Monday MLB preview: Dodgers at Phillies, Reds at Cubs

Los Angeles Dodgers (62-33) at Philadelphia Phillies (48-45), 7:05 p.m. ET, ESPN

Clayton Kershaw (7-2, 3.09 ERA) (LAD) -170 / -1.5 runs (-110) / Over 9.5 runs (-115) Zach Eflin (7-8, 3.78 ERA) (PHI) +155 / +1.5 runs (-110) / Under 9.5 runs (-105)

MLB free play: Over

Zach Eflin and Clayton Kershaw are both struggling to an extent, and playing at Citizens Bank Park on Monday night probably won't help them.

Eflin has pitched to an inflated 5.14 ERA in his last nine starts. The Florida native was knocked around for eight runs (6 2/3 combined innings) in his last two efforts against the Dodgers. He gave up five home runs across those two tilts, including a pair to infielder Max Muncy. Eflin's bullpen has produced a 5.74 ERA over the last 30 days, the fourth-worst mark in the majors.

Kershaw's ERA in his last six starts is a merely decent 3.27. In six outings away from L.A. this season, the he is 1-2 with a 3.99 ERA. Kershaw has surrendered six home runs in 38 1/3 innings on the road but only seven in 60 2/3 innings at home. Bettors should expect Philadelphia left fielder Jay Bruce, who has taken Kershaw deep three times in 23 prior encounters, to make an impact.

Cincinnati Reds (42-48) at Chicago Cubs (50-43), 8:05 p.m. ET

Luis Castillo (8-3, 2.29 ERA) (CIN) +125 / +1.5 runs (-160) / Over 9.5 runs (-115) Kyle Hendricks (7-7, 3.49 ERA) (CHC) -135 / -1.5 runs (+135) / Under 9.5 runs (-105)

MLB free play: Cubs moneyline

Kyle Hendricks should put forth a solid effort in his first Wrigley Field start since June 9 to propel Chicago to a victory over the Reds.

Hendricks has failed to pitch into the fifth inning in his last two starts, both on the road, although one of those was shortened by a rain delay. He should enjoy his return trip to the "friendly confines," where he has a 1.65 ERA in seven starts this year.

Luis Castillo's ERA in road starts this season is 3.21, significantly higher than his 1.69 ERA in Cincinnati. His opponent batting average spikes from .146 at home to .201 in away games. The Dominican native is 1-1 with a 4.05 ERA in four prior starts at Wrigley Field. Catcher Willson Contreras (1.475 OPS in eight prior at-bats against Castillo) should deliver on offense for Chicago.

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