Seattle at Houston 8:10 ET

Astros over Mariners- The Houston Astros are the hottest team in baseball having won their last six games and 10 of 11 and are off an 8-1 road trip. Two weeks ago the Astros couldn't buy a hit and have now averaged 8.5 runs in their six game winning streak. Scott Feldman started the season slowly but is seeking his third consecutive victory and is 5-6 with a 4.34 ERA against Seattle. Mariners starter James Paxton (0-2, 6.86 ERA) is winless in four starts and has allowed four homers in less than 20 innings. Last year's NL battling leader Jose Altuve has seven straight games with two hits or more with eight RBI's. Take the hot hitting ASTROS!  

Detroit at Kansas City 8:10 ET

Royals over Tigers- This is a difficult game to provide analysis for if you support the Kansas City Royals. To start with although Kansas City made it to the World Series and took it to seven games they lost13 of 19 match-up to the Tigers last season. Detroit overcame a four run deficit yesterday agains the Twins and are 12-3 against division opponents and have Alfredo Simon (4-0, 1.65 ERA) who is 24-11 with a 2.95 ERA in his career before the All-Star break and is 3-1 in five career appearances against the Royals. Danny Duffy (1-0, 4.15) is 1-6 in nine career starts against Detroit and yet is favored here. Take KANSAS CITY!  

Washington at New York Mets 7:10 ET

Mets over Nationals- The Mets are a perfect 10-0 at home and are off a 2-4 road trip losing both series to the Yankees and Marlins 2-1. Washington after a six game slide in which the scored only 14 runs have totaled 13 in each of their last two games. The Nationals will be starting former phenom Steven Strasburg (1-2, 4.88 ERA) who has yet to regain his former status while New York will start last year's NL Rookie of the Year Jacob deGrom (2-2, 2.96) who is off his worst outing in two years against the Yankees Friday night. Washington bats came to life two days ago but deGrom has enough stuff to cool them off. Take the METS!

N.Y. Mets at Miami 7:10 ET

Marlins over Mets- The first place New York Mets with the best record in Baseball will try and avoid their second straight series loss in this 'rubber' game in Miami. The Marlins after a horrible start defeated New York for the first time in six tries Tuesday and have won six of their last seven. Matt Latos (0-3, 7.31 ERA) was terrible in his opening start allowing surrendering seven runs while getting only two outs but has bounced back be it without a win allowing only two runs in his last three starts. Latos has a career ERA of 2.63 ERA in nine career starts against New York. Take MIAMI!

Washington at Atlanta 7:10 ET

Nationals over Braves- The Nationals finally scored some runs as the ended their six game losing streak Tuesday with a 13-12 win over coming an eight run deficit. Washington has scored just 14 runs during their six game losing streak as three different players hit their first home runs of the season. Atlanta is have troubles of their own as they have dropped six of their last eight with of course scoring runs being their problem. Jordan Zimmerman (1-2, 5.23 ERA) got off to a slow start but had a decent outing against the Marlins last time out going six innings giving up two runs without walking a batter. He is 4-2 with a 2.93 ERA in 10 career starts against the Braves. Wake WASHINGTON!

Kansas City at Cleveland 6:10 ET

Indians over Royals- Cleveland dropped to 1-6 at home as they have lost four straight scoring just 14 runs. Yordano Ventura (2-1, 4.09 ERA) is getting the start because he is appealing his seven game after the hot tempered Dominican has been throw out of each of his last to starts. This time he will be out early once again as the Indians take advantage of his surrendering seven runs in his last 10 innings. Danny Salazar (2-0, 2.08) has been fantastic allowing just three runs while striking out 21 in 13 innings. Take CLEVELAND!  

Detroit at Minnesota 1:10 ET

Twins over Tigers- Shane Greene (3-1, 3.00 ERA) who was the New York Yankees best pitcher the second half of the season last year started out the same way giving up just one earned run in his first three starts covering 23 innings. But, after the Indians scored eight runs in four innings Friday his ERA soared from 0.39 to 3.00. Minnesota will be starting last years' ace Phil Hughes (0-4, 4.39) who has received virtually no run suppose this season as the Twins have totaled four runs in his four starts. Look for that to turn this after noon as the Twins who have won 3-of-4 get it done. Take MINNESOTA!  

L.A. Angels at Oakland 10:05 ET

A's over Angels- These two aces when head-to head last Wednesday as Jered Weaver (0-2, 5.24 ERA) had a no-decision is the 9-2 loss to Oakland as Sonny Gray (2-0, 1.91 ERA) picked up the victory. Weaver allowed one runs in six innings in that start and is 13-9 with a 2.46 ERA in 31 career starts against the A's while Gray is 3-1 with a 2.45 ERA in seven starts against the Angels. Weaver has struggled so far this season with an ERA over five while Gray has a near no-hitter and a WHIP of 0.88. Look for Oakland to get rid of Weaver early. Take the A'S!

Pittsburgh at Chicago 8:05 ET

Cubs over Pirates- This looks like a different Cubs team since Kris Bryant joined the team and was added to the line-up. Chicago's Travis Wood (1-1, 3.24 EAR) will be making his second straight start against the Pirates after a no-decision last Tuesday allowing three runs in five innings and he is 5-7 with a 4.35 ERA lifetime against Pittsburgh. The Pirates have won all this of Jeff Locke's (2-0, 3.32 ERA) starts and he is 1-1 with a 4.32 ERA in six career starts against Chicago. The Cubs are a much better team then in recent campaigns and take down the Pirates once again. Take CHICAGO!  

N.Y. Mets at Miami 7:10 ET

Marlins over Mets- The first place Mets pulled one off in the ninth Monday and have now won 13 of their last 15 while the Marlins five-game win streak was snapped by another great New York pitching performance. Their are some trends that the Mets don't want to acknowledge but they must be considered, first they are 8-17 in their last 25 as underdogs of +110-+150 and they are 0-6 as a dog in Rafael Montero (0-1, 4.15 ERA) starts. Miami has won five of their last six and take advantage of the rookie tonight. Take the MARLINS!

Pittsburgh at Chicago 8:05 ET

Cubs over Pirates- The Pirates and Cubs who have played four times in the last seven days face off with winning streak as Pittsburgh winners of five in-a-row started theirs against Chicago and the Cubs have won their last two. The Buc's Vance Worley (2-1, 4.00 ERA) who is 3-0 with a 1.97 ERA in five career starts against Chicago tries to win for the second time in a week against the Cubs. Chicago will send Jason Hammel (1-1, 5.19) who has struggled but he is 4-1 with a 2.75 ERA in eight career starts at Wrigley Field. The young and spirited Cubs get the win here. Take CHICAGO!

New York Mets at Miami 7:10 ET

Marlins over Mets- The Mets have returned to earth after their 11-game win streak by the Yankees who took 2-of-3 from them in Yankee Stadium over the weekend. The much improved New Yorkers will invade Miami where the red-hot Marlins with five straight wins try to atone for the four-game sweep at the hand of the Mets in New York 10 days ago. Miami is a completely different team when Giancarlo Stanton is hitting and right now he is on a tear with five homers in his last eight games. The Mets who are 10-0 at home are just 4-5 on the road and eat dirt tonight. Take MIAMI!

Milwaukee at Cincinnati 7:10 ET

Brewers over Reds- The Cincinnati Reds have dropped their last three and four straight at home will be hosting the Milwaukee Brewers who finally put some runs across the plate going 3-10 at home. The Brewers Jimmy Nelson (1-1, 1.35 ERA) had to settle for a no-decision against the Reds last time out yielding just one run on three hits in eight innings. Cincy will start veteran Jason Marquis (1-1, 7.20) will face Milwaukee for a second time and received a win in a game where he game up five runs in five innings and nine hits. He is 7-12 lifetime against the Brewers. This time he won't be so lucky. Take MILWAUKEE!

N.Y. Mets at N.Y. Yankees 8:05 ET

Yankees over Mets- The Mets who bounced back nicely Saturday after the Yankees had snapped their 11-game win streak on Friday with send Jonathon Niese (2-0, 1.50 ERA) to the mound two days after he was thrown out of the game for arguing balls and strikes from the bench. The Mets own the best record in the MLB at 14-4 but will be up against a club that wants to regain the New York headlines as the Mets have stolen the Yankees thunder so far this season. Alex Rodriguez has cooled off after a hot start and is 2-for-18 the last five games. Tonight it's the YANKEES!  

Atlanta at Philadelphia 1:35 ET

Phillies over Braves- The Atlanta Braves who are 3-5 on their current road trip finally score some runs after 20 innings without crossing home plate. Philadelphia probably the NL's worst team has dropped 10 of their last 13 and yet Vegas makes them the favorite here. This afternoon the Braves send Trevor Cahill (0-2, 9.95 ERA) to the hill against Phillies Jerome Williams (1-1, 3.71) who is 1-3 lifetime against Atlanta with an ERA of 5.26. (And yet he is favored?) Cahill is not any better as he is 2-4 with a 3.60 ERA in six career games against Philadelphia. The 'numbers' tell the tale here. Take the PHILLIES!  

Cleveland at Detroit 1:08 ET

Indians over Tigers- The Tigers snapped a four games losing streak with their 4-1 win over the Indians Saturday which was their eight win over the Tribe in their last nine meetings. Miguel Cabrera has terrorized Cleveland going 12-for-19 with two home runs in five games but the Indians have found the answer to that as they walked hime four times on Saturday. Cleveland will counter that with Michael Brantley who is 7-for-8 in the last two games. Carlos Carrasco (2-1, 2.38 ERA) will be the difference today as the 'favored' Indians send their best to the hill. He was struck out 18 batters in 11 1/3 innings this season with a 0.88 WHIP. Take CLEVELAND!

Washington at Miami 4:10 ET

Marlins over Nationals- Washington is expected to run away with the NL East and maybe they will before the season is over but as of right now they are struggling to score runs and it won't get any easier this afternoon. Miami got off to a slow start winning just 3 of their first 14 but have won three straight and finally defeated the Nationals after dropping eight of the past nine meetings. Steven Strasburg (1-1, 4.50 ERA) has not returned to earlier form but was 3-2 with a 2.35 ERA against the Marlins last season despite Giancarlo Stanton going 10-for-28 with three homers. Hard throwing Tom Koehler (1-2, 6.75) was 1-2 with a 2.50 ERA against Washington last year and could have fared better. The Nats are 2-5 on the road and still haven't put things together. Take MIAMI!  

N.Y. Mets at N.Y. Yankees 4:10 ET

Yankees over Mets- The Mets were able to tie their team record for consecutive wins with 11 but weren't able to get by the Yankees last night as the Bronx Bombers crushed the ball like it was old times. This afternoon the upstart Mets send their ace Matt Harvey (3-0, 3.50 ERA) up against veteran C.C. Sabathia (0-3, 4.35) as the Yankees have now won seven of their last eight. Sabathia is 0-3 despite allowing only two runs in his last outing against Detroit and is 3-1 with a 2.14 ERA in five career starts against the Mets. The Yankees are not pleased that the Mets have stolen their New York thunder and look to get back on top in the City once again. Take the YANKEES!

Washington at Miami 7:10 ET

Marlins over Nationals- The Nationals had their way with the Marlins last season winning eight of nine meetings with tonight's starter Jordan Zimmerman (1-2, 6.14 ERA) picking up two of those victories. Miami returns home after a 4-6 10-game road trip but have won their last two as Giancarlo Stanton has picked up the pace with three home runs. Mat Latos (0-3, 10.24) has been pounded in three starts making it past the fourth inning only once but has had success against Washington going 3-2 with a 2.66 ERA in seven career starts. Returning to familiar surrounding the Marlins get off the mark here. Take MIAMI!

Chicago at Cincinnati 7:10 ET

Cubs over Reds- Just over a week ago these two met in Chicago where the Cubs won 2-of-3 as Jon Lester (0-2, 6.89 ERA) had a no decision. Lester the 'high priced' free agent has yet to win for the Cubs and has no lifetime record against the Reds in spite of allowing six runs and 10 hits in six innings. Mike Leake (0-1, 3.92) the 'light fingered' starter for Cincinnati is 8-2 with a 3.15 ERA in 16 career starts against Chicago. It's just time for Lester to post his first win and with rookies Chris Bryant and Addison Russell in the line-up the Cubs have more fire-power at the plate. Take CHICAGO!   

Cleveland at Detroit 7:05 ET

Indians over Tigers- The Tigers who started the season by pounding the baseball have now lost three straight and are hosting the Indians who they swept 3-0 at Progressive Field already this year. Cleveland has lost four of six on the road and play in Detroit where they have lost their last seven appearances. They surrendered 25 runs in their three-game series to the Tigers but that was without Danny Salazar (1-0, 3.00 ERA) taking the hill. Shane Greene (3-0, 0.39) has one career win over the Indians and has been outstanding to date but this time around it's about getting some revenge. Take CLEVELAND!

Kansas City at Chicago White Sox 8:10 ET

White Sox over Royals- The White Sox send out their best tonight as Chris Sale (2-0, 2.25 ERA) takes the mound against the defending AL Champion Kanas City. The Royals will counter with hard throwing Yordano Ventura (2-1, 4.80) who is 2-2 with a 4.67 ERA in six career starts against the White Sox. Sale who was hurt in spring training has 14 strikeouts in 12 innings allowing only nine hits and is 7-8 with a 2.68 ERA lifetime against the Royals. Pale Hose slugger Jose Abreu is hot with three homers and 10 RBI's in his last five games. Take CHICAGO!  

Boston at Tampa Bay 7:10 ET

Rays over Red Sox- The weak hitting Tamp Bay Rays staged a come-back win over Boston last night and now will send their 'best' to the hill against the first place Red Sox. Hard throwing Jake Odorizzi (2-1, 1.74 ERA) will try and lead the Rays to their 10th win in 14 contests against the Sox at Tropicana Field. Clay Buchholz (1-2, 6.06) who is 8-6 with a 2.45 career ERA against Tampa Bay gets the start and has 19 strike outs in 16 innings this season. Odorizzi is looking to bounce back after getting pounded by the Yankees his last time out and he gets the win here. Take TAMPA BAY!

New York Yankees at Detroit 1:05 ET

Yankees over Tigers- 'Break up the Yankees,' after winning their second straight and and five of their last six moving above the .500 mark for the first time this season this bunch of 'has-beens and never was's' have started to produce. Still pitching will be the key to any success that the Yankees might have and this afternoon they will have a rebuilt Masahiro Tanaka (2-1, 3.94 ERA) on the hill against a struggling Anibal Sanchez (1-2, 7.71) who has been pounded in each of his last two starts. Sanchez has already given up five home runs one more then all of last season but brings a 2-1 lifetime record against the Bombers. That won't help this afternoon as New York stays hot. Take the YANKEES!

St. Louis at Washington 7:05 ET

Nationals over Cardinals- It has taken a couple of weeks but the Washington Nationals starting rotation is beginning to show what has been expected of them. Tonight they will send Doug Fister (1-0, 0.69 ERA) to the hill against the John Lackey (1-0, 2.77) who pitched seven scoreless innings against Milwaukee his last time out. Fister has had two starts and has allowed just one earned run in 13 innings with both starts against Philadelphia, he is now 17-6 as a National and is 9-3 with an ERA of 1.97 in 14 starts at Nationals Park. Take WASHINGTON!

Cleveland at Chicago White Sox 8:10 ET

Indians over White Sox- The White Sox 'stole' one last night as they rallied for four runs in the ninth inning to topple the Indiana 4-3 as Cleveland bullpen fell apart when it counter most as Cody Allen surrendered five straight hots and six overall in the inning. Tonight the Indians will give the ball to Carlos Carrasco (1-1, 2.84 ERA) who struck out 10 in 6 1/3 innings of work his last time out and has a WHIP of 0.95. Hector Noesi (0-1, 3.86) who has had control problems ans has a 30% career win record at 12-28. Take CLEVELAND!

Boston at Tampa Bay 7:10 ET

Rays over Red Sox- After having been swept by the New York Yankees at Tropicana Field Tampa Bay is now just 1-5 at home after posting a 36-45 record as hosts last season. Tonight the Rays send their lone starting bright spot in Chris Archer (2-1, 1.37 ERA) who has the best WHIP (0.66) in the majors to the hill. Tampa has won eight off their last 11 against Boston at home and were 7-3 there last season. Wade Miley (0-1, 10.57) has had control problems and will have difficulty once again tonight. Take TAMPA BAY!

San Diego at Colorado 8:40 ET

Rockies over Padres- The Padres have won their last three series and seven of their last 10 while the Rockies who started the season with three straight wins were just swept in three games by the Dodgers. Jorge De La Rosa gets the nod leading the Rockies the past two season's with 30 wins and 17 losses and was 10-2 at home last year. San Diego starter Odrisamer Despaigne was 1-6 on the road last season while De La Rosa is 8-3 lifetime with a 4.41 ERA against San Diego. Take COLORADO!    

Cincinnati at Milwaukee 7:20 ET

Brewers over Reds- The best thing about this contest is that one of these clubs will stop a losing streak as the Reds who started the season with four straight wins have now dropped four in-a-row and seven of their last eight while Milwaukee losers of their last five have lost 10 of 12 on the season. This is the worst start in Brewers franchise history as they have only three home runs on the year and none in their last six games, that will change at home tonight. Look of the Brewers bats to come alive as Braun gets off the mark. Take MILWAUKEE!

Oakland at Kansas City 2:10 ET

A's over Royals- There have been more then just fireworks between these two rivals in the first two games of this three game set. A hard slide and a retaliation (hit batter) have high-lighted or low-lighted the first two games split by these two clubs. In today's 'rubber match' Scott Kazmir (2-0, 0.69 ERA) gets the start for Oakland while Kansas City will counter with Danny Duffy (1-0, 6.35). In 13 innings thus far Kazmir has only allowed one run on a home run while striking out 18 and allowing just four hits. Duffy is 4-12 with a 4.20 ERA at home in his last 30 appearances. Take OAKLAND!

L.A. Angels at Houston 2:10 ET

Angels over Astros- I made myself a promise on Monday night after watch Scott Feldman pitching for the Astros get just hammered by the Oakland A's in Houston that I would play against this guy until he proves to me that he can get major leaguers out. It was like batting practice as as he surrendered eight runs on 10 hits while giving up three homers against the A's. He is 5-8 with a 4.80 ERA lifetime against Los Angeles and I just don't think Houston can score enough runs to keep this one close. Garrett Richards (13-4, 2.61) went 3-1 against Houston last year and gets the win here. Take the ANGELS!

Atlanta at Toronto 1:07 ET

Blue Jays over Braves- The Toronto Blue Jays have played in two of the strangest games of the season against Atlanta as they lost a game in which they hit five home runs and won a game in which they hit into five double plays. Daniel Norris (1-0, 4.22 ERA) notched his first major league win over the Yankees in his first start and will be facing Atlanta's Shelby Miller (1-0, 0.90) who is 1-0 against the Blue Jays while pitching for St. Louis. The Braves are 1-4 in their last five inter-league games and fall once again. Take TORONTO!

New York Yankees at Tampa Bay 7:10 ET

Yankees over Rays- It seem a bit ironic to me after all these years with the Yankees being the AL powerhouse and heavy favorites that this season a year where they are obviously down that I find myself posting them more often. (Already 3-1 with them) Their aging line-up is punchless except for an Alex Rodriguez who they have been trying to remove from their squad since early spring training. One thing the Yankees do have is front line starting pitching and tonight Masahiro Tanaka (1-1, 7.00) who has not regained his previous form gets the nod. Take NEW YORK!   

L.A. Angles at Houston 7:10 ET

Astros over Angels- The strangest thing I have seen this season is the Astros coming up favorites a number of time and 'we' got caught with them last night. The Angels will start C.J. Wilson (1-1, 3.95 ERA) who was rocked in four of his five starts against Houston last season going 2-2 with a 7.33 ERA meanwhile Houston will start Dallas Keuchel (1-0, 1.29 ERA) who is 4-1 in seven starts against Los Angeles. Take ASTROS!   

Cleveland at Minnesota 2:10 ET

Twins over Indians- The Minnesota Twins who opened the season with six losses in their first seven ball games are seeking their fourth straight win this afternoon and have their ace winless Phil Hughes (0-2, 5.25 ERA) on the mound. The Twins have scored a total two runs in Hughes two starts but he is 4-1 with a career ERA of 2.80 in seven starts against the Indians. Cleveland will start Danny Salazer called up from Triple-A who gave up 22 hits in 21 innings to the Twins last season. Take MINNESOTA!

L.A. Angles at Houston 8:10 ET

Astros over Angels- The Houston Astros pathetic offense has received a boost as Jose Altuve is now riding a six-game hitting streak s he goes against (not personally) Mike Trout who has a nine-game hitting streak of his own. The Angles will start Jered Weaver (0-2, 8.71 ERA) who lost twice to the Artos in Houston last year and has struggled thus far against this season will be facing Houston's current best starter Roberto Hernandez (0-1, 1.93 ERA). Although he is 0-4 lifetime against Los Angels Hernandez does bring a 2.28 ERA versus the Halo's into this contest. Take HOUSTON!  

N.Y. Yankees at Tampa Bay 7:10 ET

Yankees over Rays- The Yankees are right where 'we' expected at 3-6 as they continue on their 10-game road trip. New York has struggled at Tropicana Field losing 14 of their last 22 games and 21 of 33 at Tampa Bay and they are 0-4-1 in their last five series there. The Yankees have have to hang their hats on pitching will have Adam Warren (0-1, 1.69 ERA) who surrendered just one earned run in his only start against Boston over Nathan Karns (1-1, 4.97) who gave up six runs with four walks in 5 2/3 innings against Baltimore in his start this season. In a mild surprise it's NEW YORK!

Milwaukee at Pittsburgh 7:05 ET

Brewers over Pirates- It looks like the Pittsburgh Pirates have left their offense in Florida as they were shutout for the third time already this season Wednesday and have dropped 2-of-3 series with their only winning series against these Brewers. Milwaukee is having the same problems as they have scored two or fewer runs in six of their seven losses. The Brewers have won the season series between the two seven of the past eight years and Jimmy Nelson (1-0, 0.00 ERA) threw seven scoreless innings against the Pirates last Saturday striking out nine allowing only two hits picking up the victory. Take MILWAUKEE!

Oakland at Houston 8:10 ET

Astros over A's- So, let me get this straight the Houston Astros who I personally witness against the A's in the opening game of this series have scored one run (On an Altuve home run) in two games and have absolutely no offense are favored against Oakland tonight. Well, I'm not saying that Texas women got to the entire Oakland team last night but they go down tonight. Someway, some how Houston wins this game. Don't compare stats or try to figure it out just bet it. Take the ASTROS!

Detroit at Pittsburgh 7:05 ET

Pirates over Tigers- It is difficult to understand why the Pirates are favorites here as the Tigers have had their way in their three series so far. A one-run loss to Pittsburgh is the only blemish on Detroit's fast start. The Tigers are sending Alfredo Simon (1-0, 5.06 ERA) is getting the start for the visitors and he is 3-4 with an ERA of 3.50 ERA lifetime against the Pirates. Francisco Liriano (0-0, 2.57) was outstanding in his first start striking out seven giving up two walks and only two hits in seven innings no-decision. Take PITTSBURGH!

Miami at Atlanta 12:10 ET

Marlins over Braves- Atlanta started the year 5-0 but have down dropped 2-of-3 including an 8-2 beating by the Marlins last night. That was the first time this season Miami showed any kind of offense as Gioancarlo Stanton got three hits. Eric Stults (0-0. 5.40) is 2-3 lifetime against the Marlins with a 5.29 ERA, ne was 8-17 with an ERA of 4.30 for San Diego last season. Dan Harden gets the nod for Miami and allowed one run in six innings in his opening start against Tampa Bay. Take MIAMI!

Detroit at Pittsburgh 7:05 ET

Pirates over Tigers- The Detroit Tigers maybe 6-1 at this point of the season but it is a long year as they play the Pirates once again. Playing in Pittsburgh has been no fun for the Tigers as they are 8-15 all-time there and the Buc's have now won seven straight at home against American League opponents and they are 15-6 against the AL at home over the past two seasons. A.J. Burnett the Pirates starter is 5-1 with a 2.92 ERA in eight inter-league outing with Pittsburgh and is 6-2 lifetime against Detroit. Take PITTSBURGH!

Miami at Atlanta 7:10 ET

Marlins over Braves- Two clubs with mirror image records face-off as the 1-5 Miami Marlins travel to Atlanta to square-off with the 5-1 first place Braves. Matt Latos who started the season by surrendering seven earned runs in 2/3 of an inning said it was 'outright embarrassing' and looks to atone ( Slippin' Jimmy' gave me that one and The Marlins who one only one of their first five home games are looking forward to playing on the road. Giancarlo Stanton is just 3-for-19 and people are beginning to wonder is it the Big contract' or the fastball to the face that has effected him. I'm more worried about the fastball to the face but the Marlins break the hook here. Take MIAMI!

Cincinnati at Chicago 8:05 ET

Cubs over Reds- Golly, this is ugly as still think the Cubs are a pile but I said that about the Yankees yesterday and they went out and won big for 'us' over the Red Sox. The key to this steaming pile is the John Lester is on the mound he so wants to post his first winner with Chicago. Cincinnati is not the prize many think they are as they have lost two straight and are 15-37 in their last 52 games as a road underdog and are 4-9 in their last 13 on the road against any left-hander. The Cubs believe it or not are 13-6 in their last 19 home games against a right-handed starter. Take CHICAGO!

Detroit at Pittsburgh 1:35 ET

Pirates over Tigers- No one in Major League baseball is a 'hot' as the Detroit Tigers as they are not only 6-0 but the are just crushing people. Former two-time MLV Miguel Cabrera is off a 4-for-4 performance with two home runs against Cleveland Sunday and looks like his old self going 11-for-14 in his last three games. Pittsburgh meanwhile is off a huge 10-2 win over the Brewers to win the series after opening 0-3 against the Reds. The Pirates have won 10 of the last 13 Against the Tigers at PNC Park and are 22-6 in their last 28 games in inter-league play as a favorite. Take PITTSBURGH!

Boston at New York 8:00 ET

Yankees over Red Sox- I know the Yankees stink I tell every one they stink their No. 3 hitter hit .232 last year and is hitting .210 this season, their No. 4 hitter hit .217 last year and is hitting .143 this year, there catcher has 1400 games of experience behind the plate and their outfielders can't reach hit the ball into the stands from second base and they can't reach second base from the outfield when throwing the ball. So, why do I like New York tonight. Tanaka is the answer. The Yankees are 10-3 in His last 10 home starts and they somehow will pull it off tonight. Take the YANKEES!

N.Y. Mets at Atlanta 7:35 ET

Mets over Braves- The surprising Atlanta Braves are 3-0 and are the only unbeaten team in the Nation League but that will change tonight. The Braves swept Miami and will be sending Eric Stults (8-17, 4.40 ERA) against another left-hander in Jon Niese (9-11, 3.40) who is off his career low ERA and was 1-2 with a 2.61 ERA against the Braves last season. New York has a little of that magic that stays with a young spirited club. Take the METS!   

Houston at Texas 4:05 ET

Astros over Rangers- The Astros have dropped two straight after an opening day victory and are struggling to score runs and now travel to play in-state rival Texas in Arlington. Colin McHugh (11-9, 2.73 ERA) led Houston in ERA and strikeouts last season and allowed three or fewer runs in 21 of his 25 starts. Derek Holland (2-0, 1.46) the Rangers starter missed most of last season with a knee injury. Houston won 11 of the 19 meetings in 2014 and get off against Texas once again today. Take the ASTROS!

Detroit at Cleveland 4:10 ET

Indians over Tigers- The Detroit Tigers opened the season knocking the stuffing out of the ball outscoring the Twins 22-1 in their home three-game sweep to start the year. They had 13 extra-base hits and benefited with 15 walks. The Cleveland Indians had some glory of their own as a near no-hitter was spoiled in the ninth in their 5-1 win over Houston yesterday. Alfredo Simon (15-10, 3.44 ERA) won 12 games before the All-star break last season for the Reds before falling off to a 3-7, 4.52 ERA finish, he was traded to the Tigers in the winter. Cleveland starter Zach Mc Allister posted a 2.84 ERA in the spring with 28 strikeouts and only four walks. In a different park and the Indians home opener provides a different back ground and result. Take CLEVELAND!

Toronto at N.Y. Yankees 7:05 ET

Yankees over Blue Jays- CC Sabathia won only three games last year as his season ended on May 10th stopping a steak of at least 28 starts for 13 straight seasons. New York have dominated Toronto in Yankee Stadium winning 31 of 36 games and taking 11 of the last 13 series there. Sabathia is 15-4 with a 3.13 ERA in 20 career starts against the Blue Jays and some of that was when he was with the Cleveland Indians. The Yankees managed to score three eighth inning runs to pull out the victory last night and will repeat as a winner tonight. Take NEW YORK!   

N.Y. Mets at Washington 1:05 ET

Mets over Nationals- It has been over a year-and-a-half since the Mets Matt Harvey pitched in a Big League game and he will be opposed by another start who missed a long term early in his career in the Nationals Steven Strasburgh. Harvey had an outstanding spring for New York throwing to a 1.19 ERA in his Grapefruit League outings. Against the Washington he is 1-0 with a 0.82 ERA on three starts and is 4-0 with a 1.56 ERA in six April starts. Take the METS!  

Toronto at N.Y. Yankees 7:05 ET

Yankees over Blue Jays- Despite their Opening Day loss to Toronto the Yankees have still won 30 of the last 35 games against the Blue Jays at Yankees Stadium. The Blue Jays will start the only knuckleball pitcher to win a Cy Young who has lead the majors in starts over the past three years. The Yankees will start Michael Pineda (5-5, 1.89 ERA) who stuck-out 44 and walked just four after his return from surgery last season. New York bounces back here. Take YANKEES!

N.Y. Mets at Washington 7:05 ET

Mets over Nationals- The Mets didn't score an earned run on Monday and still managed to defeat the Nationals as two miscues by their shortstop led to three runs for New York. Washington opened the season with three players on the disabled list and their offense suffered their first time out. The Mets will send Jacob deGrom (9-6, 2.69 ERA) who is off an outstanding spring (4-0, 2.08 ERA) to the hill and he's earned his position in this rotation. Last year after a 1-5 beginning in nine starts deGrom posted an ERA of 1.90 in his final 12 outings. Take the METS!

St. Louis at Chicago Cubs 2:25 ET

Cubs over Cardinals- The Chicago Cubs have changed their image from 'lovable losers' to just plain 'losers' after sending their best player to the minors to start the season in order to 'save' a year down the road. This selfish act has hurt the morale and spirit of the remaining squad as they are all aware that they are not playing with their best. That being said they are professionals and should respond from their opening night shutout with Jake Arrieta (10-5, 2.53 ERA) who is 2-0 with a 0.92 ERA in five starts against St. Louis including 28 strikeouts in 22 innings last season. Take CHICAGO!  

Baltimore at Tampa Bay 3:10 ET

Rays over Orioles- You may no recognize these Baltimore Orioles as a number of starters are injured and others have left the club. The loss of Nelson Cruz and Nick Markakis will be hard to replace and with injuries to shortstop J.J. Hardy, outfielder David Lough and Cather Matt Wieters has them short-handed. The Rays as well will be missing key parts as Ben Zobrist and manager John Madden are gone and their pitching staff is suffering as Chris Archer who had 173 K's last season get his first Opening Day start. Take TAMPA BAY!

Boston at Philadelphia 3:05 ET

Phillies over Red Sox- Yeah, I know Boston is favored to win the AL East and everyone is excited about their line-up but they have plenty of problems and one of them will on the mound for their opposition this afternoon. Cole Hamels who was rumored to be traded to the Red Sox will get the start for the Phillies here. Last season he posted a career best 2.46 ERA for a club that has made huge roster changes. Boston is looking to rebound from their 71-91 disaster in 2014 and added Pablo Sandoval and Hanley Ramirez but still have a long way to go. Hamels is 4-0 with a 1.97 ERA in five career starts against the Sox and is looking to show them what they are missing. Take PHILADELPHIA!     

Toronto at New York 1:00 ET

Yankees (-) over Blue Jays- You might not be able to recognize the New York Yankees this season but their will be a return of Alex Rodriguez whether they like it or not. He led the team in home runs hitting three in the spring and most likely will be in the line-up that no longer includes Derek Jeter. The Yankees line-up may not have that 'Bronx Bombers' power that we are used to seeing but they do have some big-time arms including their opening day starter Masahiro Tanaka who was 13-5 with as ERA of 2.77 last season before shutting it down. New York is 35-15 in season openers at home and the Blue Jays are always over rated. They will be starting Drew Hutchison (11-13, 4.48) who was 2-4 with a 5.17 ERA against the Yankees last season while Tanaka was 3-0 with an ERA of 1.96 with 22 strikeouts in 18. 1/3 innings against Toronto last season. Take NEW YORK!

San Francisco at Kansas City 8:00 ET

Giants over Royals- A rematch of Game 3 where the Royals knocked Giants starter Tim Hudson out in the sixth inning scoring three runs on four hits while Jeremy Guthrie allowed two runs and four hits in five innings. Last night Kansas City (Megabucks winner) routed the Jints and neither team felt any pressure as the Royals put it away in the second inning scoring seven runs. Tonight look for SF to get to Guthrie early and keep KC's bullpen at bay. The Giants will be the first team since 1979 to win a Game 7 on the road since the Pirates defeated the Orioles in 1979. Take SAN FRANCISCO!

San Francisco at Kansas City 8:00 ET

Royals over Giants- The line is high and the action is all one way and it is all on Kansas City to extend to World Series to a game seven. Strange to believe that there are still strong trends that can effect a World Series game but there are two I must point out. First, the Giants in the past five seasons have won nine of 11 World Series games while the Royals are 16-5 in their last 21 games overall. The third is that Kansas City is 7-3 in the last 10 meetings against San Francisco. With young hard throwing Yordano Ventura on the hill against veteran Jake Peavy who is 1-4 with a 7.05 ERA in eight career postseason starts the home team is the side. Take KANSAS CITY!

Kansas City at San Francisco 8:00 ET

Royals over Giants- The Kansas City Royals have taken a 2-1 series led after dropping the opening game at home as pitching, speed and defense have led the way. The Royals are playing what once was considered 'National League' play as the American League started to rely on power at the plate. (see Orioles & Yankees). Jason Vargas (1-0, 2.38 ERA) is pitching for the first time since October 15 while Ryan Vogelsong (0-0, 5.19) gets the start for the Giants. Take the ROYALS!

Kansas City at San Francisco 8:15 ET

Royals over Giants- These two Wild Card entrants are even at one win apiece as Game 3 moves to San Francisco. Kansas City showed great resiliency in bouncing back after their deflating Game one loss with a convincing and confidence building 6-2 win. There are numerous trends that support both clubs as the Giants are 20-6 in their last 26 home games and they are 7-1 in their last eight world series games. The Royals not to be denied are 9-1 in their last 10 as underdogs and 9-1 in their last 10 playoff games as well as 8-1 in their last nine inter-league contests. Starting pitching is always a factor and Jeremy Guthrie (13-11, 4.07 ERA) and Tim Hudson (9-13, 3.55) are a virtual wash but Guthrie has been more effective of late surrendering just 12 hits in his last 17.1 innings. Take KANSAS CITY!  

San Francisco at Kansas City 8:00 E

Giants over Royals- The San Francisco Giants ended Kansas City's eight-game postseason winning streak with opened the World Series with a convincing 7-1 victory in Game One. Game Two will have a pair of pitchers who juxtapose each other as the Royals send young Yordano Ventura to the mound against veteran Jake Peavy. Peavy has plenty of experience and pitched in last year's World Series for the Red Sox and has the calm demeanor necessary for post-season action. After losing their first game since the regular season ended Kansas City will find their 'mojo' missing. Take SAN FRANCISCO!

San Francisco at Kansas City 8:00 ET

Giants over Royals- The Kansas City Royals have made a run for the ages with eight straight post season wins without a loss after getting into the playoffs as a wild-card entrant while the Giants are in the World Series for the third time in five years with two championships under their belts. San Francisco's Madison Bumgarner who pitched at least seven innings in each of his post season starts and is holding batters to a .170 average had one regular season start against the Royals and was tagged with a loss. Kansas City's James Shields has struggled in the postseason giving up 21 hits in 16 innings and has a 5.63 ERA. Take the GIANTS!

Baltimore at Kansas City 8:00 ET

Orioles over Royals- We've been on the right side the first two games of this series as both clubs showed signs of reversal of trends. The power hitting Orioles who led the majors in 'dingers' where out-homered by the Royals who had the least amount of homers in MLB. I hate to play against a club (Kansas City) that has won seven straight but it's time for Baltimore to flex some muscle and post a 'back-against-the wall' victory. Behind Wei-Yin Chen (16-6, 3.71) the O's finally have an advantage on the mound over the Royal's Jeremry Guthrie (13-11, 4.13). Take BALTIMORE!   

San Francisco at St. Louis 8:00 ET

Cardinals over Giants- The Giants don't qualify for the playoffs every season but take advantage when they do as they have won seven straight road playoff games. Veteran Jake Peavy who started the season with the Red Sox gets the start for the Giants and he is3-4 with a 2.97 ERA in nine career starts against St. Louis. Lance Lynn will start for the Cardinals and he has struggled against SF losing all three starts against them. Look for a reversal of form and for St. Louis to respond. Take the CARDINALS!   

Kansas City at Baltimore 4:00 ET

Royals over Orioles- I remember when the once proud New York Yankees would claim they had 'speed on the bases and power at the plate' as they won championship after championship. These Kansas City Royals certainly have the speed on the bases and a great defense and now that they have found their power stroke during the playoffs they will be difficult to beat with their deep pitching. Yordano Ventura who throws at 100 MPH at times is off a dominating performance against the Angles allowing only one run on five hits in seven innings. The Royals have the 'mojo' and should win here. Take KANSAS CITY!  

Kansas City at Baltimore 8:00 ET

Royals over Orioles- Everybody is making a big deal over the Royals chance to reach the World Series since their last Championship in 1985 but believe it or not it's been even longer for the Orioles who last appeared in the World Series in 1983. Their will be a contrast in styles between these two as Baltimore led the major in home runs and were last in stolen bases while Kansas City was last in homers and first in steals. James Shields gets the start for the Royals and he posted two wins over the O's this season yielding five runs and 12 hits in 14 innings. Chris Tillman gets the nod for Baltimore and he beat the Royals with a five-hit shutout. Still, to me it's karma along with pitching and defense both of which belong to Kansas City. Take the ROYALS!

Washington at San Francisco 9:05 ET

Nationals over Giants- The Bryce Harper 'Project' has started to pay dividends for Washington as the 21-year-old is raising to the occasion with two homers in three playoff games. Tonight the pressure is on the mound where Gio Gonzalez (10-10, 3.57 ERA) tries to extend the Nationals season in San Francisco and will be facing last season's impact pitcher Ryan Vogelsong (8-13, 4.00) who finished the season 0-4 with a 5.53 ERA in September. Gonzalez finished the season winning four of his last five starts with a 2.48 ERA in the final month. He is 2-2 lifetime against the Giants and gets another win here. Take WASHINGTON!

Los Angeles at St. Louis 9:00 ET

Dodgers over Cardinals- The Cardinals shocked the baseball world in Game 1 of this series when they knocked Clayton Kershaw out of the box and rallied for a unlikely 10-9 eighth inning comeback win. With St. Louis the home team part of Vegas have the Dodgers favored behind Hyun-Jin Ryu (14-7, 3.38 ERA) who hasn't pitched since September 12th and is 1-1 lifetime against the Cardinals with that sole loss coming this season. The Cardinals have made John Lackey (14-10, 3.82) their Game 3 starter and he is 5-3 lifetime a 1.93 ERA against Los Angeles. Still, the Cardinals are deemed a dog at home. Take the DODGERS!

Detroit at Baltimore 8:00 ET

Tigers over Orioles- So here we are with the Baltimore Orioles with the home field advantage throughout the plays as a reward for the best overall record in the American League and they are underdogs in their Game one Divisional Playoff series. Baltimore ran away with the East while Detroit won their fourth straight Divisional title. The Tigers took five of six from the Orioles in the regulars season all games witch were played before Mid-May. Max Scherzer (18-5, 3.15 ERA) was 2-1 with a 2.82 ERA in the playoffs last season with 34 strikeouts in 22 innings. Chris Tillman (13-6, 3.34) faced Detroit on April 6th and held them to one run on five hits in 8 ½ innings to pick up the win. Not tonight for the O's...Take DETROIT!  

San Francisco at Pittsburgh 8:00 ET

Giants over Pirates- These two rate a virtual pick-em as they both closed the same with identical 88-74 records. The Giants will be starting their 'new' ace Madison Bumgarner (18-10, 2.98 ERA) while Pittsburgh will counter with Edinson Volquez (13-7, 3.04). The San Francisco 'ace' is 0-1 this season and 1-3 lifetime against the Pirates while Volquez has no record this season against the Giants but is 2-2 lifetime. Pittsburgh who had the best home record in the NL won four of six meetings including 2-of-3 at home and yet the Giants are slight favorites. Take SAN FRANCISCO.

Oakland at Kansas City 8:50 ET

A's over Royals- The first American League Wild Card contest will be played by a pair of 'hitless wonders' as both the A's and Royals have trouble scoring runs. It doesn't look like it will get any better tonight as both clubs will send their ace's to the mound. Oakland who just hasn't been the same since acquiring Jon Lester (16-11 2.46 ERA overall and 6-4, 2.35 with the A's) from the Red Sox have played under .500 baseball since the All-Star break. They were 12-17 in August and 10-16 in September but with Lester they have playoff experience as he has make 13 post season appearances with Boston. Lester is 9-3 lifetime against Kansas City including 3-0 this season. The Royals starter Jamie Fields (14-8, 3.21) is 1-0 against the A's this season and 6-4 lifetime. In what could end up a classic pitching dual I'll go with experience. Take OAKLAND!

L.A. Angels at Oakland 10:05 ET

A's over Angels- It appeared for most of the summer that the Oakland were the team to beat in the AL West and then they changed their team make-up to secure pitching ace John Lester. Since then they have gone from a small division lead to trailing the Angels by 10 ½ games. Still, Oakland who won 2-of-3 this weekend leads the AL Wild Card race. Tonight Jeff Samardzjia (6-12, 2.98 ERA) starts for the A's and he will not have to face Josh Hamilton who has missed 16 of the last 17 games. Take OAKLAND!  

Miami at N.Y. Mets 7:10 ET

Mets over Marlins- The New York Mets are just one-game behind the sliding Marlins for third place in the N.L. East. Miami has lost five of the last seven and they will be without slugger Giancarlo Stanton who was beaned in the Brewers series. Dillon Gee (7-7, 3.80 ERA) pitched eight scoreless innings against the Marlins earlier this season and is 3-0 with a career ERA of 2.30 against the Marlins.Take the METS!

Seattle at L.A. Angels 10:05 ET

Mariners over Angels- The Angels 27-year old rookie Matt Shoemaker (15-4, 3.16 ERA) seeks his seventh win against the Mariners tonight. His mound opponent will be Hisashi Iwakuma (14-7, 3.11) who has dominated Los Angeles in his career going 5-0 with a 1.64 ERA lifetime. Seattle who is 24-16 since August 1 has won seven of 12 meetings with the Angels this season including four of six at Angels Stadium. LA is running away with the AL West and feels no pressure while the Mariners trail Kansas City for the final wild card spot by one-game. Take SEATTLE!

New York Yankees at Baltimore 8:00 ET

Yankees over Orioles- The Yankees are a full five game behind in the AL wild card hunt as Derek Jeter has failed to hit safely in his has five games. New York will start Hiroki Kuroda (10-9 3.91 ERA) who had a run of four straight strong starts come to an end against Tampa Bay his last time out. Baltimore has a huge lead in the AL East and will run away with the division. Take the YANKEES!     

New York Yankees at Baltimore 8:00 ET

Yankees over Orioles- The Yankees are a full five game behind in the AL wild card hunt as Derek Jeter has failed to hit safely in his has five games. New York will start Hiroki Kuroda (10-9 3.91 ERA) who had a run of four straight strong starts come to an end against Tampa Bay his last time out. Baltimore has a huge lead in the AL East and will run away with the division. Take the YANKEES!  

Miami at Philadelphia 1:35 ET

Marlins over Phillies- Since losing All-Star Giancarlo Stanton after his beaning in Milwaukee the Marlins scored only twice in their last 19 innings. But, somehow they opened the favorite this afternoon and they will respond behind starter Tom Koehler (9-9, 3.74 ERA) who is unbeaten in his last six starts going 2-0 with a 3.50 ERA. He is 1-0 with a 1.50 ERA in two starts against the Phillies this season. Take MIAMI!

Washington at N.Y. Mets 7:10 ET

Mets over Nationals- The Nationals have had their way with the Mets winning 42 of their last 55 meetings including 26 of 31 at Citi Field. But, it appears the tide might have turned last night as New York eked out a 4-3 win as the Mets have now won five of their last six. Zack Wheeler (10-9. 3.38 ERA) has won seven of his last eight decisions and is 1-2 against Washington in this his rookie season. The Nationals 'magic' number to clinch the East is down to eight as they lead Atlanta by 8 ½ games. This time again...it's NEW YORK!

L.A. Dodgers at San Francisco 10:15 ET

Giants over Dodgers- The last time these two rivals met in July the Dodgers swept a three-game series in Los Angeles to leap over the Giants into first place. Right now Los Angeles leads by two games but the Giants have won nine straight at home and their starters have posted a 1.00 ERA over the last 10 games at home. Madison Bumgarner (17-9, 3.02 ERA) is 10-4 with a 2.54 ERA in his career against the Dodgers and needs one more strike-out to reach 200. Take SAN FRANCISCO!

Tampa Bay at NY Yankees 7:05 ET

Rays over Yankees- An oddity in this contest at this time of the season shows that the Rays not only have a better record at home then on the road they also have a better road record on the road then the Yankees have at home. Two of the better young pitchers on these clubs will face-off tonight as the Rays send Alex Cobb (9-7, 2.83 ERA) to the hill at Yankee Stadium against New York who will send often injured and one suspended Michael Pineda (3-4, 1.80) to the mound. Cobb has allowed two of fewer runs in each of his last 11 starts while Pineda has been just as impressive surrendering two runs or fewer in his last nine starts. This time it's TAMPA BAY!

Kansas City at Detroit 7:08 ET

Royals over Tigers- The Tigers have moved into the division lead by taking the first two games of this vital series in Detroit and six of seven in the series. Kansas City will start James Shields (13-7, 3.23 ERA) who is coming off his 8 1/3 innings of shutout ball against the Yankees allowed one runs on eight hits in 15 1/3 over his last two rubs. He needs a good performance tonight against the Tigers who is 0-2 5.49 ERA this season. On the other side of the lines Rick Porcello (15-10, 3.30) is 2-0 with a 8-3 with 4.19 ERA in 17 career starts. I'm wondering why with this stats are the Tigers such short favorites. Take KANSAS CITY.  

Pittsburgh at Philadelphia 7:05 ET

Pirates over Phillies- The Pirates are putting it together at the most vital time as they have won their last five and now are in wild card playoff position. Pittsburgh will start Edinson Volquez (11-7, 3.31 ERA) who has not lost in his last eight starts and has posted a 1.38 ERA over his last six outings. The lowly Philadelphia Phillies will be starting rookie David Buchanan (6-7, 3.95) who has been effective for this one of the weaker teams in the NL. The Phillies are 0-3 in his last three starts as he's throwing to a 2.40 WHIP and that is just not good. Take PITTSBURGH!

Baltimore at Tampa Bay 1:40 ET

Rays over Orioles- After winning five of six at Tampa Bay the first place Baltimore Orioles have dropped their last two at Tropicana Field scoring a pair of runs. This afternoon's hurlers have been trending in opposite directions as the O's Bud Norris (12-8, 3.83 ERA) is 4-1 over his last seven outings while the Rays starter Jeremy Hellickson (1-3, 3.74) is winless in five starts. The difference comes where Norris is just 1-2 with a 4.35 ERA lifetime against Tampa while Hellickson is 9-4 with a 3.38 ERA in 16 starts against Baltimore. Once again, take TAMPA BAY!

Toronto at Boston 7:10 ET

Red Sox over Blue Jays- The Blue Jays who looked like they were going to run away with the American League East in April and May find themselves five games behind Seattle for the second playoff spot after blowing leads in Friday's loss. Clay Buchholz (6-8, 5.40 ERA) has been inconsistent once again and is off a three-hit shutout of the Tampa Bay Rays. The Red Sox are playing their young talent and they are responding. Take BOSTON!

St. Louis at Milwaukee 7:10 ET

Brewers over Cardinals- The Milwaukee Brewers ended their nine-game losing streak with a 6-2 win in the series opener Friday night and now will try and build and claw back into the playoff picture with Kyle Lohse (12-8, 3.68 ERA) taking the hill. Yesterdays contest kicked off a 11-game home stand for the Brewers while the Cardinals are embarking on an eight game road trip. Lohse has a bit of revenge on his mind as he was pounded by St. Louis on August 2 when he surrendered nine runs (7 earned) in four innings. Take MILWAUKEE!

L. A. Angels at Minnesota 7:10 ET

Twins over Angels- The Los Angeles Angels are starting to pull away in the AL West as they have won eight of their last 10 and now have a six-game lead over the struggling Oakland A's. Tonight they face the Minnesota Twins who will start Phil Hughes (15-9, 3.54 ERA) who gets my nod for 'Come-back Player of the Year' as he has won five of his last six decisions. Take MINNESOTA!

Early-Bird

Baltimore at Tampa Bay 1:05

Rays over Orioles- The Baltimore Orioles have extended their lead in the AL East to 9 ½ games and have done it by feasting on division rivals. They have beaten Rays in 11 of 17 meetings this summer including five of seven in Tampa Bay. This afternoon Tampa will start Drew Smyly (9-10, 3.31 ERA) the key component in the David Price trade. After dropping his first start Smyly is unbeaten in five appearances and is 3-0 while yielding just five runs and 14 hits in 36+ innings. Take the RAYS!

Baltimore at Tampa Bay 7:10 ET

Rays over Orioles- The Orioles just finished a 9-2 home stand where the crushed the ball scoring 67 runs and now take to the road for their next six contests. Baltimore leads the majors with 190 home runs (25 more then their nearest competitor) but will face the Rays who have the third best ERA (3.49) in the AL. Tampa will start Alex Cobb (9-7, 2.98 ERA) who had won seven straight decisions and was unbeaten in 11 starts before losing to Boston 3-0 on Sunday. He is 4-1 with a 2.14 ERA in seven career starts against the Orioles. Take TAMPA BAY!

Toronto at Boston 7:10 ET

Red Sox over Blue Jays- The Red Sox are off a crushing loss to the Yankees as All-Star closer Koji Uehara gave up a pair of ninth inning homers. Toronto who started the season like a 'house-on-fire' find themselves 4 ½ games behind the Tigers for the second wild card berth in the AL. Allen Webster (3-3, 6.69 ERA) has had three quality starts of late and looks to improve each time out. At home on a Friday night I like Boston. Take the RED SOX!  

Chicago White Sox at Cleveland 7:05 ET

White Sox over Indians- The Cleveland Indians like to think that they have a chance to make the AL Wild Card a race but their bullpen continues to give games away. The White Sox are pitiful but they do have one of the best left-handers in baseball with Chris Sale (11-3, 2.11 ERA) who just halted his five-start winless streak last time out recording a season-high 13 strikeouts. Cleveland will start rookie T.J. House (2-3, 3.92) who has no record against Chicago in two career outings. Take WHITE SOX!

L.A. Angles at Minnesota 8:10 ET

Twins over Angels- In spite of losing their first two games on their 10-game road trip the Angels didn't lose any ground to the Oakland A's in the American League West. As our Vegas Hotline release Wednesday the Twins responded with just their third win in their last 11 games with their 11-4 win over the White Sox. The Angels scored just four runs with only 10 hits in Houston as Trout and Pujois went hitless and Hamilton was just 1-for-8. Take MINNESOTA!  

Chicago White Sox at Minnesota 8:10 ET

Twins over White Sox- A pair of struggling pitchers will square off tonight as Chicago sends John Danks (9-9, 4.88 ERA) who is winless in his last six starts is up against Trevor May (0-4, 19.42). Danks last win came over the Twins in July but is only 7-12 with a 5.35 ERA lifetime. Both clubs are having problems as the White Sox are just 1-8 after a win and the Twins are 2-8 in their last 10 games overall. May have shown nothing in his five career appearances but Chicago is just 3-14 in Danks' last 17 starts against Minnesota. Take the TWINS!

Detroit at Cleveland 7:05 ET

Indians over Tigers- The Cleveland Indians were making a move on the AL Wild Card winning 13 of 18 until the struggling Tigers got to town and now Detroit has won two straight from the Tribe the first one a 12-1 pasting and last night a dramatic come from behind ninth inning 4-2 win. Tonight, Justin Verlander (12-11, 4.68 ERA) comes up an underdog and that isn't something I ever remember seeing before. He is 18-15 lifetime against the Indians and is 1-1 with a 3.50 ERA this season. His mound opponent for tonight is Danny Salazar (5-6, 4.23) who is 0-1 with a 4.42 ERA in three career starts against the Tigers and in his only appearance against them this season he gave up five runs and six hits in 4 2/3 innings. Verlander has allowed 21 hits in his last 13.3 innings with a WHIP of 2.05 and an ERA of 5.93. Detroit has won 16 of their last 21 in Cleveland. So how and why are the Indians favored? Take CLEVELAND!

Washington at L.A.Dodgers 3:10 ET

Nationals over Dodgers- The Washington Nationals despite their loss yesterday have won 15 of their last 21 but are only 3-7 in their last 10 meetings with Los Angeles. Jordan Zimmermann (10-5, 2.93 ERA) gets the start for the Nats and he is 2-1 lifetime against the Dodgers and they are 18-9 in his starts this season. He has turned in seven straight quality starts and went 4-0 with a 2.21 ERA in six August starts. For the Dodgers Carlos Frias (0-0, 5.65) makes his first major league starts and starting against Washington who has 15 homers in their last five games will be a major task. Take the NATIONALS!  

Arizona at San Diego 10:10 ET

Diamondbacks over Padres- The trends surrounding this contest seem to be pushing 'us' to the Padres who have played well (better then expected) at home having won 11 of 13 and 20 of its last 26 as hosts.San Diego has won all six of its home series since the All-Star break. Arizona meanwhile has lost five of seven and will be sending Wade Miley (7-10, 4.30 ERA) who has been scary bad against the Padres. He is 1-6 with a 4.96 ERA in 11 career starts against San Diego. But, Miley has notched four straight quality starts and gets the win here. Take ARIZONA!

N.Y. Nets at Miami 7:10 ET

Mets over Marlins- Two clubs that started the season hoping to finish at the .500 level clash in August with the Mets 10-games under the break-even mark while the surprising Marlins are just two games (67-69) under. New York who have been terrible on defense the entire season committed six errors yesterday and by all professional standards should be embarrassed and enter today's contest with an attitude of redemption. Miami will start Brad Penny (1-0, 5.40 ERA) who is making his third appearance since 2012 on the mound after a two year 'retirement.' He is believe it or not just 5-13 with a 6.25 ERA lifetime against the Mets. Johnathon Niese (7-10, 3.48) starting for New York is 1-0 with a 1.42 ERA in three starts in Marlins Park. Take the METS!

Detroit at Cleveland 7:05 ET

Indians over Tigers- The Detroit Tigers who started the season the AL favorites to get to the World Series find themselves within one-half game of the division leading Kansas City Royals after exploding with a power surge Monday in their 12-1 win over the Indians. The Tigers who appear to have the best rotation in baseball with the last three Cy Young Award winners are starting Kyle Lobstein (0-0, 3.09) who is making his second major league start. Cleveland will start Carlos Carrasco (6-4, 3.01) who has yielded just two runs and only 11 hits in his 24+ innings of work since rejoining the rotation while going 3-0. Take CLEVELAND!

Washington at L.A. Dodgers 8:10 ET

Nationals over Dodgers- Two division leaders clash in Los Angeles where the Dodgers host the Nationals in the first of a three-game series. Washington has a six-game lead over Atlanta while the Dodgers lead is 2 ½ games over the Giants. It seems a bit odd to me that Gio Gonzalez (6-9, 3.86 ERA) is favored here as he has a nine start winless drought active into today's game. In two career starts against Los Angeles Gonzalez is 0-1 with a 1.50 ERA. Vegas gives it to 'us' and we'll take it. NATIONALS!

Detroit at Cleveland 4:05 ET

Indians over Tigers- The last time Detroit's David Price (12-10, 3.32 ERA) took the hill the New York Yankees were pounding him for nine consecutive hits as he gave up eight runs and 12 hits in two plus innings of work. Price is 1-2 with a 4.41 ERA in five starts since coming over to the Tigers. Cleveland has won 13 of their last 18 and are only 3-games behind the Tigers and Royals for the AL Central title. Corey Kluber (13-8, 2.52) is 1-1 with a 2.78 ERA in three career starts against Detroit and has struck out 36 batters in his last 27 innings in his last four starts. Take the INDIANS!