Toronto Blue Jays vs. Tampa Bay Rays: Preview, Predictions and Picks for September 21, 2024

Published on:
Sep 21, 2024 6:12 AM
The Toronto Blue Jays travel to Tropicana Field to take on the Tampa Bay Rays in game 2 of their series on Saturday, September 21st at 4:10 PM. The Rays, leading the series 1-0, look to capitalize on their home-field advantage, where they hold a 40-39 record. Meanwhile, the Blue Jays aim to bounce back from their previous loss, seeking to even the series.
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Optimal Staff
Toronto Blue Jays
Tampa Bay Rays

Blue Jays vs Rays starting pitchers

  • Taj Bradley for Tampa Bay Rays
  • Yariel Rodriguez for Toronto Blue Jays

Blue Jays vs Rays statistics

Stat Blue Jays Rays
Hits 1244 (18th) 1187 (27th)
Batting Average .242 (17th) .231 (27th)
Runs Batted In 616 (21st) 543 (29th)
Runs 647 (20th) 582 (29th)
Home Runs 153 (25th) 141 (27th)
Walks 482 (9th) 476 (11th)
Stolen Bases 69 (27th) 177 (4th)
Strikeouts 1178 (25th) 1419 (6th)
Pitches 22335 (18th) 22842 (8th)

Tampa Bay Rays recent games

Game Date Opponent Result Score
9/20/24 vs Toronto Blue Jays W 1-0
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

Toronto Blue Jays recent games

Game Date Opponent Result Score
9/20/24 @ Tampa Bay Rays L 1-0
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

Blue Jays vs Rays predictions

As the Toronto Blue Jays gear up for their next clash against the Tampa Bay Rays, all eyes are on Vladimir Guerrero Jr., who has been a powerhouse this season. Based on his current form, we can expect him to continue his hot streak, potentially adding a couple of hits and an RBI to his tally. Another player to watch is George Springer, whose speed and agility could see him notch a crucial run or two, adding that essential spark at the top of the lineup. Additionally, Yariel Rodriguez on the mound will be pivotal; while his ERA and WHIP suggest some vulnerability, he has the potential to put in a solid few innings if he can keep his cool and manage the Rays' hitters effectively.

Turning our focus to the Tampa Bay Rays, Yandy Diaz is someone who consistently sets the table for his team. Given his batting average and his knack for getting on base, Diaz is likely to be a key factor in pushing the Rays' offense forward in this game. Then there's Brandon Lowe, whose home run count leads the team; his ability to change the game with one swing will be crucial, especially in the tighter moments of the match. On the pitching side, Taj Bradley will start and, despite the ups and downs this season, he has shown strikeouts prowess that could pose a significant challenge for the Blue Jays' batters.

Considering both teams' current dynamics and the season performances, this matchup is teed up to be a closely fought contest. However, the Rays might just have the edge, particularly with their home advantage and slightly better bullpen depth proven in recent outings. While the Blue Jays have strong individual performers who can make a significant impact, the consistency and cooperative team play of the Rays at Tropicana Field could see them clinch a win in this exciting encounter.

Tampa Bay Rays injuries

  • Jacob Waguespack (RP): 60-Day-IL
  • Richie Palacios (2B): 10-Day-IL
  • Shane McClanahan (SP): 60-Day-IL
  • Pete Fairbanks (RP): 15-Day-IL
  • Jeffrey Springs (SP): 15-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 Sat 4:10 PM
Temperature 92°
Chance of Rain 18%

Toronto Blue Jays vs. Tampa Bay Rays Betting Odds

Real-time odds powered by Optimal

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