MLB Betting Predictions – Los Angeles Angels vs. Boston Red Sox

The month of May couldn’t be treating the Los Angeles Angels any worse. After getting punched in the teeth 17-8 by the Boston Red Sox last night, they’re coming back for seconds and things don’t look like they’re getting any better. The Angels, to put it simply, have been a stay away MLB betting pick for two straight weeks.

It doesn’t help matters when you’re 1-5 SU in your past 6 games, but the Angles are now 1-4 SU in their past five road games to boot. Obviously pitching has a lot to do with the Angels woes, but team defense has been atrocious. They rank 14th on the road, allowing 6.0 runs against per game.

They’re hoping that Ervin Santana can turn the ship around. Santana has pitched at least 6.0 innings in his last three starts after a shaky start. Everything from his control to his numbers has slowed down over the last three games, which is a sign of relief for an Angels team in dire need of some good news. After getting his first win of the season on April 18th against Toronto, where he threw a four-hitter in 9.0 innings allowing just one run, the Angels have won the last two times Santana has started.

Los Angeles Angels (12-15) vs. Boston Red Sox (12-14)

Tuesday, May 4th — Fenway Park — 7:10pm EST

MLB Betting Lines:

Ervin Santana – R +1.5 -130 +160 O 9.5 EV

Jon Lester – L -1.5 +110 -190 U 9.5 -120

The Red Sox will counter with Jon Lester, who his one of the least inspiring MLB betting pitchers you want to bank on this early on in the season. Of course, you wouldn’t think this was the real Jon Lester by looking at his numbers. Getting torn about through the first three weeks of the season, Lester settled in to a groove and has struck out 18 batters in his last two starts. He’s also not allowed a hit during those last two starts. Thinking he can do the same against the Angels should be an interesting test.

Where To Watch: FSW, NESN

Of course, the bigger story in Red Sox nation is that their team is 6-3 SU without David “Big Papi” Ortiz in the line up. It’s certainly a boost to have Kevin Youklis back in the lineup, but now Boston is faced with the unenviable task of benching their $13 million man despite the fact that Santana is a righty. Without him, the rest of the lineup seems to respond. It’s a weird, disjointed element to the team that’s worthy of tracking.

Meanwhile, the Angels on the road are a rough bet. They’re still getting reasonable odds on the MLB betting line, but my instincts are pointing towards Fenway on this one. When both pitchers are throwing fire, you go with the guy at home. Easily.

Furious Free Pick: Boston RL and ML (OVER)