Taking the SHARKS, again. Off back to back shut outs I guess we can think of going Under 5 -130. But I really think San Jose is ready for a break-out tonight. Part of me wants to go for the big money and lay the goals at +260. But the Oilers are playing excellent hockey right now. If the price was a little higher, might even be inclined to take the road team. But the Sharks have some veterans who will make it interesting and extend things a bit. 4* Money Maker SAN JOSE SHARKS 

4* Total Money UNDER Pirates/Cardinals 

Taking the PIRATES tonight. Lost with these guys yesterday, but am coming back to the table for seconds. We also have under here since both teams aren't really tearing things up a the plate. I just still think that this STL team is playing some sloppy ball and getting zero bullpen help over the last week. Kuhl 2.56 road ERA in his 9 career road starts. Mike Leake does not impress me. The guy is barely hitting 88 on the gun. I know he has been amazing, but there is a big regression on the horizon. 4* Money Maker PITTSBURGH PIRATES 

Taking the ROYALS here. There are just some guys I refuse to back. Hello Matt Cain! Hammel is not any type of stud pitcher. You got me. But as I have said to start the year, Matt Cain is done. Send in the clowns. SF is sitting in the basement of the NL West. They have to fly to Kansas City for a 2 game set vs the AL Central? Then go Colorado to face the Rockies who they just lost 2 outta 3 to. Are they really 100% into this game or series? KC has won 4 straight. They have the old pep in their step, rally caps on, whatever you want to call it. As much as I dislike Cain, Hammel has been bad this year. But I think the KC offense carries the load for us tonight. 4* Money Maker KC ROYALS 

Taking the BREWERS here. How can we not take this team right now? Cubs will be fine. They are winning 90+ games. But right now, they are pressing or whatever you want to say. No way that you will find me laying -180 because a good team is 'due.' The good team right now is in the visitors dugout. 4* Money Maker MILWAUKEE BREWERS

Taking the PENGUINS here. Will up our play a bit here. Would really love just to go all in on a 10* Money Bomb since we have a very short number. Up 3-0, we know Columbus is never coming back. Tough loss on them Sunday blowing a 3-1 1st period lead and losing in OT. Maybe CBJ shows some heart. But that is a really tough way to go down in Game 3 and am positive they don't have it in them to win this series. Pens will be a big fave at home if they don't close things out tonight. 5* Best Bet PITTSBURGH PENGUINS 

Taking the TIGERS here. Like me some Fulmer. Kid was a nice guy to back last year. Tigers 20-6 in his starts. Against the Rays last year, 14 innings 21Ks and 1 earned. Not too shabby. He is looking to build off last year an is sporting a .92 WHIP in his first 2 starts. Andriese had a Spring to forget with an ERA approaching 7, 11 runs in 10.1 innings with 6 walks and 17 hits. That has carried over to his first 2 starts as teams are hitting him at a .292 clip. Detroit has won five straight at Tampa, and I expect more of the same tonight. 4* Money Maker DETROIT TIGERS 

Taking MONTREAL here. Can't see the Rangers snapping out of it. This team has had problems at home all season long. Their home playoff woes go back further. Canadiens getting excellent goalie play. Nobody but the goalie has shown up for New York since this series began. Short road fave for the win. 4* Money Maker MONTREAL CANADIENS 

Taking the DUCKS here. How can we not take a team on a 13-0-3 run as a small dog? Anaheim 5-1 last 6 here at Calgary. Again. I get wanting to play the small home fave in a desperate roll. I just can't pass up any kind of dog on a run like this. 4* Money Maker ANAHEIM DUCKS 

Taking the PREDATORS here. Can't lie. Though about grabbing Chicago in this spot. Veteran team, down 0-2. The proverbial 'circle the wagons' type game. But I would that that after losing Game 1-0 they would come out like gang busters in Game 2. Nope. That was a 5-0 nothing shutout. 5-0 at home in the playoffs is a beating. But, Chi-Town has now lost 6 straight. Not sure no matter how experienced you are. Or how great of a regular season you have had. You can just turn it on. Especially on the road. Chicago was a -190 favorite to win this series before Game 1. Now they are +310. Let's start our walk to the closet to find some brooms. 4* Money Maker NASHVILLE PREDATORS 

Taking the SENATORS here. Have to grab Ottawa at this price. They have won 7 of the last 8 in the series and 5 of the last 6 here in Boston. Huge OT win for them and I think it carries over in Game 3. 4* Money Maker OTTAWA SENATORS 

Taking the PIRATES here. And how can we not? You can say, hey, they just swept the Cubbies. No way they win today. Well, why wouldn't they? These guys are playing great right now. And for me, trends like this are huge on the bases. I had STL with C-Mart. He was a strikeout machine, but also a walk machine. Toss in some errors and it's a bad day all around. But this Cardinals team has looked terrible in the field the entire Yankees series. Losers of 3 straight, 8 of 10, 9 of 12. Nova had a very good spring and has looked solid so far in his 2 starts of 2017. Lynn has a 4.74 ERA vs Pitt for his career. (5-5 19 games, 17 starts). STL has just one regular hitting over .250. Can't back a team in a slump like this. 4* Money Maker PITT PIRATES 

Taking the SHARKS here. Had these guys in Game 2, and will follow up with them as home faves. Time for the home ice to work its magic. We have the defense and the net-minder. Maybe we get old veteran Joe Thornton back for some shifts. 4* Money Maker SAN JOSE SHARKS 

Taking COLUMBUS here. Had them in their Game 2 loss and will do it again tonight. Pens are an average at best road team. (19-15-4) They won't have the friendly officials on the road. CBJ is 5-1 last 6 at home vs Pittsburgh. This is circle the wagon time for Columbus. 4* Money Maker COLUMBUS BLUE JACKETS 

Taking ST LOUIS here. These guys have battled out to a 2-0 cushion as big dogs on the road. I have to think Minny is on the ropes here. How can I not lay with the short home fave? Wild now 2-7 last 9 vs the Blues and STL has won 4 of the last 5 on their home ice. 4* Money Maker STL BLUES 

Taking the MARLINS this afternoon. Not a big fan of Harvey here. Clearly not the same pitcher. Straily hasn't been sharp so far, but had a nice stretch in 2016. Miami 5-1 last 6 vs Harvey. 4* Money Maker MIAMI MARLINS

Taking the GIANTS here. This is what Chatwood has done his last 2 starts. Nearly identical numbers in both games. So we should expect 6 innings 7 hits 4 earned 2 HRs, 2BBs and 6Ks. - Last year, the guy was Dr Jekyl and Mr Hyde with is splits. 4-8 6.12 ERA at home 8-1 1.69 on the road. That is why we are looking at a near Pk here people.  Well Moore has a bit of that in him as well. He is on a tidy 5-0 run his last 5 at AT&T posting a 1.59 ERA going back to last year. He went 8 giving up just 3 hits to the DBacks on Monday. 4* Money Maker SF GIANTS 

Taking the CAVS here. Do people really think Cleveland is done? King James has been to, what, 6 straight NBA Finals? He knows, and his puppet coach knows, he needs Kyrie and Love to be ready for the long haul. So they lose some games down the stretch. The Pacers are Paul George and some guys. They don't have an advantage anywhere on the floor. Get out the brooms. I will be shocked if the Cavs don't win this one by at least 15. Putting to bed any thoughts that they are in trouble. 4* Money Maker CLEVELAND CAVALIERS 

Taking the CARDINALS here. Clearly, CC has seen better days. If you had the big lefty with a 1.64 ERA in his first 2 starts, well take a bow. He gave the Yanks 4 really good years going 74-27 with an ERA around 3.20. Even year 5 at 14-13 4.78 211 innings wasn't horrible. Now the time has come to pay the piper on this contract. 3-4 5.28 (injuried) 6-10 4.73 29 starts, 9-12 3.91 30 starts. 2015 and 2016 couldn't get to 200 innings. Looking at this 1.64 ERA he has been lucky. In his 11 innings, 9 hits and 6 walks. That is what I call getting a bounce or 2. Sign me up on C-Mart. Last year on the road, 9-2 2.45 ERA (15 starts) - 2015 8-3 2.54 ERA (14 starts 15games). It is tough to fade NYY who have won 5 straight. But I just like this starter better. 4* Money Maker STL CARDINALS 

Taking the SHARKS here. Might see the young Oilers get a little tight here if SJ can score first. Have to go with the tough defensive minded San Jose team. I get Edmonton has the young flash. But this is new territory. A pretty good price on the dog in my eyes. 4* Money Maker SAN JOSE SHARKS 

Taking the ROYALS here. Ok. This is more of a fade of JC Ramirez. Guy hasn't started a game ever in the majors, and last started in the minors in 2011. He isn't a huge strike out guy. I can't see him going more than 5 innings tonight. KC has limped out of the gate with limited hitting. But I think this Angels starter is a good remedy. Short price with the home team behind the lefty who had decent numbers (7-0 with a 3.57 ERA in 22 games  -15 starts) at home last year. 4*  Money Maker KC ROYALS  

Going OVER the total here. Just looking at these retread arms I have to think we see a 4-4 game by the top of the 5th. Milone and Feldman? Milone was never a K guy, and if you are pitching to contact in Cincy, balls can easily be clearing outfield walls in a hurry. Feldman won 17 games in 2009. Or 3 less than he has won the last 3 years combined (7,5,8) Guy has hit double digit wins twice in his career (12-12 2013). Will fade both of these starters and look for some offense. 4* Total Money OVER Brewers/Reds 

Taking TORONTO on the RUN LINE tonight. I should probably have my head examined for backing a team on back to back nights that has now lost 6 straight. I can't lay anything with the Jays on the ML with that kind of trend. But I can sure go RL for a little extra payday, especially with Sanchez on the hill. Guy has allowed 1 run or fewer in 15 of his 31 starts since last year. Heck, he's allowed 2 or less in 22 of those 31 games. Guy is clearly not going to let the game get a way from him. We are suppose to have faith in Wade Miley? The guys hasn't had a winning years since 2012. I'll count back ERA for you. Last year, 6.17 in 11 starts with the O's 4.98 in 19 starts with Mariners. 2015 he posted a 4.46 in Boston. I know the Jays haven't hit a lick. But here is a real chance for them to break out offensively. I guess you can lay the -130 and expect Sanchez to give up his 2 runs. But I think Toronto wakes up and we see a 9-1 type game. 4* RL Money TORONTO BLUE JAYS 

Taking COLUMBUS tonight. Have to grab the Blue Jackets. Backs against the wall. Don't want to go home down 0-2. These guys had, what, the 4th most points in the league. They aren't some pushover. They have a great guy in goal. Look for them to even things out. 4* Money Maker COLUMBUS BLUE JACKETS 

Taking the ROYALS here. Yikes. Oakland has now won 8 straight vs KC including putting up a combined score off 55-13 last 6 here at Kauffman! But we have Jason Vargas - Off a gem first start striking out 6 over 6 against the Astros. Jesse Hahn last year posted an ERA over 13 in 4 road starts. Can't say he was sharp in Spring. He only had a 8.80 ERA 1.96 WHIP and a .352 BA against. I think the Royals snap out of their losing streak with a big home win tonight to avoid the sweep. 4* Money Maker KC ROYALS 

Taking NASHVILLE here. Yep - Chicago has won 4 straight against the Preds this year after losing the first match-up. Chicago clearly the fave out west. 3 Cups in their pocket since 2010 and they have nice mix of old and new. But something tells me Nashville will have something up their sleeve tonight. Grabbing the healthy dog here. 4* Money Maker NASHVILLE PREDATORS 

Taking the BREWERS here. Maybe this is the year Jimmy Nelson has the big breakout. Don't be fooled by that 4+ spring ERA. .182 BA against and .92 WHIP shows me he had good stuff. He looked pretty good in his first start striking out 8 in 6 innings. You know I don't have faith in Bronson Arroyo. 4 innings 6 hits, 5 earned, 2 HRs, 3 BBs. Wow. Talk about filling up the stat line. You do know that Arroyo hadn't pitched since June of 2014 right! I know the Brewers aren't some juggernaught. But Nelson was one of the top arms in their system and is entering that breakout 27 age. Milwaukee being a small road fave tells me my line of thinking is correct. 4* Money Maker MILWAUKEE BREWERS 

Taking the BLUE JAYS here. Ok. So I was thinking there is no way I can take the Jays. How can I grab a team on a 5 game losing streak, even if a small fave like this. Normally, against my better judgement. But I have to throw our hat into the ring here based on 1 thing. Kevin Gausman. Yes, he took a no-decision against these same Blue Jays on April 3rd. 5+ innings, 5 Hits 4 Ks 4 BBs and 2 earned. He skirted trouble. Which is easy when the lineup you face has 1 guy hitting over .250 - He has 7 walks in 10 innings this year. That is a recipe for disaster putting guys on base with really any MLB lineup. But I look at the road splits and have to fade the O's. Baltimore 8-22 in Gausman's last 30 road starts. 3-10 last year in 18 road starts. 1-6 the year before. At home, yeah, he's a playable option since he won't be laying a heavy number. On the road, fade train. Liriano comes in with an ERA of 135 and hitters are raking to a .750 clip! Ok, skewed numbers from a game where he lasted just a third of an inning with 3 hits and 4 walks 5 earned runs allowed. He pitched pretty good here in his 5 starts last season. 33Ks in 29 innings. A .200 BAA and 1.09 WHIP are respectable. So Toronto in off being shut out. Could be the worse offense in the AL right now. Pitcher off a nightmare start. What's not to like? 4* Money Maker TORONTO BLUE JAYS 

Taking ARIZONA here. Just like these guys right now. Winning 3-0 as I am writing this. Can't have faith in Cain, I said in his Game 1 write up. The guys workload has caught up with him. Injuries the last couple years. Shelby Miller was decent striking out 7 in 5+ after a terrible 2015. Sign me up with the small dogs. 4* Money Maker ARIZONA DIAMONDBACKS

Taking MINNESOTA and going PL for the Big Money. Blues have won 5 of the last 7 in the series and took the series this year 3-2. Now, Blues at home could be a play. But what grabs my attention here are a couple games played here in Saint Paul. Wild came up with a pair of wins, 5-1 and 3-1. Disclaimer, they lost a 2-1 home game to STL in early March. If you like laying -150, I guess you go that route. Obviously a lot of faith in our goaltender tonight. That being said, I am going for the big score here. 4* PL Money MINNESOTA WILD

Taking OTTAWA here. Have to grab the Senators as a small dog/ pk'em at home. These guys are a defense first type of team. Always something I like in the playoffs. The get the Bruins. A team I myself jumped on after their coaching change. But these same Bruins have had trouble against Metropolitan Division. 2-9-1 vs the Senators, Rangers and Canadiens (Beat Montreal twice). Ottawa beat them all 4 times this year. 3 out of 4 last year. 5 straight here at home. These guys will take this line as a slap in the face. 4* Money Maker OTTAWA SENATORS 

Taking the MARLINS and going for the bigger payday on the RUN LINE with Straily. You can lay the 130, but I am looking for some added bankroll. We cashed Big Sexy in his first start over the Mets. Of which, is the Braves sole win on the year. The ageless Colon sported a terrible 5.56 ERA vs Miami last year along with a 1.47 WHIP. I am expecting a little extra juice out of the Marlins in their home opener. 4* RL Money MIAMI MARLINS 

Will grab the ORIOLES at this price. Have to like what we saw out of Bundy in his first start. But to be honest, this is about having zero faith in Drew Pomeranz. Guy just never looked comfortable here last year. 6.43 ERA in 7 games, 6 starts with a .293 BA against. I did like his stuff in Oakland, and thought after putting up decent numbers in SD, it would translate with this Boston line-up. i just have hard time taking guys, especially when they are faves, in their first games back from injury. Stem cell injections in his elbow over the fall? Triceps strain after poor spring outings? Now facing a Orioles lineup that can crush it? I'll take a stab on the dogs here. 4* Money Maker BALTIMORE ORIOLES 

Taking the DIAMONDBACKS here. I do like Matt Moore. Thought this was a nice addition to SF. But I can't fade this Arizona club right now. 6-1. Who saw that coming? They are really raking now and it's not like they are face a dominate arm that is going to hold them down. They are going to score at least 4-5 runs tonight. Walker was OK in his first start, 4 runs in 6 innings 7 hits and 7Ks. This is the same match-up from last week where Moore gave up 6 runs, but only 3 earned. Again. We know there will be plenty of scoring opportunities. Have to take the dog and the better team at this point. 4* Money Maker ARIZONA DIAMONDBACKS 

Taking the RAYS here. Had these guys to start the year vs NY, and will gladly take them as small dogs again. How the heck can you back Pineda? Guy hasn't won a game since last August! So maybe you have to take him based on the fact he's 'due' and that Tampa rocked him for 8 hits in 4+ innings on Wednesday. So maybe you think hey, how can a guy who pitches like Dr Jekyl and Mr Hyde be favored. Well, I will gladly fade that sort of thinking. Cobb had 2 pretty good years before getting injured. He didn't look to shabby out-dueling Pineda going 5+ and giving up only 4 hits. As I said for that game. Rays hit Pineda. Last year Rays belted him for a 7.30 ERA. And already hit this season. Cobb with a 2.63 in 4 career starts at NY. Clearly he will keep us in the game. 4* Money Maker TAMPA BAY RAYS 

Going UNDER the total tonight. I have to say, some days I love the card, others, not so much. Was leaning a bit towards the Dodgers and Mariners. But after careful thought, we will officially move on the Sunday Night total. I don't think the Syndergaard blister is all that worrisome. The guy is going to come out here throwing darts. Even at 80%, hitters will be hard pressed to score. Thor gave up more than 4 runs only twice last year. Kid is a beast. Volquez is off a nice start. Allowed no runs at Washington on opening day. The guy is a professional. He isn't cute or sexy. But he can pitch. And these Mets hitters are having a hard time right now putting the ball in play. In the back of my head I hear the old, no way the Mets get swept. So I can see how it might be tempting to back Miami. But this NY team is a veteran crew. I can see them circling the wagons, even here during the first week of the season. You are 2-3 playing 2 teams that you are suppose to be at least 4-1 against. I see this shaping up to be 4-1, 5-0 type of game. I doubt the Marlins score more than 2.I backed off Seattle as a play for the same reason I like the under here. I just don't see every bat coming alive to spark something huge. 4* Total Money UNDER Marlins/Mets 

Taking OAKLAND here. Will grab Graveman at this price. He didn't do too bad last year in back to back September starts vs the Rangers. He left in the 6th inning up 6-4 and the bullpen blew the game. A week later he had a perfect game through 6 innings. 4 hits including a Beltre 2-run HR later and he is on the receiving end of a 3-0 loss. Now on the flip side of that is Yu Darvish. He has fared terribly vs the A's. 3-9 in 14 career starts. A 4.64 ERA. Rangers are 1-7 in Yu's last 8 home starts vs Oakland and 3-10 last 13. The A's tagged him in this stadium for 7 runs on 7 hits in 5 innings last September. Dogs are worth a shot at this price. 4* Money Maker OAKLAND A's 

Taking the ROYALS here. KC finally in the winners circle after last night's win. Now, to be honest, I think KC will be selling off their veterans come July. But tonight, I think Duffy is worth a shot at this price. This kid is a tough lefty and I am expecting a break-out year from him. I think he is nasty enough to shut down this very good Astros team. He doesn't have to be perfect. That's because as good as Keuchel was opening day, can we completely trust that is back to 2015 form? KC raked him for 10 hits in 6+ last June. Tough to gauge that since Houston blasted Edison Volquez for 12 runs in an inning + of work. That being said, KC is just one of those teams that I will back early when getting a line like this. 4* Money Maker KC ROYALS  

Taking the PIRATES here. We had a couple nice RL games on Thursday night, and I nearly pulled another +160 on Pittsburgh tonight. First, the Braves. They just lost red-hot Matt Kemp. That is a something this lineup will feel for sure. And then their is RA Dickey. Yes, we cashed with another old-timer, Bartolo Colon the other night. But I don't have that kind of faith in the old knuckle-baller. 21 runs in 23 spring training innings. I get that you are 42 and really have nothing to prove. But come on RA! Pirated counter with a youngster who I really like in Kuhl. His .185 BA Against and 1.02 WHIP were pretty solid in spring ball. His walks alarm me a bit. But I think the Pirates offense can offset him giving up a couple runs here. 4* Money Maker PITT PIRATES 

Taking the PADRES here. This is a straight up fade train on Matt Cain. The guy hasn't been good in 5 years. 2012 ended a great run for him. Let's forget for a second his horrible spring (7.82 ERA .343 BA Against). At 28, he finished up a string of 8 straight 200+ innings. That was bookend by 190 and 184. Is it shocked that at 30 he had chips removed from his elbow? Or that he hurt his forearm? Or his hammy has been DLing him? Why now after 3 years of injury is he going to pitch like it's 2013? Yes. It is ugly taking Perdomo and his 5+ ERA from last year. And, yes, like you, I look at the SD lineup and say, Who? But the youngster was sharp this spring. For whatever it's worth. Padres have been beating SF of late. 8 of 10 overall and 5 of the last 7 here at home. Both teams off losses as LA hammered SD early 10-2 (we cashed on the over), while Arizona (another winner we played) took care of the Giants late 9-3. Sign me up for the small home pups. 4* Money Maker SAN DIEGO PADRES 

Taking the DIAMONDBACKS here. Nearly just went +185 on the RL. This Giants team gets a lot of love. I get MadBum and Cueto at the top of a rotation will bring joy to many fans. But it is a drop-off after that. Enter Samardzija. For all his hype, he had a career high 12 wins last year. 12! Guy is an average pitcher at best. He gets shelled every spring. Now. I am a bit biased since I do like me some Robbie Ray. Kid is young, and can strike people out. Obviously got into trouble with the walks last year. Just think this Arizona team can hit a bit more than SF. 4* Money Maker ARIZONA DIAMONDBACKS 

Going OVER the total here. Part of me wanted to grab the Padres at +200 also. How is McCarthy laying that number? But, we will look to cash on the total. Jeff Weaver has seen better days. Guy can barely get his fastball to the upper 80s. I think this is going to be a slug fest. Last year he had a 5.54 ERA on the road. In 2015 it was over 6. McCarthy was hit during the spring. Can't see him turning into some lights out performer. Even against a weak lineup like the Padres. 4* Total Money OVER Padres/Dodgers 

Taking the REDS here. This is my standard fade Buchholz. Guys best days are clearly behind him. Was shelled for a 6+ ERA this spring. Sprinkle some ML +190 here also. Both of these guys are rebuilding. But I think the Reds have a little more pop to do some damage this afternoon. Philly 3-13 last 16 here. 4* Money Maker CINCINNATI REDS 

Taking the RAYS, again. Obviously not sold on these NYY starters. Pineda no different. He had an ERA near 5 on the road last year. Rays beat him up pretty good to the tune of 0-3 7.30 ERA last season. Cobb had a pair of nice sub 3 ERA season before getting hurt and missing 2015. He was shelled by NY in his 2nd to last start in September last year. But I think that had more to do with fatigue. He had pitched 3 solid games coming off that TJ surgery. A full off-season of work should have him rounding into form. 4* Money Maker TB RAYS 

Taking the BRAVES here. Now. I think these 2 teams will be in total opposite directions this year. And these pitchers are in 2 totally different spots of their careers. But something tells me Colon is ready for his old club tonight. I think deGrom is a legit Cy Young threat. Again though. This game just screams to me that the teacher beats the student. 4* Money Maker ATLANTA BRAVES

Taking the MARLINS. Had these guys on Monday and they blew an early lead. Up 2-1 heading to the 7th and our pen couldn't hold on. I like this Straily kid. He was solid for me last year, especially when he took off in the 2nd half (10-2). Now Roark had a huge breakout year. Plus, a superb spring. But Miami hit him last year. Roark was 2-4 in 6 starts vs the Marlins with a 4.46 ERA. 4* Money Maker MIAMI MARLINS

Taking the ROYALS here. Kennedy and KC are 5-0 in his last 5 starts vs Twins. I didn't think Minny would be very good this year, and they scored an opening day win on Monday busting out against the bullpen. I think the bullpen does not implode this afternoon. Kennedy will never be that 21-4 2.88 ERA guy he was in 2011. But the guy K's a man an inning. He had a very nice spring. At this price, worth the shot. Royals to me, are the better team. Can't see them getting stymied again (3 hits). Hector Santiago gives up hits, and walks guys. Everyone at 1-1 by the 4pm. KC 12-4 last 16 in Minny. 4* Money Maker KC ROYALS 

Taking the CUBS here. Had STL on Sunday night, and we did get a bit of a scare. But a win is a win. Tonight we flip the script and take the road fave. Just a lot more confident in Arrieta than I am in Wainwright. Guy has had a great career, but last year he clearly showed he wasn't 100% back. And if spring is any indication, things will look tough here in 2017. 7.78 ERA - .338 BA against and 1.73 WHIP. Yikes. Cubs will muster runs tonight. Arrieta went 11-3 on the road last year. Add in 3-1 2.38 ERA in his 4 starts vs Cards last year. Think we have a winner. 4* Money Maker CHICAGO CUBS 

4* Money Maker TB LIGHTNING

4* Money Maker COLUMBUS BLUE JACKETS

Taking TAMPA here. Almost want to pull the trigger on the +170 RL. We cashes on Sunday with the Rays, and will come back again tonight. CC had his 3 straight terrible spring. His 3.91 ERA was his lowest in 4 years. The guy has a ton of innings on him. He will be a 5+ innings guy and someone I will look to fade, especially at home when he will be a favorite. Odorizzi had a great 2nd half last year going 7-1 2.71 ERA after the All-Star break. He went 2-1 2.29 ERA .71 WHIP vs NY last season. Rays have gone 8-3 vs CC in his last 11 starts here at Tampa. 4* Money Maker TAMPA BAY RAYS 

Taking GONZAGA here. Well, the Zags blew our Best Bet on Saturday as they couldn't hold a comfy lead. But it is a new day. And tonight the WCC cuts down the nets. I can't say much bad about NC. Back to back Championship Games speaks volumes. This is what they have been waiting for. But, like Gonzaga, this team has been in some nail-biters this tournament. That being said, just like the Zags. Bulldogs have the size inside to compete with the 'Heels. This line tells us all we need to know about this game. It is going to be a battle to the end. 10* Money Bomb GONZAGA 

Taking the ASTROS here. 2 years ago, Keuchel was a key cog in my fantasy baseball run to the top. He fell off a cliff last year trying to find the magic again. I think he puts these guys on top of the West this season. As for Seattle. They had some upgrades in the off-season. But let's be honest. King Felix is on the tail-end of a HOF career. He was pounded last year by these Houston bats. Everything about him is pointing to a downward trend. Give me the home faves. 4* Money Maker HOUSTON ASTROS 

Taking the ROCKIES here. Sometimes early on, you have to jump on an opportunity. And that is what I think we have year. I think Milwaukee will be a bad team this year. I think the Rockies have talent and can at least be a .500 club. Guerra came out of nowhere to post a 2.81 (9-3) ERA last year. But his spring has been awful. And he is no spring-chicken as he is 32 after finally getting to the show. 25 y.o Gray is looking to build off a solid campaign. And he has a nice offense behind him. Story, CarGo, Blackmon, Arenado. I think we should up at least a 5 spot here. And our revamped pen should seal the deal. 8* Sure Shot COLORADO ROCKIES 

Taking the PIRATES here. Cole was banged up last year, but looks healthy and back to his 19 win form from 2015. I can't knock Porcello at all. Guy went 22-4 last year, 13-1 at home. But I like this Pirates team. I think they will be a wild-card team, and if the Cubs slip, might get past the World Series champs. A nice under the radar club for us to move on early in the season. 4* Money Maker PITT PIRATES 

Taking the MARLINS here. Have to grab Volquez at this price, are you kidding me? Strasburg was nothing special this spring. A 6.61 ERA with hitters clipping him to nearly a .300 average. I know it's only spring training. But he was injured last August. He is now pitching from the stretch all the time. Marlins have some hitters. At nearly 2-1, we have to grab the dogs here. 4* Money Maker MIAMI MARLINS 

Taking the CARDINALS here. Have to fade the World Series champs out of the gate for one. And 2, you know I love me some C-Mart. He is coming off a great spring. Lester not so much. 12 hits in 11 innings contribute to a 5+ERA. Will ride the hotter hand here. 4* Money Maker STL CARDINALS 

Taking the RAYS here. Both pitchers with nice ERAs vs the batters. Both had great springs. I just look at this line and it screams that they want everyone on NY here. 4* Money Maker TB RAYS

Taking GONZAGA here. I can't knock South Carolina one bit. What a run. Knocking off Baylor, Duke and Florida. Great job. But I just think Gonzaga team is playing old, we are getting no respect card here. Let's be honest. As much as everyone is shocked South Carolina here. Everyone also thought that the Zags might be caught sleeping against Mike Daum and South Dakota State. Then it was Vandy who would knock them off in Round 2. Alas, Northwestern was not up to the challenge. But oh that Press Virginia. They will beat this over-rated WCC team. This is a tough squad. Gamecocks playing with house money for sure. But this Zags bunch is very good, and I believe under-rated since they are the WCC. They are that 'mid-major' that people don't realize aren't a mid-major anymore. These guys needed a deep run for all their early departures lately, and they got it. I think Few will have the troops ready. These guys took care of business all year. In conference, and out. Do we forget them beating Arizona, Florida and Iowa State? Best teams SC beat were Michigan and Florida all year before the NCAAs. They beat a Duke team with no PG. Baylor, who underachieves like that is their championship game. And Florida again. Please. Marquette went 19-13 this year. Not a special club at all.  I think Zags win this one going away. 5* Best Bet GONZAGA 

Taking CORPUS CHRISTI here. Had these guys over MBC, and will come back here in the CTI Championship. Texas A&M CC going for their 5th win of the tournament tonight! They have already won 3 in a row on their home court and get a chance to do it again tonight. A Championship Game home puppy? Where do I sign up? Wins by 16,9 and 16 at home already in this tournament. They clearly have the best player on the floor, Rashawn Thomas. He is getting great help from 17ppg scorer Ehab Amin. As much as I like the Peacocks defense, I just think that this CC team is a pretty tough out at home (16-1). St Peter's had Furman looking foolish as they raced out to a 37-19 half-time lead. Furman hit their first FG 9 minutes into the game. This is a tough home venue that the Peacocks are coming into. I can't see them getting off to a fast start like that. 4* Money Maker TEXAS A&M CORPUS CHRISTI 

Taking WYOMING again. Backing the Cowboys for the 3rd time in this best of 3 championship series. As I said the other night. Coastal not that good on the road. Just 3 wins. So they had some time to get used to the altitude. Will they make a difference tonight? The Chanticleers were already down their 3rd leading scorer (Wiggins) coming into their conference tournament and here in the CBI. Now you add in a loss of Cyr who puts up 10ppg, but more importantly was their 2nd leading rebounder at 6.5 a game. I thought the size would be the difference maker when I wrote my Game 1 preview. And I still think it is a huge factor tonight. 4* Money Maker WYOMING 

Taking the SHARKS here. We wrapped up a nice Sure Shot win on the Oilers in their last game, as they clinched a playoff spot. So I think they have a bit of a let-down. 11 years in a long time waiting. I prefer to grab a team that is just starting out on a road trip, and San Jose fits the bill. Not pretty numbers for SJ lately. But they have nice trends working in their favor over Edmonton. 4* Money Maker SAN JOSE SHARKS 

Taking TCU here. Yep. Lost both semis taking dogs. But I will grab TCU here. Just think they are the better team. They were looking at an NCAA spot before a late fade. But they have handled themselves beating what I believe are better teams. Fact is that heading into Mississippi, Tech had won 2 road games all year. Not sold on them after getting Indiana in a defacto home game. Who didn't want anything to do with the NIT and opted to play on the road. And fired their coach after the loss. Luck into Belmont at home. They did win at Mississippi. And took care of a hot WAC team in Bakersfield. Frogs do everything just a tad bit better in my eyes. 5* Best Bet TCU HORNED FROGS 

Taking WYOMING here. Lost with these guys in Game 1. Think the led 4-2 and then the wheels fell off. A terrible showing. CC just rolled over them like a hot knife through butter. But as I see this line, I think they are begging you to take Coastal. I mean. Win by 10 and get 8? Look. I liked the Cowboys in Game 1. Maybe I should have though about the cross country flight more. And now they are making it again to come home. But they will clearly have a big edge as CC isn't familiar with the altitude. Cowboys went 17-3 at home. CC 3-10 on the road, beating Texas State, Arkansas Little Rock and South Alabama. 2 of those were sub .500 programs. Championship Game, at home, do or die. Give me the home team. 4* Money Maker WYOMING COWBOYS 

Taking the FLAMES here. We cashed with the Oilers in a clinching position last night, and will look to do the same here with Calgary. 5* Best Bet CALGARY FLAMES 

Taking CORPUS CHRISTI here. Will grab the small pups here. These guys went 25-8 a year ago an lost in the CIT, dropping their opening to UL Lafayette by 24. After dropping 2 straight conference tournaments, I think that it is safe to say that senior F Rashawn Thomas is on a mission. After scoring 22 ppg, he has upped his play going for 26,29 and 31 in this tournaments 3 games so far. To go along with 16,8, and 9 boards. Thomas and G Ehab Amin have been pacing the Islanders this tournament. I know that MBC can put up the points (82ppg). Just think that A&M CC has a bit more to prove. 4* Money Maker TEXAS A&M CC 

Taking CENTRAL FLORIDA here. It is easy to take an ACC and Big 12 fave to reach the NIT Final, especially with these short numbers. But again, I am liking the dog here. I had Illinois State and UCF climbed out of an 18pt hole to win. On the road. It was Ill State's only home loss of the year. Defense baby. That is what I think will push them over the top here tonight. 4* Money Maker CENTRAL FLORIDA 

Taking EDMONTON here. Have to lay the short number. Nearly made this a GOW. Oilers looking to clinch their first playoff spot in 11 years. 8* Sure Shot EDMONTON OILERS 

4* Total Money UNDER Preds/Bruins

Taking OTTAWA here. These guys need to right the ship as the playoffs approach. Have been in a bit of a slump lately. They have split a pair a games already, both 3-2. One  SO, the other OT. Again, have to go with the playoff team looking to start a little streak. 4* Money Maker OTTAWA 

Taking CAL BAKERSFIELD here. Have to ride this team. Heck. I didn't like them their last 2 games. I thought all the travel, playing on the road, and hot shooting would eventually come to an end. But you get the whole, team of destiny feel coming from the Roadrunners. GT obviously out of a stronger conference, and has beaten superior teams. But the line tells me that even though Tech has wins North Carolina, Florida State and Notre Dame. Bakersfield was WAC Champ this year and won the WAC Tourney last year. A nice veteran group that should shock an ACC team tonight. Bakersfield will not be a pushover. Dog it up at MSG. 4* Money Maker CAL BAKERSFIELD 

Taking WYOMING here. Just think the Cowboys are a little better. I think that Coastal is going to have some problems matching up with the size of Wyoming. Cowboys have run a lot of guys at you. A guy who is scoring 1.7ppg played 13 minutes last game! And he's also a 6'8 big which helps us on the glass. In a close road game like this. I like rebounding and FT shooting. Cowboys have the edge there in my eyes. 4* Money Maker WYOMING 

Taking KENTUCKY here. Had these guys Friday night, and will come back on them today. Just think they match-up well. We saw NC have some problems with Arkansas, and the Wildcats are a tad bit better. We know that Berry isn't 100%. Fox and Monk just went off for 60 vs UCLA. This good be a big problem for the 'Heels. 4* Money Maker KENTUCKY 

Taking TEXAS A&M CC here. Not making the same mistake I made with Wisconsin going ML with a short number. That was a terrible way to go down after battling back and taking a nice lead in OT. That being said, let's move to the Islanders here. As much as I like Ft Wayne earlier this year, especially that win at Indiana, I think we saw how these worked out. Mastodons, I thought, were going to be an easy conference winner. They struggled (8-9). Like this big kid Thomas for A&M.  He has been playing great, and will be a tough match-up for anyone on Ft Wayne. 4* Money Maker TEXAS A&M CC 

Taking OREGON here. If I was over .500 for this tournament I would be all in ML on this game. I just can't get a good rhythm going here in NCAA action. Conference tournaments. Winners with my eyes closed. These last 2 weekends have been tough, and I don't force big plays. Have to chip away and that is what we are doing. Like the Ducks though. I think they have the guys to really get this Kansas team in trouble. Think Brooks is a good match-up on Jackson. Kansas shy on inside depth. Like Bell to be the 'X' factor tonight. I think he gets a huge double /double and the Ducks quack into the Final Four. 4* Money Maker OREGON DUCKS 

4* Money Maker SAN JOSE

4* Money Maker OTTAWA 

Taking XAVIER here. Well. I didn't think these guys would get past last week. So maybe I am late to the party. You can say they are due for a let down. But each game they have surpassed the amazing of the game before. No way I can trust the Zags to finally have a complete game. They have cost me the last 2 games. This is a big nut against a team that is clearly have an amazing March run. Gonzaga has been in dog fights and all X has done is rattle off a 9-0 run to win their last game over a 1 seed and blitz a 3 seed in Florida State the game before. Have to take the dogs. 4* Money Maker XAVIER 

Taking ST PETERS here. Like this little MAAC squad. I think they do the little things, just a tad better than State. FT, boards, 3pt shooting and defense. Well, both bring pretty good D's do the floor this afternoon. But I think Peacocks in the better conference and had the better non-conference schedule. In a coin flip like this, have to go with what I have seen of St Peter's in their tournament. 4* Money Maker ST PETERS 

4* Money Maker FLYERS

Taking WISCONSIN here. Going with the experienced bunch. Think it is safe to say that nobody thought the Badgers were an 8 seed. And they backed that up as they gear up to try to make another Final Four run (3rd in 4 years). I just like Koenig as a 4 year guard here in the tournament. You have Happ and Hayes, another senior up front. Florida didn't have to worry about inside play against East Tenn State or Virginia, so it's easy to bring heavy pressure to the wings. That won't be the case vs the Badgers. 5* Best Bet WISCONSIN 

Taking KENTUCKY here. 97-92 UCLA beat these guys in a wire to wire affair back in December. But what does that really men? Heck I remember backing Kentucky over the Bruins in 2014 when the rolled them 83-44. And coming back the next year with UCLA as a 10* Money-Bomb dog at home. I just can't see Coach Cal getting into another track meet here. They have the guards to slow down the pace. Cats have reeled off 13 straight and, are playing with revenge. I can't see Alford out-coaching Cal twice in the a 3 month period. 4* Money Maker KENTUCKY 

4* Money Maker DETROIT RED WINGS

Taking BAYLOR here. I get Baylor was on a 5-5 run heading into the Big 12 Tourney and promptly lost to Kansas State. But that was then. They notched an easy win over New Mexico State. Then had to battle USC to the wire. I mean. I clearly remember these guys the #1 team in the land when I unload on West Virginia giving them 5 when the Bears came to visit. (we won that big play $) - The guys lost to tournament teams Kansas, Kansas State, West Virginia and Oklahoma State. Their worse loss was a 6 point road game at TCU. Which doesn't look all that bad since TCU is at MSG for the NIT quarter-finals. I am not anywhere near sold on South Carolina. So they beat Duke. I had Duke! - But prior to beating the NCAAs, want to know how many tournament teams they beat. 3 - Vermont - Michigan, in November, Wolverines shot 19% from the field, 7% from 3! - and Florida off an OT game. All at home. South Carolina playing with house money for sure. But I can only see them coming down after that win over Duke. The coach was crying after the game! A 2nd round game!! Give me the Bears. 10* Money Bomb BAYLOR BEARS 

Taking ARIZONA. Tough to lay these points, but I just think the depth of Xavier will be the downfall tonight. Wildcats are a very good team, you see the number we are laying. I will tell you I thought that Florida State was going to roll over these guys. And boy was I wrong. So we get Sean Miller facing his old program. He took X to the NCAAs in 4 straight years including the Elite 8 and Sweet Sixteen his last 2. He faces his former assistant in Chris Mack. Safe to say, these guys probably know each others' tendencies pretty well. But this isn't a regular season game in December. This is for an Elite 8 spot. Arizona was bounced in the 1st round last year. No way they play like a 'friend.' They need a win. And I think their depth and length will outlast the guts of X. I know that Xavier has put together a nice little run, but that ends tonight. 5* Best Bet ARIZONA 

Taking GONZAGA here. Back to the scene of the crime. These guys blew a 20pt lead for us against Northwestern. But we aren't laying anywhere near close to double digits today. I will be the first to agree with people who say the Zags haven't done much in the NCAAs. And I have cashed several times with West Va this year. But I just don't like this match-up. Yes, 'Press Virginia' generates turnovers. But the Zags turn it over what, 10, 11 times a game. They can handle the ball. I want to know how are the Mountaineers scoring? I think they will have trouble with the bigs inside from Gonzaga. And I don't expect to be reigning 3s at a 54% clip like they have the first 2 rounds. One, for the year they were at 37%. And 2. The Zags play defense. They give up nearly 7 less ppg than West Va. I think this group gets a bad wrap. But they have beat all comers. Florida, Arizona, Iowa State, St Mary's 3 times. With just 1 of those game (St Mary's) at home. Rare we get a 1 seed with the disrespect card, but I think the Zags are using that this tournament. 4* Money Maker GONZAGA 

Taking ARLINGTON here. Again, back on these guys for the 3rd time in NIT action. Cashed them both as Best Bets last time, but will pull back a bit here. This Bakersfield team is shooting lights out. 10-13 from 3pt at one point at Colorado State as they raced to a 20pt lead (I had CSU) and finished 11-19 (59%). That was on the heels of squashing Cal 44-19 in the first half of their game Berkley. Safe to say, the Mavericks have to keep the Roadrunners in check early. So. I know that we lost last night with Ole Miss as Georgia Tech came away with the outright win. But again. It is tough to like road teams in this tournament. 3rd straight road game for CSB. And it is tough to not take points with a team that is shooting this well. I just have liked this Arlington team all year and  will have to lay it at home. 4* Money Maker TEXAS ARLINGTON 

Taking ILL-CHI here. Part of me wants to go +150 ML here, but we have been up and down the last week, so we will keep with the points. Coastal out of the Sun Belt really hasn't impressed me. 5 of their 10 conference wins came from the teams below them in the standings. Think the Horizon was a better league, and we had cashed with Ill-Chi a couple times already this year. They are young team, but are playing well right now. They knocked off a pretty decent Stony Brook team that went 12-4 in America East play. GW had 20 wins and won the NIT last year. Those 2 teams in my eyes better than Hampton, and Loyola MD. Both a pair of sub .500 clubs. 4* Money Maker ILLINOIS CHICAGO 

Taking MISSISSIPPI here. We had Georgia Tech as a nice home puppy when the knocked off Indiana. But we will fade away here. GT after beating the Hoosiers who then fired their coach, were obviously a team in turmoil. They then beat Belmont, who were probably riding high from knocking out Georgia. Now they go on the road, a place where they are 2-10 this year, to face SEC Ole Miss. The same Mississippi team that went into Syracuse and beat the Orange 85-80, while GT ended their regular season in the Dome getting trucked 90-61. The closest road losses - a 4pt loss at ND and 1pt loss at VT. Tech won by 3 in OT at VCU and beat NC State (another team that fired its coach). I can't trust them to hang here. Rebels beat Sweet 16 South Carolina to end their season. Beat MizzU in the SEC Tourney. Lost a 1pt game to Arkansas. Went on the road and beat a decent Monmouth and the aforementioned Syracuse squads. GT a middle of a road team at best, that plays poorly on the road. I look for Ole Miss to pack their bags for MSG. 5* Best Bet MISSISSIPPI 

Taking CAROLINA here. Both teams battling for a playoff spot. But Hurricanes playing better than the Panthers who have really fallen the last month (3-10 since 2/22). 4* Money Maker CAROLINA HURRICANES 

Taking COLORADO STATE here. Had these guys over Charleston and they delivered nicely for us. Have to say. You gotta be impressed with the way this team has responded since mid-January. They just win games. 2 losses to Nevada a 3pt loss to Boise since then. Hey. I am happy for Bakersfield. But you and I both know they shot the moon by beating Cal on the road. They were up 44-19 at the half and coasted to a 7pt win. Not sure how they handle the elevation here either. And. They have 1 guy who hits FTs. Give me the Rams. 4* Money Maker COLORADO STATE

Taking ARLINGTON here. We had these guys as a big play in their win over BYU. Of course we are playing them at home. But we also lost a play on Houston. So I am not sure what we get out of Akron here. I thought they would mail it in after not getting into the NCAAs. Still have to go on the Mavericks. They now have some nice road wins over BYU, St Mary's and Texas. I said in their conference tournament they are a tough out. Holds true today. 5* Best Bet TEXAS ARLINGTON 

Taking ILLINOIS STATE here. Have to lay it vs Central Florida. I just think that the Redbirds are one of those teams with a lot to prove. They lost in to Wichita in the MVC finals. They were the top seed there. They had a great conference run. I think they really have the proverbial chip on the shoulder. For what it's worth, we do have a common foe in Tulsa. Illinois State lost on the road by 2 back in non-conference play. While UCF lost on the road to them by 11, but beat them by 18 at home. Side note - Should be an interesting match-up when 7'6 Taco Fall faces 7'1 Daouda Ndiaye. Just a couple guys from Dakar shooting hoops! What the heck is in the water there? 4* Money Maker ILLINOIS STATE 

Taking DUKE here. Just think they are the more athletic bunch. If this was a regular season game, maybe Coach K would call off the dogs a bit. But a team on a Final Four march. Well, not so much. I just can't see SC getting enough stops to pull this out. Blue Devils look to be peaking at right time. 4* Money Maker DUKE 

Taking RHODE ISLAND here. Boucher a big loss for Ducks. Oregon might feel a little pressure here with this Rams team. They have the defense to put the clamps on Brooks. 4* Money Maker RHODE ISLAND 

Taking WICHITA here. I see some payback for the Shockers here. These guys can't get a break from the committee. Undefeated, they came in and had to face the Wildcats in Round 2. Now this year, again. What a joke. Well the Shockers defense is the real deal. Kentucky has a young group of players. I can see them getting slopping. An outright win wouldn't be a surprise. But this is going to be a close one either way. 4* Money Maker WICHITA 

Taking the MAVERICKS here. Any other time I would probably have this has a huge GOW or GOM. Dallas was just absolutely destroyed by 44 in Philly Friday night, 116-74. That is a straight up beat down. Have to think these guys respond in big fashion tonight. Nets still the worse team record wise in the league. Their first pick will be the Celtics, but, hey, at least they tried to go for it a few years back. That being said. Mavs should be focused off that utterly embarrassing loss. 4* Money Maker DALLAS MAVERICKS 

Taking ARIZONA here. I am trying to figure out why this line isn't closer to double digits. Who did Mary's beat that makes you think they hang here? They lost at home to Texas Arlington by 14. (we did cash that NIT winner as dog out-right over BYU). Back to Mary's. Lost to Zaga by 10, when somehow the line was down to 4. Lost at the Zags by 23. And lost to them by 18 in the conference tournament. So. How could was that WCC this year? Do we give them credit for wins over Dayton and Nevada? Stanford? I know how good the PAC 12 is. Arizona, Oregon and UCLA are top seeds here. If we look at the Zags 7pt win over Arizona earlier this year, we see 'Cats leading scorer didn't see the floor at all. What I do know is that Mary's lost to every good team it has faced. While Arizona, even with a 5pt loss to UCLA and 27pt loss to Oregon, redeemed themselves. Beating UCLA 96-85 on the road before their home loss to them. And after that home loss, getting sweat revenge when it counted with a 9pt win over the Bruins in the PAC 12 tourney, and winning the crown by knocking off the Ducks by 3. 10* Money Bomb ARIZONA WILDCATS 

4* Money Maker NASHVILLE PREDATORS

Taking MIDDLE TENNESSEE STATE here. Had these guys in Round 1. Will come back again. Faded Butler for a loss in Round 1, and will look for a different result here. Blue Raiders won a nice game going away with their best player being far from good. That shows the depth and experience of this club. Butler was the original mid-major giant slayer. But now they take are a legit Power 5 team that is no longer on the attack. They are the prey. As I said earlier. We lost by a hair with Winthrop against these guys. I am just not high on the Bulldogs. Will be going ML +170 also for some extra change. 4* Money Maker MID TENN STATE