Cappers Sports Picks

New York Yankees.

In the oldest and most heated and hated rivalry in baseball, New York has the luxury of playing at home. These two teams certainly know each other very well, and certainly don’t like one another either. The Yankees have taken three of the last four meetings, which all occurred last month, coincidentally enough also played at Yankee Stadium. The Red Sox struggled down the stretch dropping six of their final nine regular season outings with a lineup that only scored more than two runs just one time since mid-September. The New York Yankees are expected (check status) to be without Aaron Judge. But this team has a powerful lineup and arguably the best pitcher in the American League this season. Cam Schlittler is a Cy Young candidate for sure going 14-6 with 1.95 ERA with 239 strikeouts in 33 starts this season. He seemed to have gotten stronger as the season progressed, my friends. He’s done well against Boston going 2-1 with a 0.74 ERA in four game games against them in 2026. With all respect, Payton Tolle does own some respectable numbers sporting a 9-6 record this season with a 3.03 ERA, and who also has done well against the Yankees in 2026 going 1-0 with a 0.69 ERA in two starts against them, I feel as in over his head here. But please remember as a rookie this will be his first playoff start ever. And making his first start ever in the postseason on the road in the most intimidating baseball stadium in the Majors is going to be too much for the youngster. Take the New York Yankees. Thank you.

Boston Red Sox.

The Boston Red Sox are the hottest team in baseball for a while now. This is a team that has climbed into third place in the most competitive division in baseball, the American League East, 5.0-games back in the division at 73-59. They enter this matchup winning five in a row, which includes both games played thus far in this series. They have dominated the Miami Marlins taking seven of the last eight meetings going back to July 2024. Speaking of which, Miami is struggling dropping five of their last eight games as their pitching staff seems to be overworked. Speaking of which, I really like Sonny Gray over Ryan Gusto in this matchup. The Boston right-hander is 16-3 with a 2.79 ERA on the campaign, which includes a 9-2 road record and a 2.82 ERA as a visitor. The Miami right-hander is winless at 0-3 with an ERA of 4.37, going 0-1 at home with a 4.56 ERA. He has pitched well against lesser lineups. But against this surging offense, it’s going to be a long day for him. Take Sonny Gray as a starter and the Boston Red Sox. Thank you.

Milwaukee Brewers.

Owners of the best record in baseball at 81-50, the Milwaukee Brewers showing no signs of slowing down. This is a team that is playing great baseball, winning seven of their last 10 overall outings, to give themselves a 5.5 game cushion in the NL Central. With the Chicago Cubs just over their shoulder I doubt very much they’re gonna’ take their foot off the gas at all here. They have dominated the New York Mets taking five of the last six overall meetings, which includes two of three matchups in 2026. Speaking of New York, I don’t know if there’s a more disappointing team in all of the Major’s than the Mets. They own one of the worst overall records at 59-72, are 17.0 games back in the NL East, and have thrown in the towel on the season. They come into today’s matchup going 2-3 their last five outings. Statistically speaking, the disparity in the numbers between these two teams is overwhelming. The Brewers rank fourth in scoring and second in team ERA while the Mets are 23rd and 12th respectively. Today’s starters are expected to be Harrison and Thornton. While the New York LH owns a 3-4 record, his ERA is a respectable 3.04. The Milwaukee LH has been superb in 2026, earning a 10-3 record with an anemic ERA of 2.84. As a matter of fact, the team has prevailed in 13 of his last 17 turns. No matter how you look at this matchup, the Milwaukee Brewers are a strong release. Thank you.

Cleveland Guardians.

Don’t look now, but Cleveland is starting to surge. The Guardians have won three in a row and five of their last seven outings. This includes both games of this series by a combined score of 13-4. As a matter of fact, going back to last July they have taken four straight over the Rockies, outscoring them by a combined 28-7. Speaking of Colorado, they continue to disappoint fans. This is a team that’s riding a five-game losing streak as their pitching staff has gotten plowed for over 37 runs during this current slide. Speaking of which, Griffin and Sugano are scheduled here today. Both starters possess some decent numbers. However, on the road this season the Cleveland left-hander is 7-2 with a 3.11 ERA. His last two outings, he yielded a combined two earned runs in 11.0 innings pitched, earning victories in both. His teams have won in nine of his last 11 turns. He is rolling. While the Colorado right-hander, as I mentioned earlier owns respectable numbers, he comes off an ugly outing in which he yielded six earned runs in just 5.0 as the team took a loss to Los Angeles, 11-5. It’s gonna’ be hard to shake that stink in this matchup. Take the Cleveland Guardians. Thank you.

Milwaukee Brewers.

Going back to June 2019, these two teams have met 10 times, with the Brewers prevailing in eight of those 10 matchups. The Mariners sit in third place in the American League West at 59-66, 4.0-games back in the division, and just 2.0-games back of a Wildcard situation. Milwaukee possesses the best overall record in baseball at 77-48, and own a 4.5-game cushion in the National League Central. These two teams are starting to stride again. However, I look for the Brewers to come in here with confidence, not only knowing they have dominated the Mariners over the years, but also coming into this matchup coming off a series win over the Dodgers, 3-1. The Mariners offense possesses some of the ugliest numbers in all of baseball, ranking at the bottom of the barrel in most categories, which includes 29th in scoring and 28th in team batting average. Their pitching has been consistent this season. However, the home team here comes in with a top-five scoring offense and the second-best pitching staff in baseball. Speaking of which, you can expect to see Miller and Harrison starting here today. The Seattle RH is 4-6 with a 3.39 ERA on the campaign as the team has dropped his last six appearances. To be honest with you, he has been giving up a ton of runs since the first week of July. The Milwaukee LH is 9-3 with a 3.47 ERA on the campaign, and has not allowed a single lineup to put a better than three earned runs on him since the second week of June. At home this season, he is nearly unbeatable, sporting a 6-1 record with an anemic ERA of 1.38. I like this matchup very much. Take the Milwaukee Brewers. Thank you.

Milwaukee Brewers.

Since the Opening Day of the 2026 regular season, the Milwaukee Brewers have been just about the most consistent team in all of baseball. They possess a 5.5-game lead in the National League Central, and overall, own the best record in the Majors, at 74-44. They are very good as a road team as well, sporting an away record of 33-22. They have taken three of the last four meetings against the San Diego Padres, which includes two of three matchups this season. Speaking of San Diego, they sit in third place in the West, at 62-57. They are a better home team than they are on the road. But I think they’re overmatched and outclassed here today. Both teams are running hot, as both have won seven of their last 10 overall outings. However, you just can’t compare these two teams statistically. The Brewers own a top-10 scoring lineup, and one of the best pitching staffs in baseball, while the Padres rank in the bottom third in scoring, and are middle of the road on the mound. Speaking of which, we are expected to see Logan Henderson and Casey Mize take the rubber today, as starters. The Milwaukee right-hander has been stellar this season, earning a 6-1 record with a 2.70 ERA. The team has won his last eight starts, as he is perfect over his last three turns, going 3-0 with a 2.16 ERA, and on the road in 2026, nearly unbeatable at 3-1 with a 3.00 ERA. He has yet to face today’s opponent this season. But the way the pitching staff has been shutting down lineups, along with the explosion of scoring by their offense, I expect Henderson to come out here today with another victory. As far as San Diego goes, their right-hander owns a respectable ERA of 3.40 this season. But he is just 4-7 as the team dropped his debut in a Padres uniform last Monday night. At times, he has looked good. But most of the time this season, he has gotten beaten up. He has recorded just two victories since the third week of April. With the way, the Brewers lineup has been surging, I think he’s in for a long day here, once again. Take Milwaukee. Thank you.

Tampa Bay Rays.

Not only do the Tampa Bay Rays own a 3.5-game cushion in the East division, they also possess the best overall record in the American League at 64-44. They have won eight of their last 10 games, and believe it or not, very quietly, this team possesses the best home record in all of baseball, going 40-16 at Tropicana Field in 2026. Very quietly also, Chicago sits atop the Central division at 57-51. The one problem the White Sox have, is there much better at home than they are on the road. That’s right, they are 34-21 on their own field this season, but just 23-30 as a visitor. The Rays have taken all three meetings with them this season. While Chicago possesses an offense that accounts a bit more per game, Tampa Bay without question owns a better pitching staff. Speaking of which, today’s starters are Erick Fedde and Nick Martinez. Both right-handers have pitched extremely well this season. But the White Sox starter is just 5-6 with a 4.25 ERA. However, the team has prevailed in his last five appearances, which includes three starts and two relief situations. He has done well in his career against today’s opponent. In two starts against them he is 2-0 with a 2.03 ERA. However, on the road in 2026 he has really struggled, going just 3-5 with a whopping ERA of 5.40. The Tampa Bay starter is nothing short of excellent this season, earning a 10-2 record with a 2.46 ERA. The team has won his last six turns, as over his last three outings he is 3-0 with a 1.56 ERA, and at home this season, he has been nearly unbeatable, earning a 7-1 record with a 2.78 ERA. In eight games which, includes five stars against today’s opponent, he is just 2-4. But this is a very different situation for him with, a red-hot lineup behind him, and the best home team in baseball. Take the Rays. Thank you.

Philadelphia Phillies.

This line is a bit high. But a win is a win, my friends. The Philadelphia Phillies are sitting on the right side of a playoff spot. But even more important to them, they are just 5.5-games back of the Atlanta Braves in the National League East. They have been hit or miss (no pun intended) the last few weeks. However, they’re playing a team they have dominated here today. Philadelphia has taken seven of the last nine meetings with Miami, which includes four of the last five this season alone. The Marlins are the coldest team in baseball, riding a 12-game slide. Their lineup has been sputtering, while their pitching staff seems to be overworked and fatigued. Speaking of which, Zack Wheeler goes up against Tyler Phillips today. The Phillies right-hander has been remarkable this season, earning a 10-2 record with an ERA of 2.16, as the team has prevailed in 13 of his 16 starts. On the road in 2026, he has been superb, sporting a 6-1 mark with a 1.73 ERA, and over his career, he is 14-4 with a 2.59 ERA in 28 appearances, which happens to be all starts against the Marlins. The Miami right-hander is just 2-5 with a 3.52 ERA in 2026, and has only won one outing since mid-June. He has done well this season at home. However, he has made seven appearances against Philadelphia in his career, which includes two starts, going winless at 0-1 with a 5.93 ERA. I know Philadelphia has been struggling a bit. But facing Miami is just what the doctor ordered to turn things around. Take the Phillies. Thank you.

Los Angeles Dodgers.

As we all know, the Dodgers are a true force to be reckoned with once again this season. Not only do they possess the best record in the National League West, they currently possess the best overall record in baseball at 66-38. They have dominated most teams. This includes the New York Mets, a team they have taken all four meetings against this season already, and going back a bit further, five in a row, and six of the last seven overall matchups. The Dodgers are rolling, winning three in a row, and five of their last seven, are one of the best road teams in baseball, and statistically speaking, rank in the top-five and just about every major offensive and pitching categories out there. Meanwhile, if there’s a team more disappointing than the New York Mets this season, I don’t know them. A lot was expected of this team this season, and yet they sit in last place in the National League East, 18.5-games back at 43-61. Their offense is absolutely atrocious ranking at or near the bottom of every major category, while their pitching staff has been erratic at best. Yamamoto and Mclean are slated here today. The Dodgers right-hander owns a very respectable record of 10-6 with a 2.78 ERA this season, has been excellent on the road, and really has only had one poor outing since mid-May. The Mets right-hand is 7-6 with a 3.34 ERA on the campaign and at home has struggled, going just 2-5 with a 4.47 ERA. Take the Los Angeles Dodgers. Thank you.

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Tampa Bay Rays.

With the New York Yankees and the red-hot Boston Red Sox right over their shoulders, the Tampa Bay Rays must keep their foot on the gas in the American League East. They currently possess the best overall record in the A.L. at 60-43. They are certainly a better team at home than they are on the road, sporting a 36-15 at Tropicana Field in 2026, and face a Cleveland Guardians opponent they have taken three of four matchups against this season. Speaking of Cleveland, they are sliding, dropping three in a row as their pitching staff is getting absolutely steamrolled. In a battle of right-handers, Bibee and Martinez are squaring off here. The Cleveland starter is just 4-9 with a 3.86 ERA this season as the team has dropped 14 of his 21 turns. Over his last three outings, he’s just 1-1 with a 4.58 ERA, and on the road this season, he has not looked too sharp going just 2-4 with a 3.66 ERA. The Tampa Bay starter has been on fire, as the team has won his last five outings. Over his last three starts, he is a perfect 2-0 with a 2.16 ERA, and at home he has been nearly unbeatable, earning a 6-1 record with a 3.07 ERA. I really like this game. Take the Rays. Thank you.

Tampa Bay Rays.

AL East Money Maker.

Game 955.

12:05 PM PST/3:05 PM EST.

The Tampa Bay Rays are playing some great baseball possessing the best overall record in the American League, and topping the East division at 59-42. They currently own a 2.5-game cushion over the New York Yankees. They enter today’s matchup winning all three games of this series, and trust me when I tell you, they will sweep today. They have dominated the Toronto Blue Jays taking eight of the last nine matchups, all played in 2026. Speaking of the Blue Jays, they are a nightmare, dropping four in a row and seven of their last eight outings, to dip to last place in the division at 46-56.  Statistically speaking, Tampa Bay deserves to be atop the division while Toronto deserves to be at the bottom of it. The Rays rank13th in scoring and 2nd in team batting average, while ranking ninth in team ERA. Meanwhile, the Blue Jays rank dead last in scoring. That’s right, they rank 30th, averaging a mere 3.94 runs per game, and 17th in team batting average, while ranking 13th in team ERA. Seymour has pitched well against Toronto in relief roles three times this season and is a perfect 3-0 on the road in 2026. Bieber has struggled badly, and is just 0-0 with a 6.00 ERA at home on the campaign. I feel the Rays will close out this series with a big win and sweep the lowly Blue Jays. Thank you.

New York Yankees.

The Yankees have dominated the Pirates, taking four of the last five meetings going back to September 2024. They are starting to surge, and are playing at home with a solid starter on the mound. Max Fried will return from a bone bruise in his left elbow for his first start since mid-May. He is 4-1 with a 3.94 ERA in eight career starts against the Pirates. I believe he will be back in full form here, and show just how great of a starter he is. Bubba Chandler is a train wreck, at 3-8 with a 4.77 ERA overall this season, and over his career has never faced the Yankees. Playing New York in Yankee Stadium is a whole different monster. I don’t believe he has the stuff to succeed in this matchup. Take New York. Thank you.

Miami Marlins.

At 49-42, the Miami Marlins are playing some good baseball. They have won three in a row and seven of their last 10 overall games, and are equally good on the road as they are at home. They currently sit in third place, 4.0-games back in the National League East. Seattle has taken over the top spot in the American League West, at 47-44. While they are a solid team when playing on their own field, they are just 20-24 when playing away from home. They enter today’s matchup winning five of their last six outings. But all of those games were played at home. They did drop four of their last five games played as a guest. The Marlins own some solid statistics, ranking 13th in scoring and 11th in team ERA. Believe it or not, most of their numbers both at the plate and on the mound, rank them in the top-10. As far as statistics go, Seattle ranks 24th or worse in almost every major offensive category. They do own a top-five pitching staff, however. Having said that, today starters are expected to be Brian Woo and Max Meyer. As of posting this release, Woo has not been confirmed (check status).  The team does have one of the better bullpens in baseball. But, going to the mound at home will be Max Meyer. The right-hander has been superb this season, amassing a 9-1 overall record with a 2.53 ERA. The team has prevailed in 13 of his 18 starts, and over his last three outings, he’s gotten even better, going 2-1 with a 1.50 ERA. At home this season he has been perfect, earning a f5-0 record with a 2.13 ERA. Playing at home with an excellent starter on the mound tells me to side with the Miami Marlins. Thank you.

Boston Red Sox.

Traditionally, the American League East has been the most competitive division in all of baseball. This year, we’ve got two teams separating themselves from the rest of the pack. However, despite sitting at the bottom of the division, the Boston Red Sox are starting to heat up. They have won seven of their last nine games, which includes both contests in this series. If Boston is considered red hot, then Los Angeles would be considered ice cold. They are also in the bottom of their division. They enter today’s game losing five in a row and just can’t seem to do anything right. Their offense has been mediocre at best, while their pitching staff ranks in the bottom third in every major category. Baseball is one of the streakiest of all sports. You ride a hot team and fade a cold one. I like the Red Sox even more because of today’s pitching matchups. Ranger Suarez and Ryan Johnson are slated. The Boston left-hander is 4-3 with a 2.94 ERA on the campaign. The team has won three of his last four turns, and since the beginning of June, he has yet to allow a single lineup to put up more than three earned runs on him. Over his last three outings, he is a perfect 2-0 with a 1.93 ERA, and on the road this season, equally impressive at 3-1 with a 2.12 ERA. The L.A. right-hander is just 1-3 with a whopping ERA of 7.40. The team has lost five of the six games he has made an appearance in, and at home this season he is 1-0, but owns an ERA of 6.55. Once again, you ride a hot team and fade a cold one. Take the Red Sox. Thank you.

Milwaukee Brewers.

Milwaukee is starting to run away with the National League Central division at 54-32, giving themselves a 5.5-game cushion. They have dominated most teams this season. And Arizona definitely fits in that category. The Brewers have taken three of four meetings this season with the Diamondbacks, outscoring them by a combined, 35-13.  Not only are they winning at home, but Milwaukee is also one of the better away teams in baseball, sporting a 25-14 road record. With all respect to Arizona, who does sit in second place in the National League West, tied with San Diego, 14.0-games back of Los Angeles, their numbers just aren’t as impressive. As a matter of fact, they account for almost a full run less game than the visiting team, while their pitching staff has a higher ERA by almost one full run, as well. It’s hard to compare any team in baseball to the remarkable numbers the Brewers are putting up, ranking in the top-10 in just about every major offensive category, and in the top-10 in most pitching categories. Speaking of which, Brandon Woodruff and Merrill Kelly are scheduled today. The Milwaukee right-hander is 2-1 on the season with a 2.59 ERA. Over his last three outings he has a 0.00 earned run average, and on the road this season, he is a perfect 1-0 with a 2.89 ERA. The Arizona right-hand is 5-8 with a whopping ERA of 5.84 this season. As a matter of fact, his last victory came on May 25 as he has lost five straight games, while the team has dropped his last six turns. Over his last three starts, he has winless at 0-3 with a 7.27 ERA, and at home his ERA soars to 8.13. Baseball is very simple. You follow a hot team, and fade a cold one. Take the Milwaukee Brewers. Thank you.

Milwaukee Brewers.

Milwaukee has taken firm control of the National League Central, possessing one of the best overall records in baseball at 50-29. They currently own a 7.5-game cushion. Sitting in second place in division happens to be the Chicago Cubs. The Brewers took Game 1 of this series yesterday with authority, 6-2, to extend their domination over their division rival, winning all four games against them this season, and going back a bit five straight, and eight of the last 10 overall matchups. With all respect to Chicago Cubs, they are a good team. However, when they travel, they struggle a bit. Right now, they are just 21-21 on the road in 2026. But that was with a four-game road sweep against the lowly New York Mets earlier this week. While their lineup has been pretty decent all season long, their pitching staff has been absolutely inconsistent. Speaking of which, today they send David Peterson to the hill. The left-hander is 3-6 on the campaign with an ERA of 6.09. Between a combination of starting and relieving, he has made 16 appearances this season, and the team has dropped 10 of those 16 appearances. Over his last three outings he is 0-1 with a whopping ERA of 10.97. Away from home on the campaign he is really struggled as well, going just 2-3 with a 5.03 ERA. What can you say about the Milwaukee Brewers, my friends? With a combination of both the second-ranked scoring lineup and the second-ranked pitching staff, this team is really striding. They average over 5.23 runs per game, and own a team ERA of 3.36. Today, they will send Kyle Harrison to the bump. The left-hander has been outstanding this season, amassing an 8-1 record with a 2.50 ERA. The team has won 10 of his last 11 turns. And only once over his 14 outings in 2026 has he allowed more than two earned runs. It seems that when he is at American Family Field, he has been nearly unstoppable, going 5-1 with an anemic ERA of 1.29. My friends, the Brewers know they can further distance themselves against the rest of the division with another big victory over a team they have dominated. Take the Milwaukee Brewers. Thank you.

Philadelphia Phillies.

Philadelphia was down 5-0 yesterday on the road at Washington, only to come back and win 10-5. That was their third consecutive overall victory, and their fifth over their last six games. They are scratching and clawing in the National League East division, sitting just 4.0-games back of Atlanta. New York is at the bottom of the division dropping six in a row at eight of their last 10 outings. During their six-game slide, they have been outscored by a combined, 54-22. This is a team that just can’t seem to do anything right, despite their huge payroll. The Phillies have dominated the Mets, taking two row and six of the last seven matchups against their division rival. Starting pitchers today are expected to be Zack Wheeler and Trent Thornton. Even if Thornton doesn’t go (as of posting this release there is no official starter), I don’t think it matters. Wheeler has been outstanding this season, going 7-1 overall with a 2.11 ERA, which does include a 3-1 record on the road, with an ERA of 2.17. The team has won nine of his 11 turns in 2026. Take the Phillies. Thank you.

New York Yankees.

In the most heated and hated rivalry in all sports, the Yankees travel to Fenway Park to take on the Red Sox. For a while, Boston had their way with New York. However, the tide has turned as the Yankees have dominated this rivalry, taking six of the last seven meetings, which does include four of five matchups played this season. Believe it or not, New York possesses one of the best road records in all of baseball at 26-16 away from home while, Boston owns the worst home record in the Majors at 12-25 on their own field. On paper, New York scores more than a run a game more, and allows nearly a half a run less. Even without Aaron Judge in the lineup, New York is winning. I think things will go from bad to worse for the Red Sox, who have dropped seven of their last 10 overall outings, which does include four straight at home during that span. Cam Schlittler and Connelly Early are slated here today. The New York Yankees right-hander is 8-3 on the campaign with an anemic ERA of 1.70, as a team has won 12 of his 16 turns in 2026. Only once in those 16 stars has he allowed more than three earned runs. On the road, he is a monster going 6-1 with an ERA of 1.12. He has dominated Boston in both starts against them this season, one on the road and one at home, going 2-0, combining for 13.2 innings pitched and allowing a combined two earned runs. They Boston Red Sox left-hander has earned just one victory over his last four outings, is just 2-4 at home with a 4.82 ERA, and got shelled in his only starting against New York back in the third week of April at home. All signs point of the Yankees. Take New York. Thank you.

Los Angeles Dodgers.

Los Angeles took the series-opener yesterday, 2-1. They have dominated Minnesota. Going back several seasons, they are 7-3 the last 10 overall meetings. Over the last several games, the Dodgers lineup has struggled a bit. But that’s why I like them so much today. On this season, their offense ranks #3 in the Majors in runs scored, #1 in team batting average, #1 in OPS, and #2 in home runs. This is a team that averages over 5.15 runs per game. As far as Minnesota goes, statistically, over recent contest, their offense has come alive. However, I think things change here because of the pitching. Going back to their offense, they do own respectable numbers in run scored, team batting average, OPS, and home runs. But (and there’s always a but) their pitching has been absolutely atrocious. They rank 27th in team ERA (4.85), compared to the Los Angeles staff, which ranks fourth with a team ERA of 3.43. Today’s starters are scheduled to be Wrobleski and Rojas. The Dodgers left-hander has been outstanding this season, earning an 8-2 record, with an anemic ERA of 2.72. The team has won nine of his last 12 starts. On the road, he is perfect at 1-0 with a 2.16 ERA, and against American League opponents, he has won three straight going back to April 6. The Twins left-hander is 1-0 with a 1.26 ERA. But the rookie has yet to go more than 4.0 IP, and has not had to face a lineup like this one today. I feel the Los Angeles lineup will explode today against an inexperienced youngster. Take the Los Angeles Dodgers. Thank you.

New York Yankees.

It’s true, New York has dropped their last two outings. However, this team is still one of the best road teams in baseball, and they are still hanging on to the best overall record in the American League at 46-30. They are 22-15 as a visitor this season, with a lineup ranking fourth in scoring, and a pitching staff that tops the Majors. Yes, their offense is averaging over 5.12 runs per game, as they rank second in OPS, and are the best home run hitting squad in all of baseball. Let’s not forget, when they get on base, they also rank second overall stolen bases. That would be enough for me here because Detroit, who is a very disappointing team this season at 33-44, sitting in fourth place in the American League Central, certainly does not possess the same type of quality numbers. They rank 25th in scoring, and seventh and pitching. As a matter of fact, their offense ranks in the bottom third in just about every major category. While overall, their pitching staff has been good, they just don’t give them the run support they need. Speaking of pitching, Gerrit Cole and Framber Valdez are scheduled here today. The Yankees right-hander is 2-1 with a 2.57 ERA on the campaign, and over his career has dominated Detroit, going 10-1 with a 1.84 ERA in 14 starts. On the road this season, he is a perfect, 1-0 with an anemic ERA of 1.69. As far as the Tigers left-hander goes, he is 3-5 with a 4.09 ERA in 2026. He has been inconsistent at best. He has not fared well against the Yankees. Over his career in six starts against them, he is winless and 0-2 with a whopping ERA of 7.22. At home this season, he is just 2-3 with a 4.94 ERA. The team has dropped seven of his last eight turns, as his last victory came back on April 19. He struggles against the Bronx Bombers, and I doubt very much he will get too much run support. Take the New York Yankees. Thank you.

Atlanta Braves.

It’s by no accident the Atlanta Braves possess the best overall record in baseball at 40-19. This is a very well-balanced team, winning three in a row and seven of their last 10 contests. Not only that, but they are the best road team in all of the Majors, amassing an astounding away record of 23-9. They enter this matchup winning both games in this series thus far, outscoring the Cincinnati Reds by a combined, 12-5. Going back a bit, they have dominated their N.L. rival, taking three in a row, five of the last six, and eight of the last 10 overall matchups. Statistically, there is no comparison between these two teams as Atlanta scores nearly a run more per game, while yielding over a run and a half less per game. Speaking of pitching, we see Spencer Strider and Nick Lodolo slated here today. The Braves right-hander is a perfect 3-0 with a 3.46 ERA on the campaign as the team has won all five of his turns. On the road this season he is also a perfect 3-0 with a 3.92 ERA. Over his career, Strider has done quite well against today’s opponent, going 1-0 with a 2.77 ERA in three appearances, which includes two starts. The Reds left-hander is 1-1 with the whopping ERA of 5.57 on the season. The team has dropped three of his four outings, and at home in 2026, he has 0-1 with an 8.68 ERA. He will be making his just his second lifetime appearance against the Braves. Take Atlanta. Thank you.

Houston Astros.

Winners of five of their last six outings, the Astros are starting to stride. Mind you, all of those victories came on the road. They have taken two of the three contests with their in-state rival in this series. Going back a bit, they have taken seven of the last nine overall meetings with the Rangers. Speaking of Texas, they sit just 1.0 game ahead of their in-state rival in the A.L. West. Another loss to Houston, and these two teams will be tied. The Rangers are struggling badly, dropping five of their last six overall outings. Their offense is erratic, and their pitching has been downright atrocious. Speaking of which, you can expect to see Spencer Arrighetti and Nathan Eovaldi today. The Astros right-hander has been superb this season earning a 6-1 record with an anemic ERA of 1.32. As a matter of fact, he is the first Houston pitcher with an ERA of 1.32 or better through his first seven start of the season since Justin Verlander in 2018. He will face Texas for the second time this month after allowing just one hit over 7 1/3 innings pitched in a 2-0 home win on May 15. In two career starts against the Rangers, he is 1-0 with an ERA of 0.68. The Texas right-hander is 5-5 on the campaign with a 3.65 ERA. He has pitched well over his last several starts. But over his career in 15 starts against Houston, he is 5-5 with a 3.44 ERA. The Astros have dominated the Rangers and have the confidence of knowing that. Throw into the mix their surging offense and their solid starter, and they are the play today. Take Houston. Thank you.

New York Yankees.

Baseball, in my opinion, is the streakiest of all the major sports. And it’s no secret the Yankees are one of the streakiest teams in baseball. They are starting to stride again, winning three in a row to climb within 2.5-games back of the Rays in the American League East. They are only one of five teams in both leagues playing .600 ball or better. To say they have dominated the Royals, would be an understatement. Going back just since mid-April of last season, they have now taken 11 consecutive meetings over their American League rival. This season alone, they are a perfect 5-0 against Kansas City, outscoring them by a combined 33-10. For a few games, the Bronx Bombers lineup fell a little flat. But they are starting to pick it up again, and watch out, my friends. They possess an offense ranking forth in the Majors, averaging 4.96 runs per game, and lead all teams in the long ball, swatting 82 home runs already. Throw into the mix their pitching staff also ranks fourth, with a team ERA of 3.20. Gerrit Cole gets the nod today. The veteran right-hander is making only his second start of the campaign. In his first outing on May 22 at home against Tampa Bay, he went 6.0 innings, yielded zero earned runs and just two hits. Unfortunately, it did result in a no decision. I think that will further motivate the seasoned hurler to come out and truly dominate a team he has had success against. Over his career in eight appearances, which are all starts by the way, he is 4-1 with a 2.77 ERA against the Royals. Speaking of KC, their numbers are pretty ugly. They rank 27th in scoring and 23rd in team ERA. No matter how you look at it, if you are a Royals fan, there isn’t much to be excited about. They send Noah Cameron to the hill. The left-hander is 2-3 with a 4.72 ERA on the campaign, as the team has dropped seven of his nine turns. He was shelled by New York back on April 18, yielding five earned runs in just 4.0 innings pitched, which resulted in a loss for him and the team, 13-4. He has done a little bit better at home than he has done on the road this season, Fut facing the surging Bronx Bombers offense, I feel is going to make it a very long and frustrating day for the youngster. Take New York. Thank you.

Arizona Diamondbacks.

Don’t look now, but Arizona is one of the hottest teams in the National League, winning three in a row, and eight of their last nine outings. This season alone, they have dominated their division rival, taking all four matchups by a combined score of 29-10. This does include the series-opener yesterday by a score of 6-2. Over their last nine overall contests, the Diamondbacks have accounted for five more runs seven times, while their pitching staff has yielded four or less runs seven times as well. The same can’t be said for San Francisco. This is a team sitting in fourth place in the NL West, 12.0-games back, at 22-32. Statistically, this team doesn’t have a lot to be expected about, ranking 30th in scoring and 21st in team ERA. Whether it be at the plate or on the mound, their numbers are quite embarrassing. Adrian Rodriguez has been lights-out this season, as the team has won seven of his last eight turns. The left-hander has earned a very respectable 4-1 record this season with a 2.24 ERA. The Giants right-hander hasn’t had too much success, going 1-6 with a whopping ERA of 6.10. The team has dropped seven of his 10 outings. It seems to be going from bad to worse for him as over his last three appearances, he is winless at 0-2 with an ERA of 8.62. As I mentioned a moment ago, the team statistics overall are pretty dismal. I think things are going to stay that way for them. Take Arizona. Thank you.

Minnesota Twins.

Minnesota has taken three of four matchups with Boston this season, including a series-opening, 8-6 victory yesterday. There is no question, the Twins are starting to stride. Coming into this game today, they have won four of their last five contests with a combination of explosive hitting and consistent pitching. Statistically, they’re averaging almost a run more per game offensively, while their pitching staff overall is not as strong as the home team. However, no matter how good the Red Sox pitching appears to be, they’re just not hitting the ball. Their lineup has eked out three or less runs in seven of their last 10 outings. Bradley gets the nod on the road. The right-hander is 4-1 with a 2.87 ERA on the campaign. On the road this season, he’s a perfect 3-0 with a 3.25 ERA. In six career starts against the Red Sox, he has done quite well, earning a 4-1 record with a 3.44 ERA. For Boston, reports are Moran will get this start and then Bello will come in afterwards. This is unconfirmed. But Moran, just for the record is 0-1 with a 2.81 ERA. He rarely goes more than an inning or two. It looks like Bello will get the bulk of the work. The right-hander is 2-5 with a whopping area of 7.16 this season. He has gotten shelled quite a bit, my friends. As a matter of fact, the team has lost seven of his nine appearances in 2026, and at home, he is 0-1 with a 5.27 ERA. Once again, this is what it looks like it’s going to be. But even if the Red Sox change things up a bit, I still like the momentum and the domination of the Twins. Take Minnesota. Thank you.

Cleveland Guardians.

Cleveland is starting to separate themselves from the rest of the division as they sit atop the American League Central with a three-game cushion, at 29-25. They have won five straight games and are the only team in the central with a winning road record. To say they have dominated Detroit, would be an understatement. They have taken all three meetings this season in this series thus far, and going back a bit, seven of the last 10 overall matchups. Right now, this team is surging, winning (as I mentioned earlier) five straight outings, and eight of their last nine overall outings. They play a Tigers opponent that is really struggling, dropping five in a row, and eight of their last nine contests. Detroit ranked among the bottom of the barrel in the Majors in scoring, averaging just 3.90 runs per game, and just can’t seem to do anything right offensively. As a matter of fact, over their last nine games, they have only scored more than three runs one time. Joe Cantillo and Casey Mize are scheduled. Both starters are pitching well. However, the Cleveland left-hander has the luxury of knowing his offense is exploding. Take the Guardians. Thank you.

Rays.

The Tampa Bay rays haven’t lost too many games this season, especially at home. They dropped last night’s Game 2 matchup to the Miami Marlins in extra innings. That had to hurt badly, my friends. I feel the Rays, who do own the best home record in baseball at 15-5 at Tropicana Field, will come out here and prove a point against a team that doesn’t even deserve to be on the same field as them. Tampa Bay scores more and allows less, very simply. Eury Perez isn’t a bad pitcher. He just doesn’t get run support, and to be honest, I feel is overmatched here. Drew Rasmussen is pitching great. The team has won five of his last six starts, and he is not allowed to single opponent better than three earned runs in four consecutive turns. He is perfect at home at 2-0 with a 2.00 ERA. Take Tampa Bay. Thank you.

Tampa Bay Rays.

IL GAME OF THE MONTH.

Game 964.

1:10 PM PST/4:10 PM EST.

Very quietly, the Tampa Bay Rays possess the best overall record in the American League at 29-14. To go one further, they do own the best overall home record in all of baseball at 15-4 at Tropicana Field this season. With a combination of a top-10 ranked scoring offense, and a top-five ranked pitching staff, Tampa Bay is striding. Their lineup owns a team batting average of .259 while they are second in baseball with 48 stolen bases. They are hitting the ball, moving the runners along, and scoring runs. The same can’t be said for Miami whose offense ranks 19th and pitching staff ranks 18th. They’re just not threatening either at the plate or on the mound, my friends. The Rays took Game 1 of this series yesterday with authority by a score of 7-2. That was their sixth victory in this rivalry over the last 10 matchups. This is a team that has accounted for four or more runs in seven of their last 10 outings while they’re pitching staff has allowed three runs or less in six of their last 10 games. Today, they send Nick Martinez to the hill. The right-hander is 4-1 on the season with an anemic ERA of 1.70. The team has won seven of his eight starts this season. He can go deep into games while not allowing a single lineup more than two earned runs. At home on the campaign, he is a perfect 2-0 with a 1.53 ERA, and 12 career appearances, which includes five starts against the Marlins, he is 4-1 with a 3.58 ERA. For Miami, Sandy Alcantara takes the bump. The right-hander is 3-2 with a 3.90 ERA, as the team is 5-4 in his nine turns in 2026. He has struggled on the road, going 1-1 with a whopping ERA of 6.00. In seven appearances, which by the way are all against Tampa Bay, he has gone 2-4 with a 3.89 ERA. Miami is just 6-13 on the road this season, and right now their offense is struggling, while they’re pitching staff seems to be overworked and fatigued already. Take the Rays. Thank you.

Tampa Bay Rays.

MLB AL EAST GOM.

Game 965.

4:05 PM PST/7:05 PM EST.

Not only has the Tampa Bay Rays taken over one of the most competitive divisions in all of baseball, the American League East. But they also own the best overall record in the AL at 27-13. They are scalding hot, going 15-2 their last 17 contests. With a combination of a surging lineup and the fifth-ranked pitching staff in the League, this team is playing some great baseball. They have dominated their division rival, prevailing in all four matchups this season, and outscoring Toronto by a combined, 20-9. Speaking of the Blue Jays, they were highly-touted prior to the season beginning. But yet they sit in fourth place in the East at 18-23. Their offensive statistics are downright ugly, ranking 23rd in scoring, 21st in OPS, 21st in home runs, and 29th in stolen bases. That would be enough for me here. But their pitching staff has been less than stellar, ranking 17th in the Majors. Speaking of which, McClanahan and Corbin are scheduled. The Tampa Bay left-hander is 4-2 on the season with an ERA of 2.60. In nine career starts against Toronto, he is 5-2 with a 2.16 ERA, including a win on Wednesday when he pitched 5 2/3 scoreless innings. The Blue Jays left-hander is 1-1 on the campaign with a 3.60 ERA. These are respectable numbers, my friends. But over his career in four starts against the Rays, he is winless at 0-3 with a 6.04 ERA. Baseball is one of the streakiest of all sports, and right now the visitor is streaking while the home team is struggling. Take Tampa Bay. Thank you.

San Diego Padres.

To say San Diego has dominated Arizona, would be an understatement. The Padres have taken six consecutive meetings in this division rivalry, and going back a bit, eight of the last 10 matchups. My friends, this includes Game 1 of this series to by a score of 6-4. There is no question, they also enter Game 2 hotter. San Diego is playing great baseball, as they sit atop the National League West with the best overall record in the Majors at 18-8. They currently own a half-game lead over the Los Angeles Dodgers. They’re equally good at home as they are on the road sporting records of 9-4 in both. The Arizona Diamondbacks are struggling a bit dropping four of their last five games with a pitching staff that has allowed 38 runs over those last five contests. Speaking of pitching, Michael King and Ryne Nelson are slated. The Padres right-hander has been very impressive thus far in the 2026 campaign, going 3-1 with an ERA of 2.28. In three starts against Arizona in his career, he is a perfect 2-0 with a 0.00 ERA. The Arizona right-hander has not found his form yet, going 1-2 with a whopping ERA of 6.97. The team has lost four of his five turns on the campaign. And over his career, in 11 games which includes 11 starts against San Diego, he is 4-3 with an ERA of 4.83. As a matter of fact, he has been tagged for 11 home runs to the Padres in 54 innings pitched. That does not bode well as the San Diego lineup has started to surge. Take the Padres. Thank you.

Athletics.

There is no question the most pleasant surprise thus far this regular season is the Athletics. They are tied with the Angels and the Rangers atop the American League West at 11-10. Unfortunately, the same can't be said for the White Sox. They are in a tie with the Royals in last place in the Central division at 7-14. These two teams have split out the first two games of this series. But the athletics have had their way in the rivalry taking six of the last eight overall matchups. The Chicago offense ranks 27th in baseball in scoring averaging 3.57 runs per game, and 29th in Team Batting Average, possessing a dismal .206. That would be enough for me here. But their pitching staff ranks 26th in the Majors possessing an ERA of 4.87. Meanwhile, yes, the Athletics are doing it with smoking smoke and mirrors… but they are still doing it. You cannot compare Noah Schultz with Jeffrey Springs. The Chicago left-hander has made one appearance this season, getting shelled for three earned runs in 4.1 innings pitched in an April 14 loss at home against Tampa Bay. Meanwhile, the Athletics left-hander has been stellar, as the team has won his last three starts, while he possesses a 3-0 record, with a 1.46 ERA. The Athletics are playing at home, are hotter, have dominated this opponent, and will get another big win here today. Thank you.

Los Angeles Dodgers.

Game 923.

5:00 PM PST/8:00 PM EST.

Whether you had Los Angeles or Toronto last night, I'm sure you didn't expect the outcome that we did experience. The Dodgers opened up the game in the first several innings and took a 2-0 lead only to watch the Blue Jays tie it up in the bottom of the fourth. Then in the bottom of the sixth, all hell broke loose as Toronto exploded for nine more runs. Right after that in the top of the seventh, Los Angeles did make a valiant effort in posting two more runs, but it was a little too little, and a little too late. Having said that, being embarrassed in Game 1 of the World Series could not sit well with the Dodgers. While I think the Blue Jays are a very good team, I think revenge is motivating Los Angeles along with a much stronger starting pitcher. Yoshinobu Yamamoto is slated against Kevin Gausman. The L.A. right-hander is 2-1 with a 1.83 ERA in this postseason. The Toronto right-hander is 2-1 with a 2.00 ERA in this postseason. Yamamoto was awesome on the road this regular season, going 10-4 with a 2.04 ERA, and he fared pretty well against the American League this season. Gausman sported a winning home record this regular season of 7-6, but his ERA was 3.67. He was absolutely awful this season against the National League. While Yamamoto has never faced Toronto, Gausman has struggled against Los Angeles, especially in the postseason where he is 0-1 with a 6.75 ERA in three postseason starts. I feel Los Angeles will bounce back, especially with a stronger starter on the mound that had more success against the American League than his counterpart has against the National League. Take the Dodgers. Thank you.

Toronto Blue Jays.

Game 906.

5:05 PM PST/8:05 PM EST.

The first four games of this American League Championship Series had different outcomes than we normally see. Toronto hosted the first few games and lost, then went on the road to Seattle for the following two games and won. Then things changed. In game 5, the Mariners took that home game only to see the Blue Jays taking Game 6 also at home. The beginning of the series didn't offer too much of a home-field advantage, but it seems the last few games it is proving to be a benefit. I think the same is going to go for Game 7 tonight. Overall, Seattle is 42-44 on the road this season while Toronto possesses a home record, a remarkable home record of 57-29. Statistically, these two teams own very similar numbers. So, what is this final game going to come down to besides an advantage of home field? I'll tell you right now it will come down to starting pitchers. We saw George Kirby and Shane Bieber squared off Game 3, in which the Blue Jays prevailed, 13-4. Don't get me wrong, I think Kirby is a decent pitcher. But getting shelled against this very same opponent just five days ago is going to weight strong on his shoulders and in his mind. Overall, on the campaign, he loses a little something on the road going to 5-4, with a whopping of 5.16. Meanwhile, Bieber knows that he took this team down five days ago, and possesses a nice home ERA of 3.27, with a record of 2-1 this season. The starter has allowed three runs or less in eight of his nine appearances in 2025. He has a string of five consecutive turns in which he has allowed two runs or less. All season long when the Blue Jays needed to step up, they have. They also have a better starter on the mound, and obviously are at home. All advantages to Toronto. Take the Blue Jays. Thank you.

Cleveland Guardians.

Game 942.

10:05AM PS/1:05 PM EST.

With a strong finish down the stretch, Cleveland finished atop the American League Central over Detroit. They now enter this short series playing hotter, and with a little more momentum. They enter this matchup today winning seven of their last 10 games, which includes four of six played at Progressive Field. Meanwhile, Detroit enters this matchup dropping eight of their last 10. The Tigers lineup has been erratic, and their pitching has been downright deplorable. These teams met 13 times in the regular season with Cleveland taking eight, including five of their last six over the final two weeks of the regular season. Momentum is a big part of the playoffs, my friends. How you end the regular season, has a lot to do with how you start the postseason. There is no question the Guardians lineup has started to explode at the right time. Today's starters are scheduled to be Tarik Skubal and Gavin Williams. The Detroit left-hander is 13-6 with a very respectable ERA of 2.21 on the campaign. He is not won an outing since the first week of September, and loses a little luster when he is away from home. He still possesses some good statistics. However, I feel he's in way of his head today. The Cleveland right-hander is 12-5 with a 3.06 ERA in 2025. The team has won his last five starts, in which he has gone 4-0. Two of those victories were against today's opponent. As a matter of fact, in three turns against the Tigers this season, he has yielded a total of two earned runs. At home on the campaign, he is a very solid 7-2 with an ERA of 3.00. I just feel playing at home, with more momentum, and a surging lineup, gives the Guardians a big edge. Take Cleveland. Thank you.

Philadelphia Phillies.

NL East Game of the Week.

Game 904.

3:45 PM PST/6:45 PM EST.

With another victory over New York yesterday, the Phillies have widened their lead in the division to 8.0-games. There are only approximately 18 regular season games left for these two teams. Let's face it, a couple more victories, and the Phillies own the division, and a very nice spot in the postseason. It is true, the Mets have had their way in this division rivalry this season. But Philly took Game 1 of this series yesterday, 1-0, and to be totally honest, they come into this matchup running hotter. The Mets have dropped six of their last 10 overall outings, while the Phillies have picked up seven of their last 10 contests. It seems as though when New York’s bats come alive, their pitching fails, and when their pitching is solid, they slump at the plate. That's not the case with the home team. The Phillies have been consistent all season long. They are also an extremely strong team when they play at Citizens Bank Park, sporting a 46-23 record at home. Compare that to the Mets, who are 10-games under .500 on the road at 31-41. Today’s starters are scheduled to be Sean Manaea and Ranger Suarez. The New York left-hander is 1-2 with a 5.60 ERA on the campaign, and in seven games, which includes five starts over his career against Philadelphia, he is 2-2 with a 4.99 ERA. He has only had one decent outing over his last six turns. Meanwhile, the Philadelphia left-hander is 11-6 with a 2.89 ERA. The team is 14-8 in his starts this season. He has faced the Mets 16 times, which includes nine stars in his lifetime, going to 4-3 with a 3.52 ERA. The team has won his last four outings in which he is 3-0. At home this season, he is a very respectful 5-2 with a 3.68 ERA. Philadelphia is just plain old playing better, my friends. Take the Phillies. Thank you.

Texas Rangers.

AL GAME OF THE MONTH.

Game 972.

5:05 PM PST/8:05 PM EST.

The Texas Rangers are starting to make a run for at least a Wildcard spot in the American League. With less than 30-games remaining in the regular season, Texas sits at .500, at 67-67, 6.0-games back in the American League, and just 4.5-games back for a WC spot. One thing that plays in their favor, is playing at Globe Life Field where they are 41-27 this season. They face a Los Angeles Angels opponent that has fallen way short thus far, sitting in fourth place in the division, at 62-70, 10.0-games back in the division, and 8.5-games back for a WC opportunity. This team just cannot string together any consistency. They lost yesterday's matchup with the Rangers 7-3, to give them seven losses over their last 10 overall contests. By the way, they are just 28-35 as a guest this season. Having said all that, I feel the pitching matchup heavily favors the home team here. We all know the Angel's pitching staff is one of the worst in baseball. They rank at or near the bottom in every major pitching category. Today they send Jack Kochanowicz to the hill. The right-hander is just 3-10 with a whopping ERA of 6.19 in 2025. He has been brought back up from AAA Salt Lake after being demoted earlier this month. This season alone against the Rangers, he is 0-2 with a 9.00 ERA in three appearances against them. Overall, he is 0-4 with a 6.48 ERA five career meetings with them, which happens to be all starts. For Texas, left-hander Jacob Latz takes the bump. He is 1-0 with a 3.05 ERA on the campaign. For the most part this season, he has been used in a relief situation. That doesn't stop him from being 1-0 with a 2.52 ERA at home. Latz has a 1.35 ERA without a decision in three career relief appearances against the Angels. We all know, the Texas bats have been erratic. But their pitching staff ranks No. 1 in baseball with a team ERA of 3.43. So even when Latz is taken out, he has the best pitching staff in baseball behind him to back him up. I feel the combination of Texas starting to stride, and their pitching staff here, is a winner. Take the Rangers. Thank you.

Milwaukee Brewers.

National League Central Game of the Week.

Game 906.

4:40 PM PST/7:40 PM EST.

The Milwaukee Brewers are the hottest team in baseball, winning 10 in a row, and 25 of their last 29 contests. They are the only team currently playing better than .600 baseball (.627), at 74-44. They one of the largest leads in any division in the Majors as they are 6.5-games ahead of the Chicago Cubs in the National League Central. Meanwhile, dwelling in the division cellar is the Pittsburgh Pirates, 24.0-games back, at 51-69. To say Milwaukee has had their way and this division rivalry would be an understatement. They have taken three in a row, and six of the last nine matchups. Yesterday's series opener saw them decimate the Pirates, 7-1. Speaking of Pittsburgh, they possess a lineup that ranks 30th in runs scored, and a pitching staff that has been inconsistent at best. Yes, Paul Skenes takes the hill for them today. The right-hander is 7-8 with a 1.94 ERA on the campaign. Over his career in three starts versus Milwaukee, he is 1-1 with a 2.65 ERA, and is 0-1 in two starts this season against them, allowing a total of five runs in 10 innings. No question he is a solid starter. However, he lacks run support, and let's face it, against this lineup, any starter in the league would have trouble. For the Brewers, Freddy Peralta takes the hill. The right-hander is 13-5 with a 3.03 ERA on the campaign, and leads the National League in victories. Over his last 10 starts, he is a remarkable 8-1 with a 3.52 ERA, and in 24 career games against the Pirates, which does include 15 starts, he is 3-2 with a 3.58 ERA. This season alone in two starts against them, he is 1-0 with a 3.86 ERA. The Brewers average nearly one and a half runs more per game than the Pirates, and their pitching staff is significantly better. Take Milwaukee. Thank you.

San Diego Padres.

Game 910.

7:10 PM PST/10 PM EST.

These are two teams heading in opposite directions. The Cardinals have struggled all season long, and are currently sitting in fourth place in the National League Central, 11.0-games back, at 55-56. They have dropped three in a row, which does include Game 1 of this series yesterday. As a matter of fact, they have lost three straight to the San Diego Padres. Speaking of which, San Diego has won six in a row, and is just 3.0-games back in second place in the West division, at 61-49. They also happen to be one of the best home teams in baseball sporting a 35-18 record at Petco Park. The Cardinals offense has been basically nonexistent, combining for just eight runs in their seven losses over their last 10 contests. Their pitching staff has been absolutely picked apart. During those seven losses they have allowed a combined 37 runs scored. On the other hand, during their current win streak, the Padres have outscored opponents by a combined 35-11. Today's starters are scheduled to be Michael McGreevy and Randy Vasquez. The St. Louis right-hander is 2-2 with a 4.91 ERA on the campaign, and comes off his worst outing this season, allowing seven earned runs in just 4.2 IP, losing to this very same Padre's team on July 27. On the other hand, the San Diego right-hander is 3-4 with a 3.65 ERA on the campaign. The team is 14-7 in his starts this season. They have won his last six consecutive turns. He has only allowed more than three earned runs once in his last nine outings. He took down this same St. Louis opponent on July 26, bootstrapping them to just one earned run, and one hit in 4.2 IP. Without question, take the Padres. Thank you.

Kansas City Royals.

Game 930.

4:40 PM PST/7:40 PM EST.

Prior to this season, Atlanta has had their way with KC, taking six of the last seven going back a bit. But these are two very different teams this season. Granted the Braves did take last night’s series opener. Prior to Monday night, the Braves have dropped five in a row, and eight of their last 10, with an offense that's inconsistent at best, and a pitching staff that has a yielded five or more runs in eight of their last 10 outings. Meanwhile, the Royals are starting to turn it up a little bit. They are a few games under .500, and can certainly take over 2nd place in the AL Central with a few victories. Their lineup does leave a lot to be desired. But they're starting to find their feet a little bit. They faced and beat a couple of good teams over recent weeks, and let's face it, their pitching staff ranks among the top few in baseball. Seth Lugo is scheduled, and he's been pretty good as the team has won four of his last five turns, and at home he has a nice area just 2.48. Lugo has made 29 career appearances versus the Braves, and is a stellar 4-0 with a 1.29 ERA in five starts against them. Erick Fedde (3-10 with a 5.22 ERA) has gotten absolutely shredded, meanwhile, was designated for assignment by the St. Louis Cardinals on Wednesday and traded to Atlanta on Sunday. Fedde has allowed a whopping 26 runs, 33 hits, including eight home runs, and walked 11 over 17 2/3 innings, while going 0-4 in his last five starts with the Cardinals. Despite a loss last night, I just think these two teams are in different classes right now. By the way, I doubt very much Atlanta, which is one of the poorest road teams in baseball at 19-34 away from home this year, can pull off back-to-back miracles as a visitor. Take the Royals. Thank you.

Texas Rangers.

IL GAME OF THE MONTH.

Game 928.

5:05 PM PST/8:05 PM EST.

In this series opener we see two teams heading in opposite directions. Atlanta has dropped two in a row, and six of their last 10 to sink to fourth place in the NL East at 44-57. They also possess one of the worst road records in the NL at 18-31 away from home. Texas has won three in a row, and eight of their last 10 to sit in third place in the American League West, at 53-50, and are a very good team when playing host, as they are 31-20 at Globe Life Field this season. The Braves pitching has been absolutely horrible, allowing five or more runs in eight of their last 10 outings. This does not bode well as the Rangers lineup has been exploding. Oh, by the way, the Texas pitching staff has been stellar, yielding no more than two runs in any of their last seven contests. Speaking of pitching, Joey Wentz and Nathan Eovaldi are slated here today. The Atlanta left-hander is 2-1. But owns a whopping ERA of 5.71 this season. Wentz has pitched for three teams already this season. I don't expect you will see him for more than an inning or two. But either way, whether it's himself, or his bullpen, Atlanta’s staff is absolutely horrible. The Texas right-hander has been outstanding this season, possessing a record of 7-3 with an ERA of 1.58. In 17 starts against the Braves over his career, he has an ERA of just 3.00. By the way, Wentz, in four lifetime appearances, which includes two starts, against the Rangers, is out 0-2 with a 7.11 ERA. I look for Texas to absolutely crush Atlanta here. Take the Rangers. Thank you.

San Diego Padres.

NL GAME OF THE MONTH.

Game 905.

4:15 PM PST/7:15 PM EST.

I am well aware San Diego has dropped three straight games, which does include yesterday’s series opener. As a matter fact, I had St. Louis yesterday in Game 1 of this series. But today's matchup is a totally different situation. The Cardinals, prior to yesterday's game, lost 13 of their previous 18 outings. Their hitting has been erratic, and their pitching has been downright deplorable. Overall, San Diego certainly leaves a lot to be desired at that plate. But their pitching staff has been ranked in the top 10 for quite a while now. Speaking of which, today's matchups are Nick Pivetta and Miles Mikolas. The Padres right-hander is a very respectable, 10-2 with a 2.81 ERA this season. He has been absolutely outstanding, allowing just two earned runs in 31 1/3 innings pitched over his last five turns. Over his career in six starts against the Cardinals, he is 3-1 with a 3.47 ERA.  The St. Louis right-hander has gotten crushed this season, possessing a record of 5-7 with a whopping ERA of 5.20. He has allowed five or more runs in three of his past four starts, and over his career in eight starts against San Diego, is 3-2. Oh, by the way, as he is just 3-4 with a 6.00 ERA on the road this season, his counterpart, is a perfect 6-0 at home with an anemic ERA of 2.07. The difference here is the starting pitchers. Take the Padres. Thank you.

Detroit Tigers.

Game 911.

4:15 PM PST/7:15 PM EST.

Baseball is the streakiest of all the major sports. You ride a good team, and go against a bad one. Right now, there is no team in the Majors playing worse than the Cleveland Guardians. Cleveland has dropped eight consecutive games, being outscored by 26 runs during that span. They have lost the last two meetings against their division rival, including yesterday's series-opener. Speaking of Detroit, they want to hold onto their top spot in the division. They currently possess a 12.5-game lead in the American League Central, and want to widen that gap even further before All-Star Break. This is a team that averages nearly a run and a half more on offense, and possesses a top 10 pitching staff. Casey Mize has been sharper than Logan Allen. As a matter of fact, the team has won Mize’s last three turns. As far as Allen goes, he is 0-2 with a 9.75 ERA in three career starts against the Tigers. I look for Detroit to further widen in their cushion in the division, while Cleveland sinks further and further into the abyss. Take the Tigers. Thank you.

Philadelphia Phillies.

MVP PLAY.

Game 977.

1:0 PM PST/4:0 P EST.

Philly has not only taken Games 1 and 2 of this series with authority, but they have also taken over the lead in the competitive National League East division. Winning nine in a row, Philadelphia now has a 3.0 game lead over New York in the NL East. On the other hand, the Athletics have really hit rock bottom, losing 11 in a row. They sit in last place in the American League West, at 22-31, with really no light at the end of the tunnel. Jesus Luzardo will take the hill on the road here, as the left-hander is 5-0, with a 1.95 ERA on the campaign, as the team has won his last five outings. The standout has allowed a total of 13 earned runs in over 60 innings pitched. For the Athletics, Gunnar Hoglund gets the nod at home. He is 1-2, with a whopping ERA of 5.06, as the team has dropped his last three appearances. Not only does he give up a lot of hits, he gives up a lot of home runs, and let's face it, the Philly lineup hits a lot of home runs (LOL). Take Philadelphia. Thank you.

New York Mets.

Game 915.

4:40 P.M. PST/7:40 P.M. EST.

The New York Mets are playing some great baseball, sitting atop the NL East, at 11-5. This team is striding, winning eight of their last 10 overall games, which does include yesterday’s series-opener against the Minnesota Twins, 5-1. They have dominated the Twins in their matchups, taking seven of the last 10 meetings, going back several seasons. This is a team that is winning on the road, that possesses a solid lineup, that is starting to surge, and possesses the No. 1 pitching staff in baseball. That's right, their Team ERA leads the Majors at just 2.22. Speaking of pitching, they send Tyler Megill to the hill. The right-hander is 2-1 with an anemic ERA of 0.63 on the campaign. He has allowed just three total runs (one earned) on 11 hits in 14 1/3 innings pitched through his first three turns. By the way, he's also fanned 17 batters. Over his career, he has made two appearances, which includes one start against the Minnesota, sporting a 0-0 record with a 1.29 ERA. He has held them in check, for sure. The Twins are slowly sinking to the bottom of the AL Central. They currently sit in fourth place at 5-12, have lost seven of their last nine, and are just 2-5 at home this season. Their offense is nonexistent, ranking 27th in both runs scored, and team batting average. That would be enough. But they're pitching has been erratic at best. They have Bailey Obe getting the start. The right-hander is 0-1 with a 7.11 ERA this season. He has never faced the NY lineup. But I'm sure he is concerned knowing he has to stand 60 feet away from Juan Soto and company today. The team has lost two of his three starts. The Mets are striding, have a superior pitching staff, and a surging lineup. Take New York. Thank you.

Atlanta Braves.

Home Run GOM.

Game 955.

4:15 PM PST/7:15 PM EST.

It's funny how things change so quickly in baseball. The Braves are starting to heat up, winning five of their last seven, while the Padres have cooled down, riding a five-game slide. Atlanta took Game 1 of this series yesterday, by a score of 6-1. With the combination of solid hitting and strong pitching, this team is one of the most dangerous in baseball. Speaking of pitching, Reynaldo Lopez and Dylan Cease are scheduled today. The Braves have won six of their right-handers last seven outings, while the Padres have dropped each of their right-handers last two turns. With some momentum, a more consistent lineup, and a stronger starter on the mound, take Atlanta. Thank you.

Los Angeles Dodgers.

BEST BET.

909.

7:15 PM PST/10:15 PM EST.

 Whenever you can get a team of the caliber of the Los Angeles Dodgers at a low price or even at even money, it certainly offers us value. But this play for me isn't just about value. It's about getting a big win for us tonight. The Dodgers aren’t just a good team, they are a smart team as well. With just a few weeks left before the All-Star break, they can put themselves in a position to have a double-digit lead in the NL West, and furthermore go into the break with momentum. They currently own an 8.5-game cushion in the Division. Today they face their Division rival, the San Francisco Giants, which sit in fourth place, 12.0-games back. Los Angeles happens to also be one of the best road teams in baseball, going 26-15 away from home in 2024. Going back a bit, they have taken eight of the last 10 meetings in this rivalry, which includes six of the last seven, and five of six this season already. They enter this matchup red-hot, winning four in a row and eight of the last 10, possessing the fourth-ranked scoring offense in baseball and its second-ranked pitching staff. San Francisco is struggling, dropping six of their last 10, with a mediocre offense at best, and one of the poorest pitching staffs in the Majors. Speaking of pitching, Landon Knack and Logan Webb are scheduled. The Dodgers right hander is 1-1 with a 2.10 ERA this season as he has allowed two runs or less in all five of his appearances. The Giants right-hander is 6-6 with a 3.16 ERA on the campaign. He has posted some solid numbers at home, but has allowed 15 earned runs over his last five turns. By the way, the team has dropped eight of his last 11 starts. While Knack has never faced San Francisco, Webb is 4-6 with a 4.05 ERA in 14 career starts against Los Angeles. Very simply, L.A. has dominated this rivalry, comes in here hotter, has a better starter on the mound, and is significantly stronger both at the plate and on the hill. Take the Dodgers. Thank you.

Baltimore Orioles.

Home Run.
Game 910.

4:05 PM PST/7:05 PM EST.

Once again, this season, the American League East looks like it's going to be a dogfight. With just under 60 games played, traditionally, the most competitive Division in baseball looks like it's between the New York Yankees and the Baltimore Orioles. New York sits atop the AL East at 39-19 with a 2.0-game lead over Baltimore, which is cemented into second place at 35-19. A cushion of 8.5-games separates the 2nd place, Orioles and the 3rd place, Red Sox and Rays. Just FYI, the Blue Jays are only 1.0-games behind them at 26-29. As I mentioned earlier, this Division is going to be a dogfight. However, we cannot ignore the Yankees and the Orioles are shaping up to be the cream of the AL East crop. This is the first meeting between these two Division rivals this season. Baltimore has taken six of the last 10 meetings overall. Tampa Bay, is a true “Jekyll and Hyde” team. Yes, they can be teams like Oakland, but have dropped six of their last nine coming into this series. Both at the plate and on the mound, they rank in the bottom third in the Majors. Their once-feared lineup now ranks 26th in scoring 23rd in Team Batting Average, 25th in OPS, and 28th in home runs. That would be tough enough on any team. However, their pitching staff has been deplorable, ranking 22nd, with a Team ERA of 4.22. On the other hand, the Orioles rank in the top-five both offensively and on the mound, averaging over five runs per game (5.04 RPG), possess a Team Batting Average of .244, and are top-five in baseball both in OPS and home runs. Let's be honest, their offense is explosive. Their pitching has dominated as well, ranking fifth in baseball, with a Team ERA of 3.33. Speaking of pitching, today Aaron Civale and Albert Suarez are scheduled. The Rays right-hander has struggled badly this season, going 2-4 with a 5.72 ERA. Has been atrocious this month, sport an 0-2 mark with a whopping ERA of 6.57 in five starts. He has a winning record over his career against Baltimore in three starts, but has an ERA of 6.75 against them. The Orioles right-hander is 2-0 with a 1.53 ERA on the campaign. He has been used primarily as a reliever. However, he made three starts at the beginning of the season and comes off another strong start less then a week ago.  Overall, in four starts this season, he has allowed a total of four earned runs in 18.4 inning pitched. The Rays are barely scraping by on the road, going 11-11 as a guest this season, while the Orioles own one of the best home records in baseball at 19-11 at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. Any way you look at it, Baltimore is the play. Take the Orioles. Thank you.

Atlanta Braves.

Best Bet.

Game 975.

5:10 PM PST/8:10 PM EST.

One of the best teams in the National League will take on one of the worst in the American League here in Game 2 of this series between the Atlanta Braves and the Houston Astros. Atlanta took Game 1 yesterday, 6-1. Granted a season ago, Houston had their way in this rivalry. But this season the Astros are just struggling at 6-12 overall. No matter how you slice it, the Braves, both on the mound and at the plate, are far superior. Currently, Atlanta ranks number one in the Majors in scoring, averaging over 6.47 runs per game, number one in Team Batting Average at .301, and number one in OPS, at .852. Houston's numbers in batting average and OPS and even home runs are impressive. They're just not consistent. That would be one thing if that was all it was. But they also rank 29th in the League with a Team ERA, a whopping 5.35. Today's matchup is scheduled to be Reynaldo Lopez and Hunter Brown. Going back to September of last season, the Braves have won four of their right-handers last five starts. Oh, and by the way, in those five starts, he has yielded a combined for earned runs in over 23.1 innings pitched. This game gets ugly. Take Atlanta. Thank you.

Los Angeles Dodgers.

April IL GOM.

Game 975.

4:40 PM PST/7:40 PM EST.

Unless you've been living on another planet for a while, you are well aware the Los Angeles Dodgers are once again one of the preseason teams predicted to buy not just for the pennant, but for the World Series. This is a very good team. They are loaded, both on the mound and at the plate. I really like today's matchup even more because they took their first humiliating beating of the season yesterday, getting thumped on the road at the Chicago Cubs, 8-1. This is a team that does not take losing lightly. And furthermore, they take embarrassing defeats even more seriously. I look for them to bounce back today against the struggling Minnesota Twins here. For starters, the Dodgers have taken nine of the last 10 meetings with the Twins going back to 2017. Just over the last season or two, they are 6-1 in this Inter League matchup. Let's talk about the pitchers: James Paxton gets the nod on the road, while Bailey takes the mound at home. The Los Angeles left-hander is 1-0 with a 0.00 ERA on the campaign. Over his career, he has made seven starts against the Twins, in which he owns a very respectful record of 4-1 with an ERA of 2.61. In 38 innings pitched against them, he has walked 11 and struck out 46. This does not bode well as the Twins are averaging just 3.00 runs per game as it is and rank between 27th and 30th in most every major offensive category. Oh, by the way, they also have knocked just three home runs and stolen just two bases. I don't see them keeping pace with the Dodgers on the scoreboard. Los Angeles averages over 5.75 runs per game and ranks in the top-10 in just about every offensive category. Overall, their pitching needs some improvement. But today's starter negates all that, as I mentioned earlier. For Minnesota, today's starter is 0-1 with a whopping ERA of 54.00. He has only one appearance against the Dodgers in his career, and that was back in May 2023. He pitched well against them. This season’s lineup won’t be giving any run support here today. Los Angeles. Thank you.

St. Louis Cardinals.

NL Game of the Week.

Game 908.

11:15 AM PST/2:15 PM EST.

Every season it seems the Cardinals are predicted to be a major force to be reckoned with. Now I will admit after starting this regular season off at 3-4, we were scratching our heads a bit. However, all of those games were played on the road, and since they started playing at Busch Stadium, they are a perfect, 2-0, which happens to be wins in both Games 1 and 2 against the Miami Marlins. As you know, Miami is the only winless team in baseball, at 0-9. We can look at stats from last season and we will find the Marlins seem to struggle in the NL on the road, going 38-43 away from home. This is not a very good team overall. And when traveling, things go from bad to worse. To add insult to injury, the Cardinals right-hander, Kyle Gibson is significantly superior than Marlins right-hander, Max Meyer. Even if you look at their early season’s statistics, both at the plate and on the mound, you will find St. Louis is far and away the better team. They average nearly one run more per game offensively, while they're pitching staff gives up nearly a run and a half less per game. Take the home team here. Take the Cardinals. Thank you.

Houston Astros.

MLB GOM.

Game 966.

11:10 am pst/2:10 pm est.

The Astros took Game 2 of this series with authority yesterday, 17-4. These two A.L. powerhouses are going in opposite directions as the Rays continue to slide, losing seven of their last 10, while the Astros are riding a 7-3 surge. Littell and Bielak are scheduled here today. No one expects the Rays right-hander to go more than a few innings. This is huge for us as the once solid, T.B. bullpen, has been getting plowed lately. Houston is money, and this time of year, expect them to step up. Especially against a team they may face come the postseason. Take the Astros. Thank you.

Chicago Cubs.

Double Play GOM.

Game 503.

4:45 PM PT/7:45 PM ET.

I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again, baseball is the streakiest of all the major sports when it comes to sports betting. And inside of baseball, without question in my opinion, the Chicago Cubs are the streakiest team. They are the hottest team in the Majors, winning five in a row and seven of their last eight. They enter Game 1 of this series with the Cardinals with confidence, knowing they took the last three meetings less than a week ago against them. As a matter of fact, Chicago, sits just six games back in the NL Central, a full five games ahead of St. Louis in the division. This is a big game for the Cubs today folks, as they can reach a .500 record with a victory here. That’s right, they sit at 50-51 on the campaign and this is a very big game for them to get over the hump. St. Louis, on the other hand has fallen way short of expectations this season. They enter this series-opener, dropping four of their last six enroute to an overall record of 46-57. To be quite honest, they are just as shaky at home as they are on the road this season. Today’s schedule starters are Justin Steele and Miles Mikolas. The Chicago left-hander is a very impressive, 10-3 with a 2.95 ERA in 2023. In three starts against St. Louis this season, he is 3-0 with a 2.95 ERA. The team has won five of his last six overall turns. When he takes to the road this season, he is a very solid 3-1 with a 2.93 ERA. The St. Louis right-hander is 6-5 with a 4.33 ERA on the campaign. This season, he is winless against Chicago, going and 0-0 with a 5.79 ERA in two starts against them. He is allowing 3.2 earned runs per start on the campaign. To be quite honest, he has only had one solid year in the big leagues, and that was back in 2018. His last three starts he is 1-0 with a whopping ERA of 5.14. And playing at Busch Stadium this season, he has 2-2 with a 4.95 ERA. When he gets in trouble my friends, and he will get in trouble, the Cardinals will go to a pitching staff and a bullpen that ranks 23rd in baseball, with a Team ERA of 4.61. Oh, by the way, they also ran 25th in Quality Starts. This doesn’t bode well as the Chicago lineup has exploded, accounting for 7.3 runs per game just over their last 10 contests. Take the Cubs. Thank you.

Toronto Blue Jays.
Double Play release.
Game 975.
2:10 pm pst/5:10 pl est.

Yesterday’s Game 2 matchup was postponed due to severe weather. On July 4, Toronto took the series-opener over Chicago, 4-3. These two teams have met four times in 2023, as the Blue Jays have won all four matchups. Going back a bit, they have taken five meetings in a row against this American League Central rival. As a matter fact, Toronto has done quite well against the A.L. Central, winning 12 of the last 16 games played against division opponents. As I mentioned earlier, Wednesday’s game was postponed. There will be a doubleheader played today. This is another trend that heavily favors the Blue Jays, as they are 13-5 the last 18 opening games of a doubleheader. Chicago’s season isn’t looking too bright right now. Both at the plate and on the mound, the word that best describes them is “inconsistent”. To make matters worse, they have had trouble against the American League East. They are just 8-20 the last 28 versus division opponents. They are also just atrocious at opening games of a doubleheader, dropping four of the last five in that situation. Starting pitchers today are Berrios and Lynn. The Blue Jays right-hander is 8-6 with a 3.74 ERA on the campaign. And 23 career starts against the White Sox, he is a very impressive 13-6 with a 3.26 ERA. The Chicago right-hander is 5-8 with a 6.47 ERA in 2023. He has been roughed in his career against Toronto, possessing a 2-4 record with a 4.5 ERA in 11 appearances, which does include 10 starts. He has already taken a loss this season against today’s, opponent back at the end of April. He has only won one of his last six turns. Coincidentally, during that span, he has allowed 28 earned runs in just over 32 innings pics. Playing at home at Guaranteed Rate Field has not been favorable either this season, going 2-4 with a whopping ERA of 7.22. Take the Blue Jays. Thank you.

Tampa Bay Rays.

Double Play.

Game 919.

4:15 PM, PST/7:15 PM EST.

Winners of three and a row and the best overall record in the Majors, the Tampa Bay Rays are showing no signs of slowing down. They took Game 1 of this series yesterday, thumping the Seattle Mariners, 15-4. That was the first meeting between these two teams this season. However, going back a bit, the Rays have taken six of the last seven meetings. Meanwhile, the Mariners after striving for a bit, seem to have hit a wall. They have dropped three in a row and seven of their last 10 to sink down to fourth place in the American League West. Both at the plate and on the mound, Tampa Bay significantly outclasses Seattle. They possess both the third ranked, scoring offense and team batting average in baseball. By the way, they also rank second in OPS, first in stolen bases, and third in homeruns. Their offense is absolutely exploding. In all sincerity, the word “erratic” best describes the Mariners lineup. As far as starting pitchers today, Tyler Glasgow, and George Kirby are scheduled. The Tampa Bay right-hander is 2-1 with a 4.45 ERA on the campaign. While he hasn’t faced Seattle in his career, he has had a heck of a season thus far, as the team has won five of his last six turns. The Mariners right-hander is 6-7 with a 3.26 ERA in 2023. Despite two decent appearances, he has lost his last two outings. As a matter fact, the team has dropped five of his last seven turns. As the All-Star Break approaches, the Rays do not want to let their foot off the gas…at all. By the way folks, they are 40-18 their last 58 versus a team with a losing record. Meanwhile, the Mariners are just 3-9 their last 12 versus the American League East. Take Tampa Bay. Thank you.

Tampa Bay Rays.

Double Play.

Game 969.

7:10 PM, PST/10:10 PM, EST.

Tampa Bay continues to play the best baseball in the Majors. Not only do they possess the best overall record in baseball at 56-28, but they are starting to surge again. Furthermore, they have had their way with Seattle, taking six of the last eight matchups. This is the first meeting this season between these two American League rivals. Speaking of the Mariners, they currently sit in fourth place in the American League West, 10-games back at 38-41. They have dropped two in a row and six of the last nine coming into this series opener. They have a lot of trouble playing the American league East, going a mere 3-8 the last 11 matchups with the division. McClanahan and Miller are scheduled starters today. The Rays left-hander is 11-1 with a 2.23 ERA in 2023. In two career stats against the Mariners, he is 1-0 with a 2.38 ERA. He has made 16 starts on the campaign, as the team has gone 13-3 in those starts. To be quite honest, he has been the most dominating pitcher in the American League, in my opinion this season. Only once in those 16 starts has he allowed more than three runs. On the road he is a whopping 6-1 with a 2.58 ERA. The Seattle rookie right-hander is 5-3 with a 3.88 ERA in 2023. He will be facing Tampa Bay for the first time in his short career. To be quite honest, although he has a promising future, he has gotten plowed quite a few times this season, especially just over the last month, as the team is dropped three of his last five turns since May 29. In three of those, turns he gave up significant runs early. Tampa Bay seems to be beating everyone in the League. But when facing teams with a losing record, they are 39-18 the last 57 in that situation. Take the Rays. Thank you.

Milwaukee Brewers.

Game 903.

4:10 PM, PT/7:10 PM, ET.

Milwaukee took Game 1 of the series yesterday, continuing to stride, as they have won seven of the last 10 contests. Meanwhile, New York has dropped seven of the last nine, continuing to struggle. The Brewers have taken all four meetings with the Mets this season. Teheran and Peterson are scheduled to start today. The Milwaukee right-hander is 2-2 with a 1.53 ERA on the campaign. And over his career, he has faced the Mets 29 times, which includes 28 starts, going 10-9 with a 2.98 ERA. The New York left-hander is 1-6 with an ERA of 8.08 in 2023. In three games, which includes two starts against the Brewers, he is 0-1 with a 10.38 ERA. Milwaukee is 4-0 the last four versus the National League East and 4-1 the last five versus a team with a losing record. New York is 1-4 the last five versus the National League Central and 2-7 the last nine at home. Take the Brewers. Thank you.

Atlanta Braves.

Game 903.

3:40 PM PST/6:40 PM EST.

The two hottest teams in baseball face each other today. The Braves, which have won eight straight, travel to Great American Ball Park to face the Reds, which have won 11 in a row. Kudos to both teams. But I do see a big disparity here, my friends. Atlanta has been winning since Opening Day of the season. And they continue to be the best road team in baseball at 24-11. With all respect to Cincinnati’s win streak, let’s face it, their opponents during that streak have been St. Louis, Kansas City, Houston, and Colorado. Only one of those teams sport a winning record. And to be honest, the Astros have struggled this season looking very mortal. Smith-Shawver and Weaver are scheduled here.  The Atlanta right-hander is making just his third start of the season, which means his third start of his young career. He has pitched quite well, allowing a total of three earned runs in 13 innings pitched the season, sporting a 1-0 record with a 2.03 ERA. The Cincinnati right-hander is just 1-2 with a 6.47 ERA. In his last four starts, in which he has received no decisions whatsoever, the team had won all four, despite him allowing 18 earned runs in just 19 innings pitched. Over his career, he has not done well against today’s opponent, going 1-3 with a 4.91 ERA. As I mentioned earlier, the Braves have played more consistent baseball since the beginning of the season. And they are a great road team. They have won four consecutive games played on the road, 13 of the last 16 games played versus right-handed starters, 38 of the last 53 games played during Game 1 of the series, 36 of the last 51 games played versus the NL Central, and 19 of the last 26 games played overall. Take Atlanta here. Thank you.

Tampa Bay Rays.

Oddsmakers Mistake Play.

Game 979.

6:40 PM, PT/9:40 PM, EST.

My friends, there is no way the Rays should be this small of a favorite over the Padres here. Tampa Bay owns the best record in baseball and starts one of the best pitchers in the Majors today. Tampa Bay has been playing on another level than any other team in baseball this season. Just over recent weeks, they are riding a 10-3 run. Going back a bit, they have dominated San Diego, winning nine of their last 10 meetings. This does include five of their last six meetings played at Petco Park. Once again, this season, the Padres have been underachieving and erratic. They have sunk to fourth place in the NL West at 33-35. Playing at home has not been a benefit for the Padres, which are they are two-games under .500 at Petco Park, at 17-19. Shane McClanahan and Yu Darvish are set to take the mound today. The Tampa Bay left-hander is a whopping, 10-1 with an ERA of just 2.18 this season. Away from home, his numbers don’t fade at all, going 5-1 with a 2.79 ERA. The San Diego right-hander is 5-4 with a 4.30 ERA on the campaign. To be quite honest, in four of his last five turns, he has given up significant earned runs. I expect him to once again get lit up here facing baseballs second-ranked scoring lineup. The Rays are 38-15 their last 53 games played versus teams with a losing record, 7-2 their last nine games played following a win, and 21-7 their last 28 games played during Game 1 of a series. Take Tampa Bay. Thank you.

Minnesota Twins.

Game 913.

3:10 PM PST/6:10 PM EST.

Very quietly, the Minnesota Twins have taken control of the American League Central with a four-game lead. This is a team that has a winning record, both at home and on the road. Something that is a rarity these days. The Cleveland Guardians sit in third place in the division, 4.5-games back. They have lost three straight outings, including Game 1 of the series yesterday, 2-0. A season ago, the Guardians had their way with the Twins, taking eight of the final nine matchups between these division rivals. However, 2023 is a very different campaign for them. Their offense, or should I say, lack of offense, ranks at or near the bottom in every major category. They rank 27th in scoring, 29th in batting average, 30th in OPS, and 30th in home runs. I am afraid things are going to go from bad to worse for the team as they go up against the Majors third-ranked pitching staff here. I mean their lineup has accounted for three runs or less in 12 of their last 16 outings. Sonny Gray and Logan Allen are schedule starters here. The Minnesota right-hander is off to an amazing start, going 4-0 with an anemic ERA of 0.77, which leads the Majors. He has made six starts this season, in which the team has won five of those 6 turns. And by the way, he has not allowed more than one earned run in any outing in 2023. The Cleveland left-hander is off to a good start as well, going 1-1 with a 2.45 ERA. However, he has only made two starts. He hasn’t worked out the kinks yet. Playing at home would normally benefit a team. But the Guardians are a dismal 4-9 at Progressive Field this season. They are also 0-5 their last five games played during Game 2 of a series, 1-4 their last five games played versus right-handed starters, at 1-5 their last six games played overall. Take Minnesota. Thank you.

Baltimore Orioles.

Double Play.

Game 917.

4:40 PM PST/7:40 PM EST.

Playing in the most the competitive division in baseball with the Major Leagues top team, the Baltimore Orioles are getting too much ink. However, very quietly they are just 3.5-games behind the Tampa Bay Rays in the division and overall possess the third best record in the Majors at 19-9. This does include a 10-5 away mark. They travel to Kauffman Stadium to face a team with the second-worst record in all of baseball, the Kansas City Royals. K.C. is just 7-22, which does include the poorest home record in the Majors, A deplorable, 1-12 when hosting. This is the first meeting between these two teams this season. But the Orioles enter today’s Game 1 matchup on the 1122 run, while the Royals are just 3-12 their last 15 outings. Both at the plate and on the mound, Baltimore is just simply far better. They average almost two runs a game more, while their pitching staff allows more than a run less. Just over the last nine outings, the explosive Baltimore lineup has accounted for five or more runs twice. Tyler Wells and Ryan Yarbrough are scheduled for today. The Baltimore right-hander is 1-1 with a 2.79 ERA this season. The team has won four of his five turns and he has looked spectacular so far. The Kansas City left-hander is 0-3 with a 6.35 ERA on the campaign. Both as a starter and as a reliever, he has made quite a few appearances in 2023. However, the team has lost each of his last three appearances. The Orioles are 35-16 their last 51 games played in Game 1 of a series, 8-2 their last 10 games played following a win, 6-1 their last seven games played on the road, 6-1 their last seven games played versus left-handed starters, and 7-1 their last eight games played versus the AL Central. I can give you a ton of stats and trends about the Royals. But they are all ugly. Take Baltimore. Thank you.

Tampa Bay Rays.

GAME OF THE MONTH

Game 919.

4:10 PM PST for 7:10 PM EST.

Many people thought in the preseason that Tampa Bay and Chicago had a good shot at fighting it out for the American League Pennant down the road. However, a month into the campaign, Tampa Bay sits atop the American League East at 21-5, which by the way, is the best overall record in baseball, while Chicago dwells in fourth place in the Central at 7-19. The Rays, which have won seven of their last nine, travel to Guaranteed Rate Field to take on a White Sox squad riding an eight-game slide. Tampa Bay swept Chicago three games to none at home, less than a week ago. Both on the mound at the plate, they outclass their opponent here as they top the Majors in both Team ERA (2.83) and RPG (6.58). Eflin is certainly off to a much better start than Giolito. And over their careers, he has fared much better against today’s opponent than his counterpart. Chicago is just 1-4 their last five games played at home, 7-20 their last 27 games played versus the AL East, and 1-10 their last 11 games played against right-handed starters. Take Tampa Bay. Thank you.

New York Mets.

Grand Slam Play.

Game 957.

10:40 AM PST/1:40 PM EST.

The New York Mets are the hottest team in the Majors, winning five straight. This does include GAMES 1 and 2 of the series against Miami, outscoring the Marlins by a combined 10-4. To say the Mets have dominated their division opponent would be an understatement. They have taken four of the last five meetings at LoanDepot Park and are an overall 10-4 the last 14 meetings. New York has shown consistency all season long both on the mound and at the plate. The offense ranks sixth in scoring, while they’re pitching staff ranks fifth in Team ERA. This does not bode well for a Miami team which has been the epitome of inconsistency in both areas. Their lineup has struggled, while their pitching staff has begun to show fatigue. Taijuan Walker and Pablo Lopez are scheduled here. Walker owns an 8-2 record on the campaign with a 2.67 ERA. Lopez is 7-5 with a 3.03 ERA. The Mets are 6-1 the last seven on the road, 4-0 the last four versus right-handed starters, and 35-16 the last 51 versus the NL East. Miami is 0-6 to the last six at home, 0-5 the last five home games versus right-handed starters, and 0-5 the last five versus division opponents.  Take the Mets. Thank you.

New York Yankees.

Game 977.

4:05 PM PST/7:05 PM EST.

New York took Games 1 and 2 of this series with authority only to lose Game 3 in the 10th inning last night. Well folks, the Yankees do not take losing lightly. They certainly don’t take losing lightly to their archrival, the Red Sox. While Boston does occupy second place in the competitive American League East division by just a half-game, this team is certainly starting to show signs of fatigue. The lineup has been erratic at best, while they’re pitching staff has allowed five or more runs in nine of the last 12 contests. This does not bode well when that pitching staff has to face the top-scoring lineup in baseball. That’s right, New York accounts for over 5.22 runs per game, which tops the league. They also lead the league in OPS and home runs. All this while they possess the Majors No. 2 ranked pitching staff. Speaking of pitching, James Taillon and Nick Pivetta are scheduled starters today. The Yankees hurler is 9-2 with a 3.63 ERA on the campaign. And in for career starts against Boston, he owns a 2-0 record with a 1.46 ERA. The Red Sox starter is 8-6 with a 3.68 ERA in 2022. And in his career in four appearances, which includes three stars, is 0-2 with a 6.75 ERA versus the Yankees. New York is 5-2 the last seven meetings in Fenway Park and 10-3 the last 13 overall meetings with Boston. They are also 23-8 the last 31 versus the American League East, 39-12 the last 51 versus right-handed starters, and 24-8 the last 32 following a loss. The Red Sox are 1-4 the last five versus the American League East, 1-4 the last five versus right-handed starters, and 1-4 the last five at home. Take the Yankees. Thank you.

Los Angeles Dodgers.

Best Bet GOM play.

Game 953.

3:40 pm pst.

The Los Angeles Dodgers are in a dogfight at the moment with the San Diego Padres. They both currently possess the top-spot in the competitive, NL West division. With the All-Star break just around the corner, Los Angeles knows they need every win they can get right now. And playing Cincinnati is just what the doctor ordered to achieve their goal. The Dodgers have taken seven consecutive meetings with the Reds going back to last season. This includes all five matchups this season. They have outscored their NL rival by a combined 34-10 in 2022. This includes an 8-2 drubbing yesterday in Game 1 of this series. Today, Tyler Anderson takes the mound. The left-hander is 8-0 with a 2.82 ERA on the season, striking out 63, and walking just 11, in 67 IP. The team has won his last six turns. For the Reds, Luis Castillo gets the nod. The right-hander is 2-4 with a respectable, 3.33 ERA on the campaign. However, the team has lost his last three outings. Both on the mound and at the plate, the Dodgers rank No. 2 in the Majors. Their pitching staff has a Team ERA of just 2.90, while their lineup is averaging over 5.06 runs per game. Cincinnati is purely outclassed both on the mound and at the plate in this match up. The Reds are 0-4 the last four as an underdog, 0-6 the last six at home, and 0-5 the last five overall. Take the Dodgers. Thank you.

St. Louis Cardinals.

NL Central Game of the Month.

Game 901.

12:10 PM PST.

My friends, the St. Louis Cardinals have already jumped out to take a lead in the NL Central. The funny thing is, they are the only team in this division that is either trying to get newly-acquired players acclimated or in a rebuilding year. The other teams in this division will certainly take time to start to gel and get into a flow. That’s not the case here with this team. Their offense is clicking on all cylinders, ranking second in both leagues in scoring, averaging over 6.25 runs per game. They own a Team Batting Average of .271 which is good enough to rank third in both leagues, rank second in OPS at. 874, rank second in stolen bases with 14, and have already slammed eight home runs. Their opponent today, the Milwaukee Brewers have high hopes for the year. However, right now are falling way short of expectations as their offense ranks among the worst in both leagues. And let’s face it, their pitching leaves a lot to be desired as well. These two teams certainly know each other very well. The Cardinals have had their way in this series, taking six of the last seven meetings overall. And while visiting American Family Field, have taken the last four matchups in a row. Today, they send one of the National Leagues most experienced pitchers to the mound in Adam Wainwright. The right-hander looked very sharp in his first start of the campaign, tossing six scoreless innings and striking out six batters to earn a victory a week ago against the Pirates. In his career, “Uncle Charlie“ is 20-12 with a 2.60 ERA in 49 games against Milwaukee including 42 starts. A season go he was 2-1 with a 3.62 ERA in five starts versus the Brewers. Brandon Woodruff gets the nod at home. The right-hander had an awful first outing, only lasting 3.2 innings in last weeks 9-0 defeat at Wrigley Field. In his lifetime, he is 3-3 with a 3.30 ERA in 10 games versus St. Louis, including eight starts. He was 0-2 with a 3.97 ERA in four starts against the Cardinals last season. St. Louis is 9-1 the last 10 games as an underdog, 8-1 the last nine games during Game 1 of a series, 8-1 the last nine road games versus right-handed starters, and 22-6 the last 28 overall road games. Oh, by the way, they are also 15-4 the last 19 versus the NL Central and 4-1 the last five following an off day. Take the Cardinals. Thank you.

St. Louis Cardinals.

BEST BET play.

Game 927.

5:10 pm pst.

9 STARS.

-140.

St. Louis has won three in a row and five of their last six outings. The Cardinals are making a push in the division and are just 7.0 GB for a WC spot. They have taken two of three this season over the Royals and are 16-7 the last 23 overall against KC. Jack Flaherty (8-1, 2.90) owns a 3-0 record with a 0.95 ERA in three career starts vs. this AL team. Mike Minor (8-10, 5.39) possesses a 2-3 record with a whopping, 6.11 ERA all-time vs. St. Louis (eight appearances, six starts). Both on the mound and at the plate, the Cardinals outclass the Royals. They are 5-1 the last six games played on the road, 5-1 the last six games played vs. teams with a losing record, and 4-1 the last five games played during Game 1 of a series. Take St. Louis. Thank you.

Oakland.

AL WEST GOW.

Game 915.

5:05 pm pst.

This is a very short price to lay with an A’s team that is on a 10-4 run, just one GB in the AL West, at 45-30. Texas dwells in the division cellar at 26-47, 19 GB. They own some of the ugliest stats in the Majors, both on the mound, and at the plate. Kaprielian (4-1, 2.84) and Foltynewicz (1-7, 5.59) are scheduled starters here. The A’s are 42-18 L60 meetings in this series and 7-2 L9 vs. RH starters. The Rangers are 1-7 L8 as a home underdog and 1-9 L10 vs. the AL West. Take Oakland. Thank you.

Indians.

HOME RUN play.

Game 965.

4:10 pm pst.

Cleveland has taken the last five meetings with Detroit this season. Both, on the mound and at the plate, the Tigers own some of the poorest stats in baseball. Skubal (1-6, 5.45) is 0-1 with a 6.94 ERA in three career outings vs. the Indians. Civale (6-1, 3.30) is 5-0 with a 2.40 ERA in six lifetime outings vs. the Tigers. Cleveland is 50-12 L62 vs. Detroit, 6-2 L8 vs. LH starters, and 43-19 L62 as a road fav. Take the Indians. Thank you.

Indians.

HOME RUN play.

Game 925.

7:10 pm pst.

Winning four in a row and nine of their last 10 has put Cleveland just one GB of Chicago in the AL Central. The Indians are one of only four Major League clubs playing .600 ball or better. Their lineup is hitting, their pitching staff owns a Team ERA of 3.34, and they are also winning on the road (11-7). Aaron Civale gets the nod here. The RH is 5-0 with a 2.91 ERA in 2021. The 25-year-old has gone at least 5.1 IP in each of his seven starts in 2021. Seattle’s offensive numbers rank among the poorest in all of baseball (22nd in Scoring, 30th in Team BA, 29th in OPS). Chris Flexen (3-1, 3.78) takes the hill at home today. The RH has had three good outings and three very bad outings this season, including two poor performances his last two starts (10.1 IP, 14 hits, seven ER’s, two K’s). Cleveland is 4-0 L4 in Seattle, 6-1 L7 overall vs. Seattle, 6-0 L6 on the road, and 13-3 L16 overall. Take the Indians. Thank you.

Red Sox.

HOME RUN Play.

Game 963.

10:05 am pst.

With yesterday’s win, Boston (21-13) now owns baseball’s best overall record. They have taken Games 1 and 2 of this series. As a matter of fact, the Red Sox have won the last five meetings with the Orioles by a combined score of 44-24. Their lineup ranks No.1 in scoring (5.38 RPG) and Team BA (.269). The O’s offense is dreadful, accounting for a mere, 3.88 RPG. Pivetta (4-0, 3.23) is unbeaten in his career vs. Baltimore, donning a 4-0 record with a 3.28 ERA in four starts. Kremer (0-2, 6.43) has faced Boston just once, last September, allowing seven runs in just 2 2/3 IP. The Red Sox are 13-4 L17 on the road, 42-18 L60 as a road fav, and 9-1 L10 vs. the AL East. Take Boston. Thank you.

Kansas City.

Crusher.

Game 967.

11:10 am pst.

The first place (15-9) Royals send Duffy to the mound here. The LH owns baseball’s lowest ERA (0.39). He is 8-3 lifetime in 26 outings (22 starts) vs. the Twins. Minnesota (9-15, fourth place) has Shoemaker on the hill. The RH (1-2, 5.49) in five career starts vs. Cincy, is 0-3 with a 9.41 ERA. The Royals are 5-1 L6 following a loss, 20-8 L28 vs. RH starters, and 6-2 L8 overall. The Twins are 4-10 L14 at home, 0-6 L6 during Game 2 of a series, and 4-13 L17 overall. Take Kansas City. Thank you.

LA.

AL GOM.

Game 921.

4:05 pm pst.

LA has taken Games 1 and 2 by a combined 14-6. The Angels have taken eight of the last nine meetings in this series and are accounting for more than two full runs per game right now. The Blue Jays are 1-4 L5 as a favorite, 0-4 L4 vs. AL West, and 1-5 L6 following a loss. Take the Angels. Thank you.

We have been crushing it in the MLB playoffs and today, I have my NLCS GAME OF THE YEAR. It doesn't get any bigger or better than this. This one big win will make your season.

Take Atlanta.

This is my NLCS GOY.

Game 905.

1:35 pm pst.

Sports betting is about situations and matchups. You may love one team today and hate them tomorrow. Well, this is a perfect example. It looks like Walker Buehler and Max Fried will be on the mound here. I am not looking to take away anything from Buehler and the Dodgers but, in this repeat of the Game 1 matchup, I am going with Fried and the hungry Braves and the Game 1 matchup to repeat itself. Fried showed no fear facing LA, going 6.0 strong IP, yielding just four hits, and striking out nine batters. He has the confidence of that series-opening victory carrying him over in to this game. Going back to last season, Atlanta has taken five of seven over LA, are 16-6 the last 22 vs. the NL West, and 8-2 the last 10 overall. Like this matchup. Like Fried. And like the Braves here. Take Atlanta. Thank you.

Take Houston.

This is my ALCS GOY.

Game 961.

Houston, which is making their fourth consecutive appearance in the ALCS, comes in here feared. They have more postseason experience, have the better starter, and faced and beaten this team in past playoffs. Valdez and Snell are slated to start here. The Astros saw and bested Snell in last year's playoffs. Houston is a bit hotter and has more postseason experience. They are 8-0 L8 playoffs as a dog, 4-1 L5 vs. AL east, 48-20 L68 vs. LH starters, and 5-1 L6 overall. Take the Astros. Thank you.

Take Chicago.

With nine wins over their last ten games, Chicago is now tied with Cleveland and Minnesota for the top spot in the AL Central at 20-12. They have taken all four meetings with Kansas City in 2020. This is a team with one of the best lineups and pitching staffs in the Majors. Dylan Cease (4-2, 3.13) and Brady Singer (1-3, 5.16) square off here. The Royals, which have dropped seven of their last 10, have failed to produce both on the mound and at the plate. Take the White Sox. Thank you.

Take Washington.

This is my WORLD SERIES GAME 6 WINNER.

Game 911.

5:07 pm pst.

With their backs up against the wall, the Washington Nationals will even the series tonight. RH, Stephen Strasburg is 4-0 with a 1.93 ERA this postseason, while, RH, Justin Verlander, who is 1-3 with a 4.15 record in the 2019 postseason, owns a career, 0-5, 5.73 mark in six World Series starts. The Astros are 2-5 the last seven World Series home games. The Nationals are 8-3 the last 11 overall postseason games. Take Washington. Thank you.

Take New York.

This is my ALCS GAME 2 WINNER.

Game 907.

5:05 pm pst.

New York opened the ALCS with a commanding, 7-0 win yesterday. The Yankees now have taken four of the last five vs. Houston. The Astros, which have dropped three of four coming into Sunday, have averaged just 1.3 RPG in those three postseason defeats. New York accounts for over 6.20 RPG on the road in 2019, while Houston averages 5.93 RPG at home. LH, James Paxton (15-6, 3.82 TY) and RH, Justin Verlander (21-6, 2.58 TY) are starters today. The Yankees are 4-0 the last four playoff games, 11-5 the last 16 vs. the AL West, and 6-0 in Paxton's last six road starts. The Astros are 0-5 the last five League Championship games, 3-7 the last 10 playoff games, and 1-6 the last seven vs. teams with a winning percentage of over .600 Take New York. Thank you.

Take New York.

This is my ALCS GAME 1 WINNER.

Game 903.

5:08 pm pst.

Coming off a three-game sweep of Minnesota gave New York a few extra days to rest and prepare here. Houston played a full, five-game series with Tampa Bay, finishing up on Thursday. The Yankees score over 6.20 RPG on the road while the Astros average 6.00 RPG at home. RH, Masahiro Tanaka (1-0, 1.80 this postseason) is 4-2 with a 1.54 ERA in six career playoffs starts and had a pair of quality starts vs. Houston this season. RH, Zack Grienke (0-1, 14.73 this postseason) is 3-5 with a 4.58 ERA in 12 career playoffs starts and possesses a 5.05 lifetime mark vs. New York. The Astros are 1-5 the last six vs. teams with a winning percentage of over .600 and 0-4 the last four League Championship games. The Yankees are 5-1 the last six following an off day and 15-4 in Tanaka's last 19 starts. Take New York. Thank you.

Take St. Louis.

This is my NLCS GAME 2 WINNER.

Game 906.

1:08 pm pst.

Washington took Game 1 yesterday, 2-0. St. Louis, which won five of the seven regular season meetings in this series, will bounce back here today. The Nationals are just seven games over .500 away from home this season, while the Cardinals are 51-33 at Busch Stadium in 2019. RH, Max Scherzer is 0-2 with a 5.27 ERA in two starts vs. St. Louis this year and owns a career, 2-6 record in 11 outings vs. the team. RH, Adam Wainwright is 1-0 with a 1.35 ERA vs. Washington on the campaign and is 10-4 with a 3.10 mark in 17 appearances (15 starts) against them. The Nationals are 15-36 the last 51 at the Cardinals. The Cardinals are 7-1 in Wainwright's last eight starts vs. the Nats, 7-3 the last 10 League Championship games at home, and 21-10 the last 31 overall games at home. Take St. Louis. Thank you.

Take LA.

This is my BB play.

3:40 pm pst.

Los Angeles is just too strong for Washington, taking 11 of the last 15 meetings including six of the last seven at Nationals Park. LH, Rich Hill (4-1, 2.45) and RH, Max Scherzer (11-7, 2.92) take the hill. Scherzer is 4-5 with a 3.78 ERA in 18 career playoffs games (14 starts). The Nationals are 0-4 in Scherzer's last four home starts vs. the Dodgers and 2-8 the last 10 Divisional Playoffs home games. The Dodgers are 20-8 in Hill's last 28 road starts and 10-2 the last 12 Divisional Playoffs games. Take Los Angeles. Thank you.

Take LA.

This is my NL WEST GOM.

Game 955.

12:10 pm pst.

The Dodgers aren't just distancing themselves from the rest of the NL West with a 15.0 game lead, they are separating themselves from the rest of the National League, owning a Major League best, 70-39 record. LA has had their way with just about every team, but are an astounding, 30-16 vs. the West. They face a Colorado team they have dominated, taking nine of 11 meetings in 2019. Team ERA and Wins leader, Hyun-Jin Ryu takes the hill here. The LH has an 11-2 record, with an ERA of 1.74. On the #1 pitching staff in all of baseball, the native of South Korea is the ace. The Rockies dwell in the cellar of the division, 19.5 GB, at 50-58 This is a team that finished the 2018 campaign 1.0 GB of the Dodgers at 91-72. To say this season is a disappointment is an understatement. They send German Marquez to the bump. The RH has a 10-5 record with a 4.88 ERA. The 24-year olds ERA is 5.67 over his last 15 turns. Going up against a Los Angeles lineup that accounts for over 5.47 RPG on the road, tells me it's going to be a rough outing for him. The Dodgers are 7-3 the last 10 games played at Coors Field and 22-9 the last 31 overall games vs. the Rockies. The Rockies are 1-5 the last six games played at home and 1-9 the last ten games played vs. the NL West. Take los Angeles. Thank you.

Take Atlanta.

This is my NL GOW.

Game 913.

1:10 pm pst

Atlanta took Games 1 and 2 of this series (four of six meetings TY) and seven of the last 10 overall matchups with San Diego, going back to LY. The Braves enter Game 3 here, winning six of their last seven overall to lead the NL East by 6.0 games, with a record of 56-37. This is a team that accounts for a whopping, 5.04 RPG on the road, with an offense ranking in the top-seven in scoring (5.41 RPG), Team BA (.263), and HR's (148). They give Mike Soroka the nod here. The RH is 9-1 with a 2.42 ERA on the season, putting the 21-year old in the running for NL Rookie of the Year. He faced and beat the Padres in his only start against them back on April 29th, allowing one run and four hits with eight K's, in 6.0 IP. San Diego is a mess, sitting in 4th place in the NL West at 45-47. They account for a mere, 3.88 RPG at home and send Cal Quantrill to the hill today. The RH, who is making his eight start in 12 appearances in his rookie season, is 2-2 with a 4.83 mark, losing in his only start vs. Atlanta, back on May 1st. The Braves are 20-6 the last 26 vs. RH starters, 20-8 the last 28 on the road, and 12-0 in Soroka's last 12 starts vs. teams with a losing record. The Padres are 0-4 the last four vs. the NL East, 0-6 the last six at home, and 0-4 in Quantrill's last four home starts. Take Atlanta. Thank you.

Take Washington.

This is my NL EAST GOW.

Game 903.

3:05 pm pst.

Washington has dominated Philadelphia, taking six of the last eight meetings this season and are 18-4 in Strasburg's last 22 starts vs. the Phillies. The RH is 10-4 on the season with a 3.64 ERA and owns a career, 12-2, 2.72 record in 25 starts vs. Philly. RH, Nick Pivetta (4.3, 5.84 TY), who is 0-2 with a 7.33 ERA in his last four overall starts, has gotten shellacked by Washington this season, yielding 13 runs in 9.0 IP, in tw0 starts, going 0-2 vs. the Nationals. Washington is 5-1 the last six on the road, 15-3 the last 18 vs. the NL East, and 20-6 the last 26 vs. RH starters. Philadelphia is 2-5 the last seven vs. teams with a winning record, 3-9 in Pivetta's last 12 starts vs. the NL East, and 5-12 the last 17 vs. RH starters. Take the Nationals. Thank you.

Take Texas.

This is my AL GOW.

Game 917.

4:10 pm pst.

Very quietly the Texas Rangers have taken over 2nd place in the AL West at 43-36, just 6.5 GB the Houston Astros. This is a team that is up 16.68 units overall. They are getting the bettors paid. True, their road record (15-21) isn't flattering. However, they average over 5.42 RPG on the road. LH, Mike Minor is off to one of the hottest starts in a career that spans 10 years at 7-4 with an ERA of 2.52, striking out 103 batters in 103.2 IP. Detroit sits in 4th place in the AL Central at 26-48, 23.0 GB. They have dropped five straight and nine of their last 10. The Tigers are just as bad at home as they are on the road. As a matter of fact, they are one of the AL's worst home teams, owning a deplorable, 11-25 record at Comerica Park, where they post a mere, 3.32 RPG. FYI, visitors put up an astounding, 6.16 RPG when passing thru Detroit. They are -11.93 units overall. But when they play on their home field, the Tigers own a 10-26 mark on the RL. Not only do they lose, they lose badly, with the average margin of deficit coming by 2.84 RPG. Matthew Boyd takes the hill today. The LH is a respectable, 5-5, with a 3.61 record. But, the former 6th rd, 2013 draft pick is going to get shellacked here, while once again be receiving very little run support. He hasn't notched a win since may 28th and over his last two turns, he was trampled, allowing nine ER's. The Rangers are 11-3 the last 14 at the Tigers and 19-7 the last 26 overall vs. the Tigers. The Tigers are 15-37 the last 52 at home and 13-45 the last 58 vs. the AL West. Take Texas. Thank you.  

Take LA.

This is my NL WEST GOW.

Game 957.

6:40 pm pst.

After winning six in a row, LA lost Game 1 of this series yesterday, 8-5. The Dodgers, which own the best overall record in baseball (54-26) are an excellent bounce back team, going 53-25 the last 78 following a loss. To get them laying such a short price is a gift, especially against a division foe as they are 23-9 vs. the NL West this season. RH, Ross Stripling (3-2, 3.08 overall) is 1-1 with a 2.65 ERA as a starter (six starts) this season but has come out of the bullpen his last 14 appearances. LH, Robbie Ray (5-4, 3.87) has a good career mark vs. LA but is 0-1 with a 4.50 ERA in two starts against them this season. Arizona is 2-5 the last seven at home, 1-6 the last seven vs. RH starters, and 0-4 in Ray's last four starts on grass. LA is 6-1 the last seven during Game 2 of a series, 5-0 the last five vs. LH starters, and 4-1 in Stripling's last five starts. Take the Dodgers. Thank you.

Take Chicago.

This is my LATE INFO Play.

Game 911.

1:10 pm pst.

Chicago is on a tear, winning 11 of their L14 outings, to take over 1st place in the Central Division and the NL's best record (53-38). The Cubs have taken Games 1 and 2 of this series. The defeats gave the Padres a 6-20 record over the last month to now earn them the worst overall record in the National League (40-58). The Cubs rank 4th in scoring (5.10 RPG) and 2nd in Team BA (.265). They send Jon Lester to the hill today. The LH (11-2, 2.45 ERA) will come in here with extra motivation as he had a 7-start winning streak snapped in his last turn. The 34-year old is 2-1 with a 2.97 ERA in 5 career starts vs. the Padres. San Diego owns some of the Majors' poorest offensive stats, ranking 28th in RPG (3.68), 27th in Team BA (.232), and 27th in HR's (85). LH, Eric Lauer is 5-5 with a 4.40 mark on the season. Chicago is 7-3 the L10 at San Diego, 16-5 the L21 vs. LH starters, and 32-6 in Lester's L38 vs. teams with a losing record. San Diego is 0-4 the L4 at home, 6-18 the L24 vs. LH starters, and 1-4 the L5 vs. the NL Central. Take the Cubs. Thank you.

Take St. Louis.

This is my NL CENTRAL GOW.

Game 907.

1:10 pm pst.

With yesterday's victory, St. Louis has now beaten Cincinnati 12 straight meetings and 10 straight at Great American Ball Park. The Cardinals send Michael Wacha to the mound. The RH is 7-1 with a 2.41 ERA on the season and owns a career, 10-1, 2.88 record vs. the Reds. The Reds give Luis Castillo the nod. The RH is 4-6 with a 5.64 mark on the campaign and possesses lifetime stats of 0-2 with an ERA of 4.76 in 2 starts vs. the Cardinals. Cincy has the poorest overall record in the NL at 22-42 and the worst home record in baseball at 10-22 at Great American Ball Park. St. Louis is 9-2 in Wacha's L11 overall starts, 4-1 the L5 games played vs. RH starters, and 16-5 the L21 overall games played with Cincinnati. Cincinnati is 10-28 the L38 games played at home, 15-37 the L52 games vs. RH starters, and 8-27 the L35 games played vs. the NL Central. Take the Cardinals. Thank you.

Take St. Louis.

This is my NL GOM.

Game 911.

5:40 pm pst.

St. Louis has taken 5 of the L6 meetings over San Diego, including both this season. The Cardinals have won 7 of their L10 overall, to put the team in 1st place in the NL Central (22-14), while the Padres have dropped 4 of their L5 overall and dwell in the cellar of the NL West (14-26). RH, Michael Wacha (4-1, 3.15) owns a career, 3-0, 2.52 record in 4 starts vs. San Diego, including a perfect, 3-0 at Petco Park. RH, Tyler Ross is just 2-3 on the season. St. Louis is 7-1 the L8 games played at San Diego and 6-0 in Wacha's L6 starts. San Diego is 0-5 their L5 vs. the NL Central and 1-6 in Ross' L7 starts on 4 days rest. Take the Cardinals. Thank you.

Take Colorado.

This is my NL GAME OF THE MONTH.

game 959.

4:10 pm pst.

Colorado is playing solid baseball, while Miami is one of the worst teams in the NL. The Rockies are in 2nd place in LY's most-competitive Division, while the Marlins swell in the cellar in the NL East. Miami ranks 27th in scoring (3.38 RPG) and 28th in pitching (Team ERA of 5.29). Today, they send Jose Urena to the mound. The RH is 0-3 with a 5.88 record TY and has a 2-17, 7.84 ERA vs. Colorado. The Rockies give Tyler Anderson the nod. The LH is 1-0 with a 4.32 mark on the campaign, and owns a career, 1.42 ERA vs. the Marlins. Colorado is 7-2 their L9 games played on the road. Miami is 1-7 their L8 games played at home. Take the Rockies. Thank you.

Take Washington.

This is my GOW.

Game 9:55.

1:10 pm pst.

Washington will sweep Cincinnati today. The Nationals took Games 1 and 2 of this series, by a combined, 15-7 to give them 7 consecutive wins at Great America Ball Park and an overall, 12-2 mark the L14 meetings. LH, Gio Gonzalez comes off a 15-9, 2.96 campaign, including 11 road wins. The Reds are 0-8 their L8 at home, 8-20 their L28 vs. NL East opponents, and 18-45 their L63 vs. LH starters. Take the Nationals. Thank you.

Take Washington.

This is my NL EAST GOW.

Game 955.

4:10 pm pst.

Washington is once again surging as the Nationals have won 7 of their L10 overall, including Games 1 and 2 of this series. Washington has now taken 7 straight over Miami and today, they send their biggest Marlins killer, Gio Gonzalez to the mound. The LH is 9-3 with a 1.94 ERA in 15 career starts over the Marlins, including a 3-0, 1.26 mark this season. Miami has lost 8 of their L10, including 3 in a row and give LH, Dillon Peters only his second career start. Washington is 4-5 their L5 vs. teams with a losing record and 6-1 in Gonzalezs L7 starts. Miami is 1-5 their L6 at home and 1-8 their L9 vs. the NL East. Take the Nationals. Thank you.

Take Houston.

This is my Late Info Move.

Game 973.

4:05 pm pst.

The Houston Astros continue to prove they are the best team in the AL, with a 67-33 overall mark. Houston has taken Games 1 and 2 of this series by a combined, 18-4. Mike Fiers gets the road start. The RH is 2-0 in his L2 overall turns and owns an 8-1 record his L13 starts away from home. Aaron Nola gets the nod at home. The RH is 7-6 with a 3.38 ERA on the campaign. There are two major factors here. For starters, in the current H/A situation, the Astros average 7.24 RPG while the Phillies account for only 4.04 RPG. Secondly, Houston is 9-0 in Inter League play this season while Philly is just 3-10. Take the Astros. Thank you.

Take Texas.

This is my Late Info.

Game 923.

4:15 pm pst.

Texas took yesterday's openers, 5-3 to give the Rangers 10 straight victories over the Royals, including all 5 meetings this year. Beltre and Napoli are crushing the ball as Beltre has 8 RBI's and 3 BB's the L4 games and Napoli has 5 HR's the L8 contests. Cole Hamels takes the bump for Texas. The LH is 4-0 with a 3.51 ERA this season, and owns a lifetime, 3-1, 3.67 mark vs. KC. The Royals send Danny Duffy to the hill. The LH is 5-5 with a 3.76 mark on the campaign, getting shelled for 5 runs on 6 hits in 7 IP for a loss his last turn. The Rangers are 14-3 the L17 meetings over the Royals an 39-14 in Hamel's L53 overall starts. The Royals are 0-4 their L4 overall and 2-5 in Duffy's L7 starts on 5 days rest. Take Texas. Thank you.

Take Minnesota.

This is my AL CENTRAL GOM.

Game 966.

11:10 am pst.

Minnesota took Games 1 and 2 over Baltimore to bring the Team just 1.5 GB Cleveland for the top spot in the Central. The Twins have now taken 6 straight over the struggling Orioles, including all 5 meetings this season. Baltimore is a train wreck, dropping 5 in a row and averaging a mere, 4.31 RPG on the road where they are a dismal, 15-30. LH, Wade Miley (3-7, 5.20) is 1-4 with an ERA of 11.69 over his L6 starts. LH, Adarberto Mejia 4-3, 4.32) is rolling as he has won his L3 starts. The Orioles are 2-8 their L10 at the Twins, 6-23 their L29 on the road, and 5-16 their L21 vs. AL Central opponents. Take the Twins. Thank you.

Take Boston.

This is my LI play.

10:05 am pst.

Boston has won 3 in a row and 5 of their L6 to take a 2-game lead over New York in the AL East. The Red Sox bested the Blue Jays in 4 of their 5 meetings this season, including both Games 1 and 2 of this series. Toronto is just 2-7 their L9 overall, averaging a mere, 3.11 RPG during that span. Boston sends Drew Pomeranz to the hill. The LH is 7-4 with a 3.81 ERA on the season. Toronto gives Joe Biagini the nod. The RH is 2-7 with a 4.50 mark, which includes a 2-6, 4.93 record in his 10 starts since coming out of the bullpen. The Red Sox are 5-1 the L6 games played at the Blue Jays and 20-9 their L29 games played vs. RH starters. The Blue Jays are 1-4 their L5 games played at home and 0-4 in Biagini's L4 starts at home. Take Boston. Thank you.

Take Tampa Bay.

This is my AL East GOW.

4:05 pm pst.

Today's matchup is all about the starting pitchers. Tampa Bay starts Jacob Faria. The RH is 3-0 with a 2.10 ERA, starting his career with 4 straight QS. Baltimore has Chris Tillman on the hill. The RH is winless in 9 straight since his season debut, sporting a 1-5, 8.39 mark, and over his career dons an 8-11, 4.23 record vs. TB. Take the Rays. Thank you.

Take Washington.

This is my BB play.

Game 954. 4:05 pm pst.

Last season, Chicago took 5 of the 7 meetings over Washington. Well, a lot has changed since last season. Washington comes into the first meetings of 2017 with Chicago, atop the NL East at 45-30 while Chicago is barely playing .500 ball at 38-37. The Nationals are averaging 5.63 RPG at home, which is a full run better than the Cubs' 4.57 road average. Gio Conzalez has won 4 straight en route to a 7-1, 2.96 record TY. The LH owns a career, 3.23 ERA vs. the Cubs in 9 starts against them. The Cubs have Eddie Butler on the hill. The RH is winless in his L3 turns, possessing a 4.19 ERA in 2017. Washington is 8-3 their L11 during Game 1 of a series and 6-1 in Gonzalez's L7 starts vs. teams with a winning record. Chicago is 5-13 their L18 games played on the road and 2-6 their L8 vs. teams with a winning overall record. Take the Nationals. Thank you.

Take Kansas City.

This is my Diamond Play.

Game 926.

11:15 am pst.

Kansas City has taken 4 in a row over Toronto, including both meetings this season. The Royals are red-hot, winning 11 of their L13 overall and give Jason Hammel the start here. The RH is 3-0 with a 2.30 EGRA in 4 July starts and owns a career, 4-2 mark vs. the Blue Jay's. Toronto gives Francisco Liriano the nod. The LH is 3-3 with a 5.76 ERA in 2017 and in his 11 appearances this season, he has made it to the 7th inning just once. Toronto is 0-4 L4 games played in Kansas City. take Kansas City. Thank you.

Take Kansas City.

This is my GOW.

Game 970.

11:15 am pst.

Kansas City is back at .500 (36-36) for the first time since April 19th. The Royals have won 10 of their L12, including yesterday's, 5-4 victory over the Blue Jays. Toronto is tied for last place in the AL East along with Baltimore, at 35-38 and own a dismal, 11-24 road record. Today, they send Marco Estrada to the bump. The RH is riding a 4-start winless streak, racking up an 0-3, 12.68 ERA mark during the skid. Jason Vargas takes the hill for KC. The LH is 10-3 with a 2.27 mark on the campaign, winning his L5 turns. The Blue Jay's are 1-7 the L8 at the Royals. Take Kansas City. Thank you.

Take St. Louis.

This is my GS play.

Game 951.

10:05 am pst.

St. Louis swept Philly, 3-0 just over a week ago, outscoring them by a combined 16-7 score. The Cards have taken Games 1 and 2 of this series already, by a total of 15-7. Carlos Martinez takes the hill here. The RH (6-5, 2.86 TY) is 6-2 his L9 turns, notching a win over the Phillies back on June 101th, fanning 11 and allowing just 4 hits, to blank them, 7-0. Aaron Nola takes the mound at home today. The RH is 1-5 his L6 starts (3-5, 4.76 TY). St. Louis is 4-1 the L5 in Philly and 21-8 the L29 overall vs. Philly. Take the Cardinals. Thank you.