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[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Twins' Santana sharp, but Royals win 3-2

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) Royals manager Ned Yost treats just about every game the same, especially in July, because the reality is that they all count the same at the end of the season.

So when he singles one out, it must have been important.

Eric Hosmer drove in Lorenzo Cain with nobody out in the ninth inning Sunday, helping Kansas City beat the Minnesota Twins 3-2 and earn a four-game split between AL Central contenders.

''It's huge. It's as big a game as you're going to play in early July,'' Yost said, his own head drenched in sweat. ''Very seldom do you have a chance to make it a two-game swing.''

The game was knotted two-all when Cain drew a leadoff walk against Blaine Boyer (2-4), who had been summoned to relieve Ervin Santana after a masterful return from his drug suspension.

Twins manager Paul Molitor then called upon Aaron Thompson to face Hosmer, who promptly ripped a pitch down the right-field line. Cain sprinted around third base at full speed, and a throw from Torii Hunter in right field was nowhere close to getting him at the plate.

Greg Holland (2-0) earned the win with a scoreless ninth inning.

''This is a good team and they're playing well,'' said Alex Gordon, who homered along with making several stellar plays in left field. ''It's good to come out with two games, especially when I don't feel like we're playing our best baseball.''

Aaron Hicks homered and Miguel Sano drove in the other run for Minnesota.

The victory allowed the first-place Royals to salvage what had been a rough series against the Twins, who remain in second in the division. Kansas City was shut out in the opener, needed extra innings to win Friday night, then lost 5-3 on Saturday.

Santana certainly didn't look like he had missed 80 games for testing positive for Stanozolo, a performance-enhancing substance. After winning each of three rehab starts at Triple-A Rochester, he made his former team look like just another minor league club.

Santana retired the first six batters he faced before issuing a walk, and then got a double play after Butera drove in Kansas City's first run in the third inning.

Santana only allowed one more hit before Alcides Escobar's two-out knock in the eighth, though it happened to be a big one: Gordon's high fly ball that just cleared the right-field wall.

''I was laughing in between innings,'' Santana said of facing his old team, where his career experienced a resurgence. ''At the same time, I had to get them out. I know we were teammates, but when we get between those lines everything changes.''

Besides, the Royals' pitching staff was just as tough.

Danny Duffy continued his renaissance by allowing two runs on five hits and three walks in 6 1-3 innings. It was his third straight solid start since returning from the disabled list.

Ryan Madson and Wade Davis got the game to Holland, who wound up with the win.

''Walk-off wins are definitely fun, especially against a team in our division,'' Hosmer said. ''We're not playing our best baseball right now and we know that. We'll take a win against those guys when we're not playing our best.''

MOOSE EXITS

Royals 3B Mike Moustakas left the game for what Yost called ''a family emergency.'' Dusty Coleman replaced him in the sixth inning and struck out in his first major league at-bat. Coleman also flied out in the eighth inning.

STILL BULLDOZING

Twins 2B Brian Dozier began the day with 44 extra-base hits, most in the American League. He added to that total with a double in the eighth, though he wound up getting stranded.

TRAINER'S ROOM

Twins: RHP Ryan Pressly had an MRI exam on his right shoulder Sunday, though results were not available. Pressly strained the shoulder during Saturday's game.

Royals: RHP Yordano Ventura (elbow nerve) will throw a side session Monday rather than make a rehab start, manager Ned Yost said. Ventura could return Thursday against Tampa Bay.

UP NEXT

Twins: RHP Phil Hughes starts in the opener of a three-game series against Baltimore.

Royals: RHP Edinson Volquez takes the mound to start a four-game set against Tampa Bay.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Reds at Nationals

GAME: Cincinnati Reds (36-44) at Washington Nationals (46-36)
DATE/TIME: Monday, July 06 - 7:05 PM EST
WHERE: Nationals Park, Washington, District of Columbia
LINE: 130, -141 TOTAL: 7.5

One day after being swept by the surging Milwaukee Brewers, the Cincinnati Reds face an even hotter team Monday when they visit the Washington Nationals for the start of a three-game series. The Reds have dropped seven of their last nine, while Washington has won 12 of 15 to move a season-high 10 games over .500.

Nationals right fielder Bryce Harper will be a starter in next week’s All-Star Game after receiving the most votes in the National League, but first he’ll look to improve on his career numbers against the Reds. Harper is batting .218 with three home runs in 15 games against the Reds, who swept the Nationals in three games in late May. Cincinnati hopes to rediscover some of that magic after being outscored 25-6 in three losses to Milwaukee over the weekend. “We’ve got to get back on track,” Reds pitcher Mike Leake told reporters. “We’ve got to keep competing. Nobody wants to go through this.”

TV: 7:05 p.m. ET, Fox Sports Ohio (Cincinnati), MASN (Washington)

PITCHING MATCHUP: Reds RH Anthony DeSclafani (5-6, 3.68 ERA) vs. Nationals RH Doug Fister (3-4, 4.34)

DeSclafani is looking to bounce back from a rough outing against Minnesota on Tuesday, when he yielded six runs over 6 2/3 innings while throwing a career-high 122 pitches. “I didn't think he threw poorly at all,” manager Bryan Price told reporters. “Unfortunately we were a little short with our bullpen. I had to leave him out there a little longer than I wanted to.” The rookie earned the victory against the Nationals on May 29, when he allowed two runs over six frames in a 5-2 win.

Fister lost for the third time in his last four starts Wednesday, when he allowed four runs while striking out four over six innings against the Braves. The 31-year-old was outstanding last July, when he posted a 4-0 record and 2.36 ERA in four starts. Marlon Byrd is 5-for-12 with a home run against Fister, who is 2-0 with a 1.29 ERA in two career starts against Cincinnati.

WALK-OFFS

1. Washington placed RHP Stephen Strasburg on the disabled list with an oblique strain and recalled RHP Taylor Jordan from Triple-A Syracuse.

2. Reds 3B Todd Frazier was 8-for-12 with two home runs during a three-game sweep of Washington in late May.

3. The Nationals have issued no more than two walks in each of their last 18 games.

PREDICTION: Nationals 6, Reds 4

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Padres at Pirates

GAME: San Diego Padres (39-45) at Pittsburgh Pirates (47-34)
DATE/TIME: Monday, July 06 - 7:05 PM EST
WHERE: PNC Park, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
LINE: 132, -143 TOTAL: 7

A.J. Burnett has been among the biggest surprises in baseball this season and will take the ball when the Pittsburgh Pirates open a three-game series against the visiting San Diego Padres on Monday. Owners of the second-best record in the National League at the season's midway point, the Pirates still trail Central Division-leading St. Louis by six games.

Pittsburgh has won five of its last six but suffered a potentially costly injury when left fielder Starling Marte exited Sunday's game with discomfort in his left side. Marte, who leads the team in homers (13) and is second in RBIs (48), will be re-evaluated Monday. The Padres had to settle for a four-game split in St. Louis despite winning the first two contests and holding the Cardinals to a total of nine runs in the series. San Diego, which has scored one run or fewer in four of its last six contests and 22 times overall, split a four-game home series with Pittsburgh in May.

TV: 7:05 p.m. ET, FSN San Diego, ROOT (Pittsburgh)

PITCHING MATCHUP: Padres RH James Shields (7-3, 4.14 ERA) vs. Pirates RH A.J. Burnett (7-3, 2.05)

After winning his first seven decisions and going 14 starts without tasting defeat, Shields has seen his season take a U-turn in his first year with the Padres. Despite permitting only two runs on four hits over 6 2/3 innings versus Seattle on Wednesday, he lost his third consecutive start. Shields was hit hard in each his previous outings, giving up 11 runs and 17 hits over 10 innings in losses at San Francisco and Arizona.

Burnett halted a four-start winless drought by limiting the Detroit Tigers to two runs over seven innings last time out - the 13th time in 16 turns he has pitched at least six innings. One of the keys for Burnett is keeping the ball in the park, surrendering only three homers on the season and none over his last five outings. Padres outfielders Justin Upton (8-for-16) and Will Venable (9-for-22) each have a pair of homers off Burnett.

WALK-OFFS

1. Pirates 2B Neil Walker has nine RBIs during a nine-game hitting streak.

2. Padres 3B Yangervis Solarte has a pair of homers and four runs scored during a six-game hitting streak.

3. 1B Travis Ishikawa, who started the season opener for Pittsburgh in 2014, was claimed off waivers by the Pirates on Sunday.

PREDICTION: Pirates 4, Padres 2

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Astros at Indians

GAME: Houston Astros (48-36) at Cleveland Indians (38-43)
DATE/TIME: Monday, July 06 - 7:10 PM EST
WHERE: Progressive Field, Cleveland, Ohio
LINE: 109, -118 TOTAL: 7

A pair of 10-game winners will square off when the Houston Astros continue their 10-game road trip in the opener of a four-game set at the Cleveland Indians on Monday night. Houston left-hander Dallas Kuechel looks to win his third straight start when he opposes Cleveland's Carlos Carrasco, who came within one out of a no-hitter in his last outing.

The American League West-leading Astros had won five in a row before dropping the final two games at home against Boston. Rookie shortstop Carlos Correa, the top overall selection in the 2012 draft, was 7-for-14 with a pair of homers and four RBIs in the three-game set versus the Red Sox. Like Houston, the Indians had ripped off five consecutive victories before suffering back-to-back losses at Pittsburgh, managing a combined three runs and eight hits in the two setbacks. First baseman Carlos Santana continues to labor for the Indians, going 3-for-28 with zero RBIs over the past nine games.

TV: 7:10 p.m. ET, ROOT (Houston), SportsTime Ohio (Cleveland)

PITCHING MATCHUP: Astros LH Dallas Keuchel (10-3, 2.03 ERA) vs. Indians RH Carlos Carrasco (10-6, 3.88)

Since giving up a season-high five runs in a 6-3 loss at Seattle on June 20, Keuchel has not allowed a run in winning his last two starts. He turned in an overpowering effort versus the New York Yankees on June 25, striking out a season-high 12 while registering his second shutout and third complete game of the season. He followed that up with eight scoreless innings against Kansas City to move within two wins of his career high.

Carrasco lost his no-hitter at Tampa Bay on a two-out, 0-2 pitch in the ninth inning that also deprived him of his second career shutout, but the one hit was all he permitted in the 13-strikeout masterpiece. Carrasco went eight innings in his previous start to beat Detroit, allowing two runs on five hits. The 28-year-old Venzuelan beat Houston in his season debut, striking out 10 and yielding three hits over 6 1/3 scoreless innings.

WALK-OFFS

1. Cleveland has won five of the last six meetings, holding the Astros to a combined six runs.

2. Astros LF Evan Gattis has hit safely in six straight and 10 of 11 games.

3. The Indians had six straight starters pitch into the seventh inning before the streak was halted Sunday.

PREDICTION: Astros 3, Indians 1

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Cardinals at Cubs

GAME: St. Louis Cardinals (53-28) at Chicago Cubs (44-36)
DATE/TIME: Monday, July 06 - 8:05 PM EST
WHERE: Wrigley Field, Chicago, Illinois
LINE: 121, -131 N/A TOTAL: N/A

Rookie Tommy Pham certainly is adjusting nicely to the majors and looks to continue his impressive run as the St. Louis Cardinals open a four-game series at the Chicago Cubs on Monday. Recalled from Triple-A Memphis on Friday, Pham scored both of his team's runs in Saturday's 2-1 victory over San Diego before belting his first career homer and driving in three in a 3-1 triumph the following day.

After batting .326 with four homers and 14 RBIs in June, Jason Heyward has six hits in five contests this month and is a blistering 8-for-15 (.533) in his career versus Monday starter Jon Lester. Speaking for former Boston pitchers, St. Louis will send right-hander John Lackey to the mound on Monday. The 36-year-old will need to keep an eye on Chris Coghlan, who had an RBI single and scored on a wild pitch to lift the Cubs to a 2-0 victory over Miami on Sunday for their fifth win in six outings. Coghlan has enjoyed considerable success versus Lackey, going 8-for-14 (.571) with a double in his career.

TV: 8:05 p.m. ET, FSN Midwest (St. Louis), WGN (Chicago)

PITCHING MATCHUP: Cardinals RH John Lackey (6-5, 3.30 ERA) vs. Cubs LH Jon Lester (4-6, 3.74)

Lackey fell to 2-1 in his last four starts despite allowing just two runs on seven hits in as many innings in a setback to the Chicago White Sox on Wednesday. The veteran has permitted just seven runs in that stretch, with two yielded to the Cubs over seven frames of a no-decision on June 26. Lackey also fared well in his first outing versus the Cubs, allowing one run on five hits and striking out a season-best 10 in 7 2/3 innings of a 5-1 triumph on May 7.

After piecing together four straight wins, Lester can't buy a break of late as he settled for a no-decision despite scattering five hits over seven innings in an eventual 2-0 victory over the New York Mets on Wednesday . The 31-year-old, who hasn't won since handcuffing Pittsburgh on May 16, is 0-4 in his last eight starts. Lester has split a pair of decisions versus St. Louis this season, exiting after 4 1/3 frames in a 3-0 loss on April 5 before allowing four runs in seven innings of a 6-5 win one month later.

WALK-OFFS

1. St. Louis' Jaime Garcia was placed on the 15-day disabled list with a groin strain, prompting the team to recall fellow LHP Tim Cooney from the Memphis Redbirds to start Tuesday's contest.

2. Both offenses are struggling of late as the Cubs have mustered two runs or fewer in 10 of their last 12 contests while the Cardinals have scored just 11 times in their last six games.

3. Sidelined since April 30, St. Louis RHP Jordan Walden (right biceps) is slated to throw a bullpen session on Monday.

PREDICTION: Cardinals 3, Cubs 2
STATS AND RECORDS

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Orioles at Twins

GAME: Baltimore Orioles (43-39) at Minnesota Twins (43-39)
DATE/TIME: Monday, July 06 - 8:10 PM EST
WHERE: Target Field, Minneapolis, Minnesota
LINE: -117, 108 TOTAL: 8

Prized prospect Miguel Sano plays in front of the Minnesota fans for the first time when the Twins open a three-game series against the visiting Baltimore Orioles on Monday. Sano has at least one hit in each game since being recalled and is 6-for-15 with two doubles and two RBIs in four big-league contests.

The 22-year-old Sano is a third baseman by trade but has been serving as the designated hitter with solid Trevor Plouffe manning third. Minnesota is coming off a four-game split with Kansas City and both losses occurred when the Royals recorded walk-off victories. Baltimore halted a three-game losing streak with a 9-1 rout of the Chicago White Sox on Sunday and the offensive explosion followed a stretch in which the Orioles tallied only six runs in four games. Baltimore center fielder Adam Jones had two doubles in Sunday's game but hasn't homered since June 11.

TV: 8:10 p.m. ET, MASN2 (Baltimore), FSN North (Minnesota)

PITCHING MATCHUP: Orioles LH Wei-Yin Chen (4-4, 2.84 ERA) vs. Twins RH Phil Hughes (7-6, 4.27)

Chen defeated Texas in his last outing when he gave up two runs and four hits in eight innings. He is 3-0 with a 2.16 ERA over his last five starts and has allowed five solo homers during the stretch. Chen is 3-1 with a 3.42 ERA in four career starts against Minnesota and struggled to retire second baseman Brian Dozier (5-for-11, one homer).

Hughes has won three consecutive starts and hasn't lost since June 8. He gave up four runs and eight hits in 6 2/3 innings while beating Cincinnati in his last start after allowing just one run in each of his previous two starts. Hughes is 8-5 with a 4.67 ERA in 22 career appearances (19 starts) against Baltimore and has held Jones to a .167 average in 48 at-bats despite serving up two homers.

WALK-OFFS

1. Orioles 1B/OF Steven Pearce had three hits on Sunday and is 8-for-18 over his past five outings.

2. Minnesota C Kurt Suzuki is 3-for-26 over his last eight games.

3. Baltimore 2B Jonathan Schoop (knee) homered Sunday in his first at-bat since coming off the 60-day disabled list.

PREDICTION: Orioles 8, Twins 6

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Braves at Brewers

GAME: Atlanta Braves (40-42) at Milwaukee Brewers (36-48)
DATE/TIME: Monday, July 06 - 8:10 PM EST
WHERE: Miller Park, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
LINE: 136, -148 TOTAL: 8

After recording the franchise's second undefeated road trip of at least seven contests, the Milwaukee Brewers vie for their ninth straight victory when they host the Atlanta Braves on Monday in the opener of a three-game series. The Brewers flexed their offensive muscle during the trek, erupting for 53 runs en route to sweeping a four-game series versus Philadelphia and three contests in Cincinnati.

The subject of trade rumors, Adam Lind homered for the second straight game in Sunday's 6-1 victory over the Reds and also had a run-scoring single for his franchise tying-record ninth straight contest with an RBI. Gerardo Parra also remained hot by going deep for the second time in three outings in the series finale and is 11-for-22 with eight runs scored during his five-game hitting streak. Both players struggled as Milwaukee dropped three of four in Atlanta on May 21-24, with Parra going 2-for-14 and Lind 1-for-11 with four strikeouts. A.J. Pierzynski collected three hits on Sunday as the Braves saw their four-game winning streak end with a 4-0 setback in 10 innings to the Phillies.

TV: 8:10 p.m. ET, SPSO (Atlanta), FSN Wisconsin (Milwaukee)

PITCHING MATCHUP: Braves RH Matt Wisler (2-1, 2.60 ERA) vs. Brewers RH Kyle Lohse (5-9, 6.24)

Wisler struggled with his control while making his third career start on Wednesday, allowing the first five walks of his career against just one hit in 5 1/3 scoreless innings in a victory over Washington. The 22-year-old rookie used a sharp slider and sinker en route to striking out six as he avenged a porous performance versus the Nationals on June 25. "The last time I was leaving balls up in the zone," Wisler said. "(Wednesday), I finally got down in the zone. That's what helped me a lot with a couple ground balls. ... My misses were not like up in the zone and over the plate."

Lohse received some offensive support to help him overcome his second straight four-run outing and secure his second consecutive win on Wednesday. The 36-year-old had posted an 0-5 mark in his previous seven starts prior to his modest winning streak, with the latest victory coming after he permitted nine hits in 6 1/3 innings of a 9-5 triumph versus Philadelphia. Lohse needs to keep an eye on Cameron Maybin, who is 9-for-20 during his five-game hitting streak and 3-for-7 in his career against the right-hander.

WALK-OFFS

1. Milwaukee 3B Aramis Ramirez is 13-for-25 with 11 RBIs during his eight-game hitting streak.

2. Atlanta LHP Manny Banuelos is expected to pitch Tuesday's contest despite leaving his last start due to cramping and dehydration.

3. The Brewers last won nine in a row from April 4-13, 2014.

PREDICTION: Braves 4, Brewers 2

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Blue Jays at White Sox

GAME: Toronto Blue Jays (43-41) at Chicago White Sox (36-43)
DATE/TIME: Monday, July 06 - 8:10 PM EST
WHERE: U.S. Cellular Field, Chicago, Illinois
LINE: 129, -140 TOTAL: 7

Chris Sale has a chance to set a major-league record when he takes the mound for the Chicago White Sox on Monday night in the opener of a four-game series against the visiting Toronto Blue Jays. Sale has struck out at least 10 batters in eight consecutive starts, tying the all-time mark set by Pedro Martinez with the Boston Red Sox in 1999.

During Sale's historic tear, he has fanned 97 batters while walking only nine over 60 innings, yet he remains winless over his last four turns. The White Sox, who provided a total of five runs of support during Sale's dry spell, had their four-game winning streak snapped when they dropped a 9-1 decision to Baltimore on Sunday. Toronto, which avoided a three-game series sweep with a 10-5 thumping of Detroit in the series finale, sends left-hander Mark Buehrle to the mound to face his former teammates. "It should be fun. It should be fast too," Chicago manager Robin Ventura said of the matchup between Buehrle and Sale.

TV: 8:10 p.m. ET, SNET (Toronto), CSN Chicago

PITCHING MATCHUP: Blue Jays LH Mark Buehrle (9-4, 3.64 ERA) vs. White Sox LH Chris Sale (6-4, 2.87)

Buehrle has been putting up impressive numbers of his own, winning back-to-back outings and stretching his unbeaten streak to seven starts after holding Boston to one run over seven innings on Wednesday. He won his previous turn against Texas by giving up two runs over seven innings versus Texas - the sixth straight start he's allowed two runs or fewer. He has been tormented by Melky Cabrera, who is 17-for-30 against him.

Sale was saddled with a no-decision last time out despite a masterful performance in which he struck out 12 and limited major league-best St. Louis to one run and six hits over eight innings. It was the fifth time in seven starts that Sale allowed one run or less, a span in which he allowed four hits or fewer four times. The 6-6 Sale has made five appearances (two starts) against Toronto, posting a 1-2 record and 2.84 ERA.

WALK-OFFS

1. Toronto leads the majors in runs scored (460) while Chicago (271) ranks last.

2. Cabrera has hit safely in four straight games after going 5-for-10 against Baltimore.

3. Blue Jays rookie 2B Devon Travis is 12-for-25 during his seven-game hitting streak.

PREDICTION: Blue Jays 3, White Sox 2

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Rays at Royals
Weather information is currently unavailable(Current). 5-Day Forecast GAME: Tampa Bay Rays (43-41) at Kansas City Royals (46-33)
DATE/TIME: Monday, July 06 - 8:10 PM EST
WHERE: Kauffman Stadium, Kansas City, Missouri
LINE: 120, -130 TOTAL: 7.5

Two teams coming off important victories look to build winning streaks when the Tampa Bay Rays visit the Kansas City Royals on Monday to begin a four-game series. The Rays ended a seven-game losing streak with an 8-1 triumph against the New York Yankees on Sunday and the Royals earned only their second win in seven contests by edging Minnesota 3-2 the same afternoon.

Kansas City still owns the best record (46-33) in the American League and leads second-place Minnesota by 4 ½ games in the Central Division after splitting four with the Twins at home. Royals’ third baseman Mike Moustakas -- second on the team with a .301 batting average -- left Sunday’s game due to a family matter and is questionable for Monday. Tampa Bay could also be without Steven Souza Jr., who leads the team with 15 homers, after suffering a cut and bruise on his right pinkie when he was hit by a pitch Sunday. The Rays are 3-11 since reaching a season-high 10 games over .500.

TV: 8:10 p.m. ET, Sun Sports (Tampa Bay), FSN Kansas City

PITCHING MATCHUP: Rays RH Alex Colome (3-4, 4.70 ERA) vs. Royals RH Edinson Volquez (8-4, 3.48)

Colome is winless in his last eight starts although he has limited opponents to two or fewer runs in half of those outings. The 26-year-old Dominican Republic native, who could be replaced in the rotation when Jake Odorizzi returns from the disabled list soon, gave up five runs over seven frames in a loss to Cleveland last time out. Colome has a 3.62 ERA on the road as opposed to 5.40 at home and will face the Royals for the first time.

Volquez escaped without a decision when he permitted five runs over as many innings at Houston last Wednesday after winning his previous four starts. The 32-year-old Dominican, in his first season with the Royals, surrendered two homers in his last outing after giving up five in his first 15 of the campaign. Asdrubal Cabrera is 3-for-8 with a homer versus Volquez, who is 2-0 with a 2.66 ERA in three career starts against the Rays.

WALK-OFFS

1. Tampa Bay INF-OF John Jaso, who has been out since the season opener with a wrist injury, could return to the lineup during this series.

2. Kansas City LF Alex Gordon’s solo home run Sunday gave him 508 career RBIs, one behind Willie Wilson for 10th on the team’s all-time list.

3. Rays 3B Evan Longoria is 6-for-17 during a four-game hitting streak and leads the majors in fielding percentage (.978) at his position.

PREDICTION: Royals 5, Rays 3

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Phillies at Dodgers

GAME: Philadelphia Phillies (28-56) at Los Angeles Dodgers (46-37)
DATE/TIME: Monday, July 06 - 10:10 PM EST
WHERE: Dodger Stadium, Los Angeles, California
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A

Jimmy Rollins faces his former squad for the first time when the Los Angeles Dodgers open a four-game series against the visiting Philadelphia Phillies on Monday. Rollins was the National League MVP in 2007 and played 14-plus seasons for the Phillies before being dealt to the Dodgers in the offseason.

The 36-year-old Rollins is no longer the standout he was in his prime and is batting .208 with seven homers and 24 RBIs this season. His former teammates aren't experiencing any success as they possess the worst record in the majors (28-56) even after snapping a six-game losing skid on Sunday. The Dodgers lost two of three to the New York Mets over the weekend and were pounded 8-0 on Sunday. Rookie center fielder Joc Pederson is in a 5-for-40 slump and hasn't homered since June 22.

TV: 10:10 p.m. ET, CSN Philadelphia, SportsNet LA (Los Angeles)

PITCHING MATCHUP: Phillies RH Sean O'Sullivan (1-6, 5.76 ERA) vs. Dodgers LH Eric Surkamp (NR)

O'Sullivan is winless over his past eight starts and lost his fourth straight decision when he fell to Milwaukee in his last outing. He allowed six runs and 12 hits in five-plus innings, marking the second straight outing in which he was touched up for six runs. O'Sullivan has served up 14 homers in 65 2/3 innings and has twice allowed four in a single game.

Los Angeles manager Don Mattingly refused to announce his starter after scheduled starter Carlos Frias (back) was placed on the disabled list. Surkamp was scratched from his Sunday start for Triple-A Oklahoma City, which fueled speculation he will land the start since Mattingly indicated the club will recall him on Monday. Surkamp has made seven major-league starts -- the most recent being in 2013 for San Francisco -- and went 2-3 with a 7.36 ERA in those outings.

WALK-OFFS

1. Dodgers 1B Adrian Gonzalez (hand) left Sunday's game after three innings but is expected to start Monday.

2. Philadelphia OF Ben Revere (hamstring) has missed four straight starts but could return to the lineup for the series opener.

3. Los Angeles RF Yasiel Puig is 4-for-27 over his past nine appearances.

PREDICTION: Dodgers 7, Phillies 5

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Tigers at Mariners

GAME: Detroit Tigers (41-40) at Seattle Mariners (38-44)
DATE/TIME: Monday, July 06 - 10:10 PM EST
WHERE: Safeco Field, Seattle, Washington
LINE: 138, -150 TOTAL: 7

J.D. Martinez is putting on the type of power display the Detroit Tigers need with slugger Miguel Cabrera sidelined for the next six weeks. Martinez has smacked 10 homers in his last 12 games as Detroit begins a three-game series against the host Seattle Mariners on Monday.

Martinez homered in Sunday's loss to the Toronto Blue Jays and his 23 blasts rank second in the American League. His next homer will surpass the career-best total he posted last season and he will be counted on to help carry the club with Cabrera (calf) on the disabled list. Seattle has won four of its past six games and is still waiting for second baseman Robinson Cano to get his bat moving. Cano is batting just .248 with five homers and 27 RBIs and his string of six straight .300 seasons is in severe jeopardy.

TV: 10:10 p.m. ET, FSN Detroit, ROOT (Seattle)

PITCHING MATCHUP: Tigers RH Alfredo Simon (7-5, 3.94 ERA) vs. Mariners RH Hisashi Iwakuma (0-1, 6.61)

Simon has been torched in his last three starts while allowing 18 runs and 29 hits in 14 2/3 innings during the stretch. He gave up 15 hits against Pittsburgh in his last turn -- matching San Francisco's Tim Hudson for most in the majors this season -- as well as six runs in 5 2/3 innings while taking the loss. Simon had a 2.58 ERA through his first 12 starts before suddenly falling on hard times.

Iwakuma returns after missing 2 1/2 months due to a strained lat muscle. He recently was pulled from a rehab start due to a blister issue but that ailment isn't considered a problem per his return engagement. Iwakuma is 1-1 with a 2.35 ERA in four career appearances (three starts) against Detroit but has been hit hard by left fielder Yoenis Cespedes (10-for-24, three homers) and second baseman Ian Kinsler (9-for-23, three homers).

WALK-OFFS

1. Mariners manager Lloyd McClendon will miss the series due to the death of his sister and bench coach Trent Jewett will serve as interim manager.

2. Kinsler is 8-for-18 with five RBIs over the last four games.

3. Seattle 1B Logan Morrison is 1-for-15 over the past four contests.

PREDICTION: Mariners 5, Tigers 4

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Mets at Giants

GAME: New York Mets (42-41) at San Francisco Giants (42-41)
DATE/TIME: Monday, July 06 - 10:15 PM EST
WHERE: AT&T Park, San Francisco, California
LINE: 131, -142 TOTAL: 7

Following an 0-6 road trip, the San Francisco Giants return home Monday to begin a three-game series against the New York Mets. The Giants will actually arrive in San Francisco about six hours before Monday night’s game after staying Sunday night in Washington, D.C., where they were outscored 14-5 by the Nationals in three games over the weekend.

The Mets broke out of a lengthy offensive slump with 15 hits in Sunday’s 8-0 victory against the Dodgers and saw Wilmer Flores reinforce his claim as the club's regular second baseman. Flores had a career-high four hits along with three RBI in the victory and went 10-for-13 during the three-game series. The Giants have struggled without right fielder Hunter Pence (strained wrist tendon), but the team’s emotional leader took batting practice Sunday and could return before the end of the month. Center fielder Angel Pagan returned to the starting lineup Sunday after missing Saturday’s contest, but his swollen left knee remains a concern.

TV: 10:15 p.m. ET, SNY (New York), CSN Bay Area (San Francisco)

PITCHING MATCHUP: Mets LH Jonathon Niese (3-8, 3.90 ERA) vs. Giants RH Chris Heston (8-5, 3.78)

Niese’s winless streak reached a career-high nine starts against the Cubs on Tuesday despite yielding one run over seven innings in a 1-0 loss. “It's tough,” Niese told reporters. “It’s tough to swallow, but you’ve got to be professional about it. You've got to forget about it and not worry about it.” Brandon Crawford is 5-for-12 with a home run against the 28-year-old, who is 1-3 with a 2.92 ERA in seven career games (six starts) against the Giants.

Heston is facing the Mets for the first time since tossing a no-hitter against them on June 9, when he struck out 11 in the Giants’ 5-0 victory. The 27-year-old rookie has been a revelation for the Giants while yielding three runs or fewer in six of his last seven starts. Heston, who is making his second career start against the Mets, owns a 3.12 ERA in eight starts at home this season compared to a 4.44 ERA in eight outings on the road.

WALK-OFFS

1. The Mets’ bullpen has allowed four runs in its last 10 games covering 28 innings.

2. San Francisco has won five of its last seven at AT&T Park following a nine-game home losing streak.

3. New York is 6-19 over its last 25 road games.

PREDICTION: Giants 6, Mets 4

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

MLB
Dunkel

Monday, July 6


Cincinnati @ Washington

Game 951-952
July 6, 2015 @ 7:05 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Cincinnati
(DeSclafani) 16.101
Washington
(Fister) 17.529
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Washington
by 1 1/2
9
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Washington
-165
7 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Washington
(-165); Over

San Diego @ Pittsburgh

Game 953-954
July 6, 2015 @ 7:05 pm

Dunkel Rating:
San Diego
(Shields) 12.734
Pittsburgh
(Burnett) 17.713
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Pittsburgh
by 5
8
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Pittsburgh
-165
7
Dunkel Pick:
Pittsburgh
(-165); Over

St. Louis @ Chicago Cubs

Game 955-956
July 6, 2015 @ 8:05 pm

Dunkel Rating:
St. Louis
(Lackey) 16.586
Chicago Cubs
(Lester) 15.032
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
St. Louis
by 1 1/2
6
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Chicago Cubs
-130
No Run Total
Dunkel Pick:
St. Louis
(+110); N/A

Atlanta @ Milwaukee

Game 957-958
July 6, 2015 @ 8:10 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Atlanta
(Wisler) 15.449
Milwaukee
(Lohse) 12.068
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Atlanta
by 3 1/2
7
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Milwaukee
-135
8
Dunkel Pick:
Atlanta
(+115); Under

Philadelphia @ LA Dodgers

Game 959-960
July 6, 2015 @ 10:10 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Philadelphia
(O'Sullvan) 13.234
LA Dodgers
(Surkamp) 16.329
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
LA Dodgers
by 3
6
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
LA Dodgers
No Line
N/A
Dunkel Pick:
LA Dodgers
N/A

NY Mets @ San Francisco

Game 961-962
July 6, 2015 @ 10:15 pm

Dunkel Rating:
NY Mets
(Niese) 13.701
San Francisco
(Heston) 15.204
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
San Francisco
by 1 1/2
6
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
San Francisco
-170
7
Dunkel Pick:
San Francisco
(-170); Under

Houston @ Cleveland

Game 963-964
July 6, 2015 @ 7:10 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Houston
(Keuchel) 15.521
Cleveland
(Carrasco) 14.039
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Houston
by 1 1/2
8
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Cleveland
-120
7
Dunkel Pick:
Houston
(+100); Over

Baltimore @ Minnesota

Game 965-966
July 6, 2015 @ 8:10 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Baltimore
(Chen) 17.097
Minnesota
(Hughes) 13.466
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Baltimore
by 3 1/2
9
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Minnesota
-110
8
Dunkel Pick:
Baltimore
(-110); Over

Tampa Bay @ Kansas City

Game 967-968
July 6, 2015 @ 8:10 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Tampa Bay
(Colome) 13.512
Kansas City
(Volquez) 16.235
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Kansas City
by 2 1/2
9
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Kansas City
-150
7 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Kansas City
(-150); Over

Toronto @ Chicago White Sox

Game 969-970
July 6, 2015 @ 8:10 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Toronto
(Buehrle) 12.544
Chicago White Sox
(Sale) 18.006
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Chicago White Sox
by 5 1/2
8
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Chicago White Sox
-160
7
Dunkel Pick:
Chicago White Sox
(-160); Over

Detroit @ Seattle

Game 971-972
July 6, 2015 @ 10:10 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Detroit
(Simon) 15.217
Seattle
(Iwakuma) 14.210
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Detroit
by 1
6
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Seattle
-150
7
Dunkel Pick:
Detroit
(+130); Under

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

MLB
Long Sheet

Monday, July 6

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

CINCINNATI (36 - 44) at WASHINGTON (46 - 36) - 7:05 PM
ANTHONY DESCLAFANI (R) vs. DOUG FISTER (R)
Top Trends for this game.
CINCINNATI is 8-26 (-15.5 Units) against the money line as a road underdog of +125 to +150 over the last 2 seasons.
CINCINNATI is 47-75 (-23.0 Units) against the money line in road games over the last 2 seasons.
CINCINNATI is 47-75 (-23.0 Units) against the money line in road games in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
CINCINNATI is 69-90 (-21.1 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons.
CINCINNATI is 31-61 (-23.9 Units) against the money line in road games when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 3 seasons.
CINCINNATI is 511-578 (+30.8 Units) against the money line in road games against right-handed starters since 1997.

Head-to-Head Series History
CINCINNATI is 3-0 (+3.3 Units) against WASHINGTON this season
2 of 3 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=+1.0 Units)

ANTHONY DESCLAFANI vs. WASHINGTON since 1997
DESCLAFANI is 1-0 when starting against WASHINGTON with an ERA of 3.00 and a WHIP of 1.667.
His team's record is 1-0 (+1.1 units) in these starts. The OVER is 0-1. (-1.1 units)

DOUG FISTER vs. CINCINNATI since 1997
FISTER is 2-0 when starting against CINCINNATI with an ERA of 1.29 and a WHIP of 0.786.
His team's record is 2-0 (+2.0 units) in these starts. The OVER is 1-1. (-0.3 units)

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

SAN DIEGO (39 - 45) at PITTSBURGH (47 - 34) - 7:05 PM
JAMES SHIELDS (R) vs. A.J. BURNETT (R)
Top Trends for this game.
SAN DIEGO is 53-92 (-29.8 Units) against the money line in road games against right-handed starters over the last 3 seasons.
PITTSBURGH is 232-180 (+34.2 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 3 seasons.
PITTSBURGH is 129-78 (+28.5 Units) against the money line in home games over the last 3 seasons.
PITTSBURGH is 230-179 (+32.7 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 3 seasons.
PITTSBURGH is 94-67 (+15.7 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons.
PITTSBURGH is 63-36 (+17.3 Units) against the money line in home games against right-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
PITTSBURGH is 78-45 (+21.7 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons.
SHIELDS is 39-21 (+19.7 Units) against the money line when the total is 7 or less since 1997. (Team's Record)
SHIELDS is 20-10 (+10.5 Units) against the money line in road games over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
SHIELDS is 30-15 (+15.1 Units) against the money line in road games in games played on a grass field over the last 3 seasons. (Team's Record)
SHIELDS is 19-8 (+10.3 Units) against the money line in road games in night games over the last 3 seasons. (Team's Record)
SHIELDS is 11-3 (+8.9 Units) against the money line in road games after a loss over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
SHIELDS is 10-2 (+9.2 Units) against the money line in road games when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
BURNETT is 12-31 (-28.9 Units) against the money line when playing on Monday since 1997. (Team's Record)
BURNETT is 174-180 (-36.0 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field since 1997. (Team's Record)
BURNETT is 141-152 (-34.1 Units) against the money line in night games since 1997. (Team's Record)
BURNETT is 10-21 (-16.4 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 3 seasons. (Team's Record)
BURNETT is 3-11 (-10.0 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record in the second half of the season over the last 3 seasons. (Team's Record)

Head-to-Head Series History
PITTSBURGH is 2-2 (+0.1 Units) against SAN DIEGO this season
3 of 3 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=+3.0 Units)

JAMES SHIELDS vs. PITTSBURGH since 1997
SHIELDS is 0-0 when starting against PITTSBURGH with an ERA of 3.00 and a WHIP of 1.333.
His team's record is 1-0 (+1.0 units) in these starts. The OVER is 1-0. (+1.0 units)

A.J. BURNETT vs. SAN DIEGO since 1997
BURNETT is 4-7 when starting against SAN DIEGO with an ERA of 4.38 and a WHIP of 1.551.
His team's record is 4-8 (-6.1 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 5-6. (-1.8 units)

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

ST LOUIS (53 - 28) at CHICAGO CUBS (44 - 36) - 8:05 PM
JOHN LACKEY (R) vs. JON LESTER (L)
Top Trends for this game.
LACKEY is 10-21 (-13.4 Units) against the money line in road games in night games over the last 3 seasons. (Team's Record)
CHICAGO CUBS are 117-123 (+2.2 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
CHICAGO CUBS are 29-20 (+9.4 Units) against the money line in night games this season.
CHICAGO CUBS are 66-68 (+4.7 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
ST LOUIS is 53-28 (+20.5 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
ST LOUIS is 22-8 (+12.2 Units) against the money line against division opponents this season.
ST LOUIS is 53-28 (+20.5 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
ST LOUIS is 35-17 (+14.5 Units) against the money line after a win this season.
ST LOUIS is 24-11 (+12.5 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
LACKEY is 20-8 (+12.9 Units) against the money line in road games in July games since 1997. (Team's Record)
CHICAGO CUBS are 1431-1589 (-276.6 Units) against the money line in all games since 1997.
CHICAGO CUBS are 766-742 (-163.8 Units) against the money line in home games since 1997.
CHICAGO CUBS are 362-346 (-87.1 Units) against the money line in home games against division opponents since 1997.
CHICAGO CUBS are 1053-1185 (-213.0 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters since 1997.
CHICAGO CUBS are 40-55 (-32.5 Units) against the money line in home games after shutting out their opponent since 1997.
CHICAGO CUBS are 665-767 (-198.7 Units) against the money line after a win since 1997.

Head-to-Head Series History
ST LOUIS is 7-2 (+4.7 Units) against CHICAGO CUBS this season
5 of 9 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL this season . (Under=+0.5 Units)

JOHN LACKEY vs. CHICAGO CUBS since 1997
LACKEY is 2-1 when starting against CHICAGO CUBS with an ERA of 2.34 and a WHIP of 1.269.
His team's record is 4-1 (+3.0 units) in these starts. The OVER is 1-4. (-3.2 units)

JON LESTER vs. ST LOUIS since 1997
LESTER is 3-1 when starting against ST LOUIS with an ERA of 1.85 and a WHIP of 1.147.
His team's record is 4-1 (+3.3 units) in these starts. The OVER is 2-3. (-1.2 units)

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

ATLANTA (40 - 42) at MILWAUKEE (36 - 48) - 8:10 PM
MATT WISLER (R) vs. KYLE LOHSE (R)
Top Trends for this game.
ATLANTA is 59-69 (-22.7 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons.
ATLANTA is 25-29 (-12.5 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record in the second half of the season over the last 2 seasons.
ATLANTA is 30-27 (+7.4 Units) against the money line in night games this season.
ATLANTA is 22-19 (+8.3 Units) against the money line after a loss this season.
MILWAUKEE is 118-128 (-18.1 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
MILWAUKEE is 21-26 (-14.4 Units) against the money line as a home favorite of -125 to -150 over the last 2 seasons.
MILWAUKEE is 15-26 (-13.7 Units) against the money line in home games this season.
MILWAUKEE is 15-26 (-13.7 Units) against the money line in home games in games played on a grass field this season.
MILWAUKEE is 26-41 (-15.2 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters this season.
MILWAUKEE is 55-60 (-17.9 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons.
MILWAUKEE is 12-23 (-19.9 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record in the second half of the season over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
ATLANTA is 3-1 (+2.0 Units) against MILWAUKEE this season
2 of 4 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=-0.1 Units, Under=-0.4 Units)

MATT WISLER vs. MILWAUKEE since 1997
No recent starts.

KYLE LOHSE vs. ATLANTA since 1997
LOHSE is 6-2 when starting against ATLANTA with an ERA of 3.86 and a WHIP of 1.262.
His team's record is 7-7 (+1.5 units) in these starts. The OVER is 8-6. (+1.8 units)

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

PHILADELPHIA (28 - 56) at LA DODGERS (46 - 37) - 10:10 PM
SEAN O'SULLIVAN (R) vs. ERIC SURKAMP (L)
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

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

SEAN O'SULLIVAN vs. LA DODGERS since 1997
No recent starts.

ERIC SURKAMP vs. PHILADELPHIA since 1997
No recent starts.

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

NY METS (42 - 41) at SAN FRANCISCO (42 - 41) - 10:15 PM
JON NIESE (L) vs. CHRIS HESTON (R)
Top Trends for this game.
NY METS are 13-27 (-12.6 Units) against the money line in road games this season.
NY METS are 23-33 (-11.3 Units) against the money line in night games this season.
NY METS are 9-22 (-12.7 Units) against the money line in road games against right-handed starters this season.
NY METS are 2-12 (-10.4 Units) against the money line in road games after a win this season.
NIESE is 6-19 (-12.0 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
SAN FRANCISCO is 142-120 (+14.0 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
SAN FRANCISCO is 211-106 (+40.9 Units) against the money line as a home favorite of -150 to -175 since 1997.
SAN FRANCISCO is 142-120 (+14.0 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
SAN FRANCISCO is 1048-882 (+113.1 Units) against the money line in night games since 1997.
SAN FRANCISCO is 250-158 (+56.5 Units) against the money line in home games against left-handed starters since 1997.
SAN FRANCISCO is 63-57 (+12.2 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
SAN FRANCISCO is 20-36 (-22.4 Units) against the money line in July games over the last 3 seasons.
SAN FRANCISCO is 2-10 (-11.9 Units) against the money line in home games when playing on Monday over the last 2 seasons.
SAN FRANCISCO is 16-23 (-11.1 Units) against the money line after a loss this season.
SAN FRANCISCO is 3-12 (-11.5 Units) against the money line after 3 or more consecutive losses this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
SAN FRANCISCO is 2-1 (+1.6 Units) against NY METS this season
2 of 3 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=+1.0 Units)

JON NIESE vs. SAN FRANCISCO since 1997
NIESE is 1-3 when starting against SAN FRANCISCO with an ERA of 2.57 and a WHIP of 1.102.
His team's record is 2-5 (-3.0 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 6-1. (+5.0 units)

CHRIS HESTON vs. NY METS since 1997
HESTON is 1-0 when starting against NY METS with an ERA of 0.00 and a WHIP of 0.000.
His team's record is 1-0 (+1.1 units) in these starts. The OVER is 0-1. (-1.1 units)

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

HOUSTON (48 - 36) at CLEVELAND (38 - 43) - 7:10 PM
DALLAS KEUCHEL (L) vs. CARLOS CARRASCO (R)
Top Trends for this game.
HOUSTON is 48-36 (+9.3 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
HOUSTON is 14-8 (+9.5 Units) against the money line when the total is 7 or less over the last 2 seasons.
HOUSTON is 19-9 (+12.0 Units) against the money line as a road underdog of +100 to +125 over the last 2 seasons.
HOUSTON is 48-33 (+12.3 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
HOUSTON is 80-88 (+8.7 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons.
HOUSTON is 31-18 (+14.0 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters this season.
KEUCHEL is 29-17 (+15.7 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
KEUCHEL is 28-16 (+14.9 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
KEUCHEL is 19-10 (+12.0 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
KEUCHEL is 18-9 (+13.0 Units) against the money line after a loss over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
CLEVELAND is 38-43 (-14.3 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
CLEVELAND is 15-23 (-16.7 Units) against the money line in home games this season.
CLEVELAND is 34-43 (-18.4 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
CLEVELAND is 5-15 (-16.3 Units) against the money line in home games in night games this season.
CLEVELAND is 13-20 (-9.7 Units) against the money line against left-handed starters this season.
CLEVELAND is 18-26 (-12.6 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
CARRASCO is 7-13 (-11.5 Units) against the money line in home games over the last 3 seasons. (Team's Record)
CARRASCO is 7-13 (-11.5 Units) against the money line in home games in games played on a grass field over the last 3 seasons. (Team's Record)
CARRASCO is 6-17 (-15.0 Units) against the money line in home games in night games since 1997. (Team's Record)

Head-to-Head Series History
CLEVELAND is 2-1 (+0.9 Units) against HOUSTON this season
3 of 3 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL this season . (Under=+3.0 Units)

DALLAS KEUCHEL vs. CLEVELAND since 1997
KEUCHEL is 2-0 when starting against CLEVELAND with an ERA of 0.78 and a WHIP of 0.913.
His team's record is 2-1 (+1.0 units) in these starts. The OVER is 0-2. (-2.2 units)

CARLOS CARRASCO vs. HOUSTON since 1997
CARRASCO is 2-0 when starting against HOUSTON with an ERA of 0.42 and a WHIP of 0.516.
His team's record is 2-1 (-0.2 units) in these starts. The OVER is 0-3. (-3.2 units)

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

BALTIMORE (43 - 39) at MINNESOTA (43 - 39) - 8:10 PM
WEI-YIN CHEN (L) vs. PHIL HUGHES (R)
Top Trends for this game.
BALTIMORE is 5-16 (-11.8 Units) against the money line in road games in night games this season.
MINNESOTA is 43-39 (+12.0 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
MINNESOTA is 16-8 (+9.3 Units) against the money line as a home underdog of +100 to +125 this season.
MINNESOTA is 25-15 (+12.1 Units) against the money line in home games this season.
MINNESOTA is 43-39 (+12.0 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
MINNESOTA is 22-19 (+8.6 Units) against the money line in night games this season.
MINNESOTA is 18-11 (+10.7 Units) against the money line against left-handed starters this season.
MINNESOTA is 23-15 (+13.1 Units) against the money line after a loss this season.
HUGHES is 28-20 (+12.1 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
HUGHES is 27-20 (+10.7 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
HUGHES is 51-29 (+24.9 Units) against the money line after a loss since 1997. (Team's Record)
HUGHES is 17-7 (+13.6 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
BALTIMORE is 143-109 (+38.1 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
BALTIMORE is 63-59 (+15.5 Units) against the money line in road games over the last 2 seasons.
BALTIMORE is 19-11 (+10.9 Units) against the money line in July games over the last 2 seasons.
BALTIMORE is 19-9 (+12.3 Units) against the money line when playing on Monday over the last 2 seasons.
BALTIMORE is 127-96 (+33.0 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
BALTIMORE is 109-80 (+33.1 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
BALTIMORE is 78-63 (+16.0 Units) against the money line after a win over the last 2 seasons.
BALTIMORE is 65-52 (+19.5 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
BALTIMORE is 34-19 (+19.0 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record in the second half of the season over the last 2 seasons.
CHEN is 30-18 (+12.0 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
CHEN is 38-17 (+20.0 Units) against the money line when the total is 8 to 8.5 since 1997. (Team's Record)
CHEN is 29-14 (+15.2 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
CHEN is 15-7 (+9.4 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
MINNESOTA is 38-69 (-25.4 Units) against the money line in home games when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 3 seasons.

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

WEI-YIN CHEN vs. MINNESOTA since 1997
CHEN is 3-1 when starting against MINNESOTA with an ERA of 3.42 and a WHIP of 1.141.
His team's record is 3-1 (+1.8 units) in these starts. The OVER is 1-3. (-2.3 units)

PHIL HUGHES vs. BALTIMORE since 1997
HUGHES is 8-5 when starting against BALTIMORE with an ERA of 4.61 and a WHIP of 1.388.
His team's record is 11-9 (-1.4 units) in these starts. The OVER is 11-7. (+3.7 units)

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

TAMPA BAY (43 - 41) at KANSAS CITY (46 - 33) - 8:10 PM
ALEX COLOME (R) vs. EDINSON VOLQUEZ (R)
Top Trends for this game.
TAMPA BAY is 120-126 (-26.0 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
TAMPA BAY is 85-93 (-22.0 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
KANSAS CITY is 46-33 (+11.2 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
KANSAS CITY is 46-33 (+11.2 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
KANSAS CITY is 105-75 (+19.5 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons.
KANSAS CITY is 33-19 (+12.4 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters this season.
KANSAS CITY is 83-64 (+12.4 Units) against the money line after a win over the last 2 seasons.
KANSAS CITY is 70-56 (+11.0 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
TAMPA BAY is 23-16 (+10.0 Units) against the money line in road games this season.
TAMPA BAY is 11-3 (+8.7 Units) against the money line in road games in July games over the last 2 seasons.

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

ALEX COLOME vs. KANSAS CITY since 1997
No recent starts.

EDINSON VOLQUEZ vs. TAMPA BAY since 1997
VOLQUEZ is 2-0 when starting against TAMPA BAY with an ERA of 2.66 and a WHIP of 1.033.
His team's record is 2-1 (+2.0 units) in these starts. The OVER is 2-1. (+1.0 units)

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

TORONTO (43 - 41) at CHI WHITE SOX (36 - 43) - 8:10 PM
MARK BUEHRLE (L) vs. CHRIS SALE (L)
Top Trends for this game.
CHI WHITE SOX are 10-1 (+9.3 Units) against the money line in home games when playing on Monday over the last 2 seasons.
BUEHRLE is 31-17 (+14.5 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
BUEHRLE is 22-10 (+13.1 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
BUEHRLE is 18-7 (+11.8 Units) against the money line after a win over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
BUEHRLE is 18-5 (+13.4 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)

Head-to-Head Series History
TORONTO is 2-1 (+0.8 Units) against CHI WHITE SOX this season
2 of 3 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL this season . (Under=+1.0 Units)

MARK BUEHRLE vs. CHI WHITE SOX since 1997
BUEHRLE is 1-1 when starting against CHI WHITE SOX with an ERA of 3.20 and a WHIP of 1.322.
His team's record is 2-1 (+0.8 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 3-0. (+3.0 units)

CHRIS SALE vs. TORONTO since 1997
SALE is 1-1 when starting against TORONTO with an ERA of 2.57 and a WHIP of 1.000.
His team's record is 1-1 (+0.0 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 2-0. (+2.0 units)

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

DETROIT (41 - 40) at SEATTLE (38 - 44) - 10:10 PM
ALFREDO SIMON (R) vs. HISASHI IWAKUMA (R)
Top Trends for this game.
DETROIT is 19-27 (-10.7 Units) against the money line in night games this season.
DETROIT is 16-23 (-9.8 Units) against the money line after a loss this season.
DETROIT is 61-60 (-16.0 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons.
SIMON is 28-20 (+10.6 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
SIMON is 28-20 (+10.6 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
SIMON is 10-3 (+8.6 Units) against the money line in road games when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
SEATTLE is 38-44 (-11.3 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
SEATTLE is 4-10 (-9.7 Units) against the money line as a home favorite of -125 to -150 this season.
SEATTLE is 17-23 (-12.5 Units) against the money line in home games this season.
SEATTLE is 10-15 (-8.3 Units) against the money line at home when the total is 7 or less this season.
SEATTLE is 33-43 (-15.9 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
SEATTLE is 13-18 (-10.7 Units) against the money line in home games in night games this season.
SEATTLE is 14-19 (-11.0 Units) against the money line in home games against right-handed starters this season.
SEATTLE is 14-23 (-12.8 Units) against the money line after a win this season.
SEATTLE is 14-21 (-9.0 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record this season.

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

ALFREDO SIMON vs. SEATTLE since 1997
No recent starts.

HISASHI IWAKUMA vs. DETROIT since 1997
IWAKUMA is 1-1 when starting against DETROIT with an ERA of 2.25 and a WHIP of 1.000.
His team's record is 2-1 (+2.0 units) in these starts. The OVER is 2-1. (+1.0 units)

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Padres' backers slumping in this pitcher's starts

The San Diego Padres have lost their last five ball games when righty James Shields takes the mound. Shields is expected to start the Friars' opener against the Pittsburgh Pirates Monday.

Shields has lost three of those starts and took a no decision twice. The Friars have lost to the Atlanta Braves (-121), Los Angeles Dodgers (+100), Arizona Diamondbacks (-107), San Francisco Giants (+121) and Seattle Mariners (-108) over that stretch.

A.J. Burnett is expected to start for the Pirates, who are presently -139.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Bettors beware: thunderstorms possible in Washington

According to weather forecasts, there is a 69 percent chance of thunerstorms in the Nation's capital when the Washington Nationals host the Cincinnati Reds Monday evening.

Doug Fister is probable to get the ball for the Nats (-141) with Anthony Desclafani expected to start for the visitors (+130).

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Orioles cashing bets when Chen gets the ball

The Baltimore Orioles head into their meeting with the Minnesota Twins with a five-game winning streak in games that Wei-Yin Chen starts.

Chen (4-4, 2.84 ERA) is slated to get the ball as a -115 favorite in Minnesota Monday. The Twins are expected to counter with Phil Hughes.

The is lefty is currently 18th in starting pitcher money standings ($467).

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Surkamp to make first MLB start since 2013

Left-hander Eric Surkamp will get the start for the Los Angeles Dodgers after Carols Frias (back) was placed on the disabled list. It will be Surkamp's first start since 2013 for the San Francisco Giants.

The lefty has made seven career MLB starts and is 2-3 with a 7.36 ERA in those outings.

Surkamp and the Dodgers are presently -214 with the Philadelphia Phillies in town Monday evening. The Phils, expected to counter with Sean O'Sullivan, are +196.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

This matchup has a history of going under

The Houston Astros and the Cleveland Indians begin a four-game series Monday, in a matchup that has seen the under go 22-5-2 in the last 29 meetings.

That includes going under in 10 consecutive meetings between the two teams.

Dallas Keuchel (2.03 ERA, 7-10 O/U) gets the call for the Astros, while the Indians counter with Carlos Carrasco (3.88 ERA, 10-6 O/U). The total is currently at 7.0 runs.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Sale aiming for record ninth straight game with double-digit strikeouts

Jul 06, 2015

CHICAGO -- Chris Sale has a chance to stand alone in major league history when he takes the mound for the Chicago White Sox on Monday at U.S. Cellular Field.

The ace left-hander has struck out at least 10 hitters in eight straight starts and is vying to become the only pitcher in the majors to ever do that in nine straight outings. He's currently tied with Hall of Famer Pedro Martinez, who is the only other pitcher to accomplish that feat in the big leagues.

Regardless, Sale isn't satisfied with his ascension to star pitcher status. Asked recently if he still feels he can improve, he didn't hesitate to answer.

"I'm going to try," he said. "That's what everyone does. It doesn't matter who you are, where you're at in your career, what you've done up until then. Every time you take the ball, you try to do better than the last time out. You just try to keep getting better, however that is."

Sale will be pitching with an extra day's rest after manager Robin Ventura decided to give his scheduled start Sunday against the Orioles to left-handed rookie Carlos Rodon. Ventura said there's no health concern that drove him to make the decision, but it does set up a fun matchup for White Sox fans on Monday.

Mark Buehrle will pitch for the Blue Jays in his annual homecoming to Chicago, where he made some history of his own for the White Sox. Buehrle threw a no-hitter and a perfect game at U.S. Cellular Field as the White Sox's ace and was their No. 1 starter in 2005, when they won the World Series.

He also tutored Sale for a season, before leaving as a free agent.

"We didn't do it for this (matchup)," Ventura said of pushing Sale back. "We did it more for Chris. It ends up being a nice game that our fans should enjoy. Mark he should be celebrated for everything that he's done here. He's meant a lot to Chris and a lot of these guys that are in here in mentor fashion of the guy that can show you how to grab the ball and pitch and get it done."

Sale learned from Buehrle how working quickly on the mound can be advantageous for pitchers. Now, they each work fast and mow through their starts in record time.

"It should be fun," Ventura said. "It should be fast too."