15 games between 30 teams are on tap on Friday across Major League Baseball. With so much talent taking the field, there’s ample opportunity to place some player props. That includes a few NRFI wagers (No Runs in the First Inning); in the blink of an eye, bettors can cash in. However, figuring out which pitchers thrive early, and which lineups struggle, is key.
Ahead of today’s MLB action, here are three NRFI bets worth placing on DraftKings Sportsbook.
Brewers vs. Pirates NRFI (-160)
This is probably my most expensive NRFI pick of the year, and for good reason. While the Brewers and Pirates are mired in NL Central mediocrity, each side rosters a bonafide ace. For Milwaukee, Freddy Peralta is set to take the mound. It’s been another terrific season for the former All-Star, owner of a 2.59 ERA, 1.06 WHIP and 57 strikeouts over 55.2 innings. In Pittsburgh, Paul Skenes is already a legitimate Cy Young candidate at 22 years old. The reigning National League Rookie of the Year has notched a 2.44 ERA, 0.94 WHIP and 62 strikeouts over ten starts.
With two of the sport’s top arms taking the bump, it’s difficult to envision either offense going off tonight. That’s especially true for these two lineups, neither of which inspire much confidence. The Pirates are the main culprits here, as they’ve scored baseball’s fewest runs per game (2.96). While the Brewers produce a league-average amount of runs, they possess the second-highest NRFI rate in the league (78.43%). The odds here aren’t exactly bettor-friendly, but it’s worth the price.
Giants at Nationals (-130)
A scorching-hot start has elevated the Giants to second place in the National League West. San Francisco has gotten contributions from a number of unlikely places, including in its rotation. Landon Roupp, tonight’s starter, has taken some time to get going this season. However, the right-hander is emerging as a true difference-maker. Over Roupp’s previous three starts, he’s allowed just four earned runs (2.25 ERA). The 26-year-old will hope to continue his success on Friday against a decent, not great, Nationals offense.
Washington will counter with their staff ace, Mackenzie Gore. The former top prospect has taken some time adjusting to the majors, but he’s got some of the best stuff in baseball. Through 56.1 innings pitched, the southpaw has notched a 3.67 ERA and 84 strikeouts. Gore is one of baseball’s better openers, notching a 3.00 first inning ERA over 42 appearances since 2024. In comparison, the Giants have baseball’s 11th-highest NRFI rate (74.0%). Keeping that in mind, runs should be at a premium tonight in D.C.
Padres vs. Braves NRFI (-125)
In one of the weekend’s most anticipated series, aces are set to battle in Atlanta. The visiting Padres will hand the ball to Nick Pivetta, signed to the team this offseason. It’s been a terrific first season in SoCal for the hurler, recording a 2.86 ERA and 0.99 WHIP. He’s been solid at the start of games as well, posting a 3.00 first inning ERA. A Braves offense stocked with star power has had an up-and-down year, especially at Truist Park. Atlanta’s 77.27% NRFI rate at home is the seventh-highest mark in the majors.
As good as Pivetta has been, the Braves appear to have the pitching edge in this matchup. Chris Sale, last season’s NL Cy Young winner, has taken his game to another level recently. Since April 25th, the 36-year-old has surrendered just six earned runs over 31.1 innings of work (1.72 ERA). During that time, the veteran hasn’t allowed opponents to score in the first inning. It helps that Sale has dominated in this spot, posting a 1.91 ERA over five career starts vs. the Padres. Given the talent on the mound, this is the second-most enticing NRFI play available on Friday’s slate.
