2022 MLB playoffs - Betting tips for the NLCS and ALCS

The 2022 MLB postseason continues Tuesday with the start of the National League Championship Series between the Philadelphia Phillies and San Diego Padres, a best-of-seven that promises to be packed with drama and intensity. As for the American League, the rain has once again wreaked havoc on the timetable for the New York Yankees and Cleveland Guardians, who will attempt to settle their ALDS best-of-five and finally determine which team gets to move on to face the Houston Astros.

Our experts have tackled some of the most important questions surrounding how bettors should approach all of the LCS games this week. Here's what they have to say.

Eric Karabell: I'll take the Phillies — and not because I've been rooting for them since before I knew how to properly boo players. It will be Zack Wheeler and Aaron Nola starting four of the first six games and, in a stunning reversal, the key bullpen options are thriving. There's lineup depth, too. It's time for Bryce Harper to reach his first World Series.

Todd Zola: I'll take the other side and back the Padres. I like the fact there is only one off day, since that influences how pitching will be managed. If the teams go 2-2 in the games with their top two starters matching up, I like the Padres to take two of the other three games. It's not a slam dunk, since Ranger Suarez and Noah Syndergaard are capable starters. I just like Blake Snell and Mike Clevinger a little more. Not to mention, I'll take the Padres' bullpen over that of the Phillies, even though the Phillies have stepped up in the playoffs.

Derek Carty: THE BAT X thinks the Phillies are the better team, so I'll easily take them at plus money. They've been underrated by the market (and have underperformed) all year, but