Nothing like opening the season with a sweep. Let’s keep that momentum going with another three No Runs First Inning (NRFI) picks on this packed Friday slate.
- MLB NRFI/YRFI Cheat Sheet - Team View
- MLB NRFI/YRFI Cheat Sheet - Matchup View
- MLB Prop Bet Cheat Sheet
- MLB Consensus Odds
Get instant alerts when a line reaches your target via the BettingPros App >>
Friday's Best MLB No Runs First Inning (NRFI) Picks
This Season: 3-0 | Last Week: 3-0 | Odds courtesy of FanDuel Sportsbook
Chicago White Sox @ Detroit Tigers
Starting Pitchers: Jonathan Cannon vs. Jack Flaherty
Jack Flaherty has been a reliable arm early in games, boasting a 61% NRFI rate last season and a perfect 1-0 mark this season. He also blanked the White Sox in both games he faced them last season.
Conversely, Jonathan Cannon's 62% NRFI rate last season is equally impressive. He, too, is 1-0 this season in not allowing a first-inning run. His 1-2 first-inning record against Detroit last season suggests some vulnerability. With both pitchers showing NRFI tendencies, this matchup leans toward a quiet start.
Play: NRFI (-140)
San Diego Padres @ Chicago Cubs
Starting Pitchers: Randy Vasquez vs. Shota Imanaga
Shota Imanaga looks to be the ace the Cubs need, posting a 2-0 record and a 55% NRFI rate last season. He kept the Padres scoreless in the lone matchup against them. Randy Vasquez, while less consistent with a 45% NRFI rate, has still managed a 1-0 first-inning record to start the season.
This game pits two pitchers with decent early-game control against lineups that don't always strike fast. This NRFI looks promising.
Play: NRFI (-130)
Florida Marlins @ Atlanta Braves
Starting Pitchers: Max Meyer vs. Spencer Schwellenbach
Spencer Schwellenbach brings a 71% NRFI rate to the mound for Atlanta, with a 1-0 start to this season. Against a Marlins offense that often struggles to generate early momentum, he's in a prime position to dominate. Meyer, meanwhile, had a 45% NRFI rate but is off to a 1-0 start as well.
The Braves' potent lineup could exploit Meyer much like they did in both matchups last season. While Schwellenbach gives the NRFI a fighting chance, Meyer's struggles tilt this toward caution.
Play: NRFI (-125)
Make sure to check out our other best bets for Friday:
