On Tuesday 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 are on tap, making this the perfect time to place a few NRFI wagers.
Ahead of today’s MLB action, here are three NRFI bets worth placing on DraftKings Sportsbook.
Rays vs. Tigers NRFI (-140)
In a crowded American League playoff race, the Rays have emerged as a serious threat. Tonight’s matchup will be a litmus test against the Tigers, who currently lead the Junior Circuit with a 58-34 record. If Tampa Bay has any shot at earning an upset win, Ryan Pepiot will need to deliver. Over 102.1 innings pitched, the right-hander has notched a 3.34 ERA, 1.15 WHIP and 101 strikeouts. The fourth-year pro has only allowed six first inning runs this season (3.00 ERA).
For Detroit, it’ll be Jack Flaherty toeing the slab. In his return to Motown, the 29-year-old has been fairly mediocre. Through 17 appearances, the righty has posted a lackluster 4.84 ERA and 1.24 WHIP. On paper, that doesn’t seem like a good mix against Tampa Bay’s stellar offense. However, the Rays own baseball’s highest NRFI rate on the road (89.47%). Flaherty, while inconsistent, hasn’t allowed a first inning run in each of his previous five outings at home. These two hurlers are a decent bet to secure three quick outs on Tuesday.
Dodgers vs. Brewers NRFI (-120)
Last night was not ideal for Dodgers-Brewers NRFI bettors. Milwaukee hammered All-Star Yoshinobu Yamamoto, tallying five first inning runs. Tonight, Los Angeles will hope to bounce back with Clayton Kershaw on the mound. The right-hander had an eventful week, joining the elusive 3,000 strikeout club during his start against the White Sox. Now, he’ll attempt to slow down one of baseball’s hottest lineups. However, the Brewers have posted a league-high NRFI rate of 88.67% when playing at American Family Field.
In this battle between experience and youth, rookie Jacob Misiorowski will start for the Brewers. The 23-year-old has already taken the National League by storm. Through just four games, the young righty has surrendered just seven total runs (3.20 ERA). During that time, he’s recorded a 0.92 WHIP and 21 strikeouts. Tuesday’s matchup against the Dodgers will be a true test. Los Angeles is averaging 5.45 runs scored per game, baseball’s second-highest total. Still, I’m willing to bet that Milwaukee’s newest ace can start tonight scoreless.
Phillies vs. Giants NRFI (-120)
Typically, the Phillies and their loaded lineup are a stay-away for NRFI purposes. That’s not the case tonight in San Francisco. Giants hurler Robbie Ray has been dominant, notching a 2.68 ERA, 1.09 WHIP and 117 strikeouts through 107.1 innings. The former Cy Young winner has been remarkably consistent, having coughed up more than three runs only once this season. In the first inning, Ray owns a solid ERA of 3.00. Philadelphia’s 73.33% NRFI rate on the road is the tenth-highest mark in baseball this season.
For the visitors, Taijuan Walker will make a rare start. The hurler has been demoted to relief duties this season, a byproduct of Philly’s loaded pitching staff. However, the former All-Star has been solid so far. Through 54.1 innings of work, the righty has accounted for a respectable 3.64 ERA. He’ll get to face a Giants lineup averaging only 4.17 runs per game, tied for the league’s tenth-lowest total. San Francisco’s 74.42% NRFI rate ranks as the ninth-highest mark in baseball. Add it all up, and Walker should be able to earn three quick outs.
