RJ Bell's Dream Preview

Munaf Manji and Mackenzie Rivers talk NBA betting for this weekend. The guys also give out best bets. In this episode of RJ Bell’s Dream Preview, Munaf Manji and Mackenzie Rivers analyzed the NBA Playoffs, focusing on the Knicks-Pacers Game 6 and Oklahoma City Thunder’s Western Conference Finals victory. The Thunder defeated the Timberwolves 124-94 in Game 5 to close the series 4-1. Mackenzie emphasized that OKC’s key series win was against the Nuggets, which elevated them from contender to champion-level status. Shea Gilgeous-Alexander's playoff performance was historic: 29.7 points, 6.9 assists, 5.6 rebounds, 47.1% shooting, and only 2.1 turnovers per game. Only Michael Jordan, Nikola Jokic, and LeBron James have posted similar numbers in playoff history. OKC’s defense also made history, holding two teams under 10 points in the first quarter within six games, something no team has previously accomplished. Their balanced profile of third in offense and first in defense mirrors the 2015 Warriors. With 61 total wins, the Thunder have surpassed the 2017-18 Warriors for the most 10-point playoff wins ever. Mackenzie argued that betting markets are undervaluing OKC, who entered the Finals as -750 favorites. Shifting to the Eastern Conference, the Knicks won Game 5 against the Pacers 111-94. Jalen Brunson led with 32 points on 12 of 18 shooting, Karl-Anthony Towns added 24 points and 13 rebounds, and Josh Hart contributed 12 points and 10 rebounds in 34 minutes. The Knicks’ defense has consistently limited Indiana, holding them under 100 points in both of their series wins. Mackenzie critiqued betting lines that made Indiana 3.5-point favorites for Game 6, arguing the market was reacting to recent outcomes rather than overall team strength. Injuries also factored in, with Pacers defender Aaron Nesmith limited to 16 minutes due to an ankle injury. Pascal Siakam admitted postgame that the Knicks "played harder," signaling New York's edge in effort. Mackenzie highlighted Towns' advantageous matchup against Myles Turner, citing Towns’ career average of 28 points per game against him and recommending a prop bet on Towns scoring over 22.5 points. Josh Hart’s rebounding was also emphasized, with Hart posting 10 or more rebounds in 14 of his last 16 games against the Pacers when playing at least 30 minutes. His rebounding prop was set at 9.5 rebounds with plus odds, and his double-double was available at +254 odds. Mackenzie revealed his updated player rankings based on playoff performances. Nikola Jokic ranked first at 97.5 out of 100, followed by SGA at 97, Giannis at 96.5, Luka and Steph both at 95.5, with Tatum and Anthony Davis tied at 94. Jalen Brunson and Anthony Edwards both earned a 93 rating, while Tyrese Haliburton was ranked 23rd. Mackenzie argued Haliburton’s playoff inconsistency and low scoring frequency kept him outside the top tier. Karl-Anthony Towns was ranked 19th, performing better than Haliburton overall. Ja Morant was downgraded to 26th due to his limited availability, while Sengun led the Rockets contingent. Both hosts discussed the international dominance in today’s NBA, with Jokic, SGA, Giannis, Luka, and Wembenyama leading a generational shift. Mackenzie concluded that the Knicks have the momentum and desperation advantage heading into Game 6, predicting they could force a Game 7 at Madison Square Garden. They agreed to record another episode if Game 7 materializes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Munaf Manji and Griffin Warner talk MLB betting for Friday. The guys also give out best bets. The MLB Friday podcast with Munaf Manji and Griffin Warner previewed the full Friday slate with in-depth betting analysis. Munaf opened by noting seasonal transitions while Griffin celebrated being up 22 units in May. Munaf described his bad beat with Arizona’s bullpen meltdown against the Phillies. Griffin praised Corbin Burns’ outing despite Munaf’s loss. For Cubs vs Reds, Andrew Abbott was confirmed for Cincinnati while Colin Rea was probable for Chicago. Rea's 5-1 record against the Reds was clouded by a 5.88 ERA. Griffin warned against trusting Reds closer Emilio Pagan, recommending first-five bets for Reds backers. Munaf noted mild wind at Wrigley, making early scoring possible. For Orioles vs White Sox, confusion surrounded Chicago’s starting pitcher—Sean Burke or Jared Shuster. The Orioles were heavy -215 favorites. Munaf hesitated to back either side, citing Zach Eflin's recent struggles and Chicago's poor form. Griffin criticized the White Sox as dysfunctional, saying backing them was dangerous. Milwaukee faced Philadelphia with DL Hall starting against Taijuan Walker. Philadelphia was favored at -133. Bryce Harper was listed day-to-day with an elbow contusion. Griffin emphasized Milwaukee’s overreliance on base stealing and bullpen fatigue. Munaf supported Philadelphia, noting their 19-9 home record. The A’s faced the Blue Jays with Jeffrey Springs against Chris Bassett. The Blue Jays, favored at -160, saw Bassett excel at home (1.61 ERA over 28 innings). Springs pitched well but suffered from bullpen collapses. Munaf leaned Blue Jays and under 8.5. For Rockies vs Mets, Peterson faced Freeland with Mets huge -306 favorites. Freeland struggled at Coors but was slightly better on the road. Munaf suggested Mets team total overs while Griffin found no value backing Colorado. In Giants vs Marlins, Harrison faced Quantrill. Griffin noted Quantrill’s recent turnaround (4 wins, 6 ER in May), while Harrison’s pitch limit posed risk. Munaf agreed Miami offered home underdog value. Guardians hosted Angels with Luis Ortiz vs Jose Soriano. Soriano’s control issues were concerning (14 walks in 4 starts). Griffin favored Cleveland’s patient lineup, citing bullpen advantage. Boston played Atlanta with Giolito vs Grant Holmes. Griffin detailed Red Sox clubhouse turmoil and lack of cohesion. Munaf pointed out Giolito’s inconsistency, especially against Atlanta earlier. Both leaned Braves team total over. In Cardinals vs Rangers, Lieberatore likely faced Jack Leiter. The Rangers had gone 24-6 to the under at home. Both hosts strongly supported the under 8.5. For Tigers vs Royals, Casey Mize opposed Seth Lugo. Griffin backed Kansas City due to Mize’s IL return and KC’s home form. Munaf highlighted Lugo’s good career numbers vs Detroit. Tampa Bay visited Houston with Pepiot vs Valdez. Griffin respected Houston’s design against lefties. Munaf leaned under, noting Framber’s 4-1 under record at home and Pepiot’s 3-0 road unders. In Pirates vs Padres, Keller faced Pivetta. Griffin liked first-five unders due to San Diego’s offensive struggles but found little value elsewhere. Munaf noted Keller’s poor past vs Padres. The Nationals faced the Diamondbacks with Irvin vs Kelly. Griffin leaned over given bullpen issues and Arizona’s park. Munaf added Arizona’s historical home unders with Kelly but agreed on D-backs team total over. Seattle hosted Minnesota with Zebby Matthews vs Brian Wu. Wu’s home dominance (12-1) made Seattle a strong pick. Both leaned under 7. Lastly, Yankees faced Dodgers with Max Fried vs Gonsolin. Fried was surprisingly favored at -116. Griffin was shocked Dodgers were home underdogs, citing bullpen risks for New York. Munaf also preferred Dodgers ML and slightly leaned over. For best bets, Griffin chose Phillies ML at -126 while Munaf picked under 8.5 in Cardinals-Rangers. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

RJ Bell, Steve Fezzik, Scott Seidenberg and Mackenzie Rivers talk all things NFL and NBA this week. The guys get into an interesting discussion about the Roman Empire. Best bets as always. The Dream Podcast delivers a high-level breakdown of NFL power rankings, survivor contest strategies, and NBA playoff betting trends, hosted by RJ Bell with sharp insights from Steve Fezzik, Mackenzie Rivers, and Scott Seidenberg. The episode opens with Fezzik’s scorching 12-0 MLB run and a hot NHL Game of the Year pick, prompting a promo code for free premium plays. In the main NFL segment, RJ unveils his 2025 power rankings, derived from updated win totals and simulation modeling. Philadelphia leads at +7.5 points over average, followed by Baltimore, Buffalo, Kansas City, and Detroit. The hosts contrast these with ESPN’s FPI, critiquing its inclusion of schedule and kicker factors. They highlight value bets such as Detroit +3.5 at Philly and Rams -2.5 hosting Tampa Bay, both driven by scheduling fatigue and injury recovery dynamics. Fezzik also shares deep game theory around Circa’s $100K survivor contest, including how to leverage Week 1 volatility with rebuy options. The podcast shifts to the NBA, where the Thunder’s statistical dominance is dissected—highlighting their 18-4 ATS record in Game 1s and home/road performance splits. Mackenzie outlines SGA’s MVP-level production and long-term franchise upside, while debating futures odds and playoff series pricing. A philosophical detour explores Harvard's political pressures, the Roman Empire’s fall, and human prehistory, adding narrative flair. The episode wraps with college football projections, where Fezzik bets North Carolina under 7.5 wins due to program turmoil. RJ closes with three NFL best bets: Detroit, Rams, and Raiders, using advanced scheduling and power rating logic. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Will Doctor gives you the sharpest card for the action at Jack's Place. -Going over top players on odds board -1 matchup -2 p2p -3 outrights (40/1, 75/1, 110/1) -Sleeper, 2 FRP, scoring -Best Bet Will Doctor delivers a focused and stat-driven breakdown of the Memorial Tournament at Muirfield Village, offering sharp PGA betting insights, critiques of tour policies, and precise player analysis. He opens with a recap of Week 21's 10-unit loss, missing on Ben Griffin’s win despite Griffin’s elite short game and putting. Griffin, a two-time winner this season, overcame poor driving stats at Colonial and held off Mati Schmidt and Bud Cawley. Doctor also critiques picks like JT Poston, who faltered due to big numbers, and others like Riley, Højgaard, and Rai, who failed to deliver. Scottie Scheffler is highlighted as a dominant force at Muirfield, with podium finishes in his last three appearances, though Doctor avoids betting him at 3-1 due to putting issues and his third straight week competing. Rory McIlroy receives heavy criticism for skipping his third signature event of the year, including Memorial, without informing host Jack Nicklaus. Doctor dissects the PGA’s approach to field size, arguing it unfairly excludes players like Higgo and Phillips while excessively relying on sponsor exemptions for names like Fowler and Snedeker. Muirfield Village is described as a long and punishing course with narrow fairways and small bentgrass greens that reward elite ball-striking and putting accuracy. Top betting lines are reviewed: Morikawa (16-1) is doubted due to form; Schauffele (18-1) lacks Sunday contention; Justin Thomas (25-1) and Patrick Cantlay (25-1) show concerning stats despite course fits. Doctor recommends a matchup bet of Taylor Pendrith over Davis Thompson, citing Pendrith’s recent T5 and solid form. Key top finishes include Tony Finau Top 20 (+120) and Shane Lowry Top 10 (+250), with Finau’s ball-striking and putting trending positively. Three outright picks are revealed: Lowry (40-1), Novak (75-1), and Bud Cawley (110-1), each supported with course history and recent performance data. Cawley’s comeback from injury and recent top-5 finishes are especially praised. Sleeper pick is Cawley to Top 10 (+550), and First Round Top 10s include Lowry (+275) and Novak (+400). Fantasy lineups include combinations of Scheffler, Lowry, Novak, Fowler, Cawley, and Graceman, with strategy adjusted for DraftKings and PGA Tour.com rules. Doctor projects a winning score of 10-under due to rain-softened conditions in Dublin, Ohio. The final best bet is Novak Top 20 (+175), emphasizing his current form and statistical edge. For the latest on the world of golf, follow Doc on X @ drmedia59 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Munaf Manji and Mackenzie Rivers talk NBA playoff betting. The guys also give out best bets. This episode of RJ Bell’s Dream Preview: NBA Playoff Edition with Munaf Manji and Mackenzie Rivers provides an in-depth analysis of two critical NBA playoff matchups: Knicks vs. Pacers Game 4 and Thunder vs. Timberwolves Game 5. The conversation opens with a reflection on Game 3, where the Knicks overcame a 20-point deficit to win. This turnaround stemmed from strategic adjustments—starting Mitchell Robinson and bringing Josh Hart off the bench—allowing New York to clamp down on Indiana's offense. Jalen Brunson struggled with foul trouble and inefficiency, contributing just six field goals on 18 attempts and a single assist. Despite his limited impact, the Knicks held Indiana to only 42 second-half points, a stark contrast to the Pacers' usual offensive rhythm. Hart’s late-game rebounds and composure at the free-throw line stood out, and Towns’ fourth-quarter scoring lifted the team to its first win of the series. Mackenzie discussed RJ Bell’s "fourth quarter win share," an advanced stat favoring teams with strong late-game control, suggesting the Knicks had been more dominant across multiple quarters despite their earlier losses. Looking to Game 4, the hosts note the Pacers as 2.5-point home favorites with a 220.5 total. Mackenzie and Munaf favor the Knicks and the under, emphasizing that a defensive-focused Knicks approach correlates strongly with low-scoring games. Brunson's role is expected to shift toward playmaking, reducing his shot volume. His under 29.5 points prop is Mackenzie’s best bet, backed by historical splits where he’s gone under this line 20 times versus 19 overs. Meanwhile, Towns is averaging over 25 points and 11 rebounds per game in the series and is projected to exceed both point and rebound props. Transitioning to the Thunder-Timberwolves series, OKC leads 3-1. Game 3 saw a dominant Timberwolves blowout, but OKC rebounded in Game 4 behind Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s 40-point near triple-double and key support from Jalen Williams and the bench. SGA’s leadership was pivotal—his late-game assists demonstrated poise under pressure. Mackenzie praised SGA’s situational IQ and contrasted it with Anthony Edwards’ passive play. Edwards is averaging only 17 FGA per game, the lowest of his postseason career, and scored just 24 PPG despite efficient shooting. Postgame, he deflected criticism, saying he didn’t struggle because he didn’t take enough shots. Mackenzie critiqued this mindset, calling for Edwards to embrace higher usage when it matters most. With SGA elevating his impact and Edwards retreating, Mackenzie believes the Thunder’s edge in leadership and strategy is decisive. In Game 5, OKC is an 8.5-point favorite. Munaf’s best bet is the Thunder team total over 114.5, citing strong home scoring trends. SGA’s over 6.5 assists is another key angle, supported by three overs in four games and an average of 8.5 APG. The Thunder have shot below their season average from three, suggesting positive regression is likely at home. Mackenzie projects a potential 120–102 OKC win and predicts they’ll close the series. The hosts close with futures discussion, noting the NBA’s growing parity. The Thunder are +225 favorites for next season, while teams like the Knicks, Pacers, Cavs, and Wolves range from 8/1 to 12/1. Mackenzie emphasizes the historical rarity of such dispersed odds beyond the top team. He speculates Giannis may be traded, naming the Knicks and Rockets as possible destinations. He lauds Sam Presti’s roster-building and envisions OKC as a possible dynasty. In conclusion, Munaf and Mackenzie agree the Finals might be lopsided but promise strong betting value through derivatives and props. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Munaf Manji and Griffin Warner get you set for MLB Tuesday betting. The guys also give out best bets. In the RJ Bell Dream Preview MLB podcast, hosts Munaf Manji and Griffin Werner offer a complete betting breakdown for Tuesday’s MLB slate. The episode begins with lighthearted banter as both hosts recount humorous Memorial Day mishaps, setting the tone for the in-depth analysis to follow. The podcast proceeds through every major game with detailed assessments of pitching matchups, team form, statistical betting trends, and value-based betting recommendations. The first game reviewed is Dodgers at Guardians, where Dustin May’s 0-4 record in road starts is highlighted as a key fade point. Griffin supports a Cleveland lean, and Munaf prefers the game total over due to Tanner Bybee’s possible regression. For Cardinals at Orioles, both express skepticism about Andre Pallante as a road favorite, with Baltimore identified as a live dog given Sugano’s contact-reliant style and Baltimore’s recent bullpen improvement. In Giants at Tigers, Logan Webb’s bounce-back potential is weighed against Detroit’s disciplined offense. Flaherty’s decline and Detroit’s playoff-style play hint at a competitive game. The Braves-Phillies game is a marquee matchup where both hosts land on the Phillies, citing Spencer Strider’s rust following Tommy John surgery and strong home form for Ranger Suarez. This becomes Griffin’s best bet of the show. Next, they evaluate the Twins at Rays. Joe Ryan’s 7-0-2 under trend is pitted against Taj Bradley’s home run issues. Twins team total over and game over are both floated as viable plays. The Mets vs White Sox game is largely dismissed due to Chicago’s poor form and lack of discipline despite Shane Smith’s promising numbers. When analyzing Rockies at Cubs, Griffin equates Colorado to a “bad news bears” team and recommends backing Cubs team total over due to Marquez’s poor road stats. In Blue Jays at Rangers, they highlight Bowden Francis’s struggles and the Rangers’ 22-6 under record at home, aligning both to bet the under confidently. Astros vs Athletics is covered next with JP Sears being unpredictable and Hunter Brown highlighted for his success at home and against Oakland. Munaf supports an Astros run line and game under if the total reaches 8. In Yankees at Angels, Rodon’s improved form is discussed, along with Anderson’s smoke-and-mirrors style that’s worked at home. The price is too steep for the Yankees, so Angels +162 and possibly the over are considered. Pirates at Diamondbacks is where Munaf shares his best bet. He backs Arizona -1.5 based on Corbin Burnes’ recent form and Pittsburgh’s 6-19 road record. For Marlins at Padres, Miami’s last-place scoring in the first five innings and San Diego’s solid bullpen push both hosts toward first-half or full-game unders, or a light parlay with the Padres moneyline. The show concludes with a promo for pregame.com, urging listeners to use the code ERA20 for 20% off betting packages. Both best bets are recapped: Griffin on the Phillies -113 and Munaf on Diamondbacks -1.5. The summary blends humor, data, and actionable betting strategies, offering a complete picture of the Tuesday MLB card. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Former MLB Pitcher Josh Towers and Scott Seidenberg break down the MLB slate of games for Memorial Day This special Memorial Day episode of The Inside Pitch features Scott Seidenberg and former MLB pitcher Josh Towers providing a comprehensive breakdown of the upcoming Monday baseball slate. The podcast focuses on travel dynamics, pitcher performances, betting angles, and how team momentum and logistics influence game outcomes. Central to the discussion is the “Sunday Night Fade”—a strategy of betting against teams that play Sunday night games and must travel before playing again on Monday. Scott cites a 6-1 record with this approach, spotlighting the Dodgers’ travel from New York to Cleveland. Josh outlines how travel delays, postgame treatment, and media responsibilities—especially for players like Shohei Otani—can exhaust players, making them vulnerable in early Monday games. Josh and Scott discuss Otani’s homer against Kodai Senga, noting it was the first Senga allowed since Opening Day. They analyze the Dodgers-Guardians matchup: Gavin Williams has a strong home record (3-1, 3.40 ERA), but struggles at night (5.09 ERA), while Yamamoto has a 1.00 ERA overall and has not yet pitched in a day game. Despite Yamamoto’s strength, Josh is cautious, citing fatigue from travel as a factor. In Mets vs. White Sox, the Mets are favored. Hauser is unreliable (5.00 ERA in the minors), and the White Sox are 5-21 on the road. Clay Holmes has been strong for the Mets but is nearing workload limits. The duo leans Mets on the run line. Tarek Skubal’s dominant performance (13 Ks in a 9-inning shutout) leads into Tigers-Giants. Keiter Montero’s poor control (13 BB in 30 IP) makes backing the Giants appealing despite Hayden Birdsong’s inexperience. Red Sox-Brewers is another key game. Boston’s offense has faltered without Bregman, while Crochet has been elite. Chad Patrick has been solid at home. Josh and Scott prefer a first-five under wager, given offensive struggles. Cubs vs. Rockies is heavily skewed toward the Cubs, with Palmquist’s disastrous starts (9 ER in 8 IP, 7 BB) making a run-line play likely. Eric Fedde (Cardinals) is steady, while Charlie Morton (Orioles) has had a volatile season. Despite recent rebound, Morton’s early performances were poor, and the line favoring Baltimore is puzzling. In Rangers vs. Blue Jays, both deGrom and Gausman are top-tier arms. Toronto has scored just two runs in three games, and Texas’ offense is struggling. Josh and Scott prefer the under, particularly a no-run first inning (Nerf-y) play. Royals vs. Reds also presents a Nerf-y opportunity: Lorenzen is 10-0 to the Nerf-y, and Chris Booback has a 1.45 ERA with 70 Ks in 68 innings. In Rays vs. Twins, Josh praises Tampa’s momentum, especially with lineup depth like Chandler Simpson batting seventh. Paddock’s 5.19 road ERA and vulnerability in early innings make Tampa appealing. However, Scott warns of fading the Rays later due to a back-loaded road-heavy schedule. Pirates-Diamondbacks features Heaney (8-2 Nerf-y) vs. Ryan Nelson, whose inconsistency and starter-reliever toggling limit trust. Another Nerf-y opportunity is noted. Padres-Marlins showcases Vasquez’s steady performances against Weathers, who’s shown flashes but is prone to walks and home runs. Yankees vs. Angels sees Yarbrough returning to form, while Kocanowicz has erratic command (20+ walks in 5 starts). Josh recommends betting Yankees and possibly on Kocanowicz’s walk prop. The discussion shifts to the mound in Sacramento. Zach Wheeler complained about mound hardness affecting pitch delivery. Scott theorizes high elevation in pitches might stem from poor footing. Josh stresses that pros must adjust, though he criticizes coaches like Minnesota’s, who lack firsthand pitching experience and can't offer adjustment strategies. The show ends with a promo code "DAY20" for 20% off at pregame.com and a reminder to enjoy the holiday with plenty of daytime baseball and solid betting opportunities. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Munaf Manji and Griffin Warner talk MLB betting for Friday and this weekend. The guys cover the entire card and give out best bets. The MLB Friday betting podcast hosted by Manaf Manji and Griffin Warner covered an extensive analysis of all 16 matchups. Manaf opened by highlighting the full Friday slate, including a doubleheader between the Orioles and Red Sox. Griffin immediately addressed frustrations with umpiring and pitch clock enforcement, using Yoán Moncada’s controversial strikeout as an example. For Game 1 of the doubleheader, Povich (Orioles) and Baio (Red Sox) were both criticized, with both hosts favoring the over due to poor pitching. Povich's 5.28 ERA vs. Boston and Baio’s recent seven-run outing made betting the over a logical play. In Cubs vs. Reds, Griffin noted Hunter Greene’s return from injury as a risk, while Manaf praised Boyd’s consistency and strikeouts, leaning toward the Cubs. Brewers vs. Pirates saw Freddie Peralta favored despite Pittsburgh’s Paul Skenes’ talent, due to a lack of run support. Both suggested under 7 as a good play. For Giants vs. Nationals, McKenzie Gore’s strikeout success and the Giants’ bullpen issues led to a lean toward the Nationals, especially in the first five innings. Blue Jays vs. Rays featured skepticism toward both bullpens. Despite Rasmussen’s 3.00 ERA vs. Toronto, his 1-4 record and poor run support made the Jays an attractive underdog. Dodgers vs. Mets focused on Clayton Kershaw’s weak return and Canning’s strong 5-1 record with a 2.47 ERA. The Mets, 8-1 in Canning’s starts, were backed heavily. In Guardians vs. Tigers, Jackson Jobe’s 4-0 record and Detroit’s 8-0 team mark in his starts made them the clear pick. Pablo Lopez vs. Royals saw under 7.5 suggested, with Lopez’s home starts hitting the over but mainly due to weak opponents. In Braves vs. Padres, Chris Sale’s 15-2 home mark with Atlanta was compelling, but concerns over the Padres’ offensive slump and pitching made Griffin hesitant. The Rangers, with a 35-15-1 under record and the worst AL offense, were labeled an overvalued -180 favorite vs. the White Sox. Burke’s wildness (13 walks in 3 starts) and Texas’ high swing rate set up a potential upset. Mariners vs. Astros examined Emerson Hancock’s inconsistency and the Astros' injury woes. Both leaned Mariners at plus money. Phillies vs. A’s spotlighted Sacramento's hitter-friendly park. Despite Wheeler’s average road form, Philadelphia’s offense was favored to overwhelm. Yankees vs. Rockies centered on the 12.5 total at Coors, suggesting Yankees’ team total overs. Marlins vs. Angels featured heavy criticism of Sandy Alcantara’s 7.99 ERA. Kikuchi, despite inconsistencies, was backed due to the Angels’ offensive momentum. Cardinals were recommended over Arizona due to Gallen’s 5.14 ERA and recent struggles, while Mikolas had been reliable. For best bets, Griffin took the Angels at -143, fading Alcantara. Manaf backed the Mets over Kershaw, citing Canning’s stellar form and New York’s offensive edge. They concluded with a promo for Griffin’s picks and encouraged listeners to take advantage of the B.A.T.20 discount at pregame.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

RJ Bell, Steve Fezzik, Scott Seidenberg and Mackenzie Rivers talk all things NBA playoffs. Plus, the guys discuss NFL Hard Knocks and give out best bets. In this podcast episode, RJ Bell and his expert panel analyze a historic NBA playoff collapse, strategic betting angles, and key NFL developments. The episode opens with a promotion for discounted picks at pregame.com, spotlighting successful handicappers like Dave Esler and Greg Shaker. The heart of the episode is the New York Knicks' unprecedented collapse against the Indiana Pacers in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals. Scott Seidenberg recounts how the Knicks lost a 14-point lead in the final 2:45, with the Pacers scoring 23 points in 3:14—an NBA playoff record since 1997. Aaron Neesmith’s six 3-pointers in the fourth quarter were the most in any playoff fourth quarter since 1997–98. The panel discusses the psychological and statistical impacts of this loss, with RJ questioning how such a collapse may affect the Knicks' mindset for the rest of the series. McKenzie Rivers and Steve Fezzik explore the zigzag theory in betting, revealing that Game 2's line moved from Knicks -4.5 to -6, despite the traumatic nature of Game 1’s finish. Statistical trends support a potential Knicks bounce back: favorites after a Game 1 loss are 59% ATS since 2002, particularly dominant in first quarters. However, McKenzie notes this edge vanishes when teams are closely seeded. Despite the market showing confidence in New York, concerns linger over their seven-man rotation, fatigue after an overtime loss, and historical playoff struggles. RJ emphasizes the Knicks' tendency to crumble under high expectations, comparing this year to the pressure-filled 1994 and 1999 Knicks teams. Attention then shifts to the Oklahoma City Thunder, who dominated the Minnesota Timberwolves in Game 1. Anthony Edwards was held to 18 points and scoreless in the fourth quarter. The panel credits OKC’s elite perimeter defense and deep roster. McKenzie highlights OKC's transition from regular-season darlings to playoff powerhouses, noting they lead the league in turnovers forced and have the lowest turnovers committed. Betting markets reflected OKC’s strength; post-Game 1, their series odds jumped from -330 to -675, reflecting a 1–1.5 point market upgrade. In NFL coverage, the panel discusses two major Hard Knocks announcements: the Buffalo Bills will be featured in training camp, while the NFC East will be showcased during the regular season. They also debate the NFL’s decision to retain the “tush push” after the Packers' failed attempt to ban it, with Fezzik estimating the Eagles would’ve been downgraded by half a point without it. Jalen Hurts’ rushing TD prop even increased from 9.5 to 10.5 after the rule's preservation. The episode concludes with betting strategies across sports. RJ and Fezzik analyze the Rockies’ historically bad MLB season, advocating for under 40 wins. They highlight Colorado's -160 run differential just a third into the season—on pace to break modern records. Additionally, they discuss the Tampa Bay Rays’ skewed home-heavy schedule, recommending an under 77.5 wins bet as they face 59 road games in their final 97. The podcast closes with RJ teasing advanced NFL projection models and a “five-pack” of early NFL bets for next week. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Former MLB Pitcher Josh Towers and Scott Seidenberg discuss the latest around Major League Baseball. Juan Soto's struggles, the Dodgers slump and futures bets to make right now! In this episode, Scott Seidenberg and Josh Towers dissect a range of MLB storylines, with a heavy focus on Juan Soto’s troubled transition to the Mets. Soto’s recent on-field behavior—particularly his lack of hustle on a hit off the Green Monster and only securing one hit across three games against the Yankees—sparked criticism. Mets manager Carlos Mendoza announced plans to speak with Soto about his effort. Towers emphasized how professional athletes are expected to hustle regardless of performance, especially when part of a new organization. He critiqued Soto’s declining stats (.246 average in 2025, subpar defense) and called out the media narrative that built him up unrealistically since his 2020 breakout. He believes the $765 million valuation raised unsustainable expectations. Michael Kay, based on conversations with Mets and Yankees insiders, claimed Soto appears “glum” and without joy. Soto reportedly preferred to remain a Yankee, but his family urged him to accept the Mets' offer. Towers, who played for both franchises, praised the Yankees for their professionalism and structure, saying it fosters respect and accountability. In contrast, he noted that the Mets, while improving, still lack the Yankees’ foundational stability. Scott and Josh then evaluated the NL East race. Seidenberg endorsed betting on the Phillies to win the division at +130, noting their strong veteran core (Harper, Schwarber, Wheeler) and manager Dave Dombrowski’s history of bold moves. Josh echoed this but pointed out the Phillies’ need for young talent infusion, something they’ve lacked in recent years. They also discussed the Braves’ resurgence, who started 0-8 but have since gone 24-15, with key players like Max Fried returning. Shifting to the Dodgers, both hosts criticized Dave Roberts’ pitching management. The team’s constant injuries and overuse of bullpen arms have led to four consecutive home losses. Towers questioned the effectiveness of the organization’s throwing programs and training strategies. Despite Yamamoto’s reliability, the rest of the rotation, including Snell, Glasnow, and Kershaw, remains inconsistent or injured. Fried’s Cy Young candidacy was explored in depth. With a 1.29 ERA and consistent dominance, Josh called him the clear front-runner. Other contenders like Robbie Ray, Hunter Brown, and Chris Bubik were noted, though Fried’s consistency set him apart. On the offensive side, Pete Crow Armstrong's recent surge sparked MVP speculation, but Josh dismissed it due to his relatively weak OBP and limited consistency. Attention turned to the Texas Rangers, whose rotation (deGrom, Eovaldi, Mowley) and improving offense make them serious contenders. The coaching shift toward personalized, non-analytic-heavy hitting plans has improved their situational batting. They also discussed trade rumors including Bo Bichette, Kenley Jansen, and Sandy Alcantara potentially moving before the deadline. The Orioles and Rockies came under fire for poor development. The Rockies’ minus-150 run differential led Scott to predict they might break the all-time worst record. Josh argued that both teams lack direction and accountability, especially with player growth and clubhouse culture. Lastly, home field advantage in 2025 has reached historic levels, with home teams winning 56.5% of games, the best rate since 2005. Betting trends show high returns for home favorites, and Seidenberg emphasized this is a year to follow such patterns. The hosts closed with MVP and Cy Young betting odds, a promo for Pregame.com, and a final note on the season’s unpredictability and remaining opportunities. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices