MLB NRFI Bets, Expert Picks Today | A Custom Pick for Nestor Cortes, Drew Rasmussen (Sunday, April 9)

Shayne Trail breaks down his favorite NRFI/YRFI bets of the day below, but you can follow all of his bets in the Action Network app. 

Athletics vs.

Rays

Yankees vs.

Orioles

Today, we will create a custom No Runs First Inning (NRFI) bet by analyzing the performances of two pitchers. This personalized bet can be crafted through sportsbooks such as DraftKings and Barstool Sportsbook.

This NRFI bet is different from a traditional NRFI, as it combines two separate half-innings from the first innings of two different games. This approach allows you to tailor the bet to your preferences.

The top selection today will be Tampa Bay Rays' rising star, Drew Rasmussen, taking center stage. Rasmussen delivered an outstanding performance last season, boasting a 22-6 NRFI record, including an impressive 11-2 home NRFI record. Exhibiting dominance when facing batters for the first time through the lineup, he held them to a modest .210 average, allowing a mere 50 hits on 238 at-bats.

While Rasmussen's experience against the Athletics' lineup is limited, this could work in his favor. Among the few who have faced him are Jesus Aguilar (0-for-5), Seth Brown (0-for-1), Tony Kemp (0-for-2) and Brent Rooker (0-for-1). The Oakland Athletics have struggled in the first inning, with a meager .148 average in 31 plate appearances, placing them among the worst in the league.

Turning our attention to the second standout of the day, New York Yankees' southpaw Nestor Cortés showcases his prowess on the mound. Like Rasmussen, Cortés achieved a remarkable 22-6 NRFI record last season. When facing batters the first time through the order, Cortés was virtually untouchable, allowing only a .152 average on 36 hits in 236 at-bats.

Although he has a substantial sample size against the Orioles' lineup, he has consistently demonstrated dominance. Key matchups include Ryan Mountcastle (1-for-2), Austin Hays (3-for-15), Cedric Mullins (1-for-12), Anthony Santander (1-for-9) and Gunnar Henderson (0-for-3). The Orioles' first-inning offense initially surged in Boston, ranking as one of the best in baseball, but over the past week, they have faltered, posting a .190 average in their last 23 plate appearances.

This NRFI has a slight edge over on DraftKings at -182) while Barstool’s odds stand at -205.

As always, six outs to glory…