If you're going to bet on MLB, you always have to be wary about Tampa Bay, and they're showing why as they had the best record in the majors as of Tuesday. Here's why the New York Yankees have to beware of the Rays this year.

Offense

Right now, the Rays are leading the AL in runs scored, and outside of Evan Longoria and Carlos Pena, Tampa Bay doesn't have anyone you would consistently call a slugger. But they're great on the bases, which allows them to generate runs. The Rays have stolen 25 bases on 38 tries, and four of the times they've been caught came in one game.

Pitching

The Rays also pace the league in ERA, and Matt Garza is off to a flying start. James Shields hasn't been great, but he hasn't been bad, either. Jeff Niemann and Wade Davis have taken care of business in the middle to bottom of the rotation, but the X-factor is David Price, who may be ready to break out this season. The former No.1 overall pick was up and down in his first full year in the big leagues last season, but he could be a star by the end of 2010.

Revenge

The Rays may have been a bit overconfident after their run to the World Series in 2008, and they learned quickly that you can't afford to be complacent in the American League East with the Yankees and Red Sox. The Rays look hungry again, and we all know they have the talent to win, so you have to factor revenge in their online sports betting odds.