Free MLB Playoff Pick
Yankees -1.5 runs over Rays +130 (loss)
Rotation #942 / 8:00 PM EST
Fried/Martinez (Listed Pitchers)

The Yankees are on the ropes, but they return home with an edge behind left-hander Max Fried. Tampa Bay has struggled to produce big hits against left-handed pitching this season, and Fried gives New York the type of starter it needs in an elimination game. The Rays will counter with Nick Martinez, who will make his first postseason start. Martinez is coming off a rough outing against the Phillies on the final day of the regular season, although he has pitched well against the Yankees this year. Fried, oddly enough, struggled a bit against Tampa Bay during the regular season despite having strong career numbers against the Rays. With their season on the line, the Yankees should have all hands on deck behind Fried, including starting pitchers available out of the bullpen if needed. Look for the Yankees to get to Martinez early in his first postseason start, then turn things over to their top-rated bullpen in the later innings. Take the Yankees -1.5 runs at +130.