Cnotes Best Bets For Friday May 15th - MLB - NBA -NHL !

[CNOTES]

Preview: Tigers (20-14) at Cardinals (23-10)
Game: 1
Venue: Busch Stadium
Date: May 15, 2015 8:15 PM EDT

Shane Greene has not been the Detroit Tigers' most consistent starting pitcher, but when at the top of his game, few have been more dominant.


Greene looks to build on a strong outing Friday night in the series opener with the St. Louis Cardinals, who will hand the ball to the similarly volatile Carlos Martinez.


There's been no middle ground for Greene (3-2, 4.71 ERA) this season. The right-hander has allowed one or fewer runs in seven or more innings of work four times in seven starts, but he's posted a 16.36 ERA over 11 total innings in the other three.


He enjoyed one of the former Sunday, holding Kansas City to one run and four hits through eight innings of a 2-1 loss in 10.


"Just threw strikes, changed speeds," Greene told MLB's official website. "They swing early and often, and I knew that going into it. So I knew if I made my pitches, I could be out there for a long time."


It's been largely the same story with Martinez (3-1, 4.89). The right-hander owned a 1.80 ERA through four starts but has surrendered seven runs in each of his last two.


Martinez yielded seven hits and four walks in 5 1-3 innings of a 7-5 loss at Pittsburgh on Saturday.


"The last two outings, I felt like I wanted to do it too good, so I would go and rush a little bit at times," Martinez said through an interpreter. "I'll try to be better for the next time, try to make the first pitch for a strike and try to be ahead in the count."


He will face a Detroit lineup that broke out of a slump in Thursday's 13-1 win over Minnesota. The Tigers (21-14) had a season-high 20 hits after totaling seven runs while losing three of their previous four.


Miguel Cabrera hit two home runs and drove in five, Bryan Holaday homered and had three RBIs in his season debut and Anthony Gose was 4 for 5 with two runs.


'We've been kind of waiting for this, I think everybody has,' manager Brad Ausmus said. 'Players, coaching staff, fans, I think everyone was kind of waiting for the offense to kind of break out a little bit.'


Victor Martinez did not play and doesn't figure into Detroit's plans against St. Louis (24-10). Ausmus, without the luxury of the designated hitter, will sit Martinez in order to rest his left knee, which he underwent surgery on this offseason.


"Overall, the important thing is for Victor to get healthy," Ausmus said. "Six days ago, he looked good. Not as good the last couple."


St. Louis also enters following a victory after Matt Carpenter hit a two-run homer in the eighth inning of Thursday's 2-1 win at Cleveland. Carpenter went 3 for 13 in the three-game series after missing the previous four games with dehydration and fatigue.


'It feels great,' said Carpenter, whose .612 slugging percentage ranks among the best in baseball. 'I hate not being out here every day, missing time. Any chance you can come out here play and not only help us win a game but win a series, it's a big deal. I'm pretty happy with the way it played out.'


With a 14-3 record at home, St. Louis can earn its best start there in more than 100 years by winning this series. The Cardinals opened 16-4 at home in 1891 and had a franchise-best 17-3 start in 1885 and 1887.


They've dropped eight of 12 meetings since beating Detroit in five games in the 2006 World Series.


SERIES AT A GLANCE


GAME 1
Tigers at Cardinals
Fri, May 15 - 8:15PM EDT


GAME 2
Tigers at Cardinals
Sat, May 16 - 2:15PM EDT


GAME 3
Tigers at Cardinals
Sun, May 17 - 8:05PM EDT

 

[CNOTES]

Preview: White Sox (14-17) at Athletics (13-23)
Game: 1
Venue: O.co Coliseum
Date: May 15, 2015 10:05 PM EDT

The Chicago White Sox are starting to distance themselves from a lackluster start to the season, in part by finally enjoying some success away from home.


With their first road series victory under their belt, the White Sox continue their six-game trip by opening a three-game set against the Oakland Athletics on Friday night.


Chicago (14-17) took the last two of three at Milwaukee on Tuesday and Wednesday, ending a seven-game road skid. The White Sox have won four of five overall.


"I'm not sure what our record is or how many games we played," left-hander Chris Sale told MLB's official website. "We are not winning or losing today or tomorrow or even the next day. Just keep coming in and plugging along and playing good baseball and picking each other up, and we'll see where it takes us."


Carlos Rodon (1-0, 2.92 ERA) kicked off the five-game surge with his first major league start Saturday, allowing two runs in six innings while striking out eight to beat Cincinnati 8-2. He'll take the mound on the heels of two outstanding starts from the top of Chicago's rotation.


Sale gave up two runs in eight innings while striking out 11 in a 4-2 win over the Brewers on Tuesday and Jose Quintana had 10 strikeouts in seven innings of one-run ball in Wednesday's 4-2 victory.


For Rodon, it was an educational experience.


"Certain hitters, watch those big guys come up, watch how they pitch to them," he told MLB's official website. "If it's a tough situation, second and third or something, just watch how they approach that and what they start with and if they are ahead, what they go to. It's little things like that."


The White Sox have recorded 57 hits in the past five games after averaging fewer than eight in their first 26.


Jose Abreu is batting .333 during a nine-game hitting streak while Adam Eaton, hitting .186 going into the Brewers series, went 6 for 13.


Avisail Garcia has four two-hit performances in his last five games.


Oakland (13-23) has yet to experience its own resurgence. The Athletics fell 2-0 to Boston on Wednesday for their seventh loss in eight tries, wasting seven strong innings from Sonny Gray.


Oakland went 0 for 14 with runners in scoring position.


'It was horrible offense. When we get guys in scoring position, we've got to get them in,' right fielder Josh Reddick said. 'It just keeps happening to us. We can't seem to do it right now.'


The performance with runners in scoring position was more of an anomaly for Oakland, which is among the AL leaders at .288 in those situations and also near the top of the league with 166 total runs.


Stephen Vogt matched a career high with his ninth home run Tuesday and leads all catchers with 30 RBIs. Vogt (1.098) and Reddick (.975) are among the major league leaders in OPS.


The A's might need to do plenty of scoring with Jesse Hahn (1-3, 4.73) set to take the mound. Hahn has allowed 12 runs - 10 earned - in 10 1-3 innings to lose his last two starts, both on the road.


Coco Crisp picked up his first hit of the season in 28 at_bats Wednesday with an infield single, snapping an overall 0-for-39 skid.




SERIES AT A GLANCE


GAME 1
White Sox at Athletics
Fri, May 15 - 10:05PM EDT


GAME 2
White Sox at Athletics
Sat, May 16 - 9:05PM EDT


GAME 3
White Sox at Athletics
Sun, May 17 - 4:05PM EDT

 

[CNOTES]

Preview: Rockies (11-19) at Dodgers (22-11)
Game: 2
Venue: Dodger Stadium
Date: May 15, 2015 10:10 PM EDT

One difficult inning this weekend separated Clayton Kershaw from another productive outing against Colorado. The Los Angeles Dodgers ace won't have to wait too long to get another crack at the Rockies.


Again seeking his 100th victory, Kershaw will try to help his team avoid another loss Friday night following a stunning defeat in the series opener at Dodger Stadium.


Kershaw (1-2, 4.26 ERA) endured a five-run fourth inning in Colorado on Sunday but didn't allow a run in any of his other 4 2-3 innings in a 9-5 victory. The left-hander was 8-1 with a 1.67 ERA in his prior 10 matchups before not getting a decision at Coors Field.


"Definitely not up to par for what I expect and this team expects,' he said after failing to collect the milestone win for the fourth consecutive start.


Kershaw is 7-1 with a 1.24 ERA in his past 11 home starts against the Rockies and earned his lone win this season with a 7-3 victory April 17, allowing three runs - one earned - and striking out a season-high 12 in six innings. He hasn't gone five starts without a win since a six-outing span from May 26-June 21, 2013.


He'll try to provide a quality start while helping the Dodgers (22-12) bounce back from having their eight-game win streak and nine-game run at home over the Rockies (12-19) snapped.


Carlos Gonzalez ended Colorado's 11-game overall skid - tied for the second-longest in franchise history - with a two-out, three-run homer in the ninth inning Thursday for a 5-4 victory. Gonzalez's longball was his first since April 25, and he was 4 for 29 (.138) with 12 strikeouts in his prior 10 contests.


'I really can't put it into words how hard and difficult it's been for the club and for myself,' Gonzalez said. 'It's one of those stretches that you really want to get over with, and it finally happened tonight. It took longer than what we expected, with all the rain, but we kept grinding. That shows a lot of respect. Everybody pushed all the way until the end.'


The Rockies have won back-to-back games just once since April 15, a three-game run April 22-24. The Dodgers have dropped three in a row just once this season from April 21-23 and they were in line for their 14th win in 19 games before Gonzalez's homer.


Eddie Butler (2-3, 3.73) will try to give Colorado that rare win streak with his first victory in five starts against Los Angeles. The right-hander has gotten one run of support in 10 1-3 innings in his two losses to the Dodgers this season.


He's allowed two runs in each game, including a rain-shortened 2-1 defeat last Friday in which he tossed 5 1-3 innings. Butler went five innings in a 7-0 loss at Dodger Stadium on April 19 and is 0-3 with a 6.64 ERA in the series.


He's gotten 10 runs to work with in his six games this season - six coming in a win over San Francisco on April 24. Butler has received one run in each of his last two outings.


Justin Turner is 6 for 9 with two doubles lifetime against Butler but is 1 for 11 in his last six games. Adrian Gonzalez has two hits in six at_bats this season.


Gonzalez, who went 2 for 4 with a two-run double Thursday, is hitting .435 with seven doubles and 12 RBIs in the six games against Colorado this year. He needs two RBIs to reach 1,000.


Howie Kendrick, 11 for 27 (.407) in his last six contests, is batting .467 in his past seven matchups.


After going 2 for 4 with a solo homer Thursday, Wilin Rosario is batting .424 with three home runs and 11 RBIs in his last 10 games against the Dodgers. He's 3 for 5 against Kershaw this season, and Troy Tulowitzki is 3 for 6 with a solo homer.




SERIES AT A GLANCE


GAME 1
Rockies at Dodgers
Thu, May 14 Final 5 to 4
Boxscores


GAME 2
Rockies at Dodgers
Fri, May 15 - 10:10PM EDT


GAME 3
Rockies at Dodgers
Sat, May 16 - 9:10PM EDT


GAME 4
Rockies at Dodgers
Sun, May 17 - 4:10PM EDT

 

[CNOTES]

Preview: Red Sox (16-18) at Mariners (15-18)
Game: 2
Venue: Safeco Field
Date: May 15, 2015 10:10 PM EDT

The Boston Red Sox just got through one turn of their rotation with a 4-1 mark in a stretch that began with a victory by Clay Buchholz that ended his five-game winless streak.


He'll try to make it two straight Friday night while going up against some Seattle Mariners hitters that have treated him rudely in the past as these teams continue a four-game series at Safeco Field.


Boston (17-18) fired pitching coach Juan Nieves on May 7, with Buchholz (2-4, 5.73 ERA) going 0-4 with a 7.77 ERA in his last five starts under Nieves.


The right-hander ended that slide by limiting Toronto to three runs over 6 1-3 innings in Sunday's 6-3 road victory that began this 4-1 stretch. It didn't come without a scary moment in which he rolled his left ankle on the final play of the fourth inning and bent over briefly before gingerly walking off the field.


"I had my ankles taped, fortunately, so I think that saved me from it being too bad," said Buchholz, who indicated afterward the ankle was not an issue.


Buchholz is 2-1 with a 3.71 ERA in four career starts against Seattle, all on the road. He faces some tough assignments since Robinson Cano is a .343 hitter against him, Nelson Cruz is 5 for 12 with a homer, Logan Morrison is 5 for 9 with two home runs and Kyle Seager is 3 for 5.


The red-hot Cruz may pose the biggest challenge after he went 3 for 3 in Seattle's 2-1 loss Thursday to improve to 13 for 26 over a seven-game hitting streak. He leads the majors in homers (15), slugging percentage (.744) and OPS (1.158).


Seattle (15-19) opened this nine-game homestand with four straight wins before going 1 for 19 with runners in scoring position in defeats Wednesday (4-2 to San Diego) and Thursday.


"It's unfortunate, we wasted two good pitching performances the last two nights," manager Lloyd McClendon said.


McClendon gave shortstop Brad Miller his first career start in left field in the series opener. Miller has five hits in his last 10 at_bats.


Boston entered Thursday's action batting a major league-worst .188 against left-handers, with southpaws starting for Seattle in the first two games of this series. The Red Sox managed one run and eight hits over 6 2-3 innings off left-handed pitching in the series opener heading into this matchup against Mariners starter J.A. Happ.


Happ (3-1, 3.29) improved to 3-0 with a 3.60 ERA in his last four outings by yielding one run in five innings of Saturday's 7-2 victory over Oakland. He struck out eight and has fanned 28 over his last 25 innings.


The left-hander went 3-2 with a 3.66 ERA in six starts against Boston over the previous two years when he was with AL East rival Toronto. David Ortiz, who is in a 3-for-27 slump, is 2 for 10 against him.


Switch-hitting Pablo Sandoval is 2 for 5 against Happ. He did not start Thursday in part because he is 2 for 34 versus lefties.


The Red Sox are batting an AL-worst .205 with runners in scoring position.




SERIES AT A GLANCE


GAME 1
Red Sox at Mariners
Thu, May 14 Final 2 to 1
Boxscores


GAME 2
Red Sox at Mariners
Fri, May 15 - 10:10PM EDT


GAME 3
Red Sox at Mariners
Sat, May 16 - 9:10PM EDT


GAME 4
Red Sox at Mariners
Sun, May 17 - 4:10PM EDT

 

[CNOTES]

Preview: Nationals (19-16) at Padres (18-17)
Game: 2
Venue: PETCO Park
Date: May 15, 2015 10:10 PM EDT

After the San Diego Padres, and perhaps even the weather, momentarily stymied the surging Washington Nationals, Jordan Zimmermann might have a good chance to help his team bounce back from a series-opening defeat.


Looking to continue his success at Petco Park, the right-hander tries to help the Nationals keep the Padres from a fifth consecutive home victory Friday night.


After the fifth rain delay in Petco history delayed Thursday's contest 1 hour, 56 minutes, San Diego (19-17) earned an 8-3 victory over Washington. Cory Spangenberg homered twice and Derek Norris had a three-run homer and a two-run triple as the Padres improved to 8-5 in May after losing seven of the final eight in April.


Washington (19-17), meanwhile, lost for the fourth time in 16 games.


"It didn't go our way (Thursday)," manager Matt Williams told MLB's official website. "So, we'll get back at it (Friday)."


The Nationals, who averaged 6.5 runs and batted .308 in 15 contests prior to Thursday, haven't lost two in a row since a six-game slide April 22-27.


However, they should feel good about their chances behind Zimmermann (2-2, 4.20 ERA), who has allowed two earned runs and struck out 34 while walking one over 30 innings to go 2-1 in four starts at Petco. His 0.60 ERA there is his lowest in any road park with a minimum of two starts.


He tossed a two-hitter and struck out a career-high 12 during a 6-0 victory June 8 for his second straight complete game at San Diego.


"Big ballpark, just let them hit the ball," Zimmermann said after that outing.


Since giving up eight runs in 2 1-3 innings of a 9-4 loss at Boston on April 13, Zimmermann is 1-1 with a 3.06 ERA in five starts. Though he hasn't factored in the decision of two straight, the Nationals have won each of Zimmermann's last three.


He yielded three runs and eight hits over six innings in a 5-4 win over Atlanta on Sunday.


"It could have been better, for sure," Zimmermann told MLB's official website.


He'll likely get his first look at Norris, who is 8 for 15 with two home runs and 10 RBIs in the last four at Petco and 6 for 12 with three homers and 12 RBIs in four career games against a Nationals club that drafted him in 2007.


Making his fourth start of the season and first appearance versus Washington, Odrisamer Despaigne (2-1, 5.13) aims to bounce back after he allowed career highs of eight runs and 10 hits over five innings of an 11-0 defeat at Arizona on May 7.


"He had a bad game, leaving the ball right over the plate where good hitters like it," Norris said. "Just chalk it up. One of those nights. There were a lot of mistakes.


"There was nothing I could do about it aside from going out there and throwing it for him."


The second-year right-hander is 4-1 with a 1.77 ERA in nine starts at Petco. In his only one there this season, Despaigne gave up a run and two hits in seven innings of a 5-1 win over the Diamondbacks on April 14.


He'll try to cool off Wilson Ramos, who drove in two runs Thursday and is batting .397 with 10 RBIs during a 16-game hitting streak. Ramos went 2 for 19 with two RBIs in his first seven games against the Padres, but is hitting .346 with eight RBIs in his last seven.




SERIES AT A GLANCE


GAME 1
Nationals at Padres
Thu, May 14 Final 3 to 8
Boxscores


GAME 2
Nationals at Padres
Fri, May 15 - 10:10PM EDT


GAME 3
Nationals at Padres
Sat, May 16 - 8:40PM EDT


GAME 4
Nationals at Padres
Sun, May 17 - 4:10PM EDT

 

[CNOTES]

Armadillo: Friday's six-pack

-- Cavaliers 94, Bulls 73-- Chicago is now 0-12 in playoff series when they trail 3-2.

-- Rockets 119, Clippers 107-- LA led by 19, was outscored 40-15 in 4th quarter.

-- Steve Nash played in the most playoff games (120) without ever playing in the NBA Finals; Chris Paul is now up to 64.

-- Angels signed closer Huston Street to a two-year contract extension.

-- San Diego Padres have played 7,363 games, have never had a player hit for cycle.

-- The Sporting News college football magazine is out already!!!!

**********

Armadillo: Friday's List of 13: Random stuff with weekend here.....

13) Things got weird after midnight last night; the Clippers gagged away a 19-point lead, were outscored 40-15 in the 4th quarter by Houston, with James Harden sitting on the bench for the whole quarter. Go figure. Clippers haven't played in a conference final, ever- this is their best shot.

12) Harden was -21 for the game; every other Houston starter was at least +11; Rockets didn't foul DeAndre Jordan much-- he was 4-6, but the Clippers fouled Dwight Howard a lot-- he was 6-16 from the line. It wound up not helping.

11) Rockies 5, Dodgers 4-- Carlos Gonzalez is hitting .192, but his 3-run homer in ninth inning at 2:30 am gave Colorado a win, ending an awful 11-game losing streak on a rainy night in southern California.

10) Red Sox 2, Mariners 1-- For some reason, Seattle is playing infielders in the outfield; Rickie Weeks misplayed a single into a double and that turned into the winning run for Boston at Safeco Field. If I'm a Mariner fan, I'm happy with the roster, but they could use an upgrade at manager, for sure.

9) Cavaliers 94, Bulls 73-- Matthew Dellavedova played four years of college basketball, scored 1,933 points for a team that went 108-28 during that time, so when he was called upon in a big game last night, he was more than ready to hammer the nails in Chicago's coffin. Kids who play four years in college have a stigma attached to them by the NBA-- in many cases, it is just stupid.

8) Tom Thibodeau just averaged 51 wins a year with a Chicago team that was ravaged by injuries; if he gets fired by the Bulls, he is re-hired within an hour by a team that cares about winning, about actually being coached.

7) Lakers are the only team sending their head coach to the lottery drawing; three teams are sending players.

6) I'll be in Las Vegas the second half of July; Chris Paul has a charity ping pong tournament at The Venetian July 18-- that could be worth going to.

5) Mets have allowed 11 unearned runs this year, eight when Jonathan Niese is on the mound; five of Wilmer Flores' eight errors came when Niese was on the hill. Mets are an interesting study; a big market team owned by people who were friends/business partners with Bernie Madoff- they claim to be hurting for money, but Fred Wilpon is the head of MLB's Finance Committee. Hmmm

4) Bronx Bombers just played 17 consecutive games against division rivals; from now until July 1, they have only three divisional games.

3) Red Sox are advertising family 4-packs for $75 for home games; you get four hot dogs, four drinks, four snacks and four tickets for $75, a good deal that is less in other big league parks. Weird hearing Boston announcers shilling for people to buy seats though- they used to have a long sellout streak.

2) They did a reality TV show last year about the LA Kiss of Arena Football, the team Gene Simmons owns part of; hope they're not doing a show this year-- saw yesterday the Kiss is 0-7 and just traded for a new quarterback.

1) In 18 day games, Miguel Cabrera is hitting .471 with eight homers; in 17 night games, he is hitting .158 with zero homers.

 

[CNOTES]

MLB
Armadillo's Write-Up

Friday, May 15

National League
Pirates @ Cubs
Locke is 1-2, 6.85 in his last four starts; over is 6-1-1 in his last eight.

Hendricks is 0-1, 3.71 in his last five starts; five of his last six went over.

Pirates-Cubs split last 10 games; over is 7-2-1 in those games. Pittburgh lost last two games, scoring five runs- four of their last five games stayed under total. Cubs just swept Mets four in row; under is 3-1-1 in their last five.

Diamondbacks @ Phillies
Anderson is 0-0, 0.69 in his last two starts; four of his last six stayed under. .

Billingsley is 0-2, 9.90 in his two starts- they both went over.

Arizona lost four of last five games with the Phillies; over is 5-2-1 in last eight series games. Snakes lost four of last six games- six of their last seven went over total. Philly lost six of last nine games but won last two; five of their last seven games went under.

Brewers @ Mets
Lohse is 1-1, 5.82 in his last three starts; over is 4-2-1 in his last seven.

Mets are 6-1 when Colon starts (6-1, 3.30); three of his last four went over.

Milwaukee won four of last six games with the Mets; eight of last ten series games stayed under. Brewers are 3-4 in last seven games; three of their last four stayed under. Mets just lost four in row at Wrigley; under is 8-2-1 in last eleven NY games.

Giants @ Reds
Bumgarner is 2-1, 2.02 in his last four starts, three of which stayed under.

Marquis is 3-1, 5.40 in his last four starts, all of which went over; Cincinnati scored 35 runs in those four games.

Giants lost last five games with Cincinnati; road team won nine of last 11 in series. SF lost eight of last 11 road games. Reds won their last three games, allowing seven runs; under is 4-0-1 in their last five games.

Braves @ Marlins
Teheran is 1-1, 7.62 in his last five starts; five of his last six went over.

Phelps is 2-0, 1.80 in his five starts; three of last four went over.

Marlins lost four of last six games with Atlanta; three of last four played in Miami stayed under. Miami lost three of last four games; six of its last eight went over the total. Braves lost five of last six games with last three staying under total.

Nationals @ Padres
Zimmerman is 1-0, 4.05 in his last three starts; five of his last six went over.

Despaigne is 2-1, 5.30 in his three starts this year.

Nationals won seven of last 11 games with San Diego; four of last six series games stayed under. Washington won six of its last eight games; all of them went over total. Padres won their last four home games- over is 6-2 in their last eight games overall.

Rockies @ Dodgers
Butler is 1-3, 5.76 in his last four starts; four of his last five stayed under.

Kershaw is 0-1, 4.15 in his last four starts; four of his last five home starts went over the total.

Dodgers won eight of last nine games with Colorado; nine of last 11 in series went over. LA won 14 of last 17 home games; eight of their last nine overall went over total. Colorado lost 11 of last 12 games; they scored 16 runs in their last seven games-- four of the six stayed under.

American League
Angels @ Orioles
Weaver is 0-3, 6.38 in his last four road starts- he threw a complete game in his last start, blanking Houston in the Big A.

WChen is 1-0, 2.14 in his last three starts; three of his last four home starts went over.

Angels won six of last eight games; six of their last seven stayed under total. Halos lost seven of last ten games with Baltimore-- seven of last nine series games stayed under. Orioles lost six of their last nine games.

Indians @ Rangers
BChen is 1-2, 6.98 in his last four big league starts.

Rodriguez is 1-0, 1.29 in his last two starts; his last four stayed under.

Indians won last six games with Texas, scoring 46 runs; over is 4-2-1 in last seven series games. Cleveland lost five of last seven games; nine of their last 11 went over total. Rangers are 3-4 in last seven games; six of their last nine went over the total.

Blue Jays @ Astros
Dickey is 1-3, 6.34 in his last five starts.

Keuchel is 6-0, 1.35 in his last nine starts; three of last four went over.

Astros won five of last six games with Toronto; five of last seven in series went over total. Blue Jays lost four of last five games; under is 5-2-1 in their last eight. Houston lost six of its last ten games.

Bronx @ Royals
Pineda is 3-0, 1.27 in his last four starts; over is 5-1-2 in his last eight.

Young allowed one run in 11 IP in his two starts (under 2-0).

Kansas City won four of last six games with Bronx; Royals won four of last six games tilts overall with three of last four going over. Bronx lost its last three games- they scored five runs in the three-- all three stayed under the total.

Rays @ Twins
Odorizzi is 1-1, 2.36 in his last four starts, all of which stayed under.

Hughes is 2-2, 5.06 in his last five starts; last three all went over.

Tampa Bay won seven of last ten games with Minnesota; five of last seven went over total. Rays won their last three games, allowing five runs; four of their last five stayed under. Twins lost three of last four games; six of their last eight went over the total.

White Sox @ A's
Rodon allowed two runs in six IP in winning his first MLB start.

Oakland is 1-5 when Hahn starts (0-2, 8.80 in last three); four of his last five starts went over the total.

Chicago won four of last six games with Oakland; White Sox won four of last five games overall, with last three staying under total. A's lost seven of last eight games; over is 5-2-1 in those eight games.

Red Sox @ Mariners
Buchholz is 1-2, 7.63 in his last three starts; under is 3-1-1 in his last five.

Happ is 3-1, 3.60 in his last four starts; three of his last four home starts went under the total.

Boston won four of last five games, with under 11-3-1 in last 15. Red Sox are 2-5 in their last seven games with Seattle- over is 9-1-1 in last 11 series games. Seattle won four of its last six games.

Interleague
Tigers @ Cardinals
Greene is 0-2, 9.95 in his last four starts.

Martinez allowed 14 runs in nine IP in his last two starts.

St Louis is 12-4 in its last 16 games; they lost three of last four games against Detroit. Six of last nine Cardinal games went over. Tigers lost three of last five games; four of those five stayed under the total.

Win-loss records this year for team with this starting pitcher:
Pitt-Chi-- Locke 4-2; Hendricks 2-4
Az-Phil-- Anderson 1-5; Billingsley 0-2
Mil-NY-- Lohse 3-4; Colon 6-1
SF-Cin-- Bumgarner 4-3; Marquis 4-2
Atl-Mia-- Teheran 4-3; Phelps 3-2
Wsh-SD-- Zimmerman 4-3; Despaigne 2-1
Col-LA-- Butler 3-3; Kershaw 3-4

LAA-Balt-- Weaver 2-5; Chen 4-2
Clev-Tex-- Chen 0-1; Rodriguez 2-2
NY-KC-- Pineda 6-1; Young 2-0
TB-Min-- Odorizzi 4-3; Hughes 2-5
Tor-Hst-- Dickey 2-5; Keuchel 6-1
CWS-A's-- Rodon 1-0; Hahn 1-5
Bos-Sea-- Buchholz 2-5; Happ 4-2

Det-StL-- Greene 4-3; Martinez 5-1

Times this starting pitcher allowed a run in first inning:
Pitt-Chi-- Locke 1-6; Hendricks 1-6
Az-Phil-- Anderson 3-6; Billingsley 1-2
Mil-NY-- Lohse 4-7; Colon 2-7
SF-Cin-- Bumgarner 1-7; Marquis 2-6
Atl-Mia-- Teheran 3-7; Phelps 1-5
Wsh-SD-- Zimmerman 3-7; Despaigne 1-3
Col-LA-- Butler 2-6; Kershaw 3-7

LAA-Balt-- Weaver 3-7; Chen 1-6
Clev-Tex-- Chen 1-1; Rodriguez 1-4
NY-KC-- Pineda 1-7; Young 0-2
TB-Min-- Odorizzi 1-7; Hughes 2-7
Tor-Hst-- Dickey 2-7; Keuchel 2-7
CWS-A's-- Rodon 0-1; Hahn 2-6
Bos-Sea-- Buchholz 2-7; Happ 2-6

Det-StL-- Greene 2-7; Martinez 1-6

 

[CNOTES]

MLB

Friday, May 15

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Trend Report
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2:20 PM
PITTSBURGH vs. CHI CUBS
Pittsburgh is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games on the road
Pittsburgh is 10-5 SU in their last 15 games when playing Chi Cubs
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Chi Cubs's last 7 games at home
Chi Cubs are 4-1 SU in their last 5 games

7:05 PM
LA ANGELS vs. BALTIMORE
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of LA Angels's last 6 games when playing Baltimore
The total has gone OVER in 4 of LA Angels's last 6 games on the road
Baltimore is 8-3 SU in their last 11 games when playing LA Angels
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Baltimore's last 6 games when playing LA Angels

7:05 PM
ARIZONA vs. PHILADELPHIA
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Arizona's last 5 games when playing on the road against Philadelphia
Arizona is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games when playing Philadelphia
Philadelphia is 15-4 SU in its last 19 games when playing at home against Arizona
Philadelphia is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games at home

7:10 PM
ATLANTA vs. MIAMI
Atlanta is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games
Atlanta is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games when playing Miami
Miami is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Atlanta
Miami is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games at home

7:10 PM
MILWAUKEE vs. NY METS
Milwaukee is 3-8 SU in its last 11 games on the road
Milwaukee is 12-3 SU in its last 15 games when playing on the road against NY Mets
NY Mets are 1-4 SU in its last 5 games
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of NY Mets's last 6 games when playing Milwaukee

7:10 PM
SAN FRANCISCO vs. CINCINNATI
San Francisco is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games when playing Cincinnati
San Francisco is 3-8 SU in its last 11 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Cincinnati's last 6 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Cincinnati's last 5 games

8:05 PM
CLEVELAND vs. TEXAS
Cleveland is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games when playing on the road against Texas
Cleveland is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing Texas
Texas is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games when playing Cleveland
Texas is 3-8 SU in its last 11 games at home

8:10 PM
TORONTO vs. HOUSTON
Toronto is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games
Toronto is 2-9 SU in its last 11 games when playing on the road against Houston
Houston is 18-7 SU in its last 25 games
Houston is 8-4 SU in its last 12 games at home

8:10 PM
NY YANKEES vs. KANSAS CITY
NY Yankees are 2-4 SU in their last 6 games
NY Yankees are 2-4 SU in their last 6 games when playing Kansas City
Kansas City is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games
Kansas City is 4-2 SU in their last 6 games when playing NY Yankees

8:10 PM
TAMPA BAY vs. MINNESOTA
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Tampa Bay's last 5 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Tampa Bay's last 5 games
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Minnesota's last 6 games when playing at home against Tampa Bay
Minnesota is 1-9 SU in its last 10 games when playing at home against Tampa Bay

8:15 PM
DETROIT vs. ST. LOUIS
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Detroit's last 6 games on the road
Detroit is 1-6 SU in its last 7 games when playing on the road against St. Louis
St. Louis is 9-1 SU in its last 10 games at home
St. Louis is 12-4 SU in its last 16 games

10:05 PM
CHI WHITE SOX vs. OAKLAND
Chi White Sox are 1-7 SU in their last 8 games when playing on the road against Oakland
Chi White Sox are 2-7 SU in their last 9 games on the road
Oakland is 2-9 SU in its last 11 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 13 of Oakland's last 14 games at home

10:10 PM
WASHINGTON vs. SAN DIEGO
Washington is 2-3-1 SU in its last 6 games ,when playing on the road against San Diego
Washington6-1-1 SU in its last 8 games
San Diego is 3-7-1 SU in its last 11 games ,when playing Washington
San Diego is 4-9-1 SU in its last 14 games ,when playing at home against Washington

10:10 PM
COLORADO vs. LA DODGERS
Colorado is 0-4-1 SU in its last 5 games ,on the road
Colorado is 0-4-1 SU in their last 5 games ,when playing on the road against LA Dodgers
LA Dodgers8-0-1 SU in their last 9 games when playing Colorado
LA Dodgers14-2-1 SU in their last 17 games at home

10:10 PM
BOSTON vs. SEATTLE
The total has gone OVER in 8 of Boston's last 9 games when playing Seattle
The total has gone UNDER in 10 of Boston's last 14 games
Seattle is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games
Seattle is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games at home

 

[CNOTES]

MLB
Long Sheet

Friday, May 15

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

PITTSBURGH (17 - 18) at CHICAGO CUBS (19 - 15) - 2:20 PM
JEFF LOCKE (L) vs. KYLE HENDRICKS (R)
Top Trends for this game.
PITTSBURGH is 18-31 (-13.8 Units) against the money line in road games against division opponents over the last 2 seasons.
PITTSBURGH is 12-26 (-16.1 Units) against the money line in road games in day games over the last 2 seasons.
PITTSBURGH is 16-32 (-14.5 Units) against the money line in road games when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
HENDRICKS is 13-5 (+9.1 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
PITTSBURGH is 21-9 (+12.1 Units) against the money line when playing on Friday over the last 2 seasons.
CHICAGO CUBS are 1406-1568 (-278.6 Units) against the money line in all games since 1997.
CHICAGO CUBS are 755-733 (-163.8 Units) against the money line in home games since 1997.
CHICAGO CUBS are 357-344 (-89.4 Units) against the money line in home games against division opponents since 1997.
CHICAGO CUBS are 749-795 (-152.5 Units) against the money line in day games since 1997.
CHICAGO CUBS are 1349-1481 (-253.4 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field since 1997.
CHICAGO CUBS are 652-755 (-198.6 Units) against the money line after a win since 1997.
CHICAGO CUBS are 146-163 (-46.2 Units) against the money line after 3 or more consecutive wins since 1997.
CHICAGO CUBS are 687-689 (-156.8 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record since 1997.

Head-to-Head Series History
CHICAGO CUBS is 4-3 (+1.2 Units) against PITTSBURGH this season
3 of 5 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=+1.1 Units)

JEFF LOCKE vs. CHICAGO CUBS since 1997
LOCKE is 1-2 when starting against CHICAGO CUBS with an ERA of 5.11 and a WHIP of 1.541.
His team's record is 2-5 (-5.3 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 3-3. (-0.6 units)

KYLE HENDRICKS vs. PITTSBURGH since 1997
HENDRICKS is 0-1 when starting against PITTSBURGH with an ERA of 4.36 and a WHIP of 1.258.
His team's record is 0-2 (-2.2 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 0-2. (-2.5 units)

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ARIZONA (15 - 18) at PHILADELPHIA (13 - 23) - 7:05 PM
CHASE ANDERSON (R) vs. CHAD BILLINGSLEY (R)
Top Trends for this game.
ARIZONA is 79-116 (-32.6 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
ARIZONA is 79-116 (-32.6 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
ARIZONA is 60-86 (-24.2 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
PHILADELPHIA is 111-155 (-40.2 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters over the last 3 seasons.
PHILADELPHIA is 69-92 (-32.7 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 3 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.

CHASE ANDERSON vs. PHILADELPHIA since 1997
No recent starts.

CHAD BILLINGSLEY vs. ARIZONA since 1997
BILLINGSLEY is 9-9 when starting against ARIZONA with an ERA of 3.91 and a WHIP of 1.303.
His team's record is 13-12 (-1.4 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 13-10. (+1.7 units)

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MILWAUKEE (12 - 23) at NY METS (20 - 15) - 7:10 PM
KYLE LOHSE (R) vs. BARTOLO COLON (R)
Top Trends for this game.
MILWAUKEE is 94-103 (-18.0 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
MILWAUKEE is 26-43 (-19.4 Units) against the money line in May games over the last 3 seasons.
MILWAUKEE is 5-17 (-12.8 Units) against the money line in night games this season.
NY METS are 99-98 (+8.7 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
NY METS are 13-3 (+10.0 Units) against the money line in home games this season.
NY METS are 13-3 (+10.0 Units) against the money line in home games in games played on a grass field this season.
NY METS are 12-2 (+10.0 Units) against the money line in home games against right-handed starters this season.
NY METS are 51-46 (+10.5 Units) against the money line after a loss over the last 2 seasons.
NY METS are 54-33 (+20.0 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons.
COLON is 23-15 (+9.6 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
COLON is 12-1 (+11.2 Units) against the money line when playing on Friday over the last 3 seasons. (Team's Record)
COLON is 23-15 (+9.6 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
COLON is 29-12 (+14.2 Units) against the money line after 3 or more consecutive losses since 1997. (Team's Record)
COLON is 23-7 (+12.3 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 3 seasons. (Team's Record)

Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.

KYLE LOHSE vs. NY METS since 1997
LOHSE is 2-4 when starting against NY METS with an ERA of 4.67 and a WHIP of 1.491.
His team's record is 7-4 (+3.2 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 5-4. (+0.1 units)

BARTOLO COLON vs. MILWAUKEE since 1997
COLON is 3-1 when starting against MILWAUKEE with an ERA of 3.97 and a WHIP of 1.765.
His team's record is 4-2 (+1.0 units) in these starts. The OVER is 4-2. (+2.0 units)

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SAN FRANCISCO (17 - 18) at CINCINNATI (18 - 17) - 7:10 PM
MADISON BUMGARNER (L) vs. JASON MARQUIS (R)
Top Trends for this game.
MARQUIS is 19-4 (+12.1 Units) against the money line in home games when playing on Friday since 1997. (Team's Record)
SAN FRANCISCO is 117-97 (+14.8 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
SAN FRANCISCO is 55-50 (+11.8 Units) against the money line in road games over the last 2 seasons.
SAN FRANCISCO is 27-14 (+14.1 Units) against the money line in May games over the last 2 seasons.
SAN FRANCISCO is 117-97 (+14.8 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
SAN FRANCISCO is 1034-867 (+115.4 Units) against the money line in night games since 1997.
SAN FRANCISCO is 548-536 (+56.5 Units) against the money line in road games against right-handed starters since 1997.
SAN FRANCISCO is 371-371 (+42.0 Units) against the money line in road games after a loss since 1997.
SAN FRANCISCO is 55-49 (+10.8 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
BUMGARNER is 18-6 (+13.6 Units) against the money line in road games over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
BUMGARNER is 18-6 (+13.6 Units) against the money line in road games in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
CINCINNATI is 360-382 (-92.6 Units) against the money line in home games after a win since 1997.
CINCINNATI is 15-26 (-19.1 Units) against the money line after 3 or more consecutive wins over the last 3 seasons.
CINCINNATI is 363-329 (-82.0 Units) against the money line in home games when playing against a team with a losing record since 1997.

Head-to-Head Series History
CINCINNATI is 1-0 (+1.0 Units) against SAN FRANCISCO this season
0 of 0 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=+0.0 Units)

MADISON BUMGARNER vs. CINCINNATI since 1997
BUMGARNER is 2-4 when starting against CINCINNATI with an ERA of 5.05 and a WHIP of 1.220.
His team's record is 2-5 (-3.9 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 2-4. (-2.7 units)

JASON MARQUIS vs. SAN FRANCISCO since 1997
MARQUIS is 7-5 when starting against SAN FRANCISCO with an ERA of 2.84 and a WHIP of 1.099.
His team's record is 10-6 (+5.5 units) in these starts. The OVER is 8-7. (+0.2 units)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

ATLANTA (15 - 19) at MIAMI (16 - 19) - 7:10 PM
JULIO TEHERAN (R) vs. DAVID PHELPS (R)
Top Trends for this game.
ATLANTA is 94-102 (-19.8 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
ATLANTA is 92-101 (-21.9 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
ATLANTA is 73-84 (-21.5 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
ATLANTA is 48-62 (-27.5 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
ATLANTA is 4-2 (+2.9 Units) against MIAMI this season
3 of 6 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=-0.1 Units, Under=-0.7 Units)

JULIO TEHERAN vs. MIAMI since 1997
TEHERAN is 5-1 when starting against MIAMI with an ERA of 2.64 and a WHIP of 1.138.
His team's record is 6-3 (+0.8 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 8-1. (+6.9 units)

DAVID PHELPS vs. ATLANTA since 1997
No recent starts.

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COLORADO (12 - 19) at LA DODGERS (22 - 12) - 10:10 PM
EDDIE BUTLER (R) vs. CLAYTON KERSHAW (L)
Top Trends for this game.
COLORADO is 78-115 (-34.1 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
COLORADO is 16-45 (-23.7 Units) against the money line when the total is 7 or less over the last 3 seasons.
COLORADO is 29-70 (-33.6 Units) against the money line in road games over the last 2 seasons.
COLORADO is 16-45 (-23.7 Units) against the money line on the road when the total is 7 or less over the last 3 seasons.
COLORADO is 223-295 (-80.6 Units) against the money line in May games since 1997.
COLORADO is 78-115 (-34.1 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
COLORADO is 50-81 (-30.4 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons.
LA DODGERS are 54-27 (+18.6 Units) against the money line after a loss over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
LA DODGERS is 5-1 (+2.9 Units) against COLORADO this season
4 of 6 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=+1.8 Units)

EDDIE BUTLER vs. LA DODGERS since 1997
BUTLER is 0-3 when starting against LA DODGERS with an ERA of 6.64 and a WHIP of 1.968.
His team's record is 0-4 (-4.0 units) in these starts. The OVER is 1-3. (-2.3 units)

CLAYTON KERSHAW vs. COLORADO since 1997
KERSHAW is 14-5 when starting against COLORADO with an ERA of 3.26 and a WHIP of 1.180.
His team's record is 20-8 (+10.3 units) in these starts. The OVER is 14-14. (-1.0 units)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

WASHINGTON (19 - 17) at SAN DIEGO (19 - 17) - 10:10 PM
JORDAN ZIMMERMANN (R) vs. ODRISAMER DESPAIGNE (R)
Top Trends for this game.
WASHINGTON is 13-20 (-15.1 Units) against the money line when playing on Friday over the last 2 seasons.
SAN DIEGO is 58-40 (+12.2 Units) against the money line in home games over the last 2 seasons.
SAN DIEGO is 58-40 (+12.2 Units) against the money line in home games in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
SAN DIEGO is 33-19 (+12.8 Units) against the money line in home games after a win over the last 2 seasons.
SAN DIEGO is 56-52 (+7.5 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
ZIMMERMANN is 27-9 (+15.6 Units) against the money line when the total is 7 or less over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
ZIMMERMANN is 17-6 (+12.5 Units) against the money line on the road when the total is 7 or less since 1997. (Team's Record)
ZIMMERMANN is 36-13 (+19.4 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)

Head-to-Head Series History
SAN DIEGO is 1-0 (+1.0 Units) against WASHINGTON this season
1 of 1 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=+1.0 Units)

JORDAN ZIMMERMANN vs. SAN DIEGO since 1997
ZIMMERMANN is 2-2 when starting against SAN DIEGO with an ERA of 1.90 and a WHIP of 0.761.
His team's record is 4-3 (-0.2 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 4-2. (+2.0 units)

ODRISAMER DESPAIGNE vs. WASHINGTON since 1997
No recent starts.

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LA ANGELS (17 - 17) at BALTIMORE (15 - 17) - 7:05 PM
JERED WEAVER (R) vs. WEI-YIN CHEN (L)
Top Trends for this game.
BALTIMORE is 115-87 (+33.3 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
BALTIMORE is 47-28 (+15.2 Units) against the money line at home with a money line of -100 to -125 over the last 3 seasons.
BALTIMORE is 62-39 (+17.5 Units) against the money line in home games over the last 2 seasons.
BALTIMORE is 101-75 (+29.5 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
BALTIMORE is 81-52 (+33.8 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons.
BALTIMORE is 90-64 (+30.5 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
BALTIMORE is 62-51 (+13.5 Units) against the money line after a win over the last 2 seasons.
CHEN is 23-11 (+12.4 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
CHEN is 8-0 (+8.2 Units) against the money line in home games after a win over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
LA ANGELS are 25-9 (+14.5 Units) against the money line when the total is 9 to 9.5 over the last 2 seasons.
LA ANGELS are 757-736 (+69.0 Units) against the money line in road games since 1997.
LA ANGELS are 24-8 (+14.8 Units) against the money line on the road when the total is 9 to 9.5 over the last 2 seasons.
LA ANGELS are 276-203 (+50.0 Units) against the money line when playing on Friday since 1997.
LA ANGELS are 636-620 (+62.8 Units) against the money line in road games in games played on a grass field since 1997.
LA ANGELS are 64-32 (+21.7 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons.
WEAVER is 45-17 (+22.4 Units) against the money line when the total is 9 to 9.5 since 1997. (Team's Record)
WEAVER is 25-10 (+15.9 Units) against the money line on the road when the total is 9 to 9.5 since 1997. (Team's Record)
WEAVER is 89-44 (+31.9 Units) against the money line after a win since 1997. (Team's Record)

Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.

JERED WEAVER vs. BALTIMORE since 1997
WEAVER is 7-4 when starting against BALTIMORE with an ERA of 3.46 and a WHIP of 1.054.
His team's record is 7-5 (-0.3 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 6-6. (-1.0 units)

WEI-YIN CHEN vs. LA ANGELS since 1997
CHEN is 0-1 when starting against LA ANGELS with an ERA of 5.23 and a WHIP of 1.549.
His team's record is 1-1 (+0.7 units) in these starts. The OVER is 0-2. (-2.2 units)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

CLEVELAND (12 - 21) at TEXAS (15 - 20) - 8:05 PM
BRUCE CHEN (L) vs. WANDY RODRIGUEZ (L)
Top Trends for this game.
CLEVELAND is 12-21 (-13.5 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
CLEVELAND is 12-21 (-13.5 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
CLEVELAND is 104-58 (+34.0 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 3 seasons.
TEXAS is 24-47 (-23.7 Units) against the money line when the total is 9 to 9.5 over the last 2 seasons.
TEXAS is 38-59 (-23.1 Units) against the money line in home games over the last 2 seasons.
TEXAS is 15-40 (-27.4 Units) against the money line at home when the total is 9 to 9.5 over the last 2 seasons.
TEXAS is 38-59 (-23.1 Units) against the money line in home games in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
TEXAS is 54-90 (-30.5 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons.
TEXAS is 23-44 (-23.7 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.

BRUCE CHEN vs. TEXAS since 1997
CHEN is 2-3 when starting against TEXAS with an ERA of 7.84 and a WHIP of 1.774.
His team's record is 2-4 (-1.5 units) in these starts. The OVER is 4-1. (+3.2 units)

WANDY RODRIGUEZ vs. CLEVELAND since 1997
No recent starts.

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TORONTO (17 - 19) at HOUSTON (22 - 13) - 8:10 PM
R.A. DICKEY (R) vs. DALLAS KEUCHEL (L)
Top Trends for this game.
TORONTO is 20-37 (-18.1 Units) against the money line when playing on Friday over the last 3 seasons.
HOUSTON is 22-13 (+9.0 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
HOUSTON is 22-13 (+9.0 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
KEUCHEL is 23-13 (+15.1 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
KEUCHEL is 22-12 (+14.2 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
KEUCHEL is 15-8 (+10.6 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
TORONTO is 27-16 (+12.4 Units) against the money line in May games over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
HOUSTON is 1-0 (+1.0 Units) against TORONTO this season
1 of 1 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=+1.0 Units)

R.A. DICKEY vs. HOUSTON since 1997
DICKEY is 2-4 when starting against HOUSTON with an ERA of 4.67 and a WHIP of 1.249.
His team's record is 4-5 (-3.1 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 5-4. (+0.4 units)

DALLAS KEUCHEL vs. TORONTO since 1997
KEUCHEL is 2-0 when starting against TORONTO with an ERA of 2.95 and a WHIP of 1.172.
His team's record is 2-1 (+3.1 units) in these starts. The OVER is 2-1. (+0.9 units)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

NY YANKEES (21 - 15) at KANSAS CITY (22 - 13) - 8:10 PM
MICHAEL PINEDA (R) vs. CHRIS YOUNG (R)
Top Trends for this game.
KANSAS CITY is 22-13 (+8.7 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
KANSAS CITY is 39-25 (+12.7 Units) against the money line when the total is 7 or less over the last 2 seasons.
KANSAS CITY is 22-13 (+8.7 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
KANSAS CITY is 87-62 (+16.1 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons.
KANSAS CITY is 86-62 (+13.3 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
KANSAS CITY is 59-42 (+16.6 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
YOUNG is 19-12 (+10.9 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
YOUNG is 19-11 (+11.9 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
KANSAS CITY is 27-43 (-23.1 Units) against the money line in May games over the last 3 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.

MICHAEL PINEDA vs. KANSAS CITY since 1997
PINEDA is 2-2 when starting against KANSAS CITY with an ERA of 1.65 and a WHIP of 0.768.
His team's record is 2-2 (-0.4 units) in these starts. The OVER is 1-3. (-2.1 units)

CHRIS YOUNG vs. NY YANKEES since 1997
YOUNG is 2-1 when starting against NY YANKEES with an ERA of 4.97 and a WHIP of 1.460.
His team's record is 2-3 (+0.4 units) in these starts. The OVER is 1-4. (-3.9 units)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

TAMPA BAY (20 - 16) at MINNESOTA (19 - 16) - 8:10 PM
JAKE ODORIZZI (R) vs. PHIL HUGHES (R)
Top Trends for this game.
TAMPA BAY is 97-101 (-23.1 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
MINNESOTA is 12-5 (+8.8 Units) against the money line in home games this season.
MINNESOTA is 12-5 (+8.8 Units) against the money line in home games in games played on a grass field this season.
MINNESOTA is 11-6 (+8.4 Units) against the money line in night games this season.
HUGHES is 7-0 (+8.7 Units) against the money line in May games over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
HUGHES is 14-6 (+11.6 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
TAMPA BAY is 11-4 (+8.0 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
MINNESOTA is 33-63 (-24.5 Units) against the money line in home games when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 3 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.

JAKE ODORIZZI vs. MINNESOTA since 1997
ODORIZZI is 0-0 when starting against MINNESOTA with an ERA of 10.81 and a WHIP of 2.402.
His team's record is 0-1 (-1.8 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 0-1. (-1.3 units)

PHIL HUGHES vs. TAMPA BAY since 1997
HUGHES is 3-6 when starting against TAMPA BAY with an ERA of 5.02 and a WHIP of 1.459.
His team's record is 5-6 (-1.8 units) in these starts. The OVER is 4-6. (-2.4 units)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

CHI WHITE SOX (14 - 17) at OAKLAND (13 - 23) - 10:05 PM
CARLOS RODON (L) vs. JESSE HAHN (R)
Top Trends for this game.
CHI WHITE SOX are 17-36 (-20.9 Units) against the money line when playing on Friday over the last 3 seasons.
CHI WHITE SOX are 56-108 (-33.8 Units) against the money line in road games in games played on a grass field over the last 3 seasons.
CHI WHITE SOX are 63-84 (-23.4 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 3 seasons.
CHI WHITE SOX are 60-61 (+12.0 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons.
CHI WHITE SOX are 364-366 (+31.7 Units) against the money line in road games after a win since 1997.
OAKLAND is 13-23 (-14.1 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
OAKLAND is 22-35 (-21.9 Units) against the money line when the total is 7 or less over the last 2 seasons.
OAKLAND is 5-11 (-9.5 Units) against the money line in home games this season.
OAKLAND is 13-23 (-14.1 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
OAKLAND is 7-17 (-13.1 Units) against the money line after getting shut out over the last 3 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.

CARLOS RODON vs. OAKLAND since 1997
No recent starts.

JESSE HAHN vs. CHI WHITE SOX since 1997
No recent starts.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

BOSTON (17 - 18) at SEATTLE (15 - 19) - 10:10 PM
CLAY BUCHHOLZ (R) vs. J.A. HAPP (L)
Top Trends for this game.
BOSTON is 88-110 (-32.2 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
BOSTON is 78-94 (-27.2 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
BOSTON is 62-78 (-23.2 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons.
BOSTON is 36-53 (-23.6 Units) against the money line after a win over the last 2 seasons.
BUCHHOLZ is 13-22 (-13.9 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
BUCHHOLZ is 9-20 (-16.2 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
BUCHHOLZ is 7-18 (-15.3 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
BUCHHOLZ is 3-12 (-11.4 Units) against the money line after a win over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
BUCHHOLZ is 3-10 (-10.1 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
BUCHHOLZ is 18-9 (+10.1 Units) against the money line in road games over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
SEATTLE is 86-94 (-31.1 Units) against the money line in home games over the last 3 seasons.
SEATTLE is 86-94 (-31.1 Units) against the money line in home games in games played on a grass field over the last 3 seasons.
SEATTLE is 10-17 (-10.6 Units) against the money line in night games this season.
SEATTLE is 31-38 (-20.6 Units) against the money line in home games against right-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
SEATTLE is 43-48 (-24.3 Units) against the money line in home games when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 3 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
BOSTON is 1-0 (+1.0 Units) against SEATTLE this season
1 of 1 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL this season . (Under=+1.0 Units)

CLAY BUCHHOLZ vs. SEATTLE since 1997
BUCHHOLZ is 2-1 when starting against SEATTLE with an ERA of 3.71 and a WHIP of 1.125.
His team's record is 3-1 (+2.4 units) in these starts. The OVER is 2-2. (-0.2 units)

J.A. HAPP vs. BOSTON since 1997
HAPP is 3-3 when starting against BOSTON with an ERA of 4.67 and a WHIP of 1.601.
His team's record is 4-4 (+0.2 units) in these starts. The OVER is 4-4. (-0.3 units)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

DETROIT (21 - 14) at ST LOUIS (24 - 10) - 8:15 PM
SHANE GREENE (R) vs. CARLOS MARTINEZ (R)
Top Trends for this game.
DETROIT is 143-216 (-57.0 Units) against the money line as a road underdog of +100 to +125 since 1997.
ST LOUIS is 24-10 (+12.7 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
ST LOUIS is 68-34 (+21.2 Units) against the money line in home games over the last 2 seasons.
ST LOUIS is 24-10 (+12.7 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
ST LOUIS is 20-6 (+13.4 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters this season.
ST LOUIS is 43-20 (+16.5 Units) against the money line in home games after a win over the last 2 seasons.
ST LOUIS is 52-36 (+13.8 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
GREENE is 8-1 (+8.9 Units) against the money line in road games over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)

Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.

SHANE GREENE vs. ST LOUIS since 1997
No recent starts.

CARLOS MARTINEZ vs. DETROIT since 1997
No recent starts.

 

[CNOTES]

MLB
Dunkel

Friday, May 15


Milwaukee @ NY Mets

Game 955-956
May 15, 2015 @ 7:10 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Milwaukee
(Lohse) 15.125
NY Mets
(Colon)16.611
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
NY Mets
by 1 1/2
6
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
NY Mets
-160
7 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
NY Mets
(-160); Under

Boston @ Seattle

Game 977-978
May 15, 2015 @ 10:10 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Boston
(Buchholz) 15.602
Seattle
(Happ) 14.711
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Boston
by 1
8
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Seattle
-115
7
Dunkel Pick:
Boston
(-105); Over

San Francisco @ Cincinnati

Game 957-958
May 15, 2015 @ 7:10 pm

Dunkel Rating:
San Francisco
(Bumgarner) 16.691
Cincinnati
(Marquis) 15.009
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
San Francisco
by 1 1/2
6
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
San Francisco
-155
7 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
San Francisco
(-155); Under

Detroit @ St. Louis

Game 979-980
May 15, 2015 @ 8:15 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Detroit
(Greene) 16.600
St. Louis
(Martinez) 18.006
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
St. Louis
by 1 1/2
7
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
St. Louis
-135
8
Dunkel Pick:
St. Louis
(-135); Under

Atlanta @ Miami

Game 959-960
May 15, 2015 @ 7:10 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Atlanta
(Teheran) 15.442
Miami
(Phelps) 14.398
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Atlanta
by 1
8
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Miami
-135
7 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Atlanta
(+115); Over

Colorado @ LA Dodgers

Game 961-962
May 15, 2015 @ 10:10 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Colorado
(Butler) 15.442
LA Dodgers
(Kershaw) 14.003
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Colorado
by 1 1/2
8
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
LA Dodgers
-330
6 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Colorado
(+265); Over

Washington @ San Diego

Game 963-964
May 15, 2015 @ 10:10 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Washington
(Zimmrmnn) 17.149
San Diego
(Despaigne) 14.101
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Washington
by 3
6
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Washington
-125
7
Dunkel Pick:
Washington
(-125); Under

LA Angels @ Baltimore

Game 965-966
May 15, 2015 @ 7:05 pm

Dunkel Rating:
LA Angels
(Weaver) 14.033
Baltimore
(Chen) 17.000
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Baltimore
by 3
8
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Baltimore
-125
9
Dunkel Pick:
Baltimore
(-125); Under

Cleveland @ Texas

Game 967-968
May 15, 2015 @ 8:05 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Cleveland
(Chen) 13.454
Texas
(Rodriguez) 14.911
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Texas
by 1 1/2
8
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Texas
-125
9
Dunkel Pick:
Texas
(-125); Under

Toronto @ Houston

Game 969-970
May 15, 2015 @ 8:10 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Toronto
(Dickey) 14.099
Houston
(Keuchel) 16.691
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Houston
by 2 1/2
7
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Houston
-145
8
Dunkel Pick:
Houston
(-145); Under

NY Yankees @ Kansas City

Game 971-972
May 15, 2015 @ 8:10 pm

Dunkel Rating:
NY Yankees
(Pineda) 16.571
Kansas City
(Young) 17.319
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Kansas City
by 1
8
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
NY Yankees
-120
7
Dunkel Pick:
Kansas City
(+100); Over

Pittsburgh @ Chicago Cubs

Game 951-952
May 15, 2015 @ 2:20 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Pittsburgh
(Locke) 16.623
Chicago Cubs
(Hendricks) 15.441
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Pittsburgh
by 1
10
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Chicago Cubs
-125
No Run Total
Dunkel Pick:
Pittsburgh
(+105); N/A

Tampa Bay @ Minnesota

Game 973-974
May 15, 2015 @ 8:10 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Tampa Bay
(Odorizzi) 14.734
Minnesota
(Hughes) 16.225
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Minnesota
by 1 1/2
9
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Tampa Bay
-115
7 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Minnesota
(-105); Over

Arizona @ Philadelphia

Game 953-954
May 15, 2015 @ 7:05 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Arizona
(Anderson) 13.823
Philadelphia
(Billingsley) 15.083
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Philadelphia
by 1
10
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Arizona
-130
8 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Philadelphia
(+110); Over

Chicago White Sox @ Oakland

Game 975-976
May 15, 2015 @ 10:05 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Chicago White Sox
(Rodon) 16.990
Oakland
(Hahn) 15.602
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Chicago White Sox
by 1 1/2
8
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Oakland
-130
7
Dunkel Pick:
Chicago White Sox
(+110); Over

 

[CNOTES]

MLB

Friday, May 15


Wind blowing out at Wrigley Field Friday

According to weather forecasts, wind will blow out to center field at around 11 miles per hour when the Chicago Cubs host the Pittsburgh Pirates at Wrigley Field Friday afternoon.

The Cubs are slated to start Kyle Hendricks with the Pirates scheduled to give Jeff Locke the ball.

The total remains off the board as of Friday morning.


No run support cashing Unders in Odorizzi starts

Tampa Bay Rays' starter Jake Odorizzi gets the least amount of run support in the American League at 2.00 runs scored. Combine that with his 2.09 ERA and 0.91 WHIP and you've got one of the hottest Under pitchers in the bigs.

Odorizzi has made seven starts thus far and the Under has cashed in six of those games.

Odorizzi is the probable starter as the Rays visit the Minnesota Twins Friday evening. The total is presently 7.5.

 

[CNOTES]

Weekend Primer


May 15, 2015




Upcoming Series to Watch

New York Yankees at Kansas City Royals

Not too long ago, any time the Yankees and Royals hooked up for a series, the result would almost always be the same, as New York always had their number. In fact, in their last 111 meetings against one another, the Yankees own an incredible 77-34 record. Times have changed significantly, though, as this is now viewed as one of the most anticipated matchups of the weekend, in this battle between two American League behemoths that appear ticketed for a trip to the postseason.

There could be a lot of offense in this high-profile series, considering how both lineups have performed up to this point. The Royals have been firmly atop everyone in team batting average all year with a .287 mark (a full ten points up on the next closest team, Detroit) and their 173 runs place them third, only behind the Blue Jays and Dodgers. The Yankees aren't far behind in that category with 165 runs scored, and their 44 long balls place them third in team home runs. We'll see how this dynamic matches up in game one tonight against some stellar pitching, as Michael Pineda takes the hill for the first time since his 16-strikeout performance, opposite veteran Chris Young, who has looked very good in his couple of spot starts, and now possesses a regular spot in the rotation with Jason Vargas going down. The over/under is 7 so something must give in the opener.

Detroit Tigers at St. Louis Cardinals

Without question, this easily ranks up there as one of the most anticipated series of the weekend, featuring two timeless sports franchises. The major league-best Cardinals will aim to continue their distinct winning ways at home at Busch Stadium against the Tigers, who might be one of the few teams that can match up with them evenly.

While the Cardinals are ranked high in all the major categories on both sides of the ball, so are the Tigers, who are trying to get back into first in the AL Central. St. Louis is sixth in team batting average (.267), but Detroit is second with a .277 mark, while also being in the top ten with 155 runs scored. However, it’s been on the pitching side of things where the Cardinals have reign supreme the most, with the majors’ best team ERA (2.69) and fewest home runs allowed (19). From a handicapping perspective, this might be the toughest series to wager on, with it easily being capable of going either way. The key stat, however, might be the fact that the Cards are a remarkable 39-12 in their last 51 home games dating back to last season. Carlos Martinez toes the rubber for St. Louis in game one against Shane Greene.

Washington Nationals at San Diego Padres

I'm intrigued by this series of legitimate National League contenders. The Nationals have righted their ship, utilizing a run in which they won 12 of their last 15 to ascend two games over .500. Despite losing the opener at Petco last night, their offense has been producing at a ridiculous rate, having scored five or more runs in seven of their past eight games. In the process, Washington has become a popular favorite for over bettors, going 9-1 for the over in their last ten (largely thanks to the torrid run of Bryce Harper), including eight in a row.

Meanwhile, the Padres are entering a groove of their own, as they try to cut the gap separating them from first-place Los Angeles in the NL West. They've won two straight and 8 of 13 overall, and like the Nationals, have been cashing overs excessively. In fact, they have one of the majors' best records for over bets thus far at 22-13-1, and after helping contribute to yet another such proposition last night, there could be more in store within this series. Both clubs rank in the top five in baseball in runs scored with 170 and 169, respectively.

Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim at Baltimore Orioles

The Angels have suddenly gotten everything in order, having won six of eight to vault up to second place in the messy AL West division. The Orioles, on the other hand, have been very inconsistent in the early going and find themselves in the AL East cellar. They enter this meeting with six losses in their last nine games. As a result, this could be a telling series for both reigning division winners, as one seeks to sustain their current run and reclaim their throne, while the other is still trying to get out first gear in order to catch up to first-place New York. On the surface, the Orioles appear to have a favorable spot as it relates to the opening affair of this series, as the Angels are 2-6 in their last eight road games, and 2-7 in game one starter Jered Weaver’s last nine assignments. Being 43-18 in their last 61 home games dating back to last season, Baltimore might use this upcoming home set at Camden Yards to springboard back into form.

Other Weekend Thoughts

-- After stumbling a bit and falling to .500, the Cubs have picked it up again and are coming off a very impressive four-game sweep at Wrigley of the fellow upstart New York Mets. As their youngsters continue to get acclimated to the rigors of the Major League Baseball schedule, they're only going to develop more consistency, with this past week's slate providing a glimpse of what they're capable of. They especially received excellent pitching, yielding only ten runs combined in the four games versus the Mets. This weekend they take on the division rival Pirates, who have lost two in a row to lowly Philadelphia. As a result, the Cubs could easily pounce on them while they're down a bit and pick up another series victory. Their extensive rise is inevitable.

Fearless Prediction

-- After getting swept at Wrigley Field in four games, the Mets will be looking forward to their upcoming home set against the Brewers with an extra sense of urgency. While Milwaukee has improved under interim manager Craig Counsell after slumping out of the gate, this series should be more about New York getting back on track. Even in defeat, they still received some excellent starting pitching in their get-together with the Cubs, an important staple of their early-season success, and also witnessed an encouraging debut from rookie Noah Syndergaard this past Tuesday. This could be a crucial and telling performance for them coming up, as they try to fend off surging Washington for the NL East lead. I think they’ll take care of business here, with hopes of revving up another run.

 

[CNOTES]

Indians, Rangers square off


May 15, 2015




CLEVELAND INDIANS (12-21) at TEXAS RANGERS (15-20)


First pitch: Friday, 8:05 p.m. ET
Sportsbook.ag Line: Texas -125, Cleveland +115, Total: 9


Two struggling American League teams, the Cleveland Indians and Texas Rangers, begin a three-game series when they meet in Arlington on Friday night.


The Indians’ 2015 struggles continue as they come into this game with three straight series losses; the most recent being against the St. Louis Cardinals to kick off the week. They’ve now lost six of their past nine contests, allowing 40 runs in the defeats (6.7 runs per game) as the offense put up a mere six runs in the three games against the Cardinals.


In the rubber-match on Thursday, they held a one-run lead until the eighth inning when 3B Matt Carpenter hit a two-run homer that put St. Louis in the driver’s seat for good. Cleveland was 0-for-7 with RISP in the disappointing loss as OF Michael Brantley (.330) continued to hit and now has a hit in 12 of his last 13 games; hitting his third homer of the month on Thursday.


Texas may not have started out the season too great, but they have found a rhythm lately, grabbing victories in eight of their past 13 games and recently split a tough series at home against the defending AL Champion Kansas City Royals. They scored 22 runs in the four contests (5.5 runs per game) but failed to win the series on Thursday after a 6-3 loss.


The pitchers for the Rangers allowed 14 hits in the contest while the offense couldn’t muster up much of anything with a 2-for-9 mark with RISP despite striking out a mere three times. DH Prince Fielder (.348) has been hitting everything thrown his way and carries a four-game hitting streak into this matchup in which he is 7-for-15 (.467) with two HRs and six RBI.


A couple of veterans will be getting the start in this contest as LHP Bruce Chen (0-1, 13.50 ERA) gets the call for the Indians and will attempt to outpitch LHP Wandy Rodriguez (1-1, 2.70 ERA) of the host team. The road has not been all that kind to Cleveland as it is 6-9 outside of its stadium while Texas is a meager 5-11 at home. When these two groups have met over the previous two seasons, the Indians have made mince meat of the Rangers, going 11-2 overall with both of the losses coming on the road (5-2).


The last series between them was in Cleveland and they swept while outscoring Texas 18-5. Trends show that Texas is a putrid 15-39 (.278) at home when the total is nine to 9.5 over the past two seasons as the Indians have gone a poor 88-100 (.468) when the money line is +125 to -125 in the last three years.


The injury report has C Yan Gomes (Knee) still out for Cleveland as OF Leonys Martin (Hand) is listed as questionable for the Rangers.


The Indians are the 11th stop for Chen in his long career as the 37-year-old has tallied just 82 wins in his 1,529.2 innings pitched. He has seen his usage decline quickly over the past four seasons and last year he was only on the mound for 48.1 major league innings; sporting a 7.45 ERA in that time. His first start of 2015 did not go too well when he faced Minnesota last week and over four innings gave up six runs on 10 hits with three strikeouts (1 walk) in a losing effort.


He isn’t much of a strikeout pitcher, failing to mow down more than seven batters per nine innings in each year since 2003, but does possess great control and has had a mark lower than 1.6 BB/9 in each season since 2010. Texas has given him tons of issues in the past and over six career starts he is 2-3 (2-4 team record) with a 7.84 ERA (1.77 WHIP), but has not seen them since 2012 when he allowed six runs in six innings.


He will have a tough time once again as both DH Prince Fielder (7-for-22, 2 HR, 6 RBI) and 3B Adrian Beltre (9-for-30, 3 HR, 5 RBI) have dominated him in the past. The one player that he has had success against is SS Elvis Andrus, who is hitless in seven at-bats against the lefty.


The bullpen for Cleveland has been mediocre, going 1-4 with a 3.69 ERA (1.46 WHIP) and are 5-for-8 in save opportunities. Cody Allen (8.25 ERA, 5 saves) has struggled in his time on the mound, giving up 12 runs (11 ER) in his 12 frames while having issues with control (9 BB).


At one point, Rodriguez was a stud in the majors and won 57 games between 2008 and 2012 while sporting a sub 3.80 ERA each season. Injuries have derailed his career, though, and in the past two years he has a mere 18 starts and did poorly (6.75 ERA) over six of those last year in Pittsburgh. Now at the age of 36, Rodriguez hopes he can give just a little more and has showed promise through four starts this year, striking out 22 batters (8.5 K/9) and going at least six innings in each of his last two outings. In total he pitched 14 frames in those two starts and gave up a mere two runs on five hits while striking out 14 batters (2 walks).


He has actually never faced the Indians over his 252 career starts, but will need to be careful when going against the duo of OF Michael Brantley and 2B Jason Kipnis as they’ve combined for 17 doubles, seven homers and 10 stolen bases on the year. He may be able to handle OF Michael Bourn with ease, though, as he is hitting just .222 so far with two steals.


The relievers for Texas have combined to go 6-5 with a 4.56 ERA (1.38 WHIP) and are a poor 6-for-12 in saves. Neftali Feliz (4.11 ERA, 6 saves) has blown two saves but is perfect in his last four tries while allowing one run on four hits in his past five innings of work.

 

[CNOTES]

NBA
Armadillo's Write-Up

Friday, May 15

Wall came back, played 37:00 in tough Game 5 loss; Wizards are 3-6 in their last nine games vs Atlanta; ten of last 13 series games went over total. Both benches struggled last game; Wizard subs were 3-21, Atlanta's 7-22, but four Hawk subs were combined +12. Nine of last 12 Wizard games went over total. Korver hasn't done much, but his threat from arc has opened stuff for other guys. Hawks are 2-3 in last five visits here; last three series games were all decided by 5 or less points.

Winning side has been up by 8+ points at half in all five series games, as only one of five games was decided by less than 10 points. Warriors are 41-91 from arc in three series wins, 12-54 in two losses- Tony Allen's absence was a disaster in Game 5-- Warriors had 28 fast break points in 98-78 win. Nine of last 11 series games stayed under the total, including all five in this series. Grizzlies scored 99-101 points in two series wins, 86 or less in their three losses.

2015 playoffs
Chicago vs Cleveland
Chi 99-92, +4.5, U195
Clev 106-91, -5.5, O195.5
Chi 99-96, -3, O194.5
Clev 86-84, -3 U194
Clev 106-101, -5.5, O190.5
Clev 94-73, +2.5, U192.5
Cavaliers win series, 4-2

Washington vs Atlanta
Wash 104-98, +5.5, O197
Atl 106-90, -9, U199
Wash 103-101, +4, O196.5
Atl 106-101, -4.5, O198
Atl 82-81, -7.5, U200.5

Memphis vs Golden State
GSt 101-86, -10.5, U196
Mem 101-86, +10.5, U198.5
Mem 99-89, +4.5, U196.5
GSt 101-84, -3.5, U196
GSt 98-78, -10, U198

LA Clippers vs Houston
LAC 117-101, +7.5, O212
Hst 115-109, -8, O214.5
LAC 124-99, -6, O214.5
LAC 128-95, -6.5 O217.5
Hst 124-103, +3, O219
Hst 119-107, +8.5, O220.5




NBA

Friday, May 15

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Trend Report
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

7:00 PM
ATLANTA vs. WASHINGTON
Atlanta is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games
Atlanta is 4-9-1 ATS in its last 14 games
Washington is 1-3-1 ATS in its last 5 games when playing at home against Atlanta
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Washington's last 5 games at home

9:30 PM
GOLDEN STATE vs. MEMPHIS
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Golden State's last 6 games on the road
Golden State is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games on the road
Memphis is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games when playing Golden State
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Memphis's last 5 games when playing Golden State

 

[CNOTES]

NBA

Friday, May 15

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Game of the Day: NBA Friday's playoff matchups
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Atlanta Hawks at Washington Wizards (-2.5, 197)
Hawks lead series 3-2

John Wall and the Washington Wizards have no margin for error as they look to rebound from a demoralizing loss when they face the visiting Atlanta Hawks in Friday’s Game 6 of the Eastern Conference semifinals. Washington led by 11 points midway through the fourth quarter on Wednesday before collapsing as Atlanta rallied for an 82-81 victory to take a 3-2 series lead.

The Hawks won the contest on Al Horford’s putback with 1.9 seconds left, and it capped a strong game from the standout center. Horford delivered 23 points, 11 rebounds and five blocked shots to become the first player in franchise to history to have 20 points, 10 rebounds and five blocks in a playoff contest. Wall returned to action after missing three games with a broken left wrist and hand, and his presence energized the attack. “I didn’t have any problems with my hand,” Wall told reporters. “I was able to play aggressive and make plays so I was fine.”

TV: 7 p.m. ET, ESPN

LINE HISTORY: The opening spread of Washington -2.5 has not moved. The total opened at 198 and has since dropped to 197.

INJURY REPORT: Hawks - N/A Wizards - G John Wall (Prob-Head)

ABOUT THE HAWKS: Horford has four double-doubles in the series and his stellar effort was capped by the key rebound, for which he slyly worked his way into position and then overpowered Washington’s Nene to get the board and lay it in the basket. It is the type of clutch play the Hawks expect from the three-time All-Star and it leaves Atlanta one win away from claiming the series. “He’s always calm and collect; thoughtful, yet intense,” shooting guard Kyle Korver told reporters. “Obviously on the basketball court, he is a steadying force and he’s a consistent player. This was obviously a big moment for him.”

ABOUT THE WIZARDS: Forward Paul Pierce scored a series-low 11 points, but that didn’t keep him from popping off at the Atlanta bench and reportedly insisting the series was over when he made a 3-pointer to put Washington ahead with 8.3 seconds remaining. Now he’ll be hoping for another trip down south as the Wizards first need to tie the series at home before having a chance to win it. “I think the sting of this game is going to motivate us for Game 6,” Pierce told reporters. “We’re going to go back home with aspirations of winning and making another trip to Atlanta.”

TRENDS:

*Hawks are 4-9-1 ATS in their last 14 games overall.
*Wizards are 12-3-2 ATS in their last 17 games overall.
*Over is 4-0 in the last 4 meetings in Washington.
*Over is 14-3 in Wizards last 17 home games.




Golden State Warriors at Memphis Grizzlies (+5, 193.5)
Warriors lead series 3-2

The Golden State Warriors have a chance to close out the series when they visit the Memphis Grizzlies in Friday’s Game 6 of the Western Conference semifinals. Golden State has won the last two games by an average of 18.5 points against the scoring-challenged Grizzlies.

Memphis scored a series-low 78 points in Wednesday’s loss, marking the third time the Warriors have limited the Grizzlies to 86 or fewer points. “I think I said the first couple games, ‘Our defense was good enough but it wasn’t championship defense,’” Golden State coach Steve Kerr told reporters. “I was wrong. This is what it’s going to take.” Memphis hasn’t once reached 100 points in the series and its vaunted defense took a hit as well with swingman Tony Allen sidelined with a hamstring injury. Warriors point guard Stephen Curry made six 3-pointers and registered a personal playoff-best six steals in Game 5 while veteran guard Andre Iguodala had his best outing of the series with 16 points on 7-of-10 shooting.

TV: 9:30 p.m. ET, ESPN

LINE HISTORY: The Grizzlies opened as +5 and have remained there. The opening total of 195 has dropped down to 193.5.

INJURY REPORT: Warriors - C Ognjen Kuzmic (Ques-Ankle), F Marreese Speights (Out-Calf) Grizzlies - G Tony Allen (Prob-Hamstring)

ABOUT THE WARRIORS: Golden State knocked down 14 3-pointers in Game 5, and shooting guard Klay Thompson made three of them while scoring a series-best 21 points. Thompson is averaging 17.4 points against Memphis and he struggled early in the series when routinely guarded by Allen. The Warriors are trying to get forward Draymond Green loose but he scored just seven points in Game 5, is 13-of-40 shooting over the past four games and is averaging 11.8 points in the series.

ABOUT THE GRIZZLIES: Memphis has drawn criticism for its impotent offense, with Allen receiving much of the blame, but coach Dave Joerger was quick to point out that Memphis tallied only 78 points without Allen being in the lineup. Allen plans to play in Game 6 as will go as far as the ailing hamstring will allow. “I am doing this for the guys in that locker room,” Allen told reporters. “I’ve been there with them since Day One. I’d rather be in there in that battle. If they say our season is on the line and we need everybody, I’m one of the troops.”

TRENDS:

*Favorite is 7-3 ATS in the last 10 meetings.
*Warriors are 9-3 ATS in their last 12 games following a SU win of more than 10 points.
*Under is 5-0 in the last 5 meetings.
*Under is 24-2 in Grizzlies last 26 home games.

 

[CNOTES]

NBA

Friday, May 15


Allen says he will play for Grizzlies in Game 6

Tony Allen missed the Memphis Grizzlies 98-78 Game 5 loss to the Golden State Warriors, but the guard says he is ready to go for Friday. Allen plans to play in Game 6 despite a hamstring injury according to Marc Spears.

"If they say our season is on the line and we need everybody, I'm one of the troops, I'm riding out," Allen said Wednesday.

The Grizzlies have been outscored by 19 points with Allen on the floor this series and 16 points without him.


Wizards' Wall should be good to go in Game 6

Washington Wizards guard John Wall is expected to play in Game 6 against the Atlanta Hawks on Friday night after experiencing no swelling in his injured left hand and wrist.

Wall overcame five non-displaced fractures to produce 15 points, seven assists, four rebounds and four steals in the Wizards' 82-81 loss to the Hawks on Wednesday night.

"He'll get checked again later with our doctors," Wizards coach Randy Wittman said. "Just to make sure everything is where it is supposed to be. After the game, everything looked good in terms of no swelling. That was a good sign. Right now, I am anticipating that he will be able to play."

Wall showed no apparent effects of the injury suffered 10 days ago with his performance against the Hawks. His block on a late-game drive by Atlanta guard Dennis Schroder nearly gave the Wizards a victory, but Hawks forward Al Horford scored on a putback to give Atlanta a 3-2 series lead.

"It was incredible," Wittman said.


Cavs' Irving exits with possible leg injury

Cleveland Cavaliers guard Kyrie Irving left Thursday night's game against the Chicago Bulls because of an apparent leg injury.

Irving hobbled badly toward the bench after stepping on the foot of teammate Tristan Thompson with 9:47 remaining in the second quarter. Irving needed to be helped off the court as he headed to the locker room.

ESPN's Lisa Salters reported that Irving's left knee was being re-wrapped and that he was likely to return to the game.

The score was tied at 35 when Irving exited.

Irving has battled nagging foot and knee injuries throughout the series. Coach David Blatt revealed last week that Irving initially injured his foot in Cleveland's first-round series against the Boston Celtics.

Cleveland held a 3-2 lead against Chicago entering Thursday's Game 6 in the best-of-seven Eastern Conference semifinal playoff series.

 

[CNOTES]

NBA
Dunkel

Friday, May 15


Atlanta Hawks @ Washington Wizards

Game 745-746
May 15, 2015 @ 7:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Atlanta Hawks
121.956
Washington Wizard
126.444
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Washington Wizard
by 4 1/2
193
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Washington Wizard
by 2 1/2
197 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Washington Wizard
(-2 1/2); Under

Golden State Warriors @ Memphis Grizzlies

Game 747-748
May 15, 2015 @ 9:30 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Golden State Warr
129.852
Memphis Grizzlies
122.569
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Golden State Warr
by 7 1/2
190
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Golden State Warr
by 5
194
Dunkel Pick:
Golden State Warr
(-5); Under




NBA
Long Sheet

Friday, May 15

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

ATLANTA (67 - 26) at WASHINGTON (52 - 39) - 5/15/2015, 7:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
ATLANTA is 14-32 ATS (-21.2 Units) in road games in all playoff games since 1996.
ATLANTA is 6-21 ATS (-17.1 Units) in the second round of the playoffs since 1996.
ATLANTA is 53-37 ATS (+12.3 Units) in all games this season.
ATLANTA is 15-6 ATS (+8.4 Units) on Friday nights this season.
ATLANTA is 27-13 ATS (+12.7 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
WASHINGTON is 342-412 ATS (-111.2 Units) in home games since 1996.
WASHINGTON is 130-173 ATS (-60.3 Units) on Friday nights since 1996.
WASHINGTON is 158-202 ATS (-64.2 Units) vs. division opponents since 1996.
WASHINGTON is 52-79 ATS (-34.9 Units) in home games after scoring 85 points or less since 1996.

Head-to-Head Series History
WASHINGTON is 9-6 against the spread versus ATLANTA over the last 3 seasons
ATLANTA is 10-7 straight up against WASHINGTON over the last 3 seasons
13 of 17 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

GOLDEN STATE (74 - 17) at MEMPHIS (61 - 31) - 5/15/2015, 9:35 PM
Top Trends for this game.
GOLDEN STATE is 66-97 ATS (-40.7 Units) after 3 or more consecutive unders since 1996.
MEMPHIS is 32-21 ATS (+8.9 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
GOLDEN STATE is 50-37 ATS (+9.3 Units) in all games this season.
GOLDEN STATE is 46-31 ATS (+11.9 Units) as a favorite this season.
GOLDEN STATE is 30-17 ATS (+11.3 Units) after a win by 10 points or more this season.
GOLDEN STATE is 28-16 ATS (+10.4 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
MEMPHIS is 9-6 against the spread versus GOLDEN STATE over the last 3 seasons
MEMPHIS is 8-7 straight up against GOLDEN STATE over the last 3 seasons
10 of 15 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

 

[CNOTES]

Friday's Tip Sheet


May 14, 2015


Hawks at Wizards (-2 ½, 197) – 7:00 PM EST – ESPN
Game 6 – Atlanta leads 3-2


The Hawks and Wizards went back and forth in the final few minutes of Wednesday’s Game 5 at Philips Arena but Atlanta holds the upper-hand in this series with a trip to the Verizon Center for Friday’s Game 6. The top-seeded Hawks overcame a late Paul Pierce three-pointer with eight seconds remaining in regulation as Al Horford’s layup gave Atlanta an 82-81 victory to move one win away from their first conference finals appearance since moving to Georgia in 1968.


Following three straight games topping the 100-point mark, the Hawks were limited to their third-lowest point total of the season in Game 5. Horford paced Atlanta with 23 points and 11 rebounds, but Kyle Korver’s struggles from the floor continued with a 1-of-5 shooting performance from three-point range. The Hawks were limited to 41% shooting, but held Washington to 37% shooting from the field, while the Wizards knocked down just 4-of-17 three-pointers.


John Wall returned to the lineup after missing three games with a fractured left wrist, as the Wizards’ point guard scored 15 points and dished out seven assists. Washington improved to 7-2 ATS in the playoffs by covering as seven-point underdogs, as Randy Wittman’s squad owns a remarkable 11-2 ATS record since last season as a ‘dog in the playoffs. However, the Wizards have compiled a 3-4 ATS mark as a favorite in the postseason since 2014, while laying points for the first time in this series in Game 6.


Washington has performed well as a home favorite since February 7, winning 13 of their last 14 when placed in the role, while going 8-4-2 ATS. The Hawks have yet to win three straight games in the playoffs, while putting together a 2-5 ATS ledger as a road underdog in the playoffs since 2013 (first time in ‘dog role this postseason).


VI NBA analyst Chris David is buying the ‘over’ again on Friday and he’s expecting a big rebound for both offensive units.


He explained, “I was very surprised to see the Hawks held in the eighties on Wednesday but when you shoot 22 percent from 3-point land and only get to the free throw line 11 times, you’re going to see that type of production. I’m even more surprised the oddsmakers adjusted the total down to 197 for Game 6 especially with Game 5 closing at 202. The only explanation I could see for the move is that they’re expecting the public to look for a repeat of the last game.”


“For those of you who missed it, both teams shot a combined 39 percent from the field, they combined for 9 triples and the most important factor, they only had 27 combined trips to the free throw line. I question some of Mike Budenholzer’s tactics in this series, especially with Dennis Schroder running the point late in the game, but I can’t ignore his offensive success against the Wizards. Toss out the 82-point effort in Game 5 and the Hawks have averaged 103 PPG in 12 other games since Bud has taken over in Atlanta. Coincidentally, the ‘over’ has gone 10-2 in those contests. Don’t be surprised to see late steam on the ‘over’ Friday and some heavy buy orders on the Hawks team total ‘over’ of 97 ½.”


Atlanta opened the series as -230 favorites to eliminate Washington according to Sportsbook.ag, as the Hawks are currently -700 (Bet $700 to win $100) to advance. If you have faith in the Wizards to win the next two games, Sportsbook.ag has Washington listed at +500 (Bet $100 to win $500) to advance to the Eastern Conference finals.


Warriors (-5) at Grizzlies – 9:30 PM EST – ESPN
Game 6 – Golden State leads 3-2


Following a rout in the series opener, Golden State suddenly dropped consecutive games to Memphis to fall into a 2-1 hole with Game 4 at FedEx Forum. The Warriors cruised to a 101-84 rout of the Grizzlies to even the series at 2-2 and took that momentum back home for Wednesday’s Game 5 whipping of Memphis, 98-78 to cash as 10-point favorites.


The Grizzlies jumped out to a 21-10 advantage with less than five minutes remaining in the opening quarter of Game 5, but the Warriors outscored Memphis, 16-4 to close the period and take the lead for good. Golden State limited Memphis to just 37 second half points as the Grizzlies shot below 40% from the floor for the second straight game. The Warriors connected on 14 three-pointers, including six from MVP Stephen Curry, who finished with 18 points. Neither team shot many free throws as each club converted 8-of-10 from the charity stripe.


The ‘under’ has cashed in all five games of this series, while Steve Kerr’s club has compiled a 7-1-1 mark to the ‘under’ in the postseason. Since late March, the Warriors own an 8-2 record to the ‘under’ in their last 10 road games, including a 3-1 mark in the playoffs away from Oracle Arena. In the last two losses for Memphis, Marc Gasol has made just 15-of-41 shots from the floor, while point guard Mike Conley is 9-of-25.


Tony Allen is expected to return to the lineup for Memphis in Game 6 after missing Wednesday’s loss with a hamstring strain. Allen’s offense hasn’t been much of a factor in this series (21 combined points in Game’s 2, 3, and 4), but his defense helped Memphis limit Golden State to 6-of-26 shooting from long range in the two Grizzlies’ victories. Memphis has split six contests as an underdog this postseason both SU and ATS, while looking to avoid its third losing streak of at least three games this season.


David believes that we’re starting to figure out who the better defensive team is in this series. David said, “It’s understood that Memphis is an offensive juggernaut but when you’re held to less than 86 points three times in the same series, it’s more than issues with shooting. Golden State is a very sound defensive club and it’s done a great job of keeping Memphis off the free throw line. During the season, Memphis averaged close to 23 free throw attempts per game and that average is down to 18 in this series, which includes only 10 trips in Game 5. Unless the Grizzlies get more aggressive, I don’t see this being close and would expect Golden State to close out this series on the road.”

 

[CNOTES]

NBA Playoffs - Game 7 Facts


May 15, 2015


Game 7 Quick Facts


-- The NBA has had 120 Game 7’s in playoff history


-- The home team is 96-24 (79%) in those games


-- This will be the second Game 7 of the 2015 NBA Playoffs.


-- The 2014 postseason featured five Game 7's. The home team went 4-1 in those games and the lone visitor to win was Brooklyn, who defeated Toronto 104-103 in overtime.


-- The 'over' has cashed in five of the last six Game 7's in the NBA Playoffs.


-- Houston has gone 5-4 in Game 7's, the last instance coming in the 2009 NBA Playoffs.


-- Since the Clippers moved to Los Angeles, the team is 3-1 in Game 7's.


-- Doc Rivers has coached in 11 Game 7's and owns a 6-5 career record (Orlando 0-1, Boston 4-4, Los Angeles 2-0)


Houston Game 7 History
1981 Western Conference Semifinals
Houston 105 at San Antonio 100


1993 Western Conference Semifinals
Seattle 103 vs. Houston 100


1994 Western Conference Semifinals
Houston 104 vs. Phoenix 94


1994 NBA Finals
Houston 90 vs. New York 84


1995 Western Conference Semifinals
Houston 115 at Phoenix 114


1997 Western Conference Semifinals
Houston 96 vs. Seattle 91


2005 Western First Round
Dallas 116 vs. Houston 76


2007 Western First Round
Utah 103 at Houston 99


2009 Western Conference Semifinals
Los Angeles Lakers 89 vs. Houston 70




L.A. Clippers Game 7 History


2006 Western Conference Semifinals
Phoenix Suns 127 vs. L.A. Clippers 107


2012 Western Conference First Round
L.A. Clippers 82 at Memphis 72


2014 Western Conference First Round
L.A. Clippers 126 vs. Golden State 121


2015 Western Conference First Round
L.A. Clippers 111 vs. San Antonio 109


ALL-TIME GAME 7 ROAD WINNERS


Year Road Team Home Team Round


2014 Brooklyn 104 Toronto 103 First round


2013 Chicago 99 Brooklyn 93 First round


2012 L.A. Clippers 82 Memphis 72 First round


2008 Orlando 101 Boston 82 Conference semifinals


2007 San Antonio 91 New Orleans 82 Conference semifinals


2007 Utah 103 Houston 99 First round


2006 *Dallas 119 San Antonio 111 Conference semifinals


2005 Detroit 88 Miami 82 Conference finals


2005 Indiana 97 Boston 70 First round


2002 *L.A. Lakers 112 Sacramento 106 Conference finals


2000 New York 83 Miami 82 Conference semifinals


1995 Indiana 97 New York 95 Conference semifinals


1995 Houston 115 Phoenix 114 Conference semifinals


1982 Philadelphia 120 Boston 106 Conference finals


1981 Kansas City 95 Phoenix 88 Conference semifinals


1981 Houston 105 San Antonio 100 Conference semifinals


1978 Washington 105 Seattle 99 NBA Finals


1976 Phoenix 94 Golden State 86 Conference finals


1974 Boston 102 Milwaukee 87 NBA Finals


1973 New York 94 Boston 78 Conference finals


1971 Baltimore 93 New York 91 Conference finals


1969 Boston 108 L.A. Lakers 106 NBA Finals


1968 Boston 100 Philadelphia 96 Division finals


1948 Philadelphia 85 St Louis 46 Semifinals


(*) Asterisk denotes overtime

 

[CNOTES]

College star Kaminsky hears doubts


May 15, 2015


CHICAGO (AP) - Frank Kaminsky measured as the tallest player at the NBA Draft Combine, and he felt like a big target already.


The do-it-all player of the year in college keeps hearing what he can't do as a pro. He's not strong enough, quick enough, or even young enough next to the flashier kids in the class.


Rather than ignore the criticisms, Kaminsky wants to be aware of them, asking teams that are interviewing him where he needs to get better.


''Everyone's been a little bit different but they all have the same theme. So that just goes to show that I still have a lot to work on,'' he said Thursday. ''Nobody's perfect coming into the draft. There's been a lot of people in draft history who have come in with a lot of question marks and been able to prove people wrong, so I want to be one of those people.''


He already answered plenty of questions during his four years at Wisconsin, which ended with a run to the national championship game. But all that extra TV time can end up working against a player like Kaminsky, who has been seen so much by so many that there's simply more to nitpick.


''With me, I'm a four-year college player, so all my journey and all my film and everything I can do is pretty much out there, so they've probably seen me play a lot of times,'' Kaminsky said. ''Some of the other guys who are one-and-done type players, they might not have as much film on them.''


Kaminsky met with some teams and took his measurements at the combine, with a height of 7-feet-.75 inches in sneakers. Like most top players, he chose not to play in the games at the recommendation of his agent.


''It's hard to top being named national player of the year, so I don't know how much more I could have done,'' he said.


So the South Side of Chicago product spent Thursday watching and supporting Badgers teammate Sam Dekker, who understands the fuss about Kaminsky but doesn't expect it to last.


''Haters, man. There's haters. When you're good enough and put yourself in the position and stuff he did, people are going to try to knock you down and doubt you,'' Dekker said.


''But the best players ever are going to go through that stuff and I see Frank is a really, really good player. He won those awards for a reason and he's going to add even more to his game and I see him doing well. Regardless of where he goes, he's going to represent well and have a very long and very good career.''


Kaminsky averaged 18.8 points and 8.2 rebounds as a senior, ending his career with 21 points and 12 boards in a loss to Duke in the national championship game. He improved every season during his 144-game college career - and like those veteran San Antonio Spurs he'll soon be playing against, he'd rather be known for his experience than his age.


''I've said it before, I'm 22 years old and I get treated like I'm 65 going into the NBA,'' Kaminsky said. ''So it's not necessarily that I'm young or old, it's I just don't think age plays a big deal as some of the people think it does.''


Nor does he believe his defense is as bad as some say, though acknowledges it needs work.


''I don't think I have as many deficiencies on defense as have been so kindly brought up by so many different people,'' he said, ''but I feel like I can fit in and play with just about any team.''


He expects to be a lottery pick and envisions his future as a power forward, rather than a center. And he believes the NBA's shorter shot clock and better floor spacing could help show off his array of skills.


''I know what I can do and I know what I'm going to improve on and I know what I want to work on to get better at the next level,'' Kaminsky said. ''So I'm 22 years old and I hope to have a long career and a lot of things I can improve on, so we'll see how it goes.''