PORTUGAL v URUGUAY WORLD CUP MONEYMAKER

Uruguay went through the group stage with a perfect 3-0-0 record, and I think they look like good value to qualify for the quarter-finals by beating Portugal in the round of 16 on Saturday. 

Portugal finished the group stage with one win and a pair of draws, and they're painfully dependent on Cristiano Ronaldo. Uruguay are yet to concede in the tournament and Atletico Madrid centre-backs Diego Godin and Jose Jimenez should be well up for the task of handling CR7. 

It's also worth noting that Cristiano Ronaldo has so far failed to score a single goal for Portugal in the knockout stages of the World Cup and that Uruguay have a pair of world class strikers of their own in Edinson Cavani and Luis Suarez. 

8* play on Uruguay (to qualify)

SUPER EARLY TIGERS @ BLUE JAYS DAYTIME DESTROYER

The Toronto Blue Jays recorded a 3-2 triumph over the Detroit Tigers Friday, and I expect another low-scoring contest here. 

Blue Jays righty Sam Gaviglio (2-2, 3.98 ERA) has compiled a 1.31 ERA in five outings (three starts) covering 20 2/3 innings at home on the season. Detroit southpaw Matt Boyd (4-6, 4.15 ERA) also has better numbers at home, but note that under is 9-1-2 in Blue Jays last 12 home games vs. a left-handed starter.

Under is 12-4 in Tigers last 16 road games and 20-6 in their last 26 after scoring two or fewer runs in their previous game.

8* play on UNDER. 

ARGENTINA / FRANCE WORLD CUP STEAMROLLER

Two footballing heavyweights will clash already in the round of 16 as France and Argentina will be looking to advance into the quarter-finals. Argentina were a in a precarious spot heading into the last game of the group stage and were only saved by a goal from defender Marcos Rojo in the 86th minute to beat Nigeria. There are rumors that the players are not happy with head coach Jorge Sampaoli, and looking at how they've been playing I don't doubt it. 

France meanwhile finished the group stage with a pair of wins and a draw, although it's fair to say they're still to hit top-gear. They've been looking solid on defense though and conceded just five shots on target in their three group games. France have a young, hungry and energetic team, while Argentina are known to choke when it really matters. Good value on France to win. 

8* play on France. 

MLB 3-PACK

The St. Louis Cardinals will welcome National League East leaders Atlanta Braves for a three-game series at Busch Stadium starting Friday. 

Cardinals right-hander Miles Mikolas (8-2, 2.69 ERA) held NL Central leaders Milwaukee to only three hits and two runs in a 6 2/3-inning effort his last time out. He has faced Atlanta just once in his career, throwing two shutout innings in relief six years ago when he pitched for the Padres.

Atlanta counters with right-hander Julio Teheran (5-5, 4.52 ERA) who was knocked around for seven runs on six hits in 4 2/3 innings of a 7-5 loss to Baltimore his last time out to fall to 1-4 with a 6.06 ERA in his past six outings. He has made five career starts against the Cardinals, going 1-3 with a 3.86 ERA.

Cardinals are 7-3 in Mikolas' last 10 starts and they've won five of the last six meetings with the Braves. 

8* play on St. Louis Cardinals. 

MLB 3-PACK

This play is based on an undisclosed totals system which has generated an ROI of 17% so far in 2018. 

In addition we can note that the Rays were shut out in a 1-0 loss in the opener of this four-game series on Thursday. Here they'll face Gerrit Cole (9-1, 2.56 ERA) who has delivered his best work on the road this season, posting a 2.21 ERA in eight starts away from home. The Rays turn to Wilmer Font (1-3, 6.46) who has posted a 1.80 ERA in four June starts. Under is 19-6-1 in Rays last 26 after scoring two runs or fewer in their previous game and 15-4-1 in the last 20 matchups with the Astros at Tropicana Field. 

8* play on UNDER. 

MLB 3-PACK

The Tampa Bay Rays were shut out in a 1-0 loss in the opener of this four-game series on Thursday. Here they'll face Gerrit Cole (9-1, 2.56 ERA) who has delivered his best work on the road this season, posting a 2.21 ERA in eight starts away from home. The Rays turn to Wilmer Font (1-3, 6.46) who has posted a 1.80 ERA in four June starts. Under is 19-6-1 in Rays last 26 after scoring two runs or fewer in their previous game and 15-4-1 in the last 20 matchups with the Astros at Tropicana Field. 

Astros are 13-3 in their last 16 when their opponent allows two runs or fewer in their previous game and 14-2 in Cole's last 16 starts.

8* play on Houston Astros.

TWINS @ CUBS BASE BRAWLER *TOP PLAY*

The Chicago Cubs are coming off an 11-5 triumph over the Dodgers in LA, but they still dropped six of eight during their road trip. Here they'll host a Minnesota Twins team which has had time to settle in here at Chicago with a three-game series against the White Sox, and I'm giving the visitors the edge in this matchup. 

Twins right-hander Jose Berrios (8-5, 3.15 ERA) has not lost since May 27, and he knocked out 12 through seven scoreless innings of two-hit ball against the Rangers his last time out. Berrios has now allowed two or fewer runs in seven out of his last eight starts. Mike Montgomery (2-2, 3.39 ERA) will take the ball for the Cubs, once filling in for Yu Darvish. Montgomery struggled in his last outing when he allowed four runs over six innings against the Reds.

10* play on Minnesota Twins. 

THURSDAY NIGHT BIG HITTER MLB *TOP PLAY*

The Philadelphia Phillies look like a solid home favorite here as they host the Washington Nationals for the opener of a four-game set. They've won 10 of right-hander Aaron Nola's (9-2, 2.58 ERA) last 12 starts and he's 6-0 with a 1.86 ERA in seven home starts on the season. The Nats counter with right-hander Tanner Roark (3-8, 4.27 ERA), but he has been tagged with 10 runs across just 8 1/3 innings in his last two outings and Washington has lost five of his last six starts. 

10* play on Philadelphia Phillies. 

BELGIUM V ENGLAND BANKROLL BUILDER

Both England and Belgium have impressed in their first two games of the tournament. Both sides guaranteed a spot in the round of 16, which will mean neither side will be scared of losing this game. Instead I think we'll see two sides really going for it as they aim to win the group, and there's no doubt they have plenty of firepower, considering that they've combined for 16 goals so far in the tournament.

8* play on OVER. 

HUMP DAY MLB MONEYLINE *TOP PLAY*

The Chicago White Sox are going for the sweep of this three-game series Wednesday night, but note that they've not won three in a row since April 26-28 against Kansas City. The Twins hand the ball to Kyle Gibson (2-5, 3.25 ERA). They've won each of his last seven starts against the White Sox and he is 6-2 with a 2.42 ERA in 11 career starts against them. The White Sox counter with James Shields (2-9, 4.59 ERA) who is 8-10 with a 4.54 ERA in 26 career starts against the Twins and has given up 10 runs in 12 2/3 innings against them on the season.

Twins are 18-3 in Gibson's last 21 road starts vs. a team with a losing record. White Sox are 8-17 in Shields' last 25 starts vs. a team with a losing record.

10* play on Minnesota Twins. 

MLB 3-PACK

This play is based on an undisclosed totals system which has generated an ROI of 17% so far in 2018. 

In addition we can note that Pittsburgh right-hander Ivan Nova (4-5, 3.98 ERA) is coming off eight scoreless innings against Arizona. He has compiled a 2.82 ERA in four career meetings (three starts) with the Mets. New York righty Zack Wheeler (2-6, 4.85 ERA) has posted a 5.13 ERA in his last 10 starts, but he's coming off back-to-back decent outings with a total of 15 strikeouts and just eight hits allowed through 13 innings.

Under is 12-2 in Mets last 14 home games vs. a team with a losing road record. Under is 29-11-3 in CB Bucknor's last 43 games behind home plate.

8* play on UNDER. 

MLB 3-PACK

This play is based on an undisclosed totals system which has generated an ROI of 17% so far in 2018. 

In addition we can note that Arizona southpaw Robbie Ray (2-0, 4.88 ERA) will make his first start since April 29, when he was sidelined by a strained right oblique. "I feel ready for this," Ray told mlb.com. "I feel like I'm in really good shape. My arm feels good. My oblique is fine. I want to pitch and give us a chance to win." Ray is 1-2 with a 3.06 ERA in three career starts versus Miami who's left-hander Wei-Yin Chen (2-4, 6.70 ERA) boasts a 2.53 ERA in four home starts on the season. Under is 5-2 in Chen's last 7 home starts vs. a team with a winning record. 

Under is 33-13-6 in Dan Bellino's last 52 games behind home plate. 

8* play on UNDER. 

WEDNESDAY WORLD CUP *TOP PLAY* TOTAL

Brazil are tied with Switzerland at the top of the group at four points each with Serbia just one point back. 

Serbia have been on both the winning and losing side of 1-0 games and boast a really solid defense. While they most likely need to win here to make it to the round of 16, don't expect them to come out all guns blazing as they're smart enough to know that Brazil have the pace and skill to punish such an approach. 

Instead I think they'll try and keep a clean sheet and hope to make the most of their size advantage and score off a set piece. 

Brazil have little reason to go on the attack, and while their offensive players steal all the headlines, note that Brazil are unbeaten in their last 13 games all competitions included, conceding just three goals in that run. 

I think we'll see two cautious sides play out a low-scoring game. 

10* play on UNDER. 

MLB 3-PACK

This play is based on an undisclosed totals system which has generated an ROI of 17% so far in 2018. 

In addition we can note that Reds righty Luis Castillo (5-8, 5.70 ERA) allowed two runs in four innings while striking out eight when he took on Atlanta on Aug. 20 last year. Braves right-hander Sean Newcomb (8-2, 2.59 ERA) tossed five scoreless innings in the same game. Newcomb held Baltimore to one run on five hits in seven innings his last time out, the eighth of 15 starts he has conceded one earned run or fewer.

Under is 8-3 in Newcomb's last 11 home starts vs. a team with a losing record.

8* play on UNDER. 

MLB 3-PACK

This play is based on an undisclosed totals system which has generated an ROI of 17% so far in 2018. 

In addition we can note that Cleveland ace Corey Kluber (11-3, 2.10 ERA) is coming off seven scoreless innings of one-run ball against the White Sox. He has allowed two or fewer runs in seven of his last eight starts and under is 9-1-1 in Cardinals last 11 interleague games vs. a right-handed starter. St. Louis righty Carlos Martinez (3-4, 3.24 ERA) has struggled since coming off the DL, but he has usually delivered shutdown efforts in interleague outings boasting a 1.97 ERA in 16 career games. 

Under is 8-1-1 in the last 10 meetings.

8* play on UNDER. 

MLB 3-PACK

This play is based on an undisclosed totals system which has generated an ROI of 17% so far in 2018. 

In addition we can note that Yankees ace Luis Severino (11-2, 2.24 ERA), who has never faced the Phillies, has allowed more than three earned runs in just one of his 16 starts in 2018. Under is 9-2-1 in Severino's last 12 starts overall. Former Cy Young Award winner Jake Arrieta (5-5, 3.42 ERA) will take the ball for the Phillies. He has faced the Yankees eight times in his career and is 3-1 with a 3.83 ERA in those games. 

Under is 20-5-1 in Yankees last 26 overall.

8* play on UNDER. 

MLB 3-PACK

This play is based on an undisclosed totals system which has generated an ROI of 17% so far in 2018. 

In addition we can note that Seattle southpaw James Paxton (6-2, 3.72 ERA) has done his best work in the night and on the road this season and under is 9-2 in Orioles last 11 games vs. a left-handed starter. Baltimore righty Kevin Gausman (3-6, 4.38 ERA) has compiled a solid 3.04 career ERA versus Seattle and under is 9-3 in his last 12 home starts. Guasman has allowed three or fewer runs in three straigth starts and he has a 2.95 ERA in nine nine starts on the season compared to a 7.12 ERA during the day. 

8* play on UNDER. 

WORLD CUP TUESDAY BEATDOWN

Argentina have been the biggest disappointment in the tournament so far, and they're' in a must-win situation here against Nigeria.

Even a win could send them home if Iceland were to beat Croatia, but I at least expect La Albiceleste to do their part. 

So why are they in this situation? Missed penalties and goalkeeper errors have certainly played a part, and it's about time for Argentina to get some "luck". 

Lionel Messi has failed to score with his last 22 shots in matches at World Cup finals, but over the last two years he has scored 14 goals in 18 games for Argentina.

Expect Argentina's world class talent to wake up for this contest and take care of business against a Nigeria side which is overrated after its 2-0 win over Iceland. 

8* play on Argentina. 

MLB DAYTIME DESTROYER *TOP PLAY*

The Tampa Bay Rays opened this series with an 11-0 drubbing of the Nationals on Monday, but they're unlikely to have much success at the plate today against Max Scherzer (10-3, 2.09 ERA).

The Washington ace has allowed just a total of six runs through his last three starts and struck out 13 batters while allowing two earned runs in eight innings against the Rays on June 6. For his career against the Rays, Scherzer is 5-2 with a 2.82 ERA. 

The Rays turn to Nathan Eovaldi (1-3, 4.91 ERA) who has been tagged with nine runs in his last two starts alone. He has served up eight home runs in 29 1/3 innings on the season, including four his last time out and we can note that Eovaldi is 2-5 with a 5.30 ERA in 10 career starts against the Nats. 

10* play on Washington Nationals -1.5. 

WORLD CUP BOOKIE BREAKER *TOP PLAY*

France have already punched their ticket into the next round and I would not be surprised to see them opt to rest key players in this contest, particularly Paul Pogba and Blaise Matuidi who were booked in the opening games. 

A draw would ensure France win the group, and a point for the Danes would be enough for them to move on to the next round as well. A draw is pretty likely, but I would be surprised to see a more motivated Denmark side run away with this game against the French reserves. 

10* play on Denmark +0.5. 

MLB 3-PACK

The St. Louis Cardinals beat the Brew Crew 8-2 on Sunday, but note that they had scored just seven runs through the first three games of the series. Here they'll come up against Mike Clevinger (6-2, 3.00 ERA) who is coming off a pair of super solid starts, allowing just two runs with 21 Ks through 14 2/3 innings of work. The Cards turn to spot starter John Gant (1-2, 4.39 ERA) who is 0-2 with a 6.00 ERA in three starts this year. In his last start, Gant lasted 5 1/3 innings on May 25 in Pittsburgh, losing 8-1, and was charged with four hits and three runs.

Indians are 7-1 in their last 8 during game 1 of a series and 23-6 in their last 29 Monday games.

8* play on Cleveland Indians. 

MLB MONEYLINE MASSACRE *TOP PLAY*

The Arizona Diamondbacks lead the National League West with a 44-33 record, have won four games in a row. They swept the Marlins at Miami in the beginning of June and I think they'll open this series with a win. 

Shelby Miller will take the ball for Arizona for his first major-league appearance since April 23, 2017 (elbow surgery). The right-hander has failed to convince during his minor league rehab, delivering a mediocre 4.66 ERA over four starts for High-A Visalia and Double-A Jackson, but expect him to be fired up for this one and the D'Backs bats to provide him plenty of run support. "I'm super excited to be here," Miller said. "For me, it's a huge accomplishment. Command was the last thing to come back. But I feel it is there now. I wouldn't be here if I didn't feel I was ready to pitch."

Miami counters with Dan Straily (2-3, 4.89 ERA) who was tagged with four runs on four hits with a pair of homers through just 1 1/3 innings at San Francisco before getting ejected his last time out. The Fish have lost each of his last five starts and he has served up a total of five homers in the last three. 

Diamondbacks are 7-1 in their last 8 road games. Marlins are 0-5 in their last 5 home games vs. a team with a winning road record.

10* play on Arizona Diamondbacks. 

MLB 3-PACK

The Seattle Mariners have dropped five of their last six after getting swept in three games in the Bronx and losing two of three at Boston.

Here they'll face a much weaker opponent in the 23-52 Baltimore Orioles, and right-hander Felix Hernandez (6-6, 5.14 ERA) has started to heat up and allowed just one earned run in each of his last two starts. 

Andrew Cashner (2-8, 4.72 ERA) will take the ball for the Orioles. The 31 year old righty threw four shutout innings and allowed just three hits with two strikeouts Wednesday in a no-decision against the Nationals, but note that he posted a 4.23 ERA in five starts against Seattle last season. 

Mariners are 6-2 in their last 8 road games vs. a team with a home winning % of less than .400 and 21-6 in Hernandez's last 27 road starts vs. a team with a losing record. Orioles are 1-11 in their last 12 home games and 1-6 in Cashner's last 7 home starts.

8* play on Seattle Mariners. 

IRAN/PORTUGAL TOTAL

Portugal are joint top of the group with Spain at four points a piece, but Iran are lurking just one point behind. The Iranians will throw everything they got forward here to try and win the game and overtake Portugal, and the Portuguese defense has been far from convincing. Cristiano Ronaldo meanwhile will love the space left behind the Iranian defense as they push forward, and I think this will be a high-scoring affair. 

8* play on OVER.

WORLD CUP GROUP A *NO-BRAINER* (ROUND 3)

Neither Egypt or Saudi Arabia will make it through to the round of 16, so one might wonder about their motivation for this contest. I think Egypt have been way more competitive than the Saudis though, and we should be able to expect a big performance from the more talented team here. They will have the best player on the pitch in Liverpool star Mohamed Salah. 

"This is an important match because we want to win and finish with a good result. We have prepared for it well and we want to represent the Egyptian people and make them happy with a victory." Egypt boss Hector Cuper said leading up the game. 

Saudi Arabia are now winless in their last 12 World Cup matches (W0, D2, L10) and are yet to score here in Russia. 

8* play on Egypt. 

MLB 3-PACK

This play is based on an undisclosed totals system which has generated an ROI of 16% so far in 2018.

In addition we can note that Minnesota right-hander José Berríos (7-5, 3.38 ERA) held the Red Sox to one run and five hits over 6 1/3 innings his last time out. Over his last seven outings, Berrios is 4-1 with a 2.34 ERA. Rangers righty Bartolo Colon (4-4, 4.91 ERA) has been dominant in day games this season, surrendering just eight earned runs through 28 2/3 innings of work for a 2.51 ERA. 

Under is 15-5-2 in Twins last 22 home games vs. a team with a losing record and 6-1 in Berrios' last 7 starts during game 3 of a series.

8* play on UNDER. 

MLB 3-PACK

This play is based on an undisclosed totals system which has generated an ROI of 16% so far in 2018.

In addition we can note that the Royals are just 3-17 this month and had lost nine straight prior to a 1-0 triumph Friday night. They've scored a total of 20 runs through their last 10 games and Houston right-hander Gerrit Cole (8-1, 2.59 ERA) will be a tough nut to crack. KC righty Jason Hammel (2-8, 4.88 ERA) is 2-2 with a 2.85 ERA over nine career appearances (eight starts) against the Astros, including a 1.74 ERA over his last three starts.

Under is 12-3-1 in Hammels last 16 starts overall. Under is 9-2 in Astros last 11 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of less than .400.

8* play on UNDER. 

SUNDAY WORLD CUP BOOKIE BREAKER *TOP PLAY* 

An early red card ruined Colombia's World Cup opener. They were forced to play 87 minutes of their opening match with 10 men following Carlos Sanchez's sending off and took a 2-1 loss to Japan. There's at lot of talent in this team, and James Rodriguez could start this one after coming on as a substitute against Japan. 

Poland fell 2-1 to Senegal in their opening game and leading striker Robert Lewandowski was nowhere to be seen. They've now lost seven of their last nine World Cup games, failing to score in six of those defeats.

Both teams will be desperate for a win here, but I really like Colombia to come through in the end. 

10* play on Colombia. 

GAME OF THE WEEK (MLB)

The New York Yankees have taken back-to-back losses here at Tampa Bay, but they're the only team in baseball yet to lose three games in a row this season and I don't see them losing here in the series finale. 

Domingo German (2-4, 4.77 ERA) will take the ball for the Yankees. He's won two straight decisions, the first with six innings of three-run ball against the Rays followed by seven innings of one-run ball against Seattle. German registered 19 strikeouts vs. just two walks in those two starts. 

Matt Andriese (1-3, 3.68 ERA) will get a spot start for the Rays with originally scheduled starter Blake Snell getting an extra day of rest. Andriese last pitched Monday, allowing three runs in 2 2/3 innings of relief and his longest outing of the year lasted just 3 2/3 frames.

Yankees are 68-32 in their last 100 games after losing the first 2 games of a series and 6-2 in their last 8 Sunday games. Rays are 3-9 in their last 12 Sunday games.

10* MLB Game of the Week: NY Yankees -1.5. 

MLB 3-PACK

This play is based on an undisclosed totals system which has generated an ROI of 16% so far in 2018.

In addition we can note that Boston left-hander Chris Sale (6-4, 2.74 ERA) has compiled a 2.09 ERA in 10 career games (eight starts) against the Mariners while Seattle southpaw Marco Gonzales (7-4, 3.80 ERA) will face Boston for the first time in his career. Under is 7-1 in Gonzales' last 8 starts overall and he had allowed just six runs in 38 1/3 innings in six starts prior to giving up six runs in the Bronx Tuesday night.

Under is 20-6 in Red Sox last 26 Sunday games and 12-5 in the last 17 meetings with the Mariners. 

8* play on UNDER. 

SUNDAY WORLD CUP MONEYMAKER

Both Senegal and Japan won their opening matches, but note that Japan had a numerical advantage for 87 minutes in their opener following an early red card for Colombia. Senegal looked solid at the back until conceding late in their 2-1 win against Poland, and they have a great mix of power and pace. Japan might have beaten Colombia, but from what I saw in the first game I think they'll be too light to handle a full-strength Senegal. 

8* play on Senegal. 

MLB 3-PACK

The Orioles opened this series with a 10-7 triumph, but runs and wins have both been few and far between for Baltimore of late, having lost 11 of its last 14 games. 

Baltimore right-hander Dylan Bundy (5-7, 3.81 ERA) was tagged with four runs on five hits with a pair of homers in six innings his last time out, although it's worth noting he had tossed a combined 15 scoreless innings in his last two starts prior to that. 

Julio Teheran (5-4, 3.97 ERA) takes the ball for Atlanta. He fanned 11 through a six inning no-hitter against the Padres his last time out before getting pulled with a minor cramping issue. The Braves are 7-1 in Teheran’s last eight home starts. 

Under is 10-1 in Orioles last 11 interleague games vs. a team with a winning record. Under is 9-2 in Braves last 11 home games.

Atlanta's bats should be able to do more damage than the O's and enough to win a low-scoring game. 

8* play on Atlanta Braves. 

MLB 3-PACK

The Orioles opened this series with a 10-7 triumph, but runs and wins have both been few and far between for Baltimore of late, having lost 11 of its last 14 games. 

Baltimore right-hander Dylan Bundy (5-7, 3.81 ERA) was tagged with four runs on five hits with a pair of homers in six innings his last time out, although it's worth noting he had tossed a combined 15 scoreless innings in his last two starts prior to that. 

Julio Teheran (5-4, 3.97 ERA) takes the ball for Atlanta. He fanned 11 through a six inning no-hitter against the Padres his last time out before getting pulled with a minor cramping issue. The Braves are 7-1 in Teheran’s last eight home starts. 

Under is 10-1 in Orioles last 11 interleague games vs. a team with a winning record. Under is 9-2 in Braves last 11 home games.

Atlanta's bats should be able to do more damage than the O's and enough to win a low-scoring game. 

8* play on UNDER. 

SATURDAY MONEYLINE MASSACRE TOP PLAY

The Philadelphia Phillies opened this series with a 12-2 romp to make it five wins through their last six games. They're 9-2 in right-hander Aaron Nola's (8-2, 2.55 ERA) last 11 starts, and he has held opponents to one run or fewer in six of his previous eight turns despite getting knocked around his last time out. 

The Nationals have dropped eight of 11 and 25 year old right-hander Erick Fedde (0-2, 5.63 ERA) could be in for a tough game here in his fourth start of the season. Fedde has served up eight homers through 31 1/3 career innings and here he'll face a Phillies team which has scored a total of 42 runs through their last six games. 

Phillies are 7-1 in their last 8 games vs. a right-handed starter.

10* play on Philadelphia Phillies. 

SATURDAY WORLD CUP TOTAL *TOP PLAY*

Reigning world champions Germany are in a "must-win" situation after 1-0 loss to Mexico. We have seen several of the top nations struggle to break down weaker opposition here in the World Cup, and here Germany will face a Sweden side happy to sit deep and try to soak up the pressure in hopes of a 0-0 draw as they already have three points in the bag since beating South Korea. Sweden offer very little going forward though, and their goal against South Korea was their first in 402 minutes of international football. They defend very well though, and only one of Sweden's last 10 games has had more than two goals. 

10* play on UNDER. 

FRIDAY NIGHT MLB MONEYLINE *TOP PLAY*

The Minnesota Twins took a 9-2 beating from Boston Thursday afternoon, but they had already clinched the series by then and I expect them to come back strong here in the opener of a three-game series with Texas Rangers. 

Fernando Romero (3-2, 4.17 ERA) will take the ball for the Twins. The 23 year old right-hander has allowed eight runs through 15 innings here in June with Minnesota winning each of his three starts. He's 2-0 with a 2.91 ERA home at Target Field on the season. 

Mike Minor (4-4, 5.35 ERA) will take the ball for Texas. He's coming off seven solid innings of two-run ball against Colorado home in Arlington, but the left-hander has struggled on the road all season, posting an 8.14 ERA in five starts. Twins are 14-5 in their last 19 home games vs. a left-handed starter.

Texas come into Minnesota with a five-game winning streak, but it ends here. 

10* play on Minnesota Twins. 

MLB 3-PACK

The Milwaukee Brewers really did a number on their NL Central rival Thursday night, and I think they'll come through with a win again here on Friday, but in a much lower scoring game. 

Cardinals right-hander Jack Flaherty (3-2, 2.66 ERA) is having an outstanding year and has allowed only one run with 13 Ks through his last two starts. Under is 7-2-1 in Flaherty's last 10 starts overall, and you just never know how much run support the Cards bats can provide their pitching staff. 

Milwaukee righty Junior Guerra (3-5, 2.89 ERA) was charged with three runs in 5 1/3 innings against Philly his last time out, but is still no doubt enjoying an excellent season. Guerra will carry a respectable 1.16 WHIP and 67/26 K/BB ratio over 71 2/3 innings into this contest and has shut down the Cardinals offense, holding them to only one run through 11 1/3 innings of work on the season.

Under is 20-5-1 in Brewers last 26 home games vs. a team with a winning road record and runs are likely to come at a premium for both sides. However, if one team was to run up the score it's more than likely to be the Brew Crew, just like they did in Thursday's 11-3 triumph. 

8* play on Milwaukee Brewers. 

MLB 3-PACK

The Milwaukee Brewers really did a number on their NL Central rival Thursday night, and I think they'll come through with a win again here on Friday, but in a much lower scoring game. 

Cardinals right-hander Jack Flaherty (3-2, 2.66 ERA) is having an outstanding year and has allowed only one run with 13 Ks through his last two starts. Under is 7-2-1 in Flaherty's last 10 starts overall, and you just never know how much run support the Cards bats can provide their pitching staff. 

Milwaukee righty Junior Guerra (3-5, 2.89 ERA) was charged with three runs in 5 1/3 innings against Philly his last time out, but is still no doubt enjoying an excellent season. Guerra will carry a respectable 1.16 WHIP and 67/26 K/BB ratio over 71 2/3 innings into this contest and has shut down the Cardinals offense, holding them to only one run through 11 1/3 innings of work on the season.

Under is 20-5-1 in Brewers last 26 home games vs. a team with a winning road record and runs are likely to come at a premium for both sides. However, if one team was to run up the score it's more than likely to be the Brew Crew, just like they did in Thursday's 11-3 triumph. 

8* play on UNDER. 

SERBIA / SWITZERLAND *TOTAL THRASHING*

Write up posted shortly. 

8* play on UNDER. 

TOP RATED NIGERIA / ICELAND *BOOKIE BREAKER*

Iceland claimed a 1-1 draw against Argentina in their tournament opener, and they must like their chances of advancing to the next round with a win here. They're extremely well organized but still underrated by the bookmakers for whatever reason. Nigeria took a 2-0 loss to Croatia in their first game and only a victory here would suffice. Perfect set up for Iceland to put the nail in the cofffin. 

10* play in Iceland PK. 

LATE NIGHT MLB *MONEYLINE MASSACRE*

The St. Louis Cardinals have lost six of their last eight games, and I think they're in for a tough matchup here against NL Central rival Milwaukee Brewers. 

Milwaukee left-hander Brent Suter (7-4, 4.30 ERA) is 1-0 with a 3.48 ERA in two starts against St. Louis this season. The Brewers have won five of his last six starts and he limited Philadelphia to one run through seven frames of a 13-2 triumph his last time out. 

St. Louis righty Carlos Martinez (3-3, 2.73 ERA) has had plenty of success against Milwaukee throughout his career. He has however struggled big time since returning from the disabled, posting a 7.11 ERA through three starts and issuing 18 walks in 12 2/3 innings in those outings. 

Brewers are 7-2 in their last 9 home games vs. a team with a winning road record.

8* play on Milwaukee Brewers. 

ARGENTINA / CROATIA *BANKROLL BUILDER*

Argentina need to win if they are to keep qualification in their own hands after being held to a 1-1 draw against Iceland. But Argentina can't just throw everything they have going forward as a loss would guarantee they're going home, and they'll face a tough Croatia side happy to sit back and soak up the pressure as they're in a great spot following a 2-0 triumph over Nigeria.

Croatia boast a star-studded midfield, and it won't be easy for La Albiceleste to get the ball passed it to their strikers. We can also note that Croatia have never lost their second group game at a World Cup, conceding just one goal in four matches. 

8* play on UNDER. 

GAME OF THE MONTH (MLB)

The Minnesota Twins look to complete the sweep of this three-game series Thursday afternoon, but I think a motivated Red Sox team will come out ahead of this contest. Rick Porcello (8-3, 3.70 ERA) gets the start for Boston in the series finale, and he's 2-1 behind a solid 3.60 ERA over his last four starts. The 29 year old right-hander is 4-1 in eight road starts on the season and Boston 26-14 away from home overall. 

Kyle Gibson (2-4, 3.27 ERA) will take the ball for the Twins. He's coming off seven innings of one-run ball at Cleveland, but note that he's 0-4 with a 4.78 ERA in seven home starts on the season. 

Boston has lost the first two games of a series four times this season, and won Game 3 each time for our 100% PERFECT angle. Overall, they're 21-6 in their last 27 during Game 3 of a series.

10* MLB Game of the Month: Boston Red Sox. 

TOP RATED 10* WORLD CUP *BOOKIE BREAKER* (THURSDAY GAME)

Denmark impressed in their 1-0 win over Peru in their first game of the group stage. Here they'll face an Aussie side which fell 2-1 to France in their tournament opener, and they need to go for 3 points here which should benefit Denmark who are very dangerous on the counter. 

10* play on Denmark. 

MLB 3-PACK

The Toronto Blue Jays took an 11-4 beating in front of the home fans Tuesday night. That can't sit right with the Jays, and I expect them to come out fully focused for this contest. 

J.A. Happ (8-3, 3.48 ERA) will take the ball for Toronto. He has not allowed a single earned run through his last two starts, covering 12 innings, and he has the current Braves limied to a .222 AVG over 36 at bats. 

Anibal Sanchez (3-0, 1.93 ERA) will take the ball for Atlanta. He is coming off seven shutout innings against San Diego, but the current Blue Jays are hitting a combined .292 over 130 at bats off him. 

Braves are 3-7 in their last 10 road games. Blue Jays are 6-1 in Happ's last 7 home starts.

8* play on Toronto Blue Jays. 

MLB 3-PACK

The Cincinnati Reds recorded 13 hits in a 9-5 triumph over Detroit on Tuesday. I think we'll see another Reds wins (but way fewer runs scored overall) here Wednesday afternoon. 

Reds' righty Tyler Mahle (5-6, 3.96 ERA) has allowed just two earned runs through his last three starts. The Reds have won his last four starts and Tigers are 1-5 in their last 6 interleague games vs. a right-handed starter. 

Detroit right-hander Michael Fulmer (3-5, 4.13 ERA) has given up one run in each of his last two outings and owns a 1.94 ERA through eight day starts on the season. The Tigers have however lost six of his last eight starts and while Reds might be just 11-23 at home on the season, note that they're a solid 10-3 in their last 13 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of less than .400.

Under is 5-1 in Reds last 6 overall and 12-4-2 in Mahle's last 18 starts overall.

8* play on Cincinnati Reds. 

MLB 3-PACK

The Cincinnati Reds recorded 13 hits in a 9-5 triumph over Detroit on Tuesday. I think we'll see another Reds wins (but way fewer runs scored overall) here Wednesday afternoon. 

Reds' righty Tyler Mahle (5-6, 3.96 ERA) has allowed just two earned runs through his last three starts. The Reds have won his last four starts and Tigers are 1-5 in their last 6 interleague games vs. a right-handed starter. 

Detroit right-hander Michael Fulmer (3-5, 4.13 ERA) has given up one run in each of his last two outings and owns a 1.94 ERA through eight day starts on the season. The Tigers have however lost six of his last eight starts and while Reds might be just 11-23 at home on the season, note that they're a solid 10-3 in their last 13 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of less than .400.

Under is 5-1 in Reds last 6 overall and 12-4-2 in Mahle's last 18 starts overall.

8* play on UNDER. 

WEDNESDAY WORLD CUP *PUNISHER*

Morocco will be desperate for a win here after suffering a 1-0 loss to Iran due to a heartbreaking 95th minute own goal. They have an injury crisis at right-back; Nordin Amrabat is ruled out with concussion and regular right-back Nabil Dirar remains sidelined with a knee injury, something that will play right into the hands of Portugal and Cristiano Ronaldo who is free to roam around up front and exploit weaknesses. 

Portugal managed a 3-3 draw with Spain in their tournament opener after a Ronaldo hat-trick. Watch them take advantage of the space behind Morocco's defense as they push forward, and I would not be surprised to see another hat-trick from Ronaldo here. 

8* play on Portugal. 

AMERICAN LEAGUE TUESDAY NIGHT TOTAL **50% OFF**

This play is based on an undisclosed totals system which has generated an ROI of 14% so far in 2018. 

In addition we can note that Texas left-hander Cole Hamels (3-6, 3.69 ERA) has posted a 3.51 ERA in six career starts against the Royals and has yet to allow a run at Kauffman. Under is 8-1-1 in Hamels' last 10 road starts. Royals right-hander Jason Hammel (2-7, 4.89 ERA) has compiled a 4.07 ERA in nine career appearances (seven starts) against the Rangers but recorded a season-high 10 strikeouts in 5 1/3 scoreless against Texas last month. He has been sharp lately, compiling a 2.56 ERA over his last five outings and under is 5-0-1 in Hammels' last six starts overall.

Under is 19-5-2 in the last 26 meetings at Kauffman. Under is 20-6-1 in umpire Bruce Dreckman's last 27 games behind home plate.

8* play on UNDER. 

TOP RATED MLB *BIG HITTER*

The Toronto Blue Jays have won seven straight home games to improve to 19-19 at Rogers Centre for the season. Left-hander Jaime Garcia (2-5, 5.71 ERA) held Baltimore to one run throughh six frames his last time out in front of the home fans and has allowed only nine earned runs through 27 innings for a solid 3.00 ERA at home on the season.

Garcia is 3-1 with a 3.62 ERA in eight career starts against Atlanta which hands the ball to rookie right-hander Michael Soroka (2-1, 2.57 ERA) who is coming off his best major league outing, six shutout innings of one-hit ball against the Mets.

I think that puts him in a letdown spot here though, particularly as he'll face a confident Blue Jays side which scored 16 runs through a three-game sweep of Washington over the weekend. 

10* play on Toronto Blue Jays. 

MLB *RUNLINE RIPPER*

The New York Yankees own the best record in baseball and have won 14 of their last 18 games. Rookie right-hander Domingo German (1-4, 5.23 ERA) has had a rocky start but got his first major league win under his belt his last time out and I think the Yankees will make sure to come through for him again tonight. Seattle southpaw Marco Gonzales (7-3, 3.42 ERA) has posted a 1.41 ERA in his last six starts, but the Bronx Bombers lineup is stacked and they're 14-3 in their last 17 home games vs. a left-handed starter.

8* play on NY Yankees. 

GAME OF THE WEEK (SOCCER)

We won with Russia when they defeated Saudi Arabia 5-0 in the World Cup opener, but I think they're in for a much tougher game here against Egypt.

To be fair, Russia were not even that good, but Saudi Arabia put up arguably one of the worst performances in World Cup history ...

Egypt will be desperate for a win after coming up just short to Jose Gimenez's 89th-minute winner for Uruguay in their tournament opener. Hopefully they'll have Mohamed Salah back from injury here, as he was left on the bench against Russia despite pre-match claims from boss Hector Cuper that the Liverpool superstar was "almost 100 percent" fit following his shoulder injury. They can't afford to rest Salah here, and I expect Egypt to grind out at least a point. 

10* Soccer Game of the Week: Egypt +0.5. 

WORLD CUP GROUP H *BANKROLL BUILDER*

Poland won two of their last three friendlies leading up to the World Cup and beat Lithuania 4-0 in their last game. Senegal meanwhile may have defeated South Korea 2-0 (thanks to an own goal and a penalty kick) their last time out, but they drew three and lost one prior to that triumph, despite playing teams like Uzbekistan and Luxembourg. 

Poland striker (and captain) Robert Lewandowski was the top scorer in the 2018 European World Cup qualifiers with 16 goals in only 10 games. He'll give the Senegal defenders plenty of trouble, and one goal from Lewa should be enough to win this contest. 

8* play on Poland. 

TOP RATED MLB *BIG HITTER*

The Milwaukee Brewers look like easy money when they open a four-game series at Pittsburgh Monday night.

Pirates righty Trevor Williams (5-4, 4.38 ERA) has logged just a total of 11 innings while giving up 17 runs (12 earned) through his last three starts combined. Pittsburgh has lost four of his last five starts. 

Milwaukee counters with Jhoulys Chacin (6-1, 3.32 ERA). The Brewers have won 10 of his last 11 starts and three of Chacin's last six have been of the scoreless variety. He limited the Pirates to one run in six innings of a no-decision on May 5. 

Brewers took a 10-9 loss to the Phillies on Sunday but are 12-4 in their last 16 games following a loss and 15-5 in their last 20 road games vs. a team with a losing record.

10* play on Milwaukee Brewers. 

MLB 3-PACK

The St. Louis Cardinals ended a season-high four-game slide with a 5-0 triumph over the Cubs Sunday night. I like them to ride the momentum of the victory and red hot Miles Mikolas (7-2, 2.43 ERA) here at Philadelphia Monday night. The right-hander's 2.43 ERA is the best in the Cards rotation and they've won six of his last eight starts. Mikolas has yet to lose on the road this season and the Cards have a winning road record at 16-14. 

Philadelphia righty Nick Pivetta (4-6, 4.25 ERA) has been knocked around plenty lately and has posted an 8.36 ERA in three starts this month. He allowed six runs, eight hits and three walks in five innings of a 7-2 loss to Colorado on Wednesday. 

Still, under is 7-1-1 in Pivetta's last nine home starts vs. a team with a winning record and 10-4-3 in Cardinals last 17 road games vs. a right-handed starter. Let's go with St. Louis to win a low-scoring game. 

8* play on St. Louis Cardinals. 

MLB 3-PACK

The St. Louis Cardinals ended a season-high four-game slide with a 5-0 triumph over the Cubs Sunday night. I like them to ride the momentum of the victory and red hot Miles Mikolas (7-2, 2.43 ERA) here at Philadelphia Monday night. The right-hander's 2.43 ERA is the best in the Cards rotation and they've won six of his last eight starts. Mikolas has yet to lose on the road this season and the Cards have a winning road record at 16-14. 

Philadelphia righty Nick Pivetta (4-6, 4.25 ERA) has been knocked around plenty lately and has posted an 8.36 ERA in three starts this month. He allowed six runs, eight hits and three walks in five innings of a 7-2 loss to Colorado on Wednesday. 

Still, under is 7-1-1 in Pivetta's last nine home starts vs. a team with a winning record and 10-4-3 in Cardinals last 17 road games vs. a right-handed starter. Let's go with St. Louis to win a low-scoring game. 

8* play on UNDER. 

SOUTH KOREA/SWEDEN *CA$H COW*

Sweden scored a total of just three goals in their six friendlies leading up to the World Cup and got shut out in each of their last three. They do not have much firepower without Zlatan Ibrahimovic (retired from international football) and know they have to defend well to stand a chance against any opponent. They do however defend very well and held seven clean sheets in qualification. South Korea finished second on their qualification group with an 11-10 goal differential in 10 games, and were unable to run up the score despite playing some rather weak opponents. Goals should come at a premium here, and we might very well see the first 0-0 game of the tournament.

8* play on UNDER. 

Sunday night bases

The Chicago Cubs are going for the sweep of this three-game series Sunday night. I think we'll see a pitchers duel.

Jose Quintana (6-4, 4.09 ERA) will take the ball for Chicago. Quintana held Milwaukee to two runs on four hits in six innings his last time out and has permitted only four runs in his last three starts. The left-hander is 3-1 in five career starts against the Cardinals with a 2.67 ERA. Jack Flaherty (3-2, 2.96 ERA) will take the ball for the Cards. This will mark his first career start against the Cubs, and he gave up just three hits and a run in 6 1/3 innings against the Padres his last time out.

Under is 24-4-1 in Cardinals last 29 during game 3 of a series.

10* play on UNDER. 

MLB 3-PACK

This play is based on an undisclosed totals system which has generated an ROI of 15% so far in 2018. 

In addition we can note that Red Sox left-hander Eduardo Rodriguez (8-1, 3.64 ERA) has allowed two or fewer earned runs in each of his last five starts. Rodriguez is 1-1 with a 2.55 ERA in three career starts against the Mariners. Under is 17-7-2 in his last 26 road starts and 15-5-1 in Mariners last 21 home games vs. a left-handed starter. Seattle right-hander Mike Leake (7-3, 4.26 ERA) is 0-2 with a 6.56 ERA in four career starts against the Red Sox, but under is 10-2 in Boston's last 12 overall.

8* play on UNDER. 

MLB 3-PACK

Note that Red Sox left-hander Eduardo Rodriguez (8-1, 3.64 ERA) has allowed two or fewer earned runs in each of his last five starts. Rodriguez is 1-1 with a 2.55 ERA in three career starts against the Mariners. Under is 17-7-2 in his last 26 road starts and 15-5-1 in Mariners last 21 home games vs. a left-handed starter. Seattle right-hander Mike Leake (7-3, 4.26 ERA) is 0-2 with a 6.56 ERA in four career starts against the Red Sox, but under is 10-2 in Boston's last 12 overall.

8* play on Boston Red Sox. 

MLB 3-PACK

This play is based on an undisclosed totals system which has generated an ROI of 15% so far in 2018. 

In addition we can note that Angels left-hander Andrew Heaney (3-5, 3.68 ERA) has allowed one or no runs four times in his last eight starts. He has solid career numbers against Oakland, going 2-1 with a 3.79 ERA in three starts.

Under is 4-0-1 in Heaney's last 5 road starts and 5-0-2 in his last 7 starts overall.

8* play on UNDER. 

GAME OF THE WEEK (SOCCER)

 I think we're getting a great price on Serbi here as they open their World Cup campaign against Costa Rica on Sunday. With Switzerland and Brazil also in the group this is a "must win" game for both sides if they want to make it trough to the next round, something that should benefit Serbia and their direct style of football. 

Costa Rica took teams by surprise back in 2014, but opponents will be better prepared for them this time around. We can also note that they lost their last two friendly matches against England and Belgium, while also conceding six goals. 

10* SOCCER Game of the Week: Serbia. 

TOP RATED NL CENTRAL *BASE BRAWLER* (LATE START)

The Chicago Cubs opened this three-game series with a 13-5 rout Friday night, and think they'll get the better of their NL Central opponent again here on Saturday. 

Kyle Hendricks (4-6, 3.48 ERA) will take the ball for the Cubs. They've lost each of his last three starts, despite the right-hander giving up a respectable eight runs during that stretch. He held Pittsburgh to one run in five innings his last time out and has strong career numbers against the Cards (3.32 ERA with a 2-2 record in 10 starts). 

St. Louis counters with Carlos Martinez (3-3, 2.50 ERA) who's had an outstanding start to the season, but the Cards have lost each of his last three starts. Martinez was tagged with five runs on four hits and seven walks in just 3 2/3 innings at Cincinnati his last time out and has now walked 12 over 7 2/3 innings in two starts since returning from a lat strain. He owns a 4.72 ERA in his last three seasons against the Cubs. 

10* play on Chicago Cubs. 

MLB 3-PACK

The Pittsburgh Pirates opened this series with a 3-2 triumph Friday night, and I think they'll make it two in a row here with Ivan Nova on the mound. 

Nova (3-5, 4.68 ERA) struck out eight in 5 2/3 innings, giving up one run and four hits in a 7-1 win over the Cubs in Chicago his last time out. It was his first start since returning from the disabled list (sprained right ring finger). "Just the way that the ball was coming out of my hand, I could tell the difference right away," Nova said. "To be able to pitch a game like (that) ... I think that's kind of a lesson for you. Don't force it."

The Reds turn to Luis Castillo (4-7, 5.79 ERA) who served up a pair of homers in the first inning and was responsible for five of the runs in a 6-4 loss to the Cards his last time out. He did however set a career-high 10 strikeouts. "You saw the talent of Castillo," Cincinnati manager Jim Riggleman said. "The last three innings that he threw were outstanding, and it's exciting to know that this guy has got a chance to be around here for a very long time. He's just going to get better and better once he gets past these growing pains."

Pirates are 6-1 in the last 7 meetings with the Reds here at PNC park and under is 10-2 in Nova's last 12 home starts.

8* play on Pittsburgh Pirates. 

MLB 3-PACK

The Pittsburgh Pirates opened this series with a 3-2 triumph Friday night, and I think they'll make it two in a row here with Ivan Nova on the mound. 

Nova (3-5, 4.68 ERA) struck out eight in 5 2/3 innings, giving up one run and four hits in a 7-1 win over the Cubs in Chicago his last time out. It was his first start since returning from the disabled list (sprained right ring finger). "Just the way that the ball was coming out of my hand, I could tell the difference right away," Nova said. "To be able to pitch a game like (that) ... I think that's kind of a lesson for you. Don't force it."

The Reds turn to Luis Castillo (4-7, 5.79 ERA) who served up a pair of homers in the first inning and was responsible for five of the runs in a 6-4 loss to the Cards his last time out. He did however set a career-high 10 strikeouts. "You saw the talent of Castillo," Cincinnati manager Jim Riggleman said. "The last three innings that he threw were outstanding, and it's exciting to know that this guy has got a chance to be around here for a very long time. He's just going to get better and better once he gets past these growing pains."

Pirates are 6-1 in the last 7 meetings with the Reds here at PNC park and under is 10-2 in Nova's last 12 home starts.

8* play on UNDER. 

TOP RATED WORLD CUP GROUP D *BOOKIE BREAKER*

Nigeria cruised through their qualifying group and was the first African team to book their spot in Russia, but I think they'll come up short here. 

Croatia have a great mix of experience and skill with world-class talent such as Luka Modric and Ivan Rakitic among their ranks. Their weakness is on the defensive end of the pitch, but an extremely solid midfield and dangerous strikers well make up for it. 

We can also note that they own a good record against teams from outside of Europe and South America, having won eight of their last 10 games against such opponents. 

Nigeria have the youngest squad of any team in the competition and I fully expect Croatia to run away with this game. 

10* play on Croatia. 

LATE NIGHT *MIDNIGHT MASSACRE* TOTAL

This play is based on an undisclosed totals system which has generated an ROI of 15% so far in 2018. 

In addition we can note that Mets righty Seth Lugo (2-1, 1.77 ERA) has tossed 10 scoreless innings as a starter and he fanned eight  in six frames against the Yankees his last time out. Arizona right-hander Zack Godley (6-5, 4.97 ERA) held Colorado to two runs over 5 2/3 innings his last start and has posted a solid 2.08 ERA in five career games (four starts) against the Mets. 

Under is 7-1-1 in Mets last 9 overall and 4-1-1 in the last 6 meetings with the D'Backs. 

8* play on UNDER. 

TOP RATED MLB *BIG HITTER*

The streaky LA Angels are carrying a four-game losing streak to Oakland, but they had won six in a row prior to the skid and this looks like a good spot for them to get back to their winning ways. 

Left-hander Tyler Skaggs (5-4, 3.08 ERA) will take the ball for the Halos. He fanned eight through seven innings of one-run ball at Minnesota his last time out to improve to 4-1 behind a 2.66 ERA in seven road starts on the season. Angels are 6-2 in Skaggs' last 8 road starts and the A's are 0-6 in their last 6 games vs. a left-handed starter.

With Trevor Cahill out indefinitely, Oakland will instead turn to Chris Bassitt (0-1, 1.29 ERA) for his second start of the year. Bassitt has posted a bloated 6.10 ERA in 10 games (seven starts) at Nashville (AAA) this year, and here he'll face an Angels roster batting a combined .333 over 24 at bats against him. 

Angels are 5-1 in the last 6 meetings and 5-2 in the last 7 meetings in Oakland.

10* play on LA Angels. 

TOP RATED SPAIN/PORTUGAL *BOOKIE BREAKER*

The preparations could no doubt have been better for Spain after having sacked head coach Julen Lopetegui due to the fact that he was named the new Real Madrid boss only two days before their opening World Cup match with Portugal. 

Fernando Hierro will take over the managerial responsibilities, and I think this will unite the squad and that they'll react in a good way. Hierro is taking over one of the most talented groups anywhere on the planet, and they have a great mix of experience and youth. 

Portugal is a one-man-band with Cristiano Ronaldo carrying the team, and while it's enough to beat poor and mediocre teams, I don't see them being able to hurt a side like Spain.

10* play on Spain. 

IRAN/MOROCCO *MONEYMAKER*

Both Iran and Morocco rely on a solid defense. Morocco conceded just one goal in their eight games in qualifying for the World Cup and the only team not to concede a single goal in the third round of CAF qualifiers (six games). Iran gave up only five goals in their 18 qualifying matches and were unbeaten, winning 12 games and drawing the other six. With this expected to be a low-scoring affair, I think we're getting great value on the draw. 

5* play on DRAW.

WORLD CUP GROUP A *NO BRAINER*

Uruguay are without a doubt the best team in Group A, and I expect them to kick off the tournament with an easy win against Egypt.

Egypt are sweating the fitness of their star man, free-scoring Liverpool striker Mohamed Salah. He sustained a serious shoulder injury in last month’s Champions League final defeat and is doubtful for this contest. 

Uruguay have a tremendous front pairing in Edison Cavani and Luis Suarez, both capable of winning this game on their own and they have an extremely solid center-back duo in captain Diego Godin and Jose Giminez. Uruguay's solid core will be too much for Egypt to handle. 

8* play on Uruguay. 

SUPER EARLY MLB *DAYTIME DESTROYER* TOTAL

This play is based on an undisclosed totals system which has generated an ROI of 15% so far in 2018. 

In addition we can note that Minnesota right-hander Lance Lynn (4-4, 5.08 ERA) has allowed just four earned runs through his last four starts, working at least six innings each game. The first of those outings was 6 2/3 shutout innings against Detroit on May 23. Tigers righty Michael Fulmer (2-5, 4.40 ERA) limited the Twins to one run through 5 2/3 frames the next day and he tossed seven innings of one-run ball against Cleveland his last time out. 

Under is 5-2-1 in Twins last 8 overall. Under is 6-2 in Tigers last 8 overall.

8* play on UNDER. 

GAME OF THE WEEK (MLB)

The Miami Marlins will be looking to complete the sweep of this four-game series Thursday afternoon. They've owned the Giants lately, and I definitely like their chances here with Dan Straily on the mound. 

Straily (2-2, 4.08 ERA) is 4-0 with a stifling 2.43 ERA in five career starts against the Giants and he should be all set for a big outing after going just 3 2/3 innings in a no-decision Saturday against the Padres.

Dereck Rodríguez (1-1, 5.25 ERA) will take the ball for San Francisco for his fourth appearance and third Major League start. The 26 year old has been lit up for nine runs (six earned) on 11 hits and four walks through just six innings on the road. 

Marlins are 6-1 in Straily's last 7 home starts and 7-1 in the last 8 meetings with the Giants. 

10* MLB Game of the Week: Marlins. 

2018 FIFA WORLD CUP OPENER

Make no mistake, this Russia team is not great, or even good, but the home nation is quite "fortunate" to be matched up with one of the absolute weakest sides of the tournament here in the opener of 2018 FIFA World Cup. 

Russia have consistency, experience and home advantage (which should be massive) while Saudi Arabia have an inexperienced squad and have fired two coaches since qualifying for the tournament. They're in their first World Cup since 2006 and are winless in their last 10 games at the World Cup, losing eight of them.

Also, I don't claim to have any inside information, but let's think about it; would Russia's big leader (not the coach) allow his team to lose the tournament opener after all these years of preparation...?

Let's keep the stake down due to the excessive juice though. 

5* play on Russia. 

LATE NIGHT *RUNLINE RIPPER*

The St. Louis Cardinals had won for of five prior to Tuesday's game and right-hander Luke Weaver (3-5, 4.35 ERA) has held the Padres scoreless in two previous career meetings. San Diego southpaw Eric Lauer (2-4, 6.64 ERA) allowed three runs on six hits and seven walks over five innings of a 4-0 loss at Miami his last time out. Lauer served up four homers in 2 1/3 innings of a 9-5 loss to the Cardinals back in May, and we can note that the Cards are 5-1 in their last six home games vs. a left-handed starter.

8* play on St. Louis Cardinals -1.5. 

MLB 3-PACK

This play is based on an undisclosed totals system which has generated an ROI of 15% so far in 2018. 

In addition we can note that Arizona righty Zack Greinke (5-4, 3.53 ERA) has compiled a 1.64 ERA through seven starts covering 44 innings at Chase Field this season. Pittsburgh right-hander Jameson Taillon (3-5, 4.08 ERA) held the Cardinals scoreless through eight frames his last time out on the road and under is 12-3-1 in Taillon's last 16 starts away from home. This will mark his first career meeting against the D-Backs which should work in the pitchers' advantage.  

8* play on UNDER. 

TOP RATED 10* MLB TOTAL

This play is based on an undisclosed totals system which has generated an ROI of 15% so far in 2018. 

In addition we can note that Cubs southpaw Mike Montgomery (2-1, 3.56 ERA) has an awful 6.04 ERA in 28 1/3 career innings against Milwaukee, but he has allowed just two runs covering 17 2/3 innings in his last three starts overall. Brewers righty Jhoulys Chacín (5-1, 3.58 ERA) cruised through three shutout innings before surrendering a run in the fourth and three more in the seventh at Philadelphia Friday. He has done his best work home at Miller Park on the season though, entering this contest with a 2.79 ERA through 29 frames. Under is 8-3 in Chacin's last 11 starts overall and he owns a solid 3.82 ERA in previous meetings with the Cubs.

10* play on UNDER. 

MLB 3-PACK

This play is based on an undisclosed totals system which has generated an ROI of 15% so far in 2018. 

In addition we can note that Mets righty Jacob deGrom (4-1, 1.57 ERA) owns a superb 1.84 ERA in 14 career starts against the Braves and he has limited them to only one run through 18 innings this season. Under is 8-2 in deGrom's last 10 starts vs. Braves. Atlanta right-hander Michael Soroka will return from the disabled list for this contest. He posted a 3.68 ERA and 15:4 K:BB ratio through 14 2/3 frames in his first three big-league starts before landing on the DL about a month ago. Soroka fanned five while holding the Mets to one run through six innings on May 2. 

8* play on UNDER. 

MLB 3-PACK

The Chicago Cubs have won eight of nine meetings on the season following a 7-2 triumph in the series opener Monday night. 

I like the Brewers to turn the tables with a low-scoring win here in Game 2 of the series with right-hander Chase Anderson (4-5, 4.57 ERA) on the mound. 

Anderson has posted a solid 3.33 ERA in nine career starts against the Cubs (2.08 ERA in two starts on the season) and the Brew Crew is 10-4 in Anderson's last 14 home starts.

Tyler Chatwood (3-4, 3.86 ERA) will take the ball for the Cubs. He has conceded six earned runs covering 12 2/3 innings through his last six starts, but it could easily have been way worse as he's allowed 14 hits and 16 free passes during that stretch. 

Chatwood's 53/56 K/BB ratio on the season is just atrocious, and I think Milwaukee will be able to take advantage of the right-handers' lack of command. 

Under is 16-5 in the last 21 meetings. Under is 10-4-1 in Anderson's last 15 starts overall.

8* play on Milwaukee Brewers. 

MLB 3-PACK

The Chicago Cubs have won eight of nine meetings on the season following a 7-2 triumph in the series opener Monday night. 

I like the Brewers to turn the tables with a low-scoring win here in Game 2 of the series with right-hander Chase Anderson (4-5, 4.57 ERA) on the mound. 

Anderson has posted a solid 3.33 ERA in nine career starts against the Cubs (2.08 ERA in two starts on the season) and the Brew Crew is 10-4 in Anderson's last 14 home starts.

Tyler Chatwood (3-4, 3.86 ERA) will take the ball for the Cubs. He has conceded six earned runs covering 12 2/3 innings through his last six starts, but it could easily have been way worse as he's allowed 14 hits and 16 free passes during that stretch. 

Chatwood's 53/56 K/BB ratio on the season is just atrocious, and I think Milwaukee will be able to take advantage of the right-hander's lack of command. 

Under is 16-5 in the last 21 meetings. Under is 10-4-1 in Anderson's last 15 starts overall.

8* play on UNDER. 

TOP RATED MLB *BOOKIE BREAKER* (TOTAL)

The NY Yankees had won four straight prior to a 2-0 loss to the Mets Sunday night. 

Their winning streak was fueled by solid pitching rather than their bats with each of their last six games going under the total. I expect another low-scoring affair when they host the Washington Nationals Tuesday night. 

Yankee southpaw CC Sabathia (3-1, 3.59 ERA) has compiled a 2.25 ERA in previous meetings with the Nats while the Bronx Bombers will see Washington righty Tanner Roark (3-6, 3.56 ERA) for the first time. 

Under is 11-3 in Nationals last 14 overall and 7-1 in their last 8 interleague road games.

10* play on UNDER. 

TOP RATED MLB *BASE BRAWLER*

The first-place Milwaukee Brewers lead the Cubs by a half-game in the National League Central. I think runs will come at a premium here in this divisional showdown. 

Cubs southpaw Jose Quintana (6-4, 4.20 ERA) is coming off a pair of strong outings, and he is 4-1 with a minuscule 0.63 ERA in six career meetings with the Brewers. Junior Guerra (3-4, 2.83 ERA) will take the ball for Milwaukee, and he's been dominant in seven games (four starts) against the Cubs (1.80 ERA). Guerra has posted quality starts in four of his last five outings.

Under is 4-0 in Cubs last 4 overall. Under is 10-2 in Guerra's last 12 home starts vs. a team with a winning record. 

Under is 16-5 in the last 21 meetings and only one of the previous eight meetings on the season saw more than eight runs.

10* play on UNDER. 

GAME OF THE WEEK (MLB)

The New York Yankees are going for the sweep of this Subway Series and deal the reeling Mets a ninth straight defeat when they take Citi Field Sunday night. Odds are the Yankees will come through with a win, but I think it will be of the low-scoring variety. 

Mets' righty Seth Lugo (1-1, 2.04 ERA) will no doubt be looking to make the most of a spot start filling in for Noah Syndergaard, and he threw four shutout innings against the Cubs on May 31 in his only previous start this year. Under is 4-0 in Yankees last 4 games vs. a right-handed starter.

Yankee righty Luis Severino (9-1, 2.20 ERA) is 7-0 with a 1.85 ERA in his last 10 starts andranks fourth in the AL in ERA on the season. The Mets have managed just 11 runs during their eight-game slide, and runs surely won't come easy here against the NYY ace. 

Under is 5-2 in the last 7 meetings. Under is 9-4 in the last 13 meetings at Citi Field.

10* MLB Game of the Week: UNDER. 

MLB 3-PACK

This play is based on an undisclosed totals system which has generated an ROI of 16% so far in 2018. 

In addition we can note that Atlanta southpaw Sean Newcomb (7-1, 2.49 ERA) tossed six scoreless innings of three-hit ball at San Diego his last outing. He has allowed just six runs through his last seven starts and served up only three homers through 68 2/3 innings of work on the season. Dodgers' righty Ross Stripling (4-1, 1.52 ERA) has been pitching lights out lately as well, conceding just two earned runs in his last four starts. 

Under is 11-3 in Braves last 14 games vs. a right-handed starter. Under is 7-1 in Stripling's last 8 home starts.

8* play on UNDER. 

BONUS PICK

The Philadelphia Phillies have had a tough start to the month, losing seven of their first eight games including back-to-back setbacks to the Brew Crew.

I like Milwaukee to keep taking advantage of the reeling Phillies here on Sunday with Brandon Woodruff (2-0, 6.05 ERA) on the mound. Woodruff has bounced between the majors and Triple-A this season, but this looks like a perfect time for him to build some confidence against a Philly side which has scored just 2.8 runs per game over its last eight contests.

Zach Eflin (2-2, 3.74 ERA) will take the ball for the Phillies, and he'll be facing a Brew Crew which has combined for 24 runs and 26 hits in the first two games of the series.

Over is 8-1 in Eflin's last 9 starts vs. a team with a winning record. Over is 20-6-1 in the last 27 meetings in Philadelphia.

8* play on OVER. 

MLB 3-PACK

This play is based on an undisclosed totals system which has generated an ROI of 16% so far in 2018. 

In addition we can note that Seattle southpaw James Paxton (5-1, 2.95 ERA) has allowed two or fewer runs in 10 of his last 12 starts, including a no-hitter at Toronto on May 8. Tampa Bay's Nathan Eovaldi (1-1, 3.27 ERA) has pitched well in his first two starts since returning from Tommy John surgery, and the right-hander boast a 0.75 ERA in two career starts against Seattle. 

Under is 10-3 in Mariners last 13 games vs. a right-handed starter. Under is 8-1-2 in Rays last 11 games vs. a left-handed starter.

8* play on UNDER. 

MLB 3-PACK

This play is based on an undisclosed totals system which has generated an ROI of 16% so far in 2018. 

In addition we can note that Cleveland righty Corey Kluber (9-2, 1.96 ERA) fanned a season-high 13 through eight scoreless innings against the Tigers on April 9. Kluber is 9-7 with a 3.75 ERA in 23 career outings against Detroit. Artie Lewicki (0-1, 3.86 ERA) will take the ball for the Tigers, and he handled the Tribe well on May 16 with four shutout innings out of the bullpen. 

Under is 4-0 in Indians last 4 overall. Under is 6-0 in Tigers last 6 overall.

8* play on UNDER. 

MLB 3-PACK

The Cleveland Indians won the opener of this three-game series 4-1 with a three-run, ninth-inning homer Friday night.

I think we'll see another low-scoring contest here on Saturday with Cleveland righty Mike Clevinger (4-2, 3.36 ERA) opposing Tigers right-hander Mike Fiers (5-3, 4.33).

Clevinger has compiled a 2.28 ERA in six career games (five starts) versus the Tigers while Fiers has posted a 2.22 ERA in five career starts against the Indians.

Under is 10-0 in Clevinger's last 10 Saturday starts. Under is 7-3-1 in Tigers last 11 games vs. a right-handed starter.

8* play on UNDER. 

MLB 3-PACK

This play is based on an undisclosed totals system which has generated an ROI of 16% so far in 2018. 

In addition we can note that Cardinals right-hander Michael Wacha (7-1, 2.41 ERA) has been pitching lights out lately and fanned eight through as many scoreless innings of one-hit ball against Pittsburgh his last time out. Under is 6-1 in Wacha's last 7 starts overall.

Reds righty Luis Castillo (4-6, 5.64 ERA) is coming off a pair of rough outings at Arizona and San Diego, but he has held opponents to two runs or fewer in each of his last four starts here at Great American Ball Park.

Cardinals are 10-0 in the last 10 meetings in Cincinnati. Cardinals are 16-2 in the last 18 meetings overall. My money is on the Cards to win a low-scoring contest. 

8* play on UNDER. 

MLB 3-PACK

This play is based on an undisclosed totals system which has generated an ROI of 16% so far in 2018. 

In addition we can note that Cardinals right-hander Michael Wacha (7-1, 2.41 ERA) has been pitching lights out lately and fanned eight through as many scoreless innings of one-hit ball against Pittsburgh his last time out. Under is 6-1 in Wacha's last 7 starts overall.

Reds righty Luis Castillo (4-6, 5.64 ERA) is coming off a pair of rough outings at Arizona and San Diego, but he has held opponents to two runs or fewer in each of his last four starts here at Great American Ball Park.

Cardinals are 10-0 in the last 10 meetings in Cincinnati. Cardinals are 16-2 in the last 18 meetings overall. My money is on the Cards to win a low-scoring contest. 

8* play on St. Louis Cardinals. 

MLB 3-PACK

This play is based on an undisclosed totals system which has generated an ROI of 15% so far in 2018. 

In addition we can note that Oakland righty Frankie Montas (2-0, 0.64 ERA) has impressed in both starts this season, including seven shutout innings at KC on June 1. Royals right-hander Jacob Junis limited the A's to three runs in 7 1/3 innings of a 5-1 defeat two days later. Under is 10-2 in Athletics last 12 home games. Under is 5-1 in Junis' last 6 starts overall.

8* play on UNDER. 

TOP RATED WARRIORS @ CAVS *BOOKIE BREAKER*

The Golden State Warriors are going for the kill here when they visit the Cleveland Cavaliers in Game 4 of the NBA Finals. They're clearly the superior team, but also know they can't afford to give the Cavs anything for free. "You never know, crazy things that can happen, turn of events in a series that could take place," Golden State forward Draymond Green told reporters. "So you have the opportunity to close out, you want to do that. So you come in, take full advantage of the opportunity in front of us."

Lebron James has carried the Cavs throughout the playoffs, but there's only so much he can do alone against this Warriors team. 

Warriors are 4-1 ATS in the last 5 meetings and has covered three straight in this playoff series after almost losing Game 1. 

10* play on Golden State Warriors. 

5-PACK

The Golden State Warriors are going for the kill here when they visit the Cleveland Cavaliers in Game 4 of the NBA Finals. They're clearly the superior team, but also know they can't afford to give the Cavs anything for free. "You never know, crazy things that can happen, turn of events in a series that could take place," Golden State forward Draymond Green told reporters. "So you have the opportunity to close out, you want to do that. So you come in, take full advantage of the opportunity in front of us."

Lebron James has carried the Cavs throughout the playoffs, but there's only so much he can do alone against this Warriors team. 

Under is 10-3 in Warriors last 13 overall. Under is 11-5 in Cavaliers last 16 home games.

8* play on UNDER. 

MLB 3-PACK

The St. Louis Cardinals had lost eight of 14 before coming through with a 4-1 win against Miami Thursday afternoon. I think they're ready to go on a run, starting with a win at Cincinnati Friday night. 

Cardinals right-hander Luke Weaver (3-5, 4.11 ERA) beat the Reds 5-3 on April 13, when he gave up two runs in six innings. He limited Pittsburgh to one run on four hits over five innings his last time out. 

Reds righty Matt Harvey (1-4, 5.79 ERA) was tagged with five runs (four earned) and six hits over five innings at San Diego on Saturday and he has allowed a total of eight earned runs through his last two starts. 

Cardinals are 7-2 in Weavers last 9 starts vs. a team with a losing record and 14-13 on the road this season. Reds are 14-40 in their last 54 home games vs. a team with a winning road record.

8* play on St. Louis Cardinals. 

MLB 3-PACK

This play is based on an undisclosed totals system which has generated an ROI of 15% so far in 2018. 

In addition we can note that Baltmore righty Andrew Cashner (2-7, 5.02 ERA) threw seven scoreless frames in a no-decision at Toronto on April 10. Cashner is 1-0 with a 1.80 ERA in three career starts against the Blue Jays who's left-hander J.A. Happ (7-3, 4.08) is 5-6 with a 3.33 ERA in 16 career games (15 starts) against the Orioles. Under is 24-5-1 in the last 30 meetings. Under is 13-3 in the last 16 meetings in Toronto.

8* play on UNDER. 

NHL *NO BRAINER*

Do or die for Vegas Golden Knights who opened the Stanley Cup Finals with a 6-4 triumph only to lose the next three. It will be extremely tough to win the series, but I don't see them being eliminated on home ice in Game 5. The luck has not been on Vegas' side in the most recent games and Washington netminder Braden Holtby has been playing out of his mind. I expect Vegas to get its fair share of "luck" in this contest to stay alive in the Stanley Cup Finals for at least another game. 

8* play on Vegas Golden Knights. 

8*

MLB 3-PACK

This play is based on an undisclosed totals system which has generated an ROI of 15% so far in 2018. 

In addition we can note that Pittsburgh right-hander Jameson Taillon (3-4, 3.97 ERA) tossed eight scoreless innings of three-hit ball at St. Louis his last time out. Under is 10-4-1 in Taillon's last 15 starts overall. The Dodgers turn to Dennis Santana (1-0, 12.27 ERA). The 22 year old rookie was roughed up in his major league debut on June 1, allowing five runs through 3 2/3 frames but the nerves should have settled here in his second career start. Still, the value is on Pirates to win a low-scoring contest here against the rookie.

8* play on UNDER. 

MLB 3-PACK

Pittsburgh right-hander Jameson Taillon (3-4, 3.97 ERA) tossed eight scoreless innings of three-hit ball at St. Louis his last time out. Under is 10-4-1 in Taillon's last 15 starts overall. The Dodgers turn to Dennis Santana (1-0, 12.27 ERA). The 22 year old rookie was roughed up in his major league debut on June 1, allowing five runs through 3 2/3 frames but the nerves should have settled here in his second career start. Still, the value is on Pirates to win a low-scoring contest here against the rookie.

8* play on Pittsburgh Pirates. 

GAME OF THE MONTH (NBA)

The Golden State Warriors are just two wins away from their third NBA title in four years after a pair of double-digit wins home in Oakland. 

The Cavs gave GS a scare in Game 1 but still lost by 10 in OT, and the Warriors dominated Game 2 from start to finish to run away with a 122-103 triumph. 

Remember how Cavs defeated Golden State in the 2016 NBA Finals in seven games, coming back from a 3-1 series deficit to avenge their NBA Finals loss from the year before? I'm sure Warriors do, and that's why I expect them to keep pushing the pedal to the metal and not give Cavs any reason to think they can win this series. 

Under is 6-1 in Warriors last 7 road games. Warriors are 7-3 ATS in the last 10 meetings.

10* NBA Game of the Month: Golden State Warriors.

Bonus Play: 8* on UNDER.