Best MLB Parlay Picks Today (Rays, Royals and Giants Create Huge Value)

Today marks five years since we lost one of the best souls I've ever known, my dear friend Jeff. So much has changed in my life in these years, and I constantly wonder what would have changed in his; what he'd be doing, what new music he'd like, and what he'd think of my dog, Kemba.

It's a sobering reminder that in the grand scheme, these parlay picks and all of this do not matter. The corny things, like telling people you love them and supporting those around you, are what matters.

So before I jump into some inconsequential analysis, I urge you to tell someone you appreciate and care for them today. If someone opens up, let them. I don't mean to distract, but it'd feel wrong to not mention a man whose memory I cherish so deeply. You truly, genuinely never know what someone is going through. So be kind, and don't be afraid to be vulnerable.

There's no respectful way to transition here. Just remember none of this really matters, and don't forget what actually does. Rest in Power, my brother.

Anyway, here are my favorite MLB Parlay picks of the day, courtesy of odds from WynnBET. Fingers crossed we nail one:

Best MLB Parlay Picks Today

Rays First Five Innings (-220) vs Orioles

When Shane McClanahan pitches, we back him. Those are the rules. He's allowed one or fewer run in 11 of his last 12 outings, giving up a meager two in the lone exception. In my opinion, he's clearly the best pitcher in the AL and should be the Cy Young front-runner.

Opposing McClanahan is Spenser Watkins, who has a 1.53 ERA this month but is as prime a candidate for negative regression as I've ever seen. He has a disastrous 5.54 expected ERA, and his MLB Statcast Pitching Profile is appalling:

Oof. I'll stick with the first five innings to mitigate any meltdown potential. Let's ride, it's Shane McClanahan day.

Royals (-120) vs Angels

The last time I ever got a picture with Jeff, we were at a Royals game. So this only feels right. Luckily, there's ample reason to back Kansas City tonight. Los Angeles is a pathetic 2-16 in its last 18 games as a road underdog and send the struggling Jose Suarez to the mound to take on the impressive Angel Zerpa.

Suarez has a 9.00 ERA this month, losing every start by multiple runs. The improving Royals have the fifth-best OPS against left-handed pitchers over the last month, so I expect their lineup to find success. Rookies like Vinny Pasquantino, Nick Pratto, and Bobby Witt Jr are playing well, giving Kansas City a foundation to feel good about.

Tonight's starter, Angel Zerpa, may be part of that foundation moving forward. He was strong in the minors before posting a 1.29 ERA over a couple of wins in the big leagues. The Angels have the second-worst OPS against southpaws over the last month and should struggle once again.

Kansas City has wins in six of seven as a home favorite. Expect that trend to continue as Zerpa outduels Suarez.

Giants First Five Innings (-185) vs Diamondbacks

I love the value on the Giants early in this matchup, as Carlos Rodon gives the visitors a significant edge over Tyler Gilbert and the Diamondbacks.

Rodon allowed two or fewer runs in 15 of his 19 starts so far, proving all season that he's one of the very best pitchers in MLB.

Meanwhile, Gilbert has a 6.46 expected ERA and his MLB Statcast Pitching Profile makes me cringe:

San Francisco has the fourth-best OPS against left-handed pitchers over the last month, just ahead of Kansas City, so I expect fireworks. I don't trust the Giants' bullpen, but I do trust Rodon. Let's back him on the first five innings just like McClanahan - we want to avoid any potential bullpen disaster.

MLB Parlay for July 26, 2022 (+311)

• Rays First Five Innings (-220) vs Orioles

• Royals (-120) vs Angels

• Giants First Five Innings (-185) vs Diamondbacks

Keeping it light today but we've still got lovely odds on this three-teamer. Odds of +311 nets you $77.70 in profit on a $25 bet, and you're welcome to add anything you'd like to it over at WynnBET.

I think Jeff would find it neat that I'm writing and doing this now. I'll try to carry his memory positively and be a warming influence to others, and I encourage you to do the same.

As always, best of luck. Let's get after it.

Follow all of Joe Summers' betting picks here.