MLB Picks: Los Angeles Dodgers vs. Atlanta Braves Game 1

Los Angeles Dodgers starting pitcher Clayton Kershaw has allowed just 73 home runs in 1,180 career innings, which is important to consider when making your MLB picks Thursday as he takes on the Atlanta Braves at Turner Field (8:37 p.m.).

Sports bettors will find that the Dodgers are minus-139 road favorites in the pro baseball odds, with the betting total sitting at six in the market.

Let's take a closer look at Game 1 of this National League Division Series from a betting perspective, while offering up a prediction along the way.

Gambling stats via SBR Forum

Los Angeles Dodgers

Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images

The Los Angeles Dodgers won the National League West division by 11 games as they were led by a pitching staff that finished second in baseball with a 3.25 ERA.

MLB handicappers will find that the Dodgers have won 22 of their last 32 contests against teams with a winning record.

Atlanta Braves

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The Atlanta Braves ran away with the National League East division since the start of the regular season, as they prepare to dress up as home underdogs of plus-125 to plus-150 for the first time.

Braves starting pitcher Kris Medlen compiled a 9-3 record and 2.38 ERA in 13 games since the All-Star break.

Prediction

I'm going to recommend that readers back the Los Angeles Dodgers in the first five innings, as they've gone 18-5 in Clayton Kershaw's last 23 starts against National League East opponents.

MLB Pick: Los Angeles Dodgers -147 First Five Innings

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