- When: Wednesday, May 24 at 6:40 PM ET
- Who: Blue Jays at Rays
- Starting Pitchers: Yusei Kikuchi and Shane McClanahan
- Where: Tropicana Field in Tampa Bay, FL
As the Tampa Bay Rays prepare to take on the Toronto Blue Jays in the third game of their four-game series, all signs point to the Rays seizing the day, thanks to their ace pitcher Shane McClanahan and impressive home advantage.
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Game Preview
Let's break down why the favored Rays at -170 on the money line are the pick to make for this thrilling MLB matchup.
| Money Line |  |  |  |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marlins | +104 | +156 | +150 |
| Rays | -184 | -190 | -170 |
Rays
First, let's talk about the man of the hour, Shane McClanahan. The Rays' ace pitcher has been nothing short of phenomenal this season, boasting an unbeaten record that has undoubtedly contributed to the team's impressive standing.
With a fiery fastball and deceptive off-speed pitches, McClanahan keeps opposing batters guessing, leading to many strikeouts and weak contact. Not only does he have the skills, but he also brings the heat, with his fastball averaging a scorching 97.6 mph.
Shane McClanahan, Unfair 87mph Changeup. 😯 pic.twitter.com/dVuApQxayN
— Rob Friedman (@PitchingNinja) May 20, 2023
In this matchup, the Blue Jays' batters better be prepared to face the fire. The Rays' offense is also nothing to scoff at, as they currently rank as one of the highest-scoring teams in the MLB.
The Rays can provide ample run support for their pitchers with a lineup featuring power hitters like Randy Arozarena, Austin Meadows, and Brandon Lowe. This firepower and McClanahan's prowess on the mound will surely give the Blue Jays a run for their money.
Blue Jays
In last night's game, the Blue Jays showed just how potent their offense can be, winning with twenty runs. Their offense has managed to figure out how to provide adequate run support.
Morale Rayser 🔥
FINAL: #BlueJays 20, Rays 1 pic.twitter.com/oFxHaMpBl4
— Toronto Blue Jays (@BlueJays) May 24, 2023
However, their pitching has struggled to contain opposing lineups; it's difficult to imagine the Blue Jays turning things around against the formidable Rays.
Meanwhile, Tampa Bay's Tropicana Field has been a friendly environment for the Rays this season, as they boast one of the best home records in the league. The raucous atmosphere and the team's familiarity with the ballpark undoubtedly play a role in their success, providing an extra edge against their opponents.
As the Blue Jays stroll into hostile territory, they'll be hard-pressed to win against the formidable Rays.
I would not recommend betting on the Blue Jays to win this game on the money line at +150 odds.
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Total Runs
Considering the pitching matchup, it's also worth noting the potential for a low-scoring game. While the Rays' offense is explosive, both McClanahan and Blue Jays pitcher Yusei Kikuchi have shown consistency on the mound throughout the season.
| Total Runs | | | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Over 8 Runs | -115 | -115 | -115 |
| Under 8 Runs | -105 | -105 | -105 |
Kikuchi kept the Rays lineup in check the last time he faced them. He struck out 9 in 6 innings while recording an impressive 5-2 victory against the Rays. Subsequently, with the under-8 runs at -105 looking enticing, a lower-scoring affair could be in the cards for this matchup.
Money Line
Despite the Blue Jays' recent slump, it's worth acknowledging that they still possess a talented roster. However, with the Rays riding the momentum of their ace pitcher McClanahan and a potent offense, it is challenging to envision Toronto coming out on top in this contest.
So, to all the data-driven sports betting enthusiasts out there: grab your wallets and get ready to ride the wave because the Tampa Bay Rays are primed to crush the Toronto Blue Jays in this must-watch MLB showdown.
I recommend betting on the Rays at -170 to win this game on the money line.
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