The set-up: I like the Giants to find a way to get the job done here. Anthony Desclafani went six innings vs. the Rockies in his last outing and he gave up no runs and struck out eight. So far the efficient righty has allowed just one run over 11 innings of work this year. 

The pick: Daniel Castano is making his season debut for the Marlins today, and clearly he draws a tough opponent. He posted a 3.03 ERA in six starts in 2020, but getting called up on Sunday, it's hard to imagine he'll last very long here. The Marlins are only 1-5 at home and this is another major mismatch on the mound for them. Lay the price.

This is a 10* COACHS CORNER on the Giants.

The set-up: Two teams that got out to poor starts, but which have looked a bit better of late collide in the Nation's capital in the opener of this three-game series. Each team sends a pitcher to the hill that struggled in his opening start, and I expect that trend to carry over here and I look for this total to fly over sooner, rather than later. 

The pick: Merrill Kelly is 0-2 for the D-Backs. In his most recent loss he was shelled for seven runs off nine hits over six innings vs. the Rockies. His counterpart Patrick Corbin is 0-1 after allowing six runs off six hits with three walks over four innings vs. the Dodgers on Saturday. Look for these two still volatile starting pitchers to get the hook early and for these suspect pens to collapse late. This number is low, the play is the "over."

This is a 10* TOTAL PLAYBOOK on the OVER D-Backs/Nationals.

The set-up: The Braves have yet to hit their stride this year. Perhaps ATL won't live up to its preseason expectations, but it's a really good team that's out to avenge yesterday's 14-8 humbling defeat to these very Marlins. In fact the Braves have now lost three straight. And after four straight losses, the Marlins have now won three in a row. But not only is ATL clearly the more motivated side in this matchup, but it also definitely has the superior starting pitcher on the hill. And it's this massive talent discrepancy that makes me have no issues at all in laying the 1.5 runs for the pick-em price. 

The pick: Nick Neidert gave up one earned run off three hits with five walks over 4.1 innins in a no-decision to the lowly Mets on Thursday. Clearly he'll have his hands full here though in this difficult road venue. Charlie Morton is 1-1 with a 3.27 ERA this season. The veteran holds a 12:3 K:BB and I think he's well worth the price of admission (-1.5 runs) in this matchup and considering how desperate/hungry his team is. 

This is a 10* RUN-LINE DESTRUCTION on the Braves.

The set-up: Whether it's JA Happ or Nathan Eovaldi pitching for Boston, or Martin Perez or Kenta Maeda going for the Twins, I believe the conditions of this particular contest will help in making it a very lower-scoring pitchers duel. Yesterday's game was postponed at the last minute due to the civil unrest in Minnesota and I believe this distraction will effect these team's chemistry at the plate. 

The pick: Weather could be a major factor here as well. The postponements are working in favor of these starting pitchers in my opinion. Too many off-field distractions for these players leads to a lower-scoring "under."

This is a 10* TOTAL ELITE OF THE ELITE on the UNDER Red Sox/Twins.

The set-up: I'm expecting a bit of a "duel" here between Matt Moore and Drew Smyly. Moore earned a no-decision in his first start of hte year vs. the Mets, allowing two runs over 3.1 innings. Smyly allowed four runs (just two earned though), over six innings in a no-decision to the Nationals on Tuesday. It was a solid debut for Smyly. 

The pick: Neither starter instills a ton of confidence, but the overall situation points to a lower-scoring duel here in my opinion. Further note that the Braves have seen the total go "under" the number in eight of their last 12 after scoring five or more runs in a one run victory in its last outing. This number is a little high.

This is a 10* TOTAL PLAY-BOOK on the UNDER Phillies/Braves.

The set-up: San Diego has seen the total go "under" in six straight, but I expect that lop-sided trend to end here today. The Padres have plenty of key injuries, but they remain competitive. Texas is 3-3 and it'll be eager to bounce back after its 3-0 defeat in the opener of this series. Chris Paddack gets the start for the visitors after allowing three runs off four hits over four innings in a loss to Arizona last Sunday. 

The pick: Jordan Lyles gets the nod for the home side, he's 1-0 with a 3.18 ERA so far. The Rangers have been good at the plate as well, averaging .262 as a team, which ranks sixth in MLB. I don't trust either starter and these line-ups are primed to take advantage. Look for this one to fly "over" in the latter frames.

This is a 10* TOTAL COACHS CORNER on the OVER Padres/Rangers.

The set-up: Seattle is 3-4. The Mariners are still "rebuilding," but they won't be going down without a fight here with Yusei Kikuchi on the mound. Kikuchi is coming off a great Spring and fantastic opening start, allowing three runs over six innings, walking one and striking out ten in the victory. 

The pick: The Twins got five shutout innings from Michael Pineda in his season opening win over the Brewers. Milwaukee continues to struggle at the plate no matter who it faces though, so Pineda's performance needs to be taken with a grain of salt in my opinion. I like Kikuchi to match his counterpart inning for inning and in a situation like that, I believe the value swings to the undervalued underdog. That said, I'm going to lay the very reasonable price here for the extra 1.5 runs of insurance in the end.

This is a 10* RUN-LINE PLAY OF THE MONTH on the Mariners.

The set-up: The Reds are 5-1 and the D-Backs are 2-5. The Reds' offense is on fire and everything points to that trend continuing on Friday night in this favorable matchup. The visitors hand the ball to Tyler Mahle, who gave up two runs over five innings while striking out nine in his season debut. 

The pick: Arizona's offense has been inconsistent to say the least. The home side sends Taylor Widener to the hill and in his opening start he went six scoreless innings. The problem Widener though is that the D-Backs are 2-9 in their last 11 vs. a team with a winning percentage above .600. Arizona's going to break out of this rut at some point, but not here. Great value on the red hot Reds.

This is a 10* NL BLOWOUT BEST OF THE BEST on the Reds.

The set-up: The A's come in off their first win of the season, a tight, extra innings 4-3 victory over the defending champs at home last night, and they can obviously not afford to take the foot off the gas here. The A's play with revenge here as well after droppping all four of their seasoning opening home series vs. the Astros. Off a 4-2 win at LA two nights ago, the Astros return home for the first time this season. 

The pick: The A's hand the ball to Cole Irvin for his first start of the year. He features a five-pitch arsenal, highlighted by a 90.9 MPH sinker. Chrisitan Javier got hit hard in his opener and note that he's a terrible 0-2 with a ballooned 6.94 ERA in 11.2 innings vs. the A's in his career. The fact that the Astros haven't seen Irvin yet is working in favor of Oakland as well here. While the outright is possible, I'm going to lay this very reasonable price for the extra 1.5 runs.

This is a 10* DESTRUCTION on the A's.

The set-up: Antonio Senzatela got roughed up in his opening start, but I think he'll rebound nicely here and earn the win over his veteran counterpart. Senzatela allowed seven runs over 3 1/3's innings to the Dodgers in his opening start, but starts like that have truly been few and far between for the Rockies' ace. Note the he was 3-0 with a 2.00 ERA in 2020 at Coors Field and finished with a rotation-best 3.44 ERA over 12 starts. 

The pick: Madison Bumgarner has had success at this field and vs. Colorado over his career, but that's only because he's an ancient dinosaur. Bumgarner allowed six runs, including two homers in four innings in a fortunate no-decision to the Padres in his opener. Look for Senzatela to be the one to bounce back here. Great value on the home side.

This is a 10* COACHS CORNER on the Rockies.

The set-up: Clearly, the panic button has been smashed in Oakland after its 0-5 start. The A's have drawn two tough opponents right out of the gate in Houston and LA, but there's no question that "enough is enough" for the A's right now. Is Clayton Kershaw a better pitcher than Chris Bassitt? Both pitchers got off to terrible starts in their respective openers. Kershaw is 0-1 with a 7.94 ERA after getting shelled for six runs over 5 2/3's innings in an 8-5 loss to the Rockies. He also saw the A's in Spring training and was rocked for nine runs over three innings, finishing the tune-up with an 0-2, 10.22 ERA record. 

The pick: Bassitt is 0-1 with a 5.06 ERA. Unlike his counterpart though, he had a great Spring, finishing 2-0 with a 1.74 ERA. Note though, that he left that game vs. Houston with a 1-0 deficit, only to watch his relievers instantly give up two home runs. Note that the A's are also 7-2 in their last nine after three or more straight losses in a row. Lay the price, grab the extra 1.5 runs of insurance.

This is a 10* RUN-LINE BEST OF THE BEST on the A's.

The set-up: After starting off the year with three straight losses to the Astros, I think that the A's will find a way to deliver here in this fourth and final game. The visitors go with Jose Urquidy, who looked decent in the Spring. Note that he was 0-1 with a 3.00 ERA in two starts vs. the A's last year. 

The pick: Sean Manaea gets the nod for the A's, and he'll be confident here as he was 1-0 with a 1.29 ERA in two starts vs. Houston last season. I think Manaea is the better starting pitcher. I also expect Oakland to finally break out of its hitting slump here. Great value on the desperate home side and superior starter.

This is a 10* AL GAME OF THE WEEK on the A's.

The set-up: The Braves were picked by many to possibly upset the Dodgers in the National League this year, so after their 0-2 start, there's no question that they'll be eager to finally break into the winners circle here this afternoon. Ian Anderson gets the nod for the visiting side and he enters off a strong Spring showing. In his final tune-up he struck out nine over just 4.2 innings of work, finishing with a huge 18:3 K:BB over 8.2 innings of work. 

The pick: Zach Eflin goes for the home side. Eflin dealt with some minor injuries in the Spring, so his workload was less than usual. I give Anderson the slight nod in this matchup, as he had a full and dominant spring. Also note that Philly is just 1-6 in its last seven vs. right-handed starters, while ATL is still 37-14 in its last 51 as a favorite. Look for Atlanta to finally break through with a victory tonight.

This is a 10* NL GAME OF THE WEEK on the Braves.

The set-up: Colorado won the opener, and LA bounced back with the 11-6 victory yesterday. The Rockies though look good to respond here on Saturday against Walker Buehler, who enters off a putrid Spring showing, most recently getting shelled for nine runs off ten hits with one walk over five innings in a loss to Milwaukee. Walker finished Spring with a poor 7.94 ERA. 

The pick: Jon Gray had a poor spring as well, posting a 9.90 ERA over ten innings. Current "form" makes these starters a "wash." Gray gets the slight nod here for throwing at home, where he's very familiar. Also note that Colorado is 6-2 in its last eight in trying to revenge a home loss vs. an opponent in which it conceded ten or more runs in. A great price on a game which I believe is much more even than what this line is suggesting.

This is a 10* UNDERDOG GAME OF THE MONTH on the Rockies.

The set-up: Off an embarrassing 8-1 loss last night, I like Oakland to dip deep and find a way to respond on Friday night. The Astros go with Christian Javier on the mound tonight and while he's shown plenty of promise, in his two outings vs. the A's last year he would get shelled for seven runs off six hits over eight innings. 

The pick: The A's will turn to Jesus Luzardo, who has a decent .235 opponent batting average over the last two years. He faced Houston twice last year and allowd four runs over 12.2 innings of work. Javier only pitched three total innings in spring training. I'm going with Luzardo at this great price and in this revenge spot.

This is a 10* SITUATIONAL DESTRUCTION on the A's.

The set-up: I like Kevin Gausman and Buster Posey and the visiting side to find a way to get the job done in this one. Gausman is in a contract year as well, so this is big for him to get out to a solid start. Good news is, he's coming off a strong Spring with a 3.97 ERA. Marco Gonzalez had a decent season for Seattle, but he's given up 11 runs over his last four innings of work in his final two Spring tune-ups and I simply can't see the veteran "throwing a switch" here and resolving all of his early command issues. 

The pick: Finally note that Gausman owns a sharp 2.88 ERA in 34.1 innings of work vs. the Mariners, while Gonzalez is 1-1 with a 6.75 ERA in ten frames vs. the Giants. Seattle is just 1-5 in its last six interleague home games, while San Fran is 8-2 in its last ten interleague contests. Great value here on the visitors.

This is a 10* GAME OF THE MONTH on the Giants.

The set-up: Charlie Morton has arguably been the best pitcher in all of the MLB playoffs this year. Walker Buehler has been sharp as well for the Dodgers. Their numbers are very similar and it would not be difficult to write a convincing argument for either starting pitcher to come out on top here. That means that these starters are a "wash" in my books and in a case like that, I think the value swings to the undervalued underdog. 

The pick: These clubs are very similar. They each possess amazing hitting talent and each is filled with competent bullpen pitching. In a contest which I see being decided late or in extra innings, I'm going to lay the very reasonable price for the extra 1.5 runs of insurance!

This is a 10* PLAY-BOOK on the RAYS on the RUN-LINE.

The set-up: I had a play on the Rays in Game 1 on the run line and while that one came up short, I do definitely believe that Tampa offers great value to bounce back in Game 2. Blake Snell has been of the best pitchers in all of MLB over the last two years and I look for the Rays' ace to deliver a solid six or seven innings. The Dodgers are going to have to use their bullpen to get the job done in Game 2. This highly favors Snell and the Rays in this come back spot.

The pick: Including the three games it needed to win in a row over the Braves, LA has now won four straight games. I don't expect the Dodgers to win a fifth here. Look for Tampa's depth and experience in the starting pitching role to be the difference in this one, but just in case, lay the extra juice for the extra 1.5 runs of insurance.

This is a 10* TOP PLAY on the Rays on the RUN LINE.

The set-up: Both teams had difficulties in their League Championship Series victories and because of the way it played out for each team, I do indeed feel that Game 1 sets up nicely for Tyler Glasnow and the Rays. Tampa crushed all competition in the regular season to earn the AL title, while LA did the same in the Senior Circuit. These teams are very evenly matched, as they possess fantastic starting pitching and top notch bullpens. Their line-ups are also deep and talented. I do think that the Dodgers are a "fan favorite" though and this larger inflated line takes that into account. 

The pick: But as I mentioned above, situationally I think it sets up well for the Rays. Tampa went up 3-0 on the Astros and then lost three straight, before finally getting its act together and calmly coming away with the Game 7 victory. It was different for the Dodgers though, who went down 3-1 and then had to win three straight. After that emotional come back and with a few extra days off, I believe that the Dodgers come out flat in Game 1. Outright victory?! Of course, but I'm going to lay the reasonable price for the extra 1.5 runs of insurance, as this contest could easily see extra frames. 

This is a 10* GAME OF THE WEEK on the RAYS on the RUN-LINE.

The set-up: Game 1 of this series is the only contest that has gone "under" the number. After playing to four straight "overs," though, I think this Game 6 sets up as more of a "duel." We have the Game 1 starting pitchers squaring off here and that's significant. Max Fried has a 2.65 ERA and 18 K's over 17 playoff innings of work so far, while Walker Buehler has gone 1-1 with a 2.43 ERA in 48 career playoff innings for the Dodgers. 

The pick: Note that ATL has seen the total go "under" the number in five of its last six after allowing seven or more runs in a three runs or greater loss in its previous outing, while the Dodgers have seen the total go "under" in eight of their last 12 after playing to four or more consecutive "overs." This number is a little high.

This is a 10* TOP TOTAL on the UNDER Braves/Dodgers.

The set-up: While the first five games of this series have gone "under" the number, I think that Game 6 is going to fly over the total sooner, rather than later. Both teams have struggled at the plate and each of these starters has been sharp so far in the playoffs. It would be "easy" to write a convincing argument for another "under," but the value has now swung the other way. 

The pick: As note that Houston has seen the total go "over" the number in eight of its last 12 after playing to four or more straight "unders," while also coming off a victory in its previous outing, while Tampa has seen the total eclipse the posted number in 14 of its last 21 after playing to five or more straight "unders" in a row. Expect these offenses to be the main storylines in tomorrow's summaries.

This is a 10* PLAYOFF TOTAL OF THE YEAR on the OVER Astros/Rays.

The set-up: The Astros held on for a 4-3 win on Wednesday, but I like the Rays to bounce back here with Blake Snell on the mound. Whoever gets the call for Houston here is going to be at a major disadvatage. The Rays primarily left-throwing bullpen is doing well against the Astros primarily righty hitting line-up. 

The pick: The Rays have allowed just 3.3 RPG in the playoffs. This play though is based almost entirely upon Snell, who earned a win in Game 1 of the ALCS, holding the Astros to one run off six hits over five innings. Houston has struggled against left-handed starters like Snell and I expect that trend to continue here. The Rays have the advantage in the starting pitching department and in the bullpen and I think those factors combine here to deliver a victory for them in Game 5. Lay the price with confidence. 

This is a 10* DESTRUCTION on the Tampa Bay Rays.

The set-up: The first three games of this series have fallen "under" the number, but all signs point to Game 4 going "over." The Astros have their backs against the wall, but I don't expect them to go down quietly in this series. The Rays are still averaging 4.2 RPG and hitting 1.9 home runs per contest in the playoffs. And that's bad news for Astros' veteran starter Zack Greinke, who is a pedestrian 3-6 with a 4.21 ERA in 18 playoff starts. Tyler Glasnow is 2-0 for the Rays in the playoffs, despite a 4.05 ERA. 

The pick: Note as well that Houston has seen the total go "over" the number in eight of its last 12 after three or more losses in a row. Expect these two talented offenses to be the main story lines in tomorrow's summaries.

This is a 10* TOTAL DESTRUCTION on the OVER Rays/Astros.

The set-up: I had a play on the Braves on the run-line last night, but I think that Clayton Kershaw and the Dodgers will respond in Game 2. Ian Anderson has been great this season. The rookie has exceeded all expectations and he's been sharp in the playoffs. But this is definitely unchartered territory and he's facing a Dodgers club that only lost two games in a row four times this season. 

The pick: Kershaw has a lifetime 1.68 ERA vs. the Braves, including posting a miniscule 1.29 ERA in three post-season starts vs. Atlanta. Look for the Dodgers to respond early and often and lay this price with confidence.

This is a 10* ELITE OF THE ELITE on the LA Dodgers.

UPDATE: Kershaw is scratched and Tony Gonsolin is in. This is STILL a valid play! Gonsolin posted a 2.34 ERA over nine starts in the regular season. I think he matches up well against the Braves rookie here. STILL VAILD PLAY

The set-up: I think this series and this opening matchup is a lot more even than what this line would suggest. Both teams have looked dominant to get to this point. The Braves pitching staff looks great and so too does the Dodgers. Fried has struggled against the Dodgers in the past, but that was then and this is now. Fried will be out for revenge here and he's been nearly untouchable all year. 

The pick: The Dodgers are just as awesome across the board as their counterpart. Buehler and Fried are a "wash" in this matchup. In this evenly matched contest which I foresee being decided late or even in extra frames, I'm laying the reasonable mid-sized price for the extra 1.5 runs of insurance!

This is a 10* RUN-LINE BEST OF THE BEST on the Braves.

The set-up: I simply feel that the lefty Blake Snell has a big advantage here facing this Astros primarily right-hitting line-up. Valdez has been exceptional, but he's in unchartered territory here. Snell has more experience at this level. The Rays are hitting the ball well and they have a vastly better bullpen, one which is also filled with southpaws.

The pick: Note as well that Houston is just 2-6 in its last eight when playing with three or more days of rest. I think Snell is the difference in Game 1, so I'm laying the price!

This is a 10* COACH'S CORNER on the Tampa Bay Rays.

The set-up: The winner advances to take on the Astros in the ALCS. New York delivered with the 5-1 win last night and I think the Evil Empire will carry that momentum over here for a series victory and finally get the monkey off their back vs. the Rays here. Tampa has won 10 of 14 meetings this year, but the Yanks can turn the page on that chapter with their ace on the mound tonight. The Yanks are averaging 7.5 runs per game in the playoffs and they've hit 16 home runs. Cole dominated the Rays in Game, allowing three runs in the 9-3 victory. 

The pick: Tyler Glasnow gets the call on short rest for Tampa here and he'll make way for Blake Snell if needed. Glasnow struck out ten in his Game 2 win over the Yanks. It's true that "anything" can happen in a deciding game. That said, I think that the Yankees have the better hitting line-up and they also have the superior starter on the hill for this big moment. This line could/should in fact be a lot larger in my opinion. The play is the Yanks.

This is a 10* BLOOD-BATH on the New York Yankees.

The set-up: The Braves have the small advantage of Sixto Sanchez on the mound in Game 3 over Kyle Wright for the Braves, but Atlanta will have Wright on a short leash before it makes way for its competent bullpen. Sanchez has been terrific in his limited time, but he's in completely unchartered territory here and I think this hard-hitting Braves' line-up will get to him  early. 

The pick: MIami is just 1-6 in its last seven overall in this series, and while Wright has struggled at times over this year, note that the Braves have in fact won all three of his last trips to the hill. I look for the Braves' bats to put the final nail in the coffin for these cindarella Marlins. 

This is a 10* PLAY-BOOK on the Atlanta Braves.

The set-up: After yesterday's 10-5 win for the Astros, I expect much more of a duel here in Game 2. Framber Valdez (3-5, 3.57 ERA) gave up only lfive home runs over 70 2/3's innings of work in the regular season. He came in on relief of Zack Greinke during his team's 4-1 win over the Twins and delivered five scoreless frames. 

The pick: Sean Manaea comes in fresh for the A's, as he did not throw in the series win over the White Sox. Manaea only allowed seven home runs over 54 innings of work, while striking out 45 this year. Note as well that the A's have seen the total go "under" in ten of their last 15 after allowing ten or more runs in a loss in their previous outing. This number is a tad high, the play is the under.

This is a 10* TOTAL OF THE WEEK on the UNDER Astros/Athletics.

The set-up: Gerrit Cole and Blake Snell are two of the top pitchers in the entire league. Each comes in off a decent season and both have performed well over their last five games. Despite that though, I think that these two powerful and hungry line-ups will combine to push this total over this low number once it's all said and done. The Rays dominated the regular season series 8-2, but that just adds big incentive for this now healthy Yankees slugging line-up to get revenge. In my opinion, this one definitely sets up as a "slug-fest" from a situational stand point. 

The pick: It also sets up great from an O/U ATS/stats stand-point as well, as note that New York has seen the total go "over" in six of its last seven on the road, while Tampa Bay has seen the total go "over" in eight of its last 12 when playing with two or more days of rest. Expect this one to blast past the total in the middle frames!

This is a 10* TOTAL OF THE MONTH on the OVER Yanks/Rays.

The set-up: I like the Padres to bounce back here and respond after their series opening loss to the Cards. St. Louis jumped out to an early 4-0 lead in the top of the first inning and San Diego was never able to catch-up. With their backs against the wall here, I love the Padres in this spot. The visitors go with Adam Wainwright (5-3, 3.15 ERA), while the home side counters with Zach Davies (7-4, 2.73). Davies gets the slight nod in this matchup throwing at home. 

The pick: Additionally note that the Padres are 7-2 in their last nine after allowing seven or more runs in a home loss to an opponent in their previous outing. Davies gets the nod on the bump and the numbers/trends also point to San Diego getting revenge in Game 2. I'm laying the price!

This is a 10* GAME OF THE WEEK on the San Diego Padres.

The set-up: As good as Trevor Bauer has been, I think he'll have a hard time handling this nasty Braves' line-up, which led the league with a .832 OPS, while the Reds ended up 19th at .715. The Braves have hit Bauer well in the past and I think that ATL starter Max Fried will be able to match him inning for inning. The Reds did catch fire near the end of the abbreviated season, but they struggled with offensive consistency throughout.

The pick: Also note that ATL is 7-2 in its last nine as a home favorite in the -125 to -140 range and playing with two or more days of rest. I'm laying the price!

This is a 10* BEATDOWN on the Atlanta Braves.

The set-up: The Yankees slugging percentage was one of the best in the league at home, but it's one of the worst on the road. While New York returns most of their sluggers to the line-up who missed the regular season due to injury, the missed time is a major concern for chemistry if you're a New York fan. Gerrit Cole (7-3, 2.84 ERA) gets the call for the visitors and after a shaky campaign, he finally settled down over the last month, allowing just two runs over 21 innings of work. Cole's been decent, but his counterpart has been fantastic. 

The pick: Shane Bieber (8-1, 1.63) gets the nod for the home side and he is MLB's first triple crown pitcher in over a decade. Note that the Tribe have won six of their last seven at home as well, while New York has lost four of its last six on the road in this series. Jose Ramirez and the Indians' line-up are dangerous at home and I expect them to deliver in Game 1!

This is a 10* GAME OF THE WEEK on the Cleveland Indians.

The set-up: Enough is enough! The White Sox are in the playoffs, but they've lost six straight and seven of their last eight. Suffice it to say, I expect the ChiSox to finally break through here and earn a victory. The White Sox sit one game behind the Twins for the division crown and in a tie now with the Indians. With two games left, anything can happen. I'll call Lester and Dunning a "wash," here, but the difference comes in the numbers/trends. 

The pick: As note that the Cubs are just 2-7 in their last nine after a ten runs or higher victory in their last outing (won 10-0 in yesterday's series opener), while the White Sox are 10-4 in their last 14 after allowing ten or more runs in a home loss in their previous outing. I love the "hungrier" team here to finally get off the schneid.

This is a 10* COACH'S CORNER on the Chicago White Sox.

The set-up: Both teams are moving in opposite directions to end the year. Both teams have clinched a playoff spot, but each still seeks to try and earn the division title. I simply feel that these starting pitchers and teams are very evenly matched and in a case like that, the value swings to the underdog. Yu Darvish (7-3, 2.22 ERA) and Dylan Cease (5-3, 3.52) are a "wash" here in my opinion. 

The pick: But note that the White Sox are 7-2 in their last nine interleague home games as a an underdog in the +135 to +155 range. I look for the desperate home side to deliver in this crucial contest.

This is a 10* SITUATIONAL TOP DOG on the Chicago White Sox.

The set-up: Seattle beat Houston 3-2 last night. The Astros are now just 28-28 and they haven't yet punched their ticket to the postseason. Now they face the Rangers, who have already been eliminated from contention, but who would love nothing more than to play spoiler vs. the "cheating" Astros. And with their ace on the mound, I love the home side to do just that. The visitors hand the ball to Cristian Javier (4-2, 3.33 ERA) who comes in off a strong outing vs. the D-Backs on Saturday. Overall he's been great with a 48:17 K:BB, but I simply beleive that he's in the wrong place at the wrong time here.

The pick: Lance Lynn (6-2, 2.53) counters for Texas, who is tied for the MLB in starts (12) and who has gone at least seven frames in each of his last three starts, going 2-0 with a 2.14 ERA and 21 K's. I'm banking on Lynn delivering here and for the Rangers to use the "spoiler factor" vs. their cross state rivals as motivation.

This is a 10* SUPER-SHOCKER on the Texas Rangers.

The set-up: Neither team has been eliminated from playoff contention officially yet. The odds are extremely long for the Nationals, while the Phillies' chances are also quickly slipping away. Washington has won the first three games of this series, including both in yesterday's double header. Bryce Harper was 0-5 as he continues to deal with an oblique injury. The Phillies' Zach Elfin is 3-3 with a 4.43 ERA in eight starts vs. the Nats, while Erick Fedde is 2-3 with a 5.57 ERA in seven career outings vs. the Philllies. Both starters' form leaves everything to be desired and I'll call them a "wash" in this matchup.

The pick: Washington is the defending champ and it's taking this series personally, looking to remain alive, but to also ruin Philadelphia's chances. I think the home side keeps the foot on the gas for one more game and getting "plus money" is the icing on the cake.

This is a 10* UNDERDOG BEST OF THE BEST on the Washington Nationals.

The set-up: The Dodgers enter this series with the best record in baseball at 38-16. LA has already clinched a playoff spot and so too has San Diego, which sits right behind it at 34-20. The Dodgers still haven't clinched the division though. Oakland has also clinched a playoff spot but it still hasn't earned the AL West crown yet at 33-20. Houston is at 27-26, so it's just a matter of time now before the A's earn that spot. But turning to this interesting interleague matchup...we have Frankie Montas of the A's going up against Dustin May of the Dodgers. Montas is just 3-4 with a 5.86 ERA, who returns from a stint on  the paternity list. Montas has lost four straight and he draws a tough matchup here, but he has the track record and pedigree to bounce back. He was 9-2 with a 2.63 ERA last season and he has this game and one more to get back on track before the playoffs start. May is 1-1 with a 2.68 ERA and he most recently worked five innings of relief in a 7-5 win over the Padres on Wednesday. May has an even better 2.57 ERA at home and I don't think there's any reason not to believe that he can't carry over his recent form into this one as well.

The pick: Instead of a slug-fest in the opener of this series, I think the stage is set for a pitchers duel. Expect these division leaders to battle to a lower-scoring "under" once it's all said and done.

This is a 10* TOTAL PLAY-BOOK on the UNDER A's/Dodgers.

The set-up: The Yanks got spanked 11-5 yesterday by a desperate Jays team, but I think New York will bounce back in fine fashion here with its ace on the mound and with a chance to deal another fatal blow to its division rivals playoff hopes. Gerritt Cole (6-3, 3.00 ERA) dominated the Jays on Tuesday, holding them to one run and three hits while striking out eight over seven innings. Cole is now 2-0 with a 3.50 ERA in three career outings vs. the Blue Jays. 

The pick: Tanner Roark (2-2, 6.41) has conceded eight runs in eight frames of work vs. the Yanks this season, including allowing six home runs. Overall he's a poor 1-2 with a 5.75 ERA. This is going to have a "playoff-like atmosphere" and as such, I look for elite level Cole to easily dominate the "gas can" Roark. Lay the 1.5 runs and the price and expect an epic lop-sided victory for the visitors.

This is a 10* RUN-LINE DESTRUCTION on the New York Yankees.

The set-up: The Cubs have lost two in a row, but they have four straight winnable contests here vs. the Pirates and I think they most of it. Especially considering they have a tough three game series at the White Sox to end the regular season. The Cubs actually still have an opportunity to lock down the No. 2 spot in the entire National League as they're in a race with the Braves right now. 

The pick: Jon Lester is having an overall poor campaign, but he's throwing his best of the year at this very moment, off back-to-back strong outings in which he's allowed two runs over 11 innings of work. He's had plenty of success vs. the Pirates throughout his career and I think he'll get the better of JT Brubaker. Brubaker faced the Cubs earlier in the season and had success, but regression seems imminent the second time around. I'm banking on a blowout from start to finish.

This is a 10* RUN-LINE PLAY OF THE WEEK on the Chicago Cubs.

The set-up: Toronto lost both games of its double-header against Philadelphia yesterday, but I think it'll dig deep here with its ace on the mound on Saturday night. Hyun-Jin Ryu (4-1, 3.00 ERA) is 1-0 with a 2.45 ERA in three career starts vs. the Phillies. Toronto is desparate here, as it was swept by the Yankees in its previous series.  

The pick: The home side counters with Vince Velasquez (0-1, 6.46), who is 1-0 with a 5.40 ERA in two career outings vs. Toronto. Philly's bullpen is a wreck and I think the home side comes out flat here after yesterday's double-header sweep. This line could/should in fact be much larger in my opinion, great value on the hungry visitors.

This is a 10* PLAY-BOOK on the Toronto Blue Jays.

The set-up: I had a play on the Mets last night, but I think that the Phillies will bounce back here with their ace on the mound. Yes Philadelphia's bullpen stinks, but it gets a couple key sluggers back for this contest and I think that Aaron Nola is being severely undervalued in this spot. Nola would typically be a -180 favorite in this spot, but the weird abbreviated 2020 season has somewhat leveled the playing field it would seem this year. Seth Lugo has been great so far for the Mets, but he enters off a loss to the Jays, allowing three runs over five innings. 

The pick: Both teams are fighting for a playoff spot, but I think this matchup highly favors the Phillies. Nola is 8-2 with a 3.00 ERA in 15 starts vs. the Mets lifetime and I look for him to improve on that win/loss record right here. Lay the short price!

This is a 10* DESTRUCTION on the Philadelphia Phillies.

The set-up: After yesterday's loss and considering the talent discrepancy on the mound, I'm going to lay the price for what I expect to be a completely lop-sided victory for the home side once it's all said and done. Arizona hands the ball to Caleb Smith (0-0, 3.00 ERA) who makes his second start for the D-Back after coming over from Miami. Smith gave up one run over three innings in his debut on Friday, but I think he'll predictably struggle here with the larger work load and in this difficult road venue. 

The pick: Dylan Bundy counters for the Angels and he's 5-2 with a 2.48 ERA overall. Bundy though enters on top form currently, going 2-0 with a 2.29 ERA over his last rhee outings. Also interesting to note that the Angels are 6-3 in his starts, compared to just 14-26 in all other games. This is a great indicator and I expect this strong trend of domination to continue in this favorable matchup. Lay the price with confidence. 

This is a 6* DESTRUCTION on the LA Angels.

The set-up: I had a play on the "over" in yesterday's 20-6 victory for the Yanks. In these team's previous series vs. each other in Buffalo two of three went "under" the number and I expect that after yesterday's big explosion, that we're going to see much more of a "duel" on Wednesday night. The visitors hand the ball to Tanner Roark (2-1, 5.60 ERA), who faced the Yanks last Wednesday and who allowed two runs over four innings. Overall Roark is 1-1 with a 3.86 ERA in three career starts vs. New York.

The pick: He'll be opposed by Yanks' ace Gerritt Cole (5-3, 3.20) who comes in off a complete game effort vs. the Orioles, halting a three-game losing streak, while going on to strike out nine. Finally note that New York has seen the total go "under" the number in 18 of its last 26 after scoring 20 or more runs in a victory vs. an opponent in its previous outing. I expect these starting pitchers to be the main story lines in tomorrow's summaries. 

This is a 10* TOTAL PLAY-BOOK on the UNDER Jays/Yanks.

The set-up: These teams are fighting for playoff positioning, but off yesterday's loss, I like the Mets to bounce back here with their ace on the mound. The visitors hand the ball to Jacob deGrom (4-1, 1.67 ERA) and he'll be eager to help his team avoid a fourt-straight loss. The Phillies moved back to .500 with their win yesterday, but they remained very injured, including to outfielder Jay Bruce, first baseman Rhys Hoskins and catcher J.T. Realmuto. In 16 starts lifetime vs. the Phillies, deGro mis 8-1 with a 2.16 ERA. 

The pick: It's difficult to say anything negative about Phillies' starter Zack Wheeler (4-0, 2.47), but I simply feel that he's in the wrong place at the wrong time here. As note that New York is 7-2 in its last nine after four or more straight losses. This one sets up very well for deGrom and desperate visiting side. Lay the reasonable price!

This is a 10* COACH'S CORNER on the New York Mets.

The set-up: The Rockies have the odds stacked against them to make the playoffs, as they'll need to start stringing wins together immediately. One game at a time from here on out. The A's will be in the playoffs and while they're the "better" team on paper in this matchup admittedly, I think that this sets up great for the home side from a situational stand point. As note that Oakland has played ten games in the last seven days, including a double header in Seattle yesterday, losing the first game 6-5 in the ninth inning, before then clobbering the M's 9-0 in the night-cap. Can anyone say "letdown" spot here?

The pick: I think these starting pitchers are a "wash," so let's throw that factor out the window. Note though that the A's are just 2-7 in their last nine after an eight runs or greater in their last outing. Great value here on the home side!

This is a 10* COACH'S CORNER on the Colorado Rockies.

The set-up: These teams have only met in one other series, just last week and the Jays took two of three. The Yanks won the final game of that series and they just finished beating the Orioles in four straight, including outscoring them 23-3 in the process. 

The pick: Taijuan Walker and Deivi Garcia have both been excellent for the most part in their limited time for their teams, but the problem is is that these talented hitting line-ups "saw" them just last week and I think that'll lead to trouble the second time around. While two of three fell "under" in their first series against each other, I believe that this first game in New York definitely sets up as a "slug-fest." 

This is a 10* TOTAL PLAY-BOOK on the OVER Jays/Yankees.

The set-up: Both teams are mashing the ball right now. Jose Berrios (4-3, 4.40 ERA) has dominated the Twins in the past, while Dylan Cease (5-2, 3.30) has struggled mightily in two career starts vs. Minnesota. But that was then, and this is now. I think that's definitely the case, as Cease has matured and is now confidently coming into his prime and reaching his potential. Berrios has been solid, but inconsistent this season and I think that'll play a part here. Chicago is in the midst of a playoff race, while the Twins enter contented with a 3.5 game lead on Cleveland: "Definitely we are in really good shape," Minnesota designated hitter Nelson Cruz said. "We're coming."

The pick: Note that Chicago is 7-2 in its last nine as a home dog in the +110 to +135 range as well. I'm banking on Cease finally "getting off the schneid" vs. Minnesota here. Great value on the hungry and hard-hitting home side here today.

This is a 10* UNDERDOG BEST OF THE BEST on the Chicago White Sox.

The set-up: Colorado prevailed 8-4 last night and I think it'll post a similar victory on Saturday as well. The visitors hand the ball to Jaime Barria (0-0, 3.38 ERA) who was 4-10 with a 6.42 ERA last year, splitting time between the majors and minors. I think the sample size is too small for Barria in 2020 and that regression is imminent. 

The pick: The Rockies hand the ball to southpaw Kyle Freeland (2-1, 3.60) who enters off a gem vs. the hard-hitting Padres on MOnday, allowing three hits and striking out six over six scoreless in what turned out to be an unfortunate no-decision. Over 50 innings Freeland has a very respectable 1.36 WHIP and 34:14 K:BB. I think Freeland should easily beat his counterpart here and that's the difference for me. Lay the very reasonable price on the home side in this one.

This is a 10* COACH'S CORNER on the Colorado Rockies.

The set-up: The Braves have been crushing the ball of late and while they've seen the total go "over" the number in four straight, including the first two of this series, I think Saturday's contest finally sets up as a lower-scoring "under." The visitors hand the ball to Ian Anderson (2-0, 2.40 ERA) who has been sharp in the time that he's been given, posting 18 strikeouts over 15 innings of work. 

The pick: The home side counters with Patrick Corbrin (2-4, 4.34 ERA), who is 9-3 with a 2.57 ERA in all of his games thrown in the Nation's capital. He faced the Braves last month and got rocked for five runs over five innings, only the second time in eight starts that he's allowed more than five runs. I like Corbin to bounce back here at home and I thikn that Andreson maintains his recent form as well. Additionally note that the Braves have seen the total go "under" the number in seven of their last 11 after playing to three or more straight "overs." This number is a tad high.

This is a 10* TOTAL PLAYBOOK on the UNDER Braves/Nationals.

The set-up: Jacob deGrom (3-1, 1.69 ERA) of the Mets is one of the best pitchers in the World, but I still think that his hungry counterpart can match him inning for inning and in a situation like that, I feel that the value swings to the undervalued underdog. Toronto counters with Chase Anderson (0-0, 4.94) who won't be lacking for motivation here as he tries to get off the schneid. 

The pick: Note that two of the Jays' sluggers have done very well vs. deGrom in the past, as both Travis Shaw and Randal Grichuk are batting .375 in eight at-bats apiece vs. him. Additionally note that Anderson is a very respectable 2-2 with a 3.93 ERA in seven career starts vs. the Mets. Both teams are in the hunt, but I believe the Jays offer great value to pull off the upset here on Friday night!

This is a 10* UNDERDOG BEST OF THE BEST on the Toronto Blue Jays.

The set-up: Both teams have been playing to some fairly high-scoring affairs of late, but I think that Friday's game sets up as more of a lower-scoring "under." The Braves go with Josh Tomlin (2-2, 3.77 ERA), who is 1-1 with a 3.80 ERA in ten career appearances vs. the Nationals. 

The pick: Erick Fedde (1-3, 5.29) gets the call for the home side and he's not fared as well against his opponent in the past. I'll point out though that the Nationals have seen the total go "under" the number in eight of their last 11 home games after allowing seven or more runs in a home loss to an opponent in their previous outing. I think this one sneaks "under" once it's all said and done.

This is a 10* TOTAL ELITE OF THE ELITE on the UNDER Braves/Nats.

The set-up: The first two games of this series have flown "over," but I think that the finale will end in a lower-scoring "under." The visitors hand the ball to Dustin May (1-1, 2.88 ERA) who has been sharp for sure this season and who has faced the D-Backs one other time. May has a big opportunity to pad his stats here vs. a dejected Arizona side which has lost five in a row and is officially eliminated from playoff contention. 

The pick: The home side counters with Madison Bumgarner (0-4, 8.44) who makes his second start since returning from the ten-day DL. Bumgarner is obviously not happy at all with the way things have unfolded this year, the veteran though will look to personally close out strong as he prepares for next season. Bumgarner enters having gone 15-14 with a sharp 2.72 ERA in 35 career starts vs. the Dodgers. I think this is a great "situational" play.

This is a 10* TOTAL PLAY-BOOK on the UNDER Dodgers/D-Backs.

The set-up: While yesterday's game had 19 runs scored, I believe that Wednesday's contest sets up as more of a "duel." The visitors hand the ball to ace Clayton Kershaw (5-1, 1.50 ERA) who threw six scoreless vs. these very D-Backs just last week. Overall Kershaw is a spectacular 18-10 with a 2.69 ERA in 35 starts vs. Arizona. 

The pick: Taylor Clarke (1-0, 2.96) counters for the D-Backs and in six career appearances vs. the Dodgers he's a pedestrian 1-2 with a 5.06 ERA. I'll point out though that Arizona has seen the total go "under" the number in eight of its last 11 after allowing ten or more runs in a loss to an opponent in its previous outing. I think Arizona's issues at the plate once again come back to haunt it here. Expect these starting pitchers to be the main story lines in tomorrow's summaries.

The is a 10* TOTAL BEST OF THE BEST on the UNDER Dodgers/D-Backs.

The set-up: The Tigers have been hot of late, but I think they'll stumble here after yesterday's series opening victory. Matt Boyd (1-5, 6.64 ERA) who comes in off back-to-back decent outings vs. the Twins, but who overall this year has struggled mightily (note that he's just 1-1 with a 7.11 ERA at home.) 

The pick: Corbin Burnes (2-0, 2.35) gets the nod for the hungry visiting side and he also comes in off back-to-back strong outings. Note that slugger Ryan Braun is expected to be back in the line-up as well for the Brewers. I like Burnes big time in this matchup and I feel that he and the hungry visiting side could/should in fact be much larger favs. Lay it.

The is a 10* DESTRUCTION on the Brewers.

The set-up: My MLB "GAME OF THE YEAR" was on the Jays' big 12-7 win over the Yanks yesterday and now I look for Toronto to do it again here. The struggling visiting side hands the ball to JA Happ (1-1, 4.68 ERA) who is 3-2 with a 3.72 ERA in seven career starts vs. his former team. Happ though hasn't faced many of the Jays' current starters and I think he'll struggle vs. this currently red hot hitting home side line-up. 

The pick: Toronto counters with Taijuan Walker (3-2, 3.26), who is 0-2 with a 3.95 ERA lifetime vs. New York (hasn't faced since 2016 though.) The Jays though are 7-2 in their last nine after scoring 12 or more runs in a victory in their previous outing. Toronto is only 2.5 games up of New York here with a little under three weeks to go in the season. I love Toronto at this price, as I think they have the better in form hitting line-up, while also having the better starting pitcher on the mound. Great value play!

The is a 10* DESTRUCTION on the Toronto Blue Jays.

The set-up: While neither team has been plating a lot of runs of late, I think that Tuesday's contest definitely sets up as a "slug-fest" finally. Cleveland won 5-2 yesterday and it's out to keep the foot on the gas with less than three weeks to go in the regular season. KC hands the ball to Jakob Junis (0-1, 4.32 ERA), while the Tribe go with Triston McKenzie (2-0, 1.69). Junis lost to the Indians last Wednesday, allowing two runs over four innings. McKenzie threw six shutout frames throwing opposite Junis, but regression is imminent for both of these over-acheiving young hurlers in my opinion. 

The pick: Kansas City has also seen the total go "over" the number in eight of its last 12 after scoring two or less runs and losing by three or more runs in its previous outing. I expect these starters to get chased early and I look for this total to fly over sooner, rather than later. 

The is a 10* TOTAL BLOWOUT on the OVER Royals/Indians.

The set-up: The Yanks line-up is down a few key sluggers, while the Blue Jays are hitting the ball better right now than at any time over the last two years. This is a big AL East division series and divisional series almost always mean more to the home side. The visitors hand the ball to Jordan Montgomery (2-1, 4.66 ERA) who gave up four earned runs off five hits and a walk while striking out two over just two-thirds of inning in a loss to the Rays on Wednesday. Montgomery has for the most part been decent this season, but I think he's in the wrong place at the wrong time and his last performance certainly doesn't bode well.

The pick: Hyun-Jin Ryu (3-1, 2.72) gets the nod for Toronto and I think its ace will easily outduel his counterpart. Ryu most recently allowed a single run off five hits with two walks while striking out eight over six innings vs. the hard-hitting Rays on Wednesday. Ryu was 14-4 with a 2.32 ERA last season and this pick is primarily based upon the fact that I beleive he's going to go very deep into this contest. Ryu at this price is amazing and it's why this is my GAME OF THE YEAR.

The is a 10* GAME OF THE YEAR on the Blue Jays.

The set-up: Considering the two gas cans on the mound this afternoon, I look for this total to fly over sooner, rather than later. Both teams are coming off high-scoring contests on Sunday and each will be motivated to get back into the winners circle. The visitors hand the ball to Jose Urena (0-0, 0.00 ERA), who makes his first start of the year after a positive Covid 19 test. Urena will be a short leash today.

The pick: Ian Anderson (0-0, 2.25) has a 14:3 K:BB over his first 12 innings of work, but clearly the sample size is still much too small for the Braves' rookie. I'll point out as well that ATL has seen the total go "over" the number in eight of its last 11 home games after scoring ten or more runs in a victory in its previous outing. I expect both pitchers to get the hook early and as such, all signs point to the "over" as the correct call here. 

The is a 10* TOTAL PLAY-BOOK on the OVER Marlins/Braves.

The set-up: Boston won 9-8 yesterday, but I think Sunday's total will sneak "under" once it's all said and done. The visitors hand the ball to Robbie Ray (1-4, 7.34 ERA), who gave up two runs (one earned) off four hits with four strikes over 3.1 innings in a 3-2 loss to the Marlins on Tuesday. 36 of his 48 pitches were thrown for a strike and I like Ray to continue his progression in this favorable matchup. 

The pick: The home side counters with Andrew Triggs (0-2, 16.20), who makes his first start for the Red Sox after being claimed off waivers from San Fran. Triggs has faced Toronto twice in his career and gone 0-0 with a 2.70 ERA over four innings of work. I'll point out as well that Boston has seen the total go "under" the number in eight of its last 11 home games after scoring eight or more runs in a home victory in its last outing. This number is a tad high.

The is a 10* TOTAL DESTRUCTION on the UNDER Jays/Red Sox.

The set-up: Atlanta won Game 1 of its double header with the defending champs yesterday 7-1, but then the Nats responded with 10-9 victory in the second. Considering the massive talent discrepancy between these two starting pitchers, I believe that the correct call is to take the Braves on the run line (-1.5), as I'm expecting a complete lop-sided victory for the home side. The visitors hand the ball to Erick Fedde (1-3, 4.71 ERA), who was shelled for six runs over six innings in a loss to Philly in his last outing. So far Fedde sports a disturbingly poor 10:11 K:BB.

The pick: Max Fried (6-0, 1.60) is putting up Cy Young type numbers and while regression at some point is imminent, I do think he'll have more than enough to outduel his inconsistent coounterpart. Over 45 innings Fried owns a sharp 43:14 K:BB. Fried was 17-6 with a 4.02 ERA last year and he definitely also benefits from the friendly confines factor. Look for Fedde to get the hook early and hammer the Braves on the run-line on Saturday!

The is a 10* RUN-LINE DESTRUCTION on the Braves RUN LINE.

The set-up: Yesterday's contest snuck "over" the number late (I had the "under" unfortunately), but I think that Saturday's contest will indeed stay below the posted number once it's all said and done. The visitors hand the ball to Lucas Giolito (3-2, 3.14 ERA) who enters off an outing to forget vs. the Twins, allowing four runs (just two earned) while striking out eight over five innings. Note though that over his last three starts Giolito has allowed two earned runs while striking out 34 over 21 innings. 

The pick: Cris Bubic (0-4, 5.46) comes off his best start of the year, allowing two earned runs and striking out eight over 5.1 innings in an unfortunate no-decision vs. these very White Sox. Over 28 frames of work Bubic now sports a respectable 27:12 K:BB this season and I expect him to build off his last outing. With these two starters battling deep, this total goes "under" once it's all said and done.

The is a 10* TOTAL PLAY-BOOK on the UNDER White Sox/Royals.

The set-up: Yesterday's contest between these clubs flew well "over" the number in the ChiSox 11-6 victory, but I think that Friday's contest sets up as more of a "duel." The visitors go with Dane Dunning (0-0, 2.89 ERA) who faced these very Royals in his last outing, allowing one walk, no hits while striking out seven over five scoreless frames, unfortunate to receive a no-decision for his effort. Over two starts Dunning sas a 14:2 K:BB and I think he keeps the momentum rolling here. 

The pick: The home side counters with Brady Singer (1-3, 5.19), who allowed three runs with four strikeouts over five innings in a no-decision vs. these very White Sox last weekend. Dunning owns a decent 31:14 K:BB over 34.2 innings of work. I think these two young but hungry capable starters go into the latter frames and I believe that's going to help in driving this total "under" by the end of the night.

The is a 10* TOTAL COACH'S CORNER on the UNDER White Sox/Royals.

The set-up: Both teams come in off wins. Each won late. The Phillies continue to roll after a 6-5 extra innings win over the Nats at home, while the Mets beat the Yanks 9-7 at home. NY is just 2-7 in its last nine after scoring nine or more runs in a victory at home in its last outing and I think it'll have difficulty containing this red hot visiting side. The Phillies go with Jake Arrieta (2-4, 6.49 ERA) who comes in off an outing to forget vs. the Braves on Sunday, allowing seven runs over 1.1 innings. Arrieta has to be feeling confident here though facing the Mets, as despite a 4-5 record, he sports a sharp 3.21 ERA in 14 career starts vs. them. 

The pick: Rick Porcello (1-4, 6.00) gets the nod for the home side and he's 3-3 with a 4.61 ERA in seven career starts vs. the Phillies. He faced them on August 16th and took a loss by allowing four runs off ten hits over six innings. I think the Phillies' momentum is real and getting "plus money" is a big bonus here. 

The is a 10* PLAY-BOOK on the Philadelphia Phillies.

The set-up: The Phillies are rolling right now and I think they offer great value in this spot to keep it rolling. The visitors hand the ball to the volatile Anibal Sanchez (1-4, 6.90 ERA) who returned to the line-up on Saturday to face the Red Sox and allowed five runs off eight hits over four innings. To go along with his ballooned ERA, Sanchez also sports a poor 1.70 WHIP. 

The pick: Zach Eflin (2-1, 4.10) comes in off a win over the Braves on Saturday, going seven scoreless with eight strikeouts and zero walks. Eflin has gotten progressively better as the season has worn on and he enters with a sharp 37:8 K:BB over only 26.1 innings of work. Finally note that Philadelphia is 7-2 in its last nine home games following a shutout at home in its previous outing. Lay the price, expect a lop-sided win.

The is a 10* ULTIMATE DESTRUCTION on the Philadelphia Phillies.

The set-up: Houston held on for a 2-1 win last night, but I think that the finale of this series sets up as more of a slug-fest. The visitors hand the ball to Lance Lynn (4-1, 1.93 ERA) who was shelled for four runs off five hits over six innings in a loss to the Dodgers on Saturday. Lynn has been sharp overall, but I don't think his early sparkling numbers are sustainable and regression is imminent again here in my opinion.

The pick: The home side counters with Zack Greinke (2-0, 2.68), who has been sharp in his limited time. I'll point out though that Houston has seen the total eclipse the posted number in seven of its last nine home games after allowing one or less runs in a victory in its previous outing. I think this number is low, play the over.

The is a 10* TOTAL ELITE OF THE ELITE on the OVER Rangers/Astros.

The set-up: The first two games of this series stayed under the number, but I believe the third will find a way to fly over as it comes down the stretch. Charlie Morton (1-1, 5.40 ERA) gets the call after coming off the IL for the visitors tonight. Morton has been poor this year with a 1.50 WHIP and I think he'll get the hook early here as well vs. this determined home side. 

The pick: Jordan Montgomery (2-1, 4.66) gets the call for New York and he most recently allowed three runs off five hits while striking out six over five innings in a loss to the Mets on Friday. Note though that the Yankees have seen the total go over the number in seven of their last ten home games after playing to back-to-back "unders" at home. This number is a little low.

The is a 10* TOTAL DESTRUCTION on the OVER Rays/Yanks.

The set-up: St. Louis embarrassed the Reds 16-2 in yesterday's series opener, but I like the home side to bounce back here. The visitors hand the ball to Johan Oviedo (0-0, 3.60 ERA) who has just been added to the rotation (out of necessity.) So far he's allowed four runs with four walks over ten innings of work in his rookie season. 

The pick: Tyler Mahle (0-0, 3.38) gets the call for the home side and he comes in off a gem vs. the Cubs on Friday, striking out 11, walking two and allowing two runs off two hits over seven innings for the victory. Mahle owns a sharp 32:10 K:BB and I think he's going to easily outduel his untested counterpart. Finally note that the Reds are 7-2 in their last nine after allowing 15 or more runs in a loss in their previous outing. I'm banking on a home side blowout from start to finish!

The is a 10* ELITE OF THE ELITE on the Reds.

The set-up: Yesterday's series opener flew over the number in the White Sox come from behind 8-5 win, but I expect a much lower-scoring "duel" here between White Sox' ace Dallas Keuchel (5-2, 2.70 ERA) and Michael Pineda (0-0, 0.00). Pineda finally makes his return after a 60 game suspension and he'll be given a full work load right out of the gates. Pineda threw a 70 pitch simulation recently and has been given the green light. Before his suspension he was one of the most consistent in the league and I think the time off for his arm will be huge moving forward. 

The pick: Keuchel gave up two runs over six innings while also striking out seven in a victory last time out and there's no reason not to believe that the southpaw won't carry that momentum over here. Finally note that Minnesota has seen the total go under the number in eight of its last 11 home games after allowing eight or more runs in a home loss in its previous outing. This number is a little high.

The is a 10* TOTAL PLAY-BOOK on the UNDER WhiteSox/Twins.

The set-up: These teams are moving in opposite directions right now and I expect that trend to continue here. The Phillies came from behing to knock off the Nats 8-6 last night. The visitors hand the ball to Patrick Corbin (2-2, 3.82 ERA), who has done decently this season and who has a good track record vs. the Phillies in his career as well. Philadelphia goes with ace Aaron Nola (3-2, 3.00) who has also done decently this season, but who has a pedestrian 5-6, 4.12 ERA lifetime record vs. the Nats. Despite how well Corbin has done against the Nationals in the past, I still think that Nola is undervalued by a lot in this matchup. 

The pick: Washington is a poor 1-6 in its last seven as an underdog and unfortunately for it, it will see no mercy from the .500 Phillies, who look to put the pedal to the metal over the next three weeks until the playoffs start: "It's go time," Rhys Hoskins said after last night's victory. "It's always good to be able to help the club win." This line should be a lot larger in my opinion.

The is a 10* GAME OF THE MONTH on the Philadelphia Phillies.

The set-up: Toronto has won all six in this season series thus far, including three straight in this one. All good things have to come to end though and I believe that the over-achieving Jays finally have a letdown here, despite having the "better" starting pitcher on the mound tonight. Toronto has two walk off wins as well, including yesterday's 6-5 victory. It's been an exciting and "magical" season to this point for Toronto, but with a road-trip starting in Miami tomorrow and ending in Boston next weekend, I do indeed believe that Toronto will suffer a classic "letdown" here. 

The pick: Starting pitching is less relevant than its ever been in MLB and I think that's the case today. Note that Baltimore is 7-2 in its last nine AL road games following a three-games or longer losing streak as well. I'm banking on Toronto finally having a letdown here. 

The is a 10* PLAY-BOOK on the Baltimore Orioles.

The set-up: Yesterday's game flew well over the number in LA's 16-3 victory, but I expect this one to stay under once it's all said and done. Griffin Canning (0-3, 4.88 ERA) will be eager to notch his first victory of the year here for the home side. Note that Canning has to be feeling pretty confident here as well, as he was a sharp 4-2 with a 3.83 ERA at home last year.

The pick: Justin Dunn (2-1, 5.57) gets the nod for the home side and he enters off a gem vs. the Rangers on Sunday, allowing one hit and striking out six over six scoreless in the victory. Finally note that the M's have seen the total go under the number in 18 of their last 26 after allowing 15 or more runs in a loss in their previous outing. This number is high.

The is a 10* TOTAL PLAY-BOOK on the UNDER Mariners/Angels.

The set-up: Both teams are under .500 and each still has aspirations of making it into the playoffs. Cueto is 2-0 with a 5.40 ERA and he's had plenty of success vs. the D-Backs throughout his career, I simply feel that he's in the wrong place at the wrong time here. Taylor Clarke is 1-0 with a 2.33 ERA and while he's had less succcess vs. the Giants in his career, note that he was at his best in all "day" games last season, going 3-1 with a 3.94 ERA. 

The pick: Additionally note that Arizona is 7-3 in its last ten after allowing five or more runs in a three run or greater home setback. I'm banking on the hungrier home side getting the job done in the finale here!

The is a 10* COACH'S CORNER on the Arizona Diamondbacks.

The set-up: The Rangers won 6-2 last night and I think the home side will find a way to get the job done here as well on Saturday night. The disinterested visitors hand the ball to Ross Stripling (3-1, 5.61 ERA) who allowed two runs off six hits over four innings in a no-decision vs. Colorado on Sunday. Stripling was "lucky" the damage wasn't worse, as the two runs were solo dingers. Note that over 29.2 innings of work Stripling has been shelled for ten home runs. 

The pick: The home side counters with ace Lance Lynn (4-0, 1.37) who enters on top form, most recently allowing two runs off five hits while striking out eight over six innings in a victory over the A's on Monday. At some point Lynn will have a letdown, but I don't think that'll be vs. the league's No. 1 team. LA does indeed seem complacent and I don't trust Stripling at all in this hot Texas stadium. I'm banking on another upset in Texas tonight!

The is a 10* ULTRA DESTRUCTION on the Texas Rangers.

The set-up: After yesterday's high-scoring affair, I'm expecting much more a duel in the finale of this interleague contest. The visitors hand the ball to Carlos Carrasco (2-2, 3.71 ERA) who gave up four runs off seven hits while striking out four over four innings in a setback to the Tigers on Sunday. Carrasco has a 35:15 K:BB and the veteran will look to bounce back here after a couple of pedestria outings. 

The pick: Joe Flaherty (2-0, 3.12) gets the nod for the hom eside and he most recently struck out three Royals over five scoreless to pick up his second win of the season on Monday. Last year Flaherty was 11-8 with a 2.75 ERA and now the hard-throwing right-hander has been given the green light to go deep into this contest. Finally note that St. Louis has seen the total go "under" the number in eight of its last 11 after allowing 13 or more runs in a loss in its previous outing. This one has "duel" written all over it. 

The is a 10* TOTAL PLAY-BOOK on the UNDER Indians/Cardinals.

The set-up: I don't have the usual amount of time today to spend on my analysis because of the events going on in sports. 

The pick: The White Sox lead the AL with 59 home runs in 31 games and Chicago pitching has posted a tiny 2.60 ERA since July 29th. 

The is a 10* ABSOLUTE DESTRUCTION on the Chicago White Sox.

The set-up: Yesterday's game ended in a 10-3 win over the A's and I believe we'll see a similar final combined score here in the finale of this series on Wednesday night. The visitors hand the ball to Mike Fiers (3-1, 5.81 ERA) who earned a win over the Angels by allowing three runs over 5.1 innings. It was the third time Fiers had the advantage of facing the Angels this year and it was his first win over them. Fiers enters with a poor 5.81 ERA and ballooned 1.55 WHIP. 

The pick: The home side counters with the volatile Kolby Allard (0-2, 7.82) who allowed four runs off five hits in a loss to the Mariners on Friday, unable to even get out of the first inning. Previous to that he conceded six runs in three innings to the Rockies. Note as well that Texas has interestingly seen the total go over the number in seven of its last 11 after allowing ten or more runs in a loss in its previous outing. Look for these starters to get chased early and expect this total to fly over sooner, rather than later.

This is a 10* TOTAL COACH'S CORNER on the OVER A's/Rangers.

The set-up: I think the White Sox stumble here in the finale of this interleague series and after yesterday's 4-0 victory. The Pirates hand the ball to "ace" Trevor Williams (1-4, 3.70 ERA) who gave up one run over four innings in an unfortunate loss to the Indians on Thursday. Through 24.1 innings of work so far Williams sports a sharp 23:8 K:BB ratio.

The pick: Dallas Keuchel (4-2, 2.65) gets the nod for the home side and I just think that he's in the wrong place at the wrong time today. Note that Williams is 1-0 with a 3.00 ERA in two career starts vs. the White Sox. Additionally note that the Pirates are 6-3 in their last nine Interleague games after getting shutout in their previous outing. Great value on this hungry dog to bounce back and catch Chicago complacent!

This is a 10* BLOOD-BATH ON THE DIAMOND on the Pittsburgh Pirates.

The set-up: While yesterday's game went "under" the number, all signs point to Tuesday's contest going well "over." The visitors hand the ball to the erratic German Marquez (2-4, 4.38) who allowed ten earned runs off ten hits  over five innings in a loss to the Astros on Thursday. That's his second straight loss. 

The pick: The home side counters with the volatile Alex Young (1-1, 4.50) who is in the rotation due to the injury to Madison Bumgarner. So far over 8.1 innings as a starter, Young has conceded three home runs. Note that Arizona has seen the total go over the number in eight of its last 12 as well after scoring two runs or less in a loss at home in its previous outing. This number is a little low.

This is a 10* TOTAL DESTRUCTION on the OVER Rockies/D-Backs.

The set-up: The Rangers held on for a one run victory last night and I think they'll find a way to get the job done here as well. The vistors hand the ball to the out of form Sean Manaea (1-2, 6.39 ERA) who comes in off his first win of the year, allowing one run over five innings vs. the lowly D-Backs. Previous to that he'd allowed three or more runs in each of his first four starts. I'm not convinced Manaea is "all the way back" though. 

The pick: Kyle Gibson (1-2, 4.73) won't be lacking for motivation here after allowing five runs over five innings in a no-decision to the hard-hitting Padres on Thursday. Gibson was 13-7 with a 4.74 ERA for the Twins last year, but note that he was 8-4 with a 3.55 ERA before the All Star break. I like Gibson to outlast Manaea here and I love the Rangers to build off yesterday's victory.

This is a 10* PLAY-BOOKE on the Texas Rangers.

The set-up: Off their 9-3 loss yesterday, I like the Marlins to bounce back here and pull off the slight upset. The visitors hand the ball to their "ace" Pablo Lopez (2-1, 2.42 ERA) who gave up two runs and one walk while striking out five over seven innings in an unfortunate no-decision. Lopez enters with one of the best ERA's in the National League.

The pick: Austin Voth (0-2, 5.00) also comes off a no-decision, but a very fortunate one after he was rocked for five runs off nine hits over four innings vs. the Braves on Tuesday. Through 18 innings the right-hander has a pedestrian 12:6 K:BB and a poor 1.44 WHIP. Note as well that Washington is just 2-6 in its last eight after a five runs or greater victory in its previous outing. I'm banking on Lopez delivering here. 

This is a 10* GAME OF THE WEEK on the Miami Marlins.

The set-up: While yesterday's game "pushed" with the 9 total, I believe that Monday afternoon's game sets up as a "slug-fest." The visitors hand the ball to the erratic Tanner Roark (2-1, 4.76 ERA) who gave up two runs off nine hits over five innings in a victory over the lowly Orioles on Wednesday. Through four starts Roark enters with a pedestrian 15:10 K:BB and poor 1.71 WHIP. 

The pick: Blake Snell (2-0, 3.00) gets the nod for the home side and while he's been sharp early, I believe the southpaw is poised for regression. Note as well that Tampa has seen the total soar over the number in seven of its last ten after a one run victory and in which it scored five or more runs in. This number is a tad low.

This is a 10* TOTAL OF THE WEEK on the OVER Jays/Rays.

The set-up: Yes, Yu Darvish has looked very good for the Cubs to start the season, but so too has Dylan Cease for the White Sox. Off their 7-4 win yesterday, I like the ChiSox to deliver the goods here as well. Cease (4-1, 3.16 ERA) allowed two runs over six innings with three K's in a victory over the Tigers on Tuesday. Cease enters on top form, having won his last four starts and posting three quality outings during that stretch. 

The pick: Darvish (4-1, 1.80) allowed one run off eight hits while striking out seven in a win over the Cardinals on Tuesday. Darvish appears as he's finally returning to his former dominant form which he had when he was a member of the Rangers, but regression is imminent in my opinion. Darvish was 6-8 with a 3.98 ERA last year and I think he'll finally stumble here. Look for the White Sox to build off yesterday's big win and let's grab up that PLUS MONEY!

This is a 10* BALL-CRUSHER on the Chicago White Sox.

The set-up: I had a play on the Pirates in their upset yesterday and they went on to win in blowout fashion. Today though I think this contest will sneak "under" the number once it's all said and done. The visitors hand the ball to Corbin Burnes (0-0, 3.00 ERA) who went five innings vs. the Twins last time out, allowing one run off one hit and striking out five in the unfortunate no-decision. 

The pick: JT Brubaker (0-0, 4.91) conceded three runs off three hits over three innings vs. the hard-hitting Indians on Tuesday, also receiving a no-decision. So far the rookie has a 10:6 K:BB and I think he'll be able to keep the Brewers off balance here. Additionally note that the Pirates have seen the total dip below the posted number in eight of their last 11 after scoring ten or more runs in their previous game. This number is a little high.

This is a 10* TOTAL BEST OF THE BEST on the UNDER Brewers/Pirates.

The set-up: Yesterday's game ended with an 8-5 win for Boston and I believe we'll see a similar final combined score here as well once the dust settles on Saturday night. The visitors hand the ball to Martin Perez (2-3, 4.07 ERA) who enters off a loss after allowing three runs over three innings vs. the Yanks on Monday. Perez enters with a 17:14 K:BB over 24.1 innings of work. NOte that he's 4-5 with a ballooned 5.19 ERA in ten starts vs. Baltimore as well.

The pick: Alex Cobb (1-2, 3.76) was shelled for five runs off eight hits over 6.2 innings in a loss to the Jays on Monday. After a nine-game losing streak though, the Red Sox are starting to "rake" and I think Cobb will once again have difficulties today vs. this team that's clearly seeing the ball really well right now. This one has "over" written all over it.

This is a 10* ULTIMATE SLUG-FEST on the OVER Red Sox/Orioles.

The set-up: Pittsburgh won 7-2 yesterday afternoon and I think it'll find a way to get the job done on Saturay as well. The visitors hand the ball to Josh Lindblom (1-0, 6.62 ERA) who was rocked for five earned runs off three hits over five innings vs. the Cubs on Sunday, lucky to earn a no-decision. 

The pick: Derek Holland (0-1, 7.36) pitched two scoreless innings of relief on Tuesday vs. Cleveland and in 12 career appearances vs. Milwaukee (which includes three starts), Holland is 1-0 with a 2.05 ERA. I think the stage is definitely set for another upset here considering the fact that Pittsburgh is 7-3 in its last ten after a five runs or larger victory. 

This is a 10* WRONG-SIDE BOOK DESTROYER on the Pittsburgh Pirates.

The set-up: The Rays come off a great series in New York, including a 10-5 victory yesterday and I think they carry that momentum over here vs. a Jays side which played a double header at "home" vs. the Phillies yesterday, very satisfyingly winning both contests. Jays' starter Matt Shoemaker (0-1, 5.23 ERA) was ejected from his last start because of a verbal argument with the umpire. Before he got the boot he allowed three runs over four innings.

The pick: Ryan Yarbrough (0-2, 4.13) went three scoreless vs. these very Jays before his game was suspended due to rain. These starters' numbers are similar, but I'm giving Yarbrough the big nod, especially considering how Shoemaker's last start ended. All signs point to the Rays extending their power streak. Lay this larger price with confidence.

This is a 10* PLAY-BOOK on the Tampa Bay Rays.

The set-up: These teams played to a lower-scoring under in the A's 4-1 win last night and I believe we'll see a similar final combined score here as well. The D-Backs hand the ball to Alex Young (1-0, 3.86 ERA) who gave up one run off four hits while striking out five in an unfortunate no-decision to the Padres on Saturday. With Mad-Bum still sidelined with inury, I like Young to continue to make the most of his opportunity. 

The pick: The home side counters with Sean Manaea (0-2, 7.65) who is slowly getting back into shape, coming off his best start of the year so far, allowing three runs (two earned) off three hits while striking out five in a no-decision to the Giants on Saturday. I like Manaea to also continue his progression here. I expect these two hungry starting pitchers to be the main story lines in tomorrow's summaries.  

This is a 10* TOTAL DESTRUCTION on the UNDER D-Backs/A's.

The set-up: Colorado lost 13-6 last night, but I think it'll bounce back here with what I believe to be the superior starter on the mound for it. THe visitors hand the ball to Cristian Javier (2-1, 2.91 ERA) who has been decent in the early going, having gone at least six frames in two of his last three starts. The sample size is still pretty small for Javier though and certainly he faces his stiffest test of the year in this difficult Park. 

The pick: German Marquez (2-3, 2.25) has yet to allow more than two earned runs in any start this year. Houston won the first two games of this four-game interleague series at home and then it routed last night. But Marquez was 5-2 at home last year and with a chip on his shoulder, I think he'll be the main reason why his team pulls out a victory in the series finale.

This is a 10* SITUATIONAL PITCHING MISMATCH on the Rockies.

The set-up: The Padres held on for a 6-4 win in Texas last night and I like them to do it again here at home. San Diego got out to a hot start, but a recent scuffling stretch will have it completely focused on the task at hand tonight. The visitors hand the ball to Lance Lynn (3-0, 1.11 ERA) who gave up two runs off two hits over nine innings in a complete game win over the Rockies on Friday. Regression is imminent at some point for Lynn and I think that time is now. 

The pick: Chris Paddack (2-2, 4.91) is looking to bounce back here after getting shelled for six runs by the Dodgers over four frames in his last start. While Paddack is 0-1 with a 9.00 ERA on the road, he's 2-1 with a 3.14 ERA at home. Lynn's numbers are unsustainable, expect that regression tonight. Lay the price.

This is a 10* ELITE OF THE ELITE on the San Diego Padres.

The set-up: Both teams are struggling to find consistency at the starting pitchers position, but after yesterday's 8-7 win for the Jays, I expect a much lower-scoring duel on Wednesday. These two starters won't be lacking for motivation. The Jays' Tanner Roark (1-1, 6.00 ERA) has struggled against the Orioles in the past. The same can be said of Tommy Milone (1-2, 4.00) and the Jays. Despite that though, a couple of very strong O/U trends leads me to believe this one will indeed fall "under." 

The pick: As note that Toronto has seen the total go under in eight of its last 11 after scoring eight or more runs in a victory in its previous outing, while the O's have seen the total dip under in seven of their last nine after posting 15 or more runs combined with a team in their previous outing. This number is a little high.

This is a 10* TOTAL BEST OF THE BEST on the UNDER Jays/Orioles.

The set-up: I like the Orioles to bounce back here after yesterday's 7-2 defeat. Toronto got the win despite slugger Bo Bichette out of the line-up with inury. Bichette will be out for a week or two and I don' think that's going to help this visiting side here. Toronto hands the ball to rookie Nate Pearson (0-0, 5.11 ERA), who has a big fast ball, but who is untested after just three big league games. 

The pick: Baltimore goes with Wade LeBlanc (1-0, 7.13), who benefits greatly from the fact that the O's are one of the AL's top offensive teams this year, as their .779 on-base-plus-slugging percentage ranks fifth in MLB. I like LeBlanc in this matchup and I think the Orioles' offense takes advantage. 

This is a 10* GAME OF THE WEEK on the Baltimore Orioles.

The set-up: These teams played a four-game series at the start of August and they split. Snell threw opposite Tanaka back on August 8th and he was under a pitch count at the time...he looked pretty good though, he went three scoreless, allowing no hits and two walks while striking out five. Snell is 1-0 with a 2.08 ERA this year so far, posting his first win of the season last time out, allowing four hits and going five scoreless in Boston, striking out six and walking none. And so with that stellar performance, Snell has been cleared to return to normal starter activity tonight.

The pick: Tanaka was in a similar boat as Snell coming into the season...started on the IL because of concussion protocol after taking a come-back to the head in his final Spring tune-up. He threw 69 pitches opposite Snell and went five scoreless, allowing one hit, no walks and he also struck out five. And then in his last start Tanaka allowed two runs over four innings in a no-decision to the Braves. They weren't even close to 100% when they squared off on August 8th...they've both been cleared for full duties and they're each coming off a strong start. I think recent form is important. I think the UNDER is definitely the correct call in this one.

This is a 10* TOTAL OF THE WEEK on the UNDER Rays/Yanks.

The set-up: The White Sox lost both games of their double header to the Cards on Saturday, but they bounced back with a 7-2 win in the finale on Sunday. I think the ChiSox keep that momentum rolling here in this favorable matchup. The visitors hand the ball to the volatile Matthew Boyd (0-2, 10.24 ERA) who faced these very White Sox last Wednesday and took the loss, getting shelled for seven runs off seven hits over 4.2 innings. In his previous outing he also gave up seven runs over 4.2 innings. 

The pick: The home side counters with Gio Gonzalez (0-1, 6.61) who looked decent vs. Detroit last week, allowing two runs over 4 2/3's innings, almost qualifying for the victory. The White Sox bullpen remains a strength as well, as Jimmy Cordero has conceded one of 33 inherited runners to score. All things considered, I think this is a great price on the hungry home side.

This is a 10* SITUATIONAL BEATDOWN on the ChiSox.

The set-up: Arizona got out to a sluggish start to this abbreviated 60 game season, so the D-Backs have some work to do if they want a shot at the playoffs. Last night they came from behind to win 7-6 and I think they'll have an easier of time of it on Sunday. Garrett Richards (1-1, 3.74 ERA) has had a ton of success vs. the D-Backs in the past, but I simply feel that he's in the wrong place at the wrong time tonight (note that Arizona has scored 25 runs over its last three games.) 

The pick: Arizona starter Robbie Ray (1-2, 10.59) won't be lacking for motivation here obviously. Ray had a good spring tune-up as well, so his poor start to the regular season is a bit strange. He's 5-6 with a 4.40 ERA in 17 career starts vs. the Friars. The Padres are spiralling down the proverbial toilet right now with four straight losses and I believe they're primed to get swept in this series tonight. Great value on the hungry and under-valued home side.

This is a 10* ULTIMATE BEST OF THE BEST on the D-Backs.

The set-up: Both games of yesterday's double-header went "under" the number. Double-headers this year only go seven innings, but despite that, I still think that the finale of this AL series sets up as a "slug-fest." Brady Singer (1-1, 4.50 ERA) earned a loss in his MLB debut by allowing four runs over five innings to the ChiSox, before then allowing two runs over five innings in a win over these very Twins last Friday. Now that Singer is on the road though, I think the rookie takes a predictable step back here, especially now that the Twins' have had a look at him. 

The pick: Randy Dobnak (3-1, 0.90) has so far been "lights out" for the Twins, most recently allowing one run in a win over Milwaukee. Are these numbers sustainable? Dobnak is throwing well right now, but regression also seems imminent to me and I expect that downward trend to start tonight. Additionally note that the Twins have seen the total go over the number in eight of their last 11 home games after two or more straight "unders." This number is a little low.

This is a 10* ULTIMATE SLUG-FEST on the OVER Royals/Twins.

The set-up: These two teams played to a lower-scoring "under" last night, with the Rangers coming out on top 3-2. While tonight's game could see a little more offense, I do still think that this number is much too high. Kyle Gibson (0-2, 4.11 ERA) gave up four runs off nine hits over 4.1 innings in a loss to the Mariners on Monday. In his previous start he struck out nine in an unfortunate setback. The veteran was 13-7 with respectable 4.14 ERA for the Twins in 2019. 

The pick: German Marquez (2-2, 2.08) gets the call for the home side and he allowed five runs (just two earned) over seven innings in a loss to the Mariners as well. Marquez still owns a sharp 27:6 K:BB and there's no reason not to think that he won't be able to carry over that progression here. I expect these two competent starting pitchers to be the main story lines in tomorrow's summaries.

This is a 10* TOTAL COACH'S CORNER on the UNDER Rangers/Rockies.

The set-up: The Phillies won 6-5 yesterday and with the vastly superior starting pitcher on the mound Saturday afternoon, I look for them to find a way to get the job done here as well. The visitors hand the ball to the volatile Steven Matz (0-3, 8.20 ERA), who was most recently crushed by the Nationals on Monday, allowing eight runs off eight hits, including three dingers, over only 4.1 frames of work. So far Matz has been shelled for 13 runs and five home runs over 7.1 innings. 

The pick: Philadelphia counters with ace Aaron Nola (1-1, 2.79) who allowed one run off two hits with a walk while striking out ten over eight innings in a victory over Atlanta on Monday. Nola continues to dominate, entering with a sharp 27:2 K:BB over 19.1 innings of work this year. With a chance to extend his Cy Young candidate season in front of the home town crowd and in this favorable matchup, I'm going to lay the price and expect a big time blowout from start to finish.

This is a 10* PLAY-BOOK on the Philadelphia Phillies.

The set-up: Clayton Kershaw went seven scoreless in his season debut vs. the D-Backs, so he took a bit of a predictable step back in his second, allowing four runs over four innings in a loss to the Giants. He did go on to strike out seven. Overall Kershaw continues to look solid, so there's no reason not to think that he won't be able to give the Dodgers are least six innings in this favorable matchup. 

The pick: Patrick Sandoval (0-1, 2.70) was called up and he looked decent in a 2-0 loss to the Rangers on Saturday, allowing two runs over six innings. Sandoval was 0-4 with a 5.03 ERA last year and there's no doubt that this is the stiffest competition he's seen in a while. The sample size is small for the Angels' young hurler and I don't have any confidence in him here. And that means that I have no issues at all in laying this mid sized road chalk.

This is a 10* MASSACRE ON THE DIAMOND on the LA Dodgers.

The set-up: I like Tyler Glasnow to finally settle down here and I look for the Rays to take advantage of this very favorable starting pitching matchup and to jump out to an early lead and then to never look back. Glasnow (0-1, 5.56 ERA) gave up four runs off five hits over three innings in a loss to the Yanks on Saturday. Glasow was 6-1 with a 1.78 ERA last year and I think the veteran will get the better of his younger counterpart today. 

The pick: Kyle Hart (0-0, 0.00) makes his MLB debut today. Last year he had a 3.86 ERA and 1.27 WHIP over 100.1 innings in Triple-A. The book is out on Hart here, while the pressure is on Glasnow. I like Tampa and I actually believe this line could/should be much higher.

This is a 10* ULTIMATE OF THE ULTIMATE on the Tampa Bay Rays.