It seems crazy to back the "No Run First Inning" prop in a game where the stacked Los Angeles Dodgers lineup is facing a starter with an ERA above 4.50, but that's exactly what my MLB picks are betting tonight.
Read more in my best free YRFI and NRFI bets for Friday, August 1.
Best NRFI/YRFI bets today
Royals vs 
Blue Jays: YRFI
Dodgers vs 
Rays: NRFI
Rangers vs 
Mariners: NRFI
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NRFI/YRFI bets for August 1
Royals at Blue Jays: YRFI (Play at Thrillzz)
Both of these offenses are red-hot.
The Toronto Blue Jays lead the majors in OPS (.824) while plating 5.29 runs per game over the last 30 days. Meanwhile, the Kansas City Royals rank sixth in OPS (.764) over the same span.
KC is starting Michael Wacha, who carries a 4.53 ERA on the road this season. The Jays are sending Kevin Gausman to the hill, who’s been inconsistent with a 3.82 ERA over 21 starts.
The Royals also hit better on the road, where they rank sixth in first-inning run percentage (32.1%).
- Time: 7:07 p.m. ET
- Where to watch: Sportsnet | FDSN Kansas City
- Bet: YRFI
Dodgers at Rays: NRFI (Play at Thrillzz)
The Los Angeles Dodgers have seen a significant drop-off in their production on the road, posting an OPS of .721. Their stacked lineup has also been in a slump, with L.A. ranking 27th in the majors in OPS (.673) over the last 30 days.
While Tampa Bay Rays starter Shane Baz has a 4.61 ERA, his expected ERA is far better at 3.64. He has also pitched to a 1.71 ERA with an OBA of .195 in the first frame.
L.A. is sending 11-time All-Star Clayton Kershaw to the hill. Although the southpaw's season debut in May went poorly, he boasts a 3.07 ERA in 11 starts since. The Rays have also struggled against lefties, posting an OPS of just .658.
- Time: 7:35 p.m. ET
- Where to watch: MLB Network
- Bet: NRFI
Rangers at Mariners: NRFI (Play at Thrillzz)
The Seattle Mariners' bats have been struggling at home, where they play at the most pitcher-friendly venue in the majors. They sport an OPS of .678 at T-Mobile Park, plating a run in the first inning in just 17% of their home games.
Meanwhile, the visiting Texas Rangers are just 28th in the majors in OPS (.677) while ranking 21st in first-inning run rate (27.3%). The Rangers will struggle against M's starter Logan Gilbert, who sports a sizzling 1.94 ERA with an OBA of .132 in eight starts at home.
Texas responds with Jack Leiter, who is beginning to play up to his vast potential as a sophomore. Leiter has been getting off to great starts before finding trouble in the middle innings. The righty has logged a 2.33 ERA with an OBA of .153 during the first three innings of his 18 starts.
- Time: 10:10 p.m. ET
- Where to watch: Root Sports | Rangers Sports Network
- Bet: NRFI
❓What are NRFI and YRFI bets❓
NRFI (No Run First Inning) and YRFI (Yes Run First Inning) bets add a thrilling twist to the start of an MLB game. A NRFI bet is a wager that no runs will be scored in the first inning. You're betting that the starting pitchers for both teams will get through the first inning without allowing any runs, whether by striking out batters, inducing ground balls, or through solid defensive play.
A YRFI bet is the exact opposite. You're betting that at least one run will be scored in the first inning. In this case, you’re hoping for an early offensive burst such as a leadoff walk, a timely hit, or even a home run.
NRFI and YRFI bets add excitement to the early part of a game and offer immediate gratification for bettors looking for a quick resolution.
Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change.
Not intended for use in MA.
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