Best NRFI and YRFI Bets Today, Friday May 20th(Bet on Runs in Reds vs. Blue Jays)
By Joe Summers
We've got a loaded MLB slate today, with 15 games ripe for betting action. The BetSided squad has you covered with previews for each matchup so be sure to check out all the content before placing your wagers.
But I'm here for a different kind of value. There are few feelings better than the instant gratification associated with a classic, No Run First Inning (NRFI) or Yes Run First Inning (YRFI) bet.
Using the odds from WynnBET, I've analyzed today's games and I've got a few first inning bets screaming with value. Let's check out the best NRFI and YRFI bets for this beautiful Friday:
Best NRFI and YRFI Bets Today
Cardinals vs Pirates NRFI (-110)
As I wrote in my preview for the game, Adam Wainwright hasn't allowed a single run to the Pirates in his last 30 innings against them. To make matters more enticing, Pittsburgh has scored nine total runs in their last seven games. So we're good on that end.
On the other side, Zach Thompson has thrown 12 straight scoreless innings and allowed only four hits in that span. St. Louis has scored a run in the first inning of just 20% of their away games, so I love getting even money to back both pitchers to stay hot.
Blue Jays vs Reds YRFI (-105)
Both starting pitchers have really struggled and the wind is blowing straight out to center field. Toronto has scored a run in the first inning nearly 40% of the time, while the Reds' lineup is heating up of late.
With two poor pitchers, friendly weather, and offenses capable of smashing home runs, I love the chances for an early run here.
Angels vs Athletics NRFI (-115)
I'm a huge fan of both starting pitchers today. Chase SIlseth allowed just one hit in six scoreless innings against Oakland last week and Paul Blackburn has a tidy 1.67 ERA through seven starts.
Blackburn has only allowed a first-inning run twice in those seven starts and Oakland has scored a run in the first inning only 27% of the time this year. This should be an excellent pitching matchup, so I'm happy backing the NRFI.
Follow all of Joe Summers' betting picks here.