After weeks of lackluster play, the Yankees finally look like a playoff-caliber club. Five wins in six games have pushed New York towards the top American League wildcard spot. Tonight, the Bombers will take on the rival Rays at Steinbrenner Field. Despite a lackluster 61-64 record, Tampa Bay remains a thorn in the side of most contenders. Which of these AL East foes has the edge in this contest? Below, I’ve laid out my preview, prediction, and best bet for Tuesday’s showdown between the Yankees and the Rays.
The Yankees are favorites (-131) over the Rays, with the over/under set at eight runs. Let’s break down which side has the edge on DraftKings Sportsbook entering tonight’s contest.
Yankees vs. Rays prediction, preview
It’s been a tough stretch for the Rays. Since July 1st, they’ve notched a lackluster 14-25 record. As a result, Tampa Bay now finds itself all but eliminated from the American League wildcard race. Still, it’s not as if this team is devoid of talent, especially on offense. The Rays are averaging 4.45 runs per game, 12th-most in all of baseball.
That’ll be the challenge for the Yankees and starter Carlos Rodon. The All-Star has been a much-needed stabilizing force in New York’s rotation. Over 146.2 innings of work, he’s posted a 3.25 ERA, 1.06 WHIP and 164 strikeouts. During his most recent appearance against the Twins, the veteran tossed seven one-hit, one-run innings. This season, the Rays have accounted for baseball’s seventh-lowest OPS against left-handed pitching (.653).
New York has struggled in recent months, but that’s a result of poor pitching. At the plate, the team has scored 210 runs since July 1, the league’s fourth-best mark. Keep in mind, Aaron Judge missed multiple weeks during that time. With the slugger healthy once again, this Yankees lineup is loaded with firepower. That’s bad news for tonight’s starter, Shane Baz. Through five career outings vs. the Pinstripes, he owns a lackluster 4.91 ERA. In addition, the right-hander is on the hook for a 6.54 ERA over 12 appearances at home.
Yankees vs. Rays pick, best bet
Best Bet: Yankees ML (-131)
Baz’s struggles, both at home and against the Yankees, are impossible to ignore. Rodon isn’t always the most consistent arm, to be fair. Regardless, this Rays lineup hasn’t shown much over the past two months. Tampa Bay’s difficulty hitting southpaws is something else to consider. Expect the Yankees to start this series off strong on Tuesday night.
