The Reds and Pirates clash this afternoon, and I'm expecting a quiet first inning. Meanwhile, I see offensive fireworks in tonight's Dodgers vs. Padres tilt.
These matchups will headline my top NRFI predictions and YRFI predictions today.
Here are my best MLB picks for Saturday, June 27.
Best NRFI/YRFI predictions today
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- NRFI
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- NRFI
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- YRFI
Reds at Pirates: NRFI (-137)
Chase Burns takes the ball for the Cincinnati Reds this afternoon, and he owns a stellar 14-1 NRFI/YRFI record this season. Burns has also compiled a 2.48 xERA over his last two outings.
Jared Jones hasn't been as elite with a 4.78 FIP across his last five starts, but the Reds are hitting just .210 in the first, and haven't produced any offense in the opening frame in eight straight games.
While I don't expect Jones to be lights-out, Cincinnati has consistently started games slowly, creating value in another scoreless first inning.
I'll play this pick up to -140.
- Time: 4:05 p.m. ET
- Where to watch: SportsNet Pittsburgh, Reds.TV
Royals at White Sox: NRFI (-131)
Two solid arms take the hill here that rarely allow damage early on. Michael Wacha sports a 13-3 NRFI/YRFI record in 2026, and he's pitching well lately, compiling a 2.57 FIP across his previous two starts.
As for Davis Martin, he's tossed a clean first in seven straight, and in 15 starts, he's allowed a run in the opening frame just twice.
Also, both of these offenses are struggling out of the gates right now. The Kansas City Royals haven't scored in the first in three in a row, while the Chicago White Sox have gone five games without a run in the opening inning.
I'll play this pick up to -140.
- Time: 4:10 p.m. ET
- Where to watch: Chicago Sports Network, Royals.TV
Dodgers at Padres: YRFI (-112)
There are multiple paths to a first-inning run tonight, but the Los Angeles Dodgers provide the clearest one.
Randy Vasquez has struggled lately, posting a 6.84 xERA over his last four starts while allowing a first-inning run in three straight outings. He also owns a mediocre 9-6 NRFI/YRFI record.
Los Angeles is batting .261 in the first inning and should have opportunities to capitalize early. Yoshinobu Yamamoto has been outstanding overall, but he's still allowed a first-inning run in five of his 14 starts this season, giving the San Diego Padres at least a chance to contribute.
I'll play this pick up to -120.
- Time: 8:40 p.m. ET
- Where to watch: MLB Network
- NRFI/YRFI picks: 20-39, -4.30 units
What is a NRFI prediction?
NRFI (No Run First Inning) and YRFI (Yes Run First Inning) picks add a thrilling twist to the start of an MLB game. A NRFI pick is a prediction that no runs will be scored in the first inning. You're predicting 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 pick is the exact opposite. You're predicting 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 picks add excitement to the early part of a game and offer immediate gratification for those 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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