Phillies vs. Padres Prediction and Odds for NLCS Game 2 (Nola Pushes Philly to 2-0 Series Lead)

The Philadelphia Phillies drew first blood in the National League Championship Series against the San Diego Padres 2-0 in Game 1 on Tuesday evening. Can they take a commanding 2-0 series lead in San Diego?

Aaron Nola takes the ball for the Phillies after a fantastic start to his first career postseason, not allowing a run through his first two outings. He matches up vs. Blake Snell, who is a bit more volatile, but comes off a strong effort against the Los Angeles Dodgers in the NLDS.

The Phillies' pitching staff shut down the Padres in the first game, but will San Diego's offense find their rhythm against a red-hot ace in Nola? Let's check out the odds and find the best bet for Game 2.

Phillies vs. Padres Odds, Run Line and Total

Phillies vs. Padres Prediction and Pick

I mentioned in my Game 1 preview that there is a very small difference between the two teams, and I would back either one as underdogs. We have a very similar line in this matchup, creating a value on Philly, who has the edge both on the mound and at the plate.

Nola has pitched 12-plus innings of scoreless baseball across two postseason starts and the Phillies' bullpen should be more than comfortable pitching if necessary after Zack Wheeler pitched seven innings of one hit ball in Game 1.

Meanwhile, this is an advantageous matchup for Philadelphia's lineup, ranked third in batting average and fourth in OPS against southpaws during the regular season. Blake Snell had a strong second half of the year, but still struggles with his command, walking nearly four batters per nine innings.

If Snell struggles to punch out batters, it could be a long night for San Diego pitchers with the lefty exiting the game early.

I'll grab underdog money on Philly for the second straight game.

Game odds refresh periodically and are subject to change.