Expert MLB Picks For Friday: Fried, Gallen Matchups Analyzed

David

3 min read

Post on Jun 21, 2025

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Expert MLB Picks for Friday: Fried, Gallen Matchups Analyzed

Friday night baseball offers a tantalizing slate of games, but two matchups stand out: Max Fried against the Nationals and Zac Gallen facing the Rockies. Our expert analysts have dissected these pitching duels to provide you with informed MLB picks for your fantasy leagues and betting strategies. Let's dive into the details.

Max Fried vs. Washington Nationals:

The Atlanta Braves' ace, Max Fried, takes the mound against a struggling Washington Nationals lineup. Fried, known for his pinpoint control and devastating curveball, presents a formidable challenge for a Nationals team that has struggled offensively this season. While Fried has shown some minor inconsistencies early in the year, his track record speaks for itself. He’s historically dominated weaker offenses, and the Nationals currently fit that bill.

• Fried's Strengths: Excellent command, diverse pitch arsenal, strong ground ball rate.
• Nationals' Weakness: Lack of consistent power hitting, struggles against left-handed pitching (Fried is a lefty).
• Prediction: Fried is projected for a strong outing, likely limiting the Nationals to few runs. Look for a low-scoring game with Fried delivering a quality start.

Zac Gallen vs. Colorado Rockies:

This matchup presents a fascinating contrast. Arizona Diamondbacks' star Zac Gallen, known for his incredible efficiency and strikeout ability, faces the Colorado Rockies, a team notorious for their potent offense, especially at their home stadium, Coors Field. Gallen's ability to keep the ball in the park will be crucial against a Rockies lineup that thrives on home runs.

• Gallen's Strengths: Exceptional control, high strikeout rate, ability to induce weak contact.
• Rockies' Strength: Power hitting, particularly at Coors Field.
• Prediction: This game has higher risk, given Coors Field’s hitter-friendly environment. While Gallen is an elite pitcher, the Rockies' potent offense poses a significant threat. A high-scoring affair is possible, but Gallen's ability to limit damage will be key. Look for a potential over/under bet to be a significant factor here.

Other Factors to Consider:

Beyond these two key matchups, several other factors influence Friday's MLB games:

• Weather: Check the forecast for any potential rain delays or disruptions. Weather can significantly impact pitching performances and offensive outputs.
• Bullpens: The performance of the bullpens will be crucial, especially in close games. A strong bullpen can solidify a victory, while a weak one can quickly unravel a winning effort.
• Lineup matchups: Analyze the specific matchups between pitchers and hitters to identify potential offensive outbursts or defensive shutdowns. Websites like offer valuable data on these matchups.

Conclusion:

Friday's MLB slate provides exciting opportunities for fantasy players and bettors alike. While Max Fried offers a safer bet against the Nationals, the Zac Gallen game against the Rockies presents a higher-risk, higher-reward scenario. Remember to always gamble responsibly and conduct thorough research before placing any bets. Consult multiple sources and consider all the factors discussed above before making your final MLB picks for Friday. Good luck!