Toronto Blue Jays vs. Tampa Bay Rays: Preview, Predictions and Picks for September 20, 2024

Published on:
Sep 20, 2024 6:11 AM
The Tampa Bay Rays are set to host the Toronto Blue Jays in the opener of a three-game series at Tropicana Field on Friday, September 20, 2024, at 6:50 PM. The Rays, fourth in the AL East with a 75-78 record, will look to build on their 6-4 series lead against the fifth-place Blue Jays, who currently sit at 73-80.
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Optimal Staff
Toronto Blue Jays
Tampa Bay Rays

Blue Jays vs Rays starting pitchers

  • Tyler Alexander for Tampa Bay Rays
  • Jose Berrios for Toronto Blue Jays

Blue Jays vs Rays statistics

Stat Blue Jays Rays
Hits 1239 (18th) 1181 (27th)
Batting Average .242 (16th) .231 (27th)
Runs Batted In 616 (20th) 542 (29th)
Runs 647 (19th) 581 (29th)
Home Runs 153 (25th) 140 (Tied-27th)
Walks 480 (9th) 475 (10th)
Stolen Bases 67 (27th) 177 (4th)
Strikeouts 1167 (25th) 1410 (6th)
Pitches 22191 (18th) 22729 (8th)

Tampa Bay Rays recent games

Game Date Opponent Result Score
9/19/24 vs Boston Red Sox W 2-0
9/18/24 vs Boston Red Sox L 2-1
9/17/24 vs Boston Red Sox W 8-3
9/15/24 @ Cleveland Guardians L 2-0
9/14/24 @ Cleveland Guardians L 6-1

Toronto Blue Jays recent games

Game Date Opponent Result Score
9/19/24 @ Texas Rangers W 4-0
9/18/24 @ Texas Rangers L 2-0
9/17/24 @ Texas Rangers L 13-8
9/15/24 vs St. Louis Cardinals W 3-2
9/14/24 vs St. Louis Cardinals W 7-2

Blue Jays vs Rays predictions

This upcoming series between the Toronto Blue Jays and the Tampa Bay Rays at Tropicana Field is poised to be a captivating showdown. For the Blue Jays, eyes will likely be on Vladimir Guerrero Jr., who's been swinging a hot bat with a .322 average and 30 homers to his name. Given his robust performance this season, expect him to be a pivotal figure at the plate in this series. Another player to watch is Jose Berrios on the mound, who has shown impressive control this season, boasting a 3.44 ERA and striking out 143 batters. His ability to keep runs to a minimum will be crucial for the Blue Jays if they're to clinch a win against the Rays.

On the flip side, the Tampa Bay Rays have their own weapons ready to make an impact. Yandy Diaz, with his .283 batting average and keen eye, resulting in a healthy on-base percentage, will be key in getting the Rays' offense going. Meanwhile, on the pitching side, Tyler Alexander, despite a challenging season with a 5.58 ERA, will be looking to turn things around. His performance, particularly how he handles the early innings, could set the tone for the rest of the game.

Looking at the matchup and considering the strengths and current form of both teams, this series promises some tight contests. However, with the Blue Jays' strong batting lineup and Berrios' steadiness on the mound, they might just have a slight edge over the Rays. If Toronto's hitters can capitalize early and Berrios holds his form, the Blue Jays could very well walk away with a series-opening victory. It's all shaping up to be a thrilling set of games with plenty of action for MLB fans!

Tampa Bay Rays injuries

  • Jacob Waguespack (RP): 60-Day-IL
  • Richie Palacios (2B): 10-Day-IL
  • Pete Fairbanks (RP): 15-Day-IL
  • Jeffrey Springs (SP): 15-Day-IL
  • Shane McClanahan (SP): 60-Day-IL

Toronto Blue Jays injuries

  • Orelvis Martinez (SS): Suspension
  • Jordan Romano (RP): 60-Day-IL
  • Kevin Gausman (SP): Day-To-Day
  • Bo Bichette (SS): 10-Day-IL
  • Will Wagner (3B): 60-Day-IL

Blue Jays vs Rays game info

Venue Tropicana Field
Location St. Petersburg, Florida
First pitch Fri 6:50 PM
Temperature 87°
Chance of Rain 47%

Toronto Blue Jays vs. Tampa Bay Rays Betting Odds

Real-time odds powered by Optimal

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