The New York Yankees and Tampa Bay Rays are set to face off in Game 3 of their four-game series at George M. Steinbrenner Field in Tampa on April 19, 2025, at 4:10 p.m. ET. The Yankees have dominated the series so far, winning the first two games, including a 6-3 victory on April 17.
Team Overview & Season Performance
New York Yankees (13-7, No. 2 in AL East)
- The Yankees have been strong on the road, boasting a 5-3 away record.
- Carlos Carrasco (2-1, 5.94 ERA) will take the mound, looking to bounce back after a shaky start to the season.
- Aaron Judge has been a key offensive force, leading the team in home runs (7) and RBIs (22).
- New York’s pitching staff ranks first in MLB in strikeouts per nine innings (10.4 K/9).
Tampa Bay Rays (8-12, No. 5 in AL East)
- The Rays are on a four-game losing streak, struggling to find consistency.
- Shane Baz (2-0, 1.42 ERA) will start for Tampa Bay, aiming to continue his dominant form after 27 strikeouts in 19⅔ innings.
- Kameron Misner has been a bright spot offensively, contributing with timely hitting.
- Tampa Bay’s pitching staff ranks sixth in MLB in strikeouts per nine innings (9.5 K/9).
Key Matchups & X-Factors
Carlos Carrasco vs. Rays’ Offense
- Carrasco has struggled, allowing 14 earned runs in his last three starts.
- Tampa Bay’s lineup has been inconsistent, ranking 16th in MLB in home runs (20).
- If Carrasco can limit early damage, the Yankees will have a strong chance to secure another win.
Shane Baz vs. Yankees’ Power Hitters
- Baz has been dominant, holding opponents to a .179 batting average.
- The Yankees lead MLB in slugging percentage (.481) and home runs (34).
- If Baz can contain New York’s power, Tampa Bay could keep the game competitive.
Bullpen Battle
- The Yankees’ bullpen has been solid, helping secure close wins.
- Tampa Bay’s relievers need to step up after allowing late-game runs in multiple losses.
- If the Rays’ bullpen remains shaky, the Yankees could capitalize again.
Game Odds
New York Yankees 9
Tampa Bay Rays – 130
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, April 18, 2025
