As Major League Baseball resumes play following the All-Star break, eager hitters are prepared to make an impact with the long ball, bringing energy and power to the early games. The rejuvenated bats and still-adjusting pitchers offer an ideal environment for bettors focused on Byron Buxton home run bets and other slugger prop picks on July 18, 2025.
The combination of rested players and favorable matchups often leads to exciting displays of power in the first games back, making home run props a popular choice among bettors looking to capitalize on this momentum.
Top Home Run Prop Candidates to Watch on July 18
Byron Buxton stands out as a leading candidate after recently completing a rare cycle on July 12 against the Chicago White Sox. Entering the game at Colorado’s Coors Field—a venue renowned for boosting hitters—Buxton arrives with 21 home runs and an impressive mix of speed and power, including 17 steals. His matchup is against left-handed pitcher Kyle Freeland, who has surrendered nine home runs this season and carries a 5.44 ERA. Buxton’s ability to run and hit in the hitter-friendly altitude of Coors Field makes him a formidable threat in this setting.
Hunter Goodman continues a breakout season marked by 17 total home runs, with 10 coming after June 1. The All-Star catcher, batting .277 during this stretch, also returns to Coors Field where he will face Minnesota pitcher Chris Paddack, who holds a 4.95 ERA and has shown susceptibility to home runs. Goodman’s timing and power are well-suited to exploit these conditions for a potential deep hit.
Riley Torkelson has also been in strong form with 21 home runs on the year, including four over his last dozen games. His matchup features Texas lefty Patrick Corbin, who has a 4.15 ERA and a tendency to give up hard contact. Torkelson’s performance has been particularly effective against left-handed pitching, thanks to his uppercut swing and pull-side strength. This favorable battle enhances his appeal as a home run prop target.
Brent Rooker enters the second half of the season riding significant momentum. Following the All-Star break, he faces Slade Cecconi with impressive recent numbers, hitting .409/.480/.818 and adding two home runs across his last six games. With 20 homers already logged this season and renewed energy, Rooker looks poised to continue his powerful contribution for the Oakland Athletics.
Francisco Lindor also starts the post-break schedule in an encouraging position, slated to face left-handed pitcher Nick Lodolo. Lindor’s 19 home runs and 54 RBIs, combined with a .260 batting average and 15 stolen bases, highlight his all-around skill. Known for his sharp discipline and power against southpaws, Lindor encounters a pitcher who has allowed 10 home runs over his past nine starts, creating a promising scenario.
Why This Night Could Be a Power Haven for Home Run Bettors
The return from the All-Star break often sparks renewed energy among MLB sluggers, especially in hitter-friendly environments like Coors Field that amplify the chances of long balls. Players such as Byron Buxton and others mentioned are positioned to take advantage of favorable pitching matchups and ballpark conditions, making July 18 a night filled with potential for home run prop betting success.
With DraftKings Sportsbook setting odds that reflect these promising conditions, bettors seeking to back power hitters can expect an engaging night of baseball action. Ultimately, the outcomes will hinge on the players’ ability to capitalize on their opportunities, but the lineup of strong contenders promises an exciting return to MLB’s power display.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Byron Buxton healthy?
A. Byron Buxton has been healthy for most of the first part of the season, and he is now considered one of the top players in baseball.
Q. How fast can Byron Buxton run?
A. Statcast reports that he’s moving at a rate of 30.2 feet per second on the bases this season. This speed is second only to Bobby Witt Jr. from Kansas City in the league. It’s the fastest Buxton has run since 2019.