A full 15-game, 30-team slate sets the stage on Wednesday for even more exciting MLB action. The quickest way for bettors to cash in on some hardball comes via NRFIs. No runs in the first inning can be risky, depending on the odds and which teams are involved. Some pitchers thrive early, while others are more prone to early struggles. Which NRFI bets should you consider before the start of today’s contests?
Ahead of today’s MLB contests, here are three NRFI bets worth placing on DraftKings Sportsbook.
Braves vs. Angels NRFI (-120)
Despite entering the league as a 28-year-old rookie, Grant Holmes has proven to be a reliable starter. The third-year pro owns a career 3.75 ERA, 1.27 WHIP and 9.3 K/9 ratio, solid numbers for an Atlanta squad in constant need of pitching depth. Over two appearances this season, the veteran has recorded a solid 2.45 ERA. In 2025, Holmes delivered a 81.0% NRFI rate, among the best for all Braves pitchers. In comparison, Los Angeles’ offense posted the league’s seventh-fewest runs per game at home (3.60).
Toeing the slab for the home team will be Reid Detmers. The oft-injured southpaw has potential, but consistency has proven to be an issue. This season, he’s off to a fast start (2.38 ERA, 1.15 WHIP, 13 K). Detmers has accounted for a quality 74.0% NRFI rate over his six-year career. In addition, the lefty’s favorite off-speed offering is the slider. Last season, Braves batters were only able to muster a .270 on-base percentage against the pitch. Atlanta could struggle to get things going early tonight at pitcher-friendly Angel Stadium.
Diamondbacks vs. Mets NRFI (-140)
Off the heels of a breakout campaign, Ryne Nelson has struggled to get it going so far. The righty owns a 5.79 ERA through 9.1 innings of work. Still, it’s too early for concern at this point in April. Last season, Nelson produced a 3.39 ERA, 1.07 WHIP and 132 strikeouts over 154.0 frames. In the first inning, the Diamondbacks hurler also notched a sparkling 82.6% NRFI rate. The Mets are usually a dangerous offense when it comes to scoring early. However, New York is currently without Juan Soto (calf). That leaves the middle of this lineup looking far less formidable than usual.
It’ll be David Peterson on the bump during the bottom half of the inning. Much like Nelson, the 29-year-old enjoyed a terrific 2025 season. Through 30 outings, he recorded a 4.22 ERA. To boot, Peterson was nothing short of unhittable in the first on most nights. His 80.0% NRFI rate ranked among the National League’s top arms. On the flip side, Arizona hitters are only generating 3.45 runs per game in 2026. That’s the seventh-lowest mark in the league so far. At the friendly confines of Citi Field, I like Peterson’s chances going into this one.
Tigers vs. Twins NRFI (-145)
Detroit has been stuck in the mire to start the season, lurching out to a 4-7 record. One thing that hasn’t gone wrong in Motown is new acquisition Framber Valdez. The two-time All-Star, signed away from Houston this winter, has looked comfortable with his new club. The lefty has given up only one earned run over 12.0 innings with the Tigers (0.75 ERA). Last season, he was on the hook for a 78.0% NRFI rate. On the flip side, Minnesota had baseball’s fifth-lowest YRFI rate at home in 2025 (24.69%).
For the Twins, Baily Ober will get the nod. On an otherwise uninspiring staff, the big righty has a decent track record of success. That’s especially true in this matchup; Ober owns a 2.92 ERA over his previous six meetings with Detroit. His career 73.5% NRFI rate also suggests he can get three quick outs. In comparison, the Tigers tend to struggle on offense away from Comerica Park. Their 20.69% YRFI rate on the road was second-worst in the majors last year, ahead of only Colorado.
