Rating: 2 Units

The American League Central rivals traded strong pitching performances in the first two games of the series, with the Indians riding Danny Salazar to a 7-1 victory in Friday’s opener and Kansas City getting seven strong innings from Ian Kennedy in Saturday’s 7-0 win. Cleveland starter Tomlin has a 5.11 ERA in 16 career games – 12 starts – against the Royals.

Rating: 2 Units

Nola has worked exactly seven innings in each of his last three starts, recording seven strikeouts every time. The former first-round pick has yielded a scant eight hits in that stretch and is limiting opponents to a .176 average, which is even more impressive when one considers the fact he has issued only seven walks in 40 frames overall. Nola tossed eight scoreless innings in his lone start against the Marlins last season, limiting them to three hits.

Rating: 2 Units

Karns is seeking to win his fourth consecutive decision as he hasn't lost since April 9. His best outing came at home against the Astros on April 26, when he gave up just two hits over seven scoreless innings of an 11-1 victory. Karns has posted a 0.69 ERA and 0.92 WHIP in 13 career frames against Houston, which does not have a player with more than one career hit against him.

Rating: 2 Units

Gonzalez has posted quality starts in all five of his outings and hasn’t allowed more than two earned runs yet this season. The 30-year-old was dominant last time out at Kansas City, allowing four hits and two walks over six scoreless innings. Gonzalez is 3-2 with a 2.47 ERA in seven starts against the Cubs.

Rating: 2 Units

The Texas Rangers found an opportune time to ignite their offense while the Detroit Tigers are struggling to locate a spark when they are at the plate. The visiting Rangers vie for a series victory and look to send the tumbling Tigers to their fifth straight setback. Texas starter Griffin continues to get better with every start, allowing one earned run for the third time in four outings while scattering three hits in six innings of a no-decision versus Toronto on Monday. The 28-year-old, who also matched a career high with nine strikeouts against the Blue Jays. While Detroit  isn't getting much bang for its buck after Pelfrey signed a two-year, $16 million deal in the offseason. The 32-year-old yielded five runs for the second straight outing in Sunday's no-decision versus Minnesota, and his lack of control (15 walks in 25 1/3 innings) is troublesome to boot.

Rating: 2 Units

the Philadelphia Phillies benefited from some better-than-expected pitching to emerge victorious in 10 of 12 .  Philadelphia starter Velasquez continued to fluster his opponents on Sunday by scattering two hits over six scoreless innings en route to a 2-1 victory over Cleveland. The 23-year-old has kept his foes' bats at bay as opponents are hitting just .164 against him.

Rating: 2 Units

Rick Porcello and the Boston Red Sox handcuffed the New York Yankees in their last encounter in April, as the right-hander scattered five hits over seven innings to lift his team to an 8-0 rout. The 27-year-old carries a 13 1/3-frame shutout streak into today as the visiting Red Sox vie for their 10th win in 12 outings in the opener of a three-game series versus the Yankees.  Boston added eight more runs in their final contest against New York to outscore its American League East rival by a 20-9 margin in the series before winning two of the last three games versus the Chicago White Sox.

Rating: 2 Units

Scherzer had an uneven April, but he was dominant last time out at St. Louis, racking up a season-high nine strikeouts over seven scoreless innings. More importantly, he kept the ball in the park after allowing five homers over his first five starts of the season. Scherzer is 1-0 with a 1.42 ERA in three meetings with the Cubs, with all three starts coming at Wrigley Field.

Rating: 2 Units

The Colorado Rockies aren't known for their pitching but for starters, their 9-6 road record is largely because of the rotation's success as they continue a 10-game road trip with the first of four against the San Francisco Giants on Thursday. Colorado starters are 7-4 with a 3.13 ERA and nine quality outings this season after a 2-0 victory over San Diego on Wednesday improved the Rockies to 4-2 on their trek. San Francisco starter Matt Cain hasn't won in his last 16 games (15 starts) - including a loss to the Rockies on April 14

Rating: 2 Units

The Cubs continued their early season successes by sweeping the Pirates at PNC Park earlier this week. They could be flat in their first game back at Wrigley and they have a hard assignment taking on a very hot pitcher. Joe Ross checks in with an astonishing 0.79 after four outings (+$435) and the Nationals are off to a great start in 2016 (19-8, +$680). Kyle Hendricks has been less effective lately (4.36 ERA last 2 starts), and the price on Chicago appears inflated. We'll go with a solid road underdog in tonight's series opener.

Rating: 2 Units

The Milwaukee Brewers must improve their record away from home to get back in the National League Central race and get a chance to do that with a seven-game road trip that begins against the Cincinnati Reds today. The Brewers, who also visit Miami on the trek, saw their three-game winning streak end with a 7-3 loss against Los Angeles Angels at home Wednesday. Milwaukee, which is 3-7 on the road, had scored 27 runs combined during their win streak to start May and slugger Ryan Braun has lifted his game of late while going 9-for-17 with five RBIs in his last four outings. In addition, Cincinnati starter  Anderson is 2-0 with a 0.44 ERA in three career outings versus Cincinnati.

Rating: 2 Units

The Blue Jays evened the series with a victory last night, but Texas is well positioned to bounce back. They have a 14-6 record in night games (+$1075)
and starter Colby Lewis has been effective in his first five outings (3.19 ERA). Toronto has not had much success in night games at Rogers Centre so far (only 3-7, -$670) and their record here at home vs. righthanders has been terrible (-$880). Aaron Sanchez checks in with a mediocre 4.77 ERA in his last two starts, and the price on him is inflated. I'll grab the underdog price on the visitor in this one.

Rating: 2 Units

Stephen Strasburg is finally living up to his potential and the Washington right-hander aims to improve to 5-0 this season when the Nationals complete a three-game road set against the Kansas City Royals today. Strasburg, who has struck out 40 and walked eight in five starts, is 12-2 with a 1.91 ERA in his past 18 starts dating back to last season.

Rating: 3 Unit MLB Play of the Day

Washington starter Roark has struck out 21 in his last two starts after fanning just nine over 17 innings in his first three outings. He has gone seven frames without allowing a run three times this season, the other coming when he gave up four hits against Atlanta on April 13. Roark beat the Royals in his lone appearance against them as he yielded one hit in 4 2/3 scoreless innings of relief on Aug. 23, 2013.  While defending world champion Kansas City has dropped six of its last seven games and been shut out in three of its last four contests.

Rating: 2 Units

A three-city, 10-game road trip likely would be reason enough for a club to welcome its nine-game home stand with open arms. The Miami Marlins haven't fared well in front of their fans, however, and take a less-than-desirable 2-7 home mark into the opener of a three-game series versus the Arizona Diamondbacks today.  Life away from home is a desired location for Arizona, which begins a nine-game trip with an impressive 7-3 mark on the road - vastly better than its 5-12 record at Chase Field.

Rating: 2 Units

The Cleveland Indians and Detroit Tigers have seen their fortunes change since the former swept the latter during their three-game series at Comerica Park from April 22-24. The Indians outscored their American League Central rival 18-5 before losing five of six one-run contests heading into today's opener of a three-game set versus the visiting Tigers. Cleveland (10-12) dropped three straight to upstart Philadelphia over the weekend to fall two games under .500 while Detroit has erupted for 43 runs en route to winning six of its last seven.

Rating: 2 Units

The Washington Nationals weren't shy about flexing their muscle en route to completing a sweep of St. Louis to begin their three-city, 10-game road trip. The Nationals hope their power surge continues against the other Show Me State representative today when they open a three-game series versus the reigning World Series champion Kansas City Royals. National's starter Gonzalez has permitted only six runs (four earned) and 18 hits in four starts (25 1/3 innings) this season.

Rating: 2 Units

The Cubs head to Pittsburgh with the best record in the major leagues and a three-game division lead over the second-place Pirates. The last time the rivals met was in the NL Wild Card game in October, when the Cubs jumped on Pittsburgh ace Gerrit Cole early in a 4-0 win that began their run to the Championship Series.  Hammel was outstanding in four starts last month, working six innings each time out and never allowing more than one run. The 33-year-old threw six scoreless frames at Cincinnati in his last outing, giving up three hits and two walks while racking up a season-high seven strikeouts.

Rating: 2 Units

The defending American League East champion Toronto Blue Jays didn’t get off to the best start in April. The defending AL West champion Texas Rangers, who visit the Blue Jays for the start of a four-game series today, went the other way with a strong April.  Rangers starter Griffin allowed three or fewer runs in each of his four outings in April and is coming off his best start of the first month. The 28-year-old held the New York Yankees to one run and four hits over eight innings while striking out five in a win on Tuesday after topping out at six innings in his first three turns. Griffin has never lost to the Blue Jays, posting a 2-0 record with a 2.66 ERA in four starts.

Rating: 2 Units

Richards finally received a much-deserved victory Monday after limiting Kansas City to an unearned run on three hits and five walks in 6 2/3 innings. The 27-year-old Californian went 0-3 over his first four turns this season despite allowing three earned runs or fewer in each outing. Richards is 9-3 with a 3.16 ERA against Texas in 19 career meetings (15 starts), including a 6 2/3-inning effort on April 9 in which he was tagged with the loss after yielding four runs (two earned).

Rating: 2 Unit MLB Free Pick

The Philadelphia Phillies are quietly putting together a solid season with eight wins in their last nine games and 14 victories in their last 20 contests. The surging Phillies aim for a series sweep of the visiting Cleveland Indians when the teams square off this afternoon. Philadelphia has won five straight games - all by scores of 4-3 or 3-0 - and wrapped up April at 14-10 after most experts predicted a 90-loss season. Philadelphia starter Salazar has yet to give up more than three runs in any outing this season and has gone three straight starts without allowing a home run and has held opponents to a .139 batting average on the year.

Rating: 2 Units

Atlanta starter Teheran had a couple of rough outings earlier this month but has been solid his last two starts. He was excellent Monday against Boston, holding the Red Sox to one run and six hits over seven innings while striking out eight, but ended up on the wrong end of a 1-0 defeat. The Braves have totaled just 10 runs in the five games he has started. Chicago starter Lackey has been inconsistent in his first four outings in a Cubs uniform, recording two strong starts and a pair of clunkers. He allowed six runs and seven hits over 5 2/3 innings last time out, losing at Cincinnati.

Rating: 2 Units

Martinez is coming off his best start in the young season after holding the Arizona Diamondbacks to three hits over eight scoreless innings. The Dominican Republic native logged a quality start in each of his first four outings and surrendered a total of six hits in 15 innings over the last two turns. Martinez is making his first start against the Nationals.  Washington starter Scherzer is still trying to find his groove in 2016 and logged his third quality start against Philadelphia on Tuesday, allowing three runs on seven hits and a season-high four walks in six innings without factoring in the decision. The 31-year-old issued only 34 walks in 228 2/3 innings last season but handed out 12 free passes in 31 frames in April. Scherzer, who is from St. Louis, is 0-2 with a 3.52 ERA in four career starts against the hometown Cardinals.

Rating: 2 Units

The Toronto Blue Jays look to continue their power surge when they visit the Tampa Bay Rays today for the second of a three-game series between American League East rivals. The Blue Jays, who led the majors in homers in 2015, belted four solo blasts in the 6-1 victory over Tampa Bay on Friday to snap a three-game losing streak. Toronto starter Happ has gone at least six innings in each of his four starts and won the last three, including last Saturday when he allowed three runs over seven frames against Oakland. The Northwestern product gave up two runs on seven hits in six innings at Tampa Bay on April 6 without being involved in the decision.

Rating: 2 Units

Ross left after two scoreless innings and was scratched when his scheduled turn came around on Tuesday. Team trainers shaved down the callus and Ross has been able to throw on the side without issue. Washington halted its three-game losing streak with a 5-4 victory in Friday's series opener, and the game-opening homer by Michael Taylor ended the team's 22-inning scoreless drought. The Cardinals have lost two straight games after winning four of their previous five.  Ross has limited opposing batters to a .161 average and possesses an impressive 0.84 WHIP.  Ross' control has been fine this season as he issued just two walks in both of the starts that lasted at least seven frames.

Rating: 2 Units

Detroit may not need much run support for starter Jordan Zimmermann, who has let up one earned run in four starts and will oppose Minnesota righty Tyler Duffey. After blanking opponents in 19 1/3 innings over his first three starts, Zimmerman kept his record perfect with 6 2/3 solid frames against Oakland on Monday. He limited the Athletics to three runs (one earned) while striking out just one batter. The 29-year-old tossed seven scoreless in his lone start against Minnesota in 2013.

Rating: 2 Units

Vargas impressed in his major league debut Saturday by holding St. Louis to one run and five hits over five-plus innings. The 24-year-old, who began the year at Double-A San Antonio, spent the previous seven seasons in the New York Yankees minor league system. LA Starter Wood turned in another rough start Sunday as Colorado scored five runs in five innings against him before the Dodgers eventually won 12-10. The 25-year-old has allowed 26 hits and 11 walks over 21 innings while failing to get past the fifth inning in three of his first four outings. Matt Kemp is 4-for-6 with a home run against Wood.

Rating: 2 Units

Strasburg has registered 31 strikeouts in 29 innings this season, including 10 in each of his last two outings. He had his worst showing of the season in his last turn, when he gave up four runs and seven hits in 7 1/3 innings against Minnesota. Strasburg is 0-2 in four career starts versus the Cardinals. St. Louis starter Leake hasn't allowed more than four earned runs in any of his starts while the Nationals haven't scored in their last 22 innings.

Rating: 2 Units

Peavy pieced together his best start of the season on Saturday, allowing two runs on seven hits in as many innings during a 7-2 victory over Miami. The 34-year-old kept the ball in the park for the first time in three starts and issued only his second walk of the season in that contest. Peavy owns a 6-4 career mark versus the Mets, with his last visit to the Citi Field being a memorable one as he took a no-hitter into the seventh inning.  In addition, San Francisco has erupted for 38 runs en route to emerging victorious in five of its last six contests.

Rating: 2 Units

The White Sox are rolling in the NL Central right now, padding their division lead following a sweep of the Blue Jays at Rogers Centre. But they might suffer a bit of a letdown here, and the Orioles are poised to take advantage. John Danks has been the weak link in an otherwise stellar Chicago rotation (-$305 with a 6.23 ERA in three appearances) and he'll be taking on a Baltimore team that has averaged 6.4 runs per game vs. southpaws. The Orioles are 7-1 here at Camden Yards (+$635) and sitting atop the AL East. I'll look for them to draw first blood in this four game series.

Rating: 2 Units

The Texas Rangers look to build off a big offensive performance when they host the last-place New York Yankees today in the rubber match of their three-game series. The Rangers managed five runs during a four-game losing streak before pounding out 13 hits en route to a 10-1 triumph over the Yankees 10-1 on Tuesday to move back over .500 at 11-10. Free-agent signee Ian Desmond is adjusting to his new surroundings while batting .400 over his last eight games for Texas, belting his third homer in that span on Tuesday. New York is 4-9 in its last 13 games, scoring a total of 32 runs and allowing at least seven on five different occasions during that stretch. The Yankees, who have fallen to fifth in the American League East after their swoon, send veteran CC Sabathia to the mound against fellow left-hander Martin Perez.

Rating: 2 Units

Gray recorded a quality start in each of his first four turns and struck out a season-high seven in as many innings while yielding three runs at Toronto on Friday. The Vanderbilt product owns 24 strikeouts in 26 1/3 frames but is trying to get his walk rate down after issuing 11 free passes. Gray is 1-0 with a total of four runs allowed over 14 innings in two career starts against Detroit.
Verlander was ripped for seven runs and 10 hits in 4 1/3 innings by Pittsburgh on April 11

Rating: 2 Units

Quintana has yet to allow more than two earned runs and turned in his best outing of the young season against Texas on Friday, scattering four hits over seven scoreless innings in a win. The Colombia native has not surrendered a home run and recorded 22 strikeouts against five walks in 24 2/3 total innings. Quintana is 4-2 with a 1.88 ERA in seven career starts against Toronto.

Rating: 2 Units

The Tigers grabbed a win in last night's opener, but they'll have a less favorable set of circumstances in tonight's contest. Mike Pelfrey has been a disaster so far in 2016 (-$315 with a 6.14 ERA) and he'll be taking on an Oakland team that is 7-2 (+$775) vs. righties on the road. Rich Hill is performing well with the A's right now (3.32 ERA in four outings) and the Tigers haven't looked sharp vs. southpaws (-$275). Detroit had lost 7 of 10 prior to last night (-$330) and I expect them to come up short in this one as well.

Rating: 2 Units

Chicago worked an extra day of rest into the schedule for Sale by calling up Miguel Gonzalez for the start on Monday. Sale dominated in his last two starts, striking out nine in a two-hit shutout at Tampa Bay on April 15 and giving up an unearned run on two hits over seven innings in a win over the Angels on Wednesday. The Florida native, who did not issue a walk in either of those last two starts.  Toronto hurler  Dickey started twice against Chicago last season and was knocked around for seven runs in 12 total innings while going 0-1.

Rating: 2 Units

Pomeranz is coming off a superb outing against Pittsburgh on Wednesday in which he allowed just an unearned run and four hits over 6 2/3 innings while recording a career-high 10 strikeouts en route to victory. The 27-year-old native of Tennessee has yielded two runs or fewer in each of his first three turns while holding opponents to a .180 batting average.

Rating: 2 Units

As part of their recent domination of the American League, the Kansas City Royals have enjoyed their meetings with the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim. The visiting Royals hope to continue their run of success against the Angels when the teams begin a three-game series today.  Including a three-game sweep in the 2014 AL Division Series, Kansas City has won 11 of its last 13 encounters with Los Angeles - claiming five straight on the road during that stretch.After a hamstring issue pushed back his first start of the season, Kennedy has hit the ground running with three straight solid outings - striking out seven in each. He limited Detroit to two runs over 6 1/3 innings in a tough loss on Wednesday. Opponents are hitting .188 against the 31-year-old,

Rating: 2 Units

Garcia was unable to provide an encore to his one-hit shutout against Milwaukee on April 14, yielding two runs on four hits and four walks over five innings in a 2-1 loss to the Chicago Cubs on Tuesday. The 29-year-old Mexican endured his worst outing of the season in his lone road turn on April 8, giving up four runs in six frames of a no-decision at Atlanta. Garcia has been brilliant in five career starts against Arizona, winning each time while posting a 2.51 ERA (3-0, 1.62 at Chase Field).

Rating: 2 Units

The San Francisco Giants attempt to complete their first sweep of the season when they host the Miami Marlins on Sunday for the finale of their three-game series. After dropping four meetings with Arizona to begin its 10-game homestand, San Francisco breezed past Miami in their first two meetings, outscoring the Marlins 15-3 in the triumphs. Conley tossed six scoreless innings against Washington in his 2016 home debut on Tuesday but fell apart in the seventh, surrendering four runs before departing with two out.

Rating: 2 Units

Smyly turned in one of the more dominant performances of the season and still couldn't come away with the victory despite striking out 11 and permitting one hit in eight scoreless innings at Boston on Tuesday. The 26-year-old Arkansas native also fanned 11 in his previous turn, a 4-1 loss versus Cleveland in which he gave up three runs (two earned) on three hits over seven innings. He is 1-0 with a 1.82 ERA in six appearances (three starts) versus New York.

Rating: 2 Units

San Francisco Giants manager Bruce Bochy has experimented with several different lineups early this season, but his latest version may stick for a while. The Giants head into today’s game against the visiting Miami Marlins looking to build on their breakout performance in Friday’s series opener, when they recorded 14 hits and snapped a five-game losing streak with an impressive 8-1 victory.  Bochy moved Matt Duffy back into the No. 3 spot in the batting order Friday after watching his underachieving lineup struggle to hit with runners in scoring position. The Marlins, have lost seven of their last nine games and need more production from players such as Giancarlo Stanton and Marcell Ozuna, who has two extra-base hits in his last 29 at-bats and is batting .203 overall. The offense would be an even greater concern if not for Christian Yelich, who is hitting .400 after belting three doubles in Friday’s loss.

Rating: 2 Units

Chris Coghlan has provided an unexpected power surge to keep the Oakland Athletics undefeated on the road. After belting a homer in each of his last two contests, Coghlan looks to extend the Athletics' season-high winning streak to seven games this afternoon when they play the second of three contests versus the host Toronto Blue Jays.  Bassitt has yet to record a decision despite tossing seven strong innings in each of his last two outings. The 27-year-old has allowed just two earned runs and eight hits in his last two trips to the mound, but a lack of run support has proven to be the primary culprit. Bassitt will be making his 22nd career start and first versus Toronto.

Rating: 2 Units

Wainwright won 19 or more games in four of five seasons before an Achilles' tendon injury limited him to 28 innings last season. He will attempt to get St. Louis started successfully on a seven-game road trip that concludes with four games against the Arizona Diamondbacks.  Wainwright is 6-2 with a 1.74 ERA and .225 batting average against in 11 career appearances (eight starts) against the Padres. Wainwright has regularly handcuffed right fielder Matt Kemp (3-for-23) but has struggled with left fielder Melvin Upton Jr. (4-for-9).

Rating: 2 Units

The Astros were pounded by Texas in a three game sweep at Arlington, and find themselves in last place with the worst record in the AL (5-11, -$865). Tonight they face a right hander in Steven Wright who looks good after a pair of quality starts (2.13 ERA). Boston has averaged an impressive 5.3 runs per game when facing righties, and they can handle a struggling Collin McHugh (6.40 ERA in three outings). Attractive price on the underdog looks too good to pass up.

Rating: 2 Units

Oakland opened its 10-game road trip with a three-game sweep of the New York Yankees, with Jed Lowrie collecting six hits in the set - including an RBI single in Thursday's 7-3 triumph. The Athletics will send ace Sonny Gray to the mound on Friday against Toronto, which dropped the final two contests of its three-game series to Baltimore while registering one-run decisions in each of its last four outings (2-2).  Gray allowed one earned run for the second time in three quality starts in Saturday's 5-3 win over Kansas City. The 26-year-old did a better job with his control, however, as he walked just one batter after issuing seven free passes in his first two outings.

Rating: 2 Units

Miller has been cleared to start after leaving Saturday’s game against San Diego with two outs in the second inning with cuts on both knuckles of his right index finger. The Texas native has had a rough start to his Diamondbacks career while yielding 12 runs and 23 baserunners over 12 2/3 innings.  Cueto has made a strong impression with his new team with three straight victories, including a quality start against the Dodgers on Saturday when he allowed one run and struck out seven over 7 1/3 innings.  Jean Segura has three hits in 20 at-bats against Cueto, who owns a 6-1 record and 2.54 ERA in eight career starts against Arizona.

Rating: 2 Units

Starting pitching has been the calling card for Chicago, which saw ace Chris Sale become the majors' first four-game winner in Wednesday's 2-1 triumph. John Danks is singing a vastly different tune as the left-hander has been blitzed in his first two outings this season and boasts a 1-9 mark with a gaudy 5.06 ERA in his past 12 turns dating to 2015. Weaver has dominated Chicago in his career, winning his last six starts en route to posting a 10-2 mark with a 1.99 ERA while limiting the club to batting .207 against him. The 33-year-old scattered five hits over 6 1/3 scoreless frames in his last encounter with the White Sox.

Rating: 2 Units

The Nationals snapped a two game losing streak with a big win last night, and they are positioned to take a 2-1 series lead this evening. Joe Ross has looked very sharp in his two appearances so far (+200, 0.61 ERA) and Miami is only 3-8 (-$665 vs. righthhanders). Wei-Yin Chen hasn't had much success with the Marlins (-$300, 5.56 ERA in two starts) and Washington is dominating in the NL East right now. Reasonable price on a very competitive road team tonight.

Rating: 2 Units

Graveman is in search of his first victory despite allowing just three runs on seven hits in 11 1/3 innings this season. The 25-year-old was left with a no-decision last Tuesday despite yielding just one run on four hits in six frames against the Los Angeles Angels.  Eovaldi has been victimized by the home-run ball this season, allowing two for the second straight outing on Thursday. The 26-year-old yielded a three-run shot to Josh Donaldson in the fifth and a solo blast to Troy Tulowitzki the following inning. Eovaldi has kept the ball in the park in all four career appearances versus Oakland, but owns a 5.09 ERA while permitting the Athletics to bat .337 against him.

Rating: 2 Units

The White Sox were skunked by Hector Santiago and the Angels in last night's series opener, but I expect them to bounce right back in this one. Matt Shoemaker is a far less imposing pitcher for LA (6.00 ERA in his two starts) while Mat Latos has flashed excellent form in his first two outings (+$220, 0.75 ERA). Prior to last evening the Angels had been averaging a pathetic 3.0 runs per game, while Chicago has a 7-3 (+$420) record vs. right-handers. Good spot to take a hot team and pitcher at a fair price.

Rating: 2 Units

The Phillies have been holding their own in the early going, and they have a promising young arm in Jerad Eickhoff, who checks in here with a 1.50 ERA after two starts (2.65 ERA in eight starts last year). The Mets are struggling to put runs on the board (only 3.3 per game, .220 team BA) and they dropped a bundle on the road vs. right-handers in night games last year (-$1090). New York is a team to avoid at the moment, so take the fat underdog price on the home team tonight.

Rating: 2 Units

Sanchez has been consistent in each of his first two starts, breezing through five scoreless innings before yielding two runs in the sixth in both outings. The 32-year-old Venezuelan scattered four hits and walked away with the victory both times, and is 4-1 in nine career encounters with Houston. Sanchez was rocked for seven runs and eight hits - including two homers - in his last meeting with Houston but received a no-decision. Fiers has sputtered out of the gate this season, yielding five runs in as many innings of his first outing before his quality start versus Kansas City on Tuesday resulted in a 3-2 setback. The 30-year-old has permitted three homers in 11 frames this season.

Rating: 2 Units

Gonzalez allowed three hits over six scoreless innings Tuesday in a 2-1 victory against Atlanta in his season debut. He held left-handed batters hitless in eight at-bats in that contest, which that likely comes as no surprise to Ryan Howard, who is 0-for-11 with six strikeouts in his career against the two-time All-Star. Gonzalez was 2-1 with a 2.92 ERA against Philadelphia last season and is 8-5 with a 3.02 ERA lifetime against the Phillies.  Morton rebounded from a poor season debut to twirl 6 2/3 scoreless innings against San Diego his last time out. He still has to improve his control (six walks in 10 1/3 innings) but he's averaging 8.7 strikeouts per nine innings, well above his averages in previous years.

Rating: 2 Units

The Reds have been the early surprise team of 2016, winning 5 of their first 6 (+$425) while averaging 5.2 runs per game on offense. They are getting terrific pitching from their starters (2.88 ERA) and the bullpen looks good (2.42) despite the loss of Aroldis Chapman. Brandon Finnegan pitched six quality innings in his first outing (3.00 ERA). The Cardinals have struggled vs. lefties in recent years, posting a 0-2 mark (-$200) to start this season.

Rating: 2 Units

The New York offense had a very nice opening week (.292 team BA, averaging a healthy 7.0 runs per game) and they look to be in good shape against a Seattle team with plenty of holes. The Mariners had a tough time handling the Yankees in 2015 (only 1-5, -$425) and after watching them stumble out of the gate (-$345 so far) we’re inclined towards the Bombers. Seattle was only 22-32 vs. lefthanders last year (-$1205) and dropped 3 out of 4 to southpaws last week (-$280). C.C. Sabathia looked decent in an 8-4 win at Comerica

Rating: 2 Units

The Baltimore Orioles' red-hot bats have cooled a bit as they've followed a franchise-best 7-0 start by scoring just five runs in back-to-back losses. The Orioles look to snap their modest skid and even their four-game series with the host Texas Rangers when the clubs meet again today.  The Orioles were problematic when playing on the road last year (-$1300) and they have dropped 7 of 8 head to head contests with these Rangers after last nights loss. In addition they managed a meager 3.8 runs vs. lefthanders overall.

Rating: 2 Units

The Orioles started the year in impressive fashion, knocking off a weak Minnesota team and winning a pair from the Rays en route to a 7-0 record (+$520). But thy were problematic when playing on the road last year (-$1300) and they dropped 6 of 7 head to head contests with these Rangers (-$615). In addition they managed a meager 3.8 runs vs. lefthanders in all settings (-$390). Cole Hamels (+$210, 2.08 ERA) appears to be in top form.

Rating: 2 Units

The Orioles are on pace to win 162 games and are turning Fenway Park into their own home run palace this week. Baltimore will try to bash its way to a series sweep and an 8-0 record to begin the season when it visits the Boston Red Sox for the finale today.  Baltimore rode its pitching staff to the first five wins but broke out the bats in the first two games against the Red Sox. Mark Trumbo homered in each of the first two games, Chris Davis bashed the tiebreaking three-run homer in the ninth inning on Monday and J.J. Hardy used Fenway’s friendly dimensions to bloop a pair of homers down the right-field line in Tuesday’s 9-5 victory. Boston’s pitching staff has been just as shaky as feared the first 1 1/2 times through the rotation, with only two quality starts in the first seven games. The Orioles knocked around top two starters David Price and Clay Buchholz in the first two games of the series and will take their shots at Joe Kelly on Wednesday while countering with Ubaldo Jimenez.  Kelly is 1-2 with a 5.40 ERA in five career starts against Baltimore.

Rating: 2 Units

The Diamondbacks made a nice profit as a visitor last season (+$835) and they have a fine lefthander in Patrick Corbin, who looked sharp in 16 starts last year (+$210, 3.60 ERA). The Dodgers lost money vs. southpaws in 2015 (-$565, averaging 3.9 runs per game) so I am willing to take a shot with Arizona with Corbin on the mound.

Rating: 2 Units

The Twins turned an 83 win season into a handsome profit last year (+$2250) thanks to generous underdog prices, but KC was a moneymaker as well, racking up a fat profit en route to a World Series title (+$1835). But Minnesota will have a hard time repeating that success, Their pitching looks very shaky and despite their numbers they were well under .500 away from Target Field.  Edinson Volquez (+$935 in 33 starts last year) will take his 2nd turn of the year. I like his chances.

Rating: 2 Units - Texas with Hamels

The Angels went 12-7 (+$345) against the eventual division winner when they squared off last year, but I am not comfortable at all with the home team in this spot. While the Angels did turn a profit a Anaheim (+$835),Texas was one of the top road teams in MLB (45-36, +$2550) and they appear nicely positioned to repeat as top team in the AL West. Cole Hamels led them to victories in 10 of his 12 starts after coming over from the Phillies in July (+$760, 3.66 ERA) and he’s on the mound today against an LA team that averaged only 3.9 runs per game vs. lefthanders

Rating: 2 Units

The Reds somehow managed to turn a decent profit against the Pirates in 2015 (+$695) in what was otherwise a thoroughly forgettable season. But they struggled mightily in all settings (- $1990 overall) while averaging a pitiful 3.9 runs per game against lefthanders. Staff ace Francisco Liriano (+$640,3.38 ERA last year) was in top form in the season opener at PNC Park, holding the Cardinals scoreless and picking up his first victory of 2016. Pittsburgh was effective as a visitor (+$730) so I am looking for their big lefty to have another solid effort

Rating: 2 Units

The Giants draw a soft opponent to start the year (the Brewers were only 68-94, -$2040 last season) and they have a formidable starter in newly acquired free agent Johnny Cueto as they seek their fourth championship since 2010. Milwaukee’s pitching looks as dismal as ever (4.28 team ERA in 2015), and they dropped 5 of 6 head to head meetings with SF last year (-$405) and got blown out in the opener yesterday.

Rating: 2 Units

The Red Sox look to get back in the AL East picture with newly acquired ace David Price, who led his teams (Tigers,Blue Jays) to victories in 24 of his 32 starts in 2015 (+$640). He looks good as a visitor vs. the Tribe here at Progressive Field, where the Indians floundered against southpaws (11-17, -$1245, averaging a mere 3.7 runs per game in those contests).

Rating: 2 Units

Jake Arrieta was dazzling in 2015, posting a 1.77 ERA in 33 starts (+$1365) en route to Cy Young honors. He’s been nursing a sore thumb this spring, but will be on the mound for the season opener. Chicago was deadly on the road in 2015 (+$1420) and they’ll be taking on an Angels’team that posted the lowest team BA in the AL last year (.246)

Rating: 2 Units

These clubs battled it out in the NL Central in 2015, posting the two best records in MLB while leading the league in pitching (Cards 2.94 ERA,Bucs 3.21). Pittsburgh was outstanding in day games here at PNC Park, winning 15 of 16 (+$1400, averaging 5.2 runs per game) and they no doubt catch a decent price in the opener. St. Louis was ineffective in day games outside of Busch Stadium (-$410, averaging just 3.5 runs per game).

Rating: 2 Units

Harvey gave up three runs and five hits over six innings in Game 1. He didn't throw his usual amount of fastballs as he dissected how to handle Kansas City's lineup. The Royals are 6-0 in Volquezs last 6 interleague starts and  16-5 in Volquezs last 21 starts with 4 days of rest. While the Mets are Mets are 2-8 in their last 10 vs. American League Central and 1-4 in their last 5 interleague games vs. a right-handed starter.

Rating: 2 Units

Young won the opener when he worked three frames of hitless relief in a 14-inning victory. He went 5-9 with a 3.76 ERA in 24 starts with the Mets over two injury-riddled seasons (2011-12) before reviving his career in 2014 and appreciates competing against his former organization on the biggest stage in baseball. New York opted against bringing back Game 1 starter Matt Harvey on short rest, so Matz is making his third start of the postseason after taking six regular-season turns. The 24-year-old is starting a World Series game much sooner than he ever imagined.

Rating: 2 Units

Ventura is making his fifth start of the postseason and surrendered one run on four hits over 5 1/3 innings against Toronto in the decisive Game 6 of the American League Championship Series. New York starter Syndergaard dominated the Chicago Cubs over 5 2/3 innings to win Game 2 of the NLCS, striking out nine while allowing one run and three hits. The rookie flamethrower recorded 20 strikeouts in 13 innings over the first two rounds of the playoffs. Syndergaard went 0-2 with a 5.86 ERA in his five interleague starts this season

Rating: 3 Units

Cubs starter Hammel had a rough outing in the Division Series against St. Louis as he gave up two runs, three hits and three walks before being pulled after three innings. However, the Cubs are 4-0 in Hammels last 4 starts following an outing of less than 4 innings in his last appearance, 4-0 in his last 4 starts with 7 or more days of rest, and 8-2 in his last 10 starts versus the National League East.

Rating: 3 Units

Kansas City starter Volquez was superb in his Game 1 victory, allowing only two hits over six scoreless innings. That performance was in Kansas City and he now tries to duplicate it in Toronto. Toronto starter Estrada lost against Volquez in the series opener as he allowed three runs and six hits in 5 1/3 innings. The Royals' penchant for being contact hitters makes it a tough assignment for Estrada, who typically doesn't strike out more than five batters in a game.

Rating: 2 Units

Johnny Cueto came up with a stellar effort in last Wednesday's clincher versus the Astros, and I look for him to follow it up with another big night. The Royals look very sharp right now, and they've been a profitable team versus. right-handers all year going 64-40, and a +$1865. Toronto needed to sweep the final three games with Houston to survive this post-season, and they seem overpriced against this formidable Kansas City squad. I'll take this fat price on Cueto and the visitors in this one.

Rating: 2 Units

The Chicago Cubs send ace Jake Arrieta to the mound against the host New York Mets on Sunday in hopes of evening the National League Championship Series at one win apiece. New York limited Chicago to five hits in the opener and received solo homers from the red-hot Daniel Murphy and Travis d'Arnaud en route to a 4-2 victory. Arrieta has won 13 consecutive decisions dating back to late July - which includes two postseason wins - in a dynamic turnaround of his career.

Rating: 2 Units

Chicago decided to go with Lester over Jake Arrieta in Game 1 because he was next up in the rotation, and both are set to go twice in the series if necessary. Lester allowed three runs and five hits while striking out nine over 7 1/3 innings in Game 1 of the NLDS but took the loss to drop to 6-5 with a 2.66 ERA in his postseason career. The 31-year-old tossed seven scoreless innings at New York on July 1 and has never lost to the Mets in three career starts.

Rating: 2 Units

The Toronto Blue Jays staved off elimination and attempt to force a decisive fifth game when they visit the Texas Rangers on Monday for Game 4 of their American League Division Series. Toronto registered its first playoff victory since 1993 when it notched a 5-1 triumph on Sunday to stay alive in the best-of-five matchup. Texas pitcher, Holland lands the pivotal start despite posting a 7.62 ERA over his last five outings. He was chosen over veteran right-hander Colby Lewis, who won a career-high 17 games this season.

Rating: 2 Units

Lester will take the mound in Game 1 against St. Louis righty John Lackey, who was Lester’s teammate on the 2013 World Series-winning Boston Red Sox.  Lester limited  opponents to two or fewer earned runs in five of his final six starts, with the lone mediocre outing coming when he surrendered four runs in six innings to lose to the Cardinals on Sept. 20. The two-time World Series champion was better 11 days earlier in St. Louis, when he yielded one run and two hits over seven frames. Lester is 6-4 with a 2.57 ERA in 14 career postseason games – 12 starts.

Rating: 2 Units

Chicago pitcher Arrieta, who is coming off a historic second half. Arrieta is on the short list for the NL Cy Young Award due in large part to a second half in which he went 12-1 with a 0.75 ERA. The 29-year-old scattered six hits and one walk over 22 scoreless innings in his final three starts while striking out 27. The last time Arrieta, who allowed one hit in seven innings at home against the Pirates on Sept. 27, gave up a run and failed to earn a win came at Pittsburgh on Sept. 16, when he was charged with two runs (one earned) on six hits in eight innings without factoring in the decision.

Rating: 3 Units

One reason a loss to the Arizona Diamondbacks on Sunday was so crushing is that it meant Keuchel, who is 15-0 with a 1.46 ERA at home, would have to make the start on the road. The All-Star is 5-8 with a 3.77 ERA on the road in 2015 but won at Arizona on Friday and will be making Tuesday’s start on three days’ rest for the first time in his career. Keuchel struck out nine and scattered three hits in seven scoreless frames at New York on Aug. 25 and is 2-1 with a 1.13 ERA in three career starts against the Yankees.

Tanaka tuned up on Wednesday against Boston and was reached for four runs on five hits and a walk in five innings without factoring in the decision. The Japan native will be appearing in his first postseason since joining the Yankees and will try to keep the ball in the park after yielding 25 home runs in 154 total innings. Tanaka made his lone career start against Houston on June 27 and was ripped for six runs on seven hits – three homers – in five innings.

Rating: 3 Unit MLB Play of the Day

The Toronto Blue Jays are on the verge of clinching the American League East for the first time since 1993 while the Baltimore Orioles are gently sinking to the bottom. The Blue Jays will try to take advantage of the scuffling Orioles when they visit Baltimore for the opener of a four-game series on Monday. Toronto starter Estrada has put himself right behind David Price in a potential postseason rotation by allowing two or fewer earned runs in five of his last six starts. The 32-year-old followed up eight scoreless innings on Sept. 17 by holding the New York Yankees to two runs in 6 2/3 innings without factoring in the decision on Tuesday. Estrada is 2-1 with a 3.32 ERA in five games – three starts – against Baltimore this season.

Rating: 2 Units

Happ lost to the Chicago Cubs in his last turn to snap a five-start winning streak. He allowed two runs and eight hits in 5 2/3 innings against the Cubs to drop to 5-2 with a 1.96 ERA in eight starts since being acquired from the Seattle Mariners. Happ is 2-0 with a 1.86 ERA in five career appearances (four starts) against the Rockies and picked up the win on Aug. 29 when he gave up one run and five hits in 5 2/3 innings.

Rating: 2 Units

Arrieta aims for his 17th consecutive quality start as he looks to become the Cubs’ first 20-game winner since Jon Lieber in 2001. The right-hander is 5-1 with a 2.05 ERA in seven career starts against the Pirates, including a 3-0 mark and 2.63 ERA in four outings at PNC Park. The Pirates hope to have more success against Arrieta than they did versus Jon Lester, who tossed a five-hitter in a 2-1 Cubs victory in the nightcap of Tuesday’s twinbill.

Rating: 3 Unit MLB Play of the Day

Duffey has been off since Sept. 6 as the Twins try to keep the rookie fresh down the stretch, and he will be trying to continue a string of five straight starts allowing three or fewer earned runs. The 24-year-old scattered two runs and six hits across 6 2/3 innings at Houston on Sept. 6 and struck out eight without factoring in the decision. Duffey is making his first start against Detroit and is 1-0 with a 2.53 ERA at home. While Detroit starter Lobstein lost his fifth straight major-league start dating back to May on Wednesday, when he was reached for five runs and seven hits in 5 2/3 innings against Tampa Bay. The 26-year-old owns only one quality start in those outings but is not getting a lot of help from his offense, which totaled seven runs in the five games. Lobstein did not fare well against Minnesota on May 13, when he was ripped for six runs and seven hits in 2 1/3 innings to suffer the loss.

Rating: 2 Units

Hamels has won three straight decisions and is 3-1 with a 4.07 ERA in seven starts since being acquired from Philadelphia. He defeated Seattle in his last outing, when he gave up four runs and eight hits in seven innings. However, Houston starter Kazmir is 2-5 with a 3.13 ERA in nine starts since coming over in a trade with Oakland. He lost to the Athletics in his last start when he gave up four runs and seven hits in six innings.

Rating: 2 Units

Zimmermann will be making his 30th start of the season, extending a run of four straight years reaching that mark of durability. He has won four straight decisions and allowed exactly one earned run in each of his last three outings, including a 5 2/3-inning effort in a no-decision against the New York Mets on Tuesday. The 29-year-old gave up two earned runs over 6 1/3 innings in his lone meeting with the Phillies on April 18

Rating; 4 Unit MLB Game of the Week

Greinke has moved to the front of the NL Cy Young Award race by going 10-1 with a 1.47 ERA in 12 starts since June 27. The major-league ERA leader turned in another stellar performance on Tuesday, when he allowed one run against the Giants while throwing 114 pitches over 7 1/3 innings. Greinke held the Angels to two runs in eight frames on July 31.  Angels starter Tropeano has been recalled from Triple-A Salt Lake to start in place of Matt Shoemaker, who hopes to return from a strained right forearm next week. The 25-year-old is making his fourth start of the season for the Angels and aiming to improve on his last outing, when he allowed six runs over 4 1/3 innings in an 8-2 loss to the Chicago White Sox on Aug. 20.

Rating: 2 Units

Fiers allowed one run, three hits and three walks while throwing 98 pitches in six innings against Minnesota on Aug. 29 after recording 134 during his no-hitter. The 30-year-old Floridian has pitched 118 innings this season - 9 1/3 short of his career high while with Milwaukee in 2012. Fiers is 2-0 with a 2.25 ERA in five starts with Houston since being acquired from the Brewers, including a no-decision Aug. 9 when he yielded one run in 6 2/3 innings of the Astros' 5-4 loss in Oakland.

Rating: 3 Units

Buehrle had his start pushed back a day in an effort to get him through a rough stretch and keep him healthy for a long run into the playoffs. The 36-year-old looked better in his last start, when he held Detroit to two runs (one earned) and five hits in six innings to earn the win. Buehrle had no trouble carving up the Boston lineup on July 1, allowing one run on four hits and striking out seven in as many innings to get the win. While Boston starterPorcello was not so sharp opposite Buehrle on July 1, when he was hammered for seven runs on seven hits – three homers – in two innings.

Rating: 2 Units

DeSclafani's winless streak reached five starts Tuesday at Chicago, where he gave up three runs to the Cubs on four hits and two walks over 5 2/3 innings. The 25-year-old from New Jersey has allowed more than three runs only once during the drought but has surrendered 10 hits on two occasions. DeSclafani has made all three of his career starts against Pittsburgh this season, going 0-1 with a 3.18 ERA

Rating: 2 Units

The Athletics have allowed 34 runs during their four-game slide - the latest loss being an 8-3 setback on Saturday - while the Mariners have scored 34 runs during their four-game winning streak and are 6-3 on their 10-game road trip. Seattle's Kyle Seager is 17-for-34 with four home runs, 11 RBIs, nine runs scored and six walks during his eight-game hitting streak, going 5-for-8 in the first two games of the set while helping Seattle improve to 11-4 in the season series. Nelson Cruz, whose 39 home runs trail only Baltimore's Chris Davis (40) in baseball, missed his third straight game Saturday because of a quad injury, but manager Lloyd McLendon said his slugger is 50-50 to play Sunday. Seattle's Hisashi Iwakuma looks to avenge a rough outing against Oakland two turns back as he opposes Sean Nolin, who makes his first start with the Athletics and third major-league appearance.

Rating: 3 Unit MLB Play of the Day

Matz was strong in his first two major-league starts before a tear in his left lat muscle sidelined him for two months. The 24-year-old’s return allows New York to skip Noah Syndergaard’s turn as the team tries to keep its young starters fresh down the stretch. Matz, who also has five RBIs in six career at-bats, surrendered a total of two runs and seven hits in 13 2/3 innings to beat Cincinnati and the Los Angeles Dodgers in his first two starts. While Miami starter Cosart was recalled from Triple-A New Orleans after dealing with vertigo and an inner ear problem. The 25-year-old was winless in his last six starts in the majors and was sent down after getting pounded for seven runs on four hits – two homers – and three walks in 1 2/3 innings at the Chicago Cubs on July 4.

Rating: 2 Units

After allowing one earned run in 29 innings over his final four August starts, Verlander was reached for four runs (two earned) in 6 2/3 innings of a win at Kansas City to open September. He has lasted at least six frames in eight consecutive outings. The former Cy Young and MVP yielded two runs in five innings against Cleveland in his season debut . Cleveland starter Anderson is 1-2 with a 3.16 ERA in five road starts.

Rating: 2 Units

The Tampa Bay Rays look to win their second straight road series today when they take on the New York Yankees, and the right person will be on the mound. Chris Archer is 5-0 in his career against the Yankees and has limited them to two runs with 16 strikeouts over 13 2/3 innings this season despite a pair of no-decisions. Tampa Bay starterArcher pitched six scoreless innings to beat Baltimore last time out, holding an opponent to two or fewer runs for the sixth time in the past nine starts. The 26-year-old, who is 9-3 with a 2.48 ERA on the road, has 223 strikeouts – 16 shy of Scott Kazmir’s franchise record for a single season. Jacoby Ellsbury is 12-for-18 with a homer against Archer, who boasts a 1.78 ERA in eight career starts versus the Yankees while holding them to a .192 average.

Rating: 2 Units

The red-hot Texas Rangers come into this one having won four straight games and 13 of its last 17, and sit within three games of first-place Houston in the American League West and leads the race for the second wild card by 1 1/2 games over Minnesota. Texas starter Lewis has earned wins in six of his last eight starts and will set a career high with his next victory.

Rating: 2 Units

Jake Peavy looks to continue his long-standing dominance against Los Angeles when the San Francisco Giants visit the Dodgers in today's opener of a three-game series. The right-hander is 14-3 with a 2.30 ERA and 0.96 WHIP in 27 career starts against Los Angeles. Peavy defeated the Cubs in his last turn when he gave up two runs and six hits in 6 1/3 innings. He has pitched at least six innings in eight of 10 starts since returning from a back injury and has served up just two homers over his last six turns. While LA starter  Anderson is 1-2 with a 4.71 ERA in four 2015 starts against San Francisco and is 1-4 with a 4.91 ERA in seven career outings.

Rating: 2 Units

Gonzalez was roughed up for a third straight turn on Thursday versus San Diego, giving up five runs (four earned) across 4 2/3 innings in a 6-5 setback. Since working eight scoreless frames in a win against the Los Angeles Dodgers on Aug. 10, the two-time All-Star is 0-3 with a 10.22 ERA in three outings, surrendering at least four earned runs each time. St. Louis starter Lackey returned to form in a win on Wednesday after an uncharacteristic poor showing at San Diego five days earlier, allowing one run on seven hits over as many innings. The 36-year-old Texas native has logged at least six frames in 14 consecutive turns, allowing two or fewer runs in 12 of those outings while posting a 2.30 ERA over that span.

Rating: 3 Units

ake Arrieta goes after his major league-leading 17th victory of the season when the Chicago Cubs close a three-game series against the host Los Angeles Dodgers today. Arrieta is tied with San Francisco's Madison Bumgarner for the lead and his 2.22 ERA is second in the National League behind Zack Greinke of the Dodgers. Arrieta has allowed only 19 hits in 33 1/3 innings during the stretch in which he hasn't given up an earned run in four of the five starts. He defeated San Francisco in his last turn when he gave up one unearned run and four hits in six innings.

Rating: 2 Units

Garcia looks to continue his dominance on the road, where he’s gone 9-3 with a 1.64 ERA in his last 14 outings dating back to Sept. 15, 2012. The 29-year-old recorded his 12th quality start in 13 outings this season after tossing six innings of one-run ball against Arizona last Tuesday and owns a 2.16 ERA in six career starts against the Giants.

Rating: 3 Unit MLB Dog of the Day

Duffy is 3-1 with a 3.67 ERA in five starts this month without surrendering a home run after beating Baltimore last time out with 5 2/3 innings of two-run ball. The 26-year-old has yielded three or fewer runs in 13 of his 20 outings this season, including four of the last five. Kansas City posted a 6-3 triumph – its seventh victory in the past eight overall and sixth in six tries this season versus the Rays

Rating: 3 Unit MLB Dog of the Day

Medlen recorded six strikeouts against zero walks versus the Orioles and has 13 punchouts and one free pass overall this month. He is 31-13 with a 2.98 ERA in 62 career starts and owns a combined ERA of 1.77 between August and September. Tampa starter Odorizzi is winless in five August starts. The 25-year-old, who has walked exactly one batter in each of his last six starts, is 0-2 with a 6.91 ERA in three career games (two starts) against Kansas City.

Rating: 3 Unit MLB Play of the Day

St. Louis starter Lynn reached double digits in wins for the fourth straight season Monday after limiting Arizona to two runs over six frames. While San Francisco starter Vogelsong looks to bounce back from a dismal outing against Pittsburgh on Sunday, when he allowed three runs and issued four walks over 3 1/3 innings. The 38-year-old has struggled against the Cardinals in the regular season, going 3-6 with a 5.65 ERA in 20 games (10 starts)