Dodgers vs. Padres Game 3 prediction: NLDS odds, picks, best bets Tuesday

The rivalry between the Dodgers and Padres took another twist on Sunday when San Diego hit six home runs in a dominant 10-2 victory to tie the series at one game apiece.There was plenty of chirping back and forth on both sides, from a Padres hitter getting struck inside the batter’s box to L.A.fans hurling baseballs and debris onto the playing area from the outfield seats.There’s no love lost between these teams and their fan bases, with the Padres desperate to get out of the Dodgers’ shadow and win their first World Series title.

While the Padres have a bit of a little brother syndrome, this team is well-stocked to compete with the Dodgers.Although Los Angeles is more than capable of bouncing back in Game 3, I’ve spotted an intriguing angle that supports a play on San Diego for the first five innings.There was a time when the mention of Walker Buehler on the mound would’ve seemed like a lock for a Dodgers victory. However, injuries have limited Buehler to just 28 starts over the last three seasons.After missing all of 2023 due to a second Tommy John surgery, Buehler returned to action in May but missed another two months after hip inflammation in June.He went just 1-6 during the year with a 5.38 ERA and 1.55 WHIP. His command has been an issue, as his 3.35 walks per nine innings is the second-highest of his career. Moreover, his Called Plus Swinging Strike Rate of 26% is the worst mark of his career.This is a worrying sign for Buehler, given his K/9 ratio is at a career-low.

He’s also surrendering home runs at an alarming rate of 1.91 per nine innings. While he can still rediscover his form, he hasn’t pitched since Sept.26, when he allowed one run on five hits in five innings against the Padres.

Buehler departed the game trailing 1-0, and the Dodgers rallied from a 2-0 deficit in the seventh inning to win, 7-2. Although the Padres lost the game, they would’ve cashed a first-five wager on the spread and moneyline. The Padres will counter wit...