This is a 10* play on the Baltimore Orioles.

The Cardinals crushed the Orioles in Game 1 of this series at Camden Yards, but I like Baltimore in Game 2. The Orioles are still a solid 21-11 at home this season, and St. Louis had come to town as losers of 10 of their last 11 road games.

Wade Miley will toe the slab for Baltimore, and he's pitched far better at home than he has on the road. Miley is 1-2 with a 2.15 ERA in six starts at Camden Yards, and he boasts a 1.06 ERA in three starts in the afternoon.

The Cardinals hand the ball to Adam Wainwright, who has been brutal on the road. Wainwright (7-4, 4.73 ERA) was torched for nine runs on seven hits and three walks over just 3 2/3 innings in a loss at Cinci in his last road start. Opponents are batting .333 versus Wainwright over six starts on the road this season.

The Cardinals have lost eight of their last 10 interleague games, and 10 of their last 15 overall.

Take BAL.

GL,

Jesse Schule

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Kansas City Royals.

The Royals are a home dog in the series finale versus Cleveland, despite the fact they've out-scored the Indians 16-5 while winning the first two games.

Trevor Bauer will toe the slab for the Tribe, and he's struggled on the road. Bauer (5-4, 6.00 ERA) allowed three runs on seven hits, striking out 14 over seven innings in a home win over Oakland his last time out. He's 2-3 with a 6.51 ERA on the road, and he's 1-2 with a 3.56 ERA in his last seven starts versus the Royals.

Kansas City will hand the ball to Eric Skoglund, who makes just his second start of the season. The 24 year old was brilliant in his debut, striking out five through 6 1/3 scoreless innings, surrendering just two hits.

The Royals are 6-1 in their last 7 home games versus a right-handed starter.

Take KC.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Baltimore Orioles +1.5.

The Orioles took Game 1 of this home series versus the Yankees by a score of 3-2. They are an underdog in Game 2, and I like the home team in this spot.

Chris Tillman will toe the slab the Orioles, and he's been good against the Yankees in recent seasons. Tillman (1-1, 4.43 ERA) allowed four runs on nine hits and two walks over five innings in a 4-3 home loss to the Twins his last time out. He's 4-2 with a 2.92 ERA in his last nine starts against the Yankees.

New York will hand the ball to Luis Severino, who has been dealing lately. Severino (3-2, 3.11 ERA) tossed eight scoreless innings, allowing just four hits and striking out seven in a home win over the Royals his last time out. He was roughed up by the Orioles earlier this season, allowing four runs on six hits in five innings in a loss at Camden Yards.

The Orioles have won 22 of their last 29 home games against the Yankees.

Take BAL.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the St. Louis Cardinals +1.5.

The Cardinals lost Game 1 of this home series versus the Dodgers by a score of 5-2, but I like their chances in Game 2 here at Busch Stadium.

Michael Wacha will toe the slab for St. Louis, and he's had a strong start to 2017. Wacha (2-2, 3.66 ERA) was torched for six runs on seven hits in just four innings in a loss at LA his last time out. I would expect a better showing here at home, where he is 2-0 with a 2.35 ERA in five starts.

The Dodgers hand the ball to Kenta Maeda, who hasn't been that sharp on the road. The right-hander is 1-1 with a 6.30 ERA in three starts away from Chavez Ravine, and he's given up five home runs in those games.

The Dodgers are 17-37 in the last 54 meetings in St. Louis.

Take STL.

GL,

Jesse Schule

Jesse Schule.

Jesse Schule

This is a 7* play on the Colorado Rockies +1.5.

The Rockies crushed Cinci in Game 1 of this series, and Colorado has won four of it's last five. The Reds have lost seven straight, but somehow the bookmakers have them favored to win Game 2?

Tim Adleman will toe the rubber for the Reds, and he's coming off a rough outing. The 29 year old lasted just one inning, giving up four runs on three hits and a pair of walks in a loss at San Francisco. He has an ERA over .500, and the Reds have lost four of his six starts so far.

The Rockies hand the ball to Antonio Senzatela, who has quietly gone 6-1 with a 3.31 ERA despite pitching in a notoriously hitter friendly park. His numbers on the road are even better, going 2-0 with a 2.50 ERA in three starts.

The Reds are 0-5 in their last five games against a right-handed starter, while the Rockies are 7-1 in Senzatela's last eight starts.

Take COL.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Milwaukee Brewers +1.5.

The Brewers won two of three in a home series versus Boston this week, and they are just two games out of first place in the NL Central. They host the Mets Friday, and New York is still below .500 for the season.

Matt Harvey will toe the slab for the visitors, and he's coming off back to back poor performances. He allowed six runs on eight hits in 5 1/3 innings in a 9-7 loss at Atlanta his last time out. Prior to that he was torched for six runs on five hits and five walks in just 4 1/3 innings in a home loss to Atlanta.

The Brewers hand the ball to Matt Garza, who has looked sharp in three starts this season. Garza (1-0, 2.55 ERA) allowed just one run on eight hits in seven innings in a no decision at Pittsburgh his last time out. Prior to that he allowed three runs on six hits, striking out seven in 6 2/3 innings in a home win over Atlanta.

The Mets are 2-8 in Harvey's last 10 starts versus a team with a winning record.

Take MIL.

GL,

Jesse Schule.

This is an 8* play on the Colorado Rockies.

The Rockies are sitting in first place in the NL West, 2 games clear of the second place Dodgers. They host the Cubs tonight, and Chicago could be a little weary coming off a marathon 18 inning game against the Yankees Sunday. The two teams will play a double-header at Coors Field Tuesday, and despite the fact that the Cubs are 7-16 in their last 23 at Colorado, they will be favored in both games.

John Lackey will toe the slab for the Cubs in Game 2, and he's having a tough start to the season. Lackey (2-3, 5.14 ERA) allowed three runs on nine hits over just five innings in a home win over Philly his last time out. He's only appeared in one game at Coors Field since 2014, and that ended in disaster. In just four innings he allowed 10 runs on 12 hits.

The Rockies hand the ball to Kyle Freeland, who tossed seven scoreless innings in his last home start. He's 2-1 with a 3.57 ERA in his first three starts in Colorado.

The bullpen has been an issue for Colorado in recent seasons, but so far in 2017 it has been a strength. The Rockies relievers rank 12th in the majors with a 3.81 ERA.

Take COL.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on the Baltimore Orioles (-1.5).

The Orioles are just a half game behind the Yankees in the AL East, and they could move into first place with a win over the White Sox at home tonight.

Dylan Covey will toe the slab for the Sox, and he's been hit hard lately. Covey (0-2, 7.29 ERA) allowed six runs on nine hits and a pair of walks over 6 2/3 innings in a 6-1 loss to Kansas City his last time out. He's given up five home runs in three starts on the road this season.

The Orioles hand the ball to Dylan Bundy, who has been dealing so far. Bundy (4-1, 1.82 ERA) allowed a pair of runs on five hits over seven innings in a win at Boston his last time out. He's allowed just three runs on 14 hits, striking out 14 batters in 20 1/3 innings in three home starts in 2017.

The Orioles are 12-3 in their last 15 home games.

Take BAL.

GL,

Jesse Schule

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Seattle Mariners +1.5.

After winning six of nine at home, the Mariners head out on the road to face Oakland in Game 1 of a four game series. The Athletics have lost three of five on their current home stand, and they face a red hot left-hander here in tonight's game. The Mariners are 20-6 in the last 26 meetings in Oakland, while the A's have lost 13 of their last 18 home games.

Hisashi Iwakuma will toe the slab for Seattle in Game 2, and he's owned Oakland over the years. Iwakuma (0-1, 5.40 ERA) was rocked for six runs on seven hits in just three innings at home versus Texas his last time out. He's 6-1 with a 3.99 ERA in nine starts versus Oakland since 2014, and he's 4-0 with a 2.49 ERA in his last four starts at Oakland.

The A's hand the ball to Sean Manaea, who has struggled with his control in three starts. The 25 year old tossed a no-hitter through five innings in his last start, but the downside was that he allowed a pair of runs on five walks in a 10-6 loss to Houston. He allowed nine runs on 15 hits over 17 innings in three starts versus the Mariners last year.

This looks like a case of the wrong team favored.

Take SEA.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on the LAD -1.5.

Clayton Kershaw lost at Coors Field earlier this month, but he had owned the Rockies prior to that game. Here is what I said prior to the Dodgers loss at Colorado on April 8th. "Colorado's Coors Field is the most intimidating ballpark in the majors for pitchers, but that doesn't seem to apply to Clayton Kershaw. He's 8-0 with a 1.91 ERA in nine starts versus the Rockies since 2014, and he's 3-0 with a 2.81 ERA in four starts at Coors Field during that span. Kershaw was dealing on Opening Day, going seven strong innings, striking out eight and allowing just one earned run. The Rockies lineup is batting just .214 with a whopping 76 strikeouts over a combined 243 at bats."

The Rockies hand the ball to Tyler Anderson, who was rocked by the Dodgers at home in the last series. Anderson (1-2, 8.59 ERA) allowed five runs on five hits and four walks in five innings, losing that game by a score of 10-6. He's pitched two of his three starts this season on the road, surrendering nine runs on 13 hits over 9 2/3 innings.

Take LAD.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on Arizona +1.5.

The D'Backs won by a score of 3-1 at LA on Sunday, and I expect a similar result when Arizona sends lefty Robbie Ray to the mound on Monday. Ray (1-0, 2.19 ERA) struck out eight while giving up just four hits in six scoreless innings in a 4-3 win at San Francisco his last time out. He's pitched well in previous meetings with the Dodgers, going 3-3 with a 2.98 ERA in his last eight starts against them. The Dodgers line is batting just .215 over 93 combined at bats against Ray.

The Dodgers hand the ball to Brandon McCarthy, who is off to a good start to the season. McCarthy (2-0, 1.50 ERA) allowed four hits over six scoreless innings in a 2-0 win over the Cubs at Wrigley his last time out. The D'Backs haven't seen much of McCarthy, but they have hit .286 over 28 total at bats. The Dodgers really struggle against left-handed pitching, batting just .225 versus southpaws this year. This is nothing new, they hit just .213 versus left-handed pitching in 2016.

Take ARI.

GL,

Jesse Schule

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on the Arizona Diamondbacks +1.5.

The first place Arizona Diamondbacks will take on NL West rivals LA at Dodgers Stadium tonight, and former teammates Zack Greinke and Clayton Kershaw will face each other for the first time.

As good as Kershaw is, Greinke is just as capable of tossing a gem. In fact, he's been the better pitcher so far this season. Greinke is 20-4 with a 2.24 ERA in 33 starts at Dodgers Stadium over the last three seasons.

Kershaw was roughed up at Colorado in his last start, and he has a history of starting slow in the month of April. Paul Goldschmidt is batting .256 with a pair of home runs and eight RBIs in 39 career at bats versus Kershaw. Those numbers wouldn't necessarily raise any eyebrows against anyone else, but few players have had that much success against Kershaw.

The D'Backs have won 10 of Greinke's last 13 road starts.

Take ARI.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Seattle Mariners.

Seattle started the season losing six of seven games, all on the road. The Mariners got back on track winning their Home Opener versus Houston by a score of 6-0 last night, and I like Seattle as an underdog in Game 2.

Ariel Miranda will toe the slab for Seattle, and he's never lost at Safeco. The southpaw looked sharp in his season debut, allowing two runs on five hits over five innings in a 4-2 win at Houston. He was 4-0 with a 3.16 ERA in six home starts last season, and one of those wins was against the Astros. He allowed a pair of runs on three hits, striking out eight in seven innings in that game.

The Astros hand the ball to Joe Musgrove, who was 1-3 with a 7.27 ERA in five starts on the road last year. The 24 year old used 84 pitches to get through five innings in a home loss to the Mariners last week.

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Arizona D'Backs +1.5.

The Giants are struggling, coming into Monday's home game against Arizona as losers of four of five. They just barely hung on to beat the lowly Padres last night, and I think they have no business being favored here against Arizona.

Matt Moore will toe the slab for San Francisco, and he got hammered in his season debut. The southpaw gave up six runs on eight hits in just 5 1/3 innings in an 8-6 loss at Arizona. The D'Backs are batting a combined .317 over a total of 86 at bats against Moore.

Arizona will hand the ball to Taijuan Walker, who won opposite Moore in last week's game. Walker allowed just one run on seven hits, fanning seven in seven innings in a win in his only previous start in San Francisco.

The Giants new closer Mark Melancon has given up a pair of runs on five hits and a walk in just 1 2/3 innings of work so far.

Take ARI +1.5.

GL,

Jesse Schule

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Tampa Rays +1.5.

Tampa is off to a hot start, winning five of it's first seven games of the season. The Rays will be an underdog in Game 1 of this series in the Bronx, but I think they'll give the Yankees all they can handle.

Alex Cobb will toe the rubber for the Rays, and he was sharp in his season debut. The 29 year old gave up just one run on four hits, fanning four in a 4-1 home win over the Yankees. His success against New York goes back a while, the Yankees are batting a combined .224 with 25 strikeouts in a total of 116 at bats versus Cobb. The right-hander has pitched twice at Yankee Stadium since 2014, not earning a decision in either of those starts. He gave up just four earned runs in 13 1/3 innings in those games.

The Yankees hand the ball to Michael Pineda, who is looking to bounce back after getting hit hard in Tampa. The Rays tagged him for four runs on eight hits over just 3 2/3 innings in a 4-1 loss. It's not like that game was an isolated incident, he's 1-4 with a 4.85 ERA in his last 10 starts against the Rays.

Tampa's lineup is batting .318 with nine home runs and 30 RBIs over 157 at bats against Pineda.

Take TB.

GL,

Jesse Schule

Jesse Schule

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on ATL +1.5.

The Braves will be a big underdog on the road in New York today, but I like their chances with ace Julio Teheran on the mound.

The 26 year old had four against the Mets last year, going 2-0 with a 0.90 ERA in those games. He was better on the road than he was at home in 2016, and he posted an ERA of 2.14 in nine starts in day games.

The Mets will counter with Noah Syndergaard, who hasn't pitched well against the Braves. The hard throwing right-hander gave up five runs on eight hits in just three innings against Atlanta last year. Granted that's a small sample size, but the Braves lineup is hitting a combined .300 against him over a total of 50 at bats.

Atlanta has won four of the last five in this series, and three of those games were decided by one run.

Take ATL +1.5.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Cleveland Indians +1.5.

The Cubs have come back from a 3-1 deficit to force a Game 7 in Cleveland, but now they have to face the Indians ace Corey Kluber. While Kluber is pitching on three days rest, his previous two starts weren't all that taxing. He threw less than 90 pitches, going six innings in both Game 1 and Game 4. He's struck out 35 batters in 30 innings, conceding just three runs so far in these playoffs.

Chicago will hand the ball to Kyle Hendricks, who pitches on the road for the first time in these playoffs. His numbers on the road during the regular season were nowhere near as good as they were at home, going 7-6 with a 2.95 ERA in 16 starts away from Wrigley. He only made it through 4 1/3 innings, surrendering six hits and a pair of walks in a no decision in Game 3.

Take CLE.

GL,

Jesse Schule.

This is an 8* play on the Cleveland Indians +1.5.

The Indians have been an underdog in every game so far, yet they head home for Game 6 of the World Series with a 3-2 lead. They will try to clinch at home tonight, and starting pitcher Josh Tomlin is undefeated so far in the post-season.

Tomlin went 4 2/3 innings, surrendering no runs on two hits in a 1-0 win in Game 3 at Wrigley. He allowed just three runs on seven hits over 10 2/3 innings in wins over Boston and Toronto previously. Tomlin won't be asked to do all the heavy lifting, as the Indians can turn to their studs out of the bullpen.

The Cubs hand the ball to Jake Arrieta, who was brilliant in Game 2 at Progressive Field. He gave up one run on two hits and three walks over 5 2/3 innings in that game. He had been rocked for six runs on 12 hits over 11 innings, losing his previous two post-season starts.

Four of the last seven games between these teams have been decided by one run.

Take CLE.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on Cleveland +1.5.

I bet on Cleveland in Game 1, and here is what I said before the game:

"The Indians hand the ball to Corey Kluber, who has pitched 13 1/3 scoreless innings with 13 strikeouts at home in the post-season. He's been almost unhittable since the All Star break, going 9-1 with a 2.52 ERA in his final 14 starts of the season. If Kluber falters, the Tribe can turn to their studs out of the bullpen. Andrew Miller and Cody Allen have yet to concede a run in this post-season."

Kluber tossed six scoreless innings, striking out nine in a 6-0 victory. I'll take the red hot pitcher as an underdog here in Game 4.

Take CLE.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 6* play on the Cleveland Indians +1.5.

I bet on Cleveland in Game 1, because I felt Chicago shouldn't have been favored on the road against Cleveland's ace. The Cubs are an even bigger favorite in Game 2, with a perceived pitching advantage with Arrieta starting opposite Bauer. The reality is that Arrieta has been hit pretty hard over the last two months.

He was 2-3 with a 4.60 ERA in five starts in September, and he's 0-1 with a 4.91 ERA in two starts in the playoffs. His last start versus Cleveland did not go well, allowing four runs on three hits and six walks over five innings in a loss.

If Bauer falters, the Tribe can turn to their studs out of the bullpen. Andrew Miller and Cody Allen have yet to concede a run in this post-season.

Take CLE.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 6* play on the Cleveland Indians +1.5.

The Indians come into Game 1 of the World Series as an underdog to the Cubs, despite home field advantage. I don't see this as an easy matchup for the Cubs at all.

Jon Lester will toe the slab for Chicago, and Cleveland's lineup is hitting better than .300 against him. The Indians clobbered left-handed pitching during the regular season, ranking 4th overall in runs scored versus southpaws. Lester has had a great season and an outstanding playoffs, but he's been better at home than on the road. Two of his three post-season starts were at Wrigley.

The Indians hand the ball to Corey Kluber, who has pitched 13 1/3 scoreless innings with 13 strikeouts at home in the post-season. He's been almost unhittable since the All Star break, going 9-1 with a 2.52 ERA in his final 14 starts of the season.

If Kluber falters, the Tribe can turn to their studs out of the bullpen. Andrew Miller and Cody Allen have yet to concede a run in this post-season.

Take CLE.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on the Chicago Cubs +1.5.

The Cubs are on the brink of clinching the NLCS versus L.A., but they will face the Dodgers ace in Game 6 at Wrigley.

Clayton Kershaw was dominant in a win in Chicago in Game 2, but he had surrendered eight runs on 15 hits in his previous two starts in these playoffs. Here is what I said about Kershaw before the NLDS versus Washington: "While he's widely considered to be the best pitcher of his generation, Kershaw hasn't had much success in the post-season. He owns a career record of 2-5 with a 4.59 ERA in the playoffs."

The Cubs hand the ball to Kyle Hendricks, who had the lowest ERA in the majors during the regular season, and he was particularly strong at Wrigley. The 26 year old was 9-2 with a 1.32 ERA in 14 starts in Chicago, and he was dominant in his only start versus the Dodgers.

The Dodgers are 4-8 in the last 12 meetings between the two teams, and three of those four wins came by a single run.

Take CHC.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on the LAD.

The Dodgers have to be happy going back to LA with the series tied 1-1. They are 45-17 in their last 62 home games, while the Cubs have lost eight of their last 11 post-season road games.

Rich Hill will toe the slab for the Dodgers in Game 3, and he has 13 Ks in just seven innings of work this post-season. He was 3-2 with a 1.83 ERA in his final seven starts of the season. He might be successful against a struggling Cubs lineup that is hitting just .157 versus left-handers.

The Cubs hand the ball to Jake Arrieta, who appeared to fade at the end of the season. He was just 2-3 with a 4.60 ERA in five starts in September.

Three of the last four meetings between these two teams have been decided by just one run. The one exception was Game 1, when Miguel Montero broke a 3-3 tie in the bottom of the 8th inning with a Grand Slam.

Take LAD +1.5.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on the Cleveland Indians +1.5.

The Blue Jays mighty bats were silenced in Cleveland, scoring just one run while losing both Games 1 and 2. This really shouldn't be a surprise, the Jays flashed a bit of power in their series win over Texas, but prior to the post-season Toronto's bats were ice cold. They ranked dead last in the American League in runs scored in September, and batted just .238 as a team during that span.

Marcus Stroman will toe the slab for Toronto, and while he's pitched well this post-season, I don't think he should be a 2-1 favorite. Stroman (9-10, 4.37 ERA) allowed a pair of runs on four hits, striking out six in six innings in the American League Wild Card Game. He made six starts in the final month of the season, and Toronto lost five of those six games.

The Indians hand the ball to Trevor Bauer, who pitched well against Toronto this year. He allowed a pair of runs on seven hits, with 16 strikeouts in 13 innings versus the Jays. Bauer will be on a short leash, as Cleveland's bullpen is stacked with quality arms.

Four of the last five meetings between these two teams have been decided by one run.

Take CLE +1.5.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on the Chicago Cubs +1.5.

The Dodgers have to be devastated after coming back to tie Game 1 in the eighth, only to give up a pinch hit home run in the bottom half on the inning. They will actually be a favorite at Wrigley in Game 2, despite the fact that Chicago's lineup has done more damage against the Dodgers ace than LA has against Chicago's right-hander.

Kyle Hendricks had the lowest ERA in the majors during the regular season, and he was particularly strong at Wrigley. The 26 year old was 9-2 with a 1.32 ERA in 14 starts in Chicago, and he was dominant in his only start versus the Dodgers.

Clayton Kershaw has allowed 11 runs on 21 hits over 18 2/3 innings in his last three starts, and has a history of disappointing in the post-season.

The Dodgers are 2-4 in the last six meetings between the two teams, and both wins came by a single run.

Take CHC.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on Cleveland +1.5.

The Jays were shutout in Game 1 of the ALCS, losing 2-0 to Cleveland. Toronto is a favorite in Game 2 at Progressive Field, but I think the value is with the home team as a dog.

Josh Tomlin will toe the slab for the Tribe, and he was solid in a win at Boston in Game 3 of the ALDS. He gave up a pair of runs on four hits, striking out four and walking just one batter. That makes it six consecutive appearances where Tomlin has allowed two runs or less.

Toronto will hand the ball to J.A. Happ, who has been outstanding all year. The southpaw gave up nine hits in his only start in the division series, but limited Texas to one run in five innings. The Indians will hope to run up his pitch count, so they can get to work on Toronto's below average bullpen.

The Jays flashed a bit of power in their series win over Texas, but prior to the post-season Toronto's bats were ice cold. They ranked dead last in the American League in runs scored in September, and batted just .238 as a team during that span.

Take CLE +1.5.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on Washington +1.5.

The Dodgers are pulling out all the stops in Game 4 of the NLDS versus Washington, sending Clayton Kershaw to the mound. LA is an enormous favorite, despite the fact that Kershaw is pitching on three days rest, and has a shaky playoff history.

The Nats hand the ball to Joe Ross, who's last start against the Dodgers was significantly better than Kershaw's last start versus Washington. Ross gave up a pair of runs on seven hits, striking out five in 6 1/3 innings in a 4-3 loss at Chavez Ravine in July. He allowed just three runs in three appearances in September.

Kershaw allowed three runs on eight hits in five innings in Game 1, but the Dodgers bats bailed him out. Here is what I said prior to that game: "While he's widely considered to be the best pitcher of his generation, Kershaw hasn't had much success in the post-season. He owns a career record of 2-5 with a 4.59 ERA in the playoffs."

Washington has won eight of their last 11 when Ross starts.

Take WAS.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Cleveland Indians +1.5.

The Red Sox return home down 2-0 in the ALDS versus Cleveland, and they turn to Clay Buchholz in a must win on Monday.

Buchholz (8-10, 4.78 ERA) gave up one hit and walked a pair through six innings, not factoring in the decision in a loss to the Yankees in his last start. He wasn't great at Fenway during the regular season, going 2-7 with a 5.60 ERA in 11 starts. He was also hit hard by Cleveland, allowing nine runs on 11 hits over 10 innings in two starts versus the Tribe.

The Indians hand the ball to Josh Tomlin, who gave up just five runs in his final five starts of the season. Tomlin only faced Boston once during the season, giving up three runs on seven hits over 7 2/3 innings in a 3-2 loss. Boston's bullpen gave up a whopping 11 runs in Games 1 & 2, so the Red Sox will be hoping Buchholz can go deep into this game.

Cleveland has won 14 of Tomlin's last 19 road starts.

Take CLE.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Washington Nationals +1.5.

The Nats are down 1-0 in the NLDS versus LA, but I like the home team in Game 2.

Tanner Roark will toe the slab for Washington, and he's held opponents to one run on less in four of his last five starts. Roark (16-10, 2.83 ERA) allowed just one run on three hits over 5 2/3 innings in a win over Miami his last time out. He's a spectacular 8-2 with a 1.61 ERA in 13 starts in day games this year.

The Dodgers hand the ball to Rich Hill, who has struggled to stay healthy. The 30 year old has been brilliant in the 20 starts he was able to make this year, but rarely did he go deep into games. The Dodgers lost all three of his final three starts, and he allowed eight runs on 16 hits over 15 1/3 innings in those games.

Ryan Zimmerman had a pair of hits in Game 1, and he's 6-for-9 with a pair of home runs lifetime versus Hill.

Take WAS.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on San Francisco +1.5.

The Chicago Cubs were by far the best team in the major leagues this season, winning 103 games. They will be a big favorite in Game 1 of the NLDS versus San Francisco, and I like the Giants chances of recording an upset.

Johnny Cueto will toe the slab for San Francisco, and he's owned the Cubs. Cueto (18-5, 2.79 ERA) allowed a pair of runs on nine hits, striking out 11 in seven innings in a 7-2 win over Colorado his last time out. He allowed just one run on five hits in seven innings, winning his only start against the Cubs this season. The Cubs have hit just .184 in a combined 141 at bats against him.

Jon Lester will go for the Cubs, and he's had a great season in his own right. He was roughed up by the Giants though, allowing six runs on nine hits and five walks over 11 2/3 innings in two starts.

Cueto was dominant in three of his four starts in last year's playoffs, winning a World Series with the Royals.

Take SF.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Washington Nationals +1.5.

The Dodgers are a big favorite with Clayton Kershaw on the mound in Game 1 at Washington, but I like the Nats chances of recording an upset.

Kershaw (12-4, 1,69 ERA) allowed three runs on six hits over seven innings in a loss to the Giants his last time out. While he's widely considered to be the best pitcher of his generation, Kershaw hasn't had much success in the post-season. He owns a career record of 2-5 with a 4.59 ERA in the playoffs.

The Nats hand the ball to Max Scherzer, who won 20 games this season. Scherzer (20-7, 2.96 ERA) is 10-1 with a 2.86 ERA in his last 15 starts. He allowed one runs on seven hits, striking out eight over six innings in his last start against the Dodgers.

The Dodgers are 5-16 in their last 21 playoff road games.

Take WAS.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on Toronto +1.5.

The Blue Jays are on a roll, and I'm going to keep riding them while they are hot. They are an underdog in Game 2 at Texas with a 20 game winner on the mound.

J.A. Happ (20-4, 3.18 ERA) allowed two runs on four hits, but walked five in 6 1/3 innings in a 4-3 win at Boston his last time out. He's 8-1 with a 2.94 ERA in his last 14 starts, and he won his only start against the Rangers this season. He's been particularly good in day games, going 10-1 with a 3.07 ERA in 14 starts.

The Rangers hand the ball to Yu Darvish, who has been a little hit or miss of late. He's 5-5 with a 3.51 ERA in his last 14 starts, and his ERA is almost twice as high at home as it is on the road. He's stepping into a pressure packed situation in a do or die game in his first post-season start. I wouldn't be surprised to see his nerves get the best of him.

The Jays have now won three straight playoff games at Texas dating back to last season.

Take TOR.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on Toronto +1.5.

The Jays are an underdog in Game 1 at Texas, but history suggests we could see an upset. The Jays won twice at Texas in their ALDS series win over the Rangers last year. Cole Hamels was on the mound in the fifth and deciding game of that series, and he allowed five runs on four hits and two walks over 6 1/3 innings getting tagged with the loss.

Hamels (15-5, 3.32 ERA) faded at the end of the regular season, going 1-1 with a 7.31 ERA in his final six starts. He's allowed 14 runs on 20 hits over 19 1/3 innings in his last three starts versus Toronto. His split stats are better at night, and on the road than they are at home and in day games.

The Jays hand the ball to Marco Estrada, who allowed just two runs on nine hits over 19 innings in his final three regular season starts. Estrada allowed one run on five hits over 6 1/3 innings in a 5-1 win at Texas in last year's ALDS. He's owned the Rangers lineup, as Texas hitters are batting .214 with 28 strikeouts and just 24 hits over a total of 112 at bats in previous meetings.

The Jays are 11-4 in their last 15 games at Texas.

Take TOR.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an EXCLUSIVE Free Play (email subscribers only) on Baltimore +1.5.

The Orioles are an underdog in the American League Wild Card game at Toronto, and I like their chances of upsetting the Jays. Toronto wore out it's pitching staff during it's final push to clinch a Wild Card berth, and that leaves them turning to Marcus Stroman in this do or die situation.

Stroman (9-10, 4.37 ERA) was inconsistent all year, and he was hit hard in his four starts versus the Orioles. The 25 year old was 1-2 with a 7.04 ERA in four starts versus Baltimore. He only recorded two wins in 14 starts in the second half of the season, and his performance in last year's playoffs was nothing to write home about. He gave up 10 runs on 22 hits over 19 1/3 innings in three appearances in the 2015 post-season.

The Orioles hand the ball to their ace Chris Tillman, who has pitched well against Toronto this season. Tillman (16-6, 3.77 ERA) had better numbers on the road this year than he did in Baltimore. He allowed four runs on 11 hits in 11 1/3 innings in his two starts at Rogers Center, and the Orioles won both of those games.

The bullpen is also a serious concern for the Jays, who rank 12th in the AL in ERA by reliever. The Orioles bullpen ranks at the top of the American League in that category.

Take BAL.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on the Toronto Blue Jays.

The stakes are high at Fenway on the final day of the regular season. The Jays need to win to lock up a Wild Card berth, while the Red Sox are looking to finish ahead of Cleveland, which would give them home field in the ALDS.

David Price will toe the rubber for the Red Sox, and he's coming off a real stinker. Price (17-9, 4.04 ERA) was rocked for six runs on 12 hits and three home runs in a loss to the Yankees his last time out. He's been far from perfect this season, especially in day games where he has a 5.18 ERA in 11 starts.

The Jays hand the ball to Aaron Sanchez, who has been dealing all year long. Sanchez (14-2, 3.06 ERA) struck out 10 Orioles while allowing one run on five hits in a home win over Baltimore his last time out. He's 8-1 with a 2.56 ERA in 16 appearances on the road this season, and he was dominant in his only start at Fenway. He went seven innings, allowing one run and fanning seven in that game.

Because of Toronto's shaky bullpen, I prefer to take the runs in case the closer blows the save.

Take TOR.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Cincinnati Reds +1.5.

The Reds hammered the Cardinals 15-2 in the series opener, but St. Louis responded with a 12-5 win in Game 2 at Busch Stadium Tuesday. I like the Reds as a dog in the rubber match.

Anthony DeSclafani will toe the rubber for the Reds, and he's pitched well all year. DeSclafani (8-5, 3.38 ERA) allowed five runs on six hits in a 6-5 loss at Milwaukee his last time out. He's 4-2 with a 3.64 ERA in 10 starts on the road this year, and he's surrendered five runs on 12 hits over 12 innings in two previous meetings with the Cardinals.

St. Louis will hand the ball to Mike Leake, who hasn't had much success against his former team. Leake (9-11, 4.72 ERA) allowed five runs on seven hits and three walks in just 3 1/3 innings in a loss to the Cubs his last time out. He's 0-1 with an 8.31 ERA in three starts versus Cinci this year.

The Cardinals have lost six of Leake's last seven home starts.

Take CIN.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on the San Francisco Giants.

The Giants have split the first two games of this series in San Diego, but they are a heavy favorite with their ace on the mound Saturday.

Madison Bumgarner (14-9, 2.47 ERA) struck out 10 while tossing seven scoreless innings in a no decision at LA his last time out. He gave up just one hit in that game, but the bullpen went on to blow it in the bottom of the ninth. 

The Padres hand the ball to Jared Cosart, who has not missed many bats lately. Cosart (0-4, 5.64 ERA) allowed five runs on five hits and four walks in just 3 2/3 innings in a loss at Colorado his last time out. He's still looking for his first win of the season, and he's 0-3 with a 4.79 ERA in nine starts since joining the Padres.

The Giants have not been fooled by Cosart, hitting .432 in 37 at bats in previous meetings.

Take SF.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the San Francisco Giants +1.5.

The Giants and the Dodgers have been involved in back-to-back pitcher's duels, and I expect a similar result here in Game 3 tonight.

Matt Moore will toe the slab for San Francisco, and the southpaw has been dealing. Moore (11-11, 4.06 ERA) allowed a pair of runs on seven hits over five innings in a home win over the Cardinals his last time out. He's won four of his last five starts, holding the opposition to two runs or less in all four wins. The only loss during that span came at Coors Field. He came one out away from a no-hitter in his last start at LA (August 25th). The Dodgers have hit just .182 versus Moore in 88 previous at bats.

The Dodgers hand the ball to Kenta Maeda, who has been the epitome of consistency. While he rarely blanks the opposition, he's held opponents to three runs or less in 10 straight starts.

Six of the last 10 games between these two teams have been decided by just one run, and that's a trend likely to continue tonight.

Take SF.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the San Francisco Giants +1.5.

We saw a pitcher's duel in LA last night, with the Giants blowing a 1-0 lead in the bottom of the ninth. I expect to see a similar result here in Game 2 tonight.

Johnny Cueto will toe the slab for San Francisco, and he's been dealing. Cueto (16-5, 2.86 ERA) went the distance, allowing two runs on five hits, fanning seven in a home win over St. Louis his last time out. He allowed one run on four hits over six innings in a 1-0 loss at LA back in August, and he's 2-1 with a 3.18 ERA in four starts versus the Dodgers this year.

Rich Hill will go for LA, and he suffered his first loss as a Dodger in his last start. The southpaw allowed four runs on four hits over 5 1/3 innings in a loss at Arizona.

Six of the last 10 games between these teams have been decided by a single run, and the Giants have won 12 of Cueto's last 16 road starts.

Take SF.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on the New York Mets -1.5.

The Mets have won 11 of their last 14 overall, putting them a game up in the National League Wild Card race. They host the Braves tonight, with a favorable matchup on the mound.

Noah Syndergaard will toe the slab for New York, and he's been dealing. Syndergaard (13-8, 2.43 ERA) allowed one run on four hits, striking out 10 in seven innings in a win over the Nationals his last time out. The Mets are 5-1 in his last six starts, and four of those wins came by two or more runs.

The Braves hand the ball to Aaron Blair, who is still looking for his first career win. Blair (0-6, 8.23 ERA) was torched for five runs on eight hits over four innings in a loss at San Francisco his last time out. He's surrendered a whopping 10 home runs in his last six appearances.

Blair has faced the Mets three times this season, going 0-2 with an 8.04 ERA.

Take NYM.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Chicago White Sox +1.5.

The Royals looked like they were destined to make a strong push for the post-season, but hopes have faded after losing nine of 16 games in September. They've taken two of three in this home series versus Chicago, but the White Sox have a favorable matchup in the finale this afternoon.

Carlos Rodon will toe the slab for the Sox, and he's 5-1 in his last eight starts. The southpaw allowed a pair of runs on six hits, striking out nine in six innings in a 7-2 win over the Royals just last week. He's 2-1 with a 2.28 ERA in four starts versus the Royals this season.

Kansas City will hand the ball to Yordano Ventura, who is coming off consecutive losses. Ventura (10-11, 4.42 ERA) was torched for 10 runs on 17 hits and six walks over 11 1/3 innings in losses to Chicago and Oakland in those games. He's faced the White Sox four times this year, going 1-2 with a 4.67 ERA.

The Royals are just 3-9 in their last 12 home games.

Take CWS +1.5.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on Houston +1.5 The Astros are two games back of Seattle in the AL West, and they begin a three game series at Safeco tonight. The Mariners are a favorite with ace Felix Hernandez on the mound, and I expect this to be a pitcher's duel.

Hernandez (11-5, 3.58 ERA) tossed six scoreless innings in a win at Oakland his last time out. He's 7-1 in his last 11 starts, but his ERA during that span is a bit of a concern at 4.22.

The Astros hand the ball to Colin McHugh, who has owned the Mariners. McHugh (10-10, 4.86 ERA) has been dealing, winning five straight starts. He allowed one run on two hits over five innings in a 2-1 win over the Cubs his last time out. He's 2-0 with a 1.64 ERA in two starts at Safeco this season.

The Mariners are batting just .216 with 46 strikeouts and 38 hits over 176 at bats against McHugh in previous meetings.

Take HOU.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Detroit Tigers.

The Tigers are six games back of Cleveland in the AL Central, but only two games back of the Orioles and Jays in the Wild Card race. They are an underdog in Game 1 at Cleveland Friday, and I expect a close game.

Michael Fulmer will toe the slab for the Tigers, and he's been one of the best in the big leagues in 2016. Fulmer (10-6, 2.76 ERA) allowed a pair of runs on three hits while striking out five over seven innings in a 4-3 win over the Orioles his last time out. He's 8-4 with a 2.68 ERA in 15 starts on the road this season.

The Indians hand the ball to Corey Kluber, who has been sharp overall this year. The Cleveland ace has struggled in previous meetings with these Tigers though. Detroit is batting .290 in 200 previous at bats versus Kluber.

Miguel Cabrera has really had his number, batting .476 with five home runs and 10 RBIs in 42 at bats.

Take DET.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on the San Francisco Giants.

The Giants took a 4-1 lead into the bottom of the ninth last night, but went on to lose 6-4 to the Padres. They try to avoid a sweep here at AT&T Park this afternoon, and they are big favorite with their ace on the mound.

Madison Bumgarner (14-8, 2.61 ERA) allowed four runs on six hits, striking out nine in a win at Arizona his last time out. He's 8-3 with a 1.91 ERA in 15 starts at home, and 5-2 with a 1.76 ERA in 10 starts in the afternoon.

San Diego will hand the ball to Luis Perdomo, who is coming off back to back losses. Perdomo (7-9, 5.89 ERA) allowed four runs on eight hits over 6 2/3 innings in a 4-1 loss to the Rockies his last time out. He's faced the Giants three times this season, conceding six runs on 18 hits over 8 1/3 innings, not recording a decision.

The Padres are 14-38 in the last 52 meetings in San Francisco.

Take SF -1.5.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on SF -.1.5.

The Giants are now three games back of the Dodgers in the NL West, and they should have a chance to make up more ground with a home series versus San Diego starting Monday.

Jeff Samardzija will toe the slab for San Francisco, and he's coming off a fantastic performance. Samardzija (11-9, 4.00 ERA) allowed a pair of runs on four hits, striking out nine in seven innings in a win at Colorado. He's own the Padres this season, going 3-0 with a 3.91 ERA in four previous meetings.

San Diego will hand the ball to Paul Clemens, who has not missed many bats lately. Clemens (2-5, 5.44 ERA) was torched for five runs on nine hits and two walks over four innings in a loss to the Red Sox his last time out. He's 1-5 with a 5.70 ERA in his last eight starts.

The Padres have dropped nine of their last 13 overall, and 15 of their last 20 versus the Giants.

Take SF -1.5.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on Tampa +1.5.

The Rays are in the AL East cellar, but they've been far more competitive in the second half of the season. Tampa ranks 7th in the majors in scoring since the All Star break, while the Yankees rank 23rd. I like Tampa as an underdog in the Bronx tonight.

Alex Cobb will toe the rubber for the Rays, and he looked sharp in his season debut. The 28 year old allowed a pair of runs on four hits, striking out seven in five innings in a home win over Toronto. He's had plenty of success against the Yankees, going 4-1 with a 1.44 ERA in his last seven starts against them. Two of those games were played at Yankee Stadium, and he conceded just one run through 14 1/3 innings in those contests.

The Yankees hand the ball to C.C. Sabathia, who has been far better on the road than he has been at home in 2012. Sabathia (8-12, 4.20 ERA) allowed three runs on six hits and three walks over 6 2/3 innings in a loss to Baltimore in his last home start. He's 2-8 with a 5.20 ERA in a dozen starts in the Bronx this year.

The Rays lineup has punished Sabathia, batting a combined .316 over 177 at bats against him.

Take TB.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on the Philadelphia Phillies +1.5.

The Phillies have outscored the Marlins 10-5 while winning the first two games of this series in Miami, and I like Philly as a dog in the finale Wednesday.

Jeremy Hellickson will toe the slab for Philly, and he's owned the Marlins. Hellickson (10-8, 3.88 ERA) allowed four runs on six hits, striking out six in six innings in a no decision versus the Braves his last time out. He's 2-0 with a 2.13 ERA in four starts against Miami this year, and the Marlins lineup is hitting just .203 over a combined 187 at bats in previous meetings.

Miami hand the ball toe Andrew Cashner, who has yet to win a game for them since coming over from San Diego. This doesn't look like a good spot for the right-hander, the Phillies are batting .301 over 73 at bats against him.

The Marlins have lost five straight, and 10 of their last 11 overall.

Take PHI +1.5.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on the St. Louis Cardinals.

The Cardinals have taken the first two games of this series in Pittsburgh, and I like St. Louis as a dog in the finale Wednesday. The Pirates have lost eight straight, and I don't think they should be a favorite here.

Mike Leake will toe the slab for St. Louis, and he's been quite successful in previous trips to Steel Town. Leake (9-9, 4.56 ERA) tossed seven scoreless innings, striking out eight in a win at Philly his last time out. He's 3-0 with a 2.30 ERA in his last seven starts at PNC Park.

The Pirates hand the ball to Jameson Tailon who has pitched well but is 0-2 in his last four starts. He won be able to count on a lot of run support from a Pirates offense that ranks 27th in the majors in runs scored since the All Star break.

Take STL +1.5.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on the Cleveland Indians -1.5.

The Indians have outscored Miami 14-5 while winning the first two games of this series, and I like Cleveland to complete the sweep on Sunday.

Danny Salazar will toe the slab for the Tribe, and he's coming off a tough luck loss at Texas. Salazar (11-6, 3.88 ERA) allowed a pair of runs on five hits, striking out 10 in 5 1/3 innings, losing 2-1. He's facing a Miami team that has lost seven of eight, failing to score more than two runs in five of those games. 

The Fish hand the ball to Tom Koehler, who has been roughed up pretty good lately. Koehler (9-10, 4.02 ERA) has surrendered nine runs on 17 hits over 11 innings in back to back losses. He's 5-6 with a 4.48 ERA in 15 starts on the road, and 2-5 with a 4.85 ERA in 11 appearances in day games this year.

Cleveland boasts a .298 team batting average at home, second best in the American League.

Take CLE.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on the Cincinnati Reds +1.5.

The Reds won 3-2 in the bottom of the ninth last night, and they are an underdog once again in Game 2 at home versus St. Louis today. These teams have a history of playing close games, and Cinci has covered the runline in 10 of the last 11 meetings.

Dan Straily will toe the rubber for the Reds, and he's coming off his worst start of the season. Straily (10-7, 3.92 ERA) was torched for seven runs on eight hits over just 2 2/3 innings in a 9-2 loss to the Angels. He's been dominant at home though, going 5-1 with a 2.94 ERA in 13 starts. He's owned the Cardinals, who are batting just .161 in two previous meetings.

The Cardinals hand the ball to Jaime Garcia, who has struggled on the road. Garcia (10-10, 4.46 ERA) has been torched for 11 runs on 14 hits over 11 innings in back to back home losses. He surrendered four home runs in those two games, and in his last road start he surrendered three home runs. The Reds have hit him pretty hard, batting .293 against him in 184 at bats.

The Reds are 5-0 in Straily's last five home starts.

Take CIN +1.5.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on the Cincinnati Reds +1.5.

The Reds return home after losing five of six on the road. They've had more success at home, winning six of their last nine at Great American Ballpark. I'll take Cinci as a home dog with a hot pitcher on the mound.

Anthony DeSclafani will toe the rubber for the Reds, and he's still undefeated at home. DeSclafani (8-2, 2.96 ERA) pitched a complete game shutout, striking out nine batters in a 13-0 win over Arizona his last time out. He's 4-1 with a 2.63 ERA in six home starts this season, and he's pitched well in previous meetings with St. Louis. The Cardinals are batting .257 over 74 combined at bats versus DeSclafani, with 20 strikeouts and just 19 hits.

The Cardinals hand the ball to rookie right-hander Alex Reyes, who makes his second major league start. He gave up just one run on two hits, walking four and using 89 pitches to get through 4 2/3 innings in a home loss to Oakland his last time out.

St. Louis has won six of the last 10 in this series, but five of those six wins came in games decided by just one run.

Take CIN +1.5.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on NYY@KC to go OVER the total.

The surging Kansas City Royals are the hottest team in baseball, returning home after taking two of three in Boston as winners of 17 of their last 21 overall. They host the Yankees tonight, and we should expect fireworks as both these teams are swinging hot bats.

Dillon Gee will toe the rubber for the Royals, and he appears to be the weak link on the Kansas City staff. Gee (5-7, 4.55 ERA) allowed three runs on five hits through 5 1/3 innings in a loss at Miami his last time out. He's 2-4 with a 5.14 ERA in his last eight appearances, and he faces a Yankees team that has plated 37 runs while winning four of their last five games.

The Yankees hand the ball to Michael Pineda, who was rocked by the Royals earlier in the season. Pineda (6-10, 5.02 ERA) was torched for five runs on seven hits and two walks over 5 1/3 innings in a 7-5 loss at Safeco his last time out. He surrendered six runs on six hits and four walks in 5 2/3 innings, losing his lone start versus Kansas City this season.

The wind isn't expected to be a factor tonight, but the forecast is calling for heat and humidity which should favor the hitters.

Take OVER.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on the Kansas City Royals +1.5

The Royals have split the first two games versus Boston at Fenway, but they've won 16 of their last 20 overall. I like Kansas City as a dog here in the rubber match.

Yordano Ventura will toe the rubber for the Royals, and Kansas City is 5-0 in his last five starts. Ventura (9-9, 4.27 ERA) tossed six scoreless innings, striking out six in a 1-0 win at Miami his last time out. His last three starts have all been on the road, and he's allowed just four runs total, striking out 22 batters in 19 1/3 innings. He's only faced Boston once in 2016, allowing four runs on seven hits in 5 2/3 innings in a victory.

The Red Sox hand the ball to Eduardo Rodriguez, who is returning from a hamstring injury. Rodriguez (2-5, 5.11 ERA) tossed four innings of scoreless ball in a 5-3 win at Baltimore his last time out. He's still in search of his first win at Fenway, with a record of 0-3, 508 ERA in six starts at home.

Kansas City's bullpen leads the major leagues in ERA (3.11) while Boston ranks 18th overall in ERA by relief pitcher.

Take KC +1.5.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on the San Francisco Giants.

The Giants have split the first two games in this home series versus Atlanta, and they come into the rubber match trailing the division leading Dodgers by 2.5 games. They need to win here today, but that shouldn't be a problem with their ace on the mound.

Madison Bumgarner will toe the slab for San Francisco, and he's owned the Braves in recent meetings. Bumgarner (12-8, 2.44 ERA) allowed five runs on nine hits, striking out seven in five innings in a 9-5 loss to the Dodgers his last time out. He struck out 11 batters while tossing 7 2/3 scoreless innings in his only start versus Atlanta this season, and he's 5-0 with a 2.09 ERA in six starts versus the Braves over the last three seasons.

The Braves will call up Aaron Blair from Triple-A, where his struggles continued after an unsuccessful stint in the majors. Blair (0-5, 7.99 ERA) was torched for eight runs on seven hits and three walks in just 4 1/3 innings in a loss to the Mets in his last major league start. He was lit up for six runs on five hits and four walks in four innings in a loss to the Giants earlier this year.

The Braves have scored the fewest runs of any team in the majors in 2016.

Take SF -1.5.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on the Tampa Bay Rays.

The Rays have lost the first two games of this series in Houston, but they are in a good position to avoid the sweep with their ace on the mound Sunday.

Chris Archer will toe the rubber for the Rays, and he appears to have put a disastrous start to the season behind him. Archer (7-17, 4.11 ERA) allowed a pair of runs on five hits, striking out six in five innings in a 2-1 loss to Boston his last time out. He allowed three runs on six hits, fanning eight in 7 2/3 innings in a loss to Houston earlier this season, and he's 3-1 with a 0.80 ERA in five starts against the Astros the last three seasons.

The Astros hand the ball to Doug Fister, and Houston is just 1-5 in his last six home starts. Fister (12-8, 3.59 ERA) struck out six while tossing seven scoreless innings in a win at Pittsburgh his last time out. He was torched for four runs on seven hits in just four innings in an 8-2 loss to St. Louis in his last home start, and he's 3-5 with a 4.18 ERA in a dozen starts at Minute Maid Park. The Rays have given him trouble in previous meetings, batting a combined .302 over 53 at bats.

These two teams have a history of playing low scoring games, with seven of the last 10 head to head meetings decided by just one run.

Take TB +1.5.

GL,

Jesse Schule

10*

This is an 8* play on TB +1.5.

The Astros come into Game 1 of this home series versus Tampa as winners of five of their last six. They face a hot pitcher here at home though, and the Astros are batting just .236 at Minute Maid Park in 2016.

Drew Smyly will toe the rubber for the Rays, and he's won five straight. Smyly (6-11, 4.88 ERA) allowed four runs on five hits, striking out seven over 6 2/3 innings in a home win over Texas his last time out. He's been dealing in the second half of the season, going 4-1 with a 3.50 ERA in seven starts.

The Astros hand the ball to Mike Fiers, who has been pretty sold at home in Houston. Fiers (9-6, 4.41 ERA) allowed one run on five hits, striking out seven over seven innings in a win at Baltimore his last time out. He's 6-3 with a 3.36 ERA in a dozen starts at home in 2016.

These teams have a history of playing close games, with six of their last eight meetings decided by a single run.

Take TB +1.5.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the San Francisco Giants.

The Dodgers have seized a two game lead in the NL West, and the Giants badly need a win here in Game 2 of this series at Chavez Ravine.

Johnny Cueto will toe the slab for San Francisco tonight, and he's having a phenomenal season. Ceuto (14-3, 2.90 ERA) allowed just one run on eight hits over seven innings in an 8-1 home win over the Mets his last time out. He's 8-1 with a 3.19 ERA in 13 starts on the road this year, and one of those wins came at LA.

The Dodgers hand the ball to Rich Hill, who's debut with the team has been pushed back due to a blister on his throwing hand. Hill (9-3. 2.25 ERA) allowed one run on three hits, striking out 10 in six innings in a 3-1 win at Houston his last time out.

San Francisco has crushed southpaws, ranking 4th in the major leagues in runs scored versus left-handed pitching.

Take SF +1.5.

GL,

Jesse Schule.

10*

This is a Free #MLB play on the Philadelphia #Phillies.

 The Dodgers have out-scored the Phillies 22-7 in the first two games of this series in Philly, but I don't think we'll see LA complete the sweep here in the finale. Philly had won five of six at home prior to this series, and they should have a pitching mismatch in their favor tonight.

Jerad Eickoff will toe the slab for the Phillies, and he's having a solid season despite playing for one of the worst teams in the majors. Eickoff (8-12, 3.82 ERA) allowed three runs on 10 hits over 5 2/3 innings in a 6-3 home win over the Rockies his last time out. The Phillies have won three of his last four home starts, and he's 5-5 with a 3.05 ERA in a dozen starts at Citizen's Bank Park this season.

The Dodgers will hand the ball to Ross Stripling, who has worked mostly out of the bullpen. The 26 year old was torched for five runs on six hits, including a pair of home runs in a home loss to the Pirates his last time out. He has pretty dramatic splits, with an ERA of 1.32 in 20.2 innings during the day, and an ERA of 5.32 in 45.2 innings at night.

The Phillies rank second in the National League in runs scored during the month of August, only Colorado has scored more.

Take PHI. GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Milwaukee Brewers.

The Brewers are second in National League scoring since the All Star break, only behind Colorado. Ryan Braun is swinging a hot bat, hitting .381 with nine home runs and 21 RBIs during that span. I'll take the Brewers as a big dog in Game 1 of a double-header at Wrigley.

Matt Garza will toe the slab for Milwaukee, and he's 3-0 with a 3.01 ERA in his last four starts. Garza (4-4, 4.83 ERA) allowed a pair of runs on seven hits over six innings in a win over the Braves his last time out.

The Cubs hand the ball to Trevor Cahill, who is coming out of the bullpen to make a spot start. It's not just Chicago's starters that are hurting, their bullpen is in rough shape as well. Pedro Strop is sidelined by an injury, and Hector Rondon was rocked in his first game back off the DL. Cahill has surrendered five runs on seven hits and five walks in just six innings in his last three appearances out of the bullpen.

The Brewers have won 9 of their last 17 overall, and they are 12-5 versus the runline during that span.

Take MIL (Runline)

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on CIN The Reds are looking for their second straight series win against St. Louis in a week when they play the rubber game tonight in this three game series. Anthony DeSclafani (6-0, 2.94 ERA) toes the slab for the Reds after a very nice game in his last start where he pitched six innings and gave up two runs and two hits for the ninth game in his last 10 starts he allowed three runs or less. He pitched a total of 12 innings and gave up three runs and six hits in his last two road starts. He finished out July 4-0. The Cards hand the ball to Jaime Garcia (8-8, 4.04) He had a good game in his last start pitching eight scoreless innings but in the two prior games pitched a total of eight and one third innings and gave up eight runs and 12 hits. In his first start against the Reds, he was knocked out in the fifth inning after giving up five runs and 13 hits and now the Reds are batting .314 off him. DeSclafani is 3-0 with a 1.35 ERA against St Louis over the last three years. Take CIN GL Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on the Phillies.  Philadelphia looks to avoid a sweep by LA in today's final game of the series. Jeremy Hellickson (9-7,3.72 ERA) toes the slab having won two straight starts in road games. He pitched a total of 12 innings and gave up six runs and 15 hits in those games. He has allowed three runs or less in his last four starts on the road and has won his last three starts in away games. Philly have won seven of his last eight starts and he has allowed three runs or less in eight of his last 10 starts. LA hand the ball to Scott Kazmir (9-5, 4.51 ERA) who has lost two straight starts and both of them were in LA. In those to games he pitched 12 innings and gave up eight runs and 13 hits with three HR's. He is 4-5 at home with a 4.21 ERA and batters are hitting .270 off him in LA. Hellickson finished out July 3-1 with a 2.39 ERA and Kazmir is 0-1 with an 8.71 ERA over the last three years against Philadelphia. Take PHI GL Jesse Schule

This is a Free #MLB play on the Cincinnati #Reds +1.5. The Pirates have scored a total of 17 runs while losing five of their last six games. Jameson Taillon (2-2, 3.52 ERA) toes the slab for the Pirates and in his last start pitched six innings and gave up two runs and six hits. It was the third time in his last four games he has given up two runs or less and he has allowed three runs or less in six of his eight starts this year. He has struck out 22 batters and hasn't given up a walk in his last four starts. Both his wins have come on the road, as he's winless with a 4.50 ERA in four starts in Pittsburgh. The Reds hand the ball to Anthony DeSclafani (6-0, 2.93 ERA) who pitched six innings and gave up one run and four hits in his last start which was on the road. It was the fourth game in his last six he has allowed two runs or less. He has allowed three runs or less in seven of his 10 starts. Reds pitching have allowed two runs or less in five of their last seven games. Take CIN +1.5. GL Jesse Schule

10* analysis before game time

10* analysis before game time

This is an 8* play on the Tigers +1.5. 

Tonight's game features two of the best offenses in the AL but the pitchers on the mound have a knack of shutting people down.

Michael Fulmer  (9-2, 2.41 ERA) will toe the slab for the visiting Tigers and he has been dazzling in his rookie season. He has allowed one run or less in eight of his last 10 starts while winning six of his last seven decisions. Even more amazing is that he allowed one run or less in six of his last seven road games and in four of those, allowed no runs!

Boston will hand the ball to Eduardo Rodriguez (2-4, 6.70 ERA) who has given up a total of three runs in his last two starts over 12.1 innings pitched. He got a late start to the 2016 season because of an injury but last season finished out the year by giving up two runs or less in seven of his last nine starts.

Detroit has a 4-1-1 record going under in their last six games vs leftie.

Take DET. 

GL,

Jesse Schule 

This is a Free #MLB play on the Toronto #BlueJays

 The Blue Jays have been playing well at home the last few weeks and have won 10 of their last 13 games at Rogers Centre. They are in a good position to continue winning there with Marcus Stroman pitching tonight. Stroman (8-4, 4.90 ERA) will toe the rubber tonight in Toronto and he pitched a gem in his last game, giving up just one run on eight hits in eight innings along with six K's and no walks. He is 3-1 at home this year and hasn't lost a game there since May 17th. San Diego will hand the ball to Andrew Cashner (4-7,4.79 ERA) who went 5 1/3 innings his last time out in a no decision. He hasn't had any luck pitching on the road and has an 0-4 record with a 6.59 ERA. In his last two road starts, he pitched a total of 8 1/3 innings and gave up  nine runs on 11 hits. The Padres have dropped five of his last six starts in away games and he has given up at least three runs in five of his seven road starts. Take TOR GL, Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on the Baltimore Orioles. Baltimore own the league's best home record at 37-14. They have won their last seven games at Camden outscoring their opponents 25-12. Chris Tillman (14-2, 3.18 ERA) will toe the slab for the hometown O's and he has had an amazing year so far. He has won his last four starts, while pitching seven innings and giving up just one earned run in each game. He is 8-0 at home with a 3.23 ERA. Colorado will hand the ball to Chad Bettis (8-6, 5.31 ERA) who pitched a good game in his last start at home but has struggled on the road. He has lost three of his last four decisions in away games and is currently 4-4 with a 5.18 ERA when pitching away from Coors Field. Bettis has allowed at least three runs in four of his last five road starts and in eight of 11 overall this season. Take BAL -1.5. GL Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on the Toronto Blue Jays The Jays have won four of their last six games and have their Ace pitching today. Aaron Sanchez will toe the slab for Toronto and he has won nine straight decisions. Sanchez (10-1, 2.87 ERA) gave up one run and six hits in seven innings in his last start. He has allowed two runs or less in six straight starts. San Diego hands the ball to Colin Rea who has struggled on the road. Rea (5-4, 5.01 ERA) gave up eight hits and four runs with three HR's in his last start. He has given up five HR's in his last three starts. His road record is 2-2 with a 5.59 ERA. The Padres have lost five of their last seven games. Take Toronto GL Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on the Washington Nationals -1.5. The Padres upset Washington in the series opener last night, thanks to a pair of home runs by Matt Kemp. The former Dodger is on fire, with six home runs in his last six games. Kemp and the Padres face Max Scherzer in Game 2, and Kemp is 1-for-27 with nine strikeouts lifetime versus the Nationals ace. 

Scherzer (10-6, 2.94 ERA) has pitched well lately, despite the fact that the Nationals have lost four of his last six starts. He went six innings, allowing one run on four hits and striking out 10 in a no decision at San Diego earlier this year, but the Padres went on the win that game by a score of 7-3. He's owned the Padres in his career, holding them to a combined .137 batting average over 131 at bats. 

The Friars hand the ball to Edwin Jackson, who has struggled to stay in a major league rotation for the bulk of his 13 year career. Jackson (1-1, 4.76 ERA) walked five batters in 6 1/3 innings, but avoided a disaster giving up just three runs on one hit in a 5-3 win over the Giants in his first start of the season. He faces a Washington lineup with plenty of power, and could be punished if he continues to put men on base. 

The Padres bullpen has really been knocked around this year, ranking near the bottom of the majors with an ERA of 4.54. 

Take WAS -1.5,

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a Free #MLB play on the Kansas City #Royals +1.5.

The Royals and the Indians are deadlocked at 1-1 in this series in Kansas City, with the rubber match going Wednesday afternoon. I expect this game to be a pitcher's duel, and the Royals as a home dog on the runline looks like excellent value. Ian Kennedy will toe the rubber for the Royals, and the veteran has been sharp at Kauffman Stadium. Kennedy (6-7, 3.86 ERA) allowed one run on four hits over 5 1/3 innings in a no decision versus the Tigers his last time out. He's 3-1 with a 2.11 ERA in six starts at home in 2016, and he's 2-1 with a 4.12 ERA in three starts versus the Indians.
Cleveland will hand the ball to Carlos Carrasco, who has been roughed up the Royals. Carrasco (6-3, 2.49 ERA) gave up a pair of runs on a whopping 10 hits in six innings, losing his only previous start in Kansas City this season. Eric Hosmer has had plenty of success against Carrasco, hitting .333 over 21 career at bats.

Take KC.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on the San Francisco Giants -1.5. 

The Padres will wrap up a home series with the Giants on Sunday, and this game looks like a complete mismatch. 

Johnny Cueto will toe the slab for San Francisco, and he leads the National League with 13 wins, and he can tie Chris Sale for the major league lead with a win here today. Cueto (13-1, 2.47 ERA) went the distance, allowing one run on five hits and striking out eight in a home win over Colorado his last time out. He's owned the Padres, going 3-0 with a 0.33 ERA in three starts against them this year. 

The Friars hand the ball to Edwin Jackson, who will make his first start in the major leagues this season. The veteran is 0-2 with a 6.75 ERA in his last four starts versus the Giants. 

The Padres bullpen has been banged around this season, ranking 23rd in the majors with a 4.45 ERA. 

Take SF. 

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Baltimore Orioles +1.5. 

The Orioles are in first place in the AL East, and they will be an underdog on the road versus the last place Tampa Rays tonight. Tampa will have it's ace on the mound, but Chris Archer has been roughed up all year long. 

Archer (4-12, 4.66 ERA) was torched for five runs on seven hits in six innings in a 6-5 loss to Boston his last time out. He's lost six straight, and he's surrendered six runs on 15 hits over 11 2/3 innings in two previous meetings with the Orioles. 

Baltimore will hand the ball to Yovani Gallardo, who has been solid in his return to the major leagues. Gallardo (3-1, 5.82 ERA) allowed a pair of runs on six hits over five innings in a 3-2 win over the Angels his last time out. He's 2-1 with a 3.06 ERA in his last four starts against Tampa. 

The Rays rank dead last in the American League in runs scored, and they went into the All Star break with a team batting average of .240. 

Take BAL. 

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on the Baltimore Orioles. 

The Orioles beat the Angels 3-2 at home yesterday, evening this series at 1-1. Baltimore leads the major leagues with 32 home victories so far this season, and I like the O's in the rubber match this afternoon. 

Chris Tillman will toe the slab for Baltimore, and he's having a career year. Tillman (11-2, 3.55 ERA) allowed just one run on five hits over seven innings in a win at LA his last time out. He's 7-0 with a 3.45 ERA in 11 starts at home this season, and he's 1-0 with a 1.89 ERA in his last three starts versus the Angels. 

The Halos hand the ball to Tim Lincecum, who still battles control issues. Lincecum (1-2, 7.50 ERA) gave up five runs on 10 hits over 4 1/3 innings in a no decision versus Tampa his last time out. After looking impressive in his season debut, he's since been rocked in three straight starts. 

Mark Trumbo leads the major leagues with 28 home runs, and he's hitting .375 with a home run lifetime versus Lincecum. 

Take BAL. 

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 7* play on the Detroit Tigers +1.5. 

The Tigers come in to Toronto as winners of seven of their last nine, and they look good in Game 1 with their ace on the mound. 

Justin Verlander will toe the slab for the visitors, and he's won five of his last six starts. Verlander (8-6, 4.11 ERA) allowed a pair of runs on four hits, striking out eight over seven innings in a win at Tampa his last time out. He's seen plenty of the Blue Jays, and Toronto's lineup has struck out 39 times while managing just 35 hits over a combined 133 at bats in previous meetings. 

The Jays hand the ball to Drew Hutchison, who will make his third appearance of the season. The 25 year old has given up four runs on seven hits over 6 2/3 innings in his previous two outings. 

Nick Castellanos was 3-for-5 with five RBIs in yesterday's win in Cleveland, and he's 2-for-5 lifetime versus Hutchison. 

Take DET. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is a Free #MLB play on the Chicago #Cubs -1.5.

The Cubs will be happy to be back at Wrigley after taking a beating in New York over the weekend. They swept the Reds in Cincinnati last week, and the cellar dwellers of the NL Central have dropped six of their last seven. My money is on the Cubs to win big at Wrigley in a matchup between first versus worst.

Kyle Hendricks will toe the slab for the Cubs, and he's coming off three straight victories. Hendricks (6-6, 2.76 ERA) allowed a pair of runs on eight hits, striking out five in 6 2/3 innings in a 9-2 win at Cincinnati his last time out. He's been great at home this year, with a record of 4-1 and a 1.93 ERA in seven starts at Wrigley.

The Reds hand the ball to Cody Reed, who was torched by the Cubs in his last start. Reed was the opposing pitcher when Hendricks got the win in Cincinnati last week, and he gave up seven runs on nine hits in just four innings in that game. Reed is 0-2 with a 9.00 ERA in three career starts in the big leagues, and his first win is unlikely to come against the Cubs at Wrigley.

If the Cubs can't get to Reed, there's a good chance they can get to Cincinnati's bullpen that ranks dead last in the majors with an ERA of 5.90.

Take CHC -1.5.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Chicago Cubs -1.5. 

The Reds have lost five of six during their current home stand, and they've surrendered 19 runs in back to back losses to the Cubs. They send a rookie pitcher to the mound in Game 3 this afternoon, and another blowout is expected. 

Cody Reed will toe the rubber for the Reds, and he's making just his third major league start. Reed (0-1, 6.75 ERA) has been torched for nine runs on 15 hits in 12 innings in his first two appearances. He's facing a Cubs lineup that has absolutely punished rookie pitchers this season. 

The Cubs hand the ball to Kyle Hendricks, who is quietly having a respectable season. Hendricks (5-65, 2.76 ERA) allowed four runs on one hit and four walks, with five punchouts in five innings in a 5-4 win over the Marlins his last time out. The Cubs are 4-2 in his last six starts, and three of those wins were blowouts. 

He's handled the Reds well in previous meetings, as Cincinnati's lineup has struck out 15 times, managing just a dozen hits in 47 at bats. 

Take CHC -1.5. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Kansas City Royals +1.5. 

The Houston Astros are on fire, coming into Game 3 of this series in Kansas City as winner of seven straight. They've outscored the Royals 26-9 in the last two games, but I expect the bats to cool off in a matinee at Kauffman Stadium today. 

Ian Kennedy will toe the rubber for the Royals, and the veteran has had plenty of success against Houston in the past. Kennedy (5-6, 4.19 ERA) allowed two runs on four hits over just four innings in a 2-1 loss at New York his last time out. He's been better at home, with a record of 2-1 with a 2.30 ERA in Kansas City. He allowed one run on just two hits, fanning seven in seven innings in a win over Houston earlier this year, and the Astros lineup has hit just .161 in a combined 62 at bats in previous meetings. 

Houston hands the ball to Doug Fister, who has been pretty sharp in his own right. Fister (8-3, 3.21 ERA) allowed a pair of runs on four hits over seven innings in a home win over the Angels his last time out. The Astros are 10-0 in his last 10 starts, and he's 4-0 with a 1.71 ERA in four starts so far in June. 

There is reason for concern though, as Fister has been roughed up in past meetings with Kansas City. He gave up six runs on nine hits in 5 2/3 innings, losing his only start versus the Royals this year, and he was 1-3 with a 3.41 ERA in his previous five meetings with Kansas City. 

The Royals are 36-15 in their last 51 home games, and 4-1 in Kennedy's last five home starts. 

Take KC +1.5. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is a Free #MLB play on the KC #Royals +1.5.

The Royals lost by a score of 2-1 in Game 1 of this series at Citi Field, and another pitcher's duel may be in the cards this afternoon. 

Danny Duffy will toe the rubber for the Royals, and this looks like a good spot for the southpaw. Duffy (2-1, 3.17 ERA) allowed three runs on four hits over five innings, with all the damage coming by way of the long ball in a home loss to the Tigers his last time out. He's been better on the road than he has been at home, with a 1.37 ERA in 12 appearances. His day/night splits are also encouraging, going 1-0 with 0.44 ERA in nine appearances in day games. 

The Mets hand the ball to Noah Syndergaard, who has been "lights out" all season. The 23 year old flame thrower could be asked to do all the heavy lifting today though, as he's backed by a Mets offense that has scored a total of six runs while losing three of it's last four overall. The Mets rank 29th in the majors batting a woeful .233. 

Five of the last 10 meetings between these two teams have been decided by one run. 

Take KC. 

GL,

Jesse Schule 

This is a Free #MLB play on the Chisoc +1.5. 

The Indians are clinging to a half game lead at the top of the AL Central, and they go for the sweep in the series finale versus Chicago this afternoon. We should see a pitcher's duel here in Cleveland Sunday. 

Carlos Rodon will toe the slab for the Sox, and he's coming off a solid performance. Rodon (2-6, 4.28 ERA) struck out seven, allowing a pair of runs on seven hits over six innings in a 3-1 loss to the Royals his last time out. It was the fourth time in his last five starts that he held the opposition to two or fewer earned runs. The southpaw is 3-0 with a 1.52 ERA in his last four starts versus Cleveland. 

The Indians hand the ball to Carlos Carrasco, who has looked pretty sharp lately. Carrasco (2-2, 3.40 ERA) struck out eight, surrendering a pair of runs while scattering 10 hits over six innings in a 2-1 loss to the Royals his last time out. He's 3-5 with a 5.52 ERA in his last nine starts versus Chicago.

Cleveland has won five straight in this series, but two of the last three were games decided by just one run.

Take CWS +1.5. 

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a Free #MLB play on the Colorado #Rockies +1.5.

The Rockies wasted a solid effort from Jon Gray in Game 1 of this series in Miami, but they send another talented young pitcher to the mound in Game 2. We could see another pitcher's duel here at Marlin's park, but I've spot some interesting data in the home/away splits for both pitchers. 

Tyler Chatwood will toe the rubber for the Rockies, and he's been flat out dominant away from Coors Field. Chatwood (8-4, 2.89 ERA) allowed three runs on six hits over 6 2/3 innings in a home win over the Padres his last time out. He's a staggering 5-0 with a 0.65 ERA in six starts on the road this season, and 5-0 with a 1.76 ERA in six starts in day games. 

The Marlins hand the ball to Wei Yin Chen, who has not missed many bats lately. Chen (4-2, 4.68 ERA) has given up a whopping seven home runs in his last two starts. He's been far better on the road (3-1, 4.29 ERA) than he has been at home (1-1, 5.01 ERA). 

The Marlins are 7-3 in Chen's last 10 starts, but four of those wins came in games decided by just one run. 

Take COL +1.5.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Baltimore Orioles +1.5. 

The Blue Jays spanked the Orioles in Game 1 of this series in Baltimore, but with a favorable pitching matchup in Game 2, I like the home team as an underdog this afternoon. 

Yovani Gallardo will toe the slab for Orioles, and he has a history of pitching well against the Jays. This will be the 30 year old's first start since coming off the DL, and he was sharp in his rehab stint at Triple A. Gallardo gave up just one run on one hit, fanning five in his last minor league start. He's won back to back starts against the Jays, tossing 13 2/3 innings in those games. 

The Jays hand the ball to knuckleballer R.A. Dickey, who has been hit hard in recent starts versus Baltimore. Dickey (4-7, 4.16 ERA) allowed three runs on five hits and two walks over 6 1/3 innings in a 7-0 home loss to Philadelphia his last time out. The Jays lost his only start versus Baltimore this season, and he's 0-4 with a 4.68 ERA in seven starts against the Orioles over the last three seasons. 

Jays slugger Jose Bautista has landed on the 15 day DL with a toe injury. 

Take BAL +1.5. 

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Milwaukee Brewers +1.5. 

The Dodgers have slipped to seven games back of San Francisco in the NL West, and after losing the series opener versus Milwaukee, they've now dropped four of their last five at home. Game 2 will feature a pair of talented rookie starters, and I like Milwaukee to keep it close in what could be a pitcher's duel. 

Zach Davies will toe the slab for Milwaukee, and he's been fantastic in recent starts. Davies (5-3, 3.88 ERA) allowed one run on three hits, striking out seven in six innings in a 5-3 win over the Mets his last time out. He's undefeated in his last eight starts, and the Brewers have won six of those games outright. 

The Dodgers hand the ball to Julio Urias, who has pitched well but hasn't earned a win in four appearances this season. Urias (0-2, 5.82 ERA) allowed a pair of runs on four hits, striking out seven in 5 1/3 innings in a 2-1 loss to the Giants his last time out. He matched his season high with 86 pitches in that game, and a strict pitch count should prevent him from going deep into tonight's game. 

The Dodgers have won just four of their last 10 overall, and all but one of those wins came by just one run. The Brewers have won six of 10 in the series, and two of their losses came by just a single run. 

Take MIL. 

GL,

Jesse Schule 

This is a 10* play on the Chicago Cubs -1.5. 

After dropping two of three in Washington, the first place cubs return home to face a Pirates team that is in free fall. The Pirates have lost seven of their last eight, and six of those losses came by at least two runs. With a struggling left-hander starting opposite Jake Arrieta, it's going to be tough to snap out of this slump at Wrigley. 

Arrieta (10-1, 1.86 ERA) allowed a pair of runs on four hits over seven innings in an 8-2 win over Atlanta his last time out. He's struck out 16, gong 2-0 with a 1.20 ERA in two starts versus the Pirates already this year. 

Francisco Liriano has struggled, especially against the Cubs. The southpaw was torched for eight runs on nine hits and four walks in just 4 2/3 innings in a loss at Wrigley earlier this year. 

The Cubs are 47-18 in their last 65 home games, and they've won seven of their last eight versus Pittsburgh. 

Take CHC. 

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a Free #MLB play on the Arizona #DBacks +1.5.

The Dodgers have split their first two games of this series in Arizona, but despite a sub .500 road record, they are heavy favorite in the rubber match. Nobody likes to bet against Clayton Kershaw, but the Dodgers ace has a history of struggling here in Arizona. 

Kershaw (9-1, 1.52 ERA) allowed a pair of runs on five hits, striking out 13 in a 3-2 win at San Francisco his last time out. He's just 1-3 with a 5.79 ERA in his last four starts at Chase Field. The D'Backs are batting .265 over a combined 136 at bats in previous meetings with Kershaw. That's better than their team batting average against the rest of the major leagues so far this season. 

The D'Backs hand the ball to Patrick Corbin, who has shown flashes of brilliance in recent starts. Corbin (3-5, 4.81 ERA) allowed four runs on five hits, striking out six in 6 1/3 innings in an 8-6 home loss to Miami his last time out. He's 0-4 with a 7.53 ERA in six starts at home this season, but he's 1-0 with a 1.50 ERA against the Dodgers. 

Jean Segura is swinging a hot bat of late. He was 4-for-4 last night, and he's batting .327 at home this season. 

Take ARI +1.5. 

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a Free #MLB play on the Arizona #DBacks +1.5.

The Dodgers come into Game 2 of this series in Arizona as losers of three straight, and I don't think they deserve to be a favorite on the road in this spot. They've won just four more games than the D'Backs overall this season, and they have a losing record away from Chavez Ravine. 

Kenta Maeda will toe the slab for the Dodgers, and he's had a successful rookie season so far. Maeda (5-4, 2.70 ERA) allowed one run on five hits over 6 1/3 innings in a 1-0 loss to Colorado his last time out. His last five starts have come against the likes of Colorado, Atlanta, San Diego and the Mets. Pitching on the road in this hitter's park should prove to be a tougher test than he's faced in a while. 

Arizona hands the ball to Archie Bradley, who has been dominant at times. Bradley (2-2, 5.22 ERA) allowed four runs on five hits in 5 2/3 innings in a loss to Tampa his last time out. Prior to that he struck out 19 batters over 13 1/3 innings in his previous two starts. He's only faced the Dodgers once, tossing six scoreless innings, surrendering just one hit and fanning six. 

The Dodgers have lost five of their last six road games, and they own a .191 team batting average so far in June. 

Take ARI +1.5. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule 

This is a Free #MLB play on the Kansas City #Royals +1.5.

The Royals have underachieved so far, but they are still just three games out of first in the AL Central. They come into Game 1 of a home series versus Cleveland off back to back wins on the road in Chicago. 

Edinson Volquez will toe the rubber for the Royals, and he's pitched well at home this season. Volquez (5-6, 4.25 ERA) allowed four runs on four hits in 4 2/3 innings in a loss at Baltimore his last time out. He's lost twice to Cleveland this season, but both of those losses came on the road. He's 3-2 with a 2.38 ERA in seven starts in Kansas City in 2016. 

The Indians hand the ball to Carlos Carrasco, who is coming off his first loss of the season. Carrasco (2-1, 3.48 ERA) gave up four runs on five hits, including a pair of home runs in a 5-0 loss to Seattle his last time out. He hasn't fooled Lorenzo Cain, who is batting .364 lifetime against him. 

The Royals bullpen is still the best in the major leagues, boasting an ERA of 2.61. 

Take KC +1.5. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on Milwaukee +1.5.

The Brewers have been playing solid ball these days, coming into the series finale at home versus the Mets as winners of six of their last 10. I like the Brewers chances of salvaging a split here, with a hot young pitcher on the mound. 

Zack Davies (4-3, 4.29 ERA) allowed a pair of runs on two hits over seven innings in a 5-4 win over Oakland his last time out. He took a no-hitter into the seventh inning, before Oakland finally broke through. He's undefeated in his last seven starts, and only once during that span has he given up more than two earned runs. 

The Mets hand the ball to Steven Matz, who was on the wrong side of a pitcher's duel in Pittsburgh his last time out. The 25 year old allowed a pair of runs on eight hits, fanning eight in five innings in a 3-1 loss to the Pirates. He beat the Brewers at home earlier this season, allowing a pair of runs on three hits, with eight strikeouts seven innings. 

The Mets are 7-3 in the last 10 in this series, but four of those games were decided by just one run. 

Take MIL +1.5. 

GL,

Jesse Schule