MLB BANKROLL BUILDER

The New York Yankees are riding a three-game winning streak during which they've scored a total of eight home runs. They took down the Orioles 7-4 in the series opener here at Camden Yards yesterday, and I like the Yankees to keep rolling here Tuesday night with CC Sabathia on the mound. 

Sabathia (11-5, 3.71 ERA) is 2-0 with a 1.89 ERA in his last three starts and held the Red Sox to one run and four hits in six innings of a 6-2 victory his last time out. The veteran left-hander is a solid 19-10 with a 3.47 ERA in 40 career starts versus the Orioles despite getting knocked around in the last meeting. 

The Orioles hand the ball to Jeremy Hellickson (8-8, 5.15 ERA) who is 2-3 with a 6.55 ERA in six starts since coming over from Philadelphia. He has allowed six runs or more in three of those starts and was charged with seven runs on seven hits and four walks in just 4 2/3 frames in his last start. The right-hander has lost three of his past four decisions.

My selection is an 8* play on NYY. 

MONDAY NIGHT BASE BRAWLER

The Boston Red Sox have dropped three of four against the Yankees in their last series and took a 9-1 beating Sunday night. They're still 3 1/2 games clear at the top of AL East and I think they'll get back on track with a win here in the opener of a three-game series with the Toronto Blue Jays. 

Rick Porcello (9-15, 4.45 ERA) takes the ball for Boston. He's dominated the Blue Jays in two meetings on the season and held them to one run while striking out seven through 6 2/3 innings of a 7-1 victory his last time out. The Red Sox are 8-1 in Porcello's last nine Monday starts and 22-10 in his last 32 home starts.

The Blue Jays turn to left-hander J.A. Happ (6-10, 3.96 ERA) who has held Boston to three runs through 11 innings on the season. We can however note that the Blue Jays are 1-6 in Happ's last seven starts vs. a team with a winning record and they're just 4-12 in their last 16 overall.

The Red Sox will be looking forward to a nine-game homestand after a long road trip. They're 5-1 in their last six home games following a road trip of seven or more days.

My selection is an 8* play on Boston Red Sox. 

SUPER EARLY TOP RATED 10* MLB MASSACRE

The Milwaukee Brewers have won four of their last five and six of their last eight. They're 7-3 in the last 10 meetings with NL Central rival Cincinnati Reds, and I think this looks like a good spot to back Milwaukee Monday afternoon. 

Chase Anderson (8-3, 2.96 ERA) will take the ball for Milwaukee. He's been terrific all season, boasting a 1.10 WHIP through 106 1/3 innings of work. He's 2-1 with a 2.27 ERA in six career starts against the Reds. 

Cincinnati turns to Homer Bailey (4-7, 7.51 ERA). The Reds have lost seven of Bailey's last nine starts and he's 0-5 with a 9.95 ERA in six home starts on the season. Bailey is 6-9 with a 4.89 ERA in 24 career starts against the Brewers.  

The Brewers are 3 1/2 games behind the Cubs who are top of the division and just 1/2 game behind the Rockies for the 2nd wild card spot in the National League. They have plenty to play for while the Reds can't wait for the season to end.

My selection is an 10* play on Milwaukee Brewers. 

SUNDAY NIGHT BASE BRAWLER

The New York Yankees defeated the Boston Red Sox 5-1 on Saturday, but I like Boston to earn a split of the four-game series with a win Sunday night. 

Left-hander Chris Sale (15-6, 2.77 ERA) will take the ball for Boston. He's  0-2 in four starts against the Yankees despite posting a 2.12 ERA and striking out 44 through 29 2/3 innings of work. He's 4-3 with a 1.51 ERA in 14 career appearances (11 starts) against the Yankees and it's about time he gets rewarded for his superb pitching tonight. 

The Yankees hand the ball to Luis Severino (11-6, 3.14 ERA). The right-hander is 1-1 with a 4.42 ERA in three starts against Boston on the season. They reached him for 10 runs in 4 1/3 innings last month and Severino is 1-4 with a 5.05 ERA in seven appearances (six starts) against the Red Sox throughout his career.

The Red Sox are 9-3 in their last 12 games following a loss while the Yankees are 2-5 in their last seven games following a win.

My selection is an 8* play on Boston Red Sox.

MLB MONEYMAKER

The Kansas City Royals have won just two of their last nine games and took a 17-0 beating by the Minnesota Twins on Saturday.

That does not bode well for Royals' right-hander Ian Kennedy (4-10, 5.47 ERA) who has been knocked around in each of his last three starts, allowing a total of 15 runs on 19 hits while serving up six homers through 10 innings of work. Kennedy is 0-2 with a 7.30 ERA in three starts against the Twins this year.

Ervin Santana (14-7, 3.27 ERA) will take the ball for the Twins. They've won five of his last six starts and the right-hander has held each opponent to three earned runs or fewer during that stretch. 

The Twins are 1-8 in Santana's last nine starts against the Royals, but they've won seven of the last nine meetings overall at Target Field. I don't see Kennedy and the Royals outperform Santana and the Twins here. 

My selection is an 8* play on Minnesota Twins.

EARLY TOP RATED 10* MLB RUNLINE RIPPER

The Cleveland Indians have won 10 straight, covering the runline in all but two of those games. I think they'll keep rolling here with Josh Tomlin on the mound. 

Tomlin (7-9, 5.38 ERA) has not had a great year overall, but he's been excellent in his last four starts going 3-0 behind a 2.59 ERA. Tomlin was knocked around by the Tigers about a month ago, but Detrot's bats have been really quiet lately scoring a total of just four runs through the first three games of this series.

The Tigers turn to 28 year old left-hander Chad Bell (0-1, 5.48 ERA) who will make his first career start. He has made 19 appearances out of the bullpen on the season without much success and was charged with three runs (two earned) on five hits and a pair of walks in four innings against the Yankees on Aug 23 his last time out. I don't expect him to go deep into the game, and then the Tigers will be forced to hand the ball over to the worst bullpen in baseball on the season (5.22 ERA). 

The Indians are 14-2 in their last 16 road games. The Tigers are 1-5 in their last six home games. The Indians are 7-1 in the last eight meetings.

My selection is a 10* play on Cleveland Indians -1.5. 

TOP RATED 10* MLB BIG HITTER

We won with the Texas Rangers as a free pick yesterday (ninth free winner in a row) and I like the price we get on the Rangers again here in Game 2 of this three-game series with the LA Angels. 

Ricky Nolasco (6-12, 5.09 ERA) will take the ball for the Halos. The veteran held the Rangers to one run in 4 2/3 frames on Aug 22, but he is 0-2 in three starts against Texas on the season giving up a total of 14 runs on 20 hits through 11 1/3 innings of work. The Angels are 6-16 in Nolasco's last 22 starts.

A.J. Griffin (6-5, 5.26 ERA) will toe the slab for Texas. He held the Halos to three runs on four hits in six innings of an 8-3 win at Anaheim back in April to improve to 4-2 with a 4.26 ERA against them. The Rangers lost 8-3 at Oakland in Griffin's last start but they're 7-3 in the right-hander's last 10 starts following a team loss in his previous start.

This is a great price on the home team. 

My selection is a 10* play on Texas Rangers. 

COLLEGE FOOTBALL TOTAL OF THE DAY

The Marshall Thundering Herd will get the season underway with a matchup against Miami (Ohio) Redhawks on Saturday. The posted total for this game is about as low as you'll see for a college football game, and I think this game will fly over the total. 

The Redhawks are not a very good offensive side, but they have the benefit of returning most starters on the offensive side of the ball. We can also note that they improved vastly with Gus Ragland under center in the second half of last season, winning each of their last six games. Here they'll face a Marshall defense that gave up more than 35 points per game on average.   

Marshall scored just 26.4 points per game on average last season but will return QB Chase Litton, 231-of-371 for 2612 yards and 24 TDs / 9 INTs. He's is gearing up for his third season as the starter and his experience should prove valuable with few returning receivers on the team. 

My selection is an 8* play on Over. 

CFB DAYTIME DOMINATOR

The Troy Trojans will open the season with a matchup against Boise State Broncos at Albertsons Stadium on Saturday. The Trojans finished last season 10-3 and won their bowl game over Ohio university while the Broncos were 10-1 before dropping their last two games, including a 31-12 setback to Baylor in their bowl game. 

The Trojans will welcome back QB Brandon Silvers, RB Jordan Chunn, and almost all their top receivers from last season. Two of three losses last season were by less than a touchdown, and they're 5-1 ATS in their last six games in September and 9-3 ATS in their last 12 road games.

The Broncos will return Brett Rypien under center and he led the #15 passing attack in the nation (298.3 ypg), but he's lost many of his weapons from the previous season. The Smurf Turf is considered a tough place to play, but note that the Broncos are 0-9 ATS in their last nine home games.

My selection is an 8* play on Troy Trojans. 

TOP RATED 10* CFB GAME OF THE WEEK

The Wyoming Cowboys are spotted plenty of points here in the season opener at Iowa, and I think they look good to keep this a closer game than the spread would suggest. 

Wyoming started last season strong, going 7-2 before dropping four of their last five games. They have the benefit of returning Josh Allen under center. He threw for 3,203 yards with 28 touchdowns and 15 interceptions last season. The Hawkeyes on the other hand have lost last season's starting QB C.J. Beathard to San Francisco in the NFL, and they have four guys battling for the starting QB job. Reports suggest that Nathan Stanley will get the job, but he completed just 5-of-9 passes last season in a back-up role. 

Note that Iowa ranked just 95th in scoring offense with 24.9 points per game last season, but it had decent success thanks to its defense. It's hard to cover double-digit spreads with a poor offense though, and I'm confident that taking the points is the way to go in this matchup. 

My CFB Game of the Week is a 10* play on Wyoming Cowboys. 

TOP RATED 10* MLB GAME OF THE WEEK

The Colorado Rockies host the Arizona Diamondbacks in the opener of a three-game series between the divisional foes and current Wild Card owners in the National League. Under is 37-27-2 in the Rcokies home games and 38-26-2 in the D'Backs road games on the season, and I think the posted number for this contest is set way too high. 

The D'Backs hand the ball to Taijuan Walker (7-7, 3.55 ERA). He's allowed just one run through 11 2/3 innings of work in his last two starts combined. The right-hander has posted a 2.41 ERA in three meetings (18 2/3 innings) against Colorado on the season. 

The Rockies turn to Kyle Freeland (11-8, 3.81 ERA) who allowed just one run in six innings when he faced the D'Backs back in April. Under is 12-1 in Freeland's last 13 home starts on the season.

Under is 7-2-1 in the last 10 head-to-head meetings.

My MLB Game of the Week is a 10* play on ARI/COL Under. 

TOP RATED 10* NFLX GAME OF THE YEAR

The Minnesota Vikings trailed San Francisco 14-0 at half time in Week 3 but came back to beat the 49ers 32-31 with a 2-point conversion on the final play of the game here at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis. Just more evidence of how much Minnesota head coach Mike Zimmer cares about these preseason games (2-1, this year, 14-2 all time).

The Miami Dolphins on the other hand are coming off a 38-31 setback at Philadelphia last week to fall to 1-2 in the preseason. They've allowed 69 points and 808 yards through their last two games, and that won't cut it here against a Vikings team looking to keep the momentum going. 

The Vikings have a solid D and Miami must be careful with QB Jay Cutler as they've already lost Ryan Tannehill for the year. 

My NFLX Game of the Year is a 10* play on Minnesota Vikings. 

THURSDAY NIGHT CFB MONEYMAKER

The Indiana Hoosiers will host Ohio State Buckeyes at Memorial Stadium Thursday night. I think the home team is getting way too many points to pass up on. 

The Hoosiers will return QB Richard Lagow under center. He threw for 3,362 yards and 19 TDs last year, but also turned the ball over 17 times. He should do better this season with a more experience under his belt. 

The Buckeyes are still obviously the superior side here. J.T. Barrett (2,555 yards, 24 TDs, 7 INTs last year) returns in the QB position but their leading returning receiver Parris Campbel caught just 13 passes last season. Ohio State won last season's meeting 38-17 as a host, but still failed to cover the 28 point spread and it is now 0-6 ATS last six meetings. I think this will be a tough matchup on the road against an improved Indiana team.

There's no doubt that Indiana University coach Tom Allen will have his team pumped up here. "Biggest home opener in the history of our program," Allen said. "I've know I've said that many times, but it is what it is, That's exactly the situation we find ourselves in."

My selection is an 8* play on Indiana Hoosiers. 

TOP RATED 10* MLB BIG HITTER

This set means so much more to the Arizona Diamondbacks than it does to the Dodgers, and it has definitely shown through the first two games. I'm siding with the more motivated team to complete the sweep of the series Thursday afternoon. 

The D'Backs hand the ball to Zack Greinke (15-6, 3.14 ERA). He's been outstanding home at Chase Field all season, going 12-1 with a 2.36 ERA in 15 starts. The 33 year old right-hander has lost two starts with a 6.17 ERA against the Dodgers on the season, but he limited the them to three runs in 6 1/3 innings in the latest meeting (Aug 9, here at Arizona). 

The Dodgers turn to Kenta Maeda (12-5, 3.76 ERA) who is coming off six innings of one-run ball against Milwaukee. He had however conceded eight runs (seven earned) in 11 1/3 innings in his last two starts prior to that though, and he's struggled with the long-ball lately serving up five homers through his last four outings. He has conceded 11 runs in 14 innings across three starts against Arizona on the season. 

The Dodgers are 1-5 in Maeda's last six road starts vs. a team with a winning record and his ERA on the road this season is 4.61 through 11 starts. 

My selection is a 10* play on Arizona Diamondbacks.

SUPER EARLY METS/REDS DAYTIME DESTROYER

The New York Mets tied this series with a 2-0 win yesterday, and I like them to claim the rubber-match here with their ace on the mound. 

Jacob deGrom (14-7, 3.39 ERA) knocked out 10 while limiting the Nats to one run through 7 2/3 innings of a 4-2 victory his last time out. He will make his second career start against the Reds and held the Reds to one run in six innings in the previous meeting. 

The Reds turn to Robert Stephenson (2-4, 5.81 ERA) who struck out 11 in 5 2/3 innings of a 9-5 win against Pittsburgh his last start. He did however also walk four batters, and Stephenson has a bloated 1.75 WHIP on the season. He's 1-2 with a 5.18 ERA in eigh outings (two starts) home at Great American Ballpark on the season.

The Mets are 8-2 in deGrom's last 10 road starts vs. a team with a losing record. The Reds are 1-4 in Stephenson's last five home starts.

My selection is an 8* play on New York Mets. 

WEDNESDAY NIGHT MLB BASEBALL BONANZA TOTAL

The New York Mets and the Cincinnati Reds combined for 18 runs in the opener of this three-game series yesterday. Over is now 38-21-5 in the Mets' road games this season, and I predict another slug-fest tonight. 

Homer Bailey (4-6, 7.99 ERA) will take the ball for Cincinnati. He's 0-4 with an enormous 12.10 ERA in five starts home at Great American Ballpark this season. Bailey is 1-2 record with a bloated 7.15 ERA in four career starts against the Mets and we can note that over is 5-1 in the Mets last six games vs. a starter with a WHIP greater than 1.30 (Bailey's is 1.97 on the season).

Rafael Montero (2-9, 5.64 ERA) will take the ball for the visitors. He was charged with three earned runs on three hits in 4 1/3 innings during a 5-3 New York victory agains the Reds last season. Montero tossed 5 1/3 innings while allowing three runs on seven hits against Arizona his last start and made a relief appearance Sunday at Washington, surrendering two runs through one-third of an inning.

Over is 8-3-1 in the last 12 meetings overall and 6-2-1 in the last nine meetings in Cincinnati.

My selection is an 8* play on Over. 

TOP RATED 10* MLB DAYTIME DESTROYER TOTAL

Coors Field is widely recognized as THE hitters park in the Major Leagues, but fact is that under is 36-27-2 in the Colorado Rockies' home games this season, much due to inflated totals. I think the posted number for Wednesday's contest with the Detroit Tigers looks way too high considering the matchup on the mound.

Colorado hands the ball to Chad Bettis (0-1, 3.79 ERA) who will make his fourth start since his return from cancer treatment. Bettis was knocked around at Atlanta his last time out but has allowed just three runs through 14 innings of work home at Coors Field on the season. Under is 4-0 in the Tigers' last four road games vs. a right-handed starter and they'll likely to be without Miguel Cabrera for a second straight game

Justin Verlander (9-8, 3.90 ERA) will toe the slab for the visitors. He's been outstanding lately, coming off seven innings of two-run ball with 8 Ks at Chicago White Sox, and he's posted seven quality starts through his last eight outings. Verlander is 2-0 with a 1.99 ERA in three career starts against Colorado and under is 6-1 in the Rockies' last seven interleague games vs. a right-handed starter.

Under is 6-1 in the last seven meetings overall and 5-2-1 in the last eight meetings in at Coors Field.

My selection is a 10* play on Under. 

LATE NIGHT MLB MIDNIGHT MASSACRE

The Los Angels Angels opened this three-game series against the Oakland Athletics with a 3-1 victory. They're perfect 6-0 in their last six during Game 2 of a series and this looks like a good spot to back the Halos. 

Troy Scriber (2-1, 4.00 ERA) will take the ball for Los Angeles. The 26 year old rookie has compiled a solid 0.94 WHIP through five outings (three starts) in the big leagues and fanned six while limiting the Rangers to three runs on three hits and a pair of walks in five innings his last start. 

The A's turn to Chris Smith (0-3, 5.56 ERA) who was reached for five runs (four earned) in 4 1/3 innings of a 7-3 loss at Baltimore his last time out. The 36 year old right-hander has served up 11 homers in 43 2/3 innings of work on the season. The Angels are 11-4 in their last 15 games vs. a starter with a WHIP greater than 1.30 (Smith has a 1.33 WHIP on the year).

The Halos are 8-2 in the last 10 meetings at Anaheim. 

My selection is an 8* play on LA Angels. 

TOP RATED 10* MLB BOOKIE BREAKER

The Tampa Bay Rays put a real beating on the Kansas City Royals in the opener of this three-game series Monday night. I think we'll see a relatively low-scoring contest Tuesday night, at least low-scoring enough to go under the total.

Tampa Bay hands the ball to Alex Cobb (9-8, 3.69 ERA) who is coming off 4 1/3 scoreless innings of four-hit ball against Toronto. He's held three of his last four opponents to one or fewer runs and under is 7-1-1 in Cobb's last nine starts overall.

The Royals turn to Jake Junis (5-2, 4.68 ERA) who struck out seven while holding the Rockies to one run in 5 1/3 frames his last time out. Under is 30-12-1 in the Rays' last 43 games vs. a right-handed starter.

The Royals have been shut out in four straight games, and I don't see them breaking out of the slump anytime soon. 

My selection is a 10* play on Under. 

MLB 3-Pack

The Pittsburgh Pirates are 5-1 at Wrigley Field this season, but I think they'll come up short here in the opener of a three-game series with National League Central-leading Chicago Cubs. 

Trevor Williams (5-6, 4.40 ERA) takes the ball for Pittsburgh. The right-hander is 1-1 with a 5.25 ERA in four career appearances (two starts) against Chicago, all this season. He held the Dodgers scoreless through eight innings his last time out, despite giving up seven hits and four walks. I doubt he'll be quite as lucky tonight. 

The Cubs turn to Mike Montgomery (4-6, 3.43 ERA). The 28 year old left-hander has allowed just seven hits and a pair of walks through 10 1/3 scoreless innings in his last two starts while filling in for Jon Lester in the rotation. This will mark Montgomery's first career start against Pittsburgh, but he has compiled a solid 2.70 ERA in five relief appearances agains the Bucs.

The Cubs dropped two of three against the Phillies over the weekend and lost 6-3 on Sunday. They're 22-7 in their last 29 games following a loss and 5-1 in their last six during Game 1 of a series´while the Pirates are 0-4 in their last four during Game 1 of a series.

My selection is an 8* play on Chicago Cubs. 

TOP RATED 10* BASEBALL BONANZA

The Boston Red Sox's lead over the Yankees in at the top of the AL East has been cut to just 2 1/2 games after four consecutive losses. They need to end the slide ASAP, and I think the Red Sox will come through with a win tonight at a great price. 

Drew Pomeranz (13-4, 3.18 ERA) takes the ball for Boston. The Red Sox have won each of his last four starts and eight of his last 10. He's held seven of those opponents to two runs or fewer and has tossed 8 2/3 scoreless innings of six-hit ball through his last two starts. Pomeranz is 2-0 while allowing just one earned run in 12 2/3 innings of work in two starts against Toronto on the season. 

Marcus Stroman (11-6, 3.17 ERA) will take the ball for the Blue Jays. He is 0-1 with a 4.76 ERA in two starts against Boston on the season and he was tagged with five runs on eight hits with three homers in 5 1/3 innings at Tampa Bay his last time out. The current Red Sox roster is batting a combined .303 over 165 at bats against the right-hander. 

The Red Sox are 6-2 in the last eight meetings.

My selection is a 10* play on Boston Red Sox ML.

MLB 3-Pack

The Washington Nationals are coming off three consecutive overs, and I think this opener of a three-game series with the Miami Marlins have the potential to go over the posted number. 

The Nats hand the ball to Max Scherzer (12-5, 2.25 ERA). He has posted a 3.38 ERA in 13 career starts against the Marlins and has has not pitched since Aug. 13 as he's been bothered by a sore neck. Note that over is 6-1-1 in Scherzer's last eight starts overall and over is 5-2 in the Marlins last seven games vs. a starter with a WHIP less than 1.15.

Jose Urena (12-5, 3.68 ERA) will toe the slab for the Fish. He has posted a 3.93 ERA in the seven appearances against the Nats and he has posted a 4.05 ERA in 13 appearances (10 starts) on the road this season. He's still 8-0 in those games and Miami is averaging a healthy 5.05 runs per game away from home on the season (4.77 rpg overall). 

My selection is an 8* play on Over. 

REDSKINS/BENGALS TOTAL

The Washington Redskins host the Cincinnati Bengals at FedExField in Week 3 of preseason action Sunday afternoon.

The Bengals are coming off a 30-12 loss against Kansas City and didn't score even a single touchdown in the defeat. We can expect to see starting QB Andy Dalton get more time on the field after completing 7-of-13 throws for 98 yards in the loss to KC, but note that the Redskins held the Packers to just 156 passing yards in a 21-17 loss last week. 

Cincinnati has struggled to stop the run and gave up 228 rushing yards against the Chiefs last week, but I don't see Washington pose much of a threat on the ground after accumulating just 101 rushing yards over its first two games. 

This total is too bloated to not take a stab at the under. 

My selection is an 8* play on Under. 

TOP RATED 10* MLB BIG HITTER

The Houston Astros were cruising toward a second straight victory at Anaheim on Saturday before giving up six runs in the 7th+8th inning to lose the game 7-6. I like the Astros to come back and clinch the finale of this three-game series Sunday afternoon.

Charlie Morton (10-6, 3.81 ERA) takes the ball for Houston. He conceded four runs in six innings against the Nats his last time out but held the Halos scoreless through five innings of a 3-0 Astros win back in April. He should get plenty of run-support from an Astros team looking to make up for yesterday's defeat. 

The Angels turn to Ricky Nolasco (6-12, 5.05 ERA) who is 1-1 with a 2.77 ERA in two starts against Houston on the season. He's been solid through his last two starts held Texas to one run in 4 2/3 innings his last time out, but Nolasco is way too inconsistent to be relied on, especially against a quality team like the Astros. 

The Astros are 8-3 in their last 11 road games vs. a team with a winning record while the Angels are 3-6 in their last nine home games vs. a team with a road winning % of greater than .600.

My selection is a 10* play on Houston Astros. 

SUPER EARLY MLB BASE BRAWLER

The Boston Red Sox are top of the AL East despite dropping three in a row, including back-to-back games against Baltimore. They need to end this slide now with the Yankees breathing down their neck, and I think the Red Sox will come through with a win here before heading on a seven-game trip to Toronto and the Bronx. 

Today the Red Sox hand the ball to Doug Fister (3-6, 4.78 ERA) who held the Tribe to just one run on one hit in a complete game at Cleveland his last time out. Fister is 4-2 with a 4.47 ERA in nine career starts against Baltimore and the current Orioles are batting just .227 over 119 at bats against the right-hander. 

The Orioles turn to Wade Miley (7-10, 5.11 ERA). The left-hander has held each of his last five opponents to three runs or fewer, but he's allowed a fair amount of base-runners and he's just 4-6 with a 5.43 ERA on the road this season. 

The Red Sox are 10-3 in their last 13 home games and 5-1 in their last six games after losing the first two games of a series.. The Orioles are 1-7 in their last eight road games vs. a team with a home winning % of greater than .600. The home team is 6-0 in Brian O'Noras last six games behind home plate.

My selection is an 8* play on Boston Red Sox. 

PREMIER LEAGUE "BIG 6" BOOKIE BREAKER

Liverpool will take on Arsenal home at Anfield Road on Sunday in what I percieve to be the two weatest sides of the "Big Six" in the English Premier League. I think we're getting great value on the home team to win this game outright. 

Liverpool have opened the Premier League season with a 3-3 draw at Watford and a 1-0 victory against Crystal Palace. They have a pair of speedy wingers in Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah, and the center midfield of Jordan Henderson, Emre Can and Georginio Wijnaldum should be able to dominate the Gunners at the center of the pitch. 

Arsenal have opened the season with a 4-3 win over Leicester before losing by a single goal at Stoke. I don't like what I've seen from the Gunners so far, they look extremely vulnerable at the back, and Liverpool have the weapons to hurt them. 

Note that Arsenal have lost seven and drawn five of their 12 matches on the road against sides that finished in the top six last season. LIverpool meanwhile finished last season with the strongest record in matchups between the top 6 teams. 

My selection is an 8* play on Liverpool. 

NFLX Saturday *BANKROLL BUILDER*

The Cleveland Browns travel to Tampa Bay to take on the Buccaneers in Week 3 of preseason action Saturday night. The Browns have held the Giants and the Saints to a total of just 20 points through back-to-back victories, but I think they'll come up short here against the Bucs. 

Tampa Bay has split its two games with a 23-12 defeat at Cincinnati followed by a 12-8 win at Jacksonville last Thursday. They have a big rest advantage as the Browns played Monday against the Giants. It's also worth noting that they will play in front of the home town crowd for the first time this season, and they have a solid QB in Jameis Winston who completed 21-of-29 passes for 196 yards in the last game and should get plenty of time on the field here in Week 3. 

The Browns will give rookie quarterback DeShone Kizer the start under center. They must feel pretty good with a 2-0 record in the preseason, but it's a very deceptional record, and it should all change here in Week 3 when each team's starters get more playing time.  

My selection is an 8* play on Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

TOP RATED 10* MLB BIG HITTER

The Texas Rangers have won their fair share of games lately to climb the wild card ladder in the American League. Here they'll take on the only AL West team with no shot at making the postseason, and I really like the Rangers here in Game 2 of a three-game series at Oakland. 

Cole Hamels (9-1, 3.42 ERA) will take the ball for the visitors. The Rangers have won eight of his last 10 starts overall and they're 28-5 in Hamels' last 33 starts vs. a team with a losing record. The left-hander limited the Halos to two runs on three hits in seven innings of a 5-3 win his last time out and he is 2-1 with a 2.94 ERA in five career starts against the A’s. The Athletics are 1-6 in their last seven home games vs. a left-handed starter.

Oakland hands the ball to Sean Manaea (8-8, 4.58 ERA). The A's have lost seven of his last nine starts and he's 0-3 with an 11.37 ERA in four starts this month. The Rangers are 5-1 in their last 6 games vs. a left-handed starter.

My selection is a 10* play on Texas Rangers ML. 

College Football *MONEYMAKER*

The Colorado State Rams and the Oregon State Beavers will get the new college football season underway with a matchup at Colorado State Stadium Saturday afternoon. I really like the Rams to win and cover the spread in the first contest at their brand new stadium. 

The Beavers finished last season with a 4-8 overall record and have a new starting quarterback in Jake Luton. He has very little experience, and will most likely need some time before he's at his best. 

The Rams meanwhile have the advantage of returning several key players, including QB Nick Stevens who threw for more than 1,900 yards last season. They finished the season 7-6 and lost to Idaho in the Potato Bowl, but the team really improved throughout the season and were money against the spread covering seven of the last eight games. The Rams should be even stronger with more experience this year.  

We can also note that the Rams are 14-4-1 ATS in their last 19 non-conference games.

My selection is an 8* play on Colorado State Rams.

Top Rated 10* Premier League *GAME OF THE WEEK*

Both Newcastle United and West Ham United are heading into Week 3 of the English Premier League in search of their first point of the season. 

West Ham fell 4-0 to Manchester United in the season-opener but put up a good fight in last week's 3-2 defeat at Southampton. Javier Hernandez bagged a pair of goals  and got some well deserved rest in this week's cup win against Cheltenham. Newcastle's cup adventure on the other hand is already over after a 3-2 extra time loss to Championship (English second tier) side Nottingham.  

Player by player, this is a huge mismatch in West Ham's advantage, and they're coming off a win while Newcastle's confidence must be completely shattered. Let's go with the Hammers to win at St. James' Park on Saturday. 

My selection is a 10* play on West Ham United (PK, Draw No Bet, +0)

Super Early Premier League Punisher

Manchester City won their first Premier League game of the season 2-0 but are coming off a disappointing 1-1 draw against Everton. I think they'll do better when they visit the still pointless Bournemouth in Saturday's first matchup from the Premier League. 

Man City are 8-2-0 in the previous 10 meetings between the two clubs, and they won both matchups last season by at least two goals (4-0 at home, 2-0 here at Bournemouth). 

We can also note that Bournemouth have yet to score a goal this season while Man City have kept a clean sheet in each of their last seven away Premier League wins.

Man City had 11 wins, 1 draw and 1 loss away to teams outside the top seven in the Premier League under Pep Guardialo last season. This type of games obviously suit Guardiola's style of play very well, and I think Man City will cruise past Bournemouth once again on Saturday.

My play is an 8* selection on Man City -1.5. 

Friday Night NFLX *MONEYMAKER*

The New England Patriots are 0-2 in the preseason, but I think they'll turn up the tempo here at Detroit in Week 3. 

We're likely to see more of Tom Brady and the other starters, and then they're simply a much better team than Matthew Stafford and the Lions who are unbeaten through their two warmup games so far. 

The Lions may have been solid on the defensive side of the ball, but they've not looked all that good offensively averaging 20 points per game. The Pats have scored a total of 47 points despite losing twice, and I think their defense will improve enough this week to make Pats the play. 

My selection is an 8* play on New England Patriots.

Top Rated 10* MLB *BIG HITTER*

The Chicago Cubs saw a five-game winning streak come to an end at Cincinnati last night. They're however 21-6 in their last 27 games following a loss and I think they'll bounce back in a spectacular fashion here in the opener of a three-game series with the Philadelphia Phillies Friday night.

The Cubs are 8-2 in the last 10 meetings overall and hand the ball to Jose Quintana (8-10, 4.27 ERA) who will take on Philly for the first time as a Cub. He's 4-2 with a 3.73 ERA in his first seven starts with the club and won each of his past two starts, holding the Blue Jays to four hits and two runs in six innings his last time out. 

The Phillies turn to Jerad Eickhoff (3-7, 4.46 ERA) who was tagged with four runs on eight hits and a pair of walks in 4 2/3 innings of work his last time out. He surrendered four runs in 5 2/3 innings against the Cubs back in May and we can note that the Cubs are 14-3 in their last 17 road games vs. a right-handed starter.

The Cubs are just three games ahead of Milwaukee at the top of the NL Central while the Phillies have the worst record across the Major Leagues. 

My selection is a 10* play on Chicago Cubs RL.  

Late Night Rangers/Angels Total

Both the Texas Rangers and the LA Angels have been swinging their bats well in the last two games of this series, combining for a total of 23 runs. Looking at the pitching matchup for Thursday I can't see anything but another high-scoring contest. 

The Rangers hand the ball to Martin Perez (8-10, 5.26 ERA). Perez is 1-3 with a 5.47 ERA in four career outings at Anaheim and the current Angels are batting a combined .293 over 133 at bats against the left-hander. Perez was tagged with sux runs on seven hits and three walks his last time out. It's worth noting that the Rangers still won the game 17-7. 

The home team turn to Troy Scribner (2-0, 3.46 ERA) who will replace JC Ramirez in the rotation. The 26 year old was called up for the first time late last month and made four appearances (two starts) and pitched fairly well, but he's posted a very mediocre 4.35 ERA with Salt Lake in the minors. 

I like the umpire angle as well with Over 12-4-1 in Adrian Johnson's last 17 games behind home plate vs. Los Angeles and 8-3-1 in Johnson's last 12 games behind home plate vs. Texas.

My selection is an 8* play on Over 9.5 runs. 

*GAME OF THE WEEK* (MLB)

The Detroit Tigers are mired in a huge slump, winning just three of their last 17 games. They've lost big in the first two games of this series, and I think the new York Yankees will keep it rolling here in the series finale. 

Michael Fulmer (10-11, 3.60 ERA) takes the ball for Detroit. Fulmer is a solid pitcher, but the Tigers have lost each of his last five starts and he was tagged with seven runs (six earned) in six innings of a 7-3 loss in the Bronx at the end of July. The Yankees are 6-2 in their last eight games vs. a right-handed starter and 12-5 in their last 17 games vs. a starter with a WHIP less than 1.15.

Left-hander Jaime Garcia (5-8, 4.52 ERA) will take the ball for the visitors. He's still looking to record his first W as a Yankee, but they've won each of his last two starts. The Tigers are 0-5 in their last five when facing a left-handed starter and the Yankees are 7-1 in the last eight meetings at Comerica Park.

My MLB Game of the Week selection is a 10* play on NYY. 

Late Night MLB *BOOKIE BREAKER*

The St. Louis Cardinals have dropped three straight and six of their last eight following a 12-4 setback against the San Diego Padres last night. They sit 4 1/2 games behind the division-leading Cubs in the NL Central and trail Colorado by five for the second wild-card, so they're still in postseason contention and must be desperate to get out of this rut ASAP. 

I think the Cards look good here with Luke Weaver (1-1, 3.31 ERA) on the mound. The 24 year old will make his sixth appearance and third start of the year and might be a starter for the rest of the year with Adam Wainwright injured. I think the youngster will be ready to make the most of this opportunity.

The Padres hand the ball to Jhoulys Chacin (11-8, 3.98 ERA) who has allowed just two runs in 10 innings through his last two starts. He has however posted a bloated 6.90 ERA in 12 road starts on the season and the right-hander is 0-4 with a 5.81 ERA in five career outings (four starts) against the Cardinals.

The Cards are 6-1 in the last seven meetings and 11-4 in their last 15 home games.

My selection is an 8* play on St. Louis Cardinals. 

MLB *BANKROLL BUILDER*

The Arizona Diamondbacks have won five straight meetings at Citi Field and 10 of the last 11 in the series. I don't see why the D'Backs dominance against the Mets wouldn't continue Wednesday night as the Mets hand the ball to Chris Flexen.

Flexen (2-2, 6.55 ERA) gave up three runs on five hits and four walks in 5 1/3 innings of a 3-1 loss against Miami his last time out. The 23 year old rookie has walked 16 batters through just 22 innings and has an enourmous WHIP of 2.00.

The D'Backs turn to Zack Godley (5-6, 3.13 ERA). He has allowed two runs or fewer in 10 of 18 starts on the season, and he's 1-0 with a 1.80 ERA in three career appearances (two starts) against the Mets. Godley has been at his best on the road and during the night this season, so I expect a good performance from the right-hander at Citi Field tonight. 

The D'Backs won last night's contest 7-2, and we can note that the Mets are 3-13 in their last 16 when their opponent scores five runs or more in their previous game.

My selection is an 8* play on the Arizona Diamondbacks. 

MLB *DAYTIME DESTROYER*

The San Francisco Giants have dominated the Milwaukee Brewers in recent meetings at AT&T Park, and this looks like a good spot to go against the Brew Crew who hand the ball to Matt Garza. 

Garza (6-7, 4.81 ERA) was knocked around for nine runs (seven earned) on nine hits with three homers in an 8-4 loss at Coors Field his last time out, and he is now 1-5 with a 6.38 ERA in eight starts on the road on the season. The current Giants are batting a combined .365 over 63 at bats against Garza, spread out over six hitters with Nick Hundley leading the pack going 7-for-14. 

The Giants turn to Matt Moore (4-12, 5.54 ERA) who has allowed just a total of four runs on nine hits through 14 1/3 frames in his last two starts combined. Moore has posted a 3.93 ERA in nine day starts which can be compared to a 6.55 ERA in night games, and I think he'll do well here in his first career start against the Brewers. 

The Brewers are 3-13 in their last 16 road games vs. a team with a losing record. The Giants are 5-1 in their last six home games vs. a team with a winning record.

My selection is an 8* play on San Francisco Giants. 

Top Rated 10* MLB *RUNLINE RIPPER*

This looks like a great spot to back the Chicago Cubs as they travel to Cincinnati to take on the Reds in the opener of a three-game series. They've had a day off since completing a three-game sweep of the Jays home at Wrigley over the weekend and are 8-2 in their last 10 games following an off day and 11-0 in their last 11 road games vs. a right-handed starter.

Here they'll face Homer Bailey (4-6, 8.44 ERA) who they knocked around for six runs in 5 2/3 innings home at Wrigley on August 16. I doubt he'll handle the Cubs much better home at Great American Ball Park where he's 0-4 with a 14.33 ERA(!) in four starts on the season. 

The Cubs turn to John Lackey (10-9, 4.67 ERA) who limited the Reds to one run on four hits when pitching opposite Bailey earlier this month. The Cubs have won each of his last seven starts, and the Cubs are 15-5 in the last 20 meetings in Cincinnati.

My selection is an 8* play on Chicago Cubs RL. 

MLB *MONEYMAKER*

This is a big series for the New York Yankees who fell to 4.5 games behind the Red Sox in the division after dropping two of three at Fenway Park over the weekend. They still gold the lead in the tight AL wild card race, but there are several teams chasing.

The Yankees 4-0 in their last four vs. a team with a losing record and I think they'll open this three-game series at Detroit with a much needed victory. 

Left-hander Matthew Boyd (5-6, 5.70 ERA) will take the ball for Detroit. He has faced the Yankees once in his career, and that was last year when he surrendered four runs and six hits over 6 1/3 innings. Boyd came out of the bullpen in Detroit's 8-5 loss against the Dodgers on Friday and allowed a run in 1 1/3 innings. He had allowed 10 runs (nine earned) on 15 hits and four walks in his last two starts prior to that outing. 

The Yankees turn to right-hander Masahiro Tanaka (8-10, 4.92 ERA) who is 0-3 with a 4.56 ERA in four career starts against the Tigers, but he held them to one earned run in six innings earlier this month. Note that the Yankees are 10-2 in Tanaka's last 12 road starts vs. a team with a losing record and the Tigers have lsot six of their last seven overall.  

My selection is an 8* play on New York Yankees ML.

Top Rated 10* AL *BOOKIE BREAKER*

The Los Angeles Angels return home from a successful 7-2 road trip, but they're just 1-4 in their last five home games following a road trip of seven or more days and I think they'll run into trouble here against the Texas Rangers. 

Cole Hamels (8-1, 3.48 ERA) takes the ball for the visitors. The 33 year old southpaw is 3-1 with a 2.45 ERA in seven career starts against the Angels, and he's allowed just one run on seven hits in 14 2/3 frames vs. LAA on the season. He has the current Halos roster limited to a combined .217 AVG over 226 at bats. 

The Angels turn to Tyler Skaggs (1-3, 3.63 ERA) who missed his last start as he was placed on the bereavement list. Skaggs is 2-1 despite a somewhat bloated 5.46 ERA in six career starts against Texas, and he's been tagged with six runs on 12 hits in 10 innings on the season. The current Rangers are batting a combined .292 over 72 at bats against the left-hander. 

The Halos are hot, but the Rangers have also played pretty well of late, winning eight of their last 11. The price is right to back the Rangers in this matchup. 

My selection is a 10* play on Texas Rangers ML. 

NFLX *BANKROLL BUILDER*

The Cleveland Browns will host the New York Giants here in Week 2 of the NFL preseason. The Giants fell 20-12 to the Steelers last week while the Browns defeated the Saints 20-14. I'm not quite sure who will win this game, but I'm pretty confident we'll see a tight and low-scoring contest. 

Both teams are short on talent on the offensive side of the ball, and note that the Giants had the second best D in the league last season, allowing an average of just 17.8 points per game. 

The Browns ranked 31st in the league in yards allowed and 30th in points conceded last season, but they've upgraded their defense during the summer. They limited the Saints to 238 yards passing and 82 yards rushing last week, and they should be able to contain the Giants subpar offense (26th in scoring, putting up just 19.4 ppg last season). 

My selection is an 8* play on Under 39.5 points.

MLB Coors Field *CA$H COW*

The Colorado Rockies and the Milwaukee Brewers have split the first two matchups of this three-game series with a total of nine and 12 runs scored in the two contests. Neither game would have gone over the total set for Sunday's series-finale, and I think there's plenty of value on the under here. 

Left-hander Kyle Freeland (11-7, 3.74 ERA) takes the ball for Colorado. The rookie is boasting a 3.31 ERA in 12 starts at Coors Field, with 11 of those games going under the total. Freeland held the Braves to three runs on four hits in six frames his last time out. 

The Brewers turn to Chase Anderson (6-2, 2.89 ERA) who will make his first start since June 28 when he suffered a left oblique strain. Anderson has had an excellent season and limited the Rockies to one run on three hits through six frames in his season-debut on April 6. Under is 5-2 in Anderson's last seven starts overall.

Under is 8-0 in Brewers last 8 vs. a team with a winning record and 9-2 in their last 11 during Game 3 of a series. Under is 19-6-1 in Rockies last 26 vs. a team with a winning record and 4-1 in their last five during Game 3 of a series.

My selection is an 8* play on Under 12.5 runs. 

MLB *MONEYLINE MONEYMAKER*

This looks like a good spot to back the Cincinnati Reds as they hand the ball to their talented right-hander Luis Castillo (2-5, 3.39 ERA). Castillo has compiled a 2.39 ERA through his past four outings, and he's coming off six scoreless innings of two-hit ball at Wrigley. The 24 year old rookie is 2-2 with a solid 2.48 ERA in six starts on the road and the Reds have won three of his last four starts overall. 

The Braves turn to left-hander Sean Newcomb (1-7, 4.45 ERA) who is 0-6 with a 5.02 ERA in seven starts home at SunTrust Park on the season. The Braves are 1-7 in Newcomb's last eight starts overall and I can see him get lit up here as the Reds have averaged almost 10 runs per game through their last three contests. 

My selection is an 8* play on Cincinnati Reds ML. 

Top Rated 10* MLB Total *BOOKIE BREAKER*

The New York Yankees defeated American League East rivals Boston 4-3 on Saturday. Under is now 4-1 in the last five meetings at Fenway Park, and I think the number for the total in Sunday's contest is set way to high considering the pitching matchup. 

Rick Porcello (7-14, 4.59 ERA) takes the ball for the home team. He has compiled a 3.79 ERA in three meetings with the Yankees this season, and the reigning Cy Young Award winner is coming off a pair of solid outings. Under is 9-2 in Porcello's last 11 home starts vs. a team with a winning record, and note Porcello's 2.64 ERA in seven day starts on the season. 

The Yankees reply with Sonny Gray (7-7, 3.37 ERA) who has conceded two or fewer earned runs in each of his last nine starts. Gray is 4-0 with a 2.45 ERA in seven day starts on the season and I expect a solid performance in his first start in this classic rivalry. 

Under is 9-2-1 in the Yankees last 12 road games vs. a team with a winning record.

My selection is a 10* play on Under 9.5 runs. 

*GAME OF THE WEEK* (EPL) Top Rated 10* Selection
Play: Tottenham
Rating: 10/10*

I have predicted that reigning Premier League champions Chelsea will struggle domestically this season, and they sure did in their 3-2 defeat to Burnley home at Stamford Bridge in their season premiere. Injuries and suspensions will put Chelsea in trouble again here in Week 2 as they visit last season's runner up Tottenham, and I really like Spurs in this matchup. 

Tottenham easily dismissed Newcastle 2-0 on the road in their season opener, admittedly helped by a red card for the Magpies, but Spurs looked really good. They have a healthy squad and a decent track record against the Blues. 

I was worried about Tottenham's lack of signings during the off-season, but they have plenty of young talented players that just get better and better. 

My EPL Game of the Week is a 10* play on Tottenham. 

Top Rated 10* MLB *RUNLNE RIPPER*

The Washington Nationals put a 7-1 beating on the San Diego Padres on Friday, and they're now 7-2 in their last nine games. I like the Nats to keep rolling here behind dominant pitching from Stephen Strasburg (10-3, 3.25 ERA). 

Strasburg has been phenomenal all season, and he has an excellent track record against the Padres going 6-1 with a 2.93 ERA in seven career starts. Note that the Padres are 0-4 in their last four games vs. a starter with a WHIP less than 1.15, and I expect Strasburg to be sharp despite making his first start since July 23 after a stint on the DL due to an elbow injury. 

The Friars turn to Travis Wood (1-1, 5.57 ERA). The left-hander has been torched for 12 runs through 15 innings in his last three starts combined, allowing 19 hits, eight walks and four homers. Wodd has been tagged with 12 runs in 19 1/3 career innings against the Nats.  

The Nationals are 5-0 in their last five games vs. a left-handed starter and 14-3 in Strasburg's last 17 road starts vs. a team with a losing record.

My selection is a 10* play on Washington Nationals -1.5. 

MLB *DAYTIME DOMINATOR*

The St. Louis Cardinals are looking the set themselves up for a sweep of this four-game series with the Pittsburgh Pirates after back-to-back wins at PNC Park, despite a late Pittsburgh rally Friday night. 

I like the Cards in Saturday's matchup as well with Michael Wacha (9-5, 3.85 ERA) on the mound. Wacha held the Pirates to one run through 6 2/3 innings back in April, and the Cardinals are 24-9 in Wacha's last 33 starts vs. a team with a losing record.

The Pirates turn to Chad Kuhl (5-8, 4.64 ERA) who is 0-1 with a 4.91 ERA through two starts against St. Louis on the season and the Pirates are now 0-4 in Kuhl's last four starts against the Cards. We can also note that the Pirates are 3-12 in Kuhl's last 15 starts vs. a team with a winning record.

The team with the better pitcher and the better bats is a must-play at this price. 

My selection is an 8* play on St. Louis Cardinals ML. 

MLB 3-Pack

The St. Louis Cardinals are looking the set themselves up for a sweep of this four-game series with the Pittsburgh Pirates after back-to-back wins at PNC Park, despite a late Pittsburgh rally Friday night. 

I like the Cards in Saturday's matchup as well with Michael Wacha (9-5, 3.85 ERA) on the mound. Wacha held the Pirates to one run through 6 2/3 innings back in April, and the Cardinals are 24-9 in Wacha's last 33 starts vs. a team with a losing record.

The Pirates turn to Chad Kuhl (5-8, 4.64 ERA) who is 0-1 with a 4.91 ERA through two starts against St. Louis on the season and the Pirates are now 0-4 in Kuhl's last four starts against the Cards. We can also note that the Pirates are 3-12 in Kuhl's last 15 starts vs. a team with a winning record.

The team with the better pitcher and the better bats is a must-play at this price. The over is 10-1 in the Cardinals last 11 overall, and this should be another high-scoring contest considering how the teams swung their bats in yesterday's 11-10 Cards win. 

My selection is an 8* play on Over 8.5 runs. 

Saturday Premier League *PUNISHER*

I gave out Manchester United as my pick to win the Premier League 2017/2018 in an article last week, and oh boy, did they ever look good in Week 1. Their emphatic 4-0 victory against West Ham was never in doubt, and striker Romelu Lukaku showed exactly why he was the one they brought in to replace Zlatan Ibrahimovic up top by banging in two goals. 

Man Utd have tremendous squad depth this season, and I think Jose Mourinho should expect another knockout win here in their first road game of the season no matter what kind of starting XI he chooses to field. 

Swansea opened the 2017/2018 campaign with a 0-0 draw at Southampton. Not a bad result, but they were completely dominated in regards of both possession and goal attempts. Odds are they won't get so lucky here.

Man Utd won 3-1 here at Liberty Stadium last season, and I predict another easy victory for the visitors in this contest.

My selection is an 8* play on Manchester United -1.5. 

Top Rated 10* MLB *BOOKIE BREAKER*

I think this looks like a good spot to back the Arizona Diamondbacks in the opener of a three-game set with the Minnesota Twins at Target Field. The Twins may have home field advantage, but they're also coming off a physically and mentally demanding double-header with the Tribe. 

Ervin Santana (12-7, 3.28 ERA) takes the ball for Minnesota. Note that his ERA home at Target Field is almost 1.5 runs higher than his ERA on the road this season. The Twins are 2-6 in Santana's last eight home starts and 2-11 in his last 13 home starts vs. a team with a winning record.

The D'Backs turn to Zack Godley (5-5, 2.95 ERA) who has exceeded all expecations here in 2017. Pitching at home or on the road has not mattered to the 27 year old right-hander, and the Diamondbacks are 6-2 in Godleys last eight road starts. No one on the current Twins roster have any experience against Godley which should work to his advantage. 

My selection is a 10* play on Arizona Diamondbacks ML. 

MLB *MONEYMAKER*

The St. Louis Cardinals defeated NL Central foe Pittsburgh Pirates 11-7 in the opener of a four-game series on Thursday. They're 7-1 in their last eight games following a win, and I think the Cards will come through again tonight. 

The Cards hand the ball to Carlos Martinez (9-9, 3.56 ERA). He's been solid all season long and held the Pirates to a pair of runs through seven innings on July 16. 

The Pirates turn to Trevor Williams (5-5, 4.19 ERA) who gave up four runs (three earned) in six innings in Pittsburgh's 7-2 loss at Toronto his last time out. Williams is 1-0 with a 3.50 ERA in four career appearances but the Bucs are 3-8 in Williams' last 11 starts, and I think the Cards will get the better of him today. 

The Cards have played well this month winning nine of their last 12 games while the Pirates have lost five in a row. I also like the umpire angle here with the Cardinals 5-2 in their last seven games with Pat Hoberg behind home plate while the Pirates are 1-5 in their last six with Hoberg behind home plate.

My selection is an 8* play on St. Louis Cardinals. 

MLB *MIDNIGHT MASSACRE*

This looks like a good spot to back the Padres as they open a four-game series with the Washington Nationals. They have the advantage of remaining home in San Diego and coming off a three-game sweep of the Phillies while the Nats will fly across the country from D.C after a nine-game homestand. 

The Padres hand the ball to Jhoulys Chacin (11-8, 4.06 ERA) who is 3-2 in his career against the Nationals with a 3.43 ERA. He's a solid 7-2 behind a minuscule 1.86 ERA in 12 starts home at Petco Park on the season, and he held the Dodgers to just one run in five innings his last time out.

The Nats turn to Edwin Jackson (3-2, 3.86 ERA) who has pitched pretty well since coming over from Baltimore, but he is 0-6 with a 6.63 ERA in his career against the Padres.

The Padres are 8-2 in their last 10 home games and 4-0 in Chacin's last four home starts.

My selection is an 8* play on San Diego Padres ML. 

*GAME OF THE WEEK* (NFLX) Top Rated 10* Selection
Play: Baltimore Ravens
Rating: 10/10*

The Ravens' started their preseason with a dominant 23-3 victory against Washington home at Baltimore last week, and head coach John Harbaugh is now boasting a 25-12 preseason record. 

The Miami Dolphins managed to beat Atlanta 23-20 at home in their preseason opener Thursday night, but had to outscore their opponent 33-0 in the fourth to get the victory. 

The Ravens are 7-0 ATS in their last seven head-to-head meetings and they've covered five straight games at Miami.

It's usually tough for teams to get their offense going in the preseason games, giving teams with the better defense the advantage. In this contest that's definitely the Ravens' (note that they limited the Redskins to 138 yards of total offense in Week 1), and I also like the fact that Harbaugh takes the preseason seriously. 

My selection is a 10* play on Baltimore Ravens +3. 

Top Rated 10* MLB *AFTERNOON ASSASSIN* 

We cashed with the under in Tampa Bay Rays vs. Toronto Blue Jays last night, and I think we'll see another low-scoring contest here in the finale of a four-game series Thursday afternoon. 

Chris Rowley (1-0, 1.69 ERA) takes the ball for Toronto. The 27 year old rookie will make just his second appearance in the major leagues, but he held the Pirates to one run through 5 1/3 frames in his debut, and looking at the Rays' recent scores must instill him with a lot of confidence. Note that Tampa Bay has averaged just two runs per game through their last 12. 

The Rays hand the ball to Chris Archer (8-7, 3.84 ERA) who is without a decision despite posting a solid 2.57 ERA in three outings against the Blue Jays in 2017, again highlighting the Rays' offensive woes. 

Under is 14-6-2 in the Rays' last 22 road games vs. a right-handed starter and 5-0 in the Blue Jays' last five games vs. a right-handed starter.

My selection is a 10* play on Under 9.5 runs. 

MLB 3-Pack

The Houston Astros host the Arizona Diamondbacks for the third of a four-game home-and-home series Wednesday night. The teams split the two contests at Chase Field following Houston's 9-4 victory on Tuesday, and I like the Astros in this matchup. 

Charlie Morton (9-5, 3.83 ERA) takes the ball for Houston. He's 3-1 with a 3.97 ERA in six career starts against Arizona and a solid 6-2 with a 3.65 ERA 11 home starts this season.

The D'Backs turn to Taijuan Walker (6-6, 3.76 ERA). They've lost each of his last six starts overall and Walker was 1-2 with a 4.85 ERA in three starts against Houston last season. 

The Astros are 22-6 in their last 28 vs. National League West while the Diamondbacks are 3-8 in their last 11 vs. American League West.

My selection is an 8* play on Houston Astros ML.

MLB 3-Pack

The Tampa Bay Rays snapped a four-game skid with a 6-4 win against the Blue Jays last night. They've really struggled at the plate lately though, and runs surely won't come easy here against Marcus Stroman. 

Stroman (10-6, 3.00 ERA) is 3-2 with a 1.94 ERA over his past nine starts overall, and 1-0 with a 1.98 ERA in two starts against the Rays this season. The Blue Jays are 7-2 in Stromans last nine home starts and the under is 4-1-1 in Stroman's last six home starts. 

Tampa Bay turns to Jacob Faria (5-3, 3.19 ERA). The 24 year old rookie was tagged with five runs on six hits in six innings against Cleveland his last time out, but under is 6-2 in Faria's last eight starts overall. I don't think Tampa Bay will be able to provide Faria with enough run support here. 

Under is 7-0-2 in umpire Lance Barksdale's last nine games behind home plate vs. Toronto and 21-5-2 in his last 28 games behind home plate vs. Tampa Bay. We can also note that the home team is 13-3 in Barksdale's last 16 games. 

My selection is an 8* play on Toronto Blue Jays ML. 

MLB 3-Pack

The Tampa Bay Rays snapped a four-game skid with a 6-4 win against the Blue Jays last night. They've really struggled at the plate lately though, and runs surely won't come easy here against Marcus Stroman. 

Stroman (10-6, 3.00 ERA) is 3-2 with a 1.94 ERA over his past nine starts overall, and 1-0 with a 1.98 ERA in two starts against the Rays this season. The Blue Jays are 7-2 in Stromans last nine home starts and the under is 4-1-1 in Stroman's last six home starts. 

Tampa Bay turns to Jacob Faria (5-3, 3.19 ERA). The 24 year old rookie was tagged with five runs on six hits in six innings against Cleveland his last time out, but under is 6-2 in Faria's last eight starts overall. I don't think Tampa Bay will be able to provide Faria with enough run support here. 

Under is 7-0-2 in umpire Lance Barksdale's last nine games behind home plate vs. Toronto and 21-5-2 in his last 28 games behind home plate vs. Tampa Bay. We can also note that the home team is 13-3 in Barksdale's last 16 games. 

My selection is an 8* play on Under 8.5 Runs. 

Mike's MLB *AFTERNOON APOCALYPSE*

The Kansas City Royals are hot again and they have plenty to play for still in contention for a Wild Card in the American League. I think they have a clear advantage here in the finale of a three-game series against the Oakland Athletics as they hand the ball to Danny Duffy. 

Oakland is just 3-9 in its last 12 games vs. a left-handed starter and Duffy (7-8, 3.67 ERA) is 3-0 with a 2.84 ERA in seven career appearances (six starts) against the A's. 

Oakland turns to Paul Blackburn (3-1, 3.02 ERA), a 23 year old rookie who will make his ninth start in the Major Leagues. He has struggled home at Oakland Coliseum, and was tagged with four runs on 10 hits and a pair of walks in 5 2/3 frames his last time out.

My selection is an 8* play on Kansas City Royals. 

MLB *CA$H COW*
Play: Cleveland Indians
Rating: 8/10*

Two hot teams from the AL Central will do battle at Target Field Tuesday night when the Minnesota Twins host the Cleveland Indians for the opener of a three-game set. Minnesota has won seven of its last eight while the Tribe have won four straight. The Indians are top of the division, five games ahead of the Twins, and I think they'll get the better of their division rival tonight. 

Danny Salazar (4-5, 4.15 ERA) takes the ball for Cleveland. He's held the Rays and the Yankees to one run each through 12 1/3 innings of work this month, and he's allowed just four runs through four starts since returning from the DL. Salazar beat Minnesota earlier this year while conceding just one run in six innings on April 17. 

The Twins turn to Bartolo Colon (4-9, 6.77 ERA) who started the season at Atlanta. He's coming off seven scoreless innings of five-hit ball at Milwaukee, but had posted a 5.18 ERA through his first four starts with the Twins. Colon is the type of pitcher who can collapse at just about any time, and note that the Indians are 13-3 in their last 16 games vs. a right-handed starter and 10-4 in their last 14 games vs. a starter with a WHIP greater than 1.30.

My selection is an 8* play on Cleveland Indians. 

Top Rated 10* MLB *BIG HITTER*
Play: Miami Marlins
Rating: 10/10*

The Miami Marlins have opened a six-game home stand with four consecutive wins, an 8-3 beatdown of the San Francisco Giants last night included. I like the Fish to come through at a nice price Tuesday night with Dan Straily on the mound. 

Straily (7-8, 3.74 ERA) is 3-3 behind a solid 2.84 ERA home at Marlins Park on the season. He's a perfect 4-0 with a 1.91 ERA in four career starts against San Francisco and held the Giants to one run on four hits in 8 1/3 frames earlier this season.

The Giants turn to Madison Bumgarner (2-5, 2.71 ERA) who has been excellent since coming off the DL, but the Giants very rarely give him enough run support. We can also note that he's 1-3 with a 4.50 ERA in six career starts against the Marlins, and Giancarlo Stanton is 8-for-16 with five doubles and a homer off the southpaw. 

The Marlins are 11-3 in their last 14 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of less than .400 and the Giants are just 20-41 on the road this season. 

Late MLB *NIGHTCRAWLER*
Play: Oakland Athletics
Rating: 8/10*

The Oakland Athletics have won eight of the nine last meetings in this series, and I think their success against the Royals will continue here in the opener of a three-game series Monday night. 

Jharel Cotton (5-9, 5.72 ERA) takes the ball for Oakland. Cotton is 0-1 with an 8.59 ERA through his last three starts, but he knows how to handle KC. The right-hander is 1-0 with a 0.71 ERA in two career starts against the Royals and held them scoreless through seven innings of two-hit ball earlier this season. 

The Royals turn to Jake Junis (4-2, 4.70 ERA), a 24-year-old rookie right-hander who has been called up from the minors for his eighth start and 11th appearance of the season. Junis was terrific when he held the Mariners to one run in eight innings on August 6, but does he have the consistency to put up another performance like that tonight?

I think not, and my selection is an 8* play on Oakland Athletics ML. 

Top Rated 10* AL *GAME OF THE MONTH* Total
Play: Under
Rating: 10/10*

The Tampa Bay Rays have lost seven of their last nine games, and been shut out five times over that span. I think the total looks a bit high when they visit the Toronto Blue Jays for the opener of a four-game series Monday night. 

The Blue Jays hand the ball to Nick Tepesch (0-2, 9.00 ERA). The 28 year old right-hander has not had much success through his previous two starts this season, but looking at the Rays' numbers in recent games should instill some confidence. We can also note that he's 1-0 with a 1.88 ERA in two career games against the Rays and has their current lineup limited to a 1.74 AVG, albeit through just 23 at bats. 

Jake Odorizzi (6-5, 4.38 ERA) will toe the rubber for Tampa Bay. He limited Boston to one earned run through four frames before he was hit on the foot by a line drive and had to leave the game his last outing, and has allowed just five earned runs in 15 innings in his last three starts combined. Odorizzi is is 5-2 with a 3.23 ERA in 14 meetings with Toronto and the current Jays are batting a combined .189 over 222 at bats against the right-hander. 

Under is 19-7-2 in the Rays' last 28 overall and 8-2 in their last 10 during Game 1 of a series.

My AL Total of the Month Selection is on TB/Tor Under. 

Sunday NFLX *BANKROLL BUILDER*
Play: Seattle Seahawks
Rating: 8/10*

This contest will mark the Chargers' first game since moving to L.A. from San Diego. Unfortunately for them I think they'll start the new era with a loss. 

The Seattle Seahawks were a solid 3-1 in the preseason last year and head coach Pete Carroll is a solid 18-10 in the warmup games. The Chargers meanwhile were 1-3 last year and they have a new head coach in former Bills offensive coordinator Anthony Lynn.

Seattle has three competent running backs in Eddie Lacy, Thomas Rawls and C.J. Prosise who all will be looking to impress do lock down the starting spot for the season opener. Pete Carroll has a deep roster to work with, and the Seahawks' defense should do a good enough job shutting down the Chargers' weak second string offense to win this game. 

My selection is an 8* play on Seattle Seahawks. 

MLB *TOTAL OF THE DAY*
Play: Under
Rating: 8/10*

The Chicago Cubs and the Arizona Diamondbacks will close out a three-game series Sunday afternoon I think this looks like a good spot to back the under.

Zack Godley (5-4, 2.94 ERA) will take the ball for Arizona. He's coming off three straight quality starts, allowing just three runs through 19 2/3 frames during that span. That includes six scoreless innings of a 3-0 win at Wrigley Field on August 2. Under is 6-1 in Godley's last seven starts overall. 

The Cubs turn to Jake Arrieta (11-8, 3.83 ERA) who is 3-1 with a 2.20 ERA in five starts since the All-Star break. The right-hander is 2-3 with a 2.95 ERA in six career starts against Arizona and held the D'Backs to two runs (one earned) in seven innings when he pitched opposite Godley earlier this month.

Under is 6-1-1 in Diamondbacks last eight Sunday games, under is 5-2-1 in Cubs last eight Sunday games, under is 14-5-2 in Arrieta's last 21 Sunday starts. One should always be careful when using day of the week trends in handicapping, but I think those numbers are solid enough to suggest that something is up with these teams and low-scoring games at the end of the week. 

My selection is an 8* play on Under. 

Top Rated 10* MLB *BIG HITTER*
Play: Houston Astros
Rating: 10/10*

The Texas Rangers will be looking to complete the sweep of this three-game series when they host the Houston Astros Sunday afternoon. The Astros have lost five on the bounce, and I think they really want this game. 

Left-hander Dallas Keuchel (9-2, 2.87 ERA) takes the ball for the visitors. He's 0-2 with a 10.50 ERA in three starts since coming off the DL, but I think he'll be back to his best today. "This is probably the best three or four days in between (starts) since the first couple of months," Keuchel told MLB.com. "I have no doubt tomorrow's going to be a lot better than the first three." He tossed six shutout innings of three-hit ball in his only start against the Rangers this season.

Texas turns to Andrew Cashner (7-8, 3.36 ERA) who has lost his first three meetings with the Astros this year, surrendering 12 runs on 24 hits through 16 frames. Cashner will make his first start since August 2 as he was scratched from his last start due to neck stiffness. 

My selection is a 10* play on Houston Astros. 

Top Rated 10* MLB *BIG HITTER*
Play: Chicago Cubs
Rating: 10/10*

The reigning World Series champions Chicago Cubs have their work cut out for them if they're to defend the title. First of all they need to make it to the playoffs, which is no guarantee in the highly competitive NL Central division. I like the Cubs to stay focused and defeat the Arizona Diamondbacks Saturday night. 

Jon Lester (8-6, 3.97 ERA) will take the ball for the Cubs. They've won eight of his last 11 starts (five straight on the road), and the left-hander has been solid lately posting quality starts in four of his last five outings overall. He's 2-2 with a 4.94 ERA in five career starts against the D'Backs. 

Arizona turns to another southpaw in Patrick Corbin (8-11, 4.76 ERA). He's been tagged with 14 runs (10 earned) on 17 hits while serving up four homers through his last two starts alone. The D'Backs have lost seven of his last nine starts. 

The Cubs have been on fire on the road lately, and the Diamondbacks are 4-11 in Corbin's last 15 home starts vs. a team with a winning record.

My selection is a 10* play on Chicago Cubs. 

Saturday MLB Total of the Day
Play: Under
Rating: 8/10*

The Cleveland Indians shut on the Tampa Bay Rays in a 5-0 victory on Friday, and both teams' bats have been rather quiet of late. Under is 6-1-1 in the Indians' last eight overall and 8-1 in the Rays' last nine overall.

On Saturday the Tribe hand the ball to Mike Clevinger (5-4, 4.00 ERA) who will make his first start since July 31. Clevinger has been solid in his eight starts on the road this season, going 4-2 behind a 3.10 ERA. Of the current Rays roster, only Evan Longoria and Trevor Plouffe has faced Clevinger in the past, going a combined 0-for-3 with two strikeouts. 

The Rays turn to their ace Chris Archer (8-6, 3.80 ERA) who has the current members of the Tribe limited to a .239 batting average through 142 at bats. Archer has punched out a total of 58 batters through 43 1/3 innings of work in July and August combined this season, and he has posted a 3.32 ERA home at the Trop in 12 starts on the year. 

Each of the last five head-to-head meetings at Tropicana Field have gone under the total. 

My selection is an 8* play on Under. 

MLB *AFTERNOON APOCALYPSE*
Play: NY Yankees
Rating: 8/10*

The New York Yankees have won four of their last six and put an end to the Boston Red Sox's eight-game winning streak with a come-from-behind win Friday night. They're currently 3 1/2 game behind Boston who sits top of the AL East, and I think the Bronx Bombers will close the gap further with another victory Saturday afternoon. 

Luis Severino (9-4, 2.91 ERA) will toe the slab for the Yankees. He's 4-0 with an 0.83 ERA and 67 strikeouts in five starts since the All-Star break. That includes seven solid innings of one-run ball at Boston on July 15.  

Boston turns to Drew Pomeranz (11-4, 3.36 ERA) who has pitched well lately as well, but he was tagged with four runs on six hits in six innings against the Yankees about a month ago. 

Note that Dustin Pedroia (knee) sat out his second straight game last night, and the Red Sox are likely to be without the second baseman today as well.

My early selection for Saturday is an 8* play on New York Yankees. 

Top Rated 10* PREMIER LEAGUE *PUNISHER*
Play: Man City -1.5
Rating: 10/10*

Manchester City are the favorite to win the Premier League title this season according to the oddsmakers. I think they'll be off to a fast start with an easy win against newly promoted Brighton in the season premiere. 

This will be the second season for Pep Guardiola as manager for Man City. He has strengthened an already solid squad with players like Ederson, Kyle Walker and Bernardo Silva, and he has finally been able to assemble "his" squad, rather than one he inherited.

Brighton are back in the Premier League for the first time in 35 years after finishing 2nd in the Championship last season. I think the gap between the two divisions will make itself reminded here, and I don't think Brighton will stand a chance. 

Man City rarely disappoint against the lesser sides in the league, and this should be no exception. 

MLB *CA$H COW*
Play: St.Louis Cardinals
Rating: 8/10*

The St. Louis Cardinals have won six on the bounce and are now just one game back of the division-leading Cubs in the NL Central. I think they'll keep rolling here in the opener of a three-game series with the Atlanta Braves. 

Adam Wainwright (11-5, 5.00 ERA) takes the ball for the Cards. He's 8-3 with a 3.38 ERA in 17 career games (12 starts) against Atlanta and 7-1 with a 3.19 ERA in 10 starts home at Busch Stadium on the season. The Cards have won five of his last six starts overall. 

Atlanta turns to Mike Foltynewicz (10-6, 3.94 ERA) who has pitched really well lately as well. We can however note that the right-handers ERA is almost a full run higher on the road than at home, and he was knocked around for seven runs on nine hits in four innings of a loss to the Cards back in May.

The Cards are 7-2 in the last nine head-to-head meetings and they've averaged nine runs per game during their six-game winning streak. 

My selection is an 8* play on St. Louis Cardinals. 

Top Rated 10* AL *GAME OF THE WEEK*
Play: Houston Astros
Rating: 10/10*

The Houston Astros seek to end a three-game slide when they visit Lone Star State rivals Texas Rangers for the opener of a three-game set Friday night. 

The Astros hand the ball to right-hander Charlie Morton (9-4, 3.78 ERA) who is coming off three consecutive quality starts. He's 8-2 with a 3.35 ERA in 13 night games on the season and I think Morton will be solid tonight. 

The Rangers turn to left-hander Cole Hamels (6-1, 3.59 ERA) who had been charged with 15 runs through 17 1/3 innings in his past three starts prior to holding Minnesota to one run on four hits while going the distance his last time out. 

It will be tough for Hamels to follow up on that monster performance, and note that Houston is 9-2 in its last 11 games vs. a starter with a WHIP less than 1.15 while the Rangers are 0-5 in Hamels' last five starts vs. a team with a winning record.

My selection is a 10* *GAME OF THE WEEK* selection on the Houston Astros ML. 

MLB 3-Pack
Play: St. Louis Cardinals
Rating: 8/10*

The St. Louis Cardinals' bats are red hot and they go for a sixth consecutive win Thursday night. I think they'll give Kansas City right-hander Jason Hammel enough problems in this matchup to complete the sweep of the four-game series. 

Hammel (5-9, 4.73 ERA) has allowed three runs in each of his last three starts, and he's posted a 5.68 ERA and a 4-6 record in previous meetings with the Cards. The current Cardinals roster is batting a combined .282 over 110 at bats against Hammel with Yadier Molina going 10-for-24 with four doubles and a triple.  

Lance Lynn (10-6, 3.12 ERA will take the ball for St. Louis. Lynn has struggled with Royals in the past, but he's entering this contest red hot going 4-0 with a 1.21 ERA through his last six starts overall (Cards 5-1 in those games). We can also note that Lynn is 5-3 with a 2.58 ERA in 10 home starts on the season.   

I also like the perceived umpire advantage for the home team here. The Cardinals are 6-1 in their last 7 games with Marty Foster behind home plate while the Royals 1-4 in their last five games with Foster calling balls and strikes.

My selection is an 8* play on St. Louis Cardinals ML. 

MLB 3-Pack
Play: Cleveland Indians
Rating: 8/10*

The Cleveland Indians have lost three of their last four following a 3-2 loss to Colorado in 12 innings on Wednesday afternoon. I think they'll get back on track at Tampa Bay Thursday night with Danny Salazar on the mound, and I think they'll win big. 

Salazar (4-5, 4.32 ERA) has conceded just three runs on eight hits through 20 innings with 28 Ks through his last three starts. He is 2-1 with a 2.89 ERA in previous meetings with the Rays and 2-0 with a 0.66 ERA in two career starts at Tropicana Field. 

Tampa Bay turns to left-hander Blake Snell (0-6, 4.98 ERA) who has allowed three runs and served up a homer in each of his last three starts. Snell has a bloated 1.58 WHIP on the season and was sent down to the minors earlier this month before getting recalled to take the spot of injured Alex Cobb. 

The Rays are 2-7 in Snell's last nine starts. The Indians are 8-2 in Salazar's last 10 starts vs. a team with a winning record.

My selection is an 8* play on Cleveland Indians RL. 

MLB 3-Pack
Play: New York Yankees
Rating: 8/10*

The New York Yankees opened the month with four straight losses but have now won three of their last four after putting an 11-5 beating on the Toronto Blue Jays Wednesday night. 

Tonight the Yankees hand the ball to Sonny Gray (6-6, 3.41 ERA) who will make his second start for the Pinstripes since coming over from Oakland. Gray was charged with two earned runs through six innings at Cleveland in his Yankees debut, and I predict another solid outing from the 27 year old here. Note that he has the current Blue Jays roster limited to a .233 AVG through 116 at bats. 

The Blue Jays turn to Marco Estrada (4-7, 5.12 ERA) who was tagged with three runs through seven innings at Houston his last start. Estrada has struggled with his control all season, and his 1.42 WHIP does not look good at all.

This edition of the Bronx Bombers have plenty of experience against Estrada, and several hitters have good numbers. Starlin Castro is 15-for-36 with five hits for extra bases and five walks in previous meetings with Estrada. 

I like the Bronx Bombers to win by at least two runs here. 

My selection is an 8* play on New York Yankees RL. 

NFLX *BANKROLL BUILDER*
Play: Minnesota Vikings
Rating: 8/10*

I think this looks like a good spot to back the Minnesota Vikings on the road at Buffalo in their first preseason game. 

The Vikings will most likely put plenty of emphasis on their running game as they need to see where they stand and prepare for life without Adrian Peterson. Latavius Murray who spent the last two seasons with the Raiders is likely to fill the gap, but he has plenty of competition and needs to impress here in the preseason. 

The Buffalo Bills have a new Head Coach in Sean McDermott who had plenty of success as Defensive Coordinator at Carolina between 2011-2016, but it might take him a while to get things right at Buffalo.

The Vikings are 10-1-1 ATS in their last 12 games on turf while the Bills are just 1-4 ATS in their last five games on turf. We can also note that Minnesota Head Coach Mike Zimmer has a 12-1 career preseason record with the Vikings.

My selection is an 8* play on Minnesota Vikings ML. 

Late Night MLB *CA$H COW*
Play: St. Louis Cardinals
Rating: 8/10*

We have won with the St. Louis Cardinals two days in a row, and I think they'll set themselves up for a sweep of this four-game home-and-home series with the Kansas City Royals with another victory Wednesday night. 

Mike Leake (7-10, 3.34 ERA) takes the ball for the Cards. He has allowed just six runs through 18 innings in his last three starts combined. The Cards have still lost five of Leake's last six starts, but he should get plenty of run support tonight. Note that the Cards have scored a total of 34 runs in their last three games. 

The Royals turn to Trevor Cahill (4-3, 4.13 ERA) who has allowed seven runs on 14 hits while serving up four homers in 8 2/3 innings since coming over from the Padres. There are several hitters in in the Cards' lineup with good numbers against the right-hander, among them Dexter Fowler who is 7-for-14 with a double and two triples. 

The Cardinals are 7-2 in their last nine home games overall and 28-13 in their last 41 home games following a road trip of seven or more days.

My selection is an 8* play on St. Louis Cardinals ML. 

MLB *MONEYMAKER*
Play: Cincinnati Reds
Rating: 8/10*

The Cincinnati Reds and the San Diego Padres enter Game 3 of this four-game series tied with one win each. I think the Reds will take command of the set with Asher Wojciechowski on the mound Wednesday night.

Wojciechowski (2-1, 4.15) was moved from the bullpen into the rotation earlier this month and thanked for the vote of confidence with five innings of one-run ball in a 3-2 home win against the Cardinals. Wojciechowski is 2-1 with a 3.12 ERA in seven outings (three starts) home at Great American Ball Park on the season. 

The Padres turn to left-hander Travis Wood (2-3, 6.49 ERA) who will make his third start for the Padres. He was tagged with four runs in five innings at Pittsburgh his last time out he has a career 4.77 ERA at Great American Ball Park.

My selection is an 8* play on Cincinnati Reds ML. 

Early MLB *AFTERNOON APOCALYPSE*
Play: Baltimore Orioles
Rating: 8/10*

We won with the LA Angels on Tuesday night. Part of the reasoning was their desire to end a three-game slide (which they did), but I think the Baltimore Orioles have a clear advantage in Wednesday's matchup. 

The Orioles hand the ball to Kevin Gausman (8-7, 5.15 ERA) who has been solid since a rocky start to the season. He is 5-0 with a 2.87 ERA in his past eight starts and has recorded eight strikeout in each of his last four. 

The Angels turn to 26 year old rookie Troy Scribner (1-0, 4.50 ERA) who will make his second start and fourth appearance in the big leagues. Scribner gave up five runs (two earned) and walked four in four innings in his very first start against the A's on Friday.

The Angels are just 9-19 in their last 28 games following a win, and I think the Orioles will feast on the Halos' rookie right-hander today. 

My selection is an 8* play on Baltimore Orioles. 

Late Night MLB *BOOKIE BREAKER*
Play: LA Angels
Rating: 8/10*

The Los Angeles Angels are coming off three straight defeats while the Baltimore Orioles are riding a three-game winning streak following Monday's 6-2 win in the series-opener here at Anaheim. Good spot to back the Halos to bounce back tonight with Parker Bridwell on the hill. 

The Angels have won eight of Bridgewell's (5-1, 3.20 ERA) nine starts as the rookie right-hander is off to a fast start to his MLB career. He was tagged with four runs in five innings against Philadelphia his last time out, but that was only the third time he's allowed more than two runs through 10 outings. 

The Orioles turn to Jeremy Hellickson (7-5, 4.45 ERA) who shut out the Royals through seven innings of five-hit ball in his Baltimore debut. Hellickson did however post a 6.04 ERA in four starts during July, and he'll face an Angels side that really want to put an end to their three-game slide. 

Note that the Orioles are just 19-33 on the road this season. 

My selection is an 8* play on the Los Angeles Angels ML. 

Late Night MLB *NIGHTCRAWLER*
Play: Seattle Mariners
Rating: 8/10*

The Seattle Mariners are 6-3 through their last nine games as their quest for a Wild Card spot continues. The Oakland Athletics meanwhile are dead last in the AL West, and I think they'll come up short here against their division rivals. 

Ariel Miranda (7-5, 4.41 ERA) will take the ball for Seattle. He went through July without a single win and allowed five runs (four earned) on seven hits in 5 2/3 innings at Texas his last time out. Miranda has a lot of talent though, and we can note that Oakland is among the worst hitting teams in baseball against left-handed pitchers. 

Kendall Graveman (2-3, 4.96 ERA) will toe the slab for the A's. He was lit up for seven runs on eight hits in just two innings of an 11-2 loss at San Francisco his last time out. I think he's in for another tough outing against a very motivated Mariners side.

Note that former Oakland hitter Yonder Alonso is likely to make his Mariners debut following a trade with the A's on Sunday. "I get to play some meaningful baseball, which will be probably the first time in my career I'll be able to do that. I'm ecstatic." Doesn't sound like he'll show his former team any mercy. 

My selection is an 8* play on the Seattle Mariners ML.

Top Rated 10* MLB *THE PRICE IS RIGHT*
Play: Milwaukee Brewers
Rating: 10/10*

The Milwaukee Brewers' chase of the Chicago Cubs who are top of the NL Central division continues Tuesday. I like the price we get on the Brew Crew here at Target Field in the second game of a four-game home-and-home series. 

Matt Garza (5-5, 3.68 ERA) takes the ball for Milwaukee. He's been excellent lately, coming off a 1-1, 1.65 ERA month of July before holding the Cards to one run through 5 2/3 innings on August 3 his last time out. 

The Twins turn to left-hander Adalberto Mejia (4-5, 4.30 ERA) who was charged with four runs on seven hits and three walks in four innings of a 4-1 loss to Texas his last time out. The Brewers are 6-1 in their last seven games when facing a left-handed starter, and we can note that Mejia is 2-4 with a 5.20 ERA home at Target Field this season. 

My selection is a 10* play on Milwaukee Brewers ML. 

Top Rated 10* MLB *RUNLINE RIPPER*
Play: Chicago Cubs RL
Rating: 10/10*

The Chicago Cubs have lost four of their last six after going 1-2 in two straight home series against the D'Backs and the Nats. The Cubs have however been very reliable as road favorites all season going 20-12 SU as a road favorite of -125 or more, and I think they'll win big at San Francisco Monday night. 

Jake Arrieta (10-8, 3.88 ERA) will take the ball for the visitors. He has recovered nicely from a disappointing start to the season and went 3-1 with a 2.25 ERA through five starts in July. He held Arizona to a pair of runs on three hits through seven frames his last time out. Arrieta will make his seventh career start against the Giants and is 4-2 with a solid 1.82 ERA in previous meetings. 

San Francisco turns to Matt Moore (3-11, 5.80 ERA) who gave up four runs on six hits and three walks in five innings of a 6-1 home loss to Oakland his last time out. Moore was 1-2 with an 8.88 ERA in five starts during June and 0-2 with a 4.76 ERA last month.

The reigning World Series champions have a lot to play for, sitting top of NL Central just 0.5 games ahead of the Brewers. The Giants meanwhile are dead last in the NL West division. I don't think the coast-to-coast travel will affect the Cubs enough to give San Francisco the edge here. 

My selection is a 10* play on the Chicago Cubs RL. 

MLB *FADE OF THE DAY*
Play: St. Louis Cardinals
Rating: 8/10*

This looks like a good spot to fade the Kansas City Royals as they're coming off a double-header with the Mariners on Sunday. 

Ian Kennedy (4-7, 4.60 ERA) will take the ball for the Royals. He was knocked around for six runs (five earned) on six hits through four innings against the White Sox his last home start. Kennedy is 0-4 with a 4.98 ERA in nine home starts on the season and 3-5 with a 7.20 ERA in eight career starts against the Cards. Tommy Pham is 4-for-6 with a pair of doubles against Kennedy and 8-for-24 last seven days. 

The Cards hand the ball to Carlos Martinez (7-9, 3.59 ERA) who has not allowed a single run through eight career innings (one start, one relief appearance) against KC. St. Louis is coming off back-to-back wins against the Reds and recorded a season-high 16 hits in Sunday's 13-4 win at Cincinnati.

While the Cards look pretty good in their own right, this is first and foremost a fade of the Royals who most likely will feel the effects of yesterday's double-header both mentally and physically. 

My selection is an 8* play on St. Louis Cardinals ML.

Sunday Night Baseball *BOOKIE BREAKER*
Play: LA Dodgers
Rating: 8/10*

The Los Angeles Dodgers have been dominating the major leagues all season, and even more so in recent weeks. They're 17-3 since the All Star break, and tonight's starter Hyun-Jin Ryu (3-6, 3.83 ERA) has allowed just two runs through 12 innings of work in his two starts during that stretch. 

The New York Mets on the other hand have had a terribly disappointing season overall and they've lost six of their last seven games. Left-hander Steven Matz (2-4, 5.50 ERA) is 0-3 with an 8.53 ERA in his last five starts, and I think he's about the lit up once again tonight. Note that Matz is 0-2 with a 9.69 ERA in three home starts on the season. 

My Sunday night selection is an 8* play on LA Dodgers ML. 

Top Rated 10* MLB *BIG HITTER*
Play: Toronto Blue Jays
Rating: 10/10*

The Toronto Blue Jays enter Sunday as winners of eight of their last 12 games following a 4-3 extra-inning victory here at Minute Maid Park last night. 

The Houston Astros meanwhile have been affected by injuries lately, but they're still sitting comfortably at the top of the AL West despite dropping four of their last five. I think they feel like they can afford to take another "day off" here before going on an eight-day road trip. 

Today the Blue Jays hand the ball to Marcus Stroman (10-5, 3.19 ERA). He held the Astros to run on on six hits in seven innings of a 7-2 victory on July 8 to improve to 2-1 with a 3.09 ERA in five career meetings. 

The Houston Astros turn to Mike Fiers (7-6, 3.97 ERA) who was charged with three runs through six innings to take the loss against Stroman back in July. Note that Fiers was lit up for six runs on eight hits in 6 1/3 innings against Tampa Bay his last time out. 

My selection is a 10* play on Toronto Blue Jays ML. 

Super Early MLB *MONEYMAKER*
Play: Under
Rating: 8/10*

The first two games of this series have seen a total of just 10 runs scored, and I predict another low-scoring encounter in the series-finale Sunday afternoon. 

Home Bailey (3-5, 7.32 ERA) will take the ball for Cincinnati. He's been very inconsistent lately, holding four of his last six opponents to two runs or fewer and getting lit up for a total of 15 runs in the other two. The Cards' bats are ice cold at the moment, so I think Bailey can hold his own today. 

The Cardinals will send Adam Wainwright (11-5, 4.89 ERA) to the mound. The veteran is  ready to go after missing two weeks with mid-back tightness, and posted a 3.95 ERA in four starts during July. The ERA was much bloated by a sub-par outing against Miami to start the month, and I like Wainwright on extra rest here. 

My selection is an 8* play on Under 9.5 runs.

Top Rated 10* Community Shield *CA$H COW*
Play: Over
Rating: 10/10*

Reigning Premier League champions Chelsea will take on last season's FA Cup winner Arsenal in the annual Community Shield matchup. I think we'll see at least three goals in this one.

Arsenal have always had plenty of offensive talent, and they've now have added striker Alexandre Lacazette from Lyon. He had plenty of success in the French Ligue 1, scoring 100 goals in 203 appearances. We can also note that it looks like Alexis Sanchez will stay with the team despite interest from some of the best teams in the world. Arsene Wenger still refuses to do anything about the Gunners' defensive woes though, and they've conceded plenty of goals during the preseason.

Chelsea have had their struggles as well in the preseason. They're coming off a pair of losses to Bayern Munich (3-2) and Inter (2-1), but defeated Arsenal 3-0 on July 22. Striker Diego Costa looks like he's played his last game for the Blues, but they've acquired Alvaro Morata who is a very competent striker. He scored 15 goals in just 26 appearances at Real Madrid last season, and he'll be looking forward to be the #1 striker here at Chelsea.

Each of the last four head-to-head meetings have gone over 2.5 goals.

My pick is on Over 2.5 goals

Late MLB *NIGHTCRAWLER*
Play: Arizona Diamondbacks
Rating: 8/10*

The Arizona Diamondbacks have plenty of dangerous bats, and I think they'll do some real damage on the San Francisco Giants' Chris Stratton (0-2, 7.71 ERA) Saturday night. 

The 26 year old right-hander will make just his second start and fifth appearance for the season. He has allowed 12 runs on 16 hits and eight walks through 14 innings of work so far. 

The D'Backs turn to Taijuan Walker (6-5, 3.55 ERA). They're 0-4 in Walker's last four starts, and he is 0-2 in his past six starts despite a respectable 3.75 ERA and 32 Ks during that span. Walker is 2-1 with a 3.50 ERA in three career starts against the Giants and owns a 2.25 ERA in two starts at AT&T Park.

The Diamondbacks are 9-1 in their last 10 games vs. a team with a winning % below .400. The Giants are 8-18 in their last 26 vs. a team with a winning record.

My selection is an 8* play on Arizona Diamondbacks ML. 

Top Rated 10* AL *GAME OF THE WEEK*
Play: Texas Rangers
Rating: 10/10*

The Texas Rangers took an 8-4 beating here at Target Field yesterday. I think they'll do much better Saturday with Cole Hamels on the mound. 

The Rangers are 26-5 in Hamels' (5-1, 4.01 ERA) last 31 starts vs. a team with a losing record, and the Minnesota Twins with their 51-55 record fit the bill. Hamels held the Twins to three runs on seven hits in 6 2/3 innings of a 14-3 win on April 26. Note that Joe Mauer is 0-for-12 lifetime against the southpaw and the Twins are 1-9 in their last 10 against left-handed starters. 

The Twins hand the ball to Kyle Gibson (6-8, 6.08 ERA) who is 3-5 with a 6.71 ERA home at Target Field on the season, and he has struggled with his command all season giving up 45 walks through 94 2/3 innings of work, and his 1.71 WHIP aint pretty. The current Rangers are batting a combined .304 through 102 at bats against the right-hander. 

My selection is a 10* play on Texas Rangers ML

MLB *BOOKIE BREAKER*
Play: Cincinnati Reds
Rating: 8/10*

The Cincinnati Reds aim for their second consecutive win over the visiting St. Louis Cardinals Saturday night. The Reds came through with a 3-2 win in the series opener Friday, and they're now 4-0 in the last four meetings at Great American Ballpark. 

Tonight the Reds hand the ball to Luis Castillo (2-4, 3.56 ERA). He held the Marlins to one run on three hits through eight innings of a 6-4 win his last time out. Castillo has racked up an impressive 51 Ks through 48 innings of work on the season. 

The Cards turn to the red hot Lance Lynn (9-6, 3.20 ERA) who is 3-0 with a 1.15 ERA through his last five starts. He has dominated the Reds in two starts on the season, but note that the Cards are 1-4 in Lynn's last five starts at Cincinnati

The Cardinals are 6-13 in their last 19 road games vs. a team with a losing record while the Reds are 11-5 in their last 16 home games vs. a team with a losing record. There's a reason why the Reds are favored here, and the Cards might very well prove to be the biggest trap game of the day with the public heavy on the visitors. 

My selection on the other hand is an 8* play on Cincinnati Reds ML. 

Championship *BANKROLL BUILDER*
Play: Aston Villa
Rating: 8/10*

Aston Villa will host Hull City in the late Championship game on Saturday. I think the Villans will kick off the season with a win in front of their home fans. 

Aston Villa have won three of their last four games on the opening day, and nine of their last 10 when hosting Hull in all competitions. That includes a perfect 7-0 record in the last seven. They've spent a season in the Championship since being relegated from the Premier League, so they know what it's all about. We can also note that they've signed former Chelsea captain and standout defender John Terry, a player who will bring a lot of experience. 

Hull City were relegated from the top flight just last season as they lost 15 of 19 games on the road, and I would not be surprised to see them struggle in the Championship this season.

My selection is an 8* play on Aston Villa. 

Top Rated 10* MLB *BIG HITTER*
Play: LA Dodgers
Rating: 10/10*

The Los Angeles Dodgers have been outstanding all season, and they look even stronger now with the acquisition of right-hander Yu Darvish from the Rangers. I think they'll do everything they can to make sure Darvish get to start his career as a Dodger with a W. 

Darvish (6-9, 4.01 ERA) was lit up for 10 runs through just 3 2/3 innings of a 22-10 home loss to Miami in his last start for Texas, but note that he has posted a 2.49 ERA in 10 road starts on the year. The Mets really struggle against quality pitchers and are 3-14 in their last 17 games when facing a starter with a WHIP less than 1.15.

The Mets turn to Jacob deGrom (12-4, 3.29 ERA) who obviously is a superb pitcher as well, but the Dodgers should be able to do enough damage on him to win. It's also worth pointing out the huge bullpen advantage the Dodgers own (2.91 ERA vs. 4.69 ERA).

The Dodgers are 20-6 in their last 26 during Game 1 of a series and 17-4 in their last 21 Friday games.

My pick is LA Dodgers ML. 

MLB *BOOKIE BREAKER*
Play: Detroit Tigers
Rating: 8/10*

The Baltimore Orioles had won five on the bounce prior to a 7-5 loss to the Detroit Tigers on Thursday. The Tigers have now won five of their last six as well, and I think them as an underdog with Justin Verlander on the mound Friday night.

Verlander (6-7, 4.29 ERA) has an excellent career record at Camden Yards, going 7-1 with a 2.63 ERA in nine starts. He tossed six scoreless innings of five-hit ball in a 13-7 win against Houston his last time out. 

The Orioles hand the ball to Kevin Gausman (8-7, 5.37 ERA) who has allowed just one run in 20 2/3 innings in his last three starts combined. Gausman is 1-1 with a 4.82 ERA in five career starts against Detroit, and Ian Kinsler is 7-for-12 against the right-hander. 

The Orioles are 0-8 in their last eight Friday games and 2-15 in Gausman's last 17 Friday starts.

My pick is Detroit Tigers ML

Friday Championship Premiere
Play: Under
Rating: 8/10*

The under is pretty juiced up, but for a good reason. This is the first game of the English Championship season, and odds are we'll see both teams struggle at the offensive end of the pitch.

Sunderland have lost several players since being relegated from the Premier League, so they'll certainly need some time to fit all the new pieces together. Interestingly enough though, they look pretty solid defensively but have lost most of their offensive stars like Jermaine Defoe.

Derby finished 9th in the Championship last season and does not pose much of an offensive threat. Let's go with the under. 

My pick is Under 2.5 goals.

MLB *MONEYMAKER* Total
Play: Under
Rating: 8/10*

The Cleveland Indians will host the New York Yankees for the opener of a four-game series Thursday night. The over is 4-0-1 in the last five head-to-head meetings at Progressive Field, but I don't think we'll see many runs in tonight's matchup. 

Corey Kluber (8-3, 2.90 ERA) will take the ball for Cleveland. He has posted a 1.91 ERA in five career starts against the Yankees. Kluber has been outstanding in recent months, compiling a 1.26 ERA in June (six starts) and a 2.62 ERA in July (five starts). 

The Yankees hand the ball to Sonny Gray (6-5, 3.43 ERA) for the first time. He tossed six scoreless frames in a 5-0 win over Cleveland on July 14, and I expect him to come out very motivated in his debut for the Pinstripes. Note that he posted a 1.37 ERA through his last six games with the Oakland Athletics. 

Under is 8-1-1 in the Yankees last 10 against a team with a winning record. Under is 7-2 in the Indians last nine against a team with a winning record.

MLB *DAYTIME DESTROYER*
Play: Colorado Rockies
Rating: 8/10*

The Colorado Rockies 14.5 games behind the LA Dodgers in the NL West, but they have the third best record in the National League and still have a lot to play for trying to hold onto the Wild Card. I think they'll roll over the New York Mets comfortably today. 

Rafael Montero (1-7, 5.56 ERA) takes the ball for the Mets. He was 0-3 with a 5.47 ERA in July, and the 26 year old has served up a total of four homers in his last two starts. That does not bode well for this outing at Coors Field. 

The Rockies turn to German Marquez (9-4, 4.08 ERA) who is 5-2 with a 4.29 ERA through eight starts home at Colorado on the season, and the Rockies are 6-0 in Marquez's last six home starts. He was 4-0 with a 3.51 ERA in five starts in July and we can note that the 22 year old right-hander is 3-0 behind a minuscule 1.89 ERA in six day starts on the season. 

The Rockies are 7-1 in their last eight home games. The Mets are 1-5 in their last six road games.

My pick is Colorado Rockies ML

Super Early MLB *AFTERNOON APOCALYPSE*
Play: St. Louis Cardinals
Rating: 8/10*

This is a big series for both teams as they try to chase down the Cubs who are currently top of the NL Central. 

The Cardinals hand the ball to Michael Wacha (8-4, 3.71 ERA) who was 4-1 with a 1.93 ERA in July. He will be looking to redeem himself for a couple of subpar outings against Milwaukee earlier in the season, and I like his chances considering the Brewers' recent struggles. We can also note that Wacha is 4-0 with a 2.08 ERA in five starts during the day this season. 

The Brew Crew turn to Matt Garza (4-5, 3.83 ERA). They've lost four of his last six starts and seven of his last 10. Garza is just coming off the 10-Day DL (leg injury), and I don't think he'll be at his very best today. 

The Cardinals are 6-1 in Wacha's last seven starts overall and 9-3 in his last 12 Thursday starts. The Brewers are 3-10 in their last 13 games against a right-handed starter.

My pick is St. Louis Cardinals ML

Top Rated 10* Late Night MLB *BOOKIE BREAKER*
Play: San Francisco Giants
Rating: 10/10*

The San Francisco Giants and the Oakland Athletics will continue this four-game home-and-home series at AT&T Park Wednesday night. They're tied at 1-1 after the two games at Oakland after the Giants 10-4 victory on Tuesday, and I like the Giants to claim tonight's matchup as well. 

The Giants hand the ball to Matt Moore (3-10, 5.74 ERA). The left-hander has posted a 4.38 ERA in 10 home starts compared to a 7.23 ERA on the road, and the current A's roster is batting just .195 over 41 at bats against him. The A's are 10-43 in their last 53 road games vs. a left-handed starter.

Daniel Gossett (2-6, 5.74 ERA) takes the ball for Oakland. The 24 year old rookie has yet to settle in here in the big leagues, and he's served up a total of 11 homers through just 47 innings in his nine starts so far. 

Both teams have had an underwhelming season (to say the least), both sitting dead last in their respective division. That makes this series against a local rival all that more important, and the Giants should build on last night's performance and show some good baseball to the home town crowd. 

MLB 3-Pack
Play: Seattle Mariners
Rating: 8/10*

The Seattle Mariners have won four straight and six of their last eight and they're 8-1 in their last nine road games.

Tonight Ariel Miranda (7-4, 4.31 ERA) takes the ball for Seattle. He has admittedly not been all that great lately and posted a 6.55 ERA in four July starts, but the Mariners are 4-1 in Miranda's last five road starts and the Rangers are 1-5 in their last six games vs. a left-handed starter.

Texas turns to Andrew Cashner (6-8 , 3.48 ERA) who held Baltimore to one run through seven innings in his last start. He has never beat Seattle in his career, going 0-3 with a 3.58 ERA in six games (five starts), and this is not a good time to face the red hot Mariners. 

Mariners are 10-4 in their last 14 Wednesday games. Rangers are 1-8 in their last 9 Wednesday games.