On September 15, 2024, at Progressive Field, the Tampa Bay Rays are set to take on the Cleveland Guardians, with the first pitch scheduled for 1:40 PM under clear skies. Taj Bradley, with an ERA of 4.402, will be starting for the Rays, while Ben Lively, who carries an ERA of 4.007, will take the mound for the Guardians.
The Rays currently sit 10th in the AL East Division with a record of 73-76, indicating a winning percentage of .490. They have won 19 of their divisional matches and are 4th in their division standings. Their record shows a slight dip in form, winning just four of their last 10 games and suffering a recent loss. The Rays have a nearly even split between home (37-38) and away (36-38) games and seem more challenged during daytime games, with only 31 victories compared to 42 in nighttime clashes. They have scored 570 runs while conceding 632.
Conversely, the Cleveland Guardians are performing strongly in the AL Central, placed 2nd with an 85-64 record, translating to a .570 winning percentage. Tops in their division, they have won 27 games against division rivals. The Guardians have been particularly strong at home with a 44-27 record and maintain a solid form, having secured victories in five out of their last ten games. They have scored 666 runs and allowed 587.
As for the betting odds, they suggest a competitive game. The point spread is set at -1.5 in favor of the Guardians, with an over/under of 8.0 runs for the game. Betting lines also lean towards the Guardians with a money line of -134 at home, while the Rays stand as underdogs at +114 on the away money line. These odds could imply expectations for a tightly contested game, possibly favoring the home side slightly, but with ample opportunity for an upset by the Rays.