Start your betting weekend with two rock-solid NRFI picks backed by pitching power and strong trends. First up, Cubs vs. Pirates at PNC Park, a no-brainer for a first-inning shutout. Then, Phillies vs. Nationals promises another scoreless start in a marquee matchup. Let’s break it down.
NRFI Pick Today: Cubs vs Pirates (-135) at Sportsbook
Cubs vs Pirates Odds -- 6:40 pm ET
This is about as close to a lock as you’ll find for a NRFI bet. The Cubs lead MLB with a stellar 20-9 NRFI record and are riding a streak of four straight games without giving up a first-inning run. Meanwhile, the Pirates aren’t far behind, ranking seventh with a 16-13 NRFI mark.
On the mound, you’ve got Shota Imanaga, who’s been a rock in this spot at 6-1 NRFI this season. On the other side, Andrew Heaney has been just as sharp, boasting a tidy 1.72 ERA across five starts. Both pitchers are more than capable of silencing the bats early, and while the Cubs’ offense has been hot, they’ve struggled to make noise in the opening frame. This one feels like a safe call for NRFI enthusiasts.
NRFI Pick Today: Phillies vs Nationals (-115) at Sportsbook
Phillies vs Nationals Odds -- 6:45 pm ET
If you’re a fan of elite pitching, this is the game for you. Zack Wheeler has been lights-out to start games this season, with a spotless 6-0 NRFI record. He’s allowed just one hit in the first inning all year, striking out five and looking calm under pressure every time he takes the hill.
MacKenzie Gore isn’t far behind, sporting a 1.50 ERA in the opening frame. With both pitchers dealing and the Phillies’ offense struggling for consistency (outside of one blowout game last week), this matchup screams NRFI. Expect a clean, drama-free first inning here.
