3M PGA Golf Picks
Who Wins
Date: Jul 27–30, 2023
The 3M Open is a prestigious golf tournament on the PGA Tour held at TPC Twin Cities in Blaine, Minnesota, a suburb north of Minneapolis. The event debuted in 2019 and is sponsored by the Minnesota-based company 3M.
TPC Twin Cities, formerly known as the 3M Championship, is the host venue, featuring a par 71 course covering approximately 7,431 yards. The course is notable for its numerous water hazards, affecting around 9 or 10 holes and contributing to its reputation as one of the top courses on the tour for balls landing in the water.
The forecast indicates calm conditions, suggesting a winning score of approximately 18 or 19 under par. The course’s lengthy rough and water hazards pose challenges for players aiming for low scores, emphasizing the importance of accurate drives to avoid penalties.
The greens at TPC Twin Cities are made of bentgrass and are generally receptive, encouraging an aggressive approach. Players often face wedge shots from distances of 75 to 125 yards, contributing to a higher Greens in Regulation (GIR) percentage. Approaches from 175 to 200 yards are also critical, with a GIR percentage over 3% higher compared to the tour average, rewarding strategic play and positioning.
Key factors for success at the 3M Open include strong Strokes Gained: Approach, favoring skilled ball-strikers, and Strokes Gained: Putting, given the expected low winning score. Birdies or Better Gained is crucial, as is Bogey Avoidance to handle the hazards effectively. Performance on the lengthy par 3 holes, especially from distances of 200 yards and beyond, also plays a significant role due to three par 3s falling within this range.
Our Picks:
Tony Finau @12/1
FINAU is back at TPC Twin Cities in Minneapolis, aiming to defend his 3M Open title. His victory in the previous tournament marked the beginning of a successful period of form that he hopes to replicate.
In the last edition, Finau took advantage of Scott Piercy’s final-round collapse, securing his third PGA Tour title with a three-stroke victory. Finau’s impressive performance included five birdies and two bogeys, resulting in a four-under 67 at TPC Twin Cities. Finishing the week at 17 under, he emerged victorious ahead of his closest competitors, Sungjae Im and Emiliano Grillo, in what was an extraordinary final day.
Sepp Straka, E/W @25/1
Since teaming up with his new caddie, Duane Bock, Straka has achieved a victory and a second-place finish in two recent events. Their partnership seems to be extremely successful, and despite the odds feeling conservative, it’s difficult not to bet on the Austrian golfer to continue his impressive performance. His approach game has been exceptional, and even his putting has shown improvement in recent times. The duo appears to be dynamite on the course, making them a strong contender going forward.
Tom Hoge, E/W @66/1
Hoge, who secured a tied fourth-place finish last year, is making a comeback to the tournament. Known for his vibrant personality, Hoge boasts one victory under his belt, which came in the form of last year’s AT&T Pebble Beach Pro Am. He also clinched the QBE Shootout in December alongside Sahith Theegala. Presently, Hoge holds an impressive 42nd position on the FedExCup standings and is ranked 40th in the world. This season, he has already achieved four top-ten finishes, showcasing his strong form and competitiveness.
Best Golf Betting Picks and Tips PGA, Image Credit: GOLF.COM
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