Friday’s MLB schedule features several high-caliber pitchers, making May 31 an exciting evening for strikeout prop bettors. Among the standout options, Kodai Senga dominates as a top MLB strikeout prop pick, facing a Rockies lineup vulnerable to strikeouts. Combined with other key pitchers in favorable matchups, tonight’s slate offers both strong opportunities and intriguing underdog plays to consider.
Analyzing Friday’s Leading Strikeout Prop Candidates
Tarik Skubal has showcased exceptional form this season, boasting a 2.49 ERA and an impressive 12.1 strikeouts per nine innings rate. Against the Royals, Skubal’s control and efficiency stand out, having allowed only seven walks in nearly 69 innings pitched. His consistency shines, as he has surpassed 6.5 strikeouts in each of his last six outings, and his low 0.84 WHIP suggests he will maintain dominance deep into the game, making his 7+ strikeout prop highly plausible.
Robbie Ray continues his undefeated run with a 7-0 record and a 2.56 ERA, pairing this with a 9.8 K/9 rate through 63.1 innings pitched. Ray faces the Marlins, a team struggling to handle high-velocity left-handers, ranking among MLB’s poorest in strikeout avoidance against southpaws. His solid WHIP of 1.15 and ability to navigate trouble elevates the chances for another strong strikeout showing, making the over on his strikeout line an appealing bet.
Dylan Cease’s season has been marked by volatility, carrying a 4.58 ERA and 1.25 WHIP over 59 innings. Although his strikeout rate remains strong at 11.0 per nine innings, his lack of consistency has limited him to surpassing 7.5 strikeouts in just three of eleven starts. Facing a more patient Pirates lineup that has improved plate discipline, Cease is likely to face challenges in reaching his strikeout target, making an under bet on his strikeouts a reasonable option tonight.
Kodai Senga’s Exceptional Strikeout Potential Highlighted
Kodai Senga has been a dominant force throughout the 2025 season, holding a minuscule 1.46 ERA in 55.2 innings pitched. His arsenal, particularly his signature forkball, keeps hitters off balance and generates ample swings and misses. Averaging 8.4 strikeouts per nine innings, Senga faces a Rockies team notorious for high strikeout rates against right-handed pitchers, especially on the road. Given this matchup, Senga’s strikeout prop pick is one of the most reliable plays on the board this Friday night.
Nick Lodolo’s Strikeout Output Faces Challenges at Wrigley Field
Nick Lodolo has put together a steady season with a 3.39 ERA and a 7.8 K/9 rate but has struggled with consistency on the road. His upcoming start at Wrigley Field, a notoriously hitter-friendly park, complicates his ability to accumulate strikeouts. Notably, the Cubs have reduced their strikeout rate in recent weeks, particularly against left-handers like Lodolo. Against this backdrop, betting the under on his strikeout total presents significant value given the improved plate discipline and venue factors.
What These Strikeout Props Mean for Bettors Tonight
With several high-strikeout pitchers facing vulnerable lineups on May 31, this night offers a wealth of opportunities for MLB strikeout prop betting enthusiasts. Kodai Senga’s dominant MLB strikeout prop pick stands out as a clear favorite, while opportunities to fade or back unders exist in certain matchups where hitters are trending better. How these performances unfold could heavily influence weekend betting strategies, with bettors advised to monitor conditions and odds that may shift as game time approaches.