Tampa Bay Rays vs Toronto Blue Jays Picks and Predictions September 18th 2025

Blue Jays vs Rays Picks and Predictions — September 18, 2025

The Toronto Blue Jays face off against the Tampa Bay Rays on Thursday afternoon at George M. Steinbrenner Field. Toronto (89-63) leads the AL East and has won seven of its last ten despite dropping a close 2-1 contest in the series opener. Tampa Bay (74-78) sits fourth in the division but grabbed momentum with that win, highlighted on the latest MLB scoreboards.

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Opening odds:

• Moneyline: Blue Jays −124, Rays +105
• Runline: Blue Jays −1.5 (+150), Rays +1.5 (−170)
• Total (Over/Under): 8.5 runs

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Blue Jays Can Win If…

• Chris Bassitt gives them length and efficiency. With a 3.90 ERA, he has been a steady middle-rotation arm and can set the tone early.
• Their elite lineup continues producing. Toronto leads MLB in batting average (.269) and on-base percentage (.334). That ability to get runners aboard consistently sets up RBI chances for power bats.
• The stars shine. George Springer (29 HR) and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. (.300 AVG) provide both slugging and contact balance.

“We know our offense can create pressure inning after inning,” Blue Jays staff have emphasized during this playoff push.

Rays Can Win If…

• Shane Baz steps up. With a 5.15 ERA, he has struggled, but Tampa’s overall pitching (10th in ERA, 3.86) has carried them in spots.
• They lean on speed. The Rays lead MLB with 185 stolen bases, creating pressure on opposing defenses even without big power swings.
• Junior Caminero delivers. With 44 home runs (6th in MLB), he has the ability to swing momentum with one swing.

“We know our speed and situational hitting can win us tight games,” Rays coaches stressed after their 2-1 victory.

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The Lean

Pick: Blue Jays Moneyline (−124)
Projected Final Score: Blue Jays 5, Rays 4
Total Lean: Over 8.5

Reasoning: Toronto’s combination of elite contact hitting and power gives them the edge, especially against Baz’s struggles on the mound. The Rays’ speed and Caminero’s bat keep them competitive, but Bassitt and the Jays’ bullpen tilt the matchup. Expect scoring on both sides, with the total pushing over.

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