Free MLB Picks Today: Atlanta Braves vs Baltimore Orioles 5/6/23

Ronald Acuna Jr. will be looking to extend his 24-game on-base streak as the Atlanta Braves (22-11) host the Baltimore Orioles (22-10) at Truist Park on Saturday.

The Orioles took Friday’s series opener 9-4. Starter Dean Kremer went six innings, allowing one run on six hits, to get the win. Anthony Santander was 2 for 5 with two home runs and five RBIs in the win. Sean Murphy went 2 for 4 with a home run and four RBIs for the Braves.

ON THE MOUND

Kyle Bradish (1-1, 6.14 ERA) is in line to get the start for Baltimore. The right-hander allowed three runs over 4.2 innings in his last start, a 5-3 road win over the Tigers on Sunday.

He gave up six hits while striking out five and walking one in the no-decision. Right-hander Spencer Strider (4-0, 2.57 ERA) is on the mound for Atlanta.

It’s his first appearance of the season against the Orioles. In his last start on Monday, Strider got the win on the road against the Mets. He threw five innings and gave up four runs on five hits, striking out eight and walking three in the 9-8 victory. The righty is tied for second in the NL in strikeouts (57) and tied for third in wins.

AT THE PLATE

Over the last five games, Baltimore has averaged 7.6 runs a game, up from their season average of 5.6, while performing better across the board (.286/.369/.505).

Against righties like Strider this season, the O’s have a .748 OPS. Adley Rutschman is the team’s best performer against right-handers with a .842 OPS in 72 at-bats.

Atlanta is averaging 6.6 runs per game in the last five, up from 5.5 for the season, with a higher slash line (.315/.390/.551). The Braves have a .761 OPS against right-handers in 2023. With a .633 SLG over 88 at-bats, Murphy has been their best power hitter against right-handers.

HOME AND AWAY

Baltimore is 13-6 away from home in 2023, scoring 6.0 runs per game while allowing 4.9 runs. Atlanta has gone 7-8 at Truist Park this season, averaging 4.8 runs per game while surrendering 5.2. Baltimore is 3-1 in four meetings at Truist Park with an average scoreline of 7.3-5.8.