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Preview: Rockies (11-10) at Padres (11-12)
Game: 1
Venue: PETCO Park
Date: May 01, 2015 10:10 PM EDT

The only time the San Diego Padres flexed some offensive muscle during a dreadful eight-game stretch was squandered by Ian Kennedy's worst outing in nearly two years.

Looking to redeem himself and put the Padres back on track after a string of poor showings, Kennedy will take the hill Friday against a Colorado Rockies team that pushed San Diego into its losing ways.

The Padres (11-12) have dropped seven of their last eight games, scoring more than four runs only once in that span with an 11-8 loss to the Los Angeles Dodgers on Saturday. Kennedy (0-1, 10.80 ERA) allowed eight earned runs over 4 1-3 innings in his least effective start since surrendering 10 runs on June 6, 2013.

Although San Diego followed that defeat with a 3-1 win against the Dodgers, both the team's pitching and hitting have disappeared in the three games since. The Padres scored 3.0 runs per game while allowing 10.0 in a three-game sweep at home against Houston.

Andrew Cashner surrendered only two earned runs through seven innings Wednesday, but San Diego's bullpen fell apart late in a 7-2 loss.

"It's been a tough month," Cashner said. "We've hit when we haven't pitched, we've pitched when we haven't hit. It's a tough first month, but we're one game under .500. Considering the teams I've been on here, it's a positive start.

"This team's better than we've been playing, definitely. You've yet to see us pitch the way we're capable of pitching."

The opponent that sparked San Diego's poor play was Colorado (11-10), which took the last two of a four-game series April 20-23. The Rockies have treaded water since with two wins in five games after being outscored 21-6 in back-to-back losses to Arizona on Tuesday and Wednesday.

"You know, it's the cycles of a season," Rockies manager Walt Weiss told MLB's official website. "We had a period already where we lost five straight. We bounced back from that. It happens to every club. Nobody is exempt from the rough spots of the season."

Troy Tulowitzki continued his solid hitting in spite of the series loss, going 6 for 17 in his last four games with a 1.036 OPS. Charlie Blackmon is 9 for 24 (.375) over his last five. They combined for six hits - four for extra bases - in four games with San Diego but were outshined by Corey Dickerson, who went 4 for 9 with three home runs.

Eddie Butler (2-1, 3.27), who did not pitch in that series, takes the hill for the Rockies to open this three-game set. The 24-year-old tossed six innings and allowed a season-high in hits (nine) and runs (four) on April 24, yet earned the win in a 6-4 victory against San Francisco.

Colorado's bullpen, which worked three scoreless innings in that win, has been shaky in four games since, allowing 10 earned runs in 16 2-3 innings. The absence of closer Adam Ottavino figures into those struggles and he remains on the DL with right triceps inflammation.

San Diego's Wil Myers went 6 for 18 against the Rockies and is 7 for 22 with two home runs and six runs scored in his last five games overall. Justin Upton has only three hits in his last five contests - all home runs.

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Preview: Angels (10-11) at Giants (9-13)
Game: 1
Venue: AT&T Park
Date: May 01, 2015 10:15 PM EDT

While C.J. Wilson will start five days after having fluid drained from his elbow, he might not have Albert Pujols around to provide any run support.

Not that Pujols' early season struggles have provided much of that, but the Los Angeles Angels' lineup needed all the help it could get in a disappointing April.

The light-hitting Angels showed positive signs in their first game without the slugger and will hope for better as the calendar turns to May on Friday night in San Francisco, as will the low-scoring Giants.

Pujols, who hit .208 in his worst April ever, missed Thursday's 6-5 win at Oakland and is day to day because of a hamstring injury.

As a result, Mike Trout moved to the third spot in the lineup and Kole Calhoun hit cleanup. Both had two hits, and Calhoun backed up manager Mike Scioscia's move with three RBIs.

The right fielder is batting .405 in his last nine games after the Angels (11-11) matched their top run production over a 5-3 span. The 12-hit effort gave Los Angeles a season-high .232 average, but it was the Angels' worst April since batting .231 in 1995.

"Out of all the guys you'd want to hit behind Mike, right now it's Kole," Scioscia told MLB's official website. "... It's a deviation from what we really want to do in our lineup, but I think the circumstances are very clear. Right now, there's a lot of guys trying to find their game. And with Albert out of the lineup, we have to make some adjustments."

It could continue with Trout versus San Francisco (9-13), against which the MVP is 7 for 13. In NL parks, Trout (50 for 125) and Calhoun (10 for 25) are .400 hitters.

Wilson's last start came two days after his scheduled spot in the rotation because of elbow soreness, but he isn't concerned it'll become an ongoing issue after allowing a run and seven hits in 5 2-3 innings of Saturday's 4-1 win over Texas.

"None. There's a formula," said Wilson (1-2, 3.12 ERA), who didn't earn the decision. "I know what to do. We know what the process needs to be. If we just stick to that process, we'll be fine."

The left-hander has labored in his last nine interleague starts despite a 5-2 record, posting a 4.39 ERA dating to a win over the Giants in 2012. It was his only time facing San Francisco and he's never pitched at AT&T Park.

The Giants are opening a 10-game homestand after concluding a trying April with Wednesday's 7-3 loss to the Los Angeles Dodgers. San Francisco is scoring 3.00 runs per game, which ranks ahead of only Philadelphia. It's been even worse at home (2.60).

Buster Posey has started to come around with six hits in four games, but he's a .203 career hitter against the AL.

On the mound, Chris Heston needs a bounce-back effort after his worst start in the majors. Heston (2-2, 2.77) limited opponents to a .203 average with two earned runs in his first three outings before allowing six runs and 11 hits in 5 1-3 innings of last Friday's 6-4 loss in Colorado.

"A lot of balls were up," said the right-hander, who has never faced the AL. "Sinker was up tonight and the breaking balls were up. They made me pay when I left them up there."

The Angels have won six of seven in the series and five straight in San Francisco. The clubs haven't played there since 2009.

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Preview: Nationals (9-13) at Mets (15-7)
Game: 2
Venue: Citi Field
Date: May 01, 2015 7:10 PM EDT

Matt Harvey has received generous run support during his return from Tommy John surgery but hasn't usually needed too much help when he's faced the Washington Nationals.

The Nationals, though, have been locked in at the plate and will try to spoil Harvey's attempt to improve to 5-0 in a tantalizing pitching matchup with Max Scherzer on Friday night.

While he's done his part with a 3.04 ERA, Harvey has gotten 26 runs from the Mets (15-8) in his four starts. He finished one out shy of his second career complete game in Saturday's 8-2 win against the New York Yankees, yielding two runs and striking out seven.

"The biggest help was the run support and getting a little bit more comfortable out there," Harvey said.

The right-hander has 31 strikeouts to three walks and fanned nine while issuing one free pass in his highly anticipated season debut April 9 against Washington, a 6-3 win in the nation's capital.

Harvey pitched six scoreless innings and struck out nine to improve to 2-1 with a 0.82 ERA in five starts against the Nationals (10-13). That ERA is his second-lowest versus any NL opponent behind a 0.60 mark in two games against Colorado.

He'll try to become the first in the majors to reach five wins and the first Mets starter to win his first five outings since Pedro Martinez in 2006. Harvey won his first four starts and first five decisions in 2013.

Washington heads into this matchup after scoring 34 runs and batting .350 in three consecutive wins. It had 12 hits in an 8-2 victory Thursday that ended the Mets' 10-0 start at home.

Bryce Harper is 5 for 12 with four doubles in the past three games and drove in three runs Thursday. However, he's 0 for 10 with five strikeouts against Harvey.

The Nationals hit .189 and scored 14 runs while dropping their previous six.

"It's just the law of averages, I guess. That's why we play six months," first baseman Ryan Zimmerman said. "I think everyone knew we weren't going to score two runs per game for the whole season. It evens out in the end. We just have to keep working hard like we do every day."

Scherzer (1-2, 1.26) hasn't seen that kind of performance at the plate in most of his four starts. He has gotten 11 runs of support with seven coming in a win against Philadelphia on April 17.

Scherzer yielded two runs in seven innings in his latest start April 23, a 4-1 loss to St. Louis. He was scratched Tuesday because of an ailing right thumb which he hurt while batting, but manager Matt Williams said the right-hander felt good after throwing on flat ground Wednesday.

Scherzer is 2-1 with a 2.22 ERA in four starts against the Mets and was charged with three unearned runs over 7 2-3 innings in a season-opening 3-1 loss.

Nationals center fielder Denard Span, 7 for 14 with two homers and four doubles in the last three games, might sit out Friday because of general soreness. He was lifted after five innings Thursday.

SERIES AT A GLANCE

GAME 1
Nationals at Mets 8 - 2
Thu, Apr 30 - 7:10PM EDT

Boxscores • Recaps
GAME 2
Nationals at Mets
Fri, May 1 - 7:10PM EDT

GAME 3
Nationals at Mets
Sat, May 2 - 7:10PM EDT

GAME 4
Nationals at Mets
Sun, May 3 - 1:10PM EDT

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Preview: Wild (46-28) at Blackhawks (48-28)

Date: May 01, 2015 9:30 PM EDT

CHICAGO (AP) - Five games in 2013, a small speed bump in Chicago's run to the Stanley Cup title. Six games in 2014, a more difficult challenge for the Blackhawks.

Now the Minnesota Wild are in the second round for the second straight postseason, and standing in the way is their usual playoff roadblock. And even they are interested to see how they respond, beginning with Game 1 on Friday night in Chicago.

'We think we're in a better place, but we won't know until after,' coach Mike Yeo said. 'All we have is an opportunity to keep pushing and prove that we are better and that we're up to the task of knocking off a great hockey team.'

Minnesota was in a bad spot during a six-game slide in January that dropped the Wild to 18-19-5. But a trade for goaltender Devan Dubnyk fueled a resurgence that continued with a six-game victory over St. Louis in the first round of the playoffs.

With a deep group of forwards and Dubnyk on the best run of his career, the Wild are looking forward to measuring their progress against one of the league's traditional powers.

'They've been the team to beat, them and L.A., in the Western Conference, they've been the teams to beat the last couple of years,' winger Zach Parise said. 'When you get a chance, yeah, you see where you're at. If you want to get out of the West, you have to beat them.'

Chicago is going for its third Stanley Cup championship since 2010. It made it all the way to the conference finals a year ago, but its title defense ended with an epic seven-game loss to the eventual champion Kings.

Fast forward to this season, and the Blackhawks stumbled into the playoffs on a four-game losing streak. But they got Patrick Kane back from a broken collarbone in time for the series opener against Nashville, and their best players rose to the occasion once again in a six-game victory over the Predators.

Jonathan Toews is tied for the NHL lead with eight points in the playoffs, and defensemen Duncan Keith and Brent Seabrook each made a couple of big plays in the first round. Mix in more brilliance from Marian Hossa and Kane's offensive presence, and the Blackhawks had enough to overcome a small goaltender controversy that concluded with starter Corey Crawford back in the net.

'In the Nashville series, I think we snuck out some games there, but for the most part we improved in a lot of areas and I think that's good news for us, but we're excited for the challenge,' Toews said.

Here are a few more things to watch when the Wild and Blackhawks meet:

THOSE SPECIAL, SPECIAL TEAMS: Minnesota leads the NHL in power-play percentage through the first round of the postseason, converting four of its 12 tries against St. Louis. Chicago allowed a league-worst six power-play goals against Nashville. Special teams, always a crucial part of the playoffs, could take on added importance in this series between familiar foes.

STOPPING BRYAN BICKELL: For all the talk about Toews, Kane and the rest of Chicago's biggest stars, Bryan Bickell has really hurt the Wild over the years. The rugged winger had four goals and two assists in last year's playoff series against Minnesota, and then collected four goals and an assist in five games versus the Wild this season.

When Bickell is playing well, he gives Chicago a physical presence in front of the net. If Dubnyk has any difficulty with rebound control, Bickell could present a problem for Minnesota.

'With Dubnyk in the net, he's a 6-foot-5-plus goalie who can see over - you name it,' Bickell said. 'We need to get traffic and hopefully we get opportunities that way.'

HOME SWEET HOME: The Blackhawks are 22-4 in their last 26 home playoff games, outscoring their opponents 88-54 in that stretch. The Wild are winless in six postseason games at Chicago, managing just eight goals in those losses.

Minnesota, which won at St. Louis in Game 2 of the first round, will need at least one road win to move on. The good news for the Wild is they were successful on their last trip to the Windy City, with Dubnyk making 32 saves in a 2-1 victory on April 7.

'It's not a secret, we haven't had any success there in the playoffs the last couple of years,' Parise said. 'It is a hard building. But like we've said the last little while and the last round, we've been playing well on the road. That's a good sign for us.'

MISSING VANEK: Thomas Vanek helped Montreal make it to the Eastern Conference finals a year ago, finishing with five goals and five assists in 17 playoff games. The winger then signed a $19.5 million, three-year deal with Minnesota, but managed just two assists in the first round against the Blues. Getting the veteran scorer untracked against the Blackhawks would provide a big lift for the Wild.

Notes: The Blackhawks said forward Kris Versteeg was out day-to-day with a lower-body injury that is 'not serious,' coach Joel Quenneville said following Thursday's practice. ... Chicago forward Daniel Carcillo, who had a concussion, was cleared to play. He skated in only three of the final 25 regular-season games, and didn't play against Nashville.

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May Pitchers Report

April 29, 2015

For baseball purists, May is simply the 2nd month of the 2015 MLB season. But for die-hard baseball fans, namely those who enjoy handicapping America’s pastime, it signals our annual May Good Month/Bad Month pitchers report.

Listed below are hurlers that have enjoyed a two-to-one or better success ratio in team-starts over the course of the last three seasons during the month of May. On the flip side, we've also listed pitchers that struggle in April, winning 33% percent or less of their team-start efforts. To qualify pitchers must have made a minimum of 10 starts, with at least one start each April over the last three years. And for your convenience alongside each record we break down each pitcher’s greatest success or greatest failure rate either home (H) or away (A) within his good or bad month.

Note: * designates a categorical repeat appearance by this pitcher, maintaining status quo from last season’s May list.

GOOD MONTH PITCHERS:

Bailey, Homer - 12-6 (7-0 H)

The Reds right-hander will start the month on the DL with a with a right elbow ligament sprain. This is coming off September surgery that repaired a torn flexor mass tendon in the same elbow. When right, Bailey has two good fastballs he can work either corner and go up or down the ladder. His splitter is one hitter’s will chase with two strikes.

*Buehrle, Mark - 15-2 (8-1 H)

The Toronto lefty continues to pitch well early in the season when he’s at his strongest now that he’s 35 years old. Buehrle has never thrown hard and his best fastball today might reach 85 MPH on a hot day, but he’s a craftsman working both sides of the plate.

*Cain, Matt - 12-2 (6-1 A)

The former ace of the San Francisco staff began playing catch on April 28th as he works his way back from a flexor tendon strain in his throwing arm. Cain has not pitched since spring training, and had an injury-plagued 2014 season come to an end with August elbow surgery to remove bone chips. His return is unknown.

*Cobb, Alex - 7-3 (3-1 A)

The 27-year-old right-hander has been sidelined with forearm tendinitis since March 17 and late in April tossed 21 pitches with no problem. He will continue rehab and if all goes well could be back later in May.

Lynn, Lance - 12-5 (8-2 H)

Lynn has inconspicuously become one of the best No. 2 starters in the National League. His trade skill is pounding the strike zone and he cuts his fastball to RH hitters. His big looping curveball will freeze opposing batters.

Sale, Chris - 10-1 (5-0 A)

Only 25, the White Sox left-hander has a herky-jerky delivery, hides the ball expertly and dives towards batters at the end of his delivery. His low to mid-90’s fastball commands both sides of the dish and varies the speed of his slider. A tough customer to face.

*Scherzer, Max - 13-4 (8-2 A)

The high-priced Washington ace has not been quite as advertised just yet, but has been known to heat up like the weather. In today’s world Scherzer is a workhorse and intelligently uses his variety of pitches to be able to confound opposing hitters even their third or fourth time at bat.

* Vogelsong, Ryan (12-4 (5-1 A)

At 37, Vogelsong’s best days are behind him, but with the Giants scrambling for starting pitching, he will again fit nicely in the back of the rotation. As long as the Charlotte native keeps the ball low, a quality start is possible.

Weaver, Jered - 10-2 (5-1 A)

Like Buehrle, Weaver lacks the big fastball, but survives on guile and knowing how to pitch, which is actually his best trait. When spots the fastball all his off-speed pitches are that much more effective.

BAD MONTH PITCHERS:

*Chacin, Jhoulys - 1-10 (0-5 A)

Was surprisingly cut by Colorado in April and signed a minor league deal with Cleveland on April 24th. Could be brought up in May or June if Indians need a warm body to start.

Correia, Kevin 5-11 - (2-5 H)

With San Francisco starting pitching woes, signed minor league deal in early April and could be called up if effective or if the Giants need a fifth starter.

Haren, Dan 6-12 - (3-8 A)

Haren used to throw low 90’s, not anymore and his off-speed breaking pitches and splitter are flatter compared to years gone by. They are all among the reasons his May record is terrible and his career is heading south at 34.

*Jackson, Edwin - 3-12 (1-8 A)

Moved to the Cubs bullpen and will be available as a spot starter. Would have been traded but current contract is unworkable for suitors.

Kennedy, Ian - 5-11 (2-6 A)

For Kennedy to be effective his mechanics have to be right or he tends to keep everything up in the zone. With already one trip to the DL this campaign, it is hard to imagine when the righty will rediscover his ability to keep the ball down.

Lincecum, Tim - 6-12 (4-8 H)

The two-time Cy Young winner has lost five MPH on his fastball and breaking pitches since 2011, which is precisely why he’s not the same pitcher he used to be. Unfortunately, getting your haircut does not make you throw harder.

*Lohse, Kyle - 5-11 (3-7 A)

Lohse is more of a feel pitcher and past May’s have shown he has not felt well. It has been even worse this season to date with gargantuan 7.28 ERA to start this month. Rest assured, playing for this Milwaukee bunch will not lead to more success.

*Nolasco, Ricky - 6-12 (3-7 A)

Been on the DL since April 9 with right elbow inflammation but pitched five innings, giving up one unearned run on three hits with five strikeouts on April 27th. The Twins management will decide the plan for Nolasco going forward and if he'll need another rehab start. Should be with Minnesota soon but not near the pitcher he was in Miami.

[StarDust Bum]

Preview: Mariners (10-12) at Astros (15-7)
Game: 2
Venue: Minute Maid Park
Date: May 01, 2015 8:10 PM EDT

Heading into May, the Houston Astros are tied for the best record in the American League.

They'll look to continue their surge while trying to win eight straight for the first time in seven seasons Friday night against the visiting Seattle Mariners.

The majors' biggest surprise, Houston (15-7) has joined reigning league champion Kansas City atop the AL while sharing the second-best mark in baseball. The Astros' win total for April is their most for the month since posting 16 in 2006, and their .682 winning percentage is the best since going 14-6 (.700) in 1986.

'The last week and a half, it has been good magic,' infielder Marwin Gonzalez said. 'We have come back over and over and are playing real good baseball. It's exciting.'

A winner in 11 of 12, Houston can win eight in a row for the first time since Aug. 27-Sept. 3, 2008, after pulling out a 3-2, 10-inning victory over Seattle (10-12) on Thursday.

"We got the team to do it," said star second baseman Jose Altuve, whose third hit of the night drove home the winning run. "We're going to do everything we can to win."

Altuve continues to do his part, batting .487 (19 for 39) with nine RBIs while recording at least two hits in eight consecutive contests - one shy of matching the club record shared by Jesus Alou (1969) and Billy Hatcher (1987). He's hit .429 with five doubles and eight RBIs in his last eight against the Mariners.

Winners in four straight and eight of nine against the AL West, the Astros are 11-5 within the division.

They'll try to continue that success behind Samuel Deduno (0-0, 2.89 ERA), who makes his first start after five relief appearances. The right-hander, who went 2-4 with a 5.91 ERA while making eight starts with Minnesota and one for Houston in 2014, gets this shot after Asher Wojciechowski was demoted to Triple-A Fresno.

"It's nice though that Sammy gets a chance to start," Astros general manager Jeff Luhnow told MLB's official website. "We don't want that long (reliever) role to be a place where you don't have a shot to get to the rotation."

Deduno hasn't disappointed as a starter versus Seattle, going 3-1 with a 1.38 ERA.

Austin Jackson, however, is 5 for 14 with a homer against him. Jackson had three of his team's 11 hits Thursday, but Seattle's three-game winning streak ended after it did not score after the first inning.

Teammate Roenis Elias (0-0, 3.18) walked six but posted a 1.59 ERA while not factoring in the decision of two 2014 starts against the Astros that came at home.

Called up to make his 2015 debut in place of the injured Hisashi Iwakuma, the left-hander allowed two runs, six hits, walked three and struck out six in 5 2-3 innings of a 4-2, 11-inning loss to Minnesota on Sunday.

"Started to get in a rhythm as the game went along," Elias said. "Obviously, it's the first start of the year and just wanted to help the team get a win. I got comfortable as the game went along.

"The changeup and the curveball were working really well, I just have to work on the command of my fastball a little more."

Altuve's only hit in six at_bats versus Elias left the park.


SERIES AT A GLANCE

GAME 1
Mariners at Astros
Thu, Apr 30 Final 2 to 3

Boxscores
GAME 2
Mariners at Astros
Fri, May 1 - 8:10PM EDT

GAME 3
Mariners at Astros
Sat, May 2 - 7:10PM EDT

GAME 4
Mariners at Astros
Sun, May 3 - 2:10PM EDT

[StarDust Bum]

Preview: White Sox (8-11) at Twins (10-12)
Game: 2
Venue: Target Field
Date: May 01, 2015 8:10 PM EDT

The Minnesota Twins haven't had much success against Jose Quintana in recent years, though they're likely feeling confident after an offensive outburst against one of baseball's top pitchers.

Minnesota will try to put up another big number Friday night against the visiting Chicago White Sox.

The Twins (10-12) have hit .290 while winning four of six and had 13 hits in Thursday's series-opening 12-2 victory, including nine in three innings against Chris Sale. Minnesota totaled 12 runs in dropping two of three at Chicago from April 10-12.

"Hitting is contagious," Sale said. "You give a team like that energy, and they're going to roll with it. And that's what they did."

Joe Mauer had three hits and drove in two runs for the second straight game. He has hit .411 with 12 extra-base hits and 15 RBIs in his last 18 home games against the White Sox (8-11).

Brian Dozier was 2 for 5 with a homer and four RBIs, improving to 6 for 19 with two home runs and six RBIs against Chicago this season. He's 12 for 63 (.190) with no homers and four RBIs against other teams.

Quintana (1-1, 6.55 ERA) was shelled for a career-worst nine runs over four-plus innings in a 9-1 loss at Detroit on April 19 but bounced back last Friday by holding Kansas City to two runs over seven in a suspended game Chicago won 3-2 on Sunday.

The left-hander struggled initially against Minnesota, going 0-2 with a 9.15 ERA in his first four meetings. He's 3-0 with a 1.91 ERA in his last six, however, and struck out a career-high 13 in a 5-1 victory Sept. 13.

Mauer is 9 for 21 with two homers against Quintana, while Dozier is 5 for 25 with seven strikeouts.

Chicago had 12 hits Thursday but stranded 10 men and scored fewer than four runs for the fourth time in five games. Manager Robin Ventura was more bothered by the team's sloppy defense, as the White Sox committed two errors and have five in the last four games.

"We also didn't help (Sale)," Ventura said. "We haven't been sharp defensively the last three games. Any time you give them more opportunities, you put a guy in a bind."

Kyle Gibson (1-2, 4.84) has been erratic for the Twins, allowing nine earned runs over 8 2-3 innings in his two losses. He comes off a solid outing, though, limiting Seattle to two runs over seven-plus in a 4-2 win in 11 on Sunday.

Gibson has won his last three home starts while posting a 2.75 ERA. He had been 5-6 with a 5.32 ERA in his first 16 outings at Target Field.

The right-hander hasn't had a chance to face Chicago at home, going 1-0 with a 4.26 ERA in two games at U.S. Cellular Field. Five of the six runs he gave up in 12 2-3 innings came on three homers.

Jose Abreu has a hit in all 10 career games at Target Field, going 14 for 41 (.341) with 10 RBIs after driving in a run Thursday.

Kurt Suzuki has hit .397 with 16 RBIs in 18 games against the White Sox since joining the Twins prior to last season.


SERIES AT A GLANCE

GAME 1
White Sox at Twins
Thu, Apr 30 Final 2 to 12
Boxscores • Recaps

GAME 2
White Sox at Twins
Fri, May 1 - 8:10PM EDT

GAME 3
White Sox at Twins
Sat, May 2 - 2:10PM EDT

GAME 4
White Sox at Twins
Sun, May 3 - 2:10PM EDT

[StarDust Bum]

Preview: Tigers (15-8) at Royals (15-7)
Game: 2
Venue: Ewing M. Kauffman Stadium
Date: May 01, 2015 8:10 PM EDT

With Edinson Volquez suspended, veteran right-hander Chris Young is getting his first start for the Kansas City Royals.

Kyle Lobstein has already experienced the life of a fill-in starter and will try to get the Detroit Tigers back in the win column against their AL Central rivals Friday night.

Young (1-0, 1.86 ERA) is getting the call after Volquez was banned five games for his role in a brawl with the Chicago White Sox last week. Volquez's 1.91 ERA is the best in Kansas City's rotation.

Young, who has made five relief appearances, went 12-9 with a 3.70 ERA in 29 starts with Seattle last season. He was 2-0 with a 1.50 ERA in two against Detroit.

Alex Gordon drove in two runs in a series-opening 8-1 victory for the Royals (15-7) on Thursday, giving him eight RBIs in his past five games, and Eric Hosmer hit a two-run homer for the second straight contest.

Kansas City's 15 wins were the second-most in April in franchise history.

"It's a great way to start the season," manager Ned Yost said. "I'm just pleased with all phases our game right now."

Kansas City lost eight of 10 home games to the Tigers and 13 of 19 overall in 2014 en route to finishing one game behind Detroit in the division.

"We're a different team than the last time we faced them," Hosmer said. 'We said it would be a good test for our team to see where we're at. It's only one game, but these games are important."

The Royals, who turned their wild-card berth into a trip to the World Series, are heading into May with a half-game lead over Detroit (15-8) in what's shaping up as another duel in the Central. The Tigers hit .308 with 29 runs while winning four of five before Thursday.

"I'm not worried about this club," manager Brad Ausmus said. "We'll come ready to play."

With Justin Verlander recovering from a strained right triceps, Lobstein (2-1, 3.50) will try to boost his club with another solid performance. The left-hander allowed three runs in seven innings, matching his longest outing in nine career starts, in an 8-6 win over Cleveland on Sunday.

Lobstein received seven runs of support in each of his two wins and got none in the defeat, which was also one of his better performances. He gave up one run and three hits in six innings of a 5-2 loss to the New York Yankees on April 21.

Lobstein will pitch against the Royals for the first time and no one on Kansas City has faced him.

Miguel Cabrera, Victor Martinez, Ian Kinsler and Yoenis Cespedes are a combined 4 for 39 with nine strikeouts against Young.

The status of Royals shortstop Alcides Escobar for the rest of this series is unknown because of concussion symptoms suffered when he was hit in the helmet by a pitch Wednesday in Cleveland.

Escobar, batting .291 in 19 games, hit .370 in his final seven against Detroit last season.


SERIES AT A GLANCE

GAME 1
Tigers at Royals
Thu, Apr 30 Final 1 to 8
Boxscores

GAME 2
Tigers at Royals
Fri, May 1 - 8:10PM EDT

GAME 3
Tigers at Royals
Sat, May 2 - 7:10PM EDT

GAME 4
Tigers at Royals
Sun, May 3 - 2:10PM EDT

[StarDust Bum]

Weekend Primer

May 1, 2015


Detroit Tigers at Kansas City Royals

One of the top stories early on, and really still up to this point, has been the growing rivalry between the AL Central-residing Tigers and Royals, which really started to become significantly bigger towards the tail-end of last season when both teams were neck-and-neck for first place. At this juncture of the campaign, it might be safe to say that we’re in for much of the same in 2015, as both teams are separated by a half-game for the division-lead heading into this first clash of the year.

In game one of this momentous four-game series, the Royals prevailed easily, 8-1, as left-hander Danny Duffy contributed a solid effort. This win might be more remembered, though, for cracking the shield of Alfredo Simon, who was excellent in his first four starts before getting knocked around by KC for six runs in 4 1/3 innings. The Royals’ offense has been tremendous this season, plating the second most runs in the American League, and in the process, have registered a 13-7-2 record towards over bets, which is one of the best records in that department.

I think it’s still too early to tell who the superior club is, if one were thinking about taking the series odds here. On one side, the Royals are firing on all cylinders, as evident in the fact that they own the largest run differential in all of baseball -- and by a large margin -- at +45. Detroit, despite cooling off a bit since their 11-2 start, is also elite and arguably has the most stacked lineup in the game that is completely relentless. It should definitely be a fun series, and there could be some more runs in the second game with Kyle Lobstein taking on ageless Chris Young.

Washington Nationals at New York Mets

Since a blazing hot start to the year, the uprising Mets are suddenly slumping a bit, having lost five of their past seven, including last night’s opener of this compelling four-game series with division nemesis Washington. In turn, it is the Nationals, who were probably baseball’s biggest disappointment in the early going, now that are surging, currently carrying a very crucial three-game winning streak after previously being 7-13 earlier in the week.

And that brings us to this important NL East series to kick off May, with the Mets looking to prove that their breakout is indeed real (since I predicted it, they certainly don’t need to prove it anymore to me), and the Nationals seeking to continue making up lost ground from the start of the year. It could be a very telling series moving forward.

With the Nationals having their full outfield back healthy, the offense has picked it up considerably, and that was the No. 1 culprit in the club’s lackluster beginning. They were missing two key players from their core, Jayson Werth and Denard Span, but with them back, the offense is producing like normal again, and is currently on a streak where they’ve scored a whopping 38 runs over their past four games. When Anthony Rendon comes back, that could be the difference, but in the meantime, they’ll have some tough pitching to deal with and continue their offensive onslaught. They were able to -- thanks to a really, really horrendous error by Wilmer Flores on the easiest double-play ball you’ll ever see -- scratch some runs out of Jacob deGrom in the opener, but must now deal with “The Dark Knight” himself, Matt Harvey, in the second game. They’ll counter with former Cy Young winner Max Scherzer, who has been phenomenal in his first handful of starts with the Nationals, and this could end up being one of the better pitcher’s duels of the season. Tread carefully with the over/under being 6, especially with the Mets being a very notable 14-7-2 towards the over.

New York Yankees at Boston Red Sox

It’s always an eventful happening when baseball’s most decorated rivalry, the Yankees and Red Sox, meet up once more, as these two storied franchises will be engaging in a series for the second weekend in three weeks. In that first meeting, Boston took two out of three, and will now be hosting the proceedings at Fenway Park.

Since losing that series, though, the Yankees have been one of the hottest teams in all of Major League Baseball, being 11-5 over the current stretch and winning four straight series in the process, including over the Tigers and Mets. The Red Sox, meanwhile, have lost five of eight, but are still maintaining their dangerous offense.

Unsurprisingly, when both clubs hooked up for their first three matchups of 2015, all of them resulted in overs. It’s no secret that Boston’s offense has come to life this year in a monster way, after unexpectedly being one of the lower-scoring teams in the AL a season ago. In fact, entering the weekend, they’ve recorded the third most runs by any team, having 113. The Yankees’ lineup has also been very live, with Alex Rodriguez and Mark Teixeira experiencing renaissance years thus far, and they’re right behind Boston with 109 runs. Considering Boston has the worst team ERA of any starting rotation, it should be more likely than not that the Bronx Bombers continue with their impressive offensive ways. And with both teams being a combined 27-17-2 towards over bets on the season, that could once again be the theme for this three-game set. C.C. Sabathia starts it off for the Yanks against Justin Masterson.

Other Weekend Thoughts

-- When the Giants and Angels get together for a three-game set beginning tonight, it will not only be an intriguing rematch of the 2002 World Series, but it could also be something that instantly springboards one of these potential contenders. Obviously, with San Francisco coming off their third world championship in five years, expectations were relatively high, despite the significant injury to Hunter Pence, and entering this slate with a 9-13 record, they’re certainly underachieving. At 11-11, you can say the same for the Angels, but they’ve won five of seven and appear to be in better shape than their opponent for this weekend. As a result, they’re probably the better bet here to pull this series out.

-- The series between the Mariners and Astros is going to be real fresh and interesting to watch. That’s because this will be a showdown between the surprise team in all of baseball, Houston, who many still figured was another year or two away from legitimately contending, this even after a dreadful four-year period that easily ranks up there as the worst stretch in franchise history. And then there’s Seattle, a trendy pick to win the AL West this season, if not more. Instead, it’s the Astros who are comfortably in front of the pack, and after a few weeks, certainly look like they’re going to be hanging around contention all year long. These two met a couple of weeks ago, with Houston taking two out of three, and if they can win another series from the Mariners, it could go even further in solidifying their current standing. All in all, Houston does look like they’re for real, as I touched on last week. This is no mirage and they should be relied on accordingly.

Fearless Prediction

--The Pirates are 3.5 games back of the first-place Cardinals -- and all-too familiar sight in this current era -- but I think they’ll make a statement this weekend and win this three-game series on the road at Busch Stadium. They’ve won six of eight entering the weekend, and can start to put a dent into St. Louis while they potentially become vulnerable in the absence of staff ace Adam Wainwright. The Cardinals, however, currently sport baseball’s best record at 15-6 and appear to be in their usual rhythm. In recent years, this has become one of the NL’s best rivalries and that should continue this weekend. Pittsburgh offers promising value from a series odds standpoint.

[StarDust Bum]

Armadillo: Friday's six-pack

-- Washington 2, Rangers 1-- Joel Ward scored in last two seconds for the win.

-- Anaheim 6, Calgary 1-- Flames are 1-23 in last 24 games in Orange County.

-- Bulls 120, Bucks 66-- Ugly end to a promising season for Milwaukee.

-- Clippers 102, Spurs 96-- Road team won four of six series games.

-- Royals 8, Tigers 1-- Kansas City is now 8-0 in series openers.

-- Nationals 8, Mets 3-- Last six Washington games went over the total

**********

Armadillo: Friday's List of 13: Happy May Day, everyone...........

13) After months and months of speculation, Round 1 of the draft was marked by the expected happening-- not many surprises at all Thursday night. Makes you wonder why so many media outlets pay so many people to speculate on whats going to happen, when nothing out of the ordinary happens.

Then again, Round 2 is tonight and the rest of the draft is Saturday; could be some wheeling and dealing then, or is this draft a little talent-shy, so people aren't willing to take a chance on a big trade?

12) ESPN has a new star in Louis Riddick, who is excellent on TV; he only got on because Ray Lewis begged out after the problems in Baltimore, but they are idiots if Riddick doesn't become a big part of their pregame show.

11) There are more than 3,000 hats stored backstage at the draft; all 32 teams in every size. Merchandising is big business.

10) Odd but true: since he came into the NFL, Matt Ryan has made more money than Tom Brady- go figure.

9) Only two trades last night; San Diego traded up to get RB Melvin Gordon, which will boost their offense- they gave up a lot to move up two slots.

8) Speaking of the Chargers, Mrs Philip Rivers is pregnant with the couple's 8th child-- San Diego was wise to hang onto the veteran QB.

7) Washington Huskies were only team to have three kids drafted last night, which I'm sure makes coach Petersen happy-- good ammunition for when he goes out recruiting for the next year.

6) One of those three players was CB Marcus Peters, who Petersen tossed off the team LY after an series of arguments with assistant coaches. Kansas City scouts talked with Petersen's staff and with former coach Steve Sarkisian, and they must've found Sarkisian more convincing- they drafted the kid.

5) Saints are going to run the ball more; why else would they draft 6-7, 313-pound Andrus Peat in the first round?

4) Marc Trestman will be Baltimore's fourth OC in four years; his QB coach is Marty Mornhinweg, who somehow keeps getting NFL jobs, despite showing nothing that would distinguish him as an assistant or head coach.

3) Hard to believe, but when the Giants drafted Ereck Flowers, he was the first Miami Hurricane drafted in first round since Kenny Phillips in 2008, also by the Giants. Before that, Miami had gone 14 years in a row with a first round pick.

2) Interesting hearing NFL Network guys saying that Leonard Williams was "the best player in the draft." More than one guy said that. Jets got themselves a good deal.

1) Elsewhere, Billy Donovan left Florida for the NBA-- big story next week will be who gets the Florida job and how many dominos does that create, job-wise?

[StarDust Bum]

MLB
Dunkel

Friday, May 1

Pittsburgh Pirates @ St. Louis Cardinals

Game 959-960
May 1, 2015 @ 8:15 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Pittsburgh Pirate
(Burnett) 15.073
St. Louis Cardina
(Lynn) 16.644
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
St. Louis Cardina
by 1 1/2
6
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
St. Louis Cardina
-135
7 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
St. Louis Cardina
(-135); Under

Arizona Diamondbacks @ Los Angeles Dodgers

Game 961-962
May 1, 2015 @ 10:10 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Arizona Diamondba
(De La Rosa) 15.723
Los Angeles Dodge
(Frias) 17.313
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Los Angeles Dodge
by 1 1/2
7
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Los Angeles Dodge
-145
8
Dunkel Pick:
Los Angeles Dodge
(-145); Under

Colorado Rockies @ San Diego Padres

Game 963-964
May 1, 2015 @ 10:10 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Colorado Rockies
(Butler) 16.538
San Diego Padres
(Kennedy) 15.429
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Colorado Rockies
by 1
8
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
San Diego Padres
-150
7
Dunkel Pick:
Colorado Rockies
(+130); Over

Tampa Bay Rays @ Baltimore Orioles

Game 965-966
May 1, 2015 @ 7:05 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Tampa Bay Rays
(Colome) 15.587
Baltimore Orioles
(Tillman) 16.429
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Baltimore Orioles
by 1
9
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Tampa Bay Rays
-120
8
Dunkel Pick:
Baltimore Orioles
(+100); Over

Toronto Blue Jays @ Cleveland Indians

Game 967-968
May 1, 2015 @ 7:10 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Toronto Blue Jays
(Buehrle) 15.732
Cleveland Indians
(Carrasco) 12.404
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Toronto Blue Jays
by 3 1/2
9
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Cleveland Indians
-130
8
Dunkel Pick:
Toronto Blue Jays
(+110); Over

New York Yankees @ Boston Red Sox

Game 969-970
May 1, 2015 @ 7:10 pm

Dunkel Rating:
New York Yankees
(Sabathia) 17.784
Boston Red Sox
(Masterson) 15.404
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
New York Yankees
by 2 1/2
10
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Boston Red Sox
-130
8 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
New York Yankees
(+110); Over

Oakland Athletics @ Texas Rangers

Game 971-972
May 1, 2015 @ 8:05 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Oakland Athletics
(Kazmir) 16.833
Texas Rangers
(Lewis) 13.305
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Oakland Athletics
by 3 1/2
8
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Oakland Athletics
-135
8 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Oakland Athletics
(-135); Under

Milwaukee Brewers @ Chicago Cubs

Game 951-952
May 1, 2015 @ 2:20 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Milwaukee Brewers
(Peralta) 14.693
Chicago Cubs
(Lester) 13.515
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Milwaukee Brewers
by 1
6
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Chicago Cubs
-175
No Run Total
Dunkel Pick:
Milwaukee Brewers
(+155); N/A

Seattle Mariners @ Houston Astros

Game 973-974
May 1, 2015 @ 8:10 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Seattle Mariners
(Elias) 13.305
Houston Astros
(Deduno) 14.819
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Houston Astros
by 1 1/2
7
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Houston Astros
No Line
N/A
Dunkel Pick:
Houston Astros
N/A

Washington Nationals @ New York Mets

Game 953-954
May 1, 2015 @ 7:10 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Washington Nation
(Scherzer) 18.329
New York Mets
(Harvey) 13.315
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Washington Nation
by 5
5
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
New York Mets
-120
6
Dunkel Pick:
Washington Nation
(+100); Under

Detroit Tigers @ Kansas City Royals

Game 975-976
May 1, 2015 @ 8:10 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Detroit Tigers
(Lobstein) 14.315
Kansas City Royal
(Young) 12.722
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Detroit Tigers
by 1 1/2
8
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Kansas City Royal
-125
9
Dunkel Pick:
Detroit Tigers
(+105); Under

Philadelphia Phillies @ Miami Marlins

Game 955-956
May 1, 2015 @ 7:10 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Philadelphia Phil
(Williams) 13.457
Miami Marlins
(Koehler) 18.329
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Miami Marlins
by 5
9
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Miami Marlins
-165
8
Dunkel Pick:
Miami Marlins
(-165); Over

Chicago White Sox @ Minnesota Twins

Game 977-978
May 1, 2015 @ 8:10 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Chicago White Sox
(Quintana) 15.352
Minnesota Twins
(Gibson) 16.282
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Minnesota Twins
by 1
7
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Chicago White Sox
-115
8
Dunkel Pick:
Minnesota Twins
(-105); Under

Cincinnati Reds @ Atlanta Braves

Game 957-958
May 1, 2015 @ 7:35 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Cincinnati Reds
(DeSclafani) 15.141
Atlanta Braves
(Foltynewicz) 12.210
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Cincinnati Reds
by 3
9
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Cincinnati Reds
-120
7
Dunkel Pick:
Cincinnati Reds
(-120); Over

Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim @ San Francisco Giants

Game 979-980
May 1, 2015 @ 10:15 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Los Angeles Angel
(Wilson) 13.320
San Francisco Gia
(Heston) 14.897
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
San Francisco Gia
by 1 1/2
8
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
San Francisco Gia
-115
7
Dunkel Pick:
San Francisco Gia
(-115); Over

[StarDust Bum]

MLB
Long Sheet

Friday, May 1

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MILWAUKEE (5 - 17) at CHICAGO CUBS (12 - 8) - 2:20 PM
WILY PERALTA (R) vs. JON LESTER (L)
Top Trends for this game.
MILWAUKEE is 5-17 (-13.0 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
MILWAUKEE is 19-37 (-21.7 Units) against the money line in May games over the last 3 seasons.
MILWAUKEE is 41-54 (-17.3 Units) against the money line against division opponents over the last 2 seasons.
MILWAUKEE is 5-17 (-13.0 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
LESTER is 38-9 (+20.1 Units) against the money line in home games when playing against a team with a losing record since 1997. (Team's Record)
MILWAUKEE is 7-2 (+9.0 Units) against the money line as a road underdog of +150 to +175 over the last 2 seasons.
CHICAGO CUBS are 1399-1561 (-277.3 Units) against the money line in all games since 1997.
CHICAGO CUBS are 150-124 (-49.0 Units) against the money line as a home favorite of -150 to -175 since 1997.
CHICAGO CUBS are 750-731 (-165.6 Units) against the money line in home games since 1997.
CHICAGO CUBS are 150-189 (-56.1 Units) against the money line when playing with a day off since 1997.
CHICAGO CUBS are 356-342 (-87.2 Units) against the money line in home games against division opponents since 1997.
CHICAGO CUBS are 747-791 (-149.2 Units) against the money line in day games since 1997.
CHICAGO CUBS are 1342-1474 (-252.1 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field since 1997.
CHICAGO CUBS are 1026-1159 (-210.1 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters since 1997.
CHICAGO CUBS are 685-685 (-153.3 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record since 1997.

Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.

WILY PERALTA vs. CHICAGO CUBS since 1997
PERALTA is 3-5 when starting against CHICAGO CUBS with an ERA of 3.74 and a WHIP of 1.265.
His team's record is 3-6 (-4.2 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 6-2. (+3.6 units)

JON LESTER vs. MILWAUKEE since 1997
LESTER is 0-2 when starting against MILWAUKEE with an ERA of 2.94 and a WHIP of 1.174.
His team's record is 0-2 (-3.3 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 2-0. (+2.1 units)

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WASHINGTON (9 - 13) at NY METS (15 - 7) - 7:10 PM
MAX SCHERZER (R) vs. MATT HARVEY (R)
Top Trends for this game.
WASHINGTON is 12-19 (-15.1 Units) against the money line when playing on Friday over the last 2 seasons.
NY METS are 94-90 (+12.0 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
NY METS are 10-0 (+10.0 Units) against the money line in home games this season.
NY METS are 10-0 (+10.0 Units) against the money line in home games against division opponents this season.
NY METS are 10-0 (+10.0 Units) against the money line in home games in games played on a grass field this season.
NY METS are 9-0 (+9.0 Units) against the money line in home games against right-handed starters this season.
NY METS are 51-29 (+21.3 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons.
WASHINGTON is 31-10 (+17.6 Units) against the money line when playing with a day off over the last 3 seasons.
SCHERZER is 52-21 (+22.3 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
SCHERZER is 29-7 (+18.5 Units) against the money line against division opponents over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)

Head-to-Head Series History
NY METS is 2-1 (+1.6 Units) against WASHINGTON this season
2 of 3 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL this season . (Under=+0.9 Units)

MAX SCHERZER vs. NY METS since 1997
SCHERZER is 2-1 when starting against NY METS with an ERA of 2.22 and a WHIP of 1.191.
His team's record is 2-2 (-1.1 units) in these starts. The OVER is 1-3. (-2.1 units)

MATT HARVEY vs. WASHINGTON since 1997
HARVEY is 2-1 when starting against WASHINGTON with an ERA of 0.82 and a WHIP of 0.879.
His team's record is 2-3 (-2.0 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 2-3. (-1.5 units)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

PHILADELPHIA (8 - 14) at MIAMI (10 - 12) - 7:10 PM
JEROME WILLIAMS (R) vs. TOM KOEHLER (R)
Top Trends for this game.
PHILADELPHIA is 68-87 (-29.0 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 3 seasons.
PHILADELPHIA is 123-107 (+28.8 Units) against the money line in road games when playing on Friday since 1997.
WILLIAMS is 10-5 (+9.5 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
WILLIAMS is 7-1 (+8.8 Units) against the money line against division opponents over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
WILLIAMS is 10-5 (+9.5 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)

Head-to-Head Series History
MIAMI is 2-1 (+1.0 Units) against PHILADELPHIA this season
2 of 2 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=+2.0 Units)

JEROME WILLIAMS vs. MIAMI since 1997
WILLIAMS is 1-1 when starting against MIAMI with an ERA of 7.29 and a WHIP of 1.619.
His team's record is 1-3 (-2.0 units) in these starts. The OVER is 3-1. (+1.8 units)

TOM KOEHLER vs. PHILADELPHIA since 1997
KOEHLER is 2-1 when starting against PHILADELPHIA with an ERA of 3.60 and a WHIP of 1.233.
His team's record is 3-2 (+1.1 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 1-4. (-3.6 units)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

CINCINNATI (10 - 11) at ATLANTA (10 - 11) - 7:35 PM
ANTHONY DESCLAFANI (R) vs. TREVOR CAHILL (R)
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.

ANTHONY DESCLAFANI vs. ATLANTA since 1997
No recent starts.

TREVOR CAHILL vs. CINCINNATI since 1997
CAHILL is 0-1 when starting against CINCINNATI with an ERA of 2.77 and a WHIP of 1.154.
His team's record is 0-2 (-2.0 units) in these starts. The OVER is 0-2. (-2.4 units)

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PITTSBURGH (12 - 10) at ST LOUIS (14 - 6) - 8:15 PM
A.J. BURNETT (R) vs. LANCE LYNN (R)
Top Trends for this game.
PITTSBURGH is 248-482 (-104.5 Units) against the money line in road games when playing against a team with a winning record since 1997.
BURNETT is 206-209 (-41.1 Units) against the money line in all games since 1997. (Team's Record)
BURNETT is 8-33 (-22.4 Units) against the money line as a road underdog of +125 to +150 since 1997. (Team's Record)
BURNETT is 87-128 (-46.7 Units) against the money line in road games since 1997. (Team's Record)
BURNETT is 32-43 (-19.3 Units) against the money line when playing on Friday since 1997. (Team's Record)
BURNETT is 37-59 (-24.4 Units) against the money line in road games against division opponents since 1997. (Team's Record)
BURNETT is 166-176 (-39.3 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field since 1997. (Team's Record)
BURNETT is 136-148 (-34.1 Units) against the money line in night games since 1997. (Team's Record)
BURNETT is 104-108 (-26.0 Units) against the money line after a win since 1997. (Team's Record)
ST LOUIS is 121-63 (+29.7 Units) against the money line in home games over the last 3 seasons.
ST LOUIS is 20-4 (+14.5 Units) against the money line in home games when playing with a day off over the last 3 seasons.
ST LOUIS is 58-26 (+18.1 Units) against the money line in home games against division opponents over the last 3 seasons.
ST LOUIS is 121-63 (+29.7 Units) against the money line in home games in games played on a grass field over the last 3 seasons.
ST LOUIS is 167-107 (+34.1 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters over the last 3 seasons.
ST LOUIS is 415-281 (+64.6 Units) against the money line in home games when playing against a team with a winning record since 1997.
LYNN is 12-1 (+10.7 Units) against the money line as a home favorite of -125 to -150 over the last 3 seasons. (Team's Record)
PITTSBURGH is 197-156 (+29.2 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 3 seasons.
PITTSBURGH is 21-7 (+14.2 Units) against the money line when playing on Friday over the last 2 seasons.
PITTSBURGH is 195-155 (+27.6 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 3 seasons.
PITTSBURGH is 136-93 (+32.8 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 3 seasons.
PITTSBURGH is 159-127 (+26.3 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters over the last 3 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.

A.J. BURNETT vs. ST LOUIS since 1997
BURNETT is 9-7 when starting against ST LOUIS with an ERA of 4.34 and a WHIP of 1.327.
His team's record is 10-9 (+2.0 units) in these starts. The OVER is 10-9. (+0.4 units)

LANCE LYNN vs. PITTSBURGH since 1997
LYNN is 5-4 when starting against PITTSBURGH with an ERA of 5.11 and a WHIP of 1.487.
His team's record is 8-6 (+0.7 units) in these starts. The OVER is 9-5. (+3.8 units)

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ARIZONA (10 - 11) at LA DODGERS (13 - 8) - 10:10 PM
RUBBY DE LA ROSA (R) vs. CARLOS FRIAS (R)
Top Trends for this game.
ARIZONA is 74-109 (-31.1 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
ARIZONA is 74-109 (-31.1 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
ARIZONA is 56-81 (-23.5 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
ARIZONA is 26-47 (-21.7 Units) against the money line after a win over the last 2 seasons.
ARIZONA is 28-57 (-24.7 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
LA DODGERS are 26-32 (-14.6 Units) against the money line when playing on Friday over the last 3 seasons.
LA DODGERS are 54-53 (-12.0 Units) against the money line after a win over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
ARIZONA is 2-1 (+1.8 Units) against LA DODGERS this season
2 of 3 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL this season . (Under=+1.0 Units)

RUBBY DE LA ROSA vs. LA DODGERS since 1997
No recent starts.

CARLOS FRIAS vs. ARIZONA since 1997
No recent starts.

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COLORADO (11 - 10) at SAN DIEGO (11 - 12) - 10:10 PM
EDDIE BUTLER (R) vs. IAN KENNEDY (R)
Top Trends for this game.
COLORADO is 16-44 (-22.7 Units) against the money line when the total is 7 or less over the last 3 seasons.
COLORADO is 148-267 (-64.5 Units) against the money line as a road underdog of +125 to +150 since 1997.
COLORADO is 28-65 (-30.6 Units) against the money line in road games over the last 2 seasons.
COLORADO is 16-44 (-22.7 Units) against the money line on the road when the total is 7 or less over the last 3 seasons.
COLORADO is 91-178 (-68.5 Units) against the money line in road games in May games since 1997.
COLORADO is 28-65 (-30.6 Units) against the money line in road games in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
COLORADO is 18-49 (-28.3 Units) against the money line in road games in night games over the last 2 seasons.
COLORADO is 53-82 (-28.2 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
COLORADO is 16-43 (-24.0 Units) against the money line in road games after a loss over the last 2 seasons.
COLORADO is 66-84 (-28.3 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 3 seasons.
SAN DIEGO is 31-19 (+11.3 Units) against the money line in home games when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
SAN DIEGO is 2-2 (+0.3 Units) against COLORADO this season
2 of 4 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=-0.2 Units, Under=-0.2 Units)

EDDIE BUTLER vs. SAN DIEGO since 1997
No recent starts.

IAN KENNEDY vs. COLORADO since 1997
KENNEDY is 5-4 when starting against COLORADO with an ERA of 2.95 and a WHIP of 1.200.
His team's record is 12-6 (+5.7 units) in these starts. The OVER is 6-11. (-6.0 units)

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TAMPA BAY (12 - 10) at BALTIMORE (10 - 10) - 7:05 PM
ALEX COLOME (R) vs. CHRIS TILLMAN (R)
Top Trends for this game.
TAMPA BAY is 89-95 (-24.4 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
TAMPA BAY is 57-64 (-18.6 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons.
BALTIMORE is 110-80 (+35.4 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
BALTIMORE is 53-39 (+12.0 Units) against the money line when the total is 8 to 8.5 over the last 2 seasons.
BALTIMORE is 58-37 (+15.7 Units) against the money line in home games over the last 2 seasons.
BALTIMORE is 57-39 (+20.1 Units) against the money line against division opponents over the last 2 seasons.
BALTIMORE is 97-69 (+31.8 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
BALTIMORE is 78-46 (+37.0 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons.
BALTIMORE is 85-58 (+31.3 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
BALTIMORE is 61-47 (+16.9 Units) against the money line after a win over the last 2 seasons.
BALTIMORE is 53-37 (+22.4 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
TILLMAN is 28-13 (+16.4 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
TILLMAN is 25-11 (+15.0 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
TILLMAN is 20-9 (+11.8 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
TILLMAN is 26-14 (+16.0 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 3 seasons. (Team's Record)
TAMPA BAY is 566-647 (+16.2 Units) against the money line against division opponents since 1997.
BALTIMORE is 16-27 (-15.0 Units) against the money line after 3 or more consecutive wins over the last 3 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
BALTIMORE is 2-1 (+1.1 Units) against TAMPA BAY this season
2 of 3 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=+1.0 Units)

ALEX COLOME vs. BALTIMORE since 1997
COLOME is 1-0 when starting against BALTIMORE with an ERA of 1.59 and a WHIP of 1.058.
His team's record is 1-0 (+1.2 units) in these starts. The OVER is 0-1. (-1.0 units)

CHRIS TILLMAN vs. TAMPA BAY since 1997
TILLMAN is 5-6 when starting against TAMPA BAY with an ERA of 3.87 and a WHIP of 1.132.
His team's record is 9-6 (+4.9 units) in these starts. The OVER is 5-9. (-4.7 units)

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TORONTO (10 - 12) at CLEVELAND (7 - 13) - 7:05 PM
MARK BUEHRLE (L) vs. CARLOS CARRASCO (R)
Top Trends for this game.
TORONTO is 19-36 (-18.1 Units) against the money line when playing on Friday over the last 3 seasons.
CLEVELAND is 24-10 (+13.0 Units) against the money line in home games in May games over the last 3 seasons.
CLEVELAND is 102-56 (+34.7 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 3 seasons.
TORONTO is 21-9 (+12.6 Units) against the money line in May games over the last 2 seasons.
BUEHRLE is 24-12 (+12.6 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
BUEHRLE is 10-2 (+9.5 Units) against the money line in May games over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
BUEHRLE is 15-3 (+12.6 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
CARRASCO is 3-10 (-10.6 Units) against the money line in home games over the last 3 seasons. (Team's Record)
CARRASCO is 3-10 (-10.6 Units) against the money line in home games in games played on a grass field over the last 3 seasons. (Team's Record)
CARRASCO is 4-15 (-14.0 Units) against the money line in home games in night games since 1997. (Team's Record)
CARRASCO is 1-7 (-9.1 Units) against the money line in home games when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 3 seasons. (Team's Record)

Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.

MARK BUEHRLE vs. CLEVELAND since 1997
BUEHRLE is 15-17 when starting against CLEVELAND with an ERA of 4.78 and a WHIP of 1.387.
His team's record is 26-22 (-2.4 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 22-24. (-4.7 units)

CARLOS CARRASCO vs. TORONTO since 1997
CARRASCO is 0-1 when starting against TORONTO with an ERA of 9.34 and a WHIP of 2.076.
His team's record is 1-1 (-0.2 units) in these starts. The OVER is 1-1. (-0.1 units)

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NY YANKEES (13 - 9) at BOSTON (12 - 10) - 7:10 PM
C.C. SABATHIA (L) vs. JUSTIN MASTERSON (R)
Top Trends for this game.
SABATHIA is 1-9 (-9.6 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
BOSTON is 83-102 (-28.0 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
BOSTON is 597-535 (-76.0 Units) against the money line when the total is 9 to 9.5 since 1997.
BOSTON is 7-19 (-15.2 Units) against the money line at home with a money line of -100 to -125 over the last 2 seasons.
BOSTON is 40-52 (-25.3 Units) against the money line in home games over the last 2 seasons.
BOSTON is 14-20 (-12.6 Units) against the money line at home when the total is 9 to 9.5 over the last 2 seasons.
BOSTON is 39-54 (-17.8 Units) against the money line against division opponents over the last 2 seasons.
BOSTON is 74-88 (-24.0 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
BOSTON is 34-50 (-22.3 Units) against the money line after a win over the last 2 seasons.
BOSTON is 15-31 (-21.2 Units) against the money line in home games when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
BOSTON is 2-1 (+1.1 Units) against NY YANKEES this season
3 of 3 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=+3.0 Units)

C.C. SABATHIA vs. BOSTON since 1997
SABATHIA is 11-14 when starting against BOSTON with an ERA of 4.98 and a WHIP of 1.369.
His team's record is 12-19 (-10.5 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 16-14. (+0.5 units)

JUSTIN MASTERSON vs. NY YANKEES since 1997
MASTERSON is 4-4 when starting against NY YANKEES with an ERA of 3.70 and a WHIP of 1.339.
His team's record is 4-5 (-0.9 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 6-2. (+3.7 units)

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OAKLAND (9 - 13) at TEXAS (7 - 14) - 8:05 PM
SCOTT KAZMIR (L) vs. COLBY LEWIS (R)
Top Trends for this game.
OAKLAND is 97-88 (-23.9 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
OAKLAND is 46-49 (-22.6 Units) against the money line against division opponents over the last 2 seasons.
OAKLAND is 95-84 (-21.4 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
TEXAS is 74-109 (-24.6 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
TEXAS is 35-55 (-22.6 Units) against the money line in home games over the last 2 seasons.
TEXAS is 3-10 (-11.7 Units) against the money line in home games when playing with a day off over the last 3 seasons.
TEXAS is 16-32 (-17.4 Units) against the money line in home games against division opponents over the last 2 seasons.
TEXAS is 72-105 (-22.6 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
TEXAS is 47-86 (-35.9 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons.
TEXAS is 21-34 (-14.5 Units) against the money line in home games after a loss over the last 2 seasons.
TEXAS is 22-42 (-22.8 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
TEXAS is 2-2 (+1.0 Units) against OAKLAND this season
3 of 4 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=+2.2 Units)

SCOTT KAZMIR vs. TEXAS since 1997
KAZMIR is 10-5 when starting against TEXAS with an ERA of 3.12 and a WHIP of 1.189.
His team's record is 13-6 (+5.3 units) in these starts. The OVER is 9-7. (+1.6 units)

COLBY LEWIS vs. OAKLAND since 1997
LEWIS is 9-4 when starting against OAKLAND with an ERA of 3.31 and a WHIP of 1.248.
His team's record is 12-9 (+4.1 units) in these starts. The OVER is 9-11. (-2.9 units)

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SEATTLE (10 - 11) at HOUSTON (14 - 7) - 8:10 PM
ROENIS ELIAS (L) vs. SAM DEDUNO (R)
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
HOUSTON is 2-1 (+2.0 Units) against SEATTLE this season
2 of 3 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=+0.9 Units)

ROENIS ELIAS vs. HOUSTON since 1997
ELIAS is 0-0 when starting against HOUSTON with an ERA of 1.59 and a WHIP of 1.324.
His team's record is 1-1 (-0.5 units) in these starts. The OVER is 0-2. (-2.1 units)

SAM DEDUNO vs. SEATTLE since 1997
DEDUNO is 3-1 when starting against SEATTLE with an ERA of 1.38 and a WHIP of 0.885.
His team's record is 3-1 (+2.4 units) in these starts. The OVER is 1-3. (-2.2 units)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

DETROIT (15 - 7) at KANSAS CITY (14 - 7) - 8:10 PM
KYLE LOBSTEIN (L) vs. CHRIS YOUNG (R)
Top Trends for this game.
DETROIT is 142-213 (-55.0 Units) against the money line as a road underdog of +100 to +125 since 1997.
KANSAS CITY is 114-84 (+18.4 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
KANSAS CITY is 23-8 (+13.6 Units) against the money line at home with a money line of -100 to -125 over the last 2 seasons.
KANSAS CITY is 18-6 (+11.6 Units) against the money line when playing with a day off over the last 2 seasons.
KANSAS CITY is 110-81 (+16.9 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
KANSAS CITY is 82-57 (+17.0 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons.
KANSAS CITY is 55-39 (+15.2 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
YOUNG is 17-11 (+9.9 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
DETROIT is 39-23 (+14.6 Units) against the money line in road games in night games over the last 2 seasons.
KANSAS CITY is 20-37 (-23.6 Units) against the money line in May games over the last 3 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.

KYLE LOBSTEIN vs. KANSAS CITY since 1997
No recent starts.

CHRIS YOUNG vs. DETROIT since 1997
YOUNG is 2-0 when starting against DETROIT with an ERA of 1.67 and a WHIP of 0.852.
His team's record is 2-2 (-0.2 units) in these starts. The OVER is 2-2. (-0.1 units)

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CHI WHITE SOX (8 - 10) at MINNESOTA (9 - 12) - 8:10 PM
JOSE QUINTANA (L) vs. KYLE GIBSON (R)
Top Trends for this game.
CHI WHITE SOX are 17-35 (-19.8 Units) against the money line when playing on Friday over the last 3 seasons.
MINNESOTA is 67-61 (+16.4 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 3 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
CHI WHITE SOX is 2-1 (+0.9 Units) against MINNESOTA this season
2 of 3 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=+1.0 Units)

JOSE QUINTANA vs. MINNESOTA since 1997
QUINTANA is 3-2 when starting against MINNESOTA with an ERA of 4.40 and a WHIP of 1.395.
His team's record is 4-6 (-4.0 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 5-5. (-0.8 units)

KYLE GIBSON vs. CHI WHITE SOX since 1997
GIBSON is 1-0 when starting against CHI WHITE SOX with an ERA of 4.26 and a WHIP of 1.105.
His team's record is 2-0 (+2.7 units) in these starts. The OVER is 2-0. (+2.0 units)

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LA ANGELS (10 - 11) at SAN FRANCISCO (9 - 13) - 10:15 PM
C.J. WILSON (L) vs. CHRIS HESTON (R)
Top Trends for this game.
WILSON is 5-14 (-10.2 Units) against the money line in road games over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
SAN FRANCISCO is 19-9 (+11.7 Units) against the money line in May games over the last 2 seasons.
SAN FRANCISCO is 1029-863 (+114.7 Units) against the money line in night games since 1997.
SAN FRANCISCO is 244-157 (+51.0 Units) against the money line in home games against left-handed starters since 1997.
LA ANGELS are 756-733 (+70.9 Units) against the money line in road games since 1997.
LA ANGELS are 275-202 (+50.0 Units) against the money line when playing on Friday since 1997.
LA ANGELS are 94-71 (+30.9 Units) against the money line in road games in an inter-league game since 1997.
LA ANGELS are 635-617 (+64.7 Units) against the money line in road games in games played on a grass field since 1997.
LA ANGELS are 539-518 (+50.9 Units) against the money line in road games against right-handed starters since 1997.
LA ANGELS are 59-28 (+20.6 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.

C.J. WILSON vs. SAN FRANCISCO since 1997
WILSON is 1-1 when starting against SAN FRANCISCO with an ERA of 3.65 and a WHIP of 1.298.
His team's record is 1-1 (+0.0 units) in these starts. The OVER is 2-0. (+2.1 units)

CHRIS HESTON vs. LA ANGELS since 1997
No recent starts.

[StarDust Bum]

MLB
Armadillo's Write-Up

Friday, May 1

National League
Brewers @ Cubs
Peralta is 0-3, 5.04 in his four starts; seven of his last nine stayed under.

Lester is 0-0, 6.23 in his four starts; over is 4-1-1 in his last six.

Cubs won five of last six games with Milwaukee; seven of last ten games in series stayed under. Brewers are 5-17 (3-7 in last ten); four of their last five games went over total. Chicago won four of last five games; over is 3-1-2 in its last six games.

Nationals @ Mets
Scherzer is 1-2, 2.20 in his four starts; under is 4-2-1 in his last seven.

Harvey is 4-0, 3.04 in his four starts; all four went over. Mets scored 27 runs in his four starts.

Mets are 2-5 in last seven games since their 11-game win streak; they're 10-1 at home this season. NY is 4-7 in last 11 games against Washington, with five of last eight staying under total. Nationals won last three games, scoring 34 runs; their last six went over the total. Over is 4-1-1 in last six Met games.

Phillies @ Marlins
Williams is 2-1, 4.56 in his four starts; over is 3-1-1 in his last five.

Koehler is 2-2, 4.50 in his four starts; six of his last eight went over.

Miami won five of last seven games with Philly; over is 3-0-1 in the last four. Phillies lost last three games, allowing 25 runs; over is 3-1-1 in last five. Miami won seven of last eight games; over is 6-3-1 in their last ten.

Reds @ Braves
DeSclafani is 2-1, 2.42 in his four starts; under is 3-0-1 in those four.

Foltynewicz was 0-1, 5.30 in 16 relief stints for Houston LY; this is his first MLB start. He is 0-3, 2.08 in four AAA starts this year.

Braves lost eight of last ten games overall, with four of last five going over total. Reds won three of last four games- four of their last six went over. Atlanta won five of last eight games with Cincinnati; under is 5-1-1 in last seven series games.

Pirates @ Cardinals
Burnett is 0-1, 1.80 in his four starts; under is 4-0-1 in his last five.

Lynn is 1-2, 4.03 in his four starts; five of his last seven stayed under.

Pittsburgh lost seven of last ten games with the Cardinals; three of last four played in St Louis went over total. Pirates won six of last eight games; under is 3-1-2 in last six. St Louis won seven of last nine games; over is 4-1-1 in last six games. Redbirds scored 25 runs in last three games.

Diamondbacks @ Dodgers
de la Rosa is 2-1, 5.04 in four starts; four of his last six went over.

Frias started two games LY; one really good (0 runs/6 IP), one awful (8 runs in 0.2 IP); he is 1-1, 6.12 in 32.1 big league IP.

Dodgers won six of last eight games with Arizona; four of last five played in LA went over total. Diamondbacks won last two games, scoring 21 runs after they lost five of previous six- their last three went over. Dodgers won four of last six games; under is 5-3 in their last eight.

Rockies @ Padres
Butler is 2-1, 3.27 in his four starts (under 2-1-1).

Kennedy is 0-1, 10.80 in his two starts; under is 5-3 in his last eight.

Rockies are 6-4 in last ten games with San Diego; five of last seven tilts went under the total. Colorado lost three of last four games; last three went over. Padres lost seven of last eight games; four of last five went over.

American League
Orioles @ Rays (O's are home team)
Tillman is 2-2, 7.58 in his four starts; five of his last six went over.

Colome is making first '15 start; he is 3-1, 2.34 in six MLB starts, his last three stayed under the total.

Baltimore won three of last four games with the Rays; three of four went over the total. Orioles won last three games, scoring 31 runs- their last five games went over. Tampa Bay won six of last eight games; last five stayed under.

Blue Jays @ Indians
Buehrle is 3-1, 4.94 in his four starts; six of last eight went over. Jays scored 37 runs in his three wins, one in his loss.

Carrasco is 2-2, 4.60 in his four starts; six of his last seven stayed under.

Indians lost five of last six games; five of their last seven games went over the total. Blue Jays lost five of last seven games. Toronto won five of last seven games with Cleveland; under is 5-2-1 in last eight series games.

Bronx @ Red Sox
Sabathia is 0-4, 6.31 in his four starts; six of his last nine went over.

Masterson is 2-2, 5.16 in four starts, three of which went over.

Bronx is 5-3 in its last eight games with Boston; their last five games all went over the total. Bombers won seven of last nine games, with last three going under total. Red Sox are 3-5 in last eight games; five of last six went over.

A's @ Rangers
Kazmir is 2-0, 0.99 in his four starts; over is 5-1-1 in his last seven.

Lewis is 1-2, 3.75 in four starts; four of his last five stayed under.

Oakland lost six of last seven games, with last six going over- they lost six of last ten games with Texas; three of last four went over the total. Rangers lost six of last seven games, with five of last six staying under the total.

Mariners @ Astros
Elias is 1-3, 2.86 in his last seven starts; five of the seven stayed under.

Deduno has started 42 MLB games, nine LY; he's allowed three runs in 9.1 IP in five relief stints this season- this is his first 2015 start.

Houston is on a serious roll, winning seven in row, 11 of last 12: they've won seven of last nine games with Seattle- five of last seven series games went over, as have eight of last ten Astro games. Mariners won five of last eight games; seven of those eight stayed under the total.

Tigers @ Royals
Lobstein is 2-1, 3.50 in his three starts; three of his last four went over.

Young is making first '15 start; he's made 188 career starts in 10 years- he was 0-3, 9.82 in his last four starts LY. He is 1-0, 1.86 in 9.2 IP this year (5 games).

Detroit won four of last six games overall, seven of last 11 with Kansas City; seven of last ten series games stayed under total. Royals won four of last five home games- their last four games overall went over. Four of last five Detroit games went over the total.

White Sox @ Twins
Quintana is 1-1, 6.95 in his four starts this season.

Gibson is 1-2, 5.24 in his four starts; under is 3-1-1 in his last five.

Chicago-Minnesota split last ten games; nine of last 11 series games went over. White Sox lost last three road games, outscored 29-5. Twins won four of their last six games- three of last four went over.

Interleague
Angels @ Giants
Wilson is 1-2, 3.46 in his four starts; three of the four stayed under.

Heston is 2-2, 3.81 in his four starts; under is 3-0-1 in the four games.

Angels won six of last seven games with the Giants; LA won five of their last seven games, with last four going over total. Giants won four of last five at home; under is 6-3-1 in their last ten games overall.

Win-loss records this year for team with this starting pitcher:
Mil-Chi-- Peralta 0-4; Lester 2-2
Wsh-NY-- Scherzer 2-2; Harvey 4-0
Phil-Mia-- Williams 3-1; Koehler 2-2
Cin-Atl-- DeSclafani 3-1; Foltynewicz 0-0
Pitt-StL-- Burnett 1-3; Lynn 1-3
Az-LA-- de la Rosa 2-2; Frias 0-0
Col-SD-- Butler 3-1; Kennedy 0-2

TB-Balt-- Colome 0-0; Tillman 2-2
Tor-Clev-- Buehrle 3-1; Carrasco 2-2
NY-Bos-- Sabathia 0-4; Masterson 3-1
A's-Tex-- Kazmir 2-2; Lewis 1-3
Sea-Hst-- Elias 0-1; Deduno 0-0
Det-KC-- Lobstein 2-1; Young 0-0
Chi-Minn-- Quintana 2-2; Gibson 2-2

LAA-SF-- Wilson 2-2; Heston 2-2

Times this starting pitcher allowed a run in first inning:
Mil-Chi-- Peralta 1-4; Lester 3-4
Wsh-NY-- Scherzer 1-4; Harvey 1-4
Phil-Mia-- Williams 2-4; Koehler 0-4
Cin-Atl-- DeSclafani 0-4; Foltynewicz 0-0
Pitt-StL-- Burnett 0-4; Lynn 0-4
Az-LA-- de la Rosa 2-4; Frias 0-0
Col-SD-- Butler 0-4; Kennedy 1-2

TB-Balt-- Colome 0-0; Tillman 1-4
Tor-Clev-- Buehrle 2-4; Carrasco 3-4
NY-Bos-- Sabathia 2-4; Masterson 1-4
A's-Tex-- Kazmir 0-4; Lewis 0-4
Sea-Hst-- Elias 1-1; Deduno 0-0
Det-KC-- Lobstein 2-3; Young 0-0
Chi-Minn-- Quintana 2-4; Gibson 1-4

LAA-SF-- Wilson 0-4; Heston 1-4

[StarDust Bum]

MLB

Friday, May 1

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Trend Report
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

2:20 PM
MILWAUKEE vs. CHI CUBS
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Milwaukee's last 5 games
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Milwaukee's last 10 games when playing Chi Cubs
Chi Cubs are 5-1 SU in their last 6 games when playing Milwaukee
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Chi Cubs's last 9 games when playing at home against Milwaukee

7:05 PM
TAMPA BAY vs. BALTIMORE
Tampa Bay is 6-2 SU in its last 8 games
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Tampa Bay's last 5 games
Baltimore is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Baltimore's last 5 games at home

7:10 PM
TORONTO vs. CLEVELAND
Toronto is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games on the road
Toronto is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games
Cleveland is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Cleveland's last 5 games when playing at home against Toronto

7:10 PM
NY YANKEES vs. BOSTON
The total has gone OVER in 4 of NY Yankees's last 5 games when playing on the road against Boston
NY Yankees are 4-1 SU in their last 5 games when playing on the road against Boston
Boston is 1-4 SU in their last 5 games when playing at home against NY Yankees
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Boston's last 5 games when playing NY Yankees

7:10 PM
PHILADELPHIA vs. MIAMI
Philadelphia is 5-13 SU in its last 18 games
Philadelphia is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games when playing Miami
Miami is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 10 of Miami's last 15 games

7:10 PM
WASHINGTON vs. NY METS
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Washington's last 5 games
Washington is 15-1 SU in its last 16 games when playing on the road against NY Mets
The total has gone OVER in 5 of NY Mets's last 6 games at home
NY Mets are 13-5 SU in its last 18 games

7:35 PM
CINCINNATI vs. ATLANTA
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Cincinnati's last 7 games when playing Atlanta
Cincinnati is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games on the road
Atlanta is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games when playing at home against Cincinnati
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Atlanta's last 6 games at home

8:05 PM
OAKLAND vs. TEXAS
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Oakland's last 5 games
Oakland is 1-6 SU in its last 7 games
Texas is 3-10 SU in its last 13 games when playing at home against Oakland
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Texas's last 6 games

8:10 PM
SEATTLE vs. HOUSTON
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Seattle's last 7 games when playing Houston
Seattle is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games when playing Houston
Houston is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Houston's last 7 games

8:10 PM
DETROIT vs. KANSAS CITY
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Detroit's last 10 games when playing Kansas City
The total has gone OVER in 9 of Detroit's last 12 games on the road
Kansas City is 15-7 SU in its last 22 games
Kansas City is 4-8 SU in its last 12 games when playing Detroit

8:10 PM
CHI WHITE SOX vs. MINNESOTA
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Chi White Sox's last 5 games on the road
Chi White Sox are 1-5 SU in their last 6 games on the road
Minnesota is 6-3 SU in its last 9 games at home
Minnesota is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games

8:15 PM
PITTSBURGH vs. ST. LOUIS
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Pittsburgh's last 6 games
Pittsburgh is 6-2 SU in its last 8 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of St. Louis's last 6 games when playing at home against Pittsburgh
St. Louis is 7-1 SU in its last 8 games when playing at home against Pittsburgh

10:10 PM
COLORADO vs. SAN DIEGO
Colorado is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games when playing on the road against San Diego
Colorado is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games on the road
San Diego is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 4 of San Diego's last 5 games

10:10 PM
ARIZONA vs. LA DODGERS
Arizona is 2-6 SU in their last 8 games when playing LA Dodgers
Arizona is 5-15 SU in its last 20 games on the road
LA Dodgers are 11-5 SU in their last 16 games
The total has gone OVER in 5 of LA Dodgers's last 6 games when playing at home against Arizona

10:15 PM
LA ANGELS vs. SAN FRANCISCO
The total has gone OVER in 4 of LA Angels's last 5 games
LA Angels are 5-2 SU in their last 7 games
San Francisco is 1-4 SU in their last 5 games when playing at home against LA Angels
San Francisco is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games at home

[StarDust Bum]

MLB

Friday, May 1


Wind blowing in at Wrigley Field Friday

According to weather forecasts, wind will be blowing in from center field at Wrigley Field Friday afternoon as the Chicago Cubs host the Milwaukee Brewers.

At the time of writing, the total remained off the board and the Cubbies were priced at -175.