Friday 4/8/16 service plays chatter/comps/requests & other stuff...

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Lakers (16-62) at Pelicans (29-49)

Date: April 08, 2016 8:00 PM EDT

Kobe Bryant's farewell tour hits its last four stops in the next week, and fans are relishing their final chances to watch his graceful game even with the Los Angeles Lakers finishing up the worst season in franchise history.

The Lakers open a three-game road trip Friday night against the New Orleans Pelicans before Bryant's grand finale at home Wednesday against Utah.

After claiming he didn't want a farewell tour when he retired, Bryant changed his mind in late November, turning the Lakers' season into a moveable tribute to a polarizing, globally respected athlete.

'It's something that he deserves, that he's earned, and that we all want to do,' said Lakers coach Byron Scott, Bryant's teammate in his rookie season. 'I don't think anybody can question K.B.'s place in the game, and it's only natural that people want to honor him. We all do, too.'

Bryant, the third-leading scorer in NBA history, has been cheered in cities that had greeted him with seething hatred for the better part of two decades.

'I can feel it, and it feels pretty damn awesome,' Bryant said. 'It makes going through the years of losing, and not leaving, makes it all worthwhile. Staying here and taking the good with the bad, and the fans embracing and understanding that, that we ride together, that's a love that you can't break, man.'

Meanwhile, the Lakers are wrapping up a historically miserable three-year stretch. They've set the 16-time champion franchise's record for single-season losses in three consecutive years, culminating in Wednesday's 62nd defeat - 91-81 to the Clippers.

'It doesn't matter,' Bryant said. 'It's hard for people to understand this, but losing is losing, and there aren't different degrees of losing. You either win a championship, or you're in the same boat we're in. It's very black and white to me. So whether you set a franchise record for losses or you get to the playoffs and lose in the Western Conference finals, those are the same damn thing to me.'

That's the view of an 18-time All-Star with five NBA championship rings. The youngsters and modestly accomplished veterans don't have Bryant's perspective, and it's too soon to tell how their supporting role on Bryant's tour has affected rookie D'Angelo Russell or second-year pros Jordan Clarkson and Julius Randle.

Russell succinctly summed up the Lakers' strategy lately: 'Get Kobe the ball.'

'Especially now that we're winding down, there is even more of a focus on K.B.'s last game,' Scott said. 'I think all that attention and all that focus is probably affecting (the younger Lakers) a little bit, because they see it just like everybody else. They want him to do well. They want to try to give him the ball as much as possible when he's on the floor. It's a lot to digest. I know the focus is sometimes not there, because there's so much stuff going on.'

Bryant is last in the NBA among qualifying players with a 35.3 field-goal percentage. But the Lakers know what the public wants, and what they owe to Bryant after two decades of service.

Bryant has been reflective and vocally grateful in recent weeks - and unlike his fans, the NBA's career leader in missed shots insists he doesn't care if he gets the ball every time.

'I will defer, and I'll just come out and play the game,' Bryant said. 'This is what I'm here for, one more time, is to just play the game.'

Bryant had 27 points in his last visit to New Orleans, a 99-96 win Feb. 4 that improved the Lakers to 2-0 in the season series.

The injury-plagued Pelicans (29-49) enter this matchup trying to avoid a third straight loss after falling 104-97 at Boston on Wednesday. They played without their five top scorers and had nine active players.

'We played hard and we competed like crazy,' coach Alvin Gentry said. 'Just couldn't seem to make a couple plays at the end that would get us over the hump.'

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Grizzlies (42-36) at Mavericks (40-38)

Date: April 08, 2016 8:30 PM EDT

Oddly enough, losing their starting point guard has been a boon to the Dallas Mavericks.

It hasn't worked out so nicely for the Memphis Grizzlies.

The Grizzlies, however, are coming off a badly needed victory and will visit Dallas on Friday night having already wrapped up a spot in the playoffs, where the Mavericks also appear to be headed thanks to their hot streak.

Dallas (40-38) is inching closer to clinching a postseason berth while employing a slower pace and a new defensive intensity in the absence of Deron Williams. The Mavericks lost their first two after Williams went down late last month with a left abdominal strain, part of a 7-16 stretch in which they allowed 111.5 points per game.

The ensuing five-game win streak has seen Dallas hold every opponent below 90 points while forcing an average of 17.2 turnovers. Coach Rick Carlisle's new strategy paid off again Wednesday when his team held high-scoring Houston to its lowest point total since the All-Star break in an 88-86 victory.

"I am proud of our guys for being willing to be team guys and play this way," Carlisle said. "We lived to fight another day."

The win moved the Mavericks within two games of Memphis for fifth in the Western Conference.

J.J. Barea doesn't love the new tempo but has flourished in it while replacing Williams as the floor leader. The 10-year veteran has averaged 22.3 points - double his season average - in the seven games Williams has missed. He's hit 21 of 42 from 3-point range in that span while adding 6.3 assists per game.

"I like to play fast, too, but slowing it down is working for us," Barea said after scoring 27 points Wednesday. "We've got to stay that way."

The Grizzlies haven't found anyone to step up the way Barea has.

Point man Mike Conley was lost to an Achilles injury March 6, and backup Mario Chalmers was waived a few days later after rupturing an Achilles tendon.

Briante Weber and Ray McCallum unsuccessfully tried to fill the starting job before Jordan Farmar was given a shot. He's averaging 10.4 points and 3.4 assists in eight games since being signed, far off Conley's averages.

The Grizzlies (42-36) won two of their first three after losing Conley but have since gone 3-10, including losses in seven of eight road games. However, they halted a six-game losing streak overall with a 108-92 home win over Chicago on Tuesday.

"We're just starving to get a win," coach Dave Joerger said. "Every night we just go out and compete. We're just like okay well what's the next one?"

Zach Randolph had 27 points and 10 rebounds, still trying to make up for the season-ending loss of Marc Gasol (foot). Randolph is among a bevy of veterans who have helped get Memphis into the playoffs for a sixth consecutive season. That officially happened Thursday when ninth-place Houston lost to Phoenix.

"We're trying to push, we're trying to fight â?? one, to get it in, and two, for seeding," Farmar said. "We still believe. It's good to see nobody held their head down and kept competing."

Memphis lost the last two meetings with Dallas despite having Gasol and Conley. Dallas saw Chandler Parsons total 42 points in those games, most recently scoring 26 in a 114-110 overtime win Feb. 6, but he's undergone season-ending knee surgery.

Dirk Nowitzki accounted for 38 points in those two victories but has struggled in Carlisle's new scheme, shooting 27.4 percent and going 4 of 24 from 3-point range in the last five games.

"One of the reasons Dirk is having a hard time getting open looks is because we are playing a different style right now," Carlisle said.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Clippers (50-28) at Jazz (39-39)

Date: April 08, 2016 9:00 PM EDT

With the Western Conference's No. 4 seed secure, the Los Angeles Clippers have two goals before the playoffs: getting Blake Griffin in top form and resting the starters.

The Utah Jazz don't have the luxury of resting anyone as they continue their quest to gain a postseason berth Friday night against the Clippers.

Los Angeles (50-28) is locked into home-court advantage in the first round against the undetermined No. 5 seed, while Utah (39-39) holds the eighth spot and is one game behind Dallas and just ahead of Houston with four remaining.

The Clippers again showed they're top dog in the City of Angels on Wednesday, handing the rival Lakers a franchise-worst 62nd loss with a 91-81 victory that marked their third four-game sweep in four seasons and fourth consecutive 50-win campaign.

DeAndre Jordan and J.J. Redick scored 15 points apiece, and Chris Paul and Griffin each added 13 before the starters sat out the fourth quarter. Doc Rivers is giving the quartet and Wesley Johnson the night off for this contest as he continues a balancing act of preventing his starters from logging heavy minutes and helping Griffin shake off the rust accrued from missing over three months with injuries.

Griffin, who had 40 points and 12 rebounds in a 102-91 loss to Utah on Nov. 25, had his best game since returning from a tear in his quad and a broken hand, shooting 5 for 10 with eight rebounds and three assists in roughly 25 minutes.

"I felt good, my legs felt good," he told the team's official website. "That's what's allowed me to play more. Those are all good things - just keep going.

"I've been encouraged after every game with how I felt."

The first of the 45 games Griffin missed was a 109-104 win in Salt Lake City on Dec. 26 in which Redick scored 25, Paul had 19 points and 11 assists, and Jordan added 14 points and 13 rebounds. The Clippers went 13 of 26 from 3-point range.

The game marked another strong performance against the Clippers for Gordon Hayward, who scored 28 points after putting up 33 in the November win. He's shot 51.4 percent against Los Angeles this season, including 6 of 9 from 3-point range.

Hayward had a quiet 12 points on 4-of-11 shooting in a defensive battle against San Antonio on Tuesday that ended in an 88-86 home loss. The Spurs and Jazz are the top two teams in the NBA in points allowed per game.

"We feel like we can play with any team, especially on this home court," said Rodney Hood, who had 23 points, seven rebounds and four assists.

"We've just got to continue to grind."

Utah has been playing well on its home court, winning five of seven with the other loss coming against Golden State in overtime, but the Jazz have dropped seven in a row against the Clippers in Salt Lake City.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NBA Odds: Friday, April 8, 2016 Opening Line Report and Handicapping
by Alan Matthews

I generally don't root for anyone to fail -- OK, unless it benefits my team or my betting position -- so I was happy to see the Philadelphia 76ers beat the New Orleans Pelicans on Tuesday night for their 10th win of the season, assuring that wretched team won't tie for the NBA record of single-season losses at 73. Maybe the 76ers drew inspiration from the night before when Villanova beat North Carolina for the school's first national title since 1985. One thing the 76ers haven't done yet this season: win consecutive games. Friday against the Knicks is probably their last chance to do so. And this will be Philly's first game since GM Sam Hinkie resigned on Wednesday. Hey, he did what ownership wanted: get really bad to eventually get really good. It just didn't work -- the Sixers never were able to win the lottery, although there are some good assets there potentially. The Sixers are 47-195 since Hinkie took over prior to the 2013-14 season, including a 10-68 mark this season. If they lose their final four games this season, they will have posted the worst three-year span in NBA history. Bryan Colangelo will take over as GM. He is the son of Jerry Colangelo, who moved into a front office role with the 76ers in December. Bryan is also a two-time NBA Executive of the Year.


Nets at Hornets (-16, 205.5)

Brooklyn lost a sixth straight Wednesday, 121-103 in Washington. Thomas Robinson scored 23 points and grabbed 10 rebounds for the Nets, who have those six by an average of 19.3 points. Charlotte ended a two-game skid with a 111-97 win at the Knicks on Wednesday. Kemba Walker had 34 points and Al Jefferson, who was questionable, added 24. Nic Batum missed a second straight with a strained knee. He has a decent chance of playing here. Charlotte has won all three meetings this season but only by a combined 18 points.

Key trends: The road team is 5-1 against the spread in the past six meetings. The "over/under" has gone under in five straight Charlotte home games.

Early lean: Nets and under.

Heat at Magic (TBA)

Miami hosted Chicago on Thursday and as beaten up as Dwyane Wade is, I'd be moderately surprised if he plays here. Plus Hassan Whiteside was a game-time call Thursday. Orlando lost 108-104 at home to Detroit on Wednesday. Nikola Vucevic had 15 points, 13 rebounds and three assists off the bench. He did start the second half and Coach Scott Skiles said Vucevic is still a starter even though he has been a reserve since returning from injury. Sounds like he might start here. Miami leads the season series 2-0 and has won seven straight in Orlando.

Key trends: The Heat are 5-1 ATS in the past six in Orlando. The over has hit in eight of the past 11 meetings there.

Early lean: Wait on the Heat duo.

Knicks at 76ers (+3.5, 200)

New York lost a second straight Wednesday, 111-97 at home to Charlotte. Carmelo Anthony returned from a one-game absence but was held to 15 points. New York remains without injured starters Kristaps Porzingis and Jose Calderon, and they are probably done. As noted above, Philly beat New Orleans 107-93 on Tuesday to end a 12-game losing streak. By the way, Sixers coach Brett Brown apparently will keep his job going forward despite the front office change. He deserves one season with an actual NBA roster. New York leads the season series 3-0 and has won four straight overall vs. Philly.

Key trends: The Knicks are 10-3 ATS in the past 13 in Philly. The under has also hit in 10 of those.

Early lean: Knicks (as long as Melo plays) and under.

Bucks at Celtics (TBA)

Milwaukee lost 109-80 at home to Cleveland on Tuesday, its second straight defeat. Giannis Antetokounmpo led the Bucks with 22 points, 14 rebounds and eight assists. The 18 3s allowed were a season-worst for Milwaukee. The Bucks played again without injured leading scorer Khris Middleton and guard Jerryd Bayless. They are questionable here. Boston won a third straight Wednesday, 104-97 over New Orleans. Isaiah Thomas had 32 points. He has scored at least 20 in 17 straight games. Boston leads this season series 2-1 and won the game in Beantown 112-107 on Feb. 25.

Key trends: The Bucks are 5-1 ATS in the past six in Boston. The over is 4-1 in the past five meetings.

Early lean: Celtics by double digits.

Wizards at Pistons (TBA)

Washington beat Brooklyn 121-103 on Wednesday. John Wall sat out with a minor knee injury and Ramon Sessions stepped up with 18 points and 13 assists in his first start of the season. Washington still has faint playoff hopes but has to win out and get plenty of help, including having these Pistons lose out. The team thinks Wall will play here. Detroit won in Orlando 108-104 on Wednesday and is one victory from clinching a playoff spot. Washington leads the season series 3-0, winning the last two by at least 12 points each.

Key trends: Washington is 4-9 ATS in the past 13 in Detroit. The under is 4-0-1 in the past five meetings.

Early lean: Pistons eliminate Wizards, Wall or not.

Pacers at Raptors (TBA)

Toronto was in Atlanta on Thursday. About the only motivation the Raptors have left during the regular season is to break the franchise record of home wins. They have tied it with 30. But you could see some guys sit here. Indiana won a third straight Wednesday, 123-109 over Cleveland, which rested LeBron James. Paul George had 29 points as the Pacers shot 56.3 percent from the field and hit 16-for-31 from long range. Toronto leads the season series 2-1 and has won four straight at home vs. Indiana.

Key trends: Toronto is 5-0 ATS in its past five in the second of a back-to-back. The over is 5-2 in the past seven meetings.

Early lean: Wait to see which Raptors players potentially sit.

Lakers at Pelicans (-3, 204.5)

Here's hoping Kobe Bryant does play in his final visit to the Big Easy because there's no reason for those Pelicans fans to show up otherwise with that decimated, D-League-type roster. The Lakers dropped a third in a row Wednesday, 91-81 at home to the Clippers. Thus Kobe's next home game will be his last as this game begins a three-game road trip. Kobe had 17 vs. the Clippers. New Orleans dropped a second straight Wednesday, 104-97 in Boston. I can't even tell you who plays for the Pelicans these days. Los Angeles is 2-0 against New Orleans this season, both low scoring.

Key trends: The Lakers are 9-4 ATS in the past 13 in New Orleans. The under is 4-1 in the past five meetings.

Early lean: Lakers and under.

Grizzlies at Mavericks (-6.5, 198)

Your lone national TV game on NBA TV and thus should have live betting at sportsbooks. Memphis ended a six-game losing streak with a 108-92 home win over Chicago on Tuesday. Zach Randolph had 27 points and 12 rebounds. He's about all the Grizzlies have left. Memphis avoided its first seven-game losing streak since November 2009. Dallas got a huge 88-86 home win over Houston on Wednesday for its fifth straight victory. The Mavs have completely changed their style since Deron Williams went out injured as they play slow and much better defense. The Mavs haven't scored more than 98 points in the winning streak or given up more than 89. Dallas lost the first meeting with Memphis this season but has won the past two.

Key trends: The Mavericks are 6-1 ATS in their past seven vs. the West. The over is 9-2-1 in the past 12 meetings.

Early lean: Huge on the under. Go Dallas.

Spurs at Nuggets (TBA)

San Antonio was at Golden State on Thursday, so I expect Coach Gregg Popovich to go very deep into his bench for the starting five in this one. The Spurs were, thankfully, expected to play every healthy guy against the Warriors. So there's no way anyone of note plays here. Denver dropped a third in a row Tuesday, 124-102 vs. Oklahoma City. Gary Harris led the Nuggets with 17 points and rookie Emmanuel Mudiay had 15. Mudiay apparently will play summer ball. Denver has lost nine straight in the series and five in a row at home.

Key trends: The Spurs are 6-2 ATS in the past eight meetings. The over is 6-0 in Denver's past six on Friday.

Early lean: I say Denver wins this game outright.

Clippers at Jazz (-5, 187.5)

Los Angeles won a third straight Wednesday, 91-81 over the Lakers. Austin Rivers, Jamal Crawford and Wesley Johnson all got the night off. And the Clips might rest nearly every starter here with nothing to play for. Blake Griffin for sure is out. Chris Paul, DeAndre Jordan and JJ Redick are all likely to sit as well. The Jazz will take that as they fight for a playoff spot. Utah lost 88-86 at home to the Spurs on Tuesday. Rodney Hood missed the potential winning 3-pointer at the buzzer. Good news here for Utah: guard Alec Burks will return from a leg injury that has cost him 50 games. Obviously he will be limited. These teams have split two meetings back in 2015, each winning on the road. That 102-91 Utah win on Nov. 25 in L.A. snapped a 13-game losing streak to the Clippers.

Key trends: The road team has covered five of the past seven meetings. The Jazz are 4-0 ATS in their past four following a loss.

Early lean: Jazz and under.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Mohawk: Friday 4/8 Analysis
By Garnet Barnsdale

DRF HARNESS

Race 1 - $30,000 Guaranteed Pick Five Pool

Race 4 - $50,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool


20-CENT PICK 5: 4,8/2,6,7/5/2,6,9,10/2,6,8 = $14.40

EARLY PICK 4: 2,6,9,10/2,6,8/1,3/3,5,7 = $72

LATE PICK 4: 3,5,7/3,6,9/4,5/1,2,8 = $54

FINAL WOODBINE MEET STATS: 334 - 1058 / $1749.10 BEST BETS: 54 - 99 / $196.20

SPOT PLAYS: 22 - 98 / $225.20

Best Bet: BAX OF LIFE (3rd)

Spot Play: INVEST IN ART (9th)


Race 1

(4) HURRICANE HAZEL was flying late last time but ran out of ground. She should be tough in here in her second start off a break. (8) A ROD HALL closed with a rush to get up at big odds last week. He will take more action this time but is a definite contender. (5) HARLEIGH RYDER is usually good for a minor share and can take one here.

Race 2

(7) SHES LIGHTS OUT showed promise racing here last summer and shows up in a good spot for her 2016 debut; top call. (6) DOCS DIVA has problems with the slop in her last two starts. She should be much better here if the track comes up fast. (2) CASIMIR OH KISS ME was a decent 2nd last time and can share here again with these.

Race 3

(5) BAX OF LIFE takes a massive class drop here and should be very tough to beat. (2) LEXUS ROCKY came to life with a much better effort last week and can contend here again. (1) MOONBEAM HALL is worth a look for the exotics with the barn change to Ballairgeon here.

Race 4

(2) OLIVIAS WAY raced better last time. Waples could work out a winning covered trip here starting from the inside. (6) OSTINATO blasted to the front last time, took a mid-race shuffle, and then passed horses again late. She is a definite contender here. (10) WHISTYS PARADISE is obviously one of the best mares in here but will need some luck starting from out there.

Race 5

(6) TERRORCAM stepped up in class and raced well off the claim. She should be forwardly placed here; slight nod. (8) CRACKLIN ROSIE drops back to a class where she should be dangerous. Look for her late. (2) SPORTS EXPERT could get a golden following trip here starting from the inside. Look for McNair to send her off the gate and look for the pocket.

Race 6

(1) NIGHTONTHEROAD has caught fire the past few weeks and comes off an impressive win. He looks best here. (3) IRISH SCOTCH raced well at Mohawk last year and looks like he is coming around now. Use him in the Pick 4. (2) FEDERAL steps up off a sharp claiming win but will need to be faster here to threaten the top two.

Race 7

(5) ARRIVISTA HANOVER was noticeably closing quickly late two starts back then wasn't asked for much from an outer post last time. She fits this class well and should be a good price. (3) ONYOURMARKNATAVA takes a big class drop and looks like the one to beat but her win-shy tendencies are a concern - especially if a low price is offered. (7) BEYONCES ROCKIN tipped her hand that a better effort is coming with a quick final quarter last time; using.

Race 8

With so much early speed starting from the outside of the gate, we'll give a slight edge to (3) LIGHTS GO OUT here. She could get a dreamy pace setup and charge by late. (9) MS MAC N CHEESE has been racing at a high level for several weeks and is the one to knock off here. (6) WAASMULA was only a stride short of knocking off the one above last time and should be used in the late Pick 4.

Race 9

(4) INVEST IN ART finally gets a good post and is now plenty fit. It should be 'go' time here for this mare. (5) TWIN B INSPIRING comes off a failed first-over trip and will likely blast right for the front here where she is most dangerous. (1) HOPE FOR PADDY continues to close well but it is often too late; minor share predicted.

Race 10

(8) MARQUISE DE SARAH went a tough first up trip last time pressing fast splits. Dropping in class here gives her every chance; top call. (1) JABBA LUCK was an impressive winner last time off the claim and will no doubt be blasting here too but these are tougher. (2) DONNA PARTY debuts for Weller here who has been deadly with these types all year long; using. (5) DOCS HOLLYWOOD fell just short last week and should get a big piece of this. (3) DAZZLE N DELIGHT rarely misses a check and is a good one to use on the bottom of vertical wagers.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Meadowlands: Friday 4/8 Analysis
By Derick Giwner

DRF HARNESS

Race 1 - $30,000 Guaranteed Pick Five Pool

Race 3 - $25,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool

Race 7 - $50,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool

MEET STATS: 145 - 489 / $856.40 (-$121.60) BEST BETS: 20 - 37 / $81.80 (+$7.80)

Best Bet: SAYITALL BB (11th)

Spot Play: DON DORADO (3rd)


Race 1

(6) CELEBRITY STIMULUS was part of a fast early pace last time while facing much better foes. He should make some noise in a wide-open race. (8) CAPTAIN PRIMEAU is a veteran that knows his way to the winner's circle if given a smooth trip. (5) MAGGLIO won by open lengths in his last amateur race appearance.

Race 2

(3) SELFIE HANOVER has to be given credit for overcoming a mid-race mistake with a big finish. Let's look for improvement tonight. (6) SECRETCODE HANOVER returns to the races with Lasix added and seems capable of making some noise. (8) CURFEW behaved last week and put in a nice mile. A repeat performance would put him right there at the wire.

Race 3

(3) DON DORADO is capable of going a big mile. He was in a bad spot last Friday and made a break. Don't be surprised if the capable Mitchell Walker places this 5-year-old on the engine and never looks back. (6) SIX BAX overcame an early miscue to be a credible third versus easier. If he behaves, he can show more. (4) CUP DAY SPUR N is a sharp horse with the most popular driver at the betting windows.

Race 4

(6) PAINITE was better in his second start following the layoff. He was facing a runaway winner last week; this field is easier. (4) COMMENTARY has been racing well and has speed. (7) HUNKOFBURNINLOVE picks up David Miller.

Race 5

(3) BORN TO FIGHT has been failing on the lead of late but could find better luck in this spot where he is likely to be sitting the pocket or coming from behind. (1) LUCKY MASS qualified in good order and certainly fits with this group. (5) ORANGE BIGI has been racing well enough to use underneath.

Race 6

(4) YOU'RE MAJESTIC blew up last week in what was a slightly tougher spot. There seems to be enough early speed in here to set up her late rally. (1) DETROIT RAPPER looked to be hanging in the stretch again but found just enough to get the job done last Friday. He should be competitive. (5) WORKOUT WONDER came to play last time and has some upside.

Race 7

(5) MELADY'S MONET qualified in good order and doesn't exactly face the toughest Open group. Veteran trotter can leave for position and get the job done. (6) CROSBY'S CLAM BAKE has been racing well here week after week; clear threat. (7) ROSE RUN PARKER is on quite a roll and sports a 31-44 career win record; can't toss him.

Race 8

(7) SHEEZA SHARK N finished up with good pace in her lone North American qualifier. The way these Down Under shippers have been performing of late, she seems worth a shot. (3) MISS DEFIANCE has form and early speed in her corner. (8) INTOVIEW is tough to discount after consecutive wins, but the outside post could hamper her chances.

Race 9

(1) APPOMATTOX gets some meaningful class relief tonight after facing the likes of JL Cruze last time out. He isn't overly sharp but can turn the corner tonight. (3) SCORCHER HALL isn't the best horse in the field, but you can't deny his form and this field seems to have ample early speed types to set up his late move. (6) CLEMENTINE DREAM was sharp most recently. (5) SIX GUN HALL is also coming off a nice mile and does have some class.

Race 10

(1) WALLTOCOUSINS returns to the Meadowlands at a reduced level and gets my narrow call to wake up in a race without a standout. (2) YOU ROCK MY WORLD comes off a confidence building win. (7) EXQUISITE GLIDE was racing well before the recent scratch line. (9) LAZURUS drops back down and could menace despite the bad post.

Race 11

(7) SAYITALL BB gets written into this race on the last AE condition. The outside post shouldn't stop her from gunning to the top and taking these the route. (2) IDEAL NUGGETS was a bit flat late but did pick up a couple of seconds off her first start in 2016. She is capable of stepping forward again; one to fear. (1) JERSEYLICIOUS could leave hard and secure a pocket trip.

Race 12

(8) SWEET TIME took a shot and tired last time versus better foes. Mare has the early speed needed to overcome the outer post. (2) FOUR HOUR NAP makes her third start off the bench and could be ready for a peak effort. (9) ROYAL ENGAGEMENT has performed consistently well this year. (1) FASHION ROCKER arrives for a good barn.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Yonkers: Friday 4/8 Analysis
By Brewster Smith

DRF HARNESS

MEET STATS: 90 - 360 / $612.50

BEST BETS: 11 - 40 / $41.00

Best Bet: TIPITINA (12th)

Spot Play: ANNDROVETTE (6th)


Race 1

(1) THISGUYSAROCKSTAR moves down the ladder and draws the fence. 6-year-old is very capable of getting the job done with a favorable trip. (8) AUTOMATIC SLIMS put in a nice run from the 6-hole last out for third money. Post hurts but this 10-year-old can contend with these. (4) GIACOMETTI gets some class relief and that could help his cause; we shall see.

Race 2

(5) AMASA AL had dead aim on the leaders but was hung out to dry and settled for the show spot last time around. If this gelding returns to his March 18th trip it could be game over for the rest. (8) WAYNE THE LEFTY was sent down the road in his last start for all the glory. (1) GRANDPA DON raced evenly for the fourth spot last out and should appreciate the rail; maybe.

Race 3

(5) GROUNDED was covered up at the 3/4 pole but could not get to the top two in her last trip to the post. Now this mare will be racing for a new barn and trainer Banca goes to his main man Bartlett; threat at her best. (4) SO NICE finally receives a better post to work with and has fine speed. (1) OUR ELS DREAM N Mare took the pocket route on her way to victory in her latest.

Race 4

(1) ROETHBLISSBERGER Gelding is on fire scoring his third straight victory. Now he will try to make it the four-peat from the fence; the one to deny. (2) SPORTING THE LOOK was sharp with a wire to window score against lesser company recently. (3) RAMPAGE JACKSON here's another pacer that was the boss down the road in his last start; watch out.

Race 5

(2) MACH IT A PAR is sharp and consistent losing the victory by a 1/2 length. Stays in the 2-hole and this mare should have a much better trip with Brennan at the controls; the pick. (5) VENUS DELIGHT was uncovered around the 3/4 marker but this gal could not get to the winner Sell A Bit N last start; serious contender. (1) REQUEST FOR PAROLE makes her return to the fence where this mare lost glory by a neck two trips ago; not out of this.

Race 6

(3) ANNDROVETTE Pacing mare is knocking at the door based on her last two tries. Was first over approaching the half mile pole, battled but could not move forward and held on for the show spot last out. Covered up trip could put this gal into the winner's circle. (1) SKIPPIN BY was flashing speed from the pocket but was flat in the final stretch drive in her latest. (4) SELL A BIT N is very sharp with her second straight victory last time around.

Race 7

(7) AL RAZA N seems to do no wrong in the Matchmaker series. Had great cover and rolled over her rivals last out for this mare's third score in a row. Now she will be tested from the 7-hole but considering her form she figures to boss this group once again. (1) LADY SHADOW had everything her way on the lead and tired in the stretch drive last out. (4) GALLIE BYTHE BEACH needs to return to her March 18 start to contend in here; capable.

Race 8

(4) WANNA ROCK N ROLL was on the lead for most of the way but did not have enough gas in the tank and was nailed by Bad Night Mare last out. Mare could rate or be on the front end, so with that said she can make amends against these. (1) BABY REMIND ME gets post relief and was a nice third from the 6-hole last week; threat. (6) MARATHON DAY had an even trip last time around and could make some noise.

Race 9

Take a shot with (7) HARDTS OR BETTOR to return to his winning ways. Gelding had good cover and put in a mild rally to miss the glory by a length. At his best he can top these with Gingras at the helm. (3) MASTERSON Now this 4-year-old gelding moves up off a fourth straight victory but hey his form is solid and must be considered in all the slots. (4) PAMS LEGACY was sent by Sears down the road last out for the victory last time out.

Race 10

(3) ARI ALLSTAR Gelding's last three tries were very good. Last out he was sitting in the pocket most of the way but Knocking Around just mowed them down for glory and he had to settle for the place spot; ready for action tonight. (1) TWIN B WRANGLER retains the rail and did put in a mild rally in his last start for third money. (8) KID PK has wheeled off two victories in a row. Gets a bad post tonight but could contend with these; we shall see.

Race 11

(1) E R ELLIE Mare might have found a home at this level with a very game effort for second money last out. Should benefit from the rail and with a favorable trip she can be the boss over this group; primed. (7) ROCK OF CASHEL was facing Open foes last out so the drop in class could only help her cause. (2) ESCUELA showed late trot to land down the placing in her most recent try.

Race 12

(3) TIPITINA Pacing mare is coming back to solid form with a sharp place finish last time out. Good to see trainer Mike Forte go to Mr. Brennan hoping to get this gal back to the winner's circle and a favorable trip can make it happen. (1) ELISAVETA N was late on the scene last out to nail down the show spot last time around. (7) DUBLIN ROSE leaves the Open ranks and could have a big say against these.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

SPOT PLAYS

For Friday


TRACK (RACE) HORSE, MORNING LINE


Aqueduct (2nd) Bellarmine, 6-1
(3rd) Stormin Monarcho, 7-2

Charles Town (5th) Only Kountry, 4-1
(7th) Pinkie Pie, 9-2


Evangeline Downs (4th) Connor's Ace, 3-1
(5th) Jerry's Pride, 4-1


Golden Gate Fields (1st) She's a Charmer, 9-2
(4th) Sharp Hooq, 8-1


Gulfstream Park (7th) Persuasive, 7-2
(8th) Kokomo Wildcat, 4-1

Hawthorne (4th) Flirtin n Flashin, 3-1
(6th) Flathead River, 5-1


Keeneland (3rd) Mountain Cry, 7-2
(7th) Conquest Serenade, 3-1


Laurel Park (7th) Daystrike, 8-1
(9th) Galadriel Lady, 4-1


Lone Star Park (1st) Big Hearted Gal, 6-1
(5th) Mach Five, 5-1


Oaklawn Park (6th) Jean's Beauty, 7-2
(8th) Distinctly Mine, 6-1

Penn National (4th) Pacific Ridge, 7-2
(6th) Grandpa's King, 6-1

Santa Anita (7th) Karma King, 4-1
(8th) Wildfire Kid, 6-1

Tampa Bay Downs (1st) Emmy Who, 3-1
(4th) Skyfirm, 3-1

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Phillies (0-3) at Mets (1-1)

Game: 1
Venue: Citi Field
Date: April 08, 2016 1:10 PM EDT

NEW YORK (AP) - The last recollection the New York Mets have from Citi Field is losing the World Series after squandering a late lead in Game 5.

Time to make some new memories.

Eager to celebrate a scintillating 2015 season with their rejuvenated fans, Curtis Granderson, David Wright and the rest of the Mets face Philadelphia in their home opener Friday afternoon. Former pennant-winning stars Rusty Staub, John Franco and Edgardo Alfonzo will be on hand to hoist the National League championship banner during a pregame ceremony.

'I can't wait,' catcher Travis d'Arnaud said. 'To be in front of the best fans in the world and to be able to share a great year last year with all of them and to see that flag go up is going to be pretty magical.'

Once all the pomp and festivities are finished, the Mets finally get to play someone other than Kansas City. They're just not sure who's going to pitch.

Jacob deGrom was scheduled to start, a fitting choice after he won 17 games last season - including three in the playoffs. But his wife was due this week with their first child, and deGrom planned to head for home in Florida whenever she went into labor.

'I'm still getting ready to pitch the home opener, but I'm excited about both,' he said. 'I think it's going to be a lot of fun. I'm definitely looking forward to it. The energy was unbelievable in the playoffs. I didn't get to pitch any home games in the playoffs last year. I'm looking forward to getting back home and making that first start at home.'

If the All-Star right-hander is unavailable, New York will turn to 42-year-old Bartolo Colon. He pitched 1 1-3 innings of scoreless relief Sunday after being a regular part of the rotation last year, going 14-13 with a 4.16 ERA.

Noah Syndergaard and three relievers combined on a 2-0 shutout Tuesday, giving the Mets a split at Kauffman Stadium before they enjoyed consecutive days off - a rarity during the regular season.

'With the crazy days off and the intros, the ceremonies and this and that, as a player you want to get into a routine and with the ceremonies you can't do that,' Wright said. 'The wackiness of the first week. It'll be nice to get home, get settled into our places to live, go to work out on Thursday and get ready to take care of business at home.'

While the Mets were in Kansas City, they watched the Royals raise their World Series banner two days before receiving their glittering rings. New York was practically forced to relive some of the most painful moments from last fall as the reigning champs played highlights on the stadium video boards.

Now, the Mets get a chance to relish their own success in front of a packed house of cheering fans.

'I know they are excited,' manager Terry Collins said. 'We saw it in spring training - big crowds wherever we went. We're anxious to get home.'

Jerad Eickhoff is slated to pitch for the rival Phillies, who dropped their first three games in Cincinnati this week after finishing with the worst record in the majors last year at 63-99.

The right-hander was called up on Aug. 21 and went 3-3 with a 2.65 ERA in eight major league starts last season. Three came against the Mets and he pitched pretty well, going 1-2 with seven shutout innings and 10 strikeouts in a victory Oct. 1.

New York reliever Hansel Robles, who riled up the Phillies by quick-pitching last year, returns from a two-game suspension for throwing near the head of Philadelphia catcher Cameron Rupp in September.

---

AP freelancer Alan Eskew contributed to this report from Kansas City, Missouri.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Yankees (1-1) at Tigers (2-0)

Game: 1
Venue: Comerica Park
Date: April 08, 2016 1:08 PM EDT

DETROIT (AP) - In Detroit, Kirk Gibson is remembered for much more than his famous home run off Dennis Eckersley.

Four years before that 1988 homer that propelled the Los Angeles Dodgers to a World Series title, Gibson homered three times in the postseason for the Tigers. The championship Detroit won in 1984 is still the team's most recent World Series title, and those memories linger in Motown as the Tigers prepare for this season's home opener Friday against the New York Yankees. Gibson will throw out the ceremonial first pitch.

Gibson, who announced last year that he had been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease, does some broadcasting now for Fox Sports Detroit. He was at spring training with the Tigers this year as a guest instructor.

'Gibby is one of the greatest Tigers of all-time,' Detroit manager Brad Ausmus said. 'He's got probably one of the top-10 best video highlights ever recorded in major league baseball history. He's a great guy and he's been a big help to me this spring.'

Detroit returns home after opening the season with two wins at Miami. The Tigers are eager to put their last-place finish of 2015 behind them and return to the form that won them the AL Central the previous four years, but they have plenty of questions this season. On the mound for Detroit on Friday will be Jordan Zimmermann, making his first start for the Tigers after signing a $110 million, five-year deal this past offseason.

Detroit's offense has been impressive so far, with Victor Martinez homering twice in two at-bats and the Tigers scoring 15 runs in two games. There were some anxious moments, however, such as when newly acquired closer Francisco Rodriguez blew a three-run lead in the ninth inning of the opener - a game Detroit eventually won 8-7 in 11.

The Yankees opened by taking two of three at home against Houston. Starlin Castro went 7 for 12 with two homers and eight RBIs, Didi Gregorius and Brian McCann each went 5 for 11 with a home run and Mark Teixeira hit two homers and drove in seven.

Castro is the first player in the majors with at least eight RBIs in his first three games for a new team since Calvin Pickering had 11 for Kansas City in 2004.

'This is the whole package. The Yankees are the whole package,' Teixeira said. 'I mean once you play for the Yankees, you've kind of reached the pinnacle of Major League Baseball.'

Manager Joe Girardi said New York sent right-hander Luis Severino ahead early to Detroit. He'll make Friday's start.

Severino went 5-3 with a 2.89 ERA in 11 starts last season, when he made his big league debut. The 22-year-old struck out 25 in exhibition play, tops among Grapefruit League pitchers.

'I think for a lot of us, when you're the visiting team on opening day, all the pageantry can kind of throw off your routine,' Yankees reliever Andrew Miller said. 'But it's a nice accomplishment for guys who made the roster for the first time, those Tigers who will line up for the first time and be introduced.'

Perhaps the cold air in Michigan will help keep both offenses under control. Temperatures are expected to be in the high 30s around game time Friday, and the rest of the weekend might be even colder.

'It'll be cold. But whatever the weather, those fans show up,' said Miller, who pitched for the Tigers from 2006-07. 'It's a historical place for baseball, a good stadium.'

The Yankees won five of seven meetings last season, with Brett Gardner batting .400. J.D. Martinez hit .444 with three homers, four doubles and nine RBIs for Detroit.

Severino has never faced the Tigers, while Zimmermann is 1-0 with a 2.77 ERA in two starts against the Yankees. Gregorius is 3 for 8 with a homer when facing Zimmermann, while Castro is 5 for 25 and Teixeira 0 for 6 with three strikeouts.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Padres (0-3) at Rockies (2-1)

Game: 1
Venue: Coors Field
Date: April 08, 2016 4:10 PM EDT

DENVER (AP) Trevor Story willingly donated his helmet and batting gloves to the Hall of Fame as mementos of his historic start.

His bat? Now that was completely off limits. Sorry, Hall of Fame, the Colorado Rockies' rookie shortstop is too superstitious to surrender that piece of lumber.

Story made major-league history in Arizona on Wednesday by becoming the first player to hit a homer in each of his first three games.

Now, he's taking his long ball show to an unfamiliar place - home. Coors Field figures to be a suitable fit for him, even if the team did raise the fences this spring to keep more baseballs from flying out of the yard.

These days, it seems like nothing can prevent Story from going deep. All four of hits this season are for homers.

'It's nice to get off to a hot start,' said Story, whose team is 2-1 heading into the home opener Friday against San Diego. 'I couldn't really have dreamt this any better.'

Maybe the most pertinent question is which happens first: Story being held without a homer for a game or San Diego scoring a run in one?

The Padres lost track of home plate in their season-opening series against the Los Angeles Dodgers, becoming the first major league team to be shut out in its first three games. The Padres set the MLB mark with 27 straight scoreless innings to open a season. The old mark was 26 by the 1943 St. Louis Browns, according to STATS.

Two remarkable streaks - for vastly different reasons.

Story's power surge may be somewhat of a surprise, given that he had 20 combined homers last season in stints with Double-A New Britain and Triple-A Albuquerque.

He leads the National League in home runs, RBIs (7) and total bases (16).

'It's just kind of surreal right now,' Story said. 'I can't really put words to it.'

Carlos Gonzalez sure can.

'Special,' the outfielder said. 'Never seen anything like this before. Every day, a new record. It's nice to see a teammate of yours play the way he played in Arizona. Hopefully, that's just the beginning.'

To think, Story could've been looking at a trip back to the minors this spring to gain more seasoning. He got the chance to earn the job in the absence of Jose Reyes, who remains under investigation in accordance with baseball's new domestic violence policy. Baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred expects to rule soon on a possible discipline for Reyes.

Story has certainly run with his opportunity. He's taking over a spot that this time last year belonged to fan favorite Troy Tulowitzki, who was traded to Toronto last July. The 23-year-old Story was a first-round pick of Colorado in 2011 and has steadily progressed through the system.

Now, after the team spent the last two months in Arizona, he's eager to arrive at 20th and Blake.

'I'm just excited to get there and get out on the field and get familiar with and play in front of the Rockies fans,' Story said.

The park underwent some alterations as the team installed higher outfield fences in two locations. In one area along right-center, it was raised 8 feet, 9 inches. In another spot near the left field foul pole by 5 feet.

Gold Glove third baseman Nolan Arenado isn't worried about the new configuration.

'It's pretty tall,' said Arenado, who hit 20 of his 42 homers at Coors Field last season. 'But I don't really hit balls that way anyway. It doesn't really mess me up. Denver's still a good place to hit.'

Perhaps not exactly the friendliest place to pitch, though. The Rockies are anxious to see how right-hander Jordan Lyles bounces back Friday after missing a chunk of last season with a left big toe injury that required surgery.

'Fastball command is critical for Jordan,' manager Walt Weiss said.

The Padres will counter with righty Colin Rea, who threw one inning Monday in the Padres' 15-0 loss to the Dodgers. More than anything, the Padres are trying to give their pitchers some offensive support.

So far, they're hitting a combined .120 with just one extra base hit.

'There is still perspective here, not to be lost,' rookie manager Andy Green said Wednesday after his team was outscored by the Dodgers 25-0 in the three-game series. 'We still do have 159 games left and we will score runs this year.'

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Indians (1-1) at White Sox (2-1)

Game: 1
Venue: U.S. Cellular Field
Date: April 08, 2016 4:10 PM EDT

CHICAGO (AP) - The Chicago White Sox expected to give their fans plenty to cheer about last year, and they believe they are finally ready to do that.

Chicago faces the Cleveland Indians in its home opener Friday, hoping to deliver on the promise of last season when some big moves had the team eyeing even bigger things.

The season did not go the way the White Sox anticipated. The early returns this time are at least encouraging.

'There's a certain amount of confidence that's in there with all these guys coming together,' manager Robin Ventura said. 'They seemed to hit it off pretty early in spring training as far as getting work in, getting the right kind of work in, gaining confidence. Until you win games, it only goes so far. But so far, we like the way it feels.'

The White Sox (3-1) thought they had a playoff contender a year ago after a series of high-profile acquisitions, only to stumble to a 76-86 record.

Now, after finishing fourth in the AL Central and posting their third straight losing season, they hope to deliver on the promise of 2015.

They send John Danks to the mound Friday, with the promising Danny Salazar starting for Cleveland, after opening with a four-game series at Oakland. The White Sox won the first two before Carlos Rodon got outpitched by Sonny Gray in a 2-1 loss Wednesday, and they won 6-1 behind newcomer Mat Latos the following day - a solid start for a team that never could pick itself up after struggling early on a year ago.

The offseason additions of third baseman Todd Frazier, shortstop Jimmy Rollins, catchers Alex Avila and Dioner Navarro, and outfielder Austin Jackson seem to be helping. They have added to the batting order and defense while providing leadership qualities that were missing last season. The veterans have also taken some of the load off key returning players such as Adam Eaton and Jose Abreu.

'You've got veteran guys,' Ventura said. 'You're starting to learn how to stay with an at-bat, how to take an at-bat late in the game. They've been through a lot of those things. For young guys, you can learn from it. ... And they're willing to take the time and talk baseball. These guys get along fairly well. I think that's part of it - the trust factor.'

Eaton is off to a strong start, going 9 for 16 with an RBI. That's a big change from a year ago, when he struggled in a big way early on and took about five weeks before he drove in a run.

He has also been playing right field over the shaky Avisail Garcia with Jackson in center, tightening the outfield defense. Garcia, the designated hitter for the first three games, did start in right Thursday as Melky Cabrera rotated into the DH spot.

The White Sox figure to be tested by a Cleveland team that also has eyes on a playoff spot after struggling early and coming up short down the stretch a year ago. The Indians (1-1), rained out at home Thursday against Boston, boast one of the deepest rotations in baseball.

Can they close the gap in the AL Central on World Series champion Kansas City?

That hinges on whether they can score after ranking 11th in the AL in runs, 13th in homers and stranding more runners than any AL team but New York.

They had no trouble against Danks, who went 0-3 with a 6.43 ERA in four starts against Cleveland last year. The left-hander would finish with a career-high 15 losses and a fourth straight season with an ERA above 4.70.

Salazar had a much different 2015 season, his third in the majors. He went 14-10 with a 3.45 ERA in 30 starts and finished seventh in the AL with 195 strikeouts in 185 innings. The right-hander struck out 16 in 12 2-3 innings against the White Sox, yielding two runs.

Abreu, though, has two homers and two singles in 11 at-bats against Salazar. He's hit safely in all four games after homering and driving in three runs Thursday.

Carlos Santana is off to a hot start for the Indians, going 3 for 6 with a homer, a double and two walks. However, he's 6 for 35 (.171) against Danks.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Rays (2-2) at Orioles (2-0)

Game: 1
Venue: Oriole Park at Camden Yards
Date: April 08, 2016 7:05 PM EDT

Steven Souza Jr. demonstrated some power in the minors, but it was never quite clear if it would translate to the big leagues.

His bat is leading the way for Tampa Bay thus far in 2016.

Souza looks to continue his power surge Friday night as the Rays visit the Baltimore Orioles.

Tampa Bay salvaged a home split of a season-opening series with Toronto after dropping the first two games. Souza went 6 for 15 with three home runs, including two in Wednesday's 5-3 win.

A third-round pick by Washington in 2007, Souza is flashing the promise that helped persuade the Rays to relinquish the highly touted Wil Myers in a three-team, 11-player deal in December 2014.

Souza hit 16 homers in 110 games while still holding rookie status in 2015, but also struck out 144 times. He homered 56 times in the minors from 2012-14.

"I'm just staying within myself," Souza said. "Letting the ball take its course."

He batted .137 in 16 games against Baltimore last season, though three of his seven hits were home runs.

Tampa Bay tied for 18th over the last two seasons with 284 homers, but has scored nine of its 14 runs on six home runs. The Rays' 18 straight games with at least one home run are a club record.

Chris Archer gets the nod after striking out 12 in five innings in Sunday's opener, though he also walked three while throwing 107 pitches and allowing three runs in a 5-3 defeat.

"I always want to go more than five innings," said Archer, who is 2-4 with a 4.44 ERA in eight starts against the Orioles. "But I understand that you can't be perfect every inning, every game."

The Orioles completed a three-game sweep of Minnesota with Thursday's 4-2 comeback victory.

Jonathan Schoop singled in the go-ahead run in the bottom of the seventh after a 21-minute rain delay. Manny Machado and rookie Joey Rickard, hitting atop the order for the first time after going 4 for 7 in his first two games, both homered.

Baltimore is chasing its second 4-0 start in 20 years and has won 13 of 17 at home dating back to a 7-6, 11-inning win against Tampa Bay on Sept. 2. Star outfielder Adam Jones sat out Thursday due to sore ribs, though manager Buck Showalter expects him to be back Friday.

"I just thought it would be smart to give him a day," Showalter said.

Jones could be in for a rough return, though, as he's 2 for 22 with seven strikeouts against Archer. Machado is 8 for 19 off the right-hander.

Chris Tillman retired all six batters he faced before a rain delay ended his opening day outing after only two innings. He'll look to win for the first time in six starts against Tampa Bay after three straight victories previously. He owns a 5.52 ERA in 11 career games against the Rays at Camden Yards.

Evan Longoria, 5 for 17 thus far, is a .327 hitter with six home runs in 49 at-bats against Tillman.

Baltimore won last season's series 10-9.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Red Sox (1-1) at Blue Jays (2-2)

Game: 1
Venue: Rogers Centre
Date: April 08, 2016 7:07 PM EDT

Following a rough end to their opening series, the Toronto Blue Jays are ready to begin play at home.

Whether Josh Donaldson is healthy enough to be in their lineup remains to be seen.

The reigning AL MVP hopes to be available Friday night when the Blue Jays host the Boston Red Sox.

Donaldson went 4 for 16 with two homers and four RBIs as Toronto (2-2) split its series at Tampa Bay, but left Wednesday's 5-3 loss with a strained right calf muscle. Though Donaldson didn't work out Thursday, the Blue Jays are optimistic he'll be ready for the home opener.

"To be honest, I think he'll be out there (Friday) night," manager John Gibbons told MLB's official website. "If it's worth giving him a day or two, if he needs that, it would be smart to do that, but I don't think that's going to happen."

Donaldson, who hit .333 with four homers and 11 RBIs in 19 games against Boston (1-1) in 2015, dealt with the same injury last season and again during spring training.

"He played through it, that's part of it," Gibbons said.

Nine of Toronto's 15 runs at Tampa came off five homers, but its bullpen blew late leads while yielding five runs to lose the last two contests.

The Blue Jays hope their fortunes will be better at Rogers Centre, where they went 53-28 to tie for the AL's best home record but were 4-6 against Boston. Including three postseason starts in 2015, Marcus Stroman is 10-2 with a 2.20 ERA in 16 at home.

The right-hander pitched into the ninth and was charged with three runs in Sunday's 5-3 victory over the Rays.

'I want to finish games," said Stroman, who has one complete game in 28 starts. "That's the mentality. That's the motto. It didn't work out, but I look forward to getting out there the next time and going nine.'

He's lasted at least seven innings in each while posting a 1.26 ERA to win all four starts - three at home - against the Red Sox.

"When Stro takes the mound, it's different," said teammate Troy Tulowitzki, who is 2 for 13 with a homer and seven strikeouts. "He raises the bar that (he) wants you to match his energy and just the swag that he has."

Though last-place Boston finished 15 games behind the AL East champion Toronto in 2015, these two are the predicted frontrunners for this season's division title. The Blue Jays won't face former teammate and new Boston ace David Price, who went 9-1 with a 2.30 ERA in 11 regular-season starts for them after coming over from Detroit in July.

After splitting a weather-shortened two-game set at Cleveland, the Red Sox begin a stretch of 13 straight against division opponents - seven opposite Toronto.

"We're looking forward to this run," manager John Farrell said. "We're looking forward to the challenge."

David Ortiz hit two of Boston's five homers against the Indians, but only that many while batting .162 in nine games at Toronto last season. He's 2 for 11 without a home run when facing Stroman.

Teammate Dustin Pedroia is 4 for 7 against Stroman. He's hit safely in 14 straight games against the Blue Jays, and is batting .330 with 16 RBIs in his last 21 meetings.

Scheduled starter Joe Kelly went 2-6 with a 5.94 ERA in his first 16 starts for Boston last season but 8-0 with a 3.00 ERA in the last nine. The right-hander is 1-1 with a 5.52 ERA in five starts against Toronto.

Donaldson is 8 for 14 against Kelly.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Pirates (3-0) at Reds (3-0)

Game: 1
Venue: Great American Ball Park
Date: April 08, 2016 7:10 PM EDT

Three consecutive postseason appearances take the luster out of a 3-0 start that ultimately won't mean much come October, when the Pittsburgh Pirates truly hope to shine.

They didn't put too much emphasis on last year's opening series either after being swept in Cincinnati. They went on to finish with the second-best record in the majors while watching the Reds lose 98 games despite winning their first four.

Pittsburgh has a long way to go before it starts celebrating, but it surely wouldn't mind beginning 4-0 for the first time in 13 years in Friday night's series opener at Cincinnati.

The Pirates finished 98-64 in 2015 before losing the NL wild-card game to Chicago, which marked a disappointing end to an otherwise successful season that began with them scoring eight runs in three losses to the Reds.

They're hoping a different start to 2016 leads to an even better year and perhaps some postseason success. Andrew McCutchen (5 for 11), Gregory Polanco (3 for 7, five walks) and Francisco Cervelli (4 for 11, three RBIs) led the way in a three-game sweep of St. Louis as the Pirates scored 15 runs without a homer.

'We've reached a point now where we're no longer surprised when we play well,' manager Clint Hurdle said.

The Pirates held the Cardinals to four hits in Wednesday's 5-1 win that brought Pittsburgh to the brink of winning its first four for the first time since 2003. John Jaso tripled to give the Pirates a three-bagger in their first three games for the first time since 1910.

'It was a good first series, a good example of teamwork,' Jaso said. 'The pitching was great and everyone in the lineup, one through eight, contributed.'

Francisco Liriano opened the season by striking out 10 over six scoreless innings of Sunday's 4-1 victory, and he'll get the ball in this one. Liriano went 1-0 with a 3.00 ERA in three starts against the Reds last season and has a 4.12 ERA in seven starts in Cincinnati.

Jay Bruce is 4 for 24 with seven strikeouts against the left-hander, but he's gotten off to a hot start. Bruce went 6 for 12 in a three-game sweep of Philadelphia, hitting a three-run homer in the fourth, an RBI single later that inning and a solo shot in the seventh of Thursday's 10-6 win.

His five RBIs tied a career high, and his start is especially encouraging after he hit .217 in 2014 and .226 last year.

'He put a lot of work in to close some holes in his swing,' manager Bryan Price said. 'I know he was disappointed in his last two seasons.'

Eugenio Suarez hit his first career grand slam in the eight-run fourth Thursday. The Reds acquired Suarez from Detroit in December 2014 in exchange for Alfredo Simon, who went 13-12 with a 5.05 ERA with the Tigers.

Simon is back, though, after signing a one-year deal last month and will get the call against the Pirates. The right-hander faced Pittsburgh twice last season, going eight innings of a 1-0 win April 15 before allowing six runs and a career-high 15 hits in a 9-3 loss July 1.

Cincinnati went 11-8 against the Pirates in 2015 despite finishing last in the Central Division. It's unclear if it will have Brandon Phillips in this matchup after he sat out Thursday with a stomach virus.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Cardinals (0-3) at Braves (0-2)

Game: 1
Venue: Turner Field
Date: April 08, 2016 7:35 PM EDT

Though they're in the midst of their worst start in nine years, the defending NL Central champions insist there's no reason to panic three games into the season.

A lack of scoring has been partly to blame for the St. Louis Cardinals, who must now return to a venue where they've struggled offensively in recent seasons.

Matt Wisler will try to extend his early career mastery of St. Louis and lead the Atlanta Braves to their first win Friday night in the series opener at Turner Field.

The Cardinals certainly didn't have many offensive highlights in Pittsburgh, batting .168 while also going 3 for 22 with runners in scoring position en route to the club's worst start since it last finished below .500 in 2007.

Matt Carpenter (1 for 11), Matt Holliday (1 for 10) and Randal Grichuk (1 for 10) are among those off to slow starts. Grichuk is expected to return to the lineup after sitting out Wednesday's 5-1 loss so he could work through some timing issues.

"It's too early to be concerned with anything," Carpenter told the team's official website. "We just didn't hit... But we will, and once we hit, we'll be fine."

The Cardinals will try to avoid getting blanked in four straight by the same opponent for the first time after they managed 12 hits over the final three games in Atlanta last season. They're also looking to stave off their first 0-4 start since dropping the first six in 1997.

"It's early," Wednesday's losing pitcher Mike Leake said. "We're all right. We're three games into it. I think we just need to slow down and play competitive baseball."

Wisler was dominant in the 2015 finale, allowing four hits and walking one while coming within one out of his first complete game in a 2-0 win. The right-hander had a 1.19 ERA in winning his last three starts after going 0-7 with a 8.08 mark over his prior nine.

Wisler, who worked on his changeup with former star Tom Glavine in the offseason, has given up two runs over 15 2/3 innings in winning two career starts versus St. Louis.

"When I came up I felt good and was going after guys, then August hit and I was terrible," Wisler said. "I lost some confidence in myself and got it back in September."

Jaime Garcia will try to pick up a St. Louis rotation that has allowed 23 hits, seven walks and 11 earned runs over the first 14 2/3 innings. The left-hander finished an injury-plagued 2015 strong by going 7-2 with a 2.74 ERA over his last 12 starts.

One of those losses came at Turner Field on Oct. 2 when he surrendered two runs and six hits over four innings of a 4-0 defeat. Drew Stubbs, who has hit .310 over 29 at-bats versus Garcia, is expected to join Tyler Flowers and Gordon Beckham in the Braves' lineup.

Freddie Freeman is 4 for 7 with two homers off Garcia. Freeman, Adonis Garcia (two RBIs) and A.J. Pierzynski drove in Atlanta's four runs in two home losses to Washington.

The Braves haven't dropped their first three since an 0-4 start in 2012, but they've won four in a row overall and nine of the past 11 home meetings with the Cardinals.

Yadier Molina can become St. Louis' all-time leader for games caught with 1,440.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Astros (1-1) at Brewers (1-2)

Game: 1
Venue: Miller Park
Date: April 08, 2016 8:10 PM EDT

After watching the Houston Astros give up 27 runs in the first three games of the season, manager A.J. Hinch is rightfully concerned about how many batters are reaching base against his pitchers.

On the other hand, Hinch is encouraged by the early season performance of rookie Tyler White.

The Astros will continue their season-opening road trip when they begin a three-game series against the Milwaukee Brewers on Friday night.

The Astros started the season by dropping two of three to the New York Yankees. Starter Mike Fiers gave up five runs and nine hits in five innings in Thursday's 8-5 loss, but the Astros lost the game after he came out.

Hard-throwing right-hander Ken Giles relieved loser Will Harris in the seventh inning and gave up a go-ahead three-run homer. Giles has allowed a home run in each of his two appearances after surrendering three over the previous two seasons with Philadelphia.

"I think the worrisome trend is more how much traffic we're allowing as a team on the bases," Hinch told MLB's official website. "Obviously, you look at that inning and it's the middle part of their order and they did a lot of damage, and we had held their middle of the order in check pretty well most of the series."

Astros starters gave up 10 earned runs over the last two games of the series after ace Dallas Keuchel mostly held the Yankees at bay in a 5-3 win on opening day. Collin McHugh was rocked for six runs in one-third of an inning in the second game, a 16-6 Astros loss.

Right-hander Scott Feldman will get the ball for the Astros on Friday. Feldman, entering the final year of a three-year contract, is 2-1 with a 2.12 ERA in three starts against Milwaukee - none with Houston - while striking out 15 in 17 innings.

White had three hits and four RBIs on Thursday, including his first career home run. He is 6 for 9 in his first three major league games.

"I think that's the key for him is he looks like he's a guy that's in every at-bat, certainly so far in his young career," Hinch said. "That's encouraging to watch him keep his heart rate down, keep the at-bats going, have really good at-bats, doesn't try to do too much, but yet does do damage and has contributed quite well."

Astros shortstop Carlos Correa was hitless in the finale but had three homers in the series.

Right-hander Chase Anderson will make his Milwaukee debut after being acquired from Arizona in January. Anderson, who will face the Astros for the first time, went 6-6 with a 4.30 ERA in 27 starts last season.

The Brewers (1-2) had a day off after beating San Francisco 4-3 on Wednesday as former Astro Chris Carter hit his first homer and added a go-ahead sacrifice fly. Carter, signed to a one-year deal in the offseason, slugged 90 homers over the past three seasons for Houston.

"It's not too often a big guy like him has such a short, compact swing," Milwaukee third baseman Aaron Hill said. "I don't want to say he's perfected it, but he's done a great job of knowing his strength. He continues to get better and wants to get better. It will be fun to see what he's able to do this year with a new team."

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Twins (0-2) at Royals (1-1)

Game: 1
Venue: Ewing M. Kauffman Stadium
Date: April 08, 2016 8:15 PM EDT

The last time the Kansas City Royals faced the Minnesota Twins, they locked up home-field advantage throughout the 2015 postseason.

This week they collected their rings as World Series champions.

The Royals meet the Twins for the first time as reigning champions when the AL Central rivals start a three-game series on Friday night in Kansas City.

The Royals had two days off after splitting two games in three days against the New York Mets in a rematch of the Fall Classic they won in five games.

They got their jewel-encrusted championship rings prior to Tuesday's game, then were shut down by World Series villain Noah Syndergaard, the towering right-hander who beat them in Game 3 last October after throwing at leadoff man Alcides Escobar.

Escobar tripled to lead off the bottom of the first inning Tuesday but the Royals managed only two more hits as they struck out nine times against Syndergaard in six innings.

"We've got our rings now, so the whole process is over now," Royals center fielder Lorenzo Cain said. "So it's time to turn the page, move on and get better playing baseball and winning baseball.'

The Royals were 12-7 against the Twins last year, including a three-game sweep to end the season. They secured home-field advantage with a 6-1 win at Minnesota in the Oct. 4 season finale.

Right-hander Yordano Ventura was Kansas City's opening day starter last year and will make his first start of 2016 on Friday. Ventura pitched much better over the second half of 2015, going 9-2 with a 3.56 ERA in 15 starts after the All-Star break. He was 13-8 with a 4.08 ERA overall and is 2-3 with a 3.90 ERA in five career starts versus the Twins.

Minnesota was swept in Baltimore to start the season, scoring six total runs in a tight three-game series marred by its lack of hitting in key spots.

Joe Mauer hit his first home run Thursday but the Twins couldn't hold onto a two-run lead in a 4-2 loss. Minnesota hit .216 in the series, went 2 for 21 with runners in scoring position, left 20 men on base and struck out 35 times.

Leadoff hitter Brian Dozier is in the middle of Minnesota's woes, opening the season 0 for 11.

"The one thing we were able to do last year was capitalize on opportunities, comparably when we didn't have as many as some other teams," Minnesota manager Paul Molitor said. "I think it's one of those things that builds early. Guys get up there and they are grinding, almost too hard even though we are only three games in."

Ervin Santana will make his second start after the right-hander's first career opening day start was cut short by a 70-minute rain delay. He threw two scoreless innings in Monday's 3-2 loss, allowing two hits and two walks while striking out three.

Santana, who spent 2013 with Kansas City, is 5-7 with a 4.63 ERA in 16 career starts against his former team, including an 0-1 mark with a 2.40 ERA in two starts last season.

Escobar is 7 for 21 lifetime against Santana and cleanup hitter Eric Hosmer is 4 for 12 with two homers and four walks.

Twins shortstop Eduardo Escobar is 5 for 10 against Ventura but Mauer has one hit in 10 career at-bats against him with five strikeouts.

Dozier, who led the Twins with 28 homers and 39 doubles last season, hit .179 with no home runs and four doubles in 18 games against Kansas City in 2015. He went 1 for 6 against Ventura.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Athletics (1-2) at Mariners (2-1)

Game: 1
Venue: Safeco Field
Date: April 08, 2016 10:10 PM EDT

SEATTLE (AP) - For the second straight season, young Seattle Mariners right-hander Taijuan Walker will make his season debut against the Oakland Athletics.

Almost any result will be better than Walker's first start against the A's to begin last year. He gave up nine earned runs, nine hits and didn't make it through the fourth inning.

'I definitely want to go out there and have a good outing against them, because last year they got me pretty well. I guess a little payback this time,' Walker said.

The Mariners return to the Pacific Northwest on Friday night to kick off their home slate with a three-game series against the A's. Friday will include all pomp and circumstance of a traditional opening day - including new Hall of Famer Ken Griffey Jr. throwing out the first pitch - plus some curiosity about this year's Mariners.

Can the power surge Seattle displayed in Texas, led by four home runs by Robinson Cano, continue at home?

The Mariners hit nine home runs in the three-game series in Texas, where Seattle won two of three and likely should have swept. Cano was the instigator of the power surge, becoming the 29th player in major league history to homer in each of the first three games of the season.

It'll be the task of Oakland lefty Eric Surkamp to try to slow the Mariners. Surkamp is replacing Felix Doubront, who suffered an elbow sprain in his final spring training start last week.

Surkamp appeared in one game last season for the Los Angeles Dodgers, allowing four runs in 3 1-3 innings, and his last start came in 2013 for San Francisco.

"At the beginning of the spring, we didn't see him in the rotation, but he earned it," manager Bob Melvin told MLB's official website.

He'll be opposed by Walker, who finished last season with an 11-8 mark and a 4.56 ERA. The Mariners didn't want to overwork his arm so he didn't pitch in late September after reaching 169 innings.

Walker admitted at times last season to pitching with the worry of being sent to the minors if he struggled, but said he's more comfortable with his position this year.

'I feel pretty good where I'm at right now,' Walker said. 'I know (James) Paxton's down there waiting, and he's really good and any time he can come up here. I know I have to go out there and get my work in, and pretty much do my job and do what I can to help my teammates.'

New Seattle manager Scott Servais said the key for Walker on Friday and throughout the season is going to be his secondary pitches and not always relying on his fastball.

'I think he will be juiced up, but I think you'll see a really good fastball,' Servais said. 'The thing with Taijuan is the secondary stuff, can he harness it, can he get it in the strike zone and be the complete pitcher, and doesn't get locked into one pitch. I'm excited for him to get that opportunity and I think he's ready for it.'

Friday will also be the home debut for Servais as manager. He won over many of his players and fans with a fiery display in Tuesday's 10-2 win when he yelled and pointed at the Texas bench after Chris Iannetta was hit by a pitch.

'I know the city is excited, a lot of change, a lot of good vibe around our organization,' Servais said. 'Rightly so, and I think they're going to like watching us play.'

The fans enjoyed watching them play the A's in 2015, as the Mariners went 13-6 in the series.

Nelson Cruz spurred that success, hitting .333 with five homers and 12 RBIs. A matchup against Surkamp will be favorable to the slugger, whose 14 homers against lefties last season were tied for the most in the majors and .357 average versus southpaws was fourth-best.

The A's opened 2016 by dropping three of four at home to the Chicago White Sox. Offense was their biggest problem as they scored 10 runs while batting .212 with six extra-base hits.

Mark Canha has hit Oakland's lone home run and went 3 for 3 with a homer against Walker last season.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Dodgers (3-0) at Giants (2-1)

Game: 2
Venue: AT&T Park
Date: April 08, 2016 10:15 PM EDT

If this year's first meeting between the San Francisco Giants and Los Angeles Dodgers is any indication, the rivals could be in for a wild and entertaining season series.

After the Giants handed the visiting Dodgers their first defeat, the teams continue their four-game set Friday night.

'It's special,' said first-year Los Angeles manager Dave Roberts, who played for both teams, of the rivalry. 'It's real. These are two amazing franchises. Both teams need one another. They came over to the West Coast together. It's great for baseball.'

While the Dodgers (3-1) have claimed three straight NL West titles, San Francisco won three of the last six World Series - all in even years - and expects to be a contender again this season. After Los Angeles outscored San Diego 25-0 to sweep its opening three-game set, its 31-inning streak without yielding a run - one shy of the major league record to start a season - ended when the Giants (3-1) scored three times in the fifth Thursday and overcame a 4-0 deficit to win 12-6.

'You play all nine innings and you keep going no matter what,' said Hunter Pence, whose grand slam highlighted San Francisco's five-run eighth.

'Things turn around.'

Joe Panik had three hits and three RBIs for the Giants, who recorded 17 hits while scoring 12 runs for the second time this week.

'We can beat you in many different ways,' said Panik, who is 8 for 16 in his last four home games against the Dodgers. 'We never think that we're done.'

San Francisco likely needs to remain productive at the plate with Matt Cain on the mound. Various injuries have limited the veteran right-hander to 26 starts while going 4-11 with a 4.74 ERA the past two seasons.

Cain, who went 1-2 with a 7.71 ERA in three spring training starts, is 0-3 with a 5.27 ERA in his last five against the Dodgers but has not faced them since May 2014.

Yasiel Puig, 4 for 11 with two doubles and a home run against Cain, is 8 for 15 with two triples, a homer, six runs scored and four RBIs through four games.

Though Los Angeles pitchers were battered Thursday, it's hitters are batting .313 with 13 doubles thus far.

Adrian Gonzalez is 7 for 14 with three doubles and four RBIs, and hitting .400 with seven RBIs in his last nine against the Giants.

The Dodgers look to regroup on the mound while handing the ball to 26-year-old Ross Stripling, who makes his major league debut two years after undergoing Tommy John surgery. The right-hander, who never pitched in Triple-A, went 3-6 with a 3.66 ERA pitching for Double-A Tulsa and Class-A Great Lakes last year.

He beat out established major league pitchers Carlos Frias and Zach Lee for the fifth spot in the rotation.

'For me it's just kind of telling him to enjoy the moment, go out there and be himself and compete," Roberts said. "You're here because you belong here."

It appears Stripling won't have to face Buster Posey, who had three hits with two RBIs on Thursday, to start this contest as the veteran catcher is expected to be rested.