Key MLB Home Run Bets for April 18: Machado and Olson Look to Shine

Key MLB Home Run Bets for April 18: Machado and Olson Look to Shine

As April 18 unfolds with 15 games on the schedule, sports bettors have a wealth of options for MLB prop bets, particularly in home runs. With sluggers ready to take the field, two players stand out as top picks for the day. Best Home Run Picks Manny Machado, Padres (+370) The San Diego Padres are on a roll, having clinched three series in a row, including two sweeps. While Manny Machado has struggled early in the season with only two home runs and a batting average around .200, Saturday presents a prime opportunity for him to break out. The Padres are set to face Yusei Kikuchi of the Angels, who has allowed at least 23 homers each of the last five years. Right-handed hitters have fared well against Kikuchi, boasting a .465 slugging percentage in his career. Notably, Machado is 4-for-10 against Kikuchi, with two home runs and a 25% hard-hit rate. Matt Olson, Braves (+600) Despite the Philadelphia Phillies starting left-hander Cristopher Sanchez, who has a low 0.5 HR/9 rate, this matchup favors Matt Olson of the Atlanta Braves. Olson has historically performed well against Sanchez, going 6-for-18 with two home runs. After leading the league with 54 homers in 2023, Olson has already hit five home runs in 2026, with a slugging percentage of .610. His contributions have been vital for Atlanta's early success, making this a promising spot for him to hit a home run in hitter-friendly Philadelphia. With these insights, bettors can make informed decisions and potentially capitalize on these promising matchups.

Source: CBS Sports - 2026-04-18