Rays vs Tigers MLB Player Prop Picks (Jul 8)

First pitch is at 6:40 p.m. ET on FSD/FSDET. The Tampa Bay Rays (49–42) visit the AL Central–leading Detroit Tigers (58–34) looking to bounce back after a tough 5–1 loss on July  7. Detroit rides rookie Keider Montero’s six-inning gem into this one, while Tampa Bay counters with reliable Ryan Pepiot in a prime pitchers’ duel.

• Tigers have won four straight, including a 5–1 win behind Colt Keith’s three extra-base hits.
• Ryan Pepiot (3.34 ERA, 102 K in 102 ⅓ IP) looks to stabilize after a 7 K/6‑ER outing on July 7.
• Jack Flaherty (4.84 ERA, 109 K in 89 ⅓ IP) has struggled in June, giving up 3+ ER in four straight starts.

Tampa Bay Rays Player Prop Pick: Ryan Pepiot

Tampa Bay boasts the 7th-best run differential in MLB and remains near the top in on-base and slugging percentage, even amid a brief slump. Pepiot has been a consistent force, and the Rays lean on offense from Brandon Lowe, who has 19 homers and strong recent power numbers. With Shane McClanahan still sidelined, Pepiot must anchor the rotation again.

• Pepiot averages 8.3 K/9 but has recorded 5 or fewer Ks in 3 of his last 4 outings.
• Tigers are making good contact and don’t chase—he’ll need time to build rhythm.
• A 5+ inning start without K-heavy pitching sets a realistic under.

Detroit Tigers Player Prop Pick: Jack Flaherty

Detroit is rolling behind rookie Montero and All-Star starter Tarik Skubal, who logged 21 Ks in just 13 innings at the end of June. Riley Greene leads the offense in batting average, homers (22), RBI (72), and hits (99), continuing his hot streak. Their bullpen remains strong, backed by multi-inning outings from Holton, Hanifee, and Vest.

• Flaherty has struck out 8+ batters in 3 of his last 11 starts and averages 10.9 K/9.
• The Rays currently rank top‑10 in MLB strikeout rate, enhancing his whiff upside.
• Expect a 5–6 inning outing–a strong setup to clear 7+ Ks.