The Pittsburgh Pirates (62-71) and Cleveland Guardians (76-58) open a 3-game interleague series Friday. First pitch from Progressive Field is set for 7:10 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze FanDuel Sportsbook’s lines around the Pirates vs. Guardians odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.
Season series: Guardians lead 2-1
The Pirates were swept at home against the Chicago Cubs Monday through Wednesday, including a disappointing 14-10 loss in the finale. Rookie Paul Skenes left after 5 IP with a 10-3 lead, but the bullpen proceeded to blow it. The collapse was so bad that even Livvy Dunne, Skenes’ girlfriend, had an opinion on social media.
Since Aug. 18, the Bucs are just 4-7 in 11 games, and the Over has cashed in 5 of the past 6 outings, with the pitching staff conceding 10 or more runs in 3 of the previous 5 contests.