New York Mets vs. Tampa Bay Rays: Preview, Predictions and Picks for May 3, 2024 6:50 PM

Published on:
May 3, 2024 6:20 AM
The New York Mets, boasting a 16-15 overall record and 7-5 on the road, travel to Tropicana Field to take on the Tampa Bay Rays, who own a 14-18 overall mark and 8-9 at home. As the teams face off on May 3, 2024, at 6:50 PM, they'll do so under clear skies with a pleasant temperature of 84°F and zero chance of precipitation. Expect a thrilling matchup as these two teams clash in this American League-National League showdown.
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New York Mets
Tampa Bay Rays

New York Mets vs Tampa Bay Rays Probable Pitchers

Jose Quintana, the probable starting pitcher for the New York Mets, will look to build on his 1-2 record and 3.48 ERA as he takes the mound against the Tampa Bay Rays. With 23 strikeouts and a 1.34 WHIP, Quintana's ability to limit walks and home runs will be crucial in what promises to be a competitive matchup.

Heading into the matchup against the New York Mets, the probable starting pitcher for the Tampa Bay Rays, Aaron Civale, looks to bounce back from a rough stretch, boasting a 2-2 record and 5.06 ERA through 32 full innings of work. Despite struggling with surrendering home runs, Civale's 34 strikeouts in his limited action provide a glimmer of hope for the Rays' pitching staff.


New York Mets Analysis

As the New York Mets prepare to face the Tampa Bay Rays, their offense will need to overcome some glaring weaknesses to come out on top. With a team batting average of .237, ranking 18th in the league, the Mets' ability to consistently get on base is a concern. Additionally, their 28th ranking in strikeouts with 233 K's suggests they may struggle against the Rays' pitching staff. However, they do boast some bright spots, such as Starling Marte's .274 batting average and Pete Alonso's 8 home runs, which could provide a spark. With Jose Quintana taking the mound, the Mets will need to capitalize on their opportunities to support their starting pitcher, as their 17th-ranked run production and 26th-ranked pitches faced per game suggest they may not be able to outslug their opponents.


Tampa Bay Rays Analysis

As the Tampa Bay Rays prepare to face the New York Mets, their offensive statistics paint a mixed picture. On the one hand, their 256 hits and 108 runs scored suggest a decent ability to get on base and drive in runs, with Amed Rosario's .295 batting average a notable bright spot. However, their 290 strikeouts and 83 walks indicate a potential weakness in their plate discipline, which could be exploited by the Mets' pitching staff. Additionally, the Rays' middling run production (120 runs scored, 26 home runs) may struggle to keep pace with a Mets team that has shown a penchant for scoring in bunches.


New York Mets vs Tampa Bay Rays Injuries

Tampa Bay Rays

  • Evan Reifert (RP): Day-To-Day
  • Isaac Paredes (3B): Day-To-Day
  • Jonathan Aranda (2B): 10-Day-IL
  • Jonny DeLuca (LF): 10-Day-IL
  • Brandon Lowe (2B): 10-Day-IL

New York Mets

  • Francisco Lindor (SS): Day-To-Day
  • Drew Gilbert (CF): Day-To-Day
  • Cristopher Larez (SS): Suspension
  • Jett Williams (SS): Day-To-Day
  • Tylor Megill (SP): 15-Day-IL

New York Mets vs Tampa Bay Rays Betting Odds

The Tampa Bay Rays are currently favored to win, with odds of -135, a slight adjustment from the opening odds of -140, while the Over/Under for the game is set at 8.5. Bettors can expect a competitive matchup with a moderate scoring output anticipated.

You can find real-time odds here powered by the Optimal app.


New York Mets vs Tampa Bay Rays Prediction

I predict the Tampa Bay Rays will take the W in a thrilling 6-5 finish, because let's be real, the Rays' pitching staff is about to make the Mets' bats go quieter than a librarian at a silent disco.


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MLB Player Prop Picks for Mets vs Rays

Jose Quintana (NYM) Under 4.5 Strikeouts Thrown -135
  • Grade: B+
  • Expected Value: +1.0%
  • Odds to Hit: 59.7%
  • Bet Units: 1.3
  • Fair Odds: -148
  • Market Width: 38
Aaron Civale (TB) (TB) Over 5.5 Strikeouts Thrown +125
  • Grade: B+
  • Expected Value: +1.0%
  • Odds to Hit: 46.6%
  • Bet Units: 0.9
  • Fair Odds: +115
  • Market Width: 39

New York Mets vs. Tampa Bay Rays Betting Odds

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