The Pittsburgh Pirates (21-36) and the San Diego Padres (31-23) open a 3-game set Friday. First pitch from Petco Park is scheduled for 9:40 p.m. ET (MLB Network). Let's analyze BetMGM Sportsbook's MLB odds around the Pirates vs. Padres odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Located on the corner of Trevor Hoffman Way and Tony Gwynn Drive, Petco Park might as well be the city center. The sprawling steps beyond the home-plate gate are lined with palm trees and adorned with the signature “Petco Park” sign high above.

The favored Padres (-222 moneyline odds) play at home against the Pirates (+183). The Padres will start Dylan Cease (1-3) against the Pirates and Bailey Falter (3-3). Ahead of the Padres vs. Pirates matchup,