MLB No Runs First Inning (NRFI) Odds, Picks & Predictions: Thursday (9/14)

There are 10 games on the board today, with the Yankees and Red Sox having their second doubleheader in three days. The first game begins at 12:35, so make sure you get your bets in. Let’s take a look at the NRFI slate to find our favorites of the day.

Thursday’s Best No Runs First Inning (NRFI) Bets

(Odds courtesy of DraftKings Sportsbook)

New York Yankees at Boston Red Sox

Pitching Matchup: Michael King vs. Tanner Houck

Game one features a fascinating matchup between two pitchers who may actually be best suited in non-traditional starting rotation roles. Michael King has been an integral part of the Yankees’ bullpen for the last few seasons, but he has been stretched out as a starter late in this season. He has a sub-two ERA in his couple of outings as a starter and has recently been reaching five innings an outing. As most relievers-turned-starters do, he succeeded the first time through the order with 0.258 wOBA allowed. Tanner Houck is starting for the Boston Red Sox, and he has not had the same level of MLB success as King, but he similarly excels the first time through the order. He has a 0.280 wOBA this season the first time through, although he tends to tire as the game goes on. In fact, both of these guys might tire and falter as the game goes on, but they should come out of the gate on fire.

Pick: No Runs First Inning (+100)


Cincinnati Reds at Detroit Tigers

Pitching Matchup: Derek Law vs. Reese Olson

There are several other matchups I like better than this, but the prices are higher, and to be honest, I can’t justify the line. Reese Olson has shown some flashes this season, and he has been a regular in my articles. He posted an excellent 0.287 wOBA the first time through the order. The Reds’ offense has been struggling lately, and this game is in a pitcher’s park, so this all lines up well for Olson. On the other side, the Reds are sending Derek Law to the mound. Law has worked almost entirely as a reliever in his career but has gotten a few starts as an opener. Usually, I like to make NRFI bets with openers, as these guys are able to empty the tank and are out there because the manager trusts they can post a clean inning.

Pick: No Runs First Inning (-110)


Make sure to check out our other best bets for Thursday:

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