It’s Friday, which makes it the perfect time to place some NRFI bets. 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. With 15 games on tap, let’s get the weekend started right!
Ahead of today’s MLB action, here are three NRFI bets worth placing on DraftKings Sportsbook.
Guardians vs. White Sox Game 1 NRFI (-120)
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. Shane Smith has been a consistent contributor for Chicago, recording a 4.20 ERA and 1.33 WHIP during 17 outings. When the first-time All-Star last faced the Guardians, he tossed six innings while allowing just two hits. Cleveland’s offense currently owns the league’s second-highest NRFI rate (76.92%).
To counter Smith, 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 Friday.
Rangers vs. Astros NRFI (-120)
On an evening loaded with quality contests, the Lone Star State is the site of today’s most enticing matchup. For the visiting Rangers, it’ll be Jack Leiter toeing the slab. Through 15 starts, the 25-year-old has put up a 4.32 ERA, 1.33 WHIP and 63 strikeouts. Expect the youngster to start off strong tonight. This season, Houston has accounted for the league’s highest NRFI rate (77.42%). In addition, he’s accounted for a 3.32 first inning ERA.
The Astros have a much more experienced arm on the mound tonight in Lance McCullers Jr. Granted, that hasn’t resulted in much success so far (5.82 ERA, 1.58 WHIP). However, the righty has had success in this spot recently, tossing four scoreless innings vs. Texas in May. It helps that the Rangers own baseball’s ninth-highest NRFI rate (72.34%). That’s a recipe for disaster against anyone, especially a veteran with a track record.
Dodgers vs. Giants NRFI (-140)
Few rivalries in sports pack a punch like Dodgers vs. Giants. Los Angeles, having lost six straight games, will need a solid performance from Dustin May. The right-hander can be erratic, but his potential is high. Over 16 games, he’s accounted for a 4.52 ERA, 1.32 WHIP and 84 strikeouts. It’s not as if he’ll be facing Murderer’s Row on Friday. San Francisco is averaging the league’s ninth-fewest runs per game (4.13). Through six career meetings with the Giants, May owns a 2.38 ERA.
San Francisco’s roster is built on stellar starting pitching. Logan Webb is no exception; the ace has been nothing short of brilliant this season. Over 120.1 frames, the righty has posted a 2.62 ERA, 1.16 WHIP and 133 strikeouts. The seventh-year pro has a real claim as baseball’s most consistent pitcher. He’s allowed more than three runs only once over 19 starts. In addition, the veteran’s first inning ERA is a sparkling 3.32. Even against this juggernaut Dodgers lineup, the 28-year-old is a solid bet to start things off scoreless.
