EPL Kicks Off and MLB Underdogs Deliver: BrownBagBets Boosts August Bankroll

August is shaping up to be a stellar month for BrownBagBets. Last night, we chalked up another big win, pushing our bankroll to an impressive 135% of our starting total for the month. We were right on target with our picks, especially with the first full Saturday of the new EPL season in play. Out of three plays, we hit two, including two 5% moneyline bets on underdog wins in the MLB—the Royals and A’s both came through in a big way.

At BrownBagBets, we pride ourselves on making the most out of every opportunity, whether it’s soccer or baseball. Last night was a perfect example of how our methodical approach and well-researched picks continue to pay off. We don’t just play the odds; we play the value. Our focus on strategic betting and bankroll management ensures that we don’t just win days—we win months.

As we look to today, the excitement continues. Manchester City vs. Chelsea takes center stage in the EPL, a matchup that promises drama and potential upsets. Alongside that, we have 15 MLB games on the slate, and we’re already deep into our analysis to find the most value-driven picks.

Stay tuned, keep the faith, and let’s keep this winning streak alive. Here’s to another successful day at BrownBagBets!

MLB: Boston Red Sox at Baltimore Orioles

Pitching Dynamics

Kutter Crawford has struggled recently with a 6.16 ERA over his last seven starts and a troubling 13 home runs allowed in that span. The Orioles, known for their power-hitting at home, have already exploited this weakness, scoring 5 earned runs off Crawford in a previous matchup. Conversely, the Orioles’ Albert Suarez has excelled since returning to the rotation, allowing just 6 hits and no runs in 11 2/3 innings over two starts.

Team Trends

The Orioles have been strong at home and are expected to manage this game with high stakes in mind. The disparity in pitching form and the Orioles’ effective lineup contribute to their potential for a decisive win.

Bet: Orioles -1.5 @ +150 / Wager: 4%

With Crawford’s recent struggles and Suarez’s effective pitching, a 4% wager on the Orioles to win by more than one run presents good value.

MLB: Seattle Mariners at Pittsburgh Pirates

Offensive Struggles

The Mariners’ offense has been underwhelming on their current road trip, scoring just nine runs over five games. This trend suggests a continuation of low-scoring games. The Pirates’ Jake Woodford is coming off a strong performance, allowing just one run and three hits in six innings against San Diego.

Pitching Matchup

Seattle’s George Kirby is expected to rebound from recent struggles against Detroit. Historically, Kirby has performed well against teams other than Detroit, not allowing more than two runs in any game since late June. This should contribute to a low-scoring game.

Bet: Under 8 / Wager: 4%

Given the Mariners’ offensive struggles, the Pirates’ solid pitching, and Kirby’s expected return to form, a 4% wager on the Under 8 is a strong play for a low-scoring affair.

MLB: Kansas City Royals at Cincinnati Reds

Recent Form

The Royals have been dominant in the series so far, winning the first two games by a combined score of 20-2. This recent form suggests they are in strong shape heading into the next matchup.

Pitching Mismatch

While Brady Singer has had some struggles recently, the oddsmakers’ line seems generous considering the performance of Andrew Abbott. Abbott had been hit hard in his previous three starts, allowing 12 runs and 21 hits in just 13 1/3 innings. His recent inconsistency, coupled with KC’s strong performance, makes this line favorable for the Royals.

Bet: Royals ML / Wager: 4%

Given the Royals’ recent dominance and Abbott’s inconsistency, a 4% wager on the Royals to win straight up offers significant value.

MLB: Arizona Diamondbacks at Tampa Bay Rays

Pitching Matchup

Merrill Kelly is making his second road start of the season, having previously allowed only two runs in six innings at Colorado. His performance on the road has been solid, and he now faces a Rays team struggling against right-handed pitchers, hitting just .199 with a .596 OPS at home.

Team Trends

The Diamondbacks have been strong in the third game of a series, holding a 12-6 straight-up record and winning six of their last eight. Despite the Rays winning their last two games, their overall performance against righties has been underwhelming.

Bet: Diamondbacks ML / Wager: 5%

Given Kelly’s strong road performance and the Rays’ struggles against right-handed pitchers, a 5% wager on the Diamondbacks to win provides excellent value.

MLB: Toronto Blue Jays at Chicago Cubs

Motivation and Pitching

The Cubs are showing renewed energy, having won the first two games of the series. Rookie Shota Imanaga, who is 4-0 with a 2.27 ERA in his seven starts against the A.L. this season, will be on the mound. His strong performance provides a solid edge for the Cubs.

Toronto’s Current State

The Blue Jays are wrapping up a six-game trip and seem to be going through the motions, lacking the drive that could turn their current form around.

Bet: Cubs -1.5 @ +130 / Wager: 3%

Given the Cubs’ motivation, Imanaga’s impressive form, and the Jays’ lack of momentum, a 3% wager on the Cubs to win by more than one run offers good value.

MLB - Little League Classic: New York Yankees vs Detroit Tigers

Recent Form and Trends

The Yankees have won all four matchups against the Tigers this season before Detroit broke the streak with a 4-0 win last night. The Tigers have recently won seven of their last ten games, showing renewed vigor after a rough patch and key player trades.

Pitching and Scoring Insight

Marcus Stroman, starting for the Tigers, has struggled recently, allowing 16 runs over his last four starts, with all those games going over the total. His recent form suggests another high-scoring game is likely, as he has been allowing significant runs.

Bet: Over 7.5 / Wager: 5%

Considering Stroman’s recent difficulties and the Tigers’ current scoring form, a 5% wager on the Over 8 is a solid play.