Taking the ROYALS tonight. It would be easy to fade KC again after winning with STL in a rout last night. And it would be easy to fade Vargas as he has been brutal since his 12-3 2.33 ERA run through June and his 6.98 ERA last 5 starts. He's still has solid home numbers. 7-2 2.71 ERA in 11 starts. He had those back to back games to start July giving up 12 runs that really pumped the ERA. I still have faith. Wacha is having a pretty good season himself for the underachieving Cardinals. But if we are talking Vargas regression, how about Wacha's? A 2.12 ERA last 8 would think it was on the horizon. He couldn't get to the 5th last game. (81 pitches). Maybe a little fatigue is setting in. The road split of 1-3 5.19 ERA in 8 starts helps the home team tonight. He allowed 5 or more runs in half those starts. KC is 23-8 in Vargas' last 31 starts, 20-7 at home. 4* Money Maker KC ROYALS 

Taking the BLUE JAYS here and almost went +150 on the RL. Only thing that stopped me from pulling that trigger is CC's road splits. A 2.29 ERA in 10 starts (6-2). This is his 4th start this year vs the Jays. 11 runs in 15 innings. Obviously getting beat up at home. And I know the Yanks have huge edge in the bullpen. They really need CC for 5 with yesterday's off day. But I can see him digging that 4-0 hole early. Happ has really had a good run since the start of June. He allowed 5 runs that first start. And 7 two starts ago. He had a game with 6 runs, but only 2 earned. So in 8 starts he allowed what he basically gave up in those 2 bad starts. I can get behind a guy like that tonight. He went 6 striking out 6 giving up 1 run vs the Yanks on July 4. Toronto 7-1 in Happ's last 8 starts vs Yanks. Yanks 2-7 in CC's last 9 starts vs Jays. Toronto 10-3 last 13 at home vs NY. 4* Money Maker TORONTO BLUE JAYS 

Taking the CARDINALS tonight. Could go RL for +130, but we have had some tough late game losses this week so we will just go for the straight play. Royals off a double dip and a lot baseball yesterday. I know this is a night game, but that is a long day at the ballpark. CMart is having a down year in my eyes and the entire STL team has underachieved. I still like him vs Ian Kennedy though. 4* Money Maker STL CARDINALS 

Taking the BREWERS here. Man. Santana is off his 5th CG of the year! He leads the league. Please show me the guy who saw that coming. Now. I would think some kind of regression would be coming for him. But it is now August and he shows no signs of slowing down. But we have a couple things working in our favor tonight.  He has had trouble at home. 4-5 in 11 starts with a 4.09 ERA. On the road a much better 2.52. Santana has 4 of his worse 5 outings at home. He is going to give up runs tonight. Prior to his last start, he had given up 4 or more runs in 3 of his last 5 starts. And let's not sleep on the Brewers. Suter has put together a nice little season. He has a 2.55 ERA in 35 innings as a starter. Twins on a 2-10 run vs lefties and this is a guy they have limited info on.  4* Money Maker MILWAUKEE BREWERS 

Taking the PHILLIES here. Actually. We are taking Nola. The sole reason to really ever back Philly. The kid is off an impressive July going 3-1 1.32 ERA in 5 starts with a .94 WHIP and .134 BA against. Unlike Urena for Miami who I mentioned in the other write up, Nola seems to be getting better as the season progresses. Hoffman has doubled his innings from last year and we see the ERA going up monthly. 3.29 May, 4.40 June, 8.00 July and a 5.38 on the year. It is even worse at home as he is 2-2 7.04 ERA in 8 games, 7 starts. .303 BA against 1.72 WHIP. He needed 101 pitches last games. The last time he went over 99 pitches he allowed 9 earned in 3+ at home vs Arizona. Looking for the Phillies to break through. 4* Money Maker PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES 

Taking the BLUE JAYS, again! Yes. Another team we cashed with yesterday. Just like Stroman a lot more than Fiers. Houston has been struggling a bit lately, dropping 6 of 8. These guys match-up in Toronto and Stroman got the best of Fiers and the Astros. I look for the same result this afternoon. 4* Money Maker TORONTO BLUE JAYS 

Taking the BRAVES, again. We won with these guys yesterday and will go back to the well again this afternoon. Urena is having a nice season. But his ERA has grown every month, up to a 4.78 in July. That is what happens when you can't get out of the 5th inning in 4 of 6 starts. He is a perfect 6-0 on the road in 11 games, 8 starts. So it is tough to go against him. But he is past his innings from last year so maybe there is a bit of a fatigue factor coming into play. This is Sims 2nd career start. Marlins don't have much of a book to go on. The fact this line has moved like it has done, has me liking our chances. 4* Money Maker ATLANTA BRAVES

Taking the REDS again. Our lone loser yesterday, we will look to Homer Bailey to figure things out and get us the win. Wainwright in his first start off the DL. As you already know, I normally fade on guys in this spot. Reds had 5 of the last 6 in this series coming into yesterday. Bailey in off a good start and hopefully he can build on that vs a weak hitting Cards team. 4* Money Maker CINCINNATI REDS 

Taking the YANKEES here. A pair of pretty good pitchers take the hill today. But Severino has been super of late. 3-0 with a .47 ERA his last 3. Carrasco at 5.79 his last 3 and couldn't get out of the 2nd inning his last start giving up 5 earned. He's given up 5 runs in 2 of his last 4 starts. For me, this comes down to the bullpen. Yanks clearly with the edge in that department. That could be the difference maker. 4* Money Maker NY YANKEES

Taking the REDS here. Nearly went Run Line to take back that +170. This line makes you scratch your head a bit. Lynn is having a solid season, and of course STL will always get public money over a bad Cincy team. Yet here we are with the Reds sitting 20 games under .500 favored. Castillo has been solid in his rookie campaign. 8 starts with a 3.62 ERA 1.19 WHIP and more than a K an inning. STL is 2-6 in Lynn's last 8 road starts and 1-4 his last 5 starts in Cincy. I'll grab the small home fave. 4* Money Maker CINCINNATI REDS 

Taking the BRAVES tonight. Will grab Folty at this price. Kid has been solid on the year. 6-1 with a 3.80 ERA since the start of June. If you take out an 8 run 3 inning game and his last 5 runs against the Phills, the guy hasn't given up more than 3 runs in those 9 starts. In fact those 13 runs match almost the 14 runs he allowed in those other starts. I know Straily has made us money this year. But his road ERA of nearly 5 makes me a bit leary of backing him in this spot. Miami 0-4 in his last 4 starts. Braves are 9-1 in Folty's last 10 starts. Atlanta also 5-0 in his last 5 starts vs Marlins. 4* Money Maker ATLANTA BRAVES 

Taking the BLUE JAYS. These guys got hammered last night. I will nearly always back a team off of allowing 16 runs. That is flat-out awful. Estrada has looked better his last couple starts. Won't be shocked if he is dealt by the end of August to someone. Perhaps this Astros team? This Jays team has pop and veterans. Can't see them sitting on their heels and packing it in. Not this early. If this was some September game I would understand. Grabbing the dog. 4* Money Maker TORONTO BLUE JAYS 

Taking the YANKEES today. NY went down with their shiny, new starter last night. But they also picked up a sneaky good veteran in Garcia that isn't as flashy. Yanks stymied last night by Kluber, but Bauer is not like him. I expect Yanks bats to tag him for 5 runs by the 4th and with the bullpen ready, close the door on threat should one arise. Not shocked at all to see 6+ from Garcia tonight. 4* Money Maker NY YANKEES

Taking the ORIOLES tonight. Gausman has been absolutely dealing lately. I know that Verlander has turned the corner in his starts also. O's though a much better offense and a superior bullpen. And that bullpen will be the difference maker. 4* Money Maker BALTIMORE ORIOLES

Taking the MARINERS again. Cashed with these guys last night and will come back for more. Rangers have sent up the white flag on the season. Mariners still grinding away. Now just 2.5 behind KC for that last WC spot. Ramirez doesn't  have any special numbers for us, He was traded to a team that is looking to contend and made off season moves to win this year. Martinez for Texas, again, nothing special with his numbers. But we have Texas trading away two big cogs in Lucroy and Darvish. They lose late after blowing a 4-0 lead last night. I think the Rangers will be in a funk for a bit. 4* Money Maker SEATTLE MARINERS

Taking the MARINERS again. Cashed with these guys last night and will come back for more. Rangers have sent up the white flag on the season. Mariners still grinding away. Now just 2.5 behind KC for that last WC spot. Ramirez doesn't  have any special numbers for us, He was traded to a team that is looking to contend and made off season moves to win this year. Martinez for Texas, again, nothing special with his numbers. But we have Texas trading away two big cogs in Lucroy and Darvish. They lose late after blowing a 4-0 lead last night. I think the Rangers will be in a funk for a bit. 4* Money Maker SEATTLE MARINERS

Taking the MARINERS tonight, The thing I look at in this game is simple. Beltre got his 3000th hit yesterday. A huge celebration for the future HOFer and the lone bright spot in this Rangers season. By the time this game starts, we can see Darvish in LA or even NY. Seattle still looking at a wild card spot and have been playing better and getting healthy. 4* Money Maker SEATTLE MARINERS

Taking the TIGERS here . We are off a small winning days as we cashed with the Rays over these We have 2 teams in 2 totally opposite paths. Trade deadline with 1 selling, the other buying, Now. If Fulmer and Upton and Verlander all get dealt before this game goes, well, I am sure it will be off the board or the odds drastically change. But that being said. Let's just concentrate on the nice price we are getting tonight. Fulmer is building off his strong rookie season. He has better numbers on the road (2.91 ERA) than at home. He had a terrible start against KC 2 couple weeks ago. That has been the only real bad hiccup his sophomore season. Again. NYY is playing great. But Fulmer doesn't look like he is hitting a sophomore wall. At least not yet. Yanks counter with Severino who is turning into an ace. Aside from his ERA, his WHIP and BAA are better than his road numbers. Bu\t what I am looking at is his innings. He is about to eclipse his total innings the last 2 years. Maybe we get some regression today, as well as the rest of the season. This is all uncharted MLB territory for the youngster. We have a starter who should battle pitch for pitch for us tonight. Yanks off a tough weekend series with the Rays needing late inning heroics to pull out wins. I'm looking for Detroit to steal one. 4* Money Maker DETROIT TIGERS

Taking the METS here. Sometimes teams just win behind guys. And NY is now 13-3 in Lugo's last 16 starts. How can we pass up that kind of value getting these kind of odds? Off a loss with their ace yesterday, (we had the over) we'll grab them as big dogs today. 4* Money Maker NY METS

Taking the RAYS today. Lost with these guys the other day, but will grab them at this price. This kid Faria has been very good since coming up. 8 of 9 quality starts. A solid WHIP and BAA along with 50Ks. Yanks have been winning in all ways imaginable. Walk offs. Blow-outs. I just think that the crappy Ray bullpen doesn't hurt us today if they don't get a chance to get off their seats. 4* Money Maker TB RAYS

Taking the RAYS, again. Lost a tough one last night as our bullpen cost us a win. But I will look for a bounce back performance tonight. Right off the bat, nothing to like with Pruitt. Guy has terrible numbers. In 1.2 innings of relief work this year vs the Yanks he has given up 8 hits and 5 runs. Maybe we should be looking to the over here. But I just see this as one of those games where NYY gets baffled by some kid they barely know. And, do we really have that much faith in Tanaka to come out and shut down any lineups? He has a 6 ERA his last 3 outings. He has a 5+ ERA on the year. A little better at home 4-4 in 9 starts with a 4.75 ERA. He has a 4.50 ERA in 10 games vs the Rays. Tampa hasn't made the splashy moves that the Yanks have. But they added a bat and an arm to the bullpen. I'll grab the ugly dog tonight. 4* Money Maker TAMPA BAY RAYS 

Taking the RAYS here. Just trying to figure out this line - Why is it so low? Right off the bat we see CC at 9-3 3.44 ERA. Please, find me the people, besides maybe CC's family who thought this was happening this year. Yanks are 8-2 in his last 10 starts vs Tampa and he has given up 1 run in 10 innings against them this year. We know the Rays are just 13-17 vs lefties and struggle vs southpaws. Tampa is 3-7 in Archer's last 10 starts vs the Yankees. CC does bring out a 5.29 ERA in 6 home starts. Does the power NY bullpen come in the 4th, 5th inning tonight? Rays bullpen a hot mess lately. I guess I am still waiting on CC regression. Maybe sprinkle the under. But for me, when things look to good to be true, they usually are. I'll grab the small dogs. 4* Money Maker TAMPA BAY RAYS 

Taking the BREWERS again. Cashed last night on these guys, and will look to do the same tonight. Milwaukee has had success vs lefties. Gio has been great. I can't knock a guy who has a 2.83 ERA and a .216 BA against. I just think we are starting to see some regression. He has given up a few runs in 2 of his last 3 starts. And we know the Brewers can have some pop. Gio has given up 15 HRs. Won't be shocked to see at least a pair here. Nelson has is the staff ace, and is having a nice year. 132Ks in 120 innings is good to see. Hope he continues to cut down his walks. This line has come down even though I see a lot of money backing the Nats. 4* Money Maker MILWAUKEE BREWERS 

Taking the PIRATES here. I get it. Tough not to like Bumgarner when he is laying a number like this. But let's be honest people. This isn't the same MadBum we have seen in the past. This recent version is making his 3rd start off the DL. He gave up 7 runs in those 2 games, to the Padres, in 13 innings of work. We can't forget that prior to hitting the DL he was win-less in 4 starts (0-3 3.00 ERA). The strikeouts are there. It wasn't like he is or was walking a ton of guys. It is tough losing games 2-1, 3-1, 2-0. But that is also another problem for the Giants. They can't hit. I mean. Maybe with last nights ejections of a couple coaches it sets a fire. But I can't lay anything right now with the way they are playing. As I said. They have lost Bum's last 6 starts. They are 3-7 last 10, 4-11 last 15. If we take out a 6 game win streak, this team is 10-30 since the start of June. 10-30! That is who they are. Pitt is playing very good ball right now. Winners of 7 of 10, and 13-4 their last 17, they are on the heels of the Brewers and Cubs for the NL Central lead. If I am going down, I would rather go down at even money than kick myself thinking the Giants would cover 1.5 runs. 4* Money Maker PITT PIRATES 

Taking OAKLAND here. I was really hoping to find a feed here that had the A's as a small fave so we can pound that +160 RUN LINE - Sonny Gray is probably making his last start for Oakland. He has been excellent of late going 4-1 1.62 ERA .72 WHIP his last 5 starts. What I really here for us, and why I am looking for the RL is that Valdez pitched for the A's already this year. He pitched 4 games including a start. And he was bad. Just think that Oakland knows what this guy is, and how he go about his pitches. He was claimed off waivers in May, and now we have this marquee match-up of A's ace vs A's castoff! That being said. Both teams in the basement of their divisions. Both teams most likely to be sellers in the upcoming days. I'll take the better pitcher tonight. 4* Money Maker OAKLAND A's 

Taking the BREWERS here. Tough not liking the Nats who are a top team. And I have seen Brewers regression as they are a big surprise team. But how can you lay with Edwin Jackson. Guy is brutal. Nats can score, sure. And I am thinking of the over here also. But Davies has been very respectable on the road this year. A 3.18 ERA in 10 starts with a perfect 5-0 record. He is 12-3 3.78 ERA career on away from Miller Park. It is tough backing a slumping Milwaukee team for sure. One team is on a 3-7 run, the other 8-2. The Brewers did win 4 of 6 last year vs the Nats, including Scherzer twice. So maybe they just have Washington's number. 4* Money Maker MILWAUKEE BREWERS 

Grabbing the ROCKIES tonight. Will take the dog in this spot. Colorado has seemed to be back on the right track after a bit of a slump. They crushed a pretty hot Pirates team scoring 20 runs the last 2 games. A nice 5-1 home stand, winners of 6 of 7 and 7 of 10, they catch a slumping STL team off a Sunday night loss, and losing 2 of the 3 to the big, bad, defending WS Champions Cubs. Cards have now lost 4 of 5 and 6 of 10. They are 3-7 in Leake's last 10 starts. 3-8 in his last 11 home starts. Rockies are 11-5 behind Senzatela this year. The rookie is 10-3 and has kept Colorado is all but 2 of his starts. Those are the only 2 games he has given up more than 4 runs. STL having trouble pushing across runs and sitting 9 games back in the wild-card, this team is heading nowhere fast. 4* Money Maker COLORADO ROCKIES 

Taking the NATIONALS today. Nearly pulled the trigger on Ray and the DBacks. But then I looked at these splits. Ray at home. 4-3 4.76 ERA 9 starts .233 BA against 1.45 WHIP. Strasburgh on the road. 7-1 2.45 ERA 9 starts .198 BA against 1.06 WHIP. Numbers here point to Stras and the Nats. Also. And I have pointed this out before with Ray. The walks. I know he K's a lot of guys. But he also walks too many. 4* Money Maker WASHINGTON NATIONALS 

Taking the WHITE SOX. This is an ugly play no doubt about it. Holland has given up 5 or more runs in 6 of his last 8 starts. A 5+ ERA in 18 starts. 6.31 ERA on the road. The numbers are down right bad. But, I will grab him and the Sox. Royals are hot and I guess a safe play would be laying -125 or even RL +155 with KC. So Travis Wood comes out of the bullpen for his 3 start of the year (27 games). In his first 2 home starts, 8.1 innings 15 hits, 8 earned. I'll dog it up. 4* Money Maker CHICAGO WHITE SOX 

Taking the REDS here. Koehler hasn't won a game since April. I know he missed June. But we are still talking 7 starts without a win. Romano for the Reds hasn't been setting the world on fire by any stretch. But I just like the home team more. 4* Money Maker CINCINNATI REDS 

Taking the RANGERS here. Ross has had a several good starts. In those 3 starts he has given up 2-1-1 runs. He had a so so start giving up 4. And 2 bad ones. 8 and 7 earned. I look at his last 8 earned more a blip since in he had giving up 1-4-1. Just looking at his game logs shows us that he will have a 5/6 inning game giving up 1 or 2 runs. Odorizzi is having a decent year for the Rays, but gives up runs. Tampa can score, but the bullpen seems in worse shape than even the Rangers right now. I know it is tough to sweep, and on the road, but Texas has battled back twice so far and know they can get score as the innings pile up. 4* Money Maker TEXAS RANGERS

Taking the BLUE JAYS tonight. I'll tell ya this. I like the Card, Philly, Oakland, Pitt and the Angels also today. But I just think feel the strongest about Toronto here on Saturday. Stroman with a 2.53 ERA in 4 career starts vs the Indians. He has been pitching well allowing 3 earned or less in 8 of his last 9 starts. He has a 1.43 ERA in 3 July starts. Toronto 10-3 in Stroman's last 13 starts. Tribe counter with Danny Salazar. He has a 4.59 career ERA vs the Jays. I do like this kid. He came on in 2015 with a pretty good year, but has not maintained it. This year he was demoted the bullpen and has been out since June 3rd with a shoulder injury. I don't like guys making their first start off the DL. And with a shoulder injury, he could be limited. Indians also mauled the Jays last night 13-3. I believe there is a certain amount of pride to be had after getting whipped like that. Think we have the edge on the hill, and I will grab the road dogs. 4* Money Maker TORONTO BLUE JAYS 

Taking OAKLAND in this spot. Now. I know we don't have a lot to go with Blackburn. But we are getting a nice return on what I think is a nice little investment. The kid has 3 MLB starts under his belt and has gone 6, 7.2 and 6. Just think is one of those teams that will have problems with a guy they have limited film on. Not to mention an AL team the rarely see. In 2 home starts Matz has a 12.38 ERA in 8 innings of work. 17 hits including 4 HRs allowed. For me though, looking at his last 2 starts, 4.1 innings 5 earned and 1 innings 7 earned, something is wrong. Who knows if he is injured. Or maybe he just isn't feeling the ball right. Whatever it is, the guy is having problems. 4* Money Maker OAKLAND A's

Taking the YANKEES tonight. Hernandez has had a great career. He has a lot of success vs NY. But this isn't the old King. The new King is a not shell, but is not easily starting to shadow himself. There are a lot of innings on that arm. Servino has a 3.02 ERA in 10 road starts. He has a very strong bullpen behind him. Mariners 2-9 last 11 at home and 4-11 last 15 vs the Yanks. 4* Money Maker NY YANKEES

Taking the BRAVES. Dodgers 31-4 their last 35 games. Are you kidding me? That is like you playing MLB The Show on PS4. 10 straight. But ya know what, teams lose. And getting odds like this I am taking the dog. Folty has some decent numbers (2.79 ERA last 3). He won't get shelled here. Braves can hit a little. They are a surprisingly good team this year. Past many expectations. McCarthy is who he is. A .500 record type guy who goes on the DL and pitches half a year. I think we can steal the opener tonight as LA is home after a road trip. Guys get a little comfy in their own beds with the family and just aren't 100% in it. 4* Money Maker ATLANTA BRAVES

Taking the BLUE JAYS here. I know that Toronto is like an anchor sinking to the bottom of the ocean, but there is zero chance that anyone in their right mind should be laying anything with Doug Fister. Should call him Dough instead, because that is what you will be rolling in if you fade him every outing. Liriano is nothing special for sure. In 2 starts vs Boston this season, 5.1 innings, 0 runs.. 6 innings 5 runs. That being said, I think the Jays muster up the more offensive outing today. 4* Money Maker TORONTO BLUE JAYS 

4* Money Maker LAA ANGELS

4* Money Maker KC ROYALS

Taking the RAYS here. These guys are sitting 2 back of Boston for top dogs in the AL East and lead the Wild-Card standings. If you haven't noticed, Faria has made 7 starts, is 4-0 with a 2 ERA. On the road, 1.69 ERA in 4 starts and a .94 WHIP. I know everyone is looking at Sonny Gray to be traded. Maybe he is a scratch later tonight. I don't think so, not yet anyway. I do think the rumor mill is on his mind though. Let's add in that Oakland dealt 2 of their more solid relievers. We know Tampa can score some runs against teams. Give me the small pups. 4* Money Maker TAMPA BAY RAYS 

Taking the MARINERS here. Really wish I could find a Seattle reverse run-line in this spot on the networks. But, we will make do with them at basically even money. Astros have been a juggernaut all year and I know you think easy money when you see them at this price. Paxson is 3-0 with a 2.33 so far in July and the Mariners really have to poop, or get off the pot, so to speak. This is a veteran club sitting 2.5 back in the wild-card. I'll grab Paxton and the M's. 4* Money Maker SEATTLE MARINERS 

Taking the INDIANS tonight. Cashed them last night with a little extra on the RL and will look for them to make it 2 in a row. Part of me wants to go RL again, but at +120 it doesn't really feel that strong. Clevinger has a 1.67 ERA his last 5 starts with 28Ks in 27 innings. He has been very good on the road going 4-1 2.56 in 6 starts with a .160 BA against and 1.14 WHIP. Blach has been OK for a rookie being thrown into a bad situation. And don't kid yourselves, this SF team has been in a bad spot all year. Indians looking to get on a nice run and I think they have the guy on the hill tonight to keep things going. 4* Money Maker CLEVELAND INDIANS 

Taking the REDS here. Now, I do love me some Robbie Ray. Have cashed with him this season and last year on several occasions. But my big drawback on him, even though I love his Ks, are his walks. The guy throws way too many pitches. He hasn't pitched in a while since the break. For me, he is the type of guy who can't afford extra rest since he can be wild. Romano is up for his 3rd spot start of the year. The first two were mixed bags. His first, 3 innings 2 earned 2 HRs and 4 walks. His 2nd 5 innings 2 earned 6Ks. Arizona has now lost 5 straight, 8 of 10 and 11 of 14. I'll grab the home dogs. 4* Money Maker CINCINNATI REDS 

Taking the ORIOLES tonight. Neither of this pitchers really jumps off the page for me. Bundy might be a tad better overall. I like the Baltimore offense, especially as the game progresses and the bullpens get involved. Think the O's have the big edge on the back-end. 4* Money Maker BALTIMORE ORIOLES 

Taking the TWINS here. To be honest, any other Minny starter and I am probably making this my AL Game of the Month. What a spot for the Twins. As I have noted before, the Yankees have been slumping for a month now. We get them off a day/night Sunday GOW ESPN game vs the Red Sox. That on the heels of a long extra inning affair Saturday. 36 innings and their top guys in the 'pen are struggling. Mejia has pitched better on the road, than at home for the Twins. But we'll back him tonight. 4* Money Maker MINNESOTA TWINS 

Taking the BLUE JAYS here. I have been with the Jays a bit since just before the break, and will grab them in this spot. Sox off a double header and weekend series with their hated rivals NYY. Just think we have an edge with Stroman who has been dealing his last 3 starts sporting a 1.37 ERA. Rodriguez is freshly off the DL and has had trouble with Toronto in the past, 1-3 6.35 ERA career. Jays 6-2 last 8 in Boston and 4-1 last 5 times facing Rodriguez. 4* Money Maker TORONTO BLUE JAYS 

Taking the PHILLIES tonight. I'll go ugly. I'm not ashamed. I know Philly is a bad club. The worse in MLB. But I will grab them at this price against Koehler. Guy has been brutal lately. How bad? A 16.76 ERA his last 3 games. 18 runs in 9.2 innings of work. All earned plus 7 walks in that span. He has an 8 ERA on the year in 10 starts. He has given up less than 3 runs in 1 start, his first of the year. 4 home starts 8.84 ERA .315 BA against a 1.75 WHIP. Again, I know Philly isn't some offensive machine. But they will have shots tonight to score. Eickhoff is making his second start off the DL. His first one back was solid pitching 5 scoreless with 8 Ks. 4* Money Maker PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES 

Taking the REDS here. So, we have two teams with nearly identical records. I mean, nearly identical if we flip Cincy and make their 51 losses 51 wins and match the Nats 54 wins. Nats going for the sweep. They are 4-1 last 5 vs Homer Bailey, who they rocked in his first game back from the DL with 8 runs in just over an inning of work. And now they are barely a favorite? Since Homer's first 2 terrible starts totaling 4.2 innings of work and 14 runs, he has tallied 12.2 innings while giving up just 2 runs. Now Roark hasn't been anything special with his 5+ ERA on the year. Cincy put up 6 runs on him back in June. Scherzer leaves the game up 10-0 and the bullpen comes in and gives up 7. Tanner is no Max. And the Reds do have some decent hitters. I think the low hanging fruit appears to be the total. Not the run-away NL East leaders. We will grab the smallest of small home dogs. 4* Money Maker CINCINNATI REDS 

Taking the BRAVES here. Man. Maybe I should go big balls like the Mets play and hit the RL. Corbin a 7.57 ERA on the road with hitters slapping him to the tune of a .331 average. A 1.77 WHIP doesn't help his cause either. Nor the 10 HRs allowed in 7 road starts. Probably why the DBacks are 1-11 in his last 12 road starts. Braves have cashed in Foltynewicz's last 6 starts. The youngster seems to be getting better and better. He has given up more than 2 runs just once in his last 7 starts. He actually has given up more than 3 runs twice! One game with 3 runs allowed and 2 times shelled for 7 and 8 runs. The guy has been more than solid all year and I expect the same in this spot. 4* Money Maker ATLANTA BRAVES 

Taking the TWINS tonight. I know the Astros are just a beast right now. But how can you lay this number with Musgrove? The guy has a 5.40 ERA at home and this has been a pitchers park most of the year! He will be out of the rotation shortly. I think the Twins have overachieved no doubt about it. And you would think that Santana will regress. But the guy just keeps trucking on. He has been more than solid on the road 2.19 ERA 6-2 in 8 starts with 2 shutouts.  A .199 BA against and a 1.03 WHIP and I think he can keep this explosive offense in check. Minny bats should be able to generate some offense to help the cause. 4* Money Maker MINNESOTA TWINS 

Taking the JAYS this afternoon, again. Had Toronto last night and will come right back on the road dogs. Now Liriano hasn't been sharp much of the year. Since coming off the DL he has allowed more than 3 earned in 2 of his 7 starts. I can take that even with his poor road splits. Fact is this entire team underachieved the first half. Fulmer has continued his solid performance from a year ago. But like Liariano's road splits, Fulmer with worse numbers at home. Jays 8-2 in Liriano's last 10 starts. We'll take a stab. 4* Money Maker TORONTO BLUE JAYS 

Taking the CUBS here. Have to think that after their trade this team will be pumped up a bit. There has been no shortage of us fading the reigning WS Champs this year. And we have been rewarded greatly. But I think this is a great spot to jump on them. Off the break, they see the organization is still making moves, for today, and the future. Gausman and the Orioles don't have the track record for me to back. While both teams have struggled, the talented on Chicago should score us the road win tonight. 4* Money Maker CHICAGO CUBS 

Taking the BLUE JAYS here. Obviously, both teams with a lot higher expectations as to where they are today. But Toronto to me, looks like the team that has a run in them. Sanchez has been limited due to injury. While Verlander is down because, well to me, his arm has a lot of miles on it. His 51 walks (55 last year) lead me to believe that his bad year won't be getting any better. He has pitched better at home, but I think the Tigers are a fade team right now. 4* Money Maker TORONTO BLUE JAYS 

Taking the REDS here. Always find some Cincy for dog value. These guys can hit. We also have the over here. I think we will see some Gio regression. Guy was terrific the first half no doubt. But his ERA is 3.72 on the road as opposed to 1.95 at home. And that is equal 9 starts each. Also line looks a little low when you take both teams at face value. I'll dog it up in this series. 4* Money Maker CINCINNATI REDS 

Taking the WHITE SOX today. Again. Yes we have been on the Sox, like the Brewers the last 2 days. And we will look to head into the All-Star break off a nice winning day. I like Rodon in what is now his 3rd start back from the DL. We had him in start 2 and I said he would cut down the 6 walks from his 1st start. Lo and behold we get 10Ks - I have said previously that the Rockies are in a bit of a tail-spin. And it is tough laying numbers with struggling teams. Even tougher when they send out a pitcher in Freeland who has a 7.27 ERA his last 3 and has given up 14 earned in his last 17+ innings. 4* Money Maker CHICAGO WHITE SOX 

Taking the BREWERS here. Yes, we are taking Milwaukee for the 3rd straight day. So Tanaka has a 1.29 ERA his last 3 starts. Before that, he had given up 5 or more in 3 of 4 starts and 5 of his last 7. Maybe Tanaka has finally turned the corner on the season. Maybe. Yanks pulled out a gutty bottom of the 9th win yesterday. But I like Nelson to keep us in this thing. He has a 2.84 ERA his last 3 starts. He has given up more than 4 runs in a game just twice in 17 starts. Not sure when people will wake up the Brewers. These guys have a nice little club and I won't be shocked if they, and not the Yankees pull of a deal for the White Sox Quintana! - 4* Money Maker MILWAUKEE BREWERS 

Taking the REDS. Walker simply average at home with an ERA of 3.92 in 6 starts. He hasn't given up many HRs, but this Cincy team brings the lumber. I thought the Reds would steal one last night from Arizona off that brutal loss to the Dodgers. But it was not meant to be. Castillo is nothing special. He brings some heat. Just think we might catch the DBacks napping a bit. 4* Money Maker CINCINNATI REDS 

Taking the WHITE SOX, again. It is deja vu here on Saturday. Another Friday night loser makes the cut. We get Quintana who is finally looking like he is rounding into form. We know exactly what we are getting from Quintana. Hoffman brings a 7+ERA to the table his last 3 starts. A bit bloated from giving up 9 in 3+ to Arizona. 5 in 13+ his other 2. As I said before. Colorado has been struggling lately. I know the Sox are nothing to write home about. But I like backing a guy who is going to keep us in the game. 4* Money Maker CHICAGO WHITE SOX 

Taking the ROYALS, again. Lost last night with KC but are back with the dogs again. McCarthy off the DL and you know how I like to fade away in these first starts. As I said. KC playing inspired ball lately. Making it tough on ownership to decide if they are buyers or sellers. Astros look great in the AL, but tough to sell the fans on a rebuild if you are in first or a game out. That being said, this is a big number for McCarthy. I know LAD has been good this year. But is every player on the team going to have career numbers? There has to be a regression on the way. 4* Money Maker KC ROYALS 

Taking the BREWERS here. Cashed last night, and will be back on them again. What else is there to say? Yankees are struggling. The bullpen in shambles. Servino laying this kind of number? He has an ERA approaching 6 his last 3 starts. In 3 of his last 4 starts, 4,5 and 6 runs allowed. I'm not trusting him in this spot. New numbers off yesterday - Brewers won 5 straight, 8 of 9 and 9 of their last 12. NYY has dropped 2 in a row, 5 of 6 and 7 of 10. 17 losses in their last 23 games! 4* Money Maker MILWAUKEE BREWERS 

Taking the BLUE JAYS this afternoon. Astros a straight beast, 21-4 last 25 on the road! But I have to grab Stroman at this price. He sports a solid 2.87 ERA at home. Fiers has dropped his ERA a run over the last month. That will happen when you cut down on HRs. He is 4-0 in 8 road starts with a 4.83 ERA. 41 hits in 41 innings 22 earned runs with 11HRs allowed. After losing 12-2 last night, I think Jays get it done early Saturday. Jays 8-3 in Stroman's last 11 starts. Astros 2-6 last 8 vs Toronto. 4* Money Maker TORONTO BLUE JAYS 

Taking the GIANTS here. SF has been playing a lot better lately so have to grab them at this price. Straily has been a guy who has been the Marlins best pitcher on the year, and we have made some money backing him. But he continues to get steamed in every start. Rightfully so as he has a 1.09 WHIP, .215 BA Against. But, 3-3 4.78 ERA in 8 road starts. All the numbers come up. BAA WHIP. Moore has crap numbers on the year, but is respectable at home. 3.77 ERA in 7 starts. 4* Money Maker SF GIANTS 

Taking the ROYALS here. A pair of streaking teams getting together as KC is in off a sweep in Seattle. And well, you already know how I went down in flames on Arizona as LA rallied for a huge win in the bottom of the 9th last night. I just think that sweeping a division rival, and in that fashion, well, it could be a let down spot. I try not to make it a habit taking road dogs that send guys to the hill with 5+ ERAs. But I am never laying 200 on the bases. Maeda isn't unhittable. I think we generate runs tonight. After a real slow start KC is just a game back of the Indians. 4* Money Maker KC ROYALS

Taking the REDS here. Last night I was part of the brutal D-Back loss. Are you kidding me Rodney! Walking 4 guys in the bottom of the ninth. Holy cow. I feel like garbage. I can only imagine how real players feel. So they were swept by LA, further behind the Dodgers in the NL West race. Have now lost 3 straight and 6 of 8. Grienke is 8-0 in 10 home starts with 2.67 ERA and .89 WHIP, .189 BA against. Guy is an All-Star. I am not saying Cincy is a good team. But they are playing better. They split on the road vs Colorado. Took 2 of 3 from the Cubs. Took 2 of 3 from the Brewers. And I think this is a good spot with Arizona in off that gut-wrenching loss. 4* Money Maker CINCINNATI REDS 

Grabbing the WHITE SOX tonight. Holland hasn't been all that great. I know that. Sox though has some bats. This Rockies team continues to slide. They have lost 7 of 10 and 10 of their last 15. I'll be on Chicago all weekend. 4* Money Maker CHICAGO WHITE SOX 

Grabbing the BREWERS here. Both these teams with surprise years for sure. Now, Guerra has basically been going 6 giving up 3 until getting beaten up a little in his last 2 starts. The guy is a 32 year old who finally got a shot last season. Maybe the market has finally caught up after 30 starts. For the Yanks, Montgomery is one of their young guns who has exceeded expectations. I'm sure they are very happy with his 6-4 3.62 season. He had a great month of June going 4-0 in his 5 starts striking out 31 in 31.1 innings of work. But the Astros tagged him for 3 in 5+ including 2HRs. And this Milwaukee team can hit a bit. They are sitting atop the NL Central with more wins than the Yanks. They have won 4 straight, 7 of 10 and 10 of 15. NYY has dropped 2 in a row, 6 of 10 and 10 of 16. They are 6-16 their last 22 games. So, a pair of surprise teams heading in opposite directions. Brewers are 10-4 in Guerra's last 14 road starts. Have to grab the big dogs here. 4* Money Maker MILWAUKEE BREWERS 

Taking ARIZONA here. I know I have said in my write ups. Oh, no way so and so sweeps right? Well. It really wouldn't be a shock if LA won again. They are playing excellent right now and are sitting in 1st place in the NL West. That being said. I think we are getting a nice price on Robbie Ray. Maybe too nice. Ray is 6-1 1.81 ERA his last 8 starts. The guy has been putting up nice road splits, 4-1 1.32 ERA in 7 road starts with a .92 WHIP and .165 BA against with 60Ks in 47 innings.  In 10 games vs LAD, he has a respectable 3.30 ERA. Hill is 3-3 with a 4.03 ERA in 6 home starts. A .206 BA against looks pretty good. But he has walked 20 in 29 innings. Coupled with 21 hits allowed in that same frame, and you are going to give up a couple runs a game. He is off back to back 7 innings games. First time he has registered more than 5 innings all year. DBacks are 4-1 last vs Dodgers with Ray on the hill. We'll grab them as nice pups tonight. 4* Money Maker ARIZONA DIAMONDBACKS 

Taking the ORIOLES here. I like Berrios. Kid looks like a keeper and someone who should be pretty good as he progresses. But I don't think Minny should be this kind of fave. They are 18-26 at home. I know Baltimore has struggled all year, but they still have a talented team. People talk, heck, I talk regression when it comes to pitchers. Well I think hitters have some of that as well. Speaking of pitchers, Bundy opened hot but has since come crashing back to Earth. I think he has a solid outing tonight. He had a 2.93 in early June. He has been plagued by the long-ball and some walks his last few starts. Back in May he went 7 striking out 7 in a 2-0 loss to the Twins. I think we get the same kind of performance tonight except we come out with the W. 4* Money Maker BALTIMORE ORIOLES 

Will grab the REDS at this price. Colorado still trying to shake themselves out of a funk they are in. They have now dropped 8 of 10 and 11 of 13. Gray was a beast his last start striking out 10. But, that was his first start since coming back from the DL and tossed 100 pitchers. That was the first time this season he hit the 100 pitch mark. Last year after his first 100 pitch start, he promptly gave up 9 earned in 3.1 innings on 8 hits. Cincy has some power bats and they do strike out. But I think they have enough in the lineup to score a few runs. Feldman is 3-1 2.25 in his 5 June starts, 1.80 ERA his last 3. We have a guy pitching pretty good for us. We have a lineup littered with guys who can crank it 420 feet. Think this is some good value. 4* Money Maker CINCINNATI REDS 

Taking the WHITE SOX, again. Cashed last night with these guys and will grab Shields at this price. Have to say. This looks a little fishy with Oakland laying this heavy a number. I get the Sox have won just 18 games on the road. But the A's are 22-21 at home. They have now dropped 6 straight. Are they due? Is that why this line is so high? Shields has pitched pretty well on the road this season. A 2.65 ERA in 3 starts, .219 BA against and 1.18 WHIP aren't ugly numbers. Shields was mauled at home by Oakland giving up 6 earned in 3 innings just over a week ago. I think we see a total opposite this afternoon. Gossett has lost 3 of 4 starts. 2 bad, 2 good. Like yesterday, he stymied the Sox in Chicago going 6 giving up 2 unearned runs on 5 hits with 6Ks. But 2nd time around for the youngster will be tougher. Chicago has some decent bats. 4* Money Maker CHICAGO WHITE SOX 

Will grab the WHITE SOX in this spot. So Cotton went 5 giving up just 3 hits in a win at Chicago just a week-plus ago. Think we will see more offense from the Sox. They have won 7 of the last 8 here in Oakland. Rodon is making his 2nd start of the year. He was a bit wild walking 6 in his first game back. He gave up 2 hits with those walks going 5 innings and allowed 0 earned runs (3 unearned). I will take 6Ks and 2 walks and have faith this lineup can score after seeing Cotton recently. His home breaks are terrible as he 7.09 ERA in 6 home starts. Before that Sox game he had given up 5-4-5-3 runs in his previous June starts. He has given up 3 or more runs in 10 of his 13 starts and 5 or more in 6 of those. I'll grab the road dog. 4* Money Maker CHICAGO WHITE SOX 

Taking the PHILLIES tonight. What isn't there to love about taking a team 25 games under .500 favored over another team. Now, Pirates are 37-45 on the year, but the perception is they are the better team even with just 16 road wins. They have their best starter going tonight. Nova is 8-5 on the year with a 3.08 ERA in his 16 starts. But the regression has set in after a fast start, and his road splits say he will give up a few runs tonight. 2-3 3.49 ERA in 8 road starts away from home. The guy had a couple early gems including a SHO. But of late, he has been given up hits and runs. He had a 1.50 ERA in April. Then 4.17 in May and just about 3.50 in June. Nola has given up 3 or less in 4 of his last 5 starts. Give me the small home faves. 4* Money Maker PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES

Taking the BLUE JAYS tonight. Will grab these guys as a little dog even off their sweep. I like Stroman better than Tanaka. Yanks could have won that series vs Houston but the bullpen blew up. That being said, coming home after a tough series is tough. Jays desperate for a win. Stroman 5-2 with a 2.91 ERA in 10 career starts vs the Yanks and the Jays 7-2 in his last 9 starts against NY. No denying Tanaka has had a tough year. Home splits nothing to glow about, 4.75 ERA in 7 starts. Toronto is 8-2 in Stroman's last 10 starts so you know he gives them a fighters chance. 4* Money Maker TORONTO BLUE JAYS 

Taking the BRAVES here. I know that Manaea has been pitching well giving up more than 3 runs just once in his last 8 starts while Oakland goes 7-1 behind him. But I don't think a team that has dropped 4 straight, 6 of 10 and 8 of 12 should be laying this kind of number. Teheran has actually pitched well on the road. A perfect 5-0 in 7 road starts 2.89 ERA. No way Atlanta sweeps on the road right? They have only won 7 of 10 and 10 of their last 14. Give me the nice road puppies. 4* Money Maker ATLANTA BRAVES 

Taking the WHITE SOX here. After a real bumpy start, we hope that the Quintana we know for the last couple years has arrived. With that guy, we know exactly what we get every start. But the last couple starts have been excellent as he has scatter 7 hits in 13 innings striking out 15. Texas has been known to swing and miss a few times. Ross is a bit of mystery as this is his 4th start. He has 2 decent starts around a 7 run nightmare. Sox are 7-3 last 10 in the series, 6-1 last 7 at home and I think they close out the rubber match with an afternoon win. 4* Money Maker CHICAGO WHITE SOX 

Taking the INDIANS here. Both starters with nice splits in this spot. Clevinger 2.81 ERA in 5 road starts, .174 BAA and 1.13 WHIP. Verlander 2.45 in 5 starts .224 BAA 1.25 WHIP. That being said, I will take the Tribe. What would this line be if any other name other than Verlander was attached to this start? Like I said, he has nice home splits. But his body of work this season is showing some wear. Indians have beat him before, often even over the years. Half-way through the seasons, team are what they are. I think Detroit is an old team. I think the Indians are a playoff team. Tigers are 2-8 in Verlander's last 10 starts vs Cleveland. 4* Money Maker CLEVELAND INDIANS 

Taking the REDS. No way Cincy sweeps the Cubs right? Chicago won the World Series last year! They are the best thing since sliced bread. As I said with the Tigers. Half-way through the year things are a little bit more clear cut. Arrieta is a shell of what he was. The Cubs, as a team, are in rut. Not saying they aren't talented. But this Reds team has some pop in the lineup. What else are they playing for other than bragging rights for sweeping the reigning champs. Arrieta is now 4-6 5.04 ERA in 11 road starts. I know you like the names for the visitors. But there is no way I am laying with this road team. Home dog only way to go. 4* Money Maker CINCINNATI REDS 

Taking the PHILLIES here. Have to grab this number. How can you lay anything with the Mets. So they string together a few wins. They have underachieved all year. The bullpen is a mess. 2 whole runs last night as Lively gave up 5 hits in 6 innings plus 4 walks and these guys only pushed across a pair of runs. Wheeler gave up a mind-blowing 15 runs in 3.2 innings on 14 hits, 5 being HRs. A trip to the DL heels that? Hell-boy has had a pair of nice starts in a row. If we get 6/7 innings of 1 run ball from him, we should easily take game 2 of this series. 4* Money Maker PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES 

Taking the WHITE SOX this afternoon. Fading away here on Hamels as he makes start 2 back off the DL. Start 1 didn't go so well, as he gave up 7 earned on 8 hits in 4 and a third innings of work. Sox have been known to a hit lefties pretty well this season (.293). It is only 3 starts, but for what it's worth Hamels sports a 6.06 ERA giving up 12 runs in 16 innings of work. Can't overlook the 10 walks to 8 strikeouts either. Holland a respectable 2.31 ERA in 6 home starts. 4* Money Maker CHICAGO WHITE SOX 

4* Money Maker LAA ANGELS 

4* Money Maker MIAMI MARLINS 

4* Money Maker CINCINNATI REDS

Taking the PIRATES tonight. Snell has some nice minor league numbers for sure. But that is exactly what it is, minor league. He has struggled a bit in the bigs. Tampa 2-8 in his last 10 road starts. The kid is just 24, so I think he has a bright future ahead of him. Rays always produce good young arms. That being said, I will back Nova as a short home fave. His home splits are very solid, 5-2 2.53 ERA in 7 starts with a .95 WHIP 4* Money Maker PITT PIRATES 

Taking the WHITE SOX again. Lost last night with Chicago, and will come back on Quintana. Yanks scored a bit last night, but I am not sold. They have struggled since starting June red hot. NY still on 3-10 run last 13 overall. 1-6 last 7 on the road. 4-9 last 13 in Serevino road starts, 1-8 in those road starts facing teams with a losing record. Is he the guy who went 3-8 with a 5.23 ERA last year? Is he the guy who is went 5-3 2.89 11 starts in 2015. I know who Quintana is. He is 32 starts, 3.40 ERA 200 innings and 180Ks every year. He had a rough start, but has been good in June. 4 starts and a 2.25 ERA .216 BA against and respectable 1.13 WHIP. 4* Money Maker CHICAGO WHITE SOX 

Taking the ROYALS here. Tough not to take a streaking KC team that has reeled of 7 of 10 and 11 of 14. No doubt tough to gauge guys coming out of the bullpen build innings as this is just Strahm's 3rd start this season. That being said though, do you have faith in Verlander laying this number right now? This guy, like I have written about Felix Hernandez, has a ton of innings on his arm. He has a 4.50 ERA on the year. Hasn't won a game in over a month and has gotten out of the 6th inning just once this month. Tigers should be a seller come July in my mind. Detroit just stopped a 8 game losing streak pulling one out last in San Diego. This team is still 4-13 their last 17 overall. KC on the other side going 13-5 their last 18. 4* Money Maker KC ROYALS 

Taking the CUBS here. I have faded Arrieta, and the Cubs on multiple times this season. They are suffering from the old World Series hangover. Or maybe they just aren't having a super year like 2016. That being said, still value in this price. I know Scherzer is a beast every time out. But all I need is for that high pitch count and that bullpen is a gas can. 8th, 9th inning. Doesn't matter. The bullpen blows games. Cubs are 8-2 last 10 in the series. They know they have something to prove. Can't believe I overlooked them last night. Too blinded by the losers I rolled out. Cubs today, and the rest of the series! 4* Money Maker CHICAGO CUBS 

Taking BALTIMORE here. Like the OVER 10 here also. A pair of gas-cans on the mound and plenty of big wood in the lineups to strike a match and light things up tonight. Gausman has gotten out of the 6th once in his last 5 starts. He has a 9 ERA on the road (7 starts). That being said, O's are 7-2 last 9 in the series. Jays counter with Biagini who, at first glance you would think wasn't all that bad. Oh, a nice 2.94 home ERA 11 games, 4 starts. Well, in 9 innings of relief work he gave up zero runs. 21 innings starting at home, 9 earned runs 12 total. The guy can strike people out. But I think the book is out and even with the Ks, he has been giving up some runs. 6-3-3-3-7-4 his last 5 starts. The under has cashed 14 of the last 17 in this series. But I think changes tonight as the O's have gone over in 8 of their last 10 on the road, 7 straight on the road vs righties and 7-2-1 over their last 10 overall. Jays over 8 of their last 12. 4* Money Maker BALTIMORE ORIOLES 

Taking the WHITE SOX. Faded the Yanks yesterday, and will continue to do so. They are struggling right now. That is now 10 losses their last 12. White Sox have hit lefties pretty well this season. Montgomery has put up decent numbers so far in his rookie campaign. 5-4 3.74 is something NYY would gladly take. Holmberg has bounced between the pen and rotation making his 5th start. He has decent numbers between the 2. Obviously he isn't logging huge innings out of the pen, and starting he gets stretched to 4-5. Chicago bullpen has a couple decent arms to keep things in check for us. We'll grab the nice home dogs to start the week. 4* Money Maker CHICAGO WHITE SOX  - on a quick side note, wouldn't a Todd Frazier/ David Robertson trade here make sense for the Yanks. Not sure what they would give up, but it fits 2 needs right now if they are a World Series hunt. - 

Taking the TWINS here. No doubt that Sale is a beast. 146Ks in 107 innings. A .90 WHIP - The guy is good. Nothing to be said. But the Sox are up and down. I think we are getting nice value on Berrios who is a perfect 4-0 on the road with a 2.84 ERA. He also sports a .196 BA against and 1.03 WHIP which help the cause. 4* Money Maker MINNESOTA TWINS 

Taking the PIRATES here. We end our Sunday taking another team that is looking to sweep. Plus, another dog. Leake opened with 9 great starts, but regression has set in. 4-5-6 earned in 3 of his last 5 games, pushing his ERA up over a full run over that time. Cardinals are 3-13 in Leake's last 16 home starts - 4* Money Maker PITTSBURGH PIRATES 

Taking the PADRES here. Part of me says, well the Tigers have lost 8 in a row and are favored. That always draws my eye. Like our other plays today the thinking is. Of course they don't get swept and are 'due'. But I will grab a home dog any day of the week vs a team that is struggling like Detroit is right now. Zimmerman brings a 5+ ERA to the start today, and even worse 5.98 ERA in 7 road starts with hitters stroking him at a .297 clip. Tigers with 8 straight losses are 3-13 their last 16 games. Detroit has lost Zimmerman's last 8 road starts. San Diego 7-3 in Richard's last 10 starts at home. 4* Money Maker SAN DIEGO PADRES 

Taking the ROYALS here. So we have a home team on a nice run, 3 straight, 8 of 10, 11 of 13 in a Pk vs a struggling Toronto team. Jays have lost 3 straight, 4 of 5 and are 1-4 their last 5 on the road. They are 2-5 in Liriano's last 7 road starts. He has a 5.40 ERA last 3 starts (5.76 on the year). The guy has a 8.53 ERA in 5 road starts, .338 BA Against and a 2.21 WHIP. He has gotten out the 5th inning once in that stretch. Hammel is no elite starter by any stretch. But he has been more than solid this month with a 2.30 ERA going 3-0 in 4 starts with a .91 WHIP in 27.1 innings. Sign me up for the KC. 4* Money Maker KC ROYALS 

Taking the RANGERS here. Have to say, I am kicking myself for not taking Texas and the Angels yesterday. How was Cessa laying that kind of number with the way NY has been playing. Plus Price. A guy I have faded for nearly 2 years now. Shame on me for being scared of those dogs and taking the Brewers and Royals. That being said, Yanks having some offensive troubles of late. Not to mention their bullpen isn't doing the job for them. Maybe Pineda goes 7+ and gets Chapman the ball. Whatever the case, Martinez has solid numbers vs NY, 3.01 ERA in 4 career starts while Pineda counters with 4.35 ERA in 5 career starts vs Texas. NY 2-9 their last 11 overall. 4* Money Maker TEXAS RANGERS

Taking the BREWERS here. I would normally say this is one of those scratch your head lines. Milwaukee is leading the NL Central with a 40-36 record. But the surging Braves sit at 35-38 having won 3 straight and 7 of 10. We are also on the over here with a pair of retread arms on the hill. Just think the Brew Crew outlasts the Braves this afternoon. 4* Money Maker MILWAUKEE BREWERS 

Taking the WHITE SOX here. Was close to putting Oakland on the board last night, but went with 2 other dog losers instead (Angels-Rockies) - That being said, the A's are still a 10 win road team. And facing Mike Pelfrey is different than James Shields. Shields had a brutal run last year. But that was then. They guy was extremely sharp in his first 3 starts (1.62 ERA) before hitting the DL. His first start back was OK, pitching into the 6th, 3 earned on 7 hits. I figure Gossett is somewhere closer to the middle of his 2 starts. 7 runs 3+, 2 runs in 6. Figure he is good for a 3-4 spot along the way this afternoon. 4* Money Maker CHICAGO WHITE SOX 

Taking the ROYALS here. Have to keep the fade up on Estrada. Guy is having some problems right now. His ERA is nearly up 2 full runs since May. 16.1 innings 35 hits 23 earned runs  equals a .438 BA against and 2.57 WHIP. Royals bats have to be excited to see him. Enter Jason Vargas who is only tied with Kershaw for the league lead with 10 wins. He has been super at home in 7 starts 1.81 ERA 5-1 record. A nice 1.05 WHIP helps the cause against a Blue Jays team that is now 1-7 their last 8 here in KC. 4* Money Maker KC ROYALS 

Taking the ROCKIES here. Freeland faced LA twice in April going 10 innings giving up 2 runs on 8 hits striking out 9. Now, Wood has been fantastic. 7-0 in 10 starts, (12 games) a 1.90 ERA .87 WHIP at home. The guy is good. For what it's worth though, just 3-2 with a 5.59 ERA in 7 starts vs the Rockies. DBacks blasted the Rox the last 2 games, so I think Colorado is glad to get on the road and prove their 47 wins aren't a fluke. Have to grab them at this price. 4* Money Maker COLORADO ROCKIES

Taking the ANGELS here. LAA not playing to bad lately, putting up runs in New York, and head to Boston for the weekend. Not a big fan of Porello. I think Angels can get some runs here. Meyer has a 1.91 ERA his last 6 starts. Porcello 5-6 career with a 6.26 ERA vs Anaheim. 4* Money Maker LAA ANGELS 

Back again on OAKLAND. What can I say? Apparently I like painful dogs that are brutal to watch. A lot of times I say, oh, no way so and so sweeps on the road, and then take a fave. But I buck my own thinking this afternoon. 4* Money Maker OAKLAND A's 

Taking the BLUE JAYS here. Stroman really in a zone right now. Guy is dealing. Has had 2 bad games all year. Great road numbers on the year, 5-0 in 6 starts, 2.95 ERA. The kid is a stud, and this Toronto team is hitting. Martin Perez brings a 7 ERA to the mound in his last 3 starts. He is 3-6 on the year and all 3 wins have been at home. But that comes with a 5+ ERA in those 9 home starts with hitters batting .302 against him and a 1.65 WHIP. Jays 7-1 in Stroman's last 8 and I think they tag Perez for at least a half dozen before he exits. 5* Best Bet TORONTO BLUE JAYS 

Taking OAKLAND, again. Not the results I am looking for backing the A's. But I will again to the well with the small home dogs tonight. Also liking the under here. 4* Money Maker OAKLAND A's