The Bum's Aug. MLB Best Bets + Pod's !

[StarDust Bum]

Preview: Phillies (60-72) at Mets (59-71)
Game: 3
Venue: Citi Field
Date: August 28, 2013 7:10 PM EDT


Cole Hamels has often struggled against the Mets, but this might be the most depleted New York lineup he has ever faced.

The left-hander will look to take advantage Wednesday as the Philadelphia Phillies visit the Mets.

Hamels (5-13, 3.62 ERA) has a 6-12 career record versus the Mets, his worst against any team he's faced at least four times. He has lost both of his starts against them over the past three months, giving up eight runs and 14 hits in 11 innings.

Fortunately for Hamels, David Wright, who has a .339 lifetime average and four homers off the left-hander, is out with a strained right hamstring.

Plus, Marlon Byrd and John Buck were traded to Pittsburgh on Tuesday, leaving New York (59-71) without three of its four RBI leaders.

"I can't tell you how much value they brought to this team, especially with what we've gone through throughout this season," Mets manager Terry Collins said. "But they're not here now, so my attention has to be to the other 25 guys."

Collins was left starting three rookies along with little-used Andrew Brown on Tuesday. The Mets had only five hits, but they beat the Phillies 5-0 as Jonathon Niese pitched a shutout and had a three-run double.

"They want to pick each other up," said Collins, whose club snapped a five-game losing streak.

The offense of the Phillies (60-72) has rarely picked up Hamels, who has a 2.00 ERA over his last six starts but has gone 1-1. He's lasted at least seven innings in each of those outings, issuing a combined six walks. His last non-quality start came at Citi Field on July 20, allowing four runs in five innings of a 5-4 defeat.

Juan Lagares singled twice off him that day and is 4 for 7 against Hamels this year with two doubles. Eric Young is a .429 lifetime hitter against him, including 3 for 6 this season.

They'll look to help get Daisuke Matsuzaka his first win since last Aug. 27.

Matsuzaka (0-1, 9.00) allowed five runs in five innings of a 6-1 loss to Detroit on Friday, his first major league start after spending most of the season toiling in Cleveland's farm system. The right-hander served up two homers - he allowed 11 in 45 2-3 innings last year with Boston - but did retire the last 10 batters he faced.

"The arm issues have caused his velocity to go down a little bit," Collins said. "But I tell you what, his breaking stuff is still very good. I was happy with the way he finished up."

Matsuzaka is 0-5 with a 13.06 ERA in six starts since his last win.

One of the best outings of his career was the last time he faced Philadelphia, having a no-hitter broken up with two outs in the eighth inning of a 5-0 Red Sox win.

The Phillies have lost 14 of 16 on the road while averaging 2.0 runs and batting .194, including a combined two runs and nine hits halfway through this four-game set.

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SERIES AT A GLANCE

GAME 1
Phillies at Mets
Mon, Aug 26 Final 2 to 1
Boxscores • Recaps

GAME 2
Phillies at Mets
Tue, Aug 27 Final 0 to 5
Boxscores • Recaps

GAME 3
Phillies at Mets
Wed, Aug 28 - 7:10PM EDT

GAME 4
Phillies at Mets
Thu, Aug 29 - 1:10PM EDT

[StarDust Bum]

Preview: Angels (59-71) at Rays (74-56)
Game: 2
Venue: Tropicana Field
Date: August 28, 2013 7:10 PM EDT


In the midst of two AL postseason races, the Tampa Bay Rays want to keep from ending August the same way they started it.

The Rays look to avoid a fourth consecutive loss and prevent the visiting Los Angeles Angels from recording their fifth straight victory Wednesday night.

Tampa Bay (74-56) opened the month losing seven of nine, then won eight of 10 before its current three-game slide. One night after being blown out 11-1 at Kansas City, the Rays wasted a four-run lead in Tuesday's 6-5 loss to Los Angeles (59-71).

They led 5-1 after six innings and by a run in the ninth when Erick Aybar hit a two-run double off closer Fernando Rodney. The Rays have blown 15 leads in the seventh inning or later this year, losing 12 of those contests.

"To permit that many runs late, we've done that way too many times," manager Joe Maddon said. "We've got to stop doing that."

Rodney has the second-most blown saves in the majors with eight, including three this month.

The loss dropped the Rays 2 1/2 games behind first-place Boston in the East, and left them one-half game ahead of Oakland for the top wild-card spot.

They'll look for Chris Archer (7-5, 2.93 ERA) to provide a third consecutive solid start, having allowed three runs and eight hits in 14 innings over the last two.

The right-hander ended a four-start winless streak with seven strong innings in a 7-2 victory over the New York Yankees on Friday.

"Confidence comes with success, and I've had a little of that," Archer told the Rays' official website. "I'm executing pitches better."

This will be the rookie's first game against the Angels, who have averaged 5.0 runs during a four-game winning streak that followed a four-game skid in which they scored nine.

Prior to Tuesday, Los Angeles had lost six straight and 12 of 13 to the Rays.

"We score runs and we've got a lot of guys that are hungry and want to do some damage in these last few weeks of the season," pitcher C.J. Wilson said. "Tampa Bay's on their way to playoffs, possibly, and if we can cause any disruptions, that's really the only thing we can do right now."

Aybar, who drove in four runs Tuesday, is 4 for 9 in the last two games after an 0-for-12 slump. He's 8 for 16 with six RBIs in his last four versus Tampa Bay.

The Angels hand the ball to Garrett Richards (4-5, 3.95), who allowed four hits in 7 1-3 innings of a 2-0 victory at Seattle on Friday.

"I didn't have my sharpest stuff in the beginning and as the game went on I got a feel for the breaking ball and the extension on my fastball," said Richards, 2-1 with a 2.75 ERA in six starts since replacing Joe Blanton in the rotation. "I was just filling up the zone and throwing quality strikes and going right at guys."

This will be his first appearance against the Rays.

With three hits and three RBIs on Tuesday, Tampa Bay catcher Jose Molina is 6 for 10 with two doubles, a home run and six RBIs in his last three games against the Angels.

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SERIES AT A GLANCE

GAME 1
Angels at Rays
Tue, Aug 27 Final 6 to 5
Boxscores • Recaps

GAME 2
Angels at Rays
Wed, Aug 28 - 7:10PM EDT

GAME 3
Angels at Rays
Thu, Aug 29 - 1:10PM EDT

[StarDust Bum]

Preview: Astros (44-87) at White Sox (55-76)
Game: 3
Venue: U.S. Cellular Field
Date: August 28, 2013 8:10 PM EDT


Runs could be tough to come by for the offensively challenged Chicago White Sox and Houston Astros with their respective top young hurlers set to pitch in the series finale.

Chris Sale will attempt to lead the White Sox to their 10th win in 12 games Wednesday night when he opposes Jarred Cosart and the visiting Astros.

Jordan Danks finished with three hits - including a go-ahead two-run single in the bottom of the eighth inning - as Chicago rallied to defeat Houston 4-3 on Tuesday.

"Obviously we haven't done it the whole year but we know this is how we can play and we're very excited about it," said Danks, who is 11 for 22 in his last seven home games.

While they rank last in the AL with 496 runs and near the bottom with 120 home runs, the last-place White Sox (55-76) have shown improvement by averaging 4.9 runs with 13 homers during this 9-2 stretch.

Recent acquisition Avisail Garcia has collected two hits in each of the first two games of this series and is batting .370 in his last 14 overall.

Another solid performance at the plate would certainly help the 24-year-old Sale (9-12, 3.08 ERA) get back in the win column.

After posting a 1.93 ERA while winning his previous three starts, the left-hander gave up a career-worst four homers and matched a career high by allowing eight runs over seven innings in an 11-5 loss to Texas on Friday.

"When you don't do your best and quite honestly get your rear end kicked around for seven innings you're going to get frustrated and I was,' said Sale, who was shown slamming his glove down repeatedly following the seventh.

The All-Star might be able to bounce back against a Houston team that ranks near the bottom of the AL with a .240 batting average.

He hasn't allowed an earned run in two career starts versus the major league-worst Astros (44-87), but suffered a 2-1 loss at Houston on June 14 when he fanned a season-high 14 and gave up two unearned runs over eight innings.

Sale has done a nice job against slugger Chris Carter, who is 0 for 7 with four strikeouts lifetime in their matchups. Carter is batting .357 with four home runs and nine RBIs in 12 career games versus the White Sox.

Teammate Matt Dominguez is 5 for 8 with three RBIs in this series and hitting .400 with five homers and 12 RBIs in his last 16 road games. Rookie Robbie Grossman is batting .365 over a 14-game hitting streak - the longest active run in the majors and tied for third in Astros history by a rookie.

The 23-year-old Cosart (1-1, 1.60), though, has received just 12 runs of support while recording the lowest ERA by an Astros starter through his first seven starts in franchise history.

He'll try to recover from his first defeat after allowing three runs over six innings in a 4-2 loss at Texas on Aug. 20.

"I thought command-wise, it was my best game of the year,' said Cosart, who gave up more than two runs for the first time.

Cosart has held opponents to a .165 batting average in five road outings.

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SERIES AT A GLANCE

GAME 1
Astros at White Sox
Mon, Aug 26 Final 10 to 8
Boxscores • Recaps

GAME 2
Astros at White Sox
Tue, Aug 27 Final 3 to 4
Boxscores • Recaps

GAME 3
Astros at White Sox
Wed, Aug 28 - 8:10PM EDT

[StarDust Bum]

Preview: Royals (67-64) at Twins (57-73)
Game: 2
Venue: Target Field
Date: August 28, 2013 8:10 PM EDT


The odds are stacked against the Kansas City Royals in their pursuit of a playoff berth, but that hasn't stopped manager Ned Yost from planning ahead.

With the postseason in mind, Yost sent the struggling Wade Davis to the bullpen and will call up Danny Duffy to start Wednesday night's contest against the Minnesota Twins as visiting Kansas City seeks a fourth straight victory.

The Royals (67-64) are seven games behind Oakland for the AL's second wild-card spot - with three teams in between - and trail Detroit by 9 1/2 games in the Central with Cleveland also in their way. They've bounced back from a seven-game losing streak, though, to beat three teams in three days.

After taking the series finale with Washington 6-4 on Sunday, Kansas City beat Tampa Bay 11-1 in a makeup game Monday before Tuesday's 6-1 victory over the Twins.

Alex Gordon hit a bases-clearing double in a five-run eighth inning before Billy Butler's solo homer in the ninth as the Royals improved to 13-4 versus Minnesota this season.

"That's the great part about us," outfielder Jarrod Dyson said. "We fight through everything.'

Despite his club's deficits in the playoff race, Yost still is making moves to prepare it for the postseason. Duffy (1-0, 1.86 ERA) will get a chance to stick with the big club after Davis (6-10, 5.67) disappointed as a starter.

"We haven't given up on making the playoffs. We want Duffy on our playoff roster," Yost told the team's official website. "And if we do make the playoffs, we're probably going to go with three starters and Wade is going to be in the bullpen at that time."

Duffy, who underwent Tommy John surgery in June 2012, made his first start of the season Aug. 7 against Minnesota, allowing two runs and striking out seven while throwing 93 pitches in just 3 2-3 innings of Kansas City's 5-2 win.

The left-hander was solid in his last outing, though, as he gave up one hit in six scoreless innings of a 2-1 win over Detroit on Aug. 16.

Duffy will face a Twins club that has scored four runs during a three-game losing streak. Minnesota (57-73) managed only four hits Tuesday, with Brian Dozier driving in the only run.

"Good ballgame until we got into the eighth, and then things kind of unraveled there,' manager Ron Gardenhire said

The Twins have lost seven of the last eight meetings with the Royals, with the only victory coming Aug. 6 after a stellar major league debut from Wednesday's starter Andrew Alberts.

Albers (2-1, 3.00) gave up four hits in 8 1-3 innings of a 7-0 victory.

"It's hard to put into words, but it was special to go out and have that kind of performance in your debut,' Albers said after that outing. "Unfortunately, it's probably not going to get much better from there.'

His next outing indeed was better as he tossed a two-hitter for a 3-0 win over Cleveland on Aug. 12, but he hasn't been nearly as good since. After giving up five runs in seven innings of an 8-5 loss to the Chicago White Sox on Aug. 17, the left-hander allowed five runs in 5 2-3 frames before the Twins beat Detroit 7-6 on Thursday.

"It would've been nice to get through the sixth inning," Albers said. "But other than that, I was pretty happy with my outing."

Minnesota has lost five straight home meetings with Kansas City.

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SERIES AT A GLANCE

GAME 1
Royals at Twins
Tue, Aug 27 Final 6 to 1
Boxscores • Recaps

GAME 2
Royals at Twins
Wed, Aug 28 - 8:10PM EDT

GAME 3
Royals at Twins
Thu, Aug 29 - 1:10PM EDT

[StarDust Bum]

Preview: Reds (74-59) at Cardinals (78-54)
Game: 3
Venue: Busch Stadium
Date: August 28, 2013 8:15 PM EDT


Adam Wainwright is a contender for the NL Cy Young Award, but he's surely more concerned with increasing the St. Louis Cardinals' lead atop the NL Central.

Wainwright looks to become the NL's first 16-game winner Wednesday night when the surging Cardinals go for their first home sweep of the Cincinnati Reds in almost five years.

Tied with Washington's Jordan Zimmermann for the most wins in the NL, Wainwright (15-7, 2.58 ERA) is also third in the league with 182 strikeouts and his ERA is baseball's fourth-best.

The right-hander has certainly pitched like one of baseball's best while winning his last two starts, allowing two runs with 20 strikeouts in 16 innings. He notched his major-league leading fifth complete game of the season Friday, tossing a six-hitter on a season-high 128 pitches in a 3-1 win over Atlanta.

"He's our horse," manager Mike Matheny said. "Those are the kind of statements your ace loves to make. That was his game."

He's split two starts against the Reds this year despite giving up two runs in seven innings each time. Cincinnati has won four of its last six matchups with Wainwright, including three straight at St. Louis.

The Cardinals (78-54) have won four in a row at home against the Reds and are in position to sweep a series from them at Busch Stadium for the first time since Sept. 26-28, 2008.

St. Louis, 1 1/2 games ahead of Pittsburgh and 4 1/2 in front of Cincinnati for the NL Central lead, has won nine of 11 following Tuesday's 6-1 victory.

Matt Holliday has three hits - one homer - and four RBIs through the first two games of the series. He's driven in a run in seven straight games, batting .346 in that span with three homers and four doubles.

Holliday has hit .393 with 10 RBIs in the past eight meetings with Cincinnati, and he's 8 for 19 in the last two years versus Homer Bailey, the Reds' scheduled starter.

Cincinnati (74-59) has a five-game lead on Arizona for the NL's second wild-card spot, but manager Dusty Baker isn't pleased his team has dropped three in a row.

"A loss is a loss, you've just got to play better baseball," he said. "There are a few things we've still got to learn about playing winning baseball."

Running the bases may be one thing after Zack Cozart didn't see Jay Bruce being held up at third Tuesday, resulting in both of them on the base to end the fourth.

"It's my (mistake) definitely," Cozart said. "It was a bad play. You have to keep your head up. When I got to third I was surprised Jay was even there. That was a big part of the game."

Bailey (8-10, 3.71) is 0-5 with a 6.90 ERA over seven career starts in St. Louis. He's lost two visits this year, surrendering 11 runs and 18 hits - four homers - in 10 1-3 innings.

However, the right-hander has been pitching well away from home, going 2-0 with a 1.99 ERA over his past three road outings.

He won the most recent in Milwaukee on Aug. 18, yielding one run and three hits in eight innings of a 9-1 victory, but five days later he gave up three runs in six innings while not getting a decision in a 6-4 home loss to the Brewers.

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SERIES AT A GLANCE

GAME 1
Reds at Cardinals
Mon, Aug 26 Final 6 to 8
Boxscores • Recaps

GAME 2
Reds at Cardinals
Tue, Aug 27 Final 1 to 6
Boxscores • Recaps

GAME 3
Reds at Cardinals
Wed, Aug 28 - 8:15PM EDT

[StarDust Bum]

Preview: Giants (59-73) at Rockies (62-72)
Game: 3
Venue: Coors Field
Date: August 28, 2013 8:40 PM EDT


Two of the hottest pitchers in baseball meet at Coors Field on Wednesday night when Madison Bumgarner leads the San Francisco Giants against Jhoulys Chacin and the Colorado Rockies.

Bumgarner ranks fourth in the majors with a 2.15 ERA since June 11, and Chacin is fifth at 2.26. Bumgarner (11-8, 2.84 ERA), though, has been plagued by poor run support - the Giants have backed him with only 10 runs while he's gone 1-3 with a 2.35 ERA in his last seven starts.

The left-hander's lone mistake in eight innings Friday was a costly one - a three-run homer by Clint Barmes in a 3-1 loss to Pittsburgh.

"I thought I made a good pitch," said Bumgarner, whose run-support average of 3.63 per start is among the lowest in the majors. "It was pretty much where I wanted it. He just made an adjustment."

The homer also went against form for Bumgarner, whose .200 batting average by opponents with runners on base is one of the best in the league. He is 7-1 with a 2.95 ERA in his last nine starts against Colorado, with the only loss coming May 17, when he allowed nine runs - seven earned - in 4 2-3 innings of a 10-9 defeat.

Bumgarner bounced back with seven innings of one-run ball in a 5-2 win on June 30, yielding only a homer to Carlos Gonzalez - currently on the disabled list with a sprained finger - and three other hits.

He has pitched at least seven innings in 11 of his last 13 starts.

Chacin (12-7, 3.22), meanwhile, is coming off a 3-2 win Friday in Miami, where he allowed two runs and four hits in seven innings. It was an emotional victory after spending the week leading up to his start in his native Venezuela for his grandmother's funeral.

"I was real excited to pitch," said Chacin after the Rockies (62-72) rallied to give him his career-best 12th victory. "It was a tough situation back home, but when I got here I wanted to have all of my concentration to try to throw strikes and a lot of innings."

Chacin has lasted at least seven innings in six of his last seven starts. The right-hander has been hit-and-miss in two starts versus the Giants this year, scattering three hits and three walks in eight shutout innings of a 4-1 win June 28, but getting tagged for a season-worst eight runs in 5 1-3 innings of an 8-6 defeat May 13.

Pablo Sandoval, 7 for 21 lifetime off Chacin with four extra-base hits, helped the Giants earn their third win in four games Tuesday with a first-inning solo homer among his three hits. It was his first home run since July 11, ending a string of 139 at_bats without one.

Brandon Belt, with four hits Tuesday, is batting .361 in his last 21 games. After entering this year 0 for 10 versus Chacin, he has two hits in five at_bats.

The Rockies, who are 10-11 since Gonzalez got hurt, have lost seven of 11 overall. Center fielder Dexter Fowler is expected to miss his second straight game with a bruised knee suffered Monday trying to steal second base.

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SERIES AT A GLANCE

GAME 1
Giants at Rockies
Mon, Aug 26 Final 1 to 6
Boxscores • Recaps

GAME 2
Giants at Rockies
Tue, Aug 27 Final 5 to 3
Boxscores • Recaps

GAME 3
Giants at Rockies
Wed, Aug 28 - 8:40PM EDT

[StarDust Bum]

Preview: Padres (59-73) at Diamondbacks (68-63)
Game: 3
Venue: Chase Field
Date: August 28, 2013 9:40 PM EDT


Since a poor home start against the San Diego Padres more than three months ago, Wade Miley has pitched rather well at Chase Field for the Arizona Diamondbacks.

He'll look to continue that hot stretch by beating San Diego for the first time in four starts this season Wednesday night.

Miley (9-8, 3.60 ERA) is 4-0 with a 2.39 ERA over his last five home starts, with his last defeat in Arizona coming May 25 when he gave up seven runs in 3 2-3 innings of a 10-4 loss to the Padres.

The left-hander has lost each of his three outings to them this season while posting a 7.36 ERA, most recently allowing six runs - one earned - in six innings of a 6-4 road defeat June 15.

Miley, though, is 5-1 with a 2.26 ERA over his last 10 starts after giving up three runs in six innings before Arizona fell 4-3 to Philadelphia on Friday. The Diamondbacks had won his previous five outings.

"I felt good, I just didn't make pitches when I needed it,' Miley said.

He'll look for a better outing as Arizona (68-63) seeks its fourth victory in five games. The Diamondbacks moved within 5 1/2 games of Cincinnati for the NL's second-wild card spot, beating San Diego 10-9 in 10 innings Tuesday after the Reds fell 6-1 to St. Louis earlier in the night.

Arizona hasn't made things easy on itself lately, though. It began this hot stretch by blowing a four-run lead before beating Philadelphia 12-7 in 18 innings Saturday, and squandered a four-run lead in the eighth and a two-run advantage in the ninth before Aaron Hill delivered the winning hit Tuesday.

"A win is a win, and this was a total team effort,' Hill said. "We keep battling back, and this is fun. It's great to see this team rewarded for good things.'

Gerardo Parra hit a three-run homer and finished with a career-high five RBIs.

San Diego (59-73) had won five of the last six meetings with the Diamondbacks before dropping the first two of this three-game set. Will Venable had three hits and Ronny Cedeno drove in three runs in Tuesday's loss.

Venable has hit safely in 22 of his last 23 games, increasing his batting average 33 points to .278 during that stretch.

The Padres look to avoid the sweep with help from Robbie Erlin (1-2, 7.15), who will be called up to replace the released Edinson Volquez in the rotation.

"It's time for Robbie to get another start, and we'll see where we go from there," manager Bud Black told the team's official website. "We've got to see what guys can do at this level."

The 22-year-old rookie left-hander hasn't been with the Padres since giving up nine runs and walking four in four innings of an 11-7 loss to Washington on July 7, though he did show some promise in previous outings.

"In Robbie's first four starts, two have been good (and) two have been a little rough," Black said. "It's time for Robbie to make a statement as a major league pitcher."

The Diamondbacks designated Jason Kubel for assignment Tuesday. He hit .220 with five home runs after hitting a career-high 30 in 2012.

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SERIES AT A GLANCE

GAME 1
Padres at Diamondbacks
Mon, Aug 26 Final 1 to 6
Boxscores • Recaps

GAME 2
Padres at Diamondbacks
Tue, Aug 27 Final 9 to 10
Recaps

GAME 3
Padres at Diamondbacks
Wed, Aug 28 - 9:40PM EDT

[StarDust Bum]

Wednesday, August 28

Game Score Status Pick Amount

Chi. Cubs - 3:10 PM ET Chi. Cubs +190 500 POD # 1

LA Dodgers - Under 7.5 500


Texas - 3:40 PM ET Seattle -118 500

Seattle - Over 7 500

[StarDust Bum]

MLB
Dunkel

Milwaukee at Pittsburgh
The Pirates look to snap their 3-game losing streak and build on their 5-0 record in Charlie Morton's last 5 home starts against a team with a losing record. Pittsburgh is the pick (-160) according to Dunkel, which has the Pirates favored by 1 1/2. Dunkel Pick: Pittsburgh (-160). Here are all of today's picks.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28

Game 951-952: Chicago Cubs at LA Dodgers (3:10 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Cubs (Jackson) 14.934; LA Dodgers (Nolasco) 14.389
Dunkel Line: Chicago Cubs by 1/2; 8
Vegas Line: LA Dodgers (-230); 7 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Chicago Cubs (+190); Over

Game 953-954: Miami at Washington (7:05 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Miami (Alvarez) 14.562; Washington (Strasburg) 15.959
Dunkel Line: Washington by 1 1/2; 6
Vegas Line: Washington (-240); 7
Dunkel Pick: Washington (-240); Under

Game 955-956: Milwaukee at Pittsburgh (7:05 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Milwaukee (Gorzelanny) 14.558; Pittsburgh (Morton) 15.951
Dunkel Line: Pittsburgh by 1 1/2; 7
Vegas Line: Pittsburgh (-160); 7 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Pittsburgh (-160); Under

Game 957-958: Philadelphia at NY Mets (7:10 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Philadelphia (Hamels) 14.195; NY Mets (Matsuzaka) 15.282
Dunkel Line: NY Mets by 1; 8
Vegas Line: Philadelphia (-160); 7 1/2
Dunkel Pick: NY Mets (+140); Over

Game 959-960: Cincinnati at St. Louis (8:15 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Cincinnati (Bailey) 14.869; St. Louis (Wainwright) 16.386
Dunkel Line: St. Louis by 1 1/2; 7
Vegas Line: St. Louis (-160); 8
Dunkel Pick: St. Louis (-160); Under

Game 961-962: San Francisco at Colorado (8:40 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: San Francisco (Bumgarner) 15.756; Colorado (Chacin) 14.617
Dunkel Line: San Francisco by 1; 10
Vegas Line: Colorado (-110); 9
Dunkel Pick: San Francisco (-110); Over

Game 963-964: San Diego at Arizona (9:40 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: San Diego (Erlin) 15.726; Arizona (Miley) 14.606
Dunkel Line: San Diego by 1; 10
Vegas Line: Arizona (-180); 9
Dunkel Pick: San Diego (+160); Over

Game 965-966: Texas at Seattle (3:40 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Texas (Perez) 14.910; Seattle (Hernandez) 15.834
Dunkel Line: Seattle by 1; 6
Vegas Line: Seattle (-135); 7
Dunkel Pick: Seattle (-135); Under

Game 967-968: Oakland at Detroit (7:08 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Oakland (Straily) 16.543; Detroit (Fister) 15.419
Dunkel Line: Oakland by 1; 10
Vegas Line: Detroit (-170); 9
Dunkel Pick: Oakland (+150); Over

Game 969-970: NY Yankees at Toronto (7:07 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: NY Yankees (Kuroda) 15.273; Toronto (Redmond) 13.953
Dunkel Line: NY Yankees by 1 1/2; 8
Vegas Line: NY Yankees (-140); 8 1/2
Dunkel Pick: NY Yankees (-140); Under

Game 971-972: Baltimore at Boston (7:10 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Baltimore (Norris) 16.789; Boston (Lackey) 15.697
Dunkel Line: Baltimore by 1; 10
Vegas Line: Boston (-165); 9
Dunkel Pick: Baltimore (+145); Over

Game 973-974: LA Angels at Tampa Bay (7:10 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: LA Angels (Richards) 15.476; Tampa Bay (Archer) 16.982
Dunkel Line: Tampa Bay by 1 1/2; 6
Vegas Line: Tampa Bay (-175); 7 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Tampa Bay (-175); Under

Game 975-976: Kansas City at Minnesota (8:10 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Kansas City (Duffy) 16.256; Minnesota (Albers) 14.350
Dunkel Line: Kansas City by 2; 8
Vegas Line: Kansas City (-125); 9
Dunkel Pick: Kansas City (-125); Under

Game 977-978: Houston at Chicago White Sox (8:10 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Houston (Cosart) 16.261; White Sox (Sale) 15.289
Dunkel Line: Houston by 1; 8
Vegas Line: Chicago White Sox (-220); 7 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Houston (+180); Over

Game 979-980: Cleveland at Atlanta (7:10 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Cleveland (Masterson) 16.167; Atlanta (Maholm) 15.030
Dunkel Line: Cleveland by 1; 8
Vegas Line: Atlanta (-120); 7 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Cleveland (+100); Over

[StarDust Bum]

MLB
Armadillo's Write-Up

Wednesday, August 28

Hot pitchers
-- Nolasco is 4-0, 2.97 in his last five starts.
-- Strasburg is 1-0, 2.81 in his last four starts.
-- Morton is 2-0, 2.60 in his last four starts.
-- Hamels is 1-0, 1.89 in his last five starts.
-- Wainwright is 2-0, 1.96 in his last three starts. Bailey is 3-0, 3.34 in his last five outings.
-- Chacin is 3-2, 2.29 in his last five starts.
-- Miley is 3-0, 2.36 in his last six starts.

-- Masterson is 4-2, 3.04 in his last seven starts.

-- Hernandez is 1-1, 1.29 in his last two home starts. Perez is 4-0, 3.07 in his last four outings.
-- Fister is 5-1, 2.56 in his last eight starts.
-- Lackey is 1-0, 2.70 in his last couple home starts.
-- Richards is 1-1, 0.89 in his last three road starts. Archer is 1-0, 1.93 in his last couple starts.
-- Cosart is 1-1, 1.80 in seven starts this season.
-- Kansas City won both Duffy starts (1-0, 1.86).

Cold pitchers
-- Jackson is 0-2, 8.18 in his last four starts.
-- Alvarez is 0-2, 5.76 in his last four starts.
-- Gorzelanny is 0-1, 12.97 in his last couple starts.
-- Matsuzaka allowed five runs in five IP in his first start for the Mets.
-- Giants lost last four Bumgarner starts (0-2, 4.50).
-- Erlin is 0-2, 9.64 in his last three starts, last of which was July 7.

-- Maholm is 0-3, 9.95 in his last four starts.

-- Kuroda is 1-3, 5.19 in his last four starts. Toronto lost last four Redmond starts (0-1, 5.89).
-- Straily is 0-4, 6.75 in his last six starts.
-- Norris has a 7.63 RA in his last three starts, but Baltimore won all five of his starts (3-0, 5.08).
-- Albers is 0-1, 7.11 in his last two starts.
-- Sale is 3-4, 4.13 in his last seven starts.

Starting Pitchers/First Inning
You can wager on whether teams will score in the first inning. Below is how often a starting pitcher has allowed 1+ runs in first inning in one of his starts........
-- Jackson 9-26; Nolasco 7-26
-- Alvarez 1-9; Strasburg 6-25
-- Gorzelanny 3-9; Morton 2-13
-- Hamels 4-27 (1 of last 17); Matsuzaka 1-1
-- Bailey 3-26 (0 of last 8); Wainwright 7-27 (3 of last 7)
-- Bumgarner 3-26 (0 of last 6); Chacin 2-25 (0 of last 20)
-- Erlin 2-4; Miley 8-26 (4 of last 8)

-- Masterson 5-27; Maholm 6-21 (3 of last 5

-- Perez 6-13; Hernandez 4-27 (1 of last 14)
-- Straily 5-21; Fister 6-27 (1 of last 8)
-- Kuroda 6-26 (0 of last 9); Redmond 2-8
-- Norris 10-24 (3 of last 3); Lackey 9-23 (3 of last 6)
-- Richards 1-10; Archer 5-16 (3 of last 4)
-- Duffy 1-2; Albers 1-4
-- Cosart 2-7; Sale 8-25

Totals
-- Five of last six Washington games went over the total.
-- Seven of last eight Milwaukee games went over total.
-- Under is 12-3-1 in last sixteen Philadelphia games.
-- Last four Bailey starts went over the total.
-- Under is 7-0-1 in last eight Colorado games.
-- Four of last six San Diego games stayed under total.
-- Under is 15-5-2 in last 22 Dodger home games.

-- Five of last six Atlanta games stayed under the total.

-- Six of last seven Oakland games went over the total.
-- 12 of last 16 Toronto games stayed under the total.
-- Five of last seven Angel games stayed under the total.
-- Eight of last eleven Baltimore games went over the total.
-- Nine of last 12 White Sox games stayed under the total; eight of last eleven Houston games went over the total.
-- Four of last five Kansas City games went over the total.
-- Over is 6-3-1 in last ten Seattle home games.

Hot teams
-- Nationals won six of their last seven games.
-- Brewers are 8-4 in their last twelve road games.
-- St Louis won nine of its last eleven games.
-- Phillies won seven of their last ten games.
-- Colorado won seven of its last nine home games.
-- Arizona won eight of its last ten home games.
-- Dodgers are 47-13 in last 60 games, 5-5 in last ten.

-- Atlanta won five of its last six home games. Indians won five of their last seven games overall.

-- Oakland won three of its last four games.
-- Angels won last four games, outscoring foes 20-7.
-- Red Sox won four of their last five games.
-- White Sox won nine of their last 11 games. Houston won three of last five.
-- Kansas City won its last three games, scoring 23 runs.
-- Texas won 21 of its last 27 games.

Cold teams
-- Marlins lost five of their last six games.
-- Pirates lost ten of their last sixteen games.
-- Mets lost seven of their last nine games.
-- Cincinnati lost three of its last four games.
-- Giants lost six of their last nine road games.
-- San Diego lost four of its last five road games.
-- Cubs lost 16 of their last 23 games.

-- Tigers lost four of their last five home games.
-- Rays lost their last three games, allowing 20 runs.
-- Orioles lost last four road games, allowing 27 runs.
-- Blue Jays lost 12 of their last 19 games. Bronx lost three of last five.
-- Mariners lost their last five games, outscored 26-8.
-- Twins lost eight of their last eleven games.

Umpires
-- Chi-LA-- 14 of last 16 Danley games stayed under total.
-- Mia-Wsh-- Four of last five Barry games went over total.
-- Mil-Pitt-- Under is 6-2-1 in last nine Davis games.
-- Phil-NY-- 11 of last 15 Hernandez games went over total.
-- Cin-StL-- Underdogs are 11-8 in last 19 TWelke games; over is 3-0-1 in his last four games behind the plate.
-- SF-Col-- Seven of last eight Cooper games stayed under total.
-- SD-Az-- Three of last four Blaser games stayed under the total.

-- Cle-Atl-- Last nine Joyce games stayed under the total.

-- Tex-Sea-- 10 of last 15 Scott games stayed under the total.
-- A's-Det-- Favorites won last seven Darling games, with four of last five going over the total.
-- NY-Tor-- Five of last six Wolcott games went over the total.
-- Balt-Bos-- Six of last seven Hudson games went over the total.
-- LA-TB-- Nine of last twelve Diaz games went over the total.
-- KC-Min-- Under is 12-6 in last 18 Wendelstedt games, with underdogs winning four of his last five games behind the plate.
-- Hst-Chi-- Underdogs won five of last six Culbreth games; under is 3-1-1 in his last five games behind the plate.

[StarDust Bum]

MLB

Wednesday, August 28

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Trend Report
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3:10 PM
CHI CUBS vs. LA DODGERS
Chi Cubs are 1-4 SU in their last 5 games when playing on the road against LA Dodgers
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Chi Cubs's last 9 games when playing on the road against LA Dodgers
LA Dodgers are 12-4 SU in their last 16 games at home
LA Dodgers are 19-6 SU in their last 25 games

3:40 PM
TEXAS vs. SEATTLE
Texas is 11-2 SU in its last 13 games on the road
Texas is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games when playing Seattle
Seattle is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Texas
Seattle is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games when playing Texas

7:05 PM
MIAMI vs. WASHINGTON
The total has gone UNDER in 13 of Miami's last 18 games on the road
Miami is 3-7 SU in its last 10 games when playing Washington
Washington is 7-3 SU in its last 10 games when playing Miami
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Washington's last 5 games when playing Miami

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

7:07 PM
NY YANKEES vs. TORONTO
NY Yankees are 11-1 SU in their last 12 games when playing Toronto
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of NY Yankees's last 5 games when playing Toronto
Toronto is 2-4 SU in their last 6 games when playing at home against NY Yankees
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Toronto's last 5 games at home

7:08 PM
OAKLAND vs. DETROIT
Oakland is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 8 of Oakland's last 9 games when playing on the road against Detroit
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Detroit's last 7 games at home
Detroit is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games at home

7:10 PM
CLEVELAND vs. ATLANTA
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Cleveland's last 7 games
Cleveland is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games when playing Atlanta
Atlanta is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games when playing Cleveland
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Atlanta's last 7 games when playing Cleveland

7:10 PM
BALTIMORE vs. BOSTON
Baltimore is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games when playing Boston
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Baltimore's last 9 games when playing on the road against Boston
Boston is 7-3 SU in its last 10 games at home
Boston is 4-11 SU in its last 15 games when playing at home against Baltimore

7:10 PM
LA ANGELS vs. TAMPA BAY
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of LA Angels's last 6 games when playing on the road against Tampa Bay
The total has gone OVER in 5 of LA Angels's last 7 games on the road
Tampa Bay is 18-7 SU in its last 25 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 15 of Tampa Bay's last 21 games at home

7:10 PM
PHILADELPHIA vs. NY METS
Philadelphia is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games when playing NY Mets
Philadelphia is 12-6 SU in its last 18 games when playing NY Mets
NY Mets are 4-2 SU in its last 6 games when playing Philadelphia
NY Mets are 3-8 SU in its last 11 games when playing at home against Philadelphia

8:10 PM
HOUSTON vs. CHI WHITE SOX
Houston is 5-2 SU in their last 7 games when playing Chi White Sox
Houston is 8-17 SU in its last 25 games
Chi White Sox are 2-5 SU in their last 7 games when playing Houston
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Chi White Sox's last 6 games when playing Houston

8:10 PM
KANSAS CITY vs. MINNESOTA
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Kansas City's last 5 games
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Kansas City's last 6 games on the road
Minnesota is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Minnesota's last 6 games at home

8:15 PM
CINCINNATI vs. ST. LOUIS
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Cincinnati's last 5 games when playing on the road against St. Louis
The total has gone UNDER in 11 of Cincinnati's last 15 games on the road
St. Louis is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games when playing Cincinnati
St. Louis is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games

8:40 PM
SAN FRANCISCO vs. COLORADO
San Francisco is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of San Francisco's last 5 games when playing on the road against Colorado
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Colorado's last 5 games
Colorado is 7-14 SU in its last 21 games when playing San Francisco

9:40 PM
SAN DIEGO vs. ARIZONA
San Diego is 1-4-1 SU in its last 6 games ,on the road
San Diego is 2-3-1 SU in its last 6 games ,when playing on the road against Arizona
Arizona is 6-11-1 SU in its last 18 games ,when playing at home against San Diego
Arizona4-0-1 SU in its last 5 games at home

[StarDust Bum]

MLB

Wednesday, August 28

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Wednesday's MLB betting notes and tips
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NATIONAL

Chicago Cubs at Los Angeles Dodgers (-225, 8)

Cold pitching stat: Cubs right-hander Edwin Jackson has struggled of late, going 0-2 in his previous four starts while surrendering 20 runs over that stretch.

Hot batting stat: Chicago C Dioner Navarro has seven hits in 15 career-at bats against Dodgers starter Ricky Nolasco, with two double and a homer.

Weather: Clear skies are expected with temperatures in the mid-80s. Wind will blow out to right-center field at 4 mph.

Key betting note: The Dodgers are 8-1 in their last nine Wednesday games.

Milwaukee Brewers at Pittsburgh Pirates (-161, 8)

Hot pitching stat: Pirates right-hander Charlie Morton is enjoying his best stretch of the season, posting four consecutive quality starts while allowing just seven runs over 27 2/3 innings in that span.

Cold batting stat: Pittsburgh 3B Pedro Alvarez is 1-for-5 with three strikeouts in his career against Brewers starter Tom Gorzelanny.

Weather: Temperatures will be in the mid-70s with a 60 percent chance of showers or thunderstorms that will taper off by 8 pm. Wind will blow from left to right field at 4 mph.

Key betting note: The under is 14-3 in Morton's last 17 home starts.

Miami Marlins at Washington Nationals (-260, 7)

Cold pitching stat: Nationals right-hander Stephen Strasburg had one of the worst starts of his career in his last encounter with Miami, lasting just two innings while allowing seven runs on five hits and four walks.

Hot batting stat: Miami slugger Giancarlo Stanton has had the upper hand on Strasburg to date, going 7-for-17 with two homers and five RBIs in his career.

Weather: There is a 35 percent chance of thunderstorms in the forecast. Temperatures will be in the mid-80s while wind will be calm.

Key betting note: The under is 6-1-1 in Strasburg's last eight Wednesday starts.

Philadelphia Phillies at New York Mets (+137, 7.5)

Hot pitching stat: Phillies left-hander Cole Hamels has surrendered a paltry 10 runs over his last six starts, though he's only 1-1 over that stretch.

Cold batting stat: Hamels has dominated Mets OF Lucas Duda, who is just 1-for-13 with seven strikeouts against him.

Weather: Temperatures will be in the high-70s with a 30 percent chance of showers or thunderstorms. Wind will blow out to left field at 5 mph.

Key betting note: The Mets have lost seven consecutive games against left-handed starters.

Cincinnati Reds at St. Louis Cardinals (-149, 7.5)

Cold pitching stat: Reds right-hander homer Bailey is just 3-9 with a 5.61 ERA in 15 career starts against the Cardinals.

Cold batting stat: Cardinals starter Adam Wainwright is one of the few pitchers to have contained Cincinnati 1B Joey Votto, holding him to three hits in 23 at-bats against him.

Weather: Temperatures will be in the high-80s with sunny skies. Wind will blow out to right field at 5 mph.

Key betting note: Cincinnati has lost Bailey's last seven road starts against St. Louis.

San Francisco Giants at Colorado Rockies (-104, 9)

Hot pitching stat: Giants right-hander Madison Bumgarner was masterful in his last encounter with the Rockies, limiting them to a run on four hits over seven innings of a 5-2 win.

Hot batting stat: San Francisco C Buster Posey has seven hits in 13 career at-bats against Colorado starter Jhoulys Chacin.

Weather: Temperatures will be in the mid-80s under partly cloudy skies. Wind will be calm.

Key betting note: The Giants have won just twice in their last 14 Wednesday games.

San Diego Padres at Arizona Diamondbacks (-177, 8.5)

Hot pitching stat: Diamondbacks right-hander Wade Miley has surrendered three runs or fewer in 14 of his last 15 starts, and has given up just three home runs in his previous seven outings.

Hot batting stat: Padres SS Everth Cabrera has eight hits - including a triple and a homer - in 14 career at-bats against Miley, and went 2-for-3 with a walk in their last encounter June 15.

Weather: Temperatures will be in the high-90s under mostly cloudy skies. Wind will blow from left to right field at 4 mph.

Key betting note: The over is 6-0 in umpire Cory Blaser's last six games behind home plate.


AMERICAN

Texas Rangers at Seattle Mariners (-153, 7)

Cold pitching stat: Mariners right-hander Felix Hernandez allowed five runs over five innings in his last encounter with the Rangers, falling to 12-19 against them in his career.

Hot batting stat: Rangers OF David Murphy is a .329 career hitter with three homers and 16 RBIs in 73 at-bats against Hernandez.

Weather: Temperatures will be in the low-70s under mostly cloudy skies. Wind will blow from left to right field at 4 mph.

Key betting note: Seattle is 1-9 in Hernandez's last 10 home starts against teams with winning records.

Oakland Athletics at Detroit Tigers (-161, 8.5)

Hot pitching stat: Tigers right-hander Doug Fister is 5-4 with a 2.45 ERA and just three home runs allowed in 66 career innings against the Athletics.

Hot batting stat: Detroit OF Torii Hunter, the only Tigers batter to have faced Athletics starter Dan Straily, is 4-for-7 with a pair of solo home runs against him.

Weather: Temperatures will be in the low-80s with partly cloudy skies. Wind will blow from left to right field at 6 mph.

Key betting note: Detroit has won seven consecutive Wednesday games.

New York Yankees at Toronto Blue Jays (+123, 9)

Cold pitching stat: Yankees right-hander Hiroki Kuroda has been dreadful in back-to-back road starts, surrendering 12 runs over 11 2/3 innings in losses to Boston and Tampa Bay.

Hot batting stat: Blue Jays SS Jose Reyes is 7-for-15 with a double and two triples in his career against Kuroda.

Weather: Temperatures will be in the mid-70s with sunny skies. Wind will blow in from right field at 4 mph.

Key betting note: The under is 22-5-1 in Kuroda's last 28 road starts.

Baltimore Orioles at Boston Red Sox (-141, 9.5)

Hot pitching stat: Red Sox right-hander John Lackey is 12-5 with a 3.48 ERA in 142 1/3 career innings against the Orioles.

Hot batting stat: Every member of the Boston roster to have faced Orioles starter Bud Norris has at least one hit against him except for OF Jacoby Ellsbury, who is 0-for-4.

Weather: There will be a 25 percent chance of showers or thunderstorms at gametime. Temperatures will be in the low-70s with wind blowing from right to left field at 4 mph.

Key betting note: The under is 9-1-1 in Lackey's last 11 starts against a team with a winning record.

Los Angeles Angels at Tampa Bay Rays (-161, 8)

Hot pitching stat: Rays right-hander Chris Archer is coming off back-to-back impressive outings, allowing a combined three runs on eight hits in 14 innings against the New York Yankees and Toronto Blue Jays.

Hot batting stat: Angels OF Mike Trout will bat better than .300 for a career-best fourth consecutive month.

Weather: Dome.

Key betting note: The under is 11-2 in Tampa Bay's last 13 Wednesday games.

Kansas City Royals at Minnesota Twins (+122, 8)

Cold pitching stat: Royals left-hander Bruce Chen is coming off consecutive rough outings against Detroit and Washington, surrendering 13 runs over nine innings in that span.

Cold batting stat: Twins 1B Justin Morneau is 5-for-22 with seven strikeouts in his career against Chen.

Weather: Temperatures will be in the mid-80s with partly cloudy skies. Wind will blow in from center field at 5 mph.

Key betting note: Kansas City is 6-0 in Chen's last six Wednesday starts.

Houston Astros at Chicago White Sox (-205, 7.5)

Hot pitching stat: Astros right-hander Jarred Cosart has yet to allow more than three runs in any of his first seven major-league starts.

Cold batting stat: Members of the Houston roster are a combined 7-for-38 with 16 strikeouts against Chicago starter Chris Sale.

Weather: Temperatures will be in the low-70s with partly cloudy skies. Wind will blow from left to right field at 10 mph.

Key betting note: Chicago is 6-1 in Sale's last seven home starts against a team with a losing record.


INTERLEAGUE

Cleveland Indians at Atlanta Braves (-112, 7.5)

Hot pitching stat: Indians right-hander Justin Masterson has been strong in back-to-back road starts, allowing four runs over 14 1/3 innings against Oakland and the Los Angeles Angels.

Hot batting stat: Braves OF B.J. Upton is 4-for-10 with a home run and four walks in his career against Masterson.

Weather: Temperatures will be in the low-80s with partly cloudy skies. Wind will blow from left to right field at 5 mph.

Key betting note: Cleveland has won 12 of its last 15 games against a lefty starter.


** Odds, probable starting pitchers, weather forecast and stats as of 1:15 p.m. ET Tuesday.

[StarDust Bum]

MLB
Long Sheet

Wednesday, August 28

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CHICAGO CUBS (56 - 76) at LA DODGERS (77 - 55) - 3:10 PM
EDWIN JACKSON (R) vs. RICKY NOLASCO (R)
Top Trends for this game.
CHICAGO CUBS are 117-177 (-33.4 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
CHICAGO CUBS are 15-39 (-17.9 Units) against the money line in August games over the last 2 seasons.
CHICAGO CUBS are 23-38 (-12.5 Units) against the money line in day games this season.
CHICAGO CUBS are 81-132 (-33.5 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
CHICAGO CUBS are 19-36 (-15.3 Units) against the money line after a win this season.
CHICAGO CUBS are 25-48 (-13.2 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
JACKSON is 21-36 (-16.0 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
JACKSON is 20-36 (-17.5 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
LA DODGERS are 77-55 (+10.0 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
LA DODGERS are 20-6 (+12.5 Units) against the money line in August games this season.
LA DODGERS are 74-55 (+6.7 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
LA DODGERS are 54-34 (+13.8 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters this season.
LA DODGERS are 40-17 (+14.3 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record this season.
LA DODGERS are 23-7 (+12.8 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record in the second half of the season this season.
CHICAGO CUBS are 31-35 (+9.2 Units) against the money line in road games this season.
CHICAGO CUBS are 31-35 (+9.2 Units) against the money line in road games in games played on a grass field this season.
LA DODGERS are 12-22 (-16.9 Units) against the money line in home games when playing on Wednesday over the last 3 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
LA DODGERS is 5-1 (+2.1 Units) against CHICAGO CUBS this season
4 of 6 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL this season . (Under=+1.9 Units)

EDWIN JACKSON vs. LA DODGERS since 1997
JACKSON is 3-1 when starting against LA DODGERS with an ERA of 3.62 and a WHIP of 1.361.
His team's record is 3-2 (+1.4 units) in these starts. The OVER is 3-2. (+0.8 units)

RICKY NOLASCO vs. CHICAGO CUBS since 1997
NOLASCO is 5-2 when starting against CHICAGO CUBS with an ERA of 3.30 and a WHIP of 1.151.
His team's record is 6-3 (+2.8 units) in these starts. The OVER is 6-3. (+3.0 units)

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MIAMI (49 - 81) at WASHINGTON (66 - 65) - 7:05 PM
HENDERSON ALVAREZ (R) vs. STEPHEN STRASBURG (R)
Top Trends for this game.
MIAMI is 118-174 (-37.8 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
MIAMI is 25-47 (-21.4 Units) against the money line when playing on Wednesday over the last 3 seasons.
MIAMI is 117-170 (-34.9 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
MIAMI is 77-121 (-32.9 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
MIAMI is 65-106 (-29.5 Units) against the money line after a loss over the last 2 seasons.
WASHINGTON is 32-15 (+16.3 Units) against the money line when playing on Wednesday over the last 2 seasons.
WASHINGTON is 164-136 (+24.0 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 3 seasons.
MIAMI is 335-378 (+42.2 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record in the second half of the season since 1997.
WASHINGTON is 66-65 (-12.0 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
WASHINGTON is 66-65 (-12.0 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
WASHINGTON is 44-49 (-17.2 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters this season.
STRASBURG is 10-15 (-11.3 Units) against the money line in all games this season. (Team's Record)
STRASBURG is 10-15 (-11.3 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season. (Team's Record)
STRASBURG is 12-16 (-12.9 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)

Head-to-Head Series History
WASHINGTON is 7-3 (+2.8 Units) against MIAMI this season
6 of 9 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL this season . (Under=+2.7 Units)

HENDERSON ALVAREZ vs. WASHINGTON since 1997
ALVAREZ is 0-1 when starting against WASHINGTON with an ERA of 3.95 and a WHIP of 1.463.
His team's record is 0-2 (-2.5 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 2-0. (+2.0 units)

STEPHEN STRASBURG vs. MIAMI since 1997
STRASBURG is 5-3 when starting against MIAMI with an ERA of 3.77 and a WHIP of 1.204.
His team's record is 6-5 (-3.8 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 7-4. (+2.4 units)

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MILWAUKEE (58 - 73) at PITTSBURGH (76 - 55) - 7:05 PM
TOM GORZELANNY (L) vs. CHARLIE MORTON (R)
Top Trends for this game.
MILWAUKEE is 141-152 (-21.3 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
MILWAUKEE is 141-152 (-21.3 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
PITTSBURGH is 76-55 (+22.4 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
PITTSBURGH is 42-23 (+14.7 Units) against the money line in home games this season.
PITTSBURGH is 15-5 (+11.1 Units) against the money line when playing on Wednesday this season.
PITTSBURGH is 31-21 (+12.0 Units) against the money line against division opponents this season.
PITTSBURGH is 76-55 (+22.4 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
PITTSBURGH is 51-31 (+19.2 Units) against the money line in night games this season.
PITTSBURGH is 32-22 (+10.6 Units) against the money line after a loss this season.
PITTSBURGH is 47-25 (+19.8 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record this season.
MILWAUKEE is 49-30 (+20.8 Units) against the money line in August games over the last 3 seasons.
MILWAUKEE is 102-88 (+11.3 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons.
MILWAUKEE is 35-27 (+14.2 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.
PITTSBURGH is 37-41 (-27.6 Units) against the money line as a home favorite of -150 to -175 since 1997.
PITTSBURGH is 30-52 (-24.8 Units) against the money line in August games over the last 3 seasons.
PITTSBURGH is 37-44 (-19.4 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record in the second half of the season over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
PITTSBURGH is 9-5 (+4.1 Units) against MILWAUKEE this season
7 of 13 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL this season . (Under=+0.4 Units)

TOM GORZELANNY vs. PITTSBURGH since 1997
GORZELANNY is 1-0 when starting against PITTSBURGH with an ERA of 2.19 and a WHIP of 1.459.
His team's record is 3-2 (-0.7 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 4-1. (+2.9 units)

CHARLIE MORTON vs. MILWAUKEE since 1997
MORTON is 0-4 when starting against MILWAUKEE with an ERA of 6.25 and a WHIP of 1.611.
His team's record is 2-5 (-2.7 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 4-2. (+1.7 units)

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PHILADELPHIA (60 - 72) at NY METS (59 - 71) - 7:10 PM
COLE HAMELS (L) vs. DAISUKE MATSUZAKA (R)
Top Trends for this game.
PHILADELPHIA is 60-72 (-16.8 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
PHILADELPHIA is 6-15 (-10.8 Units) against the money line when playing on Wednesday this season.
PHILADELPHIA is 60-72 (-16.8 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
PHILADELPHIA is 67-82 (-23.5 Units) against the money line after a loss over the last 2 seasons.
PHILADELPHIA is 27-34 (-13.2 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record this season.
HAMELS is 9-18 (-14.4 Units) against the money line in all games this season. (Team's Record)
HAMELS is 55-52 (-23.9 Units) against the money line against division opponents since 1997. (Team's Record)
HAMELS is 9-18 (-14.4 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season. (Team's Record)
HAMELS is 4-13 (-13.4 Units) against the money line in night games this season. (Team's Record)
HAMELS is 3-10 (-11.9 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record this season. (Team's Record)
NY METS are 7-22 (-12.9 Units) against the money line as a home underdog of +125 to +150 over the last 2 seasons.
NY METS are 27-37 (-14.7 Units) against the money line in home games this season.
NY METS are 279-293 (-84.9 Units) against the money line in home games against division opponents since 1997.
NY METS are 27-37 (-14.7 Units) against the money line in home games in games played on a grass field this season.
NY METS are 34-50 (-23.1 Units) against the money line in home games in night games over the last 2 seasons.
NY METS are 19-34 (-17.7 Units) against the money line in home games against left-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
NY METS are 9-17 (-10.6 Units) against the money line in home games after a win this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
PHILADELPHIA is 8-6 (+1.0 Units) against NY METS this season
8 of 14 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=+1.8 Units)

COLE HAMELS vs. NY METS since 1997
HAMELS is 6-12 when starting against NY METS with an ERA of 4.38 and a WHIP of 1.459.
His team's record is 9-15 (-12.4 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 10-12. (-3.6 units)

DAISUKE MATSUZAKA vs. PHILADELPHIA since 1997
MATSUZAKA is 1-0 when starting against PHILADELPHIA with an ERA of 3.00 and a WHIP of 1.083.
His team's record is 2-0 (+2.2 units) in these starts. The OVER is 1-1. (-0.2 units)

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

CINCINNATI (74 - 59) at ST LOUIS (78 - 54) - 8:15 PM
HOMER BAILEY (R) vs. ADAM WAINWRIGHT (R)
Top Trends for this game.
CINCINNATI is 15-21 (-9.6 Units) against the money line in road games after a loss this season.
CINCINNATI is 26-32 (-11.1 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
BAILEY is 12-23 (-15.1 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
ST LOUIS is 63-34 (+18.5 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters this season.
ST LOUIS is 206-133 (+51.3 Units) against the money line in home games when playing against a team with a winning record in the second half of the season since 1997.
CINCINNATI is 173-127 (+13.9 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
CINCINNATI is 648-720 (+54.5 Units) against the money line in road games since 1997.
CINCINNATI is 310-333 (+31.2 Units) against the money line in road games against division opponents since 1997.
CINCINNATI is 173-127 (+13.9 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
CINCINNATI is 422-468 (+33.5 Units) against the money line in road games in night games since 1997.
CINCINNATI is 467-517 (+45.1 Units) against the money line in road games against right-handed starters since 1997.
ST LOUIS is 91-80 (-12.9 Units) against the money line after a win over the last 2 seasons.
ST LOUIS is 63-69 (-20.5 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
ST LOUIS is 10-4 (+6.0 Units) against CINCINNATI this season
8 of 14 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=+1.5 Units)

HOMER BAILEY vs. ST LOUIS since 1997
BAILEY is 3-9 when starting against ST LOUIS with an ERA of 5.61 and a WHIP of 1.563.
His team's record is 3-12 (-10.0 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 8-6. (+1.0 units)

ADAM WAINWRIGHT vs. CINCINNATI since 1997
WAINWRIGHT is 5-7 when starting against CINCINNATI with an ERA of 4.12 and a WHIP of 1.220.
His team's record is 6-7 (-3.4 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 5-6. (-1.8 units)

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

SAN FRANCISCO (59 - 73) at COLORADO (62 - 72) - 8:40 PM
MADISON BUMGARNER (L) vs. JHOULYS CHACIN (R)
Top Trends for this game.
SAN FRANCISCO is 59-73 (-25.3 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
SAN FRANCISCO is 6-14 (-11.2 Units) against the money line when playing on Wednesday this season.
SAN FRANCISCO is 58-69 (-22.5 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
SAN FRANCISCO is 36-47 (-17.6 Units) against the money line in night games this season.
SAN FRANCISCO is 42-47 (-13.6 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters this season.
SAN FRANCISCO is 25-38 (-22.9 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record this season.
SAN FRANCISCO is 199-177 (+37.6 Units) against the money line on the road when the total is 9 to 9.5 since 1997.
SAN FRANCISCO is 75-49 (+20.7 Units) against the money line against division opponents over the last 2 seasons.
SAN FRANCISCO is 27-12 (+14.3 Units) against the money line in road games when playing against a team with a losing record in the second half of the season over the last 2 seasons.
COLORADO is 126-170 (-31.9 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
COLORADO is 57-78 (-26.8 Units) against the money line when the total is 9 to 9.5 over the last 3 seasons.
COLORADO is 110-117 (-30.4 Units) against the money line in home games over the last 3 seasons.
COLORADO is 199-258 (-60.3 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 3 seasons.
COLORADO is 33-64 (-28.6 Units) against the money line against left-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
COLORADO is 31-36 (-12.9 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
SAN FRANCISCO is 8-7 (+0.4 Units) against COLORADO this season
8 of 15 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL this season . (Under=+0.5 Units)

MADISON BUMGARNER vs. COLORADO since 1997
BUMGARNER is 7-4 when starting against COLORADO with an ERA of 3.07 and a WHIP of 1.318.
His team's record is 10-4 (+5.9 units) in these starts. The OVER is 5-8. (-3.4 units)

JHOULYS CHACIN vs. SAN FRANCISCO since 1997
CHACIN is 4-5 when starting against SAN FRANCISCO with an ERA of 4.02 and a WHIP of 1.308.
His team's record is 4-7 (-3.6 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 7-4. (+2.8 units)

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

SAN DIEGO (59 - 73) at ARIZONA (68 - 63) - 9:40 PM
ROBBIE ERLIN (L) vs. WADE MILEY (L)
Top Trends for this game.
ARIZONA is 68-63 (+3.4 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
SAN DIEGO is 135-156 (+2.5 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
SAN DIEGO is 8-6 (+3.3 Units) against ARIZONA this season
8 of 14 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=+2.2 Units)

ROBBIE ERLIN vs. ARIZONA since 1997
No recent starts.

WADE MILEY vs. SAN DIEGO since 1997
MILEY is 1-5 when starting against SAN DIEGO with an ERA of 6.57 and a WHIP of 1.670.
His team's record is 2-5 (-3.6 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 1-6. (-5.6 units)

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

TEXAS (77 - 55) at SEATTLE (59 - 72) - 3:40 PM
MARTIN PEREZ (L) vs. FELIX HERNANDEZ (R)
Top Trends for this game.
TEXAS is 92-77 (-17.2 Units) against the money line after a win over the last 2 seasons.
TEXAS is 226-185 (+39.7 Units) against the money line when playing on Wednesday since 1997.
TEXAS is 43-16 (+18.6 Units) against the money line against division opponents this season.
TEXAS is 38-26 (+10.4 Units) against the money line in road games in games played on a grass field this season.
SEATTLE is 9-18 (-16.1 Units) against the money line as a home favorite of -125 to -150 over the last 2 seasons.
SEATTLE is 31-37 (-12.5 Units) against the money line in home games this season.
SEATTLE is 2-9 (-9.7 Units) against the money line in home games in August games this season.
SEATTLE is 31-37 (-12.5 Units) against the money line in home games in games played on a grass field this season.
SEATTLE is 28-45 (-20.3 Units) against the money line in home games against left-handed starters over the last 3 seasons.
HERNANDEZ is 13-19 (-10.9 Units) against the money line after a loss over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)

Head-to-Head Series History
TEXAS is 11-7 (+0.5 Units) against SEATTLE this season
7 of 15 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=-0.9 Units, Under=-0.4 Units)

MARTIN PEREZ vs. SEATTLE since 1997
PEREZ is 1-1 when starting against SEATTLE with an ERA of 3.31 and a WHIP of 1.653.
His team's record is 2-1 (+0.8 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 0-3. (-3.5 units)

FELIX HERNANDEZ vs. TEXAS since 1997
HERNANDEZ is 12-19 when starting against TEXAS with an ERA of 3.94 and a WHIP of 1.296.
His team's record is 15-23 (-15.1 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 19-15. (+2.1 units)

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

OAKLAND (74 - 57) at DETROIT (77 - 55) - 7:05 PM
DANIEL STRAILY (R) vs. DOUG FISTER (R)
Top Trends for this game.
DETROIT is 27-6 (+16.0 Units) against the money line as a home favorite of -175 to -200 over the last 2 seasons.
OAKLAND is 74-57 (+8.6 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
OAKLAND is 79-71 (+20.6 Units) against the money line in road games over the last 2 seasons.
OAKLAND is 274-203 (+63.5 Units) against the money line in August games since 1997.
OAKLAND is 71-53 (+9.6 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
OAKLAND is 46-32 (+9.0 Units) against the money line in night games this season.
OAKLAND is 115-81 (+37.0 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
OAKLAND is 102-67 (+34.8 Units) against the money line after a win over the last 2 seasons.
OAKLAND is 84-68 (+27.0 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
OAKLAND is 39-31 (+13.4 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.
DETROIT is 172-135 (-19.1 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
DETROIT is 117-137 (-44.1 Units) against the money line in home games in August games since 1997.
DETROIT is 164-129 (-20.2 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
OAKLAND is 3-2 (+2.1 Units) against DETROIT this season
4 of 5 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=+3.0 Units)

DANIEL STRAILY vs. DETROIT since 1997
No recent starts.

DOUG FISTER vs. OAKLAND since 1997
FISTER is 5-4 when starting against OAKLAND with an ERA of 2.47 and a WHIP of 1.205.
His team's record is 6-6 (+0.8 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 6-5. (+0.4 units)

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

NY YANKEES (70 - 62) at TORONTO (59 - 74) - 7:05 PM
HIROKI KURODA (R) vs. TODD REDMOND (R)
Top Trends for this game.
NY YANKEES are 47-59 (-15.3 Units) against the money line in road games in night games over the last 2 seasons.
KURODA is 6-14 (-10.0 Units) against the money line in road games in night games over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
NY YANKEES are 70-62 (+5.8 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
TORONTO is 59-74 (-14.6 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
TORONTO is 18-29 (-10.5 Units) against the money line when the total is 8 to 8.5 this season.
TORONTO is 22-38 (-14.0 Units) against the money line against division opponents this season.
TORONTO is 33-49 (-15.3 Units) against the money line in night games this season.
TORONTO is 36-39 (-9.1 Units) against the money line in games played on artificial turf this season.
TORONTO is 43-55 (-10.2 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters this season.
TORONTO is 68-94 (-21.3 Units) against the money line after a loss over the last 2 seasons.
TORONTO is 85-120 (-23.6 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
TORONTO is 9-25 (-15.1 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record in the second half of the season this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
NY YANKEES is 13-2 (+11.1 Units) against TORONTO this season
8 of 14 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL this season . (Under=+1.4 Units)

HIROKI KURODA vs. TORONTO since 1997
KURODA is 4-1 when starting against TORONTO with an ERA of 3.03 and a WHIP of 1.035.
His team's record is 5-1 (+3.7 units) in these starts. The OVER is 1-4. (-3.4 units)

TODD REDMOND vs. NY YANKEES since 1997
No recent starts.

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

BALTIMORE (70 - 60) at BOSTON (78 - 55) - 7:10 PM
BUD NORRIS (R) vs. JOHN LACKEY (R)
Top Trends for this game.
BOSTON is 78-55 (+11.4 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
BALTIMORE is 70-60 (+4.4 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
BALTIMORE is 77-56 (+21.5 Units) against the money line when the total is 9 to 9.5 over the last 2 seasons.
BALTIMORE is 17-11 (+16.3 Units) against the money line as a road underdog of +150 to +175 over the last 2 seasons.
BALTIMORE is 80-68 (+31.3 Units) against the money line in road games over the last 2 seasons.
BALTIMORE is 32-21 (+19.2 Units) against the money line on the road when the total is 9 to 9.5 over the last 2 seasons.
BALTIMORE is 70-58 (+21.5 Units) against the money line against division opponents over the last 2 seasons.
BALTIMORE is 65-52 (+6.4 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
BALTIMORE is 113-93 (+25.4 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons.
BALTIMORE is 52-37 (+12.9 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters this season.
BALTIMORE is 36-23 (+11.0 Units) against the money line after a loss this season.
BALTIMORE is 39-29 (+10.8 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
BOSTON is 26-27 (-10.0 Units) against the money line when the total is 9 to 9.5 this season.
BOSTON is 75-70 (-19.3 Units) against the money line in home games over the last 2 seasons.
BOSTON is 33-41 (-22.3 Units) against the money line at home when the total is 9 to 9.5 over the last 2 seasons.
BOSTON is 22-31 (-16.5 Units) against the money line in August games over the last 2 seasons.
BOSTON is 25-38 (-25.1 Units) against the money line in home games against division opponents over the last 2 seasons.
BOSTON is 128-134 (-33.4 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
BOSTON is 100-110 (-29.2 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons.
BOSTON is 94-103 (-26.7 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
BOSTON is 462-344 (-56.7 Units) against the money line in home games after a win since 1997.
BOSTON is 74-93 (-26.5 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
BOSTON is 31-52 (-21.9 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.
LACKEY is 19-23 (-18.1 Units) against the money line as a home favorite of -150 to -175 since 1997. (Team's Record)

Head-to-Head Series History
BALTIMORE is 6-5 (+1.3 Units) against BOSTON this season
7 of 10 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL this season . (Under=+3.5 Units)

BUD NORRIS vs. BOSTON since 1997
NORRIS is 0-1 when starting against BOSTON with an ERA of 5.25 and a WHIP of 1.583.
His team's record is 0-2 (-2.0 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 1-1. (-0.1 units)

JOHN LACKEY vs. BALTIMORE since 1997
LACKEY is 12-5 when starting against BALTIMORE with an ERA of 3.48 and a WHIP of 1.265.
His team's record is 14-7 (+3.3 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 14-6. (+7.7 units)

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

LA ANGELS (59 - 71) at TAMPA BAY (74 - 56) - 7:10 PM
GARRETT RICHARDS (R) vs. CHRIS ARCHER (R)
Top Trends for this game.
LA ANGELS are 59-71 (-28.6 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
LA ANGELS are 39-55 (-29.8 Units) against the money line in night games this season.
LA ANGELS are 46-50 (-15.7 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters this season.
LA ANGELS are 26-41 (-18.2 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
TAMPA BAY is 102-44 (+30.8 Units) against the money line as a home favorite of -150 to -175 since 1997.
TAMPA BAY is 113-62 (+31.0 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 3 seasons.
LA ANGELS are 693-684 (+57.7 Units) against the money line in road games since 1997.

Head-to-Head Series History
LA ANGELS is 1-0 (+1.2 Units) against TAMPA BAY this season
1 of 1 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=+1.0 Units)

GARRETT RICHARDS vs. TAMPA BAY since 1997
No recent starts.

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

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

KANSAS CITY (67 - 64) at MINNESOTA (57 - 73) - 8:10 PM
DANNY DUFFY (L) vs. ANDREW ALBERS (L)
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
KANSAS CITY is 13-4 (+7.7 Units) against MINNESOTA this season
10 of 17 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL this season . (Under=+2.5 Units)

DANNY DUFFY vs. MINNESOTA since 1997
DUFFY is 0-1 when starting against MINNESOTA with an ERA of 5.19 and a WHIP of 2.076.
His team's record is 1-1 (-0.6 units) in these starts. The OVER is 0-2. (-2.2 units)

ANDREW ALBERS vs. KANSAS CITY since 1997
ALBERS is 1-0 when starting against KANSAS CITY with an ERA of 0.00 and a WHIP of 0.600.
His team's record is 1-0 (+1.8 units) in these starts. The OVER is 0-1. (-1.3 units)

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

HOUSTON (44 - 87) at CHI WHITE SOX (55 - 76) - 8:10 PM
JARRED COSART (R) vs. CHRIS SALE (L)
Top Trends for this game.
HOUSTON is 99-193 (-42.7 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
HOUSTON is 68-161 (-45.0 Units) against the money line in road games over the last 3 seasons.
HOUSTON is 97-188 (-42.5 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
HOUSTON is 33-78 (-29.2 Units) against the money line in road games when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 3 seasons.
HOUSTON is 13-43 (-23.8 Units) against the money line in road games when playing against a team with a losing record in the second half of the season over the last 3 seasons.
HOUSTON is 12-8 (+12.9 Units) against the money line when playing on Wednesday this season.
CHI WHITE SOX are 55-76 (-18.8 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
CHI WHITE SOX are 112-115 (-26.4 Units) against the money line in home games over the last 3 seasons.
CHI WHITE SOX are 53-71 (-16.4 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
CHI WHITE SOX are 33-50 (-14.7 Units) against the money line in night games this season.
CHI WHITE SOX are 22-28 (-7.9 Units) against the money line in home games against right-handed starters this season.
CHI WHITE SOX are 23-38 (-18.9 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record this season.
CHI WHITE SOX are 2-8 (-8.6 Units) against the money line in home games when playing against a team with a losing record in the second half of the season this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
HOUSTON is 4-2 (+3.4 Units) against CHI WHITE SOX this season
4 of 6 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL this season . (Under=+1.6 Units)

JARRED COSART vs. CHI WHITE SOX since 1997
No recent starts.

CHRIS SALE vs. HOUSTON since 1997
SALE is 1-1 when starting against HOUSTON with an ERA of 0.00 and a WHIP of 0.688.
His team's record is 1-1 (-0.9 units) in these starts. The OVER is 1-1. (+0.0 units)

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

CLEVELAND (71 - 60) at ATLANTA (79 - 52) - 7:10 PM
JUSTIN MASTERSON (R) vs. PAUL MAHOLM (L)
Top Trends for this game.
CLEVELAND is 19-38 (-16.8 Units) against the money line as a road underdog of +100 to +125 over the last 2 seasons.
CLEVELAND is 17-36 (-17.9 Units) against the money line in August games over the last 2 seasons.
ATLANTA is 79-52 (+13.0 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
ATLANTA is 45-18 (+16.8 Units) against the money line in home games this season.
ATLANTA is 78-51 (+13.0 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
ATLANTA is 34-13 (+12.9 Units) against the money line in home games against right-handed starters this season.
ATLANTA is 107-66 (+25.2 Units) against the money line after a win over the last 2 seasons.
ATLANTA is 28-17 (+10.5 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
MAHOLM is 29-20 (+14.4 Units) against the money line in home games when playing against a team with a winning record since 1997. (Team's Record)
CLEVELAND is 71-60 (+15.4 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
CLEVELAND is 68-57 (+13.4 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
MAHOLM is 17-33 (-17.4 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 3 seasons. (Team's Record)

Head-to-Head Series History
ATLANTA is 1-0 (+1.0 Units) against CLEVELAND this season
1 of 1 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL this season . (Under=+1.0 Units)

JUSTIN MASTERSON vs. ATLANTA since 1997
No recent starts.

PAUL MAHOLM vs. CLEVELAND since 1997
MAHOLM is 0-2 when starting against CLEVELAND with an ERA of 4.42 and a WHIP of 1.364.
His team's record is 0-3 (-3.2 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 3-0. (+3.0 units)

[StarDust Bum]

MLB
Short Sheet

Wednesday, August 28

National League

Chicago Cubs at Los Angeles Dodgers, 3:10 ET
Jackson: Over is 6-2 in last eight road day starts for Jackson
Nolasco: Dodgers 7-2 SU when Nolasco starts

Miami at Washington, 7:05 ET
Alvarez: Under is 17-3-1 in last 20 road games for Marlins
Strasburg: Under is 7-1 in last eight home starts for Strasburg

Milwaukee at Pittsburgh, 7:05 ET
Gorzelanny: Team is 4-11 last 15 road games when Gorzelanny starts
Morton: Under is 14-3 last 17 home starts for Morton

Philadelphia at New York Mets, 7:10 ET
Hamels: Phillies 4-9 last 13 road starts for Hamels
Matsuzaka: Under is 4-1 last five times Mets have faced a southpaw at home

Cincinnati at St. Louis, 8:15 ET
Bailey: Under is 12-5-1 in last 18 Bailey road starts
Wainwright: Under is 9-3 in 2013 home starts for Wainwright

San Francisco at Colorado, 8:40 ET
Bumgarner: Under is 10-4 in last 14 Bumgarner road starts
Chacin: Rockies 8-2 SU in last 10 home starts for Chacin

San Diego at Arizona, 9:40 ET
Erlin: Padres 2-8 SU in last 10 road series finales
Miley: Diamondbacks 8-2 SU in 2013 home starts for Miley


American League

Texas at Seattle, 3:40 ET
Perez: Under is 3-0 when Perez starts during the day
Hernandez: Under is 6-2 in last eight home starts for Hernandez

Oakland at Detroit, 7:08 ET
Straily: Under is 4-1 in last five road starts for Straily
Fister: Tigers 6-2 SU when Fister starts a 2013 home night game

New York Yankees at Toronto, 7:07 ET
Kuroda: Under is 22-7 when Kuroda pitches on the road for Yankees
Redmond: Blue Jays 3-6 SU when Redmond starts

Baltimore at Boston, 7:10 ET
Norris: Orioles 5-0 SU when Norris starts
Lackey: Under is 7-1-1 when Lackey makes a 2013 home start

Los Angeles Angels at Tampa Bay, 7:10 ET
Richards: Angels 3-7 SU in road starts by Richards
Archer: Under is 7-2 when Archer starts at home

Kansas City at Minnesota, 8:10 ET
Chen: Royals 4-12 SU in last 16 Chen road starts
Albers: Under is 8-2 in last 10 home games for Twins

Houston at Chicago White Sox, 8:10 ET
Cosart:Astros 1-5 SU in last five Cosart starts
Sale: White Sox 7-3 SU when Sale starts after team lost in his last outing


Interleague

Cleveland at Atlanta, 7:10 ET
Masterson: Under is 7-2-2 last 11 times Masterson starts after team won in his last outing
Maholm: Braves 12-3 in last 15 home starts for Maholm

[StarDust Bum]

Armadillo: Wednesday's six-pack

-- Pirates got Marlon Byrd/John Buck from the Mets to bolster offense for the stretch run; they're 6-11 in their last 17 games.

-- Mets traded Byrd on Marlon Byrd t-shirt night at Citi Field; letting him play for a contender is a proper reward for the fine season he's had.

-- Shane Victorino homered twice, knocked in seven runs as Boston waxed the Orioles 13-2. Red Sox lead the AL East by 2.5 games.

-- Not only did Jonathan Niese throw a complete game Tuesday, he was the only starting pitcher to finish the 8th inning last night.

-- Rangers won 4-3 in 10 innings at Seattle; winning run scored on a balk.

-- Arizona beat San Diego 10-9 in 10 innings; Padres used five different guys at 3rd base; their pitchers threw 103 balls, 113 strikes in odd game.


*****

Armadillo: Wednesday's List of 13: Doing some thinking out loud..........

13) As of Monday, Allen Craig’s .452 batting with runners in scoring position was 3rd all-time, behind Brett/Gwynn, pretty damn good company to be in. As a team, Cardinals are hitting .328 with RISP, really a tremendous season of clutch hitting.

12) Browns’ RB Trent Richardson played at 236-237 pounds LY; he is trying to play at 225 this year, to be quicker off the ball.

11) West Virginia won games LY when they allowed 63-45 points, then lost five games in row, last three of which when they scored 38-34-49 points. They gained 778 total yards against Oklahoma and lost, which doesn’t seem possible. Offense is fun to watch and all but recruit some defensive kids, eh?

10) Head coach Chip Kelly has final personnel say on the Eagles’ roster; I’m pretty sure not every NFL head coach has that, especially rookie head coaches.

9) Matt Harvey’s surgery is very deflating for Met fans, but they do have some depth on the hill, with Montero/Sondegaard waiting in the minors. When Harvey comes back in 2015, Mets should have a strong rotation, question is, will they have any OFs by then who can hit and will they still be overly enamored with Ike Davis at 1B?

8) Kansas State named JC transfer QB Jake Waters as starter for its opener. The rebuilding job Bill Snyder has done (twice now) in the Little Apple might be the best one in the history of college football.

K-State used to routinely get trounced by the big boys—remember them losing once 64-3 to Oklahoma- they just weren’t competitive. Snyder has made them contenders; he is a superior coach.

7) Heroes of the Day: Viking QB Christian Ponder is married to ESPN’s Sam Ponder; when they got married, they went to Arby’s afterwards. Freakin’ Arby’s. For that, they are my Heroes of the Day.

6) 18 of Jon Lester’s 27 starts have been on the road; he’s walked 42 batters in 113 road IP and is 8-7, 4.14 away from home. At Fenway Park, he is 4-0, 3.64 in nine starts.

5) Red Sox have been shut out five times in John Lackey’s 14 road starts.

4) Lions didn’t have the onions to stick with the Scandinavian kicker who made two bombs in their preseason opener, so David Akers opens the season as their kicker. I swear Akers kicked in the NFL when the goal posts were still on the goal line—he was awful for the 49ers LY, but was said to be hurt. Havard Rugland is out there for some wise team to scoop up.

3) Phil Hughes has ten starts of less than five innings this year, most in the majors. He needs to pitch in a bigger home ballpark and to be in the National League, where there is no DH.

2) I’m thinking the Tim Hudson/Bronson Arroyo mold of pitcher may be the answer to the rash of power pitcher injuries we’re seeing these days. Less powerful, more durable, clever guys who know how to pitch but don’t blow people away.

1) Bottom line on pitching injuries is this: No one has the right answer, not doctors, managers, pitchers or GMs. College coaches abuse pitchers, but guys who skipped college get hurt too. It’s a trial and error on-going process to find ways to develop healthier pitchers; once someone succeeds, they’ll be imitated by everyone else, but no one seems to have the right answer yet.