This is a 4* play on Houston.

The Astros have just two wins in nine games, but one of those was a no-hitter for 30 year old Ronelo Blanco.

To say that Blanco came into the season off a hot spring would be understating it. He struck out 18 batters while tossing 15 2/3 innings in five appearances. You can't call it luck because he has a career ERA of 0.24 over 38 innings in spring since 2020.

Dane Dunning is 0-2 with an ERA of 5.46 and 26 strikeouts in 7 appearances against the Astros in his career.

Jose Altuve is 6-for-12 (.500) with a pair of home runs lifetime versus Dunning.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on ATL.

The Braves will be a massive favorite in Game 1 of this home series versus Arizona, as the pitching matchup looks rather one-sided.

Spencer Strider will toe the slab for Atlanta, and the Braves ace looked sharp in a win at Philly in his debut.

The D'Backs hand the ball to Tommy Henry, who got torched for five runs on six hits over four innings in a home loss to Colorado in his debut.

Henry struggled this spring, allowing 13 runs on 29 hits over 22 innings in seven appearances.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on CLE.

The Mariners are 0-5 AS A RUNLINE FAVORITE, with all three of their wins coming by just one run. We are expecting a pitcher's duel here in Seattle tonight.

Luis Castillo will toe the slab for Seattle, and he was roughed up by Boston in his season debut. He allowed four runs on six hits and two walks over just five innings.

Cleveland will hand the ball to Shane Beiber, who won the Cy Young in 2020. He tossed six scoreless innings, striking out 11 in a win over Oakland in his season debut.

Beiber tossed six scoreless innings in his only start versus Seattle last season.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on ARI.

So we saw the D'Backs come back from the dead in the NLCS, and they showed a lot of heart rallying from a 10 run deficit in Game 4 despite coming up short. The good news is that their ace is on the mound in this do or die game tonight, and Texas has lost star slugger Adolis Garcia for the rest of the series.

Zac Gallen was dominant at home this season, and on the road in Game 1 he pitched well enough to win. In fact the D'Backs took a two run lead to the bottom of the ninth and the bullpen blew it.

The Rangers hand the ball to Nathan Eovaldi, who got roughed up in Game 1. He allowed five runs on six hits in 4 1/3 innings.

I like the D'Backs to force a Game 6.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on ARI.

The Rangers are back out in front, and that puts all the pressure on Arizona here in Game 4.

This isn't exactly a marquee matchup when it comes to starting pitchers. The D'Backs are going to the bullpen and the Rangers are going to the back end of their rotation.

Andrew Heaney will toe the slab for Texas, and he's 0-0 with a 6.00 ERA and a 1.50 WHIP in four appearances in the post-season.

The D'Backs hand the ball to Joe Mantiply, who tossed a scoreless first inning in a start in the NLCS.

Adolis Garcia leads the playoffs in home runs and RBIs, and he left last night's game with what might be a serious injury. It will be a big blow for Texas if he misses tonight's game.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on ARI.

The D'Backs got a split in the first two games in Texas, and they have the momentum heading into Game 3.

If I had of suggested that Brandon Pfaadt vs Max Scherzer was a favorable matchup for Arizona during the regular season, people would have called me crazy. They still might.

If you didn't know better, you would think the stats were lined up next to the opposite name. It's Pfaadt with 22 Ks in 16 2/3 innings, while Scherzer has just six Ks in two post-season starts. Pfaadt has a 1.08 WHIP, while Scherzer has a 1.80 WHIP.

Scherzer is not right, and he appears primed for another short outing.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Texas.

The Rangers will look to force a Game 7, and they have a favorable pitching matchup in Game 6.

Nate Eovaldi will toe the slab for Texas, and he's 3-0 with a 2.29 ERA in the playoffs.

The Astros hand the ball to Framber Valdez, who has been lit up in both his post-season starts. He allowed five runs on seven hits in just 2 2/3 innings in Game 2. The Rangers scored four runs in the first inning in a 5-4 win.

Valdez has allowed 17 runs on 18 hits over 12 innings in his last three home starts.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on ARI.

The D'Backs have levelled the series at 2-2 with a come from behind win in Game 4, and they send their ace to the mound in Game 5.

Zac Gallen has some pretty dramatic home away splits, going 12-3 with a 2.47 ERA and a 1.03 WHIP at home this season.

The Phillies hand the ball to Zack Wheeler, who has been dominant at home and on the road. Wheeler is 6-3 with an ERA of 2.96 and 69 strikeouts in 11 appearances against the Diamondbacks.

Zac Gallen is 3-1 with an ERA of 2.22 and 24 strikeouts in 5 appearances against the Phillies.

While a close game should be expected, I think the wrong team is favored here.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on TEX.

The Astros were shutout in Game 1, and the matchup in Game 2 doesn't look good for Houston.

Framber Valdez will toe the slab for the Astros, and he's allowed a dozen runs on 11 hits and six walks in 9 2/3 innings in his last two home starts. In two home starts versus Texas this season, he gave up 10 runs on 13 hits and four walks in 9 2/3 innings in a pair of blowout losses.

The Rangers hand the ball to Nate Eovaldi, who has allowed just a pair of runs while striking out 15 batters over 13 2/3 innings in two post-season starts.

Houston we have a problem!

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on PHI.

The Braves will send their ace to the mound as they look to avoid elimination in Philly tonight. Their bats have cooled off in the post-season, scoring just five runs through the first two games.

Strider pitched well in Game 1, but didn't get any run support. He allowed a pair of runs on five hits and two walks in seven innings.

Rangers Suarez only went 3 2/3 innings in Game 1, but with help from the bullpen the Phillies shutout the Braves.

The Phillies won this series 3-1 last season, and we will not be surprised if history repeats itself here in 2023.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on PHI.

The Phillies won the Division Series versus Atlanta last year 3-1, and we could see history repeat itself here in 2023.

Zack Wheeler will toe the slab for Philly tonight, and he was dominant against the Braves in the regular season. In his two starts in Atlanta, he allowed just two runs on six hits while striking out 18 and winning both games.

The Braves hand the ball to Max Fried, who has struggled against Philly. The Phillies lineup is batting a combined .299 over 194 at bats versus Fried.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on MIN +1.5.

The Twins are desperate to draw even with Houston after losing Game 1, and they draw a favorable matchup in Game 2.

Pablo Lopez will toe the slab for the Twins, and his numbers are better on the road than they were in Minnesota this season. Lopez allowed one run on five hits in a 3-1 win in Game 1 of the Wild Card series versus Toronto.

The Astros hand the ball to Framber Valdez, who also has better numbers away from home. His last two home starts were ugly losses to the two worst teams in the AL (Kansas City and Oakland).

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on the Cubs RL.

So Chicago is in a battle for the final Wild Card spot in the NL, within half a game of Arizona and Miami. It's a must win against a Rockies team that has nothing to play for.

Ty Blach will toe the rubber for the Rockies, and he's 0-2 with a 5.79 ERA in seven starts on the road.

The Cubs hand the ball to Jordan Wicks, who is 3-1 with a 2.67 ERA in five appearances this season.

The Rockies pitching staff ranks dead last in WHIP and batting average against.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on CHC.

The Cubs won Game 1 by a score of 6-0, and we should expect more of the same in Game 2 Saturday.

Marcus Stroman will toe the slab for Chicago, and he's just coming back from the DL. He hasn't allowed an earned run in two brief appearances since his return.

The Rockies hand the ball to Chris Flexen, who is 1-3 with a 9.45 ERA in a dozen appearances on the road.

The Rockies have nothing to play for while the Cubs are battling for a playoff spot.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on ARI.

The D'Backs have won 10 of their last 12 overall, and they send their ace to the mound in LA tonight.

Zac Gallen got hit hard in LA earlier this season, but last year he faced the Dodgers twice allowing one run and striking out 18 in 14 innings.

The Dodgers hand the ball to Bobby Miller, who is 3-2 with a 5.17 ERA in seven home starts.

Arizona is 4-1 ATS in their last five versus LAD.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on SEA.

The Mariners are the hottest team in the majors since the All Star break, and they have moved into a tie for first place in AL West.

Luis Castillo will toe the slab for Seattle, and he's 4-0 with a 3.66 ERA in his last five starts.

The Royals hand the ball to Alex Marsh, and the Royals are 1-9 in his last 10 starts. Seven of those nine losses came by more than one run.

Castillo is 6-3 with a 2.70 ERA in 14 home starts.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on SEA.

The Mariners are the hottest team in the majors, and they sit in first place in the AL West after winning nine of their last 10 games.

Logan Gilbert will toe the slab for the Mariners, and he's 3-0 with a 3.34 ERA in his last five starts.

The Royals hand the ball to Jordan Lyles, who is 1-8 with an 8.08 ERA in 10 starts in day games this year.

The Royals are 3-21 in Lyles 24 starts this season.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on the Cubs.

The Royals have lost 20 of Lyles 23 stars this season, and Lyles will face a Cubs lineup that ranks 2nd in the majors in scoring since the All Star break.

Kyle Hendricks will toe the slab for Chicago, and he doesn't look like a Cy Young candidate by any stretch of the imagination. He did deliver a quality start his last time out, and his ERA of 4.00 isn't terrible.

Only Oakland has fewer road wins than Kansas City (17).

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on PHI.

The Phillies have won four of five, and they are in position to clinch a Wild Card berth. The Nats were no-hit in Game 3, and they appear to be overmatched in the series finale.

Aaron Nola will toe the slab for Philly, and he's 4-3 with a 3.75 ERA in nine home starts.

The Nats hand the ball to Patrick Corbin, who is 4-4 with a 5.31 ERA in 11 road starts.

The Phillies lineup has owned Corbin, batting a combined .319 over a total of 141 at bats.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on TEX.

The Rangers went all in at the trade deadline, picking up Max Scherzer amnd Jordan Montgomery to bolster their rotation.

Scherzer will toe the rubber for the Rangers on Thursday, and he faces a Chisox lineup that ranks 25th in the majors in scoring.

The White Sox hand the ball to Touki Toussaint, who is 0-2 with a 5.14 ERA in five appearances on the road.

The Rangers are 7-3 straight up in their last 10 versus Chicago, and they covered the runline in six of those seven wins.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on NYY.

The Bronx Bombers made no real significant deals at the trade deadline, and they sit last in the AL East. That said, Aaron Judge is back and Gerrit Cole is having a Cy Young worthy season. The Rays are just 9-16 in their last 25 games.

Shane McClanahan will go for Tampa, and he's struggled since he missed two weeks in the beginning of July due to injury. He's 0-0 with a 6.00 ERA since returning. He allowed three runs on eight hits in five innings against Houston in his last start.

McClanahan allowed four runs on five hits and four walks in four innings in his only start versus the Yankees this season.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on the Orioles.

These teams are trending in opposite directions. The Rays have lost six of their last seven, and they now sit in second place one game back of Baltimore.

Tyler Wells will toe the slab for the Orioles, and he's one of a handful of pitchers who own an ERA below 1.00.

The Rays hand the ball to Taj Bradley, who is 0-3 with a 9.53 ERA in his last four starts.

Tampa is 1-6 ATS in Bradley's last seven starts.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on BOS.

The Red Sox are one of the hottest teams in the majors, winners of 11 of their last 14 overall.

Bryan Bello will toe the slab for the Sox in Oakland this afternoon, and he's 3-1 with a 2.36 ERA in his last five starts.

The A's hand the ball to Ken Waldichuk, who is 0-2 with a 4.41 ERA in six home starts. He's 1-1 with a 6.75 ERA in his last six appearances.

The A's have lost eight of their last nine overall.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on MIN.

The Twins have outscored the Royals 17-7 in the first two games of this series, and we should expect more of the same Wednesday.

Pablo Lopez will toe the slab for the Twins, and he's been a strikeout machine. His 126 strikeouts in 102 innings ranks 4th in the majors.

The Royals hand the ball to Alex Marsh, who was lit up for five runs on six hits in four innings in a loss to the Dodgers in his debut. 

The Royals are 16-42 in the last 58 meetings in Minnesota.

GL,

Jesse Schule

5*

This is a 4* play on ARI.

Arizona took Game 1 of this series in LA, and again they are the dog in Game 2. The first place team in the NL West isn't getting enough respect IMO, and starting pitcher Ryne Nelson is actually 2-1 with a 3.07 ERA in eight road starts so far this year. That's a helluva lot better than Tyler Anderson who has an ERA over 5.00 at home.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on ARI.

The D'Backs are 4-4 in their last eight overall, but they are 6-2 ATS in those games. They still sit two games clear of the Dodgers in first place in the NL West.

Tommy Henry will toe the slab for Arizona, and he's 4-1 with a 4.31 ERA. Arizona is 11-1 ATS in his 12 starts.

The Angels hand the ball to Griffin Canning, who is 6-2 with a 3.99 ERA. LA is 6-6 ATS in his 12 starts.

The Diamondbacks are 8-1 in their last nine during game 1 of a series, while the Halos have lost nine of 10 versus teams from the NL West.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on SEA.

The Mariners have split the first two games of this series, but they have a favorable matchup in the rubber match.

Logan Gilbert will toe the slab for Seattle, and he's been far better than his record would indicate. He's 5-4 with a 4.07 ERA, but his WHIP of 1.02.

The Nats hand the ball to Patrick Corbin, who hasn't missed many bats lately. He's been torched for 11 runs on 18 hits in 11 innings in his last two starts.

The Mariners are 14-3 in their last 17 home games versus a left-handed starter.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on CIN.

The Reds are still the hottest team in baseball, their 8-6 win over Colorado in Game 2 makes it 10 straight wins.

Andrew Abbott will toe the rubber for the Reds, and he's 3-0 with a 0.00 ERA in three career starts.

The Rockies hand the ball to Connor Seabold, who was rocked for nine runs on nine hits and four home runs in just three innings in his last start. He's 0-3 with a 6.59 ERA in his last six starts.

The Rockies are 1-9 in the last 10 meetings in Cincinnati.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on COL.

The Royals are a favorite again today, and they are just 9-17 straight up in their last 26 games. As them to cover a runline and they are 5-21 ATS in those games. The Royals are 6-5 straight up in the last 11 head to head meetings, but only half of those wins came by more than one run. While Kyle Freeland has struggled on the road this season, that's out of character for him. The Royals have five wins in Brady Singer's 11 starts, but only one of those wins came by more than one run.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Washington.

After splitting the first two games of this series, the Nats look good as an underdog in the rubber match Sunday.

Trevor Williams will toe the slab for Washington, and he's 1-1 with a 3.09 ERA in five home starts.

The Phillies hand the ball to Ranger Saurez, who is 0-2 with a 7.13 ERA in four starts. The Nationals lineup is batting .308 over a combined 52 at bats versus Suarez.

The Phillies have just three wins by more than one run in their last 19 games.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on the Pirates.

The Pirates are home dogs off three straight wins, despite the fact that they are five games ahead of St. Louis in the standings.

Jordan Montgomery will toe the slab for St. Louis, and he's 0-2 with a 6.04 ERA in his last five starts.

The Pirates hand the ball to Luis Ortiz, who is 1-1 with a 2.84 ERA in two home starts so far this season.

The Pirates are 6-4 straight up in their last 10 versus St. Louis, but they are 8-2 on the runline in those games.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on SEA.

The Mariners send a rookie to the mound today, but 23 year old Bryan Woo has been lighting it up in the minors. He looks to replicate what Bryce Miller has already done for the Mariners this season.

Andrew Heaney will toe the rubber for the Rangers, and he's struggled against Seattle. He allowed four runs on four hits and two walks in a loss to Seattle this season, and he was 1-2 with an 8.10 ERA in three starts versus the Mariners the previous two seasons.

Heaney boasts a sub 2.00 ERA on the road this season, but his ERA at home balloons to 5.34.

The Mariners are 10-4 in the last 14 meetings in Texas.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on WAS.

After losing Game 1 of this series in Washington, Philly now sits at the bottom of the NL East standings.

Matt Strahm will toe the slab for Philly Saturday, and he's worked out of the bullpen of late.

The Nats hand the ball to McKenzie Gore, who is 3-3 with a 3.57 ERA in 11 starts.

The Phillies are 3-10 in their last 13 road games versus a left-handed starter.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on MIN.

Houston will be the favorite with a rookie pitcher on the mound in Game 1, but I like the Twins as the underdog.

J.P. France makes just his second start in Houston, and in his home debut he allowed six runs on nine hits and two walks in 3 2/3 innings versus the Cubs.

The Twins hand the ball to Sonny Gray, who hasn't lost yet this season. He's 4-0 with a 1.82 ERA and a WHIP of 1.20.

The Twins are 8-2 ATS in Gray's 10 starts this season.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on COL.

The Rockies won Game 1 of this home series versus Miami, which comes as no surprise since Miami ranks 28th in the majors in runs scored.

Austin Gomber will toe the rubber for the Rockies in Game 2, and he's 3-0 with a 3.54 ERA in his last five starts.

Miami will hand the ball to 20 year old rookie Eury Perez who is making just his third appearance in the major leagues.

The Marlins are 1-9 in the last 10 meetings in Colorado.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on COL.

The Rockies return home off after getting swept in Texas, and they will be an underdog here against the Fish. Both teams are 10-12 in the home/away splits, and I don't see any reason for the Fish to be favored here.

Edward Cabrera will toe the slab for Miami, and he was pulled from his last start because of a blister. He comes in with a WHIP of 1.59, and he's 0-3 with a 6.64 ERA on the road.

Chase Anderson will go for the Rockies, and he's been at the top of most people's fade list in recent years. After his last call up he tossed five scoreless and gave up just one hit in a home game against the Reds.

Miami has the disadvantage with a lineup that ranks 28th in the majors in runs scored.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on MIN.

The Twins have split the first two games of this series in LA, and they will be an underdog in the rubber match.

Sonny Gray will toe the slab for the Twins, and he's been dealing so far this season. Gray (4-0, 1.39 ERA) has owned the Dodgers. The LA lineup is batting a combined .196 over 112 at bats versus Gray, with 22 hits and 38 strikeouts.

Dustin May will go for the Dodgers, and he's been solid. This game could come down to the bullpens, and the Dodgers have struggled in that department ranking 22nd in ERA by reliever (4.22).

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on CWS.

The Royals sit dead last in the AL Central, and the Chicago White Sox are just two games head in the standings. Kansas City won 9-1 in Game 2 of this series, but I expect them to bounce back here in Game 3. The Sox have alternated wins and losses over their last eight games. Brady Singer will toe the rubber for the Royals, and he's allowed at least five runs in five of his last six starts. The Royals are 5-17 in their last 22 home games.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on TEX +1.5.

The Rangers have split the first two games of this series in Seattle, and Game 3 looks like a potential pitcher's duel.

Luis Castillo will toe the slab for Seattle, and the Mariners are 0-5 ATS in their ace's last five starts. He allowed four runs on five hits in six innings in a 6-4 home loss to Houston his last time out.

The Rangers hand the ball to Dane Dunning, who comes in with a record of 2-0 with a 1.42 ERA. He tossed five scoreless in a no decision at LA in his last start, and the Rangers have covered the runline in each of his last five starts.

The Rangers are still in first place in the AL West, and they have won seven of their last 10 overall.

GL.

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Arizona.

The D'Backs host the Marlins in Game 1 on Monday, and Arizona sends it's ace to the mound.

Zac Gallen (4-1, 2.53 ERA) has his scoreless innings streak snapped in Texas in his last start. He's still flawless at home, with a record of 3-0, 0.00 ERA in three starts.

The Marlins hand the ball to Braxton Garrett, who is coming off a terrible performance. He was torched for 11 runs on 14 hits in 4 1/3 innings in a loss to Atlanta.

The Marlins are 5-13 in the last 18 meetings in Arizona, and they rank dead last in the majors in runs scored.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on COL.

So I said yesterday that these two teams are trending in opposite directions, and that's even more true after Colorado won last night by a score of 7-1. The Rockies have won three straight and five of eight, while the Brewers have lost three straight and six of nine.

At first glance, Wade Miley (3-1, 186 ERA) looks worthy of being a big favorite here. His numbers against the Rockies tell a different story. The Rockies lineup is batting a combined .343 against him in over 100 at bats.

Jurickson Profar is 5-for-7 lifetime versus Miley, and Kris Bryant is 9-for-20 (.450) with a pair of home runs.

Colorado will send Connor Seabold to the mound, and he's allowed just a pair of runs on seven hits over 5 2/3 innings in his last two appearances. He's coming out of the bullpen so we only expect him to go a few innings.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on the BLUE JAYS.

The Mariners are struggling, and they come into Game 2 of this series in Toronto ranked 27th in the majors with a team batting average of .222. The pitching matchup surely favors the Blue Jays here.

Kevin Gausman will toe the slab for Toronto, and he's coming off a seven inning shutout win over the Yankees. He gave up three hits and struck out 11 batters in that game.

The Mariners hand the ball to Chris Flexen, who has struggled mightily. He's been lit up for 18 runs on 25 hits over 12 1/3 innings in his last three starts.

Vladdy Jr is 4-for-6 lifetime versus Flexen, and the Jays are 42-16 in their last 58 games versus a right-handed starter.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Arizona.

The Royals got a rare win in Arizona last night, but I look for them to get back to their losing ways as they face the D'Backs ace in a matinee in the desert on Wednesday.

Zac Gallen is working on another scoreless inning streak. Last year he went 44.5 innings without allowing a run, and he comes into today's game off 20 2/3 scoreless innings. He's racked up 29 strikeouts during that span.

The Royals hand the ball to Ryan Yarbrough, who is winless on the season. He's allowed six runs on six hits in 6 1/3 innings in his last two appearances. He's 0-2 with a 7.62 ERA overall in seven appearances.

The Royals rank 27th in the majors in runs scored, and 28th in team batting average (.222).

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on TEXAS. 

The A's rallied to win Game 1, snapping a seven game losing streak. They lost Game 2 by a score of 18-3, and another losing streak seems to be building momentum. 

Kyle Muller will toe the slab for Oakland, and the 25 year old has been torched for a dozen runs on 20 hits in eight innings in his last two starts. 

Jake deGrom will go for Texas, and that doesn't bode well for the A's in the early innings. 

Texas is in 1st in the AL West, they rank 2nd in the majors in scoring and they have scored 46 runs in their last four games. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on LAA -1.5.

The Angels are tied with Houston for second place in the AL West, but a home series versus Kansas City is a good spot to make up some ground.

The Halos send Shohei Ohtani to the mound in Game 1, and he was 7-4 with a 1.82 ERA in 14 home starts last year. He tossed eight scoreless innings, striking out 13 in his only start versus the Royals.

Kansas City will turn to the bullpen, with 29 year old Taylor Clarke making a spot start. He was rocked for four runs on four hits and a walk in just one inning in his most recent appearance.

The Royals are 3-9 in the last 12 meetings in Los Angeles.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 3* play on Texas +1.5.

The Rangers come in as winners of seven of nine, sitting in first place in the AL West. The pitching matchup in Game 3 in Kansas City appears to favor Texas.

Martin Perez will toe the rubber for the Rangers, and he was light out in 2022. He went 7-4 with a 2.86 ERA in 16 starts on the road. He allowed a pair of runs on five hits in five innings in a win at Houston his last time out.

The Royals hand the ball to Brady Singer, who has been rocked for 13 runs on 18 hits in 11 innings in his last two starts.

Kansas City has lost 11 of 12 home games this season.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on SEA.

The Mariners have out-scored the Rockies 14-5 in the first two games of this series, and the pitching matchup in Game 3 suggests another blowout.

Luis Castillo will toe the slab for Seattle, and he's off to a fantastic start to the season. Castillo (1-0, 1.02 ERA) has allowed just two runs in 17 2/3 innings in his three starts.

The Rockies hand the ball to Noah Davis, who makes a spot start. He posted a 4.15 ERA and a 1.62 WHIP in five appearances this Spring.

The Rockies are 14-39 in their last 53 road games versus a right-handed starter.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on CLE.

The Nationals were expected to be one of the worst teams in the Majors, and at 4-11 they haven't disappointed. Sunday's matchup doesn't appear to bode well for the Nats.

Shane Bieber will toe the slab for Cleveland, and he's off to a hot start. Bieber (1-0, 2.37 ERA) was solid on the road last season going 8-3 with a 2.65 ERA in 18 starts.

The Nats hand the ball to Patrick Corbin, who is 0-2 with an 8.00 ERA at home in 2023.

The Guardians are 13-3 in their last 16 interleague road games.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Toronto.

The Jays have played the first 10 games of the season on the road, and they are all geared up for their home opener versus the Tigers Tuesday.

 Matt Manning will toe the slab for the Tigers, and he could be in for a rough ride. After posting a WHIP over 2.00 in Spring Training, he got the win in his season debut at Houston. He faces a Blue Jays lineup that leads the majors in team batting average.

The Jays hand the ball to Alek Manoah, who tossed seven scoreless innings allowing just one hit in a win over KC in his last start. He was 7-4 with a 2.42 ERA in 15 home starts in 2022.

The Jays are 4-1 in their last five versus Detroit, and all of those wins came by 2+ runs.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Brewers +1.5.

The Brew Crew are off to a great start, and they look good as an underdog here in Game 1 in Arizona.

Wade Miley will toe the slab for the Brewers, and he was dealing in his season debut. Miley tossed six scoreless innings in a 9-0 win over the Mets.

The D'Backs will hand the ball to Zac Gallen, who was fantastic in 2022. He struggled in Spring Training and got rocked in his season debut.

The Diamondbacks are 1-10 in their last 11 during game 1 of a series, and they are 1-5 in their last six games versus a left-handed starter.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on LAA.

The Angels won Game 2 of this home series versus Toronto by a score of 9-5. I like that momentum to carry over here in Game 3.

Yusei Kickuchi will toe the slab for Toronto, and while he was brilliant this Spring and solid in his season debut, he hasn't had success against LA.

The Halos hand the ball to Reid Detmers, who is famous for tossing a no-no in his rookie season. He stood out this Spring striking out 27 batters in 20 innings.

The Angels lineup has hit a combined .344 over 90 at bats versus Kickuchi.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on TB -1.5.

At the risk of appearing to go after low hanging fruit, I can't pass on the 7-0 Rays at home versus the worst team in baseball with a pitching mismatch in their favor.

Jeff Springs dominated Spring Training, tossing 14 scoreless innings and racking up a whopping 24 Ks. All he did in his season debut is toss six scoreless fanning a dozen.

The A's hand the ball to their 5th starter Shintaro Fujinami, who was torched for eight runs on five hits in 2 1/3 innings in his debut. His 17 walks in 17 innings this Spring should have been a red flag.

The Rays are 37-17 in their last 54 home games, while the Athletics are 18-39 in their last 57 road games.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on Baltimore +1.5.

The Red Sox will be a big favorite in Game 2 versus Baltimore, and I think the price is rather inflated.

Chris Sales will toe the slab for the Sox, coming off an injury plagued 2022 season. He didn't exactly dominate this Spring, posting an ERA over 4.00 and allowing 17 hits in 15 innings.

The Orioles hand the ball to Dean Kremer, who has outstanding for the Orioles last season. He was 0-2 with a 4.50 ERA in three starts versus Boston, but a closer look reveals that the Orioles were 2-1 ATS in those games.

We aren't expecting Sale to log a lot of innings in his first start, and Boston ranked dead last in the AL in ERA by relief pitcher in 2022.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Chicago +1.5.

I had the Cubs on Opening Day, and I said the wrong team was favored. I'll take Chicago again in Game 2 as I think that is still the case.

Brandon Woodruff will toe the slab for the Brewers, and he didn't have much success against the Cubs last year. He was 0-1 with a 5.28 ERA in three starts versus Chicago.

The Cubs hand the ball to Justin Steele, who looks to take the next step after a pretty solid 2022 campaign. He was 1-1 with a 2.03 ERA in six starts versus the Brewers.

The Brewers are 1-5 in the last six meetings at Wrigley.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on the Chisox +1.5.

This is a play against the World Series champs in their season opener. I like underdogs on Opening Day, and throw in a potential World Series hangover and I'm all over it.

Dylan Cease will toe the slab for the Sox, and he was outstanding in 2022. He was even better on the road than he was at home, with a record of 8-4 and a 2.00 ERA in 14 starts.

The Astros hand the ball to Framber Valedez, who like Cease also had better numbers on the road.

The White Sox are 4-1 in their last five road games versus a left-handed starter.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on the Cubs +1.5.

The Cubs will be a home underdog versus Milwaukee on Opening Day, and this might be a case of the wrong team favored.

Marcus Stroman will toe the slab for Chicago, and he had some success against Milwaukee last year. Stroman was 1-0 with a 1.37 ERA in three starts versus the Brewers last season. He was 2-0 with a 0.90 ERA in three starts in the Spring.

The Brewers hand the ball to Corbin Burnes, who was winless in three starts versus the Cubs last year. Burnes did not have a good Spring, posting career high ERA and WHIP.

The Brewers are 1-4 in the last five meetings in Chicago.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on PHI.

The Phillies need to win Game 6 to force a Game 7, but they do have a favorable pitching matchup.

Zack Wheeler was tagged for five runs on six hits over five innings in Game 2, but he should bounce back here. His previous road start in San Diego was a gem, tossing seven scoreless innings, striking out eight and allowing one hit.

Framber Valdez is suspected to have been using a foreign substance in Game 2, and after getting rocked for 10 runs on 4 2/3 innings in two starts in the World Series last year I can see why. The whole world will be watching, so it would be shocking to see him try anything here in Game 6.

Philly is 7-0 coming off an off day, and 4-1 coming off a loss.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on PHI.

After being no-hit in Game 4, look for the Phillies to bounce back in Game 5. The Phillies had averaged seven runs per game at home in the playoffs prior to last night, and they roughed up Justin Verlander in Game 1. Verlander was torched for five runs on six hits in five innings, and he's now 0-6 with a 6.07 ERA in his career in the World Series. The Phillies have won four straight coming off a loss, and they are 10-3 in their last 13 home games versus Houston.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on PHI.

The Astros are a favorite for a reason, as Houston was unfeated in this post-season prior to Game 1. They may have won all seven games, but four of those seven wins came in games decided by one run. They face the Phillies ace in Game 2, and Zach Wheeler is 1-1 with a 1.78 ERA in four starts in the playoffs. Maybe the Phillies are playing over their heads, but they have been hot at the plate, and I don't want to step in front of them here as the big underdog. The Phillies are 15-6 in their last 21 games versus a left-handed starter, and they face lefty Framber Valdez here on Saturday. 

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on PHI.

The Astros are a favorite for a reason, as Houston is still unfeated in this post-season. They may have won all seven games, but four of those seven wins came in games decided by one run. They face the Phillies ace in Game 1, and Zach Wheeler is 1-1 with a 1.78 ERA in four starts in the playoffs. Justin Verlander on the other hand has allowed seven runs on 13 hits over 10 innings in two starts. Maybe the Phillies are playing over their heads, but they have been hot at the plate, and I don't want to step in front of them here as the big underdog.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on HOU +1.5.

The Astros are undefeated in the playoffs so far, while the Yankees are hanging on by a thread. After a five game series versus Cleveland, they find themselves down 0-2 in the ALCS. This really should come as no surprise, given their second half collapse during the regular season. The Yankees have lost eight of their last 10 versus Houston, and one of the two wins during that span came in a one run game. The Yankees are the favorite with their ace on the mound, but Christian Javier has a lower ERA and WHIP than Cole. He was also 1-0 with a 0.75 ERA in two starts versus the Yankees this season.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on CLE +1.5. 

It's tough to give an analysis before the pitching matchup has been confirmed. The price has gone way up overnight after a rainout last night. Nestor Cortes will take over instead of Jameson Taillon, but he was already on the wrong side of a loss in this series. It would seem likely that Shane Beiber could go on three days rest, but Civale might get the start on a short leash. Whoever is on the mound, I think the price is too high for a Yankees team that is in danger of joining the Dodgers and the Braves on the golf course. 

GL, 

Jesse 

This is a 2* play on CLE +1.5. 

The Yankees won Game 1 of this series by a score of 4-1, but they come into Game 4 trailing 2-1. Aside from the fact that Cleveland has all the momentum, there are reasons to expect a better result here with the same pitching matchup as the series opener. 

Cal Quantrill was 9-0 with a 3.28 ERA at home during the regular season. He was also 4-0 with a 2.60 ERA in his last six starts of the season. 

The way the Yankees lost Game 3, it puts them in a tough spot mentally to overcome. 

I'll take the home dog. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on PHI. 

The Phillies have all the momentum heading into Game 4, and the pitching matchup favors Philly. 

Charlie Morton will toe the slab for Atlanta, and he's 0-1 with a 5.47 ERA in five starts versus the Phillies this season. 

The Phillies hand the ball to Noah Syndergaard, who is 2-1 with a 3.20 ERA in his last four appearances. 

The Phillies are 7-3 in their last 10 Divisional Playoff home games.

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on PHI.

The Phillies are in the driver's seat after winning Game 1, and they are in great shape with Zack Wheeler on the mound in Game 2.

Wheeler (12-7, 2.82 ERA) was scorching down the stretch, allowing just one run in his final three regular season starts. He was 2-0 with a 2.70 ERA in three starts versus the Braves this year.

Atlanta will hand the ball to Kyle Wright, who has pitched well versus Philly, but has an ERA over 5.00 in his last five starts.

The Phillies are 6-1 in their last seven Divisional Playoff road games.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on LAD.

Game 1 could be an emotional let down spot for the Padres after upsetting the Mets in the Wild Card series. The pitching matchup certainly favors the home team.

Mike Clevinger will go for San Diego, and he's 0-2 with a 9.69 ERA in three starts versus the Dodgers this season. He also struggled on the road, going 4-4 with a 5.46 ERA in 14 starts.

The Dodgers hand the ball to Julio Urias, who has owned the Padres. He's 3-0 with a 1.50 ERA in four starts versus San Diego.

The Dodgers are 9-3 in their last 12 Divisional Playoff home games.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a free play on the Orioles.

The Blue Jays have clinched a Wild Card spot, and the Orioles have been eliminated. Game 1 in Baltimore won't have any playoff implications, but it's a chance for some players to finish strong and pad their stats at the end of the year.

Perhaps nobody has more to gain than Dean Kremer, who has had a solid season for the Orioles and will make his final start. His last home start was a complete game shutout win over Houston. He signed a one year contract with Baltimore for just 700K, and he could be in for a big pay day in the off-season.

Jose Berrios will go for the Blue Jays, and he's always been a Jeckyll and Hyde picher (home/away). He's 7-2 with a 4.25 ERA in Toronto, and 4-5 with a 6.75 ERA on the road.

The Orioles should be a favorite in this game.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on CLE+1.5.

Cleveland had won 10 of 12 heading into this series in Chicago, sitting four games clear of the White Sox in the AL Central.

Triston McKenzie will toe the slab for Cleveland in Game 2, and he's 1-0 with a 2.12 ERA in three starts versus Chicago this season.

Chicago will hand the ball to Lance Lynn, who is 1-1 with a 4.50 ERA in four starts versus Cleveland.

Jose Ramirez is batting .345 with four home runs lifetime versus Lynn.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Arizona.

The D'Backs have a winning record at home this season, and with the hottest pitcher in the major leagues on the mound tonight they appear to be a bargain at this price.

Zac Gallen (12-2, 2.50 ERA) hadn't allowed a run in six consecutive starts before giving up three runs on four hits while fanning 11 in six innings in a 12-6 win over the Rockies at Coors Field. Back home tonight don't be surprised to see Gallen toss another shutout.

The Padres are 4-10 in their last 14 Saturday games.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on PIT.

This is not the highest profile matchup in the majors today, but I like this underdog in a battle between two of the worst teams in baseball.

Bryse Wilson will toe the slab for the Bucs, and he hasn't been great in most spots. One spot where he has been good is against the Reds (2.63 ERA in two starts) and in Cincinnati, allowing just one earned run in 6 2/3 innings at Great American Ballpark earlier in the year.

The Reds hand the ball to Mike Minor, and there isn't much positive to say about him. He's 0-7 with a 6.11 ERA at home, and 1-1 with a 6.75 ERA versus Pittsburgh.

The Reds are 3-8 in their last 11 during game 1 of a series.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on SEA.

The Mariners are a home dog, despite the fact that they are 19-6 overall in their last 25 games. They are 22-3 ATS during that span.

Robbie Ray will toe the slab for Seattle, and the reigning Cy Young winner is on top form. He's 4-0 with a 1.41 ERA in his last five starts.

The Braves hand the ball to Charlie Morton, who is 2-4 with a 5.24 ERA in a dozen road starts.

The Braves are 1-6 in the last seven meetings versus Seattle.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Colorado.

The Rockies home record is significantly better than the Brewers road record. The Rockies starting pitcher has dominated the Brewers, while Milwaukee's starter was rocked by Colorado earlier this season.

Kyle Freeland tossed seven scoreless innings, fanning seven in a win over the Brewers. Eric Lauer allowed four runs on six hits and four walks in four innings in a loss to Colorado.

The Brewers are 4-11 in their last 15 after allowing five runs or more in their previous game.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play CLE.

The Mariners are going for a sweep in Cleveland, but I like the home dog here. At first glance this looks like a pitcher's duel. George Kirby is 4-0 with a 2.15 ERA in his last five starts. Dig a little deeper though and you see those games came against the Tigers, Nationals, Rangers and home and away set versus the Angels. Cal Quantrill on the other hand is 4-0 with a 1.41 ERA in his last five starts, which came against the likes of Toronto, Houston, Baltimore and San Diego. The Guardians are 7-2 in their last nine during game 3 of a series.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on NYM.

The Mets won Game 1 by a score of 7-3, and Game 2 should be another blowout.

Mad Max will toe the slab for New York, and he's 4-2 with a 1.66 ERA in nine home starts. He's 2-0 with a 3.55 ERA in two starts versus Washington.

The Nats hand the ball to Patrick Corbin, who hasn't missed many bats this season. He's 1-10 with an 8.83 ERA in a dozen road starts. He's also 0-3 with a 6.62 ERA in four starts versus the Mets.

Pete Alonso is batting .382 with five home runs in 34 career at bats versus Corbin.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Texas.

The Rangers look good with their ace on the mound here in Game 2 of a home series versus Houston.

Martin Perez (10-4, 2.69 ERA) is 4-2 with a 2.60 ERA in a dozen home starts, and he's 1-1 with a 3.43 ERA in two starts versus Houston.

The Astros hand the ball to Christian Javier, who is 5th on the depth chart. He's perhaps been unlucky, but the Astros have lost seven of his last nine starts.

The Rangers are 18-8 in Perez 26 starts overall, but they are 22-4 on the runline in those games.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on ATL.

The Braves are just three games back of the Mets in the NL East, and they have a favorable matchup in Game 1 of a home series versus Colorado Tuesday.

Jose Urena will toe the rubber for the Rockies, and he's been just terrible all year. He's 1-2 with a 7.88 ERA in his last five starts.

The Braves hand the ball to Max Fried, who is 2-1 with a 1.61 ERA in his last four starts.

The Rockies are 3-13 in their last 16 games following an off day, and they are 15-41 in their last 56 road games.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Detroit.

The Tigers lost Game 1 in Texas by a score of 7-6. They have won five of their last nine outright, and they are 7-2 on the runline in those games.

Dallas Keuchel will toe the rubber for the Rangers, and he's bounced around all year. No matter where he goes, he's struggles. He's 0-2 with a 10.05 ERA in his last three major league starts.

The Tigers hand the ball to Eduardo Rodrgiuez, who is not a Cy Young candidate either. He has held opponents to one run or less in three of his last four appearances.

The Rangers are 6-13 in their last 19 games following a win.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 3* play on TB.

The Rays scored 11 runs in a blowout win in Game 2 versus the Angels, and we expect more of the same in Game 3.

Shane McLannahan will toe the slab for Tampa, and he's 9-3 with a 2.38 ERA in 15 home starts.

The Angels hand the ball to Austin Powers (Mike Mayers) who has allowed seven runs on 11 hits and four home runs in 12 innings in his last three appearances.

The Angels are 6-21 in their last 27 versus the American League East.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on BAL.

The Orioles are just 6-6 in their last 12 games overall, but they are 9-3 ATS in those games. They host Chicago in Game 2 at Camden Yards and they are an underdog after winning Game 1.

Spenser Watkins will toe the slab for Baltimore, and he allowed one unearned run in five innings in a win over the White Sox earlier this year.

The Sox hand the ball to Lucas Giolito, who owns a 6.12 ERA in his last five starts.

The White Sox have lost five of their last six overall.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a free play on BAL.

The Orioles have not only been better than Boston in recent weeks, they have been the best team in the AL East since mid May. Getting them as a home dog here seems incredible.

Nick Pivetta will toe the slab for the Sox, and he's 1-2 with a 3.45 ERA in his last five starts.

The Orioles hand the ball to Dean Kremer, who is 2-2 with a 3.41 ERA in six home starts.

The Red Sox are 2-8 ATS in their last 10 versus Baltimore.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on SEA.

After taking two of three in a home series versus the Yankees, the Mariners cooled off losing two of three in Texas. They look good to bounce back in Game 1 of this series in LA.

Shohei Ohtani will toe the slab for LA, and the Angels have lost three of his last four starts. He's 1-3 with a 3.75 ERA in those games.

The Mariners hand the ball to Luis Castillo, who is coming off back to back brilliant starts in wins over the Yankees. He's 2-0 with a 2.49 ERA in three starts over the last 30 days.

The Angels are 3-2 straight up in their last five versus Seattle, but they are just 1-4 ATS in those games.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 3* play on Milwaukee.

The Brewers have lost five of six and now sit second in the NL Central. The good news is that their ace is on the hill Sunday.

Corbin Burnes will toe the slab for the Brew Crew, and he's 6th in MLB with a WHIP of 0.95.

The Reds hand the ball to Graham Ashcraft, who was rocked for six runs on eight hits in five innings versus the Brewers the last time he faced them.

The Reds are 3-13 in the last 16 meetings.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Philly.

The Phillies have won eight of nine, and they look to take advantage of a shorthanded Nationals team in Game 3 at Citizen's Bank Park on Saturday.

Ranger Suarez will toe the slab for Philly, and he hasn't surrendered an earned run in his last three starts.

The Nats hand the ball to Patrick Corbin, who is 0-5 with a 10.29 ERA in his last five starts.

The Nationals are 3-9 in their last 12 road games.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on MIN +1.5.

The Twins will be a home dog in Game 1 versus Toronto, despite the fact that the Twins have a far better home record than Toronto has on the road.

Alek Manoah will toe the slab for Toronto, and while he's had a great season he's been pretty pedestrian lately. He's 2-3 with a 3.45 ERA in his last five starts.

The Twins hand the ball to Sonny Gray, who has been hot of late. He's allowed a pair of runs on seven hits, striking out a dozen over 11 innings in back to back wins over San Diego and Detroit in his last two starts.

The Twins are 10-15 straight up in Gray's 15 starts, but they are 13-2 ATS in those games.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on the NYM.

The Nats dealt Josh Bell and Juan Soto on deadline day, leaving them with what might as well be a Triple A roster.

Speaking of Triple-A, starting pitcher Anibal Sanchez might find himself there soon. He's 0-3 with a 7.47 ERA in three starts.

The Mets hand the ball to Chris Bassitt, who is a solid 4-1 with a 3.13 ERA in six starts in day games.

The Nats beat the Mets yesterday, but the Mets are 28-8 in their last 36 games following a loss.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on NYM.

The Mets are just three games ahead of Atlanta in the NL East, and they will be a big favorite in Game 1 in Washington Monday.

Max Scherzer will toe the slab for New York, and he's 1-1 with a 1.39 ERA in his last five starts.

The Nats hand the ball to Patrick Corbin, who is 0-4 with a 7.99 ERA in his last five starts.

Pete Alonso is hitting .364 with four home runs over 33 career at bats versus Corbin.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on the CWS.

The Sox have split the first two games of this home series versus Oakland, but they have a favorable matchup in the rubber match Sunday.

Dylan Cease will toe the slab for Chicago, and he's 4-1 with an 0.61 ERA in his last five starts.

Oakland will hand the ball to Adam Oller, who has struggled all season long. He's only pitched 32 innings, but he's put a whopping 60 men on base during that span.

The Athletics are 4-9 in their last 13 Sunday games.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Toronto.

The Jays have won nine of their last 11 overall, and eight of those nine wins came by more than one run.

Jose Berrios will toe the slab for Toronto in Game 4 versus Detroit, and he's 2-0 with a 3.41 ERA in his last four starts, and he's 5-0 with a 3.47 ERA in 10 home starts.

The Tigers hand the ball to Garrett Hill, who has lost three straight starts. He's allowed 12 runs on 16 hits and eight walks over 15 innings in those games.

The Tigers are 2-11 in their last 13 games versus a right-handed starter.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Toronto.

The Jays have split the first two games of this series versus Detroit, but they look good to win the rubber match Saturday.

Drew Hutchison will toe the slab for Detroit, and he's spent the majority of the season working out of the bullpen. He's allowed eight runs on 12 hits and four walks in 9 1/3 innings in his last two appearances.

The Jays hand the ball to Ross Stripling, who is 2-2 with a 2.90 ERA in 12 appearances this season. His best performance came against the Tigers, tossing six scoreless innings and allowing just one hit.

The Tigers are 1-11 in their last 12 games versus a right-handed starter.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 3* play on Seattle.

The Mariners were swept by Houston in a three game series in Seattle coming out of the All Star break, but they bounced back with three straight home wins over Texas. They have a favorable matchup here in Houston for Game 1. Logan Gilbert will toe the slab for Seattle, and he's 2-1 with a 2.37 ERA in three starts versus the Astros. Houston will hand the ball to Jose Urquidy, who is 1-3 with a 7.58 ERA in four starts versus Seattle. The Mariners are 14-3 in their last 17 road games versus a right-handed starter.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 3* play on the Mariners.

After beating the Rangers in back to back games to start this series, Seattle is a home dog in Game 3. Both the first two games were decided by one run, and another close game is likely here this afternoon. Marco Gonzales will toe the slab for Seattle, and he's faced Texas three times already this season. His numbers aren't great against the Rangers, but Jon Gray is 0-1 with a 7.20 ERA against Seattle. These teams have played one-run games in seven of the last 10 head to head meetings, and the Mariners are 11-4 in their last 15 home games.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on the Giants +1.5.

The Giants won five of six heading into the All Star break, and they look to pick up right where they left off on the road in LA in their first game back.

Carlos Rodon will toe the slab for San Francisco, and he's absolutely owned LA. The Dodgers lineup has hit a combined .080 over 71 at bats versus the southpaw.

The Dodgers hand the ball to Mike White, who is winless in his last four starts. He's 0-1 with a 4.66 ERA in four starts over the last 30 days.

The Giants are 24-10 in their last 34 games following an off day.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on the Orioles.

Now winners of nine straight, and they are still an underdog to the Cubs. From top to bottom the Orioles pitching staff has been on a roll. The Cubs on the other hand rank 25th with a team ERA of 4.66, and 29th with just 17 quality starts. Chicago is just 17-28 overall, and Baltimore has battled back to .500. Spenser Watkins has allowed just two earned runs in his last three starts for the Orioles, and the bullpen has been phenomenal.

Take BAL.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on the Orioles.

The Orioles have won six straight, and four of their last five games were decided by one run. They have a better overall record than the Angels, and a far better record at home than the Angels have on the road. Their starting pitcher has better numbers, and still they are the underdog here in Game 3 of a series that they lead 2-0. The Angels are 5-17 in their last 22 road games, and they are 1-12 in their last 13 versus teams from the American League East. The Orioles are 6-4 straight up in their last 10 versus the Angels, but they are 8-2 on the runline in those games.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on Atlanta -1.5.

The Braves won two of three games in Philly, and both wins came by 2+ runs. Atlanta ranks among the league leaders in wins by more than one run, The Reds have lost 10 of their last 13, and nine of those 10 losses came by more than one run. Cincinnati ranks among the league leaders with 79 percent of their losses coming by 2+ runs. Mike Minor will toe the rubber for the Reds, and he's been rocked for 10 runs on 14 hits over 11 innings in his last two starts. He's 0-3 with a 7.53 ERA in three home starts.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on Atlanta +1.5.

Bryce Harper leads the Phillies in hits, RBI and batting average, so it makes sense that they have lost back to back games in this home series versus Atlanta. They are the favorite here in Game 3, but I expect the Braves to give them a run for their money.

Ian Anderson will toe the slab for Atlanta, and his numbers are better on the road than they are at home. He's 5-2 with a 3.55 ERA in eight starts on the road.

The Phillies hand the ball to Aaron Nola, who is also better on the road than he is at home. His ERA at home is almost double what it is on the road.

The Braves are 11-2 in their last 13 road games, and they are 16-5 in their last 21 games following a win.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on LAA -1.5.

In general the Angels are one of the most overrated teams in the major leagues, and Shohei Ohtani as great as he is has been hyped up to the point where there is very little value backing him as a pitcher. That being said, while the Angels on the moneyline looks like a sucker bet, there appears to be value in backing LA on the runline. A glance at the MLB charts showing wins and losses by 2+ runs reveals that 30 of LA's 36 wins have come by 2+ runs. The White Sox on the other hand have a total of 38 losses, and 30 of those came by 2+ runs. This sets up a decent plus money bet on LA -1.5.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on the Orioles +1.5.  

The Orioles come into this series with more road wins than the Mariners have home wins. Seattle has won six of the last 10 head to head meetings, but only three of those wins came by more than one run.  

Dan Kremer will toe the slab for the Orioles, and he's allowed just one run in his last three starts.  

Robbie Ray is a big name Cy Young winner, but he hasn't been the same pitcher this year that he was a year ago. The Orioles haven't been fooled by Ray, batting a combined .316 over 94 at bats against him.

 The Orioles are 13-3 in their last 16 games following a loss.

GL,  

Jesse Schule 

This is a 5* play on Texas.

Texas is now in second place in the AL West, and they look good as a road favorite at Kansas City Monday.

Martin Perez will toe the rubber for the Rangers, and he's having a career year. He's 5-2 with a 1.96 ERA in 14 starts. He's 1-0 with a 1.76 ERA in six starts on the road.

The Royals hand the ball to Kris Bubic, who has struggled at home. He's 0-3 with a 7.78 ERA in six home starts.

The Rangers are 10-4 in the last 14 meetings in Kansas City, and they are 28-8 in the last 36 head to head meetings.

GL,

Jesse Schule