Announcement

**pm530** · 06-26-2009, 05:48 AM

Daily Sports Roundup

Friday, June 26

Today in the Daily Sports Roundup: Chicago meets Chicago, New York meets New York, and the Florida teams do battle as MLB's interleague play continues.

Meeting up on the diamond . . .

Cubs starter Randy Wells (1-3, 2.57 ERA) will be looking to pick up his second consecutive win late on Friday afternoon when his team begins a cross-town road series against the White Sox and Jose Contreras (2-6, 5.23 ERA). Righthander Wells beat the Indians in his last trip to the mound, holding the Tribe to two earned runs over his 6 2-3 innings of work. Righthander Contreras lost to the Reds last time out despite allowing just three earned runs over his six innings.

The other intra-city struggle on Friday has the Mets playing host to the Yankees. Mike Pelfrey (5-2, 4.74 ERA) will get the ball for the Mets in that contest; the righthander took a no-decision vs. the Rays last time out (four earned runs over five innings), and the team is just 1-3 in his last four trips to the mound. The Yankees will counter with CC Sabathia (6-4, 3.71 ERA), although the big lefthander has been dealing with a sore bicep and might end up being skipped.

Meanwhile, the Sunshine State teams will also clash on Friday, with Josh Johnson (7-1, 2.66 ERA) and the Marlins taking on James Shields (6-5, 3.36 ERA) and the Rays in Tampa Bay. Righthander Johnson has given up three or fewer earned runs in 14 of his 15 starts so far this season, and his team is 12-3 when he takes the hill. Righthander Shields beat the Mets in his last outing, but he gave up four earned runs on 12 hits in 6 2-3 innings vs. the Marlins on May 24.

Elsewhere around baseball on Friday it'll be Washington at Baltimore, Cincinnati at Cleveland, Kansas City at Pittsburgh, Philadelphia at Toronto, Boston at Atlanta, San Diego at Texas, Detroit at Houston, Minnesota at St. Louis, the Angels at Arizona, Colorado at Oakland, and Seattle at the Dodgers. As well, the Giants will be in Milwaukee to take on the Brewers in an NL-only series; San Fran's Matt Cain (9-1, 2.28 ERA) is set to meet Yovani Gallardo (7-4, 3.00 ERA).

Rounding out the Roundup . . .

Finally, the WNBA offers up four games on Friday night, with Detroit at Atlanta, Indiana at New York, Los Angeles at Seattle, and Sacramento at San Antonio. The Silver Stars got guard Becky Hammon back from the Russian national team on Tuesday night, and she tossed in 19 points in the team's 91-87 home win over Phoenix. San Antonio improved to 2-3 straight-up but sit just 1-4 versus the line.

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

**pm530** · 06-26-2009, 05:49 AM

Six-pack for Friday

-- Kenny Perry tied course record with a -9 round of 61 at TPC River Highlands-- he is the fifth player to shoot 61 at the Hartford Open.

-- Derek Lowe got pounded by the Bronx Bombers; he's allowed 18 runs in his last three starts, covering just 11.2 innings pitched.

-- John Smoltz gave up four runs in first inning, got beat 9-3 down in our nation's capital by the Nationals in his first start for Boston.

-- Tony Clark hit his 250th career HR against Texas, lot of homers for a guy who seemingly has rarely been a regular player.

-- Canadian Joey Votto, whose had a rough year personally, went 4-5 in Toronto, as the Reds beat the Blue Jays 7-5 at Rogers Centre.

-- Phillies scored four in top of first, then got crushed 10-4 by Rays in St Pete; hard to visualize pitching-poor Phillies winning a division.

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

Friday's List of 13: Random thoughts after the NBA Draft.....

-- ESPN covers tonight's draft; sadly, Stuart Scott is hosting the show, and he makes the hideous Chris Berman look like Walter Cronkite, so it could be a long night. John Saunders wasn't available tonight?

-- ESPN has a camera inside the Clippers' war room, which is a little bit like having access to watching Michelangelo paint, except the opposite. The Clippers are by far the NBA's worst organization, and possibly the worst in all of sports. They have more people in the room than they do players-- what do all these people do? You half-expect to see people in their draft room playing checkers or putting golf balls across the carpet.

-- At least ESPN has Mark Jackson and Jeff Van Gundy analyzing and taking airtime away from the pompous Jay Bilas.

-- The draft room in Memphis looks like a Vegas sports book, with the guys huddled around a TV to see the 9th at Santa Anita. Grizzlies take Hasheem Thabeet, who Bilas then says may never be good on offense. The second pick won't be good on offense? Thats Grizzlies basketball.

-- When word got out that Farrah Fawcett died today, a woman I work with asked "Who else?", meaning these things happen in 3's. Earlier in the week, Ed McMahon had died. Well, sure enough, Michael Jackson passed away at age 50, a very strange man dying way too young.

-- James Harden goes to the Thunder-- he is wearing a bow tie. Saw lot of his games at Arizona State-- thought he was little soft, but Sendek is a terrific coach, so he must have a high basketball IQ.

-- Purple seems to be color of the day, as far as dress shirts go. Maybe because the Lakers won the championship, but lot of purple shirts.

-- Sacramento takes Tyreke Evans, meaning he'll probably get traded, since the Kings couldn't possibly have a real good point guard, right? A very good pick by a team that desperately needs good things to happen.

-- Minnesota takes Ricky Rubio, the Spanish kid no one has seen play, other than the two weeks during the Olympics last year; buy a warm coat Ricky-- its freakin' cold in Minnesota.

-- Fran Fraschilla, one of our favorites, raves about Rubio, then points out that Minnesota doesn't have a coach yet. Brilliant move, not having a coach on draft night-- no wonder they have four first round draft picks.

-- The Timberwolves don't have a war room, just a bunch of people who look like they're sitting around the receptionist's desk. They take Jonny Flynn, a pure point guard-- they're going to be really young, so the new coach, as Jeff Van Gundy said, will probably be fired in 18 months.

-- Actually, when Stuart Scott doesn't screw around, he's little bit better than Berman, who is incapable of playing it straight.

-- Golden State takes Stephen Curry, and all the Knick fans there moan really loudly, since New York picked next-- they took Jordan Hill, who is a terrific rebounder, but Chase Budinger would've been a better pick. To me, the team that takes Budinger gets a genuine steal.

-- Its been 22 years since the Knicks drafted a guy who made a All-Star team-- point guard Mark Jackson from St John's who is working right there for ESPN. Last time Knicks won a playoff series, Jeff Vam Gundy was the coach, and he's sitting there, too.

-- Toronto takes Demar DeRozan, who is very raw player-- Mark Jones tries to pump him up by telling him how great the public transportation in Toronto is. NBA players take limos, Mark.

-- Milwaukee traded Richard Jefferson yesterday, then drafted Brandon Jennings, who was mediocre in his year over in Italy last winter. How in the name of Toby Kimball do the Bucks sell season tickets? Bucks said they would have taken Jonny Flynn, had he been available. Whoops.

-- Orlando dumped Rafer Alston to the Nets for Vince Carter, which I guess was inevitable the way his minutes went in the Finals. Bad news for Nets' coach Lawrence Frank, the longest-tenured coach in Eastern Conference, even though he still looks like he's 14 years old.

-- Williams kid from Louisville is the 11th pick, and the first college senior drafted. Its almost like playing four years in college isn't good.

-- My 83-year old dad asks, "Are there any white guys getting drafted?" Only a wise guy would tell him that if he wants white guys, he should watch the NHL Draft, which is Friday night on Versus.

-- Hey, its Larry Bird's turn to draft-- he takes Tyler HanXXXough, who happens to be white. Terrible pick. No wonder the Pacers aren't good. Chase Budinger would've been a much better pick.

-- Good lord, Steve Kerr is on crack-- the Suns are trading Stoudemire to the Warriors for Biedrins, Bellinelli and some other stiff-- Suns will be the worst team in the league soon. Steve Nash must be the next guy out of town, right? Who the hell is he going to pass the ball to? If Kerr iusn't careful, he'll be the next basketball coach at Florida International.

-- Speaking of FIU, they dropped cheerleading this week, supposedly to save money, but maybe it was just to protect attractive young women from being around Isiah Thomas.

-- Three of the top 15 picks have dads who played in the NBA.

-- Dick Vitale is loud, even in the summer. he predicted Stephen Curry as Rookie of the Year next year. He'll definitely have the green light to shoot the ball, no doubt about that, playing for Don Nelson.

-- Stu Scott, playing it straight tonight, gives us two good tidbits; UCLA has had a player drafted in 13 straight drafts, and 76ers used six starting lineups last year, the fewest of any NBA team. Good work, Stu.

-- Hey, I heard Bruce Pearl was supposed to be on the telecast; he did an appearance with Mike Francesa last week, but no sign of him tonight.

-- Minnesota takes Ty Lawson, but we're told he's getting traded to the Nuggets, where he'll play for another former Tar Heel, George Karl.

-- Greg Oden has played in 65 of a possible 164 NBA games since he got out of Ohio State after one season-- this would qualify as a bust. There is still time for him to become a player, but he'd have to stay on the floor for it to ever happen. Too many kids leave school too early.

-- I like the Hawks taking Jeff Teague-- terrific player. Its first time ever that Wake Forest has had two players taken in the first round.

-- Ben Zobrist has eight HRs in June, second-most in major leagues.

-- Portland just took someone named Victor Claver from Spain, and now the Kings just took someone named Omri Casspi-- I spend hundreds of hours watching basketball all winter-- I've never heard of either guy, but Fraschilla gives Casspi the thumbs up, which is good enough for me.

-- ESPN's Lisa Salters asks Shaq in a phone interview if he would come off the bench if the Cavaliers wanted him to-- who fed her this idiotic question???? Later on, Jeff Van Gundy laughs and says that if he wants to get fired, Mike Brown will bring Shaq off the bench. Enough said.

-- By the way, I was out moving my car when Utah took Eric Maynor, but the VCU guard is really good and will help Jerry Sloan's team.

-- You can tell Jay Bilas is fighting the urge to say "upside" about every player-- Dallas just took a kid who started parttime in his only season at Ohio State-- that should work out really well.

-- How are the Phillies in first place? Their pitching is hideous.

-- The Knicks just traded Quentin Richardson for Darko Milicic, so we get to see the 24-year old Croatian up close next winter, playing in the best system for his passing/shot blocking skills. Its now or never.

-- OK, almost time for me to wrap this up, because Oklahoma City just took a kid from Guadalupe; not only have I never heard of the kid, I've never heard of Guadalupe. Ric Bucher reports that Dallas will trade the kid from Ohio State to the Thunder for this kid.

-- I'm sticking it out until the Knicks pick again, then I'm off to Wendy's to clog my arteries-- the Grizzlies just took the Carroll kid from Mizzou who has a liver disease. I'm not kidding-- the disease shouldn't affect his playing career, but would it kill them to draft a healthy person?

-- Knicks just drafted Toney Douglas, a guard from Florida State whose brother is a receiver for the Falcons. He's going to help the Knicks.

-- Why did Patty Mills leave St Mary's? He hasn't been drafted yet. The Cavaliers just drafted a guy from the freakin' Congo, for Pete's sake. I'm baffled why a kid like Mills would leave without a first round promise?

-- Jay Bilas must be a tailor-- he knows how long everyone's arms are.

-- My one last emphatic statement on this draft-- if the kid from Israel and the kid from Guadalupe are better than Chase Budinger, then I'll be dating Pamela freakin' Anderson pretty soon. There is no way on God's green earth that Budinger isn't a 1st round pick- its why the NBA can be really annoying- they draft these foreign kids and then they disappear, sometimes never to be seen again. I don't understand it, which is why I am off to eat hamburgers-- it makes me feel better, but not smarter.

Late Update-- Pistons took Budinger with the 44th pick in draft, then dealt him to Houston. Portland was smart and drafted Patty Mills. .

From: Armadillo
----------------------------------------------------------------------

**pm530** · 06-26-2009, 05:50 AM

MLB
Baseball Today

SCOREBOARD

Friday, June 26

Chicago Cubs at Chicago White Sox (4:05 p.m. EDT). The Windy City rivals begin a three-game interleague set. The two team split their series at Wrigley Field last week with one game also getting rained out.

STARS

Thursday

-Chris Davis, Rangers, matched a career high with four hits, including the winning two-run homer in the 12th, as Texas defeated Arizona 9-8.

-Scott Podsednik, White Sox, lined a two-out RBI single in front of diving center fielder Matt Kemp in the 13th inning to give Chicago a 6-5 victory over the Los Angeles Dodgers.

-Lance Berkman, Astros, homered twice and drove in four runs to help Houston overcome an error-filled day and beat Kansas City 5-4.

-Denard Span, Twins, tripled, walked three times and scored three runs in his first game back from the disabled list, and Minnesota topped Milwaukee 6-4.

-Ichiro Suzuki, Mariners, lined the 29th leadoff homer of his career into the right-field seats and finished a triple short of the cycle as Seattle beat San Diego 9-3.

-Hanley Ramirez, Marlins, hit a grand slam as Florida cruised past Baltimore 11-3.

-Joey Votto, Reds, had a tiebreaking home run among his four hits and Cincinnati avoided a sweep by beating Toronto 7-5.

STATS

San Diego's Adrian Gonzalez walked in the seventh inning of the Padres' 9-3 loss at Seattle on Thursday, breaking the franchise record for walks in June. He has been given 28 free passes this month. ... Detroit beat the Chicago Cubs to improve to 23-11 at Comerica Park for its best 34-game mark at home since the 1984 world championship team had the same start. ... Tampa Bay's Jason Bartlett extended his career-best hitting streak to a franchise-record 19 games in the Rays' 10-4 victory over Philadelphia.

SILENT MANNY

Manny Ramirez made himself scarce in the clubhouse and didn't talk to reporters as he came out for warmups for his final game with the Triple-A Albuquerque Isotopes on Thursday night. Later, with the start of the contest delayed by rain, Ramirez wore street clothes when he walked through a back door of the clubhouse, stepped into a sedan with an associate and a Dodgers' security official and drove away.

MILESTONES

Alex Rodriguez tied Reggie Jackson with his 563rd home run, and Mariano Rivera earned his 499th career save in the New York Yankees' 11-7 victory over the Atlanta Braves on Thursday night. Rodriguez's 10th homer in the first, a solo shot, tied Jackson for 11th place on baseball's career list. ... Texas shortstop Omar Vizquel singled in the first inning of the Rangers' 9-8 win over the Arizona Diamondbacks in 12 innings for his 2,678th career hit, the most by a native of Venezuela. The 42-year-old Vizquel moved ahead of Hall of Fame shortstop Luis Aparicio, who played in 107 fewer games.

SMOLTZ STRUGGLES

Boston's John Smoltz (0-1), who spent his previous 20 seasons with the Atlanta Braves, needed 34 pitches to get through the first inning of Washington's 9-3 win Thursday night. He settled down after that, giving up a run in the third but retiring the side in order in the second, fourth and fifth. His final line: five innings, seven hits, five runs, one walk, one hit batter and five strikeouts in 92 pitches.

EARLY PROBLEMS

Johan Santana went to 3-0 counts on four of his first 11 batters - something he hadn't done in an entire game in six years, not counting intentional walks - in the New York Mets' 3-2 win over St. Louis on Thursday. Santana (9-5) bounced back and gave up two runs - one earned - and seven hits in seven innings to win for the first time in three starts and lower his ERA to 3.08.

GRAND, GRAND SLAM

Hanley Ramirez hit his third grand slam of the season in the Florida Marlins' 11-3 win over Baltimore on Thursday night, tying him for the single-season franchise record with Cody Ross (2009), Jeff Conine (2004) and Bobby Bonilla (1997).

TURNING IT AROUND

Victor Martinez went 2 for 3 with a home run and scored twice in Cleveland's 3-2 loss at Pittsburgh on Thursday night. He entered the game hitless in his past 18 at-bats, but reached base three times. He was 3 for 42 against the National League this season, but singled, walked and led off the sixth with his 13th home run.

MAGS TAGS ONE

Magglio Ordonez ended a career-worst 40-game drought without a home run by connecting for the go-ahead shot, leading Detroit over the Cubs 6-5 on Thursday for its seventh straight victory. Ordonez connected for a two-run homer in the fourth inning.

FILLING IN

Willy Aybar, starting because Evan Longoria was resting a sore left hamstring, had a solo homer in the second and a two-run single in the sixth to lead Tampa Bay past Philadelphia 10-4. Rays, who dropped the World Series to the Phillies in five games, won two straight after dropping the opener of this week's rematch 10-1.

FIRSTS

The Cubs' Jake Fox hit his first homer in the majors, a three-run shot in the first inning of Chicago's 6-5 loss to Detroit on Thursday. ... Milwaukee's Mike Burns made his first career start, giving up four runs and six hits over 5 2-3 innings of a 6-4 loss to Minnesota. Burns was called up from Triple-A Nashville to replace Dave Bush, who went on the 15-day disabled list Tuesday with a micro tear of the right triceps.

B-BOY MILESTONE

Houston's Lance Berkman homered twice and drove in four runs in the Astros' 5-4 win over Kansas City on Thursday to pass 1,000 RBIs. Berkman entered needing to drive in one run to become the third player in franchise history to reach 1,000. He did it on his first at-bat, a two-run shot that gave Houston a 2-1 lead and put him with fellow "Killer Bs'' Jeff Bagwell and Craig Biggio as the only Astros to reach the mark.

DRUG INVESTIGATION

Major League Baseball is cooperating with a federal investigation into where Manny Ramirez got the performance-enhancing drug that resulted in his 50-game suspension. The Drug Enforcement Administration is checking whether a doctor in Miami and his son were the source of the drug, ESPN reported Thursday. MLB president Bob DuPuy confirmed that baseball's department of investigations was working with the DEA. Ramirez was suspended in May for violating baseball's drug rules and can rejoin the Los Angeles Dodgers on July 3.

SORRY SOTO

Chicago Cubs catcher Geovany Soto will not be suspended by Major League Baseball or his team after testing positive for marijuana at this year's World Baseball Classic. Soto, last season's NL Rookie of the Year, drew a two-year ban from international competition by the International Baseball Federation.

SIDELINED

Arizona's Eric Byrnes will require surgery after breaking his left hand and could miss four to eight weeks. Byrnes fractured the fifth metacarpal in his left hand when he was hit by a pitch in the second inning of the Diamondbacks' 9-8 loss to Texas in 12 innings. ... Seattle placed shortstop Yuniesky Betancourt on the 15-day DL with a strained hamstring. He could be out until after the All-Star break.

SPEAKING

"On the triple, I almost died because I hadn't played in 2 1/2 weeks, so I'm a little out of shape.'' - Minnesota's Denard Span who had been on the disabled list with an inner ear infection. Span tripled, walked three times and scored three runs in his first game back Thursday.

"If I had hair like that, I'd still be single.'' - Detroit manager Jim Leyland on outfielder Magglio Ordonez, who cut his flowing locks - which are being auctioned off on eBay for charity.

SEASONS

June 26

1916 - In a game against the Chicago White Sox, the Cleveland Indians appeared on the field with numbers on their sleeves. It marked the first time players were identified by numbers corresponding to the scorecard.

1938 - Lonny Frey of the Cincinnati Reds had eight hits in a doubleheader split with the Philadelphia Phillies. Frey had three hits in a 10-3 opening-game loss and collected five in the nightcap, which the Reds won 8-5.

1944 - In an effort to raise funds for war bonds, the New York Giants, Brooklyn Dodgers and New York Yankees played against each other in a six-inning contest at the Polo Grounds. More than 50,000 fans turned out. Each team played successive innings against the other two teams then would sit out an inning. The final score was Dodgers 5, Yankees 1, Giants 0.

1962 - Earl Wilson of the Boston Red Sox pitched a 2-0 no-hitter against the Los Angeles Angels at Fenway Park. Wilson also homered in the game.

1970 - Frank Robinson hit two grand slams in the Baltimore Orioles' 12-2 victory over the Washington Senators.

1976 - Shortstop Toby Harrah played an entire doubleheader for the Texas Rangers without handling a batted ball from the Chicago White Sox.

2000 - Minor league sensation Alex Cabrera hit a two-run homer in his first major league at-bat for Arizona as the Diamondbacks beat the Houston Astros 6-1.

2006 - Oregon State beats North Carolina 3-2 for its first College World Series title.

2008 - Matt Garza struck out 10 in a one-hitter, leading Tampa Bay to a 6-1 victory over the Florida Marlins.

Today's birthdays: Elijah Dukes 25; Luis Hernandez 25; Derek Jeter 35; Jason Kendall 35.

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

**pm530** · 06-26-2009, 05:51 AM

MLB
This Day in Baseball

On June 26 in Baseball History...

1916 - Cleveland players, in a game with the White Sox, wear numbers on their sleeves, marking the first time players are identified by numbers corresponding to those on the scorecard.

1920 - Lou Gehrig gets his first national mention when, as a high school junior for New York City's School of Commerce, he hits a grand slam in a high school championship game against Lane Tech in Chicago. Scouts sit with open mouths as the ball sails out of the N.L. park (later known as Wrigley Field).

1935 - Lloyd Waner sets a major-league record with 18 putouts in center field in a doubleheader as the Pirates take a pair from the Braves at Boston.

1940 - More than 50,000 pack the Polo Grounds to watch the Yankees, Dodgers and Giants play each other in a six-inning contest to raise money for war bonds. Each team plays successive innings against the other two teams, then sits out an inning. The final score is Dodgers 5, Yankees 1, Giants, 0.

1960 - Hoping to speed up the election process, the Hall of Fame changes its voting procedures. The new rules allow the Special Veterans Committee to vote annually, rather than every other year, and to induct up to two players a year. The BBWAA is authorized to hold a runoff election of the top 30 vote getters if no one is elected in the first ballot.

1968 - The major league Executive Council decides that both the A.L. and N.L. will play 162-game schedules in 1969 and operate two six-team divisions.

1971 - Last year's A.L. batting king, Alex Johnson, is suspended by the Angels following a series of incidents (including five benchings and 29 fines) resulting from failure to hustle.

1994 - Kirby Puckett becomes Minnesota's all-time hits leader by getting three safeties to pass Rod Carew with his 2,088 hit as a Twin.

1997 - Tony Gwynn of the Padres breaks a seventh-inning tie with an inside-the-park grand slam as San Diego beats Los Angeles, 9-7. The opposite-field hit not only puts Gwynn back over the .400 mark, but is also the first N.L. inside-the-park grand slam in six years.

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

**pm530** · 06-26-2009, 05:52 AM

MLB
Write-up

Friday, June 26

With interleague play here, remember there are DHs in games played in the American League parks, no DHs in National League parks. Under is 56-44-3 in NL parks, 51-46-5 in AL, As far as wins/losses go, the AL leads the NL, 114-95.

Hot Pitchers
-- Cain is 7-0, 2.00 in his last nine starts. Gallardo is 3-2, 2.11 in his last six starts.
-- Wells has 2.76 RA in eight starts this season. Contreras is 2-1, 1.23 in three starts since coming back from the minor leagues.
-- Hamels is 1-1, 2.57 in his last four starts. Romero is 1-1, 2.66 in his last three starts.
-- Bergesen is 3-0, 2.33 in his last five starts.
-- Meche is 2-2, 3.34 in his last five starts.
-- Beckett is 4-1, 2.47 in his last six starts.
-- Johnson is 4-0, 2.63 in his last five starts. Tampa Bay won four of last five Shields starts.
-- Verlander is 8-1, 1.75 in his last eleven starts.
-- Astros are 5-2 at home when Rodriguez starts.
-- Millwood is 3-1, 1.57 in his last four starts.
-- Cardinals won last three Wainwright starts, scoring 13-11-12 runs.
-- Weaver is 4-1, 2.45 in his last six starts.
-- Colorado won Hammel's last six starts, scoring 40 runs.
-- Kershaw has a 1.63 RA in his seven home starts. Seattle is 5-0 with Vargas if they score 2+ runs, 0-3 if they don't.

Cold Pitchers
-- Harang is 0-3, 4.45 in his last five starts. Sowers is 0-6, 7.08 in seven starts this season.
-- Detwiler is 0-3, 5.65 in his last five starts.
-- Vasquez was 5-2, 4.18 in 14 starts at AAA Indianapolis.
-- Pelfrey has an 8.41 RA in his last four starts. Sabathia is 1-1, 5.57 in his last four starts- he left his last start in second inning (bicep).
-- Jurrjens is 0-3, 5.06 in his last four starts.
-- Silva is 0-0, 6.00 in three starts this season.
-- Perkins is 0-2, 10.80 in his three road starts.
-- Anderson is 0-2, 8.59 in his last three starts.
-- Buckner is 0-3, 9.72 in his last three starts.

Hot Teams
-- Giants won five of their last six games.
-- White Sox won four of their last five games.
-- Blue Jays won four of their last five games.
-- Mets won three of their last four games. Bronx won their last couple games, scoring 19 runs.
-- Red Sox won eight of their last ten road games.
-- Tampa Bay won 10 of its last 14 games. Marlins won six of seven.
-- Tigers won their last seven games, scoring 44 runs. Astros are 10-6 in their last sixteen games.
-- Angels won nine of their last twelve games.
-- Rockies won 17 of their last 20 games.
-- Mariners won seven of their last nine games.

Cold Teams
-- Brewers lost seven of their last nine home games.
-- Cubs lost their last five road games.
-- Indians lost eight of their last nine games. Reds are 5-14 in their last nineteen road games.
-- Phillies lost eight of their last nine games.
-- Orioles lost their last three games, allowing 23 runs. Nationals lost three of their last four contests.
-- Pirates lost five of their last seven games. Royals lost six of their last eight games.
-- Braves lost 10 of their last 15 games.
-- Padres lost nine of their last twelve games. Rangers lost five of their last seven games.
-- Minnesota is 9-17 in its last 26 road games. Cardinals lost three of their last four games.
-- Arizona lost 16 of its last 22 home games.
-- Oakland lost three of its last four games.
-- Dodgers are just 12-10 at home without Manny Ramirez.

Totals
-- Eight of last ten Milwaukee games went over the total.
-- Eight of last eleven Cub road games stayed under the total.
-- Six of last nine Cleveland games went over the total.
-- Five of last seven Philadelphia road games went over the total.
-- Last four Washington games went over the total.
-- Under is 3-1-1 in Royals' last five road games.
-- Three of last four Bronx Bomber games went over the total.
-- Last five Boston road games went over the total.
-- Nine of last thirteen Florida games went over the total.
-- Under is 7-1-1 in last nine Houston games.
-- Last ten Texas home games stayed under the total.
-- Over is 5-2-1 in Cardinals' last eight games.
-- Seven of last nine Arizona home games went over the total.
-- Over is 8-4 in Colorado's last twelve road games.
-- Six of last nine Dodger games went over the total.

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

**pm530** · 06-26-2009, 05:53 AM

MLB

Friday, June 26

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

4:05 PM
CHI CUBS vs. CHI WHITE SOX
Chi Cubs are 10-5 SU in their last 15 games when playing Chi White Sox
Chi Cubs are 1-4 SU in their last 5 games when playing Chi White Sox
The total has gone UNDER in 8 of Chi White Sox's last 11 games when playing at home against Chi Cubs
Chi White Sox are 4-1 SU in their last 5 games when playing Chi Cubs

7:05 PM
CINCINNATI vs. CLEVELAND
Cincinnati is 1-6 SU in its last 7 games on the road
Cincinnati is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing Cleveland
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Cleveland's last 10 games when playing at home against Cincinnati
Cleveland is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games when playing Cincinnati

7:05 PM
KANSAS CITY vs. PITTSBURGH
The total has gone OVER in 7 of Kansas City's last 9 games when playing on the road against Pittsburgh
Kansas City is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games at home
Pittsburgh is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games

7:05 PM
WASHINGTON vs. BALTIMORE
Washington is 2-10 SU in its last 12 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Washington's last 7 games on the road
Baltimore is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games when playing at home against Washington
The total has gone UNDER in 9 of Baltimore's last 13 games when playing at home against Washington

7:07 PM
PHILADELPHIA vs. TORONTO
Philadelphia is 16-7 SU in its last 23 games on the road
Philadelphia is 1-8 SU in its last 9 games
Toronto is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing Philadelphia
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Toronto's last 6 games when playing Philadelphia

7:10 PM
NY YANKEES vs. NY METS
NY Yankees are 4-2 SU in their last 6 games when playing NY Mets
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of NY Yankees's last 6 games when playing NY Mets
NY Mets are 16-8 SU in its last 24 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of NY Mets's last 7 games when playing at home against NY Yankees

7:35 PM
BOSTON vs. ATLANTA
Boston is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games when playing on the road against Atlanta
Boston is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing Atlanta
Atlanta is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games
Atlanta is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games at home

7:38 PM
FLORIDA vs. TAMPA BAY
Florida is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games on the road
Florida is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games when playing Tampa Bay
Tampa Bay is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games when playing at home against Florida
The total has gone UNDER in 8 of Tampa Bay's last 11 games when playing at home against Florida

8:00 PM
DETROIT vs. HOUSTON
Detroit is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games when playing Houston
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Detroit's last 6 games when playing Houston
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Houston's last 6 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Houston's last 9 games

8:05 PM
SAN DIEGO vs. TEXAS
San Diego is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games on the road
San Diego is 3-9 SU in its last 12 games
Texas is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games when playing San Diego
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Texas's last 10 games when playing San Diego

8:05 PM
SAN FRANCISCO vs. MILWAUKEE
San Francisco is 2-12 SU in its last 14 games when playing on the road against Milwaukee
The total has gone OVER in 5 of San Francisco's last 7 games when playing on the road against Milwaukee
Milwaukee is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games at home
Milwaukee is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games

8:15 PM
MINNESOTA vs. ST. LOUIS
Minnesota is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games when playing St. Louis
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Minnesota's last 7 games when playing St. Louis
St. Louis is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 5 of St. Louis's last 7 games at home

9:40 PM
LA ANGELS vs. ARIZONA
The total has gone OVER in 4 of LA Angels's last 5 games when playing Arizona
The total has gone OVER in 4 of LA Angels's last 5 games when playing on the road against Arizona
Arizona is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games at home
Arizona is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games

10:05 PM
COLORADO vs. OAKLAND
Colorado is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games when playing Oakland
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Colorado's last 5 games when playing Oakland
Oakland is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Colorado
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Oakland's last 6 games when playing at home against Colorado

10:10 PM
SEATTLE vs. LA DODGERS
Seattle is 4-2 SU in their last 6 games when playing on the road against LA Dodgers
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Seattle's last 7 games when playing on the road against LA Dodgers
The total has gone OVER in 4 of LA Dodgers's last 6 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 4 of LA Dodgers's last 6 games

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

**pm530** · 06-26-2009, 05:54 AM

MLB

Friday, June 26

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tips and Trends
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Boston Red Sox at Atlanta Braves [7:35 PM ET]

Red Sox (-$1.20, O/U 8 under -$1.20): The Red Sox could be in a foul mood after being embarrassed on Thursday night by the lowly Nationals. Boston has lost back-to-back games just once during its past 22 games. The Red Sox are 16-6 in their last 22 contests. The Red Sox are 28-11 in their last 39 interleague matchups. They have captured eight of their past 10 away games. Josh Beckett pitched a shutout on Saturday in beating the Braves at home, 3-0. Beckett allowed just five singles, while striking out seven and not giving up a walk. Beckett has dominated the Braves going 5-0 against them with a 0.45 ERA in his last six starts. He has held the Braves without a run in five of those six outings. The right-hander has won six of his last seven overall decisions. He has a 1.44 ERA in his last six starts with a 4-1 record and 42 strikeouts.

The Red Sox are 49-14 in their last 63 interleague games versus a right-handed starter.

Key Injuries - Jed Lowrie (wrist) is on the DL.

PROJECTED SCORE: 5

Braves: Atlanta has lost 10 of its last 13 to Boston, including two of three at Fenway Park last weekend. Jair Jurrjens is looking to pick up his first win this month. Jurrjens is 0-3 with a 3.80 ERA in June. He failed to beat the Red Sox last Sunday, giving up five runs – two earned – in 6 1/3 innings. The Braves are 1-5 in Jurrjens’ last six starts as an underdog. The Braves have only scored three runs during the past 21 innings Jurrjens has pitched. The under is 11-5-1 in Jurrjens’ last 17 starts. Atlanta has lost 18 of its last 29 games. During their past 10 series, the Braves are 1-6-3. The Braves lost another reliever when Jeff Bennett went on the DL with a broken hand. Chipper Jones is batting just .179 (five-for-28) versus Beckett and Brian McCann is hitting only .214 (three-for-14) against Beckett.

The Under is 9-4-1 the past 14 times the teams have met in Atlanta.

Key Injuries - None

PROJECTED SCORE: 4 (OVER - Total of the Day)

San Francisco Giants at Milwaukee Brewers [8:05 PM ET]

Giants: Matt Cain is trying to become the National League’s first 10-game winner this season. The Giants are 9-0 in Cain’s last nine starts. Cain pitched well enough to win his last start, but the Giants had to go 11 innings to beat Texas, 2-1, on Saturday with Cain getting a no-decision. Cain held the Rangers to one run on three hits, while striking out eight in eight innings. Cain, though, is 1-2 with a 4.05 ERA in three career starts versus the Brewers. The under is 11-5-1 in Cain’s last 17 road starts versus a team with a winning record. The Giants have struggled against Milwaukee, losing seven of the past nine meetings. The Giants are 13-30 in their last 43 road contests against teams with a winning home mark. The Giants have won eight of their last 12 away games. San Francisco was idle on Thursday.

The Over is 10-2-2 the past 14 times the Giants have played in Milwaukee.

Key Injuries - None

PROJECTED SCORE: 3

Brewers (-$1.50, O/U 7): The Brewers are glad to be finished with Interleague competition after going 5-10 against American League clubs. Yovani Gallardo isn’t going to make it easy for Cain to become the NL’s first 10-game winner. Gallardo is 3-2 with a 1.88 ERA in his last six starts. Milwaukee is 8-3 in Gallardo’s last 11 starts. The right-hander allowed three runs and six hits, while striking out eight in seven innings during his last start versus Detroit on Sunday. The Brewers lost, 3-2. Milwaukee has a strong history against the Giants. The Brewers are 12-2 at home versus the Giants, scoring seven runs per game during this time span. Ryan Braun is batting .387 with five homers and 18 RBIs in 18 games against San Francisco. The Brewers have dropped five of their last six games. Gallardo is 2-1 with a 5.63 ERA in three career starts versus the Giants.

The Brewers are 12-3 in their last 15 home games against teams with a winning record.

Key Injuries - Richie Weeks (wrist) is on the DL.

PROJECTED SCORE: 4 (Side of the Day)

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

**pm530** · 06-26-2009, 05:54 AM

MLB

Friday, June 26

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Hot lines: Today’s best MLB bets
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

San Francisco Giants at Milwaukee Brewers (-142, 7)

If the National League playoffs began today,the Wild Card in the senior circuit would go to … the Giants?

That’s right.

Experts and fans across the country have been sleeping on the Giants, who have won 20 of their past 30 games and are 14-8 this month. The key for San Francisco has been its dominant starting pitching, led by reigning Cy Young winner Tim Lincecum (7-2), veteran and 300-game winner Randy Johnson (7-5) and the suddenly unhittable Matt Cain (9-1).

And the stats back up the staff’s dominance on the mound. The Giants pitchers have the National League’s second-best ERA (3.64) and third-lowest opponents’ batting average (.247). Up next for the hurlers by the bay is a trip to the midwest to face the Brew Crew, who have lost six of their past 10.

Milwaukee fans better get used to that bitter beer face.

Pick: Giants

Washington Nationals at Baltimore Orioles (-158, 9.5)

No one hits the ball at home like Baltimore.

The Orioles have turned Camden Yards into their own batting cage this season. Baltimore leads the majors in home batting average (.300) and on-base percentage (.366), is fifth in doubles (73) and runs (197), and is sixth in home runs (46). In the team’s past five home games – in which it went 4-1 – it is averaging nearly seven runs per outing.

The Nationals, on the other hand, have a pop-gun offense. They have scored more than four runs just once since June 6. In a three-game set against the Orioles in The District earlier this year, the Nats did manage to keep the Orioles’ offense in check, but still dropped two of three.

This Battle of the Beltway is for the birds.

Pick: Orioles

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

**pm530** · 06-26-2009, 05:56 AM

MLB

Friday, June 26

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Game of the day: Yankees at Mets
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Subway Series continues

The Yankees and Mets will kick off their second and final series in 2009 on Friday at Citi Field.

The Bronx Bombers took two of three at Yankee Stadium two weeks ago, outscoring the Mets by a count of 26-14. But both teams have struggled in the wake of that series, with the Yankees winning just three times in their past eight games and the Mets going 4-5 over their past nine.

The Mets, however, hold a slim 8-7 edge in the Subway Series since the start of 2007.

Pitching matchup

Game 1 will feature a mound matchup of C.C. Sabathia versus Mike Pelfrey.

The Yankee’s ace was forced to leave his last start after pitching only 1 1/3 innings due to tightness in his left bicep. All indications, however, are he's good to go for Friday's series opener.

“It wasn’t a sharp pain or anything,” Sabathia said. “It just felt a little tight. It’s something I felt before, between starts or something. It’s nothing major.”

But there has to be something more than tightness bothering the hurler.

Sabathia has been struggling, giving up 12 earned runs over his last 24 innings pitched. The Yankees are just 7-8 when he takes the mound this season.

Mike Pelfrey remains 2-0 at home this season, but was fortunate not to be on the hook in his last start here against the Rays. Pelfrey gave up eight hits and four earned runs in just five innings and the Mets lost 10-6. The right-hander has made it through the sixth inning only once in his last four starts

Pelfrey, however, was a winner in his lone previous start against the Yankees, a 15-6 Mets victory last season. And here's a bit of an odd trend: the Mets are 9-3 in Mike Pelfrey's last 12 starts in Game 1 of a series.

Safe at home

The Mets have settled in nicely to their new digs, posting a 21-14 record at Citi Field entering Thursday's action.

That record improves to 18-8 when you include only home games versus left-handed starting pitchers. Of course that mark dates back to their final season at Shea Stadium.

The team’s success at home can also be attributed to its ability to take the first game of a series. Getting off on the right foot has been one of the team’s strengths, as it is 17-7 in series openers.

Power outage

Prior to scoring eight runs in Wednesday's victory in Atlanta, the Yankees had scored only 18 runs in their past seven games.

“We have too many good hitters,” Manager Joe Girardi said, “to stay in a slump."

The underachievers have been led by Alex Rodriguez, who entered Thursday mired in a 2-for-25 slump. Robinson Cano, who was huge in this year's first installment of the Subway Series, is just three for his past 19.

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

**pm530** · 06-26-2009, 10:08 AM

MLB
Dunkel Index

Detroit at Houston
The Astros open up the interleague series looking to build on their 6-2 record in Wandy Rodriguez' last 8 starts as a home underdog. Houston is the pick (+130) according to Dunkel, which has the Astros favored by 1. Dunkel Pick: Houston (+130). Here are all of today's picks.

FRIDAY, JUNE 26

Game 951-952: San Francisco at Milwaukee
Dunkel Ratings: San Francisco (Cain) 14.734; Milwaukee (Gallardo) 15.389
Dunkel Line: Milwaukee by 1/2; 5 1/2
Vegas Line: Milwaukee (-155); 7
Dunkel Pick: Milwaukee (-155); Under

Game 953-954: Chicago Cubs at Chicago White Sox
Dunkel Ratings: Cubs (Wells) 14.981; White Sox (Contreras) 15.853
Dunkel Line: Chicago White Sox by 1; 10
Vegas Line: Chicago White Sox (-115); 9
Dunkel Pick: Chicago White Sox (-115); Over

Game 955-956: Cincinnati at Cleveland
Dunkel Ratings: Cincinnati (Harang) 14.069; Cleveland (Sowers) 15.288
Dunkel Line: Cleveland by 1; 9
Vegas Line: Cleveland (-110); 9 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Cleveland (-110); Under

Game 957-958: Philadelphia at Toronto
Dunkel Ratings: Philadelphia (Hamels) 14.516; Toronto (Romero) 15.386
Dunkel Line: Toronto by 1; 8 1/2
Vegas Line: Philadelphia (-130); 9
Dunkel Pick: Toronto (+120); Under

Game 959-960: Washington at Baltimore
Dunkel Ratings: Washington (Detwiler) 13.897; Baltimore (Bergesen) 15.841
Dunkel Line: Baltimore by 2; 10 1/2
Vegas Line: Baltimore (-175); 9 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Baltimore (-175); Over

Game 961-962: Kansas City at Pittsburgh
Dunkel Ratings: Kansas City (Meche) 13.749; Pittsburgh (Vazquez) 14.299
Dunkel Line: Pittsburgh by 1/2; 9 1/2
Vegas Line: Kansas City (-120); 8 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Pittsburgh (+110); Over

Game 963-964: NY Yankees at NY Mets
Dunkel Ratings: NY Yankees (Sabathia) 16.831; NY Mets (Pelfrey) 15.596
Dunkel Line: NY Yankees by 1; 8
Vegas Line: NY Yankees (-160); 9
Dunkel Pick: NY Yankees (-160); Under

Game 965-966: Boston at Atlanta
Dunkel Ratings: Boston (Beckett) 15.813; Atlanta (Jurrjens) 14.404
Dunkel Line: Boston by 1 1/2; 7
Vegas Line: Boston (-135); 8
Dunkel Pick: Boston (-135); Under

Game 967-968: Florida at Tampa Bay
Dunkel Ratings: Florida (Johnson) 17.360; Tampa Bay (Shields) 16.581
Dunkel Line: Florida by 1; 7 1/2
Vegas Line: Tampa Bay (-140); 8
Dunkel Pick: Florida (+130); Under

Game 969-970: Detroit at Houston
Dunkel Ratings: Detroit (Verlander) 14.789; Houston (Rodriguez) 15.607
Dunkel Line: Houston by 1; 8 1/2
Vegas Line: Detroit (-140); 7 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Houston (+130); Over

Game 971-972: San Diego at Texas
Dunkel Ratings: San Diego (Silva) 15.080; Texas (Millwood) 14.700
Dunkel Line: San Diego by 1/2; 11
Vegas Line: Texas (-215); 10
Dunkel Pick: San Diego (+195); Over

Game 973-974: Minnesota at St. Louis
Dunkel Ratings: Minnesota (Perkins) 15.472; St. Louis (Wainwright) 14.745
Dunkel Line: Minnesota by 1/2; 9 1/2
Vegas Line: St. Louis (-160); 9
Dunkel Pick: Minnesota (+150); Over

Game 975-976: LA Angels at Arizona
Dunkel Ratings: LA Angels (Weaver) 16.446; Arizona (Buckner) 14.590
Dunkel Line: LA Angels by 2; 10
Vegas Line: LA Angels (-165); 9 1/2
Dunkel Pick: LA Angels (-165); Over

Game 977-978: Colorado at Oakland
Dunkel Ratings: Colorado (Hammel) 15.295; Oakland (Anderson) 15.414
Dunkel Line: Oakland by 1/2; 10 1/2
Vegas Line: No Line
Dunkel Pick: N/A

Game 979-980: Seattle at LA Dodgers
Dunkel Ratings: Seattle (Vargas) 15.470; LA Dodgers (Kershaw) 16.687
Dunkel Line: LA Dodgers by 1; 8
Vegas Line: LA Dodgers (-180); 7 1/2
Dunkel Pick: LA Dodgers (-180); Over

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

**pm530** · 06-26-2009, 10:16 AM

MLB
Long Sheet

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Friday, June 26
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

SAN FRANCISCO (39 - 32) at MILWAUKEE (38 - 34) - 8:05 PM
MATT CAIN (R) vs. YOVANI GALLARDO (R)
Top Trends for this game.
CAIN is 13-27 (-14.9 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
MILWAUKEE is 18-8 (+10.3 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
SAN FRANCISCO is 39-32 (+7.4 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
SAN FRANCISCO is 684-576 (+84.7 Units) against the money line in night games since 1997.
SAN FRANCISCO is 82-83 (+9.8 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
SAN FRANCISCO is 39-32 (+7.4 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
SAN FRANCISCO is 18-11 (+9.2 Units) against the money line in road games in June games over the last 2 seasons.
CAIN is 11-3 (+8.2 Units) against the money line in all games this season. (Team's Record)
CAIN is 11-3 (+8.2 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season. (Team's Record)
CAIN is 8-1 (+7.1 Units) against the money line in night games this season. (Team's Record)

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

MATT CAIN vs. MILWAUKEE since 1997
CAIN is 1-2 when starting against MILWAUKEE with an ERA of 4.05 and a WHIP of 1.400.
His team's record is 1-2 (-1.0 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 0-3. (-3.8 units)

YOVANI GALLARDO vs. SAN FRANCISCO since 1997
GALLARDO is 2-1 when starting against SAN FRANCISCO with an ERA of 5.63 and a WHIP of 1.563.
His team's record is 2-1 (+0.8 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 2-1. (+0.9 units)

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

CHICAGO CUBS (34 - 35) at CHI WHITE SOX (35 - 37) - 4:05 PM
RANDY WELLS (R) vs. JOSE CONTRERAS (R)
Top Trends for this game.
CHICAGO CUBS are 14-20 (-8.7 Units) against the money line after a loss this season.
CHICAGO CUBS are 492-467 (-103.4 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record since 1997.
CHICAGO CUBS are 34-35 (-8.6 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
CHICAGO CUBS are 292-336 (-94.7 Units) against the money line when the total is 9 to 9.5 since 1997.
CHICAGO CUBS are 13-22 (-11.0 Units) against the money line in road games this season.
CHICAGO CUBS are 148-208 (-63.9 Units) against the money line on the road when the total is 9 to 9.5 since 1997.
CHICAGO CUBS are 4-13 (-10.4 Units) against the money line in road games when playing on Friday over the last 2 seasons.
CHICAGO CUBS are 34-35 (-8.6 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
CHICAGO CUBS are 732-770 (-132.2 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters since 1997.
CHI WHITE SOX are 66-44 (+17.7 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons.
CHI WHITE SOX are 13-3 (+10.8 Units) against the money line as a home underdog of +100 to +125 over the last 2 seasons.
CHI WHITE SOX are 118-90 (+19.1 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
CHI WHITE SOX is 1-1 (+0.3 Units) against CHICAGO CUBS this season
1 of 2 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=-0.1 Units, Under=-0.2 Units)

RANDY WELLS vs. CHI WHITE SOX since 1997
No recent starts.

JOSE CONTRERAS vs. CHICAGO CUBS since 1997
CONTRERAS is 2-3 when starting against CHICAGO CUBS with an ERA of 6.08 and a WHIP of 1.406.
His team's record is 2-4 (-3.2 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 3-3. (-0.5 units)

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

CINCINNATI (35 - 36) at CLEVELAND (30 - 44) - 7:05 PM
AARON HARANG (R) vs. JEREMY SOWERS (L)
Top Trends for this game.
CINCINNATI is 77-101 (-32.9 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 3 seasons.
HARANG is 4-15 (-11.7 Units) against the money line in road games in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
CINCINNATI is 228-244 (+40.7 Units) against the money line in road games after a win since 1997.
CINCINNATI is 467-542 (+44.5 Units) against the money line in road games since 1997.
CINCINNATI is 83-78 (+24.4 Units) against the money line in road games when playing on Friday since 1997.
CINCINNATI is 310-353 (+32.5 Units) against the money line in road games in night games since 1997.
HARANG is 22-10 (+14.0 Units) against the money line when playing on Friday since 1997. (Team's Record)
HARANG is 55-38 (+20.1 Units) against the money line after a win since 1997. (Team's Record)
CLEVELAND is 23-36 (-15.6 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters this season.
CLEVELAND is 30-44 (-16.0 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
CLEVELAND is 34-50 (-21.5 Units) against the money line when the total is 9 to 9.5 over the last 2 seasons.
CLEVELAND is 20-30 (-13.7 Units) against the money line in June games over the last 2 seasons.
CLEVELAND is 10-23 (-17.3 Units) against the money line in an inter-league game over the last 2 seasons.
CLEVELAND is 27-38 (-13.4 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
CINCINNATI is 2-1 (+1.1 Units) against CLEVELAND this season
2 of 3 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL this season . (Under=+0.9 Units)

AARON HARANG vs. CLEVELAND since 1997
HARANG is 3-1 when starting against CLEVELAND with an ERA of 2.24 and a WHIP of 1.166.
His team's record is 6-2 (+4.7 units) in these starts. The OVER is 0-8. (-8.7 units)

JEREMY SOWERS vs. CINCINNATI since 1997
SOWERS is 0-2 when starting against CINCINNATI with an ERA of 8.55 and a WHIP of 1.550.
His team's record is 1-3 (-3.1 units) in these starts. The OVER is 2-2. (-0.2 units)

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

PHILADELPHIA (37 - 33) at TORONTO (40 - 34) - 7:07 PM
COLE HAMELS (L) vs. RICKY ROMERO (L)
Top Trends for this game.
PHILADELPHIA is 12-23 (-14.6 Units) against the money line in an inter-league game over the last 2 seasons.
PHILADELPHIA is 9-1 (+7.8 Units) against the money line on the road with a money line of -100 to -125 this season.
PHILADELPHIA is 24-11 (+15.7 Units) against the money line in road games this season.
PHILADELPHIA is 86-71 (+28.5 Units) against the money line in road games when playing on Friday since 1997.
PHILADELPHIA is 17-8 (+11.3 Units) against the money line in road games in night games this season.
PHILADELPHIA is 24-14 (+11.3 Units) against the money line in road games against left-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
PHILADELPHIA is 52-35 (+19.8 Units) against the money line in road games after a loss over the last 3 seasons.
PHILADELPHIA is 16-8 (+10.7 Units) against the money line in road games when playing against a team with a winning record this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
TORONTO is 3-0 (+4.4 Units) against PHILADELPHIA this season
2 of 3 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=+1.1 Units)

COLE HAMELS vs. TORONTO since 1997
HAMELS is 0-0 when starting against TORONTO with an ERA of 3.00 and a WHIP of 1.500.
His team's record is 0-1 (-1.8 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 0-1. (-1.1 units)

RICKY ROMERO vs. PHILADELPHIA since 1997
ROMERO is 0-0 when starting against PHILADELPHIA with an ERA of 3.86 and a WHIP of 1.143.
His team's record is 1-0 (+1.7 units) in these starts. The OVER is 1-0. (+1.0 units)

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

WASHINGTON (21 - 49) at BALTIMORE (32 - 40) - 7:05 PM
ROSS DETWILER (L) vs. BRADLEY BERGESEN (R)
Top Trends for this game.
WASHINGTON is 21-49 (-24.0 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
WASHINGTON is 8-27 (-16.4 Units) against the money line as a road underdog of +125 to +150 over the last 2 seasons.
WASHINGTON is 33-80 (-27.2 Units) against the money line in road games over the last 2 seasons.
WASHINGTON is 21-46 (-21.0 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
WASHINGTON is 15-35 (-18.0 Units) against the money line in night games this season.
WASHINGTON is 15-34 (-15.5 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters this season.
WASHINGTON is 76-78 (+18.4 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 3 seasons.
WASHINGTON is 101-101 (+30.2 Units) against the money line when the total is 9 to 9.5 over the last 3 seasons.
BALTIMORE is 230-288 (-87.8 Units) against the money line in home games after a loss since 1997.
BALTIMORE is 128-237 (-103.7 Units) against the money line after 3 or more consecutive losses since 1997.
BALTIMORE is 12-24 (-12.3 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record this season.
BALTIMORE is 487-527 (-106.9 Units) against the money line in home games since 1997.
BALTIMORE is 487-527 (-106.9 Units) against the money line in home games in games played on a grass field since 1997.

Head-to-Head Series History
BALTIMORE is 2-1 (+1.0 Units) against WASHINGTON this season
2 of 3 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL this season . (Under=+0.8 Units)

ROSS DETWILER vs. BALTIMORE since 1997
DETWILER is 0-0 when starting against BALTIMORE with an ERA of 1.50 and a WHIP of 0.833.
His team's record is 0-1 (-1.0 units) in these starts. The OVER is 0-1. (-1.1 units)

BRADLEY BERGESEN vs. WASHINGTON since 1997
BERGESEN is 0-0 when starting against WASHINGTON with an ERA of 6.35 and a WHIP of 1.411.
His team's record is 0-1 (-1.0 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 0-1. (-1.2 units)

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

KANSAS CITY (31 - 40) at PITTSBURGH (33 - 39) - 7:05 PM
GIL MECHE (R) vs. CHARLIE MORTON (R)
Top Trends for this game.
KANSAS CITY is 13-23 (-11.4 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record this season.
KANSAS CITY is 59-89 (-26.3 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
MECHE is 0-7 (-7.8 Units) against the money line on the road with a money line of -100 to -125 over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
MECHE is 14-27 (-14.8 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
PITTSBURGH is 363-344 (+38.3 Units) against the money line in home games in night games since 1997.
KANSAS CITY is 57-47 (+20.6 Units) against the money line when the total is 8 to 8.5 over the last 2 seasons.
KANSAS CITY is 27-25 (+14.2 Units) against the money line on the road when the total is 8 to 8.5 over the last 2 seasons.
MECHE is 55-36 (+27.8 Units) against the money line when the total is 8 to 8.5 since 1997. (Team's Record)
MECHE is 23-17 (+16.1 Units) against the money line on the road when the total is 8 to 8.5 since 1997. (Team's Record)
PITTSBURGH is 1-9 (-8.7 Units) against the money line when playing on Friday this season.

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

GIL MECHE vs. PITTSBURGH since 1997
No recent starts.

CHARLIE MORTON vs. KANSAS CITY since 1997
No recent starts.

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

NY YANKEES (40 - 32) at NY METS (37 - 34) - 7:10 PM
C.C. SABATHIA (L) vs. MIKE PELFREY (R)
Top Trends for this game.
NY YANKEES are 19-23 (-17.6 Units) against the money line as a road favorite of -150 to -175 over the last 3 seasons.
NY YANKEES are 27-25 (-10.1 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters this season.
NY METS are 65-63 (-13.9 Units) against the money line after a win over the last 2 seasons.
NY METS are 47-55 (-23.3 Units) against the money line when the total is 9 to 9.5 over the last 2 seasons.
NY METS are 44-49 (-34.2 Units) against the money line at home when the total is 9 to 9.5 over the last 3 seasons.
PELFREY is 11-19 (-14.5 Units) against the money line when the total is 9 to 9.5 over the last 3 seasons. (Team's Record)
PELFREY is 6-13 (-13.9 Units) against the money line at home when the total is 9 to 9.5 over the last 3 seasons. (Team's Record)

Head-to-Head Series History
NY METS is 1-2 (-0.1 Units) against NY YANKEES this season
2 of 3 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=+1.1 Units)

C.C. SABATHIA vs. NY METS since 1997
SABATHIA is 1-0 when starting against NY METS with an ERA of 1.13 and a WHIP of 0.875.
His team's record is 1-0 (+1.0 units) in these starts. The OVER is 1-0. (+1.0 units)

MIKE PELFREY vs. NY YANKEES since 1997
PELFREY is 1-0 when starting against NY YANKEES with an ERA of 7.20 and a WHIP of 2.400.
His team's record is 1-0 (+1.4 units) in these starts. The OVER is 1-0. (+1.0 units)

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

BOSTON (44 - 28) at ATLANTA (34 - 38) - 7:35 PM
JOSH BECKETT (R) vs. JAIR JURRJENS (R)
Top Trends for this game.
BECKETT is 8-14 (-11.4 Units) against the money line when the total is 8 to 8.5 over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
BOSTON is 61-32 (+20.6 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons.
BOSTON is 40-21 (+11.5 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
BOSTON is 104-69 (+17.3 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons.
BECKETT is 13-1 (+11.6 Units) against the money line as a road favorite of -125 to -150 over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
ATLANTA is 16-21 (-9.4 Units) against the money line after a loss this season.
ATLANTA is 34-38 (-10.8 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
ATLANTA is 15-24 (-15.7 Units) against the money line when the total is 8 to 8.5 this season.
ATLANTA is 10-14 (-9.0 Units) against the money line at home when the total is 8 to 8.5 this season.
ATLANTA is 20-29 (-13.8 Units) against the money line in June games over the last 2 seasons.
ATLANTA is 49-54 (-27.1 Units) against the money line in home games in an inter-league game since 1997.
ATLANTA is 34-38 (-10.8 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
ATLANTA is 23-27 (-10.1 Units) against the money line in night games this season.
ATLANTA is 20-27 (-12.4 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
BOSTON is 2-1 (+0.6 Units) against ATLANTA this season
1 of 2 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=-0.1 Units, Under=-0.1 Units)

JOSH BECKETT vs. ATLANTA since 1997
BECKETT is 7-7 when starting against ATLANTA with an ERA of 2.22 and a WHIP of 1.140.
His team's record is 7-9 (-3.2 units) in these starts. The OVER is 6-8. (-2.8 units)

JAIR JURRJENS vs. BOSTON since 1997
JURRJENS is 0-0 when starting against BOSTON with an ERA of 2.84 and a WHIP of 1.422.
His team's record is 0-1 (-1.0 units) in these starts. The OVER is 1-0. (+1.0 units)

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

FLORIDA (38 - 36) at TAMPA BAY (39 - 35) - 7:38 PM
JOSH JOHNSON (R) vs. JAMES SHIELDS (R)
Top Trends for this game.
TAMPA BAY is 85-40 (+32.3 Units) against the money line in home games over the last 2 seasons.
TAMPA BAY is 27-10 (+17.3 Units) against the money line when playing on Friday over the last 2 seasons.
TAMPA BAY is 86-43 (+29.7 Units) against the money line in games played in a dome over the last 2 seasons.
TAMPA BAY is 90-48 (+29.0 Units) against the money line in games played on artificial turf over the last 2 seasons.
TAMPA BAY is 104-65 (+32.6 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
TAMPA BAY is 73-56 (+16.3 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
TAMPA BAY is 144-108 (+26.6 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
FLORIDA is 86-82 (+10.9 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons.
FLORIDA is 61-56 (+19.2 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
FLORIDA is 122-113 (+23.4 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
FLORIDA is 394-363 (+44.1 Units) against the money line when the total is 8 to 8.5 since 1997.
FLORIDA is 57-57 (+15.9 Units) against the money line in road games over the last 2 seasons.
FLORIDA is 15-8 (+8.9 Units) against the money line in June games this season.
FLORIDA is 128-101 (+34.9 Units) against the money line in an inter-league game since 1997.
JOHNSON is 12-3 (+8.9 Units) against the money line in all games this season. (Team's Record)
JOHNSON is 11-3 (+9.3 Units) against the money line in road games over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
JOHNSON is 13-3 (+9.7 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
JOHNSON is 10-0 (+11.6 Units) against the money line after a win over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
JOHNSON is 14-3 (+12.9 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)

Head-to-Head Series History
TAMPA BAY is 2-1 (+0.9 Units) against FLORIDA this season
3 of 3 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=+3.2 Units)

JOSH JOHNSON vs. TAMPA BAY since 1997
JOHNSON is 1-0 when starting against TAMPA BAY with an ERA of 3.10 and a WHIP of 1.229.
His team's record is 2-1 (+1.0 units) in these starts. The OVER is 2-1. (+1.1 units)

JAMES SHIELDS vs. FLORIDA since 1997
SHIELDS is 2-1 when starting against FLORIDA with an ERA of 4.13 and a WHIP of 1.347.
His team's record is 2-3 (-1.6 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 1-4. (-3.7 units)

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

DETROIT (41 - 31) at HOUSTON (33 - 37) - 8:05 PM
JUSTIN VERLANDER (R) vs. WANDY RODRIGUEZ (L)
Top Trends for this game.
DETROIT is 71-79 (-19.0 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons.
HOUSTON is 63-54 (+13.6 Units) against the money line after a win over the last 2 seasons.
HOUSTON is 119-112 (+19.1 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
HOUSTON is 115-110 (+14.9 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
HOUSTON is 87-84 (+11.0 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
DETROIT is 15-6 (+9.8 Units) against the money line against left-handed starters this season.
DETROIT is 41-31 (+7.9 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
DETROIT is 32-18 (+11.9 Units) against the money line in June games over the last 2 seasons.
DETROIT is 36-15 (+18.8 Units) against the money line in an inter-league game over the last 3 seasons.
DETROIT is 40-25 (+12.7 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
VERLANDER is 39-15 (+20.7 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record since 1997. (Team's Record)

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

JUSTIN VERLANDER vs. HOUSTON since 1997
VERLANDER is 1-0 when starting against HOUSTON with an ERA of 0.00 and a WHIP of 0.375.
His team's record is 1-0 (+1.0 units) in these starts. The OVER is 0-1. (-1.1 units)

WANDY RODRIGUEZ vs. DETROIT since 1997
RODRIGUEZ is 0-1 when starting against DETROIT with an ERA of 9.45 and a WHIP of 1.649.
His team's record is 0-1 (-1.0 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 0-1. (-1.0 units)

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

SAN DIEGO (31 - 40) at TEXAS (39 - 32) - 8:05 PM
WALTER SILVA (R) vs. KEVIN MILLWOOD (R)
Top Trends for this game.
SAN DIEGO is 55-81 (-24.3 Units) against the money line after a loss over the last 2 seasons.
SAN DIEGO is 34-64 (-26.4 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
SAN DIEGO is 94-138 (-41.7 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
SAN DIEGO is 38-78 (-30.9 Units) against the money line in road games over the last 2 seasons.
SAN DIEGO is 16-32 (-15.8 Units) against the money line in June games over the last 2 seasons.
SAN DIEGO is 6-24 (-19.2 Units) against the money line in an inter-league game over the last 2 seasons.
SAN DIEGO is 94-138 (-41.7 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
SAN DIEGO is 65-102 (-34.3 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons.
SAN DIEGO is 4-17 (-11.5 Units) against the money line in road games against right-handed starters this season.
TEXAS is 16-5 (+9.8 Units) against the money line at home when the total is 10 to 10.5 this season.
TEXAS is 38-30 (+8.4 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
TEXAS is 27-20 (+8.3 Units) against the money line in night games this season.
TEXAS is 82-73 (+20.1 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
TEXAS is 18-9 (+9.1 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record this season.
TEXAS is 39-32 (+8.3 Units) against the money line in all games this season.

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

WALTER SILVA vs. TEXAS since 1997
No recent starts.

KEVIN MILLWOOD vs. SAN DIEGO since 1997
MILLWOOD is 5-1 when starting against SAN DIEGO with an ERA of 2.95 and a WHIP of 1.081.
His team's record is 9-4 (+3.3 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 6-5. (+0.4 units)

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

MINNESOTA (37 - 37) at ST LOUIS (40 - 34) - 8:15 PM
GLEN PERKINS (L) vs. ADAM WAINWRIGHT (R)
Top Trends for this game.
ST LOUIS is 126-110 (+10.1 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
ST LOUIS is 126-110 (+10.1 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
WAINWRIGHT is 25-10 (+12.0 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
WAINWRIGHT is 25-10 (+12.0 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
WAINWRIGHT is 12-3 (+8.5 Units) against the money line after a loss over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
MINNESOTA is 27-9 (+19.8 Units) against the money line when playing on Friday over the last 2 seasons.
MINNESOTA is 24-9 (+15.5 Units) against the money line in an inter-league game over the last 2 seasons.
MINNESOTA is 88-69 (+16.0 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons.

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

GLEN PERKINS vs. ST LOUIS since 1997
No recent starts.

ADAM WAINWRIGHT vs. MINNESOTA since 1997
No recent starts.

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

LA ANGELS (38 - 32) at ARIZONA (30 - 43) - 9:40 PM
JERED WEAVER (R) vs. BILLY BUCKNER (R)
Top Trends for this game.
LA ANGELS are 44-26 (+21.7 Units) against the money line in road games after a win over the last 2 seasons.
LA ANGELS are 34-21 (+13.0 Units) against the money line in road games when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons.
LA ANGELS are 139-97 (+27.1 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
LA ANGELS are 62-34 (+23.3 Units) against the money line when the total is 9 to 9.5 over the last 2 seasons.
LA ANGELS are 69-49 (+25.1 Units) against the money line in road games over the last 2 seasons.
LA ANGELS are 18-9 (+11.0 Units) against the money line in road games in June games over the last 2 seasons.
LA ANGELS are 188-139 (+42.0 Units) against the money line when playing on Friday since 1997.
LA ANGELS are 35-26 (+9.4 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
LA ANGELS are 51-36 (+16.9 Units) against the money line in road games in night games over the last 2 seasons.
LA ANGELS are 94-69 (+16.2 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
WEAVER is 27-9 (+15.9 Units) against the money line when the total is 9 to 9.5 since 1997. (Team's Record)
ARIZONA is 33-51 (-23.2 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
ARIZONA is 30-43 (-16.0 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
ARIZONA is 15-25 (-15.8 Units) against the money line in home games this season.
ARIZONA is 19-30 (-13.6 Units) against the money line in June games over the last 2 seasons.
ARIZONA is 73-77 (-35.1 Units) against the money line in home games when playing on Friday since 1997.
ARIZONA is 30-43 (-16.0 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
ARIZONA is 21-32 (-12.3 Units) against the money line in night games this season.
ARIZONA is 9-18 (-12.5 Units) against the money line in home games against right-handed starters this season.

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

JERED WEAVER vs. ARIZONA since 1997
No recent starts.

BILLY BUCKNER vs. LA ANGELS since 1997
No recent starts.

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

COLORADO (37 - 35) at OAKLAND (31 - 40) - 10:05 PM
JASON HAMMEL (R) vs. BRETT ANDERSON (L)
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.

JASON HAMMEL vs. OAKLAND since 1997
HAMMEL is 0-1 when starting against OAKLAND with an ERA of 18.00 and a WHIP of 3.333.
His team's record is 0-1 (-1.0 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 0-1. (-1.0 units)

BRETT ANDERSON vs. COLORADO since 1997
No recent starts.

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

SEATTLE (37 - 35) at LA DODGERS (47 - 26) - 10:10 PM
JASON VARGAS (L) vs. CLAYTON KERSHAW (L)
Top Trends for this game.
SEATTLE is 42-75 (-24.8 Units) against the money line in road games over the last 2 seasons.
SEATTLE is 90-125 (-34.6 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
SEATTLE is 63-94 (-30.4 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons.
SEATTLE is 98-136 (-35.7 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
LA DODGERS are 47-26 (+18.0 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
LA DODGERS are 25-10 (+10.3 Units) against the money line in home games this season.
LA DODGERS are 47-26 (+18.0 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
LA DODGERS are 35-18 (+14.3 Units) against the money line in night games this season.

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

JASON VARGAS vs. LA DODGERS since 1997
VARGAS is 1-0 when starting against LA DODGERS with an ERA of 1.00 and a WHIP of 0.778.
His team's record is 1-0 (+1.0 units) in these starts. The OVER is 0-1. (-1.0 units)

CLAYTON KERSHAW vs. SEATTLE since 1997
No recent starts.

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

**pm530** · 06-26-2009, 10:28 AM

MLB

Friday, June 26

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Streaking and Slumping Pitchers
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Streaking

Jose Contreras (Chicago White Sox)

The Cubs will look to continue their success against Jose Contreras (2-6, 5.23), who takes the mound for the White Sox.

After pitching 16 scoreless innings in his return from the minors, Contreras gave up three runs and nine hits over six innings of a 4-3 loss to the Reds last Friday.

Contreras is 2-3 with a 6.08 ERA in six starts against the Cubs. Alfonso Soriano is 5 for 8 with three home runs against him.

Josh Johnson (Florida Marlins)

Johnson (7-1, 2.66 ERA) has lasted seven innings or more in six consecutive starts, with the Marlins winning all of those contests.

"That's huge for me,'' Johnson said of extended outings. "That means I'm doing what I'm supposed to do.''

The right-hander yielded one run and three hits over seven innings in Saturday's 2-1 victory over the New York Yankees.

"He didn't throw this hard when I was here,'' said Yankees manager Joe Girardi, Florida's manager in 2006 when Johnson went 12-7 with a 3.10 ERA.

Johnson, who has allowed two or fewer runs in 10 of 15 starts, faces Tampa Bay for the second time this season. On May 24, he struck out seven and gave up three runs over seven innings as the Marlins won 5-4 in 11 to snap a five-game skid against Tampa Bay.

Kevin Millwood (Texas Rangers)

Texas had three hits in Kevin Millwood's last start - Sunday's 3-2 loss at San Francisco in which he allowed three runs in seven innings.

"It seems like we're in a little funk right now," said Millwood, who was 3-0 with a 0.42 ERA in his previous three starts.

Millwood (7-5, 2.62), who struck out a season-high 10 on Sunday for his first double-digit strikeout performance since 2007, is going for his 150th career win. He is 5-1 with a 2.95 ERA in 13 starts versus San Diego.

Slumping

Jeremy Sowers (Cleveland Indians)

The bullpen has often had to work extra when Jeremy Sowers (1-5, 5.95 ERA) has been on the mound. The left-hander has lasted six innings just once in seven starts, and he gave up six runs and seven hits over 4 1-3 innings Sunday in a 6-2 loss to the Chicago Cubs.

Sowers is 0-2 with an 8.55 ERA in four starts against the Reds. Cincinnati second baseman Brandon Phillips is 4 for 10 with two homers and six RBIs versus Sowers.

Billy Buckner (Arizona Diamondbacks)

The Diamondbacks haven't had injured ace Brandon Webb since opening day, but their rotation has been outstanding over the past two weeks, posting a 3.12 ERA since June 11.

Billy Buckner (2-4, 7.15) has been a negative exception. He's 0-3 with a 9.72 ERA over his last three starts, though his best effort in that stretch came Saturday at Seattle, where he gave up four runs in six innings - striking out seven - in a 7-3 loss.

Buckner has never faced Los Angeles.

Debuting

Virgil Vasquez (Pittsburgh Pirates)

Pittsburgh sent down struggling starter Ian Snell on Thursday after his poor start two days earlier, and his replacement will make his Pirates debut in the opener. Virgil Vazquez (0-0, 0.00) has five games - three starts - of major-league experience with Detroit from 2007, and Pittsburgh claimed him off waivers from San Diego in January.

Vazquez was 5-2 with a 4.18 ERA in 14 starts with Triple-A Indianapolis, and he'll start Friday in place of Charlie Morton, who will be pushed to Sunday in Snell's spot.

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

**pm530** · 06-26-2009, 10:47 AM

MLB
Short Sheet

Friday, June 26

National League

SAN FRANCISCO at MILWAUKEE, 8:05 PM ET
CAIN: 8-1 TSR in night games
GALLARDO: MIL 2-9 at home after having lost 3 of their last 4

Interleague

CHICAGO CUBS at CHI WHITE SOX, 4:05 PM ET WGN
WELLS: CHC 4-13 AWAY when playing on Friday
CONTRERAS: CHW 15-7 as a home underdog

CINCINNATI at CLEVELAND, 7:05 PM ET
HARANG: 14-1 UNDER against AL Central
SOWERS: 7-20 TSR when the total is 8.5 to 10

PHILADELPHIA at TORONTO, 7:07 PM ET
HAMELS: PHI 9-1 AWAY with a money line of -100 to -125
ROMERO: TOR 12-3 OVER after a loss by 2 runs or less

WASHINGTON at BALTIMORE, 7:05 PM ET
DETWILER: WAS 6-26 after one or more consecutive overs
BERGESEN: 16-4 UNDER at home after allowing 8+ runs

KANSAS CITY at PITTSBURGH, 7:05 PM ET
MECHE: 0-7 TSR AWAY with a money line of -100 to -150
MORTON: PIT 16-8 UNDER at home when the total is 8.5 to 10

NY YANKEES at NY METS, 7:10 PM ET
SABATHIA: NYY 15-5 UNDER AWAY after scoring 9+ runs
PELFREY: 6-15 TSR after 2+ consecutive wins

BOSTON at ATLANTA, 7:35 PM ET
BECKETT: 13-1 TSR as a road favorite of -125 to -150
JURRJENS: ATL 3-10 at home when the money line is +125 to -125

FLORIDA at TAMPA BAY, 7:38 PM ET
JOHNSON: 10-0 TSR after a team win
SHIELDS: TB 20-8 OVER at home after scoring 9+ runs

DETROIT at HOUSTON, 8:05 PM ET
VERLANDER: DET 15-6 against left-handed starters
RODRIGUEZ: 15-3 UNDER at home when the money line is +125 to -125

SAN DIEGO at TEXAS, 8:05 PM ET
SILVA: SD 5-17 after 3+ consecutive road games
MILLWOOD: TEX 16-5 at home when the total is 10 to 10.5

MINNESOTA at ST LOUIS, 8:15 PM ET
PERKINS: MIN 24-9 in interleague play
WAINWRIGHT: 11-3 OVER this season

LA ANGELS at ARIZONA, 9:40 PM ET
WEAVER: 27-9 TSR when the total is 9 to 9.5
BUCKNER: ARI 11-21 at home when the total is 8.5 to 10

COLORADO at OAKLAND, 10:05 PM ET
HAMMEL: COL 17-6 in June
ANDERSON: OAK 3-8 when playing with a day off

SEATTLE at LA DODGERS, 10:10 PM ET
VARGAS: SEA 13-6 AWAY when the total is 7 to 8.5
KERSHAW: LAD 41-26 OVER as a home favorite of -150 or more

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

**pm530** · 06-26-2009, 10:50 AM

WNBA
Dunkel Index

Los Angeles at Seattle
The Storm look to take advantage of a Los Angeles team that is 0-5 ATS in its last 5 road games. Seattle is the pick (-10) according to Dunkel, which has the Storm favored by 11. Dunkel Pick: Seattle (-10). Here are all of today's picks.

FRIDAY, JUNE 26

Game 651-652: Indiana at New York
Dunkel Ratings: Indiana 111.354; New York 113.757
Dunkel Line & Total: New York by 2 1/2; 135
Vegas Line & Total: New York by 1 1/2; 140 1/2
Dunkel Pick: New York (-1 1/2); Under

Game 653-654: Detroit at Atlanta
Dunkel Ratings: Detroit 110.432; Atlanta 111.925
Dunkel Line & Total: Atlanta by 1 1/2; 163 1/2
Vegas Line & Total: Atlanta by 2; 155 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Detroit (+2); Over

Game 655-656: Sacramento at San Antonio
Dunkel Ratings: Sacramento 107.405; San Antonio 113.239
Dunkel Line & Total: San Antonio by 6; 150 1/2
Vegas Line & Total: San Antonio by 6 1/2; 143 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Sacramento (+6 1/2); Over

Game 657-658: Los Angeles at Seattle
Dunkel Ratings: Los Angeles 109.690; Seattle 120.691
Dunkel Line & Total: Seattle by 11; 149 1/2
Vegas Line & Total: Seattle by 10; 141
Dunkel Pick: Seattle (-10); Over

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

Announcement

Friday Trends and Indexes 6/26 ( MLB, WNBA, Misc.)

Friday Trends and Indexes 6/26 ( MLB, WNBA, Misc.)

Comment

Comment

Comment

Comment

Comment

Comment

Comment

Comment

Comment

Comment

Comment

Comment

Comment

Comment