Miami Marlins.

Home Run Play.

Game 903.

4:45 PM PT/7:45 PM ET.

Miami has taken three of the four meetings against St. Louis this season. And although they come in here after getting swept in a three-game series at Baltimore, this is an ideal matchup for them to get back on track. They send Jesus Luzardo to the hill today. The left-hander is 8-5 with a 3.29 ERA on the campaign. Over his past five appearances, he has allowed just four runs in nearly 32 innings pitched. Over the last month, he is a perfect 3-0 in five starts. The Cardinals right-hander is 5-5 with a 4.12 ERA in 2023. He has earned just one win since the end of May, as the team has lost seven of his last eight turns. Take Miami. Thank you.

Tampa Bay Rays on the run line.

Double Play.

Game 961.

11:10 am pst/2:10 pm est.

The Rays took both ends of yesterday’s double header by a combined score of 10-3 to extend their domination of the Royals. They have taken four of the six meetings this season against their A.L. Central opponent. Going back a bit, Tampa Bay has won seven of the last 10 matchups. They won’t take this contest lightly, wanting to keep their foot on the gas with their next two series coming against Texas and Baltimore. Eflin and Singer are slated to start here. The Rays right-hander won both of his previous starts against the Royals, including a June 23 gem. The team has won 13 of his 17 turns in 2023.The K.C. right-hander, in three career starts against today’s opponent, is 0-1 with a 5.52 ERA. The team has dropped seven of his last nine turns. He has suffered issues with control for sure. The Royals account for nearly two less runs per game while their pitching staff possesses a Team ERA of almost a run and half more than the Rays. Take Tampa Bay on the runline. Thank you.    

Houston Astros.

Best Bet Play.

Game 919.

6:05 PM EST/9:05 PM EST.

The Houston Astros are starting to pick up the pace, sitting in second place in the AL West, just two games behind the Texas Rangers. They took game 1 of this series yesterday, 7-5 to give them six wins in the eight meetings against their division rival this season alone. My friends, speaking of Los Angeles, if you look up the word “inconsistent“ in the dictionary, you would see a picture of this team. Going in to Game two here, we see an Astros team, which are 26-19 on the road this season, take on an Angels squad at home, which possess a 23-21 record at Angel Stadium in 2023. They catch their rival on a 1-9 overall slide. This is a team having trouble putting together a game in which they can both, score some runs, while they’re pitching staff can sustain. As a matter of fact, during their current 1-9 run, their pitching staff has allowed five or more runs, eight times. Speaking of pitching, Framber Valdez, and Reid Detmers are scheduled today. The Astros left-hander is 7-6, with a 2.51 ERA on the campaign. The team has won eight of his last 10 turns. The Angels left-hander is 2-6 with a 4.31 ERA. His last outing, was by far his poorest this season, allowing a whopping, seven earned runs in just 3.1 innings pitched. As a matter of fact, he has had a problem, issuing walks and yielding homeruns recently. The way the Astros are banging the ball, offensively, and the fact that the Angels pitching staff has been absolutely steamrolled lately, prompts us to side with the visitor here. Take Houston. Thank you.

Atlanta Braves on the run line.

Double Play release.

Game 976.

4:20 PM PST/7:20 PM EST.

Going into the All-Star Break, Atlanta won eight of their final 10 games. They currently sit in first place in the NL East, with an 8.5 game lead, possessing the best overall record in baseball, at 60-29. Way on the other side of the spectrum is the Chicago White Sox, which sit in fourth place in the AL Central, eight games back, at 38-54. They happen to be one of the poorest road teams in the Majors, going a dismal, 17-29 away from home this season. These two teams have not faced each other in four years. But I have to tell you, the White Sox are in way over their head here. They score nearly a run and a half less per game, while their pitching staff yields almost a full run more per game than today’s counterpart does. Speaking of pitchers, Michael Kopech and Charlie Morton are schedule starters today. The Chicago right-hander is 3-7 with a 4.08 ERA on the campaign. Although he has never faced today’s lineup in his career, he’s had problems with control. Just over his last three turns, he has issued 16 walks in just over 12 innings pitched. By the way, he is winless on the road this season, going 0-2 away from home. And the team has lost his last four starts. The Atlanta right-hander is 9-6 with a 3.43 ERA in 2023. His last three outings, he seems to have gotten stronger, going 3-0 with a 2.12 ERA. Meanwhile the team has won his last four outings. I just don’t see the White Sox competing here on the scoreboard at all. Takes the Braves on the run line. Thank you.

Milwaukee Brewers.

Home Run Play.

Game 957.

4:10 PM PST/7:10 PM EST.

These two teams are without question, the cream of the NL Central crop. They are the only two teams in the division sporting a winning record, with only a one game separating them. This season, these rivals have met seven times, as a Brewers have prevailed five of the seven meetings. With all respect to the Reds, they are a better road team than they are at home. They are seven games over .500 as a visitor this season, and only two games over .500 as a host. But I feel that today’s match up strongly favors the Brewers because of the starting pitchers. Corbin Burnes and Graham Ashcraft are scheduled today. The Milwaukee ace and All-Star pitcher is 7-5 with a 3.94 ERA on the campaign. He has done quite well against today’s opponent, going 3-1 with a 2.80 ERA in 16 career appearances against them, which does include six starts. The team has won the right-handers last three turns, in which he is 2-0 with a 3.86 ERA. The Cincinnati right-hander is 4-6 with a 6.28 ERA in 2023. In four career starts against today’s opponent, he is winless, going 0-3 with a whopping ERA of 10.13. Although the team is 2-3 in his last five outings, he has issued quite a few walks and has had some control problems. To be quite honest, since the beginning of May he has had a lot of problems, going just 1-6 during that span. At home this season, he is a dismal 2-5, with an ERA of 7.95. After he gets beaten up, things aren’t going get better, as the team will turn to a bullpen and pitching staff ranking 27th in the League, with a team ERA of 4.87. Take Milwaukee. Thank you.

Atlanta Braves.

Double Play release.

Game 977

4:15 pm pst/7:15 pm est. 

Atlanta made a statement in Game 1 of this series with Tampa Bay yesterday. These two teams possess the overall best records in baseball right now. And just in case they meet in the Fall Classic, the Braves sent a message yesterday. If that message wasn’t heard loud enough, here in Game 2, they send Spencer Strider to the mound. The right-hander is 10-2 with a 3.66 ERA this season, leading the Majors with 155 strikeouts. The team has won 16 of his 18 starts of 2023. On the road this season, he is a whopping 6-1 with a 3.35 ERA. And over his last three outings, he is a perfect 3-0 with a 1.83 ERA. The Rays have dropped six consecutive outings. Their hitting has become inconsistent, while their pitching has become vulnerable. They send Taj Bradley to the mound here. The right-hander is 5-4 with a 5.27 ERA this season. At home on the campaign, he is 3-2 with a whopping ERA of 5.70. Just over his last three outings, he is 1-1 was a huge ERA of 8.78. My friends, he’s gotten routed in his last two turns, allowing 12 earned runs in just 7.1 innings pitched, resulting in both of those games becoming losses for the team. Atlanta is playing good in every angle of this situation. They have won eight of their last nine Interleague games, five of their last six road games, and 11 of their last 12 versus teams with the winning record. Oh, by the way, Tampa Bay has lost four consecutive Interleague games and five consecutive games versus right-handed starters. Take the Braves. Thank you.

Atlanta Braves.

Double Play.

Game 921.

3:40 PM PST/6:40 PM EST.

This is the first meeting between these League Eastern Division-leading teams this season. Coincidentally, they own the two best record in the Majors. This series has major postseason implications. The Rays enter this series struggling a bit, going 7-11 their last 18, which includes a current five-game slide. Meanwhile, the Braves are hot, hot, hot, winning 18 of their last 20 overall outings. Charlie Morton and Tyler Glasnow are schedule starters today. Atlanta has won their right-handers last three starts.  The Tampa Bay right-hander has struggled, both lately as well as at home this season, going 0-2 with a 6.00 ERA over the last three turns, and on the campaign at home, he is just 1-1 with a 5.03 ERA. The Braves have won seven of their last eight Interleague games, 10 of their 11 versus teams with a winning record, and eight of their overall last 10 road games. The Rays are 0-4 their last four games versus a right-handed starter, 2-6 their last eight Interleague games, and 0-5 LS their five overall games. Take Atlanta. Thank you.

Miami Marlins.

Late Info Move.

Game 956.

3:40 pm pst/6:40 pm est.

The Marlins are playing some great baseball, winning three in a row and seven of the last 10. This does include the last three games, in which they have beaten St. Louis by a combined score of 30-15. Rookie right-hander Eury Perez takes the mound at home today. He is 5-2 with a 2.47 ERA this season. He is making his 11th start of 2023. He comes off his only poor performance in his last outing. Prior to that in nine starts, he has allowed a total of seven earned runs in 47 innings pitched. At home, he is a perfect 3-0 with a 1.01 ERA. Jack Flaherty takes the hill on the road. He is 5-5 with a 4.60 ERA. Over his last three outings, his ERA is a whopping 6.48. The Marlins are 5-0 the last five versus the NL Central, 18-5 the last 23 at home, and 20-7 the last 27 versus teams with a losing record. The Cardinals are 0-4 the last four versus the National League East, 0-4 the last four road games, and 1-5 the last six versus teams with a winning record. Take Miami. Thank you.

Toronto Blue Jays.
Double Play release.
Game 975.
2:10 pm pst/5:10 pl est.

Yesterday’s Game 2 matchup was postponed due to severe weather. On July 4, Toronto took the series-opener over Chicago, 4-3. These two teams have met four times in 2023, as the Blue Jays have won all four matchups. Going back a bit, they have taken five meetings in a row against this American League Central rival. As a matter fact, Toronto has done quite well against the A.L. Central, winning 12 of the last 16 games played against division opponents. As I mentioned earlier, Wednesday’s game was postponed. There will be a doubleheader played today. This is another trend that heavily favors the Blue Jays, as they are 13-5 the last 18 opening games of a doubleheader. Chicago’s season isn’t looking too bright right now. Both at the plate and on the mound, the word that best describes them is “inconsistent”. To make matters worse, they have had trouble against the American League East. They are just 8-20 the last 28 versus division opponents. They are also just atrocious at opening games of a doubleheader, dropping four of the last five in that situation. Starting pitchers today are Berrios and Lynn. The Blue Jays right-hander is 8-6 with a 3.74 ERA on the campaign. And 23 career starts against the White Sox, he is a very impressive 13-6 with a 3.26 ERA. The Chicago right-hander is 5-8 with a 6.47 ERA in 2023. He has been roughed in his career against Toronto, possessing a 2-4 record with a 4.5 ERA in 11 appearances, which does include 10 starts. He has already taken a loss this season against today’s, opponent back at the end of April. He has only won one of his last six turns. Coincidentally, during that span, he has allowed 28 earned runs in just over 32 innings pics. Playing at home at Guaranteed Rate Field has not been favorable either this season, going 2-4 with a whopping ERA of 7.22. Take the Blue Jays. Thank you.

New York Yankees.

Best Bet Play.

Game 914.

4:05 PM PST/7:05 PM EST.

New York has taken Games 1 and 2 of the series. As a matter fact, the Yankees and the Orioles have met eight times this season this far, as the Bronx Bombers have taken five of those eight matchups. The Yankees have won seven of their last 10 outings to sit in third place in the American League East, just two-games behind the second-place Orioles. This is a big game today folks. New York catches Baltimore on a slide, dropping six of their last seven contests. Kremer and Vasquez are scheduled starters today. The Baltimore right-hander is 8-4 on the season, but he does possess a high ERA of 5.04. He has had trouble in his career against New York, going 1-3 with a 5.61 ERA in seven lifetime starts against them. The New York right-hander is making only his third career start. He has pitched well so far, owning a record of 1-1 with a 1.74 ERA. The Yankees have won four straight games played in the Bronx. And going back a bit against the Orioles, at Yankee Stadium, they have taken 35 of the last 52 meetings in this division rivalry. Take New York. Thank you.

Houston Astros on the run line.

Afternoon Delight play.

Game 922.

11:10 AM, PST/2:10 PM EST.

Houston took Game 1 of the series yesterday to continue their domination of Colorado. Going back a few seasons, they have taken 20 of the last 26 meetings in this Interleague rivalry. Things get even worse for the Rockies in Minute Maid Park, losing 38 of the last 51 meetings on the road to Houston. Colorado sits in last place in the National League West at 33-54. They’ve dropped three in a row and six of their last 10. Things go from bad to worse for this team when they go on the road, as they possess one of the worst overall away records in the Majors at 13-30 as a guest this season. Just over the last two weeks, the Rockies have a dropped six of their last nine outings as their pitching staff has been absolutely atrocious, allowing a whopping 84 runs during that nine-game span, which averages out to be 9.3 runs per game. As the All-Star Break approaches, the Astros sit just three games back in the American League West in second place. They are not accustomed to playing catch-up in the division. They have to keep their foot on the gas so they go into the break with momentum. They currently are on a 6-1 hot steak, as their offense has been absolutely explosive, accounting for 54 runs scored during that seven-game span. Chase Anderson and JP France are scheduled to start here today. The Colorado right-hander is 0-3 with a 6.50 ERA on the campaign. Over his last three starts, he’s gone winless, at 0-3 as his ERA is 13.81 in those three outings. Houston’s rookie right-hander is 3-3 with a 3.13 ERA in 2023. Over his last three turns, he is 1-2, with a 2.29 ERA. The Rockies are 2-9 their last 11 games played versus the American League West and 7-20 their last 27 overall. With the way their pitching has been getting steamrolled, I just don’t see them keeping pace on the scoreboard with the Astros. Take Houston on the runline. Thank you.

Milwaukee Brewers.

MLB Double Play.

Game 958.

1:10 PM, PST/ 4:10 PM, EST.

With less than a week before All-Star Break, the Milwaukee Brewers are tied with the Cincinnati Reds atop the National League Central. They took Game 1 of this series yesterday, 8-6. That victory gave them their seventh overall win in their last nine outings. The Brewers have faced the Cubs four times in 2023, taking the last three matchups. Going back a bit, Milwaukee has bested Chicago five of the overall last six meetings. And when playing at American Family Field, they have won 12 of the last 17 meetings. The Cubs are one of the streakiest teams in baseball. When they win, they win big. When they turn cold, they turn ice cold. They have dropped seven of their last eight games played due to a combination of both inconsistent hitting and horrible pitching. History has repeated itself once again this season, as they are truly struggling on the road, going 17-23 away from home. Kyle Hendricks and Wade Miley are scheduled starters today. The Cubs right-hander is 3-3 with a 2.81 ERA on the campaign. The Brewers left-hander owns a 5-2 record with a 3.02 ERA this season. The team has won his last four outings. Chicago is 0-5 in their last five games played versus a team with a winning record and 2-5 in their last seven games played versus left-handed starters. Milwaukee is 6-1 in their last seven games played versus the NL Central and 5-1 in their last six games played versus a right-handed starter. Take the Brewers. Thank you.

Minnesota Twins on the run line.

Double Play.

Game 914.

5:10 PM, PST/8:10 PM EST.

The Kansas City Royals weren’t expected to do much this season. And yet they’re still underachieving. Lol. They dwell in the American League Central division cellar at 25-59, which happens to be the second poorest record in baseball. Meanwhile, the Minnesota Twins are tied for the top spot in the division at 42-43. These two division rivals have met seven times in 2023 so far, as the Twins have taken six of the seven meetings, all by two runs or more. Cox and Ryan are scheduled starters here today. The Royals left-hander is only expected to pitch an inning or two at most. Meanwhile, the Twins right-hander has proven to be a workhorse this season, averaging 5 1/2 innings per outing. When the teams go to their bullpen, Minnesota has a huge advantage as they possess a pitching staff that ranks second in baseball with a Team ERA of 3.60, while the Royals pitching staff ranks 28th, with a Team ERA of 5.20. Kansas City is just 16-40 the last 56 meetings played in Minnesota. Take the Twins on the run line. Thank you.

Atlanta Braves.

Best Bet.

Game 915.

4:10 PM, PST/7:10 PM EST.

Atlanta has taken over the NL East with authority, owning a nine-game cushions in the division. And also possessing the overall best record in baseball at 56-27. They enter today’s series opener the hottest team in the Majors, winning eighth straight and 23 of the last 26 overall contests. They have dominated opponents in the American League Central, winning 20 of the last 27 meetings against teams from the division. They face a Cleveland Guardians team currently tied for first place in their division with the Minnesota Twins. However, the Guardians still sit under .500 at 41-42. They come off two series against the Royals and the Cubs. Believe me my friends, those two teams are a far cry from today’s opponent. Bryce Elder takes the hill on the road. The right-hander is 6-1 with a 2.44 ERA are the campaign, possessing the second lowest ERA in baseball. Over his last three turns, he is 2-0 with a 1.42 ERA. Gavin Williams takes the mound at home. The rookie right-hander is 0-0 with a 2.84 ERA. Guys, this is only his third ever start. He pitched against Oakland and Kansas City. Although he put up respectable numbers, as a team won both of those games, the Braves are a big step up in class here. Let’s face it, they are first place team, possessing the best record in baseball, while both Kansas City and Oakland dwell in the cellars of their divisions. Atlanta is 6-1 the last seven overall road games, 5-0 the last five Interleague games played, 39-14 the last 53 games played following a win, and 75-24 the 99 games played versus teams with a losing record. Take the Braves. Thank you.

New York Yankees.

Game 912.

4:05 PM PST/7:05 PM EST.

The American League East, without questions is the most competitive division in baseball. All five teams possess winning records. Today the divisions second and third place teams fight it out in the Bronx in the series opener. Baltimore got a big win on Sunday following four consecutive losses. Meanwhile, New York is 5-3 their last eight outings. Todays is all about the starters. Wells and German are scheduled. The Orioles right-hander owns a 2-1 record on the road this season with an ERA of 4.17. The team has lost his last two turns. Over his career in 12 appearances against the Yankees, which includes six starts, he is winless, going 0-4 with a 5.26 ERA. The New York right-hander comes off the well-publicized perfect game at Oakland on June 28. Over his career in nine appearances, which includes seven starts against Baltimore, he is 6-1 with a 2.40 ERA. As I mentioned earlier, today’s game is all about the starters. The Yankees have taken 22 of the last 31 meetings with the Orioles played at Yankee Stadium. Take New York. Thank you.

Arizona Diamondbacks.

Home Run Play.

Game 979.

1:05 PM PST/4:05 PM EST.

Arizona took Games 1 and 2 of this series, to hand Los Angeles their third and fourth consecutive losses. They have dominated the Angels at Angel Stadium, taking four of the last five meetings there. Zac Gallen and Reid Detmers are scheduled starters today. The Diamondbacks right-hander is 10-2 with a 3.02 ERA on the season. He has won his last three starts, while the team has won his last four turns and 12 of the 17 outings he’s made this season. The Angels left-hander is 1-5 with a 3.77 ERA in 2023. He has pitched strong, but just doesn’t seem to get the support behind him. Arizona is 6-0 their last six Interleague road games, 5-1 their last six games versus the American League West, 5-1 their last six games versus a left-handed starter, 9-3 their last 12 overall Interleague games, 23-9 their last 32 overall road games, and 17-7 their last 24 games following a win. Take Arizona. Thank you.

Chicago Cubs.

Diamond Play.

Game 924.

4:15 PM PST/7:15 PM EST.

While the American League Central division is still up for grabs this early in the season, you can’t ignore the fact the Cleveland Guardians have lost two in a row and are just 39-42 overall. Furthermore, they have a lot of problems Interleague play, winning just two of their last seven overall and just two of their last 11 on the road in Interleague play. Following a four-game win streak, the Chicago Cubs dropped four straight. But got back on the winning track yesterday with a decisive 10-1 victory in Game 1 of this series. With the All-Star Break approaching, Chicago really needs to put their foot on the gas. Please understand the NL Central is really anybody’s division to take. Five games separate Cincinnati, Milwaukee, Pittsburgh, and Chicago. Tanner Bibbee and Marcus Stroman are scheduled starters here today. The Guardians right-hander is 4-2 with a 3.79 ERA in 2023. He comes off two consecutive victories. But in all sincerity, facing the Diamondbacks and Brewers are a little different than facing the Cubs in Wrigley. He did get shelled three starts ago in San Diego, allowing 6 earned runs in just four innings pitched. On the road this season, he is 1-1 with a 5.68 ERA. The Chicago right-hander is having a wonderful campaign, going 9-5 with a 2.47 ERA. After having a stretch of seven consecutive winning starts, in which he posted a 1.29 ERA, Stroman had a tough loss on Sunday in London against St. Louis. I look for him to bounce back strong here. Prior to that defeat on Sunday, in those seven consecutive victories, he yielded just two runs or less in each. Over his last three starts, he is 2-1 with a 2.76 ERA. And at home this season he is 5-3 with a 2.25 ERA. The Cubs are 5-10 their last six versus a team with a losing record, 4-0 their last four Interleague games versus a team with a losing record, and 8-3 their last 11 versus right-handed starters. Take Chicago. Thank you.

Tampa Bay Rays.

Double Play.

Game 919.

4:15 PM, PST/7:15 PM EST.

Winners of three and a row and the best overall record in the Majors, the Tampa Bay Rays are showing no signs of slowing down. They took Game 1 of this series yesterday, thumping the Seattle Mariners, 15-4. That was the first meeting between these two teams this season. However, going back a bit, the Rays have taken six of the last seven meetings. Meanwhile, the Mariners after striving for a bit, seem to have hit a wall. They have dropped three in a row and seven of their last 10 to sink down to fourth place in the American League West. Both at the plate and on the mound, Tampa Bay significantly outclasses Seattle. They possess both the third ranked, scoring offense and team batting average in baseball. By the way, they also rank second in OPS, first in stolen bases, and third in homeruns. Their offense is absolutely exploding. In all sincerity, the word “erratic” best describes the Mariners lineup. As far as starting pitchers today, Tyler Glasgow, and George Kirby are scheduled. The Tampa Bay right-hander is 2-1 with a 4.45 ERA on the campaign. While he hasn’t faced Seattle in his career, he has had a heck of a season thus far, as the team has won five of his last six turns. The Mariners right-hander is 6-7 with a 3.26 ERA in 2023. Despite two decent appearances, he has lost his last two outings. As a matter fact, the team has dropped five of his last seven turns. As the All-Star Break approaches, the Rays do not want to let their foot off the gas…at all. By the way folks, they are 40-18 their last 58 versus a team with a losing record. Meanwhile, the Mariners are just 3-9 their last 12 versus the American League East. Take Tampa Bay. Thank you.

Tampa Bay Rays.

Double Play.

Game 969.

7:10 PM, PST/10:10 PM, EST.

Tampa Bay continues to play the best baseball in the Majors. Not only do they possess the best overall record in baseball at 56-28, but they are starting to surge again. Furthermore, they have had their way with Seattle, taking six of the last eight matchups. This is the first meeting this season between these two American League rivals. Speaking of the Mariners, they currently sit in fourth place in the American League West, 10-games back at 38-41. They have dropped two in a row and six of the last nine coming into this series opener. They have a lot of trouble playing the American league East, going a mere 3-8 the last 11 matchups with the division. McClanahan and Miller are scheduled starters today. The Rays left-hander is 11-1 with a 2.23 ERA in 2023. In two career stats against the Mariners, he is 1-0 with a 2.38 ERA. He has made 16 starts on the campaign, as the team has gone 13-3 in those starts. To be quite honest, he has been the most dominating pitcher in the American League, in my opinion this season. Only once in those 16 starts has he allowed more than three runs. On the road he is a whopping 6-1 with a 2.58 ERA. The Seattle rookie right-hander is 5-3 with a 3.88 ERA in 2023. He will be facing Tampa Bay for the first time in his short career. To be quite honest, although he has a promising future, he has gotten plowed quite a few times this season, especially just over the last month, as the team is dropped three of his last five turns since May 29. In three of those, turns he gave up significant runs early. Tampa Bay seems to be beating everyone in the League. But when facing teams with a losing record, they are 39-18 the last 57 in that situation. Take the Rays. Thank you.

Philadelphia Phillies.

Double Play.

Game 905.

5:05 PM PST/8:05 PM EST.

If there is one team in baseball, that is streaky, it is the Chicago Cubs. When they win, they start streaking. When they lose, they start nose-diving. Currently, they are on a three-game losing streak, which includes losses in games, one and two of this series. As a matter of fact, the Philadelphia Phillies have had their way with them this season, taking four meetings in a row. Taijuan Walker and Kyle Hendricks are schedule starters today. The Phillies right-hander is 8-3 with a 4.10 ERA on the campaign. He seems to be getting better as the campaign has progressed, going 3-0 with a 0.95 ERA over the last three starts. He has won his last four overall appearances. To be quite honest, he hasn’t had a poor outing in six weeks. The Cubs right-hander is 3-2 with a 2.60 ERA. He has looked pretty good. But as I mentioned at the beginning of this break down, Chicago is nose-diving. Meanwhile, the Phillies starting pitchers have a 2.24 ERA over the last of 22 games, in which they are 17-5 in that span. They are also 10-1 their last 11 road games, 6-0 their list six road games versus right-handed starters, 4-0 their last four games versus the NL Central, and 7-2 their last nine games following a win. Take Philadelphia. Thank you.

Miami Marlins.

Double Play.

Game 975.

4:10 PM PST/7:10 PM EST.

The Marlins are starting to stride, winning three in a row and seven of their last 10 outings. This does include a decisive Game 1 victory yesterday at Fenway Park, thumping the Red Sox 10-1. This is a team that has done quite well in Interleague play, winning 19 of their last 26 overall games played in Interleague action. They are also starting to win on the road, taking five straight games as a visitor. Meanwhile, Boston, which has dropped three in a row, are sitting at 40-40. Another loss and they drop below .500. As a matter fact, this team has lost five of their last six contests, having not scored more than four runs in any outing during that span. Garret and Ort are expected to start here. The Miami left-hander is 3-2 with a 3.64 ERA on the campaign. The Boston right-hander is 1-1 with a 5.79 ERA on the campaign, and is not expected to pitch more than an inning or two today. The Red Sox pitching staff has been less than stellar to say the least, ranking 24th in the majors with a Team ERA of 4.46. This team that has struggled in Interleague play losing, six of their last eight overall in Interleague action and 16 of their last 21 Interleague games played at home. Take Miami. Thank you.

Milwaukee Brewers.

Diamond play.

Game 953.

With yesterday’s defeat, Milwaukee now sits a half-game back of Cincinnati in the NL Central. With the All-Star Break coming up soon, they want to take over the top spot in the division again for sure. Yesterday’s loss was a rare one as they have had their way with New York, winning the five previous meetings between these two teams. The Mets have sunk to fourth place in the NL East, 16.0 games back and are certainly underachieving this season. Wade Miley and Kodai Senga are scheduled to start today. The Brewers left-hander is 5-2 with a 2.91 ERA on the campaign. In seven career stats against the Mets, he is 2-1 with a 3.19 ERA. The team has won his last three turns, in which he has allowed just a single earned run in 13.2 innings pitched. The New York right-hander is 6-5 with a 3.52 ERA in 2023. He has never Milwaukee. However, he has lost his last two turns. The Brewers are 4-0 in the last four games played following a loss, 4-1 in their last five games played versus the National League East, and 7-3 in their last 10 games played overall. The Mets are 1-4 in the last five games played versus left-handed starters, 3-7 in the last 10 games played at home, and 5-13 in their last 18 games played versus the NL Central. Take Milwaukee. Thank you.

New York Yankees.

Game 915.

6:40 PM, PT/9:40 PM, ET.

New York swept Oakland at home more than a month ago in a three-game series. The Yankees have dominated the A’s, taking eight of the last 10 meetings. Coming into this matchup, they are starting to heat up, winning four of the last six. They catch Oakland sinking further and further into the abyss, as they have a dropped nine of the last 10 outings. Brito and Blackburn are scheduled to start today. The Yankees have won their right-handers last four turns. Meanwhile, the A’s have dropped their right-handers last two outings. New York accounts for nearly one more run per game offensively, while their pitching staff yields nearly 2 1/2 runs less per game. They have also taken nine of the last 12 versus the American League West, while Oakland has dropped 37 of the last 53 at home. Take the Yankees. Thank you.

Milwaukee Brewers.

Game 903.

4:10 PM, PT/7:10 PM, ET.

Milwaukee took Game 1 of the series yesterday, continuing to stride, as they have won seven of the last 10 contests. Meanwhile, New York has dropped seven of the last nine, continuing to struggle. The Brewers have taken all four meetings with the Mets this season. Teheran and Peterson are scheduled to start today. The Milwaukee right-hander is 2-2 with a 1.53 ERA on the campaign. And over his career, he has faced the Mets 29 times, which includes 28 starts, going 10-9 with a 2.98 ERA. The New York left-hander is 1-6 with an ERA of 8.08 in 2023. In three games, which includes two starts against the Brewers, he is 0-1 with a 10.38 ERA. Milwaukee is 4-0 the last four versus the National League East and 4-1 the last five versus a team with a losing record. New York is 1-4 the last five versus the National League Central and 2-7 the last nine at home. Take the Brewers. Thank you.

Washington Nationals on the run line.

Game 961.

6:40 PM, PT/9:40 PM ET.

Making the Seattle Mariners a big favor here in my opinion, is a huge mistake by the odds makers. This is a team that has dropped 14 of their last 23 outings coming into Game 1 of this series. Meanwhile, the Washington Nationals have won their last two outings. Over the last few years, these two teams have met seven times, as Washington has taken five of the seven meetings. Going back even further, Washington have taken six of the last eight meetings at T-Mobile Park. Now it has been a while since they’ve played those eight outings, but it doesn’t change the fact that they win on Seattle’s home field. Today’s starters are Trevor Williams and Luis Castillo, who have played well this season. Not outstanding, but well. The Nationals right-hander is 2-0 in his last three turns. Meanwhile, the Mariners right-hander has lost fourth straight outings. Furthermore, Castillo is 0-5 with a 4.81 ERA in six career starts against the Nationals. I feel this is going to be a very competitive game. So, we’re going to take Seattle on the run line. Thank you

Milwaukee Brewers on the run line.

Game 951.

4:10 PM, PT/7:10 PM, ET.

This series puts together two teams that were supposed to run away with their divisions. However, as we approach the All-Star Break, the Milwaukee Brewers sit in second place in the NL Central, a half-game behind the Cincinnati Reds. And the New York Mets sit in fourth place in the East, 15-games back. Both teams did hold a top-spots in their division for a bit, but the long arduous campaign is certainly taking its toll on both. They have met just one series so far in 2023, as Milwaukee swept New York, three games to none. They also come in here a bit hotter, winning six of the last nine outings, while the Mets have dropped off six of their last eight contests. Rea and Velander start here today. Neither has been extremely impressive this season. So, this game in my opinion comes down to momentum and bullpen. Both of those definitely favor the Brewers. I really think this is going to be an evenly matched game. So taking Milwaukee on the run line definitely gives us an advantage as well. New York is just 2-6 the last eight at home, 4-12 the last 16 versus the NL Central, and 1-4 the last five versus right-handed starters. Take Milwaukee on the run like. Thank you.

Under in the Rangers/Yankees matchup.

Games 913/914.

10:35 AM, PT/1:35 PM ET.

Games 1 and 2 of this series have both gone under the total with these two teams combining for a total of seven scored runs in the first two matchups. On the mound today is Nathan Eovaldi and Gerrit Cole. The Texas right-hander is 9-3 with a 2.80 ERA, while the New York right-hander is 8-1 with a 2.64 ERA. Both starters have done well against today’s opponents. Let’s face it, the Yankees have not been hitting at all. And, although the Rangers own the top-scoring lineup in baseball, after watching yesterday’s contest, and the fact that today’s starting pitchers are two of the best in the American League, it compels me to take the under here. These two teams have met six times in 2023 as the under has come in five of those six meetings. Going back a bit, the under is 5-0 the last five meetings in New York and 19-7-2 the last 28 meetings overall. By the way, the under is also 4-1 in Texas’ last five against is American League East and 8-1 in New York’s the last nine at home. Take the under. Thank you.

Boston Red Sox.

VI MOVE.

Game 969.

1:10 PM PST/4:10 PM EST.

Don’t make the mistake of disregarding the Boston Red Sox because they are in last place in the American League East. The division is the most competitive in all of baseball. All five teams in the AL East possess winning records. We have certain divisions that barely have one team with the winning record. As a matter of fact, they would be in first place in one division, and a contender and several others with their current record. On the other hand, the Chicago White Sox have really fallen. They are in fourth place in the American League Central and just can’t seem to get anything going. Boston took Game 1 of this series yesterday, 3-1. The Red Sox have heated up, winning seven of the last nine outings, while the White Sox continue to disappoint, dropping nine of the last 12 contests. Paxton and Lynn are scheduled today. The Red Sox left-hander has been more solid this season, going 3-1 with a 3.29 ERA. And in his career in five starts against the White Sox, he is 2-0 with a 3.28 ERA. The Chicago right-hander is 4-8 with a 6.51 ERA on the campaign. He has done well against Boston in his career. However, this season is a totally different story for the veteran pitcher. He has not won a decision since late-May and is just 2-4 with a 7.64 ERA at home in 2023. The team is just 1-5 the last six at home and 7-19 the last 26 versus the American League East. Take the Red Sox. Thank you.

Tampa Bay Rays on the run line.

Best Bet play.

Game 972.

1:10 PM, PST/4:10 PM EST.

Tampa Bay does not take losing at home lightly. That is exactly what they showed following a series-opening loss to Kansas City by spanking them yesterday, 11-3. Not only do the Rays possess the best overall record in the Majors, they are the best home team in baseball at 33-9 at Tropicana Field. On the other hand, Kansas City possesses the second worst overall record in all of the Bigs and are just 11-29 on the road in 2023. Lyles 0-11, 6.72 ERA in 2023) is an atrocious 1-3 with a 5.35 ERA in seven career appearances, which includes six starts versus the Rays. This season he has made 15 appearances, and guess what folks? The team has not won a single game in which he has made an appearance. Chirinos will make his 11th appearance of 2023, going to 3-2 with a 2.72 ERA. In three games, which includes one start in his career against Kansas City, he is 2-0 with a 4.32 ERA. At home, he has pitched well, going 1-0 with a 2.57 this season. Both on the mound at the plate, the Royals are significantly outclassed here. As they score nearly two runs less per game, while their pitching staff allows nearly two runs less per game than their opponent here. There is no way their 29th ranked scoring offense can keep pace with the second ranked scoring lineup in baseball. Tampa Bay has won 12 the last 16 meetings against Kansas City at home and 21 of the last 30 overall meetings. As a matter fact, overall, they are 51-17 the last 68 at home, 20-8 the last 28 versus the American League Central, and 35-17 the last 52 following a win. Take the Rays on the run line. Thank you.

Texas Rangers.

Grand Slam play.

Game 965.

1:05 PM PST/4:05 PM EST.

Very simply, the Yankees aren’t hitting. It doesn’t matter how consistent the pitching staff is, if you can’t put runs on the board, you can’t win ballgames. Things went from bad to worse for New York when Aaron Judge went down. Now they’re facing the top-scoring offense in baseball and it’s turning out to be fatal for this team. They lost Game 1 of the series yesterday 4-2, and have dropped all four meetings with the Rangers this season. As a matter fact, they’ve been out-scored 26-6 in those four matchups. Gray and Severino are scheduled. There is no question the Texas right-hander has looked solid this season, going 6-2 with a 2.96 ERA. Away from home, he is a perfect 4-0 with a 2.02 ERA.  Let’s face it, the New York right-hander has not looked sharp since his return from injury. Overall, on the campaign, he is 0-2 with a 6.30 ERA, which includes 0-1 mark with a 7.36 ERA over his last three turns.  Until the Yankees get healthy and get Aaron Judge back, they just can’t contend with the top-scoring officers in baseball. Take the Rangers. Thank you.

Atlanta Braves.

Game 903.

3:40 PM PST/6:40 PM EST.

The two hottest teams in baseball face each other today. The Braves, which have won eight straight, travel to Great American Ball Park to face the Reds, which have won 11 in a row. Kudos to both teams. But I do see a big disparity here, my friends. Atlanta has been winning since Opening Day of the season. And they continue to be the best road team in baseball at 24-11. With all respect to Cincinnati’s win streak, let’s face it, their opponents during that streak have been St. Louis, Kansas City, Houston, and Colorado. Only one of those teams sport a winning record. And to be honest, the Astros have struggled this season looking very mortal. Smith-Shawver and Weaver are scheduled here.  The Atlanta right-hander is making just his third start of the season, which means his third start of his young career. He has pitched quite well, allowing a total of three earned runs in 13 innings pitched the season, sporting a 1-0 record with a 2.03 ERA. The Cincinnati right-hander is just 1-2 with a 6.47 ERA. In his last four starts, in which he has received no decisions whatsoever, the team had won all four, despite him allowing 18 earned runs in just 19 innings pitched. Over his career, he has not done well against today’s opponent, going 1-3 with a 4.91 ERA. As I mentioned earlier, the Braves have played more consistent baseball since the beginning of the season. And they are a great road team. They have won four consecutive games played on the road, 13 of the last 16 games played versus right-handed starters, 38 of the last 53 games played during Game 1 of the series, 36 of the last 51 games played versus the NL Central, and 19 of the last 26 games played overall. Take Atlanta here. Thank you.

Tampa Bay Rays on the run line.

Game 912.

3:40 PM PST/6:40 PM EST.

Since the Opening Day of the 2023 baseball campaign, no team has played near the level as a Tampa Bay Rays. Not only do they possess the best overall record in baseball (52-26), they are the best home team in the Majors as well, at 32-9 at Tropicana Field. They come into Game 2 of the series, playing a bit “off“, dropping six of their last 10, which does include the series-opener yesterday. Losing at home is not something that sits well with this team. Just over their shoulder in the most competitive division in baseball, the Orioles sit 4.5 games back. With only a few weeks until the All-Star Break, this team does not want to be in a dogfight in the division. They want to be up a few more games when the midway point of the regular season arrives. What better team to face than the Kansas City Royals, which possess the second-worst record in all of baseball. Granted, they took yesterday meeting. But prior to that, the Rays has certainly have had their way in the series, taking 11 of the last 15 meetings in Tampa Bay, and 20 of the last 29 overall meetings. Starting pitchers today aren’t even close as Greinke and Eflin are scheduled. The Royals right-hander is just 1-7 with a 4.81 ERA on the campaign. This month alone, he is 0-2 with a 7.53 ERA. The Rays right-hander is 8-3 with a 3.26 mark on the campaign. He is flawless at home, sporting a 7-0 record, with a 1.85 ERA at Tropicana Field in 2023. I look for him to have a huge performance today as he comes off two losses, both on the road. He will bounce back because he is one of the best pitchers in baseball. Both on the mound and at the plate, Tampa Bay significantly outclasses Kansas City. They average nearly two runs more per game and yield nearly two runs less per game. Tampa Bay is 12-2 the last 14 games played versus the American League Central, 50-17 the last 67 games played at home, and 9-4 the last 13 games played following a loss. Take the Rays on the run line. Thank you.

New York Yankees.

Late Bail Out Play.

Game 964.

4:05 PM PT/7:05 PM, ET.

Despite injuries, New York has taken Games 1 and 2 of this series against Seattle, and four of the overall five meetings this season. Woo and German are scheduled to start today. The Mariners right-hander is making just his fourth ever career start. Playing in the legendary, Yankee Stadium is going to pressure the young pitcher today like he’s never known pressure before. He has made two starts as a visitor this season, going 0-1 with a 7.30 ERA. The Yankees, right-hander comes off his worst performance this season, following a slew of quality starts. He has done well against Seattle, going 3-0 with a 4.22 ERA in four career appearances which includes three starts. Going back a bit, the Yankees are 14-4 the last 18 meetings with the Mariners played in the Bronx and 38-15 the last 53 overall meetings.  They are also 7-1 the last eight versus the American League West and 25-12 the last 37 versus teams with a losing record. On the other hand, Seattle is just 1-6 the last six road games, 3-8 the last 11 versus teams was a winning record, and 1-6 the last seven versus the American League East.  Take New York. Thank you.

Atlanta Braves.

Vegas Insider Move.

Game 951.

10:05 AM, PT/1:05 PM ET.

Sports fans, as the season progresses, we see Atlanta more and more separating themselves from the rest of the NL East. At 47-26, they own a six-game cushion in the division. Oh, and by the way, they also own the best overall record in the National League. They took Game 1 of this series yesterday, 4-2, to extend their current win streak to seven-games. Their offense has been exploding during their hot streak, accounting for over 60 runs. This does not bode well for a Philadelphia opponent, which is having trouble putting runs on the board. I just don’t think they could keep pace offensively with the Braves surging lineup. Elder and Nola are scheduled today. There is no question the Atlanta right-hander has been more consistent than the Philadelphia right-hander. Over his last five turns, Nola has allowed 22 earned runs in 31 innings pitched. The Braves are 5-1 the last six road games, 5-0 the last five versus right-handed starters, 42-16 the last 58 versus the NL East, and 16-5 the last 21 overall. Take Atlanta. Thank you.

Chicago Cubs.

VI Move.

Game 953.

4:05 PM, PT/7:05 PM, ET.

Chicago, which has won eight of the last 10 outings, has the opportunity to leapfrog Pittsburgh in the NL Central. Yesterday’s 8-0 victory gave the Cubs their fifth consecutive win over the Pirates. And going back a bit, nine of the last 10 meetings. Pittsburgh is riding a seven- game losing streak, which can be blamed on both their lack of consistency at the plate, and their pitching staff, which has gotten plowed. Stroman and Oviedo are scheduled today. The Cubs right-hander is 8-4 with a 2.45 ERA on the season, while the Pirates right hander is just 3-6 with a 4.40 ERA in 2023. Both starters faced off against each other on Thursday when the Cubs won 7-2. Chicago is 5-1 the last six games versus a right-handed starter, 4-0 the last four versus the NL Central, and 6-1 the last seven overall. Pittsburgh is 0-7 the last seven versus the NL Central, 8-20 in the last 28 following a loss, and 0-4 the last four versus a right-handed starter. Take the Cubs. Thank you.

Miami Marlins.

Odds Makers Mistake play.

Game 976.

3:40 PM, PT/6:40 PM, ET.

Miami took Game 1 of the series with authority, thumping Toronto, 11-0. That victory was the Marlins fifth consecutive win, while handing the Blue Jays their third straight loss. Kikuchi and Perez on schedule starters today.  The Miami hurler has been significantly more solid. Toronto is just 0-4 the last four games versus a right-handed starter, 1-4 the last five games on the road, and 1-4 the last five games overall. Miami is 6-0 the last six games versus teams with a winning record, 10-1 the last 11 Interleague home games, and 12-2 the last 14 overall home games. Take the Marlins. Thank you. 

Boston Red Sox.

Monday Money Maker.

Game 913.

4:40 PM, PT/7:40 PM ET.

Playing in the most-competitive division in baseball isn’t easy my friends. But the Red Sox are starting to heat up. At 37-35, there are several divisions in the Majors that they would be atop. However, they dwell in the cellar of the American League East. A few more wins, and they can climb out of last place for sure. The Minnesota Twins are in first place in the Central at 36-36. But let’s be honest my friends, the division is looking pretty weak right now. This is a team that has dropped three of the last four outings due to both a lack of offense and a pitching staff that has been getting plowed. Their pitching has been the only thing keeping this team playing .500 baseball. And now giving up 21 runs across the three losses over the last four games is going to prove to be fatal for them. Paxton and Lopez are scheduled starters today. The Boston left-hander owns a 2-1 record with a 3.09 ERA in 2023. He has made six starts in his career against Minnesota, going 3-1 was a 2.27 ERA. The Twins right-hander is 3-3 with a 4.27 ERA this season. He has not had a decision in his last three turns. He has pitched well as last couple of appearances. But overall, he gives up a lot of runs. As a matter of fact, he allows 3.5 earned runs per appearance this season. By the way, the Red Sox are on a four-game win streak, in which they have outscored opponents by a combined, 31-11. They took Game 1 of this series yesterday by a score of 11-5, to give them three wins in the last four meetings with the Twins. They are also 9-4 the last 13 games played versus the AL Central. Meanwhile, Minnesota is just 2-5 the last seven games played versus the AL East. Take the Red Sox. Thank you.

Los Angeles Dodgers.

Game 960.

1:10 PM PST/4:10 PM EST.

Guys, it’s no secret that the Dodgers are looking a little bit mortal this season. Losers of six of their last 10, which includes Games 10 and 2 of this series, they are now 4.0-games back in the NL West at 39-32. The series opener was a competitive contest. However, yesterdays Game 2 matchup was an absolute blowout as the Giants took them down, 15-0. Not only did they lose, they were embarrassed by a division rival. Getting embarrassed is something Los Angeles does not like. I expect up them to bounce back here today and make a statement. Prior to this series, Los Angeles took two of three meetings with San Francisco back in April. Going back a bit, they have had their way with the Giants, taking nine of the last 12 meetings in L.A. and 19 of the last 26 overall meetings. Webb and Gonsolin are scheduled to take the mound here. The Giants right-hander is 5-6 with a 3.15 ERA in 2023. After looking pretty strong in May, he’s gotten beat up in June, going 1-1 with a 4.68 in three starts this month. Over his career, in 11 starts against the Dodgers, he is 2-5 with a 4.13 ERA. The Los Angeles right-hander is 4-1 with a 1.93 ERA on the campaign. Over his last three outings, he is 2-0 with a 2.12 mark. And at home this season, he has been absolutely spectacular, going undefeated at 3-0 with an anemic ERA of 1.66. As I mentioned earlier, Los Angeles needs to make a statement here against a division rival and get back on track as they want to take over the top-spot in the NL West before All-Star Break. Long-term trends heavily favor Los Angeles, as they are 108-43 in their last 151 home games, 44-19 in their last 63 games following a loss, 53-24 in their last 77 versus the NL West, and 84-40 in the last 124 games versus a right-handed starter. Take Los Angeles. Thank you.

New York Mets.

Clear the Bases play.

Game 908.

1:10 PM, PT/4:10 PM, ET.

As we are approximately one month away from the midway point of the regular season, the New York Mets are far away from where they thought they’d be. They currently sit in fourth place in the National League East, 10.5-games back at 33-36. Their opponent today is also underachieving from preseason predictions. The St. Louis Cardinals are in last place in the NL Central, 8.5-games back at 27-43. With victories in their last two outings, the Mets are starting to show signs of life. They split a two-game series with their crosstown rivals, the Yankees. And then opened this series with St. Louis with a decisive 6-1 victory. That defeat was the Cardinals sixth consecutive loss. During their current slide, St. Louis has accounted for five or more runs just once, while their pitching staff has allowed four or more runs in all six outings. Wainwright and Senga are scheduled here today. The St. Louis right-hander is 2-1 with a 5.79 ERA on the campaign. The team has dropped his last three turns. In my opinion, the veteran pitcher hasn’t had too many solid outings this season. He is allowing an average of 3.4 earned runs per appearance. His last three outings, he has a whopping ERA of 5.06, going 0-1. On the road in 2023, he is just 1-1 with a 5.06 ERA. The Mets right-hander has certainly been consistent and reliable, going 6-3 with a 3.34 ERA this season. He is only allowing 1.8 earned runs per appearance. And in his last five turns, he has shut down opponents three times. His last three outings, he is 2-0 is 1.62 ERA. And at home this season, he is a very respectable 3-1 with a 1.93 ERA. Over their last eight outings, the New York lineup has accounted for five or more runs six times. Meanwhile, over their last five games, their pitching staff has held opponents to three or less runs four times. They have taken four of their last five meetings with St. Louis in New York and 10 of their last 14 overall games played at home. Take the Mets. Thank you.

Arizona Diamondbacks.

Vegas Insider Move.

Game 976.

6:40 PM, PT/9:40 PM ET.

Despite dropping three in a row, Arizona still possesses a two-game lead in the NL West over Los Angeles. They own one of the best records in the NL and I believe today they turn things around. Their last series, they took the opening game against Philadelphia only to drop Games, 2, 3, and 4. They were just out played. This followed a six-game win streak. As I mentioned earlier, I think they bounce back here today against a Cleveland team that has problems on the road. The Guardians are just 5-12 their last 17 games played away from home. To make matters worse, they are just 5-11 their last 16 games played against Interleague opponents. McKenzie and Gallen are scheduled starters today. The Cleveland right-hander is only making his third start of the 2023 campaign. The Arizona right-hander was 7-1 and his prior 11 starts before struggling a bit and his last turn in which he received a no decision. You cannot ignore that McKenzie is a perfect 6-0 at home this season with an anemic ERA of 0.96. The Diamondbacks have won four consecutive games played in Interleague action, four consecutive games played against American League Central opponents, five consecutive games during Game 1 of a series, 16 of their last 22 games played versus right-handed, starters, and 23 of their last 32 games played against teams with a losing record. Take Arizona. Thank you.

Tampa Bay Rays.

Oddsmakers Mistake Play.

Game 979.

6:40 PM, PT/9:40 PM, EST.

My friends, there is no way the Rays should be this small of a favorite over the Padres here. Tampa Bay owns the best record in baseball and starts one of the best pitchers in the Majors today. Tampa Bay has been playing on another level than any other team in baseball this season. Just over recent weeks, they are riding a 10-3 run. Going back a bit, they have dominated San Diego, winning nine of their last 10 meetings. This does include five of their last six meetings played at Petco Park. Once again, this season, the Padres have been underachieving and erratic. They have sunk to fourth place in the NL West at 33-35. Playing at home has not been a benefit for the Padres, which are they are two-games under .500 at Petco Park, at 17-19. Shane McClanahan and Yu Darvish are set to take the mound today. The Tampa Bay left-hander is a whopping, 10-1 with an ERA of just 2.18 this season. Away from home, his numbers don’t fade at all, going 5-1 with a 2.79 ERA. The San Diego right-hander is 5-4 with a 4.30 ERA on the campaign. To be quite honest, in four of his last five turns, he has given up significant earned runs. I expect him to once again get lit up here facing baseballs second-ranked scoring lineup. The Rays are 38-15 their last 53 games played versus teams with a losing record, 7-2 their last nine games played following a win, and 21-7 their last 28 games played during Game 1 of a series. Take Tampa Bay. Thank you.

New York Yankees.

Double Play release.

Game 961.

4:10 PM, PT/7:10 PM, ET.

In the most heated rivalry in baseball, New York travels to Fenway to take on Boston. Currently, the Yankees occupy third place in the most competitive division in baseball, while the Red Sox dwell in the AL East cellar. These two rivals met about a week ago, when the BoSox took two of three contests. There is no question that Domingo German has been more solid than Tanner Houck this season. As a matter of fact, New York has won the right-handers last for turns, while Boston has dropped their right-handers last six outings. I know the New York bats have been a little erratic, but their pitching has been absolutely stellar. I looked for their starter and bullpen to hold the Boston bats at bay, while offensively, they light up the 22nd ranked pitching staff of the Red Sox. The Yankees have taken seven of their last nine meetings with the Red Sox, four of their last five games played following a loss, and nine of their last 12 games played on the road. Take New York. Thank you.

Minnesota Twins.

MLB Game of the Month on the runline.

Game 912.

4:10 PM, PST/7:10 PM EST.

The Twins are starting to run away with the American League Central, now possessing a 3.5-game cushion. Meanwhile, the Tigers, which weren’t expected to do much this season, are seven games back in the division, sitting in fourth place. This is the first meeting between these two division rivals this season. But coming into this series opener, Minnesota is starting to heat up, winning four of their last five, while Detroit is on a 1-11 slide. The Tigers happened to be one of the worst road teams in baseball, at 12-21 as a visitor in 2023. They rank 29th in scoring, 29th in team batting average, 24th in team ERA, and 20th in errors. No matter how you slice it, they are outclassed here today. The Twins bats have begun to heat up, while their pitching staff has been solid all season long, currently ranked second in the Majors, with a team ERA of 3.50. Matthew Boyd and Sonny Gray are schedule starters here today. The Tigers left-hander is 3-5 with a 5.55 ERA on the campaign. And in 22 career starts against the Twins, he is 8-8 with a 4.56 ERA. Over his last three turns (which the team has lost all three), he is 0-2 with a 6.19 ERA. The Minnesota right-hander is 4-1 with a 2.25 ERA on the season. Over his career, in eight games, which includes seven starts against Detroit, he is 4-1 with a 2.47 ERA. At home this season, he has been stellar, going 3-1 with a 1.71 ERA. The Tigers are 0-6 their last six games played on the road, 1-10 their last 11 games played versus right-handed starters, 1-9 their last 10 games played following a loss, 1-5 their last six games played versus teams with a winning record, and 1-4 their last five games played during Game 1 of a series. Take the Twins on the run line. Thank you.

Los Angeles Dodgers on the run line.

Game 980

7:10 PM, PST/10:10 PM EST.

With Los Angeles now slipping down to second-place, trailing Arizona in the NL West, by three-games, you can expect them to start revving the engine. The Dodgers are not a team that likes to play catch-up. They are so accustomed to looking in the rearview at teams trying to catch them. They’re starting to heat up a bit. Case in point, a Game 1 winner yesterday over the Chicago White Sox, 5-1. Chicago has dropped three in a row and sits in third place in the AL Central at 29-39. To be quite honest, they are one of the worst road teams in baseball, going just 12-22 as a visitor in 2023. Clevenger and Kershaw are scheduled here today. The Chicago right-hander is 3-4 with a 4.19 ERA on the campaign. He has faced the Dodgers three times in his career, all a season ago as a member of the Padres, going 0-2 with a whopping ERA of 9.69. The Los Angeles left-hander is 8-4 with a 2.95 ERA on the campaign. In four career starts against Chicago, he owns a 2-1 record with a 2.88 ERA. Both on the mound and at the plate, the Dodgers outclass the White Sox significantly. Los Angeles has taken seven of their last eight overall meetings against Chicago. Take the Dodgers on the run line. Thank you.

New York Yankees.

Game 969.

4:10 PM, PST/7:10 PM EST.

The Yankees took Gam 1 of this “Subway Series” yesterday, 7-6. It was the third consecutive victory they have had over the Mets. The Mets have sunk from a division leader into fourth place in the NL East, dropping nine of their last 10 outings. Both at the plate and on the mound, this is a team that has been the epitome of the word “erratic.” I’m not trying to say the Yankees bats haven’t been inconsistent. But their pitching has been absolutely incredible, ranking fourth in the Majors, with a team ERA of 3.60. Gerrit Cole and Justin Verlander are today’s starters. The Yankees right-hander is 7-1 with a 2.84 ERA on the campaign, while the Mets right-hander is 2-3 with a 4.85 ERA this season. While Cole has had some issues against the Mets in his career, he is absolutely pitching lights out this season. Just on the road in 2023, he is 3-0 with a 2.93 ERA. Verlander has done well against the Yankees in his career. But I think we can all agree that this season, him, the Mets bats, and their bullpen have been less than stellar. The Yankees have won seven straight Interleague games versus left-handed starters, five straight Interleague road games versus teams with a losing record, five of their last six games played versus the NL East, and nine of their last 11 road games.  Take the Yankees. Thank you.

Pittsburgh Pirates.

NL Central Game of the Week.

Game 903.

5:05 PM PST/8:05 PM EST.

My friends, with new rules and changes in the schedule this season, every division game means something. As of this point in the campaign, the NL Central is without question the weakest division in baseball. They have just two teams with winning records. And only one-game separates those two teams. Currently, the Pirates own that one-game lead over the Brewers, at 34-30. This is an opportunity for them to get a big division win over a team that’s been sliding badly. Chicago began the 2023 season at 11-6. Cub fans were certainly optimistic. But since then, they are a dismal, 17-31. And have averaged a laughable, 2.5 runs per game their last 13 outings. This is a team that normally plays much better at home than on the road. My friends, they are just 15-16 at Wrigley Field this season. In comes the Pirates, which are a very respectable, 16-14 away from home on the campaign. This is the first meeting between these two division rivals this season. However, Pittsburgh comes in here winning eight of their last 11 outings. They don’t do it flashy, but the Pirates are winning ball games. Today’s starters are Ortiz and Taillon. The Pirates right-hander, after a shaky start, has looked good in his last several outings. The Cubs right-hander is just 1-4 with a 7.02 ERA on the campaign. His last three starts, he is just 1-1 with a 5.17 ERA. And at home this season, things go from bad to worse, as he is winless, going 0-2 with a whopping ERA of 8.27. He did spend his first four seasons in the Majors with Pittsburgh. In 2022, as a member of the New York Yankees, he faced them for the first time, getting shellacked for five runs and six hits in 5 1/3 innings pitched. He’s been an absolute nightmare every time he takes the mound my friends. Only once in his last six turns has he allowed less than four earned runs. The Pirates have won seven consecutive outings against the NL Central, five of their last seven against right-handed starters, four straight following an off day, and six of their last seven during Game one of a series. Oh, by the way, the Cubs are 1-5 their last six versus the NL Central, 10-23 their last 33 versus right-handed starters, and 2-5 their last seven games played at home. Take the Pittsburgh. Thank you.

Tampa Bay Rays on the run line.

Game 957.

6:40 PM PST/9:40 PM EST.

There is only one team in the Majors playing .700 ball. The Tampa Bay Rays, at .706 possess the best record in baseball, at 48-20. Whether it be at home or on the road, this team is winning games. They come into Game 1 of this series, red-hot, going 8-1 their last nine outings. They face the MLB’s worst team in the Oakland A’s. Oakland is a dismal, 17-50. Granted, they’ve won five straight games coming into this matchup. However, their last several series have been against the NL Central. There is no question that the division is the weakest in the Big Leagues. Going from the NL Central to baseball’s most competitive division, the AL East, is going to be a big problem for this team. For starters, they are just 17-38 their last 55 games played versus American League East opponents. James Kaprielian is set to take the mound at home for them today. The right-hander is an atrocious, 1-6 with a 7.21 ERA on the campaign. He was shellacked for seven runs in 4 2/3 innings pitched in an 11-0 loss at Tampa Bay in the earlier series. It was his only career turn against Tampa Bay. Taking the hill on the road is Zach Eflin. The right-hander is 8-1 with a 2.97 ERA in 2023. He comes off a spectacular shutout of 6 2/3 innings pitched, in a 7-0 home win over Minnesota last Tuesday.  He’s making his second start of the season against Oakland, having beaten them back on April 7. Over his career, he has faced the A’s twice, going 1-0 with a 2.70 ERA. The Rays are averaging more than two runs more per game at the plate, while their pitching staff yields nearly 3 full runs less per game. This is a team that has won four of their last five games played on the road, 21 of their last 27 games played during Game 1 of a series, and 37 of their last 54 games played versus right-handed starters. Take Tampa Bay on the runline. Thank you.

Baltimore Orioles on the run line.

Game 914.

10:35 AM PST/1:35 PM EST.

In the toughest division in baseball, the Baltimore Orioles are just 5.5-games back of the Tampa Bay Rays in second place, at 40-24. They have won three in a row, which includes Games 1 and 2 of this series. They have dominated the Kansas City Royals, taking four of their five meetings this season. And going back a bit, six of their last seven overall meetings. They have dominated most teams at Oriole Park. The Royals are certainly one of those teams, as they have taken 17 of their last 22 meetings at home in this rivalry. Hernandez and Gibson are scheduled starters today. The Kansas City right-hander is 0-3 with a 4.31 ERA on the campaign. Although he has made 26 appearances so far this season, he has only made three starts. I don’t expect him to pitch more than possibly two or three innings here. In three of his five career outings against Baltimore, Hernandez has been a starter, going 1-2 with a 4.32 ERA across 16 2/3 innings pitched in the five outings against the Orioles. The Baltimore right-hander is 7-3 with a 3.87 ERA on the campaign. He has been very durable, lasting at least five innings in all but one of his 13 starts in 2023. Over his career, Gibson has faced Kansas City 27 times, which includes 25 starts, accumulating a very respectable record of 10-6 with a 3.99 ERA. A victory here would match his 11 wins against the Detroit Tigers, for the most against any team in his career. Baltimore is 12-4 their last 16 games played against the American League Central, while Kansas City is 18-52 their last 70 games played on the road. Take the Orioles. Thank you.

New York Yankees.

Game 972.

4:35 PM PST/7:35 PM EST.

Prior to dropping Game 1 of this series, New York had taken six in a row and 37 of the last 51 overall meetings with Boston. The Yankees are struggling a bit at the plate, especially with Aaron Judge missing. But this team has an uncanny knack of bouncing back after a defeat, going 9-4 their last 13 games played following a loss. Houck and German are scheduled here today. The New York right-hander has certainly been more stable than the Boston right-hander. The team has won his last three turns while his counterpart is riding a winless streak of seven consecutive outings. The Red Sox are 3-7 their last seven games played on the road and 1-4 their last five games played versus right-handed starters. The Yankees are 43-19 their last 62 games played versus teams with a losing record and 7-3 their last 10 games played versus right-handed starters. Take New York. Thank you.

Denver Nuggets.

Game 519.

5:30 PM PST/8:30 PM EST.

For the third straight time in as many games in this series, the Miami Heat shot better from downtown than the Denver Nuggets. And yet, Denver leads the series 2-1. There are a few reasons for this my friends. For starters, in each matchup in the Finals, the Nuggets have outrebounded the Heat. They are winning the battle of the boards, giving themselves more second-chance opportunities on offense, and taking away their opponents second-chance opportunities on defense. Next, Jokic and Murray are playing on another level, folks. They are putting up record numbers, and are outshining their counterparts. After the Game 2 loss, Denver knows they cannot allow Miami to get back into this series. So, they put their foot on the as in game 3 and revved the engine. They will not take a chance here and allow the Heat to tie the series up. Lastly, and most importantly, they are just plainly and simply…a better team. Deeper, healthier, and better-coached. You may not realize this, but Miami has now lost five of their last seven games straight up. Denver has covered fourth straight games played on the road, four of their last five games played on one days rest, and four of their last five games played overall. Oh, by the way, the Heat have failed to cover five consecutive games played following a double-digit loss at home. Take the Nuggets. Thank you.

Denver Nuggets on the money line.

Crash the Boards GOY.

Game 517.

5:30 PM PST/8:30 PM EST.

Very simply, the Denver Nuggets are a much stronger team than the Miami Heat. They came into this series, better-rested, deeper, and hotter. They took Game 1 with authority, only to lose a heartbreaker in Game 2. The series is now tied up as it moves to Miami. The Nuggets cannot afford to allow the Heat to go up 2-1. Denver has had their way with Miami in this match up on the boards. However, very uncharacteristic for them, neither are they are hitting as many from downtown as they usually do, nor are they stopping the Heat from being successful beyond the arc. These are two areas in which the Nuggets excelled this season. They were one of the top teams in the NBA, both offensively and defensively from three-point land. They know if they are going to shut down the Heat, they must hit more shots from the outside, while beefing up their defense from the outside as well. This is a well-coached, healthy team that knows if they just tweak one or two things here, they will win the NBA Championship. But it all starts with a big victory here tonight. They are an excellent bounce-back team, covering seven of their last 10 games played following a straight up loss. They are also 9-4 ATS their last 13 games played on two days rest and 5-3 ATS their last eight games played overall. On the other hand, Miami is just 5-13 ATS their last 18 games played on two days rest and 2-5 ATS their last seven home games played following a road trip of seven or more days. They are also 0-4 ATS their last four games played at home versus the Nuggets and 10-26 overall the last 36 meetings with the Nuggets. Take Denver on the money line. Thank you.

Texas Rangers.

Game 976.

5:05 PM PST/8:05 PM EST.

Very quietly, the Texas Rangers have taken over first place in the American League West at 39-20. They have a 3.5-game lead over the Houston Astros. Meanwhile, a preseason favorite to take their division, the St. Louis Cardinals are certainly underachieving. They dwell in the NL Central cellar, 8.0-games back, at a dismal 25-36. They have lost four in a row and seven of their last 10, which includes Game 1 of this series yesterday. Granted, these two teams don’t face each other often. However, the Rangers have certainly had their way with the Cardinals, taking nine of their last 10 meetings, which does include five of their last six at Globe Life Field. Matthew Liberatore, and Dane Dunning are scheduled here. The Cardinals left-hander is 1-1 with a 4.91 ERA on the campaign. He has never faced Texas in his short career. However, there is a big disparity in how he pitches at home as opposed to how he pitches on the road. This season at home, he is 1-0 with a 3.00 ERA. However, when he is away from home, he is a dismal 0-1 with a 7.20 ERA. In his career in in seven games (six starts), on the road, he is 0-3 with a 7.90 ERA. The Rangers right-hander is 4-1 with a 2.06 ERA in 2023. He comes off his worst performance of the season. He hasn’t had too many poor outings. And I expect him to bounce back very strongly here and dominate. He has done well in Interleague play, going 4-1 with a 3.34 ERA in 13 games, which includes 10 starts. You can expect him to get a lot of run support as the Texas offense tops the Majors in both scoring and team batting average. St. Louis is 0-5 their last five games played on the road, 1-10 their last 11 games played versus the American League West, and 1-4 their last five games played versus right-handed starters. Texas is 6-1 their last seven Interleague games played, 5-1 their last six games played versus left-handed starters, and 22-8 their last 30 games played at home. Take the Rangers. Thank you.

Los Angeles Dodgers on the run line.

Game 953.

4:10 PM PST/7:10 PM EST.

The Dodgers dropped two of three in a series with the Yankees at home the last few days. Lucky for them the Diamondbacks also lost their last two outings. The two division rivals are tied for first place in the NL West. Folks, it looks like ‘Zona isn’t going anywhere. So, L.A. must keep their foot on the gas right now. And what better team to face than the struggling Cincinnati Reds. This is the first meeting between these two National League rivals this season. However, going back a bit, Los Angeles has taken nine consecutive meetings with Cincinnati, by a combined score of 65-24. None of those victories came by a single run. Tony Gonsolin, and Luke Weaver are scheduled starters here. The Dodgers right-hander is 3-1 with a 1.77 ERA on the campaign. He has not allowed more than three runs in any outing this season. And in three career appearances, which includes two starts against Cincinnati, he is 1-0 with a 3.97 ERA. The Reds right-hander is 1-2 with a 5.36 ERA on the campaign. In eight career appearances, which includes five starts against the Dodgers, he is 1-3 with a 7.57 ERA. On the road, Gonsolin has an anemic ERA of 1.35 this season, while at home, Weaver owns a whopping ERA of 5.64. Los Angeles has won five consecutive meetings at Great American Ballpark. They are also 40-16 their last 56 games played following a loss and 52-23 their last 75 games played against the NL Central. Take the Dodgers on the runline. Thank you.

Texas Rangers.

Game 914.

5:05 PM PST/8:05 PM EST.

Texas has won three in a row and eight of their last 10 to further their cushion in the American League West to 3.5-games. Meanwhile, St. Louis, which was a preseason favorite to take their division, dwells in the NL Central cellar, 7.5-games back in the division, at 25-35. These two teams haven’t met in a while, but it would be an understatement to say the Rangers have dominated the Cardinals, taking eight of their last nine meetings in this Interleague matchup. Wainwright and Perez are scheduled starters today. The St. Louis right-hander, although is 2-1 with a 6.15 ERA, has yet to complete six innings this season. The Texas left-hander is stirring up a lot of buzz, going 6-1, with a 4.43 ERA thus far. Whether it be at the plate or on the mound, Texas significantly outclasses St. Louis. They average nearly 2 more runs per game offensively, while they’re pitching staff yields nearly one full run less per game. St. Louis is just 1-9 their last 10 games played versus the A.L. West and 0-4 their last four games played on the road. Texas is 5-1 their last six Interleague games played and 4-0 their last four games played versus right-handed starters. Take the Rangers. Thank you.

Milwaukee Brewers.

Game 901.

4:10 PM PST/7:10 PM EST.

Milwaukee has taken the first three games of this series with authority, to continue their domination of Cincinnati. Going back a bit, they have taken eight of their last nine meetings against their division rival and 21 of their last 28 overall matchups. Winning three in a row and five of their last seven, the Brewers are striding. Meanwhile, the Reds are riding a four-game slide. Julio Teheran will make his third start of the campaign, while Andrew Abbott will make his Major League debut today. The Milwaukee right-hander has shown promise. The Cincinnati left-hander is in way over his head here. He faces a team that has won four of their last five games played versus division opponents, four of their last five games played on the road, eight of their last 11 games played versus teams with a losing record, and five of their last seven games played versus right-handed starters. Take the Brewers. Thank you.

Houston Astros.

Game 905.

4:05 PM PST/7:05 PM EST.

The Toronto Blue Jays may have won four straight outings, but today they must face a pitching staff leading the Majors, with a Team ERA of 3.22. Bielak and Manoah are scheduled starters here today. There is no question that the Astros right-hander has been more consistent than the Blue Jays right-hander. As a matter fact, Toronto has lost Manoah’s last six turns. The Blue Jays are just 2-5 their last seven games played at home. Meanwhile, the Astros are 16-5 their last 21 games played versus the American League East, 37-16 their last 53 games played on the road, 11-5 their last 16 games played versus right-handed starters, and 18-6 their last 24 games played overall. Take Houston. Thank you.

Over in the Heat/Nuggets Game 2 matchup.

Games 513/514.

85:30 PM PST/8:30 PM EST.

There is no debating that coming into the NBA Finals, the Denver Nuggets were better-rested, hotter, and showed more consistency. But I also think there’s a lot more pressure on them to win. However, having said all that, Game 1’s are a bit unpredictable. The oddsmakers put out a total, and it flew under by more than 20-points. We all know how good both defenses play. Thus, both teams being here in the NBA finals. And, I am well aware of the fact that the Heat have played to five consecutive unders, while the Nuggets, five of their last seven games played, went under the total. But this total here today comes in a little bit low. If you look at the series-opening matchup, Miami workhorse and team leader, Jimmy Butler had a poor outing. Granted he had 13 points and seven rebounds. But for him that was way under his averages.  I expect him to come back today and play very strongly as the entire team will be a lot more competitive. You will definitely see a faster pace and a lot more scoring in this matchup. Please understand that prior to Thursday’s meeting, these two teams have played the five consecutive overs, which does include all four meetings in the regular season this year. The over is 4-1 in the Heat’s last five games played on two days rest, 10-4 in their last 14 games played on the road, and 4-1 in their last five games played versus teams with a winning record. The over is also 6-1 in the Nuggets last seven games played versus teams with a winning record. Take the over. Thank you.

Chicago Cubs.

Game 957.

2:30 PM PST/5:30 PM EST.

Both Chicago and San Diego have underachieved so far this season. Neither team possesses winning records either at home or on the road. They have split Games 1 and 2 of this series. So far this season, the Cubs have gotten the better of the Padres, taking three of five overall meetings in 2023. Marcus Stroman and Ryan Weathers are scheduled to start this game. The Chicago right-hander is 5-4 with a 2.59 ERA, while the Padres left-hander is 1-3 with a 4.28 ERA. The Cubs hurler has become one of the toughest pitchers in the Majors this season. He leads the league with 12 starts and his 0.986 WHIP also tops all pitchers, while holding opposing batters to just .188 against him. And in four career starts versus the Padres, Stroman is 3-0 with a 2.19 ERA. The Padres pitcher is 1-3 with a 4.28 ERA on the campaign. In four career appearances, which includes three starts against Chicago, he is 1-1 with a 6.75 ERA. My friends, he has gotten shelled in his last three outings. On the other hand, Stroman has pitched three stellar turns in a row, resulting in three straight wins for him. I am well aware of the fact that Chicago isn’t greatest road team. However, they have won five of their last seven meetings played at Petco Park. They are also very good against left-handers winning 15 of their last 21 games played against left-handed starters. Meanwhile, San Diego is just 2-5 their last seven games played at home and 1-4 their last five games played following a win. Take the Cubs. Thank you.

Arizona Diamondbacks.

Game 960.

1:10 PM PST/4:10 PM EST.

This is a big series, my friends. Both Atlanta and Arizona are in first place in their divisions. In the NL East, the Braves own a 3.5-game lead, while in the West, the Diamondbacks are tied with the Dodgers atop the division, both possessing a 5.5-game cushion. This matchup will have serious playoff implications down the road. So far, these two teams have split Games 1 and 2 of the series. Arizona took the series-opener, only to lose yesterday’s meeting, ending their six-game win streak. For most of the season, Atlanta has been a good away team. However, they’re starting to show cracks, dropping three of their last five as a visitor. As a matter fact, they have problems at Chase Field too, where they are just 1-4 their last five meetings with the Diamondbacks. I feel today’s contest is all about the starting pitchers. Michael Soroka, and Zac Gallen are starting here. The Atlanta right-hander is making just his second appearance of the campaign. And going back a bit, if you recall, he has not pitched since 2020, prior to this season. In his first start on May 29, he got lit up by one of the worst teams in baseball, Oakland, allowing four earned runs in just six innings pitched. On the other hand, the Arizona, right-hander has been one of the most solid pitchers in the NL this season. He is 7-2 with a 2.72 ERA this season. And over his career, in two starts against the Braves, he is 2-0 with a 1.42 ERA. The ‘Zona offense has been a bit more consistent of late. And I look for them to bounce back here today. They are 6-1 their last seven games played at home, 13-3 their last 16 games played versus right-handed starters, and 15-7 their last 22 games played versus teams with a winning record. On the other hand, Atlanta is just 3-7 their last 10 games played on the road, 1-4 their last five games played versus the National League West, and 3-8 their last 11 games played versus teams with a winning record. Take the Diamondbacks. Thank you.

Houston Astros on the run line.

Game 918.

1:10 PM PST/4:10 PM EST.

The Astros are just 2.5-games back of the Rangers in the AL West. They have won two in a row and six of their last eight, en route to an overall record of 34-23. Those victories on Thursday and Friday were in Games 1 and 2 of this series with the Angels. Houston outscored Los Angeles, 11-4 in the first two meetings. What can you say about Los Angeles? There is talent on this team. But they sit just one game over .500 at 30-29. They’re hitting has been erratic, while they’re pitching staff owns a Team ERA of 4.29. Going back to the offense, they have accounted for three runs or less runs scored in five of their last eight outings coming into today’s Game 3 matchup. Maybe that’s why they’ve dropped six of their last eight contests. To say they’ve been dominated by their division opponent would be an understatement. L.A. has lost seven of their last nine meetings with Houston. This is nothing new, folks. Going back a while, they are just 27-60 their last 87 overall meetings against the Astros. Sandoval and Javier are scheduled today. The Angels left-hander is 3-4 with a 3.42 ERA on the campaign. Over his career in eight appearances, which includes seven starts against the Astros, he is winless, going 0-4 with a 7.55 ERA. The Houston right-hander is 6-1 with a 2.97 ERA in 2023. He has won each of his last four starts. And over his career in nine appearances, which includes five starts against the Angels, he is 4-1 with a 2.65 ERA. The Astros are crushing the ball right now and certainly own the better pitching staff. They are also 10-3 their last 13 games played following a win, 39-12 their last 51 games played versus left-handed starters, and 37-14 their last 51 games played versus the AL West. I mentioned earlier that they have taken seven of the last nine meetings against the Angels. Only two of those victories came by a single run. Take Houston on the run line. Thank you.

New York Yankees.

Game 977.

7:10 PM PST/10:10 PM EST.

Many people out there prior to the season starting, thought both New York and Los Angeles would be leading their divisions significantly by this point. Currently, the Yankees sit in third place in the most competitive division in baseball, while the Dodgers are tied with the Diamondbacks atop their division. There is no denying that both New York and Los Angeles are chock-full of talent. The Yankees, who are known for their offense, have been erratic at the plate this season. But their pitching staff, which ranks fifth in baseball, has kept him very competitive. Meanwhile, the Dodgers, who are known for one of the best pitching staffs in baseball in recent years, rank 22nd in the Majors, with a team ERA of 4.46. These two teams last met four years ago. So trends and streaks aren’t going to play a big part between them here. However, the Yankees have won six of their last seven road games, six of the last seven Interleague games, seven other last nine games following a loss, and five of the last seven games against the NL West. One thing the Yankees do well is shine and big game situations. And I believe they will shine here again today. Luis Severino gets his third start of the campaign, while Clayton Kershaw is making his fifth career start against New York. Both have done well against today’s opposition. But I like New York as an underdog. Take the Yankees. Thank you.

Arizona Diamondbacks.

Game 958.

6:40 PM PST/9:40 PM EST.

In my opinion, the Atlanta Braves are one of the best teams in the National League. However, like any good team, they are starting to show signs of cracking after several months of long, tough, baseball play. They are just 8-12 the last 20 outings coming into today’s matchup. You can point fingers at both their inconsistent offense, and their erratic pitching. On the other hand, Arizona has heated up, winning seven of the last 10 to take a share of first place in the West. Charlie Morton and Merrill Kelly are scheduled to start here today. The Braves right-hander is 5-5 with a 3.59 ERA on the campaign, while the Diamondbacks righty is 6-3 with a 2.83 ERA this season. Coming into this series, the Diamondbacks have played a little more consistently and are not looking to give up their share of first place in their division. The team has also won five straight games played at home and 12 of the last 14 games played versus right-handed starters. The Braves are just 3-7 the last 10 games played against teams with a winning record. Take Arizona. Thank you.

Today, we set out to crush the sports books on the diamond. I have my MLB VEGAS INSIDER MOVE. Ever wonder why the same sports bettors in Vegas win every MLB season? It’s because they all are privy to the same information. It’s hard to argue with an 81-22 record.

Colorado Rockies.

Game 975.

5:10 PM PST/8:10 PM EST.

My friends, I am well aware of the fact that this might be one of the ugliest games on the board today. But that doesn’t mean that there isn’t gold in them thar hills. Both Colorado and Kansas City are cellar-dwellers in their divisions. The Rockies are just 24-34, while the Royals are 17-39. Colorado has lost four in a row, while Kansas City is on a 2-4 run. To me, this matchup today is all about the starting pitchers. Chase Anderson and Jordan Lyles are scheduled here. Anderson has been very solid since jumping over from the Tampa Bay Rays less than a month ago. He has made three starts for the Rockies, in which he is allowed to just three earned runs in over 10.2 innings pitched. His control has been spot-on and he has been very durable, going at least five innings in each one of those turns. On the other hand, Lyles has been an absolute nightmare. He owns a record of 0-9 with the ERA of 7.30. He has made appearances in 11 games this season, in which the team has lost all 11 outings. In consecutive turns, he has allowed no less than three earned runs in 10 straight starts. He’s gonna’ get plowed by a Rockies lineup that is looking to break out of a funk. Kansas City is 8-21 the last 29 games played at home, 6-21 the last 27 games played during Game 1 of a series, and 1-10 the last 11 games played following an off day. Take Colorado. Thank you.

Miami Heat.

Game 513.

5:30 PM PST/8:30 PM EST.

Well folks, the Denver Nuggets have had a full week more to rest, heal, and prepare for this series. They are also playing at home, where they own a 42-7 record this season. I believe they are the stronger team. But giving a number eight seed, which has made it to the NBA Finals. this many points, is a huge mistake by the oddsmakers. I think we can all agree that lines on the Nuggets at home tend to be inflated. They did fail to cover Games 1 and 2 of the Western Conference Finals against the Lakers, which were both played at the Ball Arena. While I mentioned a few benefits for Denver earlier in this analysis, I will tell you one benefit for Miami. They do not have as much pressure on them to win here. That will play a big part. I know, I know, I know. It’s the Finals and everybody wants to win. But there are people in the sports world, in the betting world, and just all over the world in general, that aren’t giving them a snowballs chance in hell in this series. I am well aware of the fact the Nuggets won and covered both meetings with the Heat this season. I am furthermore aware of the fact that Denver has covered five of the last six meetings against Miami played at home. But the Heat has played very well, and they have gotten that us bettors paid against the spread in the postseason. They have covered six of the last eight games played on the road, eight of the last 10 games played following a straight up win, and 12 of the last 16 games played overall. I just think this is way too many points. Take the Heat. Thank you.

New York Yankees.

Triple Play release.

Game 969.

6:40 PM PST/9:40 PM EST.

New York has taken Games 1 and 2 of this series with authority, outscoring Seattle by a combined 20-6. The Yankees have won four in a row and seven of their last 10 to climb into third place in the AL East, just five-games back of the Rays. The Bronx Bombers lineup have once again, come back to life. Today, Schmidt and Kirby are scheduled. The New York right-hander comes off two very strong starts, yielding just three earned runs in 10 innings pitch. The Seattle right-hander has lost his last two outings, allowing 10 runs in just 11.2 innings pitched. He has gotten plowed for five home runs those last two appearances. This does not bode well as the Yankees currently ranked fourth in the Majors in the long ball, pounding 87 round-trippers. New York is one of the best road teams in baseball, winning six straight and eight of their last nine as a visitor. They’ve also won five in a row against the AL West, seven of their last eight following a win, and four straight against right-handed starters. Take the Yankees. Thank you.

Los Angeles Angels.

Double Play release.

Game 917.

5:10 PM PST/8:10 PM EST.

In my opinion, Los Angeles should in no way be an underdog here. They have won six of their last 10 outings coming into today’s contest. This includes a 6-4 win in Game 1 of this series yesterday. They have done quite well against Chicago, taking 10 of their last 14 meetings at Guaranteed Rate Field and 39 to their last 58 overall meetings. The White Sox have slipped into fourth place in the AL Central, losing three in a row and sitting at 22-34 on the season. Anderson and Giolito are starters here today. The Los Angeles left-hander has certainly been more stable than the Chicago right-hander. Both on the mound and at the plate, the Angel are significantly better. The White Sox are 7-19 their last 26 games played versus teams with a winning record, 2-6 their last eight games played versus left-handed starters, and 2-5 their last seven games played versus the AL West. Take Los Angeles. Thank you.

Tampa Bay Rays on the run line.

Grand Slam Play.

Game 927.

5:05 PM PST/8:05 PM EST.

Tampa Bay own the best overall record in baseball. They have also lost the least amount of games. Furthermore, they have been embarrassed less than any other team in the Majors this season. Yesterday, they were blanked, 1-0 at the hands of Chicago. They were only shut out two previous times in 56 games this season. I look for them to bounce back very strongly here and make a statement. Prior to yesterday’s victory, the Cubs were riding a four-game losing streak, in which they allowed 35 combined runs. The undefeated, Shane McClanahan takes the hill on the road today. The Tampa Bay left-hander is 8-0 with a 1.97 ERA this season. He has been money, my friends. Taking the bump at home is Kyle Hendricks, who sports is 0-1 record with a 6.23 ERA. To be honest with you, he’s only had one outing this season, and he got lit up for three earned runs in 4.1 innings pitched. In only his second start, he hast to go up against one of the most dangerous lineups in baseball. Tampa Bay ranks in the top-two in every major offensive category. And I look for them to light him up like it was the Fourth of July. Tampa Bay averages nearly a 1.5 runs more per game, while allowing over a half a run less per game. Take the Rays on the runline. Thank you.

Milwaukee Brewers.

Home Run Play.

Game 921.

4:05 PM PST/7:05 PM EST.

The Milwaukee Brewers own a two-game lead in the NL Central, sitting atop the Division. Since Opening Day of the campaign, they have played extremely consistent baseball. On the other hand, the Toronto Blue Jays have slipped into last place in the American League East. Granted, they play in the toughest Division in baseball and still possess a winning record of 28-26, but this team is struggling. They have dropped eight of their last 11 overall, which does include four consecutive games played at home. Houser and Kikuchi are scheduled here today. The Brewers right-hander is 1-0 with a 2.25 ERA on the campaign. The team has won three of his four turns this season. And to be honest with you, in the outing they lost, he allowed zero earned runs in six innings pitched. The Blue Jays left-hander, after a phenomenal start of the campaign, going 5-0 with a 3.35 ERA, has gone winless in his last three starts, going 0-2 with a 7.90 ERA. Milwaukee took two of three a season ago against Toronto. Overall, the Brewers are 10-3 their last 13 Interleague games played versus left-handed starters, 26-11 their last 37 overall Interleague games played, and 8-3 their last 11 games played on astroturf. The Blue Jays are 0-4 their last four games played following a win, 3-8 their last 11 games played versus teams with a winning record, and 1-7 their last eight games played on astroturf. Take Milwaukee. Thank you

Miami Heat.

Crash The Boards Play.

Game 509.

5:30 PM PST/8:30 PM EST.

It’s no secret that Miami took the first three games of this series, only to drop Games 4, 5, and 6. Game 6, we did see Jimmy Butler and company come to life, playing a lot more competitively than the two previous matchups. We all know the statistics that in 150 times teams were down 3-0, never, and I mean never has a team come back to win a seven-game series. Miami doesn’t want to be the butt of all jokes my friends. I expect them to come in here very competitively, fight for every loose ball, and crash the boards like they did in the first few meetings of this round. On the other side of the spectrum, the Heat can also make history themselves. They can be only the second team in the ever to make the NBA Finals as the number eight seed. If you recall, games 1 and 2 of this Eastern Conference Finals series were played at the TD Garden and Miami won both. They have also covered 15 of their last 21 meetings played in Boston, 11 of their last 15 games played on one days rest, five of their last seven games played following a straight up loss, five of their last seven games played on the road, and 11 of their last 15 games played overall. Take the points with the Heat. Thank you.

Heat/Celtics OVER.

Games 509/510.

5:30 PM PST/8:30 PM EST.

I think we all get the fact that this Game 7 matchup, we will see a very competitive contest. Having said that, do we really think that the odds makers are not looking to trap us here? With a total set of 203, it is by far the lowest total set in this series. Just FYI, my friends, every single game in this series would have gone over a total set at 203. Let’s forget about the fact that five of their last six meetings between these two Eastern Conference rivals played in Boston have gone over the total. Let’s forget about the fact that 10 of Miami’s last 12 games played on the road have gone over and 16 of their last 22 overall games have gone over the total. Let’s furthermore forget about the fact that 12 of the Celtics last 17 games played on one days rest have gone over the total and 11 of their last 16 games played overall have also gone over the total. My friends, these are two of the best teams in the Eastern Conference, and moreover in the entire NBA. And yes, both play very good defensive basketball. But I think we can all agree that both teams want to win this Game 7. We are going to see the best from both squads offensively, as well as some very good input from both benches. Take the over. Thank you.

Houston Astros on the run line.

Double Play release.

Game 915.

1:07 PM PST/4:0 7 PM EST.

A lot of people out there are shocked that Houston has climbed to second place in the AL West, just three-games behind Texas. But don’t forget that is the team that was picked to run away with the Division and once again be a true American League competitor. They struggled in the first portion of this campaign. But they have turned it on recently, winning 13 of their last 16 outings. The Oakland A’s are without question the worst team in baseball. With a winning percentage of .185 and the record of 10-44, this team is horrible. They are currently on a 10-game losing streak. Two of those losses, the most recent two, were in Games 1 and 2 of this series, being outscored by Houston, 11-5. They have been dominated by the Astros, losing six straight, which does include all five meetings this season. By the way folks, only one of those games were separated by one single run. Javier and Medina are scheduled here today. The Houston right-hander is 5-1 with a 3.07 ERA on the campaign. He is also unbeaten in four starts in May, going 3-0 with a 2.52 ERA, striking out 29 batters in 25 innings pitched. The Oakland right-hander is 0-3 with a 6.45 ERA in 2023. The Astros have taken 19 of their last 26 meetings over the A’s, eight of their last nine games played following a win, 13 of their last 16 games played 0on grass, and 36 of their last 52 games played on the road. Take Houston on the run line. Thank you.

San Francisco Giants.

Grand Slam Play.

Game 901.

11:10 AM PST/2:10 PM EST.

Winners of three in a row and eight of their last 10, San Francisco is starting to heat up. They sit just 4.5-games behind the Dodgers in the NL West, in third place. To say they have dominated Milwaukee would be an understatement. This season they have faced the Brewers six times, taking five of the six contests. Speaking of Milwaukee, they still own the top-spot in the Central, but by just a half-game. They have dropped three in a row and seven of their last 10. Today’s scheduled starters are Cobb and Rea. The Giants right-hander is 4-1 with a 2.17 ERA on the campaign. And in four starts in his career against the Brewers, he is 2-1 with a 0.64 ERA. The Milwaukee right-hander is just 1-3 with a 4.71 ERA in 2023. The Brewers offense, or I should say lack of offense, has been hurting this team badly. They have accounted for just two runs during this series, being outscored by us combined 23-2. San Francisco has won five of their last six games played on the road, 19 of their last 26 games played against the NL Central, and nine of their last 10 games played versus right-handed starters. Take the Giants. Thank you.

Under in the Padre/Yankees matchup.

Grand Slam Play.

Games, 967/968.

10:05 PM PST/1:05 PM EST.

San Diego took game 1 of this series yesterday, 5-1. The game went under. Going back the last several years, these two teams have played the four consecutive unders. There is no question that the Padres play to a lot of unders. As a matter of fact, they lead the Major League in unders, going 16-33-2, which means 67.4% of their games go under the total. The Yankees aren’t too far behind my friends. They rank seventh in baseball, playing to the under. They are 24-28-1 in 2023, which accounts for 53.9% of their games going under the total. Neither offense is hitting the cover off the ball However, both teams certainly have good pitching staffs. They both rank in the top-10 in Team ERA. Speaking of pitching, Michael Wacha and Luis Severino are scheduled here today. The San Diego right-hander is 5-1 with a 3.58 ERA on the campaign. In 10 career appearances, which includes eight starts against the Yankees, he is 2-1 with a 3.02 ERA. Just over the last two seasons, in seven outings, which includes five starts, playing for both the Rays and the Red Sox, against the Yankees, he was 2-0 with a 1.82 ERA. The New York right-hander is 0-0 with a 1.93 ERA in 2023. In 16 career Interleague appearances, which includes 14 starts, he is 8-2 with a 1.79 ERA. He has never faced San Diego. The Padres unders are 6-0 in their last 6 Interleague games played on the road, 18-5 in their last 23 games played on the road, 22-7 in their last 29 games played versus right-handed starters, and 35-16 in their last 51 overall games played. The Yankees unders are 5-1 in their last 6 Interleague road games, 5-1 in their last six games played versus the NL West, 37-15 in their last 52 games played following a loss, and 5-2 in their last seven games played on Saturdays. Take the under. Thank you.

New York Yankees.

Oddsmakers Mistake Play.

Game 920.

4:05 PM PST/7:05 PM EST.

My friends, overall, on the campaign the Padres are just 23-27, which includes an away record of 11-12. They sit in fourth place in the NL West. This is a team certainly underachieving and struggling once again this season. With a big payroll, big names, and high expectations, this team has fallen short the last few seasons. Even this season they are once again having trouble on the road, where they have won just two of their last eight games played as a guest. They also have trouble in Interleague play, having won just one of their last five IL contests. More specifically, they cannot win when facing the American League East, winning just three of their last 10 outings against teams from the division. Guys, very simply, you cannot compare any other division in the Majors to the American League East. All five teams possess winning records. I know the Yankees have been a bit inconsistent. But they are still 30-22, sitting in third place in the most competitive division in baseball, and they are a very good home team. When playing in the Bronx, New York is 17-12 this season. Joe Musgrove gets to start on the road. The right-hander is 1-2 with a 6.75 ERA this season. My friends, he comes off some very bad outings, allowing four earned runs in each of his last two turns. As a matter fact, the team has lost his last three consecutive starts. While he has never faced the Yankees, trust me when I tell you, playing in the very loud and intimidating Yankee stadium, he is going to feel the pressure immensely. Making his Major League debut, is Randy Vasquez. H will not feel nearly as much strain and will get all the love and support from the New York fans as well as a Bronx Bombers offense that fell short in their last game, only accounted for one run. Yesterday’s loss to Baltimore was their lowest run output in eight games. I expect Aaron Judge and company to jump out on Musgrove as allow Vazquez to breathe easy in his first pro appearance. New York has taking seven of their last eight meetings with San Diego played at Yankee Stadium, their last four consecutive Interleague games played, six of their last seven games played following a loss, eight of their last 10 Interleague games played at home, five of their last seven games played versus the NL West, and five of their last seven games played versus right-handed starters. The Yankee should not be an underdog here. Take New York. Thank you.

Miami Heat.

Slam Dunk Top-Rated GAME OF THE YEAR.

Game 549.

5:30 p.m. PST/8:30 PM EST.

After taking the first three games of the Eastern Conference finals, on Wednesday, the Miami Heat were outhustled and outplayed, losing to the Boston Celtics, 116-99. Obviously, the Celtics are a very good team folks. However, this long season has taken its toll on them. They went six tough games with the Hawks in the first round, and seven very physical matchups with the 76ers in the second round. Everything did go right for Boston in Game 4. However, Miami is a very good team also. And they match up very well with a Celtics. The Heat also know that if they allow their opponent to get another win here tonight, they can easily let this series slip away. There is another item also my friends. The Denver Nuggets closed out the Western Conference Finals over the Los Angeles Lakers on Monday. So, every day that the Eastern Conference Finals continues, the Heat be allowing the Nuggets to get another day of rest, another day to heal, and another day to prepare for them. I do expect Boston to show up here once again tonight at home. However, giving Miami this many points is a huge mistake. Boston is 2-5 ATS their last seven games played following a straight up win, 2-5 ATS their last seven games seven games played versus teams with winning record, 1-4 ATS their last five games played on one days rest, 2-5 ATS their last seven games play at home, and 1-4 ATS their last five Conference Finals games. Take the Heat. Thank you.

Seattle Mariners on the run line.

Grand Slam Play.

Game 924.

6:40 PM PST/ 9:40 PM EST.

Seattle took Games 1 and 2 of this series to now extend their domination of Oakland, winning all five meetings this season. The A’s own the worst record in all of baseball at 10-40, which includes losing six in a row, and nine of their last 10 outings. Things go from bad to worse, as they travel, sporting the worst road record in the Majors. Currently, they have dropped nine straight as a visitor. Waldichuk and Miller are scheduled today. The Oakland left-hander has gotten plowed, to say the least. The Seattle right-hander has pitched well, proving he is reliable. The Mariners average nearly a run more per game offensively, while they’re pitching staff yields more than 3 1/2 runs per game less. Seattle is 12-2 their last 14 home games played versus left-handed starters, 8-3 their last 11 games played versus the American League West, 5-2 their last seven games played at home. During their current losing streak, Oakland has been outscored by 29-10. Take Seattle on the runline. Thank you.

Miami Heat on the money line.

Crash The Boards Play.

Game 546.

5:30 PM PST/8:30 PM EST.

My friends, it is no secret that a team in the NBA postseason that were down 3-0, have never came back to win a series. As a matter fact, after last nights Western Conference finals ended, it is now 150-0 teams that are up three games to none in the postseason. You know, looking back at the first three games of this series, the Boston Celtics have played well. In certain games, they have rebounded the Miami Heat. In certain games, they have shot well. However, they are still down 3-0. The Celtics themselves know that they cannot win this series. Think to yourself, my friends, “are they going to risk any of their key players, to injury?“ I doubt it very much. I’m not saying they’re just gonna’ roll over, because they are a very good team. And the city is steeped in winning tradition, for sure. But I just don’t see them jeopardizing any of their players here. Once they fall behind, I don’t feel they’re going to go all out. No matter what, you cannot not ignore the fact that Boston is having a world of trouble against Miami’s defense. Not only that, but the Heat bench has stepped up considerably in this series. We really haven’t heard too much from the Celtics bench at all. One more thing guys, you’re going to see a lot of urgency on the Boston side here tonight. But they have played very sloppily the last few games while under the gun. Oh, by the way, Miami is on a home 7-0 straight up run in this playoff campaign, in which they have covered six of those seven games. Just to err on the side of caution, take the Heat on the money line for the extra few cents. Thank you.

Tampa Bay Rays.

AL East Best Bet.

Game 966.

3:40 PM PST/6:40 PM EST.

There is no question the Tampa Bay Rays have played the best baseball through the first quarter of the regular season. They possess the best overall record in the Majors at 35-14. Currently, they own the second highest-scoring lineup in baseball, as well as its second-best pitching staff. One thing for sure, they have to keep their foot on the gas as they play in the most-competitive Division in the Majors. Every team in the AL East sports a winning record. They sit just three-games ahead of Baltimore and six-games ahead of New York. Well, the Orioles and the Yankees square off in a series today. This is an opportunity for the Rays to put some distance between themselves and the rest of the division. The Blue Jays have sunk to last place in the East at 25-23. They are struggling, losing five consecutive games. There’s also a big difference between their play at home and on the road. While hosting, they are 13-9, but when they travel, they are just 12-14. Scheduled starters here are Berrios and Bradley. The Toronto right-hander, in nine career starts against Tampa Bay is 2-4 with a 5.44 ERA. The Tampa Bay right-hander is shaping up to be the clubs top pitching prospect. The team has won three of his four starts in 2023. This is his first time facing the Blue Jays. The Toronto offense has been inconsistent to say the least. And their pitching staff have been absolutely deplorable. They have lost four consecutive games against right-handed starters, five consecutive games against teams with a winning record, seven of their last 10 games played on the road, and 13 of their last 16 games played against the AL East. Takes the Rays. Thank you.

Los Angeles Angels.

Double Play.

Game 916.

6:35 PM PST/9:35 PM EST.

The Red Sox took three of four meetings in the first series with the Angels a little more than a month ago. But these two teams have gone in different directions since. Both teams possess top-10 lineups. And both have been struggling on the mound. However, the Red Sox pitching staff has been absolutely deplorable. Houck and Barria are scheduled starters today. Boston has lost three of Houck’s last four turns. It seems that he gives up a lot of earned runs every outing. He’s averaging a little over five innings pitched per performance and he is allowing 3.3 earned runs in each. We all know Barria is only going to be in for a short time here today. But he has pitched very well during his short stints. He also hasn’t given up the long ball in seven weeks. It’s no secret Boston struggles against right-handers as they are just 6-13 their last 19 games played on the road versus right-handed starters and 2-6 their last eight games overall played versus right-handed stars. Oh, by the way, they are also just 7-22 their last 29 road games played versus teams with a winning record. Take Los Angeles. Thank you.

Denver Nuggets.

Crash The Boards Play.

Game 543.

5:30 PM PST/8:30 PM EST.

My friends, very simply, the Denver Nuggets are a much better team than the Los Angeles Lakers. They are up 3-0 in this series. And will close it out tonight. So, making them an underdog is a huge mistake made by the odds makers. Obviously, they feel that the general public is going to be compelled to side with the home team Lakers here because of urgency. Let me break this down for you, my friends. In Games 1 and 2, the Nuggets out rebounded and outhustled them and won both games with authority. Now granted, those games were at home where Denver happens to be one of the strongest home teams in the NBA. Game 3 took place in L.A. And despite Los Angeles winning the battle of the boards and making most of their free throws, they still lost. What does this tell you? That they are outclassed here. There is no way that they can win this series, and they know it. Even if they did win here, they would be humiliated the next game on the road. Don’t put too much stock in the fact that the Nuggets might want to take it easy here and then go home and win in front of their hometown fans. They want to close this game out quickly and get some extra time to rest, heal, and prepare for the Finals. Take the points with Denver. Thank you.

Texas Rangers.

IL GOW.

Game 919.

3:35 PM PST/6:35 PM EST.

Sports fans, the Rangers are heating-up, winning three in a row, and seven of their last 10 to take full control of the AL West, leading the division by two-games. On the other hand, Pittsburgh is starting to struggle, dropping two in a row, and seven of their last 10, falling out of first place in the NL Central, trailing Milwaukee by one-game. We normally see teams struggle a bit when they travel in the Majors. That is not the case with the Texas, which happened to be one of only three teams left in all of baseball that have just single-digit losses on the road. Guess what folks? Today they give Dane Dunning the start. The right-hander, since being put into the starting rotation is 2-0, with a 1.59 ERA. This is a guy that has not allowed more than two earned runs in any outing this season, thus far. Luis Ortiz gets to not at home. This will be his third start of the campaign, in which he is just 0-2 with a 5.62 ERA. Let’s face it, he has pitched just four innings so far, and has allowed a whopping, five earned runs. The Rangers enter this matchup possessing baseballs top-scoring offense and its eight-ranked pitching staff. Oh, by the way, they are also 4-1 their last five Interleague games played, 4-1 their last five road games played, and 5-2 their last seven games played versus right-handed starters. The Pirates are just 1-4 their last five games played at home, 1-6 their last seven games played versus the American League West, and 2-12 their last 14 games played versus right-handed starters. Take Texas. Thank you.

Over in the Celtics/Heat matchup.

Eastern Conference GAME OF THE YEAR.

Games 541/542.

5:30 PM PST/8:30 PM EST.

We all know Miami took both Games 1 and 2 on the road in this series with authority. Now, they go home to the Kaseya Center to host Game 3. Let’s face it, not many out there gave this team a snowballs chance in hell to win the series. But now they’re up 2-0 and are at home. This tells us that the Boston Celtics have to come in here and win to keep their hopes alive for advancement. My friends, both games in this round have gone over the total. As a matter fact, four of the last five meetings between these two teams have gone over the total. Today’s total is ripe to go over as well. While Boston overall, scores a little bit more offensively, Miami is a little tougher defensively. But both of these teams match up pretty well for another high-scoring affair on my friends. As far as the Celtics are concerned, the over is 11-2 their last 13 games played on one days rest, 10-2 their last 12 games played on the road, and 10-3 their last 13 games played overall. As far as Miami goes, the over is 17-5 their last 22 games played on one days rest, 10-2 their last 12 games played at home, and 21-7 their last 28 games played overall. My friends, take the over here. Thank you.

Denver Nuggets.

Crash The Boards Play.

Game 539.

5:30 PM PST/8:30 PM EST.

My friends, I know a lot of people out there subscribe to the “zigzag” style of sports betting come the NBA playoffs. However, the Denver Nuggets took both Games 1and 2 with authority. I understand they are on the road right now. We all know they’re one of the best home teams in the league. And when they travel, they lose a little bit of luster. However, they cannot afford to allow the Los Angeles Lakers to get back into this series. Another win here tonight and it would be virtually impossible for the Lakers to have any chance to advance. This is a team that has dominated the boards in both contests during this round. Understand that Anthony Davis cannot do it all himself in the paint for Los Angeles. Let’s be honest, LeBron James, although will always get his numbers, is not the player he once was. But it doesn’t stop him for calling for the ball as much as possible. I just feel with the way the Nuggets have dominated the glass, they will get a more second-chance opportunities offensively, and will take away second-chance opportunities for their opponent here, defensively.  This is way too many points to give a team that has covered 11 of their last 15 games played versus teams with a winning record. Take the points with a Nuggets. Thank you.

Minnesota Twins.

Home Run Play.

Game 965.

6:35 PM PST/9:65 PM EST.

If I had to choose one word to describe each one of these teams here today, for Minnesota, that would be “consistent.” And for Los Angeles, that word would be “erratic.” The Angels are just one-game over .500 at 23-22, sitting in third place in the AL West. The twins have been a top the AL Central for far back as I can remember, at 24-20, possessing a 3.5-game lead in the division. This is the first meeting between these two teams this season. You can always count on the Twins offense to score. Maybe they only average 4.70-runs per game. But when your pitching staff ranks third in the Majors, that’s all you need to average. As far as the Angels go, overall, their offense scores quite a bit. However, on any given day, that lineup becomes very erratic as I mentioned earlier. Not only that, but they’re pitching staff has gotten pretty beat up lately. Speaking of pitching, today’s schedule starters are Ryan and Detmers. The Minnesota right-hander is 6-1 with a 2.16 ERA on the campaign, while the Los Angeles left-hander is 0-3 with a 4.89 ERA in 2023.  I look for Minnesota to bounce back here as they are 7-3 their last 10 games played following a loss. Meanwhile, Los Angeles is 0-4 their last four games played following a win, 1-4 their last five games played at home, and 2-5 their last seven games played versus right-handed starters. Take the Twins. Thank you.

Dallas Stars.

Game 005.

5:30 PM PST/8:30 PM EST.

Guys, Southern Nevada has been a home to me for over 32-years. I love Las Vegas and everything about it. Having said that, I’ll always root from my hometown teams. However, we are not in this to root. We are in this to make money. I know the Golden Knights team. They are an outstanding club. However, my friends, some teams are fun teams and some teams are money teams. And trust me when I tell you, they are not a money team. Case in point, since their inception into the league, they have been a monster team during the regular season, making the playoffs every single year. However, they just can’t get over the hump. Let me put it this way, always a bridesmaid and never a bride. Certain teams match up well with them. And the Dallas Stars matchup well with the Golden Knights. Dallas took all three meetings with Vegas this season, including two played at the T-Mobile arena. Going back to last season, they have taken four consecutive meetings in this rivalry. Not only that, but the Stars certainly have a better goalie in net with Jake Oettinger over Adin Hill. This is a team that has won 12 of their last 17 games against Western Conference opponents, seven of the last 10 games played versus teams to winning record, 13 of their last 16 games played on the road, four their last five Conference Finals games, and 14 of their last 19 games played overall. Dallas handles better under pressure. Take the Stars. Thank you.

Miami Heat.

Game 537.

5:30 PM PST/8:30 PM EST.

I know many people out there subscribe to the “zigzag“ angle of sports betting in the NBA postseason. As an 8.5-point underdog in Game 1 of this series, on the road, the Miami Heat took down the Boston Celtics, 123-116. While, I did like the Miami Heat. I had no idea they were going to come in that strong. We all know what happened quarter by quarter in the series-opener. At one point, the Celtics were up by 11. The third quarter, the Heat took the game over. It’s hard to argue with the 30-points Jayson Tatum put up for the Celtics. But when he has to carry a game on his shoulders, that means some of the other players just aren’t doing their job. I know Boston will come in here a lot more competitive, looking to even this year is up, before they have to travel on the road. But giving Miami this many points, is a huge mistake. Please understand that Miami has won and covered the last three meetings in this Eastern Conference rivalry, all since December. This is just way too many points my friends. By the way, Miami has covered 14 of their last 19 meetings played at the TD Garden. Let’s not forget that they have covered four of their last five games played on the road, eight of their last 10 games played on one days rest, and eight of their last 10 games played overall.  Take the Heat. Thank you.

Houston Astros on the run line.

AL West Best Bet.

Game 962.

5:10 PM PST/8:10 PM EST.

You know, sports fans, before the season began, we all or at least most of us picked the Houston Astros to run away with the AL West. Granted they had a rough start to the campaign. However, very quietly this team has won four in a row and six of their last seven outings to bring them within just 2.0 games behind Texas for the lead in the division. In Game 1 of this series, they host the division cellar-dwelling team, which happens to possess the worst overall record in baseball. The Oakland A’s are absolutely deplorable at 10-35 overall on the campaign. They have dropped eight of their last 10 outings. And to be honest with you, you can’t even point a finger to blame at any one thing here. They’re pitching staff ranks 30th with a Team ERA of 7.13, while their offense ranks 27th in scoring average is 3.84 runs per game. Starting pitchers are scheduled to be Waldichuk and Bielak. The A’s left-hander gives up a lot of earned runs my friends. He allows on an average of 4.0-earned runs per outing. He’s in for another long day here folks. Both on the mound, and at the plate, the Astros significantly outclass them. Houston has taking six of the last seven meetings against their division rival, in which not one of their victories have come by just a single run. Take the Astros on the run line. Thank you.

Over in the Los Angeles Lakers/Denver Nuggets matchup.

Western Conference Top-Rated Total Of the Month.

Games 535/536.

5:30 PM PST/8:30 PM EST.

Game 1 of this series saw a combined score of 258-points as the game went over the closing number of 222.5. The oddsmakers set the total a little higher here because they know Game 2 is shaping up to be another high-scoring affair. These two teams have met five times just since late October. And with the number set on today’s game, four of those five would’ve gone over the total. Coming into today’s matchup, Los Angeles has played to three consecutive overs and 15 overs in their last 21 games played overall. They’ve also gone over in 13 of their last 16 games played on the road. As far as Denver goes, eight of their last 11 games played has gone over the total as well. Meanwhile, these two teams have played to seven overs in their last nine meetings played at the Ball Arena. With the Nuggets winning the opener, you can expect a lot more scoring here by Los Angeles to try to take this game. I expect them to be more competitive here. I think it we can all agree that as strong as these two teams are offensively, their defenses do not match up well with one another. You’ll see a heavy dose of Anthony Davis in the paint, while guards D’Angelo Russell and Lonnie Walker will bounce back from the poor performances in this series opener. As far as the Nuggets are concerned, they have six players averaging double-digits this post season. You can look for the combination of Jokic and Murray to light up the scoreboard once again, as the pair are combining for 57.3-points per game in the 2023 Playoffs. Take the over. Thank you.

Tampa Bay Rays.

Double Play.

Game 975.

4:10 PM PST/7:10 PM EST.

The Rays have dominated the Mets, winning five in a row and eight of the last nine meetings. New York is struggling, losing 10 of their last 14 overall games. Playing at home has been no benefit to the Mets, going a dismal, 3-7 their last 10 outings at Citi Field. Fleming and Senga are scheduled starters here today. The Tampa Bay hurler has had much more starts and certainly has been the more consistent pitcher. The New York pitching staff has been a doormat, ranking 25th in Team ERA and 30th in Quality Starts. This doesn’t bode well for them here having to face the lineup topping the Majors in Scoring, Team B.A., OPS, and Home Runs. The Mets are 1-7 their last eight games played versus left-handed starters and 0-4 their last four games played in Interleague contests. The Rays are 41-12 their last 53 games played versus the N.L. East and 26-9 their last 35 games played versus right-handed starters. Take Tampa Bay. Thank you.  

Denver Nuggets.

WESTERN CONFERENCE GAME OF THE YEAR.

Game 532.

5:30 PM PST/8:30 PM EST.

Very simply, the Denver Nuggets are a better team than the Los Angeles Lakers. I know these two teams have split out (both straight up and against the spread) four meetings this season. But let’s face it, when the Nuggets play at the Ball Arena, their game rises to another level. Overall, on the season they are 40-7 straight up at home. Not only that, but they’ve covered 23 of their last 32 games played as host. Let’s face it, the Lakers lose a little bit of their luster when they travel, as they are just 22-25 straight up away from home this season. Moreover, for our purposes, they’ve only covered one of their last five outings played as a visitor. By the way, Denver won and covered both meetings against Los Angeles this season at the Ball Arena. Having said that my friends, the Nuggets also come in here a bit better rested, having had an extra day off to rest, heal, and prepare. Furthermore, they have played three less contests this postseason than did the Lakers. Especially, with that tough, fast-paced series Los Angeles just came off of going six full games with Golden State. I believe they are going to come in here a little tired, especially come the second half. They will run out of gas. To make things worse for L.A., Denver is more accurate from beyond the arc, and overall, from the floor. They also come into this matchup possessing the league’s top-ranked defensive rebounding unit. This means Los Angeles will not get as many second-chance shots as they are accustomed to getting. The Lakers have only covered one of their last seven meetings played in Denver. Meanwhile, Denver has covered five of their last six games played on three or more days rest, 11 of their last 15 games played versus teams with a winning record, and six of their last eight games played following a straight up win. Take the Nuggets. Thank you.

Cleveland Guardians.

AL CENTRAL GAME OF THE MONTH.

Game 915.

5:10 PM PST/8:10 PM EST.

Winning back-to-back games, Cleveland is making a real run at the American League Central. They currently sit just 3.0-games back of Minnesota in the Division. Just behind them by a half-game is Detroit. Sitting in fourth place is their opponent, the Chicago White Sox. However, the White Sox are sitting at 9.0-games back. This is a team that really is struggling, dropping four of their last five outings. Entering Game 1 of this series, they have very little optimism as they have lost three straight against Cleveland. To make matters worse, they have lost five of their last seven meetings against the Guardians at Guaranteed Rate Field. Today’s starters are Bieber and Lynn. The Cleveland right-hander is 3-1 with a 2.61 ERA on the campaign. Over his career, he has had quite a bit of success against Chicago. In 17 starts against the White Sox, he owns an impressive 8-4 record with a very respectable ERA of 2.64. The Chicago, right-hander is struggling to say the least. He is a dismal, 1-5 on the campaign, with a whopping ERA of 7.51. The team has lost seven of his eight starts this season. Guys, I’ve got to tell you, he has given up significant earned runs in every appearance he has made thus far. The Guardians are 31-15 their last 46 games played versus the American League Central and 31-15 their last 46 games played versus right-handed starters. The White Sox are 1-4 their last five games played versus the American League Central and 1-4 their last five games played versus right-handed starters. Take Cleveland. Thank you.

Los Angeles Dodgers.

NL WEST GAME GOM.

Game 956.

4:15 PM PST/7:15 PM EST.

The Dodgers are surging, winning three in a row and 11 of their last 13 outings. One thing Los Angeles really loves to do, is to put a whooping upon division opponents. They took Game 1 of this series yesterday by a score of 4-2, to extend their dominance over San Diego, winning three of four meetings this season. Going back a bit, they have dominated this rivalry, taking 69 of the last 100 overall meetings. When hosting the Padres, the Dodgers have really turned it up taking 39 of 53 contests at Dodger Stadium. Yesterday’s loss was the third consecutive defeat for San Diego and their fifth over their last six contests. Joe Musgrove and Jose Urias are scheduled here today. While the Padres right-hander is 1-0 on the campaign, he does possess a whopping ERA of 6.75. On the other hand, the Dodgers left-hander is 4-3 with a 3.77 ERA in 2023. His last two outings were superb, going a total of 12.2 innings pitched, allowing just three earned runs, and striking out 13 batters. By the way, both of those were wins for the team. The Padres bats are slumping. Over the last 10 outings the team has lost six games in which the team has combined for a total of 13 runs in those six losses. They just can’t compete on the scoreboard with the powerful Los Angeles lineup which is accounting for over 5.44 runs per game. By the way, the Dodgers are also crushing the long ball, hitting a whopping 66 home runs already. San Diego has dropped four of their last five games played on the road, five of their last six games played versus teams with a winning record, and five of their last six games played overall. Take Los Angeles. Thank you.

Golden State Warriors.

Slam Dunk Play.

Game 503.

7:00 PM PST/10:00 PM EST.

I’m gonna keep my breakdown of this matchup very brief, my friends. Very simply, under Steve Kerr, the Golden State Warriors are 8-2 when faced with an elimination game. This is a team that always has a punchers chance. And let me tell you right now, they are not going down without swinging. I am well aware of the fact they’re not the greatest road team overall. I’m also well aware of the fact they lost and failed to cover both games played at the Crypto.com Arena in this series. As a matter fact, going back a bit, they have failed to cover the last five games played in Los Angeles. But once again under Steve Kerr, this team is very good in an elimination situation. Not only that, but Steph Curry will take this game on his shoulders and show you why he’s one of the greatest to ever walk on the pro basketball hardwood. Also, one more thing folks... I’m not saying the Lakers are going to intentionally lose here. But being up 3-2, they don’t have to play as hard because they know they have a Game 7 to still try and win the series. We’ve seen this time and time again in the NBA postseason my friends. Take the points with Golden State. Thank you.

Los Angeles Dodgers.

Double Play.

Game 910.

7:10 PM, PST/10:10 PM EST.

Los Angeles is once again rolling, winning 10 of their last 12 outings. The Dodgers love, and I mean love to take down division opponents. They face a San Diego team that has certainly struggled, entering today’s matchup on a 3-5 cold streak. The Dodgers took two of three in the earlier series just a week ago. Today’s schedule starters are Snell and May. The San Diego left-hander is 1-5 with a 4.89 ERA on the campaign. The Los Angeles right-hander is 4-1 with a 2.68 ERA in 2023. Both have had decent success against today’s opposing lineups. But Snell is having problems with control as he has issued a whopping 21 walks so far this season. He’s also allowed at least one home run in six consecutive turns. On the other hand, May has had three solid starts in a row in which the team has won all three of those turns. He does not issue walks or home runs. Take the Dodgers. Thank you.

Texas Rangers on the run line.

AL WEST GAME OF THE WEEK.

Game 919.

6:40 PM PST/9:40 PM EST.

My friends, it surprises many out there that the team at the top of the division in the AL West is either Houston or Los Angeles. Currently, the Texas Rangers have a 3.5-game lead in the division. They have played the most consistent baseball all season thus far possessing, the Majors top scoring offense and its seventh-ranked pitching staff. One thing that has not been a surprise in the West has been the poor play of Oakland. They not only have the worst record in the division. They not only have the worst record in the AL. They have the worst overall record in baseball at 8-31. The Rangers took two of three in the first match up with the A’s a few weeks ago. They also took Game 1 of this series, blanking Oakland yesterday, 4-0. Perez and Waldichuk are scheduled here. The Texas left-hander is 4-1 with a 3.86 ERA on the campaign, while the Oakland left-hander is 112 with a whopping ERA of 7.25. the Rangers are running hot, no matter which trend you look at, as they are 5-1 their last six games played on the road, 5-1 their last six games played versus division opponents, and 6-2 their last eight games played following a win. Take Texas on the run line, as they account for 2.5-runs per game more than the A's and allow nearly 4-runs less per game. Oh, by the way, Oakland has failed to win and their last seven contests against division opponents. Take the Rangers on the run line. Thank you.

Denver Nuggets.

Slam Dunk Play.

Game 556.

7:00 PM PST/10:00 PM EST.

To say this series has been “heated“, would be an understatement. These two teams seriously do not like each other. To say that the Nuggets are a better team, would also be an understatement. I think we could all agree that Nikola Jokic has shined, while Deandre Ayton has tarnished. The absence of Chris Paul certainly plays a part in the outcome of this matchup. Losing a player with his postseason experience is significant. But this is still a professional basketball team, the Phoenix Suns, that are 51-41 this season. They seemed to have a real look of defeat on their faces and the faces of their coaching staff at the end of last game. Just since the beginning of January, these two Western Conference rivals have met eight times, as Denver has covered six of those eight meetings. Now they come in here with a chance to eliminate a hated rival from the postseason. Making them underdog is a serious mistake made by the odds makers. The Suns are just 3-8 ATS their last 11 games played versus teams with a winning percentage of .600.  Oh and by the way, they are also 2-5 ATS their last seven Conference Semifinal games. Take Denver. Thank you.

Philadelphia 76ers.

Fast Break Play.

Game 554.

4:30 PM PST/7:30 PM EST.

Boston was leading the series 2-1 and then things fell apart for the Celtics. Philadelphia has taken the last two games and have an opportunity to eliminate their Eastern Conference rival from the postseason. I keep hearing about Joel Embiid’s injury issues. My friends, on a bad knee the other night, he accounted for 33-points, seven rebounds, and four blocks. So, don’t put any stick into the injury rumors. Feeling the pressure now having to take it to the road, Boston is in big trouble. I just don’t see them coming back. Momentum is definitely on the side of Philadelphia. And momentum means quite a bit in the NBA. Now they got to close out the series of a hated rival at home in front of their loyal fan base. The 76ers are 27-13 ATS their last 40 games played at home, 5-2, ATS their last seven games played on one days rest, and 9-2 ATS their last 11 games played overall. Take Philadelphia. Thank you.

Detroit Tigers.

Game 915.

10:10 AM PST/110 PM EST.

The AL Central currently has just one team sporting a winning record. The Twins, at 19-17 own a two-game lead over the Guardians, which sit at 17-19. The Tigers are just a half-game behind them at 16-19. Detroit has fared well against division rivals, winning 11 of their last 14 games played against the AL Central. They took the opening game of this series. But did drop Game 2, yesterday. This is a team that has won five of their last seven overall games played on the road and six of their last eight games played overall. They get us bettors paid, folks. Scheduled starters today are Rodriguez and Battenfield. The Tigers left-hander is 3-2 with a 1.81 ERA on the season. Over his career, in five starts against the Guardians, he is 3-0 with a 3.12 ERA. Getting the start at home, the right-hander is winless in 2023, going to 0-3 with a 4.07 ERA. There is an argument that he just hasn’t gotten any run support this season. But you can’t ignore the facts, the trends, and the stats. The team has lost all five games that he has made an appearance in. This does include his four starts. Overall, Cleveland is just 2-6 their last eight games played following a win and 1-9 their last 10 games played versus left-handed starters. Take Detroit. Thank you.

Denver Nuggets.

Slam Dunk Play.

Game 548.

7:00 PM PST/10:00 PM EST.

All four meetings in this playoff series have been won and covered by the home team. Denver took the first two at home, while Phoenix took the last two at home. Now this series moves back to the Ball Arena, a place that is by far the hardest in the NBA for any visitor to be successful at. The Nuggets are 39-7 straight up at home this season. Just going back the last several weeks, they have covered six of their last seven games played as host. We all know the Suns are not the greatest road team, sporting a 19-26 away record this season. They have failed to cover four of their last five games played as a guest. There is no question in my mind that Denver is a better team than Phoenix. And being that they allowed the Suns to even up this series on the road, I look for them to come out with a vengeance here tonight, prove something, and get a big win and cover.  They have covered five of their last seven overall meetings in this Western Conference rivalry. Take the Nuggets. Thank you.

Milwaukee Brewers.

NL GOW.

Game 956.

4:40 PM PST/7:40 PM EST.

We all know the Dodgers are once again, a force to be reckoned with. But my friends, as opposed to previous seasons, they are looking a bit mortal this season, especially on the road, where there are just 9-9 thus far. They were taken down in Game 1 of this series yesterday, 9-3. As a matter fact, the Brewers have taken three of the last five meetings, going back to last season in this National League rivalry. I know the beginning of May was a little tough for Milwaukee. But they have gotten back on track, winning their last two outings. This is a team with one of the best pitching staffs in baseball, ranking eighth, with a Team ERA of 3.58. Today’s schedule starters are Noah Syndergaard, and Eric Lauer. The Dodgers right-hander is off to an atrocious start to the campaign, going 1-3 with a 6.32 ERA this season. Don’t be fooled by his career record against today’s opponent as he is 2-1 was a 2.76n ERA in five lifetime appearances versus Milwaukee. He hasn’t faced the Brewers since April of 2019. He is allowing a lot of earned runs and a lot of home runs. The Brewers left-hander is 3-3 with a 4.40 ERA in 2023. Over his career in 11 starts against Los Angeles, he is 7-1 with a 2.37 ERA, which happens to be a .875 winning percentage, the best among out of pitchers versus Los Angeles with at least eight decisions. With Syndergaard struggling and Lauer’s successful history against the Dodgers, I am compelled to side with the home team here. By the way, the Dodgers 1-5 their six road games played versus left-handed starters. The Brewers are 4-1 their last five games played at home. Take Milwaukee. Thank you.