Toronto Blue Jays vs. Tampa Bay Rays: Preview, Predictions and Picks for September 22, 2024

Published on:
Sep 22, 2024 6:13 AM
The Tampa Bay Rays, riding a three-game home win streak, look to sweep the Toronto Blue Jays in their series finale on Sunday at Tropicana Field. With a 2-0 lead in the series, the Rays aim to build on their 8-4 regular season series advantage against the Blue Jays. First pitch is scheduled for 1:40 PM on September 22, 2024.
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Optimal Staff
Toronto Blue Jays
Tampa Bay Rays

Blue Jays vs Rays starting pitchers

  • Shane Baz for Tampa Bay Rays

Blue Jays vs Rays statistics

Stat Blue Jays Rays
Hits 1253 (18th) 1194 (27th)
Batting Average .242 (17th) .231 (27th)
Runs Batted In 618 (Tied-20th) 546 (29th)
Runs 649 (20th) 585 (29th)
Home Runs 153 (25th) 142 (27th)
Walks 485 (9th) 480 (11th)
Stolen Bases 70 (27th) 178 (4th)
Strikeouts 1187 (25th) 1425 (6th)
Pitches 22502 (18th) 22973 (9th)

Tampa Bay Rays recent games

Game Date Opponent Result Score
9/21/24 vs Toronto Blue Jays W 3-2
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

Toronto Blue Jays recent games

Game Date Opponent Result Score
9/21/24 @ Tampa Bay Rays L 3-2
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

Blue Jays vs Rays predictions

Heading into this matchup between the Toronto Blue Jays and the Tampa Bay Rays, it's pivotal to keep eyes on certain standout players from the Blue Jays who could make a significant impact. Vladimir Guerrero Jr., always a big hitter, might be in line for a powerful game considering his consistent performance throughout the season. There's also notable promise in George Springer’s ability to get on base and create run opportunities, a crucial factor as the Jays look to varnish their offensive tactics against the Rays’ defense. Meanwhile, Chris Bassitt on the mound could be the swing factor with his capability to strike out opponents and keep the runs tight.

On the Rays' side, Shane Baz taking the mound could set a commanding tone early in the game. His knack for keeping the ball in play and minimizing walks will test the Blue Jays' batters' resilience at the plate. At bat, Yandy Diaz’s capability to make hits and drive in runs consistently will likely be a factor, while Brandon Lowe's power could see some key home runs if he connects well – a potential game-changer against the Blue Jays' pitching tactics.

Drawing in all these elements, the game promises to be tight, but the Tampa Bay Rays might hold a slight edge on their home turf, especially with Baz’s strong arm leading the defensive line and their recent momentum from the home win streak. They could potentially harness this to tilt the close matches in their favor, making them the slight favorites to come out on top in this showdown. Still, with baseball’s unpredictable nature, the Toronto Blue Jays are just as capable of seizing a win if they capitalize effectively on each scoring opportunity.

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 Sun 1:40 PM
Temperature 87°
Chance of Rain 0%

Toronto Blue Jays vs. Tampa Bay Rays Betting Odds

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