In the first of a three-game series between the Baltimore Orioles (3-0) and the Tampa Bay Rays (2-2) at Camden Yards, Chris Tillman (0-0, 0.00 ERA) and Chris Archer (0-1, 3.60 ERA) get the start. The game begins at 7:05 p.m. ET on Friday, Apr. 8 and will air on MASN and SUN.
Tillman pitched 2.0 innings in his last start, allowing zero runs and striking out five in a 3-2 win over the Twins. Manny Machado (.308 ) continued his strong start to the season yesterday, going 2 for 4 with one run, one home run, and one RBI. The Rays were unsuccessful against the Blue Jays 5-3 the last time Archer pitched. He went 5.0 innings, surrendering three runs (one unearned), striking out 12 and walking three. Steven Souza Jr. (.400 ) has been doing well to start the season for the Rays, going 4 for 4 Wednesday with two runs, two home runs, and four RBIs.
The odds for Baltimore and Tampa Bay are even, while the Over/Under (O/U) is currently unavailable. Opposing batters know they’re in for a battle when they play Baltimore. The Orioles are one of the top teams when it comes to pitching, allowing just 0.0 runs per game. The Orioles are the fifth-best team in the league at limiting hits and walks to their opponents, recording a WHIP of 1.000 so far this season.
The Rays can change the game with one swing of the bat, ranking fifth in the league with six home runs. The Rays have racked up two steals on the year, making them one of the most threatening base-running teams in the league. The Tampa Bay pitching staff has been an intimidating group on the road this year, averaging 0.0 strikeouts per game.
Predictions: SU Winner – BAL
Notes
After a weak showing last week where they got in eight hits, the Orioles need to step it up. The Rays have a record of 1-2 when opponents get eight hits or less.
When they outhit their opponents, the Rays are 1-1. The Orioles have a 2-0 record when outhitting opponents.
Ranking 17th in runs, Baltimore has earned 11 this season. Tampa Bay ranks 15th with 14 runs.
Ranking 24th, Tampa Bay is near the bottom of the league in walks, notching six this season. Baltimore ranks in the top 10 at eighth with 11.
The Orioles are 2-0 in games where they hit one or more home runs. The Rays are 2-2 when they hit at least one homer.
