Still a dog, still likely to win

[griswold]

Not to sound like a broken record on this, but Tampa Bay is still being unbelievably undervalued. Yesterday's +140 was the most shocking case yet. Were it not for an extra inning loss, this team would have a 14-game winning streak. Tonight's line is again mystifying.

Florida is at about -125 despite the fact that they are going with A.J Burnett and his ERA over 5.00. The Marlins have been playing only so-so ball the last couple of weeks and could only take 2-of-3 against the plummeting Braves. Tampa, on the other hand, goes with Dewon Brazleton, making his fourth appearance since being called up from the minors where he was pitching well. Tampa has scored 38 runs in its last five games and hitting isn't even the team's strength. And, Tampa is the HOME team. While their fans are still among the worst in the game, there might actually be a supportive crowd tonight after the sensational road trip and all the publicity it has gotten. My line would have TB at about -145. Instead, they're +115.

And, while I won't play it because I'm on my "Play only the D-Rayns until they lose three in a row" kick, Philadelphia is enticing at +225 against Pedro.

[griswold]

Please don't tell me this isn't easy

Tampa was a Dog again!! This time they almost got a no-hitter. They've been a dog nine games in a row now and of course have won eight of them, not to mention 14 of their last 15, 25 of the last 32. Unfortunately, reality is finally setting in and they're a favorite on Saturday at about -130 with Hendrickson against a Marlins pitcher being called up for his first start of the year in the majors. TB should be -200 for this game so the value is there again. Those not on the bandwagon yet are without hope.