TST Best Bets: October 23, 2026 taken LOS ANGELES (TST Best Bets)

Mark Hoffman/USA TODAY Network via Imagn Images

Mar 30, 2026; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Brewers second baseman Brice Turang (2) rounds first base after hitting a double during the sixth inning against the Tampa Bay Rays at American Family Field.

The World Series gets underway Friday with the Tampa Bay Rays and the Milwaukee Brewers meeting in a matchup that could be shaped by the pitching.

Meanwhile in the NBA, the Boston Celtics looks to bounce back from its season-opening loss when it hosts New York, who failed to cap off their championship celebration on Tuesday with a season opening win. 

First Pick: Tampa Bay Rays vs. Milwaukee Brewers - Under 6.5 Runs

Rundown: I’m expecting the starters to set the tone in this World Series opener. Martinez and Misiorowski have both been dominant, and that gives both teams a good chance to keep the opposing lineup quiet early.

The pressure of Game 1 could make it tougher for hitters to settle in, especially with so much at stake for two teams chasing their first championship. A tight, low-scoring game feels like the right way to start this series.

I’ll take the Under 6.5 and trust the pitching to keep the total down.

Second Pick: Boston Celtics -2.5 over the New York Knicks

Oct 20, 2026; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Boston Celtics forward Paul George (13) dribbles defended by Detroit Pistons guard Javonte Green (31) in the second half at Little Caesars Arena.

Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images

Oct 20, 2026; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Boston Celtics forward Paul George (13) dribbles defended by Detroit Pistons guard Javonte Green (31) in the second half at Little Caesars Arena.

Rundown: Boston’s opener showed what its new lineup can do, with Paul George scoring 38 points in his Celtics debut. Jayson Tatum had a difficult shooting night, but he still contributed 11 assists and should be more effective as a scorer in the home opener.

New York’s banner-raising celebration ended in a loss, and its stars didn’t quite find their groove. The Knicks can look better with more time together, but Boston has the stronger spot here at home.

I’ll lay the 2.5 points with the Celtics and expect Tatum to give George more help on offense.

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