MLB Today’s Best Bets for July 9: Home Run Picks & Top Player Props

Written By Nick Crain | Published at July 9, 2026
Jul 7, 2026; San Diego, California, USA; San Diego Padres right fielder Fernando Tatis Jr. (23) rounds thrid base during the first inning against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Petco Park. Mandatory Credit: David Frerker-Imagn Images

Thursday’s MLB slate features plenty of intriguing matchups, creating opportunities to find value across both the home run and player prop markets. Whether you’re chasing plus-money payouts or looking for more reliable player props, there are several bets that stand out based on favorable matchups and recent form. Here are six of the best MLB bets to consider for Thursday’s action, with multiple home run picks and player props.

Best MLB Home Run Picks Today

Power is always one swing away, and Thursday’s slate includes several hitters capable of leaving the yard at attractive odds. These three home run picks offer an appealing combination of matchup, value, and game-changing upside.

Matt Olson Anytime Home Run (+325 via BetMGM)

Matt Olson remains one of baseball’s premier power hitters, and this feels like a good spot for him to remind everyone why. Even when he’s not piling up hits, he’s always capable of changing the game with one swing.

At +325, the value is difficult to overlook. Olson has the raw power to take advantage of any mistake over the plate, making this one of the stronger plus-money home run bets on Thursday’s slate.

Bobby Witt Jr. Anytime Home Run (+300 via FanDuel)

Bobby Witt Jr. brings elite athleticism and underrated power every time he steps into the batter’s box. He’s capable of contributing in multiple ways, but he’s also shown he can drive the ball out of the park against quality pitching.

With +300 odds available, this is a strong value play on one of the game’s brightest young stars. Witt doesn’t need many opportunities to make an impact, and this matchup gives him another chance to do exactly that.

Cal Raleigh Anytime Home Run (+300 via BetMGM)

Few hitters have been as consistent in the power department as Cal Raleigh this season and last. The Seattle catcher continues to be one of the league’s most dangerous home run threats, regardless of the ballpark.

At 3-to-1 odds, there’s plenty to like here. Raleigh has the ability to leave the yard against any pitcher, making him an easy choice for Thursday’s home run card.

Best MLB Player Props Today

If you’re looking beyond the home run market, Thursday’s slate also offers several player props with plenty of value. These three bets feature attainable numbers and favorable situations worth backing.

Cody Bellinger Over 0.5 RBI (+170 via FanDuel)

Cody Bellinger has been producing quality at-bats in the middle of New York’s lineup, giving him plenty of opportunities to drive in runs. All it takes is one timely hit with runners aboard to cash this ticket.

At +170, the value is excellent for a hitter who should see multiple RBI chances throughout the afternoon. This is one of the stronger plus-money props available on the board.

Shea Langeliers Over 0.5 Hits (-300 via BetMGM)

This won’t be the biggest payout of the day, but sometimes the simplest props are worth backing. Langeliers has been consistently putting the ball in play and only needs one hit to get this wager across the finish line.

The Athletics should give him several plate appearances, and that’s all you can ask for with a hits prop. If you’re looking to pair a safer leg with some plus-money plays, this fits the bill.

Fernando Tatis Jr. Over 0.5 Singles (-170 via FanDuel)

Fernando Tatis Jr. is always a threat to do damage, but this prop doesn’t require an extra-base hit or a home run. One clean single is enough, making it a more approachable way to back one of baseball’s premier hitters.

Tatis consistently creates scoring opportunities at the top of San Diego’s lineup, and his ability to make hard contact gives him an excellent chance to record at least one single in this matchup.

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Whether you’re targeting home run bets or player props, Thursday’s card offers several quality betting opportunities across the board. As always, be sure to check multiple sportsbooks to ensure you get the best odds.

All Odds as of July 8 at 11:59 p.m ET.