Los Angeles Dodgers vs Los Angeles Angels Picks and Predictions May 16th 2025

Dodgers’ Shohei Ohtani Faces Angels in Emotional Freeway Series

Two years removed from his final game as an Angel and fresh off a World Series title and another MVP award, Shohei Ohtani is set to once again face his former team—this time as the superstar centerpiece of a powerhouse Dodgers lineup.

The Los Angeles Dodgers and Los Angeles Angels begin a three-game Freeway Series Friday night at Dodger Stadium. While interleague play between these crosstown franchises always draws eyes, the spotlight burns brightest with Ohtani standing on the opposite side of the field from the team that once defined his MLB arrival.

Check daily odds and player props for this electric matchup on our MLB Odds Page.

Ohtani’s Bat is Blazing

Ohtani enters the series tied for the MLB lead with 15 home runs, with two coming in Thursday’s 19-2 blowout win over the A’s. He’s homered eight times in his last 12 games, riding one of the hottest streaks of his Dodgers career.

In four matchups against his former club since joining the Dodgers, Ohtani is 4-for-14 with two homers and five RBIs, clearly unfazed by the nostalgia.

“He’s been dominant, and it’s fun to watch him go about his business,” said Dodgers manager Dave Roberts. “Going into this Angels series, we’re locked and loaded.”

For more betting tips on Ohtani props and Dodger totals, visit our MLB Picks Page.

Dalton Rushing Debuts, Offense Explodes

The Dodgers are also seeing immediate contributions from top prospect Dalton Rushing, who had two hits, a walk, and three runs scored in his MLB debut Thursday. Max Muncy, Andy Pages, and James Outman also went yard, as the Dodgers flexed their depth and firepower.

Rushing’s addition to the lineup comes as the Dodgers seek more production from the bottom half, and his early performance suggests he could become a mainstay in the roster rotation.

Track up-and-coming stars and DFS edges on our MLB Team Page.

Pitching Matchup: May vs. Kochanowicz

The Dodgers will turn to Dustin May (1-4, 4.08 ERA), who’s slowly regaining form after Tommy John surgery and a frightening esophagus condition. He was solid in his last outing, allowing two runs across 6.2 innings against Arizona.

May has limited experience against the Angels but has been effective—he’s 1-0 with a 2.16 ERA in two career appearances.

The Angels counter with Jack Kochanowicz (2-5, 5.32 ERA), making his first career start against the Dodgers. The right-hander has struggled with consistency this season, which could spell trouble against LA’s explosive lineup.

For pitcher-by-pitcher betting edges and over/under breakdowns, check out our Expert MLB Betting Guide.

Kenley Jansen Returns to the Ravine

While Ohtani’s reunion will headline the weekend, Kenley Jansen’s return to Dodger Stadium deserves its own spotlight. The longtime Dodgers closer, now with the Angels, recorded 350 saves over 12 seasons with LA.

Now 37, Jansen holds a 6.55 ERA with seven saves this year. He still feels the sting of his late-stage departure from the team that developed him.

“Everyone who thought that I was done was a motivation for me,” Jansen said. “I appreciate them. I love those doubters. I still have a few more years left in the tank.”

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Angels Searching for Stability

The Angels enter the series having lost five of their last seven and sitting in the middle of a 26-game California swing. While Taylor Ward has heated up—launching four homers with 12 RBIs in his last nine games—the Halos remain an unpredictable team.

If they’re going to pull off a series upset, they’ll need both their bullpen and Kochanowicz to hold the line, which is no small task at Dodger Stadium.

Stay updated with sharp picks and score updates via our MLB Baseball Odds.

FAQs

When do the Dodgers and Angels play?
The three-game series starts Friday night at Dodger Stadium.

How has Ohtani performed against the Angels since joining the Dodgers?
He’s hitting .286 with 2 HRs and 5 RBIs in four games against his former team.

Who is starting for the Dodgers?
Dustin May, who’s 1-0 with a 2.16 ERA against the Angels.

Why is Kenley Jansen’s return significant?
He saved 350 games for the Dodgers and returns to face them as the Angels’ closer.

How is Dalton Rushing performing?
The top prospect had a stellar MLB debut with 2 hits and 3 runs on Thursday.

Where can I find more betting picks for this series?
Visit our MLB Picks Page for expert predictions and prop insights.