On this Friday evening, the New York Yankees (12-7) are on the road facing off against the Tampa Bay Rays (8-11) in what promises to be an exciting matchup. The Yankees claimed a victory in Game 1 of the series with a 6-3 score, thanks in part to Ben Rice's impressive 4-for-5 performance at the plate, driving in two crucial runs. The Yankees' pitchers displayed resilience, allowing only three runs despite giving up 12 hits, with Tim Hill earning the win.

As the Yankees gear up for tonight's game, Carlos Rodón is slated to start, hoping to improve on his current 1-3 record with a 5.48 ERA. His last outing was against the San Francisco Giants, where he pitched 5.2 innings, allowing four earned runs. The Rays will counter with Drew Rasmussen, who holds a remarkable 0.60 ERA and is coming off a strong performance against Atlanta. The latest betting odds reflect a tight contest, with the Yankees slightly favored at -109 and the Rays at -110 on the moneyline.

In analyzing team performances, the Yankees have won their last four games, while the Rays struggle with a 6-13 record against the run line this season. Ben Rice continues to impress, having recorded at least one hit in 11 of his last 14 games. With everything on the line, this matchup offers fantasy managers and bettors plenty to consider as both teams look to secure a vital victory.

Spencer Strider is making a highly anticipated return to the Atlanta Braves' starting rotation after recovering from surgery to repair the ulnar collateral ligament in his right elbow. The Braves activated him from the injured list, hoping his presence will kickstart their season, which has started slowly. Strider, who performed impressively in his rehabilitation starts, boasts a 20-5 record with a 3.86 ERA, leading the league in strikeouts last season with 281.

Upon his return, Strider showcased his potential by striking out 13 batters in just over five innings during a rehab appearance, signaling he's ready to make a significant impact. This performance has sparked excitement among fans and fantasy sports enthusiasts, given his history of dominance on the mound. As he faces the Toronto Blue Jays, the Braves are banking on Strider to stabilize their pitching fortunes.

On April 16, the Atlanta Braves (5-12) continue their series against the Toronto Blue Jays (10-8) with Spencer Strider on the mound facing Chris Bassitt. After a split in the first two games, with the Braves winning 8-4 and the Blue Jays taking Game 2 6-3, today's matchup promises to be competitive. Gausman earned the win for Toronto with an impressive outing, while Strider returns from the IL, aiming to regain his form from a strong 2023 season.

The latest odds show the Braves favored at -147, with a total set at 8.0 runs. Betting insights suggest the Braves have rebounded well after losses, while the Blue Jays' games featuring Bassitt have often gone under the total. Expert predictions favor the Blue Jays to cover the spread at +1.5, anticipating a close contest.