Tampa Bay Rays vs. Milwaukee Brewers: Preview, Predictions and Picks for May 1, 2024 1:10 PM

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May 1, 2024 7:31 AM

The Tampa Bay Rays, boasting a 14-17 overall record and 6-8 road record, head to American Family Field to take on the Milwaukee Brewers, who sit at 18-11 overall and 6-7 at home. The series is tied 1-1, with the decisive game three set for May 1, 2024, at 1:10 PM. With a pleasant temperature of 61 degrees and zero precipitation in the forecast, the stage is set for an exciting matchup.

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Tampa Bay Rays vs Milwaukee Brewers Probable Pitchers

For the upcoming matchup against the Milwaukee Brewers, the Tampa Bay Rays are likely to send Zach Eflin to the mound, a right-hander who boasts a respectable 4.08 ERA and 1.19 WHIP. Despite his modest 1-3 record, Eflin's ability to punch out 30 batters in 35.1 innings pitched suggests he can neutralize the Brewers' potent offense.

Colin Rea, the probable starting pitcher for the Milwaukee Brewers, will look to build on his solid 2-0 record and 3.25 ERA as he takes the mound against the Tampa Bay Rays. With 18 strikeouts and a 1.27 WHIP, Rea will aim to limit the Rays' potent offense and guide the Brewers to a series-opening win.

Tampa Bay Rays Analysis

As the Tampa Bay Rays gear up to face the Milwaukee Brewers, they'll look to capitalize on their strengths to secure a win. With Zach Eflin taking the mound, the Rays will rely on their speed and aggressive base running, having swiped 31 bases this season, tied for 5th in the league. Offensively, the Rays boast a respectable batting average of .241, with Amed Rosario leading the charge with a .307 average. However, they'll need to improve their run production, currently sitting 20th in the league with 119 runs scored. If the Rays can get their bats going and take advantage of scoring opportunities, they'll be well-positioned to take down the Brewers. Isaac Paredes, with 7 home runs and 17 RBIs, will be a key player to watch in this matchup.

Milwaukee Brewers Analysis

As the Tampa Bay Rays prepare to face off against the Milwaukee Brewers, they'll need to be aware of the Brewers' potent offense, led by William Contreras' impressive .345 batting average and Rhys Hoskins' six home runs. The Brewers' ability to score runs, ranked 6th in the league, will put pressure on the Rays' pitching staff. Additionally, the Brewers' speed on the basepaths, with 40 stolen bases, good for 3rd in the league, could pose a challenge for the Rays' defense. However, the Rays may find opportunities to capitalize on the Brewers' 12th-ranked strikeout total, potentially exploiting their 265 strikeouts. With Colin Rea taking the mound for the Brewers, the Rays will need to be prepared to face a formidable opponent in this matchup.

Tampa Bay Rays vs Milwaukee Brewers Injuries

Milwaukee Brewers

Gary Sanchez (C): Day-To-Day
Chris Roller (RF): Day-To-Day
Brian Navarreto (C): Day-To-Day
Logan Blake Henderson (SP): Day-To-Day
Christian Arroyo (2B): Day-To-Day

Tampa Bay Rays

Jonathan Aranda (2B): 10-Day-IL
Jonny DeLuca (LF): 10-Day-IL
Brandon Lowe (2B): 10-Day-IL
Josh Lowe (RF): 10-Day-IL
Colin Poche (RP): 15-Day-IL

Tampa Bay Rays vs Milwaukee Brewers Betting Odds

The Tampa Bay Rays are currently favored to win, with odds of -125, while the Milwaukee Brewers are underdogs with opening odds of +105. The over/under for the game is set at 7.5 runs.

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

Tampa Bay Rays vs Milwaukee Brewers Prediction

I'm predicting a thrilling 5-4 Rays victory, mostly because I don't want to jinx it by predicting a Brewers win, but honestly, it's gonna be a close one!