On a loaded MLB slate, few prop bets are more exciting than an NRFI. Just six outs without a score are all it takes for bettors to cash in. However, figuring out which pitchers thrive early, and which lineups struggle, is key. 15 games between 30 teams are set for Tuesday, making this the perfect time to place some NRFI wagers.
Ahead of tonight’s MLB action, here are three NRFI bets worth placing on DraftKings Sportsbook.
Pirates at Brewers NRFI (-125)
Year after year, the Brewers manage to defy the odds and stay competitive in the NL Central. That’s due in part to a quality stable of starting pitching, including former All-Star Freddy Peralta. It’s been another standout campaign for the Dominican, owner of a 2.76 ERA and 1.11 WHIP. Still, it’s not as if you need an ace to silence this subpar Pirates offense. This season, Pittsburgh is averaging the fewest runs per game in baseball (3.28). In addition, the Buccos have recorded baseball’s seventh-highest NRFI rate on the road (74.36%).
For the visitors, it’ll be Andrew Heaney toeing the slab. It’s been a solid season for the 12th-year pro, making his 16th start of 2025. Through 82.1 innings of work, the right-hander has notched a 3.94 ERA and 1.19 WHIP. Even more important is how much the Brewers struggle at the start of games. Milwaukee possesses an 89.24% NRFI rate at home, by far the highest mark in baseball. Both Heaney and Peralta should find a way to secure three quick outs tonight.
Rays at Royals NRFI (-120)
It’s been quite a month for the Rays, who now find themselves in contention for the AL East. Since May 1st, Tampa Bay is tied for the third-best record in baseball (29-19). That’s despite inconsistent pitching from one of the team’s prized young starters, Taj Bradley. Despite flashes of greatness, the right-hander has pitched to a mediocre 4.95 ERA this season. However, the 24-year-old will get to face an atrocious Royals lineup tonight. KC is only averaging 3.36 runs per game thus far, the American League’s lowest mark.
While Kansas City’s bats can’t be trusted, there is reason for optimism. Tonight’s starter, Kris Bubic, has emerged as a surprise Cy Young contender. Over 85.0 innings, the hurler has posted a 2.12 ERA, 1.12 WHIP and 88 strikeouts. In addition, he’s only coughed up three earned runs during 14 outings this season (1.93 ERA). It helps that the Rays own a league-worst road NRFI rate of 89.29%. These two arms, against these two lineups, have the talent to deliver on Tuesday.
Phillies at Astros NRFI (-140)
In this highly anticipated 2022 World Series rematch, a pair of high-level hurlers will be taking the mound. For the visiting Phillies, it’ll be none other than Ranger Suarez. Despite missing time with a lower back injury, the right-hander hasn’t missed a bet so far. Over nine starts, he’s notched an impressive 2.20 ERA. In addition, the Astros have the game’s highest NRFI rate (79.49%).
The bigger challenge in clearing this bet will occur at the top of the inning. The Phillies wield one of baseball’s most potent lineups, with a penchant for starting out strong. This season, Philadelphia has the second-lowest NRFI rate in baseball (64.10%). However, they’ll have to score against an ace tonight in Framber Valdez. Houston’s workhorse has been terrific once again, recording a 3.09 ERA, 1.13 WHIP and 99 strikeouts over 15 starts. In the first frame, the righty owns a solid 3.60 ERA thus far. I’m willing to back Valdez tonight, even against this lethal Phillies offense.
