Toronto Blue Jays vs Tampa Bay Rays Picks and Predictions May 15th 2025

Blue Jays Aim to Rise Above .500 in Series Finale vs. Rays

For the first time in nearly a month, the Toronto Blue Jays have a shot at pushing their record above .500. Standing at 21-21, the Jays will host the Tampa Bay Rays in the rubber match of their three-game set on Thursday afternoon.

Wednesday night’s 3-1 win was highlighted by a clutch three-run homer from Alejandro Kirk, breaking a scoreless tie in the sixth inning and swinging momentum back to the Jays.

With five wins in their past six games, Toronto is quietly starting to climb. And if you’re following the numbers, don’t miss out on the updated MLB Odds Page for betting value in today’s matchup.

Pitching Preview: Gausman vs. Littell

Toronto will roll out Kevin Gausman (3-3, 3.97 ERA) for the series finale. The veteran right-hander has been reliable, and in 23 career outings versus Tampa Bay, he owns a solid 8-8 record and a 3.76 ERA.

Gausman is tasked with holding down a Rays offense that exploded for 11 runs Tuesday but was limited to just one on Wednesday.

Tampa Bay counters with Zack Littell (2-5, 4.40 ERA), who’s quietly been dominant against the Blue Jays in his limited exposure. Across two starts, Littell has thrown 11.2 scoreless innings, and in four total appearances, he’s held Toronto to a 3.38 ERA.

Looking for expert predictions on this pitching duel? Head to our MLB Picks Page for a breakdown.

Rays Still Searching for Stability

The Tampa Bay Rays (19-23) are in the unusual position of chasing .500. After Tuesday’s wild 11-9 win, they looked poised to take control of the series. But Ryan Pepiot’s sixth-inning hiccup Wednesday proved costly.

Pepiot’s 0-2 mistake to Kirk—a fastball left over the heart of the plate—was the difference. He also walked Vladimir Guerrero Jr. earlier in the inning after getting ahead 0-2.

“He just didn’t get it high enough,” Rays manager Kevin Cash said. “And walking Vladdy? That’s one you want back.”

Even Pepiot admitted the mistake: “It was right in the middle. That’s what happens.”

Keep tabs on team trends and postseason paths on the MLB Team Page.

Blue Jays Chemistry Driving Recent Wins

While Toronto’s offense hasn’t always been electric, the vibe inside the dugout has been a major factor. Alejandro Kirk emphasized how team chemistry and confidence have elevated the club’s recent performances.

“This isn’t about talent,” Kirk said. “It’s about the way we’re playing. We’re sticking together in any situation.”

Manager John Schneider echoed that sentiment, praising the Jays’ ability to stay connected even when games aren’t going their way.

“When you do it once, you feel like you can do it again,” Schneider said. “And that’s powerful.”

Explore more player stats and club momentum with our Expert Betting Guide.

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FAQs

What is the Blue Jays’ record right now?
They’re 21-21 and could move above .500 for the first time since April 21.

Who’s starting for Toronto in the series finale?
Kevin Gausman, who is 8-8 with a 3.76 ERA in his career vs. the Rays.

How have the Rays performed this season?
They’re currently 19-23 and still searching for consistency.

Who hit the big home run in Game 2?
Alejandro Kirk, who drove in all three runs with a clutch shot in the sixth inning.

What’s Zack Littell’s record vs. the Blue Jays?
He’s 1-0 with a 3.38 ERA in four appearances, and has thrown 11.2 scoreless innings in two starts.

Where can I find more MLB game previews and betting tips?
Head over to our MLB Picks Page for expert analysis and projections.