Announcement

**pm530** · 08-06-2008, 05:19 AM

Daily Sports Roundup

Wednesday, August 6

There are still a couple of months of baseball left to play this season, but that doesn't mean time isn't running out for the Detroit Tigers. Here's your Daily Sports Roundup . . .

Event of the day . . .

The Tigers looked like they were going to climb back into contention in the AL Central and Wild Card races, but a recent slump has their postseason prospects in serious doubt once again. And Tigers ace Justin Verlander has followed a similar path - he was hot in June and early July, but over the last week he's been terrible.

Verlander (8-11, 4.49 ERA) will get a chance to reverse his fortunes on Wednesday night when the Tigers play in Chicago in the second of three games against the rival White Sox. The righthander has surrendered 13 earned runs on 14 hits in just 9 2-3 innings over his past two starts, getting tagged with the loss both times. Seven of those runs were scored by the White Sox in just four innings vs. Verlander on July 26.

John Danks (8-4, 3.31 ERA) will take the mound for Chicago on Wednesday night, and he hasn't added a loss to his record since May 24. The lefthander gave up four earned runs on eight hits over six innings in that matchup with Verlander on July 26 to pick up the victory, and the White Sox are 5-2 over his last seven outings.

Non-event of the day . . .

Yankee fans can't be comfortable with Sidney Ponson (6-2, 4.23 ERA) in their rotation, even if he is coming off a strong outing (two hits allowed over seven shutout innings vs. the Angels). The righthander has allowed seven earned runs twice in his last five starts. The Yankees will be in Texas again on Wednesday, with the Rangers starting Tommy Hunter. The rookie hurler was knocked around for six earned runs over five innings in his major league debut vs. the Blue Jays on August 1.

Also on the schedule . . .

Randy Johnson (9-7, 4.35 ERA) gets the ball for the Diamondbacks at home against the Pirates on Wednesday, while Pedro Martinez (3-2, 6.16 ERA) will be on the mound when the Mets host the Padres. Other NL action: Milwaukee at Cincinnati, Houston at the Cubs, Atlanta at San Francisco, Florida at Philadelphia, the Dodgers at St. Louis, and Washington at Colorado.

Other American League games on Wednesday include Cleveland at Tampa Bay, Baltimore at the Angels, Minnesota at Seattle, Oakland at Toronto, and Boston at Kansas City.

News from the wire . . .

Braves reliever Rafael Soriano was placed on the disabled list with a sore elbow . . . Bengals WR T.J. Housmandzadeh and RB Rudi Johnson have both been hobbled by hamstring injuries in camp . . . Rams RB Steven Jackson continues to hold out . . . Ravens QB Troy Smith is ahead of both Kyle Boller and Joe Flacco in the team's quarterback competition.

Peek at the future . . .

Zach Miner (5-4, 3.77 ERA) and Javier Vazquez (8-9, 4.66 ERA) will close out the Detroit/Chicago series on Thursday . . . Phil Mickelson remains the 8/1 favorite to win the PGA Championship this week, with Ernie Els at 12/1 and both Sergio Garcia and Vijay Singh at 15/1 . . . the Patriots are 5-point favorites in their preseason opener at home against the Ravens on Thursday night.

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**pm530** · 08-06-2008, 05:20 AM

Six-pack for Wednesday

Wild doings after midnight, involving some contenders.......

-- Dodgers scored four in ninth off Isringhausen to tie game 4-4, but Ludwick homered in 11th to give St Louis a 6-4 win.

-- Tigers led 6-1 in Chicago, blew the lead, then Polanco hit his second homer of game in 14th, giving Detroit an 8-6 lead, but Swisher hit a dramatic two-run HR at 1:08 am, giving Pale Hose a 10-8 win. Another nail in the coffin for Tigers.

-- Twins trailed 6-3 in 8th, scored four times to grab 7-6 lead, but Seattle got 2-run double from Lopez, beat Minnesota 8-7. Big swing in the standings late at night for the White Sox.

Elsewhere.......

-- 27-year old rookie named Waters had dismal numbers at AAA, but held Angels to one hit in eight innings as Orioles upset the Halos 3-0. Waters was 3-6, 5.70 in 16 AAA starts.

-- Brandon Webb got 21 groundball outs, then had pair of strikeouts with tying runs on base in 9th- Arizona won 3-1.

-- Mike Hampton won his first game in three years, winning 11-4 at San Francisco; he allowed two runs in seven IP.

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**pm530** · 08-06-2008, 05:21 AM

Wednesday's List of 13: Ranking the American League teams

14) Sacramento AAA's * -- If you don't have anything good to say, shut your mouth; I am shutting it, except to say that Greg Smith is pretty good young pitcher who has gotten just awful support- three or less runs in 14 of his last 17 starts.

13) Indians-- Really struggling hitting in clutch and bullpen is terrible. Announcer Rick Manning was agonizing as Longoria hit huge HR Tuesday on inside pitch, after hitting two similar pitches just foul way down the leftfield line. "Bad pitching."

12) Mariners-- Trailed 6-0 in sixth Monday, scored one in 6th, 10 in 7th, then rallied again in 8th inning Tuesday to beat the Twins for second night in a row. They're showing grit, spunk.

11) Orioles-- I am told Boog Powell has an excellent place to eat behind right field fence at Camden Yards. There was time when Orioles were the state-of-the-art franchise in big leagues. Sadly for Oriole fans, I was in high school then.

10) Royals-- Young people don't believe the Royals were also once a perennial powerhouse; one great thing about Kansas City is their hats- the same hats they've always had, though they did once also have a sharp gray and blue road hat.

9) Tigers-- I guess when Cabrera, Guillen switched positions in April, it was bad omen- what did they do in spring training? Whatever happened to Dontrelle Willis? It is possible that the four highest payrolls in baseball could all miss playoffs.

8) Blue Jays--Showing spunk and grit under Gaston. Vernon Wells has been the Canadian version of Rocco Baldelli since he inked the big contract last year. Eight weeks until training camp starts for the Maple Leafs.

7) Rangers-- Not sure why they fired another pitching coach; in last nine years, they've had seven. Problem isn't coaching; it is the pitchers- they're not very good. Fun team to watch, and they've given Bronx Bombers lot of grief so far this week. .

6) Bronx-- Joba Chamberlain went to see Dr James Andrews, a bad sign. Not only are they not gaining on teams ahead in the standings, resurgent Rangers are creeping up behind them.

5) Twins-- Got great start from Liriano Sunday, but the bullpen blew games the last two nights- they led 6-0 in sixth Monday, 7-6 in 8th last night, lost both games. Kubel had two homers and a double last night, but Minnesota still lost.

4) Red Sox-- Curious to note that in 9th inning Monday Royals walked Youkilis on purpose to get to Jason Bay; think Youkilis would ever get walked so they could face Manny Ramirez??? Bay did have four hits Tuesday, but batted sixth for Boston.

3) White Sox-- Nick Swisher has been disappointment, but he came off bench Tuesday and wound up hitting game-winning three-run homer after midnight in Windy City, giving Sox 10-8 win over the hideous Tigers. Sox had trailed in game 6-1.

2) Rays-- Bartlett screwed up his finger trying to bunt the other night; they need him back. At some point in September, they're going to kick themselves in the butt for not pickup up a hitter .Biggest remaining decision; when to bring David Price up.

1) Angels-- Been sloppy last few days, but that comes with a huge lead in a bad division. They have 7.5 weeks to get sharp and ready for first round of the playoffs.

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* ed. note: The reference to Sacramento AAA’s obviously is to the Athletics (the Sacramento River Cats, an AAA Oakland affiliate, happen to be a respectable team currently in 1st place in their division of the PCL).
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**pm530** · 08-06-2008, 05:28 AM

Canadian Football League – Long Sheet

CFL
Long Sheet

Week 7

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Thursday, August 7
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TORONTO (3 - 3) at HAMILTON (1 - 5) - 8/7/2008, 7:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
TORONTO is 17-8 ATS (+8.2 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
TORONTO is 17-8 ATS (+8.2 Units) in all lined games over the last 2 seasons.
TORONTO is 11-3 ATS (+7.7 Units) as a favorite over the last 2 seasons.
TORONTO is 11-3 ATS (+7.7 Units) versus division opponents over the last 2 seasons.
TORONTO is 16-7 ATS (+8.3 Units) in games played on turf over the last 2 seasons.
HAMILTON is 6-15 ATS (-10.5 Units) in home games over the last 3 seasons.
HAMILTON is 6-15 ATS (-10.5 Units) in home lined games over the last 3 seasons.
HAMILTON is 1-10 ATS (-10.0 Units) in home games versus division opponents over the last 3 seasons.
HAMILTON is 6-15 ATS (-10.5 Units) in home games in games played on turf over the last 3 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
TORONTO is 6-2 against the spread versus HAMILTON over the last 3 seasons
TORONTO is 7-1 straight up against HAMILTON over the last 3 seasons
4 of 8 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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CALGARY (3 - 3) at SASKATCHEWAN (6 - 0) - 8/7/2008, 10:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
SASKATCHEWAN is 6-0 ATS (+6.0 Units) in all games this season.
SASKATCHEWAN is 6-0 ATS (+6.0 Units) in all lined games this season.
SASKATCHEWAN is 71-49 ATS (+17.1 Units) versus division opponents since 1996.
SASKATCHEWAN is 6-0 ATS (+6.0 Units) in games played on turf this season.
SASKATCHEWAN is 0-6 ATS (-6.6 Units) in home games off a win over a division rival over the last 3 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
SASKATCHEWAN is 5-4 against the spread versus CALGARY over the last 3 seasons
SASKATCHEWAN is 6-3 straight up against CALGARY over the last 3 seasons
5 of 9 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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Friday, August 8
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MONTREAL (3 - 3) at WINNIPEG (1 - 5) - 8/8/2008, 7:30 PM
Top Trends for this game.
MONTREAL is 8-21 ATS (-15.1 Units) in road games when playing on a Friday since 1996.
WINNIPEG is 16-3 ATS (+12.7 Units) as a home underdog of 3 points or less since 1996.

Head-to-Head Series History
MONTREAL is 6-3 against the spread versus WINNIPEG over the last 3 seasons
WINNIPEG is 5-4 straight up against MONTREAL over the last 3 seasons
6 of 9 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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EDMONTON (4 - 2) at BRITISH COLUMBIA (3 - 3) - 8/8/2008, 10:30 PM
Top Trends for this game.
BRITISH COLUMBIA is 30-16 ATS (+12.4 Units) in August games since 1996.
BRITISH COLUMBIA is 36-18 ATS (+16.2 Units) in weeks 5 through 9 since 1996.

Head-to-Head Series History
EDMONTON is 5-2 against the spread versus BRITISH COLUMBIA over the last 3 seasons
BRITISH COLUMBIA is 5-2 straight up against EDMONTON over the last 3 seasons
3 of 6 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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**pm530** · 08-06-2008, 05:29 AM

Canadian Football League – Additional Trends

CFL

Week 7

Trend Sheet

Thursday, August 7

7:00 PM TORONTO vs. HAMILTON
Toronto is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Hamilton
Toronto is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Hamilton
Hamilton is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games
Hamilton is 4-21 SU in its last 25 games

10:00 PM CALGARY vs. SASKATCHEWAN
Calgary is 4-10 SU in its last 14 games
Calgary is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Saskatchewan
Saskatchewan is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games when playing at home against Calgary
Saskatchewan is 4-2 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Calgary

Friday, August 8

7:30 PM MONTREAL vs. WINNIPEG
Montreal is 11-4 ATS in its last 15 games when playing Winnipeg
Montreal is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games when playing Winnipeg
Winnipeg is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games at home
Winnipeg is 8-3 SU in its last 11 games at home

10:30 PM EDMONTON vs. BRITISH COLUMBIA
Edmonton is 6-3 ATS in its last 9 games when playing on the road against British Columbia
Edmonton is 1-6 SU in its last 7 games when playing on the road against British Columbia
British Columbia is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games when playing Edmonton
British Columbia is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games when playing Edmonton

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**pm530** · 08-06-2008, 05:31 AM

National Football League - Long Sheet

NFL
Pre-Season

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Long Sheet
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Note: Limited trends are listed. There may be updates prior to play date.

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Thursday, August 7
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NY GIANTS (1 - 3) at DETROIT (2 - 2) - 8/7/2008, 7:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
NY GIANTS are 4-16 ATS (-13.6 Units) in games played on turf since 1993.

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

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NY JETS (3 - 1) at CLEVELAND (3 - 1) - 8/7/2008, 7:30 PM
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.

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BALTIMORE (1 - 3) at NEW ENGLAND (2 - 2) - 8/7/2008, 7:30 PM
Top Trends for this game.
NEW ENGLAND is 19-8 ATS (+10.2 Units) in home games in August games since 1993.

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

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KANSAS CITY (0 - 4) at CHICAGO (3 - 1) - 8/7/2008, 8:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
KANSAS CITY is 2-10 ATS (-9.0 Units) as a road underdog of 3 points or less since 1993.

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

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NEW ORLEANS (3 - 2) at ARIZONA (0 - 4) - 8/7/2008, 8:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
NEW ORLEANS is 22-10 ATS (+11.0 Units) in road games since 1993.
NEW ORLEANS is 22-10 ATS (+11.0 Units) in road lined games since 1993.
NEW ORLEANS is 16-4 ATS (+11.6 Units) in a road game where the total is between 35.5 and 38 points since 1993.

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

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Friday, August 8
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PHILADELPHIA (1 - 3) at PITTSBURGH (4 - 1) - 8/8/2008, 7:30 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
PITTSBURGH is 1-1 against the spread versus PHILADELPHIA over the last 3 seasons
PITTSBURGH is 1-1 straight up against PHILADELPHIA over the last 3 seasons
1 of 2 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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SEATTLE (3 - 1) at MINNESOTA (2 - 2) - 8/8/2008, 8:00 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
SEATTLE is 1-0 against the spread versus MINNESOTA over the last 3 seasons
SEATTLE is 1-0 straight up against MINNESOTA over the last 3 seasons
1 of 1 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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SAN FRANCISCO (1 - 3) at OAKLAND (2 - 2) - 8/8/2008, 10:00 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
OAKLAND is 1-1 against the spread versus SAN FRANCISCO over the last 3 seasons
OAKLAND is 1-1 straight up against SAN FRANCISCO over the last 3 seasons
1 of 2 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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Saturday, August 9
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BUFFALO (2 - 2) at WASHINGTON (2 - 2) - 8/9/2008, 7:00 PM
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.

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INDIANAPOLIS (1 - 3) at CAROLINA (1 - 3) - 8/9/2008, 7:30 PM
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.

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ATLANTA (3 - 1) at JACKSONVILLE (3 - 1) - 8/9/2008, 7:30 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
JACKSONVILLE is 1-0 against the spread versus ATLANTA over the last 3 seasons
JACKSONVILLE is 1-0 straight up against ATLANTA over the last 3 seasons
1 of 1 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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TAMPA BAY (3 - 1) at MIAMI (2 - 2) - 8/9/2008, 7:30 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
MIAMI is 1-1 against the spread versus TAMPA BAY over the last 3 seasons
MIAMI is 1-1 straight up against TAMPA BAY over the last 3 seasons
1 of 2 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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ST LOUIS (2 - 2) at TENNESSEE (3 - 1) - 8/9/2008, 8:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
ST LOUIS is 3-12 ATS (-10.2 Units) when playing on a Saturday since 1993.

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

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DENVER (2 - 2) at HOUSTON (2 - 2) - 8/9/2008, 8:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
DENVER is 22-7 ATS (+14.3 Units) when playing on a Saturday since 1993.

Head-to-Head Series History
HOUSTON is 1-0 against the spread versus DENVER over the last 3 seasons
DENVER is 1-0 straight up against HOUSTON over the last 3 seasons
1 of 1 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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DALLAS (2 - 2) at SAN DIEGO (3 - 1) - 8/9/2008, 10:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
DALLAS is 11-31 ATS (-23.1 Units) in all games where the total is between 35.5 and 42 points since 1993.

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

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Monday, August 11
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CINCINNATI (1 - 3) at GREEN BAY (2 - 2) - 8/11/2008, 8:00 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
CINCINNATI is 1-0 against the spread versus GREEN BAY over the last 3 seasons
CINCINNATI is 1-0 straight up against GREEN BAY over the last 3 seasons
1 of 1 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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**pm530** · 08-06-2008, 05:33 AM

National Football League – Short Sheet

NFL
Pre-Season

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Short Sheet
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Thursday, August 7th

NY Giants at Detroit, 7:00 ET
NY Giants: 4-16 ATS on artifical turf
Detroit: 6-1 Over at home if total is 35 or less

NY Jets at Cleveland, 7:30 ET
NY Jets: 7-1 ATS on Thursday
Cleveland: 7-1 Under vs. AFC

Baltimore at New England, 7:30 ET
Baltimore: 6-1 Under if total is 35 or less
New England: 17-8 ATS as home favorite

Kansas City at Chicago, 8:00 ET
Kansas City: 0-4 ATS as road underdog
Chicago: 5-1 Under vs. AFC West

New Orleans at Arizona, 8:00 ET ESPN
New Orleans: 22-10 ATS in road games
Arizona: 3-0 Over if the line is +3 to -3

Friday, August 8th

Philadelphia at Pittsburgh, 7:30 ET
Philadelphia: 1-9 ATS Away 1st 2 weeks of preseason
Pittsburgh: 8-1 Under L9 preseason games

Seattle at Minnesota, 8:00 ET
Seattle: 4-0 Over as road underdog
Minnesota: 6-3 ATS as a home favorite of 3 or less

San Francisco at Oakland, 10:00 ET
San Francisco: 13-7 Under as road underdog
Oakland: 4-0 ATS as home favorite

Saturday, August 9th

Buffalo at Washington, 7:00 ET
Buffalo: 26-11 Inder vs. NFC
Washington: 1-9 ATSD at home off an Over

Indianapolis at Carolina, 7:30 ET
Indianapolis: 10-1 ATS off DD loss
Carolina: 6-0 Under vs. AFC

Atlanta at Jacksonville, 7:30 ET
Atlanta: 11-8 Over 1st 2 weeks of preseason
Jacksonville: 5-1 ATS vs. NFC

Tampa Bay at Miami, 7:30 ET
Tampa Bay: 26-10 Under if the total is 35 or less
Miami: 2-6 ATS as a home favorite of 3 points or less

St. Louis at Tennessee, 8:00 ET
St. Louis: 0-4 ATS an an underdog
Tennessee: 17-7 ATS if the line is +3 to -3

Denver at Houston, 8:00 ET
Denver: 22-7 ATS on Saturday
Houston: 5-0 Over on Saturday

Dallas at San Diego, 10:00 ET
Dallas: 5-18 ATS 1st 2 weeks of preseason
San Diego: 14-8 Over as a home favorite of 7 points or less

Monday, August 11th

Cincinnati at Green Bay, 8:00 ET ESPN
Cincinnati: 3-0 ATS as underdog
Green Bay: 1-5 ATS vs. AFC

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**pm530** · 08-06-2008, 05:35 AM

Baseball Today

MLB

Wednesday, August 6

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Baseball Today
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SCOREBOARD

Wednesday, Aug. 6

Detroit at Chicago White Sox (8:11 p.m. EDT). Trying to make a long-anticipated push in the AL Central, the Tigers send Justin Verlander (8-11, 4.49 ERA) to the mound against John Danks (8-4, 3.31) and the White Sox.

STARS

Tuesday

- Chris Waters, Orioles, allowed a hit in eight innings in his major league debut in a 3-0 victory over Los Angeles.

- Alfonso Soriano, Cubs, went 3-for-5 with a home run and four RBIs in Chicago's 11-7 win over Houston.

- Jason Kubel, Twins, went 4-for-5 with two home runs in an 8-7 loss to Seattle.

- Raul Ibanez, Mariners, had three hits, including a home run, and drove in five runs in Seattle's 8-7 win over Minnesota.

- Carlos Quentin, White Sox, went 4-for-7 with his 29th home run and Chicago beat Detroit 10-8 in 14 innings.

STELLAR DEBUT

Chris Waters held the team with baseball's best record to one hit over eight innings in his major league debut, and the Baltimore Orioles beat the Los Angeles Angels 3-0. The left-hander, who will turn 28 on Aug. 17, was promoted from Triple-A Norfolk and inserted into the rotation due to the ineffectiveness of Radhames Liz - demoted to the minors on July 27. Waters threw 104 pitches, striking out three, walking three and hitting a batter. He retired 14 of his last 15 batters.

STREAKING

Raul Ibanez drove in five more runs in Seattle's 8-7 win over Minnesota. Ibanez, almost traded to Toronto at last week's trade deadline, ripped a three-run homer in the third, added a two-run single in the sixth and has 14 RBIs in his last three games, tying a franchise mark previously held by Ken Griffey Jr. Ibanez had six RBIs in Seattle's 10-run seventh inning on Monday night.

BULLPEN TRAUMA

On the same day the Mets lost closer Billy Wagner to an injury, the team's mix-and-match bullpen was put to the test. Leading 6-2 starting the ninth, the Mets turned to Aaron Heilman. Heilman walked his first batter on four pitches and gave up a three-run homer to Jody Gerut with one out. At that point, manager Jerry Manuel had seen enough. He popped out of the dugout to lift Heilman, booed loudly by the crowd of 52,130. Joe Smith retired Tadahito Iguchi on a foul popup, and Manuel brought in Schoeneweis to face Brian Giles in a lefty-on-lefty matchup. Giles' well-hit drive to center was caught by Carlos Beltran, securing Schoeneweis' ninth major league save.

AILING

New York Yankees pitcher Joba Chamberlain will be examined by noted orthopedic surgeon Dr. James Andrews on Wednesday after undergoing an MRI on his ailing right shoulder. Chamberlain returned to New York for tests on his shoulder Tuesday. The team said before its game against the Texas Rangers that it would not reveal the results of the MRI exam until Chamberlain is seen by Andrews in Birmingham, Ala. Chamberlain was removed from Monday night's start against the Texas Rangers in the fifth inning with what the club announced was a stiff right shoulder. ... Texas closer C.J. Wilson was placed on the 15-day disabled list with bone spurs in his left elbow after the Rangers' 8-6 victory over the New York Yankees. Wilson gave up an eighth-inning grand slam to Richie Sexson in the game.

SUSPENDED

Kansas City catcher Miguel Olivo and pitcher Zack Greinke were suspended for five games for their actions during a weekend game with the Chicago White Sox. White Sox manager Ozzie Guillen was suspended two games and Royals manager Trey Hillman was given one game. All four penalties also included fines. Olivo and Greinke appealed their suspensions, and can continue to play until the appeal process is complete.

NEW DEAL

Arizona Diamondbacks All-Star pitcher Dan Haren has agreed to terms on a four-year, $44.75 million contract that runs through the 2012 season with a club option for 2013. Haren, acquired in an offseason trade with the Oakland Athletics, is 12-5 with a 2.75 ERA, fourth-best in the National League. He is fourth in the NL in strikeouts with 142 and leads the league in strikeout-to-walk ratio at 5.92. Haren's new deal includes $31.5 million more than he would have made in his old contract, which ran through 2009 with a team option for 2010. If the club picks up the option for 2013, the new contract would total $56.75 million.

UGLY EIGHTH

The Washington Nationals gave up six runs in the eighth in an 8-6 loss to Colorado. But even worse, the Rockies managed just three hits in the inning. Three Washington relievers combined for four walks and two hit batters in the inning. After Brad Hawpe hit a two-run single, Charlie Manning walked Troy Tulowitzki and pinch hitter Seth Smith to make it 5-2. Saul Rivera relieved Manning and hit Willy Taveras to score a run and walked Jeff Baker to drive in another. Matt Holliday, who began the rally with a one-out double, drove in a run on an infield single.

HAMPTON IN

Mike Hampton earned his first victory in nearly three years and hit an RBI double, leading the Atlanta Braves past the San Francisco Giants 11-4. The 35-year-old hadn't won since Aug. 14, 2005, for the Braves against Arizona - 1,087 days earlier. And this was just his third start of 2008 after he returned July 26 following a nearly three-year absence in which the two-time All-Star underwent two major surgeries on his left elbow. This season, he was sidelined by both a strained chest muscle and an injured groin. Hampton allowed four hits and two runs in seven innings. He lowered his ERA from 10.00 to 6.75.

BLOWN SAVES

Huston Street blew his sixth save of the season when Toronto rallied for two runs in the ninth to beat Oakland 4-3. Jason Isringhausen, restored to the closer's job last week, retired the first batter he faced but then gave up four hits and a walk in a span of five batters as St. Louis blew a four-run lead in the ninth. It was the major league-leading 27th blown save for the Cardinals, who won in the 11th inning, 6-4. Isringhausen had one bad break on Loney's bases-loaded infield hit, a slow roller down the first-base line that the pitcher couldn't field.

SPEAKING

"He was the bulldog Hampton tonight. He had the super-duper sinker going. He was just outstanding. Hopefully he's not too sore tomorrow. It's been a long time since he's done this. The bulldog was on the attack, getting ahead of hitters. It's big for the team to get Mike a win.'' - Braves manager Bobby Cox after Mike Hampton won for the first time in nearly three years, 11-4 over San Francisco.

SEASONS

Aug. 6

1908 - John Lush threw a six-inning no-hitter as the St. Louis Cardinals beat the Brooklyn Dodgers 2-0. It was Lush's second no-hitter against the Dodgers.

1952 - Satchel Paige, 46, became the oldest pitcher in major-league history to pitch a complete game or a shutout when he beat Virgil Trucks and the Detroit Tigers 1-0 in 12 innings.

1972 - Atlanta's Hank Aaron hit his 660th and 661st career home runs to break Babe Ruth's record for most home runs with one club. The 661st came in the 10th inning to give the Braves a 4-3 triumph over the Cincinnati Reds.

1981 - As a result of a seven-week strike, players in Major League Baseball approved a split-season format. The New York Yankees, Oakland A's, Philadelphia Phillies and Los Angeles Dodgers were declared the first-half champions and automatically qualified for the divisional series.

1985 - The Major League Baseball Players' Association went on strike.

1986 - The Texas Rangers beat the Baltimore Orioles 13-11 in a record-setting battle of grand slams. Texas' Toby Harrah hit a grand slam in the second inning before Larry Sheets and Jim Dwyer connected for grand slams in Baltimore's nine-run fourth.

1988 - Oakland Athletics outfielder Jose Canseco became the 11th player in major league history to hit 30 homers and steal 30 bases in a season. Canseco, with 31 homers, stole second base with one out in the ninth inning for his 30th as the A's edged the Seattle Mariners 5-4.

1988 - Rich Gossage registered his 300th career save as the Chicago Cubs beat the Philadelphia Phillies 7-4.

1999 - Tony Gwynn went 4-for-5, singling in his first at-bat to become the 22nd major leaguer to reach 3,000 hits, as the San Diego Padres beat the Montreal Expos 12-10.

2001 - Boston's Scott Hatteberg performed the ultimate baseball turnaround. Hatteberg hit a grand slam one at-bat after lining into a triple play as the Red Sox defeated the Texas Rangers 10-7. Hatteberg lined into a triple play in the fourth inning and in the sixth he hit his second career grand slam to move Boston ahead for good.

2002 - At 32, Robb Nen became the youngest player to record 300 saves, as San Francisco beat the Chicago Cubs 11-10. Nen became the 16th member of the 300-save club.

2007 - St. Louis tied a major league record with 10 straight hits in a 10-run fifth inning, with pitcher Braden Looper and Aaron Miles getting two apiece in a 10-5 victory over San Diego.

Today's birthday: Luis Vizcaino 34.

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**pm530** · 08-06-2008, 05:36 AM

Major League Baseball – Write up

MLB
Write-up

Wednesday, August 6

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Hot Pitchers
-- Brewers are 4-1 in Suppan's last five road starts.
-- Johnson is 5-0, 1.67 in his last five starts.
-- Lincecum has 2.89 RA in his last four starts.
-- Sanchez won his first '08 start 12-2 (two runs/5.2 IP). Kendrick has 2.13 RA in his last two starts.
-- Lowe is 2-1, 2.33 in his last four starts.
-- Karstens shut Cubs out for six innings, winning his first start for Pirates, 3-0 at Wrigley.

-- Raysa re 8-1 at home when Kazmir starts.
-- Olsen is 2-0, 3.14 in his last couple starts. Santana has a 3.00 RA in his last four starts.
-- Blackburn is 2-2, 3.22 in his last six starts.

Cold Pitchers
-- Reds are 0-7 when Bailey starts (0-5, 8.71).
-- Marquis is 0-2, 6.00 in his last three starts. Astros are 3-10 on the road when Backe starts.
-- James is 0-3, 11.37 in his last three starts.
-- Martinez has 6.75 RA in his last six starts. Baek is 1-2, 6.00 in his last four starts.
-- Pineiro is 0-1, 8.31 in his last four starts.
-- Rockies are 1-4 in last five Francis starts (1-2, 6.67). Perez has 6.81 RA in his last seven road starts.

-- Indians lost six of Sowers' seven road starts.
-- Mariners are 2-7 at home when Washburn starts.
-- Gio Gonzalez finally makes his Oakland debut; he was 8-7, 4.24 in 22 starts at AAA Sacramento. Marcum is 0-2, 9.15 in his last four starts.
-- Ponson allowed seven runs in 5+ IP vs Texas July 2; he made nine starts for Rangers this spring before they dumped him due to off-field concerns. Hunter allowed six runs in five IP in his first 2008 start, a game Rangers later won, 9-8.
-- Hochevar is 1-4, 7.36 in his last six starts. Red Sox lost seven of last eight Wakefield road starts.
-- Danks has 7.23 RA in his last four starts. Verlander is 1-3, 7.48 against the White Sox this season.

Hot Teams
-- Cubs won eight of their last ten games. Astros won seven of their last nine games.
-- Phillies won seven of their last nine games. Florida is 9-4 in its last thirteen road games.
-- Dodgers are 8-5 in their last thirteen road games.
-- Nationals won four of last five games. Colorado is 12-3 in its last fifteen home games.
-- Diamondbacks are 11-4 in their last fifteen games.

-- Toronto is 12-4 in its last sixteen home games.
-- Rays are 40-10 in last 50 home games.
-- Rangers are 10-5 in their last fifteen home games.
-- Red Sox won four of their last five games. Royals won seven of their last nine games.
-- Mariners won last three games, scoring 27 runs.

Cold Teams
-- Brewers lost seven of their last ten games. Reds lost nine of their last eleven games.
-- Mets lost five of seven games last week. Padres lost five of their last six games.
-- Cardinals lost six of their last eight home games.
-- Pirates are 3-8 since the Nady/Marte trade.
-- Braves lost eight of their last eleven games. Giants lost eight of last twelve home games.

-- Indians lost five of their last seven road games.
-- Oakland is 2-17 in its last nineteen games.
-- Bronx lost seven of its last ten games.
-- White Sox lost six of their last nine games. Tigers lost five games in row, allowing 39 runs.
-- Orioles are 6-9 in their last fifteen games. Angels lost three of their last four games.
-- Minnesota lost three of its last four games.

Totals
-- Seven of last nine Cub games went over the total.
-- Over is 14-5-2 in Florida's last twenty-one road games.
-- Under is 7-0-1 in last eight Milwaukee road games.
-- Over is 10-3 in Mets' last thirteen games.
-- Five of last seven Dodger games stayed under the total.
-- Over is 4-1-1 in last six games at Coors Field.
-- Over is 4-2 in Arizona's last six home games.
-- Under is 8-3 in Giants' last eleven games.

-- Under is 13-1-1 in Oakland's last fifteen road games.
-- Under is 6-2 in Cleveland's last eight road games.
-- Over is 10-1 in last eleven Bronx games.
-- Under is 5-2 in Boston's last seven road games.
-- Over is 6-1 in White Sox' last seven home games.
-- Over is 21-7-1 in Orioles' last 29 road games.
-- Six of last eight Minnesota road games went over the total.

Umpires
-- Mil-Cin-- Six of last eight Layne games went over the total.
-- Hst-Chi-- Underdog is 5-1 in last six Foster games; the under is 11-4 in his last fifteen games behind dish.
-- Pitt-Az-- Over is 9-3 in last dozen Timmons games.
-- Atl-SF-- Home side is 15-6 in last 21 Cousins games.
-- Fla-Phil-- Last five Iassogna games all went over the total.
-- SD-NY-- Six of last nine Dreckman games stayed under total.
-- LA-StL-- Over is 10-3-1 in last fourteen Guccione games.
-- Wsh-Col-- Over is 13-5 in last 18 McClelland games.

-- Cle-TB-- Under is 7-3 in West's last ten games.
-- Blt-LA-- Under is 10-3 in last thirteen Runge games.
-- Min-Sea-- Three of last four Marsh games stayed under.
-- A's-Tor-- Over is 11-3-1 in last fifteen Holbrook games.
-- NY-Tex-- Under is 14-3-1 in last eighteen Davidson games.
-- Bos-KC-- Underdog won eight of last ten Demuth games.
-- Det-Chi-- Four of last five Hallion games stayed under total.

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**pm530** · 08-06-2008, 05:37 AM

Major League Baseball – Trend Sheet

MLB

Wednesday, August 6

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Trend Sheet
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12:35 PM MILWAUKEE vs. CINCINNATI
Milwaukee is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games when playing on the road against Cincinnati
Milwaukee is 3-7 SU in its last 10 games
Cincinnati is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games when playing Milwaukee
Cincinnati is 2-9 SU in its last 11 games

12:40 PM CLEVELAND vs. TAMPA BAY
Cleveland is 5-15 SU in its last 20 games on the road
Cleveland is 19-3 SU in its last 22 games when playing Tampa Bay
Tampa Bay is 3-19 SU in its last 22 games when playing Cleveland
Tampa Bay is 3-7 SU in its last 10 games when playing at home against Cleveland

2:20 PM HOUSTON vs. CHI CUBS
Houston is 3-9 SU in their last 12 games when playing on the road against Chi Cubs
Houston is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games
Chi Cubs are 2-5 SU in their last 7 games when playing Houston
Chi Cubs are 8-2 SU in their last 10 games

3:35 PM BALTIMORE vs. LA ANGELS
Baltimore is 1-5-1 SU in their last 7 games when playing LA Angels
Baltimore is 1-6-1 SU in their last 8 games when playing on the road against LA Angels
LA Angels are 7-1-1 SU in their last 9 games at home
LA Angels are 15-4-1 SU in their last 20 games

3:40 PM PITTSBURGH vs. ARIZONA
Pittsburgh is 1-7 SU in its last 8 games when playing on the road against Arizona
Pittsburgh is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games
Arizona is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games when playing Pittsburgh
Arizona is 6-2 SU in its last 8 games

3:45 PM ATLANTA vs. SAN FRANCISCO
Atlanta is 3-8 SU in its last 11 games
San Francisco is 8-16 SU in its last 24 games
San Francisco is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games at home

4:40 PM MINNESOTA vs. SEATTLE
Minnesota is 2-7 SU in its last 9 games on the road
Minnesota is 6-3 SU in its last 9 games when playing on the road against Seattle
Seattle is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing Minnesota
Seattle is 3-6 SU in its last 9 games when playing at home against Minnesota

7:05 PM FLORIDA vs. PHILADELPHIA
Florida is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games
Florida is 7-3 SU in its last 10 games on the road
Philadelphia is 14-6 SU in its last 20 games when playing at home against Florida
Philadelphia is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games when playing Florida

7:07 PM OAKLAND vs. TORONTO
Oakland is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games
Oakland is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games on the road
Toronto is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing Oakland
Toronto is 2-7 SU in its last 9 games when playing at home against Oakland

7:10 PM SAN DIEGO vs. NY METS
San Diego is 2-8 SU in its last 10 games when playing on the road against NY Mets
San Diego is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games when playing NY Mets
NY Mets are 12-2 SU in its last 14 games at home
NY Mets are 1-4 SU in its last 5 games

8:05 PM NY YANKEES vs. TEXAS
NY Yankees are 3-7 SU in their last 10 games on the road
NY Yankees are 3-7 SU in their last 10 games
Texas is 5-1 SU in their last 6 games when playing NY Yankees
Texas is 7-18 SU in their last 25 games when playing NY Yankees

8:10 PM BOSTON vs. KANSAS CITY
Boston is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games on the road
Boston is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games
Kansas City is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games when playing Boston
Kansas City is 7-3 SU in its last 10 games when playing at home against Boston

8:11 PM DETROIT vs. CHI WHITE SOX
Detroit is 8-15 SU in their last 23 games when playing Chi White Sox
Detroit is 2-6 SU in their last 8 games when playing on the road against Chi White Sox
Chi White Sox are 15-5 SU in their last 20 games at home
Chi White Sox are 3-6 SU in their last 9 games

8:15 PM LA DODGERS vs. ST. LOUIS
LA Dodgers are 2-4 SU in their last 6 games on the road
LA Dodgers are 1-5 SU in their last 6 games when playing St. Louis
St. Louis is 9-1 SU in their last 10 games when playing at home against LA Dodgers
St. Louis is 5-1 SU in their last 6 games when playing LA Dodgers

9:05 PM WASHINGTON vs. COLORADO
Washington is 1-8 SU in its last 9 games when playing on the road against Colorado
Washington is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games when playing Colorado
Colorado is 12-3 SU in its last 15 games at home
Colorado is 13-6 SU in its last 19 games

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**pm530** · 08-06-2008, 05:38 AM

Major League Baseball - Tips & Trends

MLB

We will update when projected scores are available.

Wednesday, August 6

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Tips and Trends
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Houston Astros at Chicago Cubs [WGN | 2:20 PM ET]

Astros: Brandon Backe has earned just one win in his last seven starts heading into this meeting with the Cubs. Houston is 3-4 in those games, dropping two of Backe's last three away from home as well. He is 3-6 in 13 road starts with a 4.50 ERA after walking away with a no-decision in an eventual 6-4 loss at Milwaukee on July 26. Backe is 2-2 lifetime vs. Chicago with a 4.75 ERA.

Astros are 3-9 in the last 12 meetings at Chicago.
Astros are 3-10 in Backe's last 13 road starts.

Key Injuries - OF Michael Bourn (.235; ankle) is day-to-day.
SS Miguel Tejada (.281; rest) is NOT expected to start.

PROJECTED SCORE: TBD

Cubs (-190): Jason Marquis could be on the verge of losing his spot in the starting rotation if he continues to pitch poorly. Chicago is 2-4 in Marquis' last six starts, including 2-2 at home, where he is 3-4 with an inflated 5.68 ERA. The Cubs did not score a run for him in his last outing against Pittsburgh on Friday, as he gave up all three runs in six innings of a 3-0 loss. Marquis is 8-5 during his career against the Astros with a 5.20 ERA.

Cubs are 9-2 in their last 11 games on grass.
The UNDER is 6-2 in the last 8 meetings.

Key Injuries - Closer Kerry Wood (24 saves; finger) has returned.

PROJECTED SCORE: TBD

Florida Marlins at Philadelphia Phillies [7:05 PM ET]

Marlins: Anibal Sanchez makes his second start of the season and first on the road against a team he has struggled against in two career starts. Sanchez missed most of last season and the first first few months of this season due to a shoulder injury after throwing a no-hitter as a rookie in 2006. He gave up two runs and six hits in 5.2 innings of a 12-2 victory on Thursday in his first start and is 0-1 lifetime vs. Philadelphia with a 10.61 ERA.

Marlins are 11-4 in their last 15 games as an underdog.
The OVER is 40-18-6 in Florida's last 64 road games.

Key Injuries - NONE

PROJECTED SCORE: TBD

Phillies (-150, O/U 10.5): Kyle Kendrick will try to build off his first win in five starts when he faces the Marlins for the second time in four outings. Kendrick got hammered by the Marlins in the last meeting on July 19, surrendering seven runs and 10 hits in 4.1 innings of a 9-5 loss. However, he has rebounded in his last two starts, allowing three runs in 12.2 innings with three walks and six strikeouts. Kendrick is 3-3 in 10 home starts with a 4.33 ERA.

Phillies are 7-2 in their last 9 games overall.
The OVER is 10-3 in Philadelphia's last 13 games as a favorite.

Key Injuries - 3B Pedro Feliz (.256 back) is on the 15-day DL.

PROJECTED SCORE: TBD

New York Yankees at Texas Rangers [ESPN | 8:05 PM ET]

Yankees (-125, O/U 12.5): Sidney Ponson is coming off arguably his best start of the season even though it resulted in a loss. Ponson allowed just two hits in seven scoreless innings against the Angels on Friday, but New York did not score a run and gave up one in the top of the ninth for a 1-0 loss. He will be facing his former team for the second time in six starts after giving up seven runs and nine hits in five innings of an 18-7 victory back on July 2. Ponson is 3-2 in five road starts with a 4.06 ERA, and opponents are hitting .315 against him away from home.

Yankees are 45-16 in their last 61 Wednesday games.
The OVER is 10-1 in New York's last 11 games overall.

Key Injuries - C Jorge Posada (.268; shoulder) is OUT for the season.

PROJECTED SCORE: TBD

Rangers: Tommy Hunter will look for some major improvement in his second career start when he faces a lethal offensive team in the Yankees. Hunter served up two homers and six runs total to the Blue Jays in a 9-8 victory on Saturday, walking away with a no-decision after five innings. He walked two and struck out four in his major-league debut, as the Rangers scored three times in the bottom of the ninth inning to pull off the win.

Rangers are 8-21 in the last 29 meetings at Texas.
The OVER is 11-2-1 in Texas' last 14 games overall.

Key Injuries - OF Milton Bradley (.320; quad) is day-to-day.

PROJECTED SCORE: TBD

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**pm530** · 08-06-2008, 05:47 AM

Major League Baseball - Dunkel Index

MLB
Dunkel Index

LA Dodgers at St. Louis
The Cardinals look to make it two straight over the Dodgers at home and take advantage of LA's 5-9 record as a road favorite between -100 and -125. St. Louis is the underdog pick (+100) according to Dunkel, which has the Cardinals favored straight up by 1. Dunkel Pick: St. Louis (+100). Here are all of today's games.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 6

Game 951-952: Milwaukee at Cincinnati
Dunkel Ratings: Milwaukee (Suppan) 13.231; Cincinnati (Bailey) 14.164
Dunkel Line: Cincinnati by 1; 9
Vegas Line: Milwaukee (-120); 10
Dunkel Pick: Cincinnati (+110); Under

Game 953-954: Houston at Chicago Cubs
Dunkel Ratings: Houston (Backe) 15.371; Cubs (Marquis) 16.123
Dunkel Line: Chicago Cubs by 1; 10 1/2
Vegas Line: Chicago Cubs (-185); No Run Line
Dunkel Pick: Chicago Cubs (-185); N/A

Game 955-956: Pittsburgh at Arizona
Dunkel Ratings: Pittsburgh (Karstens) 14.246; Arizona (Johnson) 15.825
Dunkel Line: Arizona by 1 1/2; 8
Vegas Line: Arizona (-240); 8 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Arizona (-240); Under

Game 957-958: Atlanta at San Francisco
Dunkel Ratings: Atlanta (James) 13.741; San Francisco (Lincecum) 14.865
Dunkel Line: San Francisco by 1; 6 1/2
Vegas Line: San Francisco (-170); 7
Dunkel Pick: San Francisco (-170); Under

Game 959-960: Florida at Philadelphia
Dunkel Ratings: Florida (Sanchez) 14.898; Philadelphia (Kendrick) 15.825
Dunkel Line: Philadelphia by 1; 11 1/2
Vegas Line: Philadelphia (-155); 10 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Philadelphia (-155); Over

Game 961-962: San Diego at NY Mets
Dunkel Ratings: San Diego (Baek) 14.268; NY Mets (Martinez) 15.476
Dunkel Line: NY Mets by 1; 8
Vegas Line: NY Mets (-190); 8 1/2
Dunkel Pick: NY Mets (-190); Under

Game 963-964: LA Dodgers at St. Louis
Dunkel Ratings: LA Dodgers (Lowe) 15.168; St. Louis (Pineiro) 16.337
Dunkel Line: St. Louis by 1; 9 1/2
Vegas Line: LA Dodgers (-110); 8 1/2
Dunkel Pick: St. Louis (+100); Over

Game 965-966: Washington at Colorado
Dunkel Ratings: Washington (Perez) 14.990; Colorado (Francis) 16.413
Dunkel Line: Colorado by 1 1/2; 9
Vegas Line: Colorado (-190); 9 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Colorado (-190); Under

Game 967-968: Cleveland at Tampa Bay
Dunkel Ratings: Cleveland (Sowers) 15.611; Tampa Bay (Kazmir) 17.041
Dunkel Line: Tampa Bay by 1 1/2; 9
Vegas Line: Tampa Bay (-225); 8
Dunkel Pick: Tampa Bay (-225); Over

Game 969-970: Baltimore at LA Angels
Dunkel Ratings: Baltimore (Olson) 14.988; LA Angels (Santana) 16.354
Dunkel Line: LA Angels by 1 1/2; 8 1/2
Vegas Line: LA Angels (-210); 9 1/2
Dunkel Pick: LA Angels (-210); Under

Game 971-972: Minnesota at Seattle
Dunkel Ratings: Minnesota (Blackburn) 15.320; Seattle (Washburn) 16.389
Dunkel Line: Seattle by 1; 8
Vegas Line: Minnesota (-115); 8 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Seattle (+105); Under

Game 973-974: Oakland at Toronto
Dunkel Ratings: Oakland (Duchscherer) 13.917; Toronto (Marcum) 13.588
Dunkel Line: Oakland by 1/2; 7
Vegas Line: Oakland (-105); 8
Dunkel Pick: Oakland (-105); Under

Game 975-976: NY Yankees at Texas
Dunkel Ratings: NY Yankees (Ponson) 16.011; Texas (Hunter) 17.095
Dunkel Line: Texas by 1; 13
Vegas Line: NY Yankees (-115); 12 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Texas (+105); Over

Game 977-978: Boston at Kansas City
Dunkel Ratings: Boston (Wakefield) 15.377; Kansas City (Hochevar) 16.053
Dunkel Line: Kansas City by 1/2; 10
Vegas Line: Boston (-135); 9 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Kansas City (+125); Over

Game 979-980: Detroit at Chicago White Sox
Dunkel Ratings: Detroit (Verlander) 14.521; White Sox (Danks) 15.968
Dunkel Line: Chicago White Sox by 1 1/2; 11
Vegas Line: Chicago White Sox (-105); 9 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Chicago White Sox (-105); Over

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**Udog** · 08-06-2008, 07:40 AM

MLB

Wednesday, August 6

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Streaking Pitchers
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Streaking

Garrett Olson, Baltimore Orioles (8-5, 5.67)

After a horrendous stretch of four starts in which he went 0-2 and gave up 23 earned runs in 18.5 innings, Olsen has won his last two outings. You never know what's going to happen with a rookie starter, but if it’s a season of ups and downs, Olsen is certainly on the way up after he came within two outs of pitching a complete-game shutout against the Mariners in his last start. It's also a promising sign that the young lefty was able to put on a performance like that away from home, a situation in which he's struggled this season.

Nick Blackburn, Minnesota Twins (8-6, 3.56)

Here's another rookie, but you'd never know it by the way he's been playing. Blackburn has been solid all season, but he appears to be getting stronger as the season goes on. The 26-year-old had a 2.45 ERA in July and he started off August with a brilliant seven-inning, six-hit, one-run showing against Cleveland, Aug. 1. Control is this young pitcher's greatest strength; he's walked just six batters in his last 10 starts.

Slumping

Shaun Marcum, Toronto Blue Jays (5-5, 3.57)

It wasn't that long ago that Marcum was the toast of Toronto, but ever since the right-hander has returned from the DL after an elbow injury, he has gone 0-1 and racked up a mammoth 9.82 ERA. After his latest loss, in which he gave up six earned runs in 4 1/3 innings in a loss to the Rangers, he commented that location has been the source of the problem.

"The whole game I couldn't locate my fastball at all," Marcum said. "It's tough to pitch if you can't locate your fastball."

The Blue Jays have gotten only one win in Marcum's last seven starts.

**Udog** · 08-06-2008, 09:19 AM

MLB

Wednesday, August 6

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Hot Lines: Wednesday's best MLB bets
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Florida at Philadelphia (-150, 10 1/2)

There's simply not enough difference between these two clubs to justify a price like this. Florida has struggled to win in Philly, but the Fish still lead the season series 6-4, including a road win last night at +140. In spite of their weaknesses (pitching and fielding) the Marlins manage to get wins with their powerful bats - which means they have a chance to win almost every game they play.

They have a particularly good shot today, as Anibal Sanchez takes the mound, his second start since returning from an injury that kept him out for almost 15 months. A win over Colorado in his first game back showed that Sanchez is close to his previous form which saw him pitch a no-hitter in 2006. He'll face Kyle Kendrick today, who allowed seven earned runs, including three homers in his only meeting with the Marlins this season.

Pick: Marlins

Detroit at Chicago White Sox (-110, 9)

Justin Verlander has short, but ugly history against the White Sox. The young right-hander has a career 2-7 record against this divisional rival and he's never won a game (0-4) at U.S. Cellular field.

His opponent today, John Danks, has led the Sox to a 3-1 in his four career starts versus the Tigers. Chicago is 8-5 against Detroit this season, despite playing only four of those games in their home park.

Pick: White Sox

Announcement

Wednesday Trends and Indexes 8/6

Wednesday Trends and Indexes 8/6

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