Last Updated on August 18, 2025 7:24 am by Michael Cash
Looking for the best MLB bets today? Our August 18, 2025 MLB picks deliver three expert best bets and two value underdogs with Bovada odds, matchup analysis, and betting predictions. From Yankees vs Blue Jays to Dodgers vs Diamondbacks, we break down today’s top baseball betting plays with trends and insights to help you cash in on Monday’s action.
Best Bet #1: Yankees ML (−150) vs Blue Jays – 7:05 p.m. ET
New York has been strong at home and gets the better starter in this matchup. Toronto’s bullpen issues have surfaced lately, giving the Yankees a clear late-inning advantage.
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Best Bet #2: Braves −1.5 (+110) vs Nationals – 7:20 p.m. ET
Atlanta continues to roll at home, and their starter has dominated Washington in recent outings. The Nationals’ lineup has struggled against elite right-handers.
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Best Bet #3: Dodgers ML (−140) at Diamondbacks – 9:40 p.m. ET
Los Angeles has the edge both in lineup depth and starting pitching. Arizona’s bullpen has been unreliable, making the Dodgers worth laying the chalk on the road.
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Value Long Shots
1) Pirates ML (+155) at Brewers – 8:10 p.m. ET
Milwaukee is favored at home, but the Pirates’ starter has quietly posted strong numbers in August. A live dog worth a sprinkle.
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2) Royals ML (+165) at White Sox – 8:10 p.m. ET
Kansas City’s offense has shown signs of life, and Chicago’s pitching depth is thin. Plus-money value on the road makes sense here.
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Quick Trend & Market Notes
- Yankees are 6–2 in their last eight home games.
- Braves have covered the runline in 7 of their last 10.
- Dodgers are 8–3 in their last 11 against Arizona.
- Pirates have played Milwaukee close all season, with several one-run games.
Today’s Card (Odds from Bovada, ~8:00 a.m. ET)
| Type | Matchup | Pick | Odds | Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best Bet | Yankees vs Blue Jays | Yankees ML | −150 | 7:05 PM |
| Best Bet | Braves vs Nationals | Braves −1.5 | +110 | 7:20 PM |
| Best Bet | Dodgers at Diamondbacks | Dodgers ML | −140 | 9:40 PM |
| Value Long Shot | Pirates at Brewers | Pirates ML | +155 | 8:10 PM |
| Value Long Shot | Royals at White Sox | Royals ML | +165 | 8:10 PM |
Final Word
The Yankees, Braves, and Dodgers headline today’s best bets, each with reliable starting pitching and lineup advantages. The Pirates and Royals provide live underdog value if their starters can limit damage early. Stick to your staking plan and shop for the best lines.