4* (967/968) Colorado/Baltimore OVER 9-1/2

With lineup injuries by the Orioles and bull pen support their total record shows 9-0 UNDER last nine times out.  However, with Gallardo (5.61) and Delarosa (6.07) competing the number should exceed the posted amount.  Remember, the Rockies are coming off a huge road win and project 4-0 OVER in Interleague starts with Delarosa.   They are 7-1 OVER in game #1 and 5-0 OVER in game #1 of IL series.  The Orioles come in with a hefty 27-9-2 OVER mark vs. the ALW. Good Luck.

5* (923/924) Houston/LAA Over 9-1/2

Despite the inflated total number, we will go HIGH on Sunday.   Both hurlers, Fiers (2-3, 6.59) and Lincecum (6-4, 4.75) have been wacked around lately each showing with a 6+ ERA last three times out.  The visiting unit compounds the angle with a 3-0-1 OVER mark on the road and versus RHP. And, LAA has gone OVER 14-4-3 versus an opponent scoring 5 or more runs in their last game.  Houston brings fuel to the fire with majestic 4-0 OVER marks with RHP Fiers versus the ALW and after allowing 2 runs or less.  Overall, Houston has been OVER at a 14-5 clip last 19 starts...OVER

5* (929/930) SF/New York UNDER 7-1/2 @ 7:05 Eastern

Tonight we catch two hot hurlers surfacing in Yankee Stadium in what once was a cross town rivalry too many years ago.  The San Francisco Giants bring lefty Bumgarner (10-5, 2.12) to the box carrying a 1.71 ERA last three times out.   New York uses ace RHP Tanaka (7-2, 3.15) who has been on fire of late with a 2-0 mark and a 1.96 ERA record.  Last time out Tanaka threw 6 innings with 3 hits allowed and just 1 earned run against the hard hitting Boston Red Sox. The last six games in New York has the series UNDER in 6 straight, 3-0-1 UNDER L4 overall.  At this writing, the Yankees have shot UNDER in 7 straight and 8-0 UNDER when facing a winning unit.  With Bumgarner the Giants are UNDER 4 straight when scoring 5 or more runs.

....analysis to follow

3* Atlanta/Cincinnati (901/902) UNDER 9

This series has shot UNDER 4-of-5, and with umpire Hernandez calling balls and strikes on Wednesday with the Reds the score has gone UNDER 4 straight.  Now they are the basics but, we must note the Braves use reliever Harrell (1-1, 3.63) because of rotation issues versus hot RHP DeSclafani (4-0, 2.55) of Cincinnati.  The Reds hurler has won 4 straight with a 2.67 ERA in his last five starts.  We know he has a shaky 5+ ERA against Atlanta, but his current form seems much more viable here.  Harrell has a 3.60 ERA against the Reds in just 5 innings because of his reliever situation. When you compile the Braves "hot" 6-0 UNDER mark vs. RHP and 6-1 UNDER record in game #3 of a series the UNDER becomes vivid.  Remember too, with DeSclafani (4-0, 2.55) the Reds are 3-0-1 UNDER off a quality start. In closing, Cincinnati has gone UNDER 8-3 with the hurler after 4 days of rest...UNDER! 

5* (971/972) Texas/LAA OVER the totalGranted the series overall has been low lately, can't discount up splurge yesterday by these two in the runs department.  The Angels bring reclamation project Timmy Lincecum, while the struggling Rangers use Lohse.  Yesterday the 14 run break out gives us a good lead into this encounter, especially with the Angels winners of 4 straight.   LAA is OVER 10-4-1 home and 16-5-2 with umpire Wegner using calls balls and strikes.  The Rangers come in a perfect 6-0-1 OVER vs.

4* 961/962...LA/Arizona UNDER 8-1/2

Check out the Dodgers and Snakes Sunday for a classic pitching duel.   Yesterday Arizona survived 2-1 in a classic pitching show.  This time around the Dodgers use import Maeda (8-6, 2.95) who has super smooth on the road with a 5-1, 2.62 ERA.  He shows off a super 7 inning joust with San Diego allowing just 2 hits and 1 earned run. Against Arizona Maeda is 1-0 with a 1.59 ERA vs. Arizona.  The Snakes bring lefty Ray (4-8, 4.81) who brings decent numbers versus the Dodgers career wise with a 2-2 record and a 2.46 ERA.  Overall, the series is trending UNDER 6-2 before Sunday.   With Umpire Barrett calling balls and strikes on Sunday the total is RED HOT 6-1-1 UNDER. In closing, the Snakes show a PERFECT 6-0 UNDER after allowing 2 or less runs, while the Dodgers come 8-2 UNDER vs. LHP...UNDER!

4* 919/920...Houston/Seattle UNDER 8

Go inside for a super pitching duel on Saturday afternoon out in Seattle.  Granted RHP Iwakuma of Seattle has a rough line to penetrate considering his 10 innings of work this season allowing 14 hits and 8 earned runs against Houston.  But, the Mariners have shown an 8-2 mark L10 with the right hander. And, we look for a "gut check" performance by Iwakuma with the home field win a must situation for Seattle.  The Mariners, usually supports the hurler with runs as they have shot OVER in 7-of-8 at home.  To the contrary, this is a completely different situational spot considering the Houston recent domination in the series, and with McCullers going for the Astros.  Houston is 11-4 UNDER L15 on the road and 7-0 UNDER vs. the ALW.  McCullers offering this season against the Mariners showed 7 innings of work with just 5 hits and 1 earned run.  Remember too, with balls and strikes umpire O'Nora on Saturday the total has gone UNDER 6-of-7...UNDER!

4* Boston/New York OVER 9-1/2

Granted with either hurler in the box, the total has shot UNDER in 4 straight games.  However, the OVER seems more viable in a situation where "arms" were extended last night via the opposing pens.  And, Saturday afternoon tilts have historic offensive out breaks in Yankee Stadium.  Remember too, Sabathia and Rodriguez were whacked last time out via road settings in Cleveland and Tampa Bay.  LHP Sabathia has been fire for the opposition as the Yankee foes have crushed the veteran for 21 earned runs last four starts.  Granted lefty Rodriquez (1-3, 8.59) has pitched well in the Bronx, and he is coming off a solid stint down in the minors; but this situation clearly breaks rank with common sense thinking as this is the "pennant drive" season and teams in baseball should continue their home run binge with so much at stake.  The Sox are OVER 57-28-3 vs.

4* Cubs/Pirates (957/958) UNDER 8-1/2
Huge issue for Chicago as they look to respond off a 8-5 loss last night, and bringing ace lefty Lester to the hill trying to subtract the Bucs in Pittsburgh.  Remember, the Pirates have been hot of late winning 8-of-9 overall.  They have a team ERA of 2.67 in that run with relievers averaging a monster 4-0 and 0.77 ERA supporting.  The Cubs have seemingly faded from their high perch in the NLC, but still bring a winning and dangerous unit every time out.  Lester has a 9-4 record with a 2.67 ERA, but looking to rebound off a horrid start against the Mets.  With a much needed win being talked about the Cubs will need a super effort from the veteran hurler.  Chicago is 6-1-1 UNDER with Lester and 16-5 UNDER overall on Saturday. The Pirates bring RHP Kuhl showing off 6 innings of work at Oakland allowing just 2 runs..  Being at home should have the youngster jacked for a super effort, while the Bucs bring a hot pen for an additional edge...UNDER!

5* (979/980) CWS/Atlanta UNDER 7-1/2

Would not generate a solution normally with Quintana (6-8, 3.06) throwing but, the hurler is coming off a super 7 innings at Houston allowing just 2 hits and 1 earned run.  Quintana has a 2.51 ERA in interleague outings.  In addition, the Sox have been UNDER 10-of-11 with the hurler off a quality start.  The Braves, on the other hand, bring RHP Teheran (3-7, 2.72) to the hill a down outing at home against the Marlins being shelled for 11 hits and 5 earned runs.   However, on the road the hurler has a solid 2.10 ERA.  Critical in Teheran's starts this season the Braves have been less than supportive scoring just 2.1 runs per game.  In his 5 road starts the number has come up short, and while the Braves are 8-0 UNDER off a loss.  Finally, the Braves have shot UNDER 4 straight with Teheran off 7 or more days rest.

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4* (905/906) Washington/New York OVER the total @ 7:10 Eastern

Always challenging going into a glaring pitchers’ duel, but the numbers generate some contrasting information.   RHP Strasburg of Washington (11-0, 2.71) has yet to lose on the road with a 5-0 record and a 2.11 ERA, including his recent 6-2/3 innings of work against Cincinnati holding them scoreless with no hits.   Opposing hurler Syndergaard of the Mets (9-3, 2.41) has been solid at home with a 5-1 (2.02) record.  He shows off 7 solid innings against the Cubs surrendering only one run.   However, when looking at the total series between these two, we note Washington with Strasburg has shot OVER in 5 straight, 4-1 OVER when on the road against the Mets.  The Nationals have gone OVER in 8 straight with Strasburg off a quality start.  And, the Mets and Syndergaard have gone OVER in 5 straight games and 7 straight OVER calls versus a >.500 unit. In runs the Nationals are averaging 5 runs per game last five games, while the Mets are averaging 6+ runs last five…OVER!

5* TB/LAA UNDER 9

Tonight down in Florida we are looking to buck the current form of the Angels and Rays hurlers Weaver (6-7, 5.51) and Smyly (2-9, 5.33).  As you know both have the potential to throw a shutout when in exacting form. Yesterday, the Angels smashed the Rays 13-5 scoring 6 runs in the top of the 9th to add insult to injury.  In his last outing against the Rays, RHP Weaver of LAA threw 6 scoreless innings striking out 5 without a walk.  He has a life time 5-5 record with a 3.64 ERA against Tampa Bay.  The Angels come in 5-1 UNDER L6 versus a losing unit and 8-3-1 UNDER against port side hurlers.  Tampa Bay's Smyly has not won in his last 8 starts and has a 0-2 mark with a 4.15 ERA versus LAA. Smyly has not faced the Angels in 2 years which should help his chances here. The Rays show 20-9-1 UNDER against RHP and 5-1 UNDER against the AL West.  We close with Tama Bay 5-1 UNDER at home when challenging a losing unit.

5* (979/980) Baltimore/LA Dodgers UNDER 7-1/2

The Orioles continued on a hitting streak last night, but came up short in another road test at Los Angeles.  From the hitting standpoint, though, having the Birds playing out of Camden Yards can somewhat circumvent their hitting style.  The Orioles come into action 8-3 UNDER L11 versus a hurler with a WHIP of less than 1.15 (Maeda).   Further, they show 28-13-4 UNDER in game #2 of a series with Tillman.  The Dodgers too are a super UNDER squad in game #2 with a perfect 5-0 run.  Besides LA comes 6-1 UNDER versus RHP and 38-13 UNDER after scoring 5 or more runs in their last game...UNDER!

4* Texas/Minnesota (971/972) OVER 8

With the line dropping because of the start being made by Cole Hamels (9-1, 2.60) nof Texas, we will jump in with some solid trends and angles.  No doubt Hamels has been on fire with the Rangers winning 9 straight starts on the road. And, seemingly has won 16-of-18 starts dating back to August 1st 2015.  As a group, however, the hurler is 7-2-1 OVER with the Rangers and 4-0 OVER in Sunday editions.  Additionally, the Rangers have gone OVER 9-of-10 against AL Central.  This season after scoring 5 or more runs, the visitor shows 19-12-1 OVER.  Minnesota uses RHP Gibson (1-5, 5.12) who is trying to straighten out his season with an improved ERA of late, but he has yet to face Texas.  He has given up 26 earned runs in 38-2/3 innings of work, while coming off his best outing of the year at Chicago.  However, Gibson is a horrid 0-3 with a 4.40 ERA at home and the Twins show 22-6-1 OVER at home.  Besides, Minny is a super 6-1 OVER against >.500 road units. In closing, we expect higher scoring game than the projected total, because Hamels has not bee raddled of late, and Gibson is not as solid as the CWS performance might indicate.  Minnesota doubles one other time this season, the following game also went HIGH.

3* Cubs/Mets OVER 6-1/2

This is a huge game for the Cubs after being swept (3-0) thus far in New York.  In the last 5 games in the series these two have combined for 44 runs, including the 4-3 win yesterday by the Mets.  New York comes 6-0 OVER when facing a winning unit and 6-0 OVER with RHP Syndergaard.  This helps our cause since the hurler is coming off his worst start of the season versus Washington on the road surrendering 7 hits and 5 earned runs in only 3 innings of work. The Mets are OVER 5-2-1 vs. LHP. Also, remember, Syndergaard has a bone spur in his elbow. Chicago comes into action 6-1-2 OVER overall and 6-1-2 OVER on the road.  Just as critical, the Cubs are 5-1-1 OVER with Lester in road sets and 6-0 versus RHP.  At the current post of 6-1/2, the Cubs have gone OVER 3-of-4 and New York 5-of-8 OVER this season.  Therefore, we are projecting a higher scoring game than the projected line.  Good Luck!

4* (963/964) Cleveland/Toronto OVER the total @ 1:05 Eastern

Friday afternoon the Indians and Blue Jays do battle, Central versus the East in an American League battle.   The Indians on the verge of a record if they can take their 14 straight win here.  When you zero in on the mound opponents Tomlin against Stroman you might try looking at the total as the better proposition.  Granted RHP Tomlin (9-1, 3.32) is 5-0 with a solid 2.76 ERA on the road this season, while coming in off 8 innings at Detroit where he allowed 6 hits and 3 earned runs.  What is vivid about the appearance, Tomlin allowed three solo home runs.  Toronto counters with struggling RHP Stroman (6-4, 5.33) at home where he brings a high ERA 5.90 with a 2-1 record.  Stroman just threw at Chicago where he gave up 4 earned runs and 7 hits in just 5 innings.  Actually, the hurler has thrown 5-of-6 bad outings showing with a 1-3 mark allowing 30 runs? The Blue Jays have gone OVER the total 4 straight at home and 7-0 OVER in game #2 of a series.  Going back to the Indians with Tomlin the Tribe are high on a consistent 19-6-2 run and 6-1 on Friday….OVER!

4* (925/926) Baltimore/San Diego OVER 8-1/2 @ 10:10 Eastern

The Orioles show after a 4-game sweep at home handling Tampa Bay fairly easy.  The have won 5 straight games.  San Diego returns home off a road trip losing at Cincinnati last night 3-0.  Baltimore comes in 14-17 on the road, the Padres 18-22 at home.  The Orioles lead the majors in home runs with 120 and continue to be in the top ten hitting wise with a TBA of .271.  Baltimore’s starters from the effectiveness standpoint have been inconsistent with a TERA of .418.  However, the Birds do have a solid pen.  San Diego is hitting .242 as a team which is in the bottom ten of baseball, and carry a soaring TERA of 4.47.  In the scoring category Baltimore has a net +43 run advantage over San Diego in the core home vs. road differentials.  The O’s are 7-1 OVER with Jimenez and 6-1 OVER in game #1 of a series.  In his last outing against the Padres in Baltimore, the hurler threw 6 innings giving 4 hits with 2 earned runs after being bombed in a prior start.  The right hander has a 12.46 ERA last three starts and is 0-5 with a 10.13 ERA on the road in 2016.  For the Padres young Johnson (0-3, 9.82) authors his 4th start, but he has allowed 5 or more runs in each encounter.  He gave up 6 earned runs at Baltimore with 9 hits in 4 innings of work.  Finally, the Birds are 6-1 OVER against RHP and 4-1 OVER in interleague play against right side hurlers.  They field tonight 23-8-2 OVER versus the NLW.  By the way, the Padres scored just three runs the last two games in Cincinnati after knocking out 45 runs in the prior six (7.5) games.  We’re looking for a productive scoring outing for San Diego considering Jimenez/Baltimore are 0-6 his road tests recently…OVER!

957/958
4* Phillies/Arizona OVER the total
Not often are the Phillies in an OVER equation with their inconsistent hitting.  Still, this is a great "spot" with RHP Velasquez coming off a bicep injury to his right arm, while Arizona's lefty Ray enters after a solid 10-2 win in Philly recently. The series overall goes 4-1-1 OVER L6 battles.  Phillies show 6-1 OVER in road outings with the Snakes OVER in 4 straight games.  In addition, we find Philadelphia 16-5 OVER on grass, 6-1 OVER on the road with Velasquez.  We finish with the Phillies a perfect 7-0 OVER after scoring 5 or more runs in their last game.  Arizona completes the trend board with a 5-0 OVER in game #1 of a series 9-2 OVER in Monday games. Remember, RHP Velasquez is coming off that injury, and the Phillies will be aggressive versus Ray, especially with Joseph in the lineup...OVER!

5* (957/958) Mets/Washington OVER the total
Both hurlers have thrown well this season Syndergaard (8-2, 2.08) has a super 2.66 ERA over his three most recent starts, while Ross (6-4, 3.11) of Washington has a decent 3.72 ERA in the same time span.  However, this hotly contested series featuring solid staffs has shot OVER 8-1-1 last 10 in Washington. And, the Nationals come in with a critical 6-0 OVER mark off a road trip of 7+ days and 4-0 OVER versus the NLE. Against right handed throwers Washington completes 5-1 OVER.   With Syndergaard the Mets have gone OVER 11-2-1 in game #1 of a series, and 5-0 OVER when playing on grass...OVER!

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5* LAA/Oakland Over the total
The visiting Angels comeback on Sunday in Oakland losers of 6 straight games, while Oakland shows winning 3 straight but, still suffering on the road with a 16-20 record.  The Angels use Santiago (4-4, 4.99) who has a 2-2 record at home with an inflated 6.55 ERA. Oakland brings RHP Gray (3-6, 5.20), but overall the youngster has been inconsistent despite a recent 6 innings allowing only 1 earned run.  The A's have shot OVER 4 straight with Gray off a quality start and 7-2 OVER in his road outings. Los Angeles who are 15-23 at home goes to the field with a myriad of totals strengths, including 6-0 OVER with Santiago versus a losing road unit and 5-0 OVER challenging RHP.   In closing with the Angels 5-0 OVER with Santiago at home, and the overall series 6-0-1 OVER at Los Angeles, Go OVER the total.

4* STL/Texas OVER 8-1/2

In the series both games have garnished lower scores than expected.  But, today with lefty Perez (6-4, 3.38) and Leake ((5-4, 4.08) on the hill the math card should go high.  The last four games in the series have produced just 17 runs.  So, we fully expect the current 4-0 OVER trend to go by the way side this afternoon.  On a combined basis the OVER 75-58-3.  Behind RHP Leake the Cardinals have gone OVER 8-of-10. And, STL is 12-3-1 OVER in game #3 of the series.  Texas comes  9-3 OVER in game #3 and 9-4 OVERALL on the road.  We expect the Cardinals to be successful against lefty Perez of Texas as they bring a 0-5 road mark in his starts...OVER.

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5* Baltimore/Toronto (915/916) OVER the total

The Orioles and Blue Jays fostered another high scoring game last night down in Camden Yards in the first game of an important American League contest.  With Saunders going off and the Birds staff faltering Toronto won 13-3 climbing to a game from first place in the division.  This time around the Blue Jays use RHP Dickey a longtime knuckleballer who shows of a loss to the “Phillies.”  He has thrown in 14 starts, but the legend indicates just 6 were quality outings.  Toronto has scored 10 or more runs in 5 of 7 games, but they have a losing 4-10 record when Dickey takes the hill.   They have been OVER the total in 5 of 6 games, 6-1 OVER with Dickey in Saturday editions.  And, 17-5-4 OVER in Dickey’s game #2 starts.  Baltimore brings back RHP Gallardo who had been on the DL with bicep issues. He has a 3-0 life time mark versus Toronto.  But note, this is the first start for the veteran in 8 weeks.  So, I would not expect perfection Saturday.  The Orioles are 6-1 against RHP (11-2-1) and come in 8-2 OVER Saturday’s.  With Baltimore 17-5-2 OVER at home versus .500+ teams…GO OVER!

3* Boston (Porcello)/Seattle (Sampson) OVER the total

Our Appreciation move on Saturday comes with the Seattle hurler Adrian Sampson making his major league debut.   At Tacoma AAA the youngster went 7-4 with a 3.25 ERA.  The Sox use ace RHP Porcello (7-2, 3.81) who has been majestic at home this season with a 5-0 record and a solid 3.03 ERA.  Last night the Mariners took out Boston big time 8-4.  The Red Sox lead Baseball scoring 382 runs coming into action. With hurler Porcello Boston is 6-0-2 OVER on Saturday and 5-0-1 OVER in game #2.  The Sox have gone OVER in the last 4 starts by Porcello.  The Mariners left handed hitters have been dangerous for Porcello as they are hitting .353 from port side.   Seattle has strong numbers on the road 5-1 OVER vs. RHP.  In addition, the Mariners have scored well overall on the road taking 7-of-9 OVERS to the bank.  The series have been an OVER play going 16-4-1.

4* Baltimore/Toronto OVER 9

In their recent series in Canada the Orioles and Blue Jays posted 54 runs in their 4 game set.  Three of the games illustrated double-digits.  We know with RHP Sanchez (6-1, 3.38) on the road Toronto seems to be more subdued offensively along with the opposition.  But, the Blue Jays are red hot as a unit going back to earlier May with a .750 winning mark by scoring runs to support their staff.  They are 5-0-1 OVER the total when facing right handed hurlers and 7-1 OVER after a win.  Baltimore comes in off winning the Boston series after playing the Jays on the road. On the hill, is RHP Wright (3-3, 5.31) who has been wacked around with a 6.14 ERA last three starts.  Consequently, Baltimore is 6-1 OVER with Wright and 11-2-1 OVER versus RHP....OVER.

Play on: 4* (961/962) Cincinnati/Atlanta UNDER the total

Formerly injured RHP DeSclafani for Cincinnati gets the call tonight against the Braves.  He is coming off six innings of work versus Oakland surrendering 8 hits and 1 run (1.50).  In the past when challenging (2015) Atlanta he has fallen into some tough luck with 11 innings and 7 earned runs. No matter, Cincinnati is 4-0 UNDER with DeSclafani when the opponent scores 2 or less runs in their last game. The Reds as a unit are UNDER 5-of-6 versus RHP and 6-2 UNDER with DeSclafani.   His risk against the Braves this time out has been minimized with their #30 rank carrying a .230 TBA.  They have a meager .320 slugging mark.  Atlanta is 9-2-2 UNDER vs.

951/952
4* San Diego/Miami OVER 8-1/2Always difficult going OVER with a team like San Diego possessing a .236 TBA.  Visiting ranks in the first six in baseball with a .269 average.  They have scored 19 runs in the first two games of the series.  Now here comes Nicolino (Miami) and Perdomo (San Diego) as mound opponents this afternoon bringing ERAs of 4.76 and 9.50 with each being bombed last time out.  Further, the series has shot OVER 4-of-5, while SD is OVER 5-of-6 versus >.500 units.  Miami is 6-1 OVER with Nicolino on grass and overall 35-16-3 OVER versus .

961/962
4* Detroit/Chicago OVER the total
We have Boyd and Shields going this evening out in Chicago (31-32). The dominating series winner of late has been Detroit  (32-30) taking 4 straight games.  But, they use veteran RHP Shields (2-8, 5.06) who mounds after a 2 inning stint surrendering 8 hits and 7 earned runs. The Tigers bring lefty Boyd (0-1, 3.38) who yet to throw a quality start, and a 10.17 ERA in road sets. By the way, Detroit is 0-6 with Boyd on the hill.  Detroit averaged 5 runs the last two games in the recent New York series.  With Boyd the Tigers are 5-2-1 OVER.  In addition, the Detroit lineup is 10-4-1 OVER in game #1 and are rated #6 in baseball with a BA of .268 and OPS of .797.  Chicago started to really hit the baseball in early June but, has faded recently. The White Sox are hitting .241 on the season with an OPS of .637.  They were 6-3 OVER prior to their last two games. And, come 5-1 OVER in game #1 of a series...OVER!

952
5* Washington/Philly UNDER 8
Like the early line move up as the public is backing Roark's negative outing last time out. However, the Nationals are 5-0 UNDER with the hurler after their opponent allowed 5 or more runs, and 18-6-2 UNDER versus the NLE.  In day games this season Roark has a 2.33 ERA.  Philadelphia comes with RHP Nola who has a 6-1, 2.72 ERA on the road, 3-0 and a 1.58 ERA in 2016.  He has thrown 9 straight quality starts with a 1.68 ERA.  Philly is 21-6 UNDER game #2 and 7-1 UNDER game #2 with Nola...UNDER.

4* Philly/Washington OVER 7

Hellickson and Strasburg on the hill and one might expect a low scoring game based on series numbers.  However, RHP Strasburg left his last out (6/4) with a calf injury which is not good considering his position.  In addition, the hurler in 5 inning last time out surrendered 4 hits and 3 runs.  Hurler Hellickson of the Phillies has pitched decently on the road this season, 2-2 with a 3.47 ERA.  Still, prefer this encounter OVER considering the Nationals are 10-2 OVER with Strasburg and 4-0 OVER off a loss.  Philadelphia shows 4-1 OVER L5 vs. RHP and 5-1 OVER last six times out.  Good Luck!

903/904
5* Milwaukee/Philly UNDER the total @ 3:05 Eastern
The Brewers lost 6-3 to the Phillies last night moving them deeper into the whole (14 GB) in the NL Central behind euphoric Cubs. Philadelphia scored 6 runs last night, an anomaly of sorts for the low rent hitting NL East unit. Overall this series has shot OVER 14-3-1, but 5-of-the-last 8 games have been UNDER.  Phillies come in a perfect 5-0 UNDER on Saturday, 11-3-1 UNDER home vs. a losing unit and use hot RHP Hellickson.  The youngster has thrown 27 innings allowing just 6 earned runs and comes off a 3-hitter.  RHP Guerra of Milwaukee has never faced the Phillies, but should do quite well.  He has thrown 3 quality starts this season, despite being a little nicked last time vs. STL.  The Brewers are 4-0 UNDER with Guerra and 4-1 UNDER in road games.  With balls and strikes umpire Bucknor the Brewers come in 5-1 UNDER in Saturday editions...UNDER!

5* MINNESOTA/Oakland OVER 8-1/2

This series has climbed OVER of late at 14-6.  Now you have both clubs improving and the Twins finally starting to hit despite 15-34 record.  No doubt hurler Santana has some decent numbers against the ALW, but Oakland has gone OVER 10-3 vs. a pitcher with a +1.30 WHIP.   Oakland helps us out with RHP Graveman (1-6, 5.36) as the Twins are OVER 5-1 with the hurler off a loss. Remember too, Minnesota is 10-2 OVER after a win...OVER!

5* (907/908) San Diego/Milwaukee OVER the total @ 8:10 Eastern

MLB TOTAL OF THE DAY...BDS

First off, we have starters Cashner (San Diego)/Guerra (Milwaukee) suffering with 6+ ERA's L3 times out.  Although their units have been winning behind the mounds men runs have been in excess of the populace norm.  Now umpire Diaz is calling balls and strikes showing 7-1 vs. San Diego, and the Brewers going OVER 4 straight vs. LHP and 7-1-1 OVER at home. So, you have a pretty solid indication of the group runs total being in excess of the stated value. Remember the Brewers did not score a run last night.  Finally, the visiting Padres show 12-5-1 OVER vs. NLC.  GO OVER!

4* (926) San Francisco UNDER the total @ 10:15 Eastern

Both clubs have struggled in the early going Toronto 16-17, the Giants 17-16 each showing off a loss Sunday.  The Giants seem to have bigger headaches with the back end of their staff as veteran Jack Peavy (1-3, 9.00) has been shattered in the early going however, he did put together 8 strikeouts vs. Cincinnati last time which has improved his confidences.  This is an interleague game and the Giants have won 6-of-8 here in the series.  In addition, the series has shot UNDER 4-of-5 in San Francisco.  With RHP Sanchez (2-1, 2.82) hitting the bump the Blue Jays show 5-0 UNDER and 7-0 UNDER on the road vs. winning home unit.  Also, the Jays have been UNDER vs. RHP.  Remember too, Jake Peavy (3.64) is 3-2 in his career vs. Toronto and 23-13 (2.97) overall in interleague Baseball.  OVERALL the Giants are 4-0 UNDER in Interleague play and 10-2-2 UNDER vs. American League East…UNDER!

4* (955/956) Milwaukee/Cincinnati OVER 8-1/2

This selection is based on Peralta being subtracted for Milwaukee and Cravy inserted as the mound leader.  Overall both clubs have been OVER consistently this season, Milwaukee 19-7 and Cincinnati 17-10 as their relief staffs have generated little relief for their starters as the combined TERA's of 5.69 and 5.34 indicate.  They are ranked 29th and 30th, last and next to last with the Brewers unit showing a massive 1.70 WHIP.  Out of the two, the Reds are showing a little stronger now winning back-to-back games, including a 9-5 slugfest vs. the Milwaukee last night.  We note, the Brewers are a smashing 12-1 OVER off a loss and 6-1 L7 OVER.  Cincinnati is 6-1 OVER vs. RHP and 5-0 OVER on Friday.  Over the last 5 games Cincinnati is averaging 5.8 runs per game and Milwaukee 7.0 runs.  I like to look at the latest numbers (5) qualifying those teams who have faced three different opponents in that trend. Good Luck!

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5* (979/980) TB/LA Dodgers UNDER the total @ 7:10 Eastern

Since this is an interleague encounter, we can tell you the Dodgers are 8-3 UNDER and home standing Rays 15-6-2 UNDER against LHP. Both starters Wood (1-2, 4.82) for the Dodgers and Smyly (1-3, 2.60) from Tampa Bay are port side hurlers.  Going back the Dodgers won last night scoring an anomaly 10 runs on the road.  That equaled the amount of runs scored by LA in the previous 6 games.  For the Rays starter LHP Smyly, this is a critical game after achieving an 0-3 record with a 4.12 this season at home.   Tampa Bay lefty Wood (1-2, 4.82) looks to replicate his most recent and best start picking up 7 innings of work allowing just 1 run garnering 9 strikeouts.  Wood’s initial start against Tampa Bay, but the hurler is 3-4 with a 2.24 ERA against the American League.  Trends have the Rays 13-2-1 UNDER on turf and 4-0 UNDER vs. >.500 squad.  With Smyly the rays 7-2-1 UNDER L10 times out…GO UNDER!

3* (977/978) Washington/KC UNDER 7-1/2

KC broke out the bats late last night in a come from behind 7-6 win over Washington.  Still, they must now face RHP Strasburg of Washington off that night game in the day light.  Looking back Strasburg is on a 12-2 run with a miniscule 1.91 ERA, 40 strikeouts and 8 walks.  The SO issue has us noting less base runners and scoring opportunities for the challengers.  He did have one outing vs. KC which an inconsistent set for the righty.  Washington comes 9-2 UNDER off a loss and 6-1-1 UNDER in game #3 of a series, 5-2 UNDER off a loss.  With Strasburg the Nats have been huge 8-1 UNDER on the road.  KC uses RHP Medlen the former Atlanta hurler who booked his best effort in 2016 last time out with 5-1/3 innings of work losing to Seattle 1-0 allowing only one run.  He is 3-3 with a 2.42 ERA career record against Washington.  KC in 2016 is 8-1-2 UNDER off a win.  We close with the celebrating Royals 10-1 UNDER in game #3 and 8-1 UNDER after the opponent scored 5 or more runs in their last game...LOW!

4* (953/954) PITTSBURGH (NICASIO)/CUBS (LESTER) UNDER 7-1/2

PIRATES UNDER 4-of-the-last-5 versus LHP.  In addition, we find super numbers w/LHP Lester on the hill for the Cubbies going 13-2-2 UNDER >.500 units and a majestic 11-2-2 UNDER with 4 days of rest.  With umpire Nelson calling balls and strikes we catch 5-0-1 UNDER Wednesday games and 6-1-1 UNDER all with Pittsburgh involved. Realize the Cubs have been going OVER on the road recently, and the Pirates overall have been a solid OVER unit in 2016.  But, hurling battle gives us a major edge for UNDER players within the day edition.

4* PHILLIES/STL OVER 7

Might see a move up to 7-1/2, so looking to accrue some value and a rebound for the Phillies inconsistent attack.  Nola has been lights out for Philly, but caution always surfaces when Philadelphia plays at Busch as I can recall some of the horrible experiences for the visitor over the decades.  As a gut check, know the Phillies for some reason, score more effectively in Tuesday games going 18-6-3 OVER and 3-1-1 OVER this season off a loss.  The series has shot OVER 3-0-1 in St. Louis, while the Cardinals bring and 11-2 OVER mark with Wacha on grass surfaces...HIGH! 

5* (915/916) BALTIMORE/NYY UNDER 8

Overcast thus far down in Baltimore on Tuesday.  In the ALE war at Camden Yards both clubs have been slipping lately, New York losers of 5 straight, the Orioles have lost back-to-back games.  Now key shortstop J. J. Hardy has been injured and put on the DL.  The Yankees will use young and talented RHP Severino (0-3, 6.86) who was shelled (Texas) last time out, but is extremely talented and should rebound with a super effort against the Yankees hated rival.  Severino was 5-3 with a 2.89 ERA last year.  The Orioles use RHP Tillman (2-1, 3.24) who has been fairly consistent in the early going, and with Tillman in game #1 of a series the O's show 9-1 UNDER.  Further, the Birds are 7-0 UNDER w/Tillman vs. the ALE.  The Yankees seemingly start slow this season in game #1 at 5-0-2 UNDER.  In addition, New York with Severino are 4-0 UNDER after scoring 5 or more runs in their last game...GO UNDER!

5* (970) KC UNDER the total of 7-1/2

KC (Volquez 3-1, 3.34) vs. Washington (Gonzalez 1-1, 1.52) @ 8:15 Eastern

MLB TOTAL OF THE DAY...BDS

Tough spot for KC after faltering over the last week and showing just 13-11.  These are the CHAMPS hitting just .254 and it has cost dearly along with some salty starts by known commodities, Volquez included.  Here from the side standpoint actually lean to Washington because of the edge manager Baker brings after managing Volquez in Cincinnati few years back.  From the total perspective the series has gone OVER 3-0-1.  However, with each off a weekend series and looking to tie down loose ends imagine the first five innings or so to be get acquainted action with the hurlers dominating.  Remember Volzuez has been successful against power entrants Harper and Werth.  He has a 2-2 career mark (4.68), but overall has been super at home 2-0 (0.96) with a 1.02 WHIP last season.  He has a 3.34 ERA life time vs. the NLE.  Techs have KC 10-2-1 UNDER game #1, 9-2 UNDER @ home and 7-1 UNDER after the opposition scored 5 or more runs.  Washington is 3-0-3 UNDER after scoring 5 or more and 5-1 UNDER with Gonzalez off a quality start...LOW!

4* Atlanta/New York OVER 7

MLB KEY BEST BET TOTAL...BDS

Braves (6-18) looked much better checking in with a road get away win over the Cubs, while the Mets (15-8) lost a 6-1 decision to Bumgarner and the Giants.  Still, their faulty 4.90 TERA helps us conclude an OVER here with hurler Foltynewicz bringing a 4-1 OVER mark in his last five starts vs. winning unit.  In addition, the Braves are 18-6-2 OVER in road sets.  With NY going OVER in 5 straight with veteran RHP Colon...GO HIGH!

5* SEATTLE/KC (926/925) UNDER 7-1/2

The Royals come in losers of 5 straight, while playing 13-of-16 games on the road to start the season, while carrying a 12-11 record, 4-8 A.  Seattle jumps in with a 13-10 mark winners of back-to-back games vs. KC with a 5-6 home mark thus far.  Newly acquired RHP Kennedy (2-2, 2.77) goes for KC on Sunday.  The hurler is off six rough innings vs. struggling LAA allowing 5 runs and 2 home runs in 6 innings.  He has an 0-2 record vs. Seattle 5.59 ERA life time.  Seattle brings RHP Walker (2-0, 1.44), who has surprised in the early going, off a monster 7 innings of work against the Astros giving up just one earned run, while cutting 11 SO.  At this point in the season, this is a more critical game for KC with the losing streak and a get away game before playing (again!) tomorrow at home vs. Washington in an interleague series.  So, fully expect Kennedy to be on a short call, if his control is up again like against the Angels.  Remember too, the Royals have yet to win on the west coast (LAA/Seattle).  The series has shot UNDER 7-2-2. KC (.252) has been UNDER in 8 straight, game #3 and 5-1 UNDER off a loss.  Seattle has been UNDER 5-1 on Sunday and 5-1 UNDER overall at home with umpire Reyburn calling balls strikes...With all considered this should be an UNDER.

4* ChiSox/Baltimore UNDER 8-1/2

The number pushed last night with these two AL combatants.   Now we set up with the similar 8-1/2 on the board, and two stellar hurlers doing business.  In the series, the O's and Sox have been fairly consistent UNDER play...14-6-2.  For Chicago, and restructured RHP Matt Latos the going has been great early as the hurler is 4-0 with a nice 0.74 ERA.  In Bird Land RHP Gausman (0-1, 1.80) has been consistent with prior year outings.  Plus, the O's have shot UNDER 7 straight vs. RHP and 4-0 UNDER after they scored 5 or more runs in their last game.  Currently the Birds are 7-1-2 UNDER at home.  ChiSox come in 7-0-1 UNDER game #3 and 4-0 UNDER off a loss. Critical, the Sox check in tonight 4-0 UNDER w/Matt Latos on the hill...LOW!

5* (969/970) TB/Toronto UNDER 7-1/2

J. A. HAPP the veteran lefty of Toronto is in a groove this early season with a 3-0 mark backed by a 2.42 ERA.  His latest win was on Saturday in a 9-3 decision over Oakland..7H 3ER.  We know has an 86.1% LOB rating indicative of his ability to strand runners.  He has a 5-4 (3.28) record vs. Toronto.  RHP Archer of Blue Jays, who we used last time out, reversed his hard luck, cracking a 10-game starters call without a "W."  He threw 6-2/3s with 0ER and 10 KKs. In Archer's 13-of-16 starts vs. Toronto, the hurler has held the offensive unit to 2 or less runs.  Believe we'll see another low scoring game with the Jays hitting .233 and TB .222 on the season.  Finally, with Toronto 7-0 UNDER vs. RHP, TB 11-1 UNDER on turf and the series 3-0-1 UNDER in Florida...GO LOW! 

914
5* LA DODGERS UNDER the total (w/San Diego)
MLB TOTAL OF THE DAY
BDS...San Diego uses Caesar Vargas (0-0, 1.80) who pitched well in his initial major league start going 5 innings allowing just one run.  Although, we fully expect the Padres to go into their bullpen during this west coast battle. San Diego is 6-2 UNDER on the road this season. Alex Wood goes for the Dodgers, and this former Atlanta Braves lefty has had control problems on the road with an inflated ERA.  At home, in his only start in LA, the hurler threw well against these same Padres 7 IP allowing only 5 hits.  This week he has worked on his release which we project will help the Dodgers chances of winning tonight.  But, more important LA is 7-2-1 UNDER off a loss and 5-0-1 UNDER after allowing 5 or more runs in their last game. And, 9-3-3 UNDER vs. a

4* (915/916) Baltimore/Tampa Bay UNDER 7-1/2

The Orioles are coming off a tough road loss to KC, and a challenging series in KC.  Now they continue their road swing down in the Florida this evening.  The Rays come off a huge win over the Yankees in Yankee Stadium and should be, somewhat, slow out of the gate after traveling overnight to their home environment.  Tampa Bay comes in 4-1 UNDER vs. RHP and in game #1 of a series. And, 9-1-2 UNDER after scoring 5 or more runs in their last game.  Baltimore shows 6-0-1 UNDER vs. a