Puerto Rico vs Israel
March 13, 2023 7:00 pm EDT
The Line: Israel +430 / Puerto Rico - 560 // Total: 9.5
(Get latest betting odds)
Puerto Rico and Israel face off on Monday in the World Baseball Classic in Pool B at LoanDepot Park in Miami.
Puerto Rico Betting Preview
Puerto Rico comes into this game with a 1-1 record overall. On Saturday, Puerto Rico faced off against Nicaragua, and they were able to secure a 9-1 victory. The pitching only gave up four hits total. On Sunday, Puerto Rico faced off against Venezuela and they were defeated 9-6. At the end of the second inning, they were down 7-1, and although they were able to make a bit of a comeback, it wasn’t enough as they were defeated. Eddie Rosario hit a home run for Puerto Rico to start the comeback. Emmanuel Rivera also finished with two hits and one RBI. In this game, if the offense is strong early, they should be in good shape to pick up their second victory.
Israel Betting Preview
There aren’t a ton of expectations surrounding this Israel squad, but they are coming off a victory in their first World Baseball Classic game. On Sunday, Israel faced off against Nicaragua, and they were able to secure a 3-1 victory. Israel’s offense couldn’t get a lot got early in the game, but they scored three runs in the 8th inning and that was enough to secure the 3-1 victory. Garrett Stubbs had a strong game, finishing with two hits and two RBIs. Spencer Horwitz also finished with one hit, one run, and one RBI. Dean Kremer got the start, and he looked good, going four innings giving up three hits and zero runs. In this game, they are going to need the pitching to be strong again. Make sure to check out Monday’s game between Colombia and Great Britain.
Shane’s Free Pick
Israel was able to pick up a win in the first game, but this is a much different test. Puerto Rico has scored 15 runs total in the first two games, and they have all kinds of talent up and down the lineup. Israel only scored three runs in the first game, and their offense isn’t going to be a lot better in this game. Look for Puerto Rico to score at least six or seven runs, and that will be enough for them to get it done. Back Puerto Rico to win by at least three runs.
