It’s a 15-game MLB Friday, giving fans and bettors plenty of hardball action. For those looking to place a few wagers, none are more enticing than a no run first inning bet (NRFI). Three outs from each pitcher are all you need to cash in- but that’s easier said than done. Figuring out which pitchers thrive early, and which lineups don’t, is key to cashing in.
Ahead of Friday’s MLB slate, here are three NRFI bets worth placing on DraftKings Sportsbook.
Marlins vs. Brewers NRFI (-125)
The lone afternoon game today takes place in Milwaukee, where the Brewers hope to win their sixth straight series. Taking the hill for the home team will be All-Star Freddy Peralta, making his 22nd start of the season. It’s been a banner year for the right-hander, one of baseball’s most underrated arms. Through 116.2 innings of work, he’s recorded a 2.85 ERA, 1.08 WHIP and 122 strikeouts. In the first inning, Peralta has held opponents to five earned runs (2.14 ERA). On paper, a mediocre Marlins lineup doesn’t appear poised for success against one of the NL’s top arms.
If this NRFI bet is going to hit, the true challenge will be in the bottom of the first. Miami will send out Cal Quantrill, a journeyman starter that has struggled in 2025 (5.24 ERA, 1.37 WHIP). However, the 30-year-old almost always starts strong; his 0.90 first inning ERA is among the sport’s best. The same can’t be said for this Brewers lineup. Milwaukee’s NRFI rate is a league-worst 78.43%; at home, that number rises to a whopping 88.0%. Despite his mediocre statistics, Quantrill is capable of getting three quick outs on Friday.
Cubs vs. White Sox NRFI (-120)
Another Crosstown Classic is upon us, and things couldn’t be more different between these inter-league rivals. The Cubs are among the best teams in baseball, currently in contention for the NL Central crown. That’s not the case for the White Sox, owners of the American League’s worst record. However, not everything is doom-and-gloom for the South Siders. Adrian Houser has been a pleasant surprise, notching a stellar 1.89 ERA through 62.0 innings pitched. In the first inning, he’s held opponents to only one earned run (0.90 ERA). Tonight’s matchup certainly won’t be easy, but we’ve seen the veteran handle elite lineups before.
Opposing Houser will be Cubs ace Shota Imanaga. Despite dealing with injury issues this season, the right-hander has been better than ever. During 13 starts, he’s posted a 2.40 ERA and 0.92 WHIP. The Japanese hurler has surrendered a total of six earned runs over his previous five outings (1.78 ERA). In comparison, the White Sox are averaging a minuscule 3.70 runs scored per game. That’s the fourth-worst offensive output in all of baseball. Don’t expect an offensive outburst tonight against the Cubs and their All-Star pitcher.
Guardians vs. Royals NRFI (-125)
Offensive ineptitude has been a recurring theme this season for the Guardians and Royals. Both of these AL Central foes rank within the bottom five in runs scored per game. While that’s bad for each squad’s chances of winning, it’s certainly a boon for bettors. Toeing the slab for Kansas City will be Michael Wacha, who might be the GOAT of NRFIs. Don’t believe me? The veteran owns a sparkling 0.45 first inning ERA over 20 starts in 2025. It helps that Cleveland’s bats have accounted for baseball’s fourth-highest NRFI rate (75.49%).
For the visitors, it’ll be Gavin Williams toeing the slab. The 25-year-old might not be an ace, but he’s quickly emerging as one of the more reliable arms for the Guardians. Over 104.1 innings, the righty has put up a 3.54 ERA, 1.38 WHIP and 106 strikeouts. That sets him up for success against a Royals lineup with limited firepower outside of Bobby Witt Jr. Kansas City owns a lackluster 76.0% NRFI rate when playing at home. There’s a good chance that trend continues tonight with Williams on the mound.
