It’s Saturday, which makes it the perfect time to place some NRFI bets. Just six outs without a score are all it takes to cash in. However, figuring out which pitchers thrive early, and which lineups struggle, is key. With 15 games on tap, there’s plenty of options for betters to choose from.
Ahead of today’s MLB action, here are two NRFI bets worth placing on DraftKings Sportsbook.
Phillies vs. Padres NRFI (-130)
In spite of the big names in both lineups, Phillies-Padres is a battle between elite pitching staffs. For the visitors, it all starts with Zack Wheeler. The three-time All-Star has continued to dominate, putting together the best first half of his prolific career. Through 116.0 innings of work, the 35-year-old has recorded a 2.17 ERA and league-leading marks in WHIP (0.85) and strikeouts (148). Since June 1st, San Diego is averaging the fifth-fewest runs in baseball (3.71). That’s not ideal heading into a matchup with a Cy Young-caliber arm.
The good news for the Padres? Yu Darvish is back. An elbow injury kept the veteran out of action for most of the first half. Fortunately, he was able to make his return on Monday against the Diamondbacks (3.2 IP, 2 ER). While it wasn’t a spectacular debut, the righty should be more comfortable on the mound tonight. It helps that Darvish is usually a strong starter. Over 16 appearances last season, the Japanese hurler has posted a 2.81 first inning ERA. Philadelphia owns the sport’s seventh-highest NRFI rate on the road this season (75.0%). Keeping that in mind, I’m willing to bet that Darvish gets out of the first unscathed.
Rangers vs. Astros NRFI (-170)
Usually, I try to stay away from low NRFI odds. However, an exception can be made when two aces are on the bump. That’s the case in Houston tonight, as Jacob deGrom and Framber Valdez are set to duel. The latter has been as reliable as ever, recording a 2.90 ERA and 1.15 WHIP through 18 outings. Since 2024, the righty owns a stellar 2.25 first inning ERA. That’ll play against Saturday’s opponent; Valdez hasn’t allowed a first inning run in each of his previous eight meetings with Texas.
Somehow, Framber is not the most accomplished arm in the Lone Star State. That honor belongs to Jacob deGrom, currently a contender for his third career Cy Young award. In 18 starts this season, the veteran has notched a 2.29 ERA, 0.91 WHIP and 105 strikeouts. Remarkably, deGrom has allowed more than two earned runs only once since early April. He’ll get to face an Astros offense that’s tallied the league’s second-highest NRFI rate (76.60%). Despite the high price, this potential pitcher’s duel is worth considering tonight.
