We are back to bring you No Run First Inning or Yes Run First Inning bets (NRFI/YRFI) bets for MLB, with the aim of combining recent hitting and pitching trends, ballpark data and the tools at OddsShopper. Here are the best value plays for today’s action with the best NRFI picks today on BetMGM for Tuesday, May 16.
Editor’s Note: This article was originally published at 11:10 a.m. CT on 5/162023
Best YRFI/NRFI Bets Today: Yes Run First Inning Bets
Washington Nationals at Miami Marlins YRFI (+100)
The game features Josiah Gray pitching for the Nationals and Jesus Luzardo for the Marlins. Although Gray is pitching well and limiting power, he is not striking people out as much. In contrast, Luzardo has a mediocre strikeout rate, and both teams have the capability of getting on base. Miami has some batters that are prone to striking out, but this does not change the fact that there is a good chance of someone walking or getting on base. Therefore, there is a decent possibility of scoring opportunities in the first inning.
Arizona Diamondbacks at Oakland Athletics YRFI (-120)
This game has Tommy Henry on the mound for the Diamondbacks and Kyle Muller for the Athletics. Both pitchers have a low strikeout-to-walk ratios, indicating that they are not striking many people out. Henry in particular has a strikeout to walk ratio of 1-to-1, which is surprisingly low. With both pitchers struggling, it is likely that someone will be on the base path in the first inning. In fact, it would be a miracle if both of these pitchers got through the first inning without allowing a base runner. Betting on a YRFI in this game is a no-brainer.
Chicago Cubs at Houston Astros YRFI (+105)
Cristian Javier will be pitching for the Astros with a strikeout line of 7.5, and the Cubs have been striking out a lot lately. However, the Cubs can also get some guys on base. Additionally, this game is being played at Minute Maid Park, which is known for being a hitter-friendly park. And with Justin Steele not striking a ton of guys out, there is a decent chance of someone scoring in the first inning. Take the YRFI for this game.
Plus, just for today, DraftKings is offering a 20% boost on a YRFI/NRFI bet for Cubs-Astros, so there is even more value in taking the plus money here!
