Friday 9/11/15 service plays chatter/comps/requests & other stuff...

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Game of the Day: Utah State at Utah

Utah State Aggies at Utah Utes (-12, 44)

Utah has dominated the series with Utah State and look to post its 14th win the past 15 meetings when it hosts the Aggies on Friday. The No. 25 Utes began their season with a solid 24-17 victory over Jim Harbaugh-led Michigan while Utah State scuffled to a 12-9 win over FCS Southern Utah.

Utah senior quarterback Travis Wilson passed for 208 yards against Michigan in the opener and he burned Utah State for 302 yards and two touchdowns in a 30-26 victory in 2013. The Utes may have enjoyed a lot of past success against Utah State but coach Kyle Whittingham isn't feeling relaxed about the contest. "It's been very competitive, I can tell you that, especially of late," Whittingham said during a press conference. "Our guys look forward to it. We better be at our best if we're going to have a chance to win this football game." Aggies senior quarterback Chuckie Keeton passed for 314 yards and two scores in the 2013 contest against the Utes and has thrown 58 career touchdown passes, two shy of the school mark set by Jose Fuentes (1998-2002).

TV: 9 p.m. ET, ESPN2.

LINE HISTORY: Books opened the Utes -12 and while they've spend a bit of time up around -13.5, they are back down to -12. The total opened at 45.5 and is down to 44.

INJURY REPORT: Utah State - WR Brandon Swindall (Questionable, hamstring), WR Zach Van Leeuwen (Questionable, undisclosed). Utah - WR Tim Patrick (Questionable, undisclosed), TE Evan Moeai (Out for season, leg).

WEATHER: Temperatures will be in the high-70s under clear skies. Wind will blow toward the southeast at around six miles per hour.

ABOUT UTAH STATE (1-0 SU, 0-1 ATS, 0-1 O/U): The Aggies' lone touchdown in their opener was a game-deciding 88-yard punt-return score by junior Andrew Rodriguez as Keeton struggled through a 16-of-33 passing performance for 110 yards and one interception. "When you're not playing as one heartbeat on offense, it doesn't look very good," Utah State coach Matt Wells said in a press conference. "Not all is lost and the sky is not falling by any means, but there is improvement to be made in every position in our meeting room on offense." The defense is led by two standout linebackers - junior Nick Vigil (13 tackles versus Southern Utah) and senior Kyler Fackrell (two sacks in the opener).

ABOUT UTAH (1-0 SU, 1-0 ATS, 0-1 O/U): Senior running back Devontae Booker rushed for 1,512 yards last season but struggled to get loose against Michigan and had 69 yards on 22 attempts. "We expect him to do a better job," Utes coach Kyle Whittingham said in a press conference. "It wasn't because of a lack of touches - he had 29 with carries and receptions combined - but we have to do a better job." Junior nickel back Justin Thomas was the Pac-12 Defensive Player of the Week due to his 55-yard interception return against the Michigan and a defense that includes standout senior middle linebacker Jared Norris will gain another strong player in junior cornerback Dominique Hatfield, who returns from a suspension related to robbery and assault charges during the summer.

TRENDS:

* Over is 4-1-1 in the last six meetings.
* Road team is 8-3-1 ATS in their last 12 meetings.
* Aggies are 8-1 ATS in their last nine Friday games.
* Utes are 4-1 ATS in their last five vs. MWC.

CONSENSUS: Sixty-five percent are backing the Utes.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at Century Downs

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


Race 1 - Post: 2:00 - 1 mile. PACE - Class Rating: 60 - Purse:$5000 - NW 22,000 LIFETIME


CONSORTIUM CHOICES


Chatsworth Consortium

# 2 GREAT DESIRE 10/1


# 3 IM JUST DUCKY 2/1


# 5 I AM MISS T 6/1


GREAT DESIRE is the most competitive bet in this race and the big morning line could mean a big score. Take a look at this race horse's average speed rating of 64 and compare to today's class rating. Looks like a really good wager. This standardbred has shown us some prior ability, just look at the 62 avg class figure. Should play well today. More wins than the expected average have been achieved by horses lining up behind the 2 position at Century Downs. IM JUST DUCKY - If performance in the last contest is any indication, this solid standardbred will have a very very nice shot for this one. High last race TrackMaster speed fig. Clearly think these two have something special. Gray sending the horse out means a great chance to get the trip to the winner's circle. I AM MISS T - This filly has the ability to take successful advantage of a favorable pace scenario in this contest. Top driver/conditioner pair, with one of the most compelling ROI pcts in this field of horses.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at Yonkers Raceway

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


Race 11 - Post: 10:30 - 1 mile. PACE - Class Rating: 93 - Purse:$25500 - CLAIMING ALLOWANCE $50,000 3 YO 50%, 4 YO 25%, F& M 20%


CONSORTIUM CHOICES


Chatsworth Consortium

# 5 CAUTION SIGNS 8/5


# 4 EIGHTEEN 7/1


# 1 RAMPAGE JACKSON 3/1


The consensus in this event is that CAUTION SIGNS is the one to beat. Could surprise us at a good price. Don't leave out. Can't gloss over based on TrackMaster SRs which have been fantastic (98 avg) recently. The brain trust gives this race horse a good chance to come home a winner, class figures are tops in the pack. EIGHTEEN - Starters win from this post at Yonkers Raceway with better than average regularity, suggesting this excellent wager. This race could be controlled by this horse. A single look at the avgerage speed fig will confirm that. RAMPAGE JACKSON - This solid standardbred has been making trips to the winner's circle on a regular basis, look for him to make another trip soon. Hands down the best position at Yonkers Raceway is the 1. The win percent is great.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Albuquerque

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


Race 5 - Trial - 400y on the Dirt. Purse: $4500 Class Rating: 92

QUARTER HORSE 400Y, FOR TWO YEAR OLDS, REGISTERED NEW MEXICO BREDS, WHICH REMAIN ELIGIBLE FOR THE DOWNS AT ALBUQUERQUE FUTURITY TRIALS. SUPPLEMENTAL NOMINATIONS DUE AT TIME OF ENTRY FOR TRIALS - $12,500. WEIGHT.120 LBS.


RECOMMENDED CHOICES

The Walker Group Picks

# 4 CHICKALONI 10/1


# 7 WAHOO RAIDER 5/2


# 6 MY MOJITO 7/2


I've got to go with CHICKALONI and the potential return justifies the very risky nature of the long odds. She has to be given a chance given the quite good speed numbers. Had one of the top speed figures of this group of horses in her last race. Is difficult not to examine given the company run in lately. WAHOO RAIDER - Could provide positive returns based on competitive recent speed figures with an average of 79. Has been racing quite well and has among the most favorable speed in the race for today's distance. MY MOJITO - Sharp rider with conditioner figs make this horse a very strong selection. The Equibase Speed Fig of 83 from his latest contest looks solid in here.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Arlington

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


Race 6 - Claiming - 8.5f on the Turf. Purse: $11250 Class Rating: 88

FOR THREE YEAR OLDS AND UPWARD WHICH HAVE NEVER WON TWO RACES. THREE YEAR OLDS, 122 LBS.; OLDER, 124 LBS. NON-WINNERS OF A RACE AT A MILE OR OVER SINCE AUGUST 11, 2015 ALLOWED 2 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $16,000 LANE 2. 6FT OUT. (IF THE MANAGEMENT CONSIDERS IT INADVISABLE TO RUN THIS RACE ON THE TURF COURSE, IT


RECOMMENDED CHOICES

The Walker Group Picks

# 3 FORT REPS 5/2


# 1 CADET CAPTAIN 8/5


# 5 GRIFFIN THE GREAT 30/1


I've got to go with FORT REPS. Must be given a chance here on the basis of the figures in the speed section alone. Ran a sharp last race. He has a strong distance/surface win record - 1 out of 5. CADET CAPTAIN - The speed figure of 96 from his most recent affair looks solid in here. A solid 87 avg class fig may give this gelding a distinct class edge against this group of horses in this race.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Bar

Charles Town - Race #1 - Post: 7:05pm - Claiming - 4.5 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $10,500 Class Rating: 46

Rating: Golden DollarGolden DollarGolden Dollar

#2 TAMWORTH HONEY (ML=7/2)
#1 AMAZING SUMMATION (ML=2/1)


TAMWORTH HONEY - This filly is in fine condition. Finished third on August 26th. Trainer Brown moves this horse down in class ranks to face a less competitive field. Look for a nice effort in here. Starting from the inside, this entrant should have a distinct edge. Her front-running style should serve her well in this short race of 4 1/2 furlongs. This filly's last rating is good enough to triumph here, I'll wager on her back again in today's event. AMAZING SUMMATION - Trainer Figgins moves this thoroughbred down the class scale to face a weaker level today. Look for a strong performance in here. Filly took a little vacation, but has been racing into shape. When a thoroughbred drops at least five pounds (like this one is), you must take notice. It may not seem like much, but this could make a difference. EPS (earnings per start) is something that I believe can be an important handicapping factor. This animal is ranked at the very top in this group.

Vulnerable Contenders: #8 DREAMS OF MONACO (ML=3/1), #4 DANCING WAVES (ML=5/1), #5 GO DOCTOR O GO (ML=8/1),

DREAMS OF MONACO - I find it hard to play this vulnerable equine today. Make her show you something in a short distance contest before you play her in a race of 4 1/2 furlongs. This mount just hasn't looked sharp recently. DANCING WAVES - Recent decreasing Equibase speed figures of 44/37/8 give an indication that this animal may be going off form. This entrant ran a somewhat easily forgotten speed fig last race out. She shouldn't run better and will likely lose in today's event running that fig. GO DOCTOR O GO - Can't play this pony in today's sprint of 4 1/2 furlongs. Hasn't even hit the board in a sprint race recently.


STRAIGHT WAGERS:
Bet on #2 TAMWORTH HONEY to win if you can get at least 2/1 odds

EXACTA WAGERS:
Box [1,2]

TRIFECTA WAGERS:
Skip

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:
Skip

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Bar

Penn National - Race #3 - Post: 6:54pm - Maiden Claiming - 8.0 furlongs on the Turf. Purse: $17,100 Class Rating: 69

Rating: Golden DollarGolden DollarGolden Dollar

#4 SCHOOL YARD (ML=3/1)
#2 GOT WHAT (ML=5/1)
#10 HECTIC (ML=8/1)


SCHOOL YARD - Was in a $25,000 Maiden Claiming race at Penn National last time out. That race had a class figure of 75 and he is moving down in today's race. A certain strong challenger. That 69 fig this gelding recorded in his last event tells me he's a key player this time. This animal wins a lot of cash per race. In the top spot in this affair. This animal has increased his Equibase speed figs in each of the last 2 races. That kind of progress is important to note. GOT WHAT - Gelding has shown some early speed. This shorter distance should be better for him. This gelding gets a weight break of -35 lbs from last race. Could make the difference in this field. HECTIC - Taking this jockey/trainer combination is a smart choice. This horse could be tough this time around, especially since Rodriguez rode last time around the track and now should be familiar with this one. This gelding finished well ahead of the third horse on September 4th. Those horses tend to run well next time out. That 69 fig this gelding garnered in his last contest tells me he's a chief player this time.

Vulnerable Contenders: #1A NATIVE FOREST (ML=5/2), #1 MR. ABUNDANCE (ML=5/2), #9 J C'S DIAMOND (ML=6/1),

NATIVE FOREST - Pedestrian speed rating last time around the track at Penn National at 1 mile. Don't believe this pony will improve too much in today's race. MR. ABUNDANCE - Not probable that this horse will finish better than he did last time out of the box when placing fourth. When looking at today's Equibase class figure, he will have to garner a better speed fig than last out to battle in this turf route. J C'S DIAMOND - Just can't wager on this horse. Didn't show me anything last time out or on June 5th.


STRAIGHT WAGERS:
Play #4 SCHOOL YARD to win if you can get odds of 5/2 or more

EXACTA WAGERS:
4 with [2,10]

TRIFECTA WAGERS:
Box [2,4,10] Total Cost: $6

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:
[2,4,10] with [2,4,10] with [2,3,4,6,10] with [2,3,4,6,10] Total Cost: $36

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Rick Needham at Belmont Park

RACE #8 - BELMONT PARK - 4:46 PM EASTERN POST


The Christiecat Stakes

6.0 FURLONGS INNER TURF THREE YEAR OLD FILLIES STAKES $100,000.00 PURSE

#4 MISS ELLA
#6 ALL IN FUN
#1 DARLING SKY
#7 ASIA

Here in the initial running of The Christiecat Stakes, named in honor of a graded stakes winner who had the great Buckpasser in her progeny, #4 MISS ELLA is the overall speed leader in this field sprinting at 6.0 furlongs on the turf, and has hit the board in "POWER RUN FASHION" in three of her last five "adventures" including back-to-back "POWER RUN WINS" in her 4th and 5th races back. #6 ALL IN FUN, a 4-1 shot, is the only entry in this field not taking a step-up in class this afternoon, and comes off back-to-back "POWER RUN PERFORMANCES" in her last two starts.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Mohawk: Friday 9/11 Analysis
By Garnet Barnsdale

DRF HARNESS

Race 4 - $50,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool

EARLY PICK 4:

3,6/3,4,9/3,4,6/7,9 = $54


LATE PICK 4: 1,8/1/1,2,6/1,2,4,6 = $24

MEET STATS: 293 - 950 / $1620.90 BEST BETS: 40 - 85 / $131.20

SPOT PLAYS: 12 - 82 / $92.30

Best Bet: SOUTHWIND FRANK (2nd)

Spot Play: MOHONEYTELLSALL (7th)


Race 1

(7) LEAN HANOVER was victimized by a slow 2nd 1/4 in the Champlain but had good late trot to offer. He won't be held off much longer. (5) BROOKLYN HILL has finished 2nd three times straight to the division leader and is logical but may be overbet here. (1) DEEP IMPACT miscued early last time costing him all chance. Notice he closed in :26 3/5 once he got trotting in a good rhythm.

Race 2

(3) SOUTHWIND FRANK continues to dominate and looks as though only gets beaten here if he breaks. (5) ADORED BY MASSES will likely get an aggressive steer from Filion here and is a good bet to grab the coveted garden spot early and complete the exacta if he can do so. (6) ZLATAN raced well against the choice last time showing speed both early and late. He should get a good slice of this.

Race 3

(8) LADY SHADOW has only lost once since being sold and will be tough to catch here if she clears early. (7) PRECOCIOUS BEAUTY unleashed a furious late rush last week to win from a very tough spot. She looked like her old self then and is dangerous here. (6) FITS WELL ships north in decent form and retains Miller. She should share.

Race 4

(3) LIGHTS GO OUT was literally flying in the final yards last week and now drops even further in class. Don't be shocked if she's on the lead by the 3/4 pole or even earlier here. (6) OCEANVIEW BINDI set some big fractions and bottomed out the field last week. A repeat would make her very tough here. (7) BRESCIA SEELSTER went a very tough trip and still saved 2nd behind the one above. She could better this placing but needs a better steer.

Race 5

(9) GRANA PADANNO inherited a win last time when a sure winner switched to pacing in front of him. That colt was much classier than any of these, though, and this Andover Hall gelding should be tough here. (3) MYSTERY BET got moved up to 2nd in the same race but has stayed sharp and seems to have cured his earlier gait issues; using. (4) TAROT was on a tear earlier this year and returns from a break with a quick qualifier in tow. He's another for this pick 4 ticket.

Race 6

(3) BEACH GAL notched her first win of 2015 three back then faced better. She fits here and will likely get a good pace to chase down. (4) INVEST IN ART set some wild fractions in The Simcoe and tired late. More careful rating here could get her home. (6) ARTISTIC MADISON got picked off late last time but has now hit her best stride and will get a win soon.

Race 7

(9) MYHONEYTELLSALL has faced much better the past two starts and could take this group at a square price if he leaves hard enough to get a contending spot early. (7) MAC RAIDER has faced some pretty good sophomores his past few starts and is another that can make some noise here at a price in a wide-open tilt. (3) RUSTYS OVERLOAD is logical to come on late for a share here.

Race 8

(8) MUSCLE BABY DOLL has been virtually flawless all year and although she faces what looks like her toughest test yet, she should be up to it. (1) WILD HONEY'S 14 for 21 record and $1.1 million in earnings speaks for itself. This should be a good tilt. (6) ELEGANT SERENITY is another that has come on and really excelled the past few weeks and could vault by late of the top two hook up in a second 1/2 duel.

Race 9

(1) MISSION BRIEF drew the much easier elimination - not that she needs any breaks - and should roll this group. (2) SPEAK TO ME has 6 slices from 9 starts and should trip out and complete this exacta. (4) MAGIC MARKER has a long trip at Pocono and should have better luck here from an inner post and grab a share.

Race 10

(6) DAZZLING ROCKETTE has some traffic issues in the stretch last week that likely cost her one placing. She looks tough here and should get an aggressive steer from Filion. (2) B SANTANNAS LOVE nosed the choice out for 2nd last time but notice the lone 2015 win. (1) C C CALLMEKELLY - who hasn't won in her last 82 starts and none since 2012 - attracted a claim last week by conditioner Pereira; interesting.

Race 11

(1) UNIQUE ROCK N ROLL has done okay vs. slightly better now moves inside from the 10-hole. Waples can trip this mare out here; top call. (4) MISCHIEVOUSGIRLS has really ratcheted up the speed the past two starts and looks like she is improving quickly; for a share. (6) ABBIJADE HANOVER took a major shuffle last week similar to August 13 which she followed with a win. She's another of many possibilities here.

Race 12

(2) VICTORIA SEMALU has Christoforou down as driver and he had great success with her prior to his injury. They can take these a long way. (4) LOTSA MATZAH converted a perfect trip to win in good time last week. She is a threat again but may not get the same trip. (8) RIDE AWAY SHARK was an unlucky loser last time to one that tripped out perfectly. The outer slot does her no favors here, however.

Race 13

(2) SHELLYSSILVERMOON closed a big gap late last time and gets the call to upset here in a field that looks like it has quite a bit of early speed signed on. (9) NAT A VIRGIN drops in class but is erratic enough to try to beat as the likely chalk. (3) WILDCAT HANNA raced well in this class last time and should be up for a share here. (8) BOAT HOUSE ROW set a strong pace then tired late vs. better. She could get hooked up with Nat A Virgin early here, though. (7) JUSTABITMEAN is an honest sort that always seems to be along late for a share.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Yonkers: Friday 9/11 Analysis
By Brewster Smith

DRF HARNESS

MEET STATS: 175 - 831 / $1,250.40 BEST BETS: 19 - 70 / $92.60

Best Bet: RAMPAGE JACKSON (11th)

Spot Play: STATION THREEOHSIX (4th)


Race 1

(2) JACK ATTACK seems to be heading in the right direction; closed strongly for the show spot in his recent outing; can boss these at his best. (1) MEETYOUATMIDNIGHT returns to the rail slot and might show more speed; dangerous. (4) HALL OF TERROR ships in for trainer Erv Miller; did hit the board in his last two trips and figures to be right in the mix; watch out.

Race 2

(1) ON THE PODIUM flashed good speed at Saratoga last out; makes his return to Yonkers and could be ready to put it all together tonight. (4) GLOIRE DREAM just missed by three quarters of a length; moves up in class but is very capable. (2) ALEXANDER LUKAS Sharp in victory upstate last time around; could have a say with this group.

Race 3

(4) MISTER ACCUMULATOR showed signs of life in his last try; good to see Buter with the return call and this pacer could make some serious noise. (6) INVICTUS HANOVER leaves the 8-hole and drops a notch in class; threat with Brennan at the helm. (8) THEREISAPACEFORUS Easy score last out against lesser company; post hurts but has the ability with Bartlett at the controls; beware.

Race 4

(4) STATION THREEOHSIX moves up the ladder; was second best last time out and just missed by only 1/2 length; can boss these for his 3rd score of the year. (5) GOBAN showed fine speed against better; fits in this level and will be the one to catch. (3) DELLA CRUISE almost got the job done via the pocket route in his most recent outing; not out of this.

Race 5

(3) ROETHBLISSBERGER has scored in his last three starts; he stays at the same level so with that said, this pacer will shoot for the grand slam; maybe. (4) BJS BEQUIA moves down a notch in class and that could help his cause; player. (1) UNCLE GOODFELLOW rallied late on the scene to grab the victory last out upstate; returns to Yonkers where he got the job done on August 7th; watch out.

Race 6

(7) CINAMONY is one of the most consistent pacing mares on the circuit; was second from pole to pole in her latest; will have to be at her best to take down (8) KRISPY APPLE. The latter went down the road last out for all the glory; she is another consistent miss and will be the one to fear in this event. (6) JONSIE JONES raced evenly in her last trip to the post; don't overlook.

Race 7

(1) REMISSIONOFSINS gets serious post relief in here and that should help his cause against these; with a favorable trip, he can top this group. (2) GAVINS DESIGNER Even finish in his last start; could be right square in the mix; maybe. (4) SANTANNA ONE just missed the victory by only a neck last time out; can be ready to move forward off that effort; we shall see.

Race 8

(4) DREAMLANDS ART moves inside and if you toss out his last trip, he is very consistent; gets the call. (1) BET THE MOON Based on his last two starts, he is knocking at the door; threat. (3) PASS THEM BY N has tactical speed and could make some noise in the final stretch drive; contender.

Race 9

(1) VICTORIA MAY N returns to the NW18000 ranks where this gal took down the score on July 24; big threat at her best. (3) ALHAMBRA rallied well for the show spot last time around; dangerous. (6) FANTICIPATION has good speed; is 1 for 16 this year but could be in the picture with Bartlett in the bike; watch out.

Race 10

(2) ENVIOUS HANOVER Based on her last three, she is capable of getting the job done; ready for action. (1) CLASSY LANE ROSE should do much better from the fence; missed the victory in last by a length and a quarter; contender. (5) BAHAMA BLUE was second best against lesser last out but could have a say in the outcome.

Race 11

(1) RAMPAGE JACKSON Sharp and consistent pacing gelding now will try to get back into the winner's circle from the rail slot; the pick. (5) CAUTION SIGNS has wheeled off three straight victories and appears to be the one to beat at this level. (2) HICKORY ICON closed strongly from the eight slot to nail down the victory at odds of 26-1 last out; not out of this from the 2-hole.

Race 12

(3) HANDSOFFMYCUPCAKE was nailed for win honors in her last try; stays at this level so this 5-year-old mare can get it done at her best. (2) SKIPPIN BY showed tactical speed in her last try; could contend with this group. (4) CAROLSIDEAL beat open foes at Saratoga last time around; can be right square in the mix; watch out.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

SPOT PLAYS

For Friday


TRACK (RACE) HORSE, MORNING LINE


Arlington Park (7th) Chatito, 9-2
(8th) Eben Zabeel, 7-2

Belmont Park (7th) Prize Taker, 7-2
(8th) Leatherhead Lurie, 8-1

Belterra Park (5th) Takemetohollywood, 7-2
(7th) Chrome Asset, 9-2


Canterbury Park (1st) Gray Satellite, 5-1
(5th) Rodeoactive, 4-1


Charles Town (1st) Tamworth Honey, 7-2
(6th) Saphire Sandy, 8-1


Churchill Downs (4th) Personal Parade, 6-1
(10th) Pretty Priceless, 4-1


Emerald Downs (5th) Shadow Code, 5-1
(6th) Betsy's Gold, 9-2


Gulfstream Park (3rd) Tormenta de Oro, 4-1
(7th) Behzad's Pride, 4-1


Indiana Grand (3rd) Kissy Suzuki, 7-2
(5th) Spanish Justice, 7-2


Los Alamitos (7th) He's a Real Keeper, 4-1
(8th) One Putt Par, 4-1


Louisiana Downs (3rd) One Knock, 3-1
(5th) Fleeting Image, 7-2


Penn National (3rd) Hectic, 8-1
(8th) Witten Valley, 3-1


Remington Park (2nd) Bourbonella, 5-1
(9th) Tapalite, 4-1


Retama Park (4th) Sir Monte Carlo, 4-1
(7th) Special Tree, 6-1


Thistledown (4th) Can't Get Enough, 7-2
(5th) Go Girl, 5-1


Woodbine (4th) Westcoast Wendy, 4-1
(9th) Guitar George, 3-1

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Under has been oddly hot in Jays-Yankees meetings
Andrew Avery

For two major league clubs that boast such impressive bats, it's certainly an anomaly that the Under is so hot when the New York Yankees and Toronto Blue Jays tangle.

The Under has cashed in the past seven meetings between the two AL East rivals and they'll renew acquaintances Friday evening in the Bronx.

The clubs are averaging just 4.3 runs combined per meeting in those last seven games, which dates back to a 5-1 Jays win back on May 6.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Dodgers not looking too far ahead
By THE SPORTS XCHANGE

ANAHEIM, Calif. -- The Los Angeles Dodgers lost to the Los Angeles Angels on Wednesday night 3-2, but their lead over the San Francisco Giants in the National League West remained at 8 1/2 games. It is the biggest lead of any division leader in the National League.

If the Dodgers play about .500 over their final 23 games (12-11), the Giants would have to go 20-2 over their final 22 games just to tie the Dodgers and force a playoff.

Still, Dodgers insist they won't look too far ahead. They say their focus is on the present, even though it seems they are lined up for an NL Division Series matchup against the New York Mets.

"We'd like to do it as soon as possible, that's always the goal," pitcher Clayton Kershaw said about clinching the division. "We just have to keep the foot on the gas, don't let up. Even if we do clinch, we have home-field advantage to play for, so we'll keep playing to October or whenever the season ends and then start over (in the playoffs)."

"We're just trying to get as many wins as we can before the season's over to make it hard on the Giants," first baseman/outfielder Scott Van Slyke said.

When Dodgers manager Don Mattingly was asked about securing home-field advantage for the NLDS, he quickly shut it down.

"You're getting ahead of yourself," Mattingly said. "We've just got to win games right now."

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Giants' Cain likely to pitch out of 'pen down stretch
By THE SPORTS XCHANGE

PHOENIX -- Right-hander Matt Cain's 11-year San Francisco Giants career includes four postseason victories, three World Series rings, a perfect game -- and just one relief appearance.

However, after missing two-thirds of the season with forearm and elbow issues, Cain appears likely to spend the final three weeks as a reliever when he is activated from the disabled list Friday, manager Bruce Bochy said.

"He might come out of the bullpen," Bochy said. "He said he feels good, he's ready to go, so Friday he'll be available."

Cain spoke about picking up bad habits while trying to work his way back from a right flexor strain that forced him onto the disabled list the first week of the season, and Bochy said that is not unusual.

The 30-year-old veteran was 2-4 with a 6.15 ERA in 10 starts in 52 2/3 innings before going back onto the disabled list in mid-August with right elbow nerve irritation.

"That happens sometimes with a guy coming off an injury," Bochy said. "Could be a stamina issue. They get out of their delivery a little bit. I believe with time that is only going to get better as he gets stronger and gets his strength and stamina back to where it normally is."

Bochy said several times that he expects Cain to be healthy and return to the Giants' rotation in 2016, and that any work Cain can get down the stretch will be beneficial.

"More than anything, to pitch," Bochy said when asked what he hoped to see out of Cain the rest of the season.

"Get some work. Some innings. This is part of the process of getting back to who Matty is and the pitcher that he is. The more he can get out, the better off he is going to be. I think it should do something for his confidence, too.

"As you goes into the offseason, you want to end up on a good note. What my hope for Matty is, when we do use him, it goes well and he goes into the winter fully confident that his arm is healthy and he is back to being who he is and so he has that confidence back as we go into spring training."

Madison Bumgarner, Jake Peavy and Chris Heston appear to be the only certain 2016 starters for the Giants at this point.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

MLB roundup: Mariners blank Rangers
By THE SPORTS XCHANGE

SEATTLE -- Felix Hernandez extended the Texas Rangers' offensive woes and Seattle teammate Nelson Cruz made a triumphant return from a quad injury in the Mariners' 5-0 win on Thursday that salvaged a split in the four-game series.

Hernandez pitched eight scoreless innings and Tom Wilhelmsen finished as the Rangers were unable to score a run for the second game in a row. Texas has struggled through 18 consecutive scoreless innings while falling 2 1/2 games behind first-place Houston in the American League West.

Cruz went 2-for-4 in his first game in a week, with a two-run homer in the seventh inning that essentially put the game out of reach. Mark Trumbo added two hits and two RBIs as Seattle won for the seventh time in nine games.

Reds 11, Cardinals 0

CINCINNATI -- Home runs by Brandon Phillips and Todd Frazier helped rookie John Lamb to his first career victory as Cincinnati hammered St. Louis.

Phillips homered in the seventh inning and former Cardinal Skip Schumaker drove in two runs with a pinch-double, making the score 9-0.

Frazier went 3-for-5 with a double, three runs and three RBIs. He hit his 32nd homer of the season, a two-run blast in the eighth.

Lamb threw five shutout innings during his sixth career start since being acquired from the Kansas City Royals in the Johnny Cueto trade.

Brewers 6, Pirates 4 (13 innings)

PITTSBURGH -- Logan Schafer and Luis Sardinas, who entered the game earlier as reserves, hit consecutive run-scoring singles with two outs in the top of the 13th inning to give Milwaukee a victory over Pittsburgh.

The Pirates remained 4 1/2 games behind St. Louis in the National League Central. Pittsburgh's lead for the first NL wild card was sliced to 2 1/2 games over the Chicago Cubs, who were rained out at Philadelphia.

The Brewers won their seventh straight game against the Pirates and have beaten them nine times in their last 10 meetings.

Rockies 4, Padres 3

SAN DIEGO -- Daniel Descalso greeted Joaquin Benoit with Colorado's fourth solo homer of the game in the eighth inning to lift the Rockies over San Diego in the hottest game in the 12-year history of Petco Park.

The 93-degree temperature at game time for the makeup of the first July rainout in Padres history in San Diego stands as the fourth-highest temperature ever for the start of a major league game in San Diego.

Descalso's 409-foot drive to right off Benoit, who had missed the past four days with back spasms, came on a full-count pitch. An inning earlier, the Rockies had completed a rally from a 3-1 deficit when they tied the score at 3 on Carlos Gonzalez's opposite-field home run into the left-field corner.

Nolan Arenado, the National League leader in homers and RBIs, gave the Rockies a 1-0 lead in the first with his 38th homer of the year. After the Padres took a 3-1 lead, Colorado's Corey Dickerson homered to right center in the sixth to trim San Diego's lead to 3-2.

Indians 7, Tigers 5

CLEVELAND -- Michael Brantley's home runs in the seventh and eighth innings lifted Cleveland over Detroit.

Brantley broke a 3-3 tie with a home run leading off the seventh inning when the Indians took a 5-3 lead. After Detroit scored twice in the top of the eighth to tie it, Brantley homered in the bottom of the inning.

Cody Allen pitched the last 1 2/3 innings to get the win.

Mets 7, Braves 2

ATLANTA -- Bartolo Colon's scoreless streak ended, but the 42-year-old pitched well enough to earn his 14th win as the New York Mets beat Atlanta at Turner Field.

Colon extended his scoreless streak to 31 innings before the Braves scratched for a pair of runs in the seventh inning. It was the team's longest scoreless streak since R.A. Dickey set the franchise record of 32 2/3 innings in 2012.

Kevin Plawecki had a double and three RBIs, and third baseman Jose Uribe was 3-for-4 with a double and three RBIs for the Mets. Atlanta pitcher Shelby Miller allowed three runs on seven hits in six innings, with five strikeouts and two walks, and has lost 13 straight games.

Yankees-Blue Jays, ppd., rain

NEW YORK -- The race for first place in the American League East wound up getting an unscheduled night off. Heavy rains at Yankee Stadium postponed the Toronto-New York game, which will be made up as part of a single-admission doubleheader on Saturday.

David Price was scheduled to oppose rookie Luis Severino on Thursday night, and that matchup will now occur Friday.

Phillies-Cubs, ppd., rain

PHILADELPHIA -- Thursday's rained-out game will be made up as part of a doubleheader starting at 5:05 p.m. ET Friday.

The Phillies' Adam Morgan (5-5) will oppose the Cubs' Jake Arrieta (18-6) in the opener. Philadelphia's Alec Asher (0-2) and Chicago's Kyle Hendricks (6-6) will square off in the nightcap.

Earlier Thursday, the Phillies fired general manager Ruben Amaro Jr.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Five To Follow MLB Betting: Friday September 11, 2015 Opening Line Report
by Alan Matthews - 9/10/2015

Is Boston's David Ortiz a Hall of Famer? Only one true designated hitter is in Cooperstown, and that just happened last year with the White Sox's Frank Thomas, who was a superior hitter to Ortiz, although Big Papi has been amazing in his postseason career. I bring up Ortiz because he might unofficially punch his ticket to the Hall as early as Friday. Ortiz hit career homer No. 498 on Wednesday night (No. 27 on the all-time list) and has been raking since the All-Star break with a .333 average, 17 homers and 47 RBIs. Five-hundred homers used to mean automatic Hall induction. But guys like Alex Rodriguez, Sammy Sosa, Mark McGwire and Rafael Palmeiro aren't going to get in for steroids reasons. The most interesting case belongs to Jim Thome, who retired with 612 homers. But I doubt he makes it because Thome was a one-trick pony. I believe Big Papi makes it, if not on the first ballot five years after he retires, which is likely following next season.


Red Sox at Rays (-167, 7)

I am assuming that Red Sox manager John Farrell will be back next year if all goes well with his leukemia treatment. Perhaps Boston should gently force him aside. The Sox are 16-9 under interim manager Torey Lovullo, who took over the club Aug. 14. They have won six series, split one and lost one in that span. If Boston doesn't hire Lovullo, some other team will -- he has been highly-regarded for a while. Lefty Wade Miley (11-10, 4.43) goes here for Boston. He comes off the first complete game of his career, allowing two runs and five hits against the Phillies. He is 1-1 with a 1.93 ERA in three starts this year vs. Tampa Bay. One guy the Rays are expecting back Friday is outfielder Steven Souza. He has been on the DL with a fractured left hand since Aug. 2. The Rays start ace Chris Archer (12-11, 2.88). He was a bit off last time out, allowing five runs over 6.1 innings in a loss at the Yankees. Archers is 0-2 with a 3.86 ERA in two starts vs. Boston in 2015. Ortiz is 7-for-20 with two homers and 10 RBIs career off him.

Key trends: The Sox have won six straight series openers and seven in a row on Friday. They are 1-7 in Miley's past eight vs. the AL East. The Rays are 8-1 in their past nine at home vs. lefties. The "over/under" is 6-0 in Boston's past six following an off day. The under is 7-0 in Miley's past seven series openers. The over is 6-1 in Archer's past seven.

Early lean: Rays and under.


Brewers at Pirates (-167, 7.5)

Milwaukee catcher Jonathan Lucroy wasn't just an All-Star last year, he had one of the best WAR numbers in the major leagues. But he hasn't been able to stay healthy much this season and has struggled when so. Well, he's hurt again, dealing with a mild concussion. He took a foul ball off his mask Tuesday. Doubt you see him this weekend. The Brewers have no reason to rush him back. Milwaukee starts Jimmy Nelson (11-11, 3.86) here. He pitched really well against the Pirates on Sept. 1, holding them to a run and four hits over seven innings. He is 4-1 with a 1.72 ERA in five starts vs. Pittsburgh in 2015. Andrew McCutchen is 3-for-6 with two doubles off him. The Pirates have lost three straight starts by Charlie Morton (8-7, 4.07). He is 1-1 with a 2.70 ERA in two starts vs. the Brewers. Ryan Braun hits him well, going 8-for-23 with a homer and six RBIs.

Key trends: The Brewers are 8-1 in Nelson's past nine in Game 2 of a series. The Pirates are 8-2 in Morton's past 10 at home. The over is 4-0 in Nelson's past four. The under is 4-1 in Morton's past five vs. the Brewers.

Early lean: Brewers and over.


Nationals at Marlins (+140, 8)

Washington is toast for the playoffs after being swept by the Mets to start this week. It's over for Manager Matt Williams, who seemed to make a questionable pitching decision in each loss. He was booed in each game and is a lock to be fired. The Nats might now be without first baseman Ryan Zimmerman for the rest of the season. He's dealing with an oblique injury, and those linger forever. Zimmerman is hitting .249 with 16 homers and 73 RBIs in 95 games. The Nationals go with lefty Gio Gonzalez (10-7, 3.96), and he's from Miami. He was knocked around for six runs and 10 hits in five innings in his only start vs. the Marlins this year. Ichiro hits .361 off him in 36 at-bats so he might get a start. Jarred Cosart (1-4, 5.04) gets the call for Miami. He was just recalled from Triple-A after two months down there and was decent against the Mets on Sunday, allowing a run in 4.2 innings. Washington's Jayson Werth is 4-for-6 with a solo homer off him career.

Key trends: The Nats are 1-4 in Gonzalez's past five vs. teams with a losing record. The Marlins are 5-12 in their past 17 against lefties. The over is 5-0 in Gonzalez's past five against teams with a losing record.

Early lean: Which Nats team shows? A totally deflated one or desperate version? I'll go with latter for now, but if they lose this, forget about them. Over total.


Mets at Braves (TBA)

New York can't afford a letdown against the sad-sack Braves after all but putting away the Nationals. To combat that, Manager Terry Collins planed to rest several starters in Thursday's series opener after that high-energy Nationals series. But they should all be in there here. As should outfielder Michael Cuddyer. He has been out since Sept. 2 with a wrist injury. The Mets start one of their talented young pitchers in lefty Steven Matz (2-0, 1.89). He was forced to depart his start Sunday against the Marlins in the sixth inning with a blister on his left middle finger. But he threw a bullpen session Wednesday and is good to go. This is only his fourth big-league start and first vs. Atlanta. For the Braves, Manny Banuelos has been scratched from Friday's start because of elbow discomfort. Rookie right-hander Matt Wisler (5-6, 5.81 ERA) is most likely to step in, but that's why the TBA. Wisler's big-league debut was June 19 vs. the Mets and he was great, holding them to a run in eight innings.

Key trends: The Braves are 0-5 in their past five against a lefty. The over is 5-1-1 in Atlanta's past six vs. a southpaw.

Early lean: Mets, who will be favored regardless of Braves starter.


Dodgers at Diamondbacks (+117, 9)

Interesting decision likely coming Friday for the Dodgers. Shortstop Jimmy Rollins (hand) should be ready to play for the first time since Sunday. But does L.A. bench superstar prospect Corey Seager for Rollins? Seager is a way better hitter but not as good defensively. L.A. starts lefty Alex Wood (10-9, 3.51) on the mound. He comes off easily his best start as a Dodger, shutting out San Diego on three hits over seven innings. Wood faced Arizona while he was with the Braves on June 1 and held the Snakes to a run over eight innings. Paul Goldschmidt is 3-for-6 with a homer off him. Arizona lefty Robbie Ray (3-11, 3.72) gets no run support as you can see. He is 0-2 with a 4.26 ERA in two starts vs. the Dodgers. Rollins is 1-for-4 against him.

Key trends: The Dodgers have won five straight against a lefty. Arizona is 0-7 in Ray's past seven at home. The under is 4-0 in Wood's past four. The under is 6-1-1 in Ray's past eight.

Early lean: Diamondbacks -- Ray is way overdue a win -- and under.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Friday's six-pack

-- There are ten players on NFL rosters who played D-III college football, where the players don't get scholarships, just financial aid based on need.

-- Announcers at the Louisiana Tech-Western Kentucky game on FS1 last night were not at WKU for the game; they worked the game from the FOX studio in LA.

-- Florida Gators scored 61 points last week, are changing starting QBs this week.

-- NC State landed a terrific PG in Dennis Smith, best PG left in Class of '16.

-- Mariners 5, Rangers 0-- King Felix blanked Texas for eight innings for the win.

-- Somehow I can't picture Wellington Mara or Dan Rooney strutting across a field with the Lombardi Trophy to taunt the rest of the NFL, the way Robert Kraft did last night with his hideous imitation of Vince McMahon.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

CAPPERS ACCESS

Florida Atlantic
Utah St
Royals

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

GAMBLERS DATA

Utah -12