Tampa Bay (49-41) at Detroit (57-34)
- When: Jul 7 2025, 6:40 PM
- Where: Comerica Park, Detroit
- Where to watch: Fox Sports 1
Rays vs. Tigers – Game Betting Preview & Prediction
Moneyline: Tampa Bay -130
Total: 9.0
Spread: Tampa Bay -1.5 (+134)
Detroit Tigers Preview
Fresh off an electric weekend in Cleveland, the Tigers return to Motown riding high. They completed a sweep of the Guardians on Sunday in dramatic fashion, tying the game on a wild pitch with two outs in the ninth before exploding for six runs in the 10th to secure a 7-2 win. Rookie Trey Sweeney, who had been demoted earlier in the year, played hero with a three-run blast in extras.
Despite offensive struggles earlier this season, Sweeney’s poise is starting to show. Manager A.J. Hinch praised his approach in pressure situations, noting his ability to handle the emotional swings of the game.
Now holding a commanding 13.5-game lead in the AL Central, Detroit is eyeing 60 wins before the All-Star break. But without an announced starter for Monday, they’re likely headed for a bullpen-by-committee strategy, one that worked over the weekend but may face more resistance against a sharper lineup.
Tampa Bay Rays Preview
The Rays snapped a cold streak with a gritty 10-inning win at Minnesota on Sunday, avoiding what would’ve been a sixth loss in seven games. Yandy Díaz stepped up in extras with a clutch RBI double to seal the 7-5 victory.
Shane Baz (8-3, 4.33 ERA) gets the nod to open the Detroit series. While he’s unbeaten since mid-May, his last outing versus Detroit was shaky, five earned runs in 5 1/3 innings. Fortunately, the Tampa offense bailed him out with a 14-run outburst. That said, Baz has been trending in the right direction lately, including an 11-strikeout gem against Oakland in his last start.
The Rays may be down Brandon Lowe, who exited Sunday’s game with side soreness, ending a 20-game hit streak. His availability remains unclear, which could affect Tampa’s pop from the left side. However, both Lowe and Jonathan Aranda were named All-Stars this weekend, a boost for clubhouse morale as they push through a long road trip.
Prediction & Betting Picks
Tampa Bay has the pitching edge with Baz and a rested bullpen. Detroit’s momentum is undeniable, but a bullpen game may struggle to contain a Rays lineup that’s starting to heat up again.
Score Prediction: Rays 6, Tigers 4
Pick: Tampa Bay (-130)
Total: Over 9.0 (-103) – Both teams have been in slugfest mode lately, and with no clear Tigers starter, expect some fireworks.
- MLB Odds source: MyBookie Sportsbook
- Get real-time live scores & latest betting odds here!
