Toronto Blue Jays vs Tampa Bay Rays Picks and Predictions May 14th 2025

Rays Look to Build on Late-Inning Chaos Against Blue Jays

After pulling off one of the most dramatic wins of the season, the Tampa Bay Rays head into Wednesday’s matchup against the Toronto Blue Jays looking to turn momentum into a winning streak.

Caminero’s Slam Flips the Script

Trailing 7-6 in the ninth and staring down Toronto closer Jeff Hoffman, the Rays stunned the Blue Jays with a five-run inning, capped by Junior Caminero’s first career grand slam. The blast came off an elevated slider that Hoffman likely wishes he could take back.

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“It could have been a really frustrating night for us, and the guys stayed at it,”
— Rays manager Kevin Cash

The comeback was especially surprising considering Toronto had a 92.6 percent win probability with one out in the ninth. Rays reliever Mason Montgomery closed the door in the bottom of the frame, retiring Daulton Varsho, who had already hit two homers in the game.

Rays Turn to Pepiot, Jays Counter With Bassitt

Tampa Bay will give the ball to right-hander Ryan Pepiot (2-4, 3.86 ERA), who will make his first career start against Toronto. The Rays are hoping Pepiot can ride the wave of Tuesday’s win and give the bullpen a lighter night after a taxing series opener.

The Blue Jays will counter with Chris Bassitt (3-2, 3.35 ERA), a pitcher who has generally pitched well against Tampa Bay despite a 1-5 record in eight career appearances. Toronto’s offense will need to show more consistency after faltering late.

Hoffman’s Slide Raising Concerns

While John Schneider continues to express trust in his closer, Hoffman’s numbers in May tell another story. He has a 24.75 ERA in six appearances this month after dominating in April. Tuesday’s blown save was his second of the season and exposed vulnerabilities the Rays were quick to exploit.

Toronto has seen leads slip late in recent games, a trend that could jeopardize their push in the AL East. Bettors should take note: with Tampa’s resilience and Hoffman’s struggles, late-inning volatility is becoming a theme in this series. For those tracking MLB Betting Picks and Predictions, this matchup offers prime live-betting opportunities.

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Lineup Notes and Momentum Shifts

The Rays were without Yandy Diaz, who is on the restricted list due to a passport renewal issue. Danny Jansen, facing his former team, homered and extended his on-base streak to 18 games, stepping up when his team needed a boost.

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“It definitely can be a momentum starter,”
— Rays pitcher Mason Montgomery

Expect the Rays to stay aggressive, particularly with their bats showing late-inning life and Toronto’s bullpen in flux.