Monday 9/12/16 service plays chatter/comps/requests & other stuff...

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Monday Night Football Picks: Los Angeles Rams at San Francisco 49ers Odds
by Alan Matthews

Let me just say a few things right off the bat about the Monday nightcap in Week 1 between the Los Angeles Rams and the San Francisco 49ers at Levi's Stadium, host of last year's Super Bowl:

1) I'm fairly confident I won't be previewing a game for either of these two teams the rest of 2016 as neither is really all that interesting and both are likely to finish below .500 -- the 49ers well below;

2) I am not going to get into 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick's antics before the National Anthem and whether I think they are right or wrong, just that I wouldn't do it. Kaepernick won't play on Monday unless starter Blaine Gabbert gets hurt, so the anthem isn't relevant;

3) ESPN wasn't going to show the anthem because it usually doesn't in a sporting event. But because it's newsworthy, the network will this time. However, I will be watching this game with the sound down because Chris Berman will be the play-by-play guy. Berman is a Hall of Fame sportscaster, but his talent is in hosting studio shows like Sunday NFL Countdown or the former NFL Primetime. He and the recently retired Tom Jackson were great in those shows, but Berman is a horrible play-by-play guy. Incidentally, this is Berman's final season at ESPN.

Rams at 49ers Betting Story Lines

If you are like me, you can't wait every summer for HBO's "Hard Knocks", and this year the Rams were the featured team. The NFL basically told the Rams they had to do it after the league approved the team's move to Los Angeles this past offseason. This is the Rams' first game that matters back as L.A.'s team since Christmas Eve 1994 when the Rams lost 24-21 at Anaheim Stadium to the Washington Redskins.

I thought the Rams vastly overpaid in draft picks to land the No. 1 overall pick in this year's draft because there was no franchise QB available. And a lot of scouts thought the same thing. Yet the Rams mortgaged the future to select Cal's Jared Goff. If you watched "Hard Knocks," Goff has a long way to go. He's not only not starting this game, he won't be active. Incumbent starter Case Keenum gets the call, and his backup will Sean Mannion, a 2015 third-round pick out of Oregon State. Punter Johnny Hekker will be the emergency backup! Goff was originally the second-favorite to win NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year honors because No. 1 overall picks almost always start from the get-go. But now Goff is +1800.

Keenum is solid, I guess, but the Rams are clearly going to run the ball a ton with Todd Gurley, the reigning Rookie of the Year. He should only be stronger one more year removed from ACL surgery. There's not much more to like on that offense. The defense should be very good and there's no better tackle in the NFL than Aaron Donald. He's the +500 second-favorite behind J.J. Watt (+300) to win Defensive Player of the Year.

I project the Rams to probably go 6-10 or so yet somehow Coach Jeff Fisher will not be fired again. The worse the Rams do, the better for the Tennessee Titans as they hold L.A.'s 2017 first-round pick.

This will be the regular-season head coaching debut with the 49ers of former Eagles coach Chip Kelly. I think Philly should have simply stripped Kelly of personnel power and kept him as coach as the team was 26-21 under him. This stop will certainly be Kelly's last chance in the NFL to succeed, but just about any major NCAA program would hire him after his Oregon success. Why do I think he will be USC's coach in two years?

The 49ers are going to be one of the NFL's worst offensive teams with Blaine Gabbert at quarterback. You may not even have heard of two of three starting receivers on the Week 1 depth chart: Jeremy Kerley (just acquired in trade) and Quinton Patton. Running back Carlos Hyde has some potential but can't stay healthy. Naturally, he's coming of a concussion suffered in the team's final preseason game but is looking like he will play Monday. Hyde is +1600 to lead the NFL in rushing yards.

The San Francisco defense should be pretty solid with guys like NaVorro Bowman, Ahmad Brooks, 2015 first-round pick Arik Armstead and 2016 first-rounder DeForest Buckner. This team will probably be in a lot of 24-14 games and on the wrong side of most. To have the NFL's worst record, the Niners are +600 second-favorites behind Cleveland (+400).

Rams at 49ers Betting Odds and Trends

The Rams are -2.5 (-115) with a total of 43.5. On the moneyline, the Rams are -140 and 49ers +120. Just one alternate line as of this writing, with L.A. at -3 (+110). The Rams were 2-5-1 against the spread on the road last year and 1-7 "over/under." The 49ers were 5-3 ATS at home and 1-7 O/U.

The Rams are 3-12 ATS in their past 15 in Week 1. They are 1-5 ATS in their past six on Monday. The 49ers have covered five straight in Week 1. They are 2-7-1 ATS in their past 10 vs. the NFC West. The under is 6-1 in the Rams' past seven. It is 8-2 in the 49ers' past 10 vs. the NFC West. The under is 4-1 in the past five meetings.

Rams at 49ers Betting Prediction

The teams split last season, each winning at home. Kaepernick was still the starter in San Francisco's 27-6 loss in St. Louis in Week 8. It was Keenum vs. Gabbert in Week 17, a 19-16 49ers OT win.

This is an interesting one because I don't see the 49ers going without at least two wins in 2016. But I only give them a shot of winning in perhaps 3-4 home games (none on the road). This is one of them. I would give the 2.5 points, however. I rarely like a total better than a side in an NFL game, but I absolutely love the under here.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Monday Night Football betting preview and odds: Steelers at Redskins, Rams at 49ers

Week 1 of the 2016 National Football League season comes to a close with a pair of Monday Night Football games featuring the Pittsburgh Steelers traveling to Washington and the San Francisco 49ers hosting the Los Angeles Rams. We have you covered with our full betting previews.


Pittsburgh Steelers at Washington Redskins (+2.5, 50)

Following their surprise run to the NFC East title in 2015, expectations are heightened for the Washington Redskins as they prepare to host the Pittsburgh Steelers on Monday night in the season opener for both teams. Washington is looking to build upon its closing run a year ago, when it finished the regular season with four consecutive victories.

"We have a great opportunity to go be effective and play well and that's exciting and something for our fans to be excited about," Redskins quarterback Kirk Cousins said. "But, we've got to go out and prove it." Washington made a bold move to bolster its defense by signing Pro Bowl cornerback Josh Norman, setting up a marquee matchup with Steelers wide receiver Antonio Brown. Pittsburgh will be without a pair of key weapons as running back Le'Veon Bell is serving a three-game suspension and wide receiver Martavis Bryant is out for the year for violations of the league's substance abuse policy. The offense should still be potent behind the leadership of two-time Super Bowl-winning quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, but there are concerns over a defense that ranked 30th against the pass last season.

TV: 7:10 p.m. ET, ESPN.

LINE HISTORY: The Pittsburgh Steelers opened as three-point favorites back in April for this Monday night matchup with Washington. The point spread has stayed relatively steady throughout the summer with only a slight bump up to 3.5 back in mid-August. During the week leading up to the game, some money came back on Washington and the line was dropped down to 2.5.

The total opened at 51 in April but has come down slightly over the last few months and currently sits at 50.

POWER RANKINGS: Pittsburgh (-3) - Washington (-1) + home field (-3) = Washington -1

KEY INJURIES (for full injury report visit matchup page):

Pittsburgh - DE C. Heyward (Probable Monday, ankle), WR M. Wheaton (Out Monday, shoulder), RB L. Bell (Out Monday, suspension), CB S. Golson (Out Monday, foot), WR M. Bryant (Out Monday, suspension) QB B. Gradkowski (Out Monday, hamstring).

Washington - WR J. Doctson (Probable Monday, achilles), RB M. Jones (Probable Monday, shoulder), RB C. Thompson (Questionable Monday, shoulder), LB R. Kerrigan (Questionable Monday, groin), LB J. Galette (Out For Season, achilles).

WEATHER REPORT: The forecast for Monday evening in D.C. is calling for clear skies and perfect September football conditions. Temperatures will be in the upper-70's with humidity at around 50 percent.

ABOUT THE STEELERS (2015: 10-6 SU, 9-6-1 ATS, 6-10 O/U): Once renowned for its Steel Curtain defense, Pittsburgh has evolved into an offensive juggernaut, with Roethlisberger leading the league with an average of 328.2 yards per game last season and Brown hauling in a mind-boggling 375 receptions and 31 touchdown catches in the past three years. "It starts and it ends with him," Norman said of Brown. "That's going to be a tall task to take on." DeAngelo Williams was more than a capable replacement last season while subbing for a suspended and injured Bell, rushing for 11 TDs and 907 yards. Defensive ends Stephon Tuitt and Cam Heyward and linebacker Ryan Shazier are top talents but the secondary remains suspect after yielding an average of 271.9 yards in 2015.

ABOUT THE REDSKINS (2015: 9-7 SU, 9-7 ATS, 9-7 O/U): One knock against Washington last season, aside from being the only team to finish above .500 in its division, was not beating one opponent with a winning record. Nonetheless, Cousins thrived in his first full season as the starter, becoming the first quarterback in franchise history to throw for at least 4,000 yards (4,166) and 25 touchdowns (29), and has one of the league's top tight ends in Jordan Reed, who enjoyed a breakout season with 87 receptions and 11 scores. There are questions about a ground game headed by Matt Jones, who returned to practice Wednesday after missing much of the preseason with a shoulder injury, and a defense that ranked 28th last year despite 9.5 sacks from linebacker Ryan Kerrigan.

TRENDS:

* Steelers are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games in September.
* Redskins are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games overall.
* Under is 4-0 in Steelers last 4 road games.
* Over is 5-0 in Redskins last 5 games overall.
* Under is 5-0 in the last 5 meetings.

CONSENSUS: The public is supporting the road favorite Steelers at a rate of 66 percent and the Under is picking up slightly more totals wagers with 52 percent.


Los Angeles Rams at San Francisco 49ers (+2.5, 42.5)

Chip Kelly gets a second chance to find out if his revved-up offense can translate to the NFL when he guides the San Francisco 49ers into their season opener against the visiting Los Angeles Rams on Monday night. Kelly made a splashy entrance into the league with a pair of 10-win campaigns in Philadelphia but was released with one game left last season amid growing player discontent.

“I’m sure Chip’s heard the rumors,” 49ers veteran linebacker NaVorro Bowman told reporters, “and I’m sure he’s made a few changes so he doesn’t have the same comments at the end of this year.” Ironically, one of Kelly's first big decisions was choosing a starting quarterback, but backup Colin Kaepernick has garnered much of the headlines following his decision not to stand for the national anthem, setting off a wave of discourse nationally. The Rams hardly have had a quiet offseason of their own, relocating to Los Angeles after a 21-year run in St. Louis. The franchise then swung for the fences by sending a boatload of draft picks to Tennessee for the No. 1 pick overall -- used to select Jared Goff, who begins the season as the third-string quarterback.

TV: 10:20 p.m. ET, ESPN.

LINE HISTORY: The Los Angeles Rams opened Week 1 betting back in April as 2.5-point road favorites for their matchup against the 49ers. That 2.5 points has survived free agency, the draft, the preseason, and some surprising quarterback announcements and is currently holding steady.

The total hit the betting board at 46.5 and was gradually bet down all summer to it's current number of 42.

POWER RANKINGS: Los Angeles (+3) - San Francisco (+5.5) + home field (-3) = San Francisco -0.5

KEY INJURIES (for full injury report visit matchup page):

Rams - CB E. Gaines (Questionable Monday, quadricep), LB M. Barron (Questionable Monday, undisclosed), CB T. Johnson (Questionable Monday, concussion), WR P. Cooper (Out Monday, shoulder).

49ers - DL G. Dorsey (Probable Monday, knee), RB C. Hyde (Probable Monday, concussion), DL A. Armstead (Questionable Monday, shoulder), RB S. Draughn (Questionable Monday, back), LB N. Bellore (Out Monday, knee), WR E. Rogers (Out For Season, knee).

WEATHER REPORT: Much like the early game Monday night, perfect football conditions are being forecast in the Bay Area with clear skies and temperatures in the low 70's at kickoff. Wind will not be a factor and humidity levels will be at around 75 percent.

ABOUT THE RAMS (2015: 7-9 SU, 7-8-1 ATS, 4-12 O/U): Los Angeles has an emerging superstar in second-year running back Todd Gurley, who introduced himself to the NFL by rushing for at least 125 yards in each of his first four starts. A non-existent passing game allowed defenses to focus on Gurley as his rookie season progressed, leading to coach Jeff Fisher's decision to promote Case Keenum, who won three of his last four starts. There's still a dearth of talent at wide receiver for Los Angeles, which likes to line up former first-round pick Tavon Austin in the backfield with Gurley rather than stretch defenses with the deep ball. Tackle Aaron Donald is an unstoppable force on defense for the Rams, who must replace defensive end Chris Long and linebacker James Laurinaitis.

ABOUT THE 49ERS (2015: 5-11 SU, 7-9 ATS, 7-9 O/U): Blaine Gabbert started to resurrect his career after he was elevated to starter midway through last season and won the quarterback job in the preseason while Kaepernick was slow to recover from multiple surgeries. "He's a good fit for what we want to get accomplished, and I have a lot of confidence in what he can do for us offensively," Kelly said of Gabbert, who threw for 354 yards in a 19-16 win over the Rams to finish 3-5 last season. Like the Rams, San Francisco will have to cobble together a group of wide receivers, with Torrey Smith the de facto No. 1 after grabbing only 33 receptions in his first season with the 49ers. San Francisco held opponents to 20 points or fewer in seven of eight home games.

TRENDS:

* Rams are 3-12 ATS in their last 15 games in Week 1.
* 49ers are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 games in Week 1.
* Under is 6-1 in Rams last 7 games overall.
* Under is 8-2 in 49ers last 10 vs. NFC West.
* Under is 4-1 in the last 5 meetings in San Francisco.

CONSENSUS: The public is supporting the road favorite Rams at a rate of 65 percent and the Under is picking up the majority of the totals wagers with 68 percent.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Monday's Tip Sheet
By Kevin Rogers

Steelers (-3, 49 ½) at Redskins – 7:10 PM EST – ESPN

Pittsburgh
Preseason Record: 1-3 SU, 1-3 ATS
2015 Record: 10-6 SU, 9-6-1 ATS
Season Win Total: 10 ½ (Under -130)

Washington
Preseason Record: 3-1 SU, 3-1 ATS
2015 Record: 9-7 SU, 9-7 ATS
Season Win Total: 7 ½ (Over -120)

LINE MOVEMENT

There hasn’t been much change to this line when openers were released on April 15 at the Westgate Las Vegas SuperBook. Pittsburgh opened up as 2 ½-point road favorites, but have moved slightly up to a field goal favorite. The total has taken a bit of a drop from its opener of 51 five months ago, falling to 50 at several books and even down to 49 ½ at others.

ROAD OPENER WOES

The Steelers haven’t fared well in their opening road game of the season, losing five consecutive times in this situation. Last season, Pittsburgh lost a 28-21 decision at New England, but managed a cover as 7 ½-point underdogs thanks to a touchdown pass from Ben Roethlisberger to Antonio Brown with two seconds left. In three of those losses in this span, the Steelers’ defense has allowed 28, 31, and 35 points in openers away from Heinz Field.

YOU LIKE THAT?

The Redskins were profitable in the underdog role in 2015, covering in nine of 14 opportunities when receiving points. Kirk Cousins stepped up late in the season for Washington by throwing 19 touchdown passes and two interceptions, while leading the ‘Skins to a 6-2 SU/ATS record in the final eight games and the NFC East title.

SILENT BELL

The Steelers will be without top running back Le’Veon Bell, who is suspended three games by the NFL for missing a drug test. Bell played in only six games last season before suffering a season-ending knee injury, averaged a career-high 4.9 yards a carry. DeAngelo Williams is expected to carry the load in the Pittsburgh backfield in Bell’s absence, as the veteran running back tallied 907 yards and 11 touchdowns in 2015.

O FOR GRUDEN

The Redskins have yet to win a season opener under head coach Jay Gruden, losing to the Texans in 2014 and the Dolphins in 2015. In both of those interconference matchups, Washington cashed the UNDER, while scoring a total of 16 points in those losses. However, Washington has performed well at home against AFC opponents in Gruden’s tenure by posting a 3-1 SU/ATS record.

MONDAY NIGHT MIKE

Playing under the Monday night lights hasn’t fazed Mike Tomlin and the Steelers, who have won four of their last five in this situation. Pittsburgh won in its lone Monday appearance last season, rallying past San Diego on a Bell touchdown in the final seconds of a 24-20 triumph as four-point underdogs. The Steelers are 2-3 ATS in this span, with a pair of wins in the favorite role by three points apiece at Tennessee (2014) and against Kansas City at home in overtime (2012).

RECENT MEETINGS (Steelers 3-0 SU and 2-1 ATS the last three matchups)

10/28/12 – Pittsburgh 27-12 vs. Washington (Pit -4 ½, 44)
11/3/08 – Pittsburgh 23-6 at Washington (Pit +1, 37 ½)
11/28/04 – Pittsburgh 17-6 vs. Washington (Wsh +10, 34 ½)

Rams (-2 ½, 42 ½) at 49ers – 10:20 PM EST - ESPN

Los Angeles
Preseason Record: 2-2 SU, 1-3 ATS
2015 Record: 7-9 SU, 7-8-1 ATS
Season Win Total: 7 ½ (Under -200)

San Francisco
Preseason Record: 2-2 SU, 2-2 ATS
2015 Record: 5-11 SU, 7-9 ATS
Season Win Total: 5 ½ (Under -130)

LINE MOVEMENT

The Rams have held steady as 2 ½ point favorites since the opening numbers were released in April. The total has seen the most movement, starting at 47 and falling all the way to 42 ½ at a majority of books.

LA LA LAND

The Rams are making their return to Los Angeles this season following a 21-year stint in St. Louis. Although the Rams won’t open the season in Southern California, they travel to the northern part of the state as part of their west coast return. Top pick Jared Goff heads back to the area where he played his college football at California, but he will not start the opener for Los Angeles, as Case Keenum will make the start for the Rams. Los Angeles has not tasted a winning season since 2003, while not qualifying for the postseason since 2004.

CHIP’S SHOT

The 49ers took a major step back following Jim Harbaugh’s tenure as head coach, as San Francisco posted a disappointing 5-11 record in Jim Tomsula’s lone season as head coach. Following Tomsula’s abrupt firing, former Eagles’ head man Chip Kelly came on to bring San Francisco’s offense around, even though the quarterback situation is unsettled. Blaine Gabbert will start Monday’s opener ahead of Colin Kaepernick, as this Niners’ offense tries to improve after scoring 20 points or less 13 times in 2015.

UNDER THUNDER

San Francisco was nearly automatic when it came to low-scoring affairs at Levi’s Stadium. In 2015, the 49ers finished UNDER the total in seven of eight home contests, while posting more than 21 points only once in Santa Clara. Both meetings against the Rams last season went UNDER, including San Francisco’s 19-16 overtime victory to close out the campaign in Week 17 on 39 total.

RAM ROUGH

The highway wasn’t friendly to the Rams last season, compiling a 2-6 SU and 2-5-1 ATS record. Coincidentally, their two road victories came at Arizona as seven-point underdogs, 24-22 and at Seattle as 11 ½-point ‘dogs, 23-17. Four of the Rams’ six away losses came to playoff squads, which included defeats at Green Bay, Washington, Minnesota, and Cincinnati. In two opportunities as a road favorites, the Rams lost each time, as Los Angeles is listed as away chalk for the fourth time since 2011.

GOLDEN NUGGETS

The 49ers haven’t been strong inside NFC West play the last two seasons, putting together a 3-9 SU and 3-8-1 ATS mark in this span. However, San Francisco has performed well in season openers recently by winning and covering five consecutive times in Week 1. The 49ers were in a similar spot last season as a home underdog on Monday night, shutting down the Vikings, 20-3 as three-point ‘dogs.

RECENT MEETINGS (49ers 4-2 SU and ATS the last six matchups)

1/3/16 – San Francisco 19-16 (OT) vs. St. Louis (SF +3, 39)
11/1/15 – St. Louis 27-6 vs. San Francisco (STL -7 ½, 41)
11/2/14 – St. Louis 13-10 at San Francisco (STL +10 ½, 44)
10/13/14 – San Francisco 31-17 at St. Louis (SF -3 ½, 44).

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

'Monday Night Football'

Week One concludes with Los Angeles Rams visiting the San Francisco 49ers at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara. Current odds have the Rams 2.5 point road chalk.

The teams split a pair last season. In week-8 Rams defeated a shorthanded San Francisco squad 27-6 in St. Louis laying 7.5 points and in week-17 49ers' returned the favor in front of the home audience winning 19-16 in OT as 3-point pups.

Rams laying points on the road can be problematic. Rams were just 2-6 SU on the road last year scoring 15.5 points/game with a cash draining 2-5-1 record against the betting line. Additionally, Rams enter 8-15-1 ATS in enemy territory including 3-6 ATS visiting a division opponent. Rams have also lost four straight (1-3 ATS) under Monday night light's.

Despite all it's worts the 49ers managed a break even 4-4 mark in front of the home audience during 2015 cashing five of eight tickets. 49ers' have also covered five straight season openers. Matching that, 49ers' have responded in Monday Night Football winning six straight (5-1 ATS).

One final betting nugget to consider: Week-One Monday Night Home underdogs have been good bets posting a sparkling 4-1 ATS record since 2010, 7-3 ATS mark since 2002.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at Dayton Raceway

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

Race 2 - Post: 2:20 - 1 mile. PACE - Class Rating: 58 - Purse:$5000 - FILLIES & MARES N/W 1 PM RACE AT EXT. MEET DAYTON RACEWAY SCRATCHED - JUNGLE JUICE
CONSORTIUM*CHOICES

# 5 RED TEDDY BEAR 10/1
# 7 C'MON EMMALOU 8/1
# 3 WICKED PINK 6/1

Really keen on the likelihood of RED TEDDY BEAR taking down the winner's share in this contest look at that fine price on the line. May be the top in the group here, showing very good numbers of late. Avg speed is a solid 58. Analyzers love to play the driver of this mare - great win clip these days. A nice win stat has been recorded by interesting entrants beginning from the 5 position. C'MON EMMALOU - Positively think these two have a special working relationship. Burns sending the horse out means a very good chance to get the triumph. WICKED PINK - Nice horse fits well here and trainer's nice ROI for harness racers off time off make this one an nice wager. Collins has been very proficient at moving his race horses up in class.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at Harrington Raceway

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

Race 8 - Post: 6:59 - 1 mile. PACE - Class Rating: 74 - Purse:$6500 - H & G NW 3 PM RACES OR $15,001 LIFETIME 5 YEAR OLDS & UNDER
CONSORTIUM*CHOICES

# 4 MITTNAGE A TROIS 5/2
# 6 GIMME THE PACIFICS 9/2
# 5 SKULLHOUSE RAIDER 30/1

MITTNAGE A TROIS sure does look ready to dominate. Could most likely defeat this field given the 76 speed figure recorded in his most recent race. Always solid driver/handler team. 24 percent winners when they team up. With this driver-conditioner hooking up, investors often make cash. ROI is tremendous with this duo. GIMME THE PACIFICS - Fantastic driver Roberts should find the pace of today's gathering to this gelding's liking - could be a good wager. This contender may have some hidden form, a win would be a pleasant surprise. SKULLHOUSE RAIDER - Composite pace figures say this gathering should shape up nicely for this gelding. Looking for a big effort.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Ajax Downs

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


Race 3 - Claiming - 330y on the Dirt. Purse: $16000 Class Rating: 57

QUARTER HORSE 330Y, FOR THREE YEAR OLDS AND UPWARD WHICH HAVE NEVER WON TWO RACES. WEIGHT, 126 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $7,000.


RECOMMENDED*CHOICES


# 1 RICH AND ON FIRE 5/2

# 5 SIX SHOOTIN TEX 3/1

# 3 MAGIC OF CORONA 7/2

RICH AND ON FIRE looks to be a competitive contender. He has been running soundly and the Equibase speed figs are among the strongest in this group. Should be considered in this contest if only for the very strong speed figure recorded in the last contest. Must be carefully examined given the class of races run lately. SIX SHOOTIN TEX - He should be given a chance given the formidable speed figs. Looks formidable to be up near the lead at the first call. MAGIC OF CORONA - Has been running soundly lately and should be on the lead early on. It's a good signal that Reid is using Jeschke on this one.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Parx Racing - Race #8 - Post: 4:04pm - Optional Claiming - 5.0 furlongs on the Turf. Purse: $54,000 Class Rating: 101

Rating:

#5 AGONISTIC (ML=6/1)
#7 BLACK JET (ML=8/1)
#1A SNOWDAY (FR) (ML=7/2)
#3 POSSE DREAMIN (ML=5/2)
#4 RIVZINTHEHOUSE (ML=5/1)


AGONISTIC - This gelding is put right back into a race in less than 10 days; this is a positive sign. This gelding is in top condition right now. Finished third last time out and comes back soon. This thoroughbred is for real on the turf. TrackMaster turf rating in last race at Parx Racing was tops in this field. This gelding registered a good speed rating of 101 in his last event. That figure should be strong enough to prove victorious this time around. BLACK JET - This gelding is back in a race very quick. This is a great angle - Sprint horses that come back in less than 10 days after a race. A good sign of a sharp and ready racehorse. This gelding should be at the peak of fitness, this far into his form cycle. Lets try to beat the morning-line choices with this gelding. Just missed last out, but ran a respectable race. SNOWDAY (FR) - This one has recorded the best recent turf speed figure at the distance-surface. Lopez is right back for another event today after sitting atop this horse for the initial time on Jun 25th and ought to know the ropes to this one a little better. Thompson has a very solid win pct in turf sprints. This gelding should be in shape and ready to win. POSSE DREAMIN - Although it's been awhile, this gelding won at a higher class level and at today's distance. I think he could run back to that old form today. RIVZINTHEHOUSE - Carmouche and Gargan perform well when they work together. It's hard to beat a +49 return on investment for a jock and conditioner. I took a look at this gelding's finishes. He's almost always in the money.

Vulnerable Contenders: #1 BLUE Y GOLD (ARG) (ML=7/2), #2 FAST FLYING RUMOR (ML=4/1),

BLUE Y GOLD (ARG) - Never really did much at all in the last race on August 14th. Hard to bet on in today's event. This gelding is always close, but just doesn't get the job done. Tough to play him on the front end. This entrant ran a quite unimpressive speed figure in the last race. He shouldn't run better and will likely suffer defeat in today's race running that rating. FAST FLYING RUMOR - I find it hard to bet on this less than sharp equine this time out. Make him show you something in a sprint race before you bet on him in a race of 5 furlongs.

GUEST COMMENTARY: Winston - BLACK JET - Put a prime wager on this gelding. At the top in earnings per start and has a lot more to offer as well.
*


STRAIGHT WAGERS:

#5 AGONISTIC to win at post-time odds of 7/1 or better

EXACTA WAGERS:

Box [5,7]

TRIFECTA WAGERS:

Box [1,5,7] Total Cost: $6

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:

[1,5,7] with [1,5,7] with [1,3,4,5,7] with [1,3,4,5,7] Total Cost: $36

** Some or all wagers above involve entries and assume all parts of entry start the race **

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Delaware Park

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


Race 2 - Claiming - 8.3f on the Dirt. Purse: $13000 Class Rating: 76

FOR FILLIES AND MARES THREE YEARS OLD AND UPWARD WHICH HAVE NOT WON A RACE SINCE MARCH 12, 2016 OR WHICH HAVE NEVER WON FIVE RACES. THREE YEAR OLDS, 120 LBS.; OLDER, 123 LBS. NON-WINNERS OF A RACE SINCE FEBRUARY 12, 2016 ALLOWED 3 LBS. A RACE SINCE DECEMBER 12, 2015 ALLOWED 5 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $5,000 (RACES WHERE ENTERED FOR $4,500 OR LESS NOT


RECOMMENDED*CHOICES


# 2 HOLY DAY 8/1

# 3 LUST FOR DIAMONDS 2/1

# 6 TRUTH ONLY 3/1

I back HOLY DAY in this contest especially at a such a nice price. Has to be carefully examined - I like the figures from the last affair. Is tough not to look at given the company run in lately. She has to be given a shot given the quite good speed figs. LUST FOR DIAMONDS - She has put up solid figures under today's conditions and will almost certainly fare well versus this field. Looks very good to be up on the front end at the first call. TRUTH ONLY - I expect a very strong performance from this equine whose conditioner has one of the most favorable ROI percentages with horses running at this distance and surface.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Yonkers: Monday 9/12 Analysis
By Brewster Smith

DRF

MEET STATS: 220 - 943 / $1,432.10

BEST BETS: 27 - 89 / $137.10

Best Bet: MAMORA BAY (5th)

Spot Play: STONEBRIDGE BEACH (11th)


Race 1

(3) ZUZU came outside and got the job done last out; can repeat. (2) ROCKNROLL VISION put in a nice qualifier at the Meadowlands last time around. (6) PLACE TO ROCKNROLL rallied strongly to nail down the victory recently.

Race 2

(4) ROYAL OAKS Filly has put in two good starts in a row so she clearly is heading in the right direction; the pick. (7) SEVENTH HEAVEN just held on for win honors last out at Vernon. (3) HOWDY JANE flashed good speed in her latest; not out of this.

Race 3

(2) DEADWOOD HANOVER makes his return to Yonkers where this gelding was a sharp third two starts ago. (1) LUCKY ART gets post relief and that should help his cause; maybe. (4) STIRLING ESCORT closed well to land the show spot last out.

Race 4

(1) SAMMY THE BULL N did show some speed last out but was flat; could make some noise from the fence. (2) SOUTHERN WINDS moves down the scale and this should be a perfect spot for this gelding to contend. (5) DEMOCRACY N is another on the dropdown; watch out.

Race 5

(5) MAMORA BAY Very consistent trotting filly can rate and score over this group. (2) BILLIE BLUE was sent down the road in her latest for all the glory. (1) RUN FOR ROYALTY should fare well from the fence.

Race 6

(3) FLYHAWK CHARM Easy winner in her last start upstate and she should keep on her winning ways. (2) AMBER ELLA has wheeled off three straight victories and is the main danger. (6) SCAREY KARIE completes the trifecta.

Race 7

(1) BARN BELLA 5 for 8 victories for the trotting filly and is back on the rail; gets the call. (2) HEELS ON WHEELS seems to be the main foe to the top pick. (6) TEASIN N PLEASIN whent down the road for all the glory in her latest.

Race 8

(3) PEACHY Two sharp seconds in a row makes this sophomore filly a contender for top honors. (6) ARROW HANOVER might be a perfect spot against these if she gets the right trip. (7) ROSY OUTLOOK Qualifier at Monticello was good enough for her return to the races.

Race 9

(5) PRAIRIE SWEETHEART Unbeaten filly has done nothing wrong and she should stay in the winning groove against these. (1) SQUEEZE THIS was a game second in her first try at the Hilltop; threat. (3) THREE DREAMS will need a favorable trp to handle this group; possible.

Race 10

(2) BRUNELLO N Gelding is knocking at the door and this he has a fondness for Yonkers; the pick. (4) GRAND THEFT makes his return to the Hilltop off two so-so qualifiers and good to see Bartlett with the call. (6) SOMELUCKSOMEROCK was second best in his last trip to the post.

Race 11

(4) STONEBRIDGE BEACH was a very game second in the Messenger last out and this sophomore colt can put his best foot forward against this group. (2) HURRIKANE ALI took the pocket route home to victory in his last try. (3) SHANE ADAM put in a nice effort for the placing last out.

Race 12

(4) DR J HANOVER has hit the board 7 of 8 starts this year and he clearly is the one to fear. (5) DEETZY has good speed and he might be the one to catch. (2) SHINOBU HANOVER stayed in the pocket but could not get to the winner in his last trip to the post.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Thistledown - Race #7 - Post: 4:40pm - Allowance - 5.5 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $23,000 Class Rating: 83

Rating:

#5 CANTICO (ML=5/1)
#3 FREE FLYING (ML=12/1)
#1 BEACH SPLASH (ML=12/1)
#9 STRIKING LASS (ML=8/1)


CANTICO - Have to make this mare a win candidate; she comes off a good outing on August 29th. The race may set up nicely for this mare's late rally. Mare took a little vacation, but has been racing into shape. FREE FLYING - This horse coming off a strong performance in the last month is a strong challenger in my humble opinion. All systems look good for this filly. Last work, 2nd fastest of the day, shows she's fit and ready. Everybody's got their favorite tracks, but if you ask this horse, I think her answer would be Thistledown. This filly is rounding her way back into shape. Should compete well today. BEACH SPLASH - Was in a $16,000 Claiming race at Monmouth Park last time out. That affair had an Equibase class figure of 90 and she is moving down in this field. A certain solid contender. I cannot ignore the fact that this filly is working extremely well. STRIKING LASS - Filly's finish positions keep getting better with each race. Maybe today's the day. I took a look at this filly's finishes. She's almost always in-the-money. I really like that last contest on Aug 24th at Thistledown where she ran first.

Vulnerable Contenders: #4 PUT UP WITH IT (ML=3/1), #8 OHIO GOLD (ML=7/2), #6 HEART OF A RANGER (ML=6/1),

PUT UP WITH IT - You should normally wager against chalks that haven't raced or show no activity in the morning over the last three weeks. OHIO GOLD - Didn't come through as the chalk twice in a row. Probably won't gain a win today either. Not probable that the speed fig she registered on August 3rd will be good enough in this event. HEART OF A RANGER - You figure that this horse is going to finish first just because she's always close. Just doesn't finish on top often.


STRAIGHT WAGERS:

Bet on #5 CANTICO to win if you can get at least 4/1 odds

EXACTA WAGERS:

Box [1,3,5]

TRIFECTA WAGERS:

Pass

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:

Skip

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

SPOT PLAYS

For Monday

TRACK (RACE) HORSE, MORNING LINE

Delaware Park (1st) Remain Silent, 3-1
(4th) Circular Thunder, 4-1


Finger Lakes (5th) Graphene Miracle, 5-1
(9th) Gingee, 5-1


Mountaineer (3rd) Pinzy's Prize, 4-1
(6th) Lady Soyadora, 7-2


Parx Racing (3rd) Timna, 3-1
(5th) Border, 6-1


Presque Isle Downs (4th) Samurai Zip, 9-2
(7th) Sage Master, 9-2


Thistledown (1st) Wild Pacific, 3-1
(2nd) Urban Renewal, 7-2

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Mohawk: Monday 9/12 Analysis
By Garnet Barnsdale

DRF

Race 1 - $30,000 Guaranteed Pick Five Pool

Race 4 - $50,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool


PICK 5: 1,2,5/3,5,6/7/1,5,6,7/1,7,8 = $21.60

EARLY PICK 4: 1,5,6,7/8/3,5,6/3,5,9,10 = $48

LATE PICK 4: 3,5,9,10/2,5,7/3/1,5,6 = $36

MEET STATS: 335 - 991 / $1742.90 BEST BETS: 55 - 92 / $174.40

SPOT PLAYS: 20 - 92 / $119.10

Best Bet: WALTZKING HANOVER (3rd)

Spot Play: AINT THREE OK (5th)


Race 1

(5) WHISKEY LINDY is related to several winners and looks ready for action based on his qualifiers, although at press time, the driver that is listed has only 29 lifetime victories; slight nod. (2) KING OF MAGIC had a rough trip vs. a colt that is now three-for-three. He should be prominent here. (1) STORMONT DUNDAS is getting closer to that elusive maiden win and he rates highly in this group. (6) SIBSON sports a quick last 1/4 in his most recent start which could mean a better showing is coming here.

Race 2

(6) QUADRANGLE really turned it up in his September 6th qualifier; call at first asking. (5) MAJESTIC STREAK was narrowly beaten by a colt two back that then won a Grand Circuit race in his next start. If he stays flat, he should be right there vs. these. (3) DANCER HALL - an $18K Lexington purchase - had good late speed to offer in his lone qualifier. He can contend here right away. (8) LINDY THE GREAT is another colt making his debut that looks promising but he may be relegated to taking a smaller share from out there.

Race 3

(7) WALTZKING HANOVER was grabbed by leading trainer Moreau when pacing his second consecutive sub-1:51 mile. He should be very tough in here at a short price. (1) GIVE EM HECK has been very consistent and could trip out behind the choice here. (2) JENKINS CREEK was a winner back in claimers last week. He fits much better in for a tag and he should contend here. (3) CALGARY SEELSTER is another that races better when tagged. He should be part of the pace here and stick around for a share.

Race 4

(1) GRACIES PARADE just failed to get the job done when dropped to this level last week and beaten by one that tripped out. She can make amends here. (5) YOUR MY SECRET has won on this circuit previously and her last two lines from outer posts on a 1/2-mile track should probably be overlooked. She can offer some Pick 4 and Pick 5 value here. (6) SOLID QUEEN is another interesting shipper that shows some good miles at the Meadowlands last winter; using. (7) MYSTERY WRITER faces easier here and is another that should be considered for multi-race bets.

Race 5

(8) AINT THREE OK when last seen was making an explosive stretch move while running in so badly that it likely cost her the win. Perhaps she has everything straightened out now as she qualified well; top call. (1) VINTAGE BABE continues to race well and she will be a threat here starting from the inside. (7) AMBROSIA SEELSTER showed promise last winter and returns boasting a 26 3/5 kicker in her qualifier. She should contend here immediately. (6) DANISH N COFFEE seems destined for another slice here.

Race 6

(6) CLASSIC VENTURE was aggressively handled last week and he powered his way to a strong win; call to repeat. (5) LITTLE RED CHEV should be out closer to the pace here; that's where she does her best work. (3) RENEGADE MAGIC beat the choice two starts back and should be closer to the front earlier here than she was last week which makes her dangerous. (1) SASS is quite capable, but, he could also be prepping for an upcoming OSS Gold event; minor share predicted.

Race 7

(5) OUT OF SIGHT drops back into face maidens here and gets a good post to work with; top call. (10) VINTAGE BOOK faces straight maidens for the first time and she is worth a long look - even from out there. (3) JUST TOO SPOILED continues to close quickly on the end of her miles. She will get there soon. (9) LAURA HILL is a full-sister to double millionaire Rocklamation, but she may need one starting from out there.

Race 8

(2) DEWEYKEEPUMNWHY faced much tougher in his last start now drops back to where he should be more competitive; slight nod. (5) ADVERSITY drops out of the same race and he should be heard from here. (7) ITS HUW YOU KNOW had one race over the track vs. tougher and he broke early. He could show a lot more here. (8) NEILS GOLDEN GIRL took a new life's mark last week vs. easier. She will probably take a minor share here vs. this tougher group.

Race 9

(3) SPORTSMANSHIP woke up big time first time out for Auciello; call to repeat. (2) MAC RAIDER took a new life's mark winning his last start then vet scratched. If he is sharp enough, he should contend here. (6) COBALT MAN steps up off a narrow win here. He can take a smaller share. (9) HIDDEN POTENTIAL had a horrendous trip last time and didn't fade until late in the mile. He has upset possibilities but he needs to work out a trip from out there.

Race 10

(6) BLAYDE HANOVER went a tough first-over trip vs. a classy rival last week and he finished a strong second. He looks best here. (5) CAROLINA HURRICANE also faced tougher last week and he is the other one you need in the Pick 4 cash leg. (1) PRINT MEDIA races better when starting from the inside and he too faces easier here; consider. (2) KINGSLEY B rarely misses a check and he should grab a share here. (8) SPORTS VISION will be closing from far back as always and he should pass most of these late.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

September Pitchers Report
By Marc Lawrence

Much like our waistlines after a tasty Labor Day barbeque, MLB rosters have expanded to accommodate September, the final month of the season. And as College Football and the NFL crash onto the scene, MLB pitchers take the final spotlight in hopes of leading their teams on to the playoff trail.

The question is which ones can we count on and which ones figure to be candidates for offseason Weight Watchers meetings?

Check it out.

Listed below are hurlers that have enjoyed a two-to-one or better success ratio in team starts the last three seasons during the month of September. On the flip side, we’ve also listed pitchers that struggle in September team starts, winning 33% percent or less of their efforts.

To qualify pitchers must have made a minimum of 10 starts, with at least one start each September over the last three years.

Note: * designates a categorical repeat appearance by this pitcher, maintaining status quo from last season’s September’s list.

Enjoy the games.

GOOD MONTH PITCHERS:

Arrieta, Jake - 12-2 (8-1 H)

For nearly two full seasons, Arrieta has been as good as it gets in baseball as a starting pitcher. While strikeouts have been down a bit and walks are up of late, at this time it hard to find fault with a hurler who has opposing batters hitting below .200 against him and has a 2.84 ERA to start the month.

Cole, Gerrit - 14-3 (6-0 H)

The Pittsburgh ace has frankly had a mediocre injury-plagued season and on August 27th had an MRI on his elbow, which revealed no damage. If Pirates the are going to snare a third consecutive Wild Card bid, they will need the Cole of the past two years. Note: Cole’s record also represents his MLB career team start mark during the month of September.

*Grenike, Zack - 13-3 (7-1 H)

Greinke's ERA is higher than past year's but pitching in thinner air of Arizona has contributed to this. While the Diamondbacks have little too play for, expect Grienke to be tough as nails like usual.

Hamels, Cole - 12-5 (6-2 H)

Need a big game pitched in September? It’s hard to go wrong with Hamels, whose ERA of 2.91 is well below career mark of 3.26. Still owns lively fastball and changeup is knee-buckling. A true professional.

*Jimenez, Ubaldo - 12-1 (6-0 H)

Still toeing the rubber every five days or for Baltimore in spite of mid-sixes ERA. Baltimore has few options and Jimenez is not trustworthy in the bullpen either. Orioles need big month from their big man to reach the playoffs and this is his best month.

*Kershaw, Clayton - 12-3 (6-1 A)

Kershaw threw in simulated game on August 30 and later said "feeling really good" and if all goes well, the Dodgers hope Kershaw can pitch in September and beyond in some role, which only makes the Dodgers a bigger threat. Best pitcher in baseball.

Kluber, Corey - 10-3 (5-1 A)

Has been back to Cy Young form since the All-Star break with an ERA under 2.00 and Cleveland has won his last six outings. When he commands both sides of dish with fastball, for whatever reason, his curveball has more break. A true established ace for the Tribe trying to win the division.

Koehler, Tom - 10-5 (5-1 A)

Been very effective in a quiet way nationally, but has been extremely dependable for two months leading to this month for Miami, supplying six to seven solid innings per start. If he's throwing strikes inside to batters, he’s tough to hit. Note: Koehler’s record also represents his MLB career team start mark during the month of September.

Peavy, Jake - 11-3 (5-1 H)

Went on DL in late August with lower back strain. Had been working out of bullpen most of August and future status with San Francisco is as cloudy as the weather in the Bay.

*Price, David - 12-5 (7-2 H)

After a largely below season in Boston, Price has been much sharper in latter stages of August, which is what the Red Sox need. What has changed is Price became more effective in keeping the ball lower and is getting more fly ball outs as a power pitcher, which are genuinely more routine.

*Scherzer, Max - 11-4 (6-3 H)

After a somewhat slow start, Scherzer has been getting better and better and base hits allowed are well below innings pitched (128 vs. 190), yet walking few batters (45), especially compared to strikeouts (238). Back to pacing around mound like the king of the jungle.

*Shields, James - 13-4 (8-0 A)

It has been a wild ride for Shields this season, with numerous hideous outings blended in with several sharp ones. At this stage, hard to think the 34-year righty can duplicate the past seasons.

Strasburg, Stephen- 9-4 (5-1 A)

Starts the month on the DL after some very ugly starts last month. If Washington is to do anything in the postseason, Strasburg needs to regain early season form, which features moving fastball and big breaking curve.

*Zimmermann, Jordan - 11-4 (6-2 A)

If rehab assignments go well, September 10th is target date for return. Zimmermann has not been very effective for quite some time and easy to forget he had ERA of 2.45 in mid-May, compared to current 4.44.

BAD MONTH PITCHERS:

*Hellickson, Jeremy - 2-10 (1-5 H)

All things considered, Hellickson has not had a bad year in Philadelphia. However, upon closer inspection, most of his numbers are now near career norms and if that ends being the same this month, real bet against potential.

Leake, Mike - 5-10 (1-7 A)

The Cardinals right-hander has been a lot like his teams, when Leake has been good, he and St. Louis have generally won, when not they have too often lost badly. Cards are hoping not to see a repeat performance from the veteran.

Ross, Tyson - 3-11 (1-6 A)

Started on Opening Day and has not been seen since for San Diego with bum shoulder. Still trying to work way bad through rehab. Probably best to forget 2016.

*Sale, Chris - 2-12 (0-8 A)

It is almost unimaginable Sale could have a record like this in September, yet he does. Part of it is the White Sox offense is too unreliable and Sale's miscues end up being quite costly. Let's see what the final month brings for the big lefty.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

MLB roundup: Yanks' win streak ends
By The Sports Xchange

NEW YORK -- Corey Dickerson hit one of three home runs for the Tampa Bay Rays, who ended a season-high seven-game winning streak by the New York Yankees with a 4-2 victory Sunday afternoon.
The Rays handed New York its first loss since Sept. 3 by upping its home run total to 194, five shy of the 2009 team record.
Logan Forsythe and Brad Miller also homered for Tampa Bay, which won for the second time in eight games.
Chase Headley homered and Brett Gardner had an RBI single for the Yankees, who were denied their first eight-game winning streak since a 10-game run June 8-18, 2012.

Nationals 3, Phillies 2
WASHINGTON -- Anthony Rendon broke a tie with an RBI double in the seventh and Gio Gonzalez allowed just one run in seven innings as first-place Washington posted a victory over Philadelphia.
The Nationals, who took three of four from the Phillies, started the day nine games ahead of the second-place New York Mets in the National League East. The Phillies are 5-14 against Washington this year.

Mets 10, Braves 3
ATLANTA -- Yoenis Cespedes clubbed his 30th home run, a long grand slam, and drove in five runs, to help New York beat Atlanta in their final appearance at Turner Field.
The beneficiary of the support was right-hander Seth Lugo, who won his fourth straight start. Lugo avoided major difficulty in the fourth inning when he got out of a bases-loaded mess with only one run scoring. He pitched seven innings and allowed two runs on six hits, one walk and five strikeouts in his first career appearance against Atlanta.

Orioles 3, Tigers 1
DETROIT -- Chris Tillman threw six strong innings in his return from the disabled list and Michael Bourn added a two-run home run to lead Baltimore over Detroit in the rubber match of a crucial three-game series at Comerica Park.
The Orioles entered Detroit on Friday a game ahead of the Tigers for the final wild-card spot in the American League. They left two games up after winning the final two contests of the series.
After going on the disabled list for shoulder bursitis, Tillman outdueled Tigers ace Justin Verlander on the latter's home turf, allowing just one run on four hits in six innings to earn the victory.

Reds 8, Pirates 0
PITTSBURGH -- Four Cincinnati pitchers combined on a seven-hit shutout and Tyler Holt drove in three runs in a win vs. Pittsburgh at PNC Park.
The Reds, far out of the playoff chase, scored five runs in the second and never looked back. They won three of the four games in the weekend series against Pittsburgh, which fell 6 1/2 games behind a National League wild-card spot. The Pirates have lost three in a row and 11 of their past 13.
The win was the 200th of Cincinnati manager Bryan Price's career.

Brewers 2, Cardinals 1
ST. LOUIS -- Ryan Braun slammed his 27th homer of the year with one out in the ninth inning to give Milwaukee the win over St. Louis.
Braun's homer, his first this season against the Cardinals, came on a 3-2 pitch off reliever Kevin Siegrist after the Cardinals had tied the game in the bottom of the eighth.
The loss, combined with the Mets' win over the Braves, dropped the Cardinals out of the second wild-card spot, a half-game behind New York.

Red Sox 11, Blue Jays 8
TORONTO -- David Ortiz hit a three-run homer in the sixth inning to provide the go-ahead runs as Boston came back to defeat Toronto in the rubber match of a three-game series.
Ortiz's homer against reliever Joaquin Benoit brought the Red Sox from behind into a 10-8 lead as they extended their advantage over the Blue Jays in the American League East to two games.
Jackie Bradley Jr. also hit a three-run homer for the Red Sox and Hanley Ramirez added a solo shot. Troy Tulowitzki hit a grand slam and Edwin Encarnacion added two homers for the Blue Jays.

Mariners 3, Athletics 2
OAKLAND, Calif. -- Mike Zunino hit a two-run homer in the second inning and sparked a ninth-inning rally with a leadoff double, leading Seattle to its fifth straight victory.
The Mariners remained 3 1/2 games back in the race for the American League's second wild-card spot. They swept the A's in Oakland for a second time this season, a franchise first.
The Mariners snapped a 2-2 tie with a run in the top of the ninth inning off A's closer Ryan Madson (5-5). Zunino lined a leadoff double down the left-field line and then gave way to pinch running Ben Gamel. Gamel moved to third on Leonys Martin's single to right and scored when Ketel Marte singled sharply to center.

Angels 3, Rangers 2
ANAHEIM, Calif. -- Andrelton Simmons hit two solo home runs to lead Los Angeles over Texas.
Yunel Escobar added a solo homer as the Angels broke a four-game losing streak and prevented the Rangers from reducing their magic number for winning the American League West to less than 10. Right-hander Jered Weaver amassed a season-high eight strikeouts in 6 2/3 innings while earning his third successive victory.
Adrian Beltre hit two solo blasts for Texas and now has 442 career homers, tying Dave Kingman for 40th place all-time. Beltre added a single and finished 3-for-4.

Royals 2, White Sox 0
CHICAGO -- Ian Kennedy pitched six strong innings and Kendrys Morales and Eric Hosmer each belted a solo homer as Kansas City held on for a win over Chicago.
The Royals won its second consecutive series and finished a six-game road trip with a 4-2 record.
Adam Eaton singled twice to mark the only two hits for the White Sox. Chicago dropped to 4-11 this season against the Royals.

Marlins 3, Dodgers 0
MIAMI -- Jose Urena pitched 8 2/3 scoreless innings to lead Miami over Los Angeles at Marlins Park.
Urena, who threw 108 pitches, was lifted after Josh Reddick slapped a two-out, opposite-field single in the ninth. A.J. Ramos got the final out on the only batter he faced for his 34th save of the season.
The Marlins, who have been projected to have just a 0.8 percent chance to make the playoffs this year, took two out of three games from the Dodgers, who lead the NL West.

Indians 7, Twins 1
MINNEAPOLIS -- Corey Kluber continued his strong second-half run with seven effective innings and Carlos Santana hit a three-run home run to lead Cleveland over Minnesota.
Kluber topped 200 strikeouts for the third straight season in striking out 10 Twins hitters. Santana's 31st homer of the season went deep into the right field plaza at Target Field to open the scoring in the second inning off Minnesota rookie starter Jose Berrios.
Abraham Almonte added three hits and two runs scored for the Indians, who won for the fourth time in five games and extended their lead in the American League Central to seven games over Detroit.

Giants 5, Diamondbacks 3
PHOENIX -- Denard Span homered, and Hunter Pence added a two-run double to help San Francisco beat Arizona and complete a three-game sweep.
Matt Moore (3-4) threw seven strong innings for the Giants, allowing two runs while scattering eight hits. Moore struck out 11, matching a season high, and walked one.
Welington Castillo homered for the Diamondbacks, who have dropped six straight and seven of their past nine.

Rockies 3, Padres 2 (10 innings)
SAN DIEGO -- Mark Reynolds led off the top of the 10th inning with the 250th homer of his career to give Colorado a split of the four-game series with San Diego.
Reynolds' 370-foot drive off Kevin Quackenbush (7-6) reached the second row of seats in left. His 13th homer of the season came on a 2-2 pitch.
Jake McGee (2-3) picked up the win for the Rockies. Adam Ottavino secured his fourth save on the season and his second of the series.

Cubs 9, Astros 5
HOUSTON -- Addison Russell and Javier Baez produced multi-hit games, and Chicago claimed the rubber match of an interleague series against Houston.
Russell finished 3-for-4 with three runs plus his 20th home run, while Baez went 2-for-4 with an RBI in support of right-hander Jake Arrieta (17-6).
Arrieta allowed three runs on four hits and two walks with three strikeouts over 5 1/3 innings.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Pirates (69-72) at Phillies (63-80)

Game: 1
Venue: Citizens Bank Park
Date: September 12, 2016 7:05 PM EDT

As the playoff hopes of the Pittsburgh Pirates took a hit during the last two and a half weeks, all Gerrit Cole could do was watch.

The Pirates ace will make his return from the 15-day disabled list (elbow) Monday when Pittsburgh opens a four-game series in Philadelphia. But the Pirates have almost eliminated themselves from the playoffs. Sunday's loss in Cincinnati marked their third in a row and 11th in their last 13.

They've fallen to 5 1/2 games behind St. Louis for the final wildcard spot in the National League playoff race. They're now 69-72 on the year. Pittsburgh was 63-61 when Cole last made a start.

Cole, the team's ace, has had a disappointing and injury-plagued 2016. He has a 3.55 ERA in 20 starts. In his last four starts before hitting the DL with elbow inflammation, he gave up 34 hits and 17 earned runs in 21 2/3 innings, helping drop his record on the year to 7-9. This, after an impressive 2.60 ERA in 32 starts in 2015.

It's the injuries that slowed him in 2016.

"It is awful," Cole said Thursday, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. "Especially in a season like this where you feel you can make an impact. But you deal with the cards you are dealt and try to make the best hand out of it."

Now, he'll likely have four more starts to right his season, as the Pirates fight to save their playoff hopes.

"I'm a big believer that the greatest indicator of the present is the past," athletic trainer Todd Tomczyk told the Post-Gazette. "But I'm also stubborn and want to be a pioneer and move forward and try to do something different to prevent these injuries. So, sure, (Cole) is more prone to injuries with three in one season.

"However, we're going to have an all-systems attack on how we're going to address a lot of his kinetic-chain issues that may or may not have caused some of his ailments this year."

In Philadelphia, Cole and the Pirates meet a Phillies team that freshly promoted two prospects, outfielder Roman Quinn and catcher Jorge Alfaro, and is finishing out another year of rebuilding. Quinn, a Top 10 prospect in the Phillies system, started in his MLB debut Sunday. He batted second and played center field.

Quinn went 0-for-3 with a walk and a diving catch in his debut.

The Phillies (63-80), losers of three straight after a 3-2 loss in Washington Sunday, are likely to call up more prospects as they play out the final strings of 2016. And they'll likely use a variety of pitchers down the stretch, as some pitchers are reaching their innings limits.

Veteran righty Jeremy Hellickson (10-9, 3.90 ERA), whom the Phillies decided to hang onto at the trade deadline, meets Cole Monday night.

Hellickson, 29, has been the veteran presence and innings eater the young Phillies pitching staff has relied on.

"I think having Jeremy here is very important to our club," general manager Matt Klentak said last month. "There was a reason we brought him here in the first place. The reason we traded for him was to add some stability to our rotation, help to mentor our young pitchers, to help to protect them from the workloads, help to save the bullpen."

He'll continue to do all of that as the final three weeks of the season play out.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Mets (76-67) at Nationals (85-58)

Game: 1
Venue: Nationals Park
Date: September 12, 2016 7:05 PM EDT

WASHINGTON -- The Washington Nationals have a nine-game lead over the New York Mets in the National League East race.

But that doesn't mean the three-game series between the two teams that begins Monday won't be important.

"We'd like to beat them," Washington manager Dusty Baker said after Sunday's 3-2 win over the Philadelphia Phillies. "We know they have to beat us. It should be a very interesting series."

The Mets come to Washington with an eye on the National League wildcard while the Nationals hope to finish with the second-best record in the league and get a possible homefield advantage for the playoffs, perhaps against the Los Angeles Dodgers.

"We've got to keep playing," Mets manager Terry Collins told reporters Sunday in Atlanta. "We know we can play with (Washington) them. They've got a little bit of a pitching issue right now, similar to us. We've just got to go in there and play. For it's about winning games, I don't care who they're against. You can't look at any particular thing, you just have to go in and win as many games as you can."

New York will start right-hander Rafael Montero against the Nationals on Monday. He is 0-0 with a 4.63 ERA this season with New York. He was 8-9, 5.30 in the minor leagues this year with Double-A Binghamton and Triple-A Las Vegas. He pitched 4 1/3 innings on Sept. 6 against the Reds and gave up three hits and four runs.

Baker did not name a starter for Monday or Tuesday against the Mets but the Nationals twitter account late Sunday reported that veteran right-hander Mat Latos would start on Monday against the Mets, with A.J. Cole going on Tuesday and Tanner Roark pitching Wednesday.

Latos pitched for Baker in Cincinnati in 2012 and 2013 and was 1-0 with a 1.29 ERA in six minor league starts in the Washington system this year. He signed with the Nationals as a minor league free agent on July 3 and is 1-0, 7.71 in two games for the Nationals this year.

Latos was with the Chicago White Sox earlier this season -- he pitched against the Nationals one game -- and he was 6-2, 4.62 in 11 games in the American League this year before coming to Washington.

Other options for the rest of the season for Washington include two rookie right-handers: Lucas Giolito and Reynaldo Lopez.

Gioloito made his big league debut against the Mets at home in June while Lopez lost 5-1 to the Mets on Sept. 4 in New York. Lopes has made six starts this year for the Nationals and Giolito has made four.

Giolito, who began the year as one of the top pitching prospects in the minors, is 0-1, 5.59 in five games with Washington.

There has been some concern about his velocity: he threw in the upper 90s last year but was clocked around 90 in his last outing Wednesday as he came out of bullpen in a game in which Strasburg left early.

Lopez has shown a devastating curve at times and is 2-3, 5.52 in his time with the Nationals this year.

Cole broke into the majors last year and beat the Mets on Sept. 2 in New York. Cole started at home on Thursday against the Phillies.

Cole is 1-2 with a 4.56 ERA in four starts this year for Washington after spending most of the season at Triple-A Syracuse.

New York had won eight of its past 11 games after downing the Braves on Sunday 10-3.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Rays (60-82) at Blue Jays (78-64)

Game: 1
Venue: Rogers Centre
Date: September 12, 2016 7:07 PM EDT

TORONTO -- The Tampa Bay Rays are the only team in the American League East with a losing record.

They do have a winning record against the Toronto Blue Jays, however.

The Rays, who ended a three-game losing skid with a 4-2 win over the New York Yankees on Sunday, bring a 9-7 record this season against the Blue Jays when the teams open a three-game series Monday at Rogers Centre.

"A good bounce back win for the guys (Sunday)," Rays manager Kevin Cash said "There were a lot of people frustrated (Saturday, a 5-1 loss) and the last three games but really frustrated (Saturday)."

The teams are 5-5 at Tropicana Field, but the Rays have a 4-2 advantage in Toronto. They swept the Blue Jays in a three-game series in Toronto on May 16-18.

The Blue Jays lost two of three games at Tropicana Field Sept. 2-4. They lost their lead in the American League East and now trail by two games after losing two of three to the first-place Boston Red Sox, who won the rubber game Sunday, 11-8.

The Rays will recall right-handed pitcher Dana Eveland from Triple-A Durham for the series.

They also are dealing with an injury to first baseman Logan Morrison, who left after one at-bat on Sunday with a wrist injury.

"He probably irritated, there's a sheath in your wrist," Cash said. "We're going to get some more doctors to look at it. He's going to go with us to Toronto and when we go to Baltimore we'll probably send him to Tampa."

The Blue Jays are 2-7 in September and have lost five of their past six games. They have played sloppy baseball, but seemed to pick things up after a players-only meeting before the 3-2 win over Boston on Saturday.

"There's still a lot of time left," said Troy Tulowitzki, who had a grand slam among his three hits Sunday. "What, 20 games left? There's a lot of time, plus, we still play these guys (the Red Sox three more games). A lot of things can happen. I think we've been jockeying for position the whole year, just right now we're two games back. We would've liked to have won the series but unfortunately we didn't but we'll move on."

The Blue Jays will start left-hander Francisco Liriano (7-12, 5.27 ERA), who replaces R.A. Dickey in the rotation, on Monday. Dickey will be available from the bullpen before he makes his next start during the four-game series Thursday-Sunday against the Los Angeles Angels in Anaheim.

Liriano will be making his first start since Aug. 26. His past two outings have been from the bullpen.

He is 1-1 with a 4.38 ERA in six outings (four starts) since he was acquired in a trade with the Pittsburgh Pirates on Aug. 1. He is 2-3 with a 5.32 ERA in nine career games (eight starts) against the Rays.

Right-hander Jake Odorizzi (9-6, 3.86 ERA) will start for the Rays on Monday. He is 3-2 with a 3.34 ERA in 10 career starts against the Blue Jays. He is 2-2 with a 4.96 ERA in six career starts at Rogers Centre. In four starts against Toronto this season, he is 1-0 with a 2.35 ERA.

The Blue Jays are having such a tough time that they even lost when scoring eight runs on Sunday. They are now 22-1 when scoring eight or more runs.

"We'll be all right," Tulowitzki said. "Veteran lineup. We'll go through some good times, some bad times. I think ideally you want the middle of the order to click all at the same time but sometimes that doesn't happen. I think when they do click at the same time that's when you see those big offensive games, hopefully we can get that going here soon."

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Dodgers (80-62) at Yankees (76-66)

Game: 1
Venue: Yankee Stadium
Date: September 12, 2016 7:05 PM EDT

NEW YORK -- Bryan Mitchell was on the verge of making the New York Yankees out of spring training. Then he spent the next four months working his way back from toe surgery.

The culmination of his recovery is pitching in a playoff race.

Mitchell will be on the mound Monday night when Yankees open a three-game interleague series with the Los Angeles Dodgers at Yankee Stadium.

Mitchell injured the toe during the final week of spring training, costing him a spot on the opening day roster. He finally returned to the Yankees on Wednesday and allowed four hits in five-plus scoreless innings in a 2-0 win over the Toronto Blue Jays.

Mitchell became the third Yankee since 2010 to throw at least five scoreless innings in a season debut but the first since Dave Eiland in 1990 to do so in a season debut that took place in September.

"It feels weird coming back at this point in the season," Mitchell said. "We're in this chase right now. Every game is important. Once I finally got out of the game, it was pretty rewarding looking back on the season. It feels really good."

While Eiland did it as the 67-95 Yankees were playing out the string and finishing with the worst record in baseball, Mitchell did it in the midst of New York's attempt to get back to the playoffs. Mitchell's performance helped the Yankees to a fourth straight win in what ultimately became a seven-game winning streak.

The streak ended with a 4-2 loss to Tampa Bay on Sunday. Luis Cessa gave up three home runs and the Yankees' offense consisted of Chase Headley's 14th home run and Brett Gardner's RBI single.

While losing for the fifth time in 18 games might be shrugged off, every defeat gets magnified this time of year. The Yankees are four game behind Boston in the AL East and two behind Baltimore in the wild-card race and those teams are facing each other at Fenway Park.

"Every loss hurts just because it's a day that you don't make up any ground or you lose ground," Yankees manager Joe Girardi said. "Every loss stings just because of how few games are left."

The Dodgers have been in first place every day since Aug. 21, have won 13 of their last 20 games and lead the San Francisco Giants by three games in the National League West.

Los Angeles had an interesting weekend in Miami as Clayton Kershaw returned from the disabled on Friday, Rich Hill was pulled after seven perfect innings on Saturday and the offense did not get its first hit until the fifth inning against Jose Urena.

The Dodgers have played interleague games in Toronto and Tampa Bay this season. Manager Dave Roberts has used five players at designated hitter but hinted Justin Turner and Andre Ethier could get starts there.

Turner did not play Sunday, but he is batting .302 with 22 home runs and 59 RBIs in his last 75 games since June 10. Ethier was activated from the disabled list and was 0-for-3 in his season debut.

Los Angeles has used 13 different starting pitchers this year and Jose DeLeon makes his second career start. DeLeon won his major league debut on Sept. 4 against San Diego, allowing four runs (three earned) and five hits in six innings. He had nine strikeouts, the second most by a Dodger in his debut only behind the 10 Kazuhisa Ishii had in 2002 and Pedro Astacio had in 1992.

"I'm happy for him," said Los Angeles catcher Austin Barnes, who also caught De Leon at Triple-A Oklahoma City this year. "He's fun to catch. He was pounding his fastball early in the count and he's got a great change-up."

Before joining the Dodgers, DeLeon was 7-1 with a 2.61 ERA and 111 strikeouts in 16 starts for Triple-A Oklahoma City in the hitter-friendly Pacific Coast League.

The teams have met in the World Series in 1941, 1947, 1949, 1952 1953, 1955 and 1956 when the Dodgers were based in Brooklyn. The Yankees won each of those except for 1955 when Johnny Podres pitched a shutout in Game 7 in original Yankee Stadium.

Since moving from Brooklyn, the Dodgers and Yankees met in the 1963, 1977, 1978 and 1981 World Series. The Yankees won in 1977 and 1978, and the Dodgers won in 1963 and 1981.

In the regular season, the teams have split 10 meetings, with eight taking place at Dodger Stadium. The only time Los Angeles visited Yankee Stadium was June 18, 2013, when Yasiel Puig went 4-for-9 and hit home run off Adam Warren in the second game of a doubleheader.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Marlins (71-72) at Braves (55-88)

Game: 1
Venue: Turner Field
Date: September 12, 2016 7:10 PM EDT

ATLANTA -- The Miami Marlins and Atlanta Braves have different motivations for their final meeting at Turner Field.

The Marlins are clinging to hopes they can steal a wild-card spot and make the National League playoffs, while the cellar-bound Braves are trying to win enough games to avoid the team's first 100-loss season since 1988.

The teams begin a three-game series Monday in the Braves' soon-to-be-abandoned ballpark. Atlanta will send right-hander Mike Foltynewicz (8-5, 4.16 ERA) against Miami right-hander Andrew Cashner (5-11, 4.77 ERA).

Miami won two of three against the Los Angeles Dodgers over the weekend, including a 3-0 victory Sunday. However, the Marlins remain in a big hole after going 1-10 over a recent stretch. They are 70-71 and five games out of the second wild-card spot.

The Braves lost five of their past six games, three at Washington and two of three at home against the Mets over the weekend. New York took the series finale 10-3 Sunday. Atlanta (55-88) needs to win eight of its final 19 games to avoid losing 100 games.

Atlanta is 8-4 against the Marlins this year. The Braves are 4-3 in games played against Miami at Turner Field.

Foltynewicz has started only once against the Marlins this season. That outing on June 30 was his first after a stint on the disabled list. He pitched only three innings that night, when the game was interrupted for 68 minutes by a rain delay. He gave up three runs, including a monstrous homer to Jason Bour.

Foltynewicz has made two career starts against the Marlin, going 1-0 with a 4.15 ERA. In 8 2/3 innings, he has struck out five and walked six.

Foltynewicz received no decision in his most recent start on Wednesday against the Nationals. He allowed one run in six innings and struck out eight.

In his past seven starts, he is 4-0 with a 3.40 ERA.

"He's believing in his stuff and he's committed to it," Atlanta manager Brian Snitker said. "He's just coming along exactly the way we thought he would."

Cashner was acquired from the San Diego Padres in late July to bolster Miami's playoff run. He will be making his ninth appearance for the Marlins, his eighth start, and he is 1-4 with a 5.40 ERA for his new team.

Cashner is coming off a strong appearance against Philadelphia on Wednsday that netted him his first win in a Miami uniform. He allowed four hits and struck out nine in 5 1/3 scoreless innings against the Phillies.

"It's kind of been a struggle since I've been over here," Cashner said afterward. "We still have a lot of baseball left. There is no telling what we can do. We control our own destiny."

Cashner has not faced the Braves this season. In three career starts against Atlanta, Cashner is 1-0 with a 4.20 ERA. His last start against the Braves came in 2015, and he received no decision after allowing four runs, two earned, in 6 2/3 innings.