Yankees vs. Rays Prediction: Game 2 ALDS Preview

The Tampa Bay Rays lead the series 1-0 heading into Game 2 of the ALDS against the New York Yankees at 8 p.m. ET on Monday at Tropicana Field on TBS.

Check out my Yankees vs. Rays prediction based on the latest MLB odds:

Yankees vs. Rays Prediction for Game 2 ALDS

• Yankees moneyline (-125)

With Cam Schlittler on the mound, I favor the Yankees’ chances of winning Game 2 of the ALDS to even the series before heading to New York.

Schlittler closed as a heavy favorite to win the AL Cy Young trophy in his second MLB campaign, posting a 14-6 record with a 1.95 ERA in 33 starts. He whiffed 239 batters over 193 2/3 innings.

And yet, somehow, Schlittler might be even better in October. He’s developed quite the playoff reputation in just three starts. Schlittler has allowed two earned runs across 20 2/3 innings, whiffing 24 batters and walking one.

Schlittler spun 6 1/3 scoreless frames against the Boston Red Sox in Game 1 of the AL Wild Card. But the way he did it was most impressive. Normally a fastball-heavy pitcher, Schlittler threw a career-high 32 curveballs to throw off the Red Sox’s scouting report.

If Schlittler has his curveball working as well tonight, he could keep the Rays’ lineup off balance in Game 2. Tampa Bay’s .262 wOBA against curveballs was the fifth lowest in the majors this season.

Schlittler can set the tone in Game 2, giving the Yankees a good chance of winning a close one tonight.

Prediction: Yankees moneyline (-125)

Yankees vs. Rays Odds: ALDS, Game 2

• Yankees moneyline: -125
• Rays moneyline: +105
• Total: 6.5