I'm backing the Braves in Thursday's series opener between the National League's top teams.

Spencer Strider is taking the hill for the visitors, while Lance Lynn is expected to start for the home squad. Strider is 9-2 with a 3.12 ERA and a 1.17 WHIP in 13 road starts, including 106 strikeouts (75.0 IP). He's also 11-4 with a 3.18 ERA and a 1.02 WHIP in 21 night games this season. Strider has surrendered one run with 25 Ks in his last three starts combined (21.0 IP). This will be a statement series, and I expect the Atlanta starter, who didn't perform up to his potential earlier this season vs. the Dodgers (four runs in a loss), to rise to the occasion in a big spot tomorrow.

Lynn has his moments, but he's not without flaws. The veteran right-hander gave up ten hits and two HRs in his last start and has surrendered six long balls in five starts with Los Angeles. Prior to joining the Dodgers, he gave up 28 HRs in 21 outings with the White Sox. His 6.47 ERA and 1.46 WHIP with Chicago shouldn't be overlooked after a few decent starts with a new club. I don't trust him against a Braves team that's hitting .286/.359/.517/.876 in the second half of the season, scoring 6.2 runs per game.

Bet on The A on Thursday night in LA!