LA Dodgers vs. Cleveland Guardians: Predictions for March 31st
Our predictions for the Guardians vs. Dodgers matchup anticipate a low-scoring affair at Dodger Stadium tonight. The Cleveland Guardians face the Los Angeles Dodgers in the second game of a three-game series. All eyes are on Shohei Ohtani as he makes his highly anticipated season debut on the mound for the Dodgers, while Tanner Bibee takes the ball for the visiting Guardians.
Ohtani’s Debut & Pitching Matchup
Shohei Ohtani’s pitching arsenal is truly exceptional (115 Stuff+), and he was dominant at home last season (.151 BAA, 1.71 ERA). With a well-rested bullpen behind him after Sunday’s off day and a three-pitcher outing yesterday, the Dodgers are well-equipped to contain a Cleveland Guardians lineup that has struggled offensively (.279 wOBA, 79 wRC+).
Tanner Bibee (104 Stuff+) has proven to be a reliable starter, consistently posting an xERA below 3.75 over the last three seasons (87 starts). The weather conditions in Southern California, with the possibility of rain, also favour both strong starting pitchers.
Why the Dodgers Have the Edge
Ohtani was electric on the mound last year, and his effectiveness (career 3.00 ERA, 3.18 FIP) hasn’t been the issue – it’s been health. He’s now healthy, having struck out 11 batters in his most recent exhibition outing. This gives the Los Angeles Dodgers a significant advantage on the mound, and they also boast a stronger lineup. While the bullpens are relatively even, the Dodgers have elite relief pitching (2.19 FIP) with their best arms fully rested, unlike Cleveland closer Cade Smith, who threw 29 pitches in Monday’s series opener.
Home Run Prop Bet: Max Muncy
Bibee’s primary weakness is the home run ball. He allowed 1.33 HR/9 last year, despite a 10-point increase in his groundball rate. This makes the L.A. side an attractive target for a home run prop bet. Max Muncy, who hit 16 of his 19 home runs against right-handed pitchers last season, is a particularly strong candidate. He tagged righties for a 157 wRC+ with substantial power (.247 ISO) and performs well against Bibee’s three-pitch mix.
Guardians Road Performance & Betting Trends
The Guardians have cashed the Under in 39 of their last 60 road games, suggesting a trend towards lower-scoring contests when they’re away from home.
Find more MLB betting trends for Guardians vs. Dodgers.
Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change.
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