Best Bet for Thursday (Sept 17th): MLB Predictions

We’re getting down to the nitty-gritty in the MLB, with “only” 23 teams remaining eligible for the playoffs. For my best bet for Thursday (Sept 17th): MLB Predictions, we’re off to Rate Field in Chicago, Illinois, for some American League Central action. Let’s get this money!

Best Bet for Thursday (Sept 17th): MLB Predictions

Detroit Tigers vs Chicago White Sox

Start Time: 7:40 PM EST

Two of those aforementioned teams still chasing a playoff spot meet tomorrow in the Windy City, as the Detroit Tigers visit their AL Central rivals, the Chicago White Sox. With only an estimated 2.3% chance of seeing postseason action this year, every win is crucial for the Tigers, especially those against a team they are chasing in the standings like the White Sox.

While Chicago is still basically a lock to make the playoffs, they are less of one than they were before their current 3-7 swoon, which has allowed the Cleveland Guardians to catch up to them in the divisional standings. And meeting a red-hot Detroit squad (8-2 over their past 10, 11-9 over the last 20) tomorrow isn’t going to help matters.

I’m liking the Tigers as a live dog on Thursday as they open a four-game series with the Sox. This is especially the case considering Framber Valdez is starting on the bump for the visitors. The veteran lefty hasn’t allowed an earned run over his past two starts, a 13-inning stretch.

Detroit on the moneyline is my best bet for Thursday.

Best Bet: Detroit ML (+113)

Best Bet Overall 2026 Record: 143-109 (57%)
Profit (based on $100/bet): $276.12
Return on Investment: 1%