On Wednesday, we have 15 games on the schedule in MLB. That means that we have several choices in terms of what to bet on in the NRFI/YRFI market. Today, we focus our attention on a matchup between the New York Yankees and Tampa Bay Rays. Below, we make our pick in the first inning total market in our MLB NRFI pick of the day.
MLB NRFI Bets for July 8, 2026
| Game | Best Bet |
|---|---|
| Yankees vs Rays | YRFI |
- Starting Pitchers
- Yankees: Gerrit Cole – 3-3, 4.01 ERA in 2026
- Rays: Shane McClanahan – 7-5, 3.05 ERA in 2026
- Team YRFI Percentages
- Yankees: 35.16%, 6th in MLB
- Rays: 35.96%, 5th in MLB
Our NRFI best bet on Tuesday is for the New York Yankees and Tampa Bay Rays to combine to score at least one run in the first inning of play. Both of these teams have been among the best first-inning scoring teams in baseball this season. And while the Yankees are struggling offensively without a healthy Aaron Judge in their lineup, we should still see at least one of these teams break through in the opening frame on Wednesday evening.
Best Bet: Yankees vs Rays YRFI ATS PRO
NRFI Notes
- Both teams are in the top 10 in MLB in first-inning scoring percentage this season.
- The Yankees still have power in their lineup without Judge, which could help them score early on.
Today's MLB Game Previews
- MLB
Looking for today’s top NRFI (No Run First Inning) picks? You’ve landed in the right spot. As seasoned MLB analysts, we specialize in breaking down the MLB NRFI market, one of the fastest-growing and most thrilling niches in baseball betting. Our team brings years of experience to the table, meticulously analyzing NRFI stats in 2026 and in previous years, pitcher matchups, and lineup trends to deliver reliable and well-researched MLB NRFI predictions. While these first inning betting trends don’t guarantee performance on any given day, they can provide a clearer picture as to what teams are the most likely to do in the opening inning of play.
In this article, we’ll provide you with the best NRFI bets today, backed by comprehensive analysis and data-driven strategies. Not only will you find our top picks, but we’ll also explain the rationale behind each recommendation and share tips to maximize your success in this market. Trust our expertise to help you make smarter bets and enjoy the excitement of fast-settling NRFI wagers. Let’s dive into today’s lineup and uncover the best value on the board!
What Are NRFI Bets?
NRFI bets stand for No Run First Inning bets. These wagers ask bettors to predict whether there will be a run scored in the opening inning of a baseball game. In this market, it does not matter which team scores or the method by which that run is scored. All that matters is whether or not the first inning sees at least one run cross the plate.
The thought process behind the first inning NRFI bet is that many innings do not feature runs in baseball, especially with pitchers being as talented as they are today. After all, just six outs without a run being scored means a win when betting on no run being scored in the first. But both teams getting shut out in the first is easier said than done.
How to Handicap First Inning Bets
There are several ways to break down the MLB NRFI betting market. There are several strategic ideas that go into betting into this market, which we will break down in greater detail here so you can reference them throughout the MLB season.
Look at the Pitching Matchup
The most important thing to consider when making NRFI picks is what the pitching matchup for each game looks like. After all, the better the pitchers on the mound, the lower the chance of each team breaking through to push a run across the plate. For example, if Shohei Ohtani of the Los Angeles Angels is facing Gerrit Cole of the New York Yankees, there is a better chances of a scoreless opening inning than if the fifth starters for those teams were on the hill.
Top of the Order Impact
The other component to break down before every game is the way the top of both lineups look. Some teams have more power at the top of their order than others, which could mean scoring against even the best pitchers in the league. Making sure that best hitters on each team are healthy and in the lineup is also crucial, as injuries to teams like the San Diego Padres and Philadelphia Phillies can really impact their potential for early extra base hits.
Can I Place YRFI Bets Instead?
Yes, it is possible to place a YRFI bet instead of a bet on a scoreless first inning at many sportsbooks. The YRFI bet stands for Yes Run in the First Inning, where bettors are wagering on some scoring taking place before the opening inning of the game is completed. This can often be just as good a bet as a bet on the NRFI side.
It is worth noting that these bets can be found in one of two ways. Bettors can either find the choice between an NRFI and YRFI option in the props section of each game. Alternatively, there is the ability to bet on the over/under in first innings, with the total set at 0.5 runs scored.
Can I Parlay NRFI Betting Picks?
It is possible to put together a NRFI parlay, by making multiple NRFI picks and combining them onto one ticket. A parlay bet on first innings allows bettors to wager a small amount of money with the potential for a sizable payout. However, it is worth noting that parlays do not give players the best odds, as sportsbooks hold a little extra vig on parlay bets relative to the true odds of each outcome coming through successfully.
Are NRFI Picks Good Bets?
There is some debate as to whether or not it is worth betting on whether or not there will be one or more runs scored in the opening inning of each game. While the odds can be appealing in many cases, there is always the potential for one mistake pitch to ruin even the best bet in this market. In many cases, there is more value on other markets that sportsbooks offer throughout the baseball season.
However, bettors who do their research and can find profitable angles are more than capable of winning in the NRFI market against the MLB sportsbooks in the long run. Developing an in-depth understanding of each team, its pitchers, and how each batting order works together can give bettors an edge.
More than First Inning Bets
Here at ATS, we offer way more than just bets on the NRFI market. For single game wagers, parlays, and predictions in the MLB futures market, you can click on the links below. Each page has best bets that are updated on a regular basis throughout the season, to help bettors maximize their profitability this year.
