MLB 3-PACK

The New York Mets have won four in a row including a 2-0 triumph in the opener of this three-game series with Miami Marlins. I expect another low-scoring contest here Tuesday night, but with the Marlins coming out ahead. Miami right-hander Caleb Smith (2-5, 4.22 ERA) had allowed just four runs through his last four starts before running into early trouble in a 7-0 loss to the Dodgers his last time out. I think he'll bounce back with a solid performance here, unlike Zack Wheeler (2-3, 5.92 ERA) who was tagged with six runs through four innings of a 12-1 home loss to Toronto his last outing. Wheeler has allowed 15 runs through his last three starts and he's 0-3 with a 9.56 ERA in three home starts on the season. The Fish are averaging only 3.48 rpg, but I think the value is on the visitors and under in this contest. 

8* play on Miami Marlins. 

MLB 3-PACK

The New York Mets have won four in a row including a 2-0 triumph in the opener of this three-game series with Miami Marlins. I expect another low-scoring contest here Tuesday night, but with the Marlins coming out ahead. Miami right-hander Caleb Smith (2-5, 4.22 ERA) had allowed just four runs through his last four starts before running into early trouble in a 7-0 loss to the Dodgers his last time out. I think he'll bounce back with a solid performance here, unlike Zack Wheeler (2-3, 5.92 ERA) who was tagged with six runs through four innings of a 12-1 home loss to Toronto his last outing. Wheeler has allowed 15 runs through his last three starts and he's 0-3 with a 9.56 ERA in three home starts on the season. The Fish are averaging only 3.48 rpg, but I think the value is on the visitors and under in this contest. 

8* play on UNDER. 

MLB 3-PACK

The Philadelphia Phillies opened this three-game series against NL East-leading Atlanta Braves with a 3-0 victory, and I think they'll claim the series with another win here Tuesday night. Philadelphia right-hander Vince Velasquez (4-4, 4.37 ERA) is coming off 6 1/3 scoreless innings at St. Louis and the Phillies have won each of his last three starts. The Braves turn to Brandon McCarthy (4-2, 5.05 ERA) who gave up just one run in six innings against the Cubs last time out, but he had surrendered 14 runs in his last two starts prior to that outing.  

8* play on Philadelphia Phillies. 

TOP RATED MLB *RUNLINE RIPPER*

The LA Dodgers are on a roll, coming off four wins and outscoring their opponents 23-7 in the process. Here they'll host a Rockies side with German Marquez (2-5, 5.15 ERA) on the mound. Marquez gave up four runs on six hits in four innings in his only previous start at Dodger Stadium (last September). He has a combined 4.50 ERA in his two career appearances against L.A.

Rookie Walker Buehler (2-1, 2.67 ERA) will take the ball for the home team, looking to bounce back from his worst outing of the season (at Miami). The 23 year old right-hander has been rock solid at home though, surrendering only two runs on nine hits with 13 Ks through 11 innings of work. 

10* play on LA Dodgers. 

MLB 3-PACK

The Atlanta Braves lead the Phillies by 1 1/2 games in the National League East, but that could change quickly as the they open a three-game series at Philadelphia Monday night. 

Mike Foltynewicz (3-2, 2.87 ERA) will take the ball for the visitors. The Braves have lost 13 of his last 16 starts and the 26 year old right-hander lasted only five innings his last time out, throwing 107 pitches while walking five hitters. The Phillies turn to Nick Pivetta (3-2, 3.72 ERA) who struck out 11 and gave up just two hits and one run in seven innings against the Orioles last Wednesday. Phillies are 8-1 in Pivetta's last nine home starts and 13-3 in his last 16 starts overall. Phillies are 5-1 in Pivettas last six starts against Atlanta.

Philadelphia is 8-3 in its last 11 games and returns home from a 3-2 road trip. "To go home after a winning road trip, we have a lot to feel good about. We're ready, we're prepared for Atlanta," Phillies manager Gabe Kapler said to reporters Sunday. "We're excited about that series, and we're ready to roll."

I like Philadelphia to win a low-scoring contest. 

8* play on Philadelphia Phillies.

MLB 3-PACK

The Atlanta Braves lead the Phillies by 1 1/2 games in the National League East, but that could change quickly as the they open a three-game series at Philadelphia Monday night. 

Mike Foltynewicz (3-2, 2.87 ERA) will take the ball for the visitors. The Braves have lost 13 of his last 16 starts and the 26 year old right-hander lasted only five innings his last time out, throwing 107 pitches while walking five hitters. The Phillies turn to Nick Pivetta (3-2, 3.72 ERA) who struck out 11 and gave up just two hits and one run in seven innings against the Orioles last Wednesday. Phillies are 8-1 in Pivetta's last nine home starts and 13-3 in his last 16 starts overall. Phillies are 5-1 in Pivettas last six starts against Atlanta.

Philadelphia is 8-3 in its last 11 games and returns home from a 3-2 road trip. "To go home after a winning road trip, we have a lot to feel good about. We're ready, we're prepared for Atlanta," Phillies manager Gabe Kapler said to reporters Sunday. "We're excited about that series, and we're ready to roll."

I like Philadelphia to win a low-scoring contest. 

8* play on UNDER.

SUNDAY AFTERNOON BASEBALL TOTAL

This play is based on an undisclosed totals system which has generated an ROI of close to 12% so far in 2018. 

In addition we can note that Rangers' left-hander Mike Minor (3-2, 5.61 ERA) is 0-1 with a 1.98 ERA in six games (one start) against the White Sox while the home team's right-hander Reynaldo Lopez (0-3, 3.50 ERA) should be focused to bounce back from the worst outing of the season as he allowed six runs and seven hits in two innings against the Pirates last time out. Under is 6-2-1 in Rangers last nine overall. Under is 5-1 in White Sox last six overall.

8* play on UNDER. 

GAME OF THE WEEK (MLB)

The Pittsburgh Pirates will no doubt be fired up for this contest after back-to-back losses to the Friars. They're 8-2 in their last 10 Sunday games and 10-3 in their last 13 home games.

Today the Pirates hand the ball to Trevor Williams (5-2, 2.72 ERA) who tossed seven scoreless innings of a 7-0 home triumph over the White Sox his last time out. The 26 year old right-hander has been stellar at home all season, allowing two or fewer runs in each of his four starts at PNC Park and in 13 of his past 14 there dating to June 27.

The Padres turn to Jordan Lyles (1-1, 2.53 ERA) who was elevated from the bullpen to the rotation only recently. He pitched seven perfect innings, 7 1/3 in all, giving up one hit with 10 strikeouts on Tuesday in a 4-0 victory over the Colorado Rockies. His career numbers against the Pirates are extremely poor though, going 0-5 with a 7.82 ERA in nine appearances (seven starts).

10* MLB Game of the Week: Pittsburgh Pirates.

MLB *DAYTIME DESTROYER*

The Chicago Cubs' Yu Darvish (0-3, 5.56 ERA) is having a tough season, but perhaps he can turn things around here, facing a Reds team he's 1-0 with a 2.13 ERA in two starts against. Cincinnati turns to Tyler Mahle (3-5, 4.34 ERA) who is coming off a short start. He lasted only 3 1/3 innings of a 5-3 loss to the San Francisco Giants his last time out, in which he gave up four earned runs and seven hits. He has served up 10 home runs in 47 2/3 innings on the season.

8* play on Chicago Cubs. 

This play is based on an undisclosed totals system which has generated an ROI of close to 18% so far in 2018. 

In addition we can note that Yankees' Luis Severino (6-1, 2.14 ERA) tossed eight scoreless innings against the Royals last year and he has posted a 1.54 ERA over his last six starts overall. KC hands the ball to southpaw Danny Duffy (1-5, 6.51 ERA), and under 7-0 in Yankees last seven games vs. a left-handed starter.

8* play on UNDER. 

This play is based on an undisclosed totals system which has generated an ROI of close to 18% so far in 2018. 

In addition we can note that Rockies' Jon Gray (4-5, 4.85 ERA) has compiled a 2.35 ERA in three career starts against the Giants while Colorado will see the home team's Chris Stratton (4-3, 4.88 ERA) for the first time. Under is 16-4-1 in Rockies last 21 overall and 5-0-1 in the last six meetings at AT&T Park.

8* play on UNDER. 

FRIDAY NIGHT MLB TOTAL

This play is based on an undisclosed totals system which has generated an ROI of close to 18% so far in 2018. 

In addition we can note that both Phillies' Jake Arrieta (3-1, 2.59 ERA) and Cards' Michael Wacha (4-1, 3.09 ERA) have been dealing lately. Arrieta has allowed just one run through his last two starts covering 13 1/3 frames while Wacha is coming off six innings of one-run ball at San Diego. He has held each of his last five opponents to two runs or fewer. Under is 4-0 in Phillies last four overall and 10-3-2 in Cardinals last 15 overall. Under is 7-3 in the last 10 meetings.

8* play on UNDER. 

TOP RATED 10* MLB *BIG HITTER*

This play is based on an undisclosed totals system which has generated an ROI of close to 18% so far in 2018. 

In addition we can note that San Diego right-hander Tyson Ross (2-3, 3.40 ERA) held the Cards to one run on three hits with seven Ks through six innings of a no-decision his last time out. The 31 year old has struck out 53 in 47 2/3 innings on the season. Pittsburgh's Ivan Nova (2-3, 5.01 ERA) has been lit up in each of his last three starts, but here he'll face a Padres side which has the third worst batting average across the major leagues this year. Under is 6-1 in Ross' last seven starts overall and 4-0 in his last four road starts. Under is 9-2 in Novas last 11 home starts.

10* play on UNDER. 

ORIOLES @ RED SOX *RUNLINE RIPPER*

I think the price is right to back the Baltimore Orioles on the runline here against Boston and David Price (3-4, 4.89 ERA). The left-hander had been 0-3 with an 8.47 ERA in his previous three starts before going 5 1/3 solid innings, allowing two runs and five hits to defeat the Blue Jays in Toronto his last time out. The Orioles turn to Kevin Gausman (3-2, 3.18 ERA) who was roughed up in his season debut but is 3-1 with a 2.30 ERA in seven starts since. Gausman has allowed just two runs through 16 1/3 frames in his last two starts combined and as the current Red Sox roster limited to a .227 AVG over 207 at bats. 

8* play on Baltimore Orioles +1.5. 

MLB *DAYTIME DESTROYER*

The Miami Marlins beat the LA Dodgers 6-5 on Wednesday night, taking the second contest of a three-game series and dealing the Dodgers a sixth straight defeat. Here the Fish hand the ball to left-hander Caleb Smith (2-4, 3.63 ERA) who has compiled a sterling 1.50 ERA in his past four starts. The Dodgers turn to Kenta Maeda (2-3, 4.75 ERA) who was tagged with five runs on nine hits in 4 2/3 innings of a 6-2 loss to Cincinnati his last time out. The Dodgers have lost each of his last four starts and they're a disappointing 1-10 in their last 11 games vs. a team with a winning % below .400. The Dodgers are just 10-28 against the runline as a favorite on the season.

8* play on Miami Marlins +1.5.

WEDNESDAY NIGHT MLB *ESPN ENFORCER*

The Chicago Cubs won the opener of this series 3-2 last night after scoring twice in the top of the ninth on doubles by Albert Almora and Addison Russell. The Braves had won six of seven prior to that setback, and I think they'll bounce back with a win tonight. Brandon McCarthy (4-2, 5.58 ERA) is 2-1 with a 1.11 ERA in five career appearances (four starts) against the Cubs while Chicago's Tyler Chatwood (3-3, 3.35 ERA) is 2-2 with a bloated 5.60 ERA in seven appearances (five starts) against Atlanta. Chatwood has walked 32 in 37 2/3 innings on the season and I think the Braves will take punish his lack of command. 

8* play on Atlanta Braves. 

SUBSCRIBERS ONLY

Kansas City is just 5-16 home at Kauffman Stadium and 2-11 in its last 13 home games vs. a right-handed starter. The Tampa Bay Rays have made themselves at home here and go for the three-game sweep. Tampa Bay right-hander Jacob Faria (3-2, 5.09 ERA) has allowed one or zero runs in four of last six starts and in five of his eight starts on the season and the Royals are scoring just 3.81 rpg at home this season. Tampa Bay is 10-12 on the road. 

8* play on Tampa Bay Rays. 

TOP RATED MLB *DAYTIME DESTROYER*

This play is based on an undisclosed totals system which has generated an ROI of 17.9% so far in 2018. 

In addition we can note that Tampa Bay right-hander Jacob Faria (3-2, 5.09 ERA) has allowed one or zero runs in four of last six starts and in five of his eight starts on the season. Under is 5-2-1 in Royals last eight home games vs. a right-handed starter and their own starter for the day, Jason Hammel (0-4, 6.13 ERA), has compiled a 3.86 ERA home at Kauffman this season. 

Under is 9-4-2 in Rays last 15 overall. Under is 17-7-1 in Royals last 25 vs. a team with a losing record.

10* play on UNDER. 

MLB 3-PACK

This play is based on an undisclosed totals system which has generated an ROI of 18.9% so far in 2018. 

In addition we can note that San Francisco's Ty Blach (3-3, 4.20 ERA) had allowed just six earned runs through 18 2/3 frames covering three starts before getting lit up at Philadelphia his last time out. Cincinnati right-hander Tyler Mahle (3-4, 3.86 ERA) held the Dodgers to one unearned run in five innings his last outing. "It was some kind of impressive performance," interim Reds manager Jim Riggleman told reporters. "He really was electric with his stuff and he got better as the night went on."

Under is 9-2-1 in Mahle's last 12 starts overall. Under is 6-1 in Blach's last seven starts overall.

8* play on UNDER. 

MLB 3-PACK

This play is based on an undisclosed totals system which has generated an ROI of 18.9% so far in 2018. 

In addition we can note that Houston's Gerrit Cole (4-1, 1.43 ERA) has been lights out this season and allowed just one run and four hits in six innings in a 4-1 win against Oakland on Wednesday. The Halos turn to Jaime Barria (3-1, 2.45 ERA) who tossed 5 1/3 scoreless innings against the Rockies his last time out and his teammats are impressed by what they've seen from the youngster so far. "You don't see a lot of young guys come up here and fill the zone up like he does," Angels infielder Zack Cozart told Fox Sports West. "That's the ultimate key in pitching is throwing a lot of strikes, and once you establish that, you can start working your way out of the zone."

Under is 12-2 in Astros last 14 overall. Under is 6-2 in the last eight meetings.

8* play on UNDER. 

MLB 3-PACK

This play is based on an undisclosed totals system which has generated an ROI of 18.9% so far in 2018. 

In addition we can note that the White Sox's Reynaldo Lopez (0-2, 2.44 ERA) held the Pirates to a pair of runs on three hits through a career-high 7 1/3 innings his last time out, while pitching opposite Trevor Williams (4-2, 3.15 ERA) who was tagged with four runs through five frames. Williams has otherwise been solid this season and enters this contest with a 1.17 WHIP. He has held opponents to two or fewer runs in six of his eight starts. 

Under is 9-3-1 in Williams' last 13 home starts and 19-6-1 in his last 26 starts overall.

8* play on UNDER. 

MLB 3-PACK

This play is based on an undisclosed totals system which has generated an ROI of 13.8% so far in 2018. 

In addition we can note that San Francisco right-hander Chris Stratton (3-3, 4.60 ERA) should be focused for this contest after getting roughed up in his last three outings while Cincy's Sal Romano (2-3, 3.83 ERA) has pitched very well in his last two starts, allowing a total of two runs and seven hits in 11 1/3 innings ( against the Marlins and the Mets).

Under is 5-1 in Reds last six overall. Under is 4-1 in the last five meetings.

8* play on CIN @ SF to go UNDER the total. 

MLB 3-PACK

This play is based on an undisclosed totals system which has generated an ROI of 13.8% so far in 2018. 

In addition we can note that Houston's Lance McCullers Jr. (5-1, 3.72 ERA) is 3-1 with a 1.78 ERA in nine career starts against the Halos while Andrew Heaney (1-2, 4.78 ERA) will face Houston for the first time. Heaney has posted a 2.12 ERA over his last three outings.  

Under is 5-0 in Astros last five overall. Under is 6-1 in McCullers Jr.s last seven starts vs. Angels.

8* play on HOU @ LAA to go UNDER the total. 

MLB 3-PACK

This play is based on an undisclosed totals system which has generated an ROI of 13.8% so far in 2018. 

In addition we can note that Milwaukee's Junior Guerra (2-3, 3.09 ERA) has posted a 3.09 ERA in two career starts against the Diamondbacks while Arizona left-hander Patrick Corbin (4-0, 2.12 ERA) has held opponents to three or fewer runs in all eight of his outings on the season. Arizona's bullpen has posted an NL-leading 2.41 ERA and 13 saves while holding opponents to a .200 batting average on the season while Milwaukee's relievers rank second with a 2.67 ERA.

Under is 22-4 in Brewers last 26 road games vs. a team with a winning record. Under is 7-1 in Diamondbacks last eight home games vs. a team with a winning record.

8* play on MIL @ ARI to go UNDER the total. 

TOP RATED NATS @ D'BACKS SUNDAY NIGHT BASES

The Washington Nationals have won 12 of their last 14 and look to complete the sweep of this four-game set Sunday night. The Arizona Diamondbacks can't be too happy about losing four in a row and being held to just one run in each of the three losses to the Nats, and I really expect them to show up tonight. 

The Nats' Jeremy Hellickson (1-0, 2.28 ERA) took a perfect game into the seventh inning of his last start at San Diego, but note that he's 0-3 with a 4.94 ERA in five career starts against the Diamondbacks. Zack Godley (4-2, 3.83 ERA) will take the ball for Arizona. He's been dominant home at Chase Field this season, going 2-1 with a 1.96 ERA. Godley is 3-1 with a 4.00 ERA in six career appearances (four starts) against the Nationals.

Diamondbacks are 8-3 in their last 11 Sunday games.

10* play on Arizona Diamondbacks. 

SUPER EARLY RAYS @ ORIOLES *DAYTIME DESTROYER*

The Baltimore Orioles beat the Tampa Bay Rays 9-4 on Friday and have now won four of their last five. They've scored 41 runs in the last six games but I'll think they'll win this contest with good pitching. Dylan Bundy (1-5, 5.31 ERA) has allowed 22 runs (19 earned) in his last three starts (nine innings). Poor stats indeed, but I think that'll make him zoned in here against a weak hitting Tampa Bay team. The Rays turn to Blake Snell (4-2, 2.40 ERA) who is 0-1 record in his last two trips to the mound despite allowing just three runs and 13 innings combined. 

Under is 8-2-2 in Rays last 12 overall. Under is 5-2 in Bundy's last seven starts after allowing 5 runs or more in their previous game.

8* play on Baltimore Orioles. 

SUPER EARLY RAYS @ ORIOLES *DAYTIME DESTROYER*

The Baltimore Orioles beat the Tampa Bay Rays 9-4 on Friday and have now won four of their last five. They've scored 41 runs in the last six games but I'll think they'll win this contest with good pitching. Dylan Bundy (1-5, 5.31 ERA) has allowed 22 runs (19 earned) in his last three starts (nine innings). Poor stats indeed, but I think that'll make him zoned in here against a weak hitting Tampa Bay team. The Rays turn to Blake Snell (4-2, 2.40 ERA) who is 0-1 record in his last two trips to the mound despite allowing just three runs and 13 innings combined. 

Under is 8-2-2 in Rays last 12 overall. Under is 5-2 in Bundy's last seven starts after allowing 5 runs or more in their previous game.

8* play on TB @ BAL to go UNDER the total. 

SATURDAY NIGHT *BALLPARK BLOWOUT*

The Pittsburgh Pirates put an 11-2 beating on the San Francisco Giants Friday night, and I think they'll score plenty of runs again here on Saturday when facing Jeff Samardzija on the mound. 

Samardzija (1-2, 6.62 ERA) gave up five runs and four hits (two homers) and three walks in four frames of an 11-0 loss against Philadelphia his last time out. He has walked 13 through 17 2/3 innings on the season. 

The Pirates turn to Chad Kuhl (4-2, 4.12 ERA) who fanned eight through seven scoreless innings of one-hit ball of a 9-0 Pittsburgh triumph at Milwaukee his last time out. Kuhl owns a 36/12 K/BB ratio over 39 1/3 innings of work this year. 

Pirates are 8-2 in Kuhls last 10 home starts.

8* play on Pittsburgh Pirates. 

SUBSCRIBERS ONLY

Detroit has lost five of its last seven games and the injuries keep piling up for the wounded Tigers, most notably first baseman Miguel Cabrera and center fielder Leonys Martin who are on the 10-day disabled list with hamstring injuries. The Seattle Mariners own a respectable 21-15 record on the season after a 9-3 win at Toronto Thursday night, and I think they'll win a low-scoring contest here in the first game of a doubleheader. 

Marco Gonzales (3-2, 5.19 ERA) will take the ball for Seattle. He was tagged with four runs in six innings against the Halos his last time out but had allowed just a total of two runs in his previous two outings. The 26 year old southpaw has a great 38/6 K/BB ratio through 34 2/3 innings of work on the season and will face Detroit for the first time in his career. 

The Tigers turn to Matthew Boyd (1-3, 3.00 ERA) who lost his last outing Sunday, giving up four runs and six hits in seven innings against Kansas City.

The Mariners are 6-0 in the last six meetings.

8* play on SEA @ DET to go UNDER the total. 

EARLY WHITE SOX @ CUBS *RUNLINE RIPPER*

The Chicago Cubs are red hot and have scored a total of 42 runs through four straight victories. Here they'll face James Shields (1-3, 5.14 ERA) who is coming off back-to-back quality starts against the St. Louis Cardinals and Minnesota Twins, but the Cubs are just something different when swinging hot bats. The right-hander had allowed 11 runs through 11 1/3 innings of work against Houston and Seattle prior to that and White Sox are 0-6 in Shields' last six starts vs. a team with a winning record. The Cubs turn to left-hander Jon Lester (2-1, 2.82 ERA) who has not allowed an earned run in three of his first seven games. White Sox are 1-6 in their last seven interleague games vs. a left-handed starter.

The Cubs are 20-15 on the season, and note that 17 of those victories came as favorites and they're 13-4 against the runline in those games. 

8* play on Chicago Cubs -1.5.

SUPER EARLY OAKLAND @ NYY TOTAL

The Oakland Athletics opened this three-game series with a 10-5 triumph Friday night, but I think runs will be way harder to come by for both teams today. 

Andrew Triggs (3-1, 4.41 ERA) will take the ball for Oakland. The right-hander struck out nine while holding Baltimore to one run on two hits through seven innings his last time out. He is 0-1 with a 3.00 ERA in two career appearances against the Yankees who turn to Domingo German (0-1, 2.66 ERA). He fanned nine in six hitless innings while throwing a career-high 84 pitches in his first career start Sunday. The 25 year old has struck out 27 through 20 1/3 innings of work on the season. 

8* play on OAK @ NYY to go UNDER the total. 

MLB 3-PACK

The Houston Astros host the Texas Rangers for the opener of a three-game set at Minute Maid Park Friday night. Cole Hamels (1-4, 3.94 ERA) will take the ball for the visitors. He has allowed just a total of five earned runs through his last three starts and under is 5-1-1 in Hamels' last seven road starts. The Astros turn to Justin Verlander (4-1, 1.17 ERA) who allowed one earned run over six innings of a 3-1 loss at Arizona his last time out. Verlander has been outstanding all season, holding four of his eight opponents scoreless. Under is 5-1 in Verlander's last six starts overall. 

8* play on TEX @ HOU to go UNDER the total. 

TOP RATED WHITE SOX @ CUBS *RUNLINE RIPPER*

Today the Chicago Cubs will host crosstown rival Chicago White Sox for an afternoon game of baseball. They scored 31 runs in a three-game sweep of visiting Miami before getting Thursday off, and I think the Cubs will keep swinging hot bats here against Carson Fulmer (2-2, 5.02 ERA) who will face the Cubs for the second time in his career. His first, a relief appearance in 2015, didn't go well as he lasted just one-third of an inning and gave up four runs. The Cubs turn to Tyler Chatwood (2-3, 3.31 ERA) who is 1-0 with a 1.35 ERA in two career starts against the White Sox and he has allowed just two runs through 11 2/3 innings in his last two starts here at Wrigley.

The Cubs are just 19-15 on the season, but note that 16 of those victories came as favorites and they're 12-4 against the runline in those games. 

10* play on Chicago Cubs -1.5. 

MLB 3-PACK

The Arizona Diamondbacks took a 6-3 loss at Dodger Stadium Wednesday night, but note that they're 9-2 in their last 11 games following a loss and will hand the ball to Zack Greinke (3-2, 4.10 ERA) tonight. Greinke is 5-1 behind a stellar 1.49 ERA in seven career starts against Washington and he has allowed just five runs over 24 1/3 innings of work home at Chase Field this season. The Nats have won nine of their last 11 but Tanner Roark (2-3, 3.65 ERA) was tagged with three runs and six hits in 6 1/3 innings against Philadelphia his last time out and was charged with the loss. Nationals are 1-5 in Roark's last six starts.

8* play on Arizona Diamondbacks. 

MLB *MONEYMAKER*

The New York Yankees are without a doubt the hottest team in baseball as they enter this contest on a 17-1 run. Tonight they'll hand the ball to CC Sabathia (2-0, 1.39 ERA) who is 2-0 with a 0.39 ERA in four starts since coming off the disabled list. The left-hander is unbeaten in his last 14 regular-season starts since Aug. 19 with a 7-0 record and a 2.29 ERA.

The Red Sox turn to Eduardo Rodriguez (3-0, 5.29 ERA) who is still undefeated on the season, but he has been tagged with five runs in each of his last two outings. In his last outing against New York, he allowed five runs and 10 hits in five innings of a 6-2 loss at Yankee Stadium. 

8* play on NY Yankees. 

TOP RATED MLB *BIG HITTER*

The Baltimore Orioles snapped a seven-game losing streak with a 5-3 triumph against the Kansas City Royals on Wednesday. I think they'll be back to their losing ways here with Chris Tillman (1-5, 9.24 ERA) on the mound. Tillman was knocked around to the tune of seven runs on seven hits in one-plus inning against the Angels his last time out, and he has posted a 5.37 ERA in nine career meetings with KC. 

Ian Kennedy (1-3, 2.92 ERA) will take the ball for the Royals. He has not had much success in previous career meetings with Baltimore posting a 6.89 ERA through four outings, but the 33 year old right-hander has pitched well this year and he's coming off six scoreless innings against Detroit. 

10* play on Kansas City Royals. 

MLB 3-PACK

The Arizona Diamondbacks are a solid 11-5 on the road this season and Patrick Corbin (4-0, 2.15 ERA) is 1-0 with a 0.68 ERA in two starts covering 13 1/3 innings against the Dodgers this season. The home team's Alex Wood (0-3, 3.83 ERA) has posted a 3.27 ERA in two starts against Arizona on the season, but struggled with hamstring cramps his last time out. 

The D'Backs defeated the Dodgers 8-5 Tuesday night and are 24-8 in their last 32 after scoring 5 runs or more in their previous game.

8* play on Arizona Diamondbacks. 

WEDNESDAY NIGHT MLB TOTAL

The Atlanta Braves won the opener of this two-game series 1-0 on Tuesday. The Tampa Bay Rays have scored one run total in their last two games and here they'll come up against one of the hottest pitchers in baseball. Julio Teheran (2-1, 3.65 ERA) has allowed just a total of six earned runs over 29 innings for a 1.86 ERA through his last five starts. Tampa Bay turns to rookie left-hander Ryan Yarbrough (2-1, 3.33 ERA) who will make just his second career start. The 26 year is however coming off his best outing in the majors as he held the Blue Jays scoreless through five innings out of the bullpen his last time out. Under is 6-2 in Braves last eight road games vs. a left-handed starter.

Under is 8-2 in the last 10 meetings in at Tropicana Field. 

8* play on ATL @ TB to go UNDER the total. 

MLB 3-PACK

The Seattle Mariners are a solid 12-6 on the road this season. They shut out Toronto in a 5-0 triumph on Tuesday and left-hander Wade LeBlanc (0-0, 3.57 ERA) tossed four innings without allowing any runs in his first start of the season, a 4-1 Mariners win over Oakland on Thursday. Toronto hands the ball to Jaime Garcia (2-2, 6.60 ERA) who is 0-2 with a 9.88 ERA in his past three starts and 0-1 with a 4.67 ERA in two career starts against the Mariners.

8* play on Seattle Mariners. 

MLB *DAYTIME DESTROYER*

The Colorado Rockies have won nine of their past 12 games, and their their starters have posted a 1.55 ERA with 11 quality starts during that stretch. Left-hander Tyler Anderson (2-0, 3.78 ERA) held the Cubs to three hits and two runs in seven innings his last time out and will face the Halos for the first time in his career. We can note that Angels are 1-4 in their last five games vs. a left-handed starter. LAA has cooled off after a sizzling start to the season and rookie Jaime Barria (2-1, 3.46 ERA) is way too inexperienced to be trusted here at tricky Coors Field.

8* play on Colorado Rockies. 

MLB *MONEYMAKER*

The Baltimore Orioles will be happy to be back home at Camden Yards following an 0-6 road trip. Tonight they'll hand the ball to Dylan Bundy (1-4, 3.76 ERA) who owns a 1-0 record with a 1.76 ERA in three career games (two starts) against the Royals, and he was off to a great start to the year before being lit up against Tampa Bay and LAA in his last two starts. They Royals turn to Danny Duffy (0-4, 5.64 ERA). They're 0-7 when Duffy has made a start this season and the left-hander was tagged with five runs, including four homers, and 10 hits in 6 2/3 innings against the Red Sox his last time out. Duffy has allowed a total of 15 runs in his last three outings. 

"My stuff's been good but not good enough at all this year," Duffy said. "My team lost every game I've started. It's not good that somebody who you trust to get the job done regularly is not doing what they expect me to do and what I expect from myself."

8* play on Baltimore Orioles. 

TOP RATED 10* MLB *BIG HITTER*

The Seattle Mariners are 5-1 in their last six on the road and look like a solid favorite here in the opener of a three-game series at Toronto. They'll hand the ball to James Paxton (1-1, 4.19 ERA) who is 2-1 with a 6.32 ERA in his four previous starts in Toronto, but the left-hander knocked out 16 through seven scoreless innings against Oakland his last time out. Paxton has 10 or more strikeouts in three of his past five starts and we can note that the Blue Jays are 1-5 in their last six games vs. a left-handed starter.

Toronto turns to Marcus Stroman (0-4, 7.52 ERA) who is 1-0 with a 2.08 ERA in two career appearances versus Seattle, but he's having a terrible year and has allowed four or more runs in five of his six starts. 

10* play on Seattle Mariners. 

SUPER EARLY *DAYTIME DESTROYER*

The St. Louis Cardinals managed only four hits in a 6-0 loss to the Minnesota Twins yesterday. I think runs will come at a premium for both sides here in the finale of the two-game set. Carlos Martinez (3-1, 1.40 ERA) has been outstanding since getting knocked around in his season debut, allowing just three runs through his last six starts. Under is 6-1 in Martinez's last seven starts vs. a team with a losing record and 6-1-1 in Cardinals last eight overall. Jake Odorizzi (2-2, 4.10 ERA) will take the ball for Minnesota. He has posted a 3.24 ERA in three career starts versus the Cardinals. Under is 11-0 in the last 11 meetings.

8* play on MIN @ STL to go UNDER the total. 

LATE MLB *MIDNIGHT MASSACRE* (TOTAL)

The Houston Astros have scored fewer than two runs in three of their last six contests, and here they'll face Brett Anderson (0-0, 2.84 ERA) who is 1-1 with a 2.40 ERA in three career outings (two starts) against Houston. Dallas Keuchel (1-5, 3.98 ERA) will take the ball for the Astros, and he is 5-5 with a solid 2.88 ERA in 19 career appearances (17 starts) versus Oakland. Under is 6-1 in Astros last seven overall. Under is 4-1 in Athletics last five overall.

8* play on HOU @ OAK to go UNDER the total. 

TOP RATED 10* MLB *BIG HITTER*

The San Francisco Giants' Jeff Samardzija (1-1, 5.27 ERA) has posted a bloated 15.43 ERA in four career appearances (one start) at Citizens Bank Park and an 8.18 ERA against the Phillies in 11 career meetings. I do however think he will get enough run support for a Giants win tonight with the Phillies sending Zach Eflin (0-0, 1.50 ERA) to the mound. The 24-year-old right-hander was called up when Ben Lively hit the disabled list with a lower back strain and will make just his second start of the season.

Eflin is 0-1 with a 6.75 ERA and 1.438 WHIP in three career starts against the Giants who enter this contest on a four-game winning streak during which they've piled up a total of 33 runs. Phillies are 1-9 in Eflin's last 10 starts and 2-6 in their last eight overall.

10* play on San Francisco Giants. 

TOP RATED MLB *BIG HITTER*

The Tampa Bay Rays won the series opener 6-2 on Friday night followed by a 5-3 triumph on Saturday. I like them to complete the sweep of this three-game series here on Sunday as they face Marco Estrada (2-2, 6.19 ERA) on the mound. Estrada was 0-4 with a 10.61 ERA in four starts against the Rays last season and he is is 1-8 with a 4.96 ERA in 14 career meetings. Tampa Bay hands the ball to Chris Archer (2-2, 6.05 ERA) who is a solid 7-4 with a 3.09 ERA in 24 career matchups with the Blue Jays. Archr has had a tough start to the year but held Detroit to two runs in six innings with six strikeouts and one walk his last time out.

10* play on Tampa Bay Rays. 

SUPER EARLY MLB *DAYTIME DESTROYER*

The New York Yankees are 14-1 in their last 15 games after opening this series with a 7-6 win Friday and following it up with a 5-2 victory Saturday afternoon. We can however note that the Indians are 6-2 in their last eight games after losing the first two games of a series, and I like the price we get on the visitors today with Mike Clevinger (2-0, 2.82 ERA) on the mound. Clevinger is 8-1 with a 1.88 ERA in his last 14 appearances and he has recorded 14 1/3 scoreless frames on the road this season. The Yankees turn to Domingo German (0-1, 3.77) who will make his first career start, filling in for Jordan Montgomery who could miss two months with a left elbow strain. The Indians are just 1-for-10 with runners in scoring position in this series but I expect them to have more success here against this inexperienced 25 year old.

8* play on Cleveland Indians. 

MLB *MONEYMAKER*

The New York Mets have lost four straight games as favorites and fit an extremely profitable system here on Saturday. They had been blanked in back-to-back games before finally scoring some runs in Friday's 8-7 defeat against the Colorado Rockies. I count on their bats to stay alive here against Chad Bettis (3-1, 2.43 ERA) who has surrendered nine runs in 13 career innings against the Mets.

Steven Matz (1-2, 4.98 ERA) will take the ball for New York. The left-hander hasn't pitched since April 25, when he took the loss after giving up seven runs (three earned) over 3 1/3 innings agasint the Cardinals. He had his scheduled start earlier this week skipped due to minor back stiffness but says his back "feels fine" ahead of this contest. Rockies are 1-4 in their last five games vs. a left-handed starter.

8* play on New York Mets. 

TOP RATED MLB *DAYTIME *DESTROYER*

The Chicago Cubs enter this contest as losers of three in a row and Friday night's 3-2 loss in the opener of this three-game set marked the ninth straight in which they were held to three or fewer runs. 

I like they'll produce a fair amount of runs here against Luke Weaver (2-2, 5.17 ERA) who surrendered six runs in four innings in a loss to the Cubs at Wrigley Field on April 19. The right-hander has faced the Cubs three times in his career and has been lit up for 20 hits and 16 runs over 13 innings for a 13.09 ERA. Tyler Chatwood (2-3, 2.83 ERA) will take the ball for the Cubs. He is coming off seven scoreless innings against Milwaukee and has allowed two or fewer runs in four of his five starts this season. Chatwood is 0-3 with a 6.32 ERA in five games (two starts) against the Cards but limited them to two runs in 4 2/3 innings on April 17.

Cubs are 12-4 in the last 16 meetings between the two NL Central rivals. 

10* play on Chicago Cubs. 

MLB *MONEYMAKER*

The Toronto Blue Jays look like a solid favorite here with J.A. Happ (4-1, 3.50 ERA) on the mound. The 35 year old has quality starts in three of his last four outings and has 8+ strikeouts in each of his last five starts. Happ is 3-3 with a 5.08 ERA in 14 games (13 starters) versus Tampa Bay but has the current Rays limited to a .230 AVG. 

The Rays hand the ball to right-hander Andrew Kittredge (1-2, 6.23 ERA) who pitched one scoreless, hitless inning Tuesday and again Wednesday, throwing 12 and 11 pitches. Kittredge is capped at about 30 pitches according to the Tampa Bay Times,  so it will literally be a bullpen day for the home team as it is dealing with multiple injuries in its starting rotation. 

Tampa Bay has bounced back nicely after a 4-13 start, but I think the price is right to back the visitors here. 

8* play on Toronto Blue Jays. 

TOP RATED MLB *BIG HITTER*

The Arizona Diamondbacks and the LA Dodgers will close out a four-game series Thursday afternoon. The D'Backs have won two of the first three contest and look good to take this game as well with Patrick Corbin (4-0, 2.25 ERA) on the mound. Corbin knocked out 12 when holding the Dodgers scoreless through 7 1/3 innings of one-hit ball on April 4 and owns a sensational 55/7 K/BB ratio over 40 innings of work on the season. 

The Dodgers turn to Alex Wood (0-3, 4.11 ERA) who has yet to win a decision on the season and the Dodgers have dropped four of his six starts. He was tagged with four runs in six innings of an 8-3 loss at San Francisco his last time out. Diamondbacks are 24-7 in their last 31 games vs. a left-handed starter.

10* play on Arizona Diamondbacks. 

SUPER EARLY *RUNLINE RIPPER*

The Texas Rangers defeated the Cleveland Indians 8-6 in extra innings Tuesday night. The home team can not be happy about that defeat, and I think they'll put a real beating on their opponent today. 

Corey Kluber (4-1, 2.18 ERA) will take the ball for the Tribe. He has been sensational all season and won four straight decisions. He punched out 10 through 8 2/3 innings of work against Seattle his last time out. Kluber sits on a 0.77 WHIP on the season and we can note that the Rangers are 3-13 in their last 16 games vs. a starter with a WHIP less than 1.15.

Texas hands the ball to 28 year old southpaw Matt Moore (1-3, 5.33 ERA) who tossed one scoreless inning out of the bullpen at Toronto on Tuesday. He has struggled in most of his starts this season and I doubt he'll do much better here. The current members of the Tribe are batting a combined .300 over 100 at bats against him. Indians are 22-6 in their last 28 games vs. a left-handed starter.

8* play on Cleveland Indians -1.5. 

SUPER EARLY TOP RATED MLB TOTAL

The first two games of this series have seen a total of just eight runs scored. I think we'll see another low-scoring affair Wednesday afternoon. 

Tampa Bay hands the ball to Blake Snell (4-1, 2.52 ERA) who has allowed two runs or fewer in five of his six starts on the season. He has an 0.95 WHIP on the season and the under is 10-1 in Tigers last 11 games vs. a starter with a WHIP less than 1.15.

The Tigers turn to Michael Fulmer (1-2, 2.76 ERA) who knocked out nine through six scoreless innings at Pittsburgh his last time out. Detroit still lost the game 1-0. Fulmer was lit up at Cleveland on April 12 but has held his other four opponents to two runs or fewer. 

Under is 3-1-1 in the last five meetings.

10* play on TB @ DET to go UNDER the total. 

MLB *RUNLINE RIPPER*

The St. Louis Cardinals were limited to seven runs while being swept in three straight by the Pirates over the weekend. They're still averaging 4.67 rpg on the season and should have no trouble to get their bats going here against James Shields (1-3, 6.14 ERA). The right-hander was tagged with four runs on six hits and four walks through six innings of a loss to the Mariners his last time out and is 0-1 with an 8.74 ERA, allowing 11 earned runs in 11 1/3 innings in his two career starts against St. Louis.

The Cardinals turn to Michael Wacha (4-1, 3.62 ERA) who has won all three of his starts at home this year, yielding only four runs in 17 2/3 innings.

The White Sox are a pathetic 8-18 on the season (with five wins against KC), and I like the 15-12 Cardinals to win this contest by at least two runs. 

8* play on St. Louis Cardinals. 

MONDAY MLB *MONEYMAKER*

The Tampa Bay Rays' eight-game winning streak ended Sunday with a 4-3 loss to the Boston Red Sox. I think they'll start another one here Monday night as they visit a Detroit Tigers team with Jordan Zimmermann (1-0, 7.91) on the mound. Zimmerman has surrendered 10 runs (seven earned) on 13 hits with five homers through 8 1/3 innings in his last two starts combined. The Rays turn to Jacob Faria (2-1, 3.78 ERA) who has allowed six runs through 15 2/3 frames in his last three starts combined. Faria beat the Tigers last season, allowing one run and six hits in seven innings. Rays are 4-1 in their last five Monday games. Tigers are 2-8 in their last 10 Monday games. Rays are 5-2 in the last seven meetings.

8* play on Tampa Bay Rays. 

TOP RATED MLB *RUNLINE RIPPER*

The Boston Red Sox have lost five of their last eight games following a blistering 17-2 start to the season, but they have still won each of Eduardo Rodriguez (3-0, 3.63 ERA) four starts on the season. I think they'll win big when hosting Kansas City Monday night. Jason Hammel (0-2, 3.38 ERA) will take the ball for the visitors. They have lost each of his five starts on the season, three of them by two runs or more. The veteran right-hander has posted a 4.45 ERA in ERA in nine career games (four starts) at Fenway Park and Hanley Ramirez has owned him in previous meetings, hitting 9-for-19 (.472) with a home run.

10* play on Boston Red Sox -1.5. 

TOP RATED SUNDAY NIGHT *BASEBALL BONANZA*

The New York Yankees are coming off eight consecutive triumphs but I think they'll come up short in this matchup with the LA Angels. 

The Halos hand the ball to Tyler Skaggs (3-1, 2.96 ERA) who will be facing New York for the first time. The left-hander is off to a fast start and tossed seven shutout innings of four-hit ball at Houston his last time out, his second scoreless performance in five starts on the year. 

The Yankees counter with CC Sabathia (1-0, 1.86 ERA) who has not allowed an earned run in his past two starts. We can however note that the Angels are one of the few teams Sabathia does not own a winning record against in his 18-year career, entering this game 9-9 against Los Angeles with a 3.91 ERA.

10* play on LA Angels. 

WHITE SOX @ ROYALS *AFTERNOON ASSASSIN*

The Kansas City are just 6-20 on the season and a pathetic 2-12 at home. The Chicago White Sox are a respectable 6-7 on the road and hand the ball to Hector Santiago (0-0, 3.38 ERA) who will be making his first start of the season after seven relief appearances, striking out 15 and walking seven over 16 innings. He'll have a point to prove here and the Royals are 1-6 in their last seven home games vs. a left-handed starter. Ian Kennedy (1-3, 3.46 ERA) will take the ball for the home team. He was charged with four runs in three frames against Milwaukee his last time out and has surrendered a total of 10 runs (eight earned) in his last two starts combined. 

8* play on Chicago White Sox. 

MLB *DAYTIME DESTROYER*

The Texas Rangers won Friday night's matchup 6-4, but I like the Toronto Blue Jays to get revenge here on Saturday. 

Texas will send Bartolo Colon (0-0, 2.59 ERA) to the mound. He was tagged with four runs in 5 2/3 innings of a no-decision against Seattle his last time out and has posted a 4.14 ERA in 29 career starts against Toronto. Current Blue Jays are batting a combined .282 against the right-hander. 

Toronto turns to left-hander Jaime Garcia (2-1, 4.57 ERA) who hasn't pitched all that well since limiting the White Sox to one run through six innings in his season debut. We can however note that the Rangers are 0-5 in their last five games against a left-handed starter and Garcia was rewarded with the win when he faced them on April eight. 

8* play on Toronto Blue Jays. 

TOP RATED MLB *BIG HITTER*

The LA Dodgers lost as a favorite for a third straight games with a 6-4 setback here at AT&T Park Friday night. I like them to claim the opener of a double-header with the San Francisco Giants on Saturday. 

Walker Buehler (0-0, 0.00 ERA) will take the ball for the Dodgers. He tossed five scoreless innings of four-hit ball against Miami in his season debut and I expect the 27 year old right-hander to get plenty of run support with the Giants sending Chris Stratton (2-1, 2.32 ERA) to the mound. Stratton has already surrendered six runs (five earned) through 10 1/3 innings of work against the Dodgers this season and he gave up three in 4 1/3 frames against them last season. 

10* play on LA Dodgers. 

SUPER EARLY REDS @ TWINS *BANKROLL BUILDER*

Two of the worst teams in baseball with do battle at Target Field Saturday afternoon when the Minnesota Twins host the Cincinnati Reds. 

The Twins have lost eight in a row, but I think they'll end that skid here with Jake Odorizzi (1-2, 4.50 ERA) on the mound. I expect a solid outing here after him surrendering five runs on five hits and three walks while striking out three over 4 2/3 innings against the Yankees his last time out. 

"Tonight's completely on me," Odorizzi said. "I put us behind the eight ball early on and didn't give us a chance to win. These guys deserve better in here, and I'm going to give them better in the future. This was just a crappy outing."

The Cincinnati Reds are just 6-20 on the season and Sal Romano (1-2, 4.78 ERA) is not a pitcher to be trusted. Twins are 8-1 in their last nine interleague home games. Romano was pummeled for five runs over four innings by Boston in his only career interleague start last season.

8* play on Minnesota Twins. 

MLB 3-PACK

The LA Dodgers should be well motivated for this game, coming off back-to-back losses to the lowly Miami Marlins. They'll hand the ball to left-hander Hyun-Jin Ryu (3-0, 1.99 ERA) who posted a rock solid 1.17 ERA in three outings against the Giants last season. San Francisco turns to Derek Holland (0-3, 4.98 ERA) who surrendered four runs over six frames against the Angels his last time out and is 0-2 with a 6.30 ERA in two career starts against the Dodgers. 

Dodgers are 16-4 in Ryu's last 20 road starts vs. a team with a losing record.

8* play on LA Dodgers. 

MLB 3-PACK

The Texas Rangers will visit the Toronto Blue Jays for the opener of a three-game series Friday night, and I think runs will come at a premium for both sides in this contest. 

Texas hands the ball to Mike Minor (1-1, 3.86 ERA) who has allowed two or fewer runs in three of his four starts. The left-hander is 3-0 with a 1.64 ERA in five career games (three starts) against the Blue Jays. 

Toronto hands the ball to Marcus Stroman (0-2, 8.55 ERA) who was late beginning spring training because of inflammation in his shoulder and is still trying to find his form. He owns a 6.89 ERA in three lifetime starts against the Rangers, but Texas has really struggled to score runs lately. 

I like the visitors to cover the runline in a low-scoring game. 

8* play on Texas Rangers +1.5. 

MLB 3-PACK

The Texas Rangers will visit the Toronto Blue Jays for the opener of a three-game series Friday night, and I think runs will come at a premium for both sides in this contest. 

Texas hands the ball to Mike Minor (1-1, 3.86 ERA) who has allowed two or fewer runs in three of his four starts. The left-hander is 3-0 with a 1.64 ERA in five career games (three starts) against the Blue Jays. 

Toronto hands the ball to Marcus Stroman (0-2, 8.55 ERA) who was late beginning spring training because of inflammation in his shoulder and is still trying to find his form. He owns a 6.89 ERA in three lifetime starts against the Rangers, but Texas has really struggled to score runs lately. 

I like the visitors to cover the runline in a low-scoring game. 

8* play on TEX @ TOR to go UNDER the total. 

EARLY BREWERS @ CUBS *RUNLINE RIPPER*

The Milwaukee Brewers had won eight straight before taking a 1-0 loss here at Wrigley Field on Thursday. I think they'll keep it close again here against the underachieving Cubs who will send the struggling Yu Darvish (0-2, 6.86 ERA) to the mound. Darvish has been hit hard since joining the Cubs and has allowed at least four earned runs and has failed to get out of the fifth inning in three of his four starts. The right-hander is 0-1 with a 3.27 ERA in two career starts against the Brew Crew who turn to 28 year old southpaw Brent Suter (1-2, 5.68 ERA). Suter is 1-1 in seven career outings (three starts) against the Cubs who are 5-11 in their last 16 games vs. a left-handed starter.

8* play on Milwaukee Brewers. 

MLB 3-PACK

The New York Mets won the opener of this three-game series 6-5 but took a 9-1 beating on Wednesday. They're 12-2 in their last 14 when their opponent allows two runs or fewer in their previous game, 6-0 in their last six after scoring two runs or fewer in their previous game and 7-1 in their last eight games following a loss.

Noah Syndergaard (2-0, 3.29 ERA) defeated the Cardinals and Carlos Martinez (2-1, 1.42 ERA) on March 29 despite giving up four runs in six innings. Martinez was tagged with five runs (four earned) in 4 1/3 innings and walked six and he gave up five runs on seven hits in five frames against the Mets last year. 

Martinez is coming off back-to-back scoreless outings, but both came against Cincinnati, and we can note that he has walked 17 through 31 2/3 innings of work on the season. 

The Mets have won each of Syndergaard's five starts on the season, and that's a trend likely to continue here. 

8* play on NY Mets. 

MLB 3-PACK

The Philadelphia Phillies snapped an eight-game home losing streak to the Diamondbacks with a 5-3 win yesterday. They're 5-1 in their last six games and hand the ball to right-hander Ben Lively (0-1, 4.64 ERA) who's coming off his best start of 2018. Lively gave up only one run as he worked around five hits and three walks in a six-inning outing against the Pirates on Friday.

The D'Backs turn to Matt Koch (0-0, 1.13 ERA) who has made just 10 appearances and three starts in his major league career. He held the Padres to one run through six innings in his lone start here in 2017 but the Phillies bats are something else. They've averaged 5.92 rpg home at Citizens Bank Park and are 6-0 in their last six home games vs. a right-handed starter.

8* play on Philadelphia Phillies. 

MLB 3-PACK

The Pittsburgh Pirates will host the Detroit Tigers in the rubber march of a three-game series Thursday night, and think there's great value on backing the visitors in this matchup. 

Detroit's Michael Fulmer (1-2, 3.47 ERA) held the Pirates to one run and four hits over eight innings earlier this month and limited the Royals to two runs and eight hits over seven innings his last time out. The Pirates turn to Ivan Nova (2-1, 4.20 ERA) who is 0-3 with a 6.56 ERA in seven games (six starts) against the Tigers.

Tigers are 12-2 in Fulmers last 14 starts during Game 3 of a series. Pirates are 1-4 in Novas last five starts during Game 3 of a series.

8* play on Detroit Tigers. 

TOP RATED MLB *BIG HITTER*

The Toronto Blue Jays claimed the opener of this three-game series  with a 10th-inning homer by Curtis Granderson last night. 

I like the Red Sox to bounce back here with Eduardo Rodriguez (2-0, 3.45 ERA) on the mound. Rodriguez held the Angels to a pair of runs throgh six innings of an 8-2 triumph his last time out, and Boston has won each of his three starts on the season. The left-hander recorded 18 strikouts in 12 1/3 innings against Toronto in 2017 and has the current Jays limited to a .221 AVG over 104 at bats. 

The Blue Jays turn to Aaron Sanchez (1-2, 3.86 ERA). They've lost three of his four starts and the right-hander has struggled with his command, entering this game with a poor 15/13 K/BB ratio and a 1.44 WHIP. 

10* play on Boston Red Sox. 

MLB 3-PACK

The San Francisco Giants came out on top Tuesday night as Mac Williamson's 423-foot homer in the sixth inning earned them a 4-3 victory. I think we'll see another low-scoring affair here on Wednesday, but with the Nats getting revenge this time. 

Washington hands the ball to Max Scherzer (4-1, 1.36 ERA). He is just 3-4 with a 4.17 ERA in eight career starts against San Francisco, but this looks like a good time to improve on those numbers. Scherzer has been exceptional so far this season, allowing just 18 hits while striking out 47 in 33 innings.

The Giants turn to Jeff Samardzija (1-0, 0.00 ERA) who injured a pectoral muscle during spring training on March 21 and made his season debut as late as last Friday. He held the Halos scoreless over five innings but struggled somewhat with his control, issuing four walks, and might need another couple of games until he's at his best. Samardzija is 2-7 with a 4.07 ERA in 16 career appearances (nine starts) against the Nationals. 

The Nats will be desperate for a win here after four straight defeats and sitting on a disappointing 10-14 record for the year. 

8* play on Washington Nationals. 

MLB 3-PACK

The San Francisco Giants came out on top Tuesday night as Mac Williamson's 423-foot homer in the sixth inning earned them a 4-3 victory. I think we'll see another low-scoring affair here on Wednesday, but with the Nats getting revenge this time. 

Washington hands the ball to Max Scherzer (4-1, 1.36 ERA). He is just 3-4 with a 4.17 ERA in eight career starts against San Francisco, but this looks like a good time to improve on those numbers. Scherzer has been exceptional so far this season, allowing just 18 hits while striking out 47 in 33 innings.

The Giants turn to Jeff Samardzija (1-0, 0.00 ERA) who injured a pectoral muscle during spring training on March 21 and made his season debut as late as last Friday. He held the Halos scoreless over five innings but struggled somewhat with his control, issuing four walks, and might need another couple of games until he's at his best. Samardzija is 2-7 with a 4.07 ERA in 16 career appearances (nine starts) against the Nationals. 

The Nats will be desperate for a win here after four straight defeats and sitting on a disappointing 10-14 record for the year. 

8* play on WAS @ SF to go UNDER the total. 

MLB 3-PACK

The Los Angeles Angels and the Houston Astros played a high-scoring affair Tuesday which ended with an 8-7 Halos victory. I find it highly unlikely that we'll see even close to as many runs scored today. 

Justin Verlander (3-0, 1.10 ERA) takes the ball for Houston. He is 8-8 with a 3.36 ERA in 19 career starts against the Angels and recorded his third scoreless appearance of the season when he held the White Sox to a pair of hits through six shutout innings his last time out. 

Nick Tropeano (1-1, 3.75 ERA) takes the ball for LAA. He has compiled a 3.86 ERA in two career meetings with Houston and should be focused here after getting roughed up by Boston his last time out. 

Under is 23-10-3 in Astros last 36 when their opponent scores five runs or more in their previous game and 7-2 in Astros last nine home games.

8* play on LAA @ HOU to go UNDER the total. 

TOP RATED BALLPARK BLOWOUT (ESPN TELEVISED)

The San Francisco Giants won the opener of this three-game set 4-2 Monday night. I expect the Nats to tie the series here the Tuesday night with Tanner Roark (1-1, 3.24 ERA) on the mound. Roark has faced the Giants seven times in his career, including four times as a starter. He's never lost, going 6-0 with a 2.02 ERA and that includes a 3-0 record behind a 2.42 ERA in four games (three starts) at AT&T Park.

The Giants hand the ball to Ty Blach (1-3, 4.10 ERA) who has been tagged with six runs (five earned) on 13 hits and four walks through 11 innings in his last two starts combined. He's coming off back-to-back losses of 5-1 at San Diego and 3-1 at Arizona and the left-hander has never faced the Nationals in his career.

Nationals are 16-6 in their last 22 Tuesday games. Giants are 2-7 in their last nine Tuesday games. Nationals are 6-2 in the last eight meetings.

10* play on Washington Nationals. 

ANGELS @ ASTROS *TOTAL TRASHER*

The Los Angeles Angels shut out the Houston Astros in a 2-0 victory Monday night. Under is 4-1 in the last five meetings overall and 9-3 in the last 12 meetings in Houston. Odds are we'll see another low-scoring contest Tuesday night. 

Houston hands the ball to Charlie Morton (3-0, 0.72 ERA) who blanked Seattle his last time out and has allowed just two earned runs on 16 hits and six walks through 25 innings this season. He has a 3.14 ERA in five career starts against the Angels who turn to rookie right-hander Shohei Ohtani (2-1, 3.60 ERA) who had been terrific in his first two big league starts before leaving his last outing after only two innings due to blister problems. 

Under is 5-1 in Astros last six after scoring two runs or fewer in their previous game. Under is 7-2 in Morton's last nine starts following a Quality Start in his last appearance.

8* play on LAA @ HOU to go UNDER the total. 

MLB *DOG OF THE DAY*

The Minnesota Twins took a 14-1 beating in the Bronx last night, but I think they'll do much better tonight with Jose Berrios (2-1, 1.63 ERA) on the mound. Berrios has been excellent this year and is 1-1 with a respectable 3.60 ERA in two career starts against the Yankees who turn to CC Sabathia (0-0, 2.70 ERA). The 37-year-old veteran will be making his second start since returning from a hip injury and has completed five frames just once in his first three outings this season. Twins are 5-1 in their last six games vs. a left-handed starter and 5-2 in their last seven after scoring two runs or fewer in their previous game.

8* play on Minnesota Twins. 

MLB *RUNLINE RIPPER*

The Houston Astros look like solid home favorite when they host the Los Angeles Angels Monday night. 

Tyler Skaggs (2-1, 3.98 ERA) will take the ball for the Halos. He was tagged with six runs on eight hits in 4 1/3 innings by the Red Sox on Wednesday. Skaggs posted a 4.24 ERA in three starts against Houston last season. Jose Altuve is 5-for-15 with a pair of walks against the left-hander. 

The Astros turn to Gerrit Cole (2-0, 0.96 ERA) who is off to a phenomenal start to the year with just four runs allowed and 41 strikeouts over 28 innings of work through his four starts. He has the current Angels roster limited to a .160 AVG over 75 at bats. 

Houston owns the longest winning streak in the American League at six straight games (outscoring opponents 47-6 in the process). The Halos on the other hand are trending in the opposite direction, losing five of six on the just-completed homestand after a fast start to the season.

8* play on Houston Astros -1.5. 

TOP RATED 10* MLB *BIG HITTER*

The Atlanta Braves are off to their best start in four years as they enter this four-game series with a respectable 12-8 record. The Cincinnati Reds on the other hand are just 3-18 on the season and have lost seven of eight home at Great American Ball Park. 

Tonight the Braves hand the ball to Mike Foltynewicz (1-1, 2.53 ERA). The right-hander held Philadelphia to one run on four hits his last time out. He has 26 strikeouts in 21 1/3 innings on the season and is 1-0 with a 1.93 ERA in three career starts against the Reds who turn to Sal Romano (0-2, 5.75 ERA). Romano has served up four homers and walked 11 in 20 1/3 innings of work this season. 

The Reds are hitting only .220 as a team and the team ERA is 5.55, with both numbers ranking in the bottom five in the majors.

10* play on Atlanta Braves. 

MLB *REVENGE ROUT*

The Boston Red Sox look primed to bounce back from losing a no-hitter to Oakland lefty Sean Manaea Saturday night. Today they'll face Daniel Mengden (2-2, 4.50 ERA) who didn't see Boston last season but gave up seven runs in 2 2/3 innings against the Red Sox in 2016. David Price (2-1, 2.25 ERA) will take the ball for Boston. He's off to a great start to the season and has the current A's limited to a combined .204 AVG over 54 at bats. 

The Red Sox had been swinging hot bats prior to yesterday's embarrassing defeat, and I'm happy to back the best team in baseball coming off a loss at this price.

8* play on Boston Red Sox. 

SUPER EARLY MLB *MONEYMAKER*

The Detroit Tigers put a 12-4 beating on Kansas City Saturday to make it five wins in their last six games while the loss was the Royals' 10th in their last 11 games.

Today KC hands the ball to Erik Skoglund (0-2, 9.31 ERA) who will make his third start of the season. He has given up 10 runs on 14 hits while covering a total of 9 2/3 frames in the two previous turns, and here he'll have to try and slow down Miguel Cabrera who is 8-for-16 in his last five games.

Francisco Liriano (2-1, 2.55 ERA) will take the ball for Detroit. He'll make his second start against the Royals for the season, having beaten them with 6 2/3 innings of one-run ball back on April 2. In his last outing Tuesday, he gave up two runs in five innings against Baltimore and was credited with the victory.

Royals are 2-12 in their last 14 when their opponent scores 5 runs or more in their previous game. Tigers are 5-0 in their last 5 after scoring 5 runs or more in their previous game.

8* play on Detroit Tigers. 

GAME OF THE WEEK (MLB)

The Cleveland Indians recorded a 4-0 triumph over Baltimore on Saturday, and I expect another easy win for the Tribe here early Sunday afternoon. 

Corey Kluber (2-1, 1.52 ERA) will take the ball for Cleveland. He has surrendered only five earned run through his first four starts of the season, while fanning 33 through his 29 2/3 innings of work. Kluber struck out 11 during a three-hit shutout against Baltimore last season.   

The Orioles turn to Andrew Cashner (1-2, 3.00 ERA) who gave up three runs on seven hits and three walks in six innings at Detroit his last time out. Cashner was tagged with five runs in five innings against Cleveland in 2017. 

Baltimore has lost seven of its last eight games, and note that the Orioles are 2-12 in their last 14 during Game 3 of a series while the Indians are 13-3 in their last 16 during Game 3 of a series.

10* Game of the Week on Cleveland Indians -1.5. 

MLB *BASES BLOWOUT*

The Boston Red Sox are without a doubt the best team in baseball at the moment, and I expect them to deliver the goods once again here Saturday night. 

Left-hander Chris Sale (1-0, 1.23 ERA) will take the ball for Boston. Heo has allowed one run or fewer in each of his four starts this season while recording 31 Ks through 22 innings of work. Sale has made 13 career appearances (eight starts) against Oakland with a 2.60 ERA and has the current roster limited to a .224 AVG over 58 at bats. 

Oakland turns to Sean Manaea (2-2, 1.63 ERA) who is off to a fast start this season, but note that the souhtpaw was lit up for seven runs in 3 ⅔ innings of work here at Fenway Park last season. Current Red Sox are batting a combined .392 against him.

Red Sox are 6-2 in their last 8 road games vs. a left-handed starter. Athletics are 0-4 in their last 4 home games vs. a left-handed starter.

8* play on Boston Red Sox. 

MLB *CA$H COW*

The Philadelphia Phillies have been on a roll lately and won for the 9th time in 11 games when they defeated the Pittsburgh Pirates 2-1 last night. 

The Phillies now are 7-1 at home this season, the second-best home record in the major leagues, and I think they'll improve on the record here with Aaron Nola (1-1, 2.22 ERA) on the mound. Nola is off to a great start to the season and has yet to allow more than two runs in any of his starts. He has a 1-2 career record despite a 3.50 ERA versus the Pirates and this looks like a good spot to get a W under his belt. 

The Pirates turn to Steven Brault (2-1, 4.74 ERA) who is 0-1 with a 7.36 ERA against the Phillies after one start against them. Brault was tagged with five runs in six innings of a 6-2 loss against Colorado his last time out and has a poor 11/9 strikeout-to-walk ratio through 19 innings of work on the season. 

Phillies are 11-1 in their last 12 home games vs. a left-handed starter.

8* play on Philadelphia Phillies. 

MLB *DAYTIME DESTROYER* (SUPER EARLY)

The Toronto Blue Jays look like great value when they visit the New York Yankees in the Bronx Saturday afternoon. They've won eight of their last 10 games following an 8-5 win here at Yankee Stadium on Friday.

Today Toronto hands the ball to Marcus Stroman (0-1, 7.98 ERA) who has allowed at least four runs in three consecutive outings, but I think he'll turn things around here. We can note that he began the season by striking out eight in a no-decision against the Yankees on April 1, a contest the Jays won 7-4.

Stroman is 6-4 with a 3.45 ERA in 14 career starts against the Yankees who turn to Jordan Montgomery (1-0, 4.70 ERA). The left-hander has allowed a total of 15 hits in 10 1/3 innings in his last two starts and I expect the red hot Jays to give him plenty of trouble.  

8* play on Toronto Blue Jays. 

MLB *DAYTIME DESTROYER*

The Detroit Tigers are coming off a three-game sweep of Baltimore and outscored their opponent 23-15 in the series. 

Today the Tigers hand the ball to Michael Fulmer (1-2, 3.86 ERA) who is 2-4 with a solid 3.33 ERA in seven career starts against Kansas City. He should be fired up for this one coming off one of the worst outings of his career, a three-inning stint at Cleveland in which he gave up nine runs (six earned). 

The Royals turn to Jakob Junis (2-1, 1.93 ERA) who held the Tigers scoreless through seven innings on April 3, but note that he posted a 6.75 ERA against them last season. He served up three homers through 4 2/3 innings against LAA his last turn and is unlikely to get much back up from a bullpen which has posted a combined 0-5 record and a 7.94 ERA.

The Royals are just 3-13 on the season with a .237 team batting average. Detroit is looking to build momentum and should prove well worth the price. 

8* play on Detroit Tigers. 

RED SOX @ ANGELS 10* PLAY OF THE DAY

The Boston Red Sox are on fire and are going for the sweep of this three-game series after outscoring the LA Angels 19-1 through the first two games. They've now scored 84 runs over their last 10 games. 

The Halos will send right-hander Nick Tropeano (1-0, 0.00) to the mound in his second regular-season outing since undergoing Tommy John surgery in August 2016. He tossed 6 2/3 innings against KC on April 12, but facing the Red Sox's bats is a whole different story. 

The Angels will be in big trouble if Tropeano doesn't deliver. "Our bullpen's been used a lot and we have to get a little bit of length from our starters," Angels manager Mike Scioscia said.

Left-hander Eduardo Rodriguez (1-0, 3.72 ERA) will take the ball for Boston. He held Baltimore to one run and five hits in six innings Friday night and has the current Angels limited to a .176 AVG over 34 at bats. 

10* play on Boston Red Sox. 

INDIANS / TWINS *PUERTO RICO PUNISHER*

The Cleveland Indians opened this brief two-game series with a 6-1 triumph on Tuesday, but I think they're about to run into some serious trouble here as Minnesota sends out Jose Berrios (2-1, 2.18 ERA) to the mound. 

Berrios worked seven scoreless innings while fanning 11 in a win over the White Sox on Thursday. Note that this contest will take place at Hiram Bithorn Stadium in San Juan, Puerto Rico, less than 10 miles away from Papa Juan where Berrios was born and raised. You better believe he'll be fired up for this contest. 

"My family has been waiting a long time for this, just like I have," Berrios said. "This is a special moment for all of us, for the country to come together as one."

Cleveland turns to Carlos Carrasco (3-0, 3.48 ERA) who is a very good pitcher, but he could be due for a let down game after holding Detroit to a run on three hits in a complete-game victory his last time out.

8* play on Minnesota Twins. 

GAME OF THE MONTH (MLB)

The Texas Rangers have won three of their last four games, including a 7-2 victory against the Tampa Bay Rays on Tuesday night.

Today they'll hand the ball to Cole Hamels (1-2, 4.50 ERA). The veteran southpaw held Houston to a pair of runs with seven strikeouts through six innings his last time out. Hamels has been hurt by the long-ball this season, serving up seven homers through 22 innings of work, but note that Tampa Bay has recorded just nine home runs in their 16 games this season. Hamels has held the Rays to one run in 14 innings in his last two starts against them. 

Jake Faria (0-1, 8.18 ERA) will toe the slab for Tampa Bay. He has really struggled with his control this year giving up 10 free passes and 11 hits through 11 innings of work. 

Rangers are 31-8 in Hamels' last 39 starts vs. a team with a losing record. Rays are 1-5 in their last six games vs. a left-handed starter.

10* MLB Game of the Month on Texas Rangers. 

TOP RATED 10* MLB *RUNLINE RIPPER*

The Houston Astros had won five in a row before taking a 2-1 loss here at Safeco Park Monday night. I think they'll get back to their winning ways when facing Ariel Miranda (2017: 8-7, 5.12 ERA) on the mound. The left-hander will make his first start in the big leagues for the season and has posted a mediocre 4.00 ERA in two minor-league outings this year.

Miranda is 1-2 with a 4.30 ERA in seven career appearances (six starts) versus the Astros who hand the ball to Lance McCullers Jr. (1-1, 7.71 ERA). The right-hander was charged with a career-worst eight runs on seven hits and six walks in 3 2/3 innings against Minnesota his last time out, but he's a solid 5-2 with a 2.96 ERA in nine career starts against Seattle. 

Astros are 49-23 in their last 72 games following a loss and 6-1 in the last seven meetings with Seattle. 

10* play on Houston Astros -1.5. 

MLB *MONEYLINE MASSACRE*

The LA Dodgers enter this week at the bottom of the NL West, but they ended a three-game skid with a 7-2 triumph at Arizona on Sunday. They're 57-20 in their last 77 after scoring five runs or more in their previous game and I would not be surprised to see the Dodgers go on a run starting with an easy win here Monday night. 

Tonight they'll face Robbie Erlin (0-1, 2.38 ERA) on the mound. Erlin is coming out of the bullpen to fill in for Luis Perdomo who is serving a five-day suspension. The southpaw will make his first start since April 17, 2016 and missed the entire 2017 season due to Tommy John elbow reconstruction surgery. Dodgers are 15-5 in their last 20 road games vs. a left-handed starter. 

Hyun-Jin Ryu (1-0, 2.79 ERA) will take the ball for LAD, and he's a solid 4-1 with a 2.57 ERA in seven career starts vs. San Diego.

8* play on LA Dodgers. 

TOP RATED 10* MLB *MIDNIGHT MASSACRE*

The Seattle Mariners and the Houston Astros will open a four-game series at Safeco Field Monday night. Houston dropped a 3-1 decision to Texas in 10 innings on Sunday, but the Astros are a solid 7-2 in their last nine after scoring two runs or less in their previous game. 

I think the Astros will bounce back here with Dallas Keuchel (0-2, 4.20 ERA) on the mound. The left-hander has yet to win a decision on the season, but he's 8-5 with one complete game and an excellent 2.70 ERA in 15 career appearances (14 starts) against Seattle.

The Mariners turn to another southpaw in James Paxton (0-1, 5.74 ERA) who is 3-3 with a 3.38 ERA in eight lifetime starts against Houston. Mariners are 2-6 in Paxton's last eight starts.

Seattle had scored a total of 29 runs during a four-game winning streak before taking a 2-1 home loss to Oakland yesterday. The Mariners are however just 2-8 in their last 10 games vs. a team with a winning % above .600 and 1-4 in their last five home games vs. a left-handed starter. Astros meanwhile are 4-1 in their last five games vs. a left-handed starter.

10* play on Houston Astros. 

D'BACKS @ DODGERS *NO-BRAINER*

The Arizona Diamondbacks have won each of the previous five meetings this season. Today the Dodgers hand the ball to Clayton Kershaw (0-2, 1.89 ERA) who has pitched well but been let down by the Dodgers' bats, and that's likely to happen again today. LAD is among the NL's least productive offenses with 47 runs and a .238 average on the season. Arizona on the other hand is among the most productive teams in the NL with 75 runs scored.

Zack Godley (2-0, 0.64 ERA) will take the ball for Arizona. He outdueled Kershaw at Arizona on April 3, giving up just one run on four hits over seven innings of a 6-1 triumph. Godley has allowed just four hits and one walk through 14 frames this season.

Diamondbacks are 11-3 in their last 14 road games vs. a left-handed starter. Dodgers are 2-7 in their last nine overall.

8* play on Arizona Diamondbacks +1.5. 

SUBSCRIBERS ONLY

The San Diego Padres are coming off a 5-1 triumph over San Francisco Giants to improve to 5-2 in the last seven meetings at Petco Park. The Giants' left-hander Derek Holland (0-2, 4.09 ERA) was tagged with seven runs (six earned runs) on 13 hits in 5 2/3 innings in his lone previous meeting with the Friars. He was 3-7 with a bloated 7.17 ERA in 14 outings on the road last season. San Diego turns to Clayton Richard (1-1, 5.29 ERA) who's far from an ace, but note that the Giants have scored fewer than two runs in seven of their first 13 games this season. 

8* play on San Diego Padres. 

TOP RATED 10* MLB *BIG HITTER*

The Arizona Diamondbacks' Zack Greinke (0-1, 5.06 ERA) has yet to win a decision this season. He has started at Dodger Stadium three times in an Arizona uniform throughout his career and has a 7.56 ERA in those games with a 1-2 record. The Dodgers turn to Kenta Maeda (1-0, 0.00 ERA) who recorded 10 strikeouts over five innings in over the San Francisco Giants in his only start of the season so far. Maeda was 8-1 with a 2.88 ERA in 14 outings (11 starts) home at Dodger Stadium last season and Dodgers are 7-1 in Maeda's last eight home starts vs. a team with a winning record.

10* play on LA Dodgers. 

MLB *MONEYMAKER*

Both the Milwaukee Brewers and the NY Mets were off Thursday after wins on Wednesday. The Mets are off to a sensational start and enjoying the best 11-game start in baseball since 2013 with their 10-1 record. I think the Brew Crew are looking good to record an upset here with Zach Davies (0-1, 5.40 ERA) on the mound. Davies is undefeated in four career starts against the Mets and note that NY's Steven Matz (0-1, 3.00 ERA) has a mediocre 4.15 ERA in two career starts against Milwaukee. 

Mets are 1-7 in Matz's last eight starts vs. a team with a winning record.

8* play on New York Mets. 

MLB *BASE BRAWLER*

Cleveland has won five in a row and it is a solid 6-1 at home this season. Mike Clevinger (1-0, 0.71 ERA) has made one previous career appearance against the Jays when he pitched 1 1/3 scoreless inning out of the bullpen back in 2016. He gave up one hit, with three strikeouts and one walk. Clevinger has allowed just one run in 12 2/3 innings so far this season. 

Toronto hands the ball to Marcus Stroman (0-1, 8.38 ERA) who was 1-0 with a 0.66 ERA in two starts against the Tribe last season, but he's coming off a rough outing as was tagged with five runs on six hits and five walks over 4 2/3 innings at Texas his last time out. 

Indians are 14-3 in Clevinger's last 17 starts. Blue Jays are 4-10 in Stroman's last 14 road starts vs. a team with a winning record.

8* play on Cleveland Indians. 

TOP RATED 10* MLB *RUNLINE RIPPER*

The Minnesota Twins are coming off back-to-back wins against reigning World Series champions Houston Astros while the Chicago White Sox had lost five straight prior to defeating Tampa Bay 4-1 yesterday. 

Tonight the Twins hand the ball to Jose Berrios (1-1 3.29 ERA) who opened the season with nine scoreless innings of three-hit ball at Baltimore but gave up five runs through 4 2/3 frames against Seattle his last time out. I expect him to be much sharper here; Berrios is 3-1 with a 2.13 ERA while striking out 31 through 25 1/3 innings spread out over four meetings with the White Sox and he was 9-1 with a 2.41 ERA in 11 outings at Target Field last year.

The White Sox turn to Lucas Giolito (1-0, 6.17 ERA) who served up three homers and allowed four runs over six innings of a 4-1 loss against the Twins last season. Giolito has struggled with his control in his first two games this season, giving up a total of seven walks against five strikeouts. 

The Twins are 8-2 against the runline on the season. 

10* play on Minnesota Twins. 

THURSDAY NIGHT MLB TOTAL

The Cleveland Indians have won four games in a row, mostly thanks to their pitching. In their last six games overall, they have scored a total of just 15 runs, and I think runs will come at a premium for both teams here. 

The Tigers hand the ball to Michael Fulmer (1-1, 0.68 ERA) who tossed 5 1/3 scoreless innings against the White Sox on Saturday. Fulmer has struggled in previous matchups with the Tribe, but Cleveland's bats have yet to come alive this season and the Indians enter Thursday with the worst batting average in baseball (.170).

Trevor Bauer (0-1, 2.08 ERA) will take the mound for Cleveland. Bauer limited KC to one run and three hits over eight innings his last time out. He'll face a Detroit team with the second worst AVG (.204) in the major leagues this season. 

Under is 5-0 in Tigers last five overall. Under is 7-0 in Indians last seven overall.

8* play on DET @ CLE to go UNDER the total. 

EARLY PIRATES @ CUBS *BASE BRAWLER*

The Chicago Cubs racked up 16 hits while defeating the Pittsburgh Pirates 13-5 last night. Javier Baez knocked the ball out of the park twice and has four home runs in his last eight at-bats. 

Here Baez and the rest of the Cubs will face Trevor Williams (2-0, 1.59 ERA) who managed to concede just two runs despite giving up 10 hits in 5 1/3 frames against Cincinnati his last time out. He might not be as lucky here, especially considering his 4.82 ERA through 18 2/3 innings in previous meetings with Chicago. 

Kyle Hendricks (0-0, 4.09 ERA) will toe the slab for the Cubs. Last year, he went 1-1 in three starts against the Pirates, allowing five runs in 17 2/3 innings for a 2.55 ERA.

Pittsburgh is 8-3 on the season but due to regress. I like the Cubs to win and cover the runline here Thursday afternoon. 

8* play on Chicago Cubs -1.5. 

MLB *RUNLINE RIPPER*

The Pittsburgh Pirates are off to a fast start, entering Wednesday 8-2 for the season while averaging 6.60 runs per game. They defeated Chicago 8-5 in the Cubs home opener on Tuesday, but I like the home team to get revenge in a big way tonight. 

Pittsburgh left-hander Steven Brault (2-0, 1.13 ERA) began the season in the bullpen but made a spot start last week for Joe Musgrove, who is on the DL. Brault has posted a 7.90 ERA in two career starts against Chicago and the current Cubs are batting a combined .419 over 43 at bats against him. We can also note that Cubs are 9-2 in their last 11 home games vs. a left-handed starter.

The Cubs hand the ball to Jon Lester (1-0, 2.89 ERA). Lester is 5-5 with a 3.23 ERA in 12 starts against the Pirates. Lester tossed six scoreless innings of three-hit ball his last time out. 

8* play on Chicago Cubs -1.5. 

TOP RATED 10* MLB *BIG HITTER*

The Arizona Diamondbacks and the San Francisco Giants will play the rubber match of a three-game series Wednesday afternoon. Arizona is 8-3 on the season after losing Tuesday's matchup against its NL West rival 5-4, and here it'll face a Giants starter making his major-league debut. 

Left-hander Andrew Suarez will take the ball for the home team after getting summoned from Triple-A Sacramento to replace injured Johnny Cueto. The D'Backs hand the ball to lefty Robbie Ray (2-0, 5.73 ERA) who is 4-1 with 2.53 ERA in eight career starts against the Giants and 9-1 with a 1.84 ERA in his last 16 road starts.

Giants are 5-11 in their last 16 games vs. a left-handed starter. Diamondbacks are 8-2 in the last 10 meetings.

10* play on Arizona Diamondbacks.