Saturday 6/18/16 service plays chatter/comps/requests & other stuff...

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

At the Gate - Saturday
By Mike Dempsey

It’s going to be a long day on Saturday, with first post at Belmont Park coming at 1:30 ET and the final race at Churchill Downs coming nearly 10 hours later.

At Churchill Downs we have five stakes races including the $500,000 Stephen Foster Handicap (G1), a Breeders’ Cup Challenge “Win and You’re In” race for the Breeders’ Cup Classic (G1). First post is 6:00 ET.

Actually, our last race on my Best Plays Report for Saturday is the $100,000 Regret (G3) which is the ninth of 11 races with a post time of 10:11 ET.

The Churchill Downs card also features the $200,000 Fleur De Lis Handicap (G2), a ”Win and You’re In” race for the Breeders’ Cup Distaff (G1).

In the field is Untapable, who won the 2014 Distaff but has won just once in eight tries since and comes into the race riding a six race losing streak. Her last outing was a disappointing fourth in the Apple Blossom (G1) at Oaklawn Park, a race she won last year.

She is 7-5 on the morning line in a field of six and seems likely to be sent off at 4-5. She has burned so much money in her six starts it’s tough to back her even in this softer spot.

I’ll give a look to Ahh Chocolate, who was a good looking winner of the Allaire DuPont Distaff (G3) at Pimlico in her last outing.

The feature at Belmont Park on Saturday comes early, the $300,000 Poker (G3) carded as the fourth race on the 10-race card.

A field of six was entered including the speedy Obviously, who is the 9-5 morning line favorite. As you can see below I am looking to beat him with Offering Plan from the Chad Brown barn.


Here is today’s opener from Belmont Park to get the day off to a good start:

BEL Race 1 Clm $14,000N3L (1:30 ET)
#6 Giant Fox 6-1
#3 Outlash 6-5
#2 Againsome 7-2
#1 Swivel 5-1

Analysis: Giant Fox appears to have the best shot of beating the chalk in here. The five-year-old is coming off a decent third last out behind a nine length winner at this level over a wet track and off a 2 1/2 month break. Two back on the inner track he was third behind repeat winner Hector's Pride, who beat Alw-1 foes in his next outing. Both of his wins have come at a mile including his maiden score here.

Outlash dueled for the early lead and could not go with the winner late in a runner up finish at 6-5 last out against $25,000 non-winners of three. he drops in for $14,000 for the Levine barn that has been on the chilly side at the meeting (2 for 37). The logical winner here but his price is going to be too short.

Wagering
WIN: #6 to win at 4-1 or better.
EX: 3,6 / 1,2,3,6
TRI: 3,6 / 1,2,3,6 / 1,2,3,6,7

Today’s Featured Race of the Day from Belmont Park:

BEL Race 4 The Poker G3 (3:04 ET)
#4 Offering Plan 6-1
#6 Takeover Target 4-1
#1 Grand Arch 7-2
#3 Obviously 9-5

Analysis: Offering Plan is one of two in here sent out by the Chad Brown barn. Last out off a 5 1/2 month layoff he made a good late rally to get up late and beaten Alw-2 optional claimers. He won the English Channel over the turf here last fall at this distance. Despite the short field there should be an honest pace and this guy still appears to have some upside and is going to be a decent price in this spot. The barn is 25% winners with runners making their second start off a 45-180-day layoff.

Takeover Target is also sent out by Brown. The colt came with a seven wide run and got up to win the Dixie (G2) last out at Pimlico on Preakness Day. He has won three of his five trips over the Belmont turf including winning the Hill Prince (G3) here last fall. He makes his third start of his current form cycle and will be rolling late.

Wagering
WIN: #4 to win at 4-1 or better.
EX: 4,6 / 1,4,6
TRI: no play

Today’s Featured Race of the Day from Churchill Downs:

CD Race 8 The Stephen Foster Hcp G1 (9:39 ET)
#7 Eagle 6-1
#3 Effinex 1-1
#2 Bradester 5-1
#4 Majestic Harbor 5-1

Analysis: Eagle made a good late rally while five wide to finish in the runner up spot in the Alysheba (G2) last out on Oaks Day. He did not get much pace to run at and may get more here. He won the Ben Ali (G3) two back over Noble Bird in a sharp effort at Keeneland. He has run well over the main track here landing in the exacta in three of five trips and we should catch a fair price.

Effinex won the Oaklawn 'Cap (G2) last out over a suspect group. He won the Clark 'Cap (G1) here last fall showing his runner up finish to American Pharoah in the Breeders' Cup Classic (G1) at 33-1 was no fluke. He picks up a new rider in Stevens as Mike Smith remains in SoCal to ride Songbird. Jerkens has been very live the past few months but this guy is going to be a light price.

Wagering
WIN: #7 to win at 4-1 or better.
EX: 3,7 / 2,3,4,7
TRI: 3,7 / 2,3,4,7 / 1,2,3,4,7

Live Longshots:
These are price plays for exotic players looking to find a couple of extra contenders to use in their trifecta and superfecta wagers. Or for those with smaller bankrolls, you might want to get in a small win-place wager.

Belmont Park
R6: #7 Love You Babe 10-1
R8: #11 Circus Performer 8-1
R9: #10 Midnight Notes 10-1
R10: #1 Great Lady 10-1

Good luck today!

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Hawthorne Harness: Saturday 6/18 Analysis
By Jeremey Day

DRF HARNESS

Best Bet (6 - 11 / $38.80): FRISKY BOB (3rd)

Spot Play: SIR MAMMO (8th)


Race 1

(6) GOINDUNESIDE the well bred pacer has been knocking on the door against tougher. (3) J B'S HERO raced big last week just missing from far back. (9) RED DOG RYAN lightly raced pacer has room to improve with a good setup.

Race 2

(10) HE GONE JACK might offer decent value from the far outside. The 3-year-old pacer was sharp last week. (6) CHLO'S RICHESS makes his third career start and has flashed some ability; threat. (2) WE ROB BANKS has not been able to get the job done yet against similar; command a price.

Race 3

(7) FRISKY BOB pacer would have won for fun had he had anywhere to go for most of the stretch last start; big chance. (6) MIDNIGHT SHARK the most recent effort was much improved. The pacer has a nice pedigree and might have figured it out. (1) POCKET PARTY gets the best post but will need more to hit the top spot; use underneath.

Race 4

(7) COOL LIKE THAT should offer a big price and can sweep past late with a good setup. (3) UNCLE BUD was the driver's choice and finds a slightly softer bunch. (8) RICKY BOBBIE can jump up with big efforts from time to time.

Race 5

(5) SUMMER SHANDY would have probably been a winner last week but had nowhere to go late. (7) SIMPLY BURBON has been tremendous in his last three; threat. (8) RICKY TIDWELL finds a fairly wide open field besides the top choice.

Race 6

(9) COAL HANOVER takes a huge dropdown in class. The pacer should dominate this field with a trouble-free trip. (3) BIG MOON RIZING has been sharp for a new barn but could be overmatched by the top choice. (7) ALWAYS KENZER should offer good value underneath.

Race 7

(2) SLEAZEBURGERNFRIES drops down a notch and picks up a huge driver change. (3) DOC'S DEAL just missed last week flying late. (4) FULL MOON RISING was very close at this level last week; threat.

Race 8

(3) SIR MAMMO pacer gets a big morning line and is just as good as anyone in the field when right. (1) LUCKY CRUSADER despite looking good on paper and a big driver change, the pacer just hasn't been racing well; command a price. (9) THAT MAN OF MINE is capable of pacing a very fast mile with a good setup.

Race 9

(2) SOMESTARSOMEWHERE raced gamely last week at this level. The pacer could offer the best price of the contenders. (9) KOLT POWER had no excuse last start against this same bunch but is still the horse to beat. (1) FREEDOMFORMYSOUL should find this spot much more to his liking; threat.

Race 10

(9) BNGS EXPRESS takes a huge dropdown in competition. The pacer gets sent out for a low percentage pilot but that could just boost the price. (2) PART TIME well bred pacer could be the sleeper in the race with a good setup. (8) CHIP AGAIN is 0 for the year but does start for a capable barn.

Race 11

In a wide open and evenly matched race, (3) PISTOPACKINPIPER has a big brush when timed right and will offer value. (2) DELIGHT FAHION finally gets a good starting post and should be much closer turning for home; driver's choice. (1) ULYSSES BLUE CHIP will look to make it two straight at this level.

Race 12

(6) BET ON HIM burned a lot of cash last week making a miscue. If the pacer can mind his manners he can beat this bunch. (2) BOSSA NOVA BABY went a big second quarter last week taking some sting out of him late; threat. (3) DONALD HIMSELF can hit the ticket underneath at a big price.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Mohawk: Saturday 6/18 Analysis
By Garnet Barnsdale

DRF HARNESS

Race 1 - $50,000 Guaranteed Pick Five Pool

Race 4 - $50,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool

Race 9 - $100,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool

20-CENT PICK 5: 2,4,8/1,3,6/4/1,5/3,4,5,6 = $14.40

EARLY PICK 4: 1,5/5/1,2,5,6/4,5,7,8 = $32

LATE PICK 4: 3,5/4,6,7/3,4,6,10/6,8 = $48

ALL STAKES PICK 4: 2,7/1,4,6/2,3,4,5/3,5 = $48

MEET STATS: 128 - 414 / $712.20 BEST BETS: 22 - 39 / $79.10

SPOT PLAYS: 6 - 39 / $40.90

Best Bet: HANNELORE HANOVER (3rd)

Spot Play: LEGAL PROCESS (8th)


Race 1

(4) ALWAYS A HOTSHOT was an impressive debut winner then broke while moving last time, perhaps due to a dislike of the wet track. He can make amends here on a dry track. (8) SOME GOLD has faced good company all spring and should be the main challenger to the choice if he can work out a decent trip. (2) WHATASHOWINONTARIO looked like a new horse in Auciello's barn and is worth a look here as further improvement could be coming tonight. (3) BIG BANG BOOM has been finishing his miles decently and could parlay a following trip into a smaller share here.

Race 2

(3) WITCH DALI has been on fire recently in this class and although she faces tougher here, she could just keep on rolling. Note that she beat Solar Sister twice and that mare then easily won an elimination of the Roses Are Red Stakes. (6) SKIPPIN BY will likely get a more aggressive steer here from Gingras which makes her a dangerous rival. (1) VENUS DELIGHT could easily trip out near the front here and come rolling by late off a covered trip; consider her for Pick 5 bets. (2) EMPRESS DEO is another that drops out of stakes company and she should make the Super, if not outfinish this prediction.

Race 3

(4) HANNELORE HANOVER took a new life's mark last week in an elimination win that was as easy as it was impressive. She looks like the Best Bet on this card to me. (8) ELEGANT SERENITY was passively driven in her elimination but did have some trot to offer late. She could provide some exotics value here. (3) RULES OF THE ROAD was cleverly-driven to victory in her elimination and would be tough if she can steal a breather here at some point. (7) SHAKE IT CERRY was no match for the choice and seems likely for a minor award here considering her current form.

Race 4

(5) DOVUTO HANOVER made two early moves to the front last week and despite coming under third quarter pressure he pulled away to an easy win; call to repeat. (1) DUC DORLEANS ripped off a big mile last week and when he gets good he can put two or three big miles in a row together; using. (3) HIS BOY ELROY could not reach the choice last time despite benefitting from a very good trip. He can share here but is unlikely for the win. (9) THUNDER STEELER has reached his best form but couldn't handle the choice last week and now draws a worse post. He can take a smaller share, however.

Race 5

(5) DAYSON was a sharp winner of the faster elimination last week and having Gingras driving only adds to his appeal; top call. (3) WILL TAKE CHARGE displayed speed both early and late in his mile last week and now draws a much better post; exacta factor. (6) BAR HOPPING was pinned in for part of the stretch last week but was still no match for the choice late. He is a factor, but would need to trip out to beat the choice. (4) DIA MONDE showed some grit winning the other elimination but will need to be even faster here to challenge the choice.

Race 6

(2) BETTOR N BETTER faces easier here and draws an inside post for the first time in a long time. Don't be surprised if Tetrick sends her on a brush-and-crush mission on the backside. (5) MARLEE B was hard-driven early last week to make front then dug in gamely late to hang in for the win. Toss her on Pick 4 tickets off that gritty effort. (1) SOUTHWIND GEISHA has raced well for most of this meet and will be passing many of these down the lane. (6) TWIN B INSPIRING is a bit of a head-scratcher having missed five weeks yet dropping from the top class. She may need this trip.

Race 7

(5) ELLIS PARK faces his easiest field in several weeks and should get an honest pace to chase here. He has options starting from the middle of the gate but will likely get involved earlier here. (4) REVEREND HANOVER set some strong fractions last week then dug in for a gritty win. He is the main danger to the choice. (7) JINS SHARK has developed into a solid competitor and will be heard from again here. (8) ERLE DALE N is another that is in good form but he may have to change tactics here and try a late move.

Race 8

(4) LEGAL PROCESS was involved in a blanket finish last week in her second good performance in a row. Moving inside gives her a better chance of starting up earlier; slight nod. (8) LIGHTS GO OUT went a big uncovered trip last week and just failed; using. (1) VICTORIA SEMALU stands a good chance of working out a nice trip near the lead and she has upset potential here. (3) BROOKDALE SHADOW moves up off a solid win but she is capable of turning up her game; using.

Race 9

(2) DARLINONTHEBEACH laid down some serious third quarter speed last week then coasted to victory down the lane. She would be very tough here with a repeat of that mile. (7) PURE COUNTRY was softened up enough around the last turn to get her beat last week. She is a formidable foe and could get a better trip here. (6) L A DELIGHT was a good second to the choice after racing uncovered for most of the second half and she isn't out of this. (3) GOOD WILL HANOVER tripped out to win last week and while she certainly has the credentials, a lesser award seems more likely here.

Race 10

(4) ALWAYS B MIKI makes his fifth start of the campaign here in the Mohawk Gold Cup and with no Mel Mara to deal with, he gets the top call in this field. (6) SHAMBALLA couldn't be better and should get an honest pace to stalk. (1) BETTORS EDGE could trip out from the inside here and re-emerge for a share late. (3) ROCKIN IN HEAVEN has put a solid campaign together and should be good for a minor share here racing near the front.

Race 11

(3) LADY SHADOW produced some big speed last week and was an impressive elimination winner. She picks up Gingras here and it seems sure that she will to try to bottom out this field down the backside. (5) SANDBETWEENURTOES went too good of a trip to lose last week but was nailed right on the wire. She can make things interesting here with a better trip. (4) ANDROVETTE shoots for her fourth Roses Are Red win and after last week's thrilling win it would be foolish to dismiss her completely. (2) SOLAR SISTER is fresh, sharp and dangerous and it appears that McNair stuck with her and gave up the drive on the choice.

Race 12

(3) BETTING LINE went a tremendous trip to win his elimination, pacing consecutive sub-27 quarters while racing uncovered. He is a deserving favorite and will take some beating in this edition of the North America Cup. (5) MICHAELS VICTORY took a big shuffle at the start of his elimination then closed willingly. He has an upset chance if he can get a good trip here. (4) BOSTON RED ROCKS was also an uncovered winner of his elimination and is obviously a strong contender. (6) RACING HILL looked like a winner last week when he slid up the inside but a break in stride cost him. He might be overbet off that race but should be in the thick of things.

Race 13

(4) SINTRA has been one of the sensations of this meet so far. Meeting better here, he will surely be forced to deal with faster splits but he could be that good and trainer Menary is very high on him. (7) NOCTURNAL BLUE CHIP was on the lead to the stretch in his North America Cup elimination and he should find these easier. (6) MAJOR HILL should be up on the pace throughout and can take this with a bit of luck. (1) THE CATAMOUNT KID hasn't missed the top four in a while and should trip well here starting from the inside.

Race 14

(4) AMERICAN ROCK makes his third start back here and should get a more aggressive steer which may be all it takes to beat this group. (6) SPORTSMANSHIP tipped his hand with a better performance on June 4th and he should be coming fast late here. (10) DIALAMARA couldn't chase down a streaking Duc Dorleans last week but he fits well here and could add some value to Pick 4 tickets. (3) MITT JAGGER fired a 26 2/5 kicker on Monday and he is another in with a shot here.

Race 15

(8) SHADOW PLACE got held up following dead cover in the third quarter last week while the winner was sprinting away. He still finished well and is a good bet to make the top three here in a race where the focal point will be the big High-5 carryover on mandatory payout night. (6) CARACCI HANOVER takes a substantial class drop and is a solid bet to finish in the top 5 leaving from a good post. (12) ASAP HANOVER will need to work out a trip as the second trailer, but his form is solid and he should make the ticket if the post doesn't doom him. (7) COBALT MAN ships in and goes for the top trainer and he should be blasting for good position at the start. (2) BUCKEROO is fresh and likes Mohawk and is one of several to consider for the bottom rungs of the ticket in as wide-open a race as you will see.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Meadowlands: Saturday 6/18 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: 50 - 140 / $273.20 (-$6.80) BEST BETS: 7 - 12/ $17.50 (-6.50)

Best Bet: NOWUCIT NOWUDONT (2nd)

Spot Play: BEACH STORY (5th)


Race 1

(4) STORMIN RUSTLER has been super in every start for a straight $7,500 claiming tag. Why should tonight be any different? (2) BROOKSTONE moves into a solid barn and has the early speed to go a long way. (3) KEYSTONE CAMARO carried his Freehold form to The Meadowlands and should get a piece.

Race 2

(4) NOWUCIT NOWUDONT drops three classes tonight and should romp. (5) BELL A CHICK is the only legitimate competition for the top choice on paper. More likely he’ll complete an $8 exacta. (1) TROUBLE is eligible to keep improving. He won last time in his second start back after a three year layoff.

Race 3

(3) SWAPPORTUNITY actually made three moves while finishing second last week. Four-year-old is feeling good now and ready to score. (5) ROCKIN WIZARD drops back down to the level of his last score. (4) PIERCE is certainly in a winnable spot if Surick puts him in position to win.

Race 4

(6) MISS DEFIANCE picked up a win on Tuesday after she dropped in for this race, so she gets a free ride of sorts in this class tonight. (3) NORTHERN BEAUTY failed on a down the road mission last time; worth another shot. (9) M A JACKIE could fire out for position and get into the exotics.

Race 5

(1) BEACH STORY was once a horse with some promise, but that seems to have gone by the wayside. She makes the switch to the big track tonight and I think that could help her somewhat plodding style of late. (5) FASHION ROCKER is capable in this class and has some early zip in her arsenal. (8) ROYAL ENGAGEMENT can fire off the gate and should hold on for a nice piece. (2) R MARIE HANOVER won her start prior to getting scratched-sick.

Race 6

(3) I TRUSTYOU put in a nice effort in defeat last week and deserves the comeback call. (5) BLATANTLY BEST gets post and class relief in this spot. We all know what he is capable of when on his game. (8) MAJOR BUDDY A looked good winning his U.S. debut and now takes a huge step up the class ladder. (2) MARTINI HANOVER is worth consideration as a price play.

Race 7

(4) INTHEBLINKOFANEYE improved greatly last out while facing better competition. Veteran performer has a career win rate approaching 36% and he might be ready to improve that number. (8) MEDOLAND JATE should keep his form while moving into another decent barn. (6) JACKSRLUCKYTOO continues to rally for nice checks and carve out a good living.

Race 8

(1) SOUTHWIND INDY has fair form and faces a dull field. Driver Vincent Ginsburg can capitalize on the inside post and take them a long way. (2) THE SPY came up short on the engine last time but figures prominently once again. (8) RESPECTABLE DREAM is clearly fast enough to win if Marshall can work out a trip from the outside post. (3) ADDWATER exits the Caramore series and finds an easier spot.

Race 9

(2) CITY PIE rallied nicely in a race where the winner was much the best. As long as he is kept close to the action, this looks like his race to lose. (4) ASTOR could be an interesting player if fired off the wings of the gate. (5) BJ’S RAMEAU doesn’t sport much in the way of form, but this is an easier spot than he has seen in recent weeks. (7) HIGH OCTANE N has some class and would be no surprise.

Race 10

(3) RING WARRIOR steps up off a win but doesn’t really face any killers in this spot; again. (9) AMPED UP could be a major player if able to clear the top this week. (1) TRIPLE MAJOR ships in for a capable barn and could make some noise. (8) DABUNKA pulled off a shocker last time and is worth considering now.

Race 11

(6) MICHAEL’S POWER has dominated this series and there is no reason to believe he won’t continue the pattern. (2) MURDER HE WROTE showed some major signs of life last time and could get aggressive with the inside post. (4) CARD SHOCK is clearly sharp. I can’t fault anyone for using him. (8) GRATIAS DEO is a good grinder that needs some help up front to score.

Race 12

(1) AMERICAN ISLAND was stuck behind a tiring leader last time and got free too late. He seems like a worthwhile stab in this field if the price somehow stays above 6-1. (5) VAGUE TRACES gets a much needed change of scenery and also a barn change. (9) MITTCANT VAN GOGH moves into the Burke barn and is clearly eligible to show more. (2) GOOD DAY MATE is off a decent mile.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Yonkers: Saturday 6/18 Analysis
By Matt Rose

DRF HARNESS

MEET STATS: 197 - 571 / $1050.30 BEST BETS: 25 - 48 / $90.20

Best Bet: SUNFIRE BLUE CHIP (6th)

Spot Play: LUMINOSITY (8th)


Race 1

(4) RU READY TO ROCK woke up in a big way with Sears driving and the veteran seems capable of repeating. (2) WICK N looked very good in his local debut, just his third U.S. start. (5) ROCK OUT has high speed for Bartlett/Milici.

Race 2

(4) ALEXIE MATTOSIE ships to the small track, picks up Brennan and the classy veteran should fit well here. (2) SNAP TO IT A gets needed post relief and is always a threat from the inside. (3) SOMETHING FOR DOC has been showing flashes of his old self this season.

Race 3

(4) ROCK ON MOE was a big two-move winner three back at this level and the veteran can offer decent value. (3) CARTOON DADDY didn't really fire last out but his prior start was good. (1) SOHO LENNON A draws best and will be close up throughout.

Race 4

(3) MASTERSON was in a bit tough in his last two at Saratoga but the speedy Milici trainee is back at a better level tonight. (2) ALLSTAR PARTNER doesn't always win but is usually close up. (6) MAH SISH N was much better last out but needs some help from this spot; consider underneath.

Race 5

(5) IDOLE DUHARAS has had a nice season up in Canada and now ships in locally joining the Allard barn; watch the board. (4) PHIL YOUR BOOTS won out of town but has been camera-shy locally. (2) FORTY FIVE RED has good speed from a good post.

Race 6

(4) SUNFIRE BLUE CHIP returns locally off a big try in the Molson at Western Fair and the Takter trainee has a good history here. (2) BETTOR ROCK ON N showed lots of promise here earlier in the season. (3) DOCTOR BUTCH was an easy winner two back against a bit lesser and figures highly from this spot.

Race 7

(5) LONG LIVE ROCK goes second start for Allard and was a solid second last week at Pocono; Sears has options from this spot. (7) THE REAL ONE has finally found his form and note Dube drives tonight. (1) STEVENSVILLE can explode home with a ground-saving trip.

Race 8

(7) LUMINOSITY is always a solid commodity with this type and Brennan will be on the move early. (8) ALLERAGE STAR has been razor sharp for Julie Miller but she'll have her work cut out for her from this outside post assignment. (3) E R ELLIE was a big winner three back and can be considered underneath at a price.

Race 9

(7) MACHTU N qualified back nicely after that debacle in the Molson and the recent import seems to have plenty of ability; Brennan drives tonight. (2) NASSAU COUNTY has hit the ticket in his last six starts for Banca. (6) JENERAL PATTON has had a very nice year so far.

Race 10

(3) MAJOR ATHENS didn't fire last out after being in raging form for an extended period of time; Milici trainee should be able to handle these. (2) MONRY MAVEN was Bartlett's choice and he returns locally with post relief. (1) CRAZY ABOUT PAT seems better suited from off the pace; trotter could threaten with a stalking trip.

Race 11

(5) IDEALBEACH HANOVER has been solid in his two starts off the Allard claim and he may be the best price of the contenders. (1) FOOL ME ONCE gets big-time post relief. (3) SAPPHIRE CITY has speed and is a proven commodity with this type.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

SPOT PLAYS

For Saturday


TRACK (RACE) HORSE, MORNING LINE


Arlington (2nd) Scatladybdancing, 5-1
(3rd) Leon Robert, 3-1


Belmont Park (9th) Midnight Notes, 10-1
(10th) Rescue Cat, 6-1


Belterra Park (5th) Fighting Xena, 7-2
(6th) Voodoo Storm, 9-2


Canterbury (7th) Aaron's Belt, 6-1
(11th) Cotton Club Cutie, 6-1


Charles Town (6th) American Keepsake, 7-2
(7th) Lucy's Bob Boy, 7-2


Churchill Downs (1st) Ellens Birthday, 4-1
(2nd) Game Time Decision, 7-2


Delaware Park (2nd) Mavericks Gun, 6-1
(4th) Big Johnny D, 4-1


Emerald Downs (5th) Anitewithyou, 6-1
(9th) West Coast Romance, 4-1


Evangeline Downs (1st) Fire Arms, 9-2
(8th) Zip Her Up. 4-1


Finger Lakes (5th) Ronnie's Whey, 5-1
(6th) First Ranger, 3-1


Gulfstream Park (1st) Two Jacks Wild, 6-1
(5th) The Son Wind, 8-1


Hastings (2nd) Kermode, 10-1
(6th) Nana's Buddy, 6-1


Indiana Grand (6th) Hawk Eye Justice, 3-1
(8th) Hog Hunter, 7-2


Lone Star Park (3rd) Quadruple Dog Dare, 9-2
(8th) Moneyman John, 3-1


Louisiana Downs (1st) Cameron Rules, 4-1
(4th) Pocketball, 4-1


Monmouth Park (3rd) Scrap Iron Phil, 7-2
(10th) Padre Graz, 10-1


Mountaineer (1st) My Man Richie, 9-2
(7th) Sizzling Lassie, 6-1


Parx Racing (4th) Lucky Empress, 3-1
(10th) Dark Moon, 10-1


Penn National (1st) Moneybags, 3-1
(6th) Prospector Alley, 4-1


Pimlico (4th) Tuckers Point, 9-2
(6th) Slick William, 3-1


Pleasanton (4th) Latin's Clock, 4-1
(5th) Johnnie B, 7-2


Prairie Meadows (7th) Chilean Queen, 4-1
(9th) How's My Girls, 7-2


Santa Anita (1st) Silent Movies, 7-2
(3rd) Old Man Lake, 7-2


Thistledown (3rd) Camp Zippy, 5-1
(8th) Mister Tom Tom, 4-1


Woodbine (4th) Modus Operandi, 10-1
(10th) Wolf Dance, 7-2

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

June Pitchers Report
By Marc Lawrence

You know the saying, “May flowers bring June showers.”

For Major League Baseball pitchers hurling during the month of June, showers are hopefully not in their immediate plans. Instead, it’s the hope of all MLB starting pitchers to stay around long enough in their starts to avoid having to clean up and go home early.

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

To qualify pitchers must have made a minimum of 10 starts, with at least one start each June over the last three years. And for your convenience alongside each record we break down each pitcher’s greatest success or greatest failure rate either home (H) or away (A) within his good or bad month.

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


GOOD MONTH PITCHERS:

Arrieta, Jake - 8-4 (6-2 A)

Only Clayton Kershaw has been in Arrieta's stratosphere since 2015. The right-hander is in the right organization which has allowed his abundant talents to flourish and this season opposing batters are hitting a mere .168 against him. His effortless delivery and mid-90's fastball causes a lot of swings and misses as does his breaking pitches.

Cole, Gerrit - 10-2 (6-0 A)

Cole is now the ace of the Pittsburgh staff and expertly commands a two and four-seam fastball in the mid to upper 90's which he can sink or have riding action. After a sluggish start to season, his ERA is down to close to 2.50 and expect him to have another fine month. Note: Cole’s numbers above reflect his career team mark during June.

*Colon, Bartolo - 10-5 (7-0 H)

The 43-year old right-hander just keeps churning along on staff that is very talented and youthful. Colon knows how and where to spot his fastball, which he tosses 70 or more percent of the time and blends in a quick slider that has excellent depth. The fact is Colon understands his craft and wins.

Lackey, John - 11-5 (6-1 H)

Remember for years no pitcher in his right mind would want to pitch at Wrigley Field, now they line up for the chance. Being a talented young team helps and Lackey is the right fit, with fastball he keeps low in the zone and sinker opposing hitters cannot elevate. Through two months, the batter's Lackey has faced are at a lowly .209 batting average and his WHIP is sick 0.97.

Sanchez, Anibal - 9-4 (8-3 H)

The Detroit hurler has gotten off to a rugged start with ERA over 6 as June began. Sanchez's problems revolve around lack of pitch placement, not even having 2-to-1 strikeout to walk ratio and giving up more than a hit an inning. Of the 58 hits allowed, 11 have left the yard and if the Tigers are going to be contenders in the AL Central, Sanchez will have to throw like previous June's.

*Scherzer, Max - 11-4 (6-2 A)

If you research Mad Max's numbers, many are at or below career norm, yet he begins this month with an ERA over 4. The problem is too many pitches right down the middle, which is why he on pace to give up 45 home runs (15 thru May). If Scherzer solves this, he will have a great rest of the year.

Tillman, Chris - 11-3 (4-1 A)

After an off year in 2015, the Orioles righty has come back in a big way. When he's at his best like he has been this year, Tillman works his low 90's heater at the knees on both sides of the dish and his curve and changeup have sharp downward motion. He starts this month with hitters at .203 batting average versus his tosses.

Volquez, Edinson - 11-5 (7-1 A)

The Royals right-hander is doing what he does best, as in nine of his 11 starts for Kansas City he has induced double digit groundball outs. Volquez is still thought to be a power pitcher and gets numerous weak swings with tilted curve and deluxe changeup he will throw on any count.

*Zimmermann, Jordan - 12-5 (8-3 H)

After an unbelievable start, Zimmermann has drifted back to the previous career numbers. He pulled a groin late last month, but is expected to make start on June 3rd and continue from that point. His strengths include four pitches he trusts to throw for strikes and he has shown greater durability thus far in the AL.


BAD MONTH PITCHERS:

Miller, Shelby - 6-12 (2-6 A)

After disastrous start with Arizona, having ERA over 7, maybe a trip to the DL with bad finger on throwing hand will settle Miller down, who looks like he is trying to throw a no-hitter on every pitch and is getting hammered. The talent has always been in place, just not the execution as this record shows. Note: Miller’s numbers above reflect his career team mark during June.

Verlander, Justin - 4-10 (2-5 H)

No longer equipped with high 90's fastball, Verlander tends to give up runs in bunches these days. He can be sailing along for three to five innings and then give up three or four runs in single inning. Without the necessary secondary pitches, he's become easier to hit a third time through the lineup.

Weaver, Jered - 5-10 (1-6 A)

It is sometimes tough to watch former aces who were among the best in the game, as their stuff is in decline and they are not close to what they used to be. This is the case of Weaver, whose fastball barely reaches 85 MPH, which makes his breaking ball and assortment of change-ups less effective. It is no accident at this juncture hitters are clocking him for .311 BA.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

'Betting Big Favorites'

It's a common held belief that betting big favorites in baseball can turn out to be extremely costly over the long haul, especially favorites of -$200 or more. Many baseball bettors have this theory ingrained in their heads and usually bypass those games when looking at the schedule. Being old school, must confess to being amoung them, untill a recent study revealed surprising results.

Between 2010 and 2015, betting nothing but favorites of -$200 or greater resulted in a 71.3% win rate (697-281) but more importanly yielded a +$4619 profit for a 4.7% return on investment. If the big favorite was off a loss, they were 206-85 in their next game good for $1,606 in profit, 5.5% return on money risked.

Obviously, wildly betting each and every favorite of -$200 or more demands a huge investment in order to ride the ups/downs that occur through out a season. That in mind, focusing on fewer plays to consider with less total money at risk was in order. To that end, the analysis revealed the best strategy was to concentrate strickly on a big road favorites. In this case, the road favorites won at a 75.9% clip stuffing +$1921 into betting accounts for an enourmous 23.1% return on investment.

So much for history, but what about the current 2016 campaign. Well, heading into Tuesday June 15th action the trend is alive and well. Betting nothing but favorites of -$200 or more has returned 12.2% on money risked (+$921) split between +$542 for homies (44-17), +$379 for teams wearing road jersey's (10-3). Once again, focusing sticking on road favorites produced a whopping 29.2% return.

While there's no guarantee big favorites will continue to perform the rest of the way, it's something that bettors can't afford to overlook down the stretch.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

MLB roundup: Saunders belts 3 homers, Blue Jays blast O's
By The Sports Xchange

BALTIMORE -- Michael Saunders set career highs with three homers and eight RBIs, and the Toronto Blue Jays clubbed the Baltimore Orioles 13-3 in the opener of a three-game series on Friday night.
Justin Smoak had a two-run homer and Josh Donaldson added a solo shot and a two-run triple for the Blue Jays, who won their fourth straight to pull within one game of the American League-East leading Orioles.
Saunders hit three-run shots in the first and fourth innings and added a two-run homer, his 15th home run of the season, in the sixth.
Toronto's explosion came minus Jose Bautista, who was placed on the 15-day disabled list with a sprained left big toe suffered Thursday in Philadelphia.

Giants 5, Rays 1
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. -- Jeff Samardzija was an out away from a three-hit shutout as San Francisco cruised to its sixth straight win.
Samardzija was dominant -- he gave up two singles in the second inning, then faced the minimum for the next six-plus innings.
With two outs in the ninth, Rays shortstop Brad Miller spoiled the shutout with a solo home run.

Diamondbacks 10, Phillies 2
PHILADELPHIA -- Yasmany Tomas and Peter O'Brien hit two home runs apiece as Arizona blasted Philadelphia.
Welington Castillo and Paul Goldschmidt also homered for Arizona, which tied a franchise record with six long balls.
O'Brien, a rookie called up from Triple-A Reno on June 10, went 2-for-5 and has three hits in 20 at-bats in six games this season. All three hits are home runs.

Mariners 8, Red Sox 4
BOSTON -- Franklin Gutierrez went 3-for-5 with two home runs and six RBIs to lead Seattle over Boston.
The Sox started the night leading the AL in runs scored with the Mariners second.
Gutierrez's last multihome run game was Aug. 16, 2015, also at Fenway. He now has three multihomer games in his career.

Indians 3, White Sox 2
CLEVELAND -- Carlos Santana's home run leading off the bottom of the ninth inning gave Cleveland the victory.
Santana belted his 14th home run over the center field wall on an 0-2 pitch off Nate Jones.
The win went to Cleveland closer Cody Allen, who blew a save in the bottom of the eighth.

Braves 5, Mets 1
NEW YORK � Rookie right-hander John Gant threw 6 2/3 strong innings to earn his first major-league win.
The Braves have won three straight, their longest winning streak since they won four in a row from Apr. 15-19. The Mets have lost four of six.
Gant, who was drafted by the Mets in 2011 and traded to Atlanta in exchange for Kelly Johnson and Juan Uribe on July 24, allowed the one run on just two hits and two walks while striking out five.

Marlins 5, Rockies 1
MIAMI -- Christian Yelich hit a two-run homer to help Miami rally past Colorado.
Marlins starter Adam Conley, who had a no-hitter through 5 2/3 innings, settled for a no-decision. It was the third time this season that he has carried a no-hitter into the sixth inning.
His final line on Friday: 5 2/3 innings, one hit, five walks, one run and five strikeouts.

Rangers 1, Cardinals 0
ST. LOUIS � The National League's most potent offense has been no match for American League West pitching this week.
Texas' Cole Hamels fired 7 2/3 scoreless innings, outdueling St. Louis' Michael Wacha.
Hamels gave up only three hits and three walks, striking out six. Matt Bush got the last out of the eighth and closer Sam Dyson worked the ninth to earn his 12th save.

Cubs 6, Pirates 0
CHICAGO -- Jake Arrieta allowed just two hits over six innings to earn his National League-leading 11th victory.
Arrieta (11-1) matched Chicago White Sox left-hander Chris Sale with most major-league wins as he walked three and struck out 11.
Matt Szczur clubbed a two-run homer in the first inning while rookie Albert Almora Jr. went 3-for-4 with a walk and two RBI.

Royals 10, Tigers 3
KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- Salvador Perez homered in the sixth inning to snap Michael Fulmer's scoreless streak at 33 1/3 innings as Kansas City beat Detroit.
Perez hit a hanging slider on the first pitch over the Royals' left-field bullpen to snap a scoreless deadlock. It was Perez's third home run in four games and fifth in eight games.
Fulmer had not allowed a run in his previous four starts. His consecutive inning scoreless streak was the longest by a rookie since Fernando Valenzuela in 1981 with the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Yankees 8, Twins 2
MINNEAPOLIS -- New York knocked around Minnesota starter Pat Dean early and often.
Carlos Beltran had three hits, including a two-run homer in the first inning and Chase Headley reached base four times as the Yankees won for the second time in as many nights against the Twins.
Right-hander Masahiro Tanaka pitched eight innings of one-run ball, scattering seven hits and walking none while striking out five.

Reds 4, Astros 2, 11 innings
HOUSTON -- Adam Duvall and Eugenio Suarez recorded back-to-back hits to open the top of the 11th inning, lifting Cincinnati to a rare interleague win.
The Reds won for just the third time in 11 interleague games by pouncing on Astros right-hander Pat Neshek, who had handled right-handed hitters (4-for-45) before Duvall and Suarez, both right-handed hitters, combined to snap a 2-2 deadlock.
Suarez plated Duvall with his double to the left-field corner before later scoring when Ramon Cabrera produced a perfect squeeze bunt.

Dodgers 3, Brewers 2, 10 innings
LOS ANGELES -- Justin Turner homered twice and drove in the game-winning run in the 10th inning, lifting Los Angeles over Milwaukee.
Will Venable smacked a ground-rule double to right to lead off the 10th against closer Jeremy Jeffress. After pinch-hitter A.J. Ellis sacrificed Venable to third, Chase Utley and Corey Seager were walked intentionally to load the bases.
Turner drilled the game-winner over the head of third baseman Aaron Hill.

Nationals 7, Padres 5
SAN DIEGO -- Former Padres first-round draft pick Joe Ross held San Diego to three runs over six innings and Daniel Murphy and Ryan Zimmerman each homered to lead Washington.
The Nationals have won three straight and 10 of their last 12 games. The Padres have lost six of their last seven games.
Ross went from the Padres to Washington with shortstop Trea Turner on Dec. 18, 2014, in a three-team trade that brought first baseman Wil Myers to San Diego.

A's 3, Angels 2
OAKLAND, Calif. -- Billy Burns hit a walk-off single with two outs in the bottom of the ninth inning, lifting Oakland past Los Angeles.
A's shortstop Marcus Semien worked a two-out walk off Angels right-hander Fernando Salas in the bottom of the ninth and went to third on Jake Smolinski's single to right.
Then Burns grounded the first pitch he saw to left field, driving in Semien with his first career walk-off hit.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Nine for nine: Surprise starters cashing for MLB bettors
By JOE FORTENBAUGH

On June 8, highly-touted 24-year-old pitching prospect Jameson Taillon made his Major League debut for the Pittsburgh Pirates in what eventually hit the box scores as a 6-5 loss to the defending National League Champion New York Mets. In that defeat, the 6-5, 240-pound righty from Lakeland, Florida surrendered just three earned runs through six credible innings of work. For all his efforts, Taillon was sent back down to the minors.

That’s not to say the Pirates weren’t impressed, because they most certainly were. There just wasn’t enough space on the 25-man roster to retain their bright young pitching star. But Taillon was called up again this past week when ace Gerrit Cole went on the disabled list with a right triceps strain and this time around he dazzled to the tune of 8.0 innings of work with just two hits and zero runs surrendered in a 4-0 win over that same New York Mets club.

The point of the story here is that the Pirates aren’t the only club in Major League Baseball that will be calling up highly-regarded pitching prospects over the next few months. In fact, several clubs will want to take a good, long look at what they have in their respective farm systems. The key, however, is to identify which of these pitchers will be able to deliver the goods at a great betting price night in and night out. But before we take a look at the prospects who could make some waves in the near future, let’s analyze nine surprising pitchers who have turned a sizeable profit through the first three months of the 2016 MLB season.

Chris Tillman, RHP, Baltimore Orioles (2.87 ERA)

Decisions: 9-1, +$883
Overall: 12-2, +$1,065

Analysis: The Orioles have emerged victorious in ten of Tillman’s last 11 starts, with the eight-year veteran surrendering two or fewer earned runs eight times during that stretch. Tillman boasts a diverse four-pitch arsenal (four-seam fastball, changeup, slider, knuckle-curve) that devastated the Red Sox for seven full innings on June 14 (5 hits, 1 earned run, 7 Ks) en route to a 3-2 Orioles victory despite entering the game as +176 underdogs. Take note, however, that the 6-5, 200-pound righty has been listed as a favorite in eight of his last nine trips to the bump.

Next start: Sunday, June 19 vs. Toronto Blue Jays

Colby Lewis, RHP, Texas Rangers (2.81 ERA)

Decisions: 6-0, +$821
Overall: 10-4, +$923

Analysis: Despite pitching for the A.L. West-leading Texas Rangers, Lewis has taken the mound as an underdog in six of his last seven starts, delivering a tremendous return on investment in the process. His latest gem came in the form of a complete game, two-hit masterpiece in Oakland on Thursday where the 36-year-old took a no-hitter into the ninth inning before surrendering a lone run in a 5-1 Texas victory. After losing back-to-back Lewis starts on May 4 and May 9, the Rangers have since rattled off seven straight wins with Lewis leading the charge, a stretch that has seen the pitcher lower his ERA from 3.20 to 2.81.

Next start: Tuesday, June 21 vs. Cincinnati Reds

Michael Fulmer, RHP, Detroit Tigers (2.52 ERA)

Decisions: 7-1, +$710
Overall: 8-1, +$860

Analysis: Since surrendering five runs on ten hits in a 9-4 loss at Cleveland on May 5, Fulmer has won six straight decisions while dropping his ERA from a lofty 6.30 to 2.52. More recently, the 23-year-old from Oklahoma City has rattled off a four-start stretch that has featured four wins, 27.1 innings pitched, nine hits and a staggering zero total earned runs. Give a large portion of the credit for that run to Fulmer’s incendiary fastball, the four-seam variety of which averages 94.4 mph with a complementary two-seamer that sits at 94.9 mph.


Josh Tomlin, RHP, Cleveland Indians (3.27 ERA)

Decisions: 8-1, +$707
Overall: 10-2, +$805

Analysis: Tomlin has allowed more than two earned runs in an outing just four times in 12 starts this season and only once over his last six trips to the hill, which has been intriguing to most observers considering the Cleveland staff features three starters in Cy Young-winner Corey Kluber, Carlos Carrasco and Danny Salazar who were expected to dominate the headlines in 2016. Another big plus here is the fact that despite all his early-season success, Tomlin has still been listed as an underdog in three of his last five starts, a trend we expect to see shift in the very near future.

Next start: Monday, June 20 vs. Tampa Bay Rays

Aaron Sanchez, RHP, Toronto Blue Jays (3.38 ERA)

Decisions: 6-1, +$486
Overall: 8-5, +$151

Analysis: Yes, Sanchez has turned a very respectable profit in his seven decisions this season, but bettors need to be advised that the 23-year-old has been the benefactor of elite run support through the first three months of the 2016 MLB campaign, with the Blue Jays scoring seven or more runs in five of Sanchez’s last six starts. Granted, the 6-4, 220-pound righty has limited the opposition to three or fewer earned runs in seven of his last nine outings, but that explosive Toronto lineup is a big reason why Sanchez has been listed as a favorite of -140 or higher in four of his last six trips to the bump.


Rich Hill, LHP, Oakland A’s (2.25 ERA)

Decisions: 8-3, +$480
Overall: 8-3, +$480

Analysis: Acquired on a one-year, $6 million free agent contract this past winter, Hill may go down as the best value signing of the offseason…and in classic Billy Beane/Oakland Athletics fashion, will likely be flipped at the trade deadline for prospects. The 36-year-old southpaw has enjoyed quite the renaissance in 2016 thanks to a devastating curveball that features more than eight inches of both horizontal and vertical movement. The downside here, however, is the fact that Hill is currently on the disabled list due to a groin injury and won’t resume throwing off a mound until next week at the earliest.

Next start: TBD

Tyler Chatwood, RHP, Colorado Rockies (2.89 ERA)

Decisions: 8-4, +$434
Overall: 9-4, +$534

Analysis: Prior to the start of the season, many industry insiders considered the Rockies to be nothing more than a 70-win team at best. Yet, here we are on June 17 and Colorado resides at just one game under .500 thanks, in part, to the efforts of Chatwood, who has surrendered a grand total of just 12 earned runs over his last seven starts, with the 26-year-old winning four of his last five decisions. Credit a nasty two-seam fastball for the five-year veteran’s success, as Chatwood currently ranks first in the National League in ground ball percentage at 58.7 percent. Like they say, if the ball is on the ground, it can’t leave the yard.

Next start: Saturday, June 18 at Miami Marlins

Steven Wright, RHP, Boston Red Sox (2.22 ERA)

Decisions: 8-4, +$418
Overall: 8-5, +$289

Analysis: Wright has emerged victorious in each of his last five starts while permitting two or fewer earned runs in four of those aforementioned outings. But perhaps what is more impressive is that the 31-year-old’s knuckleball has induced at least 12 ground ball outs in three of his last four trips to the hill after the four-year veteran notched just one such effort through his first nine starts of the season. Wright is coming on strong and bettors would be wise to take notice.

Next start: Monday, June 20 vs. Chicago White Sox

Christian Friedrich, LHP, San Diego Padres (2.12 ERA)

Decisions: 3-1, +$268
Overall: 4-2, +$301

Analysis: True to form, the Padres are a dumpster fire, with two of their best pitchers (Andrew Cashner and Tyson Ross) on the disabled list unable to spray any additional gasoline on the fire. But almost too quietly, Friedrich joined the rotation in mid-May and has since proven to serve as a glimmer of hope, with six total starts featuring three or fewer earned runs surrendered. Not only that, but the 28-year-old lefty has allowed only one home run on 603 total pitches this season. The best part here? Friedrich has been listed as an underdog in five of six starts since joining the rotation.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

'Chatwood looks to stay perfect on the road'

Colorado at Miami June 18, 4:10 EST

The Miami and Colorado get set to duel again at Marlins Park after Marlins walked off 5-1 winners Friday. According to current odds the Marlins are -$1.40 favorite with the total set at 8.0 across all shops.

Getting the call for Miami in this afternoon matchup is lefty Wei-Yin Chen carrying a 4-2 record, 4.68 ERA. Chen, has put up horrible numbers the past two starts shelled for 16 Hits, 7 yard-ball, 9 earned runs. On the other mound, righty Tyler Chatwood toes the rubber for Walt Weiss' squad. In his last outing, Chatwood picked up his fourth win in five starts moving the record to 8-4 on the campaign with a 2.89 ERA.

Expect the Colorado Rockies to do what they typically do with Tyler Chatwood on the mound in road games, and that's win! The Rockies righthander has been perfect on the road this season going 5-0 with a major-league best 0.65 ERA over six starts (6-0 TSR). Matching that, Chatwood has also had plenty of succes in day games going 5-0 with a 1.76 ERA.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Twins-Yankees preview
By The Sports Xchange

Carlos Beltran's swing was impressive when he sent a ball into the upper deck in the first inning on Friday night for the New York Yankees.
Many of the other Yankees' other swings also produced good results. New York had 14 hits and each starter had at least one hit.
Beltran and the Yankees will look to have another productive showing against the Minnesota Twins on Saturday afternoon when the teams continue their four-game series at Target Field.
The Yankees have begun the series by outscoring the Twins 12-1 and hitting .313 (21-for-67).
On Thursday, they waited until the seventh inning to get a lead. But a night later, New York cruised to an 8-2 victory by taking a 1-0 lead on Rob Refsnyder's double five pitches in and a 3-0 edge on Beltran's upper deck home run on the 14th pitch of the game.
Beltran had three hits Friday and has 19 in his last 52 at-bats and leads the team by a wide margin with 17 home runs this season. He had his latest big game after sitting out twice in Colorado because of left knee soreness.
"The knee was fine," Beltran told reporters. "Right now, I don't think it's an issue. There is still a little fluid, but the pain is not there which is good."
Beltran's big swing helped provide Masahiro Tanaka with some comfort and the right-hander pitched eight effective innings.
"I think it's important because it allows the pitcher to relax a little bit and every pitch isn't the end of the world," Yankees manager Joe Girardi said. "To be able to give him seven runs pretty quickly is nice."
The Yankees will hope to duplicate the formula for Michael Pineda, who like Tanaka is pitching on five days' rest. Pineda is 3-7 with a 5.88 ERA but has pitched better recently.
The right-hander has allowed six runs and 17 hits in his last three starts, spanning 18 2/3 innings. He last pitched Sunday when he allowed two runs and six hits in six innings during a 4-1 loss to Detroit.
The Twins have dropped seven straight to the Yankees and 18 of the 23 meetings with New York at Target Field. Overall, Minnesota has dropped four in row, getting outscored by a 27-9 margin in those games.
Minnesota's pitching staff has a 5.23 ERA after Pat Dean was tagged for seven runs and eight hits in 2 1/3 innings.
"You hate to say a game is over (that) early. It happened fast," Twins manager Paul Molitor said. "Didn�t start out well."
About the only thing to go well for the Twins was Joe Mauer reaching base for the 28th straight game. Mauer joined Lenny Green (1961) and Hall of Famer Rod Carew (1977) as the only Twins to have at least two streaks of reaching safely in 28 games during a season.
The Twins will have at least one new arm Saturday. Dean was optioned to the minors after Friday and will be replaced by Tommy Millone, whose contract will be purchased from Triple-A Rochester.
Meanwhile, the Twins will hope Ricky Nolasco can begin turning things around for a rotation with a combined 9-33 record. Nolasco is 3-4 with a 5.12 ERA. In his last nine starts, the right-hander is 2-4 with a 6.16 ERA.
Nolasco's last outing was among his better ones of the season. During Monday's 9-4 win over the Los Angeles Angels, he allowed three runs and seven hits in six innings.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Diamondbacks (30-39) at Phillies (30-38)

Game: 2
Venue: Citizens Bank Park
Date: June 18, 2016 3:05 PM EDT

PHILADELPHIA -- Two hot pitchers will square off when the Arizona Diamondbacks and Philadelphia Phillies continue their four-game series on Saturday afternoon in Citizens Bank Park.

Arizona right-hander Zack Greinke (9-3, 3.75 ERA) has won his last six starts and Phillies right-hander Jerad Eickhoff (4-8, 3.40) his last two.

Greinke signed a six-year, $206.5 million contract with the Diamondbacks in the offseason after spending the three previous years with the Los Angeles Dodgers. He lost his first two starts this year, however, to Colorado and the Chicago Cubs, and through five starts allowed 21 earned runs in 30 2/3 innings for a 6.16 ERA.

Since then, he has surrendered 18 earned runs in 63 innings covering nine starts for a 2.57 ERA. During his winning streak, his ERA is even lower (2.05), and the last time out he worked seven innings in a 3-2 victory over the Dodgers, allowing two runs and seven hits while striking out six and walking two.

It was the first time he faced his former team, and according to the account on Major League Baseball's official web site, Greinke was serenaded not only with cheers from the home fans in Phoenix but also a sprinkling of boos from those Dodgers fans in attendance.

"The fans were pretty loud today, so that made it more so of an intense game," Greinke said, according to MLB.com.

Eickhoff, acquired from the Texas Rangers in the Cole Hamels trade last July 31, showed promise late last season but started this one 2-8.

He has, however, allowed one run on five hits in 13 innings while winning his last two starts against two good offensive clubs -- the Chicago Cubs and the Toronto Blue Jays. He has struck out 13 and walked six during that span.

The difference, Eickhoff said after the victory over the Cubs, is a greater reliance on his slider.

"I think I've always been comfortable with it," he said. "I think it just came down to throwing it more. I knew it was going to be a successful pitch for me. ... That was a huge thing, just a third pitch to think about for the hitters (along with his fastball and curveball)."

His slider was again an important part of his arsenal against the Blue Jays.

"We have a game plan," Eickhoff said, according to MLB.com. "We kind of deviate from that or change from that as the game progresses or how I'm feeling.

Especially having that fastball command, it wasn't the best that I've had, but it was enough to keep them off balance and throwing that slider was huge in those fastball counts."

The Phillies are in desperate need of a pick-me-up. They lost 10-2 to Arizona on Friday night and have dropped four straight, eight of nine and 21 of 27.

Offense has been a season-long problem, and Philadelphia's pitching has faltered lately as well. The Phils allowed five homers in a 13-2 loss to Toronto on Thursday and six Friday. The last four games have yielded 17, a franchise record for a span of that length.

"We need to work on making hitters uncomfortable," said Adam Morgan, Friday's losing pitcher.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Blue Jays (39-31) at Orioles (38-28)

Game: 2
Venue: Oriole Park at Camden Yards
Date: June 18, 2016 4:05 PM EDT

BALTIMORE -- The Baltimore Orioles are hoping Yovani Gallardo's return from the disabled list can provide a boost to their starting rotation, especially when it comes to slowing the Toronto Blue Jays.

Toronto slugged five home runs Friday night as they defeated the Orioles 13-3 to pull within one game of first-place Baltimore in the AL East.

Going back to last weekend's series in Toronto, the Blue Jays have score 34 runs in their last three games versus Baltimore.

"It's an American League lineup," Orioles manager Buck Showalter said of Toronto. "It creates stress for pitchers all the way through and it grinds on you."

The Blue Jays (39-31) teed off on Mike Wright and Ubaldo Jimenez in Friday night's win, including three home runs by Michael Saunders and one each by Josh Donaldson and Justin Smoak.

Saunders became the fourth Canadian-born player to hit three homers in a game and is now batting .314 with 15 homers and 32 RBIs.

"He's doing a lot of good things for them," Showalter said. "He's handling left-handed pitching, too. He gives them some real protection for those (other) guys."

Toronto has won four straight. Over their last seven games, they have outscored the opposition 65-32, averaging 9.3 runs per game.

"We're built to hit. Just like (the Orioles)," Blue Jays manager John Gibbons said.

"Pitching wins it, but you've got to slug it out in this division. We play in those small ballparks and if you can't score, you're not going to win. That's just a fact."

Last Sunday, Jimenez didn't make it out of the first inning and was sent to the bullpen. Friday night Wright lasted just 3 2/3 innings and was demoted to Triple-A Norfolk after the game.

Now it's Gallardo's turn. Signed as a free agent in the offseason, he's been on the disabled list since April 23 with right biceps tendinitis. Before that he was 1-1 with a 7.00 ERA in four starts. He threw 90 pitches and allowed one run in five innings in a rehab start for Triple-A Norfolk at Charlotte on Monday night.

Baltimore (38-28) is also expected to welcome back shortstop J.J. Hardy (left foot fracture) on Saturday.

Toronto's RA Dickey (4-7, 4.16 ERA) has shaved over a run-and-a-half off his ERA since the beginning of May, allowing three earned runs or less in all but two of his starts.

He lost to the Orioles 4-3 on April 20th, when he allowed three runs on five hits over six innings, and is 2-6 with a 3.97 ERA in 15 career games -- 12 starts -- versus Baltimore. At Camden Yards however, his ERA is 3.32 in seven appearances, six starts.

Manny Machado is 7 for 19 against Dickey over the past five seasons, according to MLB.com, while Chris Davis is 5 for 22 with two homers and seven RBIs.

The Blue Jays, who were 19-23 a month ago, will be looking for their eighth win in their last nine games.

"We've been playing good," Gibbons said. "People thought we were dead in the water there for a while. There's still a long way to go."

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Mariners (36-31) at Red Sox (37-29)

Game: 2
Venue: Fenway Park
Date: June 18, 2016 4:05 PM EDT

BOSTON -- Seattle Mariners left-hander Wade Miley was looking forward to facing the Boston Red Sox on Saturday at Fenway Park.

Instead, the Mariners will try to win their third straight game with a spot starter in Miley's place.

Miley, who was traded from Boston to Seattle during the winter, was placed on the disabled list with a left shoulder impingement.

Miley, 6-3 with a 5.28 ERA in 13 starts this season for Seattle, joined the Mariners along with pitcher Jonathan Aro in a trade that sent pitchers Roenis Elias, who started Friday for Boston, and Carson Smith to the Red Sox. Miley went 11-11 with a 4.46 ERA for Boston in 2015.

Miley began to feel the injury after his last start, a 6-4 loss to Texas on June 12. He joins Mariners ace Felix Hernandez as two-fifths of the starting rotation now on the DL.

"He's been struggling a little bit later his last start. The shoulder was bothering him a bit," Mariners manager Scott Servais said before the game.

The Mariners didn't officially announce a replacement for Miley, but all indications were that rookie Adrian Sampson, 24, would make his major league debut in Miley's spot.

Sampson joined the Mariners in Boston but wasn't activated Friday. A fifth-round draft pick of Pittsburgh in 2012, Sampson is 7-4 with a 3.25 ERA in 13 starts at Triple-A Tacoma this season.

The Red Sox will counter with right-hander Rick Porcello, who is 7-2 with a 3.81 ERA. Porcello is 5-0 in five starts at Fenway Park this season.

Porcello will have to contend with a Mariners offense that scored eight runs against Boston on Friday, led by outfielder Franklin Gutierrez. Gutierrez went 3-for-5 with two home runs and six RBIs.

"So I guess I see the ball pretty good here at Fenway Park," Gutierrez said.

Seattle second baseman Robinson Cano also had a big day with two hits, including a home run, and two RBIs. He has seven multi-hit games in his past 10 games and is 9-for-20 in his past four games.

Whoever makes the start for Seattle will face a steep task. Despite losing 8-4 to Seattle on Friday, the Sox are still the most potent offense in the American League, with Seattle second.

David Ortiz again led the Boston attack with career home run No. 521, which tied him for 19th all time with Willie McCovey, Frank Thomas and Ted Williams.

He'll look to continue his assault on the record books in the second game of the three-game series at Fenway.

"It's wonderful, man," Ortiz said. "We're talking about some of the greatest hitters in the game. Me being mentioned now right next to (legends of the game), it's all good."

The Red Sox have lost nine of their past 14 games.

"It's not been reflective on the first two months we've had," Sox manager John Farrell said. "We've had some games where we haven't kept things under control from the start. We've played from behind here of late a little bit this month and it has been kind of the other side of the coin compared to the first two."

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Angels (29-38) at Athletics (28-39)

Game: 2
Venue: Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum
Date: June 18, 2016 4:05 PM EDT

OAKLAND, Calif. -- Right-hander Tim Lincecum's long wait will end Saturday when he makes his Los Angeles Angels debut and his first major league start in nearly a year against the Oakland A's.

Lincecum hasn't started a major league game since June 27, 2015, against Colorado in his ninth and final season with the San Francisco Giants.

"Definitely excited to be out here," Lincecum said before the Angels opened a three-game series against the A's at the Oakland Coliseum with a 3-2 loss on Friday night. "Nervous about being with a new team and kind of just showing what I've got and trying to live up to my own expectations."

Lincecum left that game against Colorado with two outs in the second inning after taking a line drive off his right forearm. But he was eventually shut down because of a lingering left hip injury. Lincecum had hip surgery on Sept. 3, became a free agent Nov. 2 then signed an incentive-laden contract on May 20 with the Angels covering the rest of this season.

Lincecum, the No. 10 pick in the 2006 draft, is a two-time National League Cy Young Award winner and led the NL in strikeouts three times. He pitched two no-hitters and won three World Series with the Giants.

Lincecum made three starts for Triple-A Salt Lake. On Sunday, he allowed one hit and struck out eight over seven innings in his final Triple-A outing. He joined his new teammates in Oakland on Friday and worked out before the game at the Oakland Coliseum. He'll be activated on Saturday.

"I'm sure Tim's going to be excited," Angels manager Mike Scioscia said. "I think he feels really good at where he's at health wise. I think it's just going to be a matter of getting into game flow. A couple of his starts earlier took him maybe 15, 20 pitches to really find his stuff. Hopefully he'll find it quicker here, and once he does he's shown he can be very effective.

"I know there's going to be some emotions he's going to deal with. I think it's going to be excitement, more than anything. I think he's very confident that his stuff is at a level he can go out there and compete, and compete well if he's making his pitches. And I think that confidence is all that you want in a pitcher."

Lincecum pitched for a large group of major league scouts and executives on May 6 at the Giants' spring training complex. The Angels liked what they saw, and Lincecum liked the fact that they wanted him as a starter, not a reliever.

Two weeks later, he signed with the Angels.

"It definitely feels like it's been a long time," Lincecum said. "It was harder, especially when spring training got started and I wasn't with a team, and watching guys play. I just kind of pushed the envelope a little bit to try and get ready."

Lincecum will make his Angels debut in the Bay Area, his baseball home the past nine seasons, and against his former cross-Bay rivals.

"I think that being back in the Bay Area there will be a little more of a spotlight on that tomorrow," A's manager Bob Melvin said. "I'm sure he's excited about being back and pitching in the big leagues again. During his heyday he was one of the better pitchers in the game.

"He's still not too long in the tooth. Sometimes a little time off and coming back, one, can rest the arm up a little bit and two, can reinvigorate you. I think there will be some hoopla based on that tomorrow, pitching here in the Bay Area."

There won't be much hoopla surrounding the A's starter who'll face Lincecum. Right-hander Andrew Triggs will be called up Saturday from Triple-A Nashville and make his first career major league start. Triggs has only one start in his entire professional career, and that came at Double-A in 2014.

Triggs will make a spot start for injured left-hander Sean Manaea, and the A's will use multiple relievers in the game.

"We're really not too worried about how much we get from him," Melvin said. "We're going to have an extra pitcher here regardless, a deep bullpen, so we'll mix and match a little bit. He's thrown up to 70 pitches. I don't expect him to do that, but we'll see how it goes."

Triggs has made 10 relief appearances for the A's this season. He has an 8.00 ERA over 18.0 innings with 18 strikeouts and five walks. The A's claimed him off waivers from the Orioles on March 16. He's 2-1 with a 3.48 ERA in nine relief appearances with Nashville.

A's utility man Tyler Ladendorf will likely be sent to Nashville to open a roster spot for Triggs.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Rockies (32-34) at Marlins (35-32)

Game: 2
Venue: Marlins Park
Date: June 18, 2016 4:10 PM EDT

MIAMI -- Right-hander Tyler Chatwood should feel comfortable at Marlins Park on Saturday when his Colorado Rockies (32-34) face the Miami Marlins (35-32).

After all, Chatwood has made himself at home at every road stadium he has pitched in this year, compiling a 5-0 record with a 0.65 ERA away from Coors Field.

His road ERA is the best in the majors this season.

Chatwood has yet to allow more than one earned run in any of his six road starts this season. He has also yet to allow a homer on the road.

It's a much smaller sample size, but Chatwood has been as dominant on the road this year as Marlins right-hander Jose Fernandez has been at home during his career (23-1).

Overall, Chatwood is 8-4 this year with a 2.89 ERA. That represents a career high in wins for Chatwood, who is in his fifth major-league season.

But it's been on the road -- away from the high altitude of Coors Field -- where Chatwood has raised eyebrows this year, beating the Arizona Diamondbacks twice as well as the Chicago Cubs, San Diego Padres and Los Angeles Dodgers.

Only the Pittsburgh Pirates kept him off the win list, but Chatwood pitched well in that game, too, holding the opposition to one run in six innings. Colorado went on to win that game 5-1.

Chatwood, 26, isn't imposing physically -- just 6-0 and 185 pounds. But the native of Redlands, Calif., was a second-round pick of the Angels in 2008 and made his major-league debut at age 21.

He lasted just one season with the Angels, going 6-11 with a 4.75 ERA in 2011, before the Rockies acquired him in a trade for catcher Chris Iannetta.

In July of 2014, after just four starts, Chatwood's season was over due to elbow surgery.

He missed the 2015 season, but now he's back and better than ever, especially on the road.

On Saturday, Chatwood will be opposed by Marlins left-hander Wei-Yin Chen, who scored a four-year, $80 million contract from Miami this past offseason.

Chen, though, has yet to deliver the goods for Miami, posting a 4-2 record and a 4.68 ERA. That's the second-worst ERA among Miami's five starting pitchers.

This would represent a career-worst ERA for Chen, who is in his fifth season in the majors. He had a 3.34 ERA last year with the Baltimore Orioles, and that's in the DH league where it's generally tougher to pitch.

Chen, who is allowing 9.4 hits per nine innings, hasn't fooled many batters this season -- just 64 strikeouts in 77 innings.

Saturday's game will be the second of a four-game series. The Marlins won the opener of the series 5-1 on Friday.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Reds (27-41) at Astros (32-36)

Game: 2
Venue: Minute Maid Park
Date: June 18, 2016 4:10 PM EDT

HOUSTON -- Having endured a stretch of one trip through the rotation where only one starter produced more than five innings of work, the Reds welcomed rookie left-hander John Lamb pitching into the sixth inning on Friday night of their series opener against the Astros.

But in a fitting twist for its taxed bullpen, Cincinnati (27-41) labored for 11 innings before pulling out a 4-2 victory. Four Reds relievers worked the final 5 2/3 innings after Lamb departed with one out in the sixth, adding to the recent run of strenuous workloads.

"It doesn't really matter, does it?" said Reds left-hander Tony Cingrani, who notched his eighth save after working around two baserunners in the 11th inning. "Whenever that phone rings we've got to be ready, that's pretty much the end of it."

Reds starters have pitched into the eighth inning only three times this season and have completed eight innings just once, with left-hander Brandon Finnegan allowing one run on five hits and four walks over eight innings at the Dodgers on May 23. With left-hander Cody Reed set to make his major league debut on Saturday, the odds are that Reds manager Bryan Price will be leaning on his bullpen for additional work.

Reed (6-3, 3.20 ERA with Triple A Louisville) has worked on developing his changeup following a positive showcase with the Reds during spring training. Price anticipates that Reed will stick around as long as he continues to show the measured improvement that followed his acquisition from Kansas City last July through his promotions from Double A to Louisville and now to the Reds.

"He has to pitch well," Price said. "But we don't have an exit strategy for him to head back to Triple A."

Left-hander Dallas Keuchel (3-9, 5.54 ERA) will start for the Astros looking to reverse course on what has been a miserable string of results.

Keuchel is 0-3 with a 5.40 ERA in June. After completing the 2015 schedule undefeated at Minute Maid Park, Keuchel has dropped three consecutive home decisions. His lone home win came against the Tigers on April 15 when he worked eight shutout innings in a 1-0 victory.

Given his recent run, Keuchel could use every advantage he gets, including the exceptional outfield defense the Astros (32-36) provided right-hander Lance McCullers Friday night.

Right fielder George Springer made a fantastic diving catch to rob Reds left fielder Adam Duvall of extra bases to close the sixth inning. With the game tied 2-2 in the ninth, center fielder Carlos Gomez matched Springer with a dazzling running grab to right-center field, snagging a ball off the bat of Reds second baseman Jose Peraza that appeared headed for the wall.

"For a non-fence type catch it's as impressive as you'll see," Astros manager A.J. Hinch said of the Springer catch. "The distance he covered he had no margin for error. He had to go at the perfect angle, he had to launch his body at the perfect time and it's away from his open side so he has to reach across his body."

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Giants (42-26) at Rays (31-34)

Game: 2
Venue: Tropicana Field
Date: June 18, 2016 4:10 PM EDT

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. -- It's a sore spot for Tampa Bay fans regardless of the opponent, but having Buster Posey and the San Francisco Giants in town is a reminder of how much the Rays aren't getting from their catchers.

Friday's 5-1 loss to San Francisco in the series opener saw Rays catcher Curt Casali go 0-for-3 with a strikeout to drop to .173 on the season, with a catcher's interference call and wild pitch contributing to an unearned run in a two-run fourth for the Giants.

Posey, of course, could have been the Rays' choice with the top pick in the 2008 MLB draft, but he fell to fifth and the Giants, with signability a major factor in that drop. The Rays instead chose shortstop Tim Beckham, who was on the bench Friday with a .203 average after getting two errors in Thursday's loss to Seattle.

Posey came through with a double and scored in the first inning, and he's second on the Giants with eight home runs to go with his 31 RBIs.

"Buster Posey hit a good pitch there, and the pitch they scored on was not a very well-struck ball," Rays starter Chris Archer said. "The plan is always to be aggressive, to always attack ... we're human and sometimes we don't hit our spot."

The Rays catching tandem of Casali and Hank Conger can actually match Posey's eight home runs, though they combine for 20 fewer hits than the Giants slugger.

The best asset the Rays catchers bring is handling a pitching staff well -- on Friday, that was Chris Archer, who gave up four runs in the loss and dropped to 4-9 and is tied for the American League lead in losses.

"Chris was good, with the exception of a few pitches and a bonehead move on my part," Casali said of the catcher interference. "I'm never trying to get catcher's interference, I'm always trying to help him out, get under the baseball and steal strikes for him. Sometimes my glove will run into a long swing. It ended up costing him a couple of runs. I feel pretty bad about that."

The Giants are at the opposite end of the power-hitting spectrum from the Rays -- San Francisco has just 56 home runs, third-fewest in the majors, while the Rays have 94, fourth-most in the majors.

San Francisco hasn't needed home runs in their recent stretch -- they've outscored opponents 36-14 during a six-game win streak, improving to a season-high 16 games over .500 with a 42-26 record.

They can only hope to get as much on the mound Saturday from Albert Suarez (2-1, 3.33 ERA) as they did from Jeff Samardzija in a four-hit complete-game win on Friday.

"I thought (my command) got better as the game went on," Samardzija said after the game. "We got some good outs there behind in the count, which helped out a lot. (Third baseman Matt) Duffy made a handful of plays over there at third that made my night a lot easier. When you're getting defense like that behind you, it helps you have a little more command."

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Rangers (43-25) at Cardinals (35-31)

Game: 2
Venue: Busch Stadium
Date: June 18, 2016 4:15 PM EDT

By Bucky Dent, The Sports Xchange

ST. LOUIS -- Although his team-high 13 homers for the year and his six homers in June suggest otherwise, Texas Rangers second baseman Rougned Odor doesn't like to think of himself as a power hitter.

Manager Jeff Banister concurs.

"Let's call him a good hitter who hits the ball out of the ballpark occasionally," Banister said.

Odor will take aim on the Busch Stadium fences Saturday when Texas tries to hand the St. Louis Cardinals their fourth straight defeat to American League West opposition in the middle game of the teams' weekend series.

Odor's latest long-ball exploits accounted for Friday night's only offense. Leading off the fifth inning, he ambushed a first-pitch fastball from Michael Wacha 433 feet over the wall in center field to give the Rangers a 1-0 lead that Cole Hamels and two relievers protected.

While an eight-game suspension for punching Toronto's Jose Bautista last month might cloud some casual fans' opinion of Odor, there's no doubt his offensive and defensive skills have been critical to Texas' 43-25 record and 6 1/2-game lead in the AL West.

Odor finished off Friday night's win with a spectacular play, leaping to take away a potential double from Jhonny Peralta and help closer Sam Dyson nail down his 12th save.

St. Louis manager Mike Matheny certainly noticed the defense of Odor and shortstop Elvis Andrus, who combined for a slick double play in the first inning and ranged far to the backhand side to take away a pair of potential hits.

"They made plays, there's no doubt about it," Matheny said. "They're a strong defensive team and very athletic all the way around. They're a group of guys who have been able to do it for a little while now."

The Rangers' defense might get a test with reliever Nick Martinez (1-1, 3.38) taking a spot start. Martinez, who pitched two scoreless innings Wednesday night in Oakland and earned a win when Texas erased a 5-0 deficit against Athletics ace Sonny Gray, will make his first start since Aug. 12, 2015 in Minnesota.

Martinez is certainly no stranger to the role, as he started 45 games over the last two years, second only to Colby Lewis' 62 on the staff. But a 12-18 record and 4.51 earned run average suggest Martinez hasn't always taken well to the assignment.

Topping the two-Martinez matinee is Cardinals right-hander Carlos Martinez, who is 7-5 with a 3.46 ERA. It's been a streaky season for Martinez, who won his first four starts, dropped the next five and won the last three.

In a 5-1 win June 11 at Pittsburgh, Martinez came within two outs of his first major-league complete game, firing a career-high 122 pitches.

St. Louis (35-31) is 0-3 on its five-game homestand, scoring just three runs total. It could look for a spark from second baseman Kolten Wong, who was recalled Friday from Triple-A Memphis and might earn a start in center field.

A center-fielder during his freshman year at the University of Hawaii, Wong played three errorless games there in Memphis. With Randal Grichuk's average down to .206, the door is open for Wong.