Dodgers vs. Angels: Game 2 prediction, odds, injuries, and picks - May 17, 2025
The LA Dodgers were shocked in the opening game of the Freeway Series as they fell to the LA Angels, 6-2. What was an anemic Anaheim offense showed up against starter Dustin May, who gave up four earned runs on six base hits in five innings.
As for the defending champions, Max Muncy's RBI double in the fourth inning and former Angel Shohei Ohtani's solo blast in the eighth were the only offense they could muster. Game 2 is scheduled to start today, May 17, 2025, at 9:10 p.m. Eastern.
Dodgers vs Angels recent form and records
Before their loss to the Angels, the Dodgers won four of their last six games, including a series win over the Athletics. They possess the best record in their division and all of the National League at 29-16. To note the gravity of the Angels' win in Chavez Ravine, it became just the fifth loss in 22 games of the champions at home this season.
Despite their big win, the Angels are still at the bottom of the AL West with an 18-25 record. The injury to superstar Mike Trout has certainly dampened the momentum that the team has established early in the season.
Players to watch
Starting pitchers
LAD: Clayton Kershaw (0-0, 0.00 ERA), LAA: Tyler Anderson (2-1, 2.58 ERA, 39 K)
Los Angeles Angels
Former Dodger Tyler Anderson got the nod to start against his former club. He has actually impressed despite the issues of the Angels this year. Anderson holds a 2-1 record across eight starts with a 2.58 ERA and 39 punch-outs.
Must-Watch Hitters
Los Angeles Dodgers
In Game 1 against the Angels, Shohei Ohtani smashed his third home run against his former club and an MLB-leading 16th homer of the campaign. The reigning NL MVP is batting .316/.416/.690 with an OPS of 1.106, 29 RBIs and 10 stolen bases.
Dodgers vs Angels baseball betting odds
Dodgers vs Angels expert picks and game prediction
Given the disparity of talent between the two squads, conventional wisdom points to the champions earning a bounce-back win against the Angels of Anaheim.
However, it should be noted that the game will feature the season debut of Clayton Kershaw. The future Hall of Famer last pitched on Aug. 30, 2024, and has since been shelved due to leg and foot problems. This condition favors the Angels by a slim margin, as Kershaw could still be rusty on his return to the mound.
Run Line: +2.5, -157
Total Runs: U 9.5, -129
Prediction: LAD wins, 5-4