Rating: 2 Units

Kazmir allowed one run and six hits in six innings while beating the Los Angeles Dodgers in his last turn to halt a three-start losing streak. He is 2-3 with a 2.41 ERA in six starts with the Astros since being acquired from the Oakland Athletics. Kazmir is 7-5 with a 3.56 ERA in 15 career starts against Minnesota and has enjoyed success against catcher Kurt Suzuki (3-for-31) and second baseman Brian Dozier (4-for-26). Gibson is 0-3 with a 7.22 ERA over his last seven outings and hasn't won since July 12.

Rating: 2 Units

Texas won three of four from Baltimore on June 29-July 2. While the Rangers hold a half-game lead over Minnesota, the Orioles have dropped 2 1/2 back after losing seven of their last eight contests. Adam Jones' availability is in question after he ran into the center-field wall at Kauffman Stadium during Thursday afternoon's 5-3 setback to Kansas City, but manager Buck Showalter told reporters that the All-Star felt better shortly after the contest.

Rating: 2 Units

Edinson Volquez - 2-0 lifetime versus the Rays - gets the start for American League Central-leading Kansas City, which has won five of its last six. Tampa Bay allowed 33 runs while dropping all four games against the Royals in early July and trails Texas by 2 ½ games for the second AL wild card.

Rating: 2 Units

Michael Wacha aims to move into a tie for the major-league lead in victories when the St. Louis Cardinals close a three-game set today against the host San Diego Padres. Wacha has won his last three decisions and is going for his 15th win, which would tie Madison Bumgarner of the San Francisco Giants and Jake Arrieta of the Chicago Cubs for most in the majors. Wacha has allowed three runs over his last four outings and took a no-decision against San Francisco in his last start when he gave up one run and six hits in seven innings. He wasn't involved in the decision when he faced the Padres for the first time in his career July 3 and gave up one run and five hits in seven innings. Wacha has given up two or fewer runs in 16 of his 23 starts this season.

Rating: 2 Units

The Mets batted around during an eight-run third prior to making an out, recording eight hits and a walk before Juan Uribe - who led off the inning with a homer - grounded into a run-scoring double play. Juan Lagares and Curtis Granderson - the first two batters in the lineup - each registered three hits, two RBIs and two runs scored as New York improved to 6-0 versus Colorado this year while reaching double digits in runs for the third straight time in the season series. Kyle Parker drove in four runs while Charlie Blackmon and former Met Jose Reyes homered for the Rockies, who are 2-6 on their nine-game homestand. Colorado has allowed 14 or more runs in three of its last five contests and at least 10 on five occasions this month.

Rating: 2 Units

Odorizzi's unbeaten streak reached six starts Tuesday at Houston, where he settled for a no-decision after striking out nine while allowing one run over six innings. The 25-year-old native of Illinois is just 1-0 during his run but has lost only once in his last 10 outings, yielding three runs or fewer seven times in that span.  Oakland starter Graveman lost his fifth consecutive decision last Sunday, when he was tagged for six runs and eight hits in 3 1/3 innings at Baltimore.

Rating: 2 Units

The St. Louis Cardinals lost the opener of a 10-game road trip and seek to rebound when they visit the San Diego Padres today. The 9-3 loss Friday trimmed St. Louis' lead to 4 1/2 games over second-place Pittsburgh in the National League Central. San Diego starter Kennedy is 2-5 with an 8.31 ERA in seven career starts against St. Louis, including a loss July 5 in which he allowed three runs and seven hits in six innings.

Rating: 2 Units

The New York Mets hope for more fireworks from Yoenis Cespedes when they continue their three-game series against the host Colorado Rockies today. Cespedes put on a power display in the opener, belting three home runs - including a grand slam - and driving in seven runs while scoring five times during a 5-for-6 performance in a 14-9 triumph. New York starter Niese's unbeaten streak reached four starts last Saturday, when he allowed three runs and five hits in six innings of a no-decision against Pittsburgh. The 28-year-old native of Ohio has given up seven runs in 26 frames while going 2-0 during his run. Niese limited the Rockies to two runs over seven innings in a home win on Aug. 10.

Rating: 3 Units

Zack Greinke vies to win his fifth straight start and ninth consecutive decision on Saturday as the Los Angeles Dodgers look to rebound from being no-hit by Mike Fiers and the host Houston Astros in the series opener. Greinke was dominant in his last outing on Sunday, allowing one run and six hits while striking out eight in seven innings of a 2-1 triumph over Cincinnati. The 31-year-old owns a 4-1 career record versus Houston. While Houston starter  Kazmir has endured quite a tough August as he suffered his third straight loss on Monday after getting ripped for six runs and nine hits in a 9-2 setback to Tampa Bay. The 31-year-old has permitted 13 runs and four homers during the skid after yielding two runs without being taken deep in his previous five outings. Kazmir struggled mightily in his last meeting with the Dodgers, permitting five runs and six hits in 3 2/3 frames.

Rating: 2 Units

After being thumped 10-3 by the Brewers in the opener, the Nationals sit five games behind the New York Mets in the race for a division title many experts anointed to Washington before the season. Since July 30 – when they were 54-46 and led the East by three games – the Nationals have lost 15 of their past 21. The Brewers, who banged out 14 hits in the opener, have won five of their past seven games and are 46-13 when scoring four or more runs. Milwaukee starter Jungmann, whom Milwaukee took 12th overall four years ago, made his major-league debut June 9 and has won two of his three August. The 6-foot-6 hurler beat Philadelphia on Monday with six scoreless innings of three-hit pitching, striking out a career-best nine.

Rating: 2 Units

Lackey picked up his 10th win with 8 1/3 solid innings against Miami on Saturday to reach double digits in victories for the 12th straight time. He also owns 12 consecutive quality starts - two shy of his career high - and has posted a 2.12 ERA during the run.  San Diego starer Cashner allowed four earned runs and seven hits in five innings - his shortest start since June 21 - in a no-decision at Colorado on Saturday. He is 0-2 with a 5.56 ERA in four outings since his last win on July 2

Rating: 3 Units

David Price strives to remain unbeaten since joining Toronto when the Blue Jays open a three-game series against the host Los Angeles Angels today. Price is 2-0 with a 1.61 ERA in three outings since Toronto acquired him from the Detroit Tigers. Price aims to deliver another strong outing as Toronto attempts to close in on the New York Yankees, who hold a 1 1/2-game lead over the Blue Jays in the American League East. Toronto and Los Angeles hold the two wild-card spots entering the series, and the Angels trail the Houston Astros by 2 1/2 games in the AL West. Los Angeles starter Santiago is winless in his last five starts

Rating: 4 Unit MLB Play of the Day

The New York Yankees look to rebound from a rare hiccup at home when they continue their four-game series against the Cleveland Indians today. The Yankees swept aside Minnesota in three contests to begin their 10-game homestand before suffering just their second loss in eight outings with a 3-2 setback to the Indians on Thursday. New York starter Tanaka improved to 5-2 in his last seven starts after allowing one run on five hits and striking out eight in a complete-game victory over Toronto on Saturday. The 26-year-old Japan native has flourished at home, posting a 6-3 mark while allowing the opposition to bat just .220 against him.

Rating: 2 Units

The Los Angeles Angels are taking advantage of Chicago's offensive woes and attempt to finish off a four-game sweep of the visiting White Sox on Thursday. Los Angeles limited Chicago to four runs and three extra-base hits — all doubles — while winning the first three contests.  The White Sox have dropped five of their last six games and have scored three or fewer runs in seven of their past eight outings. White Sox starter Quintana is winless over his last three starts and lost to the Chicago Cubs in his last turn when he gave up three runs and seven hits in six innings. He has never defeated the Angels and is 0-3 with a 4.50 ERA in four career outings. Quintana has issued two or fewer walks in each of his last 14 outings.

Rating: 3 Units

The American League’s last two World Series representatives will meet up this weekend when the Kansas City Royals visit the Boston Red Sox for the opener of a four-game series on Thursday. The Royals are well on their way to a second straight trip to the playoffs while the Red Sox are well on their way to a second straight last-place finish. The Royals have won five straight and 10 of 12 and just wrapped up a two-game sweep of Cincinnati to extend their lead in the AL Central to 14 1/2 games.

Rating: 2 Units

The New York Yankees completed a three-game sweep to begin their 10-game homestand in style while the Cleveland Indians are limping their way through an 11-game road trip. The Yankees vie for their seventh win in eight outings when they open a four-game series against the reeling Indians today. Yankee starter Nova improved to 4-1 in his last five starts after allowing three runs on five hits in seven innings of a 4-3 triumph over Toronto on Friday. The 28-year-old Dominican has permitted five or fewer hits in each of his last five outings. Nova pitched well in his lone career contest versus Cleveland, yielding two runs on four hits in seven innings to pick up the win.

Rating: 2 Units

Feldman permitted four hits in six scoreless innings to beat San Francisco last time out, improving to 3-1 over his past eight outings. The 32-year-old Hawaiian is 2-0 against AL East opponents.  Feldman, is 4-3 with a 2.44 ERA in 12 appearances (six starts) against the Rays.

Rating: 4 Unit Inter-League Game of the Week

DeGrom matched his season high with four walks last time out, but he more than compensated by striking out 10 and limiting Colorado to two hits over seven scoreless innings. It was the fifth quality start in as many outings since the All-Star break for deGrom, who is 2-0 and has permitted a total of six runs in that span. Since losing his first three decisions away from home this season, deGrom is 5-1 over his last seven road starts.

Rating: 3 Units MLB Play of the Day

The Royals capped off an 8-2 homestand with a walk-off win Sunday night, and Cueto allowed one run in 17 total innings while claiming a pair of wins in that span. The right-hander is settling in nicely with his new team and Kansas City is running away with the American League Central, heading into play today with a 12-game lead in the division. The Red are trying to fight off the Milwaukee Brewers and stay out of the basement in the National League Central but have dropped nine of 12, including three straight at the Los Angeles Dodgers to close out the weekend.

Rating: 3 Units

The Angels, who are 2 1/2 games behind first-place Houston in the AL West, fell to 1-5 on their seven-game road trip and have scored 16 runs during that span. Kansas City has no such issues as it sits 12 games ahead of Minnesota in the Central and has scored 48 runs while going 7-2 in the first nine contests of its 10-game homestand.  Kansas City starter is Ventura overcame his bout with wildness by allowing two hits and matching a season high with eight strikeouts in six scoreless innings of a 6-1 victory over Detroit on Tuesday.  While Los Angeles Santiago allowed three runs in 5 1/3 innings of a 3-0 loss to the White Sox in Chicago on Tuesday and has permitted three or more runs in four consecutive appearances

Rating: 2 Units

The Red Sox learned on Friday that manager John Farrell was diagnosed with lymphoma and tried to lift his spirits with season-highs of 21 hits and 15 runs in a 15-1 drubbing. Felix Hernandez was no match for that momentum on Saturday and could not help the Mariners as Boston upped both totals with 26 hits in a 22-10 victory. Seattle needs some length out of Nuno after forcing the bullpen to soak up 11 1/3 innings over the last two games. The 28-year-old is making just his third start of the season and went five innings – his longest stint since joining the Mariners at the beginning of June – in a loss to Baltimore on Monday, allowing two runs and five hits. Nuno is 0-1 with a 2.18 ERA in 11 road games – one start – this season.  Owens earned his first win in his second major-league start last Sunday at Detroit, allowing one run on three hits and four walks in five innings.

Rating: 2 Units

Graveman has completed six innings just once in his last six outings, including a rocky 4 2/3 innings in a loss at Toronto on Tuesday. He allowed four runs (two earned), falling to 0-4 during the six-game swoon. The 24-year-old, who owns a 3.17 ERA in 10 road starts, let up three runs in 5 2/3 frames in a no-decision against Baltimore on Aug. 5. Baltimore starter Chen yielded a run and three hits in 7 1/3 dominant innings at Seattle on Monday in his longest start since July 12. He has allowed three runs or fewer in 13 of his last 14 starts, including an uneven five-inning effort opposite Graveman two turns ago. The Taiwan native is 4-0 with a 2.19 ERA in six career starts versus Oakland.

Rating: 2 Units

Severino has allowed a total of three earned runs in his first two starts. Severino has recorded nine strikeouts and one walk in 11 total frames. New York starter Hutchison has benefited from playing with the majors’ best offense and is 7-1 in his last 13 starts despite completing six innings only three times in that span.

Rating: 2 Units

All-Star Chris Archer goes after his career-high 11th victory for the Rays today. Archer has allowed two runs or fewer five times in his last seven starts. The 26-year-old permitted three runs over six innings without factoring in the decision against the New York Mets on Sunday and has notched 37 strikeouts in his last four starts. Archer, who has limited Adrian Beltre to 1-for-11 with five strikeouts.

Rating: 2 Units

Philadelphia starter Williams has made five career starts versus Milwaukee, going 2-2 with a 5.40 ERA. While Milwaukee sarter Nelson extended his unbeaten streak to five starts on Sunday against St. Louis. The 26-year-old native of Oregon, who is 3-0 during his run, did not allow an earned run in four of his previous five outings. Nelson won his first career start versus the Phillies

Rating: 3 Unit MLB Play of the Day

The Chicago Cubs are in the midst of their longest winning streak since 2008 and look to continue solidifying their postseason prospects with the second of three road games against the crosstown rival White Sox on Saturday. The Cubs have won eight straight and 14 of 15 to pull within 1 1/2 games of Pittsburgh for the top National League wild-card spot, while the White Sox have dropped nine of their last 14. Cubs starter Arrieta has tossed 10 straight quality starts, going 7-1 with a 1.23 ERA over the dominant stretch. The 29-year-old has racked up 69 strikeouts over that span while issuing 18 walks and allowing only one home run. He has not allowed a run in either of his last two starts, holding playoff contenders Pittsburgh and San Francisco to six hits over 14 2/3 innings.

Rating: 2 Units

Kluber's bid for his first career no-hitter was broken up by Joe Mauer's single but he endured to record his career-high fourth complete game, allowing three hits and striking out 10 in an 8-1 victory Sunday. The 29-year-old Alabama native has alternated complete games and rough outings over his last four turns, permitting five runs in Anaheim on Aug. 3 and six against the Chicago White Sox on July 24. Mauer is 7-for-31 with a home run and nine strikeouts against Kluber, who is 5-2 with a 3.48 ERA in 12 starts against Minnesota - 2-1, 2.70 ERA in three turns this season.

Rating: 2 Units

Wacha yielded a total of eight hits in 14 scoreless innings over his last two starts, beating Colorado and Cincinnati. The 24-year-old struck out 13 and walked three in those two turns and is 3-1 since the All-Star break. Wacha allowed two earned runs over 12 2/3 total innings in back-to-back outings against Pittsburgh in May and is 2-0 with a 1.69 ERA in five career games – four starts – versus the Pirates.

Rating: 3 Unit MLB Play of the Day

The road has been unkind to the Houston Astros, who have dropped 17 of their last 20 games away from Minute Maid Park. Despite their road woes, the Astros hold a one-game lead over the Los Angeles Angels in the AL West heading into today’s series finale against the host San Francisco Giants, who sit 2 1/2 games behind the first-place Los Angeles Dodgers in the NL West. Houston starter Feldman took a no-decision against Oakland on Thursday after yielding two runs while throwing 113 pitches over six innings. The 32-year-old is 0-1 with a 3.65 ERA in four starts since coming off the disabled list. Hunter Pence is 5-for-11 against Feldman, who is 0-4 with a 5.19 ERA in five career games (three starts) against San Francisco.

Rating: 2 Units

Iglesias took a hard-luck loss on Friday, falling at Arizona despite allowing just one run and three hits in six innings. The 25-year-old Cuban rookie has won only one of his last seven starts, suffering three defeats while yielding two runs or fewer on four occasions. Iglesias, who never has faced San Diego, remains in search of his first career road victory as he is 0-4 with a 6.20 ERA in five games (four starts) away from home.

Rating: 2 Units

Tillman pitched 8 2/3 innings of four-hit shutout ball while defeating Atlanta in his last start despite tweaking the ankle. It continued a torrid stretch in which has gone 3-0 with a 1.09 ERA over his last six outings. Tillman has a 2.09 ERA and .172 batting average against versus the Mariners but has struggled against second baseman Robinson Cano (12-for-29, two homers).

Rating: 2 Units

Locke continued his recent struggles in Wednesday’s 7-5 win over the Chicago Cubs, failing to factor into the decision after surrendering four runs – including a pair of homers – in 5 2/3 frames. The 27-year-old New Hampshire native has yielded at least three runs in each of his last four turns and failed to complete six innings in each of his previous three outings. Locke took the loss on July 9 after giving up four runs (one earned) in five innings against St. Louis, falling to 2-3 with a 3.55 ERA in seven career starts versus the Cardinals.

Rating: 2 Units

Rodon struggled in his second straight start and for third time in four outings, allowing four runs and six hits in 4 2/3 innings of a no-decision versus Tampa Bay on Wednesday. The third overall pick of the 2014 draft, Rodon has yielded 19 runs and 26 hits in those four trips to the mound (18 1/3 frames). Rodon, who has yet to face Los Angeles in his rookie season, has struggled with his control of late as he issued 17 walks last month.

Rating: 2 Units

Pittsburgh starter Morton looks to build on his best start of the season after holding Cincinnati to five hits with no walks over seven scoreless innings last Sunday. The 31-year-old is 4-1 with a 2.52 ERA in six starts at PNC Park this season and 8-2 with a 2.41 ERA over his last 13 home starts.  While Dodgers starter Wood had mixed results in his Dodgers debut last Tuesday as he allowed four runs while striking out eight over 6 1/3 innings in a 6-2 loss to Philadelphia. Wood has gone 1-2 with a 2.57 ERA in five career games (four starts) against Pittsburgh.

Rating: 4 Unit MLB Game of the Week

While the won-lost record may not show it, few pitchers can match the consistency of St. Louis Cardinals veteran John Lackey, who looks to make his 11th consecutive quality start today in the finale of a three-game series at the Milwaukee Brewers. St. Louis posted its third consecutive shutout victory Saturday and its pitching staff is riding a streak of 36 straight scoreless innings. Lackey was a hard-luck loser in his previous turn, coming out on the wrong end of a 1-0 decision against the Reds despite allowing only two hits over eight frames. He has won both starts against the Brewers this season to improve to 4-1 with a 3.86 ERA against them.

Rating: 3 Unit MLB Play of the Day

The Chicago White Sox looked as though they might be in the race for an American League wild-card spot after winning seven in a row late last month. The White Sox have managed only two wins while allowing 66 runs in nine contests since, however, and need a road win today against the AL Central-leading Kansas City Royals to avoid a three-game sweep.  Kansas City starter Duffy is 3-1 over his last six outings while giving up 10 runs over 39 1/3 frames and notched his fifth quality start in that span last time out at Detroit. The 26-year-old Californian had two no-decisions this season against the White Sox before permitting one run, six hits and one walk in eight frames last month. Abreu is 5-for-13 with a homer against Duffy, who is 3-1 with a 3.09 ERA in seven career starts versus Chicago.

Rating: 2 Units

A dugout scuffle in Friday's series-opening loss to Boston didn't have an adverse effect on the Detroit Tigers, who battled back from three deficits in a 7-6 victory over the Red Sox on Saturday night. The host Tigers will look to win today's series finale behind former Cy Young Award winner Justin Verlander, who had one of his best starts of the season at Boston on July 24. Verlander looked to be regaining his old form with back-to-back stellar efforts. In his previous start, he fanned a season-high 10 batters and limited Tampa Bay to one run over four innings. That followed eight innings of one-run ball at Boston for Verlander.

Rating: 2 Units

The Kansas City Royals kicked off their 10-game homestand with a win on Friday, and dominance in their own stadium is a big reason the team sits atop the American League. The Royals will try to clinch their fifth straight series win at home when they host the Chicago White Sox in the middle contest of their three-game series today. Kansas City dropped six of eight on the road before returning home and posting a 3-2 win over the White Sox on Friday. That triumph pushed the Royals to 35-18 at home and kept their lead in the AL Central at a comfortable 9 1/2 games. The White Sox are trending down with losses in six of their last eight. Chicago held on to Samardzija through the July 31 trade deadline and he responded with one of his worst starts of the season, serving up nine runs on eight hits and a pair of walks in 4 2/3 innings to lose to the New York Yankees on Sunday. The Notre Dame product has not notched more than three strikeouts in a start since prior to the All-Star break. Samardzija has lost twice to Kansas City this season, most recently allowing four runs in seven innings on July 17.

Rating: 4 Uni MLB Game of the Month

The Milwaukee Brewers need to find a way to solve the pitching staff of the visiting St. Louis Cardinals when the National League Central rivals resume their three-game set on Saturday. The Cardinals posted their major league-best 70th victory with a 6-0 win in the series opener - their fourth shutout triumph over Milwaukee in the last eight meetings. Milwaukee starter Peralta turned in a strong effort in his first start since missing more than two months with a strained oblique, beating San Francisco with six innings of two-run ball. He followed that up with a dud last time out, lasting 3 1/3 frames and getting whacked around for six runs and eight hits in a 13-5 loss to San Diego. He is 4-6 lifetime against the Cardinals and has struggled against Matt Carpenter (12-for-27) and Yadier Molina (8-for-22).

Rating: 2 Units

The rapid development of rookie Noah Syndergaard is a prime reason why the New York Mets are being touted as having the best pitching staff in baseball. Syndergaard looks to win his third straight start and the visiting New York Mets go for their eighth consecutive victory Saturday in the second of a three-game series versus the Tampa Bay Rays. In winning his last two starts, Syndergaard joined Dwight Gooden and Pedro Martinez as the only Met pitchers with consecutive outings of at least eight innings pitched with nine strikeouts and zero walks. He allowed a pair of solo homers to beat Washington last time out and blanked San Diego on three hits in his previous turn. Despite the winless mark away from home, he has permitted four runs combined in his last three road starts.

Rating: 2 Units

Houston probably would not be in first place without right-hander Collin McHugh, who tries for his fifth straight victory today when the Astros visit the Oakland Athletics in the third contest of a four-game series. McHugh yielded one run and eight hits in seven innings of a 4-1 victory over Arizona on Aug. 1. The 28-year-old Illinois native posted a 3.24 ERA while allowing 33 hits and striking out 17 in 25 innings during his winning streak. McHugh is 2-0 with a 1.26 ERA in two starts against Oakland, including a 6-1 victory April 15 when he permitted one run and six hits while striking out a season-high 11 in 5 2/3 innings.

Rating: 3 Unit MLB Play of the Day

Gray tossed his second shutout of the season and fourth of his career when he dominated the Los Angeles Dodgers in his last outing. He struck out nine and gave up three hits and one walk while frustrating the Los Angeles hitters. Gray has 22 strikeouts in 21 innings against Cleveland while holding its hitters to a .129 batting average.

Rating: 2 Units

Milwaukee starter Lohse has not had a quality start in his last six turns and continues to be plagued by home runs. He served up one more, giving him 24 on the season, while allowing four runs in 6 2/3 innings with zero strikeouts at San Francisco on Monday. The 36-year-old got the win despite allowing four runs in five frames against the Cubs on May 9 and he has a 4.97 ERA in 24 career meetings.

Rating: 4 Unit MLB Game of the Week

The Houston Astros attempt to post their fifth consecutive home series win when they take on the Arizona Diamondbacks on Sunday in the rubber match of their three-game interleague set. Houston has won four straight home series since splitting four games with the New York Yankees from June 25-28 and hasn't lost a set at Minute Maid Park since dropping two of three to the Chicago White Sox at the end of May. Houston starter McHugh won his third straight start Tuesday despite surrendering five runs on seven hits and four walks in five innings against the Los Angeles Angels. The 28-year-old Illinois native yielded a total of three runs over 13 frames in his previous two triumphs. While Arizona starter Ray's winless streak reached three starts Monday, when he settled for a no-decision at Seattle

Rating: 2 Units

Odorizzi held Detroit to one run over six strong innings on Tuesday to earn his third victory in four decisions over a six-start span. The 25-year-old has limited opponents to two or fewer runs in 11 of his 16 outings in 2015 and boasts 82 strikeouts versus 26 walks in 97 2/3 innings. Boston starter Miley is winless in his last five starts and was reached for seven runs and a season-high 10 hits over 5 2/3 frames in a loss against the Chicago White Sox on Tuesday

Rating: 2 Units

Hendricks uncharacteristically struggled with his command and failed to factor in the decision Monday in Colorado, matching a season high with three walks while yielding four runs and seven hits in five frames. The Dartmouth alum ended July on a bit of a sour note by allowing nine runs over his final 11 innings after beginning the month by permitting one earned run over his first 20 frames. Hendricks has dominated the Brewers in three career starts, however, going 2-0 with a 0.98 ERA.

Rating: 2 Units

DeGrom is coming off another superb performance but had to settle for a no-decision despite blanking the Los Angeles Dodgers on two hits over 7 2/3 innings. He beat the Nationals for the first time in three starts this season in his previous turn, giving up two runs on three hits in six innings. The 22-year-old deGrom is 5-2 with a 1.48 ERA while holding teams to a .207 batting average against in 10 starts at Citi Field.

Rating: 2 Units

Gerrit Cole attempts to earn his major league-leading 15th victory  when the Pittsburgh Pirates visit the Cincinnati Reds tonight.  Cole turned in an outstanding effort to beat Washington last time out, allowing only a solo home run among seven hits over 7 2/3 innings. The former No. 1 overall draft pick pitched at least seven innings in all four of his starts in July, going 3-1 and permitting a combined eight earned runs.

Rating: 3 Unit MLB Play of the Day

Buehrle is 6-1 since losing to the Mariners on May 23 when he gave up three runs and five hits over 7 1/3 innings. Buehrle has allowed two or fewer earned runs in each of his last nine starts and hasn't issued a single walk over his past four outings. He has served up just one homer over his last seven turns and has turned around his season since being saddled with a 6.75 ERA after his first five starts.  Toronto starter Walker has struggled during a three-start winless stretch and allowed 16 earned runs in 15 1/3 innings during the span. He received a no-decision against Detroit in his last turn when he was touched up for six runs (five earned) and seven hits over 4 1/3 innings. Walker is 0-2 with a 3.29 ERA in two career starts against Toronto and suffered the loss on May 24 when he gave up four runs and six hits in 5 2/3 innings

Rating: 2 Units

Ventura suffered his fourth loss in his last five decisions on Monday after allowing six runs on 10 hits in four innings of a 10-7 setback to Pittsburgh. The 24-year-old Dominican had been sent to the minors after the loss, but returned to the Royals with Jason Vargas nursing an elbow injury. Ventura got blitzed for five runs on seven hits in 2 2/3 innings to take the loss in his last meeting with Houston.  Keuchel struck out 13 and scattered two hits over seven innings in a 10-0 rout of Texas last Sunday. The 27-year-old has won four of his last five starts, including fanning seven over eight frames of a 4-0 triumph versus Kansas City on June 30.

Rating: 2 Units

Greinke has won each of his last four starts in dominating fashion, scattering 12 hits and striking out 29 in that stretch while allowing just three hits and fanning 11 in a 5-0 triumph over Washington on Sunday. The 31-year-old improved to 3-1 in his career versus New York after permitting just four hits over seven scoreless innings in a 4-3 win on July 4. New York's Kelly Johnson had a pair of hits in his debut with his new team after being acquired from Atlanta on Friday, but is 0-for-6 in his career versus Greinke.

Rating: 3 Unit MLB Play of the Day

Santiago won his third start in a row Monday, when he struck out 10 while limiting Boston to one run in five innings. The 27-year-old has been outstanding over his last five turns, allowing a total of four runs in 32 frames. One of those outings occurred in Texas on July 4, when Santiago scattered three hits over seven scoreless innings to improve to 5-2 with a 3.30 ERA in 13 career games (10 starts) against the Rangers.

Rating: 2 Units

Johnny Cueto could be making his final start as a member of the Cincinnati Reds today when he faces the host Colorado Rockies, who opened the three-game series with Friday’s dramatic 6-5 victory. Cueto is one of several players being mentioned in trade rumors on the Reds. The 29-year-old has pitched eight strong innings in each of his last two starts against Colorado, and he’s 3-2 with a 3.38 ERA in seven career starts against the Rockies.

Rating: 2 Units

Whatever offensive problems the Chicago White Sox were dealing with immediately following the All-Star break have been wiped away over the last two games. The White Sox will try to post their third straight convincing win when they visit the Cleveland Indians in the third contest of a four-game series today. Sale was a little rusty in his return from the All-Star break on Sunday, when he allowed four runs and 11 hits in 6 1/3 innings to suffer the loss against Kansas City. Those four runs matched his total in the previous three starts, spanning 24 frames. Sale did not factor in the decision versus Cleveland on May 18 despite yielding one run and four hits in eight innings.

Rating: 3 Unit MLB Play of the Day

The Houston Astros are doing what they know how to do best – hitting home runs to support strong starting pitching. The Astros will try to use that formula again when they go for a three-game sweep of the visiting Boston Red Sox today.Houston bashed three home runs – two by Preston Tucker – in support of Collin McHugh in Wednesday’s 4-2 triumph after Chris Carter’s blast put an exclamation point on Tuesday’s 8-3 triumph. The Red Sox are proving to be an easy mark for American League West teams looking to improve their playoff position and have been outscored 34-9 while dropping six in a row to the Los Angeles Angels and the Astros since the All-Star break. Boston has lost seven straight overall

Rating: 3 Unit MLB Play of the Day

The San Francisco Giants vie for their second consecutive series sweep when they visit the Arizona Diamondbacks on Sunday. San Francisco humbled hapless Philadelphia prior to the All-Star break before extending its winning streak to five games with an 8-4 triumph on Saturday. After pitching well in his first start following Tommy John surgery, Corbin was taken deep three times in a 4-2 loss to the New York Mets on July 11. Corbin, who will celebrate his 26th birthday on Sunday, owns a 2-3 career mark versus San Francisco with a 4.26 ERA while allowing the Giants to bat .272 against him. Hunter Pence is a blistering 9-for-19 (.474) lifetime versus Corbin while Posey is 6-for-20 (.300) against the hurler.

Rating: 3 Units

Cueto is coming off a loss at Miami on July 12 in which he was tagged for five runs - three earned - in five innings. The 29-year-old Dominican had given up a total of three runs over 23 frames in his previous three starts. Cueto has been superb against Cleveland in his career, going 4-0 with two complete games and a 2.08 ERA in six outings.

Rating: 2 Units

The Mariners have the opportunity to take this set thanks to Robinson Cano, who hit a pair of home runs against his former team in Saturday's 4-3 victory — his first multi-homer game since leaving New York as a free agent following the 2013 season. Cano has 81 home runs in 406 games at Yankee Stadium, where he is a .312 career hitter. Hernandez also has fared well in the Bronx, where he is 5-1 with a 1.37 ERA in seven starts.

Rating: 3 Unit MLB Play of the Day

Richards gave up three runs and 13 hits in 15 1/3 innings in his previous two turns. Richards benefited from Porcello’s struggles on May 22 and earned a win at Boston  LAA is 12-3 in their last 15 games, 5-0 in Game 2 of a series, and 22-9 in Richards last 31 starts. Boston is just 1-4 in Porcellos last 5 starts, and 2-5 overall against LAA in their last 7.

Rating: 2 Units

Lackey continued his string of strong starts despite settling for a no-decision in his last outing. The 36-year-old, who allowed one run on five hits in 6 2/3 innings versus Pittsburgh on Saturday, has permitted eight runs and 36 hits in his last six outings - during which he recorded a 3-1 mark. Lackey owns a 1-0 career record versus New York, but settled for a no-decision on May 18 after yielding one run on three hits in seven innings in his last meeting. Colon fell to 0-3 in his last four starts after allowing three runs on 10 hits in six innings of a 3-0 setback at San Francisco on July 7.

Rating: 2 Units

Liriano finished up his first half with his fourth straight quality start on Sunday, when he held the Cardinals to two runs in 6 1/3 innings without factoring in the decision. Pittsburgh came into the All-Star break hot with wins in 13 of their previous 16 games.  The Pirates are 5-2 in their last 7 against Milwaukee, 4-0 in Lirianos last 4 starts, while Milwaukee is 1-5 in Nelsons last 6 home starts.

Rating: 2 Units

The Astros improved to 21-7 over their last 28 contests at Minute Maid Park, breaking an 0-for-20 slump with runners in scoring position over the last four games with a 4-for-11 effort. The Rangers pounded out 15 hits en route to their third straight loss, but stranded 10 runners and could not avoid their eighth setback in nine tries. Texas fell to 11-24 in the division and has dropped 16 of 21 since climbing six games over .500 – matching a season high – on June 19.

Rating: 2 Units

Lynn suffered his first loss since May 22 after surrendering five runs on nine hits in a season-low four innings of a 5-2 setback to Pittsburgh last Friday. The 28-year-old was making his fourth start since returning from the disabled list, and had yielded only two runs (one earned) in 19 innings over the first three. Lynn owns a 4-1 mark at home this season. The Mets are 17-36  when playing at the Cards home stadium.

Rating: 2 Units

Young has allowed one or no runs in seven of his 13 starts since moving from the bullpen, but he's winless in his last three turns. The 36-year-old took a tough-luck loss on Saturday, allowing three runs over six innings against Toronto. Young pitched 1 2/3 scoreless frames in relief against the White Sox on April 24, his first appearance against them since 2005. Chicago starter Danks has been horrible with extended rest going just 2-7 in his last 9 starts with 8 or more days rest.

Rating: 2 Units

Bolsinger has not won in six starts since beating Arizona on June 8. The 27-year-old Texas native recorded his first quality start over that stretch in his final turn before the All-Star break, holding Milwaukee to two runs and four hits over six innings in a no-decision. Bolsinger is 0-1 with a 3.30 ERA in six road starts this season and has only one road win in his brief big-league career. Zimmerman is 5-1 overall in his last 6 starts against the Dodgers.

Rating: 2 Units

Gallardo had his string of four straight scoreless outings snapped by Arizona on Tuesday, when he allowed three runs on eight hits and five walks in 5 2/3 innings en route to his first loss since May 19. The 29-year-old Mexican went 2-0 during his scoreless streak, allowing 14 hits over 26 1/3 frames, and hadn't given up more than two runs in any of his eight starts prior to facing the Diamondbacks.  San Diego starter Ross has struggled against Texas in his career, going 1-2 while surrendering seven runs over 10 1/3 frames for a 6.10 ERA in five games

Rating: 3 Unit MLB Play of the Day

Kansas City had won six straight before suffering a 6-2 loss to the Blue Jays on Saturday. Danny Valencia slugged a three-run homer and Edwin Encarnacion went deep with a man on to lead Toronto's 11-hit attack. Toronto starter Doubront has given up 10 earned runs in 15 1/3 innings over three career starts against Kansas City. Kansas City starter Volquez is 5-2 with a 3.08 ERA in nine home starts this year

Rating: 2 Units

In his first start since dealing with a severe bout of salmonella, Gray overcame a rocky start to escape with a no-decision against the New York Yankees on Tuesday. The 25-year-old has fared well on the road, posting a 6-1 record with a 2.10 ERA and 1.15 WHIP. Gray recorded his lone decision in his last meeting with Cleveland, permitting one run on two hits and striking out nine over six innings to pick up the victory. Cleveland starter Kluber has struggled mightily against Oakland, posting an 0-3 record in four appearances while allowing the Athletics to bat .324 against him.

Rating: 2 Units

McCullers, who was the Gatorade National Player of the Year in 2012 at Jesuit High in Tampa, has been brilliant in his first 10 career starts - limiting opponents to two runs of fewer eight times. The former first-round pick has given up three runs over 18 innings in his last three outings, with just one victory to show for it. McCullers has struck out 61 in the major leagues after fanning 43 over 29 frames in the minors earlier this year. Tampa Bay starter Moore has struggled in his first two starts since returning from a stretch of almost 15 months away due to Tommy John surgery. The 26-year-old, who is 29-17 in his career, allowed four runs in each outing and 15 hits over a total of nine innings against Cleveland and Kansas City.

Rating: 2 Units

Los Angeles starter Wilson has won back-to-back starts and four of his last five outings. He defeated Texas in his last start when he gave up three runs and six hits in six innings. Wilson is 1-0 with a 1.20 ERA against Seattle this season and has enjoyed career-long success against third baseman Kyle Seager (4-for-39, 15 strikeouts) and left fielder Dustin Ackley (5-for-29).  Seattle starter Iwakuma struggled in his return after missing 2 1/2 months due to a back injury. He received a no-decision against Detroit despite serving up four homers while allowing five runs and eight hits in five innings.

Rating: 2 Units

Keuchel has been one of best pitchers in baseball this season with a 0.99 WHIP and 11 victories – one shy of his career high.  He has been outstanding in winning his last three starts, allowing a total of three runs over 23 innings while striking out 27 and walking only two in that span. The 27-year-old Oklahoma native has yielded two or fewer runs in 12 of his 18 starts and completed seven frames 11 times.

Rating: 3 Unit MLB Play of the Day

Citi Field has been a safe haven for the New York Mets, who improved to 30-14 at home after posting a 4-2 series-opening victory over the Arizona Diamondbacks. New York vies for its 10th win in 15 outings following a seven-game skid when it continues its three-game series against Arizona today. The Mets have won nine of their last 14 at home against Arizona, which fell for the second time in seven contests.

Rating: 2 Units

Shelby Miller has been outstanding in his first three months with the Atlanta Braves, and his team certainly can use another stellar performance today from their lone All-Star when the Braves play at the Colorado Rockies Miller pitched 6 1/3 shutout innings Sunday against Philadelphia, allowing seven hits with eight strikeouts in a game Atlanta lost 4-0 in 10 innings. The 24-year-old, acquired in the Jason Heyward trade with St. Louis during the offseason, ranks third in the National League in ERA and 12th in WHIP (1.095). Miller, is 2-0 all-time against the Rockies

Rating: 2 Units

Buchholz has won four consecutive starts and is 5-0 over his last seven outings. He has allowed only three earned runs during his four-start winning streak and gave up one run and six hits while beating Houston in a complete-game effort last Saturday. New York starter Pineda is winless in his past three starts and received a no-decision against Tampa Bay in his last turn when he struck out 10 and gave up five hits over seven scoreless innings. He has lost three of his last four road starts. In addition, Boston has won four consecutive games and stands just 5 1/2 games behind the Yankees despite residing in last place.

Rating: 2 Units

White Sox starter Rodon's rookie campaign has been uneven, and he has endured rough outings in his last two starts. The 22-year-old was tagged for four runs (three earned) on four hits and four walks in five innings in a loss to Baltimore on Sunday. He has posted a 7.32 ERA over his last four starts. Cubs starter Hendricks has won consecutive starts for the first time all season, working 13 1/3 scoreless innings over his last two outings. The 25-year-old pitched into the eighth Sunday against Miami, allowing five hits and one walk while striking out six over 7 1/3 innings

Rating: 2 Units

The Atlanta Braves aim to continue their success against Colorado when they open a four-game series versus the host Rockies today. Though the teams are meeting for the first time this season, Atlanta has won 17 of the past 22 meetings. Colorado has lost nine of its last 11 games and dropped 14 games below .500 when it fell 3-2 to the Los Angeles Angels on Wednesday. Colorado starter Kendrick is 1-4 over his last seven starts.

Rating: 3 Units

Price was unbeaten in June and continued the momentum by limiting Toronto to one right on eight hits over seven innings on Saturday to improve to 4-0 over his last six starts. The former Vanderbilt standout has been exceptional way from home, posting a 5-1 record and sparkling 1.86 in nine starts. Price is 7-3 with a 2.42 ERA in 13 appearances (12 starts) against Minnesota while holding first baseman Joe Mauer to 5-for-30.

Rating: 2 Units

The Pittsburgh Pirates look to extend their winning streak and close the gap in the National League Central when they host the division-leading St. Louis Cardinals today in the opener of their four-game series. Pittsburgh posted its fifth consecutive victory and eighth in nine contests on Wednesday, completing a three-game sweep with a 5-2 triumph over San Diego.Pittsburgh starter Locke continued his strong surge on Saturday, when he picked up the victory after limiting Cleveland to two hits in eight scoreless innings. The 27-year-old has yielded fewer than three earned runs in each of his last five outings. In addition, St Louis is just 1-6 in their last 7 games against left handed starters.

Rating: 3 Units

Wacha has been outstanding in the last starts, including six innings of one-run and six-hit ball in a victory over the Cubs on June 27. The 24-year-old Texas A&M product has held opponents to two earned runs in 12 of his 16 starts. Wacha is 3-1 with a 2.87 ERA in six outings (five starts) against the Cubs. Chicago starter Hammel is winless in his last five starts, but has limited opponents to two or fewer earned runs in six of his past seven outings. The only start in that span the 32-year-old did not accomplish the feat was against St. Louis when he yielded four runs and six hits in four frames on June 28. Jason Heyward (9-for-16) and Peralta (9-for-22, two homers) have hit well against Hammel, who is 1-3 in five starts versus the Cardinals.

Rating: 2 Units

New York managed two first-inning runs against Athletics ace Sonny Gray on Tuesday before it was limited to one run thereafter in a 4-3, 10-inning loss, the club's fifth setback in eight games.  New York starter Sabathia gave up four runs in 7 1/3 innings in a loss at Anaheim on June 29 before the Yankees elected to push back his next start to get in some extra side work. He surrendered two more homers in the outing, giving him nine in the last five starts and 19 on the season, the second-highest total in the AL. The A's took Sabathia deep twice in a 5-4 win at Oakland on May 28. While Oakland starter Kazmir has lasted at least seven innings in three straight starts and is coming off perhaps his best outing of the season. He limited Seattle to two hits while striking out seven in eight scoreless innings Thursday

Rating: 2 Units

The Pittsburgh Pirates appear to have finally solved their biggest nemesis at home and will try to complete a three-game sweep of the visiting San Diego Padres on Wednesday night. The Pirates had lost 14 straight home series to San Diego before posting consecutive one-run victories to extend their winning streak to four games. Morton is 4-1 with a 2.43 ERA in five home starts and improved to 4-1 with a 2.65 ERA versus the Padres after seven innings of two-run ball at San Diego on May 30. In addition San Diego is 2-6 in their last 8 overall and are 2-6 in their last 8 games on grass while the Pirates are 30-12 in their last 42 overall while going  30-12 in their last 42 games on grass.

Rating: 3 Unit MLB Play of the Day

The Royals come into this one owning the best record (46-33) in the American League.  Kansas City starter Volquez escaped without a decision when he permitted five runs in as many innings at Houston last Wednesday after winning his previous four starts. The 32-year-old Dominican, in his first season with the Royals,  is 2-0 with a 2.66 ERA in three career starts against the Rays.

Rating: 2 Units

Gallardo is having his turn in the rotation pushed up a day to get him two starts this week before the All-Star break, and the veteran is cruising of late. Gallardo allowed two hits in six scoreless innings at Baltimore on Thursday to run his scoreless innings streak to 29 1/3 frames – the fourth-longest mark in club history. The Mexico native is 7-1 with a 2.12 ERA in 11 career starts against Arizona.

Rating: 2 Units

Since he was shelled by Minnesota on May 19, Liriano has registered a quality start in seven of his last eight appearances. The turnaround began at San Diego on May 29, when he struck out 11 and permitted three hits over six scoreless innings to drop his ERA to 1.97 in five starts against the Padres. Liriano pitched seven innings for the fifth time in six starts last time out, blanking Detroit on five hits to earn the victory.

Rating: 3 Units

Burnett halted a four-start winless drought by limiting the Detroit Tigers to two runs over seven innings last time out - the 13th time in 16 turns he has pitched at least six innings. One of the keys for Burnett is keeping the ball in the park, surrendering only three homers on the season and none over his last five outings. San Diego starter Shields lost his third consecutive start. Shields was hit hard in each his previous outings, giving up 11 runs and 17 hits over 10 innings in losses at San Francisco and Arizona..

Rating: 2 Units

Lackey fell to 2-1 in his last four starts despite allowing just two runs on seven hits in as many innings in a setback to the Chicago White Sox on Wednesday. The veteran has permitted just seven runs in that stretch, with two yielded to the Cubs over seven frames of a no-decision on June 26. Lackey also fared well in his first outing versus the Cubs, allowing one run on five hits and striking out a season-best 10 in 7 2/3 innings of a 5-1 triumph on May 7.

Rating: 3 Unit MLB Dog of the Day

Since giving up a season-high five runs in a 6-3 loss at Seattle on June 20, Keuchel has not allowed a run in winning his last two starts. He turned in an overpowering effort versus the New York Yankees on June 25, striking out a season-high 12 while registering his second shutout and third complete game of the season. He followed that up with eight scoreless innings against Kansas City to move within two wins of his career high.

Rating: 2 Units

After getting tagged for nine runs and 10 hits in five frames against the Los Angeles Dodgers on June 8, Rubby De La Rosa is 2-0 with 1.30 ERA in his four turns since. The 26-year-old’s worst outing over that span came in a no-decision Tuesday when he yielded two runs and struck out seven over 5 2/3 innings against the Dodgers. Rubby De La Rosa has fared much better in his five outings (three starts) versus the Rockies, going 2-0 with a 2.14 ERA. Arizona has won 10 of its last 13 and 16 of its last 22 at home against Colorado.

Rating: 2 Units

San Diego starter Kennedy suffered his second straight loss on Tuesday, allowing four runs on as many hits in five innings of a 5-0 setback to Seattle. The 30-year-old was undone by a pair of homers in that contest and has been taken deep 17 times this season after yielding just 16 in 33 starts in 2014. Kennedy has been rocked by St. Louis in his career, posting a 2-4 mark with a gaudy 9.00 ERA while allowing the opposition to bat .314 against him. St. Louis starter Lynn recorded his second straight strong start following his stint on the disabled list, settling for a no-decision after allowing one run in six innings against Chris Sale and the Chicago White Sox. The 28-year-old Lynn has pitched well at home, posting a 3-1 mark with a 2.20 ERA while only allowing two homers in 45 innings.

Rating: 2 Units

The Phillies have lost six in a row while Atlanta recorded its highest run total since May 21 in Saturday’s 9-5 victory, and have won four in a row to remain five games behind Washington in the National League East. Atlanta starter Miller won five of his first six decisions on the season, including a pair of victories over the Phillies – punctuated by a complete-game three-hit shutout with eight strikeouts May 5.

Rating: 2 Units

Houston starter McCullers has allowed one run on four hits with six strikeouts in each of his last two starts, including a seven-inning gem against Kansas City on Monday. He has yielded just two home runs in 53 1/3 innings at the major-league level.  Boston starter Rodriguez let up a run and four hits to defeat the Blue Jays and improve to 3-0 with a 0.69 ERA on the road. Fenway Park has been a challenge, however, as the 22-year-old has been pounded for 16 runs in 15 1/3 innings at home. After lasting at least seven innings in each of his first two career starts, Rodriguez has been unable to accomplish the feat in five consecutive appearances.

Rating: 3 Unit MLB Play of the Day

Toronto starter Estrada struggled with his command in a 2 1/3-inning outing against Boston on Tuesday at home. He was charged with four runs (two earned) on three hits and four walks in his shortest start of the year. Toronto has dropped three in a row while allowing 28 runs, and has dropped five of six overall. The Tigers look to follow up another solid offensive showing when they aim for a three-game series sweep at home against the Toronto Blue Jays

Rating: 2 Units

The Mets attempt to win their third straight game away from home after a seven-game road losing streak today when they face the Los Angeles Dodgers in the second of a three-game set. Mets starter Harvey turned in his third consecutive stellar start last Saturday, permitting one unearned run over six frames, but did not factor into the decision in a 2-1 victory over Cincinnati. The No. 7 overall pick of the 2010 draft is 1-1 with a 0.46 ERA over his last three turns after going 1-3, 7.20 in his previous four outings.

Rating: 3 Unit MLB Play of the Day

Seattle starter Felix Hernandez goes after his 11th victory of the season when the Seattle Mariners visit the Oakland Athletics in today's third contest of a four-game set. Hernandez has a 20-7 career mark and 2.63 ERA in 37 starts against Oakland. He gave up only one hit in six shutout innings against the Los Angeles Angels in his last turn and settled for a no-decision.

Rating: 2 Units

Tillman improved to 4-0 his last five trips to the mound on Sunday after scattering four hits over seven innings in an 8-0 rout of Cleveland. The 27-year-old owns a 3-1 career mark versus Chicago, holding the club to a .214 batting average in the process. Chicago starter Samardzija was blasted his previous meeting with Baltimore, permitting eight runs on 10 hits - including two homers - over five frames in front of an empty ballpark on April 29.

Rating: 2 Units

McHugh has won three straight starts to improve to 20-20 in his career after opening 4-17. He allowed a run and a season-low two hits in eight dominant innings to defeat the New York Yankees on Sunday, giving the 28-year-old a 2.45 ERA during his winning streak. McHugh, who allowed a run in six frames in his one start against Boston, has lasted eight innings in each of his last two outings after failing to do so in his previous 16 starts.

Rating: 2 Units

Wacha has alternated wins and losses in each of his last seven outings, emerging on the positive side after permitting one run on six hits in as many innings of an 8-1 triumph over the Chicago Cubs on Saturday. The 24-year-old has eclipsed the sum total in victories of his previous two seasons with his 10-win performance in 2015. Wacha, who has yet to face San Diego in his young career, has struck out 27 batters against five walks in his last four outings. San Diego also struggled to score runs of late, getting shut out on back-to-back occasions before its eruption in the opener of a 10-game trek ended a three-game losing skid.

Rating: 3 Unit MLB Play of the Day

The Pittsburgh Pirates own the second-best record in the National League and continue their pursuit of Central Division-leading St. Louis when they host the resurgent Cleveland Indians today in the opener of a three-game interleague series. The Pirates are riding high after a three-game sweep in Detroit and play their next 10 at home. Pittsburgh starter Morton is perfect at PNC Park this season with a 4-0 record and 1.98 ERA in four starts.

Rating: 2 Units

The Chicago Cubs take some momentum into a 10-game homestand, which begins with the first of three against the Miami Marlins this afternoon. The Cubs permitted just one run during a three-game sweep at the New York Mets – capped by a 6-1 triumph on Thursday – and stand alone in the second wild-card spot in the National League.Miami starter has pitched better at home (4-1, 1.68 ERA) than on the road (2-3, 6.21) in 2015. Starlin Castro is 2-for-7 with a homer and three RBIs versus Koehler, who has yet to register a decision with a 4.76 ERA in three career appearances (two starts) against the Cubs.

Rating: 2 Units

Moreland homered twice in each of the first two games and totaled seven RBIs as Texas grabbed a pair of wins by a combined 16-7. All of that production came against right-handed pitching, and Moreland went 0-for-4 with a pair of strikeouts against lefties Wei-Yin Chen and Zach Britton on Wednesday. The Orioles will have to find a way to get the first baseman out with a right-hander when Kevin Gausman takes the mound for the finale, opposite Rangers ace Yovani Gallardo.  Texas starter Gallardo has not allowed a run in 20 1/3 innings over his last three starts and scattered three hits over 8 2/3 innings at Toronto on Saturday. The Mexico native allowed two or fewer runs in his last seven outings and has not yielded a home run in that span.