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**pm530** · 05-22-2009, 11:08 AM

Daily Sports Roundup

Friday, May 22

Today in the Daily Sports Roundup: Baseball starts up interleague play, the Cavaliers try to bounce back, and the Wings gun for a commanding series lead.

Tipping off on the hardwood . . .

LeBron James and his Cavaliers will be looking to rebound from a shocking loss in the opener of the East Finals when they host the Magic in Game 2 of the series on Friday night. Cleveland had a 33-19 lead after one quarter of the series opener, but then watched Orlando come back and secure a 107-106 road win. James tossed in 49 points for the Cavs in their first loss of the postseason, while Dwight Howard led the way for the Magic with 30 points and 13 rebounds. The oddsmakers have Cleveland pegged as a 9-point home favorite for Friday night.

Meeting up on the diamond . . .

Baseball begins its first interleague sets of the season on Friday night, with the Angels and Dodgers clashing in the NL ballpark in one of the marquee matchups. Jered Weaver is slated to start for the Angels; the righthander is 3-2 on the season with a 2.59 ERA, and he's allowed just five earned runs over his last 24 innings pitched. Countering for the Dodgers will be lefthander Clayton Kershaw (2-3, 4.60 ERA), who's coming off a seven-inning, one-hit outing vs. the Marlins.

The New York teams are also involved in featured interleague matchups starting Friday, just not against each other. The Yankees will be at home to face the defending-champion Phillies, with A.J. Burnett (2-1, 5.02 ERA) slated to take on Brett Myers (3-2, 4.50 ERA). The Mets will be on the road at Fenway Park to battle the Red Sox; Johan Santana (5-2, 1.36 ERA) gets the ball for the Mets in that one, while Boston sends Daisuke Matsuzaka (0-1, 12.79 ERA) to the mound.

Also on the diamond on Friday: Baltimore at Washington, Colorado at Detroit, Cleveland at Cincinnati, Tampa Bay at Florida, Toronto at Atlanta, Texas at Houston, Milwaukee at Minnesota, Pittsburgh at the White Sox, Kansas City at St. Louis, Arizona at Oakland, and San Francisco at Seattle. As well, the lone intraleague matchup has San Diego staying home for a series against the Cubs.

Taking a trip around the rink . . .

The Blackhawks will try to dig themselves out of a 2-0 series deficit on Friday night when they host the Red Wings in Game 3 of the Western Conference final. Mikael Samuelsson scored the overtime winner in Game 2 on Tuesday as Detroit grabbed a 3-2 victory. Brian Rafalski and Daniel Cleary also scored for the Wings in that contest, while Chris Osgood made 37 saves. Jonathan Toews had both markers for the Hawks, who are pegged as slight -125 home favorites for Friday.

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**pm530** · 05-22-2009, 11:09 AM

Six-pack for Friday

-- How about Jake Peavy turning down trade to White Sox-- he is supposedly not crazy about Ozzie Guillen, and doesn't want to be in the American League. He pitches against the Cubs Friday night, for the suddenly-hot Padres, winners of six straight games.

-- Heath Bell allowed his first run of season, but Eckstein got hit by pitch with bases loaded, as San Diego scored twice in bottom of the ninth to sweep series from Giants- they're 6-0 at home vs SF.

-- Think Arizona, Florida hitters were tired from their twinbill split Thursday? They combined for five walks, 29 K's Thursday.

-- Cardinals swept three games from Cubs, allowing two runs in the three games. Tough holding Chicago down like that.

-- Twins got eight runs in first two innings off Colon in 20-1 win, but seven of those eight runs were unearned.

-- Nuggets came through at end, upset Lakers 106-103 at Staples, evening Western Conference finals 1-1.

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Fact of the Day

With interleague play starting tonight, its a good chance to take a look at who the playoff teams would be, if playoffs started Friday:

AL playoff teams-- Toronto-Detroit-Texas/Red Sox

NL-- Philadelphia-Milwaukee-Los Angeles/Cardinals

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Friday's List of 13: Our major league baseball List of 13.......

13) Royals 21-20-- 7-2 when Greinke starts, 14-18 in other games.

12) Reds 21-19-- Lost marathon game in San Diego second year in a row; took them while to recover from last year's loss.

11) Mets 21-19-- Delgado is out, Reyes is gimpy, defense is shaky. Better step up, or it'll be a long weekend in Fenway.

10) Cubs 21-18-- Scored two runs in three game sweep at St Louis.

9) Phillies 22-17-- Unlike Mets, they generally send same players to same positions on the field every day. It makes a difference.

8) Rangers 22-17-- Were on roll until three-game sweep in Detroit.

7) Blue Jays 27-17-- Fading now that they're playing money teams.

6) Tigers 23-16-- In midst of 6-0 homestand; Willis had great start. The home team won their last nine games.

5) Cardinals 24-17-- Got Carpenter and Ludwick off DL this week.

4) Bronx 24-17-- Won last nine games; having ARod behind Teixeira obviously makes a huge difference.

3) Red Sox 25-16-- Have stable of young pitchers, with more down on farm ready to go. Could use Ortiz to snap out of it.

2) Brewers 26-15-- Have solid young position players ready to step in for injured guys. Hoffman has been terrific closer.

1) Dodgers 29-13-- 8-5 without Manny, have huge lead in NL West.

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**pm530** · 05-22-2009, 11:10 AM

Len’s Top Five

Friday, May 22

Len's Top 5

TGIF everyone, here's my Top 5 for May 22, 2009 from Len Berman Sports.com.

1. Quick Hits

Denver beat the Lakers 106-103 to even their series at 1.

In hockey, Pittsburgh now leads Carolina 2 games to none after a 7-4
win.

Toronto, Boston and Yankees all within a game and a half in the standings after Yanks win 9th straight and Sox sweep Toronto.

Beware of large drunk guys. According to Yahoo Sports at least 73 players on NFL rosters last year have been arrested for DUI.

2. My Funny Valentine

They love former Mets manager Bobby Valentine in Japan. His contract will not be renewed to manage the Chiba Lotte Marines after this season because he makes too much money. (I've heard that line somewhere before.) Anyway, more than 50,000 fans have signed a petition to keep him, and fan protests are held at every game. If he leaves Japan, wouldn't he be a breath of fresh air at Citi Field?

3. Wordsmith of the Week

Royals great George Brett is pissed off at all the criticism that K.C. Manager Trey Hillman has been getting. On a TV interview he said, "I don't care if you're Joe F***ing Torre, you're gonna take criticism." As for all the media criticism, Brett said on camera to the reporter, "F*** you, and f*** them."
Thanks George, have a nice day.

4. Friday Mailbag

Concerning the high cost of everything at Yankee Stadium, J.C. writes: "One day the Yankees will wake up and not see any young kids at the games, because their parents won't be able to take them."
Editor's Note: Great point.

As for Manny Ramirez and drugs, K.I. writes: "Ramirez needed the fertility drugs! After all, he's going through Mannypause!"
Editor's Note: oooooh.

J.J. on twitter responded to Terrell Owens getting the keys to the city in Buffalo. He asks: "Wait, what exactly do the "keys to the city" in Buffalo get you? A master key that operates the snow blower AND the zamboni?"
Editor's Note: Yup, same as Syracuse.

And from a Top 5 subscribing Rabbi in response to a race horse from the 80's named Bodacious Tatas. "Bodacious Tatas. Perhaps you can keep us 'abreast' about this!!!"
Editor's Note: Are we getting a bit randy, Rabbi?

5. Genius of the Week

James Harrison of the Pittsburgh Steelers was a no-show when the Super Bowl champs went to the White House yesterday. Harrison said if they had lost the game they wouldn't have been invited. Duh.

Today's Birthday: Tommy John who ironically became the first pitcher to undergo Tommy John surgery. 66.
Bonus Birthday: Model Naomi Campbell. 39

Today in Sports: Mickey Mantle, batting against Bill Fischer of Kansas City, hits a ball off the Yankee Stadium facade. 1963.
Bonus Event: After 30 years the great Johnny Carson hosts his last Tonight Show. 1992.

Have a great holiday weekend everyone. The Top 5 will resume on Tuesday.

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**pm530** · 05-22-2009, 11:11 AM

NBA
Dunkel Index

Orlando at Cleveland
The Cavs look to bounce back from their Game One loss and build on their 7-0-1 ATS record in their last 8 games when playing with 1 day of rest. Cleveland is the pick (-9) according to Dunkel, which has the Cavaliers favored by 10 1/2. Dunkel Pick: Cleveland (-9). Here are all of today's playoff picks.

FRIDAY, MAY 22

Game 507-508: Orlando at Cleveland
Dunkel Ratings: Orlando 122.766; Cleveland 133.302
Dunkel Line & Total: Cleveland by 10 1/2; 187 1/2
Vegas Line & Total: Cleveland by 9; 188 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Cleveland (-9); Under

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NBA
Long Sheet

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Friday, May 22
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ORLANDO (68 - 28) at CLEVELAND (74 - 17) - 5/22/2009, 8:35 PM
Top Trends for this game.
CLEVELAND is 56-34 ATS (+18.6 Units) in all games this season.
CLEVELAND is 50-28 ATS (+19.2 Units) as a favorite this season.
CLEVELAND is 31-15 ATS (+14.5 Units) in home games this season.
CLEVELAND is 13-5 ATS (+7.5 Units) on Friday nights this season.
CLEVELAND is 20-9 ATS (+10.1 Units) after scoring 105 points or more this season.
CLEVELAND is 14-6 ATS (+7.4 Units) in home games when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
CLEVELAND is 42-25 ATS (+14.5 Units) versus good offensive teams - scoring 99+ points/game over the last 2 seasons.
ORLANDO is 57-39 ATS (+14.1 Units) in all games this season.
ORLANDO is 16-6 ATS (+9.4 Units) as an underdog this season.
ORLANDO is 31-18 ATS (+11.2 Units) in road games this season.
ORLANDO is 11-3 ATS (+7.7 Units) after allowing 105 points or more this season.
ORLANDO is 14-6 ATS (+7.4 Units) in road games after scoring 105 points or more this season.
ORLANDO is 19-10 ATS (+8.0 Units) after 3 or more consecutive wins this season.
ORLANDO is 28-17 ATS (+9.3 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
ORLANDO is 28-13 ATS (+13.7 Units) versus good offensive teams - scoring 99+ points/game this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
ORLANDO is 10-1 against the spread versus CLEVELAND over the last 3 seasons
ORLANDO is 8-3 straight up against CLEVELAND over the last 3 seasons
7 of 11 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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NBA
Short Sheet

Friday, May 22nd

Eastern Conference Finals
Game Two
Orlando Leads, 1-0
Orlando at Cleveland, 8:35 ET

Orlando:
10-1 Under if they made 55% of their shots or better last game
25-14 Under off an Over

Cleveland:
14-2 ATS off SU loss
20-9 ATS after scoring 105+ points

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NBA
Write-up

Friday, May 22

NBA playoffs

In a combined 41:33 of play, Cleveland subs were -31 in Game 1, just a terrible performance (2-7 from floor); starting guards for Cavaliers made just 10-32 from floor. Someone has to step up, or else........

Orlando was down 16 in Game 1, rallied to win by a point, handing Cavs just their third loss in 46 home games this season; Lebron had 49 points, eight assists- Cleveland needs more balance to be good. Cavaliers are 8-1 in playoffs now, with a 10-point win closest win they've had; home side is 3-1 in their games with Orlando this yr, with Magic losing here 97-93 March 17. Orlando shot 55% in Game 1, 9-20 from arc. Magic are 5-3 on the road in playoffs this spring.

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NBA

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Trend Report
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Friday, May 22

8:30 PM
ORLANDO vs. CLEVELAND
Orlando is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Cleveland
Orlando is 8-3 SU in its last 11 games
Cleveland is 8-1 SU in its last 9 games
Cleveland is 20-2 SU in its last 22 games at home

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NBA

Friday, May 22

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Tips and Trends
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Orlando Magic at Cleveland Cavaliers [TNT | 8:35 PM ET]

Magic: Orlando exposed Cleveland's depth, shredded its defense, and snatched home-court advantage with their stunning Game 1 win. The Magic are 9-3 in their last 12 games against Cleveland. Orlando now wants to nail down Game 2. The Magic won the series opener at Boston, but didn't bring the same energy the next game and were beaten by 18. "We can't take this win for granted," Rashard Lewis said. "We have to come out more hungry and humble to try and get another one." Lewis was 5-for-5 in the fourth quarter and may now find himself guarded by LeBron James in Game 2.

The Magic are 10-2 ATS in the last 12 meetings.
The Magic are 16-6 ATS in their last 22 games as a road underdog.

Key Injuries - NONE

PROJECTED SCORE: 92 (Side Play of the Day)

Cavaliers (-9, O/U 188): "We're looking at it as a must win," MVP LeBron James said before practice on Thursday. The Cavaliers seemed to have shaken off any shock from the loss when they gathered at their suburban training facility to prepare for Game 2. The mood was typically loose during the portion open to the media. During stretches of the second half in Game 1, James' teammates stood around on offense and watched him. There was little motion, ball movement or strategy. The Cavs weren't much better on defense as Howard pounded them inside and Lewis killed them from the perimeter.

The Cavaliers are 11-1-1 ATS in their last 13 games overall.
The Cavaliers are 18-5-1 ATS in their last 24 playoff games as a favorite.

Key Injuries - NONE

PROJECTED SCORE: 96

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NBA

Friday, May 22

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Pick ‘n’ Roll: NBA best bets
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Orlando Magic at Cleveland Cavaliers (-9, 188)

The 24-second shot clock has been fixed. The Cleveland Cavaliers are next on the repairs-to-do list.

The Orlando Magic caused some extensive collateral damage with their stunning win in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference finals.

They exposed Cleveland's depth, shredded its defense, snatched home-court advantage and put the NBA's top-seeded team in an unfamiliar position - behind in a series and desperate for a win heading into Game 2 on Friday night.

''We're looking at it as a must win,'' MVP LeBron James said before practice on Thursday.

''It's obvious,'' Cavs guard Mo Williams said, echoing the must-win sentiment. ''My grandma knows that. Yeah, it's a must win. Hell yeah.''

Behind a torrent of clutch 3-pointers - the winner by Rashard Lewis with 14.7 seconds left - and Dwight Howard's broad shoulders, the Magic muscled their way into Cleveland's noisy arena and rallied for a stunning 107-106 victory that may have altered the perception that the Cavaliers are the team to beat in the postseason.

This is no smoke-and-mirrors Magic act. Orlando is the real deal.

Howard set the tone by busting one of the shot clocks with a vicious dunk in the opening minutes, a we're-here-to-play moment that stunned a Cleveland crowd that later shuffled out of the building wondering what went wrong after seeing the Cavs lose on their home floor for just the third time in 46 games.

After Thursday's practice, Howard, standing near the same basket, was asked if he was done breaking things.

''No,'' he said, flashing a smile. ''Not yet.''

Pick: Orlando +9

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NBA

Friday, May 22

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Game of the Day: Magic at Cavaliers
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Orlando Magic at Cleveland Cavaliers (-9, 189)

The betting line

The Cavs were listed as 8.5-point favorites in Game 1, but the zig-zag theory is in play for Game 2. We're currently looking at -9 and -9.5 across the board, holding steady since opening on Thursday morning.

The total is down a full point since opening at 189. That still represents a major jump from Game 1, in which we saw 184's and 184.5's.

The opener provided an easy payday for over backers, sailing past the posted total by a whopping 29 points.

Every dog has its day

The majority of bettors not only expected the Cavs to win Game 1, but to win it big.

It looked like the Cavs were well on their way to another double-digit romp after jumping ahead by 15 points before halftime.

But it was a tale of two halves.

The Magic absolutely dominated the Cavs in every aspect in the final 24 minutes and, thanks to some clutch shooting in the final stages, stole an improbable victory. It was only the third straight up home loss for the Cavs this season.

“It’s a big victory,” said Dwight Howard, “We kept fighting the whole game. We kept believing we could win.”

Rashard Lewis thinks his team can still play better.

“The most important thing is to play 48 minutes. We played only one half but it was the second half.”

Series dominance

The Magic have now won three of four meetings this season, beating the number in all four of those games.

That's nothing new, as Orlando owns an 11-1 ATS edge in the last 12 games in this series.

Interestingly enough, the Cavs only pointspread cover over that period came last season in Orlando, a 7-point win as 9.5-point underdogs.

The defense rests

To say the Cavs didn't bring the proper level of defensive intensity into Game 1 would be an understatement.

Did it have anything to do with their long layoff leading into this series, or was it something more?

The Magic are one team that has been able to breakthrough against this Cavs 'D'. In four meetings this season they've scored 99, 93, 116, and 107 points.

I think we can count on a much stronger defensive effort from the Cavs in Game 2. At home this season they're giving up just over 87 points per game and holding opponents to 41 percent shooting.

Mike Brown feels that his team's Game 1 loss will pay off in the long run.

“This is good for us. We didn’t expect go undefeated.”

On the mend

How healthy is LeBron James?

He was in obvious pain at the end of Game 1 and appeared to be in rough shape heading back to the locker room.

Apparently it was only cramps and LeBron himself put an end to the speculation with three simple words.

“I’m not hurt.”

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**pm530** · 05-22-2009, 11:12 AM

NHL
Dunkel Index

Detroit at Chicago
The Red Wings look to build on their 10-4 record in their last 14 road games. Detroit is the pick (+120) according to Dunkel, which has the Red Wings favored by 2. Dunkel Pick: Detroit (+120). Here are all of today's playoff picks.

FRIDAY, MAY 22

Game 9-10: Detroit at Chicago
Dunkel Ratings: Detroit 13.720; Chicago 11.930
Dunkel Line & Total: Detroit by 2; 5
Vegas Line & Total: Chicago (-140); 5 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Detroit (+120); Under

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NHL
Long Sheet

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Friday, May 22
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DETROIT (61-23-0-11, 133 pts.) at CHICAGO (54-30-0-12, 120 pts.) - 5/22/2009, 8:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
CHICAGO is 27-15 ATS (+42.3 Units) when playing with 2 days rest over the last 2 seasons.
CHICAGO is 49-43 ATS (+100.1 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
CHICAGO is 32-52 ATS (-29.3 Units) in home games on Friday nights since 1996.
CHICAGO is 10-16 ATS (-11.8 Units) vs. division opponents this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
DETROIT is 16-8 (+0.0 Units) against the spread versus CHICAGO over the last 3 seasons
DETROIT is 16-8-0 straight up against CHICAGO over the last 3 seasons
11 of 20 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Over=+1.6 Units)

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NHL
Short Sheet

Friday, May 22nd

Western Conference Finals
Game Three
Detroit Leads, 2-0
Detroit at Chicago, 8:05 ET

Detroit:
13-2 Over after allowing 2 goals or less BB Games
24-14 Over off BB wins

Chicago:
23-8 SU as a home favorite of -200 or less
18-5 SU off BB Division games

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NHL
Write-up

Friday, May 22

NHL Playoffs

Detroit is 6-2 vs Chicago this year, winning two of three here, where the Blackhawks are 5-1 so far in playoffs. Red Wings are 3-2 on road so far in playoffs. Chicago had 19 shots on goal in first period of Game 2, but it was still just 1-1 after first period for second game in row. Detroit has one power play goal in 10:16 on power play; Chicago is 2-6 on power play (8:37). Three of last four Chicago games went over the total.

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NHL

Friday, May 22

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Trend Report
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8:00 PM
DETROIT vs. CHICAGO
Detroit is 10-5 SU in its last 15 games when playing on the road against Chicago
Detroit is 7-2 SU in its last 9 games when playing Chicago
Chicago is 14-7 SU in its last 21 games
The total has gone OVER in 8 of Chicago's last 12 games

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NHL

Friday, May 22nd

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Ice Picks: NHL best bets
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Detroit Red Wings at Chicago Blackhawks (-125, 5.5)

Pavel Datsyuk was struck by a puck during Detroit's 3-2 overtime win in Game 2 on Tuesday night.

''He took a rocket off the foot the other night. We'll go from there and see what happens,'' Red Wings coach Mike Babcock said.

''He's day-to-day, simple. We'll see how his foot reacts.''

Datsyuk, who had 97 points in the regular season, has scored one goal in 13 playoff games. He did have an assist in Game 2, giving him two in the series and six in the postseason.

But despite his scoring drought, the Red Wings lead the series 2-0 and are two victories away from returning to the Stanley Cup finals.

And Datsyuk is just one of the top Red Wings' players struggling to score. Marian Hossa, who had 40 goals in the regular season, has managed four in 13 playoffs games.

''As long as you win, it's all good. But we still find a way to put ourselves on the scoreboard,'' Hossa said.

Datsyuk will be evaluated after a Friday morning skate and if he can't play, the Red Wings were ready to make some adjustments. During practice, Valteri Filppula replaced Datsyuk on a line with Hossa and Tomas Holmstrom.

''We'll have to pick up for him all over the ice,'' Detroit goaltender Chris Osgood said, should Datsyuk have to sit out.

''I expect him to be out there,'' Detroit's Nicklas Lidstrom said. ''But we haven't relied on him solely to carry the team so far in the playoffs. The depth has been the thing.''

It's also been some top-notch stops from Osgood, who had 37 saves in Game 2, and the play of Lidstrom defensively that has slowed down Chicago's fast-paced transition offense.

Chicago's 20-year-old star Patrick Kane is finding the net elusive, as well. He had no shots on goal in the opener and managed three in Game 2, while going scoreless. This on the heels of his first career hat trick in the semifinal clincher over Vancouver.

''A guy like Lidstrom puts his stick in great positions all the time and he's knocking pucks away from you,'' Kane said.

''Sometimes stats are a little deflating. I guess it's one of those things. I felt a lot better (in the second game). I was creating more,'' he added. ''It would be nice to see one go in the net here and there, but we have a lot of players who can do it. So I'm not worried about that.''

Pick: Under 5.5

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**pm530** · 05-22-2009, 11:14 AM

MLB
Dunkel Index

Milwaukee at Minnesota
The Twins are coming off a 20-1 romp over the White Sox and look to build on their 10-1 record in Kevin Slowey's last 11 starts after scoring 5 or more runs in their previous game. Minnesota is the pick (+105) according to Dunkel, which has the Twins favored by 1. Dunkel Pick: Minnesota (+105). Here are all of today's picks.

FRIDAY, MAY 22

Game 901-902: Chicago Cubs at San Diego
Dunkel Ratings: Cubs (Zambrano) 14.553; San Diego (Peavy) 15.828
Dunkel Line: San Diego by 1 1/2; 6
Vegas Line: San Diego (-140); 7
Dunkel Pick: San Diego (-140); Under

Game 903-904: NY Mets at Boston
Dunkel Ratings: NY Mets (Santana) 16.283; Boston (Matsuzaka) 15.515
Dunkel Line: NY Mets by 1; 8
Vegas Line: NY Mets (-140); 9
Dunkel Pick: NY Mets (-140); Under

Game 905-906: Philadelphia at NY Yankees
Dunkel Ratings: Philadelphia (Myers) 16.852; NY Yankees (Burnett) 15.910
Dunkel Line: Philadelphia by 1; 12
Vegas Line: NY Yankees (-160); 11
Dunkel Pick: Philadelphia (+150); Over

Game 907-908: Baltimore at Washington
Dunkel Ratings: Baltimore (Hill) 15.011; Washington (Zimmerman) 14.007
Dunkel Line: Baltimore by 1; 11
Vegas Line: Washington (-125); 10
Dunkel Pick: Baltimore (+115); Over

Game 909-910: Colorado at Detroit
Dunkel Ratings: Colorado (Jimenez) 14.875; Detroit (Porcello) 16.285
Dunkel Line: Detroit by 1 1/2; 9 1/2
Vegas Line: Detroit (-135); 9
Dunkel Pick: Detroit (-135); Over

Game 911-912: Tampa Bay at Florida
Dunkel Ratings: Tampa Bay (Sonnanstine) 14.291; Florida (Nolasco) 15.377
Dunkel Line: Florida by 1; 11
Vegas Line: Florida (-115); 10 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Florida (-115); Over

Game 913-914: Cleveland at Cincinnati
Dunkel Ratings: Cleveland (Reyes) 14.921; Cincinnati (Arroyo) 15.493
Dunkel Line: Cincinnati by 1/2; 11
Vegas Line: Cincinnati (-125); 10 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Cincinnati (-125); Over

Game 915-916: Toronto at Atlanta
Dunkel Ratings: Toronto (Halladay) 15.731; Atlanta (Kawakami) 14.235
Dunkel Line: Toronto by 1 1/2; 9 1/2
Vegas Line: Toronto (-165); 8 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Toronto (-165); Over

Game 917-918: Texas at Houston
Dunkel Ratings: Texas (Holland) 15.325; Houston (Paulino) 16.678
Dunkel Line: Houston by 1 1/2; 10
Vegas Line: Houston (-110); 10 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Houston (-110); Under

Game 919-920: Pittsburgh at Chicago White Sox
Dunkel Ratings: Pittsburgh (Duke) 13.544; White Sox (Floyd) 14.912
Dunkel Line: Chicago White Sox by 1 1/2; 10
Vegas Line: Pittsburgh (-115); 9
Dunkel Pick: Chicago White Sox (+105); Over

Game 921-922: Milwaukee at Minnesota
Dunkel Ratings: Milwaukee (Parra) 15.313; Minnesota (Slowey) 16.228
Dunkel Line: Minnesota by 1; 8 1/2
Vegas Line: Milwaukee (-115); 9
Dunkel Pick: Minnesota (+105); Under

Game 923-924: Kansas City at St. Louis
Dunkel Ratings: Kansas City (Davies) 15.275; St. Louis (Wellemeyer) 15.025
Dunkel Line: Kansas City by 1; 8 1/2
Vegas Line: St. Louis (-125); 9 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Kansas City (+115); Under

Game 925-926: Arizona at Oakland
Dunkel Ratings: Arizona (Buckner) 14.935; Oakland (Cahill) 15.956
Dunkel Line: Oakland by 1; 10 1/2
Vegas Line: Oakland (-145); 9 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Oakland (-145); Over

Game 927-928: San Francisco at Seattle
Dunkel Ratings: San Francisco (Johnson) 15.513; Seattle (Vargas) 13.837
Dunkel Line: San Francisco by 1 1/2; 7 1/2
Vegas Line: Seattle (-130); 8 1/2
Dunkel Pick: San Francisco (+120); Under

Game 929-930: LA Angels at LA Dodgers
Dunkel Ratings: LA Angels (Weaver) 17.167; LA Dodgers (Kershaw) 16.007
Dunkel Line: LA Angels by 1; 7 1/2
Vegas Line: LA Dodgers (-125); 8 1/2
Dunkel Pick: LA Angels (+115); Under

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MLB
Long Sheet

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Friday, May 22
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CHICAGO CUBS (21 - 18) at SAN DIEGO (19 - 22) - 10:05 PM
CARLOS ZAMBRANO (R) vs. JAKE PEAVY (R)
Top Trends for this game.
CHICAGO CUBS are 978-1027 (-187.0 Units) against the money line in all games since 1997.
CHICAGO CUBS are 3-12 (-10.4 Units) against the money line in road games when playing on Friday over the last 2 seasons.
CHICAGO CUBS are 921-943 (-164.8 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field since 1997.
CHICAGO CUBS are 485-457 (-98.0 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record since 1997.
ZAMBRANO is 24-10 (+12.9 Units) against the money line in road games over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
ZAMBRANO is 13-3 (+9.8 Units) against the money line in road games in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
ZAMBRANO is 19-5 (+12.2 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
SAN DIEGO is 82-120 (-37.2 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
SAN DIEGO is 82-120 (-37.2 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
SAN DIEGO is 58-87 (-27.0 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons.
SAN DIEGO is 29-57 (-25.1 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
PEAVY is 15-20 (-11.8 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
PEAVY is 15-20 (-11.8 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
PEAVY is 9-16 (-12.1 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)

Head-to-Head Series History
CHICAGO CUBS is 3-0 (+3.0 Units) against SAN DIEGO this season
2 of 3 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL this season . (Under=+0.7 Units)

CARLOS ZAMBRANO vs. SAN DIEGO since 1997
ZAMBRANO is 6-1 when starting against SAN DIEGO with an ERA of 2.47 and a WHIP of 1.234.
His team's record is 6-3 (+2.3 units) in these starts. The OVER is 5-4. (+0.6 units)

JAKE PEAVY vs. CHICAGO CUBS since 1997
PEAVY is 2-2 when starting against CHICAGO CUBS with an ERA of 3.15 and a WHIP of 1.350.
His team's record is 4-3 (+1.2 units) in these starts. The OVER is 4-3. (+1.0 units)

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

NY METS (21 - 19) at BOSTON (25 - 16) - 7:10 PM
JOHAN SANTANA (L) vs. DAISUKE MATSUZAKA (R)
Top Trends for this game.
NY METS are 8-21 (-16.4 Units) against the money line on the road with a money line of -100 to -125 over the last 2 seasons.
NY METS are 71-69 (-15.2 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
BOSTON is 74-32 (+24.5 Units) against the money line in home games over the last 2 seasons.
BOSTON is 16-3 (+11.9 Units) against the money line in home games in May games over the last 2 seasons.
BOSTON is 117-67 (+29.3 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
BOSTON is 52-22 (+18.1 Units) against the money line in home games in night games over the last 2 seasons.
BOSTON is 12-2 (+10.2 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
MATSUZAKA is 26-8 (+13.8 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
NY METS are 21-8 (+13.7 Units) against the money line in road games when playing on Friday over the last 3 seasons.
SANTANA is 97-41 (+33.7 Units) against the money line in night games since 1997. (Team's Record)

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

JOHAN SANTANA vs. BOSTON since 1997
SANTANA is 3-3 when starting against BOSTON with an ERA of 2.47 and a WHIP of 1.120.
His team's record is 5-3 (+2.3 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 8-0. (+8.0 units)

DAISUKE MATSUZAKA vs. NY METS since 1997
No recent starts.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

PHILADELPHIA (22 - 17) at NY YANKEES (24 - 17) - 7:05 PM
BRETT MYERS (R) vs. A.J. BURNETT (R)
Top Trends for this game.
MYERS is 18-26 (-15.7 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
MYERS is 18-25 (-14.7 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
PHILADELPHIA is 14-5 (+9.7 Units) against the money line in road games this season.
PHILADELPHIA is 17-8 (+9.6 Units) against the money line on the road when the total is 10 to 10.5 over the last 2 seasons.
PHILADELPHIA is 85-70 (+28.0 Units) against the money line in road games when playing on Friday since 1997.
PHILADELPHIA is 14-5 (+9.7 Units) against the money line in road games in games played on a grass field this season.
PHILADELPHIA is 47-30 (+16.7 Units) against the money line in road games in night games over the last 2 seasons.
PHILADELPHIA is 9-2 (+8.0 Units) against the money line in road games when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
NY YANKEES are 213-144 (-64.0 Units) against the money line at home when the total is 10 to 10.5 since 1997.
NY YANKEES are 90-79 (-48.8 Units) against the money line in home games in May games since 1997.
NY YANKEES are 179-145 (-38.1 Units) against the money line when playing on Friday since 1997.

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

BRETT MYERS vs. NY YANKEES since 1997
MYERS is 1-0 when starting against NY YANKEES with an ERA of 2.70 and a WHIP of 1.799.
His team's record is 1-0 (+1.2 units) in these starts. The OVER is 0-1. (-1.0 units)

A.J. BURNETT vs. PHILADELPHIA since 1997
BURNETT is 5-7 when starting against PHILADELPHIA with an ERA of 4.67 and a WHIP of 1.500.
His team's record is 6-9 (-5.1 units) in these starts. The OVER is 9-6. (+2.5 units)

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

BALTIMORE (16 - 25) at WASHINGTON (12 - 28) - 7:05 PM
RICH HILL (L) vs. JORDAN ZIMMERMANN (R)
Top Trends for this game.
BALTIMORE is 125-235 (-104.6 Units) against the money line after 3 or more consecutive losses since 1997.
WASHINGTON is 64-40 (+28.7 Units) against the money line in home games in an inter-league game since 1997.
WASHINGTON is 75-76 (+19.5 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 3 seasons.
WASHINGTON is 12-28 (-14.5 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
WASHINGTON is 12-28 (-14.5 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
WASHINGTON is 49-93 (-31.2 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons.
WASHINGTON is 10-23 (-14.8 Units) against the money line in home games against left-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.

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

RICH HILL vs. WASHINGTON since 1997
HILL is 1-1 when starting against WASHINGTON with an ERA of 5.25 and a WHIP of 1.500.
His team's record is 1-1 (-0.6 units) in these starts. The OVER is 1-1. (-0.1 units)

JORDAN ZIMMERMANN vs. BALTIMORE since 1997
No recent starts.

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COLORADO (16 - 24) at DETROIT (23 - 16) - 7:05 PM
UBALDO JIMENEZ (R) vs. RICK PORCELLO (R)
Top Trends for this game.
COLORADO is 89-113 (-31.2 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
COLORADO is 17-31 (-15.8 Units) against the money line in May games over the last 2 seasons.
COLORADO is 25-63 (-27.6 Units) against the money line in road games in an inter-league game since 1997.
COLORADO is 89-113 (-31.2 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
COLORADO is 57-84 (-28.4 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
JIMENEZ is 6-17 (-10.3 Units) against the money line in road games in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
DETROIT is 27-9 (+17.2 Units) against the money line in an inter-league game over the last 3 seasons.
DETROIT is 22-10 (+11.5 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
COLORADO is 94-85 (+22.9 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 3 seasons.
DETROIT is 97-104 (-24.1 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
DETROIT is 47-53 (-15.2 Units) against the money line when the total is 9 to 9.5 over the last 2 seasons.
DETROIT is 61-68 (-16.8 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons.
DETROIT is 61-77 (-28.2 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
DETROIT is 48-63 (-28.1 Units) against the money line in home games after 3 or more consecutive wins since 1997.

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

UBALDO JIMENEZ vs. DETROIT since 1997
JIMENEZ is 0-1 when starting against DETROIT with an ERA of 9.00 and a WHIP of 3.000.
His team's record is 0-1 (-1.0 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 1-0. (+1.0 units)

RICK PORCELLO vs. COLORADO since 1997
No recent starts.

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TAMPA BAY (21 - 22) at FLORIDA (19 - 23) - 7:10 PM
ANDY SONNANSTINE (R) vs. RICKY NOLASCO (R)
Top Trends for this game.
TAMPA BAY is 2-9 (-8.3 Units) against the money line on the road with a money line of -100 to -125 this season.
FLORIDA is 103-100 (+14.5 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
FLORIDA is 102-98 (+15.2 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
NOLASCO is 25-15 (+13.4 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
NOLASCO is 24-15 (+12.1 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
NOLASCO is 19-11 (+10.8 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
NOLASCO is 14-6 (+10.0 Units) against the money line after a loss over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
TAMPA BAY is 126-95 (+23.0 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
TAMPA BAY is 24-9 (+15.5 Units) against the money line when playing on Friday over the last 2 seasons.
TAMPA BAY is 93-56 (+32.3 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
FLORIDA is 5-15 (-11.6 Units) against the money line in May games this season.
FLORIDA is 6-16 (-12.4 Units) against the money line after a loss this season.

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

ANDY SONNANSTINE vs. FLORIDA since 1997
SONNANSTINE is 2-0 when starting against FLORIDA with an ERA of 3.64 and a WHIP of 1.212.
His team's record is 3-0 (+3.1 units) in these starts. The OVER is 2-0. (+2.0 units)

RICKY NOLASCO vs. TAMPA BAY since 1997
NOLASCO is 2-0 when starting against TAMPA BAY with an ERA of 3.00 and a WHIP of 1.000.
His team's record is 2-0 (+2.4 units) in these starts. The OVER is 2-0. (+2.0 units)

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

CLEVELAND (16 - 26) at CINCINNATI (21 - 19) - 7:10 PM
ANTHONY REYES (R) vs. BRONSON ARROYO (R)
Top Trends for this game.
CLEVELAND is 16-26 (-10.8 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
CLEVELAND is 11-22 (-12.3 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters this season.
REYES is 11-22 (-14.2 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
REYES is 0-8 (-9.4 Units) against the money line in May games over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
REYES is 4-15 (-13.0 Units) against the money line after a win over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
CINCINNATI is 8-0 (+8.2 Units) against the money line in home games after allowing 10 runs or more over the last 2 seasons.
CINCINNATI is 37-50 (-18.7 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.

ANTHONY REYES vs. CINCINNATI since 1997
REYES is 1-2 when starting against CINCINNATI with an ERA of 8.53 and a WHIP of 1.738.
His team's record is 2-2 (-0.4 units) in these starts. The OVER is 1-2. (-1.2 units)

BRONSON ARROYO vs. CLEVELAND since 1997
ARROYO is 2-2 when starting against CLEVELAND with an ERA of 3.51 and a WHIP of 1.091.
His team's record is 2-2 (-0.3 units) in these starts. The OVER is 2-2. (-0.1 units)

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

TORONTO (27 - 17) at ATLANTA (20 - 20) - 7:35 PM
ROY HALLADAY (R) vs. KENSHIN KAWAKAMI (R)
Top Trends for this game.
HALLADAY is 11-19 (-13.7 Units) against the money line after 3 or more consecutive losses since 1997. (Team's Record)
TORONTO is 27-17 (+9.3 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
TORONTO is 32-18 (+14.1 Units) against the money line in May games over the last 2 seasons.
TORONTO is 84-63 (+16.3 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
HALLADAY is 35-12 (+21.8 Units) against the money line in May games since 1997. (Team's Record)
ATLANTA is 92-110 (-27.3 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
ATLANTA is 45-52 (-29.5 Units) against the money line in home games in an inter-league game since 1997.
ATLANTA is 91-108 (-26.4 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
ATLANTA is 62-75 (-21.1 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons.
ATLANTA is 9-16 (-10.9 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters this season.
ATLANTA is 20-31 (-16.2 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
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.

ROY HALLADAY vs. ATLANTA since 1997
No recent starts.

KENSHIN KAWAKAMI vs. TORONTO since 1997
No recent starts.

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TEXAS (23 - 17) at HOUSTON (18 - 21) - 8:05 PM
DEREK HOLLAND (L) vs. FELIPE PAULINO (R)
Top Trends for this game.
HOUSTON is 104-96 (+19.5 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
HOUSTON is 102-95 (+17.3 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
HOUSTON is 51-48 (+14.2 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
TEXAS is 102-100 (+14.2 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
TEXAS is 13-6 (+8.1 Units) against the money line in May games this season.
TEXAS is 22-15 (+7.6 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
TEXAS is 75-69 (+15.1 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons.
TEXAS is 72-64 (+18.5 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.

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

DEREK HOLLAND vs. HOUSTON since 1997
No recent starts.

FELIPE PAULINO vs. TEXAS since 1997
No recent starts.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

PITTSBURGH (19 - 22) at CHI WHITE SOX (17 - 23) - 8:11 PM
ZACH DUKE (L) vs. GAVIN FLOYD (R)
Top Trends for this game.
PITTSBURGH is 21-59 (-33.7 Units) against the money line in road games in an inter-league game since 1997.
DUKE is 4-18 (-15.2 Units) against the money line when playing on Friday since 1997. (Team's Record)
CHI WHITE SOX are 65-37 (+17.9 Units) against the money line in home games over the last 2 seasons.
CHI WHITE SOX are 100-76 (+15.1 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
CHI WHITE SOX are 59-37 (+19.6 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.

ZACH DUKE vs. CHI WHITE SOX since 1997
DUKE is 0-0 when starting against CHI WHITE SOX with an ERA of 6.75 and a WHIP of 1.583.
His team's record is 2-0 (+3.1 units) in these starts. The OVER is 2-0. (+2.0 units)

GAVIN FLOYD vs. PITTSBURGH since 1997
FLOYD is 2-0 when starting against PITTSBURGH with an ERA of 1.46 and a WHIP of 1.540.
His team's record is 2-0 (+2.0 units) in these starts. The OVER is 1-1. (+0.0 units)

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

MILWAUKEE (26 - 15) at MINNESOTA (19 - 23) - 8:10 PM
MANNY PARRA (L) vs. KEVIN SLOWEY (R)
Top Trends for this game.
MINNESOTA is 21-8 (+12.0 Units) against the money line at home with a money line of -100 to -125 over the last 2 seasons.
MINNESOTA is 67-37 (+21.2 Units) against the money line in home games over the last 2 seasons.
MINNESOTA is 34-18 (+14.2 Units) against the money line at home when the total is 9 to 9.5 over the last 2 seasons.
MINNESOTA is 23-8 (+16.2 Units) against the money line when playing on Friday over the last 2 seasons.
MINNESOTA is 14-4 (+12.3 Units) against the money line in an inter-league game over the last 2 seasons.
MINNESOTA is 69-39 (+21.7 Units) against the money line in games played in a dome over the last 2 seasons.
MINNESOTA is 47-24 (+18.8 Units) against the money line in home games in night games over the last 2 seasons.
MINNESOTA is 69-42 (+18.6 Units) against the money line in games played on artificial turf over the last 2 seasons.
MINNESOTA is 23-6 (+17.2 Units) against the money line in home games against left-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
MINNESOTA is 31-13 (+16.6 Units) against the money line in home games when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
MILWAUKEE is 26-15 (+11.4 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
MILWAUKEE is 16-6 (+10.5 Units) against the money line when the total is 9 to 9.5 this season.
MILWAUKEE is 10-2 (+9.5 Units) against the money line on the road when the total is 9 to 9.5 this season.
MILWAUKEE is 14-5 (+9.0 Units) against the money line in May games this season.

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

MANNY PARRA vs. MINNESOTA since 1997
PARRA is 1-0 when starting against MINNESOTA with an ERA of 0.00 and a WHIP of 0.857.
His team's record is 1-0 (+1.0 units) in these starts. The OVER is 0-1. (-1.2 units)

KEVIN SLOWEY vs. MILWAUKEE since 1997
SLOWEY is 2-0 when starting against MILWAUKEE with an ERA of 2.42 and a WHIP of 0.896.
His team's record is 3-0 (+3.4 units) in these starts. The OVER is 2-1. (+1.0 units)

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

KANSAS CITY (21 - 20) at ST LOUIS (24 - 17) - 8:15 PM
KYLE DAVIES (R) vs. TODD WELLEMEYER (R)
Top Trends for this game.
KANSAS CITY is 58-101 (-31.1 Units) against the money line when the total is 9 to 9.5 over the last 3 seasons.
ST LOUIS is 110-93 (+13.7 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
ST LOUIS is 110-93 (+13.7 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
ST LOUIS is 74-59 (+14.1 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
KANSAS CITY is 25-15 (+13.3 Units) against the money line as a road underdog of +100 to +125 over the last 3 seasons.
KANSAS CITY is 23-13 (+13.1 Units) against the money line in an inter-league game over the last 3 seasons.

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

KYLE DAVIES vs. ST LOUIS since 1997
DAVIES is 1-1 when starting against ST LOUIS with an ERA of 2.70 and a WHIP of 1.275.
His team's record is 1-1 (+0.2 units) in these starts. The OVER is 0-2. (-2.2 units)

TODD WELLEMEYER vs. KANSAS CITY since 1997
WELLEMEYER is 0-0 when starting against KANSAS CITY with an ERA of 3.60 and a WHIP of 1.000.
His team's record is 1-0 (+1.1 units) in these starts. The OVER is 1-0. (+1.1 units)

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

ARIZONA (17 - 24) at OAKLAND (15 - 23) - 10:05 PM
BILLY BUCKNER (R) vs. TREVOR CAHILL (R)
Top Trends for this game.
ARIZONA is 100-104 (-23.1 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
ARIZONA is 42-56 (-16.3 Units) against the money line in road games over the last 2 seasons.
ARIZONA is 19-28 (-14.0 Units) against the money line in May games over the last 2 seasons.
ARIZONA is 100-101 (-19.5 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
ARIZONA is 68-69 (-14.2 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons.
ARIZONA is 67-76 (-23.3 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
ARIZONA is 4-12 (-8.8 Units) against the money line after a win this season.
OAKLAND is 72-34 (+31.1 Units) against the money line in home games in an inter-league game since 1997.
OAKLAND is 160-188 (-52.4 Units) against the money line in May games since 1997.

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

BILLY BUCKNER vs. OAKLAND since 1997
No recent starts.

TREVOR CAHILL vs. ARIZONA since 1997
No recent starts.

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

SAN FRANCISCO (19 - 21) at SEATTLE (19 - 23) - 10:10 PM
RANDY JOHNSON (L) vs. JASON VARGAS (L)
Top Trends for this game.
SAN FRANCISCO is 670-568 (+78.5 Units) against the money line in night games since 1997.
SEATTLE is 80-124 (-41.8 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
SEATTLE is 34-52 (-22.2 Units) against the money line when the total is 8 to 8.5 over the last 2 seasons.
SEATTLE is 14-34 (-22.9 Units) against the money line in May games over the last 2 seasons.
SEATTLE is 72-113 (-40.7 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
SEATTLE is 51-86 (-34.5 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons.
SEATTLE is 48-76 (-26.4 Units) against the money line after a loss over the last 2 seasons.

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

RANDY JOHNSON vs. SEATTLE since 1997
JOHNSON is 3-2 when starting against SEATTLE with an ERA of 2.03 and a WHIP of 0.975.
His team's record is 3-2 (-0.3 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 5-0. (+5.1 units)

JASON VARGAS vs. SAN FRANCISCO since 1997
No recent starts.

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

LA ANGELS (21 - 19) at LA DODGERS (29 - 13) - 10:10 PM
JERED WEAVER (R) vs. CLAYTON KERSHAW (L)
Top Trends for this game.
WEAVER is 3-11 (-9.4 Units) against the money line in road games in night games over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
LA DODGERS are 29-13 (+14.4 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
LA DODGERS are 17-3 (+12.7 Units) against the money line in home games this season.
LA DODGERS are 34-13 (+15.9 Units) against the money line at home when the total is 8 to 8.5 over the last 2 seasons.
LA DODGERS are 29-13 (+14.4 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
LA DODGERS are 13-2 (+9.7 Units) against the money line in home games in night games this season.
LA DODGERS are 12-2 (+9.6 Units) against the money line in home games against right-handed starters this season.
LA DODGERS are 20-8 (+11.6 Units) against the money line after a win this season.
LA ANGELS are 122-84 (+24.1 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
LA ANGELS are 60-43 (+19.9 Units) against the money line in road games over the last 2 seasons.
LA ANGELS are 184-138 (+39.1 Units) against the money line when playing on Friday since 1997.
LA ANGELS are 116-74 (+28.5 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
LA ANGELS are 45-31 (+14.9 Units) against the money line in road games in night games over the last 2 seasons.
LA ANGELS are 21-12 (+10.7 Units) against the money line in road games against left-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
LA ANGELS are 65-35 (+28.6 Units) against the money line after shutting out their opponent since 1997.
LA ANGELS are 38-22 (+18.2 Units) against the money line in road games after a win over the last 2 seasons.
LA ANGELS are 56-41 (+12.8 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.

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

JERED WEAVER vs. LA DODGERS since 1997
WEAVER is 3-1 when starting against LA DODGERS with an ERA of 1.54 and a WHIP of 1.072.
His team's record is 3-1 (+2.0 units) in these starts. The OVER is 1-3. (-2.0 units)

CLAYTON KERSHAW vs. LA ANGELS since 1997
No recent starts.

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

MLB
Short Sheet

Friday, May 22

National League

CHICAGO CUBS at SAN DIEGO, 10:05 PM ET WGN
ZAMBRANO: 19-7 TSR AWAY when the total is 7 to 8.5
PEAVY: 7-13 TSR in the first half of the season

Inter League

NY METS at BOSTON, 7:10 PM ET
SANTANA: NYM 23-9 OVER AWAY when the total is 8 to 8.5
MATSUZAKA: 26-8 TSR in all games

PHILADELPHIA at NY YANKEES, 7:05 PM ET
MYERS: PHI 14-5 on the road
BURNETT: NYY 8-18 after 4+ consecutive overs

BALTIMORE at WASHINGTON, 7:05 PM ET
HILL: BAL 11-31 after having lost 4 of their last 5
ZIMMERMANN: WAS 43-25 at home against AL East

COLORADO at DETROIT, 7:05 PM ET
JIMENEZ: 6-17 TSR AWAY on a grass field
PORCELLO: DET 22-10 on a grass field

TAMPA BAY at FLORIDA, 7:10 PM ET
SONNANSTINE: TB 24-10 after a one run win
NOLASCO: FLA 5-15 in May

CLEVELAND at CINCINNATI, 7:10 PM ET
REYES: CLE 4-13 when the total is 10+
ARROYO: CIN 8-0 after allowing 8+ runs

TORONTO at ATLANTA, 7:35 PM ET
HALLADAY: TOR 17-4 as a favorite
KAWAKAMI: ATL 2-8 after 4+ consecutive home games

TEXAS at HOUSTON, 8:05 PM ET
HOLLAND: TEX 13-6 in May
PAULINO: HOU 17-7 UNDER when the money line is +125 to -125

PITTSBURGH at CHI WHITE SOX, 8:11 PM ET
DUKE: PIT 20-44 after having won 2 of their last 3
FLOYD: CHW 43-24 after 3+ consecutive home games

MILWAUKEE at MINNESOTA, 8:10 PM ET
PARRA: MIL 10-2 AWAY when the total is 9 to 9.5
SLOWEY: MIN 7-0 OVER after having lost 5 or 6 of their last 7

KANSAS CITY at ST LOUIS, 8:15 PM ET
DAVIES: KC 25-15 as a road underdog of +100 to +125
WELLEMEYER: STL 55-36 UNDER when the total is 9 to 9.5

ARIZONA at OAKLAND, 10:05 PM ET
BUCKNER: ARI 74-47 AWAY after a one run win
CAHILL: OAK 2-12 after having won 2 of their last 3

SAN FRANCISCO at SEATTLE, 10:10 PM ET
JOHNSON: SF 9-1 UNDER after scoring and allowing 3 runs or less
VARGAS: SEA 14-34 in May

LA ANGELS at LA DODGERS, 10:10 PM ET
WEAVER: 3-11 TSR AWAY at night
KERSHAW: LAD 17-2 as a home favorite

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MLB
Write-up

Friday, May 22

With interleague play here, remember there are DHs in games played in the American League parks, no DHs in National League parks.

Hot Pitchers
-- Peavy has a 1,80 RA in his last four starts.
-- Santana is 5-2, 2.38 in eight starts this season (2-1, 4-12 on road).
-- Myers is 2-0, 3.93 in his last three starts.
-- Hill won his first Oriole start, allowing Royals two runs in 5.2 IP.
-- Jimenez is 2-0, 0.90 in his last three starts. Porcello is 3-0, 1.00 in his last three starts.
-- Halladay is 5-0, 2.54 in his last five starts.
-- Duke is 3-2, 3.16 in his last five starts.
-- Parra is 3-0, 3.50 in his last three starts. Slowey is 4-1, 3.50 in his last six starts.
-- Cahill is 2-0, 2.07 in his last two home starts.
-- Vargas has 2,61 RA in his first two starts this season.
-- Dodgers are 3-0 in Kershaw home starts (1-0, 0.47). Weaver has 1.88 RA in his last three starts.

Cold Pitchers
-- Zambrano had 5.54 RA in last four starts before going on DL after he got hurt trying to beat out a bunt.
-- Matsuzaka was 0-1, 12.80 in two starts before going on the DL.
-- Burnett is 0-1, 5.82 in his last six starts.
-- Zimmerman is 0-1, 8.34 in his last four starts.
-- Nolasco is 1-4, 7.62 in his last eight starts. Sonnanstine is 0-4, 9.38 in his five road starts this season.
-- Arroyo is 1-2, 10.20 in his last three starts. Reyes is 0-1, 9.82 in his last four outings.
-- Kawakami is 1-5, 6.82 in his last six starts.
-- Paulino is 0-3, 8.04 in his last three starts. Holland was 13-1, 2.27 in 26 starts in low minors LY; he made one AAA start this year, allowing four runs in four IP-- he is 1-1, 4.87 in 13 big league IP this season.
-- Floyd is 0-3, 10.30 in his last five starts.
-- Wellemeyer is 0-2, 9.90 in his last two starts. Davies is 1-2, 10.80 in his last five starts.
-- Buckner is 2-2, 3.81 in five AAA starts this season; he was 1-2, 5.29 in five starts for the Royals in '07.
-- Johnson is 1-2, 11.05 in his last two starts.

Hot Teams
-- San Diego won its last six games, all at home.

-- Pirates won five of their last six games.
-- Phillies won eleven of their last fourteen road games. Bronx Bombers won their last nine games.
-- Red Sox are 15-2 in last 17 games at Fenway.
-- Rays won five of their last seven games.
-- Indians won four of last five road series openers.
-- Brewers won eleven of their last fourteen games.
-- Detroit won its last six games, scoring 47 runs.
-- Cardinals are 14-6 in their last twenty home games.
-- Arizona won four of its last five games.
-- Dodgers started season 17-3 in first 20 home games. Angels are 3-1 in their last four games.

Cold Teams
-- Cubs lost their last three games, scoring two runs.

-- Nationals lost eleven of their last twelve games. Orioles lost 14 of their last 17 road games.
-- Mets lost their last four games, scoring five runs.
-- Cincinnati lost five of its last six games.
-- Florida lost eleven of its last thirteen home games.
-- Braves lost twelve of their last seventeen home games. Toronto lost its last three games, scoring total of five runs.
-- White Sox lost six of their last eight games.
-- Twins lost six of their last seven games.
-- Colorado is 6-12 in its last eighteen road games.
-- Rangers lost last three games, scoring six runs. Astros are 2-5 in home series openers.
-- Royals are 3-9 in their last twelve games.
-- Oakland lost five of its last seven games.
-- Giants lost seven of their last eight games. Mariners lost thirteen of their last seventeen games.

Totals
-- Five of Cubs' last six road games stayed under the total.

-- Under is 5-1-1 in last seven Red Sox games.
-- Six of Phillies' last eight road games went over the total.
-- Over is 14-5-1 in Baltimore road games.
-- Over is 4-1-1 in Colorado's last six road games.
-- Over is 3-1-1 in Florida's last five games.
-- Over is 15-1 in Cleveland's last fourteen road games.
-- Over is 3-1-1 in last five Atlanta games.
-- Rangers' last six road games stayed under the total.
-- Over is 9-5 in Pirates' last fourteen road games.
-- Seven of last ten Milwaukee road games went over the total.
-- Six of last eight Cardinal home games stayed under the total.
-- Under is 11-3-3 in Arizona road games.
-- Five of Giants' last six road games stayed under the total.
-- Under is 4-1-1 in Dodgers' last six home games.

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**pm530** · 05-22-2009, 11:16 AM

MLB

Friday, May 22

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Trend Report
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7:05 PM
BALTIMORE vs. WASHINGTON
Baltimore is 3-7 SU in its last 10 games when playing Washington
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Baltimore's last 7 games when playing Washington
Washington is 0-4-1 SU in its last 5 games at home
Washington is 0-4-1 SU in its last 5 games

7:05 PM
COLORADO vs. DETROIT
Colorado is 1-4-1 SU in its last 6 games
Colorado is 1-4-1 SU in its last 6 games on the road
Detroit is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Colorado
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Detroit's last 6 games when playing at home against Colorado

7:05 PM
PHILADELPHIA vs. NY YANKEES
Philadelphia is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games
Philadelphia is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games on the road
NY Yankees are 4-1 SU in their last 5 games when playing Philadelphia
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of NY Yankees's last 5 games when playing Philadelphia

7:10 PM
CLEVELAND vs. CINCINNATI
Cleveland is 1-6 SU in its last 7 games when playing Cincinnati
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Cleveland's last 7 games when playing Cincinnati
Cincinnati is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games
Cincinnati is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games when playing Cleveland

7:10 PM
NY METS vs. BOSTON
NY Mets are 1-4 SU in its last 5 games
NY Mets are 1-4 SU in its last 5 games on the road
Boston is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games when playing at home against NY Mets
Boston is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing NY Mets

7:10 PM
TAMPA BAY vs. FLORIDA
Tampa Bay is 7-1 SU in its last 8 games when playing Florida
The total has gone OVER in 7 of Tampa Bay's last 9 games when playing Florida
Florida is 1-3-1 SU in its last 5 games at home
Florida is 2-8-1 SU in its last 11 games

7:35 PM
TORONTO vs. ATLANTA
Toronto is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games when playing Atlanta
Toronto is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games on the road
Atlanta is 5-11-1 SU in its last 17 games at home
Atlanta is 1-6 SU in its last 7 games when playing Toronto

8:00 PM
TEXAS vs. HOUSTON
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Texas's last 5 games when playing Houston
Texas is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games on the road
Houston is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Houston's last 5 games when playing Texas

8:10 PM
MILWAUKEE vs. MINNESOTA
Milwaukee is 8-1 SU in its last 9 games
Milwaukee is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games on the road
Minnesota is 7-3 SU in its last 10 games when playing at home against Milwaukee
Minnesota is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games when playing Milwaukee

8:11 PM
PITTSBURGH vs. CHI WHITE SOX
Pittsburgh is 0-5 SU in their last 5 games when playing on the road against Chi White Sox
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Pittsburgh's last 6 games when playing on the road against Chi White Sox
Chi White Sox are 4-1 SU in their last 5 games when playing Pittsburgh
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Chi White Sox's last 5 games when playing Pittsburgh

8:15 PM
KANSAS CITY vs. ST. LOUIS
Kansas City is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games when playing St. Louis
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Kansas City's last 6 games when playing St. Louis
St. Louis is 14-6 SU in its last 20 games at home
St. Louis is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games when playing Kansas City

10:05 PM
ARIZONA vs. OAKLAND
Arizona is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games when playing Oakland
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Arizona's last 10 games when playing Oakland
Oakland is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Arizona
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Oakland's last 6 games when playing at home against Arizona

10:05 PM
CHI CUBS vs. SAN DIEGO
Chi Cubs are 1-4 SU in their last 5 games
Chi Cubs are 1-5 SU in their last 6 games on the road
San Diego is 7-3 SU in their last 10 games when playing at home against Chi Cubs
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of San Diego's last 6 games when playing at home against Chi Cubs

10:10 PM
LA ANGELS vs. LA DODGERS
LA Angels are 10-4 SU in their last 14 games when playing LA Dodgers
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of LA Angels's last 6 games when playing LA Dodgers
LA Dodgers are 4-10 SU in their last 14 games when playing LA Angels
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of LA Dodgers's last 6 games when playing LA Angels

10:10 PM
SAN FRANCISCO vs. SEATTLE
San Francisco is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games when playing on the road against Seattle
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of San Francisco's last 6 games when playing on the road against Seattle
Seattle is 7-1 SU in its last 8 games when playing San Francisco
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Seattle's last 6 games when playing San Francisco

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MLB

Friday, May 22

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Tips and Trends
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New York Mets at Boston Red Sox [7:05 PM ET]

Mets (-125, O/U 9): The Mets, who went 9-6 against the AL last year, have lost 4 straight. They are batting .218 with 6 runs during the slide. Johan Santana is coming off his worst performance of the season. He allowed season highs of 6 runs - 4 earned - and 11 hits while striking out 7 in 7 innings as the Mets won 9-6 at San Francisco on Saturday. Santana received 7 runs of support in his last start after getting 11 runs combined in his previous 7 starts as he went 4-2 with a 0.78 ERA. He is 1-3 with a 6.89 ERA in 3 starts and 4 total appearances at Fenway, but has not pitched there since 2006 while with the Twins.

The Over is 8-1 in the Mets' last 9 games as a favorite.
The Mets are 16-5 in Santana's last 21 starts.

Key Injuries - 1B Carlos Delgado (hip) is on the 15-day DL.
SS Jose Reyes (calf) is QUESTIONABLE.

PROJECTED SCORE: 4 (UNDER - Total Play of the Day)

Red Sox: Daisuke Matsuzaka returns to the mound for his first start in five weeks. The right-hander has been on the DL with right arm fatigue since April 15, one day after he was tagged for five runs and five hits in one inning of a 6-5, 12-inning loss at Oakland. He showed improvement during three rehabilitation starts with Triple-A Pawtucket, going 0-1 with a 1.54 ERA and 14 strikeouts in 11 2-3 innings. The Red Sox went 11-7 in interleague play last season, including six wins in nine games at Fenway. They're 10-8 all-time against the Mets, sweeping a three-game series in the last meeting June 27-29, 2006.

The Red Sox are 26-5 in their last 31 vs. NL East foes.
The Red Sox are 9-2 in their last 11 games vs. a left-handed starter.

Key Injuries - NONE

PROJECTED SCORE: 3

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MLB

Friday, May 22

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Hot lines: Today’s best MLB bets
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New York Mets at Boston Red Sox (+115, 8)

The Red Sox went 11-7 in interleague play last season, including six wins in nine games at Fenway. They're 10-8 all-time against the Mets (21-19), sweeping a three-game series in the last meeting June 27-29, 2006.

Boston, though, will have to contend with Johan Santana (5-2, 1.36), owner of the lowest ERA in the NL and ranking among baseball's leaders with 67 strikeouts.

The two-time Cy Young Award winner, however, is coming off his worst performance of the season. He allowed season highs of six runs - four earned - and 11 hits while striking out seven in seven innings as the Mets (21-19) won 9-6 at San Francisco on Saturday.

That's also the last time New York won, as the club has dropped a season high-tying four games in a row after falling 2-1 at Los Angeles on Wednesday.

The Mets, who went 9-6 against the AL last year, are batting .218 with six runs during the slide after averaging 6.2 runs and batting .312 in winning 11 of the previous 13.

New York's struggles has dropped it to 3-4 during a 10-game trip

"We knew at the start of this trip that it would be a tough one and would be a big test for us," Mets third baseman David Wright said. "We started out good, but then we struggled. But we can't feel sorry for ourselves."

Santana hopes the Mets can revive their bats and help him again after scoring seven runs of support in his last outing. The ace received 11 runs combined in his previous seven starts as he went 4-2 with a 0.78 ERA

Pick: Boston +115

Los Angeles Angeles at Los Angeles Dodgers (-122, 8)

While the Dodgers have the worst interleague record over the last four years, the Angels have the fourth-best at 43-29. They were 10-8 last season against the NL, including 6-3 on the road.

After getting swept by Texas to start this 10-game road trip, the Angels bounced back this week by winning three of four at Seattle. They concluded the series with a 3-0 victory Thursday. Juan Rivera, Gary Matthews Jr. and Howie Kendrick all homered after the Angels began the day second-to-last in the AL with 30 home runs.

"We talked about slugging percentage before the game and those guys took it to heart," manager Mike Scioscia joked afterward.

Scioscia's team will get its first look Friday at Clayton Kershaw (2-3, 4.60 ERA), who took a no-hit bid into the eighth inning against Florida on Sunday. Kershaw, who gave up a double to lead off the eighth, allowed one run and one hit over seven-plus innings of a 12-5 victory.

"He's got the (Sandy) Koufax dominance, stuff-wise - the same type of curveball," Torre said.

Kershaw, who has never faced the Angels, was 0-1 with a 4.15 ERA in three interleague starts in 2008.

He'll be opposed by Jered Weaver (3-2, 2.59). The right-hander pitched eight strong innings Sunday against Texas, allowing three runs and six hits while striking out seven in a 3-0 loss. The Angels have lost three of Weaver's last four starts.

Weaver is 3-1 with a 1.54 ERA against the Dodgers. He split two starts against them last season, allowing three runs over 11 1-3 innings.

Pick: L.A. Angels +114

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MLB

Friday, May 22

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Streaking and Slumping Pitchers
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Streaking

Roy Halladay (Toronto Blue Jays)

Roy Halladay certainly has a knack for picking up wins. It took him less than four innings of relief work to earn one in his only appearance against the Atlanta Braves.

Halladay, the major league's leader in wins, makes his first career start against the Braves as the Toronto Blue Jays open a three-game interleague series Friday night.

With wins in each of his last five starts, Halladay (8-1, 2.78 ERA) leads Kansas City right-hander Zack Greinke by one for the major league lead in that category.

Though he has a major league-best 121 wins in 215 starts since the start of the 2002 season, the veteran right-hander will be making just his second appearance against the Braves (20-20). Halladay faced Atlanta in relief July 20, 1999, yielding one run and two hits in 3 2-3 innings to earn a win in an 11-6 Blue Jays victory.

He's 17-8 with a 3.12 ERA in 29 starts and four relief appearances against the National League.

In his last outing, Halladay gave up two runs - one earned - and seven hits while striking out eight in seven innings as Toronto (27-17) beat the Chicago White Sox 8-2 on Sunday.

"I just have to continue to make pitches, regardless of the count, and getting ahead is always key," Halladay said.

Halladay has worked seven innings or more in all nine of his starts and leads the majors with 68 innings pitched.

Manny Parra (Milwaukee Brewers)

Milwaukee's Manny Parra (3-4, 4.57) looks to win his fourth straight start Friday.

After posting a 6.52 ERA in losing his first four starts, Parra is 3-0 with a 3.00 ERA in four outings this month. On Sunday, the left-hander gave up two runs, five hits and four walks in six innings of an 8-2 victory over St. Louis to win his third start in a row.

Parra also has been strong in interleague play. He recorded a 1.42 ERA in winning all three starts against AL opponents last season and on June 28 at Minnesota, he allowed two hits while striking out six in seven scoreless innings of a 5-1 victory.

Ubaldo Jimenez (Colorado Rockies)

The Rockies give the ball to Ubaldo Jimenez (3-4, 4.30), who's 2-0 with a 1.35 ERA in his last three starts.

The right-hander was impressive again Sunday, allowing one run and five hits with seven strikeouts in six innings. But the bullpen wasted the three-run lead by surrendering 10 runs in the seventh in an 11-4 at Pittsburgh.

"It is hard, not for me not getting the win - it was hard for the team," Jimenez said.

He's 0-2 with a 5.73 ERA in two career interleague starts. One of those defeats came at Detroit on June 27, when he gave up four runs and nine hits in four innings of a 7-1 loss.

Slumping

Gavin Floyd (Chicago White Sox)

Chicago will turn to Gavin Floyd (2-4, 7.71), who is 0-3 with a 9.95 ERA in his last five starts.

The right-hander was hit hard again Sunday, surrendering six runs and seven hits - including two homers - in five innings of an 8-2 loss at Toronto.

"I felt like I had better focus this outing, like I was more aggressive, but I made some poor pitches when it counted and got hurt," said Floyd, who is 2-0 with a 1.46 ERA in two career starts against Pittsburgh.

Randy Johnson (San Francisco Giants)

The Seattle Mariners saw potential in a struggling rookie pitcher when they traded for Randy Johnson 20 years ago. His latest rut as he approaches a milestone certainly can't be blamed on inexperience.

Two wins shy of 300, Johnson returns to the city where his career took off as the San Francisco Giants open a three-game interleague series with the Mariners on Friday night.

Seattle thought highly enough of Johnson to send then-ace Mark Langston to the Montreal Expos to acquire him in 1989. Johnson was 0-4 with a 6.67 ERA prior to the trade, but went 130-74 with a 3.42 ERA in 274 appearances - 266 starts - in his career with the Mariners, winning the AL Cy Young Award in 1995.

Having spent the majority of his last 11 seasons in the NL - and winning four straight Cy Youngs from 1999-2002 with Arizona - Johnson (3-4, 6.86 ERA) almost assuredly will become the 24th pitcher to reach 300 later this season.

"It will be neat for us to face him," designated hitter Mike Sweeney told the Mariners' official Web site, "and for him to come home to a place where he pitched for so many years. It will be good for the fans, too."

The Big Unit, though, has struggled with a troublesome back and stints on the disabled list in recent years, and is 1-2 with an 11.05 ERA in his last three appearances.

The 45-year-old left-hander gave up seven runs and 11 hits in four innings during a 9-6 loss to the New York Mets on Saturday. It was only the fifth time since 2000 that Johnson has given up 11 hits in a game.

"I'm not too happy with my last three starts. I'm not happy where I'm at," said Johnson, who's 3-2 with a 2.03 ERA in five starts - including two complete games - versus the Mariners (19-23), but hasn't faced them since August 2006 while with the New York Yankees.

Returning

Daisuke Matsuzaka (Boston Red Sox)

Sweeping the first-place team in the AL East has moved the Boston Red Sox within one game of the top spot. They hope Daisuke Matsuzaka's return can help them get atop the division.

Matsuzaka will return to the mound for his first start in five weeks Friday night, when he starts opposite Johan Santana in the opener of a three-game interleague series between the Red Sox and the struggling New York Mets at Fenway Park.

Boston is expected to activate Matsuzaka (0-1, 12.79 ERA) from the disabled list in order for him to make his first start against the Mets. The right-hander has been on the DL with right arm fatigue since April 15, one day after he was tagged for five runs and five hits in one inning of a 6-5, 12-inning loss at Oakland.

Matsuzaka wasn't very effective in his only other start of the season either, allowing four runs and nine hits, including three homers, in 5 1-3 innings of a 4-3 loss to Tampa Bay.

He showed improvement during three rehabilitation starts with Triple-A Pawtucket, going 0-1 with a 1.54 ERA and 14 strikeouts in 11 2-3 innings.

Debuting

Derek Holland (Texas Rangers)

The Rangers hope the offense can heat up long enough to take some pressure off Derek Holland (1-1, 4.85 ERA), who will make his first career start Friday.

The rookie left-hander takes the place of the injured Vicente Padilla, who is expected to be placed on the disabled list Friday with a strained shoulder muscle. The 22-year-old Holland, the team's minor league pitcher of the year last season, will be making his eighth major league appearance.

"We were prepared to put him in the rotation if there was a spot," general manager Jon Daniels said. "The hiccup here with Padilla provides that opportunity."

Billy Buckner (Arizona Diamondbacks)

The Diamondbacks are expected to recall Billy Buckner (0-0, 15.75) from Triple-A Reno before Friday's game to give the right-hander his first start since a road loss with Kansas City against the Chicago White Sox on Sept. 27, 2007.

Buckner is 1-2 with a 6.49 ERA in five career starts. He hasn't been good out of the bullpen this season, allowing seven runs and seven hits in four innings over three relief appearances before Arizona sent him to Reno on April 14.

Buckner, who has never faced Oakland (15-23), showed some improvement in the minors, going 2-2 with a 3.81 ERA in seven games - five starts.

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MLB
Baseball Today

SCOREBOARD

Friday, May 22

Chicago Cubs at San Diego (10:05 p.m. EDT). It's aces up at Petco Park, where the Cubs send Carlos Zambrano (3-1) up against the Padres' Jake Peavy (3-5).

STARS

Thursday

-Albert Pujols, Cardinals, hit a homer in the first inning that knocked out the "I'' on the Big Mac Land sign in left field as the Cardinals won 3-1.

-Joe Mauer, Twins, hit a grand slam, two doubles and drove in a career-high six runs as Minnesota routed the White Sox 20-1.

-Victor Martinez, Indians, drove in three runs and Cleveland got past Zack Greinke by getting to the Kansas City bullpen for an 8-3 victory.

-Robinson Cano, Yankees, hit an RBI double in a four-run first and a two-run shot in the second, helping New York beat the Orioles 7-4 for their ninth straight win.

-Chase Utley and Jimmy Rollins, Phillies. Utley homered and drove in four runs while Rollins had four hits, scored twice and drove in a run in Philadelphia's 12-5 win over Cincinnati.

-Aaron Cook, Rockies, pitched a four-hitter, retiring the final 16 batters for his second career shutout in Colorado's 9-0 win over Atlanta.

STAYING PUT

San Diego's Jake Peavy turned down a trade to the Chicago White Sox, choosing Thursday to remain with his longtime team. The Padres and White Sox had reached an agreement, but needed the 2007 Cy Young Award winner to waive his no-trade clause. "As of right now, this is the best place for us to be. We made that decision for the time being,'' Peavy said before Thursday night's game against San Francisco.

FATHER'S FOOTSTEPS

The Padres acquired outfielder Tony Gwynn Jr. in a trade that sent outfielder Jody Gerut to the Brewers. Gwynn, who has been with Triple-A Nashville, got the news of the trade in a call from his Hall of Fame father, who played for the Padres for 20 seasons and is now San Diego State's baseball coach. The younger Gwynn played parts of three seasons in the majors. He made his debut hours later, walking as a pinch hitter in the ninth inning of the Padres 3-2 victory over the Giants.

ALL IN THE FAMILY

Baseball approved new controlling owners for the Minnesota Twins and Toronto Blue Jays on Thursday - the sons of fathers who died within the last six months. Jim Pohlad succeeded his father as head of the Twins. Carl Pohlad died in January at 93. His father bought the Twins in 1984. Edward Rogers III replaces his father as head of the Blue Jays. Ted Rogers founded Rogers Communications Inc. and bought the Blue Jays in 2000. He died in December.

ALMOST READY

John Smoltz took a big step in his return from shoulder surgery, throwing three scoreless innings in his first rehabilitation outing. Pitching for the Boston Red Sox's Class A affiliate in Greenville, Smoltz struck out two with no walks and threw 29 pitches in his first game action in almost a year. The 42-year-old Smoltz opened the season on the disabled list following surgery last June to repair a torn labrum in his right shoulder.

FINALLY SOME RELIEF

Washington's bullpen - which had been 1-15 with 13 blown saves in 19 chances - came through for a change. Julian Tavarez (1-3) got the victory with 1 2-3 innings of scoreless relief and Joel Hanrahan got three outs for his fourth save in seven opportunities as the Nationals ended a seven-game skid.

CLOSE CALL

Yankees right-hander Joba Chamberlain was knocked out in the first inning of a 7-4 victory with a bruised right knee. Adam Jones' one-out liner in the first inning hit Chamberlain just above his right knee. After giving up hits to the next two batters, Chamberlain left the game. The Yankees said X-rays on Chamberlain's knee were negative, and he insisted he would make his next start.

SLAMS

Todd Helton hit his fifth career grand slam to help the Rockies win 9-0 over the Braves. It was his first since Sept. 10, 2006, and was the 10th time he's driven in five runs. ... Minnesota's Joe Mauer hit his second career grand slam in a 20-1 win over the White Sox.

CUB SLUMP

The Chicago bats fell asleep against the Cardinals. Alfonso Soriano was 1 for 12 with six strikeouts in the three-game set. Ryan Theriot was 1 for 11, and Mike Fontenot and Milton Bradley each went 1 for 10.

SNAPPED

Seattle third baseman Adrian Beltre snapped an 0-for-23 skid with a single leading off the sixth inning of the Mariners' 3-0 loss to the Angels.

SHOWER TIME

Houston Astros first baseman Lance Berkman and manager Cecil Cooper were ejected in the fifth inning against Milwaukee for arguing a close call at home plate. With the Astros leading 3-1, Berkman singled with two outs, advanced on Carlos Lee's walk, then raced home on Hunter Pence's single to left. Catcher Jason Kendall caught left fielder's Ryan Braun throw and tagged Berkman as he slid, touching the plate with his left hand.

NOT ENOUGH

Royals ace Zack Greinke's record stayed at 7-1 with his first no-decision in nine starts, an 8-3 loss to Cleveland. He went six innings, gave up a season-high eight hits and left with a 3-2 lead. His major league-leading ERA crept up to 0.82 from 0.60.

LIGHTS OUT

Tampa Bay's 6-5 win over Oakland was delayed 19 minutes in the first inning because of a light failure at Tropicana Field. The Rays said a lightning strike affected an electrical substation near the ballpark.

GOOD COMPANY

Jason Bay set a Red Sox record with his 11th straight homer with runners on base, hitting a two-run shot in a three-run first inning, and Boston beat Toronto 5-1.

SPEAKING

"He's turning into a cult figure,'' Rays manager Joe Maddon said of pinch-hitter Ben Zobrist, who hit a tying two-run homer in the ninth inning of Tampa Bay's 6-5 win over Oakland. Zobrist is 4 of 12 with three homers and nine RBIs coming off the bench this season.

SEASONS

May 22

1933 - Joe Sewell of the New York Yankees struck out for the first time this season, during a 3-0 win over Cleveland. Sewell would strike out only three more times in 524 at-bats.

1957 - The Boston Red Sox hit four home runs in the sixth inning of an 11-0 win over Cleveland. Gene Mauch, Ted Williams, Dick Gernert and Frank Malzone connected. All of the homers came on the first 16 pitches from Cal McLish.

1959 - Baltimore's Hoyt Wilhelm pitched a one-hitter against the New York Yankees for a 5-0 win. Jerry Lumpe's single in the eighth spoiled the no-hit bid.

1963 - Mickey Mantle hit a pitch from Kansas City's Bill Fischer off the right-field facade at Yankee Stadium in an 8-7 victory over the A's.

1968 - Willie Stargell of the Pittsburgh Pirates hit three home runs, a double and a single in a 13-6 victory over the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field. Stargell's double just missed going out, as it bounced off the railing of the left-field bleachers.

1976 - St. Louis' Reggie Smith hit three home runs - two right-handed and one left-handed - and drove in five runs in a 7-6 win over the Philadelphia Phillies. Smith's third homer came with two outs in the ninth and broke a 6-6 tie.

1977 - Boston and Milwaukee hit a combined 11 home runs in a 14-10 Red Sox victory at Fenway Park, tying a major league record. The Red Sox connected for six and the Brewers hit five in the first game of a doubleheader.

1983 - Cliff Johnson of the Toronto Blue Jays hit his 18th career pinch homer. The homer, off Baltimore's Tippy Martinez, tied Johnson with Jerry Lynch on the career pinch home run list.

1998 - Brian Cox went 6-for-6, including a grand slam in a 10-run third inning, as Florida State rolled past Delaware 27-6 in the NCAA Atlantic II Regional. Freshman Matt Diaz hit three home runs for the Seminoles.

2000 - Milwaukee beat Houston in the first game of a doubleheader, 10-9, coming back from a 9-2 deficit to tie the score with seven runs in the bottom half of the ninth inning. The Brewers won the game in the 10th on a home run by Jose Hernandez.

2008 - Boston's J.D. Drew and Mike Lowell hit grand slams to help Daisuke Matsuzaka remain unbeaten as the Red Sox posted an 11-8 win over the Kansas City Royals.

Today's birthdays: Chad Tracy 29; John Bale 35; Julian Tavarez 36.

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Friday Trends and Indexes 5/22 (NBA, NHL, MLB, Misc.)

Friday Trends and Indexes 5/22 (NBA, NHL, MLB, Misc.)

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