Friday 5/8/15 service plays chatter/comps/requests & other stuff...

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NBA

Cavaliers get JR Smith back here, giving them another dynamic scorer; in Game 1 home loss to Chicago; Cleveland was just 7-26 from arc, got only nine points from bench- two of their normal subs started, but last game, they were 12-26 from arc, got 17 from Jones off bench and were up 20 after first quarter. Cavs won/covered four of six games with Chicago this year, but Bulls won three of last four series games played here. Bulls won nine of last 12 games with five of last seven staying under total; Chicago made 10-18 from arc in Game 1, only 7-22 in Wednesday's game.

Chris Paul (hamstring) is game-time decision after Clippers split pair in Houston without him; they've now won seven of last ten games against Rockets, who were 42-64 from foul line last game, when LA led by 9 at half. Houston lost three of last four road games in series, with last three staying under total. Five of last six Clipper games went over the total. Rockets are just 16-59 on arc in series- both teams cut their turnovers in from sloppy Game 1. What are odds that Houston doesn't take 64 FTs in Games 3-4 combined? .

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at The Meadows

Always check program numbers.
Odds shown are morning line odds.


Race 10 - Post: 3:55 - 1 mile. PACE - Class Rating: 70 - Purse:$6200 - CD CLAIM 3-5YO F& M WINNERS OF 1 BUT NOT MORE THAN 3 EXT PM RACES OR $12,500 LIFE CLAIM PRICE $14,000 W/A


CONSORTIUM CHOICES


Chatsworth Consortium

# 3 FLYING NUN 5/2


# 5 SEW PSYCHED 6/1


# 9 HANGON SUZIE Q 3/1


Hard not to strongly consider FLYING NUN as the top selection here. Has the look of a profitable play, averaging a rather good 74 TrackMaster Speed Rating. This mare has been racing against some of the most competitive company in this bunch these days. Worth considering in this contest if only for the really strong speed fig recorded in the most recent affair. SEW PSYCHED - Take a look at this fine animal's avg speed rating of 73 and compare to today's class rating. Looks like a very good bet. Racing soundly, recorded a substantial TrackMaster speed fig in her last race (70). HANGON SUZIE Q - That 73 speed rating clocked in the last competition puts this horse in the mix for this race. Unquestionably think these two have a good thing going. Medors sending the horse out means a respectable chance to get the trip to the winner's circle.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at Yonkers Raceway

Always check program numbers.
Odds shown are morning line odds.


Race 3 - Post: 7:50 - 1 mile. PACE - Class Rating: 85 - Purse:$11000 - CLAIMING ALLOWANCE $12,500 3 YO 50%, 4 YO 25%, F& M 20%


CONSORTIUM CHOICES


Chatsworth Consortium

# 2 DEFIANCE N 2/1


# 1 TOUCH AND GO 5/2


# 7 STONEBRIDGE COWBOY 9/2


Hey, listen up! DEFIANCE N is the smart bet if you like to win. Take a look at this standardbred's average speed rating of 87 and compare to today's class rating. Looks like a competitive bet. The consortium gives this harness racer a respectable chance to take this race, class statistics are tops in the field of starters. Can't overlook the connections here, a 37 winning stat, one of the finest at getting into the winners circle. TOUCH AND GO - Many selectors will recognize the outstanding TrackMaster Speed Rating in the last race. Stacks up against any horse in this field of starters. The number crunching team happens to know that when you put Brennan and Banca together good results happen frequently. STONEBRIDGE COWBOY - Entrant fits well here and sharp trainer's great ROI for horses off a claim make this one an good play.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Camarero

Always check program numbers.
Odds shown are morning line odds.


Race 1 - Claiming - 8.0f on the Dirt. Purse: $6770 Class Rating: 69

FOR FILLIES THREE YEARS OLD. WEIGHT, 120 LBS. NON-WINNERS OF A RACE SINCE APRIL 23, 2015 ALLOWED 1 LBS. A RACE SINCE APRIL 8, 2015 ALLOWED 2 LBS. A RACE SINCE MARCH 8, 2015 ALLOWED 4 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $7,500


RECOMMENDED CHOICES

The Walker Group Picks

# 2 PRIVATEBALLERINA 3/1


# 4 WINNINGPRINCESS 1/1


# 3 INDYGO JEWEL 2/1


PRIVATEBALLERINA looks to be a respectable contender. She has been running solidly and the speed figures are among the top in this field. Should keep the strong string of finishes intact this time around. Appears to have a decent class edge based on the recent company kept. WINNINGPRINCESS - Has to be given consideration against this group displaying very good figures recently and an average Equibase speed fig of 53 under similar conditions. Has very good early speed and will almost certainly fare strongly versus this group. INDYGO JEWEL - With a formidable 70 speed figure last time out, will clearly be a factor in this contest. Is tough not to look at given the company run in as of late.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Indiana Downs

Always check program numbers.
Odds shown are morning line odds.


Race 2 - Allowance - 6.0f on the Dirt. Purse: $36000 Class Rating: 78

FOR REGISTERED INDIANA BREDS SIRED BY REGISTERED INDIANA STALLIONS THREE YEAR OLDS AND UPWARD WHICH HAVE NEVER WON TWO RACES. THREE YEAR OLDS, 118 LBS.; OLDER, 122 LBS. NON-WINNERS OF A RACE SINCE APRIL 8 ALLOWED 2 LBS.


RECOMMENDED CHOICES

The Walker Group Picks

# 3 TOPARA 8/5


# 6 SON OF A NUT 8/1


# 9 SPANISH JUSTICE 5/1


My selection in this competition is TOPARA. Is worth careful consideration and may be a wager - strong Equibase Speed Figures (78 average) at today's distance and surface recently. With a sound jockey who has won at a strong 20 percent clip over the last 30 days. This has to be one of the top selections. Recorded a solid Equibase Speed Figure in the latest race. Can run another good one in this contest. SON OF A NUT - This gelding could improve with second time Lasix. With a +14 ROI, this jockey and conditioner duo has produced very good profits lately for bettors. SPANISH JUSTICE - With a nice class figure average of 78, has one of the top class advantages in this group of horses in this race. The speed rating of 68 from his most recent contest looks respectable in here.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Bar

Emerald Downs - Race #4 - Post: 8:08pm - Claiming - 5.5 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $8,900 Class Rating: 80

Rating: Golden DollarGolden DollarGolden DollarGolden Dollar

#6 CACAU (ML=7/2)


CACAU - Ran last race out against tougher competition at Del Mar. The move down in class should suit him well. This horse brings in a lot of dough per start. Tops in this event.

Vulnerable Contenders: #4 TOUCH OF DANZIG (ML=5/2), #2 FIN DU MONDE (ML=3/1), #5 DEBAUCH (ML=9/2),

TOUCH OF DANZIG - This gelding almost certainly won't be on the money at the wire. FIN DU MONDE - Didn't look like a winner last time. Probably won't make an impact in today's event. DEBAUCH - 9/2 is not worth the risk for any mount in a sprint of 5 1/2 furlongs that hasn't finished in the money in a short distance event recently. This colt registered a speed figure in his last event which likely isn't good enough today.


STRAIGHT WAGERS:
#6 CACAU is going to be the play if we are getting 1/1 or better

EXACTA WAGERS:
None

TRIFECTA WAGERS:
Pass

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:
Pass

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Bar

Thistledown - Race #1 - Post: 12:55pm - Claiming - 5.5 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $11,500 Class Rating: 54

Rating: Golden DollarGolden DollarGolden DollarGolden Dollar

#1 IDE SAY I'M CLASSY (ML=9/2)
#2 ONE HOT SPRING (ML=7/2)


IDE SAY I'M CLASSY - This speedy sort is running a shorter distance today. Should enhance her winning probability. Looking at today's class figure, this thoroughbred is up against an easier field than in the last race at Fair Grounds. ONE HOT SPRING - Filly got a healthy speed rating last time she tried this distance. That number would be good enough to win today. Chapman drops her down to this class level. You don't need too much more data to believe this one is in a good spot at this level. That 46 fig this filly notched in her last clash tells me she's a key player in today's event.

Vulnerable Contenders: #5 HERMIONE'S SPELL (ML=2/1), #6 BOURBON BEAUTY (ML=3/1), #4 CAUSEWAY COWGIRL (ML=6/1),

HERMIONE'S SPELL - 2/1 is not priced right for any mount in a sprint of 5 1/2 furlongs that hasn't finished in the money in a sprint clash recently. BOURBON BEAUTY - Not probable for this one to do much running with no recent good showings in a sprint race. Quite unimpressive rating last time out at Thistledown at 5 1/2 furlongs. Don't believe this runner will improve too much today. CAUSEWAY COWGIRL - This thoroughbred hasn't shown much life in the last pair of contests. You figure that this horse is going to be first just because she's always close. Just doesn't get the job done often.


STRAIGHT WAGERS:
Go with #1 IDE SAY I'M CLASSY on top if we're getting at least 9/5 odds

EXACTA WAGERS:
Box [1,2]

TRIFECTA WAGERS:
Pass

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:
Skip

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Rick Needham at Belmont Park

RACE #3 - 2:22 PM

7.0 FURLONGS DIRT FILLIES AND MARES THREE YEARS OLD AND UPWARD $14,000.00 CLAIMING $26,000.00 PURSE

#1 DESERT BLISS
#5 BELLA FACHI
#4 KISS CAT
#2 SHARPANDWITTY

#1 DESERT BLISS takes a class drop (-6) this afternoon, and is the only entry in this claiming field showing a "POWER RUN" in each of this field's collective last five past performance sheets ... in fact, she's turned in "POWER RUNS" in each of her last five outings, hitting the board in a pair. She is also making that classic, "turf-to-dirt" move. #5 BELLA FACHI is the speed and pace profile leader in this field sprinting at today's "specialized distance" of 7.0 furlongs on the dirt ... and comes off a win in her last start. However, kindly note that the win was against much weaker company (-17), and that win did not qualify as a "POWER RUN" based on today's stronger class company!

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Mohawk: Friday 5/8 Analysis
By Garnet Barnsdale

DRF HARNESS

Race 4 - $50,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool

EARLY PICK 4:

4,6/3,5,6,7,8,9/1,3,6/8 = $36


LATE PICK 4: 7,9,10/1,8/3,4,9/1,6,10 = $54

MEET STATS: 57 - 170 / $320.40 BEST BETS: 9 - 15 / $29.30

SPOT PLAYS: 2 - 13 / $32.60

Best Bet: IMMINENT RESPONSE (7th)

Spot Play: LARJON LAURA (8th)


Race 1

(8) OCEANA made up a ton of ground after breaking early and spotting the field more than 20 lengths and she fell just short of a miraculous-looking win; top call hoping she behaves in here. (5) TYMAL SIGNATURE provided cover to the winner in the Celias Counsel Final in a good effort. She is faces others stuck on one win here and looks formidable. (7) FLEXCEPTIONAL wasn't far back in the same dash as the one above and merits a look here, too.

Race 2

(3) GREYSTONE LADYLIKE drops to a level where she should be queen bee here; on top. (6) MISS COCO LUCK has held her form well the past month and could take this with a trip. (4) MACHET ROCKET also drops in class back to a level where she has been competitive in the past.

Race 3

(10) MUSCLE MACK trotted so fast down the Mohawk stretch last week that he looked like he was shot out of a cannon. The 10-hole obviously is no bargain but this one has the speed and talent to overcome it. (1) RUBBER DUCK got good in the fall then was stopped on for the year. He returns off an impressive qualifying effort and must be chased down. (2) OH MY MAGIC is 3-3 this year at Flamboro now gives the big track a go here.

Race 4

(4) MISTRESSTOTHESTARS raced much better last Saturday and is likely sent here by Jamieson. Catch her to greet the cashier. (6) REQUEST FOR PAROLE beat similar at Pocono now goes for Team Baillargeon here after shipping in; she's dangerous. (1) NINE LIVES HANOVER moves inside and can pass rivals from closer range for a decent share here.

Race 5

(5) SOUTHWIND CHAMPANE opened her 3YO campaign with an easy win. Trainer Bax has this one on top of her game early; call to repeat. (6) CLIMB HIGHER moved into the Baillargeon barn and trotted one of his best miles yet in his May 1 qualifier; using. (7) MAGIC SHELLEY tripped out to win the Celias Counsel Final but she is obviously a filly on the rise,

Race 6

(3) NAT A VIRGIN came home fast off excess cover in her season's debut. She can beat this group if driven more aggressively. (6) BULLET POINT has reeled off two straight vs. lower but is capable of making this jump and showing more speed; beware. (1) MURRAYFIELD gets class and post relief here and must be respected.

Race 7

(8) IMMINENT RESPONSE ships in from Rideau where he has beaten arguably better and trainer Vanderkemp immediately enlists a catch-driver. That tells us enough to call him on top. (4) HAVA KADABRA drops back to a class where he won while making several moves; the main danger. (3) CANBEC FRIDOLIN drops into a claimer for Moreau and should show marked improvement.

Race 8

(10) LARJON LAURA was forced into a tough trip when she couldn't fish out cover last time but she still finished well to fall only a length short. The price will be better from out there tonight and she may even get a better trip. (9) EXHILARATED motored home from last to be beaten only 1/2 a length by the choice; using. (7) CHEEKIE drops into a claimer for Team Jamieson and has a shot to convert vs. this group.

Race 9

(1) MONKEY ON MY WHEEL gets top billing in this stacked F & M Preferred dash as she should get one of the better trips starting from the inside. (8) BEACH GAL fired home in 26 1/5 in her lone qualifier and looks ready to roll for white-hot trainer Menary. (3) AMERICAN IN PARIS failed twice as big chalk so far this year but is sure to be a much better price here.

Race 10

(4) OLDFRIENDSKENTUCKY makes his 2nd start out of the Moreau barn and looks to have a more favorable pace scenario here vs. easier. (9) WESTERN CAPTIVE showed high speed both early and late in his qualifier and may be the choice's main competition for the front early. (3) HAIL THE TAXI wasn't far behind the choice after starting from post 10 and merits consideration here with the move inside.

Race 11

(10) LOVELY ERIN has already proven she can handle outside posts and looks solid to run her unbeaten streak to 5 here. (6) BEYONCES ROCKIN looked like a winner in the stretch when a rival roared out of the pack late to nab her. She looks like the main foe. (1) ZIP CODE ENVY left hard from the 10-hole then chased an impressive winner home. She will be tough here with the move inside. (3) DOCS HOLLYWOOD was hung the mile and still finished close up; she has upset possibilities. (9) MOREMUNKYBUSINESS is a good one to close late and hit the bottom rungs of vertical wagers.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Meadowlands: Friday 5/8 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

CHAMPIONSHIP MEET STATS: 10 - 26 / $45.70 BEST BETS: 2 - 2 / $4.90

Best Bet: PROVE UP (9th)

Spot Play: JERSEYLICIOUS (1st)


Race 1

(6) JERSEYLICIOUS has been super in her morning qualifiers and seems ready to win. (2) COFFEE ADDICT hasn’t been very reliable this year, but she is a capable mare given the right trip. (3) THAT WOMAN HANOVER has yet to find her peak form but could be sitting a perfect trip behind the top choice. (5) PAN LUIS OBISPO could be dangerous with the right trip.

Race 2

Driver Hannah Miller has seemingly won every race this year (though that is not the case) and I just can’t get myself to pick against (6) JACKS TO OPEN. The gelding figures to get a good pace to close into considering the abundance of early speed signed on. (8) CURRENT CRISIS has a win and a second in this series and you can never go wrong with Krivelin in these amateur races. (5) ALL ABOUT JUSTICE was a good second last time and seems to have an upset chance. (1) MAJESTIC GINGER is erratic but very capable; tough call.

Race 3

(5) ARIEL SALUTE reverted to his breaking ways last time. He faces a very suspect bunch on Friday and will win if he behaves. (2) DEMONS N DIAMONDS chased better foes in her seasonal debut and could certainly show more with that start in hand. (6) STONEBRIDGE FORCE is another that could improve in his second start of the year.

Race 4

(1) TRUE BLUE STRIDE went back to racing with hobbles and minded his manners. The last qualifier doesn’t look like a great line, but he was facing some of the best 3-year-old trotting colts. I’ll give him an upset chance in here. (4) DAPPER DON sprinted home to an easy score in his most recent morning effort; Tetrick’s choice of three. (5) BOLI was done in by a bad post in his 2015 debut; shows more? (10) MARION MILLIONAIR has a chance but is tough to love from this post.

Race 5

(5) A PLUS got nipped at the wire by Horse of the Year JK She’salady in her latest qualifier. Tony Alagna-trained filly was aimed by as a rookie and could have some ability. (9) SPARTACUS was facing better foes in the Spring Preview and has the early zip to overcome the outside draw. (2) LINDYS OLD LADY sports some strong qualifying lines; unknown quantity.

Race 6

(5) BETTOR BE STEPPIN won by a country mile against inferior competition at Philly to start her 3-year-old racing campaign. This group should provide a good barometer of where she stands in the division. (2) BEDROOMCONFESSIONS chased along in a good mile to start 2015. She could easily show more now. (4) DIVINE CAROLINE is perfect in two starts this year; clearly dangerous. (3) HAPPINESS could conceivably step up but seems a step slower on paper.

Race 7

(7) MUSCLE NETWORK simply grinded down the leader in his 2015 debut and from watching him in qualifying action, that seems to be a good style for him. Former 2-year-old standout has every chance to make a name for himself as he climbs the condition ladder. (3) POUNCE HANOVER has won four straight and is a must on your tickets. (1) PHOTOSAVVY finds a tough spot in his return to the Meadowlands, but should at least get a minor award.

Race 8

(2) RILEY’S DREAM came back from a two month break with a pair of solid second-place finishes. I’ll give her the narrow edge to pick up her first career win. (4) ALLERAGE STAR showed some ability as a 2-year-old and her qualifiers seem good enough. (9) MODEL BEHAVIOR wasn’t bad in her first start of the year. The post tonight hurts, but I could see an improved effort coming in the near future. (1) MURDERERS ROW looks competitive on paper; worth using.

Race 9

(3) PROVE UP gets class relief for a high percentage barn and jumps off the page. (1) CRAZY N LINDY should get away close and have every chance in the lane. (9) ASHES CASH was able to last the distance a week ago and in theory could wire them again. (4) KINGAPORE gets a driver change and could show more.

Race 10

(2) DREAM ROCKER has been racing well for most of the year and this group doesn’t exactly look too strong. Four-year-old should head to the front and could offer some value with the defection of Gingras to the Burke-trained (5) HOME TURF, who is usually hit and miss. (3) LAZURUS comes off a pair of seconds and seems like a logical play for at least the exotics.

Race 11

(4) VALERYA lured Callahan off of #3, which is saying something. Seven-year-old proved herself last time at Pocono and seems to be a different horse this year. (7) WEEPER has natural speed and will prove tough if she is firing off the gate in her first start of the year. (2) GALLIE BYTHE BEACH has a couple of starts under her belt now and could be ready to step up with a big effort; don’t ignore. (3) INITTOWINAFORTUNE has been coming up with top efforts in this class for weeks now.

Race 12

(7) TWO HIP DIP faces a field with more quality than his most recent win. That said, he is plenty fast enough to win again. (6) LOCK DOWN LINDY is a filly that has displayed flashes of talent and the switch to Tetrick this year seems to be agreeing with her. (2) DONNIE DARKO comes off a decent effort and should be a part of the equation tonight. (1) BATTLE IMAGE improved last time.

Race 13

(7) KZ BEACH GIRL rallied willingly with no shot last time despite some stretch traffic issues. She is the one to beat on paper. (6) OCEANS MOTION toured the track in her debut for the Elliott barn and can show more now; using on all tickets. (5) BRUSHSTROKES moves into a barn that is having a solid meet. (1) TOP BRAND has been racing better lately; exotics player.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Yonkers: Friday 5/8 Analysis
By Brewster Smith

DRF HARNESS

MEET STATS: 66 - 379 / $478.60 BEST BETS: 5 - 33 / $26.60

Best Bet: FANTICIPATION (7th)

Spot Play: FLEX THE MUSCLE (10th)


Race 1

(7) AZOREANSAILOR has good tactical speed. Has a good chance to turn the tables on rival (1) CHINA DREAM. The latter was sent down the road last out for all the glory; dangerous again. (6) DONT FOOL WITH ME appears to be a threat based on his last two trips.

Race 2

(2) DIAMONDKEEPER Sharp gelding scored his sixth straight victory. Clearly the one to deny. (4) DABUNKA has been right there in his last three tries; main danger. (7) FOX VALLEY DEUCE could have a say in the outcome.

Race 3

(1) TOUCH AND GO very game effort last time out for this 10-year-old gelding. Now gets the fence where he can work out a better trip; gets the call. (7) STONEBRIDGE COWBOY has hit the board in his last four starts. (3) SPEEDACIOUS was second best in his last one.

Race 4

(2) KEEMOSABE Easy score at this level in his recent outing. Ready to boss this group once again. LONG FIGHT HANOVER is getting close to getting back to the winner's circle based on his last five starts. (1) ONE WARRAWEE took the pocket route home to victory last out.

Race 5

(4) LUCKY TERROR put in a nice effort for the show spot in his last trip to the post. Has the right stuff to move forward against these. (1) ART FOR ARTS SAKE should do much better from the rail slot. (2) NASSAU COUNTY can be a big factor in here so watch out.

Race 6

(2) VIRGIN MARY She might be coming back to form based on her last try. Can put her best foot forward for all the marbles. (7) KRISPY APPLE is better than her latest; threat. (6) JONSIE JONES got the job done wire to wire; beware again.

Race 7

(1) FANTICIPATION moves down in class and draws the pole position. She is ready to make tonight a winning one. (2) SCOOTIN FOR JOY has fine speed and will be a serious threat in this event. (5) DUNE IN RED just held on last out for win honors.

Race 8

This seems to be a good spot for (6) MALAK USWAAD N to return to his winning ways. (4) SAFE HARBOR is better than his most recent outing. (3) HI HO STEVERINO could land a share.

Race 9

(6) LUCKY MAN moves down a notch in class. Pacing gelding could return to his 4/23 trip. If that's the case, it's light's out for the rest. (1) GARNET RIVER A Wire to wire score last out for this old pro; big player again. (2) FITZ'S Z TAM Clearly he will be right in the mix.

Race 10

(1) FLEX THE MUSCLE Trotter moves to the fence where he can get a better trip; all systems go. (3) OUTBURST beat lesser company in his last one. (2) WALLTOCOUSINS Philly invader is not out of this by far.

Race 11

Will try (7) CLASSY LANE ROSE to get back to the winner's circle and Brennan is keeping the faith. (1) OUR ELS DREAM N can be right there from the fence. (2) HANDSOFFMYCOOKIE She fits with these; watch out.

Race 12

(1) ROYAL KNOCKOUT She has been very keen in her last three starts. Pacing miss has the rail slot and should be ready to boss these at her best. (7) ROCKAROUND SUE just got up for win honors last out. (6) STRINGS is not out of this based on strong connections.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

SPOT PLAYS

For Friday


TRACK (RACE) HORSE, MORNING LINE


Arlington Park (5th) Mr Thunder Boy, 3-1
(6th) Northampton Kid, 3-1

Belmont Park (3rd) Bella Fachi, 3-1
(5th) Precarious, 5-1

Charles Town (3rd) Crystal Cave, 7-2
(5th) Stephen's Fate, 3-1


Churchill Downs (2nd) Silver Morgan, 3-1
(7th) So Good to Go, 4-1


Emerald Downs (3rd) Perfectly Legal, 3-1
(4th) Cacau, 7-2


Evangeline Downs (1st) Gulf Coast Girl, 5-1
(4th) Perched, 5-1


Finger Lakes (2nd) Passing Time, 6-1
(9th) Sweethots, 7-2


Golden Gate Fields (1st) Sister Hubert, 6-1
(6th) Perfect Game Cain, 4-1


Gulfstream Park (7th) C D Gold, 7-2
(8th) Tex Appeal, 9-2


Indiana Grand (5th) Indy Cruz, 3-1
(6th) Saint Henry, 4-1


Lone Star Park (2nd) Baileys Bling, 5-1
(3rd) Whimsical Miss, 7-2


Louisiana Downs (1st) Hatcher Pass, 5-1
(5th) Rebel Miss, 9-2


Penn National (2nd) Easter Hope, 7-2
(5th) Soxy Ruby, 5-1


Pimlico (2nd) Fridays Gift, 4-1
(9th) Moon Vision, 4-1


Prairie Meadows (5th) Am I Dreamin, 5-1
(7th) B's Honey, 7-2


Santa Anita (3rd) Bench Light, 3-1
(5th) Ivana Beat Yabad, 3-1


Thistledown (2nd) Peat Bay, 3-1
(3rd) Candy War, 4-1


Woodbine (5th) Pat Daddy, 7-2
(6th) Mindfulness, 7-2

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

MLB Preview: Athletics (12-18) at Mariners (11-17)

Game: 1
Venue: Safeco Field
Date: May 08, 2015 10:10 PM EDT

Sonny Gray pitches brilliantly more often than not, but what puts him in an elite class is his ability to work himself out of jams with in-game adjustments.

He hasn't encountered too many issues at Safeco Field.

The Oakland Athletics hand the ball to Gray on Friday night as they begin the final series of their road trip by looking to deal the Seattle Mariners a seventh loss in eight games.

Gray (4-0, 1.67 ERA) entered his sixth outing of the season Sunday having walked six in 36 1-3 innings while not issuing more than four in any of his previous 48 career starts.

The right-hander struggled with control against Texas and walked seven while also hitting a batter, but also struck out 10 - two short of his career high - and surrendered two hits in 6 2-3 scoreless innings of a 7-1 victory.

'You just have some days when you pick the ball up and you know it's going to be a battle,' Gray said. 'You've just got to grind through.'

The Mariners (11-17) already had trouble solving Gray, who allowed one earned run in 7 1-3 innings before Seattle rallied for a 5-4 victory in 11 at Oakland on April 11.

Gray is 4-1 with a 2.21 ERA in eight career starts overall against the Mariners, including a 3-0 mark with a 0.98 ERA in four outings at Safeco. He gave up two runs in eight innings of a 3-2 victory the last time he took the hill there Sept. 13.

Seattle is looking forward to playing at home after dropping six of seven to end a 10-game trip. It suffered back-to-back walk-off defeats to the Los Angeles on Tuesday and Wednesday, falling 5-4 and 4-3.

The Mariners and A's (12-18) fought to the wire for the AL's second wild-card spot last season, but currently occupy the bottom two spots of the West.

"We got off to a tough start last year and were able to battle," said Kyle Seager, who hit a two-run homer Wednesday. "We've got a lot more talent in this room then we did last year. We've shown different signs throughout the season. The pitching's been good, the hitting's been good, we just have to get everything in sync."

Nelson Cruz has been the Mariners' top offensive threat, leading the majors with 14 homers and hitting .389 over his last nine. Cruz will look to improve his 1-for-9 career line against Gray as Taijuan Walker takes the mound for Seattle.

Walker (1-3, 8.74) has been extremely inconsistent, going fewer than five innings in three of his five starts but also showing signs of promise. He gave up 14 runs through 7 1-3 innings while losing his first two starts, then allowed one earned run in 12 1-3 over his next two.

But the 22-year-old right-hander had another rough outing Saturday, giving up eight runs in three innings of an 11-4 loss to Houston.

"It's not going to happen overnight," manager Lloyd McClendon said. "You see flashes of him being brilliant almost. Then you see the youngster in him. It's going to take time, but in the end, I think he's going to be pretty good."

Walker's only career start against the A's came in his season debut, when he allowed nine runs in 3 1-3 innings of a 12-0 loss April 10.

Oakland enters this series after dropping three of four to Minnesota with Thursday's 6-5 loss to fall to 3-4 on its trip.

 

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Gonzalez winless in past eight versus Braves
Justin Hartling

Gio Gonzalez will look to exorcise some demons when he takes the mound Friday, as his Washington Nationals have dropped their past eight contests he has started.

Gonzalez has not been terrible in his appearances as he has only been chased before the sixth inning in three of those eight games while allowing 3.4 runs per contest.

In a smaller window the leftie has actually been solid as he has allowed two runs or less in 62.5 percent of those games.

 

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Diamondbacks pick up C Saltalamacchia
By THE SPORTS XCHANGE

PHOENIX -- Hoping to add some offense behind the plate, the Arizona Diamondbacks signed catcher Jarrod Saltalamacchia to a minor league contract Thursday, and he is scheduled to report to Triple-A Reno over the weekend.

Saltalamacchia hit a combined 66 home runs and 224 RBIs from 2011-14 with the Boston Red Sox and Miami, but he was designated for assignment by the Marlins after opening the season in a 2-for-29 skid and losing his job.

D-backs catchers ranked among the least productive in the majors through the first month of the season. Primary starter Tuffy Gosewisch and Jordan Pacheco are hitting .240 with one homer and 15 RBIs through 27 games, including Gosewisch's three-double, four-RBI game Thursday in an 11-0 win over the San Diego Padres. Gerald Laird played one game before undergoing back surgery that landed him on the 60-day disabled list.

"We are going to do whatever we can as an organization to win," D-backs manager Chip Hale said. "Whenever there are guys out there we think can help us, we are going to go after them. Right now, we are happy with the guys in the room (Gosewisch and Pacheco). They're doing a really good job with our pitching staff, and they are starting to get better at-bats."

Gosewisch had a three-hit game in a 5-1 victory at Colorado in the second game of a doubleheader Wednesday, when he also recorded his first career stolen base as part of a double steal. Pacheco, who made the team as a third catcher/infield reserve and became the No. 2 catcher when Laird went down, has the catchers' only home run, a three-run shot April 29.

Saltalamacchia, who turned 30 May 2, has a .240/.310/.415 slash line with 90 homers and 320 RBIs in nine seasons. He had one homer this season. There is no timetable for his advancement, D-backs general manager Dave Stewart said.

"In our conversations with him, we were really clear we'd like for him to be here, sure, but if he's hitting .200 and not catching well, that defeats the purpose," Stewart said. "He's agreed to go to the minor leagues and get some at-bats and get some time catching. When he comes is when he comes."

Miami is obligated to pay the final $15 million on Saltalamacchia's three-year, $21 million contract, less a prorated portion of the major league minimum ($507,000) if and when he is promoted.

 

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Royals RHP Herrera's suspension cut to six games
The Sports Xchange

Kansas City Royals right-hander Kelvin Herrera had his seven-game suspension from two April incidents reduced to six games on Thursday after an appeal.

Herrera originally was suspended five games for intentionally throwing at Oakland third baseman Brett Lawrie and then had two games tacked on after a brawl with the White Sox in Chicago.

The five-game suspension was assessed after Herrera threw a ball behind Lawrie in the head area during a game last month after warnings had been issued in the first inning. Herrera pointed to his head as he left the field.

Major League Baseball reduced the two-game suspension from the brawl to one game but upheld the five-game suspension.

Herrera began serving the suspension Thursday when the Royals faced the Cleveland Indians.

In 13 relief appearances this season, Herrera has an 0-1 record with a 2.19 ERA.

 

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Rockies' Ottavino has Tommy John surgery
By THE SPORTS XCHANGE

Colorado Rockies right-hander Adam Ottavino underwent Tommy John surgery on Thursday to replace a partially torn ligament in his right elbow.

Ottavino told the Denver Post that the procedure, performed by Dr. James Andrews in Pensacola, Fla., went "as expected," but he will be sidelined until early in the 2016 season.

"I feel fine," Ottavino said.

The 29-year-old Ottavino pitched in 10 games as the Rockies closer this season and didn't allow a run in 10 1/3 innings while walking two and striking out 13 batters.

"The initial news is always tough. What might be, what could be -- that's tough for a pitcher to hear," Rockies manager Walt Weiss said, according to the Post. "So he's through the toughest part of it. But it could be a long road ahead. And he's ready for that."

Right-hander John Axford has taken over the Rockies' closer duties. He signed as a free agent with Colorado during the offseason. Rafael Betancourt also will be available in save opportunities.

 

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'On the Diamond'

A series opener is Friday's baseball betting focus as Washington hosts Atlanta at Nationals Park. Highly regarded Nationals starting out 7-13 may be finally starting to hit their stride. The Nats have won seven of nine. Lefty Gio Gonzalez carrying a 2-2 record, 3.86 ERA toes the rubber for Washington. Gonzalez will match pitches with Braves' southpaw Eric Stultz entering with a 1-2 record, 4.91 ERA. According to opening betting odds, Washington has opened anywhere from -$1.90 to -$2.20 favorite. That lofty status is related to Braves being on a 1-5 road skid 1-4 slide in Washington and the presence of Gonzalez on the mound as Nationals have a 14-4 stretch at home when he starts, including 8-3 opening a series. Going against Gonzalez at home might be considered sacrilege by some sports bettors. However, a key to baseball handicapping is to search for hidden gems among a sea of baseball betting numbers. Those whose focus is baseball betting have certainly done so, and have come up with the fact Nationals have faltered lately vs Braves handing the ball to Gonzalez going 0-8 and that Stultz has thrived vs Nationals posting a 3-1 team start record including a win earlier this season.

 

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Baseball Betting: Streaks, Tips, Notes

St Louis Cardinals at Pittsburgh Pirates May 8, 7:05 EST

Pittsburgh Pirates have fallen on hard times losing seven of its last nine and it doesn't get easier Friday night when they host St Louis Cardinals and right-hander Michael Wacha. Pirates have lost three vs Cardinals this season, six straight dating back to last season and 11 of 14 encounters. Pittsburgh facing Wacha is also bad news for Pirates. The Cardinals have won seven consecutive with the hurler and 9 of his last 10 on the hill.

 

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Friday's six-pack

-- White Sox have been outscored 20-7 in the first inning this year.

-- La'el Collins gets a guaranteed three-year deal from the Cowboys, who get a real good prospect without spending a draft pick.

-- Seven of Joc Pederson's last eight hits have been home runs.

-- Mets are 18-10; their AAA team in Las Vegas has won 14 in a row, when is a big league team going to hire Wally Backman as its manager?

-- Mike Fiers struck out the side on nine pitches in the fourth inning; that does not happen very much.

-- Astros 3, Angels 2-- Houston scored three in ninth to stun Halos. In 41 games the last three nights, in only four games did the winning run score after the sixth inning. Three of those four were Angel games.