Toronto Blue Jays vs
Tampa Bay RaysPredictions & Preview

Tampa Bay Rays Favored to Win Series Opener Against Toronto Blue Jays in AL East Showdown

The Toronto Blue Jays and Tampa Bay Rays will face off in a three game series starting Friday in the AL East. The Rays won two of three in their previous meeting just a week ago. Drew Rasmussen (2.93 ERA) will start for Tampa Bay, while Toronto has yet to name their starter. The game is set for 7:05 EST. The Rays are the betting favorite at -140. Stay tuned for our prediction on the outcome.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Blue Jays +123 | Rays -140
• Spread: Blue Jays +1.5 (-164) | Rays -1.5 (+140)
• Total: Over/Under 9 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Tampa Bay will win straight-up is 58%.

Toronto vs Tampa Bay Stats

Toronto Blue Jays

The Toronto Blue Jays are currently in a tight race with the New York Yankees for the top spot in the AL East. They are just a half game ahead of the Red Sox and 1.5 games ahead of the Rays. The team recently defeated the Padres with a strong offensive performance, highlighted by Daulton Varsho's grand slam. Varsho leads the team in home runs and RBIs, while Bo Bichette leads in hits and batting average. Vladimir Guerrero Jr. is also a key player for the Blue Jays, batting second and contributing both with the bat and defensively at first base. The Blue Jays have a rotation consisting of four starters and may use a bullpen game in the near future. Despite their middle-of-the-pack rankings in offense and defense, they hold a 25-24 record and are working to maintain their position in the standings.

Tampa Bay Rays Analysis

The Tampa Bay Rays recently enjoyed a rare day off after defeating the Astros in their series, with a strong offensive performance highlighted by several key players hitting home runs. Yandy Diaz, playing from the leadoff spot, had a standout performance with a three-run home run. Brandon Lowe, the team's top home run hitter, also contributed with his eighth home run of the season. Josh Lowe, working his way back into the lineup, added to the offensive showing with a home run of his own. Drew Rasmussen, who will make his 10th start of the season, has been a reliable pitcher for the Rays with a strong ERA of 2.93. The team currently has a power ranking of 22 and ranks 24th in offense, 13th in defense, and has an overall 23-26 record. Toronto won 2 out of their last 3 matchups against Tampa Bay.

Tampa Bay Rays Well-Positioned for Series Opener Against Toronto Blue Jays

The Tampa Bay Rays have distinct advantages heading into the series opener, including being well-rested and focused, as well as sending out a strong starting pitcher. With a day off on Thursday, the Rays have had time to rest their key players without missing any game action. In contrast, the Toronto Blue Jays will be traveling from Canada after playing the Padres on Thursday. The Blue Jays have not yet announced their starting pitcher, which raises uncertainties for the team. Toronto typically relies on a rotation of four starters, but with this being the fifth game, they will need someone from the bullpen to step up. Additionally, Toronto ranks 21st in team ERA, despite their best starters' contributions. On the other hand, Tampa Bay will have Rasmussen on the mound, whose sub-3.00 ERA and recent performance indicate a strong likelihood of success. Overall, the Rays are poised to take an early lead in this series. It is advisable to place your bet on the Rays to secure the win.

Sources: [ 1 ] [ 2 ]