The Los Angeles Dodgers have constructed a formidable pitching rotation, but durability concerns linger. MLB insider Mark Feinsand suggests they could benefit from adding a contingency arm, pinpointing Andrew Heaney as a potential target. Currently, Heaney holds a 3.33 ERA with a 3-5 record in 14 starts, indicating a respectable season. However, with a rotation that could feature stars like Shohei Ohtani, Clayton Kershaw, and Blake Snell, it's unclear if an additional starter is necessary. As the Dodgers weigh their options, a focus on reinforcing their bullpen might be a more prudent strategy at this juncture.

The Detroit Tigers solidified their position atop the MLB standings with a commanding 7-3 victory over the Pittsburgh Pirates at Comerica Park. Manager A.J. Hinch's squad improved to an impressive 47 wins this season, showcasing a strong performance on both offense and defense. Starting pitcher Casey Mize delivered a stellar outing, pitching seven innings while allowing only two earned runs on five hits. The Tigers' bullpen followed suit, with Chase Lee, Tommy Kahnle, and Brennan Hanifee combining for three scoreless innings to seal the win.

Before the game, a heartfelt tribute was paid to former player Don Kelly, now managing the Pirates, further highlighting the emotional connections within the team. Tigers' fans celebrated Kelly's return, creating an atmosphere of nostalgia. The victory not only boosts the Tigers' playoff aspirations but also emphasizes their resilience and ability to perform under pressure. As the season progresses, the Tigers continue to demonstrate the potential to be strong contenders.

On June 18, the Pittsburgh Pirates (29-45) visit the Detroit Tigers (47-27) at Comerica Park, with Andrew Heaney starting for the Pirates against Tarik Skubal for the Tigers. In their previous game, Detroit secured a 7-3 victory, highlighted by Javy Baez's two home runs and Casey Mize's solid pitching performance that earned him his seventh win of the season. The Tigers will look to extend their winning streak in what promises to be an exciting matchup.

The latest betting odds favor the Tigers at -302 on the moneyline, while the Pirates sit at +241. The spread is set at Tigers -1.5 with a total of 7.0 runs for the game. Both teams have shown interesting trends, with the Tigers doing well against the NL and the Pirates frequently hitting the under on the road.

With both teams bringing their key players to the mound and the stakes high, this game is sure to attract attention from both fans and bettors alike. Expert picks favor the Tigers to win on the moneyline, lean toward covering the spread, and suggest betting on the over for total runs.

Today’s MLB slate is ripe for No Runs First Inning (NRFI) betting opportunities, with five strong picks laid out for June 18, 2025. Following a tough previous day where four out of five bets lost, it's time to reset. Key matchups include Boston Red Sox vs. Seattle Mariners, where Garrett Crochet faces Luis Castillo, both boasting impressive NRFI records. The Pirates will look to overcome their struggles against Tarik Skubal of the Tigers, while the Angels face the Yankees in what could be a high-risk but rewarding bet. Cold offenses and solid pitching highlight several games, making careful bankroll management essential as the volatility in NRFI betting remains high.

The 2025 MLB season is shaping up with several outstanding statistical performances that bear watching. For example, Aaron Judge is posting a .454 batting average on balls in play (BABIP), showcasing his unmatched hitting skills. His .372 batting average puts him in contention for the American League's Triple Crown, a feat that would solidify his dominance. Paul Skenes, a rookie sensation, holds a stunning 1.89 ERA over his first 38 starts, drawing comparisons to Hall of Fame legends despite the various contextual differences of the eras. Additionally, Shohei Ohtani continues to amaze, pacing for 160 runs scored, a mark that few players in history have reached. As teams adjust to new stolen base rules, a noteworthy increase in attempts is evident, further enhancing the offensive dynamics of the game.