Opening Day MLB: Who Will Shine and Who Will Struggle?

The 2025 MLB season is already underway, but the real action kicks off with a packed schedule of 14 games. This is a tricky time for betting, as there's not much recent data to go on. Still, there are some standout picks that catch the eye. First up, Paul Skenes is set to face the Marlins. Skenes has a reputation for striking out batters, and the Marlins are not known for their strong offense. Last season, Skenes struck out seven or more batters in most of his starts. The Marlins have never faced him before, which gives Skenes a big advantage. He's also shown he can handle pressure, mixing up his pitches and keeping batters off balance. Skenes is in top form and ready to dominate the Marlins on Opening Day. Next, the Red Sox are taking on the Rangers. Both teams have the potential for high-scoring games. The Rangers are looking to bounce back from a tough year, with players like Marcus Semien and Wyatt Langford expected to step up. The Red Sox, meanwhile, have a powerful lineup with players like Jarren Duran, Rafael Devers, and new additions like Alex Bregman. The Rangers hit Garrett Crochet well last season, and Nathan Eovaldi can be hit hard at times. Expect plenty of runs in this matchup.The Nationals vs. the Phillies is another game to watch. The Nationals have improved, but the Phillies are the stronger team. Zack Wheeler, one of the best pitchers in the game, is on the mound for the Phillies. He's known for his endurance and dominance. The Phillies also have a stronger lineup and bullpen. This game could go either way, but the Phillies have the edge. There are other games worth keeping an eye on, too. The Mets and the Braves are both strong teams, and their matchup could be a thriller. The Dodgers, who won their games in Japan, are always a force to be reckoned with. And the Cubs, despite their recent struggles, have the potential to surprise. Opening Day is always exciting, but it's also a time to be cautious. The season is long, and early performances don't always predict how the year will go. Still, there are always standout moments and players to watch. This year is no different, with plenty of action and surprises in store.