Cleveland Guardians vs. Tampa Bay Rays 7/12/24 – In an intriguing mid-July matchup, the Cleveland Guardians, holding a commendable 57-35 record, travel to Tropicana Field to face the Tampa Bay Rays, who are struggling slightly this season with a 45-47 standing. This game not only pits two teams at different spectrums of the success ladder against each other but also serves as a crucial point in their respective campaigns. As we delve into MLB free predictions, let’s analyze how these contrasting records could play out under the dome on a Friday evening.
Cleveland Guardians vs. Tampa Bay Rays 7/12/24
| When: | Friday, July 12, 2024, at 6:50 PM ET |
|---|---|
| Where: | Tropicana Field |
| TV: | ATV+ |
| Stream: | MLB.TV |
Cleveland Guardians vs. Tampa Bay Rays 7/12/24
| Team | RL | TOTAL | ML | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Guardians | +1.5 (-185) | 8 over (-120) | +118 |  |
| Rays | -1.5 (+150) | 8 under (+100) | -128 | |
| ||||
One of those days.#ForTheLand pic.twitter.com/lU9mxyLTZ3
— Cleveland Guardians (@CleGuardians) July 11, 2024
The betting odds suggest a closely contested game with the Guardians entering as slight underdogs despite their better season record. The Rays, favored at -128 on the moneyline, have the home field advantage which might be influencing the odds. The spread also shows expectations of a tight game, with the Guardians getting a +1.5 run line. The total set at 8 with the odds leaning slightly towards the over, indicating expectations of a moderately high-scoring affair.
Carlos Carrasco (3-6, 5.22 ERA) vs. Taj Bradley (3-4, 3.23 ERA)
Carlos Carrasco‘s season has been frustrating as he stands with a 3-6 record and a 5.22 ERA. Carrasco has been rather erratic and costly with a WHIP of 1.36 over 81 innings; has given too many hits and home runs. However, he has the experience and the way of getting out the batters (85 Ks) which gives him an essential place in the Guardians. This performance will be crucial for him and Cleveland if they are to increase the hold of getting a postseason place.
On the other side, Taj Bradley joined the Rays giving the team a little hope, he has a better 3.23 ERA and a 3-4 win-loss record. His WHIP of 1.13 and 77 strikeouts in 61.1 provide the evidence of an impressionable young pitcher with a potential of taking pressure. The Guardians will punish any mistakes that Bradley makes on the mound; therefore, the former’s performance in terms of walks and home runs will be crucial in the game.
The Guardians’ Swing: Analyzing Cleveland’s Offensive Metrics
Cleveland’s average batting is at .246 and when it comes to slugging they are at .411, they have been able to score 106 home runs this season. Their access to first base as shown by their .320 on-base percentage epitomized by their capability to hit home runs makes any pitching squad’s task very difficult. The strategy that Cleveland should use will be, focusing on their batting especially the strongest batsmen who can reverse the games’ outcome with one swipe of the bat.
Tactical Defenses: Unpacking Tampa Bay’s Team Dynamics
Rays are fewer in team batting average of .235 and team slugging of .368 so there appears to be a weaker lineup than the Guardians. With 83 home runs and an OBP of .311, much of their play style has seen the emphasis on bunting and taking advantage of opposing pitchers’ mistakes. It remains the only team they have to face in this game in determining their success by outcomping Cleveland’s pitchers as well as cashing in on the available scoring chances.
Trends
Cleveland Guardians Betting Trends
Guardians are 3-2 in their last 5 games.
Cleveland Guardians are 0-5 in their last 5 games against the spread
Guardians are 24-26 in their road games against the spread
The totals have gone OVER in 4 of Guardians’ last 5 games
The totals have gone OVER in 23 of Guardians’ 41 last games at home
Tampa Bay Rays Betting Trends
Rays are 1-4 in their last 5 games.
Tampa Bay Rays are 2-3 in their last 5 games against the spread
Rays are 22-20 in their road games against the spread
The totals have gone OVER in 2 of Rays’ last 5 games
The totals have gone OVER in 25 of Rays’ 50 last games at home
Cleveland Guardians vs. Tampa Bay Rays Betting Picks
Given the current form and statistics, the Guardians appear to be a tempting pick, especially with the +1.5 spread. Their superior offensive stats and the Rays’ recent struggles make them an attractive underdog. However, betting on the total to go over might also be wise, considering both teams’ recent trends and the pitching matchup suggesting possible runs.
For those looking at prop bets or other wagering opportunities, examining strikeouts and individual player performance props could provide value, particularly with both starting pitchers having decent strikeout numbers. When placing your bets, consider exploring options on the best online betting websites to ensure the best odds and bonuses.
Score Prediction: Guardians 5, Rays 4.
Hilbert Mayer
Sports Writer
Hilbert Mayer is a professional sports writer, betting analyst, and content strategist with over 15 years of experience in the sports industry. Before focusing on sports betting analysis and handicapping, Hilbert worked as a sports writer for various news outlets, covering everything from game recaps to in-depth matchup features. Today, he specializes in MLB, NFL, March Madness, and UFC betting, combining his journalistic background with deep statistical expertise and real-world betting insights. His proven track record, sharp reads, and ability to break down complex matchups make him a trusted voice among both casual bettors and seasoned sharps.
Published on: July 11, 2024
Last updated: March 30, 2025