Best Bets Today - Betting Picks for April 13, 2026

By: Kim Smith Published 04/13/2026, 03:00 AM ET
Use Code SSWC

If you're searching for the best bets today, you've come to the right place. The Stat Salt team has broken down several top matchups across MLB and NHL to identify where the value sits on todayโ€™s board. Below, we highlight five strong plays backed by pitching edges, offensive trends, and recent team performance.

Whether you're a seasoned bettor or just getting started, these selections provide a clear edge before placing your next wager. Letโ€™s dive into todayโ€™s best bets.

โšพ MLB Best Bets Today

Miami Marlins vs. Atlanta Braves

Pick: Atlanta Braves Moneyline (-143)

Atlanta enters this matchup with a clear advantage on both sides of the ball. The Braves have been dominant on the mound, posting a low team ERA and WHIP while limiting opponents to a very low batting average. That ability to suppress offense has been a key factor in their success.

Sign Up Get $30 Premium Picks Credit + Exclusive Offers

Subscribe Now

I understand that I can unsubscribe at any time. I have read and accepted the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy. I consent that StatSalt may use third-party services to process my data.

At the plate, Atlanta has also shown more power and consistency, producing significantly more home runs and extra-base hits than Miami. The Marlins have struggled to generate runs recently and come into this game on a losing streak, making it difficult to trust their offense. With superior pitching and more reliable scoring, Atlanta is in a strong position to secure the win at home.

Boston Red Sox vs. Minnesota Twins

Pick: Boston Red Sox Moneyline (-168)

Boston comes into this game with strong momentum, having won multiple games in a row while showing improvement across both pitching and offense. Their ability to control games with timely hitting and solid run prevention has been a major factor in their recent success.

The Red Sox also hold an edge in the starting pitching matchup, with more efficient numbers compared to Minnesotaโ€™s starter. While the Twins can produce offense, their pitching has been less consistent, allowing more baserunners and runs. With Boston playing well and holding the advantage on the mound, they are well positioned to continue their winning streak.

New York Mets vs. Los Angeles Dodgers

Pick: Los Angeles Dodgers Moneyline (-168)

Los Angeles brings one of the most complete profiles into this matchup, combining elite offense with solid pitching performance. The Dodgers have been outstanding at the plate, hitting for both average and power while consistently putting pressure on opposing pitchers.

On the mound, they have also limited opponents effectively, keeping batting averages low and controlling scoring. The Mets, meanwhile, have struggled in recent games, particularly with offensive production. With the Dodgers performing at a high level across the board and playing at home, they are a strong option to secure another win.

๐Ÿ‘‰ See more free picks from Stat Salt experts

๐Ÿ’ NHL Best Bets Today

Detroit Red Wings vs. Tampa Bay Lightning

Pick: Tampa Bay Lightning Moneyline

Tampa Bay holds a clear edge in this matchup, particularly on the offensive side where they are producing at a higher rate than Detroit. The Lightning have also been strong defensively, limiting opponentsโ€™ scoring while maintaining a solid home record.

Detroit has struggled in recent games, especially defensively, allowing multiple goals per contest and failing to maintain consistency. With Tampa Bay combining scoring ability and defensive structure, they are well positioned to control the pace and secure the win on home ice.

Buffalo Sabres vs. Chicago Blackhawks

Pick: Buffalo Sabres -1.5

Buffalo enters this matchup with a noticeable advantage in both scoring and defensive metrics. The Sabres are producing offense at a higher rate while also doing a better job limiting opponents, creating a clear gap between the two teams.

Chicago has struggled on both ends, allowing a high number of goals while failing to generate consistent offense. They have also been giving up a large volume of shots, which puts additional pressure on their defense. With Buffalo showing stronger form and a more balanced profile, they are in a strong position not only to win but to do so by multiple goals.

Where to Find More Free Betting Picks Today

These plays highlight some of the strongest opportunities on todayโ€™s board, but they represent just a portion of the full analysis available.

Stat Salt provides daily betting predictions, matchup breakdowns, and expert insights across MLB, NHL, NBA, and more. If you're looking for additional angles before placing your wagers, the Stat Salt picks hub has everything you need.

BetMGM Sport

Up To $1500 in Bonus Bets Paid Back if your First Bet Does Not Win

Show Bonus Code
Claim Bonus
Signup Promo Recommended BetMGM Sport Review
Min. Deposit $5
Cashable No
FanDuel Sportsbook

New Users โ€“ Bet $5 Get $200 in Bet Reset Tokens for 5 Days

Show Bonus Code
Claim Bonus
Signup Promo Hot Offer FanDuel Sportsbook Review
Requirement New Users โ€“ Bet $5 Get $200 in Bet Reset Tokens for 5 Days. (Up to $1,000 Bet Reset Tokens)
Cashable No
Fanatics

10 x $100 bet match in FanCash

Show Bonus Code
Claim Bonus
Signup Promo Hot Offer Fanatics Review
Cashable No
>

If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, crisis counseling and referral services can be accessed by calling 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537) (IL). Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (MI/NJ/PA/WV/WY), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (CO), 1-800-BETS OFF (IA), 1-888-532-3500 (VA), 1-800-NEXT STEP (AZ), or call/text TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN). 21+ (18+ WY). AZ/CO/IL/IN/IA/MI/NJ/PA/TN/VA/WV/WY only. Eligibility restrictions apply. T&C's Apply. Void where prohibited. If you click on a link on this site which takes you to a bookmaker or casino and you subsequently open an account, Pick and Parlays may receive a commission. Bets placed are the responsibility of the bettor.

Copyright ยฉ 2026 Picks and Parlays. All rights reserved.

The sports news and information contained at this site is for entertainment purposes only. Any use of this information in violation of laws whether they are federal, state and/or local is prohibited. Picks and Parlays is the nation's premier resource for sports betting and handicapping information.

Sign Up Get $30 Premium Picks Credit + Exclusive Offers
Special Offer
Up To $1500 in Bonus Bets Paid Back if your First Bet Does Not Win
Play now Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or 1-800-MY-RESET (Available in the US) 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY) 1-800-327-5050 (MA), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA), 1-800-981-0023 (PR). 21+ only. Please Gamble Responsibly. See BetMGM.com for Terms. First Bet Offer for new customers only (if applicable). Subject to eligibility requirements. Bonus bets are non-withdrawable. In partnership with Kansas Crossing Casino and Hotel. Promotional offers not available in Mississippi, New York, Ontario, or Puerto Rico.