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

The Brewers rallied last night to force extra innings, and won by a score of 7-6 in a 17 inning marathon versus Arizona. That ended a seven game losing streak, and I think they come into St. Louis tonight with the right frame of mind to pull off an upset. I'll take Milwaukee as an underdog with a more experienced pitcher on the mound. 

Mike Fiers will toe the slab for the Brewers, and he's been solid so far this season. Fiers (1-5, 4.53 ERA) allowed a pair of runs on eight hits over five innings in a 3-1 loss to San Francisco his last time out. He's had more luck on the road, going 1-1 with a 2.82 ERA in four starts, and he's also had success in previous meetings with the Cards. He's 2-1 with a 1.30 ERA in four starts versus St. Louis since 2012. 

The Cardinals hand the ball to Jaime Garcia, who makes just his third start of the season. Garcia (1-1, 3.46 ERA) allowed four runs on eight hits over six innings in a home win over Arizona his last time out. He surrendered a pair of runs on five hits and five walks in seven innings in a loss to the Mets in his season debut. 

Matt Holliday missed yesterday's game with the flu, and it's unclear if he will be in the lineup tonight. 

Take MIL +1.5. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is a 7* play on the Atlanta Braves +1.5. 

The Braves continue to surprise, and last night they upset the Dodgers at Chavez Ravine. They are only 4.5 games back of Washington in the NL East, with a .500 record so far this season. That's an impressive achievement when you consider that they traded away their three best hitters this off-season. I like Atlanta as an underdog with a hot pitcher on the mound in San Francisco tonight. 

Shelby Miller will toe the slab for the Braves, and he's having himself a fantastic year so far. Miller (5-1, 1.50 ERA) allowed a pair of runs on seven hits over six innings in a win over the Brewers his last time out. Prior to that he came an inning away from a no-hitter in a complete game shutout over the Marlins in Miami. He's 2-0 with a 1.46 ERA in two career starts versus the Giants. 

San Francisco will hand the ball to Chris Heston, who has been wildly inconsistent. Heston (4-3, 4.33 ERA) was rocked for six runs on eight hits over 5 2/3 innings in a loss to the Rockies his last time out. It was the fourth time in nine starts that he's been tagged for five or more runs. 

Heston will have to be wary of Cameron Maybin, who homered last night and is hitting .351 in his last 11 games. 

Take ATL, 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Texas Rangers. 

The Rangers will be looking to complete the sweep here in Cleveland, and coming off seven straight wins, I have to like their chances of doing just that. 

Colby Lewis will toe the rubber for the Rangers, and he's coming off a win in his last start. Lewis (4-2, 3.49 ERA) allowed five runs on eight hits over six innings in a 10-9 slugfest in the Bronx. He was roughed up at home, giving up six runs on seven hits over five innings in a loss to Cleveland prior to that, but he's been a better pitcher on the road than he has been in Texas. Lewis is 3-2 with a 3.45 ERA in five starts on the road this year, and that trend holds true the past three seasons. 

The Indians will hand the ball to Carlos Carrasco, who has been anything but consistent. Carrasco (5-4, 4.75 ERA) allowed two runs on four hits and two walks over six innings in a win over the Reds his last time out. Prior to that he was torched for five runs on seven hits in a 5-1 loss to the Rangers in Arlington. His day/night splits are also of concern, going 0-2 with a 7.30 ERA in a pair of starts in the afternoon this year. While that's a small sample size, his three year splits tell the same story. 

Prince Fielder might be the hottest hitter in the majors at the moment, batting a major league best .371. He's 5-for-9 with a home run and five RBIs lifetime versus Carrasco. 

Take TEX. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Texas Rangers +1.5. 

The Rangers rolled into Cleveland as winners of five straight, and while the Tribe had won six in a row prior to Game 1, something had to give on Memorial Day. Texas came out on top in a slugfest, out-scoring the Indians 10-8. I expect to see a similar result here tonight in Cleveland. 

Wandy Rodriguez will toe the slab for Texas, and he's coming off a solid outing on the road. Rodriguez (2-2, 3.38 ERA) allowed one run on four hits over 6 2/3 innings in a win over Boston at Fenway. Cleveland roughed him up in Texas prior to that, tagging him for five runs on eight hits over 4 2/3 innings in a blowout loss. He's been far better on the road than he has been at home though, going 2-0 with a 1.40 ERA in four starts outside of Texas. 

The Indians hand the ball to Danny Salazar, who has won three straight starts. Salazar (5-1, 3.50 ERA) struck out eight over six scoreless innings in a win at Chicago his last time out. His ERA in day games is less than half of what it is at night, and that's a trend that holds true throughout his career. 

The Rangers lineup is batting .318 versus Salazar, with most of the damage coming in a 10-8 Cleveland victory in Arlington on the 16th of this month. He surrendered seven runs on nine hits over 4 2/3 innings in that game. 

Take Texas. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Texas Rangers +1.5. 

The Rangers come into Cleveland as winners of five of six on this road trip, and they have a record of 15-10 away from home this year. I think we get great value with Texas on the runline here at Progressive Field. 

Shawn Marcum will toe the slab for the Tribe, and it will be just his third start this season. Marcum (1-0, 2.31 ERA) allowed a pair of runs on four hits over 6 2/3 innings in a win at Chicago his last time out. He's struggled to find a home in the major league's bouncing around from team to team and spending plenty of time in the minors over the last eight years. 

The Rangers hand the ball to Phil Klein, who makes his second start of the season. The 26 year old right-hander allowed one run on five hits over 5 1/3 innings in a win over Boston in his first start of the season. 

Prince Fielder is ripping the cover off the ball lately, he was 8-for-14 with three home runs and nine RBIs in the three game sweep of the Yankees over the weekend. 

Take TEX. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Texas Rangers +1.5. 

The Rangers have beaten up on the Yankees here in the Bronx in the first two games of this series, and I like their chances here in Game 3 tonight. 

Yovani Gallardo will toe the rubber for the Rangers, and he's pitched better than his numbers would indicate. Gallardo (3-6, 4.26 ERA) allowed four runs on 10 hits over five innings in a 4-3 loss at Fenway his last time out. He's had plenty of success on the road over the last three seasons, going 20-13 with a 3.33 ERA in 46 starts. 

The Yankees hand the ball to Chris Capuano, who was hammered in his only previous start this season. The southpaw allowed four runs on four hits and a pair of walks over just three innings in a loss to Kansas City. The Rangers lineup is hitting .350 lifetime versus Capuano. 

Mark Teixeira is 0-for-6 with a pair of strikeouts versus Gallardo. 

Take TEX. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Philadelphia Phillies. 

The Phillies have split the first two games of this series in Washington, and they are big underdogs in the rubber match this afternoon. Winners of eight of their last 11, I think there is great value backing the Phillies on the runline here. 

Aaron Harang will toe the slab for Philadelphia, and he's been as solid as a rock for the Phillies this year. Harang (4-3, 1.82 ERA) allowed three runs on three hits, striking out seven over six innings in a no-decision at Colorado his last time out. He's 2-1 with a 1.80 ERA in three starts in day games, and his day/night splits over the last three seasons show better numbers in the afternoon. 

The Nats hand the ball to Gio Gonzalez, who has been roughed up in each of his last two starts. Gonzalez (3-2, 4.94 ERA) has surrendered 11 runs on 15 hits over 10 innings in consecutive no decisions. He's surrendered 16 runs on 25 hits over 16 innings in three starts in day games, and that's a trend that holds true over the last three seasons. He's 11-12 with a 4.15 ERA in 33 starts in early games since 2012, which is in stark contrast to his record of 31-14, 2.78 ERA at night during that span. 

Gonzalez was 1-2 with a 3.91 ERA in four starts against Philly last year.

Take PHI. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is a Free #MLB play on the Cleveland #Indians -1.5.

The Tribe come into today's game against Cincinnati as winners of four straight, and they look well worth the price with their ace on the hill at home. 

Corey Kluber will toe the slab for Cleveland, and he's coming off a couple of real gems. Kluber (1-5, 3.79 ERA) allowed one run on five hits while striking out a dozen in a no decision at Chicago his last time out. He's put a rough start behind him, racking up a total of 30 Ks in 17 innings in his last two starts. 

The Reds hand the ball to Anthony DeSclafani, who is trending in the opposite direction. DeSclafani (2-4, 3.80 ERA) was torched for six runs on six hits and three walks in just three innings in a home loss to San Francisco his last time out. After a promising start in Cincinnati, he's now lost four straight decisions. 

DeSclafani rarely goes deep into ballgames, and that results in handing the game to the Reds struggling bullpen. Cincinnati's relievers own a 5.14 ERA (the worst in the majors). 

Take CLE. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Philadelphia Phillies +1.5. 

The Nats edged the Phillies in a 2-1 game last night, and I think we could be in for another pitcher's duel here this afternoon. 

Stephen Strasburg will toe the slab for Washington, and he's having a disappointing 2015 campaign. Strasburg (3-4, 5.98 ERA) allowed three runs on five hits over five innings in a 10-5 with at San Diego his last time out. He's 1-2 with a 3.45 ERA in three starts at home this season. 

The Phillies hand the ball to Cole Hamels, who is coming off three straight wins. Hamels (4-3, 3.24 ERA) allowed one run on six hits, fanning seven in a win at Colorado his last time out. He's been better on the road than he has been at Philly, going 21-16 with a 2.76 ERA in 49 starts since 2012. He also owns a winning record against the Nats during that span (5-4 with a 2.50 ERA). 

The Washington lineup is hitting just .204 with 110 strikeouts against Hamels. 

Take PHI. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Texas Rangers +1.5. 

The Rangers bats went off for 10 runs in a 10-9 win in the Bronx in Game 1 of this series yesterday, and Texas is now 3-1 on this road trip. The Rangers look good as an underdog here in Game 2 this afternoon. 

Nick Martinez will toe the rubber for the Rangers, and he's been as good as any pitcher in the majors so far this season. Martinez (3-0, 1.88 ERA) allowed one run on five hits, striking out six in five innings in a win over Cleveland his last time out. The Rangers have won all but one of his starts, with the exception being a 7-6 loss to the Royals at home.

The Yankees hand the ball to C.C. Sabathia, who has won back to back starts on the road. Sabathia (2-5, 4.67 ERA) allowed one run on six hits, striking out five in seven innings in a win at Kansas City his last time out. He hasn't had as much luck at home in the Bronx, where he's 0-2 with a 9.28 ERA. He was also lit up for seven runs on nine hits in five innings, losing his only matinee of the season so far.

Martinez has pitched 18 innings over three starts in afternoon games this year, allowing just one run. He came into this season with a record of 4-2 with a 2.89 ERA in nine starts in day games in his career.

Take TEX. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is a 6* play on the Milwaukee Brewers +1.5. 

The Brewers lost Game 1 in Atlanta by a score of 10-1, but Milwaukee has been far more competitive lately than it was earlier in the season. I like it's chances of pulling off an upset in Atlanta tonight. 

Wily Peralta will toe the slab for the visitors, and he's pitched better than his numbers would indicate. Peralta (1-5, 4.32 ERA) allowed five runs on nine hits over five innings in a loss to the Mets his last time out. He had given the Brewers four straight quality starts previously, and he's 1-1 with a 1.50 ERA in his last three starts versus Atlanta. 

The Braves hand the ball to Alex Wood, who got really lucky in a win at Miami his last time out. Wood (2-2, 3.83 ERA) allowed a pair of runs on seven hits and two walks over seven innings in that game. Miami left the bases loaded twice, and failed to capitalize on all the baserunners. He had appeared in six straight losses before that game, and watching him pitch .. it's no surprise. 

Take MIL, 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on the Detroit Tigers, 

The Tigers beat the Astros in extra innings in Game 1, and they look good as a slight favorite at home in Game 2 at Comerica Park. 

Alfredo Simon will toe the slab for the Tigers, and he's been very consistent for Detroit this season. Simon (4-2, 3.04 ERA) allowed a pair of runs on seven hits over six innings in a 2-1 loss at St. Louis his last time out. He's been particularly good at home, going 2-0 with a 1.25 ERA in three starts. 

The Astros will hand the ball to Collin McHugh, who hasn't missed many bats of late. McHugh (5-1, 4.09 ERA) allowed a pair of runs on six hits over seven innings in a home win over Toronto his last time out. He's been fortunate to have gotten plenty of run support, and that might not be the case here tonight. 

The Astros incredible run has come despite the fact that they own the lowest batting average in the American League, and you have to wonder how long they can survive relying on the long ball. 

Take DET. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on the Washington Nationals -1.5. 

The Nats have been the hottest team in the majors in the month of May, and they have taken over first place in the NL East, holding a half game lead over the Mets. They host the last place Phillies tonight, and this game should be a cakewalk for the home team with it's ace on the mound. 

Max Sherzer will toe the slab for the Nats, and he's been everything Washington hoped he would be when they acquired him this off-season. Sherzer (4-3, 1.75 ERA) allowed just four hits while striking out 11 through seven scoreless innings in a win at San Diego his last time out. He's won three straight, and he's owned the Phillies this season, going 1-0 with a 1.29 ERA in two starts. 

The Phillies hand the ball to Sean O'Sullivan, who tossed a gem at home in his last start. O'Sullivan (1-2, 3.68 ERA) allowed four runs on five hits and two walks in a 7-2 loss at Washington earlier this season, and that was his only start outside of Philadelphia. 

Bryce Harper was 2-for-5 in that game, and both his hits were home runs. 

Take WAS. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

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

The Giants have won five straight, and they go for the sweep here in Game 3 of this home series versus the Dodgers. This game features Kershaw vs. Bumgarner part III, and the Mad Bum has prevailed in the two previous meetings this season. 

Bumgarner (4-2, 3.20 ERA) allowed a pair of runs on eight hits over seven innings in a 10-2 win over the Reds in Cincinnati his last time out. He's allowed three runs over 14 1/3 innings in two wins over the Dodgers so far, both of those coming opposite Clayton Kerhsaw. 

Kershaw (2-2, 4.24 ERA) allowed three runs on four hits and three walks over 6 2/3 innings in a win over the Rockies his last time out. He's not been himself this season, and he's been particularly shaky on the road, going 0-1 with a 5.33 ERA in four starts away from LA. 

The Dodgers have scored a total of six runs while losing all five of their previous games at AT&T Park this season. 

Take SF. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Texas Rangers +1.5.

The Rangers own a better road record than they do at home, while the opposite can be said for Boston. The Red Sox though are a heavy home favorite in Game 2 of this series, despite sending a struggling pitcher to the mound. 

Joe Kelly will toe the slab for the Sox, and he hasn't had any success at Fenway so far. Kelly (1-2, 5.58 ERA) allowed one run on five hits and three walks over 6 1/3 innings in a no decision at Safeco his last time out. Prior to that he was lit up in Toronto, surrendering six runs on four hits and seven walks in a 7-1 loss. He's given up a dozen runs on 18 hits over 16 1/3 innings at Fenway in three starts. 

The Rangers hand the ball to 26 year old Phil Klein, who comes out of the bullpen to make a spot start. He's only made six appearances, but after getting roughed up in his debut he's looked pretty solid in a relief role recently. 

Prince Fielder comes in swinging a hot bat, hitting .406 over his last eight games. 

Take TEX. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Texas Rangers RL. 

Texas is one of the worst teams in the American League, but the Rangers actually own a winning road record. They've also been better lately, winning eight of their last 14. I like the Rangers chances of roughing up a struggling pitcher here in Boston's hitter's park tonight. 

Yovani Gallardo will toe the rubber for the Rangers, and he's been far better than his record shows. Gallardo (3-5, 3.94 ERA) allowed a pair of runs on six hits over seven innings in a win over the Royals his last time out. He's given the Rangers a chance to win in almost all of his starts so far this season, and that's what I expect from him tonight at Fenway. He's only had one start in Boston since 2012, and he won that game holding the Sox scoreless through 6 1/3 innings. 

The Red Sox hand the ball to Wade Miley, who was a winner in his last start. Miley (2-4, 5.60 ERA) allowed five hits, walked four and struck out just one batter in 6 2/3 shutout innings in a win at Oakland. It certainly wasn't pretty, and Miley was very fortunate that the A's couldn't cash in on all those baserunners. He hasn't been getting so lucky at Fenway, where he's 0-2 with a 9.64 ERA. 

Take TEX +1.5. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on the Oakland Athletics +1.5. 

The A's are in a real slump, coming into Houston today as losers of 10 of their last 11. Six of those 10 losses came in one run ball games, and I like Oakland here as an underdog against an untested rookie pitcher. 

Lance McCullers will make his major league debut, coming straight out of Double-A. The 21 year old was called up to replace Brett Oberholtzer, who is dealing with a blister. His numbers with Corpus Christie were pretty impressive (0.62 ERA in six appearances), but that's hardly comparable to facing a major league lineup. 

The A's hand the ball to Drew Pomeranz, who picked up a win his last time out. Pomeranz (2-3, 4.42 ERA) allowed a pair of runs on just three hits over seven innings in a win over Boston his last time out. He'd previously appeared in three straight losses, but all of those games were decided by one run. Prior to this season he made one start at Minute Maid Park, allowing a single run over seven innings in a victory. 

Take OAK. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Texas Rangers. 

The Rangers have lost four of six on this home stand, but had previously won five of seven on the road. They appear to have a favorable matchup on the mound tonight, and I'll take them as a home dog to Cleveland. 

Nick Martinez will toe the rubber for the Rangers, and he's been having a fantastic season. Martinez (2-0, 1.88 ERA) allowed four runs (one unearned) on six hits over 6 1/3 innings in a no decision versus Kansas City his last time out. He's been phenomenal all year, and that was the only of his seven starts that the Rangers didn't win. He's been at his best in early games, posting a record of 4-2 with a 2.89 ERA nine starts over the last three seasons. 

The Indians hand the ball to Carlos Carrasco, who was obliterated his last time out. He gave up four runs on 10 hits over 6 2/3 innings an 8-3 loss. He doesn't have a great track record during the day, with a record of 2-4 with a 4.82 ERA in 15 appearances in the afternoon since 2012. 

The current Rangers lineup has hit .370 versus Carrasco in 27 at bats in previous meetings. 

Take TEX. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Toronto Blue Jays +1.5. 

The Blue Jays are struggling, coming into today's game at Houston as losers of four straight and six of their last seven. It's certainly no fault of their offense, as they still lead the league in runs scored by a wide margin. Their pitching staff has let them down, but they turn to a reliable veteran here in Houston. 

Mark Buehrle will toe the slab for the Jays, and he's coming off consecutive wins. Buehrle (5-2, 5.54 ERA) allowed a pair of runs on four hits over six innings in a 10-2 win over Baltimore his last time out. Prior to that he allowed one run on six hits over five innings in a 5-1 win over the Yankees. He won his only start at Houston over the last three years, surrendering just one run over eight innings. 

The Astros hand the ball to Collin McHugh, who was roughed up his last time out. McHugh (4-1, 3.50 ERA) allowed seven runs on seven hits over just 4 2/3 innings in a loss to the Giants his last time out. He's struggled in Houston, allowing a dozen runs on 19 hits over 17 1/3 innings in three starts. 

The Jays lineup his hitting .303 versus McHugh in previous meetings. 

Take TOR. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on the LAD.

The Dodgers own the best home record in baseball at 16-4, and they are a big favorite here tonight against a Colorado team that has lost 12 of it's last 13. With a mismatch on the mound as well, this high priced favorite should probably be even higher. 

Zack Greinke will toe the slab for the Dodgers, and he's been the epitome of consistency for LA. Greinke (5-0, 1.52 ERA) allowed a single run on six hits over seven innings in a home win over Miami his last time out. He owns the Rockies, going 5-1 with a 2.81 ERA in eight starts over the last three seasons. 

The Rockies hand the ball to Jorge De La Rosa, who has struggled since coming back from an injury. De La Rosa (0-2, 9.56 ERA) was torched for five runs on five hits and six walks over just four innings in a loss to the Dodgers his last time out. He's been Colorado's best pitcher the last few years, but most of his success has come at home in Colorado. He's 1-3 with an 8.84 ERA in his last four trips to Chavez Ravine. 

Adrian Gonzalez is having a career year, and he's feasted on De La Rosa, hitting .370 with three home runs and 14 RBIs lifetime. 

Take LAD. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

8* analysis by 9AM (noon ET)

8* analysis by 9AM (noon ET)

This is an 8* play on the Texas Rangers RL. 

The Rangers have been playing a lot better of late, coming into tonight's game as winners of six of their last eight overall. They host the Royals in Game 2 at the Ballpark in Arlington, and this looks like a favorable matchup for the home team. 

Nick Martinez will toe the rubber for the Rangers, and he's been having a stellar season so far. Martinez (2-0, 1.47 ERA) allowed three runs on six hits over 4 2/3 innings in a no decision at Tampa Bay his last time out. The Rangers won that game, as they have done in all six of his starts.

The Royals will hand the ball to Edinson Volquez, who has struggled with his command in recent outings. Volquez (2-3, 2.65 ERA) allowed three runs on two hits and six walks over just three innings in a no decision versus Cleveland his last time out. He's given out 11 free passes in his last three starts, and that could spell disaster here in a hitter's park tonight. 

Volquez has only faced Texas once over the last three seasons, and he was rocked for six runs on five hits and four walks in a loss. 

Take TEX. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Toronto Blue Jays RL. 

The Jays lost Game 1 of this series at Camden Yards last night, and they are an underdog here in Game 2. Toronto leads the season series 5-2, and I think they have a great chance of pulling off an upset here tonight. 

Mark Buehrle will toe the slab for Toronto, and he's coming off a win over the Yankees in his last start. Buehrle (4-2, 6.00 ERA) allowed one run on six hits over five innings in a 5-1 win at home. He's already beat the Orioles twice this season, and he allowed a pair of runs on eight hits over six innings in a 12-5 win at Camden Yards in his season debut. 

The Orioles hand the ball to Chris Tillman, who hasn't been able to live up to expectation this season. Tillman (2-4, 6.25 ERA) gave up four runs on 10 hits over 5 1/3 innings in a 4-3 loss to the Yankees his last time out. He's faced the Blue Jays twice this year, and both starts were complete disasters. He was torched for 14 runs on 12 hits and eight walks in just seven innings in those games. 

The Jays lineup is very familiar with Tillman, and they've liked what they've seen, hitting .295 with 10 home runs in 200 combined at bats. 

Take TOR. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Atlanta Braves +1.5. 

The Braves were swept in Washington over the weekend, and they begin a new series in Cincinnati on Monday night. We could see a pitcher's duel in this game, with a pair of hot starters facing off against each other. 

Shelby Miller will toe the slab for the Braves, and he's sporting some impressive numbers so far. Miller (4-1, 1.66 ERA) tossed a complete game shutout, striking out eight in a home win over the Phillies his last time out. His only loss of the season came against the Reds, but he pitched well in that game, allowing three runs (two earned) on six hits while fanning nine in seven innings. He's 2-1 with a 3.97 ERA in four starts at Cincinnati in his career. 

The Reds hand the ball to Mike Leake, who is also coming off a win in his last start. Leake (2-1, 2.47 ERA) tossed eight scoreless innings in each of his last two starts, both of those on the road. He hasn't been as good at home, where he's winless with a 4.26 ERA in two starts this season. He has better numbers on the road than he does at home dating back the last three seasons. 

Cincinnati has won just five of Leake's last 16 starts, and only one of his last five home starts. 

Take ATL.

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on the Oakland A's RL.

 The A's are 3-5 on this current road trip, but four of those five losses have come by just one run, which would give them a record of 7-1 if you played them on the runline. That's exactly what I have in mind tonight, as another close game at Safeco seems a likely scenario. 

J.A. Happ will toe the slab for M's, and he's coming off his worst start of the season. Happ (2-1, 3.51 ERA) was torched for six runs on seven hits over six innings in a loss at Houston. Happ hasn't really been any better at Safeco than he has been on the road, and he was 0-1 with a 9.00 ERA in two starts in Seattle prior to this season. 

The A's hand the ball to Jesse Hahn, who also comes off a disappointing performance. Hahn (1-2, 4.33 ERA) allowed six runs on 10 hits over five innings in a loss at Minnesota his last time out. 

Hahn has pitched well against Seattle in the past, and I like his chances of having a decent showing in this pitcher's park. 

Take OAK. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on the Texas Rangers RL. 

The Rangers are hot, following up a three game sweep of the Astros in Houston with a win in Game 1 of this series in Tampa last night. I like their chances here as an underdog tonight. 

Yovani Gallardo will toe the rubber for the Rangers, and he's pitched better than his record would indicate. Gallardo (2-4, 4.05 ERA) allowed four runs on seven hits over 6 2/3 innings in a home loss to Oakland his last time out. He's been a better pitcher on the road, where he's 20-13 with a 3.33 ERA over the last three seasons. He's only faced Tampa once during that span, and he tossed seven scoreless innings in a no decision at Tropicana Field. 

The Rays hand the ball to Austin Karns, who has been better on the road than he has been in Tampa. Karns (1-1, 4.05 ERA) has only allowed one run through 9 2/3 innings in his last two starts, both of those away from home. He's 0-1 with a 5.40 ERA in three starts in Tampa so far. 

The Rangers have an impressive road record, and they come in swinging some hot bats. 

Take TEX.

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Texas Rangers RL. 

The Rangers come into Tampa off three straight wins, and we should expect a pitcher's duel tonight between two red hot starters. 

Nick Martinez will toe the rubber for the Rangers, and he's been great for Texas this season. Martinez (2-0, 0.84 ERA) allowed five runs on seven hits over six innings in a no decision versus Oakland his last time out. Only two of those runs were earned, as an error and a freak incident with a ball hitting an umpire near second base sparked a big inning for the A's. 

Texas went on to rally and win that game, and they've won all five of his starts so far. He's only allowed one run in 19 innings pitched on the road this season. 

The Rays hand the ball to Chris Archer, who has taken the role of ace in Tampa this season. Archer (3-3, 1.64 ERA) was rocked for four runs on six hits over six innings in a loss to Baltimore his last time out. 

Archer has been better on the road than he has been at home this season, and that was true last year as well. 

Take TEX. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Minnesota Twins.

The Twins and the Mariners have split the first two games of this series, and Minnesota has momentum on their side in the series finale after winning Game 2 by a score of 8-5. Seattle turns to a struggling minor league pitcher to replace the injured Hisashi Iwakuma.

Roenis Elias will toe the slab for Seattle, and he makes his first start in the majors this season. Elias was 4-7 with a 4.04 ERA in 16 starts at Safeco in his rookie season (2014). He failed to earn a spot in the rotation this season, and has posted a rather alarming 8.04 ERA at Triple-A Tacoma.

The Twins hand the ball to Kyle Gibson, who had good numbers versus Seattle last season. Gibson (1-2, 5.87 ERA) allowed four runs on four hits over five innings in a loss at Kansas City his last time out. The 27 year old was 2-0 with a 0.69 ERA in two starts versus Seattle last season.

Seattle is likely to turn to the bullpen rather early if Elias looks shaky, and the Mariners relievers haven't been all that reliable so far this season.

Take MIN.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on the Detroit Tigers. 

The Tigers are tied with the Royals for first in the AL Central, and they look to bounce back after losing Game 2 of this home series versus New York yesterday. With a mismatch on the mound, this one looks like it could be a blowout. 

Adam Warren will toe the slab for the visitors, and he's still in search of his first victory. Warren (0-1, 4.82 ERA) allowed four runs on six hits and two walks in just four innings, not getting the decision in a 5-4 win over the Rays. He allowed a pair of runs on five hits over 5 1/3 innings in a loss to Boston prior to that. The kid has more walks (4) than he does strikeouts (3) so far. 

The Tigers hand the ball to David Price, who has been dominant in all of his starts so far. Price (1-0, 0.40 ERA) allowed one run on four hits while striking out nine in eight innings in a win over Chicago his last time out. 

Take DET -1.5

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on the Minnesota Twins. 

The Twins took two of three at home versus the Royals last week, but they lost the series opener here at Kansas City last night. Minnesota appears to have an advantage on the mound tonight, and I like the visitors in the role of the underdog. 

Tommy Milone will toe the slab for the Twins, and he shut down the Royals in his last start. Milone (2-0, 2.08 ERA) allowed three runs on seven hits over 5 1/3 innings in an 8-5 win. 

The Royals will hand the ball to Jason Vargas, who was rocked opposite Milone in the loss to the Twins last week. He was torched for five runs on 10 hits, getting knocked out in just three innings. 

Joe Mauer has not been fooled by Vargas, hitting .400 with eight RBIs in 40 career at bats. 

Take MIN. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is a Free #MLB play on the Seattle #Mariners -1.5.

The Mariners are off to a terrible start to the season, and even the addition of slugger Nelson Cruz hasn't been enough to turn around this sputtering offense. You can't really fault Cruz though, as he leads the majors with six home runs, all of those coming over his last six games.

He might get a chance to tee off against Colby Lewis tonight, as the veteran right-hander has been hit hard at Safeco in the past. Lewis was tagged for seven runs on 12 hits over 14 innings at Safeco last year, and he was taken yard four times in those two starts.

Robinson Cano is hitting .417 lifetime versus Lewis, while Kyle Seager is batting .381 with a pair of home runs and seven RBIs off the right-hander. Mike Zunino is just 2-for-8 versus Lewis, but both of those hits left the ballpark.

The Mariners will hand the ball to their ace, and Felix Hernandez has been as sharp as ever so far this season. Hernandez (1-0, 3.00 ERA) surrendered one run on two hits, striking out 10 in a win over the Angels at Safeco on Opening Day. He was 10-3 with a 2.07 ERA at home last year.

The Mariners failed to capitalize on their opportunities last night, out-hitting Texas 8-7, yet only managing to score one run. I expect them to play a little better with the big horse on the hill tonight.

Take SEA.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on the Washington Nationals -1.5. 

The Nats got off to a terrible start to the season, but they look like they have found their way, winning back to back games and scoring 15 runs in the process. They send their ace to the mound tonight, and I like their chances of winning big up against an inexperienced Philly starter. 

Sherzer (0-1, 0.66 ERA) allowed one run on six hits while striking out eight over six innings in a win over Philly in his last start. His only other start against Philly since 2012 saw him surrender just one hit, while fanning seven in six innings. 

The Phillies hand the ball to Sean O'Sullivan, who lost opposite Sherzer in last week's game. He didn't pitch poorly in that game, giving up a pair of runs on five hits, not factoring in the decision. He might be in for a bit of a tougher challenge tonight, as they are getting another look at him. The 27 year old started just five games in the big leagues over the last three seasons, going 0-3 with a 4.78 ERA. 

If the Nats don't can't get to O'Sullivan, they should be able to get to the Phillies bullpen. 

Take WAS. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is a Free #MLB play on the Arizona D'Backs.

When the Giants won the World Series in 2012, they went on to miss the post-season the following season. They are off to a 3-7 start to 2015, and it looks like this team is suffering another championship let down. They are a heavy favorite at home tonight, and I just don't see how anyone can justify paying a big price to back a team that has displayed no ability to plate runs.

Madison Bumgarner will toe the slab for San Francisco, and he was rocked in his most recent outing. The 25 year old gave up five runs on 10 hits in just three innings at pitcher friendly Petco. If you're thinking a return home will be the answer for Bumgarner, think again. He was actually far more effective on the road last season, and that's a trend that holds true the last two years.

The D'Backs will hand the ball to rookie sensation Archie Bradley, who can cement his reputation as a Giant Killer here with a win tonight. He tossed a gem opposite Clayton Kershaw in his big league debut, allowing just a single hit while fanning six over six innings. The word out of the Arizona camp is that they have this kid tabbed as their next ace (I wonder if they broke the news to Patrick Corbin).

I'll take the visitors at a great price on the runline here in Frisco tonight.

Take ARI +1.5.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the San Diego Padres RL. 

The Dodgers got six strong innings from Zack Greinke last night, but with a 2-1 lead and two outs in the seventh inning, Jimmy Rollins dropped a pop fly that allowed the Padres to tie the game. Things only went downhill from there, and I like San Diego's chances again tonight with what looks like a pitching mismatch.

Andrew Cashner will toe the slab for the visitors, and he had great numbers in three starts versus the Dodgers last year. The right-hander was 1-0 with a 1.89 ERA, surrendering just four runs while striking out 15 over 19 innings.

The Dodgers hand the ball to Brandon McCarthy, who finished last year strong with the Yankees. He had some pretty ugly numbers in the first half of the season though, and he was 0-5 with a 5.38 ERA last April. He was tagged for six runs in his final appearance this spring, he could be in for another rough ride. 

Take SD. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

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

It's been a tough start to the season for Tampa, and the Rays face another tough matchup tonight in Game 3 of this series versus the Orioles. I like the visitors as they appear to have a favorable matchup on the mound.

Miguel Gonzalez will get the nod for the visitors, and he has looked sharp in spring training. Gonzalez was 6-4 with a 3.27 ERA in 14 starts on the road last season, and he won both his starts against Tampa.

The Rays hand the ball to Jake Odorizzi, who could be in for a rough ride tonight. The 25 year old is a fly ball pitcher, and that's a recipe for disaster against the heavy hitting O's. Boston hit him hard last season, as he was 0-2 with a 6.52 ERA in four starts.

He'll have nightmares about Adam Jones who is 8-for-14 with three RBIs in past meetings.

Take BAL.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the L.A. Angels. 

The Los Angeles Angels failed to keep it a close game last night as Felix Hernandez outdueled Jered Weaver in a 4-1 Mariners win. Tonight I think the Angels will have a much better chance as they'll send C.J Wilson to the hill. 

Wilson (13-10, 4.51 ERA) may be coming off the worst season of his career ERA-wise since becoming a starter, but he's looked sharp in pre-season as he posted a 2.31 ERA over three outings in the Cactus League. One of few teams he didn't disappoint against last season was the very same Mariners he'll face tonight as he allowed only 10 runs on 18 hits over 26 1/3 innings of work over the season. Despite a lousy 2014 overall, he did start the season off well with a 4-2 record behind a 3.18 ERA in the month of April and I think he'll be poised to build on his fine performances during spring training.

The Mariners will hand the ball to James Paxton who is in almost the opposite situation as Wilson. Paxton (6-4, 3.04 ERA) is coming off a pathetic spring as he surrendered 12 runs (nine earned) on 18 hits over just 10 1/3 innings of work. He was undefeated home at Safeco last season, but that was over only five starts and he made only 13 appearances over the season total. He had the season hampered by injuries, and missed a couple of starts during spring training now as well as he took a fall and injured his left forearm during an agility drill.

Wilson is coming in underrated here after struggling last year and the Angels have plenty of offensive firepower in Trout and Pujols among others. The Mariners DH Nelson Cruz was hitless over four at-bats in his Mariners debut last night and odds are a rejuvenated Wilson will make life tough for him tonight as well. 

Take LAA +1.5. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

The Rockies played spoilers on Opening Day in Milwaukee, beating the Brewers in a blowout by a score of 10-0. The home team will look to return the favor tonight, and they have what appears to be a pitching mismatch in their favor.. at first glance.

Jordan Lyles will toe the slab for the visitors, and he's been pretty mediocre in four years in the majors. He's still only 24 years old, and the best is likely still to come for the right-hander. If his numbers this spring are any indication, he could be in for a breakout season. Lyles was 2-1 with a 2.01 ERA in seven appearances, striking out 14 in 22 innings of work.

The Brewers hand the ball to Matt Garza, who pitched quite well at Miller Park last season. Garza didn't impress this spring, posting a 6.91 ERA in six outings. He didn't miss many bats, surrendering 21 runs on 33 hits over 22 innings. Carlos Gonzalez is just 3-for-12 lifetime versus Garza for a pedestrian .250 average, but all three of those hits left the ballpark resulting in 5 RBIs.

I like the Rockies chances of roughing up the Brewers for the second straight day.

Take COL +1.5.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Toronto Blue Jays +1.5.

The Yankees finished 12 games out of first in the AL East last season, and they haven't done a lot to convince me that they'll be any better in 2015. The lineup is made up mostly of overpriced stars that are well past their prime, and the top half of their rotation is coming off an injury riddled 2014 campaign

We'll see Masahiro Tanaka get the nod on Opening Day, and there are plenty of question marks about his velocity and durability coming off major elbow surgery. His numbers this spring were pretty encouraging all things considered, going 1-2 with a 3.07 ERA. He will be tested in his first appearance of the season though, facing a heavy hitting Jays team.

Toronto will hand the ball to 24 year old right-hander Drew Hutchison, who beat out veterans R.A. Dickey and Mark Buehrle for the top spot in the rotation. The kid had himself a helluva spring, going 3-0 with a 1.50 ERA, fanning a dozen over 18 innings.

I like the Jays as a dog on the runline, especially when you consider that the Yankees are likely to want to be conservative with Tanaka's innings. The bullpen was a sore spot this spring, and that comes as little surprise as they lost David Robertson in the off-season.

Take TOR.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 7* play on the San Francisco Giants RL. 

San Francisco’s Madison Bumgarner has a career record of 4-0 with an 0.25 ERA in the World Series, but Bruce Bochy has already said he plans to start Tim Hudson in Game 7.

Tim Hudson was the starter in Game 3, and the Giants lost that game by a score of 3-2. This will be his fourth start of the post-season, and his second on the road. He allowed just one run on seven hits, fanning eight over 7 1/3 innings in Game 2 of the NLDS in Washington. Still you have to wonder if a 25 year old Bumgarner on two days rest might be a better option that a 39 year old Tim Hudson. 

Jeremy Guthrie was opposite Hudson in Game 3, and he'll start for the Royals tonight. Guthrie doesn't log a lot of innings, and he's by no means dominant. He's done well so far in these playoffs, but he was just 6-6 with a 4.25 ERA in 16 home starts during the regular season. 

The Royals bullpen has lost it's air of invincibility, and that's one more reason why I like the Giants in Game 7. 

Take SF. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

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

The Royals got here with clutch hitting and an air-tight bullpen, but as we head into Game 6 of this year's Fall Classic, you have to wonder if either of those qualities remain for the Royals. The bullpen has been roughed up pretty good in San Francisco, surrendering 10 runs in the last two games. That's not good news for K.C. with youngster Yordano Ventura on the the mound tonight. 

Ventura has been bothered by a sore shoulder, and he's failed to get out of the sixth inning in each of his last two appearances. The Giants were locked in on him pretty good in Game 2, but they only manufactured two runs on eight hits through 5 1/3 innings. 

The Giants will hand the ball to veteran Jake Peavy, who gave up four runs on six hits over six innings in the loss in Game 2. He'll be backed up by a bunch of fresh arms in the bullpen though, as Mad Bum did all the work himself in Game 5 in San Francisco. 

If Bruce Bochy is smart, he'll have Peavy on a short leash. There is even talk that he might bring Bumgarner out of the bullpen. 

Win or lose, I expect this game to be close. 

Take GIANTS RL

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on the LA Dodgers -1.5.

The top two  teams of NL West have split this three game set so far coming into the series finale tonight. The Dodgers can secure the division title with a win in this fixture, and who in their right mind would bet against them when they have their ace on the mound?

Clayton Kershaw will toe the slab for the Dodgers coming off six consecutive wins. Kershaw (20-3, 1.80 ERA) has been dominant whenever and wherever he's played, but he's been particularly good at home with a 1.75 ERA  and under the lights where he's showing a 1.68 ERA. Today, both those conditions are true. The Giants have already had their struggles with the lefty over 24 innings this season, only being able to score five runs on 17 hits. 

The Giants will hand the ball to Tim Hudson who's had a rough September. Hudson (9-12, 3.52 ERA) is 0-3 with a 9.92 ERA in his four starts this month. A date with the Dodgers may come at a bad time for the veteran, as he's surrendered eight runs on 16 hits over seven innings versus LAD already this season. 

Adrian Gonzalez has owned Hudson in previous encounters, going 10-for-24 with two homers and five RBIs lifetime. Matt Kemp does also show good numbers going 7-for-19 with a homer versus Hudson. 

Take LAD -1.5 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Toronto Blue Jays +1.5. 

The Jays have been hot, coming into Baltimore as winners of five of their last seven. They face the AL East leading Orioles who are without slugger Chris Davis, and third baseman Manny Machado. 

Toronto will send rookie phenom Marcus Stroman to the mound, and he's coming off three straight dominant outings. Stroman (10-5, 3.61 ERA) tossed a complete game shutout in a win over the Cubs last week. He's surrendered just four runs on 16 hits, striking out 18 over 23 2/3 innings while winning three consecutive starts. 

The Orioles will hand the ball to Wei Yin Chen, who was rocked for four runs on eight hits in his last home start. He's only faced the Jays once this year, and that resulted in a 5-1 Toronto win, with Jose Bautista going 3-for-4 with a home run. Joey Bats has hit .375 with two home runs and 10 RBIs in his last 11 meetings with the Orioles. Edwin Encarnacion has only faced Chen in three at bats, but one of those saw him hit one out of the park. 

Encarnacion has homered in back to back games, and he has 32 home runs this season. 

Take TOR. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on the Seattle Mariners RL. 

The A's were the best team in baseball not too long ago, but are now 11 games behind the Angels who are sitting top of the AL. They now have to refocus to even make it to the post season, and a hot Mariners team might stand in their way. This game will have the same atmosphere as a playoff game, and could easily come down to a one-run ball game for either side.  

Chris Young will toe the slab for the Mariners and he's been dominant at home all season long. Young (12-7, 3.35 ERA) is 8-3 with a 2.35 ERA over 13 starts at Safeco, and conceded only one run on two hits over six innings versus the Blue Jays his last home start. The right-hander has been hot lately, going 5-1 over his last eight starts.  

The A's will hand the ball to Jon Lester who's not been as good on the road as he's been at home. Lester (14-10, 2.52 ERA) is posting a 3.27 ERA over 14 starts away from home, losing two of his last three starts. There are plenty of Mariners with good numbers versus Lester, Kyle Seager's 4-for-13 with two homers and Justin Smoak is 5-for-13 lifetime.  

The Mariners have won seven of Young's last eight starts, and they wont surrender easily today.  

Take SEA +1.5,  

GL,  

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on the St. Louis Cardinals.

LHP Jorge De La Rosa (Rockies): The southpaw has won 13 games this season, leading Colorado in wins, strikeouts and ERA. He’s a rare breed that’s for certain, as he actually pitches far better at Coors Field than he does on the road. That’s pretty impressive when you consider the fact that his home park is the most notorious hitters park in the majors. The contrast is hardly subtle, over his last 10 starts the Rockies have lost all six away games and won all four at home. He’s 9-2 with a 3.30 ERA overall at home, and 4-8 with a 5.29 ERA on the road. Do you think it might just be a coincidence? Think Again! He was 10-1 with a 2.76 ERA in Denver last year, and 6-5 with a 4.19 ERA on the road. The Rockies are in St. Louis today, and I suggest you that you resist any temptation to pick up De La Rosa despite being tempted by a cheap price.

The Cardinals hand the ball to Adam Wainwright, who went the distance in a win at Milwaukee his last time out. He hasn't faced the Rockies yet this year, but he was 2-0 with a 1.62 ERA in two meetings last year.

Take STL,

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on the Cleveland Indians -1.5. 

The Twins upset the Tribe in Cleveland Tuesday night, but I don't fancy their chances here this afternoon. Cleveland has been good at home all season, and with Corey Kluber on the mound in search of his 15th win, the Twins are likely in for a thrashing. 

Kluber (14-2.47 ERA) tossed a complete game shutout against the White Sox his last time out out, and he's been very sharp at Progressive season all year long. The 28 year old right-hander is 8-3 with a 2.35 ERA in 15 home starts this season. 

Minnesota will hand the ball to Kyle Gibson, who doesn't have much luck on the road. Gibson (11-10, 4.27 ERA) has allowed 15 runs on 27 hits while going winless in his last four starts. He's a rather pedestrian 4-4 with a 4.43 ERA in 16 appearances on the road.

Mike Aviles is 4-for-6 with a pair of RBIs lifetime versus Gibson. 

Take CLE -1.5 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on the LAD -1.5. 

The Los Angeles Dodgers can complete the sweep of this three game set at Dodger Stadium versus the D-backs this afternoon. Anything but a LAD win would be a big upset, as they're 14-4  in the season series and will have a huge edge on the mound today. 

Zack Greinke will toe the rubber for the Dodgers coming off yet another impressive display. Greinke (13-8, 2.72 ERA) allowed only one run on four hits over eight innings, but the Dodgers still lost 2-1 at San Diego his last time out. The 30 year old ace has been dominant at Dodger Stadium this season, going 7-2 with a 2.60 ERA in his 12 starts, and is a bit of a nightmare opponent for the D-backs as he's 4-0 with a 1.37 ERA in six starts against them since 2013.

The Diamondbacks will hand the ball to Trevor Cahill who's coming off a pair of losses. Cahill (3-10, 5.06 ERA) conceded 11 runs on 11 hits over 7 1/3 innings in those games, and is not likely to bounce back against the Dodgers as he's posting a 9.98 ERA over 15 1/3 innings versus them this season. The right-hander has struggled in daylight games as well, going 1-5 with a 7.04 ERA in eight outings. 

Adrian Gonzalez has at least one hit in four consecutive games for the Dodgers, and is 11-for-25 with two home runs versus Cahill lifetime.  

Take LAD, 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on the LAD -1.5. 

The Dodgers bats came alive in Arizona last night, as they ran away with the series opener, winning by a score of 9-5. We might expect fewer runs with Clayton Kershaw facing off against Wade Miley tonight. 

Miley (7-9, 4.29 ERA) has been rocked for 13 runs on 14 hits and five walks in back to back losses in his last two home starts. He's struggled at Chase Field all year long, with a record of 2-6 and 6.20 ERA in 13 starts. He's also struggled against the Dodgers, surrendering 13 runs on 20 hits over 22 innings, losing all three previous meetings this season. Scott Van Slyke really has his number, hitting .438 with four home runs in just 16 at bats. Yasiel Puig is hitting .357 with a home run in 14 at bats versus Miley. 

Kershaw (15-3, 1.82 ERA) has been almost untouchable lately, but his 2-1 record versus the D'Backs this season comes with an alarming 5.28 ERA. While his numbers against the D'Backs aren't great, I still like his chances of winning a duel versus Miley. 

Take LAD -1.5. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the NYM +1.5 The Dodgers are leading the season series versus the Mets 2-1, as the teams will open a three game set at Dodger Stadium tonight. The home team has been struggling to put runs over the plate lately though, and that will open up for a close contest here.  Jonathon Niese will toe the rubber for the Mets hoping to build on his current winning streak. Niese (7-8, 3.50 ERA) has won his last two games, conceding five runs on 13 hits over 13 innings. He's 4-5 with a 3.83 ERA on the road this season.  The Dodgers will hand the ball to Dan Haren who's not been at his best at home lately. Haren (10-10, 4.59 ERA) has lost his last three games home in Los Angeles, surrendering 17 runs on 19 hits over 11 1/3 innings. He's posting an ERA of 5.25, going 3-3, in his 11 career outings versus the Mets.  The Dodgers are 2-6 in Harens last eight starts. Lucas Duda was 2-for-4 with a homer in his last game.   Take NYM RL,  GL,  Jesse Schule

This is a 7* play on the Oakland A's. 

Oakland has lost five straight, and seven of their last eight. Returning home to face the Mets might be just what the doctor ordered, and we should see the home team break out of their slump tonight. 

Scott Kazmir will toe the rubber for the A's, and he's been great at home. Kazmir (13-5, 2.78 ERA) allowed three runs on seven hits over seven innings in a loss at Kansas City his last time out. He has much better numbers in Oakland, going 7-2 with a 2.34 ERA in 11 starts. He's not exactly facing a offensive juggernaut in the Mets, as only San Diego hits for a lower average. 

The Mets hand the ball to Dillon Gee, who could be in for a rough ride tonight. Gee (4-5, 3.69 ERA) was rocked for four runs on four hits and four walks in a home loss to Washington his last time out. He's struggled under the lights, going 1-5 with a 4.97 ERA in nine starts in night games this year. 

Take OAK. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the NYY +1.5.  

The Rays shut out the Yankees in a 5-0 win in the series opener yesterday. The Bronx Bombers will look for revenge this afternoon as they send their impressive rookie Shane Greene to the hill. 

Greene (3-1, 2.89 ERA) is coming off a quality start versus the Tigers, as he tossed eight scoreless innings conceding only five hits. He's still undefeated on the road this season, going 2-0 with a 2.45 ERA over three outings.  

Drew Smyly will toe the rubber for the Rays as he will make his first home start since coming over from Detroit. Smyly (7-10, 3.73 ERA) is 1-1 so far for his new club, as he has allowed three runs on 10 hits over 13 innings in two starts. He has tossed 6 1/3 innings lifetime at his new home turf Tropicana Field, where he has surrendered three runs on three hits.  

The Yankees offense could get a bit of a boost as Brian McCann is set to come of the DL tonight. 

Take NYY RL,  

GL,  

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on the LAA. 

The Halos are in Texas tonight, and this appears to be a mismatch of epic proportions. The Rangers own the worst record in the American Leauge, and they have lost back to back home games to Tampa Bay. 

Garrett Richards will to the slab for the visitors, and he'll be looking for his 13th win of the season. Richards (12-4, 2.54 ERA) allowed three runs on three hits over 6 1/3 innings in a win over the Red Sox his last time out. Prior to that he tossed a complete game shutout in a win over the Dodgers at Chavez Ravine. He owns a road record of 7-2 with a 1.91 ERA in 13 starts.

The Rangers hand the ball to Nick Martinez, who has been roughed up all season long. Martinez (2-8, 5.22 ERA) allowed a pair of runs on five hits and two walks over five innings in a win on the road in Houston his last time out. He hasn't been as fortunate at home, where he owns a record of 0-4 with a 7.86 ERA in seven starts. 

With rumors that Yu Darvish is going to be shut down for the rest of the year, there is not a lot for the Rangers to be positive about. 

Take LAA -1.5. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on the LAA -1.5. 

The Halos host the Phillies in Game 2 of this home series versus Philadelphia tonight, and the series opener was a 7-2 blowout win for the home team. We should expect a similar result tonight, as the Angels send their ace to the hill. 

Jered Weaver will toe the slab for the Angels, looking for his 13th win of the season. Weaver (12-7, 3.68 ERA) allowed four runs on seven hits over six innings in a loss to Boston his last time out. He was 5-0 through his previous nine starts, and he's 6-4 with a 2.88 ERA at home through 14 starts. 

The Phillies hand the ball to A.J. Burnett, who has been really punished in recent outings. Burnett (6-12, 4.29 ERA) was torched for five runs on 11 hits over six innings in a 5-4 loss to the Mets his last time out. He's surrendered 12 runs on 11 hits and four walks in just 6 2/3 innings in back to back losses in his last two starts on the road. He's 3-7 with a 5.26 ERA in 13 starts on the road this season, and playing in an American League park against the heavy hitting Halos looks to be a tough spot for the veteran. 

Take LAA -1.5 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

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

The White Sox handed the Giants another home loss last night, making it five straight, and six of seven at AT&T Park. The Giants will start Jake Peavy in Game 2 this afternoon, and he's 0-10 in 12 starts since May. Would you believe that despite all those facts, the Giants are still a favorite at home today? 

Peavy (1-12 4.73 ERA) has allowed 11 runs on 19 hits while going 0-3 since joining coming over from Boston. He'll have to face Jose Abreu, who is batting .300 while leading the major leagues with 31 home runs and 86 RBIs. 

The White Sox counter with Jose Quintana, who has pitched well all year. Quintana (6-8, 3.04 ERA) allowed four runs (only two earned) on seven hits over 5 2/3 innings in a loss to Seattle his last time out. He has a respectable 2.32 ERA in 10 starts in afternoon games this year, but his record is just 2-2 during that span. Last night's game was prime example of how quickly the Chicago bullpen can blow a lead, and for that reason I'm choosing to pay a little bit more to get the +1.5. 

Take CWS RL, 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is a 7* play on the LAD +1.5. 

The Atlanta Braves have lost 10 of their last 12, and during that span they were swept in a three game series in Los Angeles. They host the Dodgers tonight, already trailing this home series after losing the series opener by a score of 6-2 last night. 

Mike Minor will toe the slab for the home team, returning to action after the Braves elected to skip his spot in the rotation last week. Minor (4-7, 5.42 ERA) was torched for five runs on nine hits, including a pair of home runs in just five innings. That was in a loss to the league's worst offense in their pitcher friendly park. In fact, he's surrendered eight runs on 17 hits, and four home runs over just 11 1/3 innings in back to back games versus the Padres. He's given up a lot of home runs this year (18), and 12 of those came in his nine starts at Turner Field. 

The Dodgers hand the ball to Dan Haren, who is coming off a solid performance. Haren (9-9, 4.57 ERA) gave up just one run on three hits over 7 1/3 innings in a win at Anaheim his last time out. Granted he had struggled prior to that, but even when Haren has struggled, he hasn't been quite as bad as Mike Minor. 

Adrian Gonzalez is 3-for-5 with a home run lifetime versus Minor. 

Take LAD +1.5

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the #LAA. 

The Angels have lost four straight, and they'll look to turn things around tonight as they host Boston in Game 2 of this three game series. The Halos bats failed to get anything going against rookie Allen Webster last night, but I like their chances of getting to Clay Buchholz tonight. 

Buchholz (5-7, 6.20 ERA) was torched for seven runs on eight hits and five walks in just five innings, losing to the Yankees his last time out. He's lost three straight, surrendering 19 runs on 21 hits over 16 innings in those games. Albert Pujols and Mike Trout have each homered against Buchholz, going a combined 7-for-17. 

The Angels hand the ball to Garrett Richards, who tossed a complete game shutout against the Dodgers his last time out. Richards (12-4, 2.58 ERA) can move into a tie for first in the American League with his 13th win tonight. 

Buchholz has a 10.13 ERA in his last three starts, and he's been hit hard in past visits to Anaheim. 

Take LAA. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Seattle Mariners. 

The Braves have now lost seven in a row heading into Game 2 in Seattle, and they've really struggled offensively on this road trip. I wouldn't be surprised to see a pitcher's duel in Seattle in today's game, and I'll take the Mariners as a home dog on the RL. 

Julio Teheran will toe the slab for the visitors, and he hasn't been nearly as effective on the road. Teheran (10-7, 2.69 ERA) surrendered a pair of runs on five hits and three walks over eight innings in a loss to the Dodgers his last time out. He's a pedestrian 6-6 with a 3.91 ERA in 12 starts on the road this season. Logan Morrison is the only Mariner that has face him, and he's went 4-for-10 with a pair of RBIs versus Teheran. He was 1-for-3 with an RBI in last night's game. 

The Mariners hand the ball to veteran Chris Young, who has been good at Safeco. Young (9-6, 3.19 ERA) tossed seven scoreless innings allowing just two hits in a win over the Orioles in his last start at Safeco. He's 6-3 with a 2.21 ERA in 11 starts at home this year, and his 2.52 ERA in day games gives more reason for optimism. 

Take SEA +1.5. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

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

The Rangers earned a rare road victory last night in Chicago, leveling this series at 1-1. The White Sox should be able to respond in the rubber match Wednesday afternoon, as they send their ace to the mound. 

Chris Sale (10-1, 2.09 ERA) allowed five runs on eight hits over six innings in a 10-8 win over Minnesota his last time out. We will expect better from the southpaw today, as he's 5-0 with a 2.17 ERA in five starts in afternoon games this year. He's owned some of the big bats in the Texas lineup, as Shin-Soo Choo, Elvis Andrus and Leonys Martin have gone a combined 1-for-30 with 13 strikeouts. 

The Rangers hand the ball to Nick Tepesch, who hasn't impressed so far. Tepesch (3-7, 4.84 ERA) allowed three runs on four hits, including a pair of home runs over six innings in a home loss to Oakland his last time out. He's been far worse on the road, going 1-4 with a 5.75 ERA in eight starts. His numbers in day games are even worse, going 2-4 with a 7.07 ERA in seven appearances in the afternoon. 

The White Sox haven't seen much of Tepech, but they like what they've seen, combining to go 7-for-17 with a pair of home runs. 

Take CWS -1.5

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play the Philadelphia Phillies. 
 

The Nats hammered A.J. Burnett on Saturday, scoring 11 runs in the first four innings in an 11-0 rout of the Phillies. It isn't likely to be so easy this afternoon, as Cole Hamels will be on the hill for the visitors. 

Hamels (6-5, 2.55 ERA) tossed eight scoreless innings, allowing six hits in a 6-0 win over the Mets in New York his last time out. He's allowed just two runs over 23 innings, while winning three in a row. He's been even better on the road than he has been at home, going 4-3 with a 1.70 ERA in 10 starts. 

The Nats hand the ball to Stephen Strasburg, who has not looked all that sharp lately. Strasburg (7-9, 3.55 ERA) has lost three straight, and he's winless in his last five. His numbers in day games aren't that encouraging, as he's 1-7 with a 4.68 ERA in 11 starts in the afternoon. 

Marlon Byrd is 6-for-15 with a home run and six RBIs lifetime versus Strasburg. 

Take PHI +1.5. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on the Chicago White Sox -1.5 (10*) 

The White Sox punished the Tigers in Detroit, scoring 20 runs while taking 2-of-3 from the Tigers. With the offense firing on all cylinders, they should be in good shape at home with their ace on the mound tonight. 

Chris Sale has been the next best thing to "automatic" for Chicago, and he's coming off a dominant outing in a win over the Twins. Sale (10-1, 1.88 ERA) struck out a dozen through eight scoreless innings in a 7-0 win at Target Field. 

The Twins hand the ball to rookie southpaw Logan Darnell, who took the loss opposite Sale on Saturday. The 25 year old was torched for seven runs on 11 hits in just five innings, and he can't be to excited about facing the Sox in Chicago just six days later. 

Jose Abreu is still smokin' hot, coming in riding a 20-game hitting streak, and leading the majors with 31 home runs. 

Take CWS. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is a Free #MLB play on the Oakland #A's -1.5.

Oakland lost Game 1 of this series in Houston, but I like their chances of responding with a convincing victory here in Game 2.

Jeff Samardzija will toe to slab for the visitors, and he's certainly making the most of his time in Oakland so far. Samardzija (4-8, 2.80 ERA) allowed one run on five hits over eight innings in a 13-1 win over the Astros his last time out. Jose Altuve leads the AL, batting .343, but he's just 3-for-15 with five strikeouts versus Samarzdzija. Jeff owned Houston in the last meeting, and I think it's doubtful that a change of venue will yield any better result for the Astros.

Houston will hand the ball to Scott Feldman, who was rocked by Oakland last week. Feldman (4-8, 4.60 ERA) allowed six runs on nine hits over 5 1/3 innings in the loss opposite Samardzija last Thursday. He's 0-3 with a 6.85 ERA in July, and his numbers at home are not very impressive, with an ERA of 5.37 in nine starts. \

Derek Norris is 4-for-5 with a home run and two RBIs versus Feldman, while Jed Lowrie is 6-for-12 with two doubles versus the right-hander.

Take OAK -1.5

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on the Oakland Athletics -1.5. 

The Astros have earned a split in the first two game here in Oakland, but I don't fancy their chances of a positive result here in the series finale this afternoon. Yoenis Cespedes is questionable to start today with a sore thumb, but the Astros will miss George Springer's 20 home runs and 51 RBIs. 

Jeff Samardzija will toe the slab for the home team, and he's lived up to expectations since coming over from Chicago. Samardzija (3-8, 2.91 ERA) allowed four runs on six hits over seven innings, not factoring in the decision in a win over Baltimore his last time out. 

The Astros offense relies heavily on Jose Altuve, who leads the AL batting .337, but the 24 year old is 1-for-11 with three strikeouts versus Samardzija. 

Houston will hand the ball to Scott Feldman, who is likely shaking in his boots at the thought of returning to Oakland. He's 1-5 with a 10.24 ERA in six career starts at the Coliseum. He's lost three straight, allowing 12 runs on 24 hits over 17 innings during that span. 

This figures to be a good spot to play the favorite on the runline. 

Take OAK. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

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

The Bronx Bombers have split the first two games of this home series versus Baltimore, and they will be the big favorite in the series finale this afternoon. The Yankees send ace Masahiro Tanaka to the mound looking for his 12th win. 

Tanaka (11-1, 1.99 ERA) allowed one run on five hits over six innings, fanning 10 in a 3-1 win over Toronto his last time out. Not only does he lead the major league in wins, he also owns the AL's best ERA and ranks among the best in the business with a 113 Ks.

Baltimore hands the ball to Chris Tillman who has lost back to back starts. Tillman (5-4, 4.82 ERA) allowed three runs on eight hits over seven innings failing to strike out a single batter in a loss to Toronto his last time out. All five of his wins have come on the road, but don't be fooled, he's posted a rather swollen 6.33 ERA in nine starts away from home this season. 

The Yankees have hit Tillman hard in past meetings, none more than Derek Jeter who's hitting .462 in 13 career at bats. 

Take NYY.

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Toronto Blue Jays +1.5.

The Jays battled back from an eight run deficit to win 14-9 in yesterday's series opener at Great American Ballpark. Toronto is the dog in today's game despite boasting a road record of 22-16. 

J.A. Happ will toe the slab for the Jays this afternoon coming off a road win at Baltimore his last time out. Happ (6-3, 4.05 ERA) doesn't mind pitching on the road at all, in fact he's 4-0 with a 3.38 ERA in six starts away from home this season. 

The Reds hand the ball to Mike Leake who much like Happ is better on the road. Leak (4-6, 3.80 ERA) allowed four runs on nine hits and three walks over just five innings in a win at Milwaukee his last time out. Wins have been hard to come by for Leake at home, as he's just 1-4 with a 4.15 ERA in six starts at Great American Ballpark. 

Jose Bautista is 2-for-3 lifetime versus Leake. The Jays slugger was 2-for-2 with a RBI and four walks in yesterday's game.

Take TOR.

GL, 

Jesse Schule   

This is an 8* play on the Philadelphia Phillies +1.5.

The Phillies came into St. Louis smoking hot, and after upsetting the Cardinals in Game 1 they've now won nine of their last 11. Still Philadelphia is a sizable dog here in Game 2 despite the fact they will have their ace on the mound. 

Cole Hamels will toe the slab for the visitors this afternoon, and he hasn't allowed a single run in three straight starts. Hamels (2-3, 2.78 ERA) tossed seven strong innings allowing just five hits and no runs in a 6-1 win over the Braves his last time out. He's been very sharp on the road going 1-1 with a miniscule 1.56 ERA in five starts. 

The Cardinals will hand the ball to Adam Wainwright who is coming off back to back wins. Wainwright (9-3, 2.15 ERA) is having another fantastic season, however he didn't fare well in his last start at Busch Stadium. He surrendered seven runs on eight hits over 4 1/3 innings in a 9-4 loss to San Francisco at the end of May. 

Ryan Howard homered in yesterday's game and the veteran first baseman has had Wainwright's number in past meetings going 5-for-17 with six walks lifetime.

Take PHI (RL). 

GL, 

Jesse Schule   

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

The Chicago White Sox are looking to complete the sweep in today's game at home against the San Francisco Giants. In yesterday's opening game in this two game series the White Sox managed to improve their home record to 20-18 for the season with an 8-2 win.

Today the White Sox hand the ball to Chris Sale, who's winless in his last two starts. Sale (5-1, 1.97 ERA) suffered his only loss of the season against the Tigers his last time out. Prior to that he surrendered five runs on seven hits over seven innings not factoring in the decision in a loss at Los Angeles.  

Tim Hudson takes the mound for the Giants with an impressive ERA of 1.81 in his 13 starts, an accomplishment matched by none in the major leagues this season. Hudson (7-2, 1.81 ERA) has won three of his last four starts, only conceding four runs on 24 hits. The veteran is undefeated in day games this season with a record of 3-0 and an ERA of 2.11 in the afternoon.

The White Sox have just four wins over their last eleven games, and two of those four victories came in one run ballgames.

Take the Giants on the run line.

GL, 

Jesse Schule  

This is a 10* play on the Seattle Mariners.

After losing three straight at home to the Yankees, Seattle is a big favorite here against Texas in the series opener at Safeco. They send ace Felix Hernandez to the mound, and he's been on fire in recent starts.

Hernandez (8-1, 2.39 ERA) tossed seven scoreless innings in a 5-0 win at Tampa his last time out, and the Mariners have come out on top in each of his last seven starts.

Texas hands the ball to Nick Tepesch, who has been hit hard in consecutive losses. Tepesch (2-2, 4.91 ERA) allowed four runs on eight hits over 5 1/3 innings in a loss at Cleveland his last time out.

Kyle Seager has owned Tepesch in previous meetings, going 5-for-10 with three doubles lifetime.

It's too expensive to play the home team on the moneyline, so I'm taking Seattle -1.5.

GL,

Jesse Schule

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

The Dodgers are an enormous favorite at home versus Arizona tonight, even though all the stats seem to favor the visitors. With a big name like Clayton Kershaw on the mound, not to many people are going to be backing the D'Backs.

Kershaw (5-2, 3.17) gave up just one run on three hits over five innings in a win over the Rockies in Colorado his last time out. He's struggled against the D'Backs in his career though, with a record of 1-5, 3.75 ERA in his last eight starts versus Arizona.

The D'Backs hand the ball to 26 year old Chase Anderson, who actually has better numbers than his counterpart. Anderson is 5-0 with a 3.14 ERA in five starts.

Arizona has been far better on the road than the Dodgers have been at home, as L.A. is just 13-19 at Chavez Ravine, and they lost 6-of-10 on their most recent home-stand.

Take ARI.

GL,

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

The Dodgers are an enormous favorite at home versus Arizona tonight, even though all the stats seem to favor the visitors. With a big name like Clayton Kershaw on the mound, not to many people are going to be backing the D'Backs.

Kershaw (5-2, 3.17) gave up just one run on three hits over five innings in a win over the Rockies in Colorado his last time out. He's struggled against the D'Backs in his career though, with a record of 1-5, 3.75 ERA in his last eight starts versus Arizona.

The D'Backs hand the ball to 26 year old Chase Anderson, who actually has better numbers than his counterpart. Anderson is 5-0 with a 3.14 ERA in five starts.

Arizona has been far better on the road than the Dodgers have been at home, as L.A. is just 13-19 at Chavez Ravine, and they lost 6-of-10 on their most recent home-stand.

Take ARI.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on the Texas Rangers -1.5.

The Rangers are an enormous favorite against Miami tonight, and for good reason. They send ace Yu Darvish to the mound to face a Marlins squad that simply can't win on the road. Miami is just 12-19 on the road this year.

Darvish (6-2, 2.36 ERA) is having another dominant season, and he's coming off another win in his most recent start. He allowed four runs on nine hits over seven innings in a 6-4 victory over the Tribe. Prior to that he tossed eight scoreless innings in a 2-0 road win at Washington.

The Fish hand the ball to Jacob Turner, who has been roughed up all year. Turner (2-3, 5.93 ERA) was torched for five runs on eight hits and a pair of home runs in a loss at Tampa in his last start. He's likely to get hit hard in a hitters park in Texas tonight.

Take TEX,

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 7* play on the LAA.

The Angels have lost five of their last six on the road, and they return to Anaheim tonight to open a three game series against the White Sox. Chicago is coming off back to back wins over the Dodgers, but they might cool off tonight facing the Angel's ace.

Jered Weaver (6-4, 3.33 ERA) was roughed up in Oakland, allowing six runs on 11 hits in six innings in a loss to the A's his last time out. He's been solid at home though, posting a record of 3-2 with a 2.76 ERA in five starts. He's owned the White Sox, going 3-0 with a 1.33 ERA in three meetings since 2011.

The Sox hand the ball to Andre Rienzo, who didn't make it out of the fourth inning in his last start. Rienzo (4-2, 4.26 ERA) allowed three runs on seven hits over 3 1/3 innings in a loss to the Padres.

I'm not thrilled about paying such a high price to back the Halos here, but Weaver has looked pretty good in his last few starts at home, and I think L.A. should win this game quite easily.

Take LAA.

GL,

Jesse Schule

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

The Yankees and the Twins meet in the Bronx this afternoon, and New York will look to avenge a 6-1 loss in the series opener last night.

Masahiro Tanaka will toe the rubber for the home side, and he's coming off another dominant performance. Tanaka (7-1, 2.29 ERA) allowed one run on five hits over 6 1/3 innings in a win over the White Sox his last time out. 

The Twins hand the ball to Kevin Correia, who has been struggling all year. Correia (2-6, 6.34 ERA) allowed four runs on seven hits in a 7-2 loss to Texas his last time out.

The Yankees have owned the Twins in the Bronx, winning 31 of the last 41 home meetings with Minnesota. The price is far too high to back the home team straight up, but I feel comfortable with a play on the runline in what should be a blowout.

Take NYY.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is an 8* play on the Houston Astros +1.5

The Halos lost the series opener against Houston last night by a score of 5-2, and they could have a tough time again tonight with Tyler Skaggs on the mound.

Skaggs (3-1, 4.53 ERA) was torched for five runs on eight hits over six innings at home against Tampa his last time out. He's struggled at home, with a record of 0-1, 6.91 ERA in five starts.

The Astros hand the ball to Scott Feldman, who has been very solid for Houston this year. Feldman (2-1, 2.63 ERA) allowed four runs on 10 hits over five innings in a no decision at home versus Texas his last time out. He allowed just one run on three hits over seven innings in a 7-4 win over the Angels earlier this year.

Take HOU (RL)

GL,

Jesse Schule

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

The Giants are coming off back to back losses in one-run games, and five of their last seven overall have been decided by just a single run. They are on the road tonight in L.A., taking on a Dodgers team with a losing record at home so far.

Veteran right-hander Ryan Vogelsong will toe the slab for the visitors, and he's been quite sharp lately. Voglesong (1-1, 4.60 ERA) allowed one run on five hits, fanning six in six innings of work in a win over Atlanta his last time out. The Giants have won three of his last four starts, the lone exception coming at Coors Field. He should do just fine in a pitcher's park tonight.

The Dodgers hand the ball to Josh Beckett, who at the age of 33 is just a shadow of his former self. He doesn't have the arm strength he had when he was with the Red Sox, and he's no longer able to overpower hitters.

Hunter Pence has owned Beckett in his career, hitting .421 in 19 career at bats. Michael Morse has also hit him well, going 3-for-7 with a home run lifetime.

The Giants should have an excellent chance to win this game outright, but I like them even more given a run work with on the road.

Take SF +1.5

GL,

Jesse Schule

Jesse Schule

10*