12 games between 24 teams are on tap for Wednesday night. With so many squads 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 tonight’s MLB action, here are two NRFI bets worth placing on DraftKings Sportsbook.
Cubs at Nationals NRFI (-140)
The Cubs have held pole position in the National League all year, thanks mostly to an elite lineup. However, there have been several early-season standouts in Chicago’s rotation, including Matthew Boyd. The left-hander owns a 3.08 ERA, 1.26 WHIP and 64 strikeouts over 61.1 innings of work this season. He’s been especially good to begin games, holding opponents scoreless in the first during eight of his 11 outings. Wednesday’s opponent, the Nationals, have the sixth-lowest NRFI rate this season (65.0%). However, Washington’s .298 on-base percentage against southpaws is the tenth-worst mark in baseball.
Facing Chicago’s offense will be Nats ace MacKenzie Gore. The fireballer has been terrific in 2025, posting a 3.16 ERA and a league-leading 101 strikeouts through 68.1 innings. Over 44 appearances since 2024, Gore has held opponents to just 14 first inning runs (2.86 ERA). To make things more enticing, the Cubs own baseball’s tenth-highest NRFI rate this season (73.33%). In this battle between talented lefties, there’s a good chance both sides start off scoreless.
Royals at Cardinals NRFI (-125)
The I-70 series got off to an exciting start on Tuesday, with the Royals earning a 10-7 victory. Tonight, the Cardinals will attempt to even things up with Miles Mikolas on the mound. It’s been a solid start for the veteran, putting up a 3.90 ERA over 11 games started. In addition, he’s surrendered only five earned runs during his previous four outings (2.53 ERA). The two-time All-Star has a respectable 3.27 first inning ERA this season, as well. He’ll face a Royals lineup that’s generated the league’s ninth-highest NRFI rate (73.77%).
In this battle of polar opposites, the 36-year-old Mikolas will be opposed by 25-year-old Noah Cameron. It’s been a stellar campaign for the rookie thus far, notching a pristine 1.05 ERA over four starts. In each of those games, the left-hander has tossed at least six innings while allowing one run or less. The Cardinals are a capable offensive unit. However, St. Louis is tied for the eighth-highest NRFI rate at home (75.00%). Another dazzling performance by Cameron would likely be enough to cash in on this bet.
