RAVENS @ RAIDERS TOTAL

The Baltimore Ravens have been easy money in the preseason for several years, and the same has been true for their season openers. Over the last four seasons, the Ravens have outscored opponents by 20, 44, 49 and 32 points respectively in their opening game. The Raiders have revamped their defense after ranking in the bottom-3 of the NFL in many statistical categories last season, but I think they'll need a couple of games to get all the new parts to fit together.

In addition to the Ravens winning and covering the spread, I also like the under. 

Under is 6-1 in Ravens last 7 road games. Under is 5-2 in Ravens last 7 games in Week 1. Under is 11-4 in Ravens last 15 vs. AFC.

8* play on UNDER. 

CHARGERS/WASHINGTON UNDER

Chargers' explosive offense led by reigning Offensive Rookie of the Year Justin Herbert against a Washington defense that gave up just 4.85 yards per play last season, No. 2 in the NFL. 

LA running back Austin Ekeler will either miss the game completely or be somewhat limited (hamstring injury), which means that Washington can put more focus on stopping Herbert. 

I'll take my chances with the Football Team at home, and I also like the under. 

8* play on UNDER. 

CFB TOTAL GAME OF THE WEEK

College Football games between two academy teams are usually low-scoring affairs, and I don't see why this matchup between the Air Force Falcons and the Navy Midshipmen would be any different. Both teams will run the ball which will keep the clock ticking, and while Navy struggled on the defensive side of the ball in its 49-7 loss to Marshall last week, Air Force does not pose the same threat. Air Force is loaded with talent and experience on defense, so the Mids won't put up many points. 

Under is 20-6 in Midshipmen last 26 games after allowing more than 40 points in their previous game. Under is 10-1 in Falcons last 11 games as a favorite. Under is 4-1 in Falcons last 5 games in September. Under is 7-2 in the last 9 meetings.

10* play on UNDER. 

MAJOR WAGER ALERT - MIKE'S AL TOTAL GAME OF THE MONTH

Houston left-hander Framber Valdez (9-5, 3.08 ERA) has posted a 4.27 ERA in nine career appearances (five starts) against the Angels, but this will be his first start against them for this season. Valdez has posted a 2.73 ERA over 52 2/3 innings home at Minute Maid Park this year. Angels' right-hander Shohei Ohtani (9-1, 2.97 ERA) held Texas to two runs with eight Ks in seven innings last time out.

Houston took an 8-5 loss to Seattle on Wednesday after a late collapse. Under is 10-0-2 in Astros last 12 after allowing 5 runs or more in their previous game.

The Angels are averaging only 3.68 runs per nine innings on the road against left-handers. Under is 8-3 in Angels last 11 road games vs. a left-handed starter.  Under is 15-5 in Angels last 20 games as a road underdog.

10* play on UNDER. 

MLB 3-PACK #2

White Sox left-hander Dallas Keuchel (8-8, 5.22 ERA) has been roughed up badly in recent outings, but this looks like a good spot to bounce back against an Oakland team that has scored only three runs through its last two games. Under is 13-3 in Athletics last 16 home games vs. a left-handed starter. Oakland righty Frankie Montas (11-9, 3.68 ERA) has posted a 1.31 ERA over his last three starts. Under is 4-0-1 in White Sox last 5 road games vs. a right-handed starter.

8* play on UNDER. 

MLB TOTAL TOP PLAY OF THE DAY

Cardinals veteran righty Adam Wainwright (14-7, 2.91 ERA) is having a terrific year. He's been even sharper down the stretch, with a 1.43 ERA in six starts last month and only one earned run allowed over 6 1/3 innings in his first start of September. Dodgers' right-hander Mitch White (1-2, 3.49 ERA) has been getting some starts lately as the Dodgers are coping with injuries to their regular starters. White is inexperienced, but he should be able to handle a Cardinals team that is averaging only 4.27 runs per game (26th), which drops to 3.94 runs per game at home. Under is 18-6-4 in Dodgers last 28 vs. a team with a winning record. Under is 5-0-2 in Cardinals last 7 home games. Under is 8-2-1 in Cardinals last 11 games as a favorite. Under is 38-18-1 in the last 57 meetings.

10* play on UNDER. 

MLB 3-PACK #1

The first two games of this series have seen a total of only 10 runs scored between them. Minnesota right-hander Joe Ryan (0-1, 5.40 ERA) fanned five Cubs hitters and gave up only three hits and a walk in his MLB debut. He should do alright here against a Cleveland team whose bats have gone quiet. Cleveland right-hander Triston McKenzie (4-5, 4.62 ERA) held Kansas City to one run on two hits in six innings last Thursday after being sidelined for 11 days due to shoulder fatigue. Under is 8-2-1 in Twins last 11 overall. Under is 5-2 in Indians last 7 overall. 

8* play on UNDER. 

MAJOR WAGER ALERT - MIKE'S AL TOTAL GAME OF THE WEEK

Yankees' ace Gerrit Cole (14-6, 2.73 ERA) has posted a 0.73 ERA in four starts after missing more than two weeks following a positive test for COVID-19. Cole is 5-0 with a 2.64 ERA in seven starts against the Blue Jays who hand the ball to Steven Matz (10-7, 3.80 ERA). Matz has posted a 2.12 ERA over his last three starts, and he'll face a slumping Yankees team that was shut out last night and has lost seven of its last nine.

The Blue Jays bats have been hot, but if anyone can keep them quiet it's Cole. 

10* play on UNDER. 

LOUISVILLE VS OLE MISS  MONDAY NIGHT CFB BOOKIE BU$TER

Ole Miss ranked in the top-20 in the FBS in several different categories for offense last year, but I think the total is a bit inflated here in the Rebels season opener. Louisville ranked 49th in scoring defense and 39th in total defense last season, and while the Cardinals have lost some starters, I still think their defense will hold against a rusty Ole Miss offense. Both teams are returning their starting QBs, yet another reason for the books to give us a big number, and I think they've overadjusted.

8* play on UNDER. 

TOP-RATED 10* BAMA @ MIAMI-FL BOOKIE BREAKER TOTAL

The Alabama Crimson Tide are coming into the season opener against Miami-Florida as a sizeable favorite. That Bama will come out ahead is a foregone conclusion, but I think they'll win with their defense rather than their offense. Bryce Young is taking over at quarterback to replace Mac Jones, and with only three returning starters on offense, it might take a couple of games for their offense to click. Defensively though, Bama looks solid with seven starters back, led by linebackers Will Anderson Jr. and Christian Harris and cornerback Josh Job.

10* play on UNDER. 

NORTH CAROLINA @ VIRGINIA TECH BOOKIE BU$TER

These two teams met in October last year, a game the Tar Heels won 56-45. I think that result combined with North Carolina's returning QB, Heisman Trophy candidate Sam Howell, has made the bookmakers posting a way inflated total for this contest.

The Hokies have lost last year’s starters at quarterback and running back. The Tar Heels have lost two receivers (Dyami Brown and Dazz Newsome) and two running backs (Michael Carter and Javonte Williams) to the NFL Draft. 

8* play on UNDER. 

3-PACK - BOS/TB UNDER

Red Sox righty Chris Sale (3-0, 2.35 ERA) has posted a 2.94 ERA in 20 career appearances (18 starts) against the Rays. Rays' Drew Rasmussen (1-1, 3.46 ERA) owns a 2.70 ERA in three career appearances (one start) against the Rex Sox, all this season. Under is 13-3 in Red Sox last 16 games with the total set at 7.0-8.5. Under is 11-3-2 in Red Sox last 16 during game 3 of a series.

8* play on UNDER. 

LATE-NIGHT MLB TOTAL TOP PLAY *BAILOUT PLAY

Padres' left-hander Blake Snell (6-5, 4.58 ERA) has an ugly 7.01 ERA on the road, but he has posted a 3.06 ERA in his last three starts (two home, one away). I don't think the tanking D'Backs will do much damage off him as Snell is 1-0 with a 1.08 ERA in three starts against the Diamondbacks this season.

Arizona righty Zac Gallen (2-7, 4.32 ERA) has 15 strikeouts through 12 scoreless innings in his last two starts. Gallen is 1-1 with a 3.05 ERA in four starts against the Padres this year.

10* play on UNDER. 

8* play on under 18.5 games. 

MLB 3-PACK - GIANTS/BRAVES UNDER

The Braves got shut out in a 5-0 loss to the Giants on Saturday. I think runs will be hard to come by for Atlanta in this one as well, coming up against Anthony DeSclafani (11-5, 3.26 ERA) who has psoted a 2.80 ERA on the road this season. Only one of Atlanta's last seven games has gone over the total. Ian Anderson (5-5, 3.56 ERA) will take the ball for the Braves. Under is 9-0 in Giants last 9 games vs. a right-handed starter and 17-5 in Giants last 22 during game 3 of a series.

8* play on UNDER. 

MLB 3-PACK

This game should go under the total as the Cubs are unlikely to put many runs on the board against White Sox righty Lance Lynn who has posted a 2.27 ERA on the season. The White Sox have scored a total of 27 runs over their last two games, but their bats had been cold prior to those two outings. 

8* play on UNDER. 

8* play on OVER. 

*MAJOR WAGER ALERT* NATIONAL LEAGUE TOTAL OF THE MONTH

I think runs will come a premium for both teams at Petco Park Saturday night. 

Phillies' righty Aaron Nola (7-7, 4.48 ERA) Has not had a great month, but now he'll face a Padres team who's bats have really gone quiet of late. Padres' righty Joe Musgrove (8-8, 3.11 ERA) was tagged with six runs in five innings at Arizona in his last start. Bounce back spot for Musgrove, and he has posted a 2.43 ERA home at Petco Park in 2021. 

Under is 9-1-2 in Phillies last 12 overall. Under is 5-1 in Padres last 6 overall. (both trends prior to the conclusion of Friday's matchup). 

10* play on UNDER. 

5* play on OVER. 

5* play on OVER. 

5* play on OVER. 

MLB 3-PACK - OVER

The Miami Marlins have opened the week with three straight home losses to Atlanta, and things won't go any easier as they travel to Cincinnati for the opener of a four-game series Thursday night. 

Reds righty Luis Castillo (6-12, 4.51 ERA) has posted a respectable 3.72 ERA at home and he is is 3-0 with a 1.84 ERA in four career starts against Miami. 

The Marlins hand the ball to right-hander Zach Thompson (2-5, 2.91 ERA) who's having an impressive rookie season, but he's been pitching better at home than on the road where he is 0-3 in five starts, with the Marlins losing each of those five games. In fact, their team record is 3-8 in Thompson's 11 starts overall. 

The Reds are 7-1 SU and 5-3 against the runline as home favorites of -200 or more while the over is 6-2 in this spot. I fully expect the Reds' bats to come alive again following back-to-back one-run outings against the Cubs.  

8* play on OVER.

MLB 3-PACK - BRAVES/MARLINS UNDER

The red hot Braves have won seven of their last eight and four in a row, a 12-2 rout of the Marlins here at loanDepot Park on Monday included. 

Braves right-hander Huascar Ynoa (4-2, 3.02 ERA) hasn't pitched since May 16 when he broke his pitching hand, but I expect a solid outing from Ynoa. The Marlins turn to right-hander Sandy Alcantara (7-10, 3.52 ERA) who has posted a 2.43 ERA in six career starts against Atlanta and he has a 2.58 ERA in 11 home starts on the season. 

Miami's bats are wildly inconsistent though, and I like the price we get on the Braves to get the W in a low-scoring affair. 

8* play on UNDER. 

5* play on OVER. 

MLB-PACK - INDIANS/TIGERS UNDER

The teams have split the first two games of this series with a 6-1 win each. I expect another relatively low-scoring affair in the series-finale on Sunday. 

Detroit right-hander Drew Hutchison will make his first major-league appearance since 2018, but he has a decent amount of big-league experience. He's been solid for the Toledo Mudhens in Triple-A this year, going 8-3 with a 3.63 ERA in 17 starts. Cleveland right-hander Triston McKenzie (1-5, 5.66 ERA) has allowed a total of only five runs on nine hits over 13 innings in his last two starts combined. He held Detroit to one hit through five scoreless innings back in May. 

8* play on UNDER. 

SUPER LATE MLB BAILOUT TOTAL 

We saw nine runs scored in the opener of this series on Tuesday. I expect at least as many runs here in Game 2.   

Mariners' left-hander Tyler Anderson (5-8, 4.35 ERA) has posted a 5.14 ERA under the lights in 2021 while Rangers right-hander Spencer Howard (0-3, 6.16 ERA) has a 6.35 ERA under the lights. Howard has posted a 7.15 ERA through his last three starts overall. 

8* play on OVER. 

SUBSCRIBERS ONLY

Phillies' Zack Wheeler has been phenomenal for most of the season. Last time out he gave up four runs in 7 1/3 innings at Washington, but now Wheeler returns home to Citizens Bank Park where he is 5-3 with a 2.22 ERA. Mets' Taijuan Walker (7-6, 3.86 ERA) has allowed five, six, five and four runs in his last four starts. He is 3-4 with a 4.53 ERA on the road this season. 

In addition to the Phillies winning the game, I also like the over as I expect Walker and the Mets' bullpen to get absolutely torched. 

8* play on OVER. 

TOP-RATED 10* MLB TOTAL GAME OF THE WEEK

Milwaukee won the opener of this series 2-1 on Friday, and four of its last five games have gone under the total. The Giants are 3-1 to the under in their last four. 

Both Milwaukee' righty Brandon Woodruff (7-6, 2.26 ERA) and Giants' right-hander Aaron Sanchez (1-1, 2.97 ERA) have posted impressive numbers this season. Woodruff has a 1.48 ERA in day starts. 

10* play on UNDER. 

8* play on OVER. 

TOP-RATED 10* MLB TOTAL TOP PLAY OF THE DAY

The Pirates are averaging only 3.84 runs/9 innings (30th ) and that number drops to 2.67 runs/9 innings when on the road against a left-handed starter. That's the situation they're at here against Reds southpaw Wade Miley (8-4, 2.92 ERA). Miley has posted a 2.91 ERA home at Great American Ball Park in 2021. 

Pittsburgh hands the ball to JT Brubaker (4-10, 4.49 ERA). He has pitched reasonably well in his last two starts, with a total of only three runs allowed on six hits and three walks over 10 innings of work. 

10* play on UNDER. 

TOP-RATED 10* MLB TOTAL PLAY OF THE DAY

The first two games of this series have seen 12 and nine runs respectively. I expect Game 3 to be a much lower-scoring affair. 

Phillies' righty Chase Anderson (2-4, 6.75 ERA) is having a rough year, but he's built back his confidence lately pitching out of the bullpen. He held Pittsburgh to two runs with five Ks in four innings in his last outing. 

The Nats hand the ball to righty Paolo Espino (3-2, 3.08 ERA) who held the Cubs to a run on four hits in 5 1/3 innings while striking out six his last time out. Espino has posted a 2.35 ERA through his last three starts and he has a 2.23 ERA home at Nationals Park. 

Under is 23-6 in Nationals last 29 during game 3 of a series. Under is 23-10 in Nationals last 33 games as a home favorite.

10* play on UNDER. 

TOP-RATED 10* MLB TOTAL PLAY OF THE DAY

The Pittsburgh Pirates are averaging an MLB-worst 3.82 runs per game. On the road and facing left-handers, they average only 2.50 runs per nine innings, and that's the situation they'll be in here on Monday as the Brewers are sending Eric Lauer (3-4, 3.50 ERA) to the mound. Lauer has posted a 1.17 ERA in his last five outings. Lauer has posted a 3.13 ERA in six career appearances, including five starts, against Pittsburgh. 

The Pirates are handing the ball to Bryse Wilson (2-3, 5.88 ERA) for his first appearance with the team since coming over from Atlanta. While the Brewers could end up hitting him hard, I still expect this game to stay under the total. 

10* play on UNDER. 

MLB 3-PACK 

The Astros and the Giants have combined for 29 runs through the first two games of this series, but I expect a pitchers duel in the finale. 

Astros righty Luis Garcia (7-5, 3.19 ERA) was lit up at Seattle in his last start, but ha had allowed only one run on five hits through 11 innings in his last two starts prior to that outing. Giants' Logan Webb (4-3, 3.36 ERA) has posted a 1.54 ERA in his past seven starts.

8* play on UNDER. 

TOP-RATED 10* NATIONAL LEAGUE TOTAL OF THE WEEK

The Nats are 11-4 to the under in right-hander Erick Fedde's starts in 2021. Fedde (4-7, 5.05 ERA) allowed no earned runs and only four hits in a 3-1 Nats loss to Miami in his last home start. Cubs' right-hander Adbert Alzolay (4-11, 4.73 ERA) was tagged with four runs in five innigs of a 7-4 loss to Cincinnati in his last start, but here he'll face a Washington team that is averaging only 4.20 runs per nine innings against right-handers. 

Under is 8-1-1 in Cubs last 10 Sunday games. Under is 13-3 in Nationals last 16 Sunday games.

10* play on UNDER. 

TWINS @ CARDINALS BOOKIE BU$TER TOTAL

The Twins took a 17-14 loss to Detroit on Wednesday, but I expect a much lower scoring affair here in the opener of a three-game set at St. Louis. 

Twins right-hander Jose Berrios (7-5, 3.48 ERA) has 2.92 ERA in two career starts against the Cardinals. He allowed only three hits and no earned runs in seven innings of a 2-1 loss to the Halos in his last start. 

The Cards counter with left-hander Wade LeBlanc (0-2, 4.58 ERA) who has posted a solid 3.45 ERA since coming to the team in midseason. 

Under is 13-4 in Cardinals last 17 games as a home underdog. Under is 14-3-1 in the last 18 meetings. Under is 9-2-1 in the last 12 meetings in St. Louis.

8* play on UNDER. 

SUPER EARLY MLB TOTAL TOP PLAY OF THE DAY

Yankees' ace Gerrit Cole (10-5, 2.74 ERA) is 1-5 despite a solid 3.82 ERA in 10 career starts against the Rays. 

Tampa Bay right-hander Luis Patino (1-2, 5.26 ERA) has been roughed up in his last three starts, but note his 1.04 ERA in three appearances at home this season. He took on the Bronx Bombers on May 11 when he held them to two runs (one earned) through four frames. Patino is backed up by one of the best bullpens in baseball. 

The first two games of this series have seen seven and four runs respectively. This should be another low-scorin affair. 

10* play on UNDER. 

SUPER EARLY TOP-RATED 10* MLB TOTAL PLAY OF THE DAY

Cleveland right-hander Zach Plesac (5-3, 4.30 ERA) does not boast particularly impressive numbers this season, but note his 2.95 ERA through 21 1/3 innings of work in four day starts in 2021. 

Cards' left-hander Kwang Hyun Kim (6-5, 2.88 ERA) has a consistent ERA no matter home/away or day/night. He has allowed only two runs on 10 hits with 15 Ks through his last three starts, covering 18 innings of work for a 1.00 ERA. 

Under is 5-1 in Indians last 6 interleague games vs. a left-handed starter. Under is 21-5-1 in Cardinals last 27 interleague road games.

10* play on UNDER. 

MLB 3-PACK UNDER

The first two games of this series have seen five and seven runs respectively. 

Seattle left-hander Marco Gonzales (2-5, 5.55 ERA) has allowed only five runs through 10 2/3 innings in his last two starts combined. He held the A's to one run on two hits in four innings at Oakland in the beginning of June. 

Oakland left-hander Cole Irvin (7-8, 3.42 ERA) was roughed up by Seattle back in May, but the Mariners are generally struggling with southpaws, averaging only 3.67 runs per nine innings against left-hadners home at T-Mobile Park. 

In addition to the under, I also like Oakland to avenge Saturday's 4-3 loss. 

Under is 7-1 in Athletics last 8 games as a road favorite. Under is 6-1 in Athletics last 7 games vs. a left-handed starter. Under is 6-0 in Mariners last 6 home games vs. a left-handed starter.

8* play on UNDER. 

MLB 3-PACK - RANGERS/ASTROS OVER

The Astros came through for us as a free pick against the runline on Friday. I like them to get the job done again in Saturday's matchup against Texas and Kyle Gibson. 

While Gibson (6-2, 2.86 ERA) has been stellar at home, note his 4.06 ERA on the road and the fact that he has aööpwed 14 runs on 23 hits through 17 innings for an ugly 7.41 ERA in his last three starts combined. 

Houston counters with Framber Valdez (5-2, 3.26 ERA) who is an undefeated 2-0 home at Minute Maid Park on the season. 

I also think the total is set a bit too low for this contest, with seven of 10 head-to-head meetings between the two teams this season going over the total. 

8* play on OVER. 

AMERICAN LEAGUE TOTAL OF THE MONTH - SUPER EARLY 1:10 PM ET

The last games of this series have seen five and six runs respectively. I think the finale on Thursday will be another tough day for the bats. 

Texas is averaging only 3.9 runs per game (28th) and it has the second-worst on base percentage at .297, and it has scored only 10 runs through a seven-game slide.. Today's Detroit starter Tyler Alexander has posted a solid 3.98 ERA through 20 1/3 innings of work home at Comerica Park this season.

Texas righty Mike Foltynewicz has been lit up in most of his road starts, but I expect to see a fully focused Foltynewicz after giving up 10 runs in less than two innings at Toronto in his last start. 

10* play on UNDER. 

LATE NIGHT GIANTS @ DODGERS BAILOUT TOTAL

The first two games of this series have seen nine and 14 runs scored. I expect this to be another high-scoring affair.

Dodgers Julio Urias has met the Giants twice in 2021, surrendering nine runs (eight earned) on 14 hits and two walks through 11 innings of work.

8* play on OVER. 

MLB 3 pack

The Astros are averaging more runs per game than any other team in baseball but their bats have been rather cold since the All Star break. Cleveland is a mediocre team offensively and it's on-base percentage is second to worst.

8* play on under. 

MARINERS @ ANGELS TOTAL

The Angels and the Mariners have split a couple of games here at Angel Stadium following the All-Star break, and I think we're getting a great price on visiting Seattle as a dog in the finale of this three-game set. 

Mariners' rookie right-hander Logan Gilbert (3-2, 3.51 ERA) has been very comfortable away from home, coming into this contest with a 2-0 record and a 2.04 ERA in four road starts. He held the Angels to one run on two hits with seven strikeouts in five innings back in June. 

Angels' lefty Patrick Sandoval (2-3, 3.72 ERA) is 0-2 with a 2.65 ERA in three career starts against the Mariners. No doubt a solid ERA but, but has yet to beat Seattle, and we can note that Sandoval is 1-6 with a 3.76 ERA in 16 career appearances, 12 starts, at Angel Stadium.

In addition to Seattle winning the game, I also think we'll see plenty of runs scored from both sides. 

8* play on OVER. 

TOP-RATED 10* AL TOTAL OF THE WEEK

This contest will feature two of the best offenses in baseball, but I still think this will turn into a pitchers' duel. 

Astros' left-hander Framber Valdez (5-1, 2.98 ERA) hast posted a 2.03 ERA on the road in 2021, and in two career appearances versus the White Sox, Valdez is 1-0 with a 1.86 ERA. 

White Sox lefty Carlos Rodon (7-3, 2.31 ERA) has been outstanding this year pretty much no matter the location. Rodon has made six career starts against Houston through which he has compiled a stellar 1.83 ERA. 

10* play on UNDER. 

MLB 3-PACK TOTAL

Good spot to back the Houston Astros to bounce back from a couple of shut-out losses to the Yankees. Now they'll face Jameson Taillon (4-4, 5.05 ERA) who is 1-3 with a hideous 8.25 ERA on the road this season. Atros Framber Valdez (5-1, 2.86 ERA) is 2-0 with a 3.52 ERA at home. 

While I like the Astros to win, I think it'll be done behind solid pitching rather than their bats catching fire, which is why I also like the under. 

8* play on UNDER. 

YANKEES @ ASTROS MLB TOTAL TOP PLAY OF THE DAY

The Houston Astros have seen each of their last three and five of their last six go under the total, including a 4-0 loss to the Yankees on Friday. They got only three hits against Nestor Cortes Jr. and three relievers, and now they'll face a much tougher starting pitcher in Gerrit Cole (8-4, 2.91 ERA). The Astros still have a good chance of winning the game though as they trot out Zack Greinke (8-4, 2.91 ERA), but my money is on the under as I expect a low-scoring pitchers duel. 

10* play on UNDER. 

LATE-NIGHT ANGELS @ MARINERS BAILOUT TOP PLAY

The Angels are 51-34-1 to the over on the season. Right-hander Alex Cobb (6-3, 4.60 ERA) has a 6.41 ERA in 10 career starts against the Mariners and he gave up five runs in seven innings against them back in June. Seattle left-hander Marco Gonzales (1-5, 5.82 ERA) gave up six runs in 3 1/3 innings against Texas in his last start. 

10* play on OVER. 

SUPER EARLY WHITE SOX @ TWINS TOTAL BOOKIE BA$HER

The White Sox and the Twins combined for only five runs last night. This looks like it should be another pitchers duel. 

White Sox right-hander Lance Lynn (8-3, 2.13 ERA) has allowed only one run on four hits with 13 Ks over nine innings in his last two starts combined. Twins' right-hander Michael Pineda (3-4, 3.70 ERA) gave up three runs in four innings of a 14-3 home loss to Houston last time out, but he's still the owner of a solid 3.16 ERA home at Target Field this year. 

8* play on UNDER. 

TOP-RATED AL CENTRAL MLB TOTAL GAME OF THE YEAR

The Chicago White Sox have seen each of their last eight games go over the total and the Twins are 52-27-4 to the over on the season. 

Twins right-hander Jose Berrios (7-2, 3.52 ERA) has allowed three runs or more in three of this last five starts. He has a 3.86 ERA at home this season. White Sox left-hander Carlos Rodon (6-3, 2.37 ERA) is having a great year, but the Twins scored four runs off him in an 8-5 Chicago win last week. 

The first two games of this series have seen 11 and 13 runs scored respectively. 

10* play on OVER. 

SUNS @ CLIPPERS TOTAL

The Los Angeles Clippers survived an elimination game a couple of days ago when they came up with a huge 116-102 road victory in Phoenix. They still find themselves in a 3-2 hole, and I don't think the Clippers will escape elimination this time around despite homecourt advantage here in Game 6. 

The Suns found themselves in an early hole last time out, but I don't see coach Monty Williams allowing that to happen again. "The desperation has to be there. That's the deal," Williams said. "Just because you have a lead in the series doesn't mean you can show up and they're going to give it to you. We have to understand that, and I think we do now. We will be better when we show up the next time we play."

The Clippers sure looked like a team playing for its postseason life last time out, but can they bring the same intensity two games a row? 

The Suns responded with a lockdown defense performance in Game 4 after losing Game 3, and I expect them to bounce back with a big outing again. 

In addition to Phoenix closing out the series, I also like the under as I think they'll make it a lot harder for their opponent to get open looks in this one. 

8* play on UNDER. 

BUCKS @ HAWKS NBA BOOKIE BU$TER

The opener of the Eastern Conference Finals saw a total of 229 points scored, but hte last two games have been much lower scoring.

Now the Hawks might have to do without star guard Trae Young who is listed as questionable for the crucial contest after injuring his right foot Sunday in Game 3.

Young will almost certainly be limited (if he even takes the floor), which will hurt the Hawks production badly.

I expect defense to rule this game, and I'm very happy to back the under at this number.

8* play on UNDER. 

MLB 3-PACK TOTAL

The Atlanta Braves had Monday off while the NY Mets opened the week with an 8-4 loss at Washington. 

Mets' rookie right-hander Tylor MeGill (0-0, 4.15 ERA) will be making just his second start in his career while the Braves counter with reliable veteran Charlie Morton (7-3, 3.68 ERA).

It's worth noting that MeGill's first start also came against the Braves when he limited them to a pair of runs through 4 1/3 innings on June 23, but I think they'll have him figured out this time around. Morton dominated the Mets in his last start holding them to one hit with 11 Ks over seven scoreless innings of a 3-0 win. 

In addition to Atlanta winning the game, I also like the under as I think the Mets will struggle big time to put runs on the board. They're averaging only 3.83 runs per game on the season, and Morton clearly owns the Mets. 

8* play on UNDER. 

TOP-RATED 10* NBA BOOKIE BREAKER | CLIPPERS @ SUNS BEST BET

Game 4 of this series was a defensive struggle finishing with an 84-80 win on the road for the Phoenix Suns.

They'll now be looking to close out the series in their own building, and while I sure like Phoenix to win, I would not be surprised if we see this one come down to the last bucket. 

The spread is really close IMO, but the total looks a bit inflated despite sitting almost eight points lower since the last game here at Suns Arena.

These two teams are locked in defensively, and buckets are coming at a premium at every possession.

We have seen three straight unders since a 120-114 Phoenix win in the opener, and none of the last three games went over this number. 

10* play on UNDER. 

TOP-RATED 10* MLB TOTAL PLAY OF THE DAY

The Chicago Cubs are 44-29-5 to the under on the season, and the Milwaukee Brewers are 24-9-1 to the under in games with a total lower than eight. We should see a truly low-scoring contest here in the opener of a three-game series between the two division rivals as both teams hand the ball to strong starting pitchers, with Kyle Hendricks (10-4, 3.84 ERA) going up against Freddy Peralta (7-2, 2.11 ERA). 

Note that Hendricks has a 2.73 ERA in 25 career starts against Milwaukee while Peralta has posted a 3.38 ERA in nine career games against the Cubs.

10* play on UNDER. 

GAME OF THE YEAR ALERT | EASTERN CONF PLAYOFFS TOTAL MAJOR WAGER

We won with the Hawks in Game 1 but lost with them in Game 2 in what turned out to be a blowout win for the Bucks. In hindsight, a bad bet on Atlanta as it was an obvious bounce-back spot for the Bucks, who no doubt are the more skilled team. 

I don't see value on the spread posted for Game 3, but I think the bookmakers got the total all wrong. The two teams combined for 229 points in the opener, but we saw only 216 points in the next game, and I think we'll see lower and lower scoring games as the teams get more familiar with each other and the intensity on the defensive end ramps up.  

The Bucks are 8-5 to the under in the playoffs. The Hawks are 10-3-1 to the under in the playoffs. 

10* play on UNDER. 

CUBS @ DODGERS NL TOTAL GAME OF THE WEEK

The Los Angeles Dodgers are coming off back-to-back wins, but their bats are far from hot. Solid pitching has earned them the Ws, and we are of course more than likely to see more of the same with Clayton Kershaw (8-7, 3.43 ERA) on the mound.

The Chicago Cubs have been cold at the plate lately as well, with two or fewer runs scored in seven of their last nine games. 

10* play on UNDER. 

3-PACK

The Phoenix Suns came out completely flat in a 106-92 loss to the LA Clippers in Game 3. Phoenix star Devin Booker was held to 15 points as he was adjusting to playing with a plastic face guard after sustaining a broken nose in Game 2, and I think Booker will be in for another tough game. While I like Phoenix to win the series eventually, I do like the Clippers to take Game 4 and tie the score. 

In addition the the Clippers winning the game, I also like the under as I see Suns' banged up stars struggling with their shooting. 

8* play on UNDER.

TOP-RATED 10* MLB TOTAL PLAY OF THE DAY

The over is 13-5-1 in the last 19 meetings at Fenway Park, and this double-digit number does not scare me. 

Note that Boston left-hander Martin Perez (5-4, 4.32 ERA) has a 7.92 ERA in seven starts against the Bronx Bombers while righty Domingo German (4-4, 4.17 ERA) has a 4.45 ERA in seven games (six starts) versus the Red Sox.

The Yankees have been swinging hot bats lately scoring five, six and eight runs in their last three games and Boston is averaging a solid 5.34 runs per game home at Fenway Park. 

10* play on OVER. 

EURO 2021 WEDNESDAY BOOKIE BREAKER

Sweden have yet to concede a goal in the tournament. They've already qualified to the next round, and a draw here would secure 1st or 2nd place in the group. They'll sit back and soak up the pressure, and I think Poland will struggle to break through. 

8* play on UNDER. 

CZECH REP VS ENGLAND BOOKIE BU$TER

With four clean sheets in a row and only one goal allowed through their last eight games, defense is not an issue for England. They've scored just three goals through their last four games though, and I suspect that both teams would be OK with a 0-0 draw here.  

8* play on UNDER. 

SUPER EARLY REDS @ TWINS TOTAL TOP PLAY OF THE DAY

The Minnesota Twins host the Cincinnati Reds for a rare Tuesday afternoon game of baseball, and I think the crowd will be treated with plenty of runs. 

Reds' veteran left-hander Wade Miley (6-4, 2.88 ERA) is boasting a strong ERA, but we can note that the over/under is still 8-4 in Miley's starts on the season as he's not getting much help from his relievers. Reds' bullpen ranks dead last in the major leagues with a 5.58 ERA, and the Twins's ranks 23rd with a 4.72 ERA. Minnesota right-hander Bailey Ober (0-0, 3.71 ERA) is averaging only 4 1/3 innings per start, which means we're likely to see plenty of Twins' relievers.  

Weak and taxed bullpens' (yesterday's matchup went 12 innings) should set this up for runs galore. 

10* play on OVER. 

MLB NATIONAL LEAGUE TOTAL GAME OF THE MONTH

The Arizona Diamondbacks are 40-32-1 to the over on the season and eight of their last 10 have gone over the total.

Right-hander Merrill Kelly (2-7, 5.40 ERA) has a 5.71 ERA in three career starts against the Brewers who hand the ball to Brett Anderson (2-4, 4.24 ERA). The left-hander has a 4.38 ERA in seven career starts against the D'Backs, and he has struggled on the road this season coming into this contest with a 5.47 ERA away from home. 

Over is 6-2 in Brewers last 8 games as a road favorite. Over is 8-1 in Diamondbacks last 9 games a home underdog.

10* play on OVER. 

MONDAY NIGHT MLB TOTAL BOOKIE BU$TER

The Oakland Athletics took a 2-1 loss in the Bronx on Sunday, and I think they'll be involved in another low-scoring affair when visiting Texas Monday night. 

Rangers' righty Kyle Gibson (4-0, 2.09 ERA) is having a tremendous year, especially at home where he's posted a 0.96 ERA. As for A's starter Frankie Montas (7-6, 4.21 ERA), the right-hander owns a 3.13 ERA away from home and he limited the Halos to a pair of runs through seven frames in his last start. 

The Rangers are averaging only 3.99 runs per game on the season, and they've put up only 3.17 runs per game through a six-game slide. 

8* play on UNDER. 

SUPER EARLY MLB TOTAL TOP PLAY OF THE DAY

These are two of the lowest-scoring teams in the major leagues, and for all of Nats' left-hander Patrick Corbin's struggles with a 5.60 ERA overall in 2021, note that it drops to 4.61 at home. The Mets are batting only .222 against left-handers. 

Mets' right-hander Taijuan Walker (6-2, 2.12 ERA) has shown he's just as comfortable pitching away from home as at Citi Field. 

The first three games of this series have seen one, six and eight runs respectively. This should be another low-scoring affair.

10* play on UNDER. 

SUBSCRIBERS ONLY

Do or die Game 7 in Brooklyn with the Nets and the Bucks tied at three apiece. The home team has won each game so far and that's a trend I like to continue. 

The Bucks won Game 6 in what was a lackluster outing from Brooklyn, perhaps not all that surprising following their effort in the game prior. "We didn't look like we had a ton of energy all night," Nets coach Steve Nash said. "I think we wanted it; we just couldn't find it. And when you can't find that rhythm, it makes it even harder, and so it's kind of chicken-and-the-egg. Is the rhythm because you don't have the energy, or is it compounded because you don't have a rhythm?"

Now at home in front of the hometown crowd at Barclays Center, expect the Nets to get it done and move on to the Eastern Conference Finals. 

Bucks are 1-9 ATS in their last 10 games as an underdog. Nets are 11-1 ATS in their last 12 games as a home favorite. Bucks are 0-4 ATS in the last 4 meetings in Brooklyn.

I also like the under as this series really have turned into much more of a defensive struggle than the bookmakers have anticipated. 

8* play on UNDER. 

NHL SEMIFINALS TOTAL GAME OF THE YEAR | 10* MAJOR WAGER

The teams are heading to New York tied at 1-1 after splitting a couple of games at Tampa Bay. The last game saw six goals, and I expect another high-scoring affair here in Game 3.

The Lightning have averaged 32 shots on goal per game in the series, and I expect them to throw everything at the Isles tonight to reclaim home ice advantage.

Additionally, note that the teams scored only one PP goal each in Game 2, despite 20 penalties and 54 penalty minutes issued. We should see better efficiency if the penalties keep coming.

Over is 6-2-1 in Islanders last 9 overall and 6-2-1 in Islanders last 9 games a home underdog.

10* play on OVER. 

MLB 3-PACK - TOTAL

I really like the price we get on the Miami Marlins in this early Wednesday afternoon matchup at St. Louis. Marlins' righty Sandy Alcantara (4-5, 3.39 ERA) has posted a 2.45 ERA in two career starts against the Cardinals, and he has posted a 2.38 ERA away from home in 2021. St. Louis hands the ball to Johan Oviedo (0-2, 5.72 ERA) who has posted a 6.85 ERA in six starts this season. 

Sure, the Cards are 5-0 against Miami this season, but note that Alcantara struck out 10 through six innings against them back in April. I think Alcantara will lead the Fish to a win in this one. 

In addition to the Marlins winning the game, I also like the under. Under is 6-1 in Marlins last 7 vs. a team with a winning record. Under is 11-3 in Cardinals last 14 games as a home underdog. Under is 6-1 in the last 7 meetings in St. Louis.

8* play on UNDER. 

MLB 3-PACK TOTAL #1

The Detroit Tigers are averaging only 3.69 runs per nine innings against left-handers. I think they're in for a tough one against Mike Minor (5-3, 4.50 ERA) who struck out eight with only one run on three hits allowed in seven innings against Oakland in his last start. Casey Mize (3-4, 3.44 ERA) will take the ball for the Tigers, looking to build on a solid 2.80 ERA away from home. 

8* play on UNDER. 

MLB 3-PACK TOTAL #2

Cincinnati Reds right-hander Luis Castillo (2-9, 6.47 ERA) has had an awful start to the year, but his last three outings have shown some promise with a total of only six earned runs allowed over 16 2/3 innings of work. Milwaukee Brewers left-hander Brett Anderson (2-4, 4.99 ERA) should be fired up for this one after getting knocked around by Cincy in his last start. 

8* play on UNDER. 

SUPER EARLY MLB TOTAL TOP PLAY OF THE DAY

This looks like it should be a low-scoring affair with Domingo German (4-3, 3.12 ERA) and Aaron Nola (4-4, 4.06 ERA) on the mound. German has allowed three or fewer runs in each of his last nine starts, including 5 2/3 innings of one-run ball against Boston last time out. Nola's last two outings have not been great, but he has posted a solid 3.03 ERA in six home starts and a 2.10 ERA in four day starts. 

10* play on UNDER. 

LATE NIGHT RANGERS @ DODGERS MLB BOOKIE BREAKER *TOP PLAY*

The Texas Rangers have lost eight of their last 10 games, and they've put up 10 runs over their last five games. Runs are likely to come a premium for the Rangers again in Saturday's matchup with the Dodgers and right-hander Trevor Bauer (6-4, 2.40 ERA) who has posted a 1.69 ERA in four home starts on the year. 

Texas hands the ball to left-hander Kolby Allard (1-2, 3.41 ERA). Under is 5-1 in Dodgers last 6 games vs. a left-handed starter.

10* play on UNDER. 

ROYALS @ ANGELS MLB TOTAL TOP PLAY OF THE DAY

The Los Angeles Angels are 15-5 to the over as home favorites on the season and tonight's Angels' starter Dylan Bundy has an ugly 6.49 ERA in 2021. Royals' righty Jackson Kowar will make his first MLB start ever, and this could easily go south early against a Halos' team that is averaging 5.77 runs per nine innings home in Anaheim. 

Over is 7-1-2 in Royals last 10 overall. Over is 3-0-1 in Royals last 4 games as a road underdog.

10* play on OVER. 

MAVS @ CLIPPERS GAME 7 NBA BOOKIE BU$TER

Four of the first six games of this series and each of the last three have gone under the total. To think that we'll see a high-scoring affair here in this crucial Game 7 matchup is just not realistic IMO. 

Under is 22-5 in Mavericks last 27 games as an underdog. Under is 6-1-1 in Clippers last 8 games as a home favorite. Under is 8-2 in the last 10 meetings.

8* play on UNDER. 

NBA 3-PACK

The Atlanta Hawks are coming off an impressive first-round series against the Knicks, but they'll face a much tougher test here in the second round. Sure, injured Joel Embiid will be a huge miss for the Sixers, but they have good depth and other players that can step up. I have Philadelphia as the better team on both ends of the floor even without Embiid. 

Hawks are 2-6 ATS in their last 8 road games. 76ers are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games as a home favorite. Hawks are 1-5 ATS in the last 6 meetings in Philadelphia.

Under is 7-1 in Hawks last 8 overall, and I expect the Sixers to shut them down effectively. 

8* play on UNDER. 

TOP-RATED 10* MLB TOTAL PLAY OF THE DAY

The Chicago Cubs are 30-23-4 to the under on the season. Right-hander Kohl Stewart (1-0, 0.00 ERA) will be making his second start of the season. He allowed only one run (no earned) through five innings against the Padres in his season opener. 

The San Francisco Giants counter with Kevin Gausman (6-0, 1.40 ERA) who is having an extraordinary year with 11 runs allowed on 41 hits over 70 2/3 innings and an 83/16 K/BB ratio. Regression is surely coming for the right-hander, but not against the Cubs who have been hitting leftie a lot harder than righties. 

10* play on UNDER. 

EARLY MLB 3-PACK #1

The Minnesota Twins are 34-16-2 to the over on the season and only two of their last 11 games have gone under the total. Their bullpen has the third worst earned run average in the American League, which is why I think they'll give up runs eventually with Jose Berrios (5-2, 3.67 ERA) as their starter. As for Orioles' started Jorge Lopez, his 5.80 ERA on the season says it all and he has allowed 10 runs (nine earned) through 13 innings in his last three starts combined. 

8* play on OVER. 

MLB GAME OF THE WEEK | NL WEST *BEST TOTAL*

The last two games of this series have seen a total of 30 runs scored. I expect a completely different game in the finale on Sunday. 

Dodgers' left-hander Clayton Kershaw (7-3, 2.94 ERA) is having a solid year as per usual, and he is coming off a season-high 7 2/3 innings of one-run ball in a win over Houston on Tuesday. Kerhaw has posted a career ERA of 1.79 against the Giants. 

Kevin Gausman (5-0, 1.53 ERA) takes the ball for San Francisco. He has allowed a total of four runs through his last seven starts and posted a 3.00 ERA in three outings (two starts) against the Dodgers last season. 

10* play on UNDER. 

CARDINALS @ DIAMONDBACKS MLB BOOKIE BLA$TER

The first three games of this series have seen nine, 14 and 11 runs scored respectively. I expect the fourth and final game of the series to be a much lower scoring contest.

Arizona right-hander Matt Peacock (1-1, 4.91 ERA) has made 10 appearances on the season, two as a start through which he has allowed four runs over 10 1/3 innings of work. St. Louis is hitting .225 against right-handers on the season. 

The Cardinals hand the ball to left-hander Kwang Hyun Kim (1-2, 3.09 ERA) who has allowed one earned run or fewer in five of his last six starts. The exception came against the White Sox who are dominating left-handers. He should have no trouble handling the D'Backs. 

8* play on UNDER. 

TOP-RATED 10* MLB TOTAL PLAY OF THE DAY

The oddsmakers have posted an exceptionally low total for this game, but I still like the under. Note that the over/under is 17-26 across the Major Leagues this season and 1-8 in games involving the New York Mets. 

Both starting pitchers for tonight, Ian Anderson (4-1, 2.28 ERA) and Tajiuan Walker (3-1, 2.05 ERA), have been great.

10* play on UNDER. 

NUGGETS @ BLAZERS TOTAL

The Portland Trail Blazers stole the opener of this best-of-seven first-round playoffs series at Denver, but the Nuggets have bounced back and won two in a row. The Blazers now need to win to avoid an elimination game in Mile High next, and I expect them to have better intensity in their game than the last two matchups. 

Denver shot a red-hot 53% (20-of-38) from three-point range last time out while the Blazers were only 14-of-45 (31%). We should see better shooting from the home team in this one, and I like Blazers in a high-scoring affair. 

Over is 7-2 in the last 9 meetings in Portland. Over is 4-0 in the last 4 meetings.

8* play on OVER.

SUBSCRIBERS ONLY

This is a low total, but is it low enough? I don't think so. Note that the under is 14-5 in all games with a total lower than seven here in 2021.

The Mets are averaging only 3.58 runs per game and their starting pitcher for the evening, Marcus Stroman, has a 3-4 record with a 2.73 ERA. The Rockies counter with German Marquez (3-4, 4.82 ERA) who is coming off seven scoreless innings of four-hit ball against Arizona.

Note that this is the first game of a doubleheader after Wednesday's scheduled matchup got rained out. With only seven innings, this game should stay under five runs. 

8* play on UNDER. 

MLB GAME OF THE WEEK | TOP-RATED AL TOTAL MAJOR WAGER

This game should be a low-scoring affair. The Cleveland Indians' bats have been cold during a 2-5 stretch and they were shut out by the Twins on Friday. Twins righty Kenta Maeda (2-2, 5.26 ERA) has not had a great year, but surely he can keep the Tribe under control. Under is 5-1 in Indians last 6 games vs. a right-handed starter.

As for Cleveland starter Shane Bieber (4-3, 3.17 ERA), the reigning AL Cy Young Award winner needs no further introduction, and note that Bieber posted a 2.14 ERA in three starts against the Twins last year. 

Under is 46-22-4 in the last 72 meetings.

10* play on UNDER. 

SUBSCRIBERS ONLY

Good spot to back the Cincinnati Reds to beat the San Franciaco Giants after dropping the first three games of the series. 

The Reds have a 6-2 record in righty Tyler Mahle's (2-1, 2.93 ERA) eight starts and he has allowed more than two runs in only one start. 

The Giants counter with Johnnny Cueto (2-1, 3.62 ERA) who allowed no runs and three hits over 5 2/3 inning of a 3-0 win when pitching opposite Mahle on April 14, but left that win after only 68 pitches and ended up sidelined for more than three weeks. The team has last his two starts since coming back with Cueto giving uo seven runs on eight hits over 7 1/3 innings. 

Additionally, the Reds are the highest scoring team at home in baseball, and I think their bats are about to go off following a couple of low-scoring games. 

8* play on OVER. 

EARLY RANGERS @ ASTROS MLB BOOKIE BU$TER

The last two games of this series have seen 14 and nine runs respectively. but I think the finale on Sunday will be a low-scoring affair. 

Rangers righty Kyle Gibson (3-0, 2.28 ERA) has allowed one or zero runs in six of eight starts on the season. Gibson has a solid track record against the Astros, going 4-2 with a 2.59 ERA in nine career starts. 

Lance McCullers, Jr. (3-1, 3.10 ERA) will toe the slab for Houston.  He has allowed two or fewer runs in five of seven starts on the season. In his last start, McCullers, Jr. held the Halos to one run with nine Ks over eight innings. Current Texas' batters are just a combined 7-for-54 (.115) against McCullers, Jr.

8* play on UNDER. 

EARLY ATHLETICS @ TWINS BOOKIE BU$TER | 4:05 ET START

Both starting pitchers are off to a solid start to the season.

Oakland left-hander Cole Irvin (3-4, 3.29 ERA) has allowed only seven runs over his last five starts. Irvin has 37 Ks against only six walks over 41 innings on the season. 

Minnesota right-hander Jose Berrios (3-2, 3.49 ERA) made one of his best starts on the season against the A's back on April 21, when he held them to one run on four hits over five innings. The A's are hitting only .207 against right-handers. 

Under is 10-3-1 in Athletics last 14 games as an underdog.  Under is 6-0-1 in Athletics last 7 road games. Under is 10-4-1 in Twins last 15 home games vs. a left-handed starter.

8* play on UNDER. 

SUPER EARLY HORNETS @ KNICKS NBA TOP PLAY | 1:10 ET START

The New York Knicks have clinched a playoff berth, but they're battling Miami for the No. 5 or No. 6 seed. The Knicks have played great defense all season long, and the last three games have been no different allowing 100, 101 and 98 points, despite the middle game going to OT. The Charlotte Hornets are fighting Indiana and Washington for eighth place in the conference. While the Hornets won't lack motivation, I think they'll struggle to get open looks against this Knicks team.  

The last meeting (on April 20th) finished with a 109-97 Knicks win. I think we'll see a very similar amount of points today. 

10* play on UNDER. 

MLB GAME OF THE WEEK | TOP-RATED REDS @ ROCKIES TOTAL

The Colorado Rockies and the Cincinnati Reds combined for 21 runs in the opener of this four-game series on Thursday. The total for that game closed at 11.5, but we're still seeing a lower total for tonight's game. I trust the oddsmakers and expect the bats to be a lot colder here in Game 2. 

Colorado right-hander German Marquez (1-4, 5.49 ERA) has a rather bloater earned run average, but it's mostly down to two subpar outings. In his last start, Marquez held the Cardinals to two runs through six innings of a 2-0 Rockies win. 

The Reds counter with left-hander Wade Miley (4-2, 2.00 ERA) who is coming off a no hitter at Cleveland. Miley has posted a 0.9 ERA while allowing only seven hits in three road starts covering 20 innings on the season.

10* play on UNDER. 

TOP-RATED 10* NBA TOTAL PLAY OF THE DAY

The Philadelphia 76ers have put up only 94 points in each of their last two games, but also allowed only 103 and 106 points. They're likely to keep the tempo slow here as they'll be playing on no rest, and the visting Orlando Magic are averaging a lowly 103.9 ppg on the season and they've been held to fewer than 100 points in three of their last five games.

10* play on UNDER. 

NBA GAME OF THE MONTH | TOP-RATED 10* NORTHWEST DIV *BEST BET*

I think we'll see a very high-scoring game when the Denver Nuggets visit the Minnesota Timberwolves Thursday night. The Wolves have really stepped it up a notch in recent weeks, winning six of their last nine games while scoring boatloads of points. The Denver Nuggets have split their last four games, despite scoring 113, 120, 119 and 117 points. 

Over is 11-4 in Nuggets last 15 road games vs. a team with a home winning % of less than .400. Over is 5-1 in Timberwolves last 6 home games.

10* play on OVER. 

SUPER EARLY BLUE JAYS @ BRAVES MLB TOP PLAY OF THE DAY

I think the bookmakers have set this total waaaaay too high. Sure, Toronto right-hander Ross Stripling (0-2, 6.61 ERA) has had a tough start to the year, but his best start came against the Braves on May 3 when he held them to two runs through 4 1/3 innings of work. Braves' veteran right-hander Charlie Morton (2-2, 4.98 ERA) could also have asked for a better start to the year, but he has a solid 3.83 ERA in eight career starts against Toronto. 

10* play on UNDER. 

EARLY MLB 3-PACK #2 - TOP PLAY

The Cincinnati Reds are 22-10-1 to the over on the season, but I think this game will be low-scoring. Cincinnati right-hander Sonny Gray (0-2, 3.92 ERA) is coming off seven scoreless innings of two-hit ball against the White Sox. Gray has a 2.12 ERA in three day starts on the season. The Pittsburgh Pirates hand the ball to Trevor Cahill (1-4, 6.75 ERA) who has posted a 2.45 ERA in two day starts in 2021. 

If any team is to score runs here it's the Reds. I don't see Pittsburgh putting more than two runs on the board and I predict Cincinnati to win in a very low-scoring affair. 

10* play on UNDER. 

SUPER EARLY ORIOLES @ METS BANKROLL BUILDER

Good spot for an under. The NY Mets' righty Matt Harvey (3-2, 3.60 ERA) has allowed two earned runs or fewer five times in seven starts. The Baltimore Orioles' Taijuan Walker (2-1, 2.38 ERA) has been red hot. He has allowed zero earned runs in three of his last four starts, and he fanned eight through seven innings of a 4-1 Mets win at St. Louis in his last start. 

8* play on UNDER. 

MLB 3-PACK #1

Milwaukee Brewers left-hander Brett Anderson (2-2, 4.15 ERA) did not even make it through the first inning in a 15-2 loss to the Cubs in his last start but had allowed only two runs in 12 innings in his last two starts prior to that outing. Marlins right-hander Sandy Alcantara (1-2, 2.95 ERA) is having a great year. Through his last three starts, Alcantara has allowed only six runs over 18 innings. The Brewers are averaging 3.92 runs per game (25th) and they're batting a lowly .205 against right-handers.  

8* play on UNDER. 

MLB 3-PACK #3

New York Mets righty Jacob deGrom (2-2, 0.51 ERA) has had a spectacular start to the year with only two earned runs allowed and 59 Ks through 35 innings on the mound. Here he'll face an Arizona team that has scored a total of 10 runs through a five-game losing streak. The Mets have won four in a row, but mainly because of good pitching and not good hitting. The Mets are averaging 3.72 runs per game on the season (28th) and I don't think Arizona right-hander Riley Smith (1-1, 4.91 ERA) will be in much trouble. 

8* play on UNDER. 

TOP-RATED 10* MAGIC @ HORNETS NBA BOOKIE BREAKER

The Charlotte Hornets are battling with Indiana and Washington for a favorable position in the play-in tournament. They're a rather sizable favorite in this matchup with an Orlando team since long eliminated from playoff contention, and the under is 13-3 in Hornets last 16 games as a home favorite.

The Magic are averaging a league-low 104.1 points per game, and they're highly unlikely to put up big numbers with the season all but over already. I expect the Hornets to get plenty of stops and keep this game under the total. 

10* play on UNDER. 

NHL GAME OF THE WEEK | TOP-RATED CENTRAL DIV TOTAL

The Detroit Red Wings have struggled to find the net even more than usual in recent games, but I think we'll see fireworks in this matchup with Columbus. The Jackets are coming off a pair of high-scoring games against Nashville, and the over is 10-3-1 in Blue Jackets last 14 overall. Neither team is anywhere near the playoffs, and this should be a wide-open exhibition type affair between two sides battling to avoid last place in the Central Division.

With a total as low as five this is a no-brainer play on the over for me. 

10* play on OVER. 

TOP-RATED 10* LAKERS VS CLIPPERS NBA PLAY OF THE DAY

We saw only 190 points in the last battle of LA back on April 4. I think this wlll be another low-scoring contest as the teams look to get the defense right for the playoffs. Under is 16-4-1 in Lakers last 21 vs. a team with a winning straight up record. Under is 24-11 in Lakers last 35 road games. Under is 6-0 in Clippers last 6 overall. Under is 11-3-1 in the last 15 meetings with Clippers hosting at Staples Center. Under is 5-1 in the last 6 meetings overall.

10* play on UNDER. 

MLB 3-PACK

The Baltimore Orioles have won four of their last six after splitting the first two games of this three-game series at Seattle. I like the Orioles to clinch the series-finale with John Means (3-0, 1.70 ERA) on the mound. The left-hander has had a terrific start to the year, and recorded nine strikeouts for the second time of the season in a 3-2 win at Oakland last time out. Seattle is hitting only .202 against left-handers this season. 

The Mariners hand the ball to lefty Yusei Kikuchi (1-1, 4.40 ERA). The Orioles have owned left-handers all season, heading into this contest with a .268 AVG and averaging 5.03 runs per nine innings against southpaws. 

In addition to Baltimore winning the game, I also like the under. Orioles are 18-11-1 to the under on the season. Under is 8-3 in Orioles last 11 road games. Under is 6-2-1 in Mariners last 9 home games. Under is 4-0 in the last 4 meetings.

8* play on UNDER. 

BREWERS @ PHILLIES BOOKIE BOMBER

The Philadelphia Phillies won the opener of this series 4-3 on Monday. Game 2 looks like another low-scoring affair. 

Milwaukee left-hander Eric Lauer (1-0, 0.00 ERA) held the Dodgers to four hits through five scoreless innings in his lone start of the season. Phillies Aaron Nola (2-1, 3.11 ERA) has allowed only 31 hits and owns a 39/5 K/BB ratio over 37 2/3 innings on the season.  

Milwaukee is averaging only 3.98 runs per game and the Phillies 4.00 runs per game. The Brew Crew has a poor .205 AVG against right-handers this season. 

8* play on UNDER. 

ANGELS @ MARINERS TOTAL

The Los Angeles Angels have won four of their last five games, including a 10-5 triumph here at Seattle on Saturday. Mariners' starter Ljay Newsome was chased off the mound after only two innings, so the bullpen could be in rough shape today.  

Seattle's starter for Sunday, Justus Sheffield (1-2, 5.32 ERA) has allowed three runs or more in three of four starts on the season and he has allowed 27 hits and eight walks over 22 innings of work. Sheffield made two starts against the Angels last year, allowing 10 runs on eight hits and eight walks over 7 2/3 frames. 

Angels' right-hander Dylan Bundy (0-2, 4.20 ERA) held Houston to two runs on three hits through six innings of a 4-2 Angels win last time out. Bundyhas a solid 34/8 K /BB ratio over 30 innings. Bundy made three starts against Seattle in 2020 and compiled a 2.21 ERA over 20 1/3 innings. 

In addition to the Angels winning the game, I also like the under as I expect Bundy to completely shut down the M's. 

8* play on UNDER.