Best NRFI and YRFI Bets Today (Bank on Runs Early in Reds-Guardians)

Welcome to the second installment of my NRFI and YRFI column. I like these props because they are short and sweet and you only have to sweat at the beginning of the game. 

If you're unfamiliar, these bets are on the first inning of MLB games. If you bet on NRFI (No Runs First Inning), and the first inning sees no runs scored, the bet cashes. If you wager on YRFI (Yes Runs First Inning), the bet will hit if one or more runs are scored in the opening inning.

Here are my top three NRFI and YRFI bets for Tuesday, May 17. All odds listed are consensus lines. 

Reds vs. Guardians NFRI (-110)

Although the Guardians are above average in 1st inning runs per game, they’ve gone cold as of late. Cincinnati has joined them in that cold streak as well. Neither team has scored a first inning run in their last three games, leaving me to happily back the UNDER in this one. With limited juice, the value here is great and it allows us to fade two cold teams. 

Cardinals vs. Mets YRFI (-110)

Once again, we are getting good value here – and this is for two of the best first inning teams. The Cardinals average 0.85 runs per first inning, which is third in all of baseball. The Mets are 10th at 0.58. These teams come out the gate swinging and get on the board quickly. This is also going to be the second game of a double header, so the players will be warmed up.

 With this line basically being a pick’em, I like my chances. 

Seattle vs. Toronto NRFI (+100)

Seattle and Toronto are both in the top 10 in first inning runs. This is a good starting pitcher matchup, but I like for one of the offenses to come out and do some damage. This will be my one plus money play of the night. The Blue Jays have elevated their first inning runs per game over the last three games. I’ll put my trust in the Jays to carry this inning and get on the board. 

You can find Donnavan Smoot’s full betting record here.