MLB Preview July 1: Skenes vs. Wheeler Headlines a Loaded Wednesday Slate

OddsShift · Jul 1, 2026

The marquee matchup tonight is straightforward: Paul Skenes vs. Zack Wheeler in Philadelphia. The Pirates (43-43) and Phillies (48-38) are close enough in the standings to make this matter, and the arms on the mound make it worth watching regardless. Wheeler has been one of the most consistent starters in baseball all year. Skenes continues to be the best reason to pay attention to Pittsburgh. Expect a low-scoring game and plan accordingly.

Tampa Bay (49-33) sends Shane McClanahan to Kansas City to face Seth Lugo and a Royals team sitting at 35-51. The Rays are one of the best teams in baseball right now, and McClanahan returning to form makes them genuinely dangerous. Kansas City has been hard to trust at home this year. This is a spot where the line will reflect the mismatch, so shop carefully before committing.

The Dodgers (56-30) roll into Oakland with TBD listed as their starter against J.T. Ginn and the Athletics (40-46). Los Angeles is the class of the sport at the halfway point. A bullpen game or a surprise name on the mound could shift the number late, so watch for the lineup card before betting this one.

Milwaukee (52-31) hosts Cincinnati with Shane Drohan getting the start against Andrew Abbott. The Brewers are the hottest team in the National League and have the record to prove it. The Reds are below .500 and on the road. This is another game where the price will be steep on the favorite.

Elsewhere, keep an eye on St. Louis (44-38) at Atlanta (49-34) with Reynaldo Lopez facing Michael McGreevy. The Braves have been playing well and are a tough out at home. The Cardinals are a legitimate contender and this division game has some teeth to it.