Prime-Time First TD Bets — Monday Night Football, Week 16
Alex Christenson
The dust has settled, and the skies are clear. The return of America’s pastime is once again upon us! We have reached the Opening Day of the 2024 Major League Baseball season. With that said it is my pleasure to welcome you to the first edition of “FTN Best Bets” of the MLB season!
We will start the ’24 campaign by taking a look into a classic rivalry series between the New York Yankees and the Houston Astros, taking place in Minute Maid Park in Houston.
New York Yankees @ Houston Astros
Both teams come into the year with World Series aspirations, but I love a spot for a proven veteran entering his platform year for the Astros, third baseman Alex Bregman. Bregman enters a contract year this season and from reports there have been no extension talks held with the Astros. History tells us that the third baseman will more than likely test free agency, as he is represented by Scott Boras. Bregman talked about being “rejuvenated” this offseason and worked on his swing, looking to drive the ball more. The rejuvenation seems to be off to a great start based on his performance this spring. Breman hit .383 at the plate which is the best of his career in spring training, he also finished with a .596 SLG and 1.027 OPS.
With the added motivation of a “prove it” year and facing a familiar foe in Nestor Cortes, I believe Alex Bregman is in a great spot to carry the momentum over from a hot spring training. He has a career AVG of .375 with 1 HR and 2 RBI against Cortes.
Best Bet
Alex Bregman over 1.5 Hits+Runs+RBIs
(-120, DraftKings Sportsbook)
Bregman covered this number in 10 out of 18 games against the Yankees last season and 5 out of 8 against them at home. Cortes relies on his four-seamer and cutter against right-handers. Bregman tied for second and third, respectively, in hits against those pitches from LHP in the Astros lineup. Best of luck to all, and let’s have an amazing 2024 season.
