MLB Betting: The two top teams in the American League East meet on Friday in a day-night doubleheader as the New York Yankees visit the Baltimore Orioles on Friday. It is a huge series for the Yankees who are trying to stay in the American League Wild card race. The Yankees should have the edge in Game 1 with Brandon McCarthy expected to go against Kevin Gausman. Let’s focus on Game 1 which can be seen on MLB Network.
Game 1 – McCarthy vs. Gausman
Brandon McCarthy has been really good for the Yankees since they got him from Arizona. He is coming off another big win last time out as he shut down the Royals last Saturday. When you look at McCarthy’s overall numbers you have to look beyond his overall record and ERA because his stats with the Yankees are far better than what he had with Arizona. McCarthy is 6-4 with the Yankees with a 2.79 ERA.
Kevin Gausman should be getting the call in Game 1 of this doubleheader. He is 7-7 on the season with a 3.83 ERA. He went seven innings last time out against the Rays and allowed just two runs and four hits. He struck out seven and walked four in that game. He has pitched at least seven innings in his last two starts. He is 0-2 in his last three starts overall with a 3.93 ERA. He has thrown 15 innings in his career against the Yankees with a 3-1 record and a 2.40 ERA.
Series Notes
This series has been all about the Orioles of late as they have taken 8 of the last 10. They have also won four of the last five at home with three of the last five in Baltimore going under. Both teams were uncertain of their Game 2 starter for Friday night.
MLB Picks
This is a doubleheader that the Yankees really need to sweep but they have to get at least a split. We’ll look for New York to win this early game with McCarthy on the mound.
