Weekend Series Preview 5/23-5/25

Toronto Blue Jays +125 vs Tampa Bay Rays -155

Pick: TOR +125

Key Stat - Strikeouts

Friday -  Lauer/Rasmussen - Blue Jays LOSE

Eric Lauer has pitched very well to start the season for the Jays, but I do not think he outduels Rasmussen Friday night. Rasmussen is a hard luck 2-4 with a 2.93 ERA in 9 games, but 1-4 with a 3.50 ERA in his last 7. I think he rights the ship here and strikeout the Jays at near his 7.83 K/9 and get the run support he needs from Diaz and Walls.

Saturday -  Berrios/Baz - Blue Jays WIN

Jose Berrios and Shane Baz have both struggled this season despite throwing high strike percentages. Saturday’s matchup should come down to the hitters, and these teams have pretty extensive at bats against the opposing pitchers. I like Berrios to keep Aranda, and Diaz in check with a few strikeouts early.

Sunday -  Bassitt/Pepiot - Blue Jays WIN

The rubber match Sunday is going to be all about Bassitt. Chris Bassitt is in the middle of a great season from the mound and should dominate a Rays lineup that hasn’t had much success against him (except Lowe). I like Bassitt to go 7 innings for the first time this year and the Blue Jays bats to knock Pepiot out of the game early.

Other series worth a look:

Giants (-135) over Nationals (+110)

Dodgers (-115) over Mets (-115)

Dbacks (-110) over Cardinals (-120)