Boston Red Sox at Tampa Bay Rays odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Thursday’s Boston Red Sox at Tampa Bay Rays odds and lines, with MLB expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Boston Red Sox (5-7) wrap up a 4-game road series against the Tampa Bay Rays (12-0) Thursday. First pitch at Tropicana Field is scheduled for 1:10 p.m. ET (MLB Network). Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Red Sox vs. Rays odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: Rays lead 3-0

The Red Sox fell behind 3-0 in the 1st inning Wednesday as OF Randy Azorarena got the home crowd into it early with a 3-run HR off LHP Chris Sale. Tampa Bay built a 6-1 lead through 4 innings before the Boston bats came alive late.

The Rays had 6 extra-base hits Wednesday, including the Azorarena dinger. Tampa Bay now leads the majors with 20 homers and 92 runs scored. It’s no surprise it is tops in run differential at plus-65, but it is shocking that the 2nd-best team in differential is the New York Yankees at just plus-28.

A win Thursday would move Tampa Bay into a tie with the 1982 Atlanta Braves and 1987 Milwaukee Brewers for the most wins to start a season in MLB history.

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Red Sox at Rays projected starters

RHP Corey Kluber vs. LHP Jeffrey Springs

Kluber (0-2, 6.48 ERA) makes his 3rd start. He has a 1.68 WHIP, 5.4 BB/9 and 6.5 K/9 through 8 1/3 IP.

  • Has served up 3 HR in just 8 1/3 IP across 2 starts
  • Allowed 20 HR across 164 IP in 31 starts for the Rays in 2022, including 9 HR in just 87 1/3 IP at Tropicana Field

Springs (2-0, 0.00 ERA) makes his 3rd start. He has a 0.54 WHIP, 2.8 BB/9 and 13.2 K/9 through 13 IP.

  • Has allowed just 3 H with 4 BB across 13 scoreless IP through 2 starts
  • Managed at least 7 K in each of his 2 starts, including a 12 K effort on April 2 against the Detroit Tigers
  • Went 0-2 with a 4.50 ERA, 3 HR, 20 K and a .235 opponent batting average (BA) in 18 IP across 4 starts and 1 relief appearance vs. Boston in 2022

Red Sox at Rays odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 7:31 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Red Sox +185 (bet $100 to win $185) | Rays -225 (bet $225 to win $100)
  • Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Red Sox +1.5 (-105) | Rays -1.5 (-115)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 8 (O: -115 | U: -105)

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Red Sox at Rays picks and predictions

Prediction

Rays 5, Red Sox 1

Moneyline

The Rays (-225) will cost you over 2 times your potential return, and that’s rather risky. Not only is Tampa Bay due for a loss, but it is facing a pitcher who knows the team well after pitching for the Rays in 2022.

PASS.

Run line/Against the spread

Despite Kluber’s familiarity with the team and stadium, the RAYS -1.5 (-115) are the play.

Kluber has had difficulty keeping the ball in the park lately, and that’s dangerous against a Rays team which leads the majors in runs scored, run differential and home runs.

Springs hasn’t allowed anything, and the Red Sox are 8-20 in the past 28 on the road, and 0-4 in the past 4 against winning teams. It’s looking like Tampa Bay gets to a baker’s dozen in wins and ties the MLB record.

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Over/Under

UNDER 8 (-105) is worth playing lightly, but go with a half-unit play at most.

Kluber has had issues keeping the ball down, and the Rays have been super powerful to date. However, Springs hasn’t allowed much, and the Under is 6-2 in the past 8 on the road for the BoSox against southpaws.

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Boston Red Sox at Tampa Bay Rays odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Wednesday’s Boston Red Sox at Tampa Bay Rays odds and lines, with MLB expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Tampa Bay Rays (11-0) look to extend their winning streak to 12 games when they host the Boston Red Sox (5-6) at Tropicana Field Wednesday. First pitch is at 6:40 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Red Sox vs. Rays odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: Rays lead 2-0

The Red Sox have dropped the first 2 games of this 4-game series, sinking their record below .500 after sweeping the Detroit Tigers in a 3-game series over the weekend. They put up 24 total runs against the Tigers but have plated just 2 runs against Tampa Bay. Boston still ranks 7th in total runs scored (61) but the pitching staff has struggled and is one of 3 times with zero quality starts.

The Rays are tied for the 3rd-longest winning streak to start the season in the history of MLB, going a perfect 11-0 to tie the 1981 Oakland Athletics and trailing the 1982 Atlanta Braves and 1987 Milwaukee Brewers with 13 wins. Tampa Bay leads the AL East by 4 games, has scored the most runs (83) in baseball, owns the lowest ERA (1.73) and are tied with the Los Angeles Dodgers for the most quality starts (7).

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Red Sox at Rays projected starters

LHP Chris Sale vs. RHP Taj Bradley

Sale (1-0, 11.25 ERA) makes his 3rd start. He has a 2.00 WHIP, 5.6 BB/9 and 14.6 K/9 through 8 IP.

  • The Red Sox won both of Sale’s starts this season despite him allowing 3 ER in 5 IP last time out and 7 ER in just 3 IP in his season debut
  • Is 10-6 with a 2.82 ERA in 21 starts and 2 relief appearances in his career vs. the Rays

Bradley (0-0, 0.00 ERA) makes his 1st career start.

  • Is 1-0 with a 5.14 ERA over 2 starts at AAA-Durham to start the season
  • Struck out 8 batters in 7 innings at Triple-A this season.

Red Sox at Rays odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 10:34 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Red Sox +105 (bet $100 to win $105) | Rays -125 (bet $125 to win $100)
  • Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Red Sox +1.5 (-190) | Rays -1.5 (+155)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 8.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

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Red Sox at Rays picks and predictions

Prediction

Rays 6, Red Sox 3

Moneyline

The Rays haven’t just been winning, they’ve been blowing opponents out. Boston’s pitching staff has struggled out of the gates and now the lineup is without OF Adam Duvall, who suffered an injured wrist Sunday and has been placed on the 10-day IL.

The Rays are still at home where they’re 8-0 so far this season and I expect their winning streak to extend to 12 games. BET RAYS (-125).

Run line/Against the spread

Ten of the Rays’ 11 wins have been by at least 4 runs. The only game they won by fewer than 4 runs was a 1-0 victory in the series opener Monday.

The lineup is simply too good right now and even with a rookie making his MLB debut, I expect them to cover the run line against Boston with a strong bullpen behind Bradley. BET RAYS -1.5 (+155).

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Over/Under

The Over is 7-3-1 for the Rays and is 7-4 for the Red Sox. Boston could get to Bradley early and plate a few runs against him before he gets pulled and I don’t see the Rays’ lineup having much trouble given Sale’s struggles.

BET OVER 8.5 (-110).

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Boston Red Sox at Tampa Bay Rays odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Tuesday’s Boston Red Sox at Tampa Bay Rays odds and lines, with MLB expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Boston Red Sox (5-5) play the 2nd outing in a 4-game road series against the Tampa Bay Rays (10-0) Tuesday. First pitch at Tropicana Field is scheduled for 6:40 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Red Sox vs. Rays odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: Rays lead 1-0. Rays won the season series 12-7 in 2022.

The Red Sox wasted a great outing by RHP Nick Pivetta on Monday, as he twirled 5 scoreless IP in the series opener. The game was scoreless until the bottom of the 8th when Rays 2B Brandon Lowe swatted what turned out to be the eventual game-winning solo HR off of relief RHP Chris Martin.

The Rays’ win on Monday further extended their franchise-record win streak to open the season to 10-0. Tampa Bay is the first team since the Milwaukee Brewers in 1987 to open the season with 10 or more consecutive wins.

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Red Sox at Rays projected starters

RHP Garrett Whitlock vs. LHP Shane McClanahan

Whitlock makes his first start. He was 12-6 with a 2.73 ERA across 9 starts with 68 relief appearances in 2022.

  • Started the season on the injured list due to a hip ailment.
  • Last season on the road: 1-2, 3.77 ERA (31 IP, 13 ER), 1.07 WHIP, 38 K, .209 opponent batting average (OBA) in 4 starts and 8 relief appearances
  • Was 0-0 with 1 save in 1 start and 1 relief appearance, allowing just 1 H and 0 BB with 8 K across 5 IP vs. Tampa Bay in 2022

McClanahan (2-0, 1.50 ERA) makes his 3rd start. He has a 1.17 WHIP, 3.8 BB/9 and 9.0 K/9 through 12 IP.

  • Conceded just 2 ER on 5 H and 4 BB with 6 K across 7 IP in a win at the Washington Nationals Wednesday
  • Allowed just 4 H and 1 BB with 6 K across 6 scoreless IP in a win against the Detroit Tigers on March 30 in his only home start this year

Red Sox at Rays odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 6:05 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Red Sox +155 (bet $100 to win $155) | Rays -190 (bet $190 to win $100)
  • Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Red Sox +1.5 (-135) | Rays -1.5 (+110)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 7 (O: -125 | U: +105)

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Red Sox at Rays picks and predictions

Prediction

Rays 6, Red Sox 3

Moneyline

The Rays (-190) will cost you nearly 2 times your potential return, and even for a red-hot team playing at home that’s way too expensive.

There is just no value in playing heavy favorites like this, even if you were to toss it into a multi-team parlay.

PASS.

Run line/Against the spread

The RAYS -1.5 (+110) are a much better play at plus money on the run line.

The southpaw McClanahan hasn’t allowed much so far, and he was money at home in his first outing of the season on March 30.

Whitlock is returning from a hip ailment, and it’s uncertain how deep he’ll be able to go into the game. Advantage Tampa Bay, as it has the better starting pitcher.

The Red Sox are also just 6-20 in the past 26 trips to St. Petersburg while going 5-11 in the past 16 meetings overall in the series.

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Over/Under

OVER 7 (-125) is worth playing as a bet against Whitlock being effective.

The Over is 8-3 in the past 11 games on the road for the Red Sox despite the low-scoring affair Monday and is 4-1 in their last 5 against AL East teams.

The Over is also 5-1-1 in the past 7 games overall for the Rays while cashing at a 4-1 clip in their last 5 games at home and 4-1-1 in their last 6 vs. RHP.

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Boston Red Sox at Tampa Bay Rays odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Friday’s Seattle Mariners at Cleveland Guardians odds and lines, with expert MLB picks, predictions and best bets.

The Boston Red Sox (5-4) open a 4-game road series against the Tampa Bay Rays (9-0) Monday. First pitch at Tropicana Field is scheduled for 6:40 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Red Sox vs. Rays odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

Season series: First meeting of 2023. Rays won the season series 12-7 in 2022.

The Red Sox posted their first series sweep of 2023 by taking all 3 games at Comerica Field against the Detroit Tigers over the weekend. Boston outscored Detroit 24-9 in the 3-game sweep, bouncing back after being swept at home by the Pittsburgh Pirates in a 3-game series last Monday-Wednesday.

The Rays rolled past the Oakland Athletics 11-0 on Sunday, allowing just a single hit in the series finale. Tampa Bay also won 11-0 Saturday and has outscored its opponents 75-18 while becoming the first team since the 2003 Kansas City Royals to start the season 9-0.

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Red Sox at Rays projected starters

RHP Nick Pivetta vs. LHP Jalen Beeks

Pivetta (0-1, 1.80 ERA) makes his 2nd start. He allowed 3 R (1 ER) on 3 H and 3 BB with 6 K across 5 IP in a loss against the Pittsburgh Pirates Tuesday.

  • Last season on the road: 5-6, 4.32 ERA (89 2/3 IP, 43 ER), 1.26 WHIP, 88 K, .230 opponent batting average (OBA) in 16 starts
  • Last season in night games: 6-7, 4.51 ERA (117 2/3 IP, 59 ER), 1.32 WHIP, 106 K, .245 OBA in 21 with a CG

Beeks (0-0, 3.00 ERA) will serve as the opener for the first time this season, with LHP Josh Fleming expected to work a bulk of the innings after.

  • Beeks has made 2 relief appearances, allowing 1 ER on 3 H and 1 BB with 2 K across 3 IP
  • Fleming has allowed 5 ER on 10 H and 1 BB with 2 K across 3 IP in a no-decision on the road against the Washington Nationals Tuesday in his season debut

Red Sox at Rays odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 7:54 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Red Sox +135 (bet $100 to win $135) | Rays -160 (bet $160 to win $100)
  • Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Red Sox +1.5 (-145) | Rays -1.5 (+120)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 8.5 (O: -115 | U: -105)

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Red Sox at Rays picks and predictions

Prediction

Red Sox 6, Rays 5

Moneyline

The RED SOX (+135) are worth a roll of the dice against the red-hot Rays.

Tampa Bay has been blistering out of the gate, but a combination of Beeks and Fleming is going to be good news for the visitors. Fleming especially struggled in his first appearance, and Boston should be able to get the bats going against the southpaw when he enters the game. The Red Sox are 5-0 in their last 5 games against left-handed starting pitchers.

Run line/Against the spread

The RED SOX +1.5 (-145) are pretty cheap if you want a little insurance and just can’t bring yourself to bet the moneyline against the unbeaten Rays.

Boston is 5-1 in the past 6 games inside the division and should make this a difficult battle for the Rays, as they finally take their first L of the season.

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Over/Under

OVER 8.5 (-115) is the best play in this AL East series opener.

The Red Sox have cashed the Over in 6 of 9 games overall this season while going 5-1 in the past 6 games on the road dating to last season. The Over is also 6-1 in Boston’s past 7 series openers dating to 2022.

The Rays have hit the Over at a 5-0-1 clip in the past 6 games overall, while going 4-0-1 in the past 5 vs. RHP and 4-1 in the past 5 contests at home.

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Boston Red Sox at Tampa Bay Rays odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Wednesday’s Boston Red Sox at Tampa Bay Rays odds and lines, with MLB expert picks and predictions.

The Tampa Bay Rays (76-58) will try to sweep the Boston Red Sox (67-70) in Wednesday’s final game of a 3-game series. First pitch will be at 6:40 p.m. ET from Tropicana Field. Let’s analyze Tipico Sportsbook‘s lines around the Red Sox vs. Rays odds with MLB picks and predictions.

Season series: Rays lead 11-4 and have won 9 of the last 11 games against Boston, including the last 3

After winning 5 straight, the Red Sox have lost their last 2 games to the Rays. They’re now 9 games back of a wild-card berth, needing to make up a lot of ground in the season’s final month. It’s been the pitching staff that has weighed this team down, owning a 4.54 ERA, which is 25th in the majors.

The Rays have stayed hot this week and have now won 7 of their last 8 games. Tampa Bay hasn’t allowed more than 4 runs in a game since Aug. 27, a streak of 8 straight games.

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Red Sox at Rays projected starters

RHP Nick Pivetta vs. LHP Jeffrey Springs

Pivetta (9-10, 4.37 ERA) makes his 28th start. He has a 1.33 WHIP, 3.4 BB/9 and 8.7 K/9 in 150 1/3 IP.

  • Left Friday’s start vs. the Texas Rangers after only 3 IP due to a leg injury suffered by a line drive
  • Has allowed 3 or fewer runs in 5 of his last 6 starts, but the Red Sox are only 1-5 in those games

Springs (7-4, 2.62 ERA) makes his 20th start. He has a 1.12 WHIP, 2.2 BB/9 and 9.9 K/9 in 106 2/3 IP.

  • Shut out the New York Yankees in 5 2/3 IP in Friday start, earning the win in a 9-0 victory with 4 H, 3 BB and 7 K
  • Rays are 4-2 in his last 6 starts, a stretch in which he’s allowed 2 or fewer runs 5 times

Red Sox at Rays odds

Provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 10:10 a.m. ET.

  • Money line (ML): Red Sox +140 (bet $100 to win $140) | Rays -175 (bet $175 to win $100)
  • Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Red Sox +1.5 (-160) | Rays -1.5 (+130)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 7.5 (O: +110 | U: -135)

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Red Sox at Rays picks and predictions

Prediction

Rays 6, Red Sox 4

Money line

The Rays have owned the Red Sox this season, going 11-4 in 15 meetings. They’ve won 8 straight at home against Boston, with their only home loss to the Red Sox this season coming in their 1st meeting in April.

As much as I like the Rays to complete the sweep and win Wednesday, I don’t love the line of -175. PASS on the ML.

Run line/Against the spread

The Rays covered the spread easily on Tuesday, beating Boston 8-4. They failed to cover on Monday night, but they’re 2-1 ATS in their last 3 games against the Red Sox.

Bet the RAYS -1.5 (+130) to cover the spread and win by a couple of runs.

Over/Under

The total went Under in Game 1 of the series, a 4-3 win by Tampa Bay. Tuesday it easily went Over with 12 total runs scored. Pivetta and Springs have both pitched well lately, but Pivetta can have control issues and the Red Sox rank 6th in MLB in batting average against lefties.

Bet the OVER 7.5 (+110) again Wednesday.

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Boston Red Sox at Tampa Bay Rays odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Tuesday’s Boston Red Sox at Tampa Bay Buccaneers odds and lines, with MLB expert picks and predictions.

The Tampa Bay Rays (75-58) host the Boston Red Sox (67-69) Tuesday for the second game of the 3-game set. First pitch from Tropicana Field will be at 6:40 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze Tipico Sportsbook‘s lines around the Red Sox vs. Rays odds with MLB picks and predictions.

Season series: Rays lead 10-4. Tampa has won the last 2 meetings and 8 of the last 10.

The Red Sox came into this series against the Rays red hot as winners of 5 games in a row before losing 4-3 in the series opener Monday. They’re not completely out of the AL wild-card race, but it’s still a steep hill to climb given the current state of the team.

The Rays took 2 of 3 contests from the New York Yankees in their last series and have won 12 of their last 15 games to pull within 5 games of New York in the AL East. They’ve been getting it done with their pitching staff, only allowing 13 total runs in the last 7 games.

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Red Sox at Rays projected starters

LHP Rich Hill vs. RHP Drew Rasmussen

Hill (6-5, 4.52 ERA) makes his 21st start. He has a 1.29 WHIP, 2.8 BB/9 and 7.3 K/9 through 93 2/3 IP.

  • Was dominant against the Rays in his 2nd-most recent start as the tossed 7-scoreless innings with 11 strikeouts
  • Struggled in his last outing with 4 earned runs and 4 walks over 4 innings Thursday against the Texas Rangers
  • The Red Sox have won each of his last 3 starts, scoring a total of 22 runs along that span

Rasmussen (9-4, 2.70 ERA) makes his 24th start. He has a 1.05 WHIP, 2.1 BB/9 and 7.9 K/9 through 116 2/3 IP.

  • The Rays are 5-0 in his last 5 starts, a stretch in which he’s allowed just 5 earned runs
  • Hasn’t allowed more than 3 runs in a start since June 10
  • Allowed 3 runs over 6 innings in a 5-4 Rays win July 14 in his only start against the Red Sox this year

Red Sox at Rays odds and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 9:30 a.m. ET.

  • Money line (ML): Red Sox +133 (bet $100 to win $133) | Rays -165 (bet $165 to win $100)
  • Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Red Sox +1.5 (-165) | Rays -1.5 (+133)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 7.5 (O: +110 | U: -135)

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Red Sox at Rays picks and predictions

Prediction

Rays 5, Red Sox 3

Money line

The Rays have owned the Red Sox this season, particularly in recent meetings; they’ve won 8 of their last 10 against Boston. Though both teams are playing well right now, the Rays have a huge edge not only being at home but also with Rasmussen on the mound.

Rasmussen should be able to limit the damage in 5 or 6 innings, which puts pressure on the bullpen to step up. I think the Rays will win outright, but I’d rather bet on the spread rather than the money line.

PASS.

Run line/Against the spread

Six of the Rays’ 10 wins against the Red Sox this season have been by at least 2 runs. Although their ATS record is only 64-69 this season compared to Boston’s 70-65-1 mark, the Rays should win this one by at least a couple of runs.

Hill’s 7 scoreless innings against Tampa Bay a few weeks ago was an outlier compared to his season-long performance, and the Rays should adjust and have more success tonight.

BET the RAYS -1.5 (+133).

Over/Under

The total has gone Under in each of the Rays’ last 3 games, and the same goes for the Red Sox. However, the total has gone Over in 3 of the last 5 games between the teams.

While I expect Rasmussen to continue his strong season, I don’t have the same confidence in Hill on the mound. I like the OVER 7.5 (+110).

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Gannett may earn revenue from Tipico for audience referrals to betting services. Tipico has no influence over nor are any such revenues in any way dependent on or linked to the newsrooms or news coverage. See Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. 21+ only. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ), 1-800-522-4700 (CO).

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Boston Red Sox at Tampa Bay Rays odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Monday’s Boston Red Sox at Tampa Bay Rays odds and lines, with MLB expert picks and predictions.

The Boston Red Sox (67-68) and Tampa Bay Rays (74-58) open a 3-game set Monday at Tropicana Field. First pitch is scheduled for 4:10 p.m. ET (MLB Network). Let’s analyze Tipico Sportsbook‘s lines around the Red Sox vs. Rays odds with MLB picks and predictions.

Season series: Rays lead 9-4

The Red Sox swept the Rangers in a 4-game series with a 5-2 win Sunday. Boston 2B Trevor Story hit a go-ahead 3-run HR to give Boston a 4-2 lead in the bottom of the 1st inning, and the pitching held on.

The Rays lost 2-1 to the Yankees Sunday after winning their previous 5 games with a plus-24 run differential.

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Red Sox at Rays projected starters

RHP Michael Wacha vs. RHP Luis Patiño

Wacha (10-1, 2.56 ERA) makes his 18th start. He has a 1.02 WHIP, 2.5 BB/9 and 7.2 K/9 through 95 IP.

  • Last start: recorded a win Wednesday at the Minnesota Twins with 2 ER on 4 H and 1 BB with 7 K across 6 IP
  • Is 2-0 with a 4.91 ERA over 2 starts vs. Tampa Bay this season

Patiño (1-1, 3.95 ERA) makes his 5th start. He has a 1.61 WHIP, 4.0 BB/9 and 4.6 K/9 through 13 2/3 IP.

  • Is 1-1 with a 2.79 ERA through 9 2/3 IP across 3 home starts
  • First appearance vs. the Red Sox this season

Red Sox at Rays odds and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 8 a.m. ET.

  • Money line (ML): Red Sox -105 (bet $105 to win $100) | Rays -115 (bet $115 to win $100)
  • Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Red Sox -1.5 (+155) | Rays +1.5 (-205)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 7.5 (O: -105 | U: -120)

Exclusive USA TODAY Network offer: Deposit $10 or more, get $200 in instant bet credits at Tipico Sportsbook! New customer offer in CO and NJ. 21+, see Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. Place your legal, online sports bets at Tipico. Let’s make this interesting. Bet now!

Red Sox at Rays picks and predictions

Prediction

Red Sox 5, Rays 4

Money line

Baseball is a streaky sport and the Red Sox have looked like the best team in the AL East for the last week. The short line for Tampa Bay reflects that Wacha should be able to continue to impose Boston’s winning ways over the Rays and Patiño.

BET BOSTON (-105).

Run line/Against the spread

I would PASS on taking this game on the RL. Boston should win, but the +155 line for it to win by 2 or more runs is not profitable in the long run. Tampa Bay has only lost 1 of its last 10 games by more than 1 run.

Over/Under

Boston’s offense has been elite lately and since it is facing a younger pitcher in Patiño, BETTING THE OVER 7.5 (-105) is the right side in this game. The Red Sox are averaging the 3rd-most runs in the majors (6.33) over their last 3 games.

Bet legally online with a trusted partner: Tipico Sportsbook, Sportsbook Wire’s official sportsbook partner in CO and NJ. Bet now!

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW, or try out our USA TODAY Parlay Calculator. Please gamble responsibly.

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Gannett may earn revenue from Tipico for audience referrals to betting services. Tipico has no influence over nor are any such revenues in any way dependent on or linked to the newsrooms or news coverage. See Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. 21+ only. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ), 1-800-522-4700 (CO).

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Boston Red Sox at Tampa Bay Rays odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Wednesday’s Boston Red Sox at Tampa Bay Rays odds and lines, with MLB expert picks and predictions.

The Boston Red Sox (47-41) and Tampa Bay Rays (47-40) play the third contest in a 4-game set at Tropicana Field Wednesday. First pitch is scheduled for 7:10 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze Tipico Sportsbook‘s lines around the Red Sox vs. Rays odds with MLB picks and predictions.

Season series: Rays lead series 6-2

The Red Sox have hit the skids. Boston lost the first 2 games of this series and is 2-6 across its last 8 contests.

The Rays have bounced back nicely after a stunning 3-game sweep at the Cincinnati Reds over the weekend. Tampa has outscored Boston 13-7 in the first 2 games of this AL East rivalry series.

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Red Sox at Rays projected starters

RHP Josh Winckowski vs. LHP Shane McClanahan

Winckowski (3-3, 4.35 ERA) makes his 7th start. He has a 1.52 WHIP, 3.5 BB/9 and 6.1 K/9 through 31 IP.

  • Is 1-1 with a 2.38 ERA and .286 opponent batting average with 10 K across 11 1/3 IP across 2 road starts.
  • Will be making his first career start against the Tampa Bay Rays.

McClanahan (9-3, 1.73 ERA) makes his 18th start. He has a 0.82 WHIP, 1.6 BB/9 and 12.2 K/9 through 104 1/3 IP.

  • Has pitched 6 or more innings in 11 consecutive starts dating back to May 5.
  • Is 7-2 with a 1.88 ERA with a .193 opponent batting average and 91 K across 67 IP in 11 home outings.

Red Sox at Rays odds and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 5:26 a.m. ET.

  • Money line (ML): Red Sox +145 (bet $100 to win $145) | Rays -180 (bet $180 to win $100)
  • Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Red Sox +1.5 (-150) | Rays -1.5 (+122)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 6.5 (O: -145 | U: +115)

Exclusive USA TODAY Network offer: Deposit $10 or more, get $200 in instant bet credits at Tipico Sportsbook! New customer offer in CO and NJ. 21+, see Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. Place your legal, online sports bets at Tipico. Let’s make this interesting. Bet now!

Red Sox at Rays picks and predictions

Prediction

Rays 4, Red Sox 2

Money line

The Rays (-180) are a little on the expensive side despite the fact they have one of their best pitchers on the bump. In addition, Tampa Bay has taken the first two games from the Red Sox, who are now trying to stop a losing skid with a rookie pitcher.

Still, AVOID, as this is too much juice.

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Run line/Against the spread

The RAYS -1.5 (+122) are a much better value on the run line. Tampa covered the run line in the series opener, doubling up Boston 10-5. The Rays did not cover the run line Tuesday in a 1-run win.

The Rays have won by 2 or more runs in 7 of their previous 8 victories, so if you like Tampa to win, you should like it on the run line.

Over/Under

The UNDER 6.5 (+115) is worth a shot Wednesday.

The Over has hit in 5 of the last 6 outings for Boston, but the Under hit Tuesday. The Under is also 11-4-1 in the past 16 for the Red Sox on the road against a left-handed starting pitcher.

The Under is now 6-2-1 in the past 9 meetings between these teams in St. Petersburg.

Bet legally online with a trusted partner: Tipico Sportsbook, Sportsbook Wire’s official sportsbook partner in CO, NJ and soon IA. Bet now!

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW, or try out our USA TODAY Parlay Calculator. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow Kevin J. Erickson on Twitter. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

Additional MLB coverage:
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Gannett may earn revenue from Tipico for audience referrals to betting services. Tipico has no influence over nor are any such revenues in any way dependent on or linked to the newsrooms or news coverage. See Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. 21+ only. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ), 1-800-522-4700 (CO), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA).

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Boston Red Sox at Tampa Bay Rays odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Monday’s Boston Red Sox at Tampa Bay Rays odds and lines, with MLB expert picks and predictions.

The Boston Red Sox (47-39) and the Tampa Bay Rays (45-40) open a 4-game set Monday at Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, Fla. First pitch is scheduled for 7:10 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze Tipico Sportsbook‘s lines around the Red Sox vs. Rays odds with MLB picks and predictions.

Season series: Rays lead series 4-2

The Red Sox gained a split in a 4-game set against the New York Yankees at Fenway Park over the weekend after they picked up a rousing 11-6 victory in Sunday’s finale despite trailing 6-2 in the top of the 3rd inning.

The Rays are licking their wounds after a shocking 3-game sweep at the hands of the lowly Cincinnati Reds in interleague play over the weekend. Tampa Bay was outscored 17-10 over the series.

Red Sox vs. Rays projected starters

RHP Brayan Bello vs. RHP Matt Wisler

Bello (0-1, 9.00 ERA) makes his 2nd start of the season.

  • Made his major league debut against the Rays at Fenway Park Wednesday with 4 ER, 6 H and 3 BB and 2 K across 4 IP in a loss.
  • Was 10-4 with a 2.33 ERA and 1.04 WHIP with 114 K across just 85 IP over 15 starts and 1 relief appearance between Double-A Portland and Triple-A Worcester.

Wisler (2-3, 2.58 ERA) makes his 5th start and 36th appearance of the season. He has a 1.10 WHIP, 3.3 BB/9 and 7.3 K/9 through 38 1/3 IP.

  • Is 2-1 with a 2.75 ERA and a .227 opponent batting average with 18 K across 19 2/3 IP in 1 start and 16 relief appearances at home.
  • Has posted a 1-0 record with a 4.50 ERA in 2 IP in 2 relief appearances vs. Boston this season.

Red Sox vs. Rays odds and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 9:02 a.m. ET.

  • Money line (ML): Red Sox -120 (bet $120 to win $100) | Rays +100 (bet $100 to win $100)
  • Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Red Sox -1.5 (+145) | Rays +1.5 (-180)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 7.5 (O: -120 | U: -105)

Exclusive USA TODAY Network offer: Deposit $10 or more, get $200 in instant bet credits at Tipico Sportsbook! New customer offer in CO and NJ. 21+, see Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. Place your legal, online sports bets at Tipico. Let’s make this interesting. Bet now!

Red Sox vs. Rays picks and predictions

Prediction

Red Sox 7, Rays 5

Money line

The RED SOX (-120) are looking to build upon the momentum of Sunday’s comeback victory against the Yankees. In addition, Boston looks to kick Tampa Bay while it is down after an embarrassing 3-game sweep in Cincinnati and to get Bello his first-career victory.

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Run line/Against the spread

The RED SOX -1.5 (+145) are worth a look on the run line, although play it lightly as Boston is using a rookie pitcher making just his second-ever start. Bello was knocked around at home against the Rays in his first outing, so tread lightly.

Over/Under

The OVER 7.5 (-120) is the best play on the board here. Bello is unproven, and Wisler will basically serve as the opener before turning it over to the bullpen sooner rather than later.

The Over has hit in 4 straight games for the BoSox, including 4 in a row inside the division.

The Over is 5-1-1 in the Rays’ last 7 home games, and 9-3 in their last 12 against teams with a winning record.

Bet legally online with a trusted partner: Tipico Sportsbook, Sportsbook Wire’s official sportsbook partner in CO, NJ and soon IA. Bet now!

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW, or try out our USA TODAY Parlay Calculator. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow Kevin J. Erickson on Twitter. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

Additional MLB coverage:
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Gannett may earn revenue from Tipico for audience referrals to betting services. Tipico has no influence over nor are any such revenues in any way dependent on or linked to the newsrooms or news coverage. See Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. 21+ only. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ), 1-800-522-4700 (CO), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA).

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Boston Red Sox at Tampa Bay Rays odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Sunday’s Boston Red Sox at Tampa Bay Rays odds and lines, with MLB expert picks and predictions.

The Boston Red Sox (7-8) wrap up their 3-game set with the Tampa Bay Rays (8-7) Sunday at Tropicana Field with the first pitch scheduled for 1:10 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze Tipico Sportsbook‘s lines around the Red Sox vs. Rays odds with MLB picks and predictions.

Season series is tied 1-1. Boston took the series opener Friday 4-3 then Tampa evened the series Saturday with a 3-2 victory when Rays CF Kevin Kiermaier hit a 2-run walk-off home run in the bottom of the 10th.

Red Sox at Rays projected starters

LHP Rich Hill vs. LHP Shane McClanahan

Hill (0-1, 7.29 ERA) lost his last outing 8-3 versus the Minnesota Twins Monday. He went 4 2/3 IP, allowing 4 ER on 6 H, 2 HR, 2 BB and 2 K.

  • vs. Rays on current roster: 2.60 FIP with a .211 batting average (BA), .257 wOBA, .301 expected slugging percentage (xSLG), 34.1 K% and 83.8 mph exit velocity (EV) in 41 plate appearances (PA).

McClanahan (0-1, 2.40 ERA) got a no-decision in Tampa’s 4-2 win at the Chicago Cubs Monday. He went 6 IP, surrendering 1 ER on 4 H and 0 BB with 9 K.

  • 2021 vs. Red Sox: 1-1 with a 2.81 ERA (16 IP, 5 ER), 15 H, 5 BB and 15 K in 3 starts.
  • vs. Red Sox on current roster: 3.13 FIP with a .311 BA, .322 wOBA, .586 xSLG, 20.0 K% and 94.5 mph EV in 65 PA.

Red Sox at Rays odds and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 1:36 a.m. ET.

  • Money line (ML): Red Sox +145 (bet $100 to win $145) | Rays -180 (bet $180 to win $100)
  • Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS): Red Sox +1.5 (-150) | Rays -1.5 (+122)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 7.5 (O: -115 | U: -107)

Exclusive USA TODAY Network offer: Deposit $10 or more, get $200 in instant bet credits at Tipico Sportsbook! New customer offer in CO and NJ. 21+, see Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. Place your legal, online sports bets at Tipico. Let’s make this interesting. Bet now!

Red Sox at Rays picks and predictions

Prediction

Rays 6, Red Sox 1

Money line

LEAN RAYS (-180) since the implied win probability on that line is 64.3% and Tampa should win this game at least 70% of the time. But, I’m confident enough in the Rays to take their RL instead for a better payout.

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Run line/Against the spread

BET the RAYS -1.5 (+122) for 1 unit because they have edges in the three most important phases of baseball: Starting and relief pitching and hitting.

McClanahan has elite stuff and would be a top-2 starter in most rotations in  MLB while the 18-year veteran Hill is definitely a back-of-the-rotation guy.

The Rays are missing a bunch of talented arms yet their bullpen still has a better xFIP, hard-hit rate, WHIP and K/BB rate than Boston’s bullpen.

Tampa’s lineup is fifth in wRC+ and seventh in wOBA versus left-handed pitching while Boston’s lineup ranks 18th and 15th in those respective categories.

BET RAYS -1.5 (+122).

Over/Under

LEAN UNDER 7.5 (-107) because Tropicana Field is one of the most pitcher-friendly parks in baseball, McClanahan is an All-Star-caliber pitcher and the Red Sox-Rays series has played a lot more to the Under in recent meetings.

Bet legally online with a trusted partner: Tipico Sportsbook, Sportsbook Wire’s official sportsbook partner in CO, NJ and soon IA. Bet now!

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow Geoff Clark on Twitter. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

Gannett may earn revenue from Tipico for audience referrals to betting services. Tipico has no influence over nor are any such revenues in any way dependent on or linked to the newsrooms or news coverage. See Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. 21+ only. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ), 1-800-522-4700 (CO), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA).

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