OddsShopper‘s No Run First Inning and Yes Run First Inning (NRFI/YRFI) have been raking in money hand over fist. Picks in this space are now 39-22 on the year, so if you’re tailing, you are up big. As always, today we will use the OddsShopper Premium Tool to find the best NRFI picks today on Caesars for Friday, June 9, with one pitching battle standing out as a great spot to start with NRFI plays. Let’s get to it.
Best YRFI/NRFI Bets Today: No Run First Inning Bets
Houston Astros at Cleveland Guardians NRFI (-125)
This pitching duel features Cristian Javier for the Astros and Logan Allen for the Guardians. Both pitchers have shown excellent control and low walk rates, which is a positive indicator for preventing early scoring opportunities.
Javier has been particularly impressive, displaying strong command and limiting walks. He is unlikely to make any costly mistakes and is known for keeping hitters off balance. On the other hand, Allen has also been solid in terms of control, minimizing free passes and avoiding jams in the first inning. With both pitchers keeping runners off the bases, this matchup sets the stage for a scoreless first inning.
Miami Marlins at Chicago White Sox YRFI (+105)
Dylan Cease has been solid on the mound, but one area of concern has been his walk rate of 10.6%. This increases the potential for scoring opportunities in the first inning. Additionally Marlins starter Eury Perez has also struggled with walks, posting an 11.1% walk rate.
Both pitchers’ elevated walk rates create opportunities for early runs. Hitters can capitalize on free passes, and the potential for some timely hitting makes a YRFI bet appealing. Given the vulnerability of both pitchers, there is a higher likelihood of runs being scored in the first inning of this matchup.
Chicago Cubs at San Francisco Giants YRFI (+115)
The pitching matchup between Marcus Stroman and Anthony DeSclafani is a favorable situation for a YRFI bet. Although the focus tends to be on walk rates here, with DeSclafani’s walk rate at just 4.1%, instead there should be a chance for scoring opportunities through contact. DeSclafani’s tendency to pitch to contact may not work in his favor in the top half of the inning, providing an opening for the Cubs. On the other hand, Stroman will rely on striking out batters, but he may have limited chances to do so, with the Giants coming home after a series against the Rockies. Plus, with the odds at +115, this further supports the YRFI bet here.
