Boston Red Sox vs Atlanta Braves Picks and Predictions May 18th 2025

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Red Sox Look to Build Off Devers Walk-Off in Series Finale vs. Braves

A walk-off homer by Rafael Devers might be just what the Boston Red Sox needed to snap out of their slump and reclaim momentum in the American League playoff race.

After rallying from a 5-0 first-inning deficit to defeat the Atlanta Braves 7-6 on Saturday, Boston will look to ride the emotional high into Sunday’s rubber match at Fenway Park.

Devers’ first career walk-off home run sent Red Sox Nation into a frenzy and capped a 3-for-4 night for the reigning AL Player of the Week.

Rafael Devers: Heating Up at the Right Time

Devers has been scorching-hot in May:

  • .411 AVG over 15 games
  • Reached base in 19 of last 20
  • 7 HRs, 16 RBIs this month

His calm demeanor in big moments continues to win over the clubhouse.

“He could be 0-for-5 or 5-for-5, and he looks the exact same,” said outfielder Jarren Duran. “We trust him. We know what he can do.”

Manager Alex Cora agreed: “We needed that one. Hopefully it’s the start of something.”

Bello Hopes to Go Deeper, Ends No-Decision Streak

Taking the hill for Boston is Brayan Bello (2-0, 2.33 ERA). Though he’s pitched well, Bello hasn’t completed five innings in his last two starts and has received three straight no-decisions.

  • Last Start: 4 2/3 IP, 3 R (2 ER), 6 H, 2 BB, 4 K vs. Detroit
  • Career vs. Braves: 1-0, 3.75 ERA in 12 IP

Bello’s ability to command early will be key, especially against a power-heavy Atlanta lineup that struck early on Saturday.

Braves Still Dangerous Despite Setback

The Atlanta Braves (28-26) opened Saturday’s game strong with first-inning back-to-back homers from Matt Olson and Marcell Ozuna, and a third dinger from Drake Baldwin to go up 5-0. But the offense stalled, and the bullpen couldn’t hold off Boston’s late rally.

Manager Brian Snitker shrugged off the loss: “It’s another game. We can go out and win a series Sunday.”

The Braves have now played an MLB-high 20 one-run games, posting a 9-11 record in those contests.

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Schwellenbach Aims to Bounce Back at Fenway

Braves rookie Spencer Schwellenbach (2-3, 3.31 ERA) will try to steady the ship in his second career start at Fenway Park.

  • Last Start: 7 IP, 2 ER, 4 H vs. Washington
  • Vs. Red Sox (Career): 0-1, 11.57 ERA in 4 2/3 IP

Schwellenbach was hit hard in his lone previous start against Boston, surrendering six runs and a homer to Devers. But he’s looked much improved this season, delivering four quality starts in his last five outings.

Key Matchups and Stats

PlayerCurrent Form
Rafael Devers (BOS).411 AVG in May, 3-for-4 Saturday
Brayan Bello (BOS)2.33 ERA, but hasn’t gone 5 IP in last 2
Matt Olson (ATL)12 HRs, HR Saturday
Drake Baldwin (ATL)Reached base in 14 of last 15 starts
Spencer Schwellenbach (ATL)3.31 ERA, 1.11 WHIP

What to Watch

  • Can Boston ride the high of Saturday’s comeback?
    Devers’ magic could inspire a turnaround.
  • Will Bello go deep into the game?
    The bullpen has been taxed, and Cora wants length from the starter.
  • Will Atlanta’s offense find late-game production?
    The Braves haven’t scored more than five runs often this month.
  • Can Schwellenbach solve Devers?
    The rookie must locate early and avoid the slugger’s power zone.
Brayan Bello

FAQs

Who’s starting Sunday’s game?

  • Red Sox: Brayan Bello (2-0, 2.33 ERA)
  • Braves: Spencer Schwellenbach (2-3, 3.31 ERA)

What was the result Saturday?
Boston came back from 6-2 to win 7-6 on Devers’ walk-off HR.

Why is this game important?
It decides the series and could shift momentum for both teams heading into late May.

Where can I view betting lines or player props?
Check out our MLB Odds and Props page for updated lines and expert insights.

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Mike Williams
Mike Williams | Handicapper

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Mike uses his strong sports knowledge to analyze all the angles to find the most profitable wagers. Iron Mike handicaps MLB, college football, NFL, NBA, and NCAA basketball. I'm an actual sports and gambling junkie!

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