The Tampa Bay Rays (53-50) and Cincinnati Reds (53-50) open a 3-game series Friday. First pitch from Great American Ball Park is scheduled for 7:10 p.m. ET. Let's analyze BetMGM Sportsbook's MLB odds around the Rays vs. Reds odds and make our expert MLB picks and predictions for the best bets.

The Reds placed Scott Barlow on the paternity list on Friday ahead of their weekend series against the Tampa Bay Rays. They recalled right-hander Luis Mey from Triple-A Louisville. Mey has a 4.40 ERA in 15 big league appearances this season.

The Tampa Bay Rays are at a crossroads as the 2025 MLB Trade Deadline approaches on July 31. Sitting at 53-49 and 0.5 games out of the last AL Wild Card spot, their +66 run differential suggests they’re better than their record indicates, and could be in position for a playoff push.