The Yankees are eyeing a series sweep over the Royals as they finish off their three-game set in the Bronx. After taking the first two games with solid pitching and timely offense, New York looks to capitalize on a shaky Royals lineup. But with Kris Bubic pitching for Kansas City, there’s an opportunity for the underdog to steal a win—especially with questions surrounding Clarke Schmidt’s season debut after a stint on the injured list. Below, I’ve got my preview, prediction, and best bet for this Wednesday night baseball game between the Yankees and the Royals.
Here’s how I’ll play it. I’ll be pumping out these predictions for individual games each round, with plenty of coverage here on DraftKings Network. Follow my handle @dansby_edits for more betting plays.
Yankees vs. Royals prediction, preview
The New York Yankees are out to complete a sweep tonight against the Kansas City Royals at Yankee Stadium, but there’s a better play on the Royals +1.5. The Yankees are bringing Clarke Schmidt back from the injured list, a pitcher who hasn’t thrown in weeks. Meanwhile, the Royals’ Kris Bubic has been lights-out this season, with a 0.96 ERA and 0.96 WHIP over 18.2 innings. Despite his career struggles against New York, Bubic has looked excellent, and he should keep the Royals in this game.
Let’s dive into the Yankees. With Aaron Judge batting .381 and slugging at an elite .730, the Yankees remain one of the most dangerous offenses in baseball. They lead the league in home runs and slugging percentage, ranking first in OPS against left-handed pitchers. Schmidt, though, comes off a long layoff after shoulder tendinitis, which leaves us with questions. His past success is undeniable, but with Bubic’s form and the Yankees’ reliance on strikeouts, Schmidt could struggle in his return.
Bubic, however, has been exceptional in 2025, and while his career numbers against New York aren’t great, he’s a different pitcher now. His 21 strikeouts in 18.2 innings show he can get the Yankees’ free-swinging hitters to whiff. Plus, the 37% hard-hit rate he’s allowed isn’t perfect, but it’s enough to keep New York from running away with this. With Schmidt’s rust and Bubic’s form, expect a competitive matchup.
Royals vs. Yankees pick, best bet
The wind’s blowing out to right field tonight at 15-20 mph, favoring both teams’ power hitters. Bobby Witt Jr., who’s been on fire, carrying an eight-game hitting streak, should benefit from this boost. His ability to drive the ball, combined with the wind, gives him a real shot at extra-base hits or a home run. Meanwhile, Judge, ever-dangerous against lefties, could capitalize on the same conditions. The wind will help both teams pile on runs, so the o8.0 total makes a lot of sense here.
Let’s talk trends: The Yankees haven’t covered the run line in nine consecutive Wednesday games as favorites. Meanwhile, the Royals have covered the run line in nine of their last 10 games against AL East opponents following a road loss. The Royals might not win, but they can stay within the margin, especially with Bubic’s excellent start and Schmidt’s unknowns.
This one is set up to be closer than the odds suggest. The fun bet here, and the one we’re locking in, is Royals Moneyline. While it’s tempting to back the Yankees in their quest to complete the sweep, the Royals have value as underdogs tonight. Kris Bubic has been absolutely stellar this season with that twin set of 0.96 ERA and WHIP. The Yankees are coming off a series of inconsistent performances, and Clarke Schmidt’s return from the injured list adds an element of uncertainty to their starting roster tonight.
His effectiveness after a long layoff is up for question, especially against a lineup that thrives on putting balls in play, like the Royals’. Bubic’s strikeout stuff has been elite, and if he can limit hard contact, the Royals have a real shot at staying competitive here. At plus money, they represent solid value to win outright.
Best bet: Royals (+125) at Yankees
Back the most boring baseball bet of the night with me in the DKN Betting Group here!
Total lean: Yankees vs. Royals o8.0 total runs (-105)
Let’s lean on the howling wind to get us over 8.0 tonight in the Bronx!
