On Thursday’s 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. 11 games are on tap, making this the perfect time to place a few NRFI wagers.
Ahead of today’s MLB action, here are two NRFI bets worth placing on DraftKings Sportsbook.
Marlins vs. Reds NRFI (-120)
A pitcher’s duel isn’t the first thing that comes to mind ahead of tonight’s Marlins-Reds matchup. Still, tonight’s pair of hurlers have a solid chance at keeping things scoreless. For the home team, it’ll be Nick Lodolo on the bump. It’s been a terrific season for the right-hander, who has established himself as one of Cincinnati’s most dependable arms. Through 100.2 innings of work, the 27-year-old has notched a 3.58 ERA, 1.14 WHIP and 93 strikeouts. Miami’s offense has accounted for a 73.63% NRFI rate, the eighth-highest mark in baseball.
The bigger test on Thursday will be the bottom half of the inning when Cal Quantrill takes the mound. The 30-year-old has struggled in South Beach, putting up a lackluster 5.40 ERA. That’s due mainly to an inability to pitch deep into games. However, the Canadian tends to start off strong. Over 17 outings this season, Quantrill has a stellar 1.59 first inning ERA. While the Reds are a solid lineup, Miami’s right-hander is worth the risk on an otherwise barren NRFI slate.
Guardians vs. White Sox NRFI (-125)
The Guardians may have saved their season this week, reeling off three straight wins against the Astros. Now, Cleveland will attempt to continue their win streak against a much easier opponent, the White Sox. Granted, Chicago has shown signs of improvement this season. That includes on the mound, where the South Siders rank 21st in runs allowed per game (4.41). Compared to the disaster that was 2024, it’s a clear step up. Jonathan Cannon has been a consistent contributor for Chicago, recording a 4.50 ERA over 14 outings. He’ll get to face a Cleveland offense that currently owns the league’s second-highest NRFI rate (76.92%).
To counter Cannon, the Guardians will hand the ball to Logan Allen. The southpaw might not be a household name, but he’s certainly a capable arm in Cleveland’s rotation. Over 84.0 innings pitched, the 26-year-old has delivered a 4.07 ERA. He’s been consistent at the start of games as well, logging a 3.38 first inning ERA. When these teams last met, Allen tossed 4.2 scoreless innings against Chicago’s subpar lineup. Keeping that in mind, don’t expect an offensive outburst from the White Sox on Thursday night.
