Saturday 6/13/15 service plays chatter/comps/requests & other stuff...

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Rick Needham at Belmont Park

RACE #5 - BELMONT PARK - 3:24 PM EASTERN POST

The Poker Stakes

8.0 FURLONGS TURF GRADE III FOUR YEARS OLD AND UPWARD STAKES $300,000.00 PURSE

#4 HEART TO HEART
#8 PARIS VEGAS
#6 IL CAMPIONE
#1 ALL INCLUDED

The Poker Stakes is named for the horse who defeated champions Assagai and Buckpasser in the 1967 Bowling Green Handicap. Poker sired My Charmer, the dam of Seattle Slew, and Bonnie's Poker, the dam of Silver Charm. In the 1998 running, Elusive Quality not only established a new course record (1:31 3/5 over the Widener Turf Course at Belmont Park), but he also established what is believed to be a world record for one mile on grass. Here in the 30th running of this graded stakes test, #4 HEART TO HEART, a 5-1 shot, is the overall speed leader, and has produced "POWER RUN PERFORMANCES" in each of his last five outings, hitting the board in four, including a trio of "POWER RUN WINS" being embedded in this recent streak of racing consistency. #8 PARIS VEGAS, a 20-1 BOMB, comes off back-to-back, "POWER RUN PLACE" finishes in his last two outings, missing "Circle Trips" in those two races by a "photographed nose" at the wire.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Balmoral: Saturday 6/13 Analysis
By Jeremey Day

DRF HARNESS

Race 9 - $20,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool

Best Bet (23 - 36 / $85.80): AUDREY ANNA (9th)

Spot Play: IN OVER MY HEAD (8th)


Race 1

(8) C NOTE faces much easier and should be ready for a good effort with a few starts under his belt. (4) MAJOR ED gelding flashed some ability last start and has room to improve. (2) WHISKYTANGOFOXTROT looks to have a lot of ability but could be over bet off his most recent qualifier.

Race 2

(1) ROYALE ROSE freshman pacer put in an excellent first qualifier and gets the best post. (3) MY MAN RED two-year-old will look to cross the wire first three straight times; threat. (7) DAKOTA ROAD was the driver's choice in a wide open race.

Race 3

(7) FOX VALLEY QATAR has been unstoppable against this group; short price. (5) SOUTHERN APPEAL three-year-old trotter looks to have a high ceiling and just needs to stay trotting for a big chance. (8) CAPTAIN GREEDY is one of few in the race with a shot at the top choice but needs more.

Race 4

(5) ICE SCRAPER takes a big drop in competition and will be blazing away early; vulnerable late. (4) FORT SILKY has had trouble sealing the deal recently but has a history of finishing ahead of the top choice; threat. (2) BIG BRAD doesn't win often but is capable of pacing a big mile.

Race 5

(3) GOLD STAR IMAGE just missed blowing up the tote board in two straight and still should offer a nice price in a wide open race. (8) WHY ASK WHY might have the most ability in the race but needs a good drive from a low percentage pilot. (4) DELIGHT FASHION well bred gelding has been off his game in recent but is capable of bouncing back with a good effort.

Race 6

In a wide open race (3) KOSTAS WINE has paced some big miles at times but will need a good trip from a provisional driver. (6) EVERGREENSDUNESIDE has been racing gamely finishing first and second in four straight. (4) DOC'S DEAL was the driver's choice and comes off a nice victory.

Race 7

(6) QUIET HALL nice looking trotter is just now rounding into racing shape and could use a smooth trip against older. (2) MASTER OF EXCUSES could be sitting on a big effort at a price but is best used underneath. (4) CELEBRITY HERCULES is capable of better and is a threat with some racing luck.

Race 8

(9) IN OVER MY HEAD owns back class on most of the field and needed his last start. (8) CAM B ZIPPER has been dominant at this track and is one of few contenders in race. (10) DESPERADO ALIBI gets a tough starting post but could offer value if the pacer gets towed into a fast pace.

Race 9

(2) AUDREY ANNA filly has a ton of upside and finds a weaker bunch this week. (3) KIMBERLEY R owns wins at this level and is one of few threats in the race. (5) WINGS would have been a heavy favorite against this bunch a short time ago.

Race 10

(4) REX PASSUS was the driver's choice of three and gets sent out for a capable trainer. (9) BET ON HIM has been facing much tougher but does get a negative driver change. (8) FANTASTIC ROCK pacer makes his second start for new connections; threat.

Race 11

(9) JOYFUL GAME put in a big effort at Maywood last week winning easily. If the pacing mare improves off that effort she has a shot. (1) RAVISHING IMAGE gets the best post against a suspect bunch. (6) GET THE TERROR has been racing better than her lines indicate but the driver did opt elsewhere; command a price.

Race 12

(7) SIR MAMMO was the top driver's choice and is capable of pacing a big mile. (3) LUCKY CRUSADER gelding has come up empty in his last few but faces a soft group. (4) WESTERN WEAR doesn't look the best on paper but gets sent out for capable connections.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Mohawk: Saturday 6/13 Analysis
By Garnet Barnsdale

DRF HARNESS

Race 4 - $50,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool

EARLY $1 PICK 4:

2,7,8/1,2,4,6/4,7/1,2 = $48


LATE $1 PICK 4: 1,7/3,4,7/1,4,5,6/5 = $24

MEET STATS: 110 - 346 / $618.10 BEST BETS: 15 - 31 / $52.70

SPOT PLAYS: 5 - 29 / $45.60

Best Bet: WAZZUP WAZZUP (13th)

Spot Play: BUCKEROO (12th)


Race 1

(7) SOUTHWIND AMAZON went a monster first-over trip chasing fast splits and kept coming on Monday night. He was unlucky to get edged by one that skimmed the pylons late. Top call in the opener of a very competitive card. (4) MR DENNIS led most of the way only to be overtaken by a logical favorite late. He fits here. (3) MACHAL JORDAN dropped and popped now moves back up. He can get a share here off a good trip.

Race 2

(5) WIGGLE IT JIGGLE IT brings his unblemished record north of the border and looks as though he drew into the weakest North America Cup elim. He looks tough here but will be a huge favorite. (4) HURRIKANE ALI was unbeaten this year until he faced Artspeak who demoralized him in the third 1/4 last time out. He is the logical alternative to the choice. (7) DRACHAN HANOVER showed great improvement in his second start of the year and should be ready to fire his best shot here.

Race 3

Last year's North American Horse of the Year (3) JK SHESALADY brings her perfect record to Mohawk, a track she proved she loved last summer. Nothing lasts forever, but she looks awfully tough here. (1) BETTOR BE STEPPIN has displayed some serious speed on various ovals this year and looks like the one that will have to be hauled down. (8) THE SHOW RETURNS stepped up her game last time out at huge odds and also has shown an affinity for Mohawk.

Race 4

(7) MOONLIT DANCE uncorked a wild rally last week to turn a huge deficit turning home into a big win. That was off a three-week break and she returns quicker here and should be a much better price; upset special. (2) HAPPINESS failed as the choice last out but has shown high speed all year and has Gingras and an inside post to work with. There's a lot of positives there. (8) SOLAR SISTER has been on a big roll to start the year and McNair drives her with a lot of confidence. She would be no surprise.

Race 5

(1) LETS ROCK TOGETHER won at a similar class two back then failed vs. better. He should go well here from the inside. (6) APPRENTICE HANOVER drops from the top class and won't get a better chance to erase the goose egg in this year's win column. (2) NIRVANA SEELSTER gets major post relief and is dangerous here from close range.

Race 6

(4) ALLBEEF NO BULL was raced conservatively last week, likely eyeing the bigger prize. He picks up Dave Miller here and is sure to be put into the race; call to upset. (7) IN THE ARSENAL is the obvious one to beat coming in with a perfect 2015 record. This one can take a lot of air and keep coming. (1) GO DADDY GO went a big trip from the 10-hole last week and can be a threat here in his third start of the year.

Race 7

(2) ELLIS PARK was visibly vaulting past horses at the wire last week but he was a bit too late. Tetrick starts him up earlier here and gets the job done. (1) THREE OF CLUBS was fried in a quick third 1/4 last week and would be extra dangerous if he sat a trip. (9) PISTON BROKE drops from the Preferred but likely rolls by a few late for a minor share as is his custom.

Race 8

(7) ARTSPEAK - the 2014 Metro Stakes winner over this track - looks like he has come back even better than last year. He comes in off a new life's mark in his second start of the year and will take some beating here. (1) WAKIZASHI HANOVER came home in 53 2/5 on a 5/8ths of a mile track in his last and is a sharp opponent. (5) SPLIT THE HOUSE, one of the big local hopes, has looked great thus far beating up on NW1 and NW2 foes and deserves this shot but this is an acid test of monumental proportions to be sure.

Race 9

(3) WEEPER got free too late last time to have any chance of chasing down a strong leader. She gets a slight edge but price should be your guide in this competitive dash. (4) RADAR CONTACT has been remarkably consistent this season with 15 exacta finishes in 17 starts. She will be up front for as far as she goes. (7) LADY SHADOW changed ownership and barns and uncorked a serious first-over rally to win despite missing time. She is a player here.

Race 10

(5) VENUS DELIGHT showed no rust coming off a layoff last week and instead set a new life's mark. She comes in here super sharp and may be up to facing better. (4) COLORS A VIRGIN is remarkable in that she is almost always first-over yet has won 16 of 24 starts the past year and a half. She is the one to hold off. (6) TABLE TALK also took a life's mark last out and last year raced well here. Look for her late.

Race 11

(5) VEGAS VACATION fired home in 26 flat last time but was too far back and lost too much ground on the turn to get there late. He is reunited with Sears here; look for him to move early and drop the hammer on these. (3) THINKING OUT LOUD was tracked down by the circuit's best closer who had carved out a great second-over trip last week. That was a much better effort and he is a big threat here. (6) SHAMBALLA tripped out and got up late last week but is unlikely to get the same trip here. He is likely for a minor share.

Race 12

(3) BUCKEROO showed high speed in several starts last year. He fired identical 27 flat third and final 1/4's in his qualifier and can upset this group in his season's debut. (1) SPORTSKEEPER set a new track record at London on Molson Pace night and is an obvious threat, although he surely has bigger dances to worry about. (10) WINDSONG LEO puts a 7-race win streak on the line here but has a similar scenario to the one above regarding possible intent.

Race 13

(6) WAZZUP WAZZUP is the king of the drop-and-pop and takes a big class plunge here. He shouldn't have any trouble toppling this group. (10) ODDYSSEUS BLUE CHIP also takes a class drop off a sharp effort and looks like the only real threat to the choice. (2) VELOCITY DRIVEN was making a threatening move in the lane last time then hung a bit. He can share here. (4) J M JET SET raced evenly in a quick mile on Monday and is another that should make the Super. (5) SUNNY BEACH DAY didn't show much last week but can wake up here with a slight class drop and grab a share.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Meadowlands: Saturday 6/13 Analysis
By Derick Giwner

DRF HARNESS

Race 1 - $30,000 Guaranteed Pick Five Pool

Race 3 - $25,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool

Race 7 - $50,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool

CHAMPIONSHIP MEET STATS: 46 - 152 / $208.10 BEST BETS: 6 - 11 / $18.10

Best Bet: FREDDY DAY HANOVER (8th)

Spot Play: PRINCE SHARKA (10th)


Race 1

(9) SAWBUCK has enough early speed to overcome the outside post and gets an aggressively driver to fire him out. (3) ANDY BARAN has been racing well of late and seems like a logical possible winner. (2) CROCADILE CANYON gets a better post in his second start for this barn; using in the pick five.

Race 2

(4) MOONSHINE BALLS exits the NYSS and seems like the clear horse to beat. (2) MUSICAL RHYTHM flashed a hint of ability as a 2-year-old and seems worth a shot as a saver behind the top choice. (1) CODE BON raced better last time. Colt fits with this group. (5) TOTAL DARKNESS drops way down and has every right to awaken.

Race 3

(4) ARTSMAH was a solid second last time and won his prior start. He seems as sharp and fast as any in here. (6) GRATIAN HANOVER is back at the NW2 where he finished second on May 9. (8) DREAMS BEACHBOY has three qualifiers under his belt and should be ready to roll. (7) STOVER was placed in some stakes at 2, so there could be more talent in this son of Rocknroll Hnaover than is obvious.

Race 4

(1) DRAGON LORE was super last week from post eight and shouldn’t have to work as hard this week from post one. (7) VERSADO was used hard and rightfully tired in round one of this series. Trainer Nick Surick hops in the bike this week and I’d expect him to be aggressive. (8) THE BRUISER is in fine form. If Smith elects to leave, this guy has a big shot. (3) FOOL OF IDEAS was a solid second last week.

Race 5

(2) DULL ROAR is far from reliable, but his style seems to fit better on the big track here; rolling the dice. (4) ASHLEY’S HUSBAND has past success at this track and does get to race at the bottom condition level. (5) ACELO HANOVER seems like the probable favorite after a nice score last time, but this is a tougher spot. (1) ROCKAHOLIC gets to drop down off the claim; dangerous. (3) GRATIAS DEO has been stuck with outside posts. He moves into a new barn and could improve.

Race 6

(5) LYONSSOMEWHERE gets some major class relief coming out of the Graduate series and figures to take this field down the road. (1) JK PATRIOT also drops, but gets unlucky to face the top one. If he brings his best, he has a shot. (7) K-LEES SHAKENBAKE will be closing late if the pace is favorable.

Race 7

(5) ONTARIO SUCCESS raced pretty well in his first start for trainer Ron Burke. I’m going to stick with this guy and hope he takes a step forward in his second try for this barn. (1) MISTER VIRGIN has speed and form; horse to beat. (6) BLATANTLY BEST usually needs some pace help to get the job done; very capable.

Race 8

(6) FREDDY DAY HANOVER raced well from off the pace last time. He’ll likely be gunning off the gate this week and prove tough to beat. (9) ACCOUNT ROLLOVER was a sharp winner in the first leg of the Caramore but is stuck with an outside post this week. (1) NF DRUM ROLL should save ground from the inside and get into the exotics. (8) MAXI BON has a shot with the right trip.

Race 9

(5) MAMBO ITALIANO has speed, form and hails from a high percentage barn. (4) YOU BET YOUR GLASS closed well from a tough spot last time; clear player. (1) BREAKIN THE LAW draws inside again and merits instant respect, at least underneath. (2) ROCKIN ROBERT arrived here and raced well last time.

Race 10

(1) PRINCE SHARKA finds a perfect spot. He should push away from post one and sit a sweet trip. (4) ESPIRIT DE KAYJAY A took a shot uncovered last time and held well. Perhaps this guy is rounding into form. (7) TRIPLE MAJOR raced well following a short layoff and could be tighter now.

Race 11

(4) LONG LIVE ROCK romped with Scott Zeron in the bike a week ago and should produce a similar result despite the return of Dauplaise to the sulky. (6) STONEHOUSE ADAM came up short on the engine last time but should be forwardly placed again. (1) ANDWIN HANOVER saved ground for a good placing in round one and draws the inside again.

Race 12

(2) AHDOUGHNOLUM is one of those feel picks in a dull field. Trainer Jordan Derue popped with a couple of horses here earlier in the meet and this guy has been stuck with mid to outside posts of late. (9) EXPENSIVE TOY is back at the basement condition and wouldn’t be a complete shock. (1) SIX GUN draws well for a decent barn and figures to make some noise.

Race 13

(6) HES A BUCKEYE couldn’t sustain a fast pace on the lead last time and this barn has been slowing down of late, but when you examine the competition this guy looks much better. (7) SOPRAVVISSUTO has been racing well of late for second money. (9) STORMIN RUSTLER has early speed and can step up with a big mile at any time. (5) ELECTRIFY drops down and merits a look.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Yonkers: Saturday 6/13 Analysis
By Matt Rose

[DRF HARNESS

Race 7 - $60,000 Guaranteed Pick Five Pool ($25,569 C/O)

MEET STATS: 168 - 525 / $909.40 BEST BETS: 23 - 42 / $82.00


Best Bet: WARRAWEE NEEDY (1st)

Spot Play: MOONLITEONTHEBEACH (3rd)


Race 1

(4) WARRAWEE NEEDY remains in the Mark Ford barn despite being in a recent sale and last out he got nipped in a 1:50 4/5 mile; millionaire deserves top billing off that effort. (3) SUMMER SMACKDOWN gets some post relief and may be leaving in front of the top choice. (1) LAWGIVER HANOVER will be close up throughout leaving from this favorable post and that makes him an obvious contender.

Race 2

(7) AMERICAN FLIGHT took the money last out on the dropdown and just missed to the trip-sitting winner; he faces some suspect rivals here and is worth a try despite the poor post. (3) SIR ZIGGY'S Z TAM is not a prolific winner but he does fit nicely at this level. (2) TYE SEELSTER has been a new horse since joining the Banca barn.

Race 3

(4) MOONLITEONTHEBEACH returns locally off a failed stint out of town and he looked sharp when last seen here. (2) CASIMIR JITTERBUG gets away from Open competition and that will help his cause. (1) UNCLE GOODFELLOW looks like he's tailed off some but he does return with the best post.

Race 4

(2) MACHS BEACH BOY charged home too late last out but his start prior he was aggressively handled and got the job done; he's clearly the one to fear from this improved post. (3) FRANKIES DRAGON returns locally with class relief and was a big second to a tough rival two back. (5) HERE WE GO AGAIN has beaten lesser in two straight and he should be able to land a share versus these.

Race 5

(3) THE REAL ONE is always a threat with these no matter what the trip and Lachance has some tactical options from this decent starting spot. (6) SAPPHIRE CITY has blast-away speed if MacDonald chooses to use it and that can make him a player no matter what the price. (2) FLEM N EM N makes his way back to the Open ranks off a powerful brush-and-crush effort.

Race 6

(2) VIRGIN MARY has been coming up a touch short recently but she remains relatively sharp and doesn't face an overpowering group tonight. The good draw certainly doesn't hurt. (5) FOR THE LADIES N looks like the one to beat but probably needs earlier involvement. (1) TIPITINA looked good in her two local starts versus lesser.

Race 7

(1) BACKSTREET HANOVER has been a legitimate condender with these types all season long and this added-distance Open didn't come up particularly strong; mare is worth a play. (5) IL MAGO has hit the board in his last five Open tries and on paper he looks very logical but it's interesting that Dube opted off. (9) SOMEBODY AS was Dube's choice and he did have some big efforts here last season.

Race 8

(2) STATESMAN N finds a very favorable spot tonight and despite not looking his best recently he should be able to handle this group. (3) GALACTIC GALLEON N has raced well for Vallee since arriving and he can threaten on his best. (9) SANTANNA ONE still hasn't won this year and he's stuck with a second tier start; use underneath.

Race 9

(4) FORT KNOX was second best to the sharp Big Boy Dreams at this level last out and Bartlett should be able to take control from the outset and take these the distance. (3) BEST SAID looks like he's fast enough to compete with these and he should be leaving for position. (5) THE LUNCH PAIL was overmatched last week at The Meadowlands but four back he powered home to beat these; he needs a trip but is capable.

Race 10

(1) MC DYNAMITE was Bartlett's choice over the post-compromised Fat Mans Alley and if he's kept close enough to the pace he can power by late. (5) ROCK ON MOE has done little wrong since returning this season and the Caleca trainee is a perfect fit at this level. (4) BET THE MOON is up in class for Burke off a well-rated score and he can be used in gimmicks.

Race 11

(7) DEWYCOLORINTHELINE has been a notch below the top Open trotters recently but has managed to race pretty well for minor shares; tonight's class relief can get him over the top. (3) OUTBURST tired after a tough trip in that added-distance event last out; trip should be smoother from this spot. (6) LORENZO DREAM certainly has the speed to be a player, but endurance has been a problem.

Race 12

(3) LUCAN HANOVER faces his softest competition in some time and he's really supposed to beat these. (1) BACKUP A makes his North American debut off a steady qualifier and he draws best for good connections. (2) IN COMMANDO had zero excuse last out but he should be good enough to hold off the rest from this spot.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

SPOT PLAYS

For Saturday


TRACK (RACE) HORSE, MORNING LINE


Arlington Park (4th) Dr. Clark, 7-2
(6th) Lethal, 4-1

Belmont Park (2nd) Kowboy Boots, 3-1
(9th) Conspiracy, 3-1

Belterra Park (4th) Shesatank, 7-2
(6th) Poppy's Dream, 5-1


Canterbury Park (6th) Sun Country, 7-2
(9th) Giacallure, 5-1


Charles Town (2nd) Crystal Cave, 4-1
(7th) Comeonletsplay, 3-1


Churchill Downs (1st) Tiz Sardonic Joe, 4-1
(4th) Golden But Stormy, 4-1


Delaware Park (3rd) Extreme Alex, 4-1
(5th) Honeyed, 7-2


Emerald Downs (8th) Rio Hondo, 3-1
(9th) Cha Cha Latte, 3-1


Evangeline Downs (6th) Bad Boy Roy, 4-1
(9th) Ide Bet on Ours, 6-1


Finger Lakes (3rd) Sweet Hot Toddy, 4-1
(8th) West Bay Road, 4-1


Golden Gate Fields (6th) Aperfectdaytofly, 3-1
(9th) Delta Ranger, 6-1


Gulfstream Park (6th) Feels Like Flying, 4-1
(8th) Whiskey Ding, 3-1


Lone Star Park (3rd) Isn't She Special, 3-1
(5th) Tater Red, 3-1


Louisiana Downs (2nd) Broadway King, 9-2
(6th) Ole Doc, 9-2


Monmouth Park (7th) Hudson Miracle, 7-2
(9th) To the Flag, 7-2


Mountaineer (5th) Santelli, 7-2
(7th) Lady Lynum, 9-2


Parx Racing (4th) Mr. William, 9-2
(9th) Exceptionalism, 6-1


Penn National (4th) Motherload Hipster, 3-1
(8th) Skeleton Crew, 4-1


Prairie Meadows (3rd) Playball Tony, 4-1
(7th) Laugh at Life, 7-2


Santa Anita (4th) Moscato Girl, 6-1
(6th) Relentless Heat, 4-1


Thistledown (3rd) Red Abyss, 7-2
(5th) Aristocrat Again, 4-1


Woodbine (4th) Bread Winner, 5-1
(7th) Kay's Grace, 5-1

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Farrell says Miley's actions unacceptable
By THE SPORTS XCHANGE

BOSTON -- Manager John Farrell changed his tune regarding Thursday night's dugout spat with Wade Miley, calling the Boston left-handed pitcher's actions "unacceptable."

“The outburst in the dugout was something that's unacceptable," Farrell said before Friday night's game between the Red Sox and the Toronto Blue Jays. "I won't stand for it, and as a result, we met immediately following the game."

Miley was caught on camera engaging in a heated dispute with Farrell when he yanked the southpaw from the game after the fourth inning of the series finale with the host Baltimore Orioles. Miley gave up five runs and three homers in Boston's 6-5 loss.

"What happened in the dugout last night was a pitcher who's competitive, obviously did not like the decision of being removed from the game," Farrell said.

Farrell initially downplayed the incident, saying he respected Miley's competitive nature, but the skipper was more stern when addressing the issue on Friday.

The two met behind closed doors after Thursday's game, but Farrell wasn't willing to share any of the details of their meeting.

"What took place in the office in Baltimore stays there," he said.

Miley, who is 5-6 with a 5.07 ERA in 12 starts, will not be fined or disciplined, Farrell said.

Boston fell to 27-34 and is last in the American League East, seven games out of first place heading into Friday night's game.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Twins' Hunter appeals suspension
The Sports Xchange

Major League Baseball suspended Minnesota Twins outfielder Torii Hunter for two games and fined him an undisclosed amount for his actions during a game against the Kansas City Royals on Wednesday night in Minneapolis.

Hunter appealed the suspension, which was scheduled to begin Friday night with a game against the Texas Rangers, but it will be delayed until a review is conducted.

In the eighth inning on Wednesday night, Hunter had to be restrained after being called out on strikes by home plate umpire Mark Ripperger in the Twins' 7-2 loss. While Hunter argued, he had to be restrained by crew chief Brian O'Nora and Twins manager Paul Molitor.

Hunter then ripped off an elbow pad and shin guard, his batting gloves and finally his jersey before exiting.

The 39-year-old Hunter is batting .268 with eight home runs and 36 RBIs this season. He finished Wednesday's game 0-for-3 with two strikeouts and a walk.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Twins reinstate OF Rosario from paternity list
The Sports Xchange

The Minnesota Twins reinstated outfielder Eddie Rosario from the paternity list on Friday.

Rosario, who celebrated the birth of his third child (son Lucas), will be in uniform Friday night in Texas after missing one game.

Rosario is hitting .298 with three home runs and 12 RBIs in 24 games this season.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Yankees INF Petit optioned to Triple-A
The Sports Xchange

New York Yankees infielder Gregorio Petit was returned from rehab, reinstated from the 15-day disabled list and optioned to Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre on Friday.

Petit, 30, was placed on the disabled list on May 6 with a bruised right hand. He was hit on the hand by a pitch while striking out against the Toronto Blue Jays.

Petit is hitting .200 with five RBIs in 35 at-bats this season.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

'Over-Whelming'

When the Blue Jays and Red Sox go at it Saturday afternoon with Dickey and Buchholz on respective mounds there is an 'Over-Whelming opportunity for 'Over' gamblers to cash. In Dickey's last ten games runners crossing home plate have come early and often as the knuckler has been tagged for 13 yard-ball, 6.1 runs/game posting 6 'Over', 3 'Under' and 1 'Push'. This being game-two of a series will certainly catch 'Over' bettors attention. For whatever reason, the 'Over' has hit in 10 of 11 game two's that Dickey has started. Finally, in Buchholz's last eight starts facing Toronto the 'Over' has been the right choice 5 times with 2 'Under', 1 'Push'.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Baseball Betting: Streaks, Tips, Notes

Oakland at Los Angeles Angels June 13, 10:05 EST

C.J. Wilson is the starter for the Halos, while Kendall Graveman is the starter for the Athletics. A fascinating pitching matchup. Wilson has been spanked for 30 hits, 6 Jacks, 20 runs the past five starts. Graveman is off a sharp 7 innings of 1 run-ball at Boston and will carry a sparkling 3-0 road record, 1.98 ERA into the contest. A couple of flashing red light's for Halos backers. Wilson has a 1-5 team start skid in June. Athletics are 4-1 in Gravemans last 5 starts as a road underdog including a victory here at Angel Stadium of Anaheim earlier this season.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Five To Follow MLB Betting: Saturday, June 13, 2015 Opening Line Report
by Alan Matthews

The trade market got started recently with Arizona's trade of Mark Trumbo to Seattle (predictably, Trumbo has done squat with the Mariners). Now there are rumors that the Mets are looking at Brewers third baseman Aramis Ramirez. That would make sense. Ramirez is 36 and hitting just .211 with seven homers and 19 RBIs, but he's going to retire after this season and generally is a better second-half hitter. So the Mets could probably just send the Brewers a bucket of balls as Milwaukee would be happy to get some salary relief (Ramirez owed about $8.8 million rest of the way). The Mets need an upgrade at third because David Wright's return from back problems is not clear.


Nationals at Brewers (-130, 8)

You knew Washington first baseman Ryan Zimmerman was going to land on the disabled list at some point this season because he always does at least once a year. He was placed on the 15-day DL on Thursday with plantar fasciitis. Zimmerman is hitting .209 with five home runs and 34 RBIs in 56 games this season. Some combination of Clint Robinson and Tyler Moore will mostly fill-in. The Nats start Joe Ross in this one, and he's only in the rotation because of injuries to Stephen Strasburg and Doug Fister. Ross, 22, made his big-league debut on June 6 at the Cubs and took the loss, allowing three runs and six hits over five innings. He had a career 3.74 ERA in the minors. Milwaukee's Jimmy Nelson (3-6, 4.05) comes off his best start of the season, shutting out the Pirates on four hits over six innings, striking out seven. He has never faced the Nationals.

Key trends: The Nats are 3-7 in their past 10 Saturday games. Milwaukee is 0-4 in Nelson's past four at home. The "over/under" is over in six of Nelson's past eight vs. teams with a winning record.

Early lean: Nationals and over.


Reds at Cubs (-140, TBA)

I mentioned the other day that the Reds had put shortstop Zack Cosart on the 15-day disabled list with a knee injury. It was much worse than that as Cosart tore ligaments and a tendon in his right knee. He will have surgery Monday and is out nine months, meaning he might be back midway through spring training. This might be the final straw for the Reds, who need to punt on the season. They may wait until after hosting the All-Star Game, however. Mike Leake (3-4, 4.29), one guy who definitely could be traded, starts here. He faced the Cubs twice in April and had a 4.50 ERA with 11 hits, four home runs and 13 strikeouts in 14 innings against them. Anthony Rizzo hits .400 off him with two homers and five RBIs in 25 at-bats. Chris Coghlan destroys the guy, going 9-for-11 with three doubles and two solo homers. Chicago's Kyle Hendricks (2-2, 3.96) comes off a win over Washington where he allowed two earned over five innings. He hasn't faced the Reds in 2015.

Key trends: The Reds are 0-8 in Leake's past eight road starts vs. teams with a winning record. The Cubs are 8-1 in Hendricks' past nine at home. The over is 6-2 in Leake's past eight vs. teams with a winning record. The Reds are 6-2 in his past eight vs. the Cubs.

Early lean: Cubs.


Indians at Tigers (-126, 8.5)

An important day Saturday -- will Kate Upton be there? -- for the Tigers' hopes of winning a fifth straight AL Central title as Justin Verlander makes his season debut. The 2011 AL MVP and Cy Young Award winner has been sidelined all season after leaving a March 27 spring training game with a strained right triceps. He went 15-12 with a 4.54 ERA last year, his highest ERA since 2008. I happen to think he will never dominate again with all those innings on his right arm. Michael Bourn hits him very well, batting .364 with four RBIs in 33 at-bats. Jason Kipnis definitely does not, going 3-for-34 with 13 strikeouts. Cleveland's Carlos Carrasco (7-5, 4.35) had a three-start winning streak snapped last time out, allowing five runs in four innings vs. the Orioles. He gave up five runs and nine hits over 4.1 innings in his lone start vs. Detroit this season. Miguel Cabrera is 8-for-21 with a homer off him. Ian Kinsler hits .368 against Carrasco with three RBIs.

Key trends: The Indians are 1-5 in Carrasco's past six on Saturday. The Tigers are 5-0 in Verlander's past five vs. teams with a losing record (last year obviously). The under is 8-3 in Carrasco's past 11 road starts.

Early lean: Tigers and over.


White Sox at Rays (-151, 7)

The Pale Hose will be without Manager Robin Ventura all weekend as he's attending the college graduation of his daughter. Bench coach Mark Parent will serve as the White Sox's manager against the Rays. Let's see if Chicago's Jeff Samardzija (4-4, 4.93) can shake out of his funk here. He has allowed 15 runs and 22 hits over 12.1 innings in losing his past two starts. He's costing himself some money as a free-agent-to-be. Not many Rays have seen him. Evan Longoria is 1-for-3 with a solo homer. It's outstanding Chris Archer (7-4, 1.84) for Tampa. He has now gone five straight starts not allowing more than an earned run. He has struck out at least 11 in each of his past three. In two career starts against the White Sox, he is 1-0 with a 2.92 ERA. Jose Abreu is 3-for-6 with a homer off him. Melky Cabrera is 4-for-17 with two RBIs.

Key trends: The Sox are 2-5 in Samardzija's past seven on the road. The Rays are 4-1 in Archer's past five on Saturday. The over is 4-1 in Samardzija's past five on the road.

Early lean: Rays and under.


Rockies at Marlins (-135, 8)

Colorado will have back outfielder Corey Dickerson and reliever LaTroy Hawkins for this series. Dickerson was hitting .306 with five home runs in 33 games before his DL stint. Hawkins began the year as the team's closer but was yanked quickly. He was put on the DL on April 21. David Hale (2-0, 4.12) starts for the Rockies here. He apparently has earned a permanent spot in the rotation after the team recently demoted top prospect Eddie Butler to Triple-A. Hale was acquired from Atlanta this offseason. Miami's Giancarlo Stanton is 0-for-3 against him. Adeiny Hechavarria is 3-for-5 with a double and RBI. The Marlins' Mat Latos (1-4, 6.12) will be making his first start since landing on the disabled list May 23 with left knee inflammation. He has been terrible at home, going 0-2 with a 10.18 ERA in five starts. Troy Tulowitzki is just 2-for-16 off him with a solo homer.

Key trends: Colorado is 4-1 in its past five on Saturday. The over is 4-1 in Latos' past five at home.

Early lean: Marlins and under.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Saturday's six-pack

Seven catchers who caught Nolan Ryan's seven no-hitters.........

1) Jeff Torborg-- Wound up managing in major leagues for 11 years.

2) Art Kusnyer-- Played 139 games for four teams over six seasons.

3) Tom Egan-- Was in majors at age 18, lasted ten years as a backup.

4) Ellie Rodriguez-- Made two All-Star teams; was Royals' rep in '69.

5) Alan Ashby-- Is now a TV commentator for the Astros.

6) John Russell-- Hit 13 HR with 60 RBI at age 25; that was the high point.

7) Mike Stanley-- Hit 187 career HRs with a .270 batting average (15 years)

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Arthur Ralph Sports

Bonus Play Sat Braves w/ Miller +130

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

UFC 188 Betting Preview: Velasquez makes long-awaited return vs. Werdum
By MMAODDSBREAKER

The main event of UFC 188 is a five-round title unification bout between UFC heavyweight champion Cain Velasquez and UFC interim heavyweight champion Fabricio Werdum.

Velasquez is a relentless wrestler and has the best cardio in the heavyweight division. He never slows down and even in 25-minute fights he can lay a pounding on his opponent in the third round. He constantly shoots for takedowns and for the most part gets them, and on the ground he has nasty ground and pound. On the feet he has a good kickboxing base and he has the power in his hands to knock anyone out at heavyweight. He is just a fantastic fighter overall.

However, he has not fought in nearly two years due to injuries, so there will be some question marks about him heading into this fight. But while those questions are fair, my answer would be why would he take this fight if he wasn’t fully healthy? He already fought JDS injured a few years ago and got knocked out for it, so I doubt he makes that mistake again.

I think he’s fully healthy, ready to go, and I believe he smashes Werdum in this fight, which is why he is the clear-cut favorite heading into it.

The first man to stop the great Fedor Emelianenko via submission, Werdum is a high-level BJJ black belt and is known for his lethal ground game. He has nine career submission wins and has an edge on the ground over almost every heavyweight in the UFC. He has solid wrestling as well. But while he is mostly known for his ground game, Werdum’s striking is really coming around. Training with Master Rafael Cordeiro at King’s MMA, Werdum is coming off of a brilliant KO of Hunt via flying knee, which was ultra impressive. He was rocked and dropped against Hunt, but recovered and won in stunning fashion. However, his chin was shaky in that fight, and he has been knocked out for by JDS, so thats a worry going up against Velasquez.

To beat the champ, Werdum is probably going to have to stop him because his opponent will have the cardio edge in this fight. He either has to knock Velasquez out on the feet, or submit on the ground, but with both those scenarios being quite unlikely, you see Werdum enter this fight as a big dog despite his recent improvements.

It’s always tough to completely trust a fighter coming off of a super-long layoff, but Velasquez is a different beast. If he’s healthy, which I truly believe he is, he’s the most dominant heavyweight in MMA, bar none, and it’s hard to see anyone beating him outside of landing a lucky punch.

Werdum is a tremendous fighter, but he has several key disadvantages in this fight. I believe Velasquez is the more durable fighter of the two, I believe he has more knockout power, I believe his cardio is better, and I know he has the wrestling advantage to dictate where this fight takes place. Is it possible Werdum could land a punch and knock Velasquez out? Of course — this is heavyweight, after all. But I don’t think Velasquez gets knocked out here. In fact, I see him knocking Werdum out, probably in the first or second round. I really like Velasquez here.

The line is pretty high at nearly 5-to-1, but the prop on Velasquez inside the distance is -150 and the prop on him winning by T/KO is -110. Those props provide tremendous value in my opinion as I believe Velasquez by T/KO is the most likely outcome to the bout, so I recommend playing them, possibly with a small hedge on Werdum wins inside the distance if you want to be safe, as I do not see the fight going the full 25 minutes.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NHL
Long Sheet

Saturday, June 13

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

CHICAGO (62-34-0-7, 131 pts.) at TAMPA BAY (64-34-0-8, 136 pts.) - 6/13/2015, 8:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
CHICAGO is 66-59 ATS (-26.0 Units) second half of the season over the last 2 seasons.
CHICAGO is 18-21 ATS (-18.0 Units) when playing with 2 days rest over the last 2 seasons.
CHICAGO is 16-19 ATS (-16.4 Units) after a non-conference game this season.
TAMPA BAY is 14-3 ATS (+9.8 Units) after scoring 1 goal or less in their previous game this season.
TAMPA BAY is 34-24 ATS (+2.2 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
TAMPA BAY is 189-198 ATS (+471.7 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record in the second half of the season since 1996.
CHICAGO is 39-20 ATS (+11.6 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
TAMPA BAY is 5-3 (+3.0 Units) against the spread versus CHICAGO over the last 3 seasons
TAMPA BAY is 5-3-0 straight up against CHICAGO over the last 3 seasons
6 of 8 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons . (Under=+4.1 Units)

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NHL
Short Sheet

Saturday, June 13


Stanley Cup Finals - Best of 7 - Game 5 - Series Tied 2-2

Chicago at Tampa Bay, 8:05 PM
Tampa Bay: 27-8 against the money line (+17.5 Units) when playing only their 2nd game in 5 days
Tampa Bay: 30-11 against the money line (+17.5 Units) after a game where they failed to cover the spread

Chicago: 18-21 against the money line (-15.1 Units) when playing with 2 days rest

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NHL

Saturday, June 13

Trend Report

8:00 PM
CHICAGO vs. TAMPA BAY
The total has gone UNDER in 10 of Chicago's last 15 games when playing on the road against Tampa Bay
Chicago is 11-5 SU in its last 16 games
The total has gone UNDER in 10 of Tampa Bay's last 15 games when playing at home against Chicago
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Tampa Bay's last 7 games when playing at home against Chicago

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

PREDICTEFORM

BELMONT PARK – RACE 9

Distance: 8 Furlongs
Surface: Dirt
Claim: $50,000
Post Time: 5:28 PM ET

Value Plays

P# 6, Golden Itiz

P# 3, Conspiracy

P# 7, Praetereo

P# 5, Looking Cool