Saturday Trends and Indexes 8/8 (MLB, WNBA, CFL, Misc.)

[pm530]

Trends and Indexes

Saturday, August 8

Good Luck on day #220 of 2009!

At this time the sports menu in this thread consists of the MLB, WNBA and CFL until their seasons are played out. Also, general sports news and notes will be posted here.

For the NFL, look for separate thread titled: “NFL Trends and Indexes - Preseason Week 1 (8/9 – 8/17)”

NOTE:
As information becomes available, we will attempt to post the trends and indexes as soon as possible.
Information is posted from what we believe are reliable sources.
Any opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the posting member or BettorsChat.

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NASCAR Schedules

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[pm530]

Daily Sports Roundup

Saturday, August 8

Today in the Daily Sports Roundup: The AL East's top rivals continue their four-game series, and the Canadian Football League concludes its weekly schedule.

Colliding in the Junior Circuit . . .

It'll be Clay Buchholz (1-1, 6.05 ERA) vs. CC Sabathia (11-7, 3.95 ERA) on Saturday afternoon as the Red Sox and Yankees continue their series at Yankee Stadium. Righthander Buchholz was pounded by the Orioles in his last trip to the mound, surrendering seven earned runs on nine hits over four innings of work. Lefthander Sabathia grabbed a victory over the White Sox in his most recent outing despite giving up five earned runs on 10 hits in his seven innings pitched.

Also on the American League schedule for Saturday: Baltimore at Toronto, Texas at the Angels, Minnesota at Detroit, Cleveland at the White Sox, Tampa Bay at Seattle, and Oakland at Kansas City. Royals ace Zack Greinke (10-7, 2.36 ERA) will take the mound in that contest; righthander Greinke was knocked around for six earned runs in five innings by the Rays last time out. Brett Anderson (6-8, 4.20 ERA) goes for the A's; the team is 6-2 in his last eight starts.

Clashing in the Senior Circuit . . .

Kenshin Kawakami (5-9, 4.38 ERA) will take on Clayton Kershaw (8-6, 2.89 ERA) on Saturday night as the Dodgers once again host the Braves. Atlanta righthander Kawakami will be looking to pick up his first victory since July 8; he gave up three earned runs in six innings in a loss to the Padres last time out. Lefthander Kershaw was also tagged with a loss in his most recent outing, surrendering three earned runs on four hits over four innings against Milwaukee.

Also on tap in the National League on Saturday: Cincinnati at San Francisco, St. Louis at Pittsburgh, Florida at Philadelphia, Arizona at Washington, Milwaukee at Houston, the Mets at San Diego, and the Cubs at Colorado. Ryan Dempster (5-5, 4.09 ERA) is slated to start for Chicago; the righthander blanked the Marlins over six innings in a no-decision last time out. Jason Marquis (12-7, 3.49 ERA) counters for the Rockies; the righthander last picked up a victory back on July 19.

Rounding out the Roundup . . .

The Canadian Football League completes the second half of its Week 6 schedule on Saturday, with Edmonton at Hamilton and Winnipeg at Calgary. The Eskimos and Tiger-Cats both sit at 3-2 straight-up through five contests, but surprising Hamilton has paid off at 4-1 against-the-spread (with Edmonton 2-3 ATS). The Ti-Cats are 1-point home favorites on Saturday. Meanwhile, the Stampeders are big 14.5-point home favorites in their matchup with the Blue Bombers. Calgary sits at 2-3 SU and ATS so far on the season, with Winnipeg 2-3 SU and 3-2 ATS.

Finally, the WNBA offers up three games on Saturday, with Chicago at Atlanta, New York at Seattle, and Indiana at Phoenix. The Fever/Mercury contest is a matchup of the top two teams in the league, with Indiana at 16-4 SU and 13-7 ATS, and Phoenix at 16-6 SU and 16-6 ATS. The Fever are coming off a 76-67 win versus Chicago, while the Mercury got past Seattle 101-90 in their last outing.

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[pm530]

CFL
Dunkel Index


SATURDAY, AUGUST 8

Game 405-406: Edmonton at Hamilton
Dunkel Ratings: Edmonton 111.722; Hamilton 107.713
Dunkel Line: Edmonton by 4; 43 1/2
Vegas Line: Edmonton by 1; 52
Dunkel Pick: Edmonton (-1); Under

Game 407-408: Winnipeg at Calgary
Dunkel Ratings: Winnipeg 107.123; Calgary 115.335
Dunkel Line: Calgary by 8; 57 1/2
Vegas Line: Calgary by 14 1/2; 51
Dunkel Pick: Winnipeg (+14 1/2); Over

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CFL
Long Sheet


Week 6

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Saturday, August 8
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EDMONTON (3 - 2) at HAMILTON (3 - 2) - 8/8/2009, 6:30 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
HAMILTON is 3-1 against the spread versus EDMONTON over the last 3 seasons
EDMONTON is 3-1 straight up against HAMILTON over the last 3 seasons
3 of 4 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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WINNIPEG (2 - 3) at CALGARY (2 - 3) - 8/8/2009, 9:30 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

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

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CFL
Write-up


Week 6 CFL games

Saturday, August

Edmonton (3-2) @ Hamilton (3-2)-- TiCats won three of last four games covering all four- they scored 31-25-30 points in their three wins, 17-8 in losses. Eskimos scored 38-33 points in winning last two games, after giving up 50-40 points in previous two tilts. Last three Hamilton games stayed under, as did all three of their home games; three of Eskimos' last four games went over, including their last two home games.

Winnipeg (2-3) @ Calgary (2-3)-- Stampeders (-7) lost 42-30 in Week 2 at Winnipeg; they scored 44-48 points in their two wins, 27-30-23 in the three losses. Bombers are 2-3 despite +13 turnover ratio; Bishop is their new QB (16-30/200 passing last week, the first '09 game they were over 50% passing). Calgary had 51 penalties in last four games- they're +8 in turnovers in last three, with no turnovers in last couple games.

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CFL


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Trend Report
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Saturday, August 8

6:30 PM
EDMONTON vs. HAMILTON
Edmonton is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Hamilton
Edmonton is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Hamilton
Hamilton is 8-1 ATS in its last 9 games when playing Edmonton
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Hamilton's last 5 games when playing Edmonton


9:30 PM
WINNIPEG vs. CALGARY
Winnipeg is 0-5 ATS in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Calgary
Winnipeg is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Calgary
Calgary is 12-4 SU in its last 16 games
Calgary is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Winnipeg

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CFL


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Canadian bacon: CFL Week 6 picks
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Saturday, August 8

Edmonton Eskimos at Hamilton Tiger-Cats (-1, 52)

Matchup trends and stats

Both stop units participating in this game are above average. Ricky Ray has been dominant in his last two games for the Eskimos (3-2) and his offensive line, after an atrocious start, is finally giving him some time.

The Tiger-Cats (3-2) hope RB DeAndra Cobb, who ran for 167 yards against B.C. last week, can be as successful against the Eskimos, but I wouldn’t hold my breath if a Ti-Cat fan. Edmonton’s defense has stepped up in the last two games and proved capable of stopping the run.

Pick: Eskimos


Winnipeg Blue Bombers at Calgary Stampeders (-14.5, 50.5)

Matchup and trends

Michael Bishop brings more power to Winnipeg’s (2-3) offence and the Bomber defence, led by Siddeeq Shabazz, is in good shape. But the Bombers are still inconsistent putting points up on the board.

Calgary QB Henry Burris has helped the Stampeders (2-3) score the league’s second-highest season point total. The fact that the Bombers have lost their last eight games at Calgary can’t be reassuring to Winnipeg backers.

Pick: Stampeders


Last week: 1-3

Season: 9-11

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[pm530]

MLB


Saturday, August 8

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Hot lines: Today’s best MLB bets
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Baltimore Orioles at Toronto Blue Jays (-175, 9.5)

Fans of high-scoring games should probably avoid this matchup of AL East cellar dwellers.

Baltimore is a horrendous 17-37 on the road this season. The team’s away over/under record of 29-23-2 is impressive, but the group hits a horrendous .243 in opponent’s parks. The inflated number has much more to do with the squad’s terrible pitching.

But it’s not like Toronto is swinging a big stick these days. The Blue Jays are 19th in the majors in home batting average, smacking at a below-modest .257 clip. Toronto’s home over/under record is 23-27-4 overall, with six of its past 10 games at Rogers Centre falling below the total.

Entering the weekend, seven of Baltimore and Toronto's nine meetings finished under the number, including two of the three played so far in Canada.

Pick: Under


Oakland Athletics at Kansas City Royals (-136, 8)

Royals pitcher Zack Greinke may have found exactly what he needs to get back on track with a visit from one of the more mediocre lineups in the majors.

Oakland is averaging slightly over four runs per game on the road this season with the team floundering to a disasterous, 21-33 road mark. Greinke also has allowed only one earned run in each of his past two home starts, lasting seven innings each time.

In the other dugout, the Royals have one of the better home lineups in baseball, averaging .264 with a major league-leading 26 triples in their own park.

The Royals have struggled in the second half, but should have enough with Greinke on the mound to pick up the victory.

Pick: Royals

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[pm530]

MLB


Saturday, August 8

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Streaking and Slumping Pitchers
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Streaking

Adam Wainwright (St. Louis Cardinals)

Let us introduce you to the NL wins leader.

Wainwright (12-7, 2.79 ERA) has gone eight straight starts giving up two or fewer earned runs and lowering his ERA each time out. The right-hander also leads the league in innings (158 1-3) and is fifth in strikeouts (140).

In his most recent outing, he gave up only two earned runs over seven innings against the Astros. The key to Wainwright’s success has been his ability to induce ground-ball outs. He's gotten more groundouts than flyouts six times during his eight-start hot streak. He was 3-1 with a 1.16 ERA in the month of July.

Barry Zito (San Francisco Giants)

The 31-year-old won’t be confused with a Cy Young candidate, but his performance down the stretch will be crucial to San Francisco’s playoff hopes.

Right now, those hopes look as solid as Zito’s past four starts. Zito (7-10, 4.47 ERA) has earned a quality start in three of his past four outings, allowing two or fewer runs each time during that span. In his past 25 innings, he’s allowed a total of just six earned runs.

Zito still has a long way to go to earn his astronomical contract, but with the light-hitting Reds in town, he should pad his stats and keep his team in the thick of the postseason race.

"Early in the season he had trouble getting the ball where he wanted, but he settled down and pitched some really nice games," Giants manager Bruce Bochy told the Associated Press. "We just had some trouble getting run support for him. He is a different pitcher now and his stuff has definitely picked up."


Slumping

Jered Weaver (Los Angeles Angels)

The right-hander picked up his first win in four starts last week. But it was in spite of his pitching. Weaver (11-3, 3.79 ERA) has given up at least four runs in seven straight starts.

Also during that stretch, he has allowed nine home runs and worked seven innings just twice. In his most recent start, a win over the Twins, he gave up four earned runs on four hits and two walks, including two home runs, in just 6 1-3 innings.

In two outings against the Rangers in mid-June, Weaver gave up a combined 11 runs on 15 hits over 12 1-3 innings.

Dan Haren (Arizona Diamondbacks)

A little more than a week ago, Haren looked like a leading NL Cy Young candidate. What a difference three starts makes.

In easily his worst stretch of the season, Haren (11-6, 2.38 ERA) has allowed 12 earned runs in his past 17 innings. Twice in his past three starts he has been yanked after just five innings. In his most recent start against the Mets, he made it through seven, but yielded five earned runs on eight hits.

"My command wasn't as good as it has been,” Haren told reporters. “But that’s the way it has been [lately].”

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[pm530]

MLB


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Weekend MLB cheat sheet: Stats and Trends…….
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With the contenders separating themselves from the pretenders this 2009 season, let’s focus on the top two series on both the American and National League slate this edition of the MLB weekend cheat sheet.

Remember, all results are within the series and all pitcher records are ‘team starts’ (the team’s record in games in which the pitcher starts) versus this opponent.

National League

Florida Marlins at Philadelphia Phillies

Most recent series result: Phillies are 9-2 in their last 11 games (7-2 this season)

Most recent series result at the site: Marlins are 4-1 in their last nine games away (2-1 this season)

Key day/month stat: Phillies are 14-3 on Sundays in their home park

Best arm in the series: Phillies’ Joe Blanton is 5-0 with a 3.17 ERA career

Worst arm in the series: Phillies’ Cole Hamels is 1-5 with a 4.32 ERA in last six starts

Atlanta Braves at Los Angeles Dodgers

Most recent series result: Braves are 7-4 in their last 11 games (1-2 this season)

Most recent series result at the site: Braves are 3-2 in their last five games away

Key day/month stat: Dodgers are 10-1 at home on Saturdays; Braves are 1-5 away on Saturdays

Best arm in the series: Dodgers’ Jason Schmidt is 4-0 with a 3.33 ERA in his last four home starts

Worst arm in the series: Braves’ Javier Vazquez is 1-3 with a 5.74 ERA in his last four games away


American League

Boston Red Sox at New York Yankees

Most recent series result: Red Sox are 9-0 in last nine games (8-0 this season)

Most recent series result at the site: Red Sox are 4-1 in their last five games away (2-0 this season)

Key day/month stat: Yankees are 16-2 at home on Sundays; Red Sox are 2-7 away on Sundays

Best arm in the series: Red Sox’ Josh Beckett is 7-1 with a 3.82 ERA in his last eight starts

Worst arm in the series: Yankees’ CC Sabathia is 2-8 with a 5.08 ERA career

Minnesota Twins at Detroit Tigers

Most recent series result: Twins are 5-1 in their last six games (6-2 this season)

Most recent series result at the site: Twins are 5-2 in their last seven games away (1-1 this season)

Key day/month stat: Tigers are 13-4 at home on Sundays; Twins are 6-12 away on Sundays

Best arm in the series: Twins’ Glen Perkins is 2-0 with a 2.01 ERA career

Worst arm in the series: Tigers’ Armando Galarraga is 1-5 with a 5.86 ERA career

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[pm530]

MLB
This Day in Baseball


On August 8 in Baseball History...

1877 - After St. Louis catcher John Clapp has his cheek smashed by a foul tip, replacement Mike Dorgan goes behind the plate wearing a mask. This is perhaps the first use of a catcher's mask in an official National League game.

1903 - A week after pitching his first doubleheader victory, Joe McGinnity of the New York Giants did it again, beating the Brooklyn Dodgers 6-1 and 4-3. In the second game, he stole home.

1905 - Pittsburgh second baseman Dave Brain, who hit three triples in a game for St. Louis against Pittsburgh on May 29, repeats the performance for Pittsburgh against Boston. He is the only player to perform the feat twice in one season.

1915 - Philadelphia's Gavvy Cravath hit four doubles and drove in eight runs in a 14-7 victory over the Reds at Cincinnati.

1916 - The Athletics set an AL record with their 19th loss in a row on the road. The streak began on July 25, making it a record for losses in two weeks.

1920 - Howard Ehmke of the Detroit Tigers pitched the fastest game in American League history, one hour and 13 minutes, for a 1-0 victory against the New York Yankees.

1931 - Bobby Burke of the Washington Senators pitched a 5-0 no-hitter against the Boston Red Sox.

1954 - The Brooklyn Dodgers pounded the Cincinnati Reds 20-7 at Ebbets Field. The Dodgers scored 13 runs in the eighth inning after two were out.

1973 - Designated hitter Orlando Cepeda hit four doubles as the Boston Red Sox posted a 9-4 victory over the Kansas City Royals.

1982 - California's Doug DeCinces hit three home runs in a game for the second time in less than a week. DeCinces hit solo homers in the first and third innings and connected for a two-run shot in the eighth of a 9-5 victory over the Seattle Mariners. DeCinces hit three against Minnesota on Aug. 3.

1985 - Baseball, after a two-day strike, resumed with an 18-game schedule, including five doubleheaders.

1988 - The first night game in Wrigley Field's 74-year history was postponed with the Chicago Cubs leading the Philadelphia Phillies 3-1 after heavy rains started in the bottom of the fourth inning. Philadelphia's Phil Bradley led off the game with a home run, but all numbers were wiped out by the rain.

1992 - Oakland's Dennis Eckersley had his consecutive saves record snapped at 40. His two records - 36 straight to start a season, and 40 straight over two seasons - ended trying to protect a 2-1 lead in the ninth inning against the Kansas City Royals. Eckersley gave up a two-out, two-run single to Gregg Jefferies which gave the Royals a 3-2 lead. But the Athletics came back to win the game in the ninth, 5-3.

1997 - Randy Johnson struck out 19, matching the major league record for left-handers he had tied earlier this season, as the Seattle Mariners defeated the Chicago White Sox 5-0.

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[Udog]

MLB


Saturday, August 8

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Trend Report
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1:07 PM
BALTIMORE vs. TORONTO
Baltimore is 2-6 SU in its last 8 games
Baltimore is 3-8 SU in its last 11 games on the road
Toronto is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games when playing at home against Baltimore
Toronto is 1-6 SU in its last 7 games when playing Baltimore

3:33 PM
CINCINNATI vs. SAN FRANCISCO
Cincinnati is 3-14 SU in its last 17 games
Cincinnati is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing San Francisco
San Francisco is 16-5 SU in its last 21 games at home
San Francisco is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games when playing Cincinnati

4:10 PM
BOSTON vs. NY YANKEES
Boston is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games
Boston is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games on the road
NY Yankees are 2-9 SU in their last 11 games when playing Boston
NY Yankees are 11-1 SU in their last 12 games at home

4:10 PM
TEXAS vs. LA ANGELS
Texas is 5-1 SU in their last 6 games when playing LA Angels
Texas is 6-2 SU in their last 8 games when playing on the road against LA Angels
LA Angels are 18-6 SU in their last 24 games
LA Angels are 8-3 SU in their last 11 games at home

7:00 PM
MILWAUKEE vs. HOUSTON
Milwaukee is 6-3 SU in its last 9 games when playing on the road against Houston
Milwaukee is 7-14 SU in its last 21 games on the road
Houston is 4-9 SU in its last 13 games
Houston is 10-5 SU in its last 15 games at home

7:05 PM
ARIZONA vs. WASHINGTON
Arizona is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games
Arizona is 12-6 SU in its last 18 games when playing Washington
Washington is 12-6 SU in its last 18 games when playing at home against Arizona
Washington is 2-6 SU in its last 8 games when playing at home against Arizona

7:05 PM
CLEVELAND vs. CHI WHITE SOX
Cleveland is 2-5 SU in their last 7 games when playing Chi White Sox
Cleveland is 6-2 SU in its last 8 games on the road
Chi White Sox are 7-3 SU in their last 10 games at home
Chi White Sox are 5-2 SU in their last 7 games when playing Cleveland

7:05 PM
FLORIDA vs. PHILADELPHIA
Florida is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games
Florida is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games on the road
Philadelphia is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games when playing at home against Florida
Philadelphia is 9-3 SU in its last 12 games when playing Florida

7:05 PM
MINNESOTA vs. DETROIT
Minnesota is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games when playing Detroit
Minnesota is 2-7 SU in its last 9 games on the road
Detroit is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games
Detroit is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games at home

7:05 PM
ST. LOUIS vs. PITTSBURGH
St. Louis is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games when playing on the road against Pittsburgh
St. Louis is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games when playing Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games at home
Pittsburgh is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games

7:10 PM
OAKLAND vs. KANSAS CITY
Oakland is 3-6 SU in its last 9 games when playing Kansas City
Oakland is 17-6 SU in its last 23 games when playing on the road against Kansas City
Kansas City is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games
Kansas City is 2-11 SU in its last 13 games at home

8:10 PM
CHI CUBS vs. COLORADO
Chi Cubs are 10-5 SU in their last 15 games
Chi Cubs are 5-2 SU in their last 7 games when playing Colorado
Colorado is 4-1 SU in their last 5 games when playing at home against Chi Cubs
Colorado is 2-5 SU in their last 7 games when playing Chi Cubs

10:05 PM
NY METS vs. SAN DIEGO
NY Mets are 1-5 SU in its last 6 games
NY Mets are 4-11 SU in its last 15 games on the road
San Diego is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against NY Mets
San Diego is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing NY Mets

10:10 PM
ATLANTA vs. LA DODGERS
Atlanta is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games on the road
Atlanta is 2-4 SU in their last 6 games when playing LA Dodgers
LA Dodgers are 4-2 SU in their last 6 games when playing Atlanta
LA Dodgers are 2-4 SU in their last 6 games at home

10:10 PM
TAMPA BAY vs. SEATTLE
Tampa Bay is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games
Tampa Bay is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games on the road
Seattle is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games


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[Udog]

MLB


Saturday, August 8

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Baseball Today
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SCOREBOARD

Saturday, Aug. 8

Chicago Cubs at Colorado (8:10 p.m. EDT). Two teams trying for a playoff spot meet up when Ryan Dempster and the Cubs take on Jason Marquis and the Rockies. Marquis goes for his 13th win of the season.

STARS

Friday

-Alex Rodriguez, Yankees, homered with two outs in the 15th inning, his first shot in three weeks, to give New York a 2-0 victory over Boston.

- Ryan Langerhans, Mariners, hit a two-run homer off closer J.P. Howell in the 11th inning to cap Seattle's second rally and give the Mariners a 7-6 win over the Rays.

-Everth Cabrera, Padres, hit a game-ending grand slam in the ninth off New York Mets closer Francisco Rodriguez to cap a 6-2 comeback victory by San Diego.

-Vin Mazzaro, Athletics, ended his eight-game losing streak as Oakland beat Kansas City 9-4.

-Jason Michaels, Astros, homered twice to help Houston beat Milwaukee 6-3.

-Kelly Shoppach, Indians, hit a two-run homer and a solo shot to lead Cleveland to a 6-2 win over Chicago.

-Omar Vizquel, Rangers, drove in three runs with four hits, including one of Texas' five homers in a 11-6 victory over the Los Angeles Angels.

SAY GOODBYE

The Boston Red Sox cut struggling pitcher John Smoltz a day after the New York Yankees sent the 42-year-old righty to yet another early exit. Red Sox general manager Theo Epstein traveled to New York to personally tell Smoltz that the team had designated him for assignment. The move gives Boston 10 days to trade, release or send Smoltz to the minors.

WALKOFF WONDERS

Alex Rodriguez, Evereth Cabrera, and Ryan Langerhans all hit game-ending homers to lift their teams to victory. Rodriguez's shot ended a scoreless duel between the Yankees and Red Sox in the 15th inning. It was Rodriguez's first homer since July 19, his season-worst homerless drought of 72 at-bats. Cabrera hit a grand slam off Mets closer Francisco Rodriguez, who blew a 2-1 lead. Langerhans helped Seattle rally from a 6-5 deficit in the 12th inning.

OH CANADA!

The Toronto Blue Jays held a reunion for the 1992 and 1993 championship teams. Blue Jays manager Cito Gaston, who also managed those championship teams, threw out the first pitch to Pat Borders, the MVP of the '92 World Series victory over Atlanta. Roberto Alomar got one of the loudest ovations, along with Tony Fernandez, Dave Winfield, Paul Molitor and Joe Carter, whose home run off Mitch Williams clinched the '93 win over Philadelphia.

SEE YA

The Rangers designated Vicente Padilla for assignment before the game, abruptly moving to cut ties with an inconsistent, high-priced right-hander who apparently wasn't liked by many teammates. Padilla recently returned from a bout of swine flu, but lost his final start at Oakland on Wednesday.

SIDELINED

Los Angeles pitcher Jason Schmidt's comeback was put on hold Friday after four starts. The Dodgers placed him on the 15-day DL because of problems with the surgically repaired shoulder that sidelined him for the entire 2008 season.

SCRATCHED

Chicago Cubs right-hander Carlos Zambrano was scratched about 15 minutes before his scheduled start against the Colorado Rockies due to a lower back problem. Zambrano, 7-4 with a 3.35 ERA, worked a season-low three innings in his last start against Florida on Aug. 1, leaving the game because of lower back stiffness. He gave up two runs and three hits with three walks and two strikeouts.

SWAPS

The Twins acquired pitcher Carl Pavano from Cleveland for a player to be named. The 33-year-old Pavano, 9-8 with a 5.37 ERA, will start Saturday. ... The Orioles traded catcher Gregg Zaun to the Tampa Bay Rays for cash.

SPEAKING

"Both teams were remarkable. It was a heavyweight fight, and we were fortunate to have the last hit.'' - Yankees third baseman Alex Rodriguez after his two-run homer in the 15th inning snapped a scoreless duel and gave New York a 2-0 win over the Boston Red Sox on Friday.

SEASONS

Aug. 8

1903 - A week after pitching his first doubleheader triumph, Joe "Iron Man'' McGinnity of the New York Giants scored a double victory over the Brooklyn Dodgers 6-1 and 4-3. In the second game, he stole home.

1915 - Philadelphia's Gavvy Cravath hit four doubles and drove in eight runs in a 14-7 victory over the Reds at Cincinnati.

1920 - Howard Ehmke of the Detroit Tigers pitched the fastest 1-0 game in American League history - 1 hour, 13 minutes, for a victory against the New York Yankees.

1931 - Bob Burke of the Washington Senators pitched a 5-0 no-hitter against the Boston Red Sox.

1954 - The Brooklyn Dodgers pounded the Cincinnati Reds 20-7 at Ebbets Field. The Dodgers scored 13 runs in the eighth inning after two were out.

1973 - Designated hitter Orlando Cepeda hit four doubles and the Boston Red Sox posted a 9-4 victory over the Kansas City Royals.

1982 - California's Doug DeCinces hit three home runs in a game for the second time in less than a week. DeCinces hit solo homers in the first and third innings and connected for a two-run shot in the eighth of a 9-5 victory over the Seattle Mariners. DeCinces hit three against Minnesota on Aug. 3.

1985 - Baseball, after a two-day walkout, resumed playing with 18 games scheduled, including five doubleheaders.

1988 - The first night game scheduled in the 74-year history of Chicago's Wrigley Field was postponed with the Cubs leading the Philadelphia Phillies 3-1 after heavy rain started in the bottom of the fourth inning. Philadelphia's Phil Bradley led off the game with a home run, but all numbers were wiped out when the rain came.

1992 - Oakland's Dennis Eckersley had two consecutive saves records snapped. His strings of 36 straight to start a season, and 40 straight over two seasons ended while he was trying to protect a 2-1 lead in the ninth inning against the Kansas City Royals. Eckersley gave up a two-out, two-run single to Gregg Jefferies to give the Royals a 3-2 lead. The Athletics came back to win the game in the ninth, 5-3.

1997 - Randy Johnson struck out 19, matching the major league record for left-handers he tied earlier in the season, as the Seattle Mariners defeated the Chicago White Sox 5-0.

1998 - Paul Molitor stole his 500th base in Minnesota's 6-3 loss to Baltimore become the fifth player with 3,000 hits and 500 steals. Molitor joined Ty Cobb, Honus Wagner, Eddie Collins and Lou Brock.

2000 - Darren Dreifort of the Los Angeles Dodgers hit two homers and was the winning pitcher in a 7-5 victory over the Chicago Cubs.

2007 - Barry Bonds added to his home run record with a two-run shot into McCovey Cove for No. 757. It helped Bruce Bochy to his 1,000th managerial victory as the San Francisco Giants beat Washington 5-0.

Today's birthdays: Ross Ohlendorf 27; Craig Breslow 29


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[Udog]

MLB
Dunkel


Chicago Cubs at Colorado
The Cubs look to bounce back from yesterday's 6-2 loss and build on their 9-2 record in their last 11 games after allowing 5 or more runs on the previous game. Chicago is the pick (+135) according to Dunkel, which has the Cubs favored by 1. Dunkel Pick: Chicago Cubs (+135). Here are all of today's picks.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 8

Game 951-952: Cincinnati at San Francisco
Dunkel Ratings: Cincinnati (Arroyo) 14.521; San Francisco (Zito) 15.515
Dunkel Line: San Francisco by 1; 10 1/2
Vegas Line: San Francisco (-150); 8 1/2
Dunkel Pick: San Francisco (-150); Over

Game 953-954: Milwaukee at Houston
Dunkel Ratings: Milwaukee (Parra) 14.697; Houston (Hampton) 15.871
Dunkel Line: Houston by 1; 10 1/2
Vegas Line: Milwaukee (-130); 9
Dunkel Pick: Houston (+120); Over

Game 955-956: Arizona at Washington
Dunkel Ratings: Arizona (Haren) 17.050; Washington (Mock) 15.921
Dunkel Line: Arizona by 1; 9 1/2
Vegas Line: Arizona (-200); 8 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Arizona (-200); Over

Game 957-958: Florida at Philadelphia
Dunkel Ratings: Florida (West) 15.183; Philadelphia (Hamels) 16.197
Dunkel Line: Philadelphia by 1; 7 1/2
Vegas Line: Philadelphia (-215); 9 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Philadelphia (-215); Under

Game 959-960: St. Louis at Pittsburgh
Dunkel Ratings: St. Louis (Wainwright) 14.948; Pittsburgh (Morton) 13.392
Dunkel Line: St. Louis by 1 1/2; 8 1/2
Vegas Line: St. Louis (-215); 8
Dunkel Pick: St. Louis (-215); Over

Game 961-962: Chicago Cubs at Colorado
Dunkel Ratings: Cubs (Dempster) 15.653; Colorado (Marquis) 14.505
Dunkel Line: Chicago Cubs by 1; 7
Vegas Line: Colorado (-145); 9
Dunkel Pick: Chicago Cubs (+135); Under

Game 963-964: NY Mets at San Diego
Dunkel Ratings: NY Mets (Parnell) 14.550; San Diego (Latos) 15.633
Dunkel Line: San Diego by 1; 9 1/2
Vegas Line: San Diego (-155); 7 1/2
Dunkel Pick: San Diego (-155); Over

Game 965-966: Atlanta at LA Dodgers
Dunkel Ratings: Atlanta (Kawakami) 16.326; LA Dodgers (Kershaw) 15.169
Dunkel Line: Atlanta by 1; 9 1/2
Vegas Line: LA Dodgers (-170); 8
Dunkel Pick: Atlanta (+160); Over

Game 967-968: Baltimore at Toronto
Dunkel Ratings: Baltimore (Tillman) 13.736; Toronto (Cecil) 15.641
Dunkel Line: Toronto by 2; 9
Vegas Line: Toronto (-175); 9 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Toronto (-175); Under

Game 969-970: Boston at NY Yankees
Dunkel Ratings: Boston (Buchholz) 16.341; NY Yankees (Sabathia) 15.859
Dunkel Line: Boston by 1/2; 10 1/2
Vegas Line: NY Yankees (-200); 10
Dunkel Pick: Boston (+180); Over

Game 971-972: Texas at LA Angels
Dunkel Ratings: Texas (Millwood) 16.482; LA Angels (Weaver) 15.465
Dunkel Line: Texas by 1; 11 1/2
Vegas Line: LA Angels (-165); 9
Dunkel Pick: Texas (+155); Over

Game 973-974: Minnesota at Detroit
Dunkel Ratings: Minnesota (Pavano) 15.201; Detroit (Verlander) 16.418
Dunkel Line: Detroit by 1; 11
Vegas Line: Detroit (-210); 8 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Detroit (-210); Over

Game 975-976: Cleveland at Chicago White Sox
Dunkel Ratings: Cleveland (Masterson) 15.630; White Sox (Torres) 16.563
Dunkel Line: Chicago White Sox by 1; 9 1/2
Vegas Line: Chicago White Sox (-130); 10
Dunkel Pick: Chicago White Sox (-130); Under

Game 977-978: Oakland at Kansas City
Dunkel Ratings: Oakland (Mortensen) 14.190; Kansas City (Greinke) 14.447
Dunkel Line: Kansas City by 1/2; 7
Vegas Line: No Line
Dunkel Pick: N/A

Game 979-980: Tampa Bay at Seattle
Dunkel Ratings: Tampa Bay (Shields) 15.232; Seattle (Snell) 14.546
Dunkel Line: Tampa Bay by 1/2; 9 1/2
Vegas Line: Tampa Bay (-155); 8 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Tampa Bay (-155); Over

[Udog]

MLB
Long Sheet


Saturday, August 8

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CINCINNATI (47 - 61) at SAN FRANCISCO (60 - 49) - 4:05 PM
BRONSON ARROYO (R) vs. BARRY ZITO (L)
Top Trends for this game.
CINCINNATI is 4-13 (-10.2 Units) against the money line when playing on Saturday this season.
SAN FRANCISCO is 60-49 (+11.6 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
SAN FRANCISCO is 43-37 (+6.6 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters this season.
SAN FRANCISCO is 29-20 (+9.1 Units) against the money line after a loss this season.
SAN FRANCISCO is 71-61 (+12.8 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons.
SAN FRANCISCO is 60-49 (+11.6 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
SAN FRANCISCO is 28-20 (+9.0 Units) against the money line when the total is 8 to 8.5 this season.
SAN FRANCISCO is 37-17 (+17.3 Units) against the money line in home games this season.
CINCINNATI is 230-248 (+40.6 Units) against the money line in road games after a win since 1997.
CINCINNATI is 472-554 (+39.9 Units) against the money line in road games since 1997.

Head-to-Head Series History
CINCINNATI is 1-0 (+2.6 Units) against SAN FRANCISCO this season
1 of 1 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=+1.0 Units)

BRONSON ARROYO vs. SAN FRANCISCO since 1997
ARROYO is 3-3 when starting against SAN FRANCISCO with an ERA of 3.22 and a WHIP of 1.433.
His team's record is 3-4 (-1.0 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 6-1. (+4.8 units)

BARRY ZITO vs. CINCINNATI since 1997
ZITO is 2-2 when starting against CINCINNATI with an ERA of 10.03 and a WHIP of 1.715.
His team's record is 2-3 (-1.0 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 0-5. (-5.3 units)

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MILWAUKEE (54 - 55) at HOUSTON (54 - 55) - 7:05 PM
MANNY PARRA (L) vs. MIKE HAMPTON (L)
Top Trends for this game.
MILWAUKEE is 21-32 (-15.1 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record this season.
MILWAUKEE is 244-282 (-63.7 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record in the second half of the season since 1997.
PARRA is 7-14 (-10.3 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
HOUSTON is 75-64 (+15.7 Units) against the money line after a win over the last 2 seasons.
HOUSTON is 66-47 (+17.3 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons.
HOUSTON is 140-130 (+22.7 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
HOUSTON is 67-59 (+14.4 Units) against the money line when the total is 9 to 9.5 over the last 2 seasons.
HOUSTON is 24-12 (+17.5 Units) against the money line in August games over the last 2 seasons.
HOUSTON is 136-128 (+18.5 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
HOUSTON is 99-92 (+12.0 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons.
MILWAUKEE is 18-12 (+8.5 Units) against the money line on the road when the total is 9 to 9.5 this season.
MILWAUKEE is 37-27 (+11.5 Units) against the money line in road games against division opponents over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
MILWAUKEE is 4-3 (+1.2 Units) against HOUSTON this season
4 of 6 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL this season . (Under=+1.8 Units)

MANNY PARRA vs. HOUSTON since 1997
PARRA is 3-3 when starting against HOUSTON with an ERA of 4.88 and a WHIP of 1.883.
His team's record is 3-3 (-0.9 units) in these starts. The OVER is 1-5. (-4.2 units)

MIKE HAMPTON vs. MILWAUKEE since 1997
HAMPTON is 4-2 when starting against MILWAUKEE with an ERA of 3.16 and a WHIP of 1.383.
His team's record is 8-5 (+2.4 units) in these starts. The OVER is 6-7. (-1.6 units)

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ARIZONA (50 - 60) at WASHINGTON (38 - 72) - 7:05 PM
DAN HAREN (R) vs. GARRETT MOCK (R)
Top Trends for this game.
ARIZONA is 50-60 (-11.9 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
ARIZONA is 50-60 (-11.9 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
WASHINGTON is 15-4 (+12.7 Units) against the money line in home games after 3 or more consecutive wins over the last 3 seasons.
WASHINGTON is 87-91 (+17.5 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 3 seasons.
WASHINGTON is 28-14 (+15.6 Units) against the money line in home games when playing against a team with a losing record in the second half of the season over the last 3 seasons.
WASHINGTON is 20-16 (+13.3 Units) against the money line in August games over the last 2 seasons.
ARIZONA is 23-17 (+10.4 Units) against the money line in road games against right-handed starters this season.
HAREN is 36-13 (+17.6 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
WASHINGTON is 38-69 (-23.9 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
WASHINGTON is 25-53 (-24.1 Units) against the money line in night games this season.
WASHINGTON is 29-54 (-19.1 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters this season.
WASHINGTON is 38-72 (-26.9 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
WASHINGTON is 26-58 (-23.5 Units) against the money line when the total is 8 to 8.5 over the last 2 seasons.
WASHINGTON is 23-48 (-20.6 Units) against the money line at home when the total is 8 to 8.5 over the last 3 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
WASHINGTON is 3-1 (+2.2 Units) against ARIZONA this season
2 of 4 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=-0.3 Units, Under=-0.3 Units)

DAN HAREN vs. WASHINGTON since 1997
HAREN is 2-0 when starting against WASHINGTON with an ERA of 0.41 and a WHIP of 0.773.
His team's record is 3-0 (+3.0 units) in these starts. The OVER is 2-1. (+0.9 units)

GARRETT MOCK vs. ARIZONA since 1997
No recent starts.

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FLORIDA (56 - 53) at PHILADELPHIA (61 - 46) - 7:05 PM
SEAN WEST (L) vs. COLE HAMELS (L)
Top Trends for this game.
FLORIDA is 22-40 (-18.5 Units) against the money line in August games over the last 3 seasons.
PHILADELPHIA is 160-115 (+17.0 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
PHILADELPHIA is 58-35 (+15.5 Units) against the money line against left-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
PHILADELPHIA is 85-65 (+10.9 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
PHILADELPHIA is 43-26 (+12.8 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record in the second half of the season over the last 2 seasons.
PHILADELPHIA is 164-119 (+17.8 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
FLORIDA is 69-67 (+16.7 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
FLORIDA is 260-272 (+48.9 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record in the second half of the season since 1997.
FLORIDA is 140-130 (+22.8 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
FLORIDA is 78-60 (+25.3 Units) against the money line when the total is 9 to 9.5 over the last 2 seasons.
FLORIDA is 6-1 (+10.2 Units) against the money line as a road underdog of +175 to +200 over the last 2 seasons.
FLORIDA is 66-68 (+12.8 Units) against the money line in road games over the last 2 seasons.
FLORIDA is 36-24 (+21.2 Units) against the money line on the road when the total is 9 to 9.5 over the last 2 seasons.
FLORIDA is 62-48 (+22.9 Units) against the money line against division opponents over the last 2 seasons.
FLORIDA is 136-125 (+22.2 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
FLORIDA is 97-96 (+6.9 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons.
FLORIDA is 45-36 (+15.7 Units) against the money line against left-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
PHILADELPHIA is 18-20 (-9.6 Units) against the money line in home games in night games this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
PHILADELPHIA is 7-3 (+3.0 Units) against FLORIDA this season
6 of 10 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL this season . (Under=+1.4 Units)

SEAN WEST vs. PHILADELPHIA since 1997
No recent starts.

COLE HAMELS vs. FLORIDA since 1997
HAMELS is 2-4 when starting against FLORIDA with an ERA of 3.95 and a WHIP of 1.193.
His team's record is 3-6 (-7.2 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 6-3. (+2.4 units)

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ST LOUIS (60 - 51) at PITTSBURGH (45 - 64) - 7:05 PM
ADAM WAINWRIGHT (R) vs. CHARLIE MORTON (R)
Top Trends for this game.
PITTSBURGH is 8-0 (+8.3 Units) against the money line in home games when playing on Saturday this season.
PITTSBURGH is 371-352 (+38.2 Units) against the money line in home games in night games since 1997.
PITTSBURGH is 16-9 (+7.8 Units) against the money line in home games when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
ST LOUIS is 146-127 (+9.7 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
ST LOUIS is 24-12 (+13.8 Units) against the money line on the road when the total is 8 to 8.5 over the last 2 seasons.
ST LOUIS is 146-127 (+9.7 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
ST LOUIS is 49-40 (+12.1 Units) against the money line in road games in night games over the last 2 seasons.
ST LOUIS is 99-82 (+12.6 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
WAINWRIGHT is 30-13 (+12.1 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
WAINWRIGHT is 21-6 (+11.3 Units) against the money line when the total is 8 to 8.5 over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
WAINWRIGHT is 9-1 (+8.1 Units) against the money line in road games this season. (Team's Record)
WAINWRIGHT is 8-0 (+8.1 Units) against the money line on the road when the total is 8 to 8.5 this season. (Team's Record)
WAINWRIGHT is 15-4 (+12.1 Units) against the money line in road games against division opponents over the last 3 seasons. (Team's Record)
WAINWRIGHT is 9-1 (+8.1 Units) against the money line in road games in games played on a grass field this season. (Team's Record)
WAINWRIGHT is 21-9 (+9.5 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
PITTSBURGH is 3-17 (-15.3 Units) against the money line in home games in August games over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
ST LOUIS is 6-4 (+0.6 Units) against PITTSBURGH this season
6 of 10 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL this season . (Under=+1.6 Units)

ADAM WAINWRIGHT vs. PITTSBURGH since 1997
WAINWRIGHT is 3-2 when starting against PITTSBURGH with an ERA of 4.84 and a WHIP of 1.593.
His team's record is 4-4 (-2.3 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 1-6. (-6.1 units)

CHARLIE MORTON vs. ST LOUIS since 1997
MORTON is 0-2 when starting against ST LOUIS with an ERA of 21.60 and a WHIP of 4.200.
His team's record is 0-2 (-2.0 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 0-2. (-2.4 units)

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CHICAGO CUBS (57 - 50) at COLORADO (60 - 49) - 8:10 PM
RYAN DEMPSTER (R) vs. JASON MARQUIS (R)
Top Trends for this game.
CHICAGO CUBS are 24-31 (-10.5 Units) against the money line in road games in games played on a grass field this season.
CHICAGO CUBS are 7-16 (-9.7 Units) against the money line in road games when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
CHICAGO CUBS are 1014-1059 (-188.9 Units) against the money line in all games since 1997.
CHICAGO CUBS are 306-343 (-88.7 Units) against the money line when the total is 9 to 9.5 since 1997.
CHICAGO CUBS are 24-31 (-10.5 Units) against the money line in road games this season.
CHICAGO CUBS are 154-213 (-62.9 Units) against the money line on the road when the total is 9 to 9.5 since 1997.
CHICAGO CUBS are 153-194 (-58.7 Units) against the money line in August games since 1997.
DEMPSTER is 6-13 (-9.1 Units) against the money line in all games this season. (Team's Record)
DEMPSTER is 1-10 (-10.2 Units) against the money line in road games this season. (Team's Record)
DEMPSTER is 2-10 (-9.5 Units) against the money line on the road when the total is 9 to 9.5 over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
DEMPSTER is 6-13 (-9.1 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season. (Team's Record)
COLORADO is 60-49 (+10.2 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
COLORADO is 164-147 (+19.5 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 3 seasons.
COLORADO is 42-31 (+10.8 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters this season.
COLORADO is 126-104 (+17.7 Units) against the money line after a win over the last 3 seasons.
COLORADO is 112-97 (+30.8 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 3 seasons.
COLORADO is 58-40 (+24.7 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record in the second half of the season over the last 3 seasons.
COLORADO is 60-49 (+10.2 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
MARQUIS is 50-32 (+15.6 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 3 seasons. (Team's Record)
MARQUIS is 7-1 (+8.0 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record this season. (Team's Record)
DEMPSTER is 23-11 (+16.6 Units) against the money line when playing on Saturday since 1997. (Team's Record)
DEMPSTER is 59-50 (+16.2 Units) against the money line after a loss since 1997. (Team's Record)
COLORADO is 47-59 (-21.0 Units) against the money line when the total is 9 to 9.5 over the last 2 seasons.
MARQUIS is 15-24 (-19.2 Units) against the money line in August games since 1997. (Team's Record)
MARQUIS is 55-73 (-38.7 Units) against the money line in night games since 1997. (Team's Record)

Head-to-Head Series History
COLORADO is 2-1 (+1.9 Units) against CHICAGO CUBS this season
2 of 2 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL this season . (Under=+2.0 Units)

RYAN DEMPSTER vs. COLORADO since 1997
DEMPSTER is 4-3 when starting against COLORADO with an ERA of 8.06 and a WHIP of 1.669.
His team's record is 5-3 (+2.5 units) in these starts. The OVER is 6-2. (+3.8 units)

JASON MARQUIS vs. CHICAGO CUBS since 1997
MARQUIS is 4-5 when starting against CHICAGO CUBS with an ERA of 4.23 and a WHIP of 1.470.
His team's record is 5-6 (-1.6 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 4-5. (-1.4 units)

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NY METS (51 - 58) at SAN DIEGO (46 - 65) - 10:05 PM
ROBERT PARNELL (R) vs. MAT LATOS (R)
Top Trends for this game.
NY METS are 140-131 (-14.2 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
NY METS are 140-131 (-14.2 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
NY METS are 40-54 (-15.9 Units) against the money line in road games in night games over the last 2 seasons.
SAN DIEGO is 58-79 (-23.9 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons.
SAN DIEGO is 109-163 (-49.7 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
SAN DIEGO is 109-163 (-49.7 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
SAN DIEGO is 77-119 (-38.0 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons.
SAN DIEGO is 27-44 (-15.2 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
SAN DIEGO is 4-1 (+4.1 Units) against NY METS this season
4 of 4 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=+4.1 Units)

ROBERT PARNELL vs. SAN DIEGO since 1997
No recent starts.

MAT LATOS vs. NY METS since 1997
No recent starts.

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ATLANTA (56 - 54) at LA DODGERS (67 - 43) - 10:10 PM
KENSHIN KAWAKAMI (R) vs. CLAYTON KERSHAW (L)
Top Trends for this game.
ATLANTA is 56-54 (-6.9 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
ATLANTA is 89-97 (-18.7 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons.
ATLANTA is 100-111 (-25.0 Units) against the money line after a win over the last 3 seasons.
ATLANTA is 56-54 (-6.9 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
ATLANTA is 26-32 (-13.8 Units) against the money line when the total is 8 to 8.5 this season.
ATLANTA is 57-81 (-20.2 Units) against the money line in road games over the last 2 seasons.
LA DODGERS are 67-43 (+15.8 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
LA DODGERS are 50-31 (+12.1 Units) against the money line in night games this season.
LA DODGERS are 49-31 (+14.0 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters this season.
LA DODGERS are 29-13 (+14.3 Units) against the money line after a loss this season.
LA DODGERS are 67-43 (+15.8 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
ATLANTA is 19-12 (+8.9 Units) against the money line in road games when playing against a team with a winning record this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
LA DODGERS is 3-2 (+1.4 Units) against ATLANTA this season
3 of 5 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=+1.0 Units)

KENSHIN KAWAKAMI vs. LA DODGERS since 1997
No recent starts.

CLAYTON KERSHAW vs. ATLANTA since 1997
No recent starts.

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BALTIMORE (46 - 63) at TORONTO (51 - 57) - 1:07 PM
CHRIS TILLMAN (R) vs. BRETT CECIL (L)
Top Trends for this game.
BALTIMORE is 37-77 (-29.0 Units) against the money line against division opponents over the last 2 seasons.
BALTIMORE is 23-54 (-28.6 Units) against the money line in day games over the last 2 seasons.
TORONTO is 56-41 (+12.8 Units) against the money line in day games over the last 2 seasons.
TORONTO is 25-31 (-10.4 Units) against the money line after a loss this season.
TORONTO is 51-57 (-12.0 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
TORONTO is 18-27 (-12.3 Units) against the money line when the total is 9 to 9.5 this season.
TORONTO is 12-25 (-16.1 Units) against the money line against division opponents this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
BALTIMORE is 6-4 (+3.3 Units) against TORONTO this season
7 of 10 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL this season . (Under=+3.5 Units)

CHRIS TILLMAN vs. TORONTO since 1997
No recent starts.

BRETT CECIL vs. BALTIMORE since 1997
CECIL is 1-0 when starting against BALTIMORE with an ERA of 0.00 and a WHIP of 1.000.
His team's record is 1-0 (+1.0 units) in these starts. The OVER is 0-1. (-1.1 units)

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BOSTON (62 - 46) at NY YANKEES (67 - 42) - 4:10 PM
CLAY BUCHHOLZ (R) vs. C.C. SABATHIA (L)
Top Trends for this game.
BOSTON is 33-41 (-17.7 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record in the second half of the season over the last 2 seasons.
BUCHHOLZ is 5-14 (-13.6 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
BUCHHOLZ is 3-11 (-10.3 Units) against the money line in road games over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
BUCHHOLZ is 4-11 (-10.7 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
BUCHHOLZ is 0-7 (-8.8 Units) against the money line in road games when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 3 seasons. (Team's Record)
BOSTON is 150-89 (+30.0 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
NY YANKEES are 221-147 (-64.0 Units) against the money line at home when the total is 10 to 10.5 since 1997.
NY YANKEES are 95-77 (-47.8 Units) against the money line in home games when playing on Saturday since 1997.
SABATHIA is 3-7 (-10.1 Units) against the money line in day games this season. (Team's Record)

Head-to-Head Series History
BOSTON is 8-2 (+6.5 Units) against NY YANKEES this season
5 of 8 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL this season . (Under=+1.3 Units)

CLAY BUCHHOLZ vs. NY YANKEES since 1997
BUCHHOLZ is 0-0 when starting against NY YANKEES with an ERA of 7.45 and a WHIP of 1.655.
His team's record is 0-2 (-2.2 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 1-1. (-0.2 units)

C.C. SABATHIA vs. BOSTON since 1997
SABATHIA is 2-7 when starting against BOSTON with an ERA of 5.07 and a WHIP of 1.386.
His team's record is 2-8 (-6.8 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 7-2. (+4.8 units)

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TEXAS (61 - 47) at LA ANGELS (64 - 43) - 4:10 PM
KEVIN MILLWOOD (R) vs. JERED WEAVER (R)
Top Trends for this game.
LA ANGELS are 23-8 (+18.7 Units) against the money line in day games this season.
LA ANGELS are 58-37 (+19.3 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
LA ANGELS are 108-80 (+17.2 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
LA ANGELS are 66-40 (+23.3 Units) against the money line after a loss over the last 2 seasons.
LA ANGELS are 76-55 (+19.3 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
LA ANGELS are 64-43 (+20.3 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
LA ANGELS are 72-40 (+26.3 Units) against the money line when the total is 9 to 9.5 over the last 2 seasons.
LA ANGELS are 44-19 (+18.7 Units) against the money line at home when the total is 9 to 9.5 over the last 2 seasons.
WEAVER is 15-4 (+11.0 Units) against the money line when the total is 9 to 9.5 over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
TEXAS is 35-24 (+12.6 Units) against the money line after a win this season.
TEXAS is 105-110 (+18.4 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 3 seasons.
TEXAS is 52-50 (+16.8 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record in the second half of the season over the last 3 seasons.
TEXAS is 61-47 (+16.3 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
TEXAS is 63-68 (+12.9 Units) against the money line in road games over the last 2 seasons.
TEXAS is 23-12 (+11.7 Units) against the money line against division opponents this season.
TEXAS is 60-45 (+16.4 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
TEXAS is 38-31 (+9.5 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters this season.
LA ANGELS are 98-93 (-51.6 Units) against the money line as a home favorite of -150 to -175 since 1997.

Head-to-Head Series History
TEXAS is 8-2 (+6.9 Units) against LA ANGELS this season
6 of 10 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=+1.7 Units)

KEVIN MILLWOOD vs. LA ANGELS since 1997
MILLWOOD is 4-5 when starting against LA ANGELS with an ERA of 4.62 and a WHIP of 1.377.
His team's record is 6-8 (-0.8 units) in these starts. The OVER is 7-7. (-0.7 units)

JERED WEAVER vs. TEXAS since 1997
WEAVER is 3-2 when starting against TEXAS with an ERA of 3.39 and a WHIP of 1.208.
His team's record is 6-6 (-2.7 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 7-4. (+2.2 units)

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MINNESOTA (53 - 56) at DETROIT (58 - 50) - 7:05 PM
CARL PAVANO (R) vs. JUSTIN VERLANDER (R)
Top Trends for this game.
MINNESOTA is 53-56 (-8.9 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
DETROIT is 22-9 (+10.8 Units) against the money line in home games after a win this season.
DETROIT is 35-17 (+13.5 Units) against the money line in home games this season.
DETROIT is 56-42 (+8.5 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
VERLANDER is 22-4 (+16.0 Units) against the money line in home games when playing against a team with a losing record since 1997. (Team's Record)
MINNESOTA is 64-45 (+13.3 Units) against the money line against division opponents over the last 2 seasons.
MINNESOTA is 98-82 (+10.9 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons.
PAVANO is 109-89 (+22.1 Units) against the money line in all games since 1997. (Team's Record)
PAVANO is 53-34 (+20.8 Units) against the money line against division opponents since 1997. (Team's Record)
PAVANO is 10-4 (+8.6 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
DETROIT is 132-138 (-27.5 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
DETROIT is 27-37 (-20.0 Units) against the money line in August games over the last 3 seasons.
DETROIT is 51-63 (-24.0 Units) against the money line against division opponents over the last 2 seasons.
DETROIT is 83-91 (-21.0 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons.
DETROIT is 86-102 (-31.4 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
VERLANDER is 18-24 (-14.5 Units) against the money line against division opponents over the last 3 seasons. (Team's Record)

Head-to-Head Series History
MINNESOTA is 6-3 (+2.4 Units) against DETROIT this season
4 of 8 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=-0.3 Units, Under=-0.9 Units)

CARL PAVANO vs. DETROIT since 1997
PAVANO is 3-0 when starting against DETROIT with an ERA of 1.93 and a WHIP of 0.814.
His team's record is 3-0 (+3.8 units) in these starts. The OVER is 2-1. (+0.9 units)

JUSTIN VERLANDER vs. MINNESOTA since 1997
VERLANDER is 4-4 when starting against MINNESOTA with an ERA of 3.78 and a WHIP of 1.391.
His team's record is 5-6 (-2.0 units) in these starts. The OVER is 6-5. (+1.1 units)

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CLEVELAND (47 - 62) at CHI WHITE SOX (56 - 54) - 7:05 PM
JUSTIN MASTERSON (R) vs. CAROLS TORRES (R)
Top Trends for this game.
CLEVELAND is 42-55 (-15.1 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
CLEVELAND is 30-48 (-20.4 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters this season.
CLEVELAND is 15-31 (-16.0 Units) against the money line after a win this season.
CLEVELAND is 47-62 (-16.2 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
CLEVELAND is 16-28 (-15.4 Units) against the money line when playing on Saturday over the last 2 seasons.
CHI WHITE SOX are 13-4 (+10.6 Units) against the money line when playing on Saturday this season.
CHI WHITE SOX are 40-19 (+15.1 Units) against the money line in home games against division opponents over the last 2 seasons.
CHI WHITE SOX are 52-44 (+7.2 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
CHI WHITE SOX are 37-30 (+7.8 Units) against the money line in night games this season.
CHI WHITE SOX are 76-51 (+20.3 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons.
CHI WHITE SOX are 56-54 (+2.4 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
CHI WHITE SOX are 35-25 (+7.5 Units) against the money line when the total is 9 to 9.5 this season.
CHI WHITE SOX are 87-54 (+19.3 Units) against the money line in home games over the last 2 seasons.
CLEVELAND is 20-9 (+14.9 Units) against the money line after 3 or more consecutive wins over the last 2 seasons.
CLEVELAND is 22-12 (+14.0 Units) against the money line in August games over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
CHI WHITE SOX is 7-6 (+0.9 Units) against CLEVELAND this season
7 of 13 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL this season . (Under=+0.1 Units)

JUSTIN MASTERSON vs. CHI WHITE SOX since 1997
No recent starts.

CAROLS TORRES vs. CLEVELAND since 1997
No recent starts.

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OAKLAND (48 - 61) at KANSAS CITY (42 - 67) - 7:10 PM
CLAYTON MORTENSEN (R) vs. ZACK GREINKE (R)
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
OAKLAND is 3-0 (+3.3 Units) against KANSAS CITY this season
3 of 3 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=+3.0 Units)

CLAYTON MORTENSEN vs. KANSAS CITY since 1997
No recent starts.

ZACK GREINKE vs. OAKLAND since 1997
GREINKE is 3-0 when starting against OAKLAND with an ERA of 2.82 and a WHIP of 1.252.
His team's record is 3-3 (+0.9 units) in these starts. The OVER is 1-4. (-3.3 units)

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TAMPA BAY (60 - 49) at SEATTLE (57 - 52) - 10:10 PM
JAMES SHIELDS (R) vs. IAN SNELL (R)
Top Trends for this game.
SEATTLE is 57-52 (+6.3 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
SEATTLE is 28-19 (+8.3 Units) against the money line when the total is 8 to 8.5 this season.
SEATTLE is 54-48 (+6.8 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
SEATTLE is 39-34 (+6.0 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters this season.
TAMPA BAY is 117-73 (+35.4 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
TAMPA BAY is 165-122 (+29.5 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
TAMPA BAY is 25-9 (+14.6 Units) against the money line in August games over the last 2 seasons.
SEATTLE is 22-36 (-17.6 Units) against the money line in home games after a win over the last 2 seasons.
SEATTLE is 77-107 (-29.3 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
SEATTLE is 3-1 (+2.0 Units) against TAMPA BAY this season
2 of 4 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=-0.1 Units, Under=-0.3 Units)

JAMES SHIELDS vs. SEATTLE since 1997
SHIELDS is 1-2 when starting against SEATTLE with an ERA of 1.95 and a WHIP of 0.865.
His team's record is 2-3 (-1.1 units) in these starts. The OVER is 0-5. (-5.2 units)

IAN SNELL vs. TAMPA BAY since 1997
No recent starts.

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[Udog]

MLB


Saturday, August 8

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Tips and Trends
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Oakland Athletics at Kansas City Royals [7:10 PM ET]

Athletics: The A’s won Friday’s opening game of this series 9-4, but at 22-33 they have the third-worst road record in the American League. Oakland is 20-43 in its last 63 road contests versus a right-handed starter. A’s starter Brett Anderson (6-8, 4.20 ERA) has been brilliant in his last seven starts going 3-1 with a 1.93 ERA in 46 innings. Foes are batting only .182 against him during this span. Anderson allowed two runs on six hits in 7 2/3 innings during his last start on Monday against Texas, fanning eight Rangers. This is the 21-year-old rookie’s first start against Kansas City. He has surrendered just one home run in his last eight starts. The over has cashed in 11 of the A’s past 13 games. The under is 7-4 the past 11 times these teams have played each other in Kansas City.

The Athletics are 29-9 in their last 38 meetings in Kansas City.

Key Injuries - None

PROJECTED SCORE: 3

Royals (-$1.40 O/U 7.5 under -$1.15): Zach Greinke (10-7, 2.46) is one of the best pitchers in baseball, but he last beat an American League team on May 26. The Royals are 0-6 in Greinke’s last six starts. Greinke had one of his poorest outings in his last appearance lasting just five innings versus Tampa Bay on Monday. The Rays got to Greinke for six runs on 10 hits. Still, Greinke fanned nine, giving him 162 strikeouts in 152 1/3 innings. This will be Greinke’s first start this season against Oakland. Greinke is 3-0 lifetime versus the Athletics with an ERA of 2.72. Kansas City is the worst home team in the American League. The Royals have dropped 20 of their past 25 games at Kauffman Stadium. The Royals are 7-18 in their last 25 games versus a team with a losing mark. They are 6-3 in their last nine versus Oakland.

The Over is 9-2-1 in the Royals’ last 12 games versus American League West clubs.

Key Injuries - Jose Guillen (leg) is on the DL.

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



Chicago Cubs at Colorado Rockies [8:10 PM ET]

Cubs: Cubs starter Ryan Dempster (5-5, 4.09) looked miffed when he didn’t go out to pitch the seventh inning during his last start Sunday in Florida after throwing six shutout innings. It was just his second start since coming off the DL and he had thrown 97 pitches. Dempster won’t be held back in this start. That may not be a good thing given that Dempster’s lifetime numbers at Coors Field are 0-2 with a 15.23 ERA in seven games. The Cubs haven’t been getting much help from their late inning relievers. Setup man Carlos Marmol has allowed four runs in his last 2 2/3 innings, while closer Kevin Gregg has given up five runs in his last 2 1/3 innings. Catcher Geovany Soto returned to Chicago’s lineup Friday after being on the DL. The Cubs are 17-41 in their last 58 games as an underdog.

The Under is 12-5-1 in Chicago’s last 18 games as an underdog.

Key Injuries - Carlos Zambrano (back) is day-to-day.

PROJECTED SCORE: 4

Rockies (-$1.40, O/U 9 over -$1.15): The Rockies have won 16 straight games versus National League Central foes. They also are 19-7 during their past four home stands. They are 42-21 since Jim Tracy took over as manager. Jason Marquis (12-7, 3.49 ERA) gets the call against the team he pitched for the past two seasons before coming to Colorado. Marquis is 1-1 with a 2.51 ERA following the All-Star break. He beat the Cubs on April 15, allowing one run on five hits in seven innings during a 5-2 victory. Marquis hasn’t yielded more than three earned runs during any of his last six starts. Todd Helton is on a 12-game hitting streak, while Troy Tulowitzki is batting .432 during his last 13 games. The under is 7-2-1 in Colorado’s last 10 games. Despite winning last night, the Rockies still are 2-5 in their last seven against Chicago.

The Under is 8-2 in the Rockies’ last 10 games against teams with a winning record.

Key Injuries - Aaron Cook (toe) is questionable to make his next start.

PROJECTED SCORE: 5 (Side of the Day)


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[Udog]

MLB
Short Sheet


Saturday, 8/8/2009

National League

CINCINNATI at SAN FRANCISCO, 4:05 PM ET
ARROYO: CIN 22-6 after a game with 15+ runs scored
ZITO: 1-12 TSR against NL Central

MILWAUKEE at HOUSTON, 7:05 PM ET
PARRA: MIL 12-20 in the second half of the season
HAMPTON: HOU 24-12 in August

ARIZONA at WASHINGTON, 7:05 PM ET
HAREN: ARI 20-7 UNDER when the total is 8 to 8.5
MOCK: WAS 1-9 after 4+ consecutive overs

FLORIDA at PHILADELPHIA, 7:05 PM ET
WEST: FLA 8-4 as an underdog of +175 to +250
HAMELS: 12-3 OVER when playing on Saturday

ST LOUIS at PITTSBURGH, 7:05 PM ET
WAINWRIGHT: 8-0 TSR AWAY when the total is 8 to 8.5
MORTON: PIT 9-23 in the second half of the season

CHICAGO CUBS at COLORADO, 8:10 PM ET
DEMPSTER: 23-11 TSR when playing on Saturday
MARQUIS: 15-6 OVER when the money line is -100 to -150

NY METS at SAN DIEGO, 10:05 PM ET
PARNELL: NYM 14-5 after having lost 4 of their last 5
LATOS: SD 16-5 OVER after 7+ consecutive home games

ATLANTA at LA DODGERS, 10:10 PM ET
KAWAKAMI: ATL 2-9 AWAY after scoring 8+ runs
KERSHAW: LAD 36-16 as a home favorite

American League

BALTIMORE at TORONTO, 1:07 PM ET
TILLMAN: BAL 22-11 OVER in August
CECIL: TOR 10-19 in the second half of the season

BOSTON at NY YANKEES, 4:10 PM ET
BUCHHOLZ: BOS 43-16 when the total is 10+
SABATHIA: 3-7 TSR in day games

TEXAS at LA ANGELS, 4:10 PM ET
MILLWOOD: 21-8 UNDER when working on 7 or more days rest
WEAVER: LAA 23-8 in day games

MINNESOTA at DETROIT, 7:05 PM ET
PAVANO: MIN 13-4 after scoring 8+ runs
VERLANDER: DET 19-9 UNDER after 2+ consecutive wins

CLEVELAND at CHI WHITE SOX, 7:05 PM ET
MASTERSON: CLE 15-31 after a win
TORRES: CHW 20-7 at home with double revenge

OAKLAND at KANSAS CITY, 7:10 PM ET
MORTENSEN: OAK 3-11 after having won 3 of their last 4
GREINKE: 20-8 UNDER in the second half of the season

TAMPA BAY at SEATTLE, 10:10 PM ET
SHIELDS: TB 25-9 in August games
SNELL: 9-26 TSR as an underdog

** (TC) Denotes Time Change

[Udog]

MLB
Write-Up


Early Game

Saturday, August 8

Hot Pitchers
--

-- Cecil is 3-0, 1.67 in his last four starts.


Cold Pitchers
--

-- Tillman has a 6.75 RA in his first two major league starts.

Hot Teams
--

--

Cold Teams
--

-- Blue Jays lost six of their last seven home games. Orioles lost six of their last eight games.

Totals
--

-- Under is 10-4-2 in last sixteen games at Rogers Centre.

Umpires
--

-- Underdog is 7-7 in last fourteen Cederstrom games.

[Udog]

WNBA
Dunkel


Indiana at Phoenix
The Fever are coming off a 76-67 victory over Chicago and look to build on their 9-3 ATS record in their last 12 games following an ATS win. Indiana is the pick (+4) according to Dunkel, which has the Mercury favored by just 1. Dunkel Pick: Indiana (+4). Here are all of today's picks.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 8

Game 601-602: Chicago at Atlanta
Dunkel Ratings: Chicago 109.423; Atlanta 113.478
Dunkel Line & Total: Atlanta by 4; 166
Vegas Line & Total: Atlanta by 5 1/2; 163 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Chicago (+5 1/2); Over

Game 603-604: Indiana at Phoenix
Dunkel Ratings: Indiana 114.613; Phoenix 115.873
Dunkel Line & Total: Phoenix by 1; 178
Vegas Line & Total: Phoenix by 4; 175
Dunkel Pick: Indiana (+4); Over

Game 605-606: New York at Seattle
Dunkel Ratings: New York 109.333; Seattle 113.196
Dunkel Line & Total: Seattle by 4; 138
Vegas Line & Total: Seattle by 8; 141
Dunkel Pick: New York (+8); Under




WNBA
Long Sheet


Saturday, August 8

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CHICAGO (10 - 11) at ATLANTA (11 - 10) - 8/8/2009, 7:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
CHICAGO is 7-14 ATS (-8.4 Units) in all games this season.
CHICAGO is 3-10 ATS (-8.0 Units) as an underdog this season.
CHICAGO is 2-9 ATS (-7.9 Units) in road games this season.
ATLANTA is 14-5 ATS (+8.5 Units) in all games this season.
ATLANTA is 11-4 ATS (+6.6 Units) vs. division opponents this season.
ATLANTA is 11-3 ATS (+7.7 Units) revenging a loss versus opponent this season.
ATLANTA is 9-0 ATS (+9.0 Units) off an upset win as an underdog over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
CHICAGO is 5-1 against the spread versus ATLANTA over the last 3 seasons
CHICAGO is 5-1 straight up against ATLANTA over the last 3 seasons
5 of 6 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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INDIANA (16 - 4) at PHOENIX (16 - 6) - 8/8/2009, 10:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
INDIANA is 65-93 ATS (-37.3 Units) as an underdog since 1997.
INDIANA is 19-42 ATS (-27.2 Units) as a road underdog of 3.5 to 6 points since 1997.
INDIANA is 69-96 ATS (-36.6 Units) in road games since 1997.
INDIANA is 9-22 ATS (-15.2 Units) in road games on Saturday games since 1997.
INDIANA is 5-13 ATS (-9.3 Units) against Western conference opponents over the last 2 seasons.
INDIANA is 38-62 ATS (-30.2 Units) in road games after a division game since 1997.
INDIANA is 5-13 ATS (-9.3 Units) in non-conference games over the last 2 seasons.
INDIANA is 3-13 ATS (-11.3 Units) in road games after 3 or more consecutive wins since 1997.
PHOENIX is 15-6 ATS (+8.4 Units) in all games this season.
PHOENIX is 21-11 ATS (+8.9 Units) as a favorite over the last 2 seasons.
PHOENIX is 8-2 ATS (+5.8 Units) in home games this season.
PHOENIX is 8-2 ATS (+5.8 Units) in a home game where where the total is greater than or equal to 150 this season.
PHOENIX is 70-48 ATS (+17.2 Units) in August or September games since 1997.
PHOENIX is 11-2 ATS (+8.8 Units) after a division game this season.
PHOENIX is 7-1 ATS (+5.9 Units) after a win by 10 points or more this season.
PHOENIX is 13-6 ATS (+6.4 Units) after scoring 75 points or more this season.

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

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NEW YORK (7 - 13) at SEATTLE (12 - 9) - 8/8/2009, 10:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
NEW YORK is 10-19 ATS (-10.9 Units) after scoring 75 points or more over the last 2 seasons.
SEATTLE is 12-3 ATS (+8.7 Units) as a home favorite of 6.5 to 9 points over the last 3 seasons.
SEATTLE is 30-17 ATS (+11.3 Units) in home games over the last 3 seasons.
NEW YORK is 45-27 ATS (+15.3 Units) on Saturday games since 1997.
NEW YORK is 61-40 ATS (+17.0 Units) in road games when playing against a team with a winning record since 1997.
NEW YORK is 38-22 ATS (+13.8 Units) in road games when playing against a team with a winning record after 15+ games since 1997.

Head-to-Head Series History
SEATTLE is 2-1 against the spread versus NEW YORK over the last 3 seasons
SEATTLE is 3-1 straight up against NEW YORK over the last 3 seasons
2 of 4 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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WNBA


Saturday, August 8

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Lady Luck: Today's WNBA best bets
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Chicago Sky at Atlanta Dream (-5.5, 163)

Any bettors who have been sleeping on the Dream need to wake up and smell the victories.

Atlanta won its franchise-record fourth-straight game on Thursday with a 92-84 win in San Antonio. The Dream won the game because of a balanced offensive effort that saw Chamique Holdsclaw (21 points), Iziane Castro Marques (17), Sancho Lyttle (13), rookie Angel McCoughtry (11) and Michelle Snow each score in double figures.

"We're definitely establishing our identity," Holdsclaw told the Associated Press. “We've got a flow going right now. We're just trying to stick to it."

Meantime, Chicago has beaten the Dream twice this season, but enters the game losers of three of its past five and is a wretched 2-9 on the road.

Pick: Dream


Indiana Fever at Phoenix Mercury (-4, 175.5)

It’s no surprise that Penny Taylor’s return to Phoenix coincides with the team’s two-game win streak.

Taylor, an All-Star in 2007 with Phoenix when it won the title, re-signed with the Mercury this month and has made an immediate impact. In her first game back against the Lynx, she was eased into the lineup. She had two points, an assist and a rebound in a little under 10 minutes of action in the 13-point win.

Then, in Phoenix’s 11-point overtime win against Seattle, Taylor dropped 18 points and four assists off the bench.

The Fever have won four straight, but are just 2-2 against the Western Conference. They will struggle to matchup with Taylor off the pine.

Pick: Mercury

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