Event: Wed, Apr 29 · 2:36 PM EDT
The Yankees' balanced attack and Schlittler's sharp start make New York the clear pregame favorite over a hobbled Rangers squad.
New York Yankees Moneyline (-120)
Rookie Cam Schlittler has been a revelation for New York, limiting opponents to 1 ER or fewer in four of six starts. His 1.77 ERA ranks third in the AL, and his ground-ball-heavy approach (58% GB%) matches up well against a Rangers offense hitting just .216 at home. Meanwhile, Jacob deGrom’s 2.13 ERA is inflated by a 1.85 FIP—his peripherals suggest regression. The Yankees' lineup, led by Judge’s 2-game HR streak and a .312 ISO (4th in MLB), should exploit deGrom’s 4.12 BB/9 and recent struggles against LHBs.
The -120 line reflects reasonable value given Schlittler’s consistency and Texas’ injuries (Freeman, Langford on IL). While deGrom’s track record is elite, his 5.2-inning, 1 ER performance vs. Pittsburgh shows his velocity is still settling. The Yankees’ 19-10 start (best in AL) and +15 run differential vs. the Rangers’ -11 suggest this matchup tilts sharply in New York’s favor.
Schlittler has never faced the Rangers, and his 6.2% walk rate could invite longball trouble. However, his 13.1% chase rate and 30.5% groundball rate mitigate hard-contact risks against Texas’ .289 xwOBA (25th in AL).