over 9.5 runs (Medium)
• Yankees ML (Medium)

If you’re putting some money on this one, think about betting on the Yankees to cover and the Over, but before you do, make sure the lineups confirm Judge and Soto are playing!

FYI: Always check for any late-breaking bullpen news/updates or lineup changes before you lock in your bets.

The Science of Slot Volatility: Choosing Games That Match Your Style

Slot players don’t usually think about volatility until they’ve burned through their bankroll and start wondering what the heck went wrong. They pick the games that look exciting and fun, chase bonuses that promise big payouts, and assume that every slot plays more or less the same. But volatility, which is how a game handles all wins and losses, is one of the biggest reasons your money lasts one or two hours in a session and five minutes the next time you play!

Volatility isn’t super complicated. It’s just the pattern that is built into every slot, and it decides how risky the game feels and how those risks pay off (or don’t). Some slots trickle out small wins on a regular basis. Others hold out for longer stretches and then drop a huge payout. The mistake players make? Most of them never figure out what type of game they’re spinning on until it’s too late.

Our guide is gonna tell you all you need to know about the science of volatility; what it means, how to tell what level you’re playing at, what it does to your bankroll, and why it’s the first thing you should check before you hit spin! If you’re a casual player or someone who actually is into tracking your outcomes, understanding volatility will alter your approach to reels and how long you can stay in the game.

Understanding Slot Volatility

All slot games run on a set of numbers that decide how regularly they pay out, and, of course, how big the payouts are. That’s volatility! It’s the math part of how the game handles risk.

Low-volatility slots give you a lot of small wins. High-volatility slots hold out longer, but when they finally hit, woo boy, so they hit. The difference changes everything, like how long your bankroll survives, how many dead spins you’ll have to sit through, and how much wiggle room you have to take risks.

You don’t have to memorize payout tables to get the point. If you’re playing a game that always drains your balance and there is no payoff in sight, there’s a good chance you picked a slot with high volatility without realizing it. Let’s find out what each volatility level means for your slot play!

Types of Volatility

Some slots want you in and out. Others are made for long-haul sessions. And a few are just brutal unless you’ve got the patience and the bankroll to weather the dry spells.

What separates the three major categories of slot volatility? Look below to find out!

Once you grasp the concept of volatility, the next thing is how it shows up in slots. You don’t have to memorize payout tables or trust vague descriptions from game providers. If you know what to look for, volatility is easy to spot! Here’s how different volatility levels look in real slot games:

Starburst – Low Volatility

Blood Suckers – Low Volatility (but higher potential than it looks)

Gonzo’s Quest – Medium Volatility

Book of Dead – High Volatility

Money Train 2 – High Volatility (Extremely)

How Volatility Affects Your Gameplay

Volatility doesn’t only influence how a slot pays. It changes how you approach the game, how long your balance survives, and how much frustration or satisfaction you walk away with. Two players could bet the exact same amount on two different slots, and one might get 40 minutes of gameplay while the other burns through their balance in 10 minutes.

Next up is how volatility hits different areas of your playing experience: Bankroll, mindset, and how much time you get on the reels.

Volatility vs RTP: What’s the Difference?

A lot of players treat volatility and RTP as if they mean the same thing. They don’t. Both numbers help describe how a slot performs, but they’re answering different questions.

RTP (Return to Player) is the long-term average a slot returns to players, expressed as a percentage of total wagers. Volatility describes how unpredictable the short-term results are, like how frequently a game hits and how much it pays when it does.

You need both pieces to understand how a slot will behave over time. And more importantly, how it treats your bankroll from one session to the next.

RTP Explained

Every slot has a theoretical return rate. It’s usually somewhere between 94% and 98%. That number is based on millions of spins and represents the percentage of money returned to players across all gameplay, not any individual session.

If a slot advertises a 96% RTP, it means that for every $100 wagered across all users, the game returns an average of $96. But—and this is where people get confused—that doesn’t mean you will get $96 back. You could walk away with $2, or $200, or nothing at all. RTP takes the long view. It shows the design, not the outcomes.

It’s a useful number for comparing games, but it doesn’t tell you how rough the ride might be.

How RTP and Volatility Work Together

RTP is the total you’re playing toward, and volatility is the route the game takes to get there. Two games could have identical RTPs, but one could be full of steady, repetitive wins while the other stays cold for a hundred spins and then drops a bonus worth 500× your stake.

Take two games with 96% RTP. In one, you might hit 10 small wins across 20 spins. In the other, you get nothing for 40 spins, then one big payout that covers everything. Both are delivering the same theoretical return, but the way they do it is different.

This is why players who pick games based solely on RTP end up being confused. They think they’re getting something stable, when in reality, volatility is doing most of the work that affects their experience.

Real-Life Examples With Similar RTP, Different Volatility

Say you’re looking at two games that both advertise a 96% RTP:

• Blood Suckers (Low Volatility): This slot hands out regular low-to-mid payouts, triggering bonus rounds more easily than most titles. You stay active, and your balance tends to last longer, even if the top payouts are modest.
• Bonanza (High Volatility): This Megaways slot can go cold for long time periods. Bonus features don’t trigger quickly, and base game payouts are thin. But when things line up?! It can hit for thousands of times your stake.

Both offer the same theoretical return. But one gives you some flexibility. The other tests your limits before it offers you a shot at something huge.

Understanding that difference means you won’t be surprised when a game with a “high RTP” still empties your balance in 12 minutes.

Matching Your Slot Style to Volatility

You don’t have to give yourself a slot label, but it is helpful to recognize your usual gaming habits and preferences. There are three profiles that cover most players, and each one lines up with a specific volatility range!

The Low-Risk Grinder

You play for longevity. You’d rather get a series of small wins and keep spinning than go all-in for one giant score. Maybe you’re running a smaller bankroll. Maybe you just prefer stability over swings. Either way, your best bet is low-volatility slots that reward frequent play without punishing your balance too hard.

Grinders want the game to give something back every few spins, even if the amounts aren’t big.

The Balanced Player

You can handle a few cold spells if the game gives you a reason to keep going. You’re okay with a little risk, especially if the slot still offers decent activity between bonus features. You’re not trying to win big or lose slow; you just want something that doesn’t feel boring or punishing.

Medium-volatility games are built for you! They won’t always pay well, but they’ll keep you engaged, and the wins, when they land, feel worth it.

The High-Roller Dreamer

You’re not afraid of long dead patches if there’s real potential on the other side. If you’ve got the bankroll to back it up or you just like swinging for the fences, you’re here to hit something big, even if it takes a long time.

You don’t mind watching your balance drop. You’re focused on the one spin that changes the session. That mindset puts you squarely in high-volatility territory.

Just be honest about what you can handle! Dreaming big is one thing. Watching your session collapse in 20 minutes because you picked a game that doesn’t match your limits is something else entirely.

Slot Suggestions Based on Style

Finding the right game means more than just checking the volatility tags! You have to seek out titles that were designed to support your approach.

How to Check a Slot’s Volatility Before You Play

Volatility isn’t always listed front and center, but there are still ways to figure out what kind of payout behavior a slot uses. You don’t have to spin for an hour to figure it out if you know where to look!

Best Practices for Managing Your Bankroll Based on Volatility

The way a slot pays should influence how you manage your money. If you’re betting the same way on every game regardless of volatility, you’re increasing your risk without realizing it.

Budgeting Tips for Each Volatility Level

• Low Volatility: Small budgets go further here. Use modest bets for longer sessions.
• Medium Volatility: Use a balanced approach. You’ll need enough in reserve to handle short cold runs.
• High Volatility: Bring a larger bankroll or walk away early. These games don’t pay on schedule, and short sessions rarely pan out.

Betting Strategy Suggestions

• Flat Betting: Same stake every spin. Simple and effective, and it helps avoid overreacting to streaks.
• Progressive Bets: Increase only after wins, and only if you’ve built up an extra cushion. Never use this to recover losses.

Avoiding Emotional Tilt

• Decide your stop points before you even open the game.
• Don’t double your stake just because you’re frustrated.
• If the session starts to feel like a fight, stop playing!

Our Top Slot Recommendations by Volatility

Below you’ll find slots grouped by volatility tier, their RTP, potential payout, and why they match each player profile!

Final Thoughts: Make Your Playtime Count

You don’t have to overanalyze every slot before you spin, but if you ignore volatility altogether? There’ll be quicker losses and not the fun kind of surprises. Once you know how win frequency and payout size work together, it’s so much easier to pick the games that actually fit with the way you play!

Volatility gives you a way to better predict the ride. Are you here to stay in the game longer? Or are you going for a top-heavy payout, knowing you might get nothing back? There’s no wrong answer, but different approaches call for different kinds of slots.

Use demo play when you’re not sure! See how long it takes to hit a bonus, how quickly the balance moves, and if the payouts are happening regularly (or at all) for what you’re trying to accomplish. You’ll know pretty quickly if a game works for you or not.

Here’s a quick recap of how volatility affects your slot experience:

• Volatility controls how wins are spread out, not just how much you can win.
• Low-volatility slots are much better for longer sessions and smaller bankrolls.
• High-volatility games take more patience and a higher budget to ride out the dry spells.
• RTP shows long-term average return; volatility explains how those returns arrive.
• Always check the volatility through info screens, demo mode, or slot review sites.
• Match your session goals to the game’s structure so that you’re not setting yourself up for disappointment.

There’s no universal “best” volatility level. The right choice isn’t based on what pays out the most; it’s based on how you like to play, how much risk you’re willing to take, and how long you want your balance to last!

Remember to try out the demo versions before you play with real money! And you can check out the top online casinos to play the most popular games before heading to Vegas.

USA vs. Haiti Prediction — Gold Cup Showdown (June 22, 2025)

The USA is up against Haiti in the final Group D match in the Gold Cup on Sunday. The Americans are 2–0 and can nab the top spot outright with a win. As for Haiti? They only have one point, are in third place, and need a win, plus Saudi Arabia has to lose to Panama in order for them to move on.

During the two matches, the U.S. has outshot opponents 26–7 and allowed only one goal. They’ve been direct and controlled possession without overextending themselves. Haiti’s had only four shots on target in the group and hasn’t scored since their opening game. They’ve also committed the second-most fouls in the tournament so far, which has killed any kind of rhythm in the midfield.

If the U.S. converts in the first half and keeps control through midfield? Haiti won’t have a way back into the match. They haven’t shown they can sustain attacks or pressure the back line without space to run. This is setting up as another low-scoring but one-sided result.

Look below for a preview of the game, betting odds, our best bets, and how confident we feel about our picks!

Match Details

• Matchup: USA vs. Haiti
• Date & Time: Sunday, June 22 at 7:00 pm ET (6:00 pm CT; 4:00 pm PT)
• Location: AT&T Stadium, Arlington, Texas
• Broadcast: FS1 (ENG), TUDN/ViX (ESP)
• Tournament Stage: Final Group D match in the 2025 Concacaf Gold Cup

What’s on the Line

The U.S. is looking to close out group play with three wins from three, and they haven’t conceded yet. A win locks them into first place, and they’ll get a more favorable draw going into the quarterfinals.

Haiti still has a chance to advance, but it’s a really slim chance. They need three points against the U.S. and a Panama win over Saudi Arabia to move up. Anything less? And they’re dunzo.

Stats & Recent Form

The U.S. has taken care of business with two wins, no goals conceded, and a comfy spot at the top of Group D. Haiti is still after its first win and hasn’t done enough in the final third to pressure their stronger opponents.

USA

• Beat Trinidad & Tobago 5–0, then followed with a 1–0 result over Saudi Arabia
• 13-match unbeaten streak in Gold Cup play
• Yet to allow a single goal in this tourney
• Cardoso and Tessmann have controlled midfield possession and limited opposing build-ups

Haiti

• Drew 1–1 with T&T after being behind in the first half
• Only two goals scored across group play so far
• Nazon and Guerrier have combined for most of the team’s shot volume
• Migné’s 4-4-2 has been compact in their own half, but they’ve struggled to move the ball forward once they get it back

Betting Odds & Lines

What are the betting odds and lines for this soccer game? Here’s what Caesar’s Sportsbook has:

• Moneyline: USA (-200), Haiti (+475), Draw (+320)
• Spread: USA -1.5 (+135), Haiti +1.5 (-180)
• Total Goals: O 2.5 (-160), U 2.5 (+125)

Our Best Bets

Look, there’s not a ton of value on the board, but we think the following are the three best bets that will hold up!

USA vs. Haiti Verdict: What to Expect on the Pitch

The U.S. has been in complete control in both of its previous games. They’ve kneecapped opponents to seven shots total and kept the ball in their attacking half for most of the games. They aren’t completing passes at an insane rate, but they’re not just moving it sideways, either. Busio and Tillman have been really aggressive once possession turns, and Cowell’s been involved early on in every buildup. When they lose the ball, they’ve been getting it back quickly; most of the threats they’ve faced haven’t made it past midfield.

Haiti conceded 17 shots to Trinidad & Tobago and spent most of the second half pinned deep. Their back line absorbed pressure but couldn’t clear consistently, and the midfield offered little support tracking runners. They’ve managed just four shots on target through two games, and once they’re forced to defend for extended stretches, gaps open between the lines. If that happens again, the U.S. will get numbers inside the box and start pulling Haiti’s back line out of position.

The best play here is the U.S. to win combined with under 3.5 goals. Haiti has managed a meager four shots on target during two games and hasn’t shown they can break down a structured back line. 

The U.S. doesn’t need to run up the score; they just need three points. A 2–0 or 2–1 result matches up with the way both sides have played!

Our Final Score Prediction: USA 2 – 0 Haiti

The U.S. scores in the first half off a midfield turnover and adds a second in the final 20 minutes. Haiti hasn’t been able to hold possession near the goal or connect passes once they’re pushed back. USA wins this and moves on!

LSU vs. Coastal Carolina Prediction & Best Bets – Game 2 (June 22, 2025)

LSU HAS DONE IT! They beat Coastal Carolina and are a win away from another national title. Their eight, to be exact. 

The southpaw phenom Kade Anderson pitched a shutout and led his team to a 1-0 win over the Chanticleers in Game 1 of the College World Series Championship. He threw 130 pitches in 8 innings, struck out 10, walked five, and gave away zero runs. That’s quite a line. If the sophomore is the number one pick of the MLB Draft, this game could be a big reason for it.

Not only that, this win took away a 26-win game streak (best in the nation) for Coastal Carolina. Oof

LSU got their only run in the bottom of the first. Derek Curiel opened the inning with a walk, and Steven Milam brought him home with an RBI single. That was the end of scoring for the remainder of the game. Coastal’s Cameron Flukey and Dominick Carbone shut it down after the run and held the Tigers to six hits until the end.

Game 2 is on in Omaha for tomorrow afternoon. If Carolina wants to stay in it, they need to win if they want to push it to a third game and a shot at the championship. 

Not gonna lie, this game was better than some recent MLB snoozers, so the second game is a must-watch! 

Keep scrolling for a Game 1 recap, our Game 2 preview, betting odds, and our picks for the best bets! 

Game 2 Details

• Matchup: LSU vs. Coastal Carolina
• Date & Time: Sunday, June 22, at 2:30 PM CT (3:30 PM ET)
• Location: Charles Schwab Field, Omaha
• Broadcast: ABC/ESPN+

Game 1 Breakdown: LSU 1, Coastal Carolina 0

Here’s what went down in Game 1:

• Final Score: LSU 1, Coastal Carolina 0
• Date: Saturday, June 21
• Location: Charles Schwab Field, Omaha
• Winning Pitcher: Kade Anderson (LSU): 9 IP, 3 H, 0 R, 10 K, 0 BB
• Losing Pitcher: Cam Flukey (Coastal Carolina): 6 IP, 4 H, 1 ER, 9 K, 2 BB
• Key Play: Steven Milam brought in Drew Curiel with a first inning RBI single, and it was LSU’s only run of the game.
• Player of the Game: Kade Anderson pitched a total game shutout in Omaha in college baseball’s most elite competition.

Game Summary

• LSU got the lead in the first inning, and Carolina couldn’t get anything going against Anderson’s pitching.
• Anderson obliterated Carolina from beginning to end, full stop.
• Coastal’s offense might as well have been in a straitjacket; they got just three singles.
• LSU’s defense was squeaky clean and got the job done, reinforcing Anderson with flawless play.
• Implication: LSU is ahead 1-0 in the series and preserved their bullpen going into Game 2.

Storylines to Watch in Game 2

Keep your eyes peeled for the following in Game 2!

Latest Betting Odds & Lines

If you’re putting some cash on Game 2, here are the latest betting odds and lines courtesy of BetMGM:

• Moneyline: LSU (-120), Coastal Carolina (-110)
• Run Line: LSU -1.5 (+130), Coastal +1.5 (-165)
• Total: O 8.5 (-105), U 8.5 (-125)

Best Bets for Game 2

We’ve honed in on three angles that make the most sense for Game 2. Look below for our four best bets!

Can Coastal Force a Game 3?

LSU goes into Game 2 with the upper gloved hand (get it???). They’re up 1–0 in the series and coming off an absolute clinic from Kade Anderson that shut down the country’s longest win streak. They only needed one run to take Game 1, and now they’ve got a well-rested bullpen and a chance to finish it off.

But hold your horses: Coastal Carolina didn’t win 26 in a row by folding after one loss. If their top hitters can reset and make some adjustments at the plate, they’re still very much in this. The question is if their rotation can hold long enough for the hitters to make something of it.

Our Final Score Prediction: LSU 4, Coastal Carolina 2

How this one plays out could depend on who scores first and who handles the middle innings better once the starters give way.

If Coastal does manage to extend the series, you should stay ready for Monday’s game! It’s baseball, and stranger things have happened; Game 2 could go either way.

Baltimore Orioles vs. New York Yankees Prediction & Betting Picks (June 22, 2025)

On Friday night, the Orioles looked like they were gonna be a big problem for the NY Yankees. But on Saturday? It did not look anything like the Baltimore that we saw play last night!

Whatever advantage that the Orioles had under the lights definitely didn’t follow them into the daylight. The second game of the series at Yankee Stadium was pretty lifeless, and Baltimore looked like they phoned in while they were also asleep.

The Orioles somehow avoided a no-hitter, but that was mostly luck. Clarke Schmidt sliced through them for seven innings, throwing a career-high of 103 pitches and giving up only two walks and a hit batter. That was it. The Yankees handed it off to the bullpen from there, and that was that.

Gary Sánchez was the one to finally hit one into center off JT Brubaker in the eighth, but by then it was 9–0. Zach Eflin had already been knocked around, and the Orioles were out of it.

Friday wasn’t a runaway win by any means (5-3), but the Orioles earned that opener win. Baltimore managed three off Max Fried, which is a tough assignment for any team, and they don’t usually hit well against Southpaws. The bullpen handled its spots, the offense came through in the eighth, and for a second? It looked like they had something.

They meet again tomorrow at Yankee Stadium in da Bronx for game 3, and the starting pitchers are listed as Dean Kremer (BAL) vs. Will Warren (NYY). Will the Yanks lineup get the best of Kremer or can the Orioles play like they did on Friday night and surprise us?

Keep scrolling to see pitching and matchup stats, betting odds, our best bets, and who we think will win!

Game Details

• Matchup: Baltimore Orioles (33–43) vs. New York Yankees (44–32)
• Date & Time: Sunday, June 22 at 11:35 am ET
• Venue: Yankee Stadium, Bronx, NY
• Broadcast: Roku; Radio: WFAN 660/101.9 & Orioles on MASN
• Weather Forecast: It’s gonna be a hot one! It’ll be about 87°F in the Bronx

Storylines & Matchups

It’s tied and a game per team, so now it’s Kremer vs. Warren. Neither pitcher has been super dependable, but with how Saturday went? NY has the advantage in pitching. And they’ve got better hitters, so Warren doesn’t have to be flawless; he just has to out-pitch Kremer.

Starting Pitchers

• Will Warren (NYY): Warren has a 4.83 ERA and hasn’t made it through the sixth inning since May 24. In his last three starts, he averaged over 80 pitches and had failed to finish out five innings. The issue isn’t velocity; it’s a control thing. Once hitters stop chasing off the plate, he has to come back over the zone, and that’s when they start squaring him up.
• Dean Kremer (BAL): Kremer’s sitting at 6–7 with a 4.80 ERA and gave up seven hits and four runs over five innings in his last outing. He’s had a lot of trouble with left-handed hitters this year (.278 opponent average), and his cutter hasn’t been getting swings. If he can’t spot his fastball early? The Yankees’ top of the order could put Baltimore in a hole before the bullpen gets going.

Offensive Trends

• Yankees: Franco’s still stuck around .210 with no extra-base hits in his last 10 games, but the rest of the lineup has covered for him. Judge has 8 home runs in June and leads the AL in hitting. Saturday’s 9-run game came on 12 singles, 2 walks, and a hit-by-pitch; no home runs, but good contact.
• Orioles: They’ve won 7 of their last 10 and are averaging 5.1 runs per game during that stretch. Gunnar Henderson’s hitting .306 over his last 10, with 4 doubles and 3 home runs. Adley Rutschman has reached base in 9 straight games, and Ramón Urías is hitting over .400 in limited at-bats since returning from an injury. Under Mansolino, the team has swung earlier in counts and has cut their strikeout rate by nearly 15% compared to earlier in the month.

Latest Betting Odds & Lines

Here are the current betting odds and lines according to ESPN BET:

Main Angles and Insights

Who’s got the advantage in Game 3 of this series? It’ll depend on late-inning pitching and if the scoring slows down after Saturday’s massacre.

Run Total Trends

The total opened around 10.5 at Fox Sports and most retail sportsbooks, with the action leaning under. A few have it closer to 9.5, which shows the cooler (but not much cooler) morning temps in the Bronx and both starters’ track records with right-handed lineups. Sunday is a late morning game, so slower scoring makes sense.

Head-to-Head Stats

Aaron Judge had homered in five games in a row versus Baltimore at Yankee Stadium before Saturday’s game. He’s hitting .367 with four extra-base hits in those matchups.

As for the pitchers: Zach Eflin isn’t on the mound Sunday; his next start will be back in Baltimore. His recent road ERA (3.86 over 28 innings) shows some improvement, but since he’ll be resting after six innings on Saturday, that road split won’t come into play this series. 

Our Best Bets for Orioles vs. Yankees

Where’s the value going into Game 3? Look below for what we think are the best bets!

What to Expect in Sunday’s Showdown

The Yankees are the better side going into the series finale. They’re at home, they’ve hit Kremer before, and their bullpen is in better shape. Warren’s not reliable, but he doesn’t need to be if the offense shows up early. Baltimore hasn’t hit much outside of Friday and hasn’t faced a bullpen like this since last week.

Our Final Score Prediction: Yankees 5 – Orioles 3

We think it’ll be a close game in the early innings, but the Yanks will have the lead and keep it with help from the bullpen and a hit from Stanton or Judge!

Best Bets Recap

• Yankees ML (–185): The matchup favors them, and the number isn’t out of range.
• Yankees –1.5 (+105): Play this if you expect Kremer to fold before the fifth inning.
• Under 9.5 (EVEN): This is only worth it if you trust that both pitchers don’t fall behind right out of the gate

Risk Factor: If the Yankees keep leaving runners on base like they did Friday? Baltimore has enough at the top of the order to steal a lead by the middle innings.

Final advice: the Yankees ML is the safest move; the run line has upside. The under’s in play, but definitely don’t force it if the number drops!

Indiana Pacers vs. OKC Thunder Game 7 Prediction (June 22, 2025)

The Pacers came ready for Game 6. But one player was really ready, and that was Tyrese Haliburton.

His calf injury didn’t seem to be bothering him like it was in Game 5, and if it did hurt? We’d never know it from the way he played. Backed up by his teammates, the Pacers beat the Thunder 108-91, forcing a Game 7. The series is now tied at 3-3. Plot twist!

We all thought that OKC was gonna end it in Game 6. Nope! Can we talk about Siakam’s slam over the Thunder’s Williams? We gasped.

The NBA Finals haven’t gone to a Game 7 since 2016, and the winner of this one will be the champs. The Pacers are after their first trophy, and the Thunder want to bring the glory back to Oklahoma City for the first time since the franchise was relocated.

Ball drop is Sunday at 8 pm ET, and you better be there; it’s a can’t miss game. OKC has home court advantage (35-6 at the Paycom Center), but the Pacers keep defying the odds, so who knows?

Look below for all the details! We’ll do a series recap, player matchups, the latest betting odds, and our picks for the best bets.

Game Details – Pacers vs. Thunder (Game 7)

• Matchup: Indiana Pacers vs. OKC Thunder
• Series Status: Tied 3-3
• Date & Time: Sunday, June 22, at 8:00 p.m. ET
• Location: Paycom Center, Oklahoma City, OK
• Broadcast: ABC
• Streaming: ESPN App, YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV

Series So Far

We are 6 games in, and this Finals matchup has given us pretty much everything: blowouts, comebacks, injuries, and an unexpected Game 7. Below is where things are going into the grand finale:

• The Pacers’ Game 6 stunner: 108–91 win with Haliburton back in form, Siakam attacking, and good contributions from the second unit
• Thunder’s biggest advantage: Home court; OKC went 35–6 at the Paycom Center during the regular season and hasn’t dropped a game there in this series
• SGA’s impact: He’s been the most reliable scorer during all six games; Shai keeps OKC in it even when they lose
• Haliburton’s resurrection: After looking like he was hobbled in Game 5, he came roaring with 21 points and with a solid command of the offense in Game 6
• Bench battle: Indiana’s second unit finally changed a game; they outplayed OKC’s reserves in Game 6, and that’s a factor that could help them again if foul trouble hits either side in Game 7

Biggest Player Matchups

There is nothing new to figure out here. We are in Game 7, and everybody on the court knows who’s getting the ball and who has to stop who. Below are the players and matches that’ll settle it, one way or the other!

• Shai Gilgeous-Alexander vs. Tyrese Haliburton: SGA’s been in control, getting to his spots, hitting tough looks, and managing tempo when OKC needs it. Haliburton looked uninjured in Game 6; he pushed the pace and created lots of good looks for Indiana’s shooters.
• Jalen Williams vs. Indiana’s wings: Williams absolutely cooked them in Game 5 and hasn’t slowed down. He’s beating closeouts, finishing through contact, and forcing constant help rotations. The Pacers still haven’t figured out a way to keep him out of the lane.
• Indiana’s bench vs. OKC’s rotation: The Pacers got really good contributions from their second unit in Game 6; McConnell controlled the pace, Sheppard knocked down threes, and Jackson battled on the glass. OKC’s bench just couldn’t keep up during the second and early fourth quarters, which is when Indiana stretched the lead and took pressure off of their starters.
• Pascal Siakam vs. Chet Holmgren: Siakam has tested Holmgren’s positioning every game with face-ups, drives, and quick cuts off the elbow. And when Chet’s pulled away from the rim? Indiana’s offense can go to work on the inside.

Tactical X‑Factors

• OKC at home: The Thunder are 35–6 at the Paycom Center this season. The crowd feeds into their defense; they rotate fast, close out hard, and make teams work for every decent look.
• Indiana’s turnover game and outside shooting: The Pacers forced 21 turnovers in Game 6 and turned a slew of them into points. When they’re active in the passing lanes and knocking down open threes, they’re really hard to contain.
• Haliburton’s calf is still a concern: He passed the strength test before Game 6 and looked way more mobile than we expected, but it’s still a lingering issue. He played only 23 minutes. If he’s not out there, Indiana isn’t able to; they don’t generate the same shots.

Current Betting Odds

For those of you who are gonna bet on this one, here are the latest odds and lines courtesy of FanDuel:

Our Best Bets

Last call for this year’s NBA Finals! We’ve got one last round of our best bets for Game 7:

Game 7 Verdict: Pacers or Thunder?

This is it! One game for the title. Indiana’s never done it. OKC hasn’t since its Seattle days. Just 48 minutes to finish it for all the marbles.

Indiana looked more composed in Game 6 with better spacing, possessions, and solid contributions from the bench.

Gilgeous-Alexander only put up 22 in the last game. And that usually spells trouble for whoever’s in front of him in the next game.

Haliburton’s calf is still an issue, and if he can’t stay on the floor or run the offense? Indiana’s movement stalls out, and their shot quality plummets.

Who you got for this one? Whichever team you’re backing, make sure you lock in your picks before you settle in and watch history be made for either the Pacers or the Thunder!

Our Final Score Prediction: Oklahoma City Thunder 109 – Indiana Pacers 104

We think that the Thunder will pull ahead in the fourth, but the Pacers will cover the spread and the Total will land slightly over.

Ready to place your bets on Game 7 of the 2025 NBA Finals? Head over to one of the most trusted online betting sites to find exclusive bonuses and competitive odds.

River Plate vs. Monterrey Prediction – FIFA Club World Cup (June 21, 2025)

Ole ole ole! Soccer (or football, sorry to the UK) fans rejoice; another exciting game is happening tomorrow when River Plate and Monterrey meet at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, CA. Kickoff is at 9 p.m. ET, so get ready for a footie battle. 

River is in a good groove after winning 3–1 against Urawa, and Monterrey scored a stunner of a goal to draw 1–1 with Inter Milan.

Both teams are on track to advance to the next round, but this matchup will decide who finishes top of the group, and who gets a higher-ranked opponent in the Round of 16. 

Keep scrolling to see all of the important factors, what the betting odds have to say about it, and what we think are the best bets!

Match Details

• Matchup: River Plate vs. Monterrey
• Date & Time: Saturday, June 21, at 9:00 pm ET (6:00 pm PT)
• Venue: Rose Bowl Stadium, Pasadena, California
• Broadcast/Streaming (US): TBS/truTV & DAZN; International: DAZN globally (FIFA sublicenses in various regions)
• Tournament Context: Group E of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup (32-team format)

Current Betting Odds

Thinking about putting some bucks on this one? Here are the latest odds and lines according to ESPN BET:

Team Form & Recent Results

How have River Plate and Monterrey been playing recently? Look below for the stats!

Head‑to‑Head Dynamics

• The teams have played each other twice in the last two years; River won 1–0 in 2023, and they played to a 1–1 draw in 2024.
• Neither match opened up very much. Both were slow-paced, and most of the play was stuck in the midfield.
• The lost recent match is fresh in both camps minds, so we’re thinking it’ll be a more measured first 45 minutes that’s focused on midfield control and closing off openings in the back line.

Tactical Battles & Lineups

What’s happening in the tactical battles and lineups? Look below!

River Plate

• Hard to contain in transition with fullbacks pushing forward and several scoring options
• The midfield left too much space vs. Urawa; Gallardo may change up the personnel or drop one line deeper
• The big question: does he pull a forward back to help in buildup, or double down on pressure up top?

Monterrey

• Uses three center backs and a compact midfield to keep play up front
• Prevented Inter Milan from playing through central channels by closing off early passing options
• Could bring an extra midfielder into the starting XI to counter River’s width

Main Areas to Watch

• Midfield control: who recovers loose balls and forces resets
• River’s wide pressure vs. Monterrey’s ability to hold their defensive line
• Set pieces: both teams have converted recently, but Monterrey defends them much more aggressively

Our Recommended Best Bets

Ready for our best bets? Here are the three we think are worth considering along with a bonus lean!

Wrap-Up: Can Monterrey Hold the Giants Again?

Our Final Score Prediction: River Plate 2 – 2 Monterrey

River Plate looked absolutely ruthless against Urawa and won’t be holding back here. They can hit from multiple angles, and their front three isn’t built to slow down. But Monterrey has already taken out one heavyweight in this tournament, and they didn’t need the ball to do it. Inter Milan had more of everything and still couldn’t break them down.

We feel like this game could come down to execution in tight areas. River creates chances really fast after turnovers, and Monterrey doesn’t leave a lot of room between lines. If it’s still level after 60 minutes? You can bet your bippy that both sides will slow the pace and wait for a mistake. A draw works for River, and if Monterrey keeps it close into the final 20 minutes, they’ll back themselves to steal something on a set piece or second-ball chance.

Best value bets recap:

• Both Teams to Score (High Confidence)
• Draw ML (Value + Tactical Fit)
• Over 2.5 Goals (Riskier, but a solid upside if it pans out)

Remember to always bet responsibly and gamble within your means.

Coastal Carolina vs. LSU Prediction (June 21, 2025) – MCWS Game 1

Coastal Carolina hasn’t lost in 26 games. That’s a lotta games! And LSU just won on a ninth-inning rally that launched them right into the finals. Tomorrow, these two squads open the championship series, and it’s all on the line. Streaks are not safe, and neither are their legacies.

Game 1 kicks off the final round in Omaha. Coastal ratcheted up their wins with really aggressive baserunning, pitching that doesn’t give much of anything away, and hitters who smash at the plate when they can.

Carolina clamps opponents down with pressure and smart execution. LSU has raw power and a lineup that has proven they can bring runs in.

The sportsbooks have this closer than we expected! Will the Coastal underdogs surprise everyone? Or will LSU take it? Keep scrolling to see the matchup details, the pitchers in play, betting odds, and our three best bets for Saturday’s opener!

Game Snapshot

• Matchup: Coastal Carolina Chanticleers vs. LSU Tigers
• Date & Time: Saturday, June 21, first pitch at 7:00 pm ET
• Format: Game 1 of best‑of‑3 finals
• Venue: Charles Schwab Field, Omaha
• Broadcast: ESPN/ESPN+

Betting Odds & Lines (Updated June 21)

If you’re wagering on this game, here are the latest odds and lines courtesy of FanDuel Sportsbook:

• Series odds: LSU ~66% implied probability; Coastal ~39% 

Storylines & Stakes

Two teams playing peak baseball but with really  different styles will meet on the biggest field in Omaha; here’s what we’re watching and what’s at stake!

• LSU punched its ticket to the finals with back-to-back wins, and one was a super dramatic walk-off against Arkansas to survive the bracket.
• Coastal Carolina comes in with 26 consecutive wins and a pitching staff that’s held opponents under four runs in seven of its last nine games.
• LSU relies on its overpowering front-line starter, and Coastal spreads out the work across a deeper bullpen that’s been really hard to rattle.
• Game 1 matters a lot; winning the opener in a short series gives a team more control, rest, and a big psychological edge going into Game 2.

Players to Watch

• Kade Anderson, LSU: Logged over 100 innings with a 3.44 ERA and just blanked Arkansas. When Anderson is on, he forces weak contact and devours innings.
• Riley Eikhoff, Coastal Carolina: Eikhoff has a 3.00 ERA and doesn’t give up any big innings. He’s been the team’s stabilizer in this stretch.
• Bullpen Comparison: Coastal’s late-game pitchers have been way more reliable. LSU’s relievers have been more vulnerable; they have an xFIP near 5.50 in their last 10 appearances.

Our Best Bets

Who Wins Game 1? Our Take

This is looking like it’ll be one of the most competitive Game 1s we’ve seen in Omaha in years. LSU has name recognition, an amazing postseason track record, and a lineup that can change a game with only a few decent hits. Coastal hasn’t lost in over a month and keeps getting the important outs in close games.

From a betting angle, Coastal +1.5 is still the most dependable side. Why? Because of how reliable their relief staff has been. The Under 8.5 holds value, but that’s if we assume that both starters can stretch into the sixth inning. And if Anderson’s strikeout line opens at 5.5, there’s room for a play if he sees the top half of Coastal’s order twice (check the market; this bet isn’t available as of publication).

Neither side is gonna run away with this. We have two super-disciplined lineups and starters who know how to get out of jams.

We’re taking LSU by one run, but it could come down to a single late-game mistake or a bullpen slip!

Final Score Prediction: LSU 4, Coastal Carolina 3

LSU scratches across the go-ahead run in the eighth, capitalizing on a missed location and a sac fly. Coastal strands the tying run in the ninth, making it a 4–3 final that still hits the +1.5 run line.