The No Run First Inning and Yes Run First Inning (NRFI/YRFI) markets are red hot. There is no better way to get a quick early sweat on MLB betting action, and the OddsShopper Premium Tool is the top resource in the industry for finding the strongest NRFI and YRFI plays. For Wednesday’s all-day slate, we will again turn to it to identify the best NRFI picks today on Caesars — and this is a slate with some tough pitchers, so we are going to have to reach into the bag to find the value.
Best YRFI/NRFI Bets Today: No Run First Inning Bets
St. Louis Cardinals at Washington Nationals YRFI (-120)
The Cardinals-Nationals clash presents an intriguing opportunity to capitalize on the first inning. With Trevor Williams pitching for the Nationals at home and Miles Mikolas taking the mound for the Cardinals, both teams have a chance to exploit the pitching matchup. While Williams has a decent walk rate, Mikolas possesses lackluster strikeout ability. It is highly likely that at least one of these pitchers will allow a baserunner, setting the stage for a potential first inning run.
Texas Rangers at Chicago White Sox YRFI (-130)
In this matchup, we focus on the pitchers — Martin Perez for the Rangers and Michael Kopech for the White Sox. Perez’s limited strikeout potential, coupled with the White Sox’s ability to work the count and force pitchers into mistakes, creates an opportunity for early runs. Kopech’s track record as a strikeout pitcher makes it challenging for the Rangers to get on the board early. However, he has been very hittable at points this year, and Perez’s struggles on the road and both teams’ prowess at the plate make the odds favorable for a first inning run.
Atlanta Braves at Philadelphia Phillies NRFI (-110)
The Braves-Phillies game offers an interesting NRFI play. Aaron Nola takes the mound for the Phillies, and he is known for his ability to limit walks and keep the opposition at bay early on. Although the Braves boast a formidable lineup, Nola’s consistent strike throwing suggests a lower likelihood of a first inning rally or significant mistakes. Furthermore, A.J. Smith-Shawver is getting stretched out and pitching well, which adds to the likelihood of a lower-scoring opening inning.