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Date | Match Up | Rating | Score | Result | Profit | Lead Time | Analysis |
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09-17-19 | Mets -147 v. Rockies | Top | 6-1 | Win | 100 | 28 h 11 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* GAME OF THE WEEK on the New York Mets. I think that Marcus Stroman (8-13, 3.35 ERA) and the Mets will find a way to get the job done here on the road vs. Tim Melville (2-2, 5.16) and the Rockies after last nigh’s 9-4 series opening loss. Now five game sback in the NL Wild Card race, if not now for the Mets, when?! Stroman is 2-2 with a 4.50 ERA since coming over from the Jays and the Mets are 5-3 in those starts. Stroman comes in off his best start as a Met as well, allowing one run over six innings in an 11-1 win over the D-Backs on Thursday. Melville was destroyed in his latest outing by the Cards on Thursday, allowing five runs off five hits (four were home runs) over three innings. Key Trends: - The Mets are still 18-8 (+7.7 units) in their last 26 vs. teams with losing records. - The Rockies are just 6-10 this season as a home dog in the +125 to +175 range. The verdict: Stroman’s on a mission to prove he belongs and the Mets are absolutely desperate for a victory; all things considered, I feel this is a great price! |
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09-16-19 | Mets v. Rockies OVER 13.5 | Top | 4-9 | Loss | -110 | 28 h 1 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* TOTAL ULTIMATE OF THE ULTIMATE on the over Mets/Rockies. For a number of different reasons, I look for this total to fly over the number sooner, rather than later. The visitors hand the ball to Steven Matz (10-8, 3.84 ERA), while the home side goes with Antonio Senzatela (9-10, 6.87). This is a big series for the Mets following a tough 3-2 loss to the Dodgers last night. The verdict: Matz has been awesome in The Big Apple by going 7-1 with a 1.94 ERA, but he’s a terrible 3-7 with a 6.08 ERA on the road. Clearly that doesn’t bode well for the southpaw playing in the thin air of Coors Field tonight. Senzatela has had success vs. the Mets in his career, but he owns a terrible 6.79 ERA at home this year. Taking into account the suspect starting pitching, as stated off the top, all signs point to this one flying over the number early! |
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09-16-19 | Nationals v. Cardinals +106 | Top | 2-4 | Win | 106 | 27 h 7 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* play on the St. Louis Cardinals. The Nationals bounced back and avoided a four-game sweep at home to the Braves last night, but I think they’ll stumble here. The visitors go with Stephen Strasburg (17-6, 3.49 ERA), while the home side goes with Daniel Hudson (15-7, 3.38). The Cards lead the Cubs by two games for the NL Central lead and after losing two of three to the Brewers over the weekend, clearly they won’t be looking past their opponent today. I’m calling the pitchers a “wash.” The difference is in the home field advantage and the numbers. Key Trends: - Washington is just 3-7 in its last ten following a win and as a road favorite in the -110 to -140 range. - St. Louis is 7-2 in its last nine home games as an underdog in the +115 to +145 range. The verdict: Look for the hungry home side to bounce back after a losing weekend; great value here! |
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09-15-19 | Dodgers -130 v. Mets | Top | 3-2 | Win | 100 | 25 h 46 m | Show |
My 10* SITUATIONAL SMASH-JOB is on the LA Dodgers. Whether on the road or at home, the Dodgers are a popular pick this year. The Mets are vying for a wild card, but the Dodgers are still in a fight for home field advantage. I always take into account “motivation” when looking at the two teams in question, but in the case, I think they’re equally as motivated, so we can throw that factor out the window and call it a “wash.” So that said, for this pick I’m going to concentrate solely on the starting pitching and in this case, I absolutely feel that Walker Bueler (13-3, 3.14 ERA) is worth the price of admission in this spot. Buehler enters on top form, most recently striking out 11 over seven innings, allowing no runs off four hits and no walks. Zach Wheeler (11-7, 4.21) comes in off a strong outing as well vs. the D-Backs, allowing one run over seven innings, but note that he’s 1-2 with a ballooned 7.88 ERA in three career starts vs. LA. Key Trends: - LA is 68-34 vs. right-handed starters this season. - New York is interestingly a poor 8-15 (-11 units) this year when playing on a Sunday. Does this stat matter? It certainly doesn’t help the Mets that’s for sure. The verdict: I like Buehler to continue his recent surge and I believe that Wheeler’s issues vs. this particular hard-hitting opponent continue; lay the short price! |
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09-15-19 | Braves v. Nationals OVER 10 | Top | 0-7 | Loss | -105 | 19 h 17 m | Show |
My 10* TOTAL BIG TIGER is on the over Braves/Nationals. The Braves won 10-1 yesterday and with the victory they’ve punched a ticket to the post-season. Atlanta though has its eyes on a bigger prize and it won’t be taking the foot off the gas today as it looks to still run down the best overall record in the NL. The Nationals though are looking to avoid the series sweep and back into the win column themselves. Max Fried (16-5, 4.02 ERA) and Anibal Sanchez (8-8, 4.04) have both been better than advertised for their clubs this year, but the overall situation lends itself to another high-scoring slug-fest in my opinion. Note the Fried was destroyed in his last start, getting rocked for five runs off seven hits over five innings vs. the Phillies (while 8-2 on the road, the beneficiary of the Braves’ explosive offense, note that Fried only has a 4.91 ERA on the road.) And unfortunately for Sanchez, he’s been better on the road (6-6, 3.36 ERA) this season, than at home (2-2, 4.96). Key Trends: - Atlanta has seen the total go over the number in all three of its games this year in which it enters off a victory of eight runs or more vs. a division rival. - Washington has seen the total go over the number in three of four this season after scoring two runs or less in two straight games. The verdict: I believe the starters get chased early and as a result, I look for this total to eclipse the posted number sooner, rather than later! |
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09-14-19 | White Sox v. Mariners UNDER 9.5 | Top | 1-2 | Win | 100 | 29 h 55 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* TOTAL CLASH OF THE TITANS on the under White Sox/M’s. Clearly neither starter instills much confidence whatsoever. That said, neither Dylan Cease (3-7, 6.53 ERA) nor Felix Hernandez (1-6, 6.96) will be lacking for motivation and each benefits from facing a line-up which struggles at the plate at times. After last night’s 9-7 explosive White Sox’ victory, I think the Saturday night contest sets up as more of a “duel.” Hernandez has been atrocious since returning from injury over two starts, but he’ll take confidence in the fact that he’s posted a very respectable 3.82 ERA in 21 career starts vs. the White Sox. Cease gave up one run over four innings vs. the Angels in his last outing. Key Trends: - Chicago has seen the total go under the number in seven of its last ten after scoring nine or more runs in its previous contest. - Seattle has seen the total go under the number in 13 of its last 21 vs. clubs with losing records. The verdict: For all the reason listed above, expect this total to sneak under once it’s all said and done! |
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09-14-19 | Reds v. Diamondbacks -109 | Top | 0-1 | Win | 100 | 28 h 56 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* BIG TIGER on the Arizona Diamondbacks. I think the home side offers great value to bounce back here after last night’s loss. The Reds go with Anthony DeSclafani (9-8, 4.06 ERA), while the home side counters with Merrill Kelly (10-14, 4.68). Arizona is playing with extreme desperation as last night’s 4-3 loss was its sixth in a row. Now 4.5 games behind the Cubs for the final wild card, there’s no room left for error. But desperation breeds motivation. Kelly has made back-to-back quality starts, most recently going seven scoreless and stricken gout nine in a 2-1 win over the Padres. DeSclafani has had success vs. the D-Backs in the past, but I think he’s in the wrong place at the wrong time. Key Trends: - Cincinnati is still only 14-28 (-10.3 units) this year as a road dog in the +100 to +150 range. - Arizona is already 7-3 (+4.8 units) this season after having lost six or seven of its last eight. The verdict: The writing is on the wall and a blowout is in the cards; lay the short price! |
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09-13-19 | Astros v. Royals UNDER 8.5 | Top | 4-1 | Win | 106 | 29 h 44 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* TOTAL BIG TIGER on the under Astros/Royals. The Astros have been playing to some high-scoring affairs of late, but when the smoke clears at the end of this one, I believe it’ll be the starting pitchers who are the main story lines in tomorrow’s summaries. Gerrit Cole (16-5, 2.73 ERA) gets the nod for the visitors, while the home side counters with Danny Duffy (6-6, 4.71). Cole has won 12 straight decisions, posting a 1.97 ERA in the process. Note that Cole struck out 15 in his team’s 21-1 win over the Mariners last Sunday. Duffy returned from the IL to starts ago and he’s looked great, most recently allowing on run and two hits in a 7-2 victory over the Marlins. Key Trends: - Houston has seen the total go under the number in 30 of 47 this year when the total in the contest is set between 8 or 8.5. - KC has seen the total go under in 19 of 31 this year in the same position. The verdict: I have a hard time seeing the Royals’ anemic offense mustering much of an attack here; this number is high, play the under! |
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09-13-19 | Dodgers -128 v. Mets | Top | 9-2 | Win | 100 | 28 h 40 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* CLASH OF THE TITANS on the LA Dodgers. I like Clayton Kershaw (13-5, 3.06 ERA) and the Dodgers to find a way to get the job done here vs. Noah Syndergaard (10-7, 4.06) and the Mets. New York is still in the hunt for a wild card berth, but after sweeping the D-Backs in four games, I believe a predictable “letdown” is imminent here. LA is still in search of the NL pennant and it has its best line-up of starters ready to go for this series. I like Kershaw to set the early tone. The verdict: Both starters have had considerable success vs. their respective opponent tonight, but note that LA is 66-33 vs. right-handed starters this year, while New York is only 15-21 (-7.4 units) vs. southpaws; lay the short price! |
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09-12-19 | Braves -123 v. Phillies | Top | 5-9 | Loss | -123 | 27 h 24 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* BIG TIGER on the Atlanta Braves. Julio Teheran (10-8, 3.31 ERA) and the Atlanta Braves have taken two of three to open this four game series, but they still sit three games behind the Dodgers for the best record in the NL. Drew Smyly (4-6, 6.20) and the Phillies are desperate to try and reach one of the NL wild card spots, but time is running out and this is a horrible matchup on the mound for it. Teheran has a 3.66 lifetime ERA vs. Philadelphia, while Smyly is just 1-6 with a 7.66 ERA in all home games this year. The verdict: I base my picks on many different things, but this one I’m primarily focussing on the starting pitchers. Both teams are equally as “hungry” to win, so the motivation part of the equation has to be thrown out here. From purely a starting pitching stand point, I absolutely feel that Teheran could/should in fact be a much larger favorite in this particular matchup; lay the price! |
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09-12-19 | Diamondbacks v. Mets OVER 8 | Top | 1-11 | Win | 100 | 21 h 20 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* TOTAL OF THE MONTH on the over D-Backs/Mets. For a number of different reasons, I think this one sets up perfectly as a high-scoring slug-fest on Thursday afternoon. Alex Young (7-3, 3.38 ERA) has been sharp for the D-Backs of late, most recently striking out 12 in a 2-0 win over Cincinnati. After having won three of four though, I think Young finally takes a step back here in this pressure filled situation. The home side goes with Marcus Stroman (7-13, 3.42), who looked poor in his last start, allowing five runs off ten hits over four innings in a 5-0 loss to Philadelphia. Since coming over from Toronto Stroman has posted a horrible 1-2, 5.05 ERA record. Key Trends: - Arizona has seen the total go over the number in eight of its last 12 National League road games as an underdog in the +125 to +175 range. - New York has seen the total dip under the number in seven of its last 11 day home games as a favorite in the -125 to -175 range. The verdict: This is a big game/series and I believe these hungry line-ups chase these starters early; play the over! |
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09-11-19 | Brewers v. Marlins UNDER 8.5 | Top | 7-5 | Loss | -105 | 28 h 35 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* TOTAL BIG TIGER on the under Brewers/Marlins. I have a hard time seeing the offensively challenged Marlins mustering many runs in this matchup. The Brewers hand the ball to Zach Davies (9-7, 3.69 ERA), while the home side counters with Reynaldo Lopez (5-8, 4.75.) Milwaukee is going for its sixth straight win here. Note though that last night’s victory came with a major cost after slugger Christian Yelich injured himself in the first inning. He won’t be in the line-up this evening either. Key Trends: - Milwaukee has seen the total go under in ten of its last 15 on the road when the total is set at either 8 or 8.5. - Miami has seen the total dip under in 13 of its last 21 vs. right-handed starters. The verdict: I like Davies to go deep and without Yelich in the line-up, there’s no question in my mind that this one definitely sets up as a “duel,” rather than a high-scoring slug-fest; play the under! |
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09-11-19 | Dodgers v. Orioles +183 | Top | 3-7 | Win | 183 | 28 h 31 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* BEWARE-OF-DOG play on the Baltimore Orioles. After last night’s setback, I think the Orioles offer great value to “steal” this one off their contented non-conference opponent. LA just won the NL West Division with last night’s victory and while it still has to lock up home field advantage throughout, there’s no question that tonight’s contest sets up as a natural letdown spot for the Dodgers. Ross Stripling (4-4, 3.42 ERA) gets the call for the visitors, while the home side goes with John Means (10-10, 3.50). Means has been spectacular of late, going 2-2 with a tiny 2.45 ERA over his last four starts. The verdict: I think Means is the correct call here. LA looks poised for a classic “letdown” after clinching the division last night as well. As mentioned off the top, this one has “upset” written all over it; play on the Orioles! |
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09-10-19 | Reds -130 v. Mariners | Top | 3-4 | Loss | -130 | 32 h 36 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* CLASH-OF-THE-TITANS on the Cincinnati Reds. Cincinnati turns to Trevor Bauer (10-12, 4.60 ERA), while the home side goes with Justus Sheffield (0-1, 5.51). Sheffield comes in off a no-decision despite going five scoreless vs. the Cubs. Bauer’s been terrible for the Reds since coming over from the Tribe, but I still think he’ll have more than enough in the tank to get the better of his rookie counterpart. Note that Bauer beat the M’s on April 15th, conceding one run over seven innings while striking out eight. Key Trends: - Cincinnati is 7-2 in its last nine as a road favorite of -110 or higher. - Seattle is only 8-16 this season a home dog of +125 or more. The verdict: I think Bauer bounces back and finishes up the season strong and doesn’t look past this opportunity whatsoever. Lay the price! |
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09-10-19 | Diamondbacks v. Mets OVER 8 | Top | 2-3 | Loss | -105 | 29 h 37 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* TOTAL BIG TIGER on the over D-Backs/Mets. Zac Gallen (3-4, 2.50 ERA) gets the nod for the D-Backs and he’ll be opposed by the Mets’ Zach Wheeler (10-7, 4.33) in this one. Both have looked good this season, but I believe each will get the hook early and I expect this total to fly over sooner, rather than later. Both teams are still in the wildcard hunt and neither will be taking anything for granted tonight. Key Trends: - Arizona has seen the total go over in 12 of its last 18 in revving a loss where the team scored one or less runs. - New York has seen the total eclipse the posted number in 16 of 25 this year already at home with a money line in the -100 to -150 range. The verdict: From a situational stand point, this one absolutely sets up as a “slug-fest;” play the over! |
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09-09-19 | Pirates v. Giants -154 | Top | 6-4 | Loss | -154 | 29 h 25 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* GAME OF THE MONTH on San Francisco Giants. Trevor Williams (7-6, 5.16 ERA) has had a lot of success vs. the Giants throughout his career and he’s been playing well of late as well. But Madison Bumgarner (9-8, 3.81 ERA) has also dominated the Pirates though out his career and he also enters on top form. The verdict: The difference here though is the desperation in which the Giants come out with tonight. San Fran is seven games back with three weeks remaining for the final Wild Card spot, but it has a big advantage in playing seven straight at home vs. sub .500 teams. Bumgarner is scheduled to pitch twice over the next week. I think the veteran delivers and gets the better of his counterpart today. I’m laying what I feel to be a very reasonable mid-sized price and expecting a blowout from start to finish; play on the Giants! |
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09-09-19 | Brewers v. Marlins UNDER 8.5 | Top | 8-3 | Loss | -105 | 27 h 51 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* TOTAL BIG TIGER on the under Brewers/Marlins. Neither of these starting pitchers instills a ton of confidence, but neither will be lacking for motivation here. The Brewers go with Jordan Lyles (10-8, 4.46 ERA), while the home side counters with Robert Dugger (0-1, 4.00). The Brewers beat the Cubs 8-5 yesterday afternoon to get them back into the Wild Card race, but I’m expecting much more of a “duel” today. The verdict: Note that in seven starts for the Brewers since coming over from Pittsburgh, Lyles is 5-1 with a 2.56 ERA spanning seven starts. Dugger was rocked for six runs in his debut, but since then he’s allowed just two runs over his last 13 innings of work. Look for these two hot hurlers to battle deep and expect this total to stay well below the posted number; play the under! |
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09-06-19 | Angels v. White Sox -125 | Top | 5-4 | Loss | -125 | 30 h 37 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* BIG TIGER on the Chicago White Sox. The Angels are in a free fall after getting swept by the A’s and I think they simply go through the motions tonight as well. The visitors see Dillon Peters (3-2, 4.13 ERA) toe the slab and he went a poor 1-2 with a 4.67 ERA in six appearances in August, including five starts (most recently he got rocked for four runs off seven hits over fix innings in a loss to the Red Sox.) The home side counters with ace Lucas Giolito (14-8, 3.30), who has dominated this series throughout his career, going 2-0 with a 3.75 ERA vs. the Angels lifetime. Key Trends: - The Angels are a poor 6-13 as a road dog in the +125 to +175 range this year. - The White Sox are 9-2 as a home favorite in the -125 to -175 range this season. The verdict: Look for the home side to take full advantage of this favorable matchup; lay the short price! |
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09-05-19 | Mariners v. Astros UNDER 9.5 | Top | 9-11 | Loss | -110 | 29 h 56 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* TOTAL BIG TIGER on the under Mariners/Astros. For a number of different reasons, I believe this number is a little high. The visitors hand the ball to Marco Gonzales (14-11, 4.30 ERA), while the home side counters with Wade Miley (13-4, 3.06). Gonzales comes in off a shaky start vs. the Rangers on Friday, but he still sports a sharp 128/44 K/W this season (he’s also 10-6 with a 3.99 ERA in all “night” contests this season.) Miley has posted the 3.06 ERA and 1.22 WHIP to go along with 134 K’s over 152 frames this year (he’s 10-6 with a 3.89 ERA in all “night” contests YTD.) Key Trends: - Seattle has seen the total go under the number in 15 of its last 22 vs. clubs with winning records. - Houston has seen the total dip below the posted number in 12 of its last 20 vs. teams with losing records. The verdict: I look for these two hungry veterans to battle deep; play the under! |
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09-05-19 | Tigers v. Royals +102 | Top | 6-4 | Loss | -100 | 22 h 2 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* BEATDOWN on the KC Royals. Matt Boyd (7-10, 4.58 ERA) of the Tigers will square off against Glenn Sparkman (3-10, 5.86) of the Royals and I don’t think that the home field advantage can be overlooked in this one as a very real deciding factor. Boyd can’t be feeling too comfortable here as he’s a terrible 4-9 with a 6.61 ERA in 18 career starts vs. Kansas City (that includes going 1-2 with a 6.53 ERA in four starts vs. KC in 2019.) Sparkman’s been a disaster as well, making the matchup on the mound a “wash” for all intents and purposes, however it’s still interesting to note that he posted a 2.84 ERA in two relief appearances vs. Detroit last season. Key Trends: - Detroit is 1-4 this year on the road as an underdog in the +100 to +150 range. - KC is 13-7 in its last 20 vs. clubs with losing records. The verdict: After last night’s 5-4 win, I think the home side carries that momentum over here; lay the short price! |
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09-04-19 | Rockies +305 v. Dodgers | Top | 3-7 | Loss | -100 | 29 h 25 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* BEWARE OF DOG on the Colorado Rockies. The Dodgers came from behind to win 5-3 last night, but I think that the home side is overpriced here. Antonio Senzatela (8-9, 6.95 ERA) toes the slab for the visitors, while the home side counters with Hyun-Jin Ryu (12-5, 2.35). Clearly on paper this is a big mismatch, but the fact of the matter is, Ryu has been terrible of late, allowing 18 earned runs over his last 14 2/3’s innings of work. The verdict: Also note that Ryu is a horrible 4-7 with a 4.86 ERA lifetime vs. Colorado (which includes going 0-1 with a 4.50 ERA in three starts this season.) Senzatela has been poor this year as well, but I still believe that Ryu is completely over-priced here considering his recent form; play on the hungry dog! |
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09-04-19 | Phillies v. Reds OVER 8.5 | Top | 5-8 | Win | 100 | 26 h 56 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* TOTAL SUPER-BLOWOUT on the over Phillies/Reds. I’m expecting some offensive fireworks between these two explosive clubs on Wednesday night. The visitors see Aaron Nola (12-4, 3.45 ERA) toe the slab for the home side, while the the home side goes with Trevor Bauer (10-12, 4.53). The Reds are out to play spoiler here vs. the Phillies, who are still in the wild card hunt after three straight victories. Bauer is the issue here though for Cincinnati, who was 9-8 with a 3.79 ERA before being traded to Cincinnati, but who has since gone 1-4 with an 8.40 ERA. Key Trends: - Philadelphia has seen the total go over in seven of its last ten after three or more straight victories. - Cincinnati has seen the total soar over the number in 13 of its last 21 home games after back-to-back losses. The verdict: I think Bauer’s struggle continue here, but I also don’t expect the home side to go down without a fight. This one has “slug-fest” written all over it; play the over! |
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09-03-19 | Astros -165 v. Brewers | Top | 2-4 | Loss | -165 | 29 h 21 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* CLASH OF THE TITANS on the Houston Astros. Jordan Lyles (9-8, 4.55 ERA) has been fantastic in his time for the Brewers, but I simply feel that he’s in the wrong place at the wrong time here. The visitors see Zack Greinke (14-4, 2.99) toe the slab tonight. Greinke is a sharp 16-4 with a 3.32 ERA in 29 career starts at Miller Park and he’s 4-0 for his new team. Key Trends: - Houston is 39-16 (+8 units) this season after allowing two runs or less in its previous contest. - Milwaukee is only 7-12 in interleague games this year. The verdict: Houston has easily taken the first two games of this series and I believe that the momentum that it’s created in this interleague series is real; lay the price and expect another beatdown! |
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09-03-19 | Mets v. Nationals UNDER 7.5 | Top | 10-11 | Loss | -110 | 29 h 47 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* TOTAL BIG TIGER on the under Mets/Nats. Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. - The starting pitchers. This is a classic “ace off.” The Mets hand the ball to Jacob deGrom (8-8, 2.66 ERA), while the home side goes with Max Scherzer (9-5, 2.46). deGrom gave up four run over seven innings in a 4-1 loss to the Cubs last time out, but he’s got to be feeling confident here as he’s a sharp 5-3 with a tiny 2.30 ERA on the road. Scherzer gave up two run and struck out eight over five innings in a no-decision to the Orioles on Wednesday. Key Trends: - New York has seen the total dip under in 25 of its last 40 when the money line in the contest is set between -125 and +125. - Washington has seen the total go under the number in 11 of its last 17 vs. teams with winning records. The verdict: Expect deGrom and Scherzer to fight deep into this one; play the under! |
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09-02-19 | Twins -1.5 v. Tigers | Top | 4-3 | Loss | -128 | 21 h 16 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* GAME OF THE WEEK on the Twins run line. The Twins won big on Sunday and I believe they’re going to lay the hammer down here as well in this extremely favorable matchup on the mound. The visitors go with ace Jake Odorizzi (14-6, 3.55 ERA), while the home side goes with Jordan Zimmermann (1-9, 6.24). Odorizzi enters off a gem, holding the White Sox to two runs over six innings and he’s now won three of his past four decisions. Zimmermann has been better of late, but he’s still only 4-5 with a ballooned 6.89 ERA in ten career match ups vs. the Twins. Key Trends: - Minnesota is 9-3 this year as a road favorite of -175 or higher. - Detroit is just 10-37 as a home dog this year. The verdict: Finally note that Odorizzi is 5-1 with a 3.05 ERA in ten starts vs. the Tigers in his career, which includes going 3-0 with a 1.93 ERA at Comerica Park. Lay the 1.5 runs for the near pick-em price! |
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09-02-19 | Mets v. Nationals UNDER 9.5 | Top | 7-3 | Loss | -114 | 22 h 43 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* TOTAL OF THE WEEK on the under Mets/Nationals. The visitors go with Noah Syndergaard (9-7, 4.14 ERA), while the Nationals counter with Joe Ross (3-3, 5.36). The Mets took two of three from the Phiilies over the weekend and they still have a shot at the post-season. Syndergaard has to be feeling confident here though as he’s a respectable 1-1 with a 3.33 ERA in four starts vs. the Nationals this year (note, Syndergaard gave up a career-high ten runs in his last start, after posting eight straight quality efforts. Time to hit the panic button? Of course not. All starters have nightmare outings like that at some point. Syndergaard is true pro and I expect him to have a very short memory here.) Ross has struggled in his limited time this year, but fortunately he’s facing a Mets team which has struggled with offensive consistency all season. Key Trends: - New York has seen the total go under in 24 of its last 40 when the money line in the contest is set between -125 and +125. - Washington has seen the total dip under in 16 of 22 already this season when the total in the contest is either 9 or 9.5. The verdict: I believe the starters go deep and I look for this total to sneak under once it’s all said and done! |
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09-01-19 | Pirates v. Rockies +109 | Top | 6-2 | Loss | -100 | 22 h 27 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* CLASH OF THE TITANS is on the Colorado Rockies. Yes Jeff Hoffman (1-4, 7.81 ERA) has struggled in his time as a starter for the Rockies, but I still think he’ll get the better of Steven Brault (3-3, 4.06) this afternoon. Coors Field is the great equalizer in MLB and I don’t think that Brault has an advantage here whatsoever. Note that Brault is 0-1 with a 9.00 ERA in two starts vs. the Rockies. Key Trends: - Pittsburgh is still just 8-12 on the road this year when the money line in the contest is set between +125 and -125. - Colorado is 9-5 in its last 14 after playing six straight home contests. The verdict: After winning seven of nine, I expect the Pirates to come out flat here. Conversely, after dropping the first two of this series, I expect the home side to play with some passion this afternoon; play on the Rockies! |
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09-01-19 | Marlins v. Nationals UNDER 8.5 | Top | 3-9 | Loss | -114 | 21 h 53 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* TOTAL BIG TIGER is on the under Marlins/Nationals. I expect this one to fall under the total once it’s all said and done. The visitors hand the ball to Caleb Smith (8-8, 4.05 ERA), while the home side goes with Patrick Corbin (10-6, 3.15). Washington has the best record in the major since mid May and it’s out for the the three game sweep this afternoon. Miami on the other hand has lost 14 straight on the road. Caleb Smith (8-8, 4.05 ERA) gets the nod for the visitors and while he’s only 2-5 on the road, he does own a respectable 3.99 ERA in those contests. Patrick Corbin (10-6, 3.15) goes for the home side and he’s dominated the Fish this season, going 2-0 with a 0.78 ERA in three starts. Key Trends: - Miami has seen the total dip under the number in 13 of its last 19 as a road dog of +200 or more. - Washington has seen the total go under in three of four as a home favorite in the -250 to -330 range. The verdict: I expect these two competent starters to battle deep and for this total to fall under the number once it’s all said and done; play the under! |
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08-30-19 | Mets v. Phillies -131 | Top | 11-5 | Loss | -131 | 26 h 14 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* CLASH-OF-THE-TITANS on the Philadelphia Phillies. I think Aaron Nola (12-4, 3.53 ERA) and the home side are well worth the price of admission in this matchup. The visitors see the erratic Zack Wheeler (9-7, 4.52) toe the slab this evening. New York suffered its sixth straight defeat last night and I believe it continues to slide. The Phillies on the other hand had the day off after destroying the Pirates 12-3 on Wednesday. And that’s bad news for the slipping Wheeler, who most recently allowed five runs over six innings in a loss to the Braves. Nola took a loss on Sunday, despite conceding only three runs over seven innings (3-2 loss to the Fish. Key Trends: - The Mets are just 14-27 (-8 units) this year as a road underdog. - The Phillies are 24-16 at home with a money line in the -100 to -150 range. The verdict: With a chance to put the Mets’ out of their misery for good, I believe the Phillies lay the hammer down this weekend; lay the price! |
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08-30-19 | A's v. Yankees UNDER 11 | Top | 8-2 | Win | 100 | 26 h 14 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* TOTAL BIG TIGER on the under A’s/Yanks. Brett Anderson (10-9, 4.08 ERA) has struggled somewhat of late, but I think he’ll be able to match his counterpart CC Sabathia (5-8, 4.99) inning for inning. These two veterans have seen better days, but I expect them to fight deep into the latter frames tonight. Sabathia has thrown twice since returning from injury and he’s worked into the seventh inning in each contest. The veteran is now gearing up for one last playoff push and I expect him to carry over his recent form. Anderson got out to an unreal start and he’s since predictably come back down to Earth, but note that he’s still a sharp 6-3 with a 3.42 ERA on the road this season. Key Trends: - Oakland has seen the total go under the number in 16 of 19 of its “Friday Night” games this year. - New York has seen the total go under in five of its last six at home when the total in the contest is set between 11 and 11.5. The verdict: Clearly these teams have plenty of pop in the lineup, but the overall situation lends itself to more of a lower-scoring affair in my opinion; play the under! |
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08-28-19 | A's -153 v. Royals | Top | 4-6 | Loss | -153 | 28 h 12 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* CASH-BOMB on the Oakland A’s. I think that Tanner Roark (8-8, 3.95 ERA) and the surging A’s are well worth the price of admission in this matchup, facing the punchless Royals and the erratic Jake Junis (8-12, 4.89). Oakland enters off a 2-1 win in yesterday’s series opener. Note that Roark is 2-1 with a 2.63 ERA as a member of Oakland and I believe the big right-hander continues that momentum here in this favorable matchup (he’s 1-0 with a 2.25 ERA in two appearances vs. the Royals lifetime.) Junis most recently allowed four runs off six hits over three innings in a second straight loss, this time to Cleveland on Friday. Key Trends: - Oakland is 22-16 (+4.6 units) this year after allowing two runs or less in its previous contest. - KC is a poor 28-54 (-16.2 units) in all “night” contests this season. The verdict: Oakland has a favorable schedule to close out the season and I believe it makes the most of it. Especially tonight! |
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08-28-19 | Pirates v. Phillies OVER 10 | Top | 3-12 | Win | 100 | 26 h 3 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* TOTAL CLASH OF THE TITANS on the Pirates/Phillies over. Neither of these starters instills much confidence. I believe runs are going to be plentiful as the Pirates try to play spoiler and the Phillies push for a playoff spot. The visitors see Mark Keller (1-2, 7.24 ERA) toe the slab, while the home side goes with the volatile Vince Velasquez (5-7, 4.93). Last Friday Velasquez saw a 7-0 lead in Miami go away in his team’s eventual 19-11 loss. Unfortunately a date vs. the Pirates isn’t what the doctor ordered for Velasquez to get back on track, as he’s 0-1 with a 7.15 ERA over 11 1/3’s innings opposed. Keller has been hit or miss this year and I think he’ll predictably struggle in this difficult road venue. Key Trends: - Pittsburgh has seen the total go over in seven of nine already this year when on the road and the total in the contest is set at either 10 or 10.5. - Philly has seen the total go over in 27 of its last 47 as a favorite in the -125 to -175 range. The verdict: Look for these two erratic starters to get the hook early and for this total to fly over sooner, rather than later! |
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08-27-19 | Twins -127 v. White Sox | Top | 3-1 | Win | 100 | 26 h 44 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* play on the Minnesota Twins. I think Minnesota finds a way to get the job done at the end of the night in this one. The Twins see Michael Pineda (9-5, 4.26 ERA) toe the slab, while the home side counters with Lucas Giolito (14-6, 3.20). Giolito looked dominant in his win last week vs. the Twins, striking out 12 and walking none in a three-hit shutout. Do I expect lightning to “strike twice?” I don’t. Giolito has been fantastic, but I think he’s in the wrong place at the wrong time here. Note as well that Pineda is 3-0 with a 3.05 ERA in three starts vs. the White Sox this season. Key Trends: - Minnesota is 15-6 this year as a road favorite in the -125 to -175 range. - Chicago is 9-20 (-10.5 units) this season after having won four or five of its last six games. The verdict: Minnesota clearly won’t be taking anything for granted here after the White Sox took two of three from it at home last week; lay the short price! |
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08-27-19 | Cubs v. Mets UNDER 8.5 | Top | 5-2 | Win | 100 | 25 h 45 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* TOTAL BIG TIGER on the under Cubs/Mets. Chicago sees Yu Darvish (4-6, 4.34 ERA) toe the slab tonight, while the home side counters with Marcus Stroman (7-11, 3.18). I think runs are going to be hard to come by as I expect these two starters to battle deep into the latter frames. Stroman most recently allowed one run over four innings vs. the Indians, while Darvish enters off an outing to forget, allowing seven runs over six innings in a 12-11 win over the Giants (Darvish has been solid overall this year though and note that he’s 1-0 with a 3.51 ERA in four starts vs. the Mets.) Key Trends: - The Cubs have seen the total go under in 12 of 17 already this year when playing with a day off. - New York has seen the total dip under in 14 of 23 this year following a loss by two runs or less. The verdict: I think Darvish gets back on track after his anomalous poor outing last time out. Stroman continues to throw decently for his new team as well and I expect that trend to carry over in this important matchup; play the under! |
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08-26-19 | Pirates v. Phillies -123 | Top | 5-6 | Win | 100 | 28 h 42 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* GAME OF THE WEEK on the Philadelphia Phillies. I think Jason Vargas (6-6, 3.99 ERA) and the Phillies are a “steal” at this price. And that’s because his counterpart Joe Musgrove (8-12, 4.74 ERA) has been anything but consistent this year. A big boost to the Phillies’ line-up sees the return of slugger Bryce Harper tonight, as he was out over the weekend for the birth of his son (Harper is batting .290 with nine homers and 20 RBI’s over his last 17 games.) Key Trends: - Despite being 0-1 in four starts for his new team, Vargas has still posted a 3.91 ERA. The verdict: After losing two of three to Miami over the weekend, this has essentially now turned into Philadelphia’s most important game of the entire year. No upset/spoiler here, as I look for Vargas to deliver the goods! |
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08-26-19 | Cardinals v. Brewers UNDER 9.5 | Top | 12-2 | Loss | -101 | 28 h 41 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* TOTAL OF THE WEEK on the under Cards/Brewers. This is an important game and when the smoke does finally clear at the end, I believe these competent starting pitchers will be the main story lines in tomorrow’s summaries. The visitors hand the ball to Adam Wainwright (9-9, 4.51 ERA), while the home side goes with Gio Gonzalez (2-1, 3.64). Gonzalez faced these very card on Tuesday and allowed one run over five innings (he’s 3-4 with a respectable 3.11 ERA in 11 career starts vs. St. Louis.) Wainwright lost to the Brewers last week, but overall he’s 16-10 with a 2.48 ERA vs. them, including 7-4 with a 2.60 ERA in 19 career appearances in Milwaukee. Key Trends: - St. Louis has seen the total go under the number in 34 of of 52 games this year when the total is 9 or 9.5. - Milwaukee has seen the total go under the number in 15 of its last 21 as a home favorite in the -125 to -175 range. The verdict: I expect these veteran hurlers to throw deep into the latter frames; this number is a little high, play the under! |
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08-25-19 | Braves v. Mets UNDER 8.5 | Top | 2-1 | Win | 100 | 20 h 56 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* play on the under Braves/Mets. A couple of veteran starters go head-to-head in this important National League contest on Sunday afternoon. I believe that they’ll battle deep into the latter frames and I look for that to indeed help in keep this total under the number once it’s all said and done. Dallas Keuchel (4-5, 4.14 ERA) goes up against Steven Matz (8-7, 4.18) of the Mets. Keuchel earned a win last time out, giving up one run over six innings vs. the Fish, while Matz allowed two runs over seven innings vs. the Indians. The verdict: Atlanta’s taken the first two games of this series, including last night’s 9-5 victory. With these two surging starters squaring off, all signs do indeed point to the under as the savvy call here! |
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08-23-19 | Yankees +135 v. Dodgers | Top | 10-2 | Win | 135 | 31 h 15 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* CLASH OF THE TITANS on the the New York Yankees. I’m calling for the slight upset on Friday night. James Paxton (9-6, 4.53 ERA) has the difficult task of throwing opposite Dodgers’ ace Hyun-Jin Ryu (12-3, 1.64) this evening. Clearly it wouldn’t be difficult to write a convincing argument for either side to take this one. Admittedly the Dodgers have the advantage on the mound, but New York’s incredibly deep and talented hitting line-up negates that to a big extent in my opinion. The verdict: Note as well that Ryu is coming off his worst start of the year, allowing four runs over five innings in a loss to the Braves. Paxton’s been hit or miss this season, but I believe the southpaw can match Ryu inning for inning and in a scenario like that, I absolutely believe that the value swings to the undervalued underdog; play on the Yanks! |
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08-23-19 | Braves v. Mets OVER 7.5 | Top | 2-1 | Loss | -114 | 28 h 16 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* TOTAL CLASH OF THE TITANS on the OVER Braves/Mets. Clearly Jacob deGrom (8-7, 2.61 ERA) has been exceptional this year, but his counterpart Mike Foltynewicz (4-5, 6.09) has had a hell of a time this season. But it’s the gravity of the situation for New York, combined with how hot each club is overall that makes me believe this total is going to fly over the number sooner, rather than later. ATL leads the season series 8-5, but New York is a major league-best 27-10 since the Mid Summer Classic, including going 13-1 in their last 14 at home. Key Trends: - Atlanta has seen the total go over the number in all four games it’s played in this year as an underdog of +150 or higher. - New York has seen the total go over the number in 12 of 20 as a home favorite of -150 or higher this season. The verdict: While both teams come in off low-scoring victories last night (New York 2-0 over Cleveland and the Braves 3-2 in Miami), I think the situation and the trends both point to the “over” as the correct call in this one! |
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08-22-19 | Indians v. Mets -140 | Top | 0-2 | Win | 100 | 28 h 56 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* play on the New York Mets. The Mets have the superior starter on the hill in Noah Syndergaard (8-6, 3.86 ERA) in this particular matchup in my opinion. The Visitors go with the still relatively untested Aaron Civale (1-2, 1.50.) The Mets have take the first two games of this series and they’ve won five in a row overall, thanks in large part to a bullpen which has posted a 3.88 ERA since the break. Civale most recently allowed three runs over six innings in a loss to the Yanks, while Syndergaard gave up two runs over six innings to the Royals. The verdict: I’m throwing the stats out the window for this one. Syndegaard has been exceptional over the last month and I believe his experience and his team’s overall momentum help in securing New York the series sweep this evening; lay the price! |
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08-20-19 | Indians -155 v. Mets | Top | 2-9 | Loss | -155 | 24 h 57 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* BIG TIGER on the Cleveland Indians. Stephen Matz (7-7, 4.33 ERA) has been a lot better at home than on the road for New York, but Shane Bieber (12-5, 3.27) has been the model of consistency al season for the hard-hitting Indians. Both teams are still jockeying for a playoff spot, but I think Bieber is the correct call here. Bieber most recently gave up two runs over six innings while also striking out seven in an unfortunate no-decision to Boston on Wednesday. Over his last 38 innings of work Bieber has posted an insane 44/5 K/W. Matz has struggled in evening contests with a 4.89 ERA this year. Key Trends: - Cleveland is 7-2 in its last nine interleague night games as a favorite in the -150 to -175 range. - The Mets are only 2-5 in their last seven interleague home games as an underdog in the +135 to +155 range. The verdict: The quality of starting pitching matters tonight; expect the Tribe to strike the first blow in this series and lay the price with confidence! |
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08-19-19 | Brewers v. Cardinals UNDER 9.5 | Top | 0-3 | Win | 100 | 29 h 10 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* TOTAL OF THE WEEK on the under Brewers/Cardinals. These teams are embroiled in a wild card hunt and while each has plenty of firepower to put runs at the board at any given moment, I believe it’ll be the starting pitchers of tonight’s game who become the main story line’s in tomorrow’s summaries. The visitors see Zach Davies (8-5, 3.74 ERA) toe the slab, while Dakota Hudson (11-6, 3.82) gets the nod for the home side. Davies faltered in the second half, but he now returns refreshed after a stint on the DL (note that Davies has been at his best on the road this season as well, going 4-2 with a very respectable 2.97 ERA.) Hudson comes in off a gem, holding the Royals scoreless over six innings, allowing only five hits, two walks, while also striking out five (note that Hudson has been at his best at home this year as well with a 4-2, 3.60 ERA record to this point.) Key Trends: - Milwaukee has seen the total dip under the number in eight of its last 11 National League road games in which the total is set between -135 and +135. - St. Louis has seen the total go under the number in five of its last seven National League night home contests in which it’s a favorite in the -125 to -175 range. The verdict: I’m expecting these staters to throw deep and for this total to stay well below the number once it’s all said and done; play the under! |
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08-19-19 | Padres v. Reds -157 | Top | 3-2 | Loss | -157 | 29 h 36 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* GAME OF THE WEEK on the Cincinnati Reds. I have no problem laying this price considering the talent discrepancy between the starting pitchers tonight. The visitors see Eric Lauer (6-8, 4.55 ERA) toe the slab and he most recently gave up three runs off six hits over five innings in a no-decision to the Rays (note that Lauer’s been at his worst on the road this year as well, going 3-5 with a ballooned 6.20 ERA.) Trevor Bauer (10-9, 4.12) gets the nod for the home side and he comes in off an outing to forget vs. the Nationals on Wednesday, allowing nine runs off eight hits over four innings. Starts like that have been few and far between for the veteran though, so there’s clearly no reason to hit the panic button. Key Trends: - San Diego is just 2-6 in its last eight National League night road games in which it’s an underdog in the +125 to +200 range. - Cincinnati is 7-2 in its last nine National League home games as a favorite in the -135 to -185 range. The verdict: I like Bauer to bounce back in friendly confines and I expect Lauer’s road issues to once again rear their ugly head; lay the price! |
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08-18-19 | Cubs -1.5 v. Pirates | Top | 7-1 | Win | 102 | 26 h 44 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* RUN-LINE ULTIMATE OF THE ULTIMATE on the Cubs. Jose Quintana (10-7, 4.11 ERA) is performing at his highest level in quite some time and I believe he’s worth laying the 1.5 runs for the pick-em price. Quintana most recently gave up two runs (only one earned) over six innings, while also going on to strike out 14 in what turned out to be an unfortunate no-decision to the hard-hitting Phillies on Tuesday. Over his last four starts Quintana has given up four runs and struck out 26 spanning 19 frames of work. Mitch Keller (1-1, 7.94) has been a train-wreck in his limited time so far for the Pirates, although after being recalled last week he would hold the Angels to one run over five innings in earning his first victory. The book is out on Keller clearly and I believe he’s in well over his head in this matchup. Key Trends: - The Cubs are 7-2 in their last nine National League night road games in which they’re a favorite in the -135 to -200 range. - The Pirates are only 8-11 in their last 19 home games as an underdog in the +150 to +225 range. The verdict: Quintana has the experience and momentum to close out the regular season strong. The Cubs won’t be lacking for motivation here either after a scuffling stretch. Keller comes in off a great start, but an immediate return to mediocrity is imminent in my opinion; lay the 1.5 runs! |
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08-15-19 | White Sox v. Angels -148 | Top | 7-8 | Win | 100 | 32 h 6 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* BIG TIGER on the LA Angels. No need to overthink this one as I look for the home side to take advantage of what I believe to be a much bigger mismatch on the mound than what this line would suggest. The visitors see Reynaldo Lopez (7-9, 5.16 ERA) toe the slab and he enters off a rare decent outing, giving up three runs over five innings in a win over the Phillies. Lopez has been more “miss” than “hit” this year though and note that he’s a terrible 3-4 with a 5.31 ERA on the road this season. Andrew Heaney (1-3, 4.89) looked sharp in his return from the IL last Saturday, giving up one run off three hits with four K’s over four innings in what turned out to be no-decision vs. the hard-hitting Red Sox on Saturday. Key Trends: - Chicago is just 3-7 in its last ten American League night road games as an underdog in the +135 to +165 range. - LA is 7-2 in its last nine home games by Heaney in which he’s a favorite of -150 or higher. The verdict: I believe Lopez takes a giant step back in this difficult road venue; lay the price! |
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08-14-19 | Cardinals v. Royals UNDER 10 | Top | 6-0 | Win | 100 | 28 h 48 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* TOTAL CLASH OF THE TITANS on the under Cards/Royals. I had a play on the Cardinals last night and they ended up winning 2-0. I think that runs are going to once again be at a premium here as well. The visitors see Dakota Hudson (10-6, 4.01 ERA) toe the slab, while the home side counters with Brad Keller (7-12, 4.09). Hudson has conceded more than three earned runs only once in his past 20 starts. Keller enters having lost three straight, most recently getting shelled for five runs off ten hits over six frames in a loss in Detroit last week. Keller clearly won’t be lacking for motivation today and note that he’s 1-0 with a 2.00 ERA lifetime vs. the Cards. Key Trends: - St. Louis has seen the total go under the number in eight of its last 12 as a road favorite of -110 or higher. - Kansas City has seen the total dip under the number in seven of its last ten interleague games. The verdict: For all the reasons listed above, play the under! |
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08-14-19 | Diamondbacks -120 v. Rockies | Top | 6-7 | Loss | -120 | 23 h 45 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* play on the Arizona Diamondbacks. Robbie Ray (10-7, 3.99 ERA) has for the most part been as solid as Arizona could have possibly asked for this year and I think he’ll have more than enough in the tank to get the better of his erratic counterpart Kyle Freeland (3-10, 7.06). Freeland has looked a bit better of late, but he’s still only 3-3 with a ballooned 5.40 ERA in ten career outings vs. the Diamondbacks. Freeland has allowed a whopping 22 home runs this year and the D-Backs already have seven dingers over the first two games of this series. Ray is 5-5 with a 5.21 ERA lifetime vs. Colorado, but he’s coming off a a gem vs. the Dodgers on Friday, allowing two runs over six innings while striking out seven. Key Trends: - Arizona is a sharp 12-6 (+5.2 units) on the road with a money line in the -100 to -150 range. - Colorado is just 5-11 (-4.4 units) this season as a home underdog. The verdict: Look for Ray to easily out duel Freeland and for Arizona’s red hot bats to continue the onslaught; lay the price! |
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08-13-19 | Rays v. Padres OVER 8 | Top | 7-5 | Win | 100 | 30 h 27 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* play on the over Rays/Padres. Two suspect hurlers collide in this one and I expect runs to be plentiful. The Rays hand the ball to Brendan McKay (2-2, 4.55 ERA) who gave up three runs over five innings in a loss to the Jays on Wednesday. McKay has impressive strikeout numbers in the early going, but clearly the book is still out on the rookie to this point. The home side sees Eric Lauer (6-8, 4.51) toe the slab for the home side and he most recently allowed three runs off ten hits over four innings in a fortunate no-decision to the Rockies on Thursday (note that Lauer has been particularly ineffective in this spot all year as well, going just 4-6 with a 4.64 ERA in all “night” games. Key Trends: - Tampa has seen the total fly over in seven of its last 11 interleague road games when the total in the contest is set at either 8 or 8.5. - San Diego has seen the total fly over the number in 15 of its last 25 interleague home games as a favorite. The verdict: Look for these starters to get the hook early and look for this total to fly over sooner, rather than later! |
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08-13-19 | Pirates v. Angels -160 | Top | 10-7 | Loss | -160 | 30 h 24 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* play on the LA Angels. I had a free play on the Angels last night and they unfortunately came up short, falling late to the Pirates, who finally broke an eight-game losing streak. LA had won two in a row in Boston before returning home and looked flat from the start last night. But with a night to re-focus and with what I believe to be the clearly superior starter on the mound for it this evening, I look for LA to respond on Tuesday. The Pirates see Trevor Williams (4-5, 5.06 ERA) toe the slab for Pittsburgh. Williams most recently got blasted for six runs off eight hits in a loss to the Brewers on Wednesday. Griffin Canning (4-6, 4.76) gets the nod for the home side and he’s returning from a short stint on the IL. Previous to that Canning threw six scoreless innings in a victory. Key Trends: - Pittsburgh is just 2-6 in its last eight road games following a road victory. - LA is still 7-3 in its last ten interleague home games as a favorite in the -150 to -200 range. The verdict: Look for Canning to deliver vs. the volatile Williams; lay the price with confidence! |
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08-12-19 | Red Sox v. Indians +100 | Top | 5-6 | Win | 100 | 27 h 53 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* GAME OF THE WEEK on the Cleveland Indians. I don’t think that the home field advantage can be overlooked as a very real deciding factor in this particular contest. The Red Sox see Eduardo Rodriguez (13-5, 4.17 ERA) toe the slab for the visitors, while the home side counters with Zach Plesac (6-3, 3.13). Boston is now 7.5 games back in the Wild card race and Cleveland has a big opportunity to drive some final nails in the coffin for the defending champs. Plesac made his debut in Boston this year and he’d give up one run over six innings in the victory. Plesac comes in off a gem as well, going six shutout frames vs. the Rangers. Rodriguez has been a bright spot for Boston this year, but I simply feel that he’s in the wrong place at the wrong time in this one. Key Trends: - The Red Sox are just 11-20 (-10.1 units) this season when the money line in the contest is set between -125 and +125. - The Indians are 24-12 (+7.8 units) this year vs. southpaws. The verdict: Boston has lost 11 of its last 14, while Cleveland has won nine of its last 12. Expect these trends to continue on Monday night; play on the Indians! |
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08-11-19 | Indians v. Twins -150 | Top | 7-3 | Loss | -150 | 23 h 30 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* CA$H-BOMB on the Minnesota Twins. The Twins moved a game ahead of the Indians with yesterdays’ victory and I believe the home side carries that momentum over here. Minnesota has to be feeling confident as well by sending ace Jose Berrios (10-6, 3.24 ERA) to the hill, as he’s 5-3 with a 3.86 ERA over ten career starts vs. Cleveland. The visitors counter with Aaron Civale (1-1, 0.75) who has given up only one run over 12 innings spanning two major league starts. Clearly though Civale faces his stiffest test of his young career tonight. Key Trends: - Cleveland is just 11-13 in its last 24 as a road dog in the +100 to +150 range. - Minnesota is 56-33 vs. right-handed starters this year. The verdict: I think Civale takes a step back finally in this difficult matchup; lay the price! |
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08-11-19 | Yankees v. Blue Jays OVER 10 | Top | 1-0 | Loss | -130 | 21 h 28 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* TOTAL BIG TIGER on the over Yanks/Jays. These are two decent starting pitchers, but I still think this game is going to fly over the number sooner, rather than later. The visitors go with Masahiro Tanaka (7-6, 4.93 ERA), while the home side goes with Trent Thornton (4-7, 5.55). Tanaka is 1-1 with a 4.50 ERA in two starts vs. Toronto this year, while Thornton is 0-0 with a 9.72 ERA in two starts vs. New York. Key Trends: - New York has seen the total go over the number in eight of its last 12 in trying to revenge a loss vs. an opponent in which it allowed five or more runs in. The verdict: New York last two of three at Toronto from June 4-6th and after dropping yesterday’s contest 5-4, I believe the heavily favored visiting side “comes to play” today. I think these starting pitchers get the hook early; play the over! |
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08-09-19 | Braves -135 v. Marlins | Top | 8-4 | Win | 100 | 29 h 56 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* BIG TIGER on the Atlanta Braves. Caleb Smith (7-5, 3.35 ERA) has been a bright spot on the Marlins all year. He’s been better at home than on the road as well and he enters off an unfortunate loss for the Rays, giving up three runs over five innings. Julio Teheran (6-7, 3.46 ERA) comes in off a similar performance and overall it’s been a resurgent season for the veteran. Teheran has been better at home than on the road as well, but I still believe the Braves hold significant advantages in every other department. Key Trends: - ATL is 16-10 vs. southpaws this year. - Miami is 30-53 vs. right-handed starters this season. The verdict: Unfortunately for Smith, he plays on the Marlins. I like Teheran to take advantage of this anemic Miami line-up for at ATL to find a way to get the job done at the end of the night; lay the price! |
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08-08-19 | Braves v. Marlins UNDER 8.5 | Top | 2-9 | Loss | -107 | 27 h 31 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* TOTAL OF MONTH on the UNDER Braves/Marlins. A couple of capable hurlers go head-to-head in this one and in my opinion, everything points to runs being at a premium. Dallas Keuchel (3-4, 3.86 ERA) toes the rubber for the Braves, while the home side counters with Elieser Hernandez (1-4, 5.66). Hernandez comes in confident after his best start of the year, holding the hard-hitting D-Backs to one run off three hits with two walks over four innings on Sunday. Keuchel most recently allowed three runs off four hits and a walk over seven innings while striking out four in a no-decision to the Reds. Over 56 innings Keuchel has a 42/19 K/W. Key Trends: - The Braves have seen the total go under in eight of their last ten vs. teams with a losing record. - Miami has seen the total dip under in five of six this year after two straight losses by four runs or more. The verdict: I think that the Fish have a difficult time posting any offense here; this number is a little high, play the under! |
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08-06-19 | Braves v. Twins -143 | Top | 12-7 | Loss | -143 | 24 h 8 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* play on the Twins. I think this one favors the home side in this interleague matchup. The Braves see the volatile Mike Foltynewicz (2-5, 6.37 ERA) toe the slab, while the home side counters with Jose Berrios (10-5, 2.80). Foltnewicz was sent to the minors back in June and he’s back in the big leagues after a respectable stint. Still, Foltynewicz is being thrown to the wolves here in this tough matchup in my opinion (note the ATL has now lost three of its last four games.) Berrios comes in with confidence after back-to-back victories, most recently striking out a season-high 11 batters in a victory over Miami on Wednesday (seven shutout frames.) Key Trends: - Atlanta is just 5-12 (-5.1 units) this year as a road dog in the +125 to +175 range. - Minnesota is 20-9 at home as a favorite of -150 or higher. The verdict: In my professional opinion, this is the very definition of “great line value.” Lay the reasonable mid-sized price! |
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08-05-19 | Blue Jays v. Rays UNDER 8 | Top | 2-0 | Win | 100 | 29 h 44 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* TOTAL BIG TIGER on the under Jays/Rays. Jacob Waguespack (2-1, 4.80 ERA) comes in off a victory over the Royals on Wednesday, allowing one run off three hits with two K’s over six frames. Over 30 innings the 25 year old has a sharp 24:9 K:BB and he continues to improve with each outing. Charlie Morton (12-3, 2.78) gave up four runs to the Red Sox on Tuesday, but he’ll be feeling confident that he can bounce back here as he’s 6-1 with a 2.55 ERA at home. Key Trends: - Toronto has seen the total go under the number in eight of 11 American League road games in which it’s an underdog in the -175 to -225 range. - Tampa Bay has seen the total dip below the posted number in seven of its last 11 home AL contests as a favorite in the -150 to -200 range. The verdict: This one has “duel” written all over it; play the under! |
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08-05-19 | Brewers -135 v. Pirates | Top | 9-7 | Win | 100 | 29 h 40 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* CLASH-OF-THE-TITANS on the Milwaukee Brewers. The Brewers’ Jordan Lyles (6-7, 5.15 ERA) has a big opportunity to get back on track against his former team here and to help Milwaukee’s chances at one of the Wild Cards. Lyles though comes in off a gem vs. the surging A’s on Wednesday, holding them to one run off three hits with two walks while striking out four over five innings. Now with an opportunity to get immediate revenge on the team that traded him, I look for the veteran to deliver the goods here. Dario Agrazal most recently allowed three runs off six hits in a loss to the Reds on Wednesday for Pittsburgh and he’s now posted back-to-back poor outings. Key Trends: - Milwaukee is 7-2 in its last nine National League road games as a favorite in the -115 to -135 range. - Pittsburgh is 4-6 in its last ten National League home games as an underdog in the -110 to -130 range. The verdict: I like Lyles and the playoff hungry Brewers to step up and deliver the goods; lay the short price! |
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08-04-19 | Cardinals v. A's -124 | Top | 2-4 | Win | 100 | 26 h 32 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* play on the Oakland A’s. Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. Key Trends: Analysis posted shortly. |
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08-04-19 | Reds v. Braves UNDER 9 | Top | 6-4 | Loss | -105 | 23 h 46 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* play on the under Reds/Braves. Sonny Gray is 6-6 for the Reds, while Julio Teheran is 6-7 for the Braves. Gray though sports a respectable 3.45 ERA and 1.13 WHIP, while Teheran has a 3.38 ERA and 1.28 WHIP. Gray got an early lead vs. the Pirates in his last start and then cruised to the victory on Monday after allowing four runs off six hits. Overall Gray enters August on fire, having posted a 2.24 ERA and a 39/7 K/W in July. Teheran enters off a gem as well, giving up two runs off seven hits over seven innings, striking out six and walking two. Over his last six starts Teheran has posted a 1.87 ERA, a 1.13 WHIP and a sharp 33/10 K/W. Key Trends: - Cincinnati has seen the total go under the number in eight of its last 12 National League road games in which the total in the contest is either 9 or 9.5. - The Braves have seen the total dip below the posted number in 13 of their last 21 at home when the total in the game is set at either 9 or 9.5. The verdict: All signs point to a classic “duel” in this one; play the under! |
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08-02-19 | Mets v. Pirates OVER 9 | Top | 4-8 | Win | 100 | 29 h 53 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* play on the over Mets/Pirates. Two suspect starters go head-to-head in this one and I believe that runs are going to be plentiful. Steven Matz (6-6, 4.32 ERA) gets the all for the Mets and he’ll be opposed by Trevor Williams (3-4, 4.77) of the Pirates. Pittsburgh got swept in New York just last weekend and it’s now firmly in the basement of the NL. The Mets come in with plenty of momentum after winning seven straight. Matz dominated the Pirates at home last weekend, but note that while he’s 4-0 with a 2.06 ERA at home, he’s a poor 2-6 with a 6.40 ERA on the road this season. Williams looked sharp against the Mets last week, but note that he’s a poor 1-1 with a 5.71 ERA at home this season. Key Trends: - The Mets have seen the total go over in eight of 12 already this year on the road with a money line in the -100 to -150 range. - The Pirates have seen the total fly over in 16 of 21 already this season when the total is set between 9 and 9.5. The verdict: All signs point to a high-scoring slug-fest in my opinion; play the over! |
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08-01-19 | Astros v. Indians OVER 8.5 | Top | 7-1 | Loss | -113 | 28 h 11 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* play on the over Astros/Indians. It’s Gerritt Cole (12-5, 2.94 ERA) of the Astros, vs. Danny Salazar (0-0, 0.00) of the Indians in this one. Houston made some moves at the deadline to acquire sluggers Yasiel Puig and Franmill Reyes and each is expected to make his debut tonight. Cole’s been phenomenal, but the book is out on his counterpart obviously. Key Trends: - Houston has seen the total go over in nine of its last 12 as a road favorite of -175 or higher. - Cleveland has seen the total soar over in seven of its last ten as an underdog go +150 or higher. The verdict: I believe we’re going to see an explosive finish in the finale of this important American League contest; play the over! |
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08-01-19 | Twins -151 v. Marlins | Top | 4-5 | Loss | -151 | 21 h 12 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* play on the Minnesota Twins. Minnesota has won the first two games of this series and I believe the Twins will keep the foot on the gas here as well. This is based primarily on the fact that Twins’ starter Michael Pineda (7-5, 4.30 ERA) is finally rounding into form, going 3-2 with a 2.87 ERA. Conversely his counter Jordan Yamomoto (4-2, 3.64) has regressed after a hot start, posting a poor 9.00 ERA over his past three trips to the mound. Key Trends: - Minnesota is 16-4 (+10.9 units) this year on the road with a money line in the -100 to -150 range. - Miami is just 7-21 (-10.6 units) this season at home with a money line in the +125 to +175 range. The verdict: For all the reasons listed above, play the Twins! |
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07-31-19 | Dodgers v. Rockies +125 | Top | 5-1 | Loss | -100 | 24 h 8 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* play on the Colorado Rockies. Hyun Jin Ryu (11-2, 1.74 ERA) has been unbelievable overall this year, but I think he’ll struggle at Coors Field, the ballpark which definitely “evens the field” (note that Ryu is just 4-7 with a 5.34 ERA in 12 match ups lifetime vs. the Rockies as well.) German Marquez (10-5, 4.88) gets the nod for the home side and he comes in on top form, having gone back-to-back seven-inning efforts. The verdict: Marquez has to be feeling confident here as well as note that he’s 2-1 with a sharp 2.89 ERA in seven career starts vs. the Dodgers. Ryu can’t be feeling as good though, as note that he’s 1-4 with a 9.15 ERA in five starts at Coors. This one wreaks of “upset.” Play on the Rockies! |
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07-30-19 | Mets v. White Sox OVER 9 | Top | 5-2 | Loss | -113 | 28 h 3 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* play on the over Mets/White Sox. Noah Syndergaard is 7-5 with a 4.33 ERA this year, while Reynaldo Lopez is 5-9 with a 5.52 ERA. Neither starter can be happy with their overall record, but each has admittedly looked a lot better over the last month or so. Despite that though, I think this interleague contest sets up as a slug-fest and I expect each of these guys to “get the hook” early. Key Trends: - As note that New York has seen the total go over the number in eight of its last 12 interleague night road games in which it’s a favorite in the -140 to -160 range. - Chicago has seen the total eclipse the posted number in nine of its last 16 home games as an underdog in the +140 to +160 range. The verdict: I think this interleague contest eclipses the posted number sooner, rather than later; play the over! |
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07-30-19 | Twins -153 v. Marlins | Top | 2-1 | Win | 100 | 27 h 4 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* play on the Minnesota Twins. I think that Jake Odorizzi (11-5, 3.84 ERA) is going to easily get the better of his younger counterpart Zac Gallen (1-2, 2.76) tonight. Odorrizzi is 2-1 with a 3.81 ERA in five career starts vs. the Marlins, including 1-0 with a 0.90 ERA at Marlins Park. Gallen has made six major league starts and while he enters off a decent showing vs. the White Sox, clearly the sample size is just too small and I believe he’s definitely in over his head in this particular matchup. Key Trends: - Minnesota is 7-2 in its last nine interleague road games as a favorite in the -140 to -160 range. - Miami is still only 3-8 in its last 11 night home games as an underdog in the +135 to +155 range. The verdict: I like Odorizzi to bounce back after a poor start vs. the Yanks and to continue his strong trend of domination vs. the Marlins; lay the price with confidence! |
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07-29-19 | Tigers v. Angels -1.5 | Top | 7-2 | Loss | -126 | 15 h 23 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* BIG TIGER on the Angels on the run line. Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. Key Trends: Analysis posted shortly. |
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07-29-19 | Diamondbacks v. Marlins OVER 8 | Top | 6-11 | Win | 100 | 29 h 37 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* TOTAL OF THE WEEK on the over D-Backs/Marlins. Neither of these starters instills a ton of confidence and in my opinion, this line is going to fly over sooner, rather than later. Caleb Smith (6-4, 3.30 ERA) goes for Miami, while Arizona turns to Merrill Kelly (7-10, 4.22). Miami won the opener of this four-game series 3-2, while Arizona took the second game 9-2. Miami then won 5-1 on Sunday. I believe all signs point to a higher-scoring affair here though. Smith has never faced the D-Backs in his career and while he’s been solid overall, it’s interesting to note that he has a poor 5.06 ERA in the first inning this year. Kelly has allowed 19 homers in 21 starts. Key Trends: - Arizona has seen the total go over the number in 31 of 54 on the road already this year. - The D-Backs have seen the total soar over in 18 of 27 vs. southpaws. - Miami has seen the total go over in 12 of 17 already this year at home when the total is between 8 and 8.5. The verdict: Note as well that Kelly has been much worse on the road (4.98 ERA) than at home (3.57). This one has “slugfest” written all over it, play the over! |
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07-28-19 | Yankees +1.5 v. Red Sox | Top | 9-6 | Win | 100 | 10 h 27 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* run line play on the New York Yankees. Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. - Revenge. I think it works here. After three straight blowout losses, I think the high-powered Yanks bring their “A” game to the table on the nationally televised Sunday night game. Key Trends: - New York is already 9-4 (+2.9 units) this year after having lost four or five of its last six games. - Boston is already just 12-14 (-8 units) this season after having won five or six of its last seven games. The verdict: These starters are a “wash,” but the desperation level in which the Yanks play with tonight ends up being the situational difference; lay the pick em price for the extra 1.5 runs of insurance! |
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07-27-19 | Cubs v. Brewers OVER 9.5 | Top | 3-5 | Loss | -110 | 26 h 24 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* play on the over Cubs/Brewers. Cubs’ starter Jon Lester (9-6, 3.87 ERA) comes in struggling, having allowed four or more runs in six of his last 12 starts. These teams are fighting for positioning and after yesterday’s 3-2 Milwaukee victory, I’m expecting much more of a “slug-fest” on Saturday. The Brewers go with Chase Anderson (5-2, 3.90) to toe the slab. Anderson has been sharp of late and while both pitchers have enjoyed success over their respective opponent today in the past, I believe that the situation and the numbers point to a higher-scoring affair this time around. Key Trends: - Chicago has seen the total go over the number in nine of its last 14 as a road dog in the +100 to +150 range. - Milwaukee has seen the total go over in 12 of its last 20 overall. The verdict: I think these normally steady starters get chased early; play the over! |
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07-27-19 | Braves -126 v. Phillies | Top | 15-7 | Win | 100 | 26 h 19 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* CLASH OF THE TITANS on the Atlanta Braves. I like the Braves to build off their beatdown victory in last night’s series opener. The visitors see Max Fried (10-4, 4.08 ERA) toe the slab, while Zach Eflin (7-10, 4.25) gets the nod for the home side. Fried makes his first start since the 15th when he exited a game vs. the Brewers with a blister issue (before that he held Milwaukee to three hits over five scoreless frames.) In seven career appearances vs. the Phillies Fried is 0-1 with a 3.77 ERA. Eflin has been a complete “gas can” over the last month or so and I have a hard time seeing the struggling starter just “flipping a switch” here (he’s gone 1-3 with a ballooned 9.38 ERA over his last five starts.) Key Trends: - Atlanta is 9-1 (+7.8 units) this year as a road favorite in the -125 to -175 range. - Philadelphia is just 11-15 (-6.5 units) this season vs. southpaws. The verdict: I believe Eflin gets chased early; all things considered, a great price! |
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07-26-19 | Giants v. Padres -130 | Top | 2-1 | Loss | -130 | 31 h 4 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* play on the San Diego Padres. No upsets here as I look for the scuffling home side to lay everything on the line tonight as it desperately tries to get back into the Wildcard race. Jeff Samrdzija (7-8, 4.08 ERA) gets the nod for the visitors, while the Padres counter with Joey Lucchesi (7-5, 4.27.) The Padres won’t be lacking for motivation here either after the Giants swept them from July 1-3, outscoring them 30-11 in the process. Key Trends: - San Francisco is still only 11-14 this year as a road dog in the +100 to +150 range. - San Diego is still 17-10 (+8.4 units) in its last 27 after scoring two runs or less. The verdict: Look for the hungry home side to deliver the goods in this big time revenge scenario; lay the price! |
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07-26-19 | Dodgers v. Nationals UNDER 9 | Top | 4-2 | Win | 104 | 28 h 59 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* play on the under Dodgers/Nationals. I’m expecting an all out “duel” here between these capable hurlers. Hyun-Jin Ryu (11-2, 1.76 ERA) gets the call for the Dodgers, while the home side counters with Anibal Sanchez (6-6, 3.80.) The Nationals come in off an 8-7 loss to the Rockies on Thursday, but it was just its fourth setback in its last 17 home games. Ryu though has dominated the Nats throughout his career, going 2-1 with a 1.35 ERA and a 0.71 WHIP in four career starts vs. them. Sanchez though has been equally as hot of late, going 6-0 with a 2.70 ERA over his last nine starts. While just 1-3 vs. the Dodgers, note that Sanchez does own a very respectable 3.69 ERA in eight career match ups vs. LA. Key Trends: - LA has seen the total dip under in 12 of 18 already this season when the total is set between 9 and 9.5. - Washington has seen the total go under the number in 15 of 23 this year when the total is set between 9 and 9.5. The verdict: Ryu comes in on fire across the board as he is 2-0 over his last three starts, giving up one run off our hits over seven innings in a 2-1 win over Miami on Friday. As mentioned off the top, I expect these red hot hurlers to battle deep and as such, I look for this total to stay well below the posted number! |
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07-25-19 | Rangers v. A's -177 | Top | 11-3 | Loss | -177 | 32 h 47 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* CLASH OF THE TITANS on the Oakland A’s. I don’t normally attach a 10* rating to a pick with a line of this size, but in this case I absolutely believe that the talent mismatch on the mound justifies the wager. Ariel Jurado (5-6, 4.92) toes the slab for the visitors and he enters off an outing to forget, getting rocked for five runs off eight hits with a walk over five innings in a loss to the Astros. Note that Jurado has been particularly ineffective in all “night” games by going just 3-3 with a ballooned 5.77 ERA. Brett Anderson (9-5, 3.82) gets the nod for the home side and he’s been at his best in all “night” contests this year, going 7-2 with a 2.69 ERA. Key Trends: - Texas is just 3-8 in its last 11 American League night road games as an underdog in the +150 to +175 range. - Oakland is 9-4 in its last 13 home games as a favorite in the -165 to -185 range. The verdict: I believe Jurado’s issues continue in this difficult road venue; lay the price with confidence! |
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07-25-19 | Cardinals v. Pirates UNDER 9 | Top | 6-3 | Push | 0 | 22 h 17 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* BIG TIGER on the under Cards/Pirates. A couple competent hurlers go head-to-head in this one, with Miles Mikolas (6-10, 4.17 ERA) getting the nod for the visitors and Joe Musgrove (7-8, 4.08) toeing the slab for the home side. Mikolas comes in off a decent start vs. the Reds on Saturday, but still took the loss despite allowing three runs over six frames, while also striking out four. Overall Mikolas owns a respectable 82:19 K:BB over 114.1 innings of work this year. Musgrove also enter off a strong start, giving up one run with two walks and eight K’s over six innings in a win over Philadelphia on Saturday. Key Trends: - Note that St. Louis has seen the total go under the number in 14 of its last 23 National League day road games in which the total is set at either 9 or 9.5. - Pittsburgh has seen the total dip below the posted number in eight of its last 11 at home when the money line in the contest is set between -135 and +135. The verdict: Both Mikolas and Musgrove come in off strong performances and neither will be lacking for motivation here after a poor first half. When you add it all up, this number is a high in my opinion; play the under! |
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07-23-19 | Phillies -150 v. Tigers | Top | 3-2 | Win | 100 | 29 h 42 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* play on the Philadelphia Phillies. No need to overthink this one in my opinion, as I believe the talent discrepancy on the mound today absolutely justifies in laying this road price. Aaron Nola (8-2, 3.77 ERA) toes the rubber for the visitors, while the home side goes with Matt Boyd (6-8, 4.13). Nola comes in off an outing to forget against the Dodgers, but he’s 1-0 with a 2.31 ERA in two career starts vs. Detroit. The Phillies continue to fight for a playoff spot as they come in having won five of their last eight. Boyd has allowed between three and five earned runs in his last eight starts and his ERA has gone from 2.85 to 4.13 in the process. Key Trends: - Philadelphia is 12-6 this year as a road favorite in the -100 to -150 range. - Detroit is just 1-14 this year as a home dog in the +125 to +175 range. The verdict: Boyd’s likely on his way out of Detroit after this game and I think his “head” won’t be “in the game” tonight. And that definitely leaves the door open for Nola, who is out to atone for his latest poor effort. All things considered, a very fair price; lay it! |
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07-23-19 | Padres v. Mets OVER 8 | Top | 2-5 | Loss | -120 | 28 h 6 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* play on the over Padres/Mets. These teams are a combined 14 games below .500. Neither has given up, meaning this is a very important series. Each had yesterday off. I believe the situation points to a higher-scoring affair between two clubs who often struggle at the plate. The visitors go with Chris Paddack (6-4, 2.70 ERA) to toe the slab, while the Mets go with Jason Vargas (4-5, 4.25.) Key Trends: - San Diego has seen the total go over the number in nine of 13 this year as a road favorite. - New York has seen the total go over in nine of 11 this year when playing with a day off. The verdict: As mentioned off the top, I think this one sets up as a “slug-fest.” Play the over! |
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07-20-19 | Marlins v. Dodgers OVER 8 | Top | 6-10 | Win | 100 | 31 h 11 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* TOTAL OF THE MONTH on the over Marlins/Dodgers. LA Dodgers’ starter Clayton Kershaw (8-2, 3.00 ERA) is enjoying another solid year, but he’s just 5-5 vs. Miami in 11 career match ups. LA won’t be taking anything for granted here either in my opinion after it’s lacklustre 2-1 victory last night. And that’s bade news for Marlins’ starter Sandy Alcantara (4-9, 3.94), who has lost three straight and posted a ballooned 6.11 ERA (Alcantara was most recently shelled for four runs off nine hits over six innings in a loss to the Mets.) Key Trends: - Miami has seen the total go over the number in 9 of its last 14 after allowing three runs or less in three straight games. - LA has seen the total soar over in 20 of its last 32 as a home favorite of -150 or higher. The verdict: The situation and the numbers point to a “slug-fest” in my opinion; play the over! |
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07-13-19 | Pirates v. Cubs -171 | Top | 4-10 | Win | 100 | 23 h 9 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* play on the Chicago Cubs. I had a play on the Cubs last night and I think they’ll carry over their momentum from the victory here in what sets up to be another favorable matchup for them on the mound. The visitors go with Jordan Lyles (5-5, 4.36 ERA), while the home side counters with Jon Lester (8-6, 3.72). Lester is 9-6 with a 3.12 ERA in 19 career starts vs. Pittsburgh. Lester is also 5-2 with a 2.42 ERA at home this year. Lyles is 3-3 with a 4.53 ERA in 14 career appearances vs. Chicago. Key Trends: - Pittsburgh is just 9-16 as a +150 or higher dog this season. - Chicago is 26-13 as a home favorite this year. The verdict: I expect Lester to easily out duel his inconsistent counterpart; lay the price with confidence! |
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07-11-19 | Astros v. Rangers UNDER 10.5 | Top | 0-5 | Win | 100 | 33 h 22 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* play on the under Astros/Rangers. The Astros have a 7.5 game lead in the American League West, but I think they come out flat here to open the second half. Houston faces a tough opponent in veteran Lance Lynn (11-4, 3.91 ERA) as well, as he’s 4-2 with a 2.20 ERA in eight career appearances vs. Houston. Houston counters with Framber Valdez (3-4, 4.57) who has struggled in the big leagues this year for the most part, after going 4-1 with a 2.19 ERA last season. Key Trends: - Note though that Houston has seen the total go under the number in 27 of 44 this year vs. teams with winning records. - Additionally note that Texas has seen the total dip under in both contests it’s played in this season in which trying to revenge two straight losses where opponent scored eight or more runs in. The verdict: Based primarily upon Lynn’s recent form, look for this total stay well under once it’s all said and done; play the under! |
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07-09-19 | National League v. American League UNDER 8.5 | Top | 3-4 | Win | 104 | 53 h 42 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* play on the under All Star Game. The AL has won six straight in this series. Both line-ups feature plenty of home-run power, but I think that after last night’s historic home run derby battle, that the Mid-Summer Classic will be dominated by the pitchers. Hyun-Jin Ryu and Justin Verlander square off to open things up and they’ve been nearly untouchable over the first half. The “pitchers” on both sides come in with a chip on their collective shoulders after Verlander blasted the league yesterday about what he feels to be “juiced balls.” The home run rate over the first half is at 2.74 per game, which ranks the highest since the “steroid era.” The verdict: But while most are probably reckoning on a higher-scoring slug-fest, I’m going the other way and expecting the men on the mound to dominate tomorrow’s summaries. This number is just a little high, play the under! |
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07-07-19 | Padres v. Dodgers -152 | Top | 5-3 | Loss | -152 | 24 h 12 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* play on the Dodgers. I think the home side is well worth the price of admission in this spot. The visitors hand the ball to Jose Lucchesi (6-4, 3.91 ERA), while the Dodgers counter with Ross Stripling (3-2, 3.45.) After consecutive defeats to the Friars, I expect the Dodgers to lay everything on the line here as they look to close the first half on a winning note. Note that in 13 appearances vs. the Padres, Stripling owns a tiny 2.61 ERA. Lucchesi on the other hand is 0-3 with a ballooned 7.64 ERA in four lifetime starts vs. the Dodgers. Key Trends: - San Diego is still just 18-21 (-5.1 units) this year vs. the division. - LA is still 10-3 (+6 units) this season revenging a loss vs. an opponent as a home favorite. The verdict: I look for Stripling to come in focused on the task at hand; lay the price with confidence! |
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07-05-19 | A's -120 v. Mariners | Top | 5-2 | Win | 100 | 32 h 21 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* play on the Oakland A’s. I think the A’s Brett Anderson (8-5, 3.92 ERA) is the correct call in this matchup vs. the Mariners’ Yusei Kikuchi (4-5, 5.12). Oakland has won 12 of its last 16 to move into second place, which it capped off with a 7-2 win over the Twins on Thursday (I unfortunately had the Twins in that one, and while I’m never one to “flip flop” from one team to the next, baseball is the one sport in which each contest has to be looked at individually, because of the starting pitching. And that’s definitely the case here.) Seattle on the other hand has lost six of its last seven. Key Trends: - Anderson went eight scoreless in a 4-0 win over the Angels in his last start and he’s 9-5 with a 2.34 ERA in 21 career appearances vs. the M’s. - Kikuchi has faced Oakland four times and he’s 0-1 with a 5.14 ERA in those outings. The verdict: All things considered, I think that this line could/should in fact be much larger. Play on Oakland! |
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07-04-19 | Angels v. Rangers UNDER 11 | Top | 3-9 | Loss | -120 | 25 h 57 m | Show |
Ricky’s 8* play on the under Angels/Rangers. Both the Angels and Rangers are known for their prowess at the plate, but I think it’ll be the starting pitchers who will grab the headlines in tomorrow’s summaries. Griffin Canning (3-4, 3.79 ERA) toes the slab for the Angels, while the Rangers counter with Lance Lynn (10-4, 4.00). Canning got back on track in his last outing with a 8-3 win over the A’s, allowing two runs off three hits with six K’s over six innings of work. Lynn though is the difference maker overall here, as he arguably comes in as the hottest pitcher in all of MLB, going 4-0 with a 2.90 ERA in June, most recently throwing eight shutout innings in a 5-0 victory over Tampa Bay on Friday. Key Trends: - LA has seen the total go under in 22 of its last 37 following a victory. - Texas has seen the total go under in 13 of its last 19 as a home favorite of -110 or higher. The verdict: I expect these two hot hurlers to continue their recent form. Play the under! |
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07-02-19 | Giants v. Padres -151 | Top | 10-4 | Loss | -151 | 28 h 58 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* play on the San Diego Padres The Giants scored the upset in last night’s opener, but I expect the home side to respond in a big way on Tuesday. The Padres go with Matt Strahm (3-6, 4.94 ERA), while the visitors go with Tyler Beede (1-3, 6.45). Strahm struggled mightily in four June starts before hitting the DL for 11 days. Previous to his injury Strahm had posted a 3.21 ERA at the end of May. His first start back from injury was decent, allowing four runs over seven innings vs. the Orioles: "The three starts (before Baltimore) wasn't me out there," Strahm said. "I felt good. I was attacking the zone and eliminated the walks." Strahm’s faced the Giants twice and given up three runs and two walks with 12 K’s spanning eight innings of work. Beede has allowed a whopping 42 hits and 28 walks in just 37 2/3’s frames of work this year. Yes Strahm has issues, but nothing like Beede’s problems. Key Trends: - San Francisco is just 9-17 this year vs. southpaws. - San Diego is 13-8 this season as a home favorite in the -125 to -175 range. The verdict: The Padres come in hungry after getting spanked last night and they couldn’t have asked for a more favorable matchup. I’m expecting a rout from start to finish, so lay this mid sized price with confidence! |
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06-30-19 | Braves v. Mets OVER 8.5 | Top | 5-8 | Win | 100 | 25 h 59 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* play on the over Braves/Mets. Max Fried (9-3, 3.96 ERA) gets the call for the Braves, while Noah Syndergaard (5-4, 4.55) gets the nod for the Mets. Atlanta’s taken the first two games of this series after rallying for a 5-4 win last night. New York won’t be lacking for motivation either as it comes in on a seven-game losing streak. The Mets’ bullpen has been a disaster, as set-up man Seth Lugo has allowed seven runs over his last 3 1/3’s innings of work. Syndergaard is being thrown to the wolves here after a two week stint on the DL (just gave up three runs over five innings in Triple-A re-hab.) Key Trends: - Atlanta has seen the total go over in 28 of 43 vs. teams with losing records. - New York has seen the total go over the number in 26 of 42 this year vs. clubs with winning records. The verdict: I expect Syndergaard to get the hook early and for the Mets bullpen to continue to get exposed. When you add it all up, the “over” is definitely the correct call here in my opinion! |
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06-28-19 | Pirates v. Brewers -145 | Top | 3-2 | Loss | -145 | 30 h 36 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* play on the Milwaukee Brewers. The Brewers won’t be taking the Pirates for granted here. Milwaukee is 43-38 and second place in the division, but Pittsburgh is 38-41 in fourth, just five games back. Milwaukee is also just 5-10 since sweeping the Pirates here three weeks ago. Pittsburgh’s 8-7 since then, including a highly satisfying 10-0 victory at Houston just last night. Can anyone say letdown spot?! The Pirates send Chris Archer (3-6, 5.56 ERA) to the hill, while the home side counters with Jhoulys Chacin (3-8, 5.88). These starters are a “wash,” but the difference comes in the stats/trends. Key Trends: - Pittsburgh is still just 15-25 vs. teams with winning records this year. - Milwaukee is still 20-12 vs. the division. The verdict: It’s a classic “letdown” spot for Pittsburgh after its lop-sided win last night and I expect the Brewers to make the most of it. Lay the price! |
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06-26-19 | Rangers v. Tigers UNDER 9 | Top | 4-1 | Win | 100 | 27 h 60 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* play on the under Rangers/Tigers. The home side turns to ace Matt Boyd (5-5, 3.61 ERA), who looks to bounce back after giving up three home runs in a loss to the Indians on Friday. Boyd though posted six K’s and he’s now recorded at least six in each of his past seven starts. The rangers look to build off yesterday’s 5-3 win by handing the ball to Mike Minor (7-4, 2.52) who is a sharp 3-2 with a 3.04 ERA on the road this year (Minor’s won back-to-back starts and has a tiny 1.93 ERA over his past four outings.) Key Trends: - The Rangers have seen the total go under the number in 18 of 23 already this season after two or more consecutive victories. - The Tigers have seen the total dip under in 25 of their last 40 following a loss. The verdict: I think these hungry starters battle deep; all signs point to the under as the savvy call in this one! |
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06-22-19 | White Sox v. Rangers -183 | Top | 5-6 | Win | 100 | 29 h 52 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* play on the Texas Rangers. I think the talent discrepancy on the mound absolutely justifies in laying this larger price, as I’m expecting a decisive beatdown from start to finish in this one. The visitors hand the ball to Odrisamer Despaigne (0-2, 8.71 ERA), while the Rangers go with Lance Lynn (8-4, 4.16.) Lynn is 6-2 with a 3.17 ERA over his last ten starts, most recently allowing one run with nine K’s and zero walks over seven innings in a win over the Tribe on Monday. Note as well that in seven career outings vs. Chicago he’s 3-1 with a tiny 2.49 ERA. The Rangers will be out to avenge last night’s 5-4, ten inning loss as well. Despaigne most recently allowed seven runs over four innings in a loss to the Yankees. Key Trends: - The White Sox just 4-7 this year as a road dog in the +175 to +250 range. - The Rangers are 11-5 as a home favorite. The verdict: Look for Lynn to easily out duel his volatile counterpart. Lay the price with confidence! |
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06-22-19 | Rockies v. Dodgers OVER 7.5 | Top | 4-5 | Win | 100 | 27 h 3 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* play on the over Rockies/Dodgers. Clearly this pick isn’t based up on the Dodgers’ Hyun-Jin Ryu (9-1, 1.26 ERA), who is 6-0 with a 0.87 ERA over his last seven starts (it’s interesting to note though that Ryu is just 4-6 with a 4.97 ERA in ten starts vs. the Rockies lifetime.) I think that Rockies’ rookie right-hander Peter Lambert (2-0, 6.00) though will struggle in this difficult road venue. This is just Lambert’s fourth career start. Key Trends: - The Rockies have seen the total go over the number in 17 of 28 vs. the division already this season. - The Dodgers have seen the total fly over the number in 16 of their last 26 vs. clubs with winning records. The verdict: Look for this one to sneak over this tiny number; play the over! |
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06-21-19 | Orioles v. Mariners -163 | Top | 9-10 | Win | 100 | 6 h 14 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* play on the Seattle Mariners. Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. - Veteran hurler Mike Leake. The M’s veteran is 6-6 with a 4.14 ERA this year, but he enters on top form having posted four straight quality starts, with three victories in that span. Leake is auditioning for a future new team, as he’ll be moved before the trade deadline. Whoever the Orioles start today, Leake is my “key angle” for this particular contest. Key Trends: - Baltimore is just 12-25 on the road. - Seattle is still 86-66 the L2 years in all games as a favorite in the -100 to -150 range. The verdict: Look for Leake to continue his progression with another big performance in front of the home town crowd. Lay the short price! |
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06-19-19 | Giants +213 v. Dodgers | Top | 2-9 | Loss | -100 | 29 h 11 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* play on the San Francisco Giants. I had a play on the Dodgers on the “run line” last night, but I think the Giants and Drew Pomeranz offer great value at this price to steal this one. Pomeranz (2-6, 6.43 ERA) faced the Dodgers on June 7th and he went five scoreless, holding them to just three hits. San Francisco went on to win that game 2-1. He’ll be opposed by LA’s Rich Hill (4-1, 2.60) who gave up three runs off seven hits in a 5-3 win over the Cubs last Friday. Key Trends: - LA may have a whopping 16.5 game lead over San Francisco in the NL West standings, but note that the Dodgers are just 6-5 in this season series thus far. The verdict: I think Pomeranz continues his steady overall progression with another strong performance vs. LA; play on the Giants! |
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06-18-19 | Giants v. Dodgers -1.5 | Top | 0-9 | Win | 100 | 29 h 9 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* play on the Dodgers run-line. I think LA bounces back big after yesterday’s upset loss. Tyler Beede looked good for San Francisco, but I don’t think that Shaun Anderson (2-1, 3.97 ERA) will fair as well today. Anderson has been decent no doubt, most recently holding the Friars to two runs over six innings on June 12th. Anderson’s been good, but Dodgers’ veteran Clayton Kershaw (6-1, 3.13) has been great this year; note that he’s gone at least six innings in every start this year and at least seven in five of 11 (note as well that Kershaw is 22-11 with a 1.72 ERA in 3330 1/3’s innings vs. San Fran lifetime.) Key Trends: - San Francisco is just 8-13 vs. southpaws this season. - LA is 24-6 as a home favorite of -150 or higher this season. - The Dodgers are 9-2 this year revenging a loss vs. an opponent as a home favorite. The verdict: This one has “blowout” written all over it. Lay the 1.5 runs for the near pick em price! |
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06-17-19 | Astros v. Reds UNDER 8.5 | Top | 2-3 | Win | 100 | 24 h 27 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* play on the under Astros/Reds. This is an interesting interleague series and an interesting head-to-head matchup on the mound in the opener. The Astros’ Wade Miley (6-3, 3.14 ERA) will be opposed by the Reds’ Luis Castillo (6-1, 2.20). Houston has been getting production at the plate of late despite key injuries to its line-up. Miley has been “on point” of late as well, most recently going six scoreless vs. the Orioles on Monday. The Reds won’t be lacking for motivation here after losing six of their last nine. Cincinnati though has hope with Castillo on the hill; he most recently allowed one run over six innings in a 2-1 loss to the Indians. Key Trends: - Houston has seen the total go under the number in five of its last seven interleague road games as an underdog in the -105 to -145 range. - The Reds have seen the total dip below the posted number in five of their last seven at home as a favorite in the -105 to -150 range. The verdict: I think Miley and Castillo will fight deep into the latter frames and as a result, I look for this total to stay well under once it’s all said and done! |
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06-16-19 | Cubs +188 v. Dodgers | Top | 2-3 | Loss | -100 | 24 h 52 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* play on the Chicago Cubs. Clearly that’s not many negative things you can say about Hyun Jin Ryu. Ryu (9-1, 1.60 ERA) has arguably been the best pitcher in the World over the last year and a half. I simply think that Jose Quintana (4-6, 3.89) is going to be able to match patch for him inning for inning. And in my opinion, that swings the value in favor of the hungry underdog, which I expect to build off last night’s come from behind victory. The verdict: All good things must come to an end. I think that the Cubs offer great value to steal this Sunday nighter. Play on Chicago! |
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06-15-19 | Phillies +105 v. Braves | Top | 6-5 | Win | 105 | 27 h 18 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* play on the Philadelphia Phillies. Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. - Great spot bet. Great value. All on Philadelphia, as Atlanta is making Sean Newcomb (1-0, 2.59 ERA) make his first start since April 13th. This is a major factor working in favor of Phillies’ ace Aaron Nola (6-1, 4.58) who is 8-3 with a 2.05 ERA in 13 career starts vs. Atlanta. Key Trends: - The Phillies are 9-1 (+7.5 units) this year after allowing nine or more runs. - The Braves are just 5-7 (-3.7 units) this season after allowing eight or more runs. The verdict: In my professional opinion, this is the very definition of “great line value.” Play on the Phillies! |
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06-15-19 | Brewers v. Giants OVER 7.5 | Top | 7-8 | Win | 100 | 24 h 4 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* play on the over Brewers/Giants. Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. - Suspect starting pitching. The Brewers hand the ball to Jimmy Nelson (0-1, 12.00 ERA), while the Giants go with Madison Bumgarner (3-6, 3.83). Nelson gave up five runs off four hits over three innings in a home loss to Miami in his lone start this year. Nelson is a poor 2-2 with a ballooned 5.28 ERA in five career outings vs. SF (Nelson has a shot at a victory today though based entirely upon his team’s offense though, which puts up 5.09 RPG.) Bumgarner is an unremarkable 1-2 with a 4.01 ERA in seven starts at home this year. Key Trends: - Milwaukee has seen the total go over in three of four already this year in trying to revenge a road loss vs. an opponent when it was a favorite. - San Francisco has seen the total eclipse the posted number in ten of its last 14 after a win by two runs or less. The verdict: I’m expecting these veteran hurlers to get the hook early and I believe that will help result in pushing this total well above the posted number! |
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06-12-19 | Diamondbacks v. Phillies -139 | Top | 2-0 | Loss | -139 | 27 h 8 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* play on the Philadelphia Phillies. This is the rubber match of a three-game set and I think the home side will build off yesterday’s 7-4 victory. Scott Kingery had two home runs yesterday for Philadelphia and he’s now hitting .324 on the season with ten doubles, one triple, seven homers and 18 RBI’s. The home side hands the ball to Zach Eflin (6-5, 2.88 ERA) who gave up two runs over six innings in a win over the Reds last Friday. In two career starts vs. the D-Backs, Eflin owns a respectable 3.86 ERA. The D-Backs had won five in a row before yesterday’s setback and I thick they’re primed for another letdown here as well. The visitors go with Merrill Kelly (6-6, 4.12) who has looked decent of late, but who I think is simply in the wrong lace at the wrong time here. Key Trends: - Arizona is just 14-18 (-2.7 units) this year following a loss. - Philadelphia is 23-11 as a favorite at home. - The Phillies are 20-15 in their last 35 following a victory. The verdict: I like Eflin to continue his strong run at home and to help his team score the series victory. Lay the short price! |
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06-09-19 | A's v. Rangers UNDER 11 | Top | 9-8 | Loss | -105 | 22 h 30 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* play on the under A’s/Rangers. Texas won 10-5 and 3-1 in yesterday’s double header. I think that Sunday’s game sets up as more of a “duel” as well. The visitors hand the ball to Frankie Montas (7-2, 2.83 ERA), who has gone 3-0 over his last six starts, most recently going six scoreless in a 4-2 win over the Angels on Tuesday (note as well that all three victories have been on the road.) Overall Montas is a solid 1-0 with a 3.60 ERA in five games, including two starts, vs. Texas in his career. Drew Smyly (1-4, 7.93) has been a disaster for the Rangers this year, but he catches a break here facing this “on again, off again” A’s offense. Key Trends: - Oakland has seen the total dip under the number in 11 of 17 vs. teams with winning records this season. - Texas has seen the total go under in 16 of 19 this year after two or more consecutive victories. The verdict: I like Montas to go deep and for this total to sneak under the number once it’s all said and done! |
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06-09-19 | Diamondbacks -142 v. Blue Jays | Top | 8-2 | Win | 100 | 19 h 28 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* play on the Arizona Diamondbacks. Toronto won two of three over the Yanks earlier in the week, but it’s dropped the first two games of this interleague contest and I think that the D-Backs lay the hammer down in the finale as well. Arizona has won 8-2 and 6-0 so far and I predict another lop-sided destruction here as well. Robbie Ray (4-3, 3.62 ERA) gets the nod for the visitors, while the home side counters with Clayton Richard (0-1, 3.55.) Ray has lost two straight, despite allowing only three runs over seven innings to the Dodgers on Monday. Ray is also 2-1 with a 2.63 ERA in his last five road starts. Richard faced Arizona three times last year and he’d go 0-1 with a 6.60 ERA. Key Trends: - Arizona is already 11-7 (+4 units) this year after a win by four runs or more. - Toronto is a terrible 1-5 as a home dog in the +125 to +175 range already this season. The verdict: I think Ray has a big advantage in this match-up and I like the D-Backs to carry over their recent momentum at the plate in this favorable matchup. Lay the short price! |
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06-07-19 | Dodgers v. Giants +1.5 | Top | 1-2 | Win | 110 | 30 h 5 m | Show |
Ricky’s 10* play on the Giants on the run line. Drew Pomeranz (1-6, 8.08 ERA) goes for the home side. Clearly he won’t be lacking for motivation as he tries to turn his career around tonight. Clayton Kershaw (5-0, 3.20) gets the nod for the visiting side, as the crafty veteran continues to find ways to win despite not being the same pitcher he was three or four years ago. But note that LA has an OPS that is 52 points lower vs. southpaws than righties this season, which sets up well for the focused Pomeranz (note as well that Pomeranz faced the Dodgers in his season opener and gave up only two runs over six innings.) The verdict: Bruce Bochy’s team won’t be in the playoffs this year, but I think it rallies in the opener of this one. In a contest which I envision being decided late or even in extra innings, I’m going to lay the pick-em price for the extra 1.5 runs. Play on the Giants on the run line! |
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