Game of the day: Tulsa at Tulane
By LEE KOSTROSKI - My handicapping is extensive, exhaustive and highly productive
Tulsa Golden Hurricane at Tulane Green Wave (+13.5, 64)
Setting the Scene
Tulsa comes into this Week 1 Conference USA game as a heavy favorite against the Green Wave of Tulane. Tulsa defeated Tulane 56-7 last season thanks in large part to 489 yards rushing on 8.3 yards per carry.
This time around, the Golden Hurricane have more question marks on offense and could be vulnerable in this road game at the Superdome.
Tulsa has to replace its top passer, rusher and receiver from a year ago. That group includes RB Tarrion Adams, who is the school’s career rushing leader at 3,651 yards.
While Tulsa is struggling to replace a bevy of starters, Tulane has experience returning at every skill position.
The Green Wave bring back their quarterback Joe Kemp, who won the starting job last year before suffering season ending injury on a late hit vs. Houston. The Wave also return their top three running backs and three of their four top receivers.
Questions at Quarterback
Tulane enters this game in a drastically different situation than last year’s 56-7 blowout loss. While teams are allowed to travel with 70 players, Tulane was down to 53 players in that loss due to an array of injuries. One of the players out in that game was Kemp. He has again been named the starting QB for 2009 after beating out Kevin Moore and redshirt freshmen Ryan Griffin.
Kemp appeared in five games last season and completed 26-of-46 passes for 344 yards and two touchdowns before suffering a broken collarbone.
While Tulane is set at the quarterback position, Tulsa has to replace one of the most productive passers in school history. David Johnson graduated after passing for over 4,000 yards and 46 touchdowns last season.
Tulsa hasn’t announced a starting quarterback for this contest and is likely to use a three-headed monster at the position. Sophomore and former Texas transfer G.J. Kinne is expected to take the majority of the snaps while Junior Jacob Bower and Freshmen Shavodrick Beaver will also get some time.
Bower threw 15 passes last year so he has some experience. Kinne hasn’t taken a snap in 33 months dating back to his high school days. He committed to the Longhorns as one of the most decorated quarterbacks in Texas high school history before making the transfer to Tulsa.
Health Issues
Tulane suffered a “wave” of players feeling flu-like symptoms in recent weeks. After nearly 10 days of various players feeling ill and missing practices, Tulane finally got back to full strength Monday.
One concern for the Tulane staff is will that rash of sickness result in lack of preparation for Friday nights game?
“We weren't very physical with our scrimmage this past Saturday,” Tulane head coach Bob Toledo told reporters. “There was a lack of concentration and focus today and the tempo was up and down. I was disappointed and I told them we were sloppy today.”
Trends
Tulsa is 4-0 both straight up and ATS vs. Tulsa, winning by an average of 33 PPG and covering by an average of 16 PPG.
Tulsa has been a road favorite of -14 or more just nine times since 1980. It is 9-0 SU in those games but just 4-5 ATS. However, it has failed to cover four of the last five times it has been favored by two or more touchdowns away from home. It was just 2-6 ATS last year when favored on the road.
Tulane has been a poor home dog, going 4-9-1 ATS dating back to 2004. Going all the way back to 1980, the Green Wave are just 31-45-2 vs. the number when getting points at home.
Line Movements
This line opened with the Golden Hurricane favored by 14 points and has hovered around that number ever since. As of this writing, the number is mixed at Tulsa -14 and -13.5. The total opened at 63.5 and moved up to 64.5. Now it sits at 64.5 with a few 64’s mixed in.
By LEE KOSTROSKI - My handicapping is extensive, exhaustive and highly productive
Tulsa Golden Hurricane at Tulane Green Wave (+13.5, 64)
Setting the Scene
Tulsa comes into this Week 1 Conference USA game as a heavy favorite against the Green Wave of Tulane. Tulsa defeated Tulane 56-7 last season thanks in large part to 489 yards rushing on 8.3 yards per carry.
This time around, the Golden Hurricane have more question marks on offense and could be vulnerable in this road game at the Superdome.
Tulsa has to replace its top passer, rusher and receiver from a year ago. That group includes RB Tarrion Adams, who is the school’s career rushing leader at 3,651 yards.
While Tulsa is struggling to replace a bevy of starters, Tulane has experience returning at every skill position.
The Green Wave bring back their quarterback Joe Kemp, who won the starting job last year before suffering season ending injury on a late hit vs. Houston. The Wave also return their top three running backs and three of their four top receivers.
Questions at Quarterback
Tulane enters this game in a drastically different situation than last year’s 56-7 blowout loss. While teams are allowed to travel with 70 players, Tulane was down to 53 players in that loss due to an array of injuries. One of the players out in that game was Kemp. He has again been named the starting QB for 2009 after beating out Kevin Moore and redshirt freshmen Ryan Griffin.
Kemp appeared in five games last season and completed 26-of-46 passes for 344 yards and two touchdowns before suffering a broken collarbone.
While Tulane is set at the quarterback position, Tulsa has to replace one of the most productive passers in school history. David Johnson graduated after passing for over 4,000 yards and 46 touchdowns last season.
Tulsa hasn’t announced a starting quarterback for this contest and is likely to use a three-headed monster at the position. Sophomore and former Texas transfer G.J. Kinne is expected to take the majority of the snaps while Junior Jacob Bower and Freshmen Shavodrick Beaver will also get some time.
Bower threw 15 passes last year so he has some experience. Kinne hasn’t taken a snap in 33 months dating back to his high school days. He committed to the Longhorns as one of the most decorated quarterbacks in Texas high school history before making the transfer to Tulsa.
Health Issues
Tulane suffered a “wave” of players feeling flu-like symptoms in recent weeks. After nearly 10 days of various players feeling ill and missing practices, Tulane finally got back to full strength Monday.
One concern for the Tulane staff is will that rash of sickness result in lack of preparation for Friday nights game?
“We weren't very physical with our scrimmage this past Saturday,” Tulane head coach Bob Toledo told reporters. “There was a lack of concentration and focus today and the tempo was up and down. I was disappointed and I told them we were sloppy today.”
Trends
Tulsa is 4-0 both straight up and ATS vs. Tulsa, winning by an average of 33 PPG and covering by an average of 16 PPG.
Tulsa has been a road favorite of -14 or more just nine times since 1980. It is 9-0 SU in those games but just 4-5 ATS. However, it has failed to cover four of the last five times it has been favored by two or more touchdowns away from home. It was just 2-6 ATS last year when favored on the road.
Tulane has been a poor home dog, going 4-9-1 ATS dating back to 2004. Going all the way back to 1980, the Green Wave are just 31-45-2 vs. the number when getting points at home.
Line Movements
This line opened with the Golden Hurricane favored by 14 points and has hovered around that number ever since. As of this writing, the number is mixed at Tulsa -14 and -13.5. The total opened at 63.5 and moved up to 64.5. Now it sits at 64.5 with a few 64’s mixed in.
Tom Freese
Arizona Diamondbacks vs. Colorado Rockies
Total 9 un-119
Colorado is 7-3 UNDER their last 10 games vs. righty starters. Jason Hammel has allowed 8 runs total in his last 3 starts. The Rockies are 9-4-2 UNDER their last 15 games vs. teams with a losing record. Arizona starter Dan Haren has a better than 4 to 1 strikeout to walk ratio in his last 3 starts. Arizona is 52-24-4 their last 80 road games when the Total is 9.0 to 10.5. The Diamondbacks are 7-3 UNDER in the last 10 road starts made by Haren vs. teams with a winning record. PLAY ON 'UNDER' (Hammel vs. Haren)
Arizona Diamondbacks vs. Colorado Rockies
Total 9 un-119
Colorado is 7-3 UNDER their last 10 games vs. righty starters. Jason Hammel has allowed 8 runs total in his last 3 starts. The Rockies are 9-4-2 UNDER their last 15 games vs. teams with a losing record. Arizona starter Dan Haren has a better than 4 to 1 strikeout to walk ratio in his last 3 starts. Arizona is 52-24-4 their last 80 road games when the Total is 9.0 to 10.5. The Diamondbacks are 7-3 UNDER in the last 10 road starts made by Haren vs. teams with a winning record. PLAY ON 'UNDER' (Hammel vs. Haren)
Karl Garrett
The Twins are running out of time in the AL Central Division, as they stand 4 1/2 games behind the Tigers with less than 30 games to play.
Still, the G-Man likes Minny tonight as they open against a Cleveland team that has lost their last 4, and 6 of their last 9 games overall.
Southpaw Jeremy Sowers is just 1-5 at Progressive Field this season, with an ERA of 4.86, and overall he stands at 4-9 for the campaign with an over 5 ERA.
Carl Pavano started the year with the Tribe, and is now working for the Twins, and has done a credible job for Ron Gardenhire's team.
Minnesota just had their 3 game winning streak snapped, but still have captured 11 of their last 15, and they are 27-9 their last 36 games on Friday nights.
Look for Minnesota to open the weekend in Cleveland with the "W".
G-Man riding the Twins in this one.
2♦ MINNESOTA
The Twins are running out of time in the AL Central Division, as they stand 4 1/2 games behind the Tigers with less than 30 games to play.
Still, the G-Man likes Minny tonight as they open against a Cleveland team that has lost their last 4, and 6 of their last 9 games overall.
Southpaw Jeremy Sowers is just 1-5 at Progressive Field this season, with an ERA of 4.86, and overall he stands at 4-9 for the campaign with an over 5 ERA.
Carl Pavano started the year with the Tribe, and is now working for the Twins, and has done a credible job for Ron Gardenhire's team.
Minnesota just had their 3 game winning streak snapped, but still have captured 11 of their last 15, and they are 27-9 their last 36 games on Friday nights.
Look for Minnesota to open the weekend in Cleveland with the "W".
G-Man riding the Twins in this one.
2♦ MINNESOTA
Bobby Maxwell
Delivered yet another winning Bonus Play on Thursday as Boise State got it done at home over Oregon on the college gridiron. Now 4-1 with my last five comp selections and I've got a baseball winner for you tonight on the Rays as they host the Tigers.
Going with the home team Rays in this one as the Rays' Jeff Niemann has been a rock for this team this season.
Niemann (12-5, 3.80 ERA) is 5-2 at home this season with a 2.67 ERA. His last three at home have been magnificent as he's allowed just two runs in 24.1 innings, beating the A's, Royals and Orioles. With Niemann on the hill, the Rays are on runs of 14-5 overall, 6-0 at home and 6-1 when he opens a series.
This team is on the verge of being knocked right out of the wildcard race and needs this win tonight. They just dropped two of three to the Red Sox, blowing a chance to make up serious ground in the chase.
Tampa Bay is on some impressive runs at home, including 37-15 overall, 30-12 on Fridays, 70-29 against teams with losing road records and 73-26 at home against right-handed starters. To top it off, the Rays have won four straight over the Tigers at Tropicana Field.
Justin Verlander (15-7, 3.38 ERA) is the ace of the Detroit staff, but the Rays know what's coming, they just faced him on Sunday and got three runs off him in eight innings.
I'm playing the Rays tonight who face a Tigers' squad that just isn't good on the road, going 6-15 in their last 21. Go with Tampa.
2? TAMPA BAY
Delivered yet another winning Bonus Play on Thursday as Boise State got it done at home over Oregon on the college gridiron. Now 4-1 with my last five comp selections and I've got a baseball winner for you tonight on the Rays as they host the Tigers.
Going with the home team Rays in this one as the Rays' Jeff Niemann has been a rock for this team this season.
Niemann (12-5, 3.80 ERA) is 5-2 at home this season with a 2.67 ERA. His last three at home have been magnificent as he's allowed just two runs in 24.1 innings, beating the A's, Royals and Orioles. With Niemann on the hill, the Rays are on runs of 14-5 overall, 6-0 at home and 6-1 when he opens a series.
This team is on the verge of being knocked right out of the wildcard race and needs this win tonight. They just dropped two of three to the Red Sox, blowing a chance to make up serious ground in the chase.
Tampa Bay is on some impressive runs at home, including 37-15 overall, 30-12 on Fridays, 70-29 against teams with losing road records and 73-26 at home against right-handed starters. To top it off, the Rays have won four straight over the Tigers at Tropicana Field.
Justin Verlander (15-7, 3.38 ERA) is the ace of the Detroit staff, but the Rays know what's coming, they just faced him on Sunday and got three runs off him in eight innings.
I'm playing the Rays tonight who face a Tigers' squad that just isn't good on the road, going 6-15 in their last 21. Go with Tampa.
2? TAMPA BAY
Vernon Croy
New York Yankees vs. Toronto Blue Jays
New York Yankees +102
1* Take the New York Yankees on the Moneyline, The Yankees are the superior overall team here Friday night and the Jay's ace Roy Halladay (13-8, 3.13) has struggled in his last two starts against the Yankees this season. Doc has allowed an average of 9.5 hits per game and 4.5 rpg in his last 2 starts against the Yankees and he has struggled over his last 3 starts with an ERA of 7.94. The Jays are hitting just .205 as a team over their last 7 games while the Yankees bats have been on fire hitting .317 as a team over their last 7 games. The Yankees are a red hot 10-1 in their last 11 road games against a team with a losing record and they are also a perfect 7-0 in Joba Chamberlain's (8-3, 4.38 ERA) last 7 starts against an AL East division opponent. The Yankees are now 10-2 in their last 12 games against the Jays including a perfect 5-0 in their last 5 games play at Rogers Center. Take the New York Yankees as my MLB Bonus Play for Friday night.
New York Yankees vs. Toronto Blue Jays
New York Yankees +102
1* Take the New York Yankees on the Moneyline, The Yankees are the superior overall team here Friday night and the Jay's ace Roy Halladay (13-8, 3.13) has struggled in his last two starts against the Yankees this season. Doc has allowed an average of 9.5 hits per game and 4.5 rpg in his last 2 starts against the Yankees and he has struggled over his last 3 starts with an ERA of 7.94. The Jays are hitting just .205 as a team over their last 7 games while the Yankees bats have been on fire hitting .317 as a team over their last 7 games. The Yankees are a red hot 10-1 in their last 11 road games against a team with a losing record and they are also a perfect 7-0 in Joba Chamberlain's (8-3, 4.38 ERA) last 7 starts against an AL East division opponent. The Yankees are now 10-2 in their last 12 games against the Jays including a perfect 5-0 in their last 5 games play at Rogers Center. Take the New York Yankees as my MLB Bonus Play for Friday night.
Frank Jordan
Dallas Cowboys vs. Minnesota Vikings (NFL) - Sep 4, 2009 8:00 PM EDT
Play: Point Spread: Dallas Cowboys + 3/-113
Dallas is just 1-2 in the preseason, but have been outscored by a total of just 8 points. Minnesota is a perfect 3-0 and although the defense has allowed just 26 points the offense only scored 47. In this one look for the Cowboy's offense to knock around the Viking defense. Play Dallas
Tulsa vs. Tulane (NCAAF) - Sep 4, 2009 8:00 PM EDT
Play: Point Spread: Tulsa -13.5/-113
Tulsa and Tulane had opposite season last year as Tulsa finished 11-3 with a 7-1 conference record and Tulane was 2-10 with a 1-7 conference record. Look for Tulsa to beat up on Tulane at Tulane to kick off their season with the road win. Play Tulsa
New York Yankees vs. Toronto Blue Jays (MLB) - Sep 4, 2009 7:05 PM EDT
Play: Money Line: New York Yankees -103
Joba Chamberlain is on an unusual innings limit, but it will help him in the long run and the Yankees keep winning his starts. Roy Halladay was 10-2 at one point only to go 3-6 over his last 10 starts and has giving up 11 runs over his last two starts. Roy Halladay is always tough against the Yankees, but last time out against them despite going a complete game allowed 5 runs on 3 home runs and lost 5-3. Look for another solid few innings from Joba, quality bullpen pitching from the Yankees and Halladay to get another tough loss. Play NY Yankees
Houston Texans vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (NFL) - Sep 4, 2009 7:00 PM EDT
Play: Point Spread: Houston Texans +3/-104
Each team is 1-2 and have played close games. Houston's one win came on the road and Tampa Bay lost their only home game. Look for Houston to dominate as the Buccaneers defense isn't what it used to and the offense is in shambles as they just fired their offensive coordinator. Play Houston
San Francisco 49ers vs. San Diego Chargers (NFL) - Sep 4, 2009 10:00 PM EDT
Play: Point Spread: San Diego Chargers -4/104
This is a rematch of the 1994 Super Bowl won easily by San Francisco. San Francisco is a perfect 3-0 thus far in the preseason, but have won all three by the grand total of 9 points. San Diego is 1-2, but they are using the preseason to judge the talent of some back ups as their team is in solid shape. Look for San Diego to even up their preseason record at 2-2 with the home win over San Francisco. Play San Diego
Dallas Cowboys vs. Minnesota Vikings (NFL) - Sep 4, 2009 8:00 PM EDT
Play: Point Spread: Dallas Cowboys + 3/-113
Dallas is just 1-2 in the preseason, but have been outscored by a total of just 8 points. Minnesota is a perfect 3-0 and although the defense has allowed just 26 points the offense only scored 47. In this one look for the Cowboy's offense to knock around the Viking defense. Play Dallas
Tulsa vs. Tulane (NCAAF) - Sep 4, 2009 8:00 PM EDT
Play: Point Spread: Tulsa -13.5/-113
Tulsa and Tulane had opposite season last year as Tulsa finished 11-3 with a 7-1 conference record and Tulane was 2-10 with a 1-7 conference record. Look for Tulsa to beat up on Tulane at Tulane to kick off their season with the road win. Play Tulsa
New York Yankees vs. Toronto Blue Jays (MLB) - Sep 4, 2009 7:05 PM EDT
Play: Money Line: New York Yankees -103
Joba Chamberlain is on an unusual innings limit, but it will help him in the long run and the Yankees keep winning his starts. Roy Halladay was 10-2 at one point only to go 3-6 over his last 10 starts and has giving up 11 runs over his last two starts. Roy Halladay is always tough against the Yankees, but last time out against them despite going a complete game allowed 5 runs on 3 home runs and lost 5-3. Look for another solid few innings from Joba, quality bullpen pitching from the Yankees and Halladay to get another tough loss. Play NY Yankees
Houston Texans vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (NFL) - Sep 4, 2009 7:00 PM EDT
Play: Point Spread: Houston Texans +3/-104
Each team is 1-2 and have played close games. Houston's one win came on the road and Tampa Bay lost their only home game. Look for Houston to dominate as the Buccaneers defense isn't what it used to and the offense is in shambles as they just fired their offensive coordinator. Play Houston
San Francisco 49ers vs. San Diego Chargers (NFL) - Sep 4, 2009 10:00 PM EDT
Play: Point Spread: San Diego Chargers -4/104
This is a rematch of the 1994 Super Bowl won easily by San Francisco. San Francisco is a perfect 3-0 thus far in the preseason, but have won all three by the grand total of 9 points. San Diego is 1-2, but they are using the preseason to judge the talent of some back ups as their team is in solid shape. Look for San Diego to even up their preseason record at 2-2 with the home win over San Francisco. Play San Diego
I don't want a discussion about RAS and how difficult it is to get the release lines to deter away from the closing line value concept. It is true that racing for the RAS lines after release is very competitive. That is one reason why we have started to increase subscription prices. So far this football season the lines have not been nearly as competitive as they were during CBB. In fact, the Don Best line history shows the Ball State/North Textas total mentioned above not moving at CRIS for a full 2 minutes after the release, and they were at 60, a 1/2 point better than the line we used.
EZWINNERS
EZ'S FREE SELECTION
Game: Boston Red Sox @ Chicago White Sox
(927) Boston Red Sox -$121
This will be the second time in little over a week that the Red Sox get to face the White Sox starting pitcher Freddy Garcia. Garcia was decent the first time as he allowed five hits and three runs in 6 and 1/3 innings, but I expect Boston to get some better swings this time around. Boston's starting pitcher Paul Byrd was outstanding in his first start and I expect him to pitch well here. The White Sox have given up on their season, while the Red Sox are fighting for the AL wild card. Boston is 14-4 in the last 18 meetings with the White Sox and I expect those winning ways to continue. Play on Boston.
2009 Free Selections Record 128-107 (54.5)
EZ'S FREE SELECTION
Game: Boston Red Sox @ Chicago White Sox
(927) Boston Red Sox -$121
This will be the second time in little over a week that the Red Sox get to face the White Sox starting pitcher Freddy Garcia. Garcia was decent the first time as he allowed five hits and three runs in 6 and 1/3 innings, but I expect Boston to get some better swings this time around. Boston's starting pitcher Paul Byrd was outstanding in his first start and I expect him to pitch well here. The White Sox have given up on their season, while the Red Sox are fighting for the AL wild card. Boston is 14-4 in the last 18 meetings with the White Sox and I expect those winning ways to continue. Play on Boston.
2009 Free Selections Record 128-107 (54.5)
LT Profits
Texas Rangers @ Baltimore Orioles u9.0 (-105)
Scott Feldman may be the biggest surprise on a Texas Rangers pitching staff that has keyed their wild card run, while Chris Tillman is already flashing some of thee brilliance that will make him the future ace the Baltimore Orioles project him to be.
Feldman is an almost shocking 14-4 with a nice 3.72 ERA overall, and he is in peak form right now, tossing 12.2 scoreless innings in his last two starts while allowing a total of eight hits with 13 strikeouts. He has also pitched well in his two starts vs. Baltimore this year, allowing one and three runs respectively. As if that is not enough, Feldman has done his best pitching on the road, where he is a remarkable 10-1 with a 2.92 ERA.
As for Tillman, the youngster looks like the real deal, having allowed three earned runs or less in five of his six starts in his first Major League season, including his last five starts in a row. The Orioles are so high on this future stud that they plan on shutting him down for the year after just another start or two, and Tillman would love nothing better than to finish strong and have some good momentum going into next season.
Finally, do not forget that Texas has the best Under record in all of baseball, at 81-45-7.
MLB Free Pick: Rangers, Orioles Under 9 (-105)
Texas Rangers @ Baltimore Orioles u9.0 (-105)
Scott Feldman may be the biggest surprise on a Texas Rangers pitching staff that has keyed their wild card run, while Chris Tillman is already flashing some of thee brilliance that will make him the future ace the Baltimore Orioles project him to be.
Feldman is an almost shocking 14-4 with a nice 3.72 ERA overall, and he is in peak form right now, tossing 12.2 scoreless innings in his last two starts while allowing a total of eight hits with 13 strikeouts. He has also pitched well in his two starts vs. Baltimore this year, allowing one and three runs respectively. As if that is not enough, Feldman has done his best pitching on the road, where he is a remarkable 10-1 with a 2.92 ERA.
As for Tillman, the youngster looks like the real deal, having allowed three earned runs or less in five of his six starts in his first Major League season, including his last five starts in a row. The Orioles are so high on this future stud that they plan on shutting him down for the year after just another start or two, and Tillman would love nothing better than to finish strong and have some good momentum going into next season.
Finally, do not forget that Texas has the best Under record in all of baseball, at 81-45-7.
MLB Free Pick: Rangers, Orioles Under 9 (-105)
Vegas Experts
New York Yankees at Toronto Blue Jays
Friday, September 4th, 7:10 ET
Roy Halladay has had his luck against the Yankees in his career, but he seems to be dropping off. He has lost three straight starts and his last two against New York. The Yankees have taken five of six against the Blue Jays in the Rogers Centre this year and 10 of 13 overall. Yankees starter Joba Chamberlain has won his last two starts against Toronto. The Yankees have a 18-3 record against teams with a losing record in the second half of the season. Go with the Yankees
Play on: NY Yankees
New York Yankees at Toronto Blue Jays
Friday, September 4th, 7:10 ET
Roy Halladay has had his luck against the Yankees in his career, but he seems to be dropping off. He has lost three straight starts and his last two against New York. The Yankees have taken five of six against the Blue Jays in the Rogers Centre this year and 10 of 13 overall. Yankees starter Joba Chamberlain has won his last two starts against Toronto. The Yankees have a 18-3 record against teams with a losing record in the second half of the season. Go with the Yankees
Play on: NY Yankees
Big Al McMordie
Dan Haren's first-half brilliance has turned into second-half futility. Ride the Rockies into the pay line tonight at home against the Arizona Diamondbacks.
Our Friday night MLB selection is on the Colorado Rockies at home in Coors Field over the Arizona Diamondbacks.
Earlier in the season, Arizona's righthanded starter Dan Haren was being talked about as the favorite for the 2009 NL Cy Young award. But guys like reigning Cy Young winner Tim Lincecum and St. Louis ace Adam Wainwright have now perhaps put some distance between themselves and Haren.
The former Oakland A's hurler put up an amazing ERA of 2.01 in 18 first half starts, but he has seen that number balloon to 4.50 since the break and he has looked like anything but a Cy Young contender in his last three starts, going 1-1 with a 5.21 ERA and 1.32 WHIP.
Colorado righthander Jason Hammel certainly won't be in contention for the Cy Young, but he may be getting something that Haren definitely won't have and that's the chance to pitch in the postseason. The Rockies have been playing some pretty good ball lately and they're only 4½ games behind the Dodgers and leading the way in the NL Wild Card race.
They've been especially tough at home, going 6-2 in their last eight games at Coors Field and Hammel has been pitching very well lately, with a 2.37 ERA in this last three starts, while the Rockies have won four of his last six times to the hill. Take the Rockies.
Free Pick: Rockies -109
Dan Haren's first-half brilliance has turned into second-half futility. Ride the Rockies into the pay line tonight at home against the Arizona Diamondbacks.
Our Friday night MLB selection is on the Colorado Rockies at home in Coors Field over the Arizona Diamondbacks.
Earlier in the season, Arizona's righthanded starter Dan Haren was being talked about as the favorite for the 2009 NL Cy Young award. But guys like reigning Cy Young winner Tim Lincecum and St. Louis ace Adam Wainwright have now perhaps put some distance between themselves and Haren.
The former Oakland A's hurler put up an amazing ERA of 2.01 in 18 first half starts, but he has seen that number balloon to 4.50 since the break and he has looked like anything but a Cy Young contender in his last three starts, going 1-1 with a 5.21 ERA and 1.32 WHIP.
Colorado righthander Jason Hammel certainly won't be in contention for the Cy Young, but he may be getting something that Haren definitely won't have and that's the chance to pitch in the postseason. The Rockies have been playing some pretty good ball lately and they're only 4½ games behind the Dodgers and leading the way in the NL Wild Card race.
They've been especially tough at home, going 6-2 in their last eight games at Coors Field and Hammel has been pitching very well lately, with a 2.37 ERA in this last three starts, while the Rockies have won four of his last six times to the hill. Take the Rockies.
Free Pick: Rockies -109
Jeff Benton
Back on track with the Bonus Plays on Thursday as Boise State took care of Oregon. For Friday’s freebie, I’ll take the Rangers and the constantly underrated Scott Feldman in their opener of a three-game weekend series at Baltimore.
Oddsmakers and handicappers who have been holding their breath waiting for Feldman to implode passed out long ago. All the guy does is deliver quality start after quality start, and he’s now 14-4 with a 3.72 ERA on the season, including consecutive road wins (Tampa Bay and Minnesota) in his last two trips to the mound. In those two particular games, Feldman pitched 12 2/3 innings and gave up a grand total of … ZERO runs! He yielded just eight hits and six walks while striking out 13 in those 12 2/3 innings, as Texas won by scores of 4-0 and 3-0.
With those two victories, Feldman improved to 10-1 with a 2.92 ERA and a 1.21 WHIP on the road this year, and in his 12 starts as a visitor, the Rangers have posted 11 victories. (Overall, Texas is 17-7 this year when Feldman starts). Still not convinced the right-hander is the real deal? Maybe this will do the trick: He has made two starts in his career against the Orioles – one this year, one last year, both in Baltimore – and gave up a total of four runs on nine hits in 11 innings (3.27 ERA). Texas won both of those games, too, by scores of 5-3 and 6-5.
As for Baltimore rookie right-hander Chris Tillman, I admit that kid has promise. He’s given up three earned runs or fewer in six of his seven starts, including the last five in a row. But the O’s are 1-5 in Tillman’s last six trips to the mound. Furthermore, after getting swept at home by the Yankees to start this week (losing by the combined score of 24-9), Baltimore has now lost 30 of its last 43 overall since July 20, including 15 of 21 (and eight of the last 10) at Camden Yards. On the other hand, in addition to consistently winning behind Feldman, the Rangers are on runs of 3-0 overall, 4-1 against the A.L. East, 13-5 when playing on Friday and 4-1 against the O’s (all in Baltimore).
(based on a 1? to a 10? Rating)
3? TEXAS RANGERS
Back on track with the Bonus Plays on Thursday as Boise State took care of Oregon. For Friday’s freebie, I’ll take the Rangers and the constantly underrated Scott Feldman in their opener of a three-game weekend series at Baltimore.
Oddsmakers and handicappers who have been holding their breath waiting for Feldman to implode passed out long ago. All the guy does is deliver quality start after quality start, and he’s now 14-4 with a 3.72 ERA on the season, including consecutive road wins (Tampa Bay and Minnesota) in his last two trips to the mound. In those two particular games, Feldman pitched 12 2/3 innings and gave up a grand total of … ZERO runs! He yielded just eight hits and six walks while striking out 13 in those 12 2/3 innings, as Texas won by scores of 4-0 and 3-0.
With those two victories, Feldman improved to 10-1 with a 2.92 ERA and a 1.21 WHIP on the road this year, and in his 12 starts as a visitor, the Rangers have posted 11 victories. (Overall, Texas is 17-7 this year when Feldman starts). Still not convinced the right-hander is the real deal? Maybe this will do the trick: He has made two starts in his career against the Orioles – one this year, one last year, both in Baltimore – and gave up a total of four runs on nine hits in 11 innings (3.27 ERA). Texas won both of those games, too, by scores of 5-3 and 6-5.
As for Baltimore rookie right-hander Chris Tillman, I admit that kid has promise. He’s given up three earned runs or fewer in six of his seven starts, including the last five in a row. But the O’s are 1-5 in Tillman’s last six trips to the mound. Furthermore, after getting swept at home by the Yankees to start this week (losing by the combined score of 24-9), Baltimore has now lost 30 of its last 43 overall since July 20, including 15 of 21 (and eight of the last 10) at Camden Yards. On the other hand, in addition to consistently winning behind Feldman, the Rangers are on runs of 3-0 overall, 4-1 against the A.L. East, 13-5 when playing on Friday and 4-1 against the O’s (all in Baltimore).
(based on a 1? to a 10? Rating)
3? TEXAS RANGERS
Stephen Nover
Arizona at Colorado
Anytime Dan Haren is in this kind of low range price, it's worth a strong look. Haren is fitting his usual pattern of being dominant in the first half of the season and then tallying off after the All-Star Game.
Haren, however, has turned in quality performances during three of his last four starts.
This is what Arizona pitching coach Mel Stottlemyre Jr. said about Haren in The Arizona Republic: "He (Haren) made a comment to me that his legs are starting to feel a lot better. His (bullpen sessions) have been tremendous. You're starting to see him being on top of his pitches and getting that late life that he had when he was on that hot streak. "As a pitcher, he's a leg guy. You take his legs away, and he can't get the same results as when he's feeling good."
Haren has a 0.90 ERA versus Colorado this season in three starts spanning 20 innings.
The Diamondbacks have been playing solid ball since getting Justin Upton and Mark Reynolds back in the lineup. They have won six of their last eight games. The Diamondbacks are 11-5 in Haren's past 16 starts.
Colorado is 2-6 in its last eight games. They are starting Jason Hammel, who is 2-3 with a 6.47 ERA at Coors Field this season.
The Rockies are without their closer, Huston Street. Untested Franklin Morales is their fill-in closer until Street is ready to resume in about two weeks.
The Diamondbacks also recently lost their closer, Chad Qualls. But Street was more consistent than Qualls and Juan Guiterrez has filled in nicely so far for Qualls picking up a couple of saves and not blowing any leads.
1♦ DIAMONDBACKS (Haren over Hammel)
Based on 1♦ to 5 ♦
Arizona at Colorado
Anytime Dan Haren is in this kind of low range price, it's worth a strong look. Haren is fitting his usual pattern of being dominant in the first half of the season and then tallying off after the All-Star Game.
Haren, however, has turned in quality performances during three of his last four starts.
This is what Arizona pitching coach Mel Stottlemyre Jr. said about Haren in The Arizona Republic: "He (Haren) made a comment to me that his legs are starting to feel a lot better. His (bullpen sessions) have been tremendous. You're starting to see him being on top of his pitches and getting that late life that he had when he was on that hot streak. "As a pitcher, he's a leg guy. You take his legs away, and he can't get the same results as when he's feeling good."
Haren has a 0.90 ERA versus Colorado this season in three starts spanning 20 innings.
The Diamondbacks have been playing solid ball since getting Justin Upton and Mark Reynolds back in the lineup. They have won six of their last eight games. The Diamondbacks are 11-5 in Haren's past 16 starts.
Colorado is 2-6 in its last eight games. They are starting Jason Hammel, who is 2-3 with a 6.47 ERA at Coors Field this season.
The Rockies are without their closer, Huston Street. Untested Franklin Morales is their fill-in closer until Street is ready to resume in about two weeks.
The Diamondbacks also recently lost their closer, Chad Qualls. But Street was more consistent than Qualls and Juan Guiterrez has filled in nicely so far for Qualls picking up a couple of saves and not blowing any leads.
1♦ DIAMONDBACKS (Haren over Hammel)
Based on 1♦ to 5 ♦
Dominic Fazzini
My four-day winning streak came to an end Thursday with the Indians' 4-3 loss to Detroit in 10 innings. They say you can't win them all, but I'm definitely going to start another winning streak today!
Dodgers starter Clayton Kershaw (8-7, 2.94 ERA) has definitely come of age this year. The left-hander is 5-2 with a 1.82 ERA over his last 15 outings, and allowed two runs and four hits with 11 strikeouts in seven innings Sunday in a no-decision at Cincinnati.
Kershaw, who has allowed three runs or fewer in 23 of 27 starts this season, is 2-1 with a 3.31 ERA in six career starts vs. San Diego. He also has an ERA of 2.00 in 14 home starts this year, but is only 3-3 in those outings.
Padres starter Wade LeBlanc (0-1, 9.58) has been rocked in three outings this season. The 25-year-old left-hander allowed four runs and four hits in six innings Saturday at Florida, leaving with a no-decision in San Diego's 7-4 victory.
In three career starts against the Dodgers, LeBlanc is 0-2 with a 9.24 ERA.
Los Angeles is 23-14 vs. southpaws this year, and LeBlanc has allowed nine home runs in 31 2/3 career innings. Those numbers definitely favor the Dodgers, who are 9-4 against the Padres this year, and have won 10 of their last 12 home games vs. San Diego. Take the Dodgers on the run line in this one.
4♦ L.A. DODGERS -1 1/2 RUNS (on a 1♦ to 5♦ Scale)
My four-day winning streak came to an end Thursday with the Indians' 4-3 loss to Detroit in 10 innings. They say you can't win them all, but I'm definitely going to start another winning streak today!
Dodgers starter Clayton Kershaw (8-7, 2.94 ERA) has definitely come of age this year. The left-hander is 5-2 with a 1.82 ERA over his last 15 outings, and allowed two runs and four hits with 11 strikeouts in seven innings Sunday in a no-decision at Cincinnati.
Kershaw, who has allowed three runs or fewer in 23 of 27 starts this season, is 2-1 with a 3.31 ERA in six career starts vs. San Diego. He also has an ERA of 2.00 in 14 home starts this year, but is only 3-3 in those outings.
Padres starter Wade LeBlanc (0-1, 9.58) has been rocked in three outings this season. The 25-year-old left-hander allowed four runs and four hits in six innings Saturday at Florida, leaving with a no-decision in San Diego's 7-4 victory.
In three career starts against the Dodgers, LeBlanc is 0-2 with a 9.24 ERA.
Los Angeles is 23-14 vs. southpaws this year, and LeBlanc has allowed nine home runs in 31 2/3 career innings. Those numbers definitely favor the Dodgers, who are 9-4 against the Padres this year, and have won 10 of their last 12 home games vs. San Diego. Take the Dodgers on the run line in this one.
4♦ L.A. DODGERS -1 1/2 RUNS (on a 1♦ to 5♦ Scale)
Hentai Sports
Philadelphia Phillies at Houston Astros
Prediction : Philadelphia Phillies
The Phillies open a three-game series with the Astros when Cliff Lee takes on Wandy Rodriguez in Houston Friday night. Lee checks in off a rare loss in his last start having cashed in 8 of his last 9 team starts. In those game he has been in commanding KW form with 6 walks and 58 strikeouts. Meanwhile, Rodriguez has dropped 3 of his last 4 team starts while compiling a 5.40 ERA in those games. He’s also 3-6 home in his MLB career team starts in September. Back the best road team in MLB this season with the better arm here tonight.
Philadelphia Phillies at Houston Astros
Prediction : Philadelphia Phillies
The Phillies open a three-game series with the Astros when Cliff Lee takes on Wandy Rodriguez in Houston Friday night. Lee checks in off a rare loss in his last start having cashed in 8 of his last 9 team starts. In those game he has been in commanding KW form with 6 walks and 58 strikeouts. Meanwhile, Rodriguez has dropped 3 of his last 4 team starts while compiling a 5.40 ERA in those games. He’s also 3-6 home in his MLB career team starts in September. Back the best road team in MLB this season with the better arm here tonight.
Jimmy the Moose
LA Angels vs. Kansas City Royals
The Angels have won 7 of their last 9 games following an off-day. The Angels are 19-7 in their last 26 games as a road favorite. LA is 10-3 in their last 13 road games vs. a team with a home winning % less than .400. LA is 14-5 in Weaver's last 19 starts. In his last 9 road starts they are 7-2. In his last 10 starts vs. a team with a losing record they are 8-2. The Royals are 15-36 in their last 51 overall. KC is 16-35 in their last 51 home games. They are 5-16 in their last 21 home games vs. a team with a winning record. In their last 55 games vs. a team with a winning record they are 18-37. The Royals are 1-8 in Meche's last 9 home starts and over his last 17 starts overall they are 5-12. The Angels are 20-6 in their last 26 trips to KC. The Royals are 14-38 in the last 52 meetings. Play on the LA Angels -.
LA Angels vs. Kansas City Royals
The Angels have won 7 of their last 9 games following an off-day. The Angels are 19-7 in their last 26 games as a road favorite. LA is 10-3 in their last 13 road games vs. a team with a home winning % less than .400. LA is 14-5 in Weaver's last 19 starts. In his last 9 road starts they are 7-2. In his last 10 starts vs. a team with a losing record they are 8-2. The Royals are 15-36 in their last 51 overall. KC is 16-35 in their last 51 home games. They are 5-16 in their last 21 home games vs. a team with a winning record. In their last 55 games vs. a team with a winning record they are 18-37. The Royals are 1-8 in Meche's last 9 home starts and over his last 17 starts overall they are 5-12. The Angels are 20-6 in their last 26 trips to KC. The Royals are 14-38 in the last 52 meetings. Play on the LA Angels -.
Rocketman Sports
Philadelphia Phillies @ Houston Astros u7.5 (-110)
Play On: UNDER THE TOTAL (Lee/Rodriguez) Listed
Two excellent pitchers facing off here tonight with Cliff Lee against Wandy Rodriguez. The Phillies have three Unders and no Overs in September while the Astros has two Unders and no Overs in September. Houston is 7-18 O-U this year as a home underdog of +100 to +125. Houston is 3-10 O-U this year when playing with a day off. Philadelphia bullpen has a 3.39 ERA on the road this year. Cliff Lee is 12-10 with a 2.83 ERA overall, 7-3 with a 2.67 ERA on the road and 2-1 with a 2.57 ERA his last 3 starts. Rodriguez is 12-9 with a 2.93 ERA overall, 7-2 with a 1.73 ERA at home and 1-2 with a 2.14 ERA his last 3 starts. These two studs should keep the runs at a minimum tonight. We'll recommend a small play on UNDER THE TOTAL tonight! Thanks and good luck, Rocky
Philadelphia Phillies @ Houston Astros u7.5 (-110)
Play On: UNDER THE TOTAL (Lee/Rodriguez) Listed
Two excellent pitchers facing off here tonight with Cliff Lee against Wandy Rodriguez. The Phillies have three Unders and no Overs in September while the Astros has two Unders and no Overs in September. Houston is 7-18 O-U this year as a home underdog of +100 to +125. Houston is 3-10 O-U this year when playing with a day off. Philadelphia bullpen has a 3.39 ERA on the road this year. Cliff Lee is 12-10 with a 2.83 ERA overall, 7-3 with a 2.67 ERA on the road and 2-1 with a 2.57 ERA his last 3 starts. Rodriguez is 12-9 with a 2.93 ERA overall, 7-2 with a 1.73 ERA at home and 1-2 with a 2.14 ERA his last 3 starts. These two studs should keep the runs at a minimum tonight. We'll recommend a small play on UNDER THE TOTAL tonight! Thanks and good luck, Rocky
@)
