Nearly two weeks in, and the MLB season is already generating plenty of storylines and intrigue. That makes this the perfect time to place some baseball prop bets, including No Runs in the First Inning (NRFI). Figuring out which pitchers thrive early, and which lineups struggle, is key to cashing in on this bet. Numerous high-profile starters are set to take the mound for Tuesday’s 15-game slate, giving bettors several enticing options.
Ahead of tonight’s action, here are two NRFI bets worth placing on DraftKings Sportsbook.
Angels vs. Rays NRFI (-125)
On a Tuesday filled with must-see matchups, Angels vs. Rays isn’t exactly appointment viewing. Still, on paper, this could be a fun duel between two drastically different pitchers. Los Angeles will send out 35-year-old Kyle Hendricks, renowned for his crafty, low-velocity approach. For Tampa Bay, Shane Baz will get the nod. In his one start this season, the 25-year-old punched out ten batters over six scoreless innings of work.
In 2024, Hendricks recorded a 1.50 first inning ERA. However, Baz was at 6.43 through ten starts. Regardless, the right-hander has a clear edge over an Angels lineup that scored the third-fewest runs in baseball last season. To be fair, a healthy Mike Trout and offseason pickup Jorge Soler have improved Los Angeles’ offense. That doesn’t mean I’d fade a pitcher with Baz’s elite stuff. This youngster vs. veteran showdown has all the makings of a low-scoring affair.
Astros vs. Mariners NRFI (-145)
We’ll wrap things up in the Emerald City, where AL West foes are sending aces to the mound. Framber Valdez has been one of baseball’s most consistent pitchers over his previous five seasons with Houston. That includes his work to begin games; opponents hit .235 against the 31-year-old in the first inning last year. For Seattle, Luis Castillo will toe the slab. Despite an inconsistent 2024, the former All-Star recorded a 3.00 first inning ERA.
The only thing more NRFI-friendly than stud pitchers is dud batters. Both the Astros and Mariners rank inside the bottom five in fewest first inning runs scored. Many of Houston’s big bats have struggled, including Yordan Alvarez (.176 BA), Christian Walker (.175) and Isaac Paredes (.216). For Seattle, Dylan Moore (.380) and Victor Robles (.278) are the only regulars hitting better than .205 this season. Add all of these numbers up, and you have the ingredients needed for a scoreless opening frame.
