Rockies vs Rays Picks and Prediction – 3/28/2025

The Colorado Rockies open the 2025 MLB regular season on the road Friday in game one of a three-game series against the Tampa Bay Rays. Colorado is expected to win just 57 games, with a 0.1% chance of the playoffs and 0.0% chance of reaching the World Series. Colorado is in a division loaded with better teams and may end up at the bottom of the barrel at season's end. Keep up to date with all the MLB action with our MLB picks.

Colorado lacks any real superstars on the roster. Center fielder Brenton Doyle is likely the Rockies’ most important player. The outfielder has two Gold Gloves and had 23 home runs and 30 stolen bases last season. A 30-30 season is within reach in 2025. On Friday, Colorado will send Kyle Freeland to the mound. In 2024, the lefthander was 5-8 with a 5.24 ERA, 85 Ks, and 26 BBs.

The Tampa Bay Rays completed their 2024 regular season 80-82, missing the postseason. Tampa Bay is in a unique situation as they are unable to use Tropicana Park and will play their home games at the New York Yankees spring training Ballpark on George Steinbrenner Field. Pitching is Tampa Bay’s strength, with Drew Rasmussen and Shane McClanahan leading the way, but McClanahan will start the season on the injured list. 

The lineup, which was limited by several injuries last season, is led by Brandon Lowe, Jonathan Aranda, Christopher Morel, and Josh Lowe, amongst others. Junior Caminero is expected to be one of Tampa Bay’s best players. Ryan Pepiot will start on opening day for Tampa Bay. Last season, the right-hander was 8-8 with a 3.60 ERA, 142 Ks, and 48 BBs.

Tampa Bay will play the season in its temporary ballpark, but the Rays should not have a problem winning against a Colorado side that is not expected to contend for a postseason berth. Tampa Bay has most of its talented lineup healthy to start the season, with familiar faces such as Brandon Lowe returning, as well as new faces that bring plenty of talent to the table. Final Score Prediction, Tampa Bay Rays win 5-2.