MLB Games Today: Predictions and picks for October 8 games

The MLB postseason continues with two exciting matchups on October 8. Bettors should pay close attention to pitching matchups and team momentum, as both games carry series-altering stakes. Here’s your complete betting guide, including predictions, odds, and strategy.

Seattle Mariners @ Detroit Tigers | ALDS Game 3

Time: 12:08 PM ET (October 7)
Pitching Matchup: Logan Gilbert (SEA) vs Jack Flaherty (DET)
Series: Tied 1-1

The Mariners and Tigers head into a pivotal Game 3 with the series tied. Logan Gilbert has been a reliable starter for Seattle, relying on precise control and a mix of breaking balls to neutralize hitters. Jack Flaherty brings postseason experience and strikeout ability, but Detroit’s offense will need to support him early.

Also Read: How sportsbooks set their lines, and what bettors can learn

Betting Angle:

• Moneyline: Mariners have a slight edge, but Tigers at home are a strong consideration.
• Over/Under Runs: A low to moderate scoring game is likely; betting the under could be smart given both pitchers’ strengths.
• Prop Picks: Strikeouts for Flaherty and Gilbert offer high-value opportunities for prop betting.

Prediction: Expect a close game, possibly decided by one or two runs. Mariners 3-2 or Tigers 4-3 are plausible outcomes.

Toronto Blue Jays @ New York Yankees | ALDS Game 3

Time: 4:08 PM ET (October 7) | TV: [Check local listings]
Pitching Matchup: Shane Bieber (TOR) vs Carlos Rodón (NYY)

The series is tied, making Game 3 crucial for setting momentum. Shane Bieber’s command and strikeout ability make him a key factor for Toronto, while Carlos Rodón’s recent postseason performances suggest he can limit runs effectively. Yankee Stadium’s hitter-friendly environment may tilt the edge slightly toward the home team.

Betting Angle:

• Moneyline: Yankees are slightly favored due to home-field advantage and offensive depth.
• Run Totals: Likely a moderately high-scoring contest; over is worth considering.
• Live Betting: Keep an eye on early innings for shifts in momentum, particularly if Bieber struggles against New York’s lineup.

Prediction: Yankees hold a slight edge at home, but a close 5-3 or 6-4 win is expected.

Also Read: NHL 2025 Power Rankings: Check teams preview, predictions, key players, and what to expect this season

MLB Betting Strategy for October 8

1. Prioritize Starting Pitchers: Both games feature elite arms. Bettors should track pitch count and early performance.
2. Series Momentum Matters: With both series tied, psychological edge may be less clear, but home-field advantage plays a role.
3. Prop Bets Are Valuable: Strikeouts, RBIs, and first-inning runs are strong prop options for sharp bettors.
4. Watch Park Factors: Yankee Stadium favors hitters, whereas Comerica Park tends to favor pitchers slightly.

Odds Snapshot (Indicative)

(Odds may vary by sportsbook)

• Mariners Moneyline: -125 | Tigers Moneyline: +105
• Blue Jays Moneyline: +110 | Yankees Moneyline: -130
• Over/Under Runs (Mariners vs Tigers): 8
• Over/Under Runs (Blue Jays vs Yankees): 9

October 8 offers tight pitching duels and offensive battles. Mariners and Yankees hold slight edges, but live betting and prop bets can provide significant value for those tracking early game developments.

FAQs: MLB Playoff Betting

Q1: What MLB games are key on October 8?
A1: Mariners vs Tigers and Blue Jays vs Yankees, both ALDS Game 3 matchups with tied series.

Q2: Which pitchers should bettors focus on?
A2: Logan Gilbert (SEA), Jack Flaherty (DET), Shane Bieber (TOR), and Carlos Rodón (NYY).

Q3: Should I bet the over or under?
A3: Mariners vs Tigers may lean under; Blue Jays vs Yankees may lean over due to Yankee Stadium’s hitter-friendly park.

Q4: Are prop bets worth considering?
A4: Yes, strikeouts and early-inning runs are popular prop bets for these games.

Q5: How important is home-field advantage?
A5: Home teams (Tigers and Yankees) carry a slight edge, especially in closely matched series.