MLB First Pitch Picks Today: Best Bets (April 12th) | MLB EDGE

MLB First Pitch Play Opportunities: Matchup Preview

Happy Sunday! If you're gearing up for a day full of MLB action, you're in the right place. Today, we have a daytime showdown in Chicago followed by a prime-time slate packed with potential. Let's dive into the best first pitch play opportunities on the board. While there are plenty of plays, finding those golden spots for "in play" action is a bit trickier today.

📍Note: always verify starting lineups as this blog is written before most lineups are confirmed using projected starting pitchers, lineups, and batting orders.

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New to this market? Check out our Complete Guide to MLB First Pitch Betting Strategy to understand the data and "fair odds" calculations we use for these daily picks.

❌ Diamondbacks @ Phillies: Trea Turner vs. Zac Gallen

Trea Turner takes on Zac Gallen with a projected first pitch outcome of a ball, occurring 47.2% of the time. Gallen's tendency to start off with a ball gives this matchup fair odds of +112, making it an intriguing play if you're looking to bet on this tendency.

✅💰 Twins @ Blue Jays: Andres Gimenez vs. Taj Bradley

In Toronto, Andres Gimenez faces Taj Bradley. The odds favor a first pitch ball at 56.7%, with fair odds of -131. Bradley's consistent first pitch balls make this a solid angle to consider.

❌ Angels @ Reds: Zach Neto vs. Andrew Abbott

Zach Neto versus Andrew Abbott sees a forecasted first pitch ball 56.3% of the time. With fair odds of -129, Abbott's pattern is one to watch for those eyeing first pitch outcomes.

✅💰 Athletics @ Mets: Francisco Lindor vs. Aaron Civale

When Francisco Lindor meets Aaron Civale , there's a 50.0% chance of a first pitch ball. With fair odds at -100, Civale's even split offers a balanced opportunity for bettors.

✅💰 Yankees @ Rays: Trent Grisham vs. Drew Rasmussen

Trent Grisham and Drew Rasmussen present a different scenario with a 66.6% chance of a strike. Rasmussen is known for throwing pitches in the zone 69.7% of the time, making this matchup's fair odds at -199 quite appealing for strike seekers.

⛔White Sox @ Royals: Chase Meidroth vs. Noah Cameron

void this - Meidroth did not leadoff

In this matchup, Chase Meidroth faces Noah Cameron , expecting a first pitch ball 57.7% of the time. Fair odds of -136 reflect Cameron's usual approach, and this trend offers a clear betting opportunity.

✅💰 Nationals @ Brewers: James Wood vs. Brandon Woodruff

James Wood against Brandon Woodruff leans towards a strike at 57.6%, with Woodruff's zone-heavy style resulting in fair odds of -136. For those eyeing strike bets, this matchup is a top contender.

✅💰 Astros @ Mariners: Jeremy Peña vs. Logan Gilbert

Jeremy Peña takes the plate versus Logan Gilbert , who is projected to throw a first pitch ball 51.6% of the time. The odds sit at -107, making this a straightforward choice for those betting on balls.

❌ Rangers @ Dodgers: Shohei Ohtani vs. Jacob deGrom

In a highlight matchup, Shohei Ohtani faces Jacob deGrom , with a strike expected 63.2% of the time. DeGrom's precision in the zone sets fair odds at -172, which is hard to overlook for strike enthusiasts.

Conclusion

Today's MLB matchups offer a mix of opportunities, especially for those focused on first pitch outcomes. From balls to strikes, the tendencies of pitchers like Zac Gallen, Taj Bradley, and Jacob deGrom can guide your betting decisions. Keep these insights handy as you enjoy the games and may your picks be fruitful!