Game Summary

The Arizona Diamondbacks (69-55) square off against the Tampa Bay Rays (61-61) on Sunday, August 18, 2024, at Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, Florida. This matchup marks the third and final game of their three-game series, with Tampa Bay looking to secure a sweep after winning the first two games. The Diamondbacks currently sit third in the NL West, while the Rays are positioned fourth in the AL East.

Recent performances show that the Diamondbacks enter this game with a solid 7-3 record over their last ten games, boasting a .295 batting average and a 3.78 ERA. The team has outscored its opponents by 21 runs during this stretch. In contrast, the Rays have struggled recently, going 4-6 with a .218 batting average and a 3.40 ERA, being outscored by six runs in their last ten outings.

Historically, the teams have played each other 10 times this season, with the Diamondbacks winning 6 of those matchups. The last time these teams faced off, the Diamondbacks fell to the Rays, 6-1, in a game where Gallen struggled against Tampa's lineup. Notable players to watch include Ketel Marte, who leads the Diamondbacks with a .298 batting average, 30 home runs, and 81 RBIs, and Yandy Diaz for the Rays, who has 10 home runs and 24 doubles this season.

This game features two starting pitchers: Merrill Kelly for the Diamondbacks, who brings a 3-0 record and a 2.43 ERA, and Drew Rasmussen for the Rays, who has a 0-0 record and a 5.40 ERA. Kelly’s consistency has been a key factor for the Diamondbacks, while Rasmussen will be looking to improve his performance after a rocky start to the season.

Player Prop Odds

Ketel Marte Props:

• Batter Doubles: Over 0.5 (+320) | Under -525
• Batter Home Runs: Over 0.5 (+400)
• Batter RBIs: Over 0.5 (+165) | Under -235
• Batter Runs Scored: Over 0.5 (+110) | Under -150
• Batter Singles: Over 0.5 (-120) | Under -115
• Batter Total Bases: Over 1.5 (+105) | Under -150

Player Analysis

Ketel Marte has been a standout performer for the Diamondbacks this season. His current batting average of .298 places him among the league's elite hitters. In addition to his impressive batting average, Marte has recorded 30 home runs and 81 RBIs, showcasing his ability to drive in runs and produce offensively.

Marte has been particularly effective against right-handed pitchers, and with Rasmussen on the mound for the Rays, Marte's chances to capitalize on his performance increase. Over the last ten games, Marte has hit .400, which is a testament to his current form. His ability to get on base and score runs is crucial for the Diamondbacks as they look to secure a victory against the Rays.

Opposing Analysis

The Tampa Bay Rays will be sending Drew Rasmussen to the mound. Rasmussen has struggled this season, recording a 5.40 ERA and allowing an average of 1.20 walks per inning. These factors could provide Marte with ample opportunities to reach base. The Rays’ pitching staff has allowed a significant number of runs and hits, making this matchup favorable for Marte.

The Rays' defense has also been inconsistent, which could lead to more scoring chances for Marte. With the Diamondbacks' offensive prowess, particularly against struggling pitchers, Marte's prop odds present a valuable opportunity for bettors.

Prop Analysis

Marte's prop for total bases at over 1.5 (+105) seems attractive given his recent form and the matchup against Rasmussen. Additionally, considering the Rays' pitching struggles, Marte's over 0.5 RBIs (+165) is also worth considering. His ability to hit doubles and his home run potential against a struggling pitcher make the over for both doubles and home runs enticing. Conversely, the under might be a safer bet for total bases at 1.5, depending on performance fluctuations.

Starting Pitching Summary - Team 1

Merrill Kelly has been a reliable starter for the Diamondbacks, holding a perfect 3-0 record with a stellar 2.43 ERA. He has recorded 23 strikeouts and a WHIP of 0.94 in 29.2 innings pitched this season. Kelly's ability to limit hits and walks makes him a key asset for the Diamondbacks as they look to secure a victory against the Rays. His recent performance has shown consistency, making him a daunting challenge for any opposing lineup.

Starting Pitching Summary - Team 2

Drew Rasmussen, on the other hand, has yet to secure a win this season, sitting at 0-0 with a 5.40 ERA. He has struggled to maintain command, allowing 6 hits in just 5 innings pitched. Rasmussen will need to find a way to tighten up his pitching if he hopes to limit the Diamondbacks’ offense, especially with Marte leading the charge.

Bullpen Summary - Team 1

The Diamondbacks' bullpen has been solid this year, contributing to their success with a collective ERA of 3.93. However, with Kelly expected to pitch deep into the game, the bullpen's role may be minimized.

Bullpen Summary - Team 2

The Rays' bullpen, while effective at times, has also shown vulnerability, particularly in high-pressure situations. This could be a factor if the game remains close late in the innings, potentially benefiting Marte's prop bets.

Team Previews

The Arizona Diamondbacks boast a solid hitting lineup, currently sitting 10th in the majors with 148 home runs this season. Their ability to score runs has been a key factor in their success, as they rank among the top teams in the league.

On the other hand, the Tampa Bay Rays have shown offensive potential but have been inconsistent. They lead the league in total runs scored (649) but struggle with batting average (.261), suggesting that while they can score, they often leave runners stranded.

Team Injuries

Recent Games