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Rays vs. Cardinals prediction: Tampa Bay favored to win MLB Opening Day matchup [3/26/2026]
Updated: | First published:
Written by Dave Garofolo, Content Producer
Get Tampa Bay Rays vs St. Louis Cardinals predictions for MLB Thursday.
The St. Louis Cardinals will take on the Tampa Bay Rays on Opening Day of the 2022 MLB season at Busch Stadium on Thursday, starting at 4:15 PM ET.
The Cardinals will start Matthew Liberatore (0-0, 0.00 ERA), while the Rays have opted for Drew Rasmussen (0-0, 0.00 ERA).
Based on updated simulations, Dimers' new and improved MLB model gives the Rays a slight edge with a 53% win probability over the Cardinals.
This article offers a closer look at Thursday's Rays vs. Cardinals matchup, including best bets and picks.
Rays vs. Cardinals prediction: Who will win on MLB Opening Day?
Using powerful machine learning and data analysis, we have simulated the result of Thursday's MLB matchup between the Rays and Cardinals, forming part of our MLB predictions coverage.
Our leading predictive model currently gives the Rays a 53% chance of defeating the Cardinals.
According to our model, the Cardinals (+1.5) have a 60% chance of covering the run line, while the over/under total of eight runs has a 55% chance of going over.
Rays vs. Cardinals odds [3/26/2026]
We have researched the best MLB odds in America for this game, which are listed here:
| Bet Type | Rays | Cardinals |
|---|---|---|
| Run Line | -1.5 (+126) | +1.5 (-143) |
| Moneyline | -134 | +115 |
| Total | o8 (-108) | u8 (-108) |
All odds are correct at the time of publication and are subject to change.
Rays vs. Cardinals picks and best bet
After matching our predictions against the best available odds, we can reveal our picks for each of the major markets. Plus, find our best bet for the game below:
| Bet Type | Pick | Bet Now |
|---|---|---|
| Run Line | Cardinals +1.5 | -143 |
| Moneyline | Cardinals | +115 |
| Total | Over 8 | -108 |
According to our best MLB bets, the top play to make on this game is Over 8 total runs.
These picks are based on our probabilities matched against the implied probabilities from the sportsbook odds.
Rays vs. Cardinals game-day updates and essential details
Thursday's MLB action between the Cardinals and Rays at Busch Stadium is scheduled to start at 4:15 PM ET.
- Who: Tampa Bay Rays vs. St. Louis Cardinals
- Date: Thursday, March 26, 2026
- Time: 4:15 PM ET/1:15PM PT
- Venue: Busch Stadium
Conclusion
We predict the Rays, with a 53% win probability, will likely beat the Cardinals on Thursday.
AI and automation have enhanced this article to quickly deliver accurate Rays vs. Cardinals insights, with human oversight ensuring high editorial quality. Our predictions are sourced from up-to-date data to help you make informed decisions. For additional resources and advice, head to our responsible gambling hub.
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Dave Garofolo uses sophisticated AI-driven analytics to make predictions and evaluate player performances in the NBA, MLB, NFL, NHL, NCAAM, and PGA TOUR tournaments, crafting insightful game and prop previews.
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