Yankees vs. Rays: Prediction, Odds, Pitchers & Prop Bets for Wednesday, August 20
Game Preview
The New York Yankees face the Tampa Bay Rays on Wednesday, August 20, in a highly anticipated matchup. This series has major playoff implications. The Yankees are surging, while the Rays are desperate to stay in the Wild Card race. Expect intensity from both sides.
New York dominated Game 1 with a 13–3 win. Their offense looks dangerous and deep. Tampa Bay will need a strong pitching performance to rebound.
Game Info
Date: Wednesday, August 20, 2025
Time: 7:35 PM ET
Location: Tropicana Field, St. Petersburg, FL
Probable Pitchers
Yankees: Cam Schlitter (1–2, 3.94 ERA)
Rays: Drew Rasmussen (10–5, 2.60 ERA)
Rasmussen has been a steady force for the Rays. He brings elite control and limits damage. Schlitter, though less experienced, shows flashes of potential. He’ll need to limit walks and get ahead in the count to succeed against Tampa Bay’s lineup.
Odds and Betting Lines
Monoline: Rays -120, Yankees +100
Run Line: Yankees -1.5
Over/Under: 8.5 total runs
The Rays are slight home favorites. Oddsmakers trust Rasmussen’s consistency on the mound. The Yankees’ recent scoring outburst is pushing bettors to consider the over.
Key Players to Watch
Aaron Judge leads the Yankees with power and patience. Since returning from injury, he’s been on fire. He anchors the heart of the lineup and draws walks at an elite rate.
Junior Calimero is the breakout star for the Rays. His power numbers have exploded in 2025. He’s the key to Tampa Bay’s run production.
Prop Bets to Target
First 5 Innings Monoline – Yankees (+100): With a hot offense, New York has been jumping out early.
Total Runs – Under 8.5: Rasmussen’s control and Tampa’s offensive struggles make the under a strong play.
Aaron Judge to Hit a Home Run: He’s locked in at the plate and thrives against fastball-heavy pitchers like Rasmussen.
Total Strikeouts – Rasmussen Over 5.5: The Yankees chase high fastballs. Rasmussen could rack up Ks early.
Betting Trends
The Yankees have hit the over in 7 of their last 10 games. Their offense is clicking. Tampa Bay, meanwhile, has gone under the total in 6 of their last 8. They often rely on pitching and defense.
The Yankees are also 4–1 in their last five road games. The Rays have struggled at home recently, especially in close matchups.
Final Prediction
This is a tough call. Rasmussen gives the Rays a clear pitching edge. But the Yankees are red-hot and loaded with power. Expect a close, low-scoring game early. The bullpens could decide it late.
Final Score Prediction: Yankees 5, Rays 3
Best Bets: Yankees First 5 Innings ML, Total Under 8.5, Judge HR prop