NY Yankees (11-7) at Tampa Bay (8-10)
- When: Apr 17 2025, 7:05 PM
- Where: George M. Steinbrenner Field, Tampa
- Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video
MLB Betting Preview & Predictions: Yankees vs Rays
Moneyline: Tampa Bay -112 | Total: 9.0
The Tampa Bay Rays continue their early-season American League East stretch by hosting the division-leading New York Yankees in a unique four-game set starting Thursday night. Despite being labeled the home team, the Rays will take the field at George M. Steinbrenner Field — the Yankees’ spring facility — as they temporarily play home games there due to storm damage to Tropicana Field.
Game Breakdown & Betting Line
The Rays open as slight -112 moneyline favorites, with the total set at 9.0 runs. Tampa Bay is leaning on the strength of its rotation, which has been one of the best in the AL early on, posting a 3.30 ERA from starters. The Yankees’ rotation hasn’t been as sharp, ranking near the bottom of the league with a 4.96 ERA.
Tampa Bay Outlook
Taj Bradley (2-0, 3.71 ERA) gets the nod for the Rays, and he’s been consistent across the board this season, striking out seven batters in each of his three starts. Against New York, he’s been lights-out in his young career, owning a 0.69 ERA over two starts. Tampa Bay is coming off a frustrating series loss to the Red Sox, including a 1-0 shutout in the finale, but Bradley’s recent form and their overall pitching depth make them a tough out here.
New York Outlook
The Yankees roll into this series on a high note after sweeping the Royals at home, capped by a 3-for-3 night and go-ahead homer from Aaron Judge in Wednesday’s win. New York is 11-7 overall but just .500 on the road (3-3), and now embarks on a tough seven-game road swing. Will Warren (1-0, 5.14 ERA) makes his first career appearance against Tampa Bay. He looked solid in his last outing versus San Francisco, but his previous big-league stint (0-3, 10.32 ERA) still looms large.
Prediction & Best Bets
The Rays should have the edge in Game 1 thanks to a stronger starting pitcher and a more stable bullpen setup. Look for Tampa Bay to lean on Bradley’s strikeout ability and control to limit Yankee bats. New York’s offense is dangerous, but playing in a less familiar “home” setting may neutralize that advantage.
Final Score Prediction: Rays 5, Yankees 3
Betting Picks:
Moneyline: Tampa Bay -112
Total: Under 9.0
Lean: Rays 1st 5 Innings ML (behind Bradley’s dominance)
Expect a tight series, but this opener leans toward the better-armed squad with playoff urgency already brewing.
- MLB Odds source: MyBookie Sportsbook
