As the MLB season unfolds, sports enthusiasts and bettors are keenly following every game, especially the exhilarating MLB matchups like the Kansas City Royals vs Tampa Bay Rays. In this encounter, we’re bound to witness a game filled with tension, tactics, and the unexpected. Read further to get the updated information, Royals vs Rays odds, and our prediction.
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Kansas City Royals vs. Tampa Bay Rays Information
Kansas City Royals vs Tampa Bay Rays
Location of the game: Tropicana Field, Tampa Bay, FL.
Date & Time: June 22, 2023 | 6:40 pm ET.
How to watch: MLB.TV
Royals vs Rays Odds
Runline: The MLB odds for this matchup heavily lean towards the Rays, and rightfully so. The Rays enter the game at -1.5 – 150 on the run line. While the Royals are at +1.5 + 130 on the run line.
Moneyline: In contrast, the Royals, given their tough season and the daunting challenge against the Rays, enter as a significant underdog. Their odds are at +300 on the moneyline. While the Rays are established at -365 on the moneyline.
Over/Under: The over/under is also set at just 7.5, indicative of the belief that McClanahan’s performance will keep Kansas City’s runs at bay.
Top Sportsbooks Odds
Betonline: Tampa Bay Rays -305
Bovada: Tampa Bay Rays -345
MyBookie: Tampa Bay Rays -344
BetUS: Tampa Bay Rays -365
BetNow: Tampa Bay Rays -330
The Current State of the Teams
The Kansas City Royals have had a bit of a tough time this season, with a second-to-last standing in the American League at 20-54. They’ve lagged behind the first-place Minnesota Twins in the American League Central by 16.5 games. Their recent MLB stats don’t portray a promising picture either, winning a mere two games out of the last ten, and their team ERA stands at 5.17, the third-worst in the league.
On the flip side, the Tampa Bay Rays have been maintaining an impressive performance. They come into the game with a 52-25 record for the season, placing them at the top of the American League East. Despite a recent run where they only won five out of the last ten games, they continue to show strength with a commendable 3.53 team ERA, making them second in the league. Their remarkable performance is further highlighted by their recent 7-2 win against the Baltimore Orioles.
An Analytical Perspective of the Matchup
Given the MLB standings and the current form of both teams, it’s no surprise that Tampa Bay Rays are the favorites in this encounter. However, it’s the unpredictable nature of baseball that makes every game interesting.
The Royals will be relying on Jose Cuas for this game. Although he’s relatively new in his MLB career, his recent performances haven’t been encouraging. He comes into this game with a 4.15 ERA and a WHIP above 1.4 in his last 15 games.
The Rays, however, have Shane McClanahan taking the mound. McClanahan has a reputation for his performance against the Royals, with a 28.6 K% and a low .167 batting average allowed. Beyond the Royals, he’s been consistent, maintaining a 2.12 ERA and 97 strikeouts in 89.1 innings pitched.
Making the Pick
Given the recent performances and statistics of both MLB teams, the prediction leans toward Tampa Bay. The difference between these two teams’ performances this season is glaring. The Rays’ superior record and the Royals’ struggles make it a sensible choice to back the Rays on the run line for -170 odds.
- Pick: Rays on the run line for -170 odds.
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