Free Picks: Los Angeles Dodgers vs. Washington Nationals

The LA Dodgers are one of the hottest teams in the game right now and look to continue their winning ways on Saturday, taking on the Washington Nationals, the Dodgers have not dropped a game to their NL foes this season. Clayton Kershaw gets the start for LA, while Paolo Espino is on the mound for the Nats.

After two consecutive nights of losses at home, the Washington Nationals will look to pick up their first win of the series on Saturday. The Nationals have dropped two straight to LA and are 0-5 against the Dodgers this season. 

Saturday’s pitching match-up will be interesting as Clayton Kershaw starts for LA, while Paolo Espino gets the nod for Washington. 

This season, Kershaw is 9-7 with a 3.25 ERA and 124 strikeouts. Kershaw is on pace to surpass his career-high in losses, currently sitting at 10 (2010). However, Kershaw’s number of innings pitched is matching those of his most dominant times in a Dodgers uniform. 

Espino has spent time in the Major Leagues and has historically had a high ERA. In his career, Espino has a career 3.70 ERA. His 2.02 ERA in 2021 is currently the lowest in his career for a singles season. 

I think Espino starting for Washington is a glimpse into the future for this BetPicks Prediction. As I said, Espino has struggled with earned runs over his career, which should bode well for LA’s hitters.  

If you’re looking to bet on a winner straight up, I would suggest taking the Dodgers Moneyline. Kershaw is gold and the Nationals are struggling against the Dodgers this season. The Dodgers are listed at -190 (10Bet) however. 

With that being said, the best MLB bet you can make for this game will be the Dodgers -1.5 on the runline. It provides better odds than the Moneyline and with Washington’s bullpen owning a 3.95 ERA, there will be tons of scoring opportunities for the Dodgers on Saturday. 

Espino has shown promise this season but has been mediocre in his career. I expect LA to make quick work of him on the bump and cruise to a victory.

• Washington are 20-24 ATS at home this season. 
• The Dodgers are 23-18 on the road in 2021. 
• Kershaw is 2-1 in last 3 starts against Washington
• Washington is 27-41 ATS against NL opponents.