New York Yankees (73-64) vs Tampa Bay Rays (84-51) MLB Prediction: After a quick stop at Comerica Park in Detroit, the New York Yankees travel south to take on the American League East leading Tampa Bay Rays. With exactly 25 games remaining in the Yankees season, Tuesday’s series opener with the Rays couldn’t hold more importance.

Tonight, starting at 7:10 PM ET the Yanks and the Rays battle it out from Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, FL, as the New York Yankees are +110 betting odds underdogs against Tampa Bay Rays (-130).

In the final month of September, the Yankees and the Rays will meet a total of 6 times. Meanwhile the Yanks and the Red Sox will meet 3 times to close out the regular season. So even though their chances are slim, the bombers have a mathematical chance to sneak into October.

The Yankees have been inconsistent all year with their offense, as they have struggled to score in crucial spots. In Monday’s makeup game against the Tigers, New York broke out and hung a 13-spot on Detroit. However, one thing that has been consistent for NY is their bad pitching (starters and bullpen), as Detroit fought back and scored 9 runs themselves, against Bombers pitching.

Tonight’s game is a must win for the Yankees, in order to keep their playoffs hopes alive. In the opener, RHP Mike Mussina (16-7, 3.41) will get the ball against a sensational youngster, RHP Matt Garza (11-7, 3.53 ERA). The OVER/UNDER in this New York Yankees vs Tampa Bay Rays MLB Prediction has been set at a total of 8½ runs.

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