BOS vs TB Prediction, Odds and MLB Picks for Today

The uncertainty surrounding Boston's starting pitcher doesn't scare me away nearly as much as it otherwise might. Why? Because the Red Sox bullpen is fantastic. Boston's relief corps has been one of the strengths of this team throughout the season, carrying an ERA around 3.00, with Garrett Whitlock and Aroldis Chapman both sporting ERAs below 2.00. This is a team that has the personnel to bridge all nine frames and whoever ultimately starts doesn't necessarily need to provide seven dominant innings. If the Sox get through the early portion of the game without allowing Tampa Bay to create any significant separation, Boston can easily begin turning things over to an excellent collection of relievers.

Meanwhile, the Rays send Freddy Peralta to the hill. Peralta enters 9-11 with a 4.67 ERA -- so this isn't exactly a matchup where Boston's offense should be expected to disappear. Peralta in particular is very hittable after five; that's why the Mets shipped him off midway through the season despite being a blockbuster signing in the off-season. Peralta is hittable against a Red Sox lineup that can hit. Beantown also remains firmly involved in the postseason chase and have handled Tampa Bay extremely well recently, winning four consecutive meetings against the Rays. So here's the bottom line: the Sox are the value play here with all things considered.

Red Sox vs Rays prediction: Boston +122 (ML) available at time of publishing. Playable to +115.