The 2026 MLB playoffs continue with an exciting matchup as the Tampa Bay Rays host the New York Yankees in Game 2 of the American League Divisional Series on Monday. After a tense Game 1, which the Rays won 1-0 thanks to a homer from Jonathan Aranda, the stakes are high as both teams aim for a crucial victory.

Pitching Matchup:

• New York Yankees: Cam Schlittler (14-6, 1.95 ERA)
• Tampa Bay Rays: Freddy Peralta (10-11, 4.42 ERA)

Game Details:

• Date: Monday
• Time: 8 p.m. ET
• Location: Tropicana Field, St. Petersburg, Fla.

In the regular season, the Rays edged the Yankees with a series record of 7-6. The latest betting odds favor New York at -126 (risk $126 to win $100), with an over/under set at 6.5 runs. The SportsLine Projection Model, which has successfully simulated every MLB game 10,000 times, indicates strong betting insights, having achieved a 31-25 record on top-rated money-line picks, yielding over $900 for $100 players.

Key Insights:

• The model predicts that the total runs will go Over 6.5, as the previous three matchups prior to Game 1 consistently exceeded this mark.
• The Over is 7-1 in New York's last eight games and 5-2 in Tampa's last seven.
• Both pitchers have shown vulnerabilities; Peralta has allowed an .872 OPS against current Yankees batters, while Schlittler struggled in his last outing against the Rays.

With both teams projected to score at least 4.0 runs, the model suggests that the Over will connect in 63% of simulations. For those looking to place a bet, the model indicates a valuable money-line pick available at SportsLine.