Rays vs Phillies Prediction, Picks & Odds for Today's MLB Game

Colby Marchio - Contributor at Covers.com
Colby Marchio • Betting Analyst 7+ years betting experience
Updated: Sep 27, 2026 , 12:57 PM ET • 4 min read

The Rays (39%) draw Zack Wheeler, who has been nails lately. However, the Phillies' bats have been ice cold, making Tampa Bay the better look here.

mlb

Sep 27 • 12:05 PM ET
Rays vs Phillies Predictions
Photo By - Reuters Connect. Nick Martinez (28) pitches against the New York Yankees.

My Rays vs. Phillies prediction and MLB picks for Sunday, Sept. 27, back Tampa Bay as a 39% underdog.

After a 12-1 win on Saturday, the Rays look to keep the momentum rolling against Phillies right-hander Zack Wheeler. First pitch is scheduled for 3:05 p.m. ET.

Enjoying Covers content? Add us as a preferred source on your Google account Add as a preferred source on Google

Who will win Rays vs Phillies today: Rays (39%)

For help understanding probabilities, see our odds calculator.

Simply for the value, and because of how lifeless the Philadelphia Phillies have been at the dish. Why would we force a bet on the Phillies, who own an 87 wRC+, 4.4% barrel rate, and .113 ISO over their last six games?

Oh, Zack Wheeler is on the mound? Okay? Nick Martinez is on the mound for the Tampa Bay Rays, and he has been just as impressive, posting a 2.08 ERA and 0.75 WHIP while allowing just a 4% barrel rate over his last three starts.

I see no reason to back the Phillies, who haven't proven anything over their last few outings, especially at that price. The regression from the Rays' 12-run outburst could be a reason to back the hometown team, but they have never taken their foot off the gas this season.

Covers COVERS INTEL: Seven Phillies hitters have a barrel rate below 5% over their last 30 at-bats against right-handed pitching, per Handigraphs.

Rays vs Phillies Over/Under pick: Under 6.5

After the Rays hung 12 runs on the Phillies last night, there should be some regression this afternoon. Plus, with how poorly Philadelphia has been swinging the bat, runs may be at an all-time premium in this matchup.

Martinez owns a 2.08 ERA and 0.75 WHIP over his last three starts, while Wheeler has posted a 1.83 ERA and 0.92 WHIP.
This should be a pitching duel.

Rays vs Phillies home run prediction: Victor Mesa Jr.

Victor Mesa Jr. is easily my favorite look to go YA-YA in this matchup. He's not only one of the hottest hitters in this spot, but he is also making a high volume of quality contact.

In his last 30 at-bats against a right-handed pitcher, Mesa Jr. owns a .796 SLG and .461 ISO while generating a 56% hard-hit rate and a near-16% barrel rate.

Colby Marchio's 2026 Transparency Record
  • 2026 Season: 532-1057, +2.50 units
  • Home Run picks: 134-460, +29.10 units
📱 DOWNLOAD THE COVERS APP FOR MORE EXPERT PICKS

Rays vs Phillies weather

At first pitch, there is a slight chance of rain, with a 43% probability of precipitation. Temperatures should be in the low 60s.

Rays vs Phillies odds

  • Moneyline: Rays 39% | Phillies 62%
  • Run line: Rays +1.5 (60%) | Phillies -1.5 (40%)
  • Over/Under: Over 7.5 (40%) | Under 7.5 (60%)

Rays vs Phillies trend

The Tampa Bay Rays have hit the moneyline in 33 of their last 50 games (+11.05 Units / 16% ROI). Find more MLB betting trends for Rays vs. Phillies.

How to watch Rays vs Phillies and game info

Location Citizens Bank Park, Philadelphia, PA
Date Sunday, September 27, 2026
First pitch 3:05 p.m. ET
TV Rays.TV, NBC Sports Philadelphia
Rays starting pitcher Nick Martinez
(15-5, 2.94 ERA)
Phillies starting pitcher Zack Wheeler
(13-5, 3.06 ERA)

Rays vs Phillies latest injuries

Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change.
Not intended for use in MA.
Affiliate Disclosure: Our team of experts has thoroughly researched and handpicked each product that appears on our website. We may receive compensation if you sign up through our links.

Pages related to this topic

Colby Marchio
Betting Analyst

Colby Marchio is a two-time DePaul alum and former Division 1 (club) baseball player who has been sports betting since 2019. Since graduating in 2021, he has worked throughout the media circuit, hosting and appearing on various television and radio shows while making countless guest appearances discussing Major League Baseball, college basketball, college football, and the National Football League.

A self-proclaimed numbers nerd, Colby may enjoy digging through the data even more than winning itself. That passion is why his two favorite sports to cover are college basketball and Major League Baseball. 

As for his favorite sportsbook, it is whichever one has the best price, or whichever one is not taxing him as an Illinois resident. 

You can find all of his plays and more @ColbyMBets on Twitter/X.

Popular Content

Covers is verified safe by: Evalon Logo GPWA Logo GDPR Logo GeoTrust Logo Evalon Logo