MLB Matchup Thursday - Kazmir leading Tampa’s playoff charge against Yankees

September 3, 2008

MLB Matchup Thursday - Kazmir leading Tampa’s playoff charge against Yankees


By T.J. Kendrick

New York Yankees at Tampa Bay Rays - Thursday, September 4 at 7:10 p.m. ET

Tampa Bay continues its winning ways, and much of the credit should be heaped on Scott Kazmir (10-6). The left-hander has truly come into his own this year, often dominating the competition. His 3.13 ERA is excellent and he’s over-powered hitters this season, fanning 140 batters in 126.1 innings.

Considering Kazmir’s career against New York, you have to like the Rays odds. In 10 starts (plus one relief appearance) he’s 3-4 with a glistening 2.76 ERA. He’s been especially sharp this season, going 1-1 with a 1.64 ERA in two starts. Kazmir has struck out 12 Yankees in 11 innings of work in 2008.

Offensively, Tampa Bay leaves a little to be desired. Calling the offense “bad” might be a bit much, but it certainly could be better. Either way, it seems to get the job done. But with a little more pop, MLB odds would likely always favor the Rays.

The Yankees are fighting for their playoff lives, so it’s a little disheartening to send Darrell Rasner (5-9) to the mound every five days. Rasner owns an ugly 5.08 ERA and New York has dropped four of his last five starts. The Yanks would take even a mediocre effort from him.

Rasner has faced Tampa Bay just twice in his career, both relief appearances. He faired ok, giving up a run and two hits in 4.1 innings. He did manage to whiff five batters during those games, however. Still, that’s not enough of a track record to make bettors feel better about Yankees odds.

New York hasn’t lived up to its “Bronx Bomber” nickname this season. After finishing first in American League run scoring last year, the Yankees are more middle-of-the-pack in 2008. Changes can be expected in the offseason, but that won’t help this year. Still, they have more juice than Tampa Bay.

The Rays have dropped seven of their last 10 match-ups against New York, but that shouldn’t scare you away from betting on Tampa Bay. Kamir is too good and Rasner is too bad.

For more props and odds, visit BetOnline.com. BetOnline.com is a top rated online sportsbook providing reliable sports betting to millions of online betting customers. BetOnline.com also offers MLB football betting, live MLB betting lines, props and futures.

Written by T.J. Kendrick · Filed Under Basketball 

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