MLBBest NRFI Bets For Today: No Runs First Inning Picks
Get the best No Runs First Inning (NRFI) picks for today's MLB action
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Matt Helm - Aug 21, 2025, 3:50am EDT
Best NRFI Bets Today
Every day the team at BetQL has you covered with our favorite NRFI picks for today's MLB games. Find which games we love and why we think they are the best NRFI bets for today. You will get our picks, expert analysis, and the best line available. Tail us on our No Runs First Inning picks and let's get six outs to cash out!
Mets at Nationals NRFI (+115 DraftKings)
We've got two lefties starting today in Sean Manaea and MacKenzie Gore. Gore leads the Nationals in ERA and strikeouts, while Manaea is making just his 7th start of the season. Manaea doesn't have near the numbers that Gore does, but his WHIP and K/inning ratio is actually better than Gore's.
The BetQL computer prediction model only has the teams scoring a combined 5 runs in the first five innings. I think this one is a good value for the money.
Want more predictions? Check out of full breakdown here
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Claim OfferBrewers at Cubs NRFI (-162, FanDuel)
RHP Quinn Priester (11-2, 3.48 ERA) and Shota Imanaga (8-5, 3.06 ERA) both have really good WHIP. The BetQL computer model has the Cubs and Brewers combing for 4 runs in the first five innings. Those are the positives. The other side of the coin is that the starting pitchers have allowed a combined 35 HR, neither of them has a K/I ratio above 1 and at least one team has scored in the first inning in 2 of 3 games in this series. I'm going to be optimistic and say that the good outweighs the bad and that we'll see a clean first inning in Chicago for a second night in a row.
Get our full game breakdown here.
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Claim OfferDodgers at Rockies YRFI (-165, DraftKings)
Look for the Dodgers to come out swinging tonight against the Rockies. At least 11 runs have been scored in each of the last two games, and the Dodgers need to get back to winning if they want to hold on to their lead in the NL West. Both starting pitchers have given up more hits than they've struck batters out and neither is averaging a strikeout per inning. The over/under line for this game is now 12, and even if Shohei takes the night off, Coors Field gives up more runs than almost any other place in MLB.
Check out our full game breakdown here.
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What is a NRFI bet?
In baseball betting, NRFI stands for "No Run First Inning." It's a wager on how many runs will be scored in the first inning, with the focus being on zero runs being scored in the first inning!
Essentially, you're betting for there to be six outs recorded before any runs are scored. NRFI has become a popular betting option because it offers a quick result – you only need to wait for the first inning to be over.
NRFI Betting Tips
Winning NRFI bets requires a keen eye on pitching matchups, team situations, and a tiny bit of luck. If you are looking to be more successful at NRFI bets, here are a few ways to improve your odds:
- Dominant Pitching is Key: Target starting pitchers with a low walk rate and a high strikeout rate. These pitchers limit baserunners and can rack up strikeouts to escape jams quickly. Ideally, these pitchers will have a history of success, not rookies or those coming back from injuries.
- Opposing Lineup Weaknesses: Check for injuries to key hitters, especially at the top of the lineup. A missing power bat can significantly decrease a team's early scoring chances. Additionally, if a team's top hitters are in a slump, it bodes well for an NRFI.
- Consider the Game Conditions: Cold weather or windy ballparks can make hitting difficult, favoring pitchers and potentially leading to fewer runs. Look for games played in ballparks known for being pitcher-friendly.
- Stay Informed: Watch for significant MLB line movement closer to game time. This could indicate a late lineup change favoring the offense, making NRFI less likely.
No Runs First Inning Predictions
Our NRFI bets for today are all about giving you the best shot at a scoreless first inning. We crunch the numbers and analyze pitching matchups relentlessly, but remember, baseball is a wild card. Upsets can happen, even to the best pitchers. We focus on providing insights, not guarantees, so you can place your NRFI bets with confidence and knowledge.
NRFI Betting Tips and Strategies
Want to cash in on MLB's early action? Check out our NRFI betting strategies and turn six little outs into quick wins!
Research the Starting Pitchers:
- Look for pitchers with strong first-inning performances. Check stats like First Inning ERA and strikeouts. Pitchers who consistently get outs early are ideal for NRFI bets.
Analyze Team Offenses:
- Target teams known for slow starts. Some teams struggle to get on base early, which reduces the chance of runs in the first inning. Look for recent batting stats, especially in the first inning.
Consider the Weather:
- Cold weather or windy parks can make hitting tougher, increasing the chance of a scoreless first. Be aware of weather forecasts and ballpark factors.
Shop for Good Odds:
- NRFI odds can vary slightly between sportsbooks. Check betting lines to find the most favorable odds for your chosen game.
Don't Chase Losses:
- Stick to your strategy and avoid trying to win back losses with bigger bets. Losses happen, so be patient and disciplined.
The Best Sportsbooks to bet NRFI
- DraftKings: Offers a user-friendly interface with a wide range of NRFI betting options and competitive odds.
- FanDuel: Provides daily NRFI promotions and boosts, making it attractive for maximizing potential returns.
- Caesars Sportsbook: Rewards bettors with Caesars Rewards points for every NRFI wager, perfect for building long-term value.
- BetMGM: Known for offering competitive lines and enticing new user bonuses that can be used on NRFI bets.
Need more Betting Picks?
Dive deeper into your betting strategy with BetQL's extensive resources, including:
- MLB Computer Picks: Leverage the power of our advanced model to gain insights on potential winning MLB bets.
- MLB Over/Unders: Find expert analysis and data-driven predictions for MLB total run bets.
- MLB Prop Picks: Discover BetQL's expert picks for various player and game-specific MLB prop bets.
- MLB Public Betting Picks: See where the money is flowing and gain insights into public sentiment on upcoming MLB games.
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