As usual, we are examining the most recent hitting and pitching patterns, taking into ballpark details, and utilizing the tools provided by best NRFI picks today on BetMGM for Friday, May 19.
Best YRFI/NRFI Bets Today: No Run First Inning Bets
Detroit Tigers at Washington Nationals YRFI (+100)
Jake Irvin and Matthew Boyd have both shown a propensity for issuing walks. Irvin has a 12.5% walk rate, while Boyd’s sits at 10.3%. This high walk rate is a cause for concern when it comes to keeping the opposition off the bases and preventing runs in the first inning.
The Nationals have players like Stone Garrett, Dominic Smith, Luis Garcia and Keibert Ruiz who have been performing well and limiting strikeouts. On the other hand, the Tigers lineup has also been putting the ball in play. This combination of hitters who limit strikeouts and pitchers with high walk rates increases the likelihood of a run being scored in the first inning.
Chicago Cubs at Philadelphia Phillies YRFI (-115)
Both of these teams have power bats that can turn on pitches and drive in runs. While the Cubs have players like Cody Bellinger in the top of their lineup who can strike out, they also can hit the ball out of the park.
Phillies starting pitcher Ranger Suarez has been struggling with , and his walk rate has been a concern. This could lead to baserunners for the Cubs and put pressure on Suarez to prevent runs in the first inning. Additionally, the Cubs can capitalize on mistakes and turn them into runs. With the combination of power hitters and a pitcher who struggles with , bet the YRFI in this game.
Miami Marlins at San Francisco Giants NRFI (-140)
Sandy Alcantara and Anthony DeSclafani have relatively low walk rates. Alcantara has a 6.5% walk rate, while DeSclafani’s walk rate stands at 2.6%. Although Alcantara hasn’t been dominant in recent performances, he still poses a challenge for the Giants lineup. On the other hand, DeSclafani has a favorable matchup against a Marlins lineup that has struggled to generate runs on the road. While he may not dominate the Marlins, his ability to limit walks and keep runners off base increases the chances of a NRFI. Considering the pitchers, that is the play for this game.
