Mike Lundin
Giants vs Yankees
5* MLB Free Pick New York Yankees
The San Francisco Giants have lost six straight since the All Star break. They're 1-4 in the last five meetings with the Yankees in the Bronx following a 3-2 setback on Friday, and I like the Yankees to take Saturday's contest as well.
Ivan Nova (7-5, 4.92) takes the ball for New York. He owns a 4-2 record and 3.74 ERA in 10 appearances at Yankee Stadium on the season and he held the Orioles to one run on four hits in six innings of a 2-1 home win his last time out. Nova tossed one of his two career shutouts versus the Giants in 2013 and he has their current members limited to a .156 batting average with eight strikeouts through 32 at bats.
Jeff Samardzija (9-5 , 4.05 ERA) will toe the slab for the Giants. He's 0-1 with a 6.92 ERA in three career meetings with the Bronx Bombers and has struggled with Carlos Beltran (5-for-16) and Chase Headley (5-for-13). Samardzjia is 2-2 with a 6.02 ERA in his last eight starts and surrendered five runs (four earned) on five hits and four walks in five innings at Petco Park his last start.
Yankees are 5-1 in their last six home games, Giants are 0-6 in their last six road games and 9-21 in their last 30 road games vs. a team with a winning home record.
Giants vs Yankees
5* MLB Free Pick New York Yankees
The San Francisco Giants have lost six straight since the All Star break. They're 1-4 in the last five meetings with the Yankees in the Bronx following a 3-2 setback on Friday, and I like the Yankees to take Saturday's contest as well.
Ivan Nova (7-5, 4.92) takes the ball for New York. He owns a 4-2 record and 3.74 ERA in 10 appearances at Yankee Stadium on the season and he held the Orioles to one run on four hits in six innings of a 2-1 home win his last time out. Nova tossed one of his two career shutouts versus the Giants in 2013 and he has their current members limited to a .156 batting average with eight strikeouts through 32 at bats.
Jeff Samardzija (9-5 , 4.05 ERA) will toe the slab for the Giants. He's 0-1 with a 6.92 ERA in three career meetings with the Bronx Bombers and has struggled with Carlos Beltran (5-for-16) and Chase Headley (5-for-13). Samardzjia is 2-2 with a 6.02 ERA in his last eight starts and surrendered five runs (four earned) on five hits and four walks in five innings at Petco Park his last start.
Yankees are 5-1 in their last six home games, Giants are 0-6 in their last six road games and 9-21 in their last 30 road games vs. a team with a winning home record.
Scott Spreitzer
Giants vs Yankees
Bonus Play New York Yankees
I'm backing the Yankees on Saturday. Jeff Samardzija is one of those pitchers that do well in the National League but have little luck against AL teams as we saw last year when he was with the Chicago White Sox and finished the year with an 11-13 record and 4.96 ERA. Samardzija has struggled against everyone his last five starts allowing 22 earned runs and 32 hits in 27 2/3 innings. The right-hander gave up five runs in the first three innings his last time out against San Diego in a 7-6 loss. Samardzija has a 3-9 Interleague record in his career. Ivan Nova has won his last two starts after a rough June and has allowed six runs in 16 2/3 innings in July with 17 strikeouts. Also, Nova pitches better at home where he has a 3.74 ERA compared to 6.25 on the road. San Francisco has lost six in a row and couldn't win with Madison Bumgarner on the mound last night. Look for the Yankees to make it two in a row on Saturday. Thanks & GL! Scott Spreitzer.
Giants vs Yankees
Bonus Play New York Yankees
I'm backing the Yankees on Saturday. Jeff Samardzija is one of those pitchers that do well in the National League but have little luck against AL teams as we saw last year when he was with the Chicago White Sox and finished the year with an 11-13 record and 4.96 ERA. Samardzija has struggled against everyone his last five starts allowing 22 earned runs and 32 hits in 27 2/3 innings. The right-hander gave up five runs in the first three innings his last time out against San Diego in a 7-6 loss. Samardzija has a 3-9 Interleague record in his career. Ivan Nova has won his last two starts after a rough June and has allowed six runs in 16 2/3 innings in July with 17 strikeouts. Also, Nova pitches better at home where he has a 3.74 ERA compared to 6.25 on the road. San Francisco has lost six in a row and couldn't win with Madison Bumgarner on the mound last night. Look for the Yankees to make it two in a row on Saturday. Thanks & GL! Scott Spreitzer.
Marc Lawrence
Rangers vs Royals
Play - Texas Rangers w/Hamels
Edges - Rangers: Cole Hamels 7-1 with 2.47 ERA last 8 team starts, and 1.84 ERA away as opposed to 4.53 ERA home this season, and 7-2 last 9 team starts during July. Royals: Yordano Ventura 1-7 with 4.73 ERA last 8 team starts, including 0-3 with 6.51 ERA this month, and 0-2 with 9.00 ERA last two team starts in this series. With the Rangers 11-4 on Saturdays this season, we recommend a 1* play on Texas. Thank you and good luck as always.
Rangers vs Royals
Play - Texas Rangers w/Hamels
Edges - Rangers: Cole Hamels 7-1 with 2.47 ERA last 8 team starts, and 1.84 ERA away as opposed to 4.53 ERA home this season, and 7-2 last 9 team starts during July. Royals: Yordano Ventura 1-7 with 4.73 ERA last 8 team starts, including 0-3 with 6.51 ERA this month, and 0-2 with 9.00 ERA last two team starts in this series. With the Rangers 11-4 on Saturdays this season, we recommend a 1* play on Texas. Thank you and good luck as always.
Alex Smart
MLB | Jul 23, 2016
Angels vs. Astros
Astros -1½+112 at PINNACLE
Angels RH Jered Weaver (8-7, 5.02 ERA) vs. Astros RH Collin McHugh (6-6, 4.25)
The Angels starter Weaver has been an inconsistent presence on the hill for the Halos this season, and has seen his team lose 9 of his 13 trips to the hill. Meanwhile, McHugh the Astros starter, has had a great deal of success vs the Angels in the past with his club winning his L/6 starts against them. It must also be noted that the Angels are 4-13 in their last 17 road games vs. a right-handed starter.
Note: Astros are 6-0 in McHughs last 6 starts during game 2 of a series.Astros are 12-4 in their last 16 during game 2 of a series. Astros are 23-8 in their last 31 games vs. a right-handed starter
Angels are 0-9 in the last 9 meetings and look like to extend that to 10 games here in this spot.
Play on the Houston Astros to win on the runline 1/2 unit comp selection
MLB | Jul 23, 2016
Angels vs. Astros
Astros -1½+112 at PINNACLE
Angels RH Jered Weaver (8-7, 5.02 ERA) vs. Astros RH Collin McHugh (6-6, 4.25)
The Angels starter Weaver has been an inconsistent presence on the hill for the Halos this season, and has seen his team lose 9 of his 13 trips to the hill. Meanwhile, McHugh the Astros starter, has had a great deal of success vs the Angels in the past with his club winning his L/6 starts against them. It must also be noted that the Angels are 4-13 in their last 17 road games vs. a right-handed starter.
Note: Astros are 6-0 in McHughs last 6 starts during game 2 of a series.Astros are 12-4 in their last 16 during game 2 of a series. Astros are 23-8 in their last 31 games vs. a right-handed starter
Angels are 0-9 in the last 9 meetings and look like to extend that to 10 games here in this spot.
Play on the Houston Astros to win on the runline 1/2 unit comp selection
Preview: Mariners at Blue Jays
GAME: Seattle Mariners (49-47) at Toronto Blue Jays (54-43)
DATE/TIME: Saturday, July 23 - 1:07 PM EST
WHERE: Rogers Centre, Toronto, Ontario
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A
The Seattle Mariners are having their way with American League East opponents this season and look to continue the trend when they visit the Toronto Blue Jays on Saturday afternoon. The Mariners held off the Blue Jays 2-1 in the opener of a three-game series Friday, improving to 14-6 with five straight victories against the AL East.
Nelson Cruz had a pair of hits Friday and is 8-for-17 over the last five games for Seattle, which sends right-hander Hisashi Iwakuma to the mound Saturday in search of his fifth consecutive victory. Toronto saw its three-game winning streak come to an end Friday to drop two games behind first-place Baltimore in the East. Slugger Jose Bautista could return from the disabled list next week, but the Blue Jays have been hot with the bats since the All-Star break (32 runs, six games) despite managing just four hits Friday. Josh Donaldson is 8-for-18 over the last four games and Troy Tulowitzki is 10-for-30 during a seven-game hitting streak for Toronto.
TV: 1:07 p.m. ET, MLB Network, ROOT (Seattle), TVAS, Sportsnet (Toronto)
PITCHING MATCHUP: Mariners RH Hisashi Iwakuma (10-6, 4.01 ERA) vs. Blue Jays RH R.A. Dickey (7-10, 4.11)
Iwakuma capped his four-game win streak by giving up two hits over seven scoreless innings against Houston on Saturday. The 35-year-old Japanese native went 0-3 with a 4.65 ERA in April, but has gone at least seven innings in half of his 14 starts since to build a 10-3 mark. Edwin Encarnacion is 3-for-9 with a homer versus Iwakuma, who is 3-1 with a 2.40 ERA in five games (four starts) against Toronto.
Dickey struggled in his first start after the break, allowing five runs on five hits (three homers) over six innings in a loss at Oakland. The 41-year-old knuckleballer won three of his previous four starts, but has surrendered 23 homers in 20 outings overall and is 2-6 at home this season. Robinson Cano is 8-for-29 against Dickey, who is 5-3 with a 4.22 ERA in 13 appearances (five starts) versus the Mariners.
WALK-OFFS
1. Toronto C Russell Martin is expected to miss at least one more game after slipping in the shower and suffering a minor knee injury.
2. Seattle SS Ketel Marte has been placed on the disabled list with mononucleosis and INF Luis Sardinas was recalled from Triple-A Tacoma.
3. Toronto OF Michael Saunders belted a homer Friday after going 1-for-20 in his previous six contests.
PREDICTION: Mariners 3, Blue Jays 2
GAME: Seattle Mariners (49-47) at Toronto Blue Jays (54-43)
DATE/TIME: Saturday, July 23 - 1:07 PM EST
WHERE: Rogers Centre, Toronto, Ontario
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A
The Seattle Mariners are having their way with American League East opponents this season and look to continue the trend when they visit the Toronto Blue Jays on Saturday afternoon. The Mariners held off the Blue Jays 2-1 in the opener of a three-game series Friday, improving to 14-6 with five straight victories against the AL East.
Nelson Cruz had a pair of hits Friday and is 8-for-17 over the last five games for Seattle, which sends right-hander Hisashi Iwakuma to the mound Saturday in search of his fifth consecutive victory. Toronto saw its three-game winning streak come to an end Friday to drop two games behind first-place Baltimore in the East. Slugger Jose Bautista could return from the disabled list next week, but the Blue Jays have been hot with the bats since the All-Star break (32 runs, six games) despite managing just four hits Friday. Josh Donaldson is 8-for-18 over the last four games and Troy Tulowitzki is 10-for-30 during a seven-game hitting streak for Toronto.
TV: 1:07 p.m. ET, MLB Network, ROOT (Seattle), TVAS, Sportsnet (Toronto)
PITCHING MATCHUP: Mariners RH Hisashi Iwakuma (10-6, 4.01 ERA) vs. Blue Jays RH R.A. Dickey (7-10, 4.11)
Iwakuma capped his four-game win streak by giving up two hits over seven scoreless innings against Houston on Saturday. The 35-year-old Japanese native went 0-3 with a 4.65 ERA in April, but has gone at least seven innings in half of his 14 starts since to build a 10-3 mark. Edwin Encarnacion is 3-for-9 with a homer versus Iwakuma, who is 3-1 with a 2.40 ERA in five games (four starts) against Toronto.
Dickey struggled in his first start after the break, allowing five runs on five hits (three homers) over six innings in a loss at Oakland. The 41-year-old knuckleballer won three of his previous four starts, but has surrendered 23 homers in 20 outings overall and is 2-6 at home this season. Robinson Cano is 8-for-29 against Dickey, who is 5-3 with a 4.22 ERA in 13 appearances (five starts) versus the Mariners.
WALK-OFFS
1. Toronto C Russell Martin is expected to miss at least one more game after slipping in the shower and suffering a minor knee injury.
2. Seattle SS Ketel Marte has been placed on the disabled list with mononucleosis and INF Luis Sardinas was recalled from Triple-A Tacoma.
3. Toronto OF Michael Saunders belted a homer Friday after going 1-for-20 in his previous six contests.
PREDICTION: Mariners 3, Blue Jays 2
Preview: Giants at Yankees
GAME: San Francisco Giants (57-39) at New York Yankees (49-47)
DATE/TIME: Saturday, July 23 - 4:05 PM EST
WHERE: Yankee Stadium, Bronx, New York
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A
The New York Yankees have a chance to move three games above .500 for the first time this season when they continue their three-game series against visiting San Francisco on Saturday afternoon. New York squeezed out a 3-2 victory Friday night to improve to 5-1 over its last six games.
Stellar pitching has fueled the resurgence for the Yankees, who have allowed nine runs over the past six games. Second baseman Starlin Castro collected three hits Friday and is 9-for-21 with a homer, four doubles and seven RBIs in his last six games. Giants Gold Glove shortstop Brandon Crawford committed a career-high three errors, the last leading to the go-ahead run, as San Francisco fell to 0-6 since the All-Star break. To compound matters, Giants catcher Buster Posey fouled a ball off his right foot and had to leave the game, although X-rays were negative.
TV: 4:05 p.m. ET, Fox Sports 1, CSN Bay Area (San Francisco), YES (New York)
PITCHING MATCHUP: Giants RH Jeff Samardzija (9-5, 4.05 ERA) vs. Yankees RH Iván Nova (7-5, 4.92)
Although he allowed at least four earned runs for the fourth time in five starts last time out, Samardzija escaped with a no-decision at the San Diego Padres last weekend. The former Notre Dame product continues to be victimized by the long ball, allowing 17 homers on the season and 12 in his last eight turns. He is 0-1 with a 6.92 ERA versus New York and has labored in interleague play with a 3-9 record and 5.28 ERA.
Nova is coming off one of his best efforts of the season, limiting Baltimore to one run on four hits over six innings to win his second straight start. He also struggles to keep the ball in the park, surrendering at least one home run in 12 of his last 13 trips to the mound. Nova, who tossed one of his two career shutouts versus the Giants in 2013, owns a 4-2 record and 3.74 ERA in 10 appearances at Yankee Stadium.
WALK-OFFS
1. New York's bullpen had its 31-game scoreless streak snapped when RHP Dellin Betances and LHP Andrew Miller each gave up a run.
2. Giants CF Denard Span has multiple hits in three straight games and five of his last seven.
3. Yankees RF Carlos Beltran is 9-for-19 over his last six games to hike his batting average to .305.
PREDICTION: Yankees 5, Giants 4
GAME: San Francisco Giants (57-39) at New York Yankees (49-47)
DATE/TIME: Saturday, July 23 - 4:05 PM EST
WHERE: Yankee Stadium, Bronx, New York
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A
The New York Yankees have a chance to move three games above .500 for the first time this season when they continue their three-game series against visiting San Francisco on Saturday afternoon. New York squeezed out a 3-2 victory Friday night to improve to 5-1 over its last six games.
Stellar pitching has fueled the resurgence for the Yankees, who have allowed nine runs over the past six games. Second baseman Starlin Castro collected three hits Friday and is 9-for-21 with a homer, four doubles and seven RBIs in his last six games. Giants Gold Glove shortstop Brandon Crawford committed a career-high three errors, the last leading to the go-ahead run, as San Francisco fell to 0-6 since the All-Star break. To compound matters, Giants catcher Buster Posey fouled a ball off his right foot and had to leave the game, although X-rays were negative.
TV: 4:05 p.m. ET, Fox Sports 1, CSN Bay Area (San Francisco), YES (New York)
PITCHING MATCHUP: Giants RH Jeff Samardzija (9-5, 4.05 ERA) vs. Yankees RH Iván Nova (7-5, 4.92)
Although he allowed at least four earned runs for the fourth time in five starts last time out, Samardzija escaped with a no-decision at the San Diego Padres last weekend. The former Notre Dame product continues to be victimized by the long ball, allowing 17 homers on the season and 12 in his last eight turns. He is 0-1 with a 6.92 ERA versus New York and has labored in interleague play with a 3-9 record and 5.28 ERA.
Nova is coming off one of his best efforts of the season, limiting Baltimore to one run on four hits over six innings to win his second straight start. He also struggles to keep the ball in the park, surrendering at least one home run in 12 of his last 13 trips to the mound. Nova, who tossed one of his two career shutouts versus the Giants in 2013, owns a 4-2 record and 3.74 ERA in 10 appearances at Yankee Stadium.
WALK-OFFS
1. New York's bullpen had its 31-game scoreless streak snapped when RHP Dellin Betances and LHP Andrew Miller each gave up a run.
2. Giants CF Denard Span has multiple hits in three straight games and five of his last seven.
3. Yankees RF Carlos Beltran is 9-for-19 over his last six games to hike his batting average to .305.
PREDICTION: Yankees 5, Giants 4
Preview: Phillies at Pirates
GAME: Philadelphia Phillies (45-53) at Pittsburgh Pirates (49-47)
DATE/TIME: Saturday, July 23 - 4:05 PM EST
WHERE: PNC Park, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A
Moving ace left-hander Cole Hamels at last year's trade deadline was a bold move by the Philadelphia Phillies, but the recent performances by their young pitchers is making the decision look better. The Phillies send Aaron Nola to the mound Saturday as they continue a three-game series at the Pittsburgh Pirates.
In four of the past five games, Philadelphia's starting pitcher has allowed no more than one run and five hits -- a stretch started by Nola and capped by rookie Zach Elfin with a three-hit shutout of the Pirates in the series opener. Cameron Rupp back Eflin with a homer and three RBIs to power the Phillies to a 4-0 victory Friday. John Jaso, who is 2-for-3 liftime against Nola, collected two of Pittsburgh's three hits against Elfin. The Pirates are 3-4 since the All-Star break and have been limited to three runs or fewer on five occasions.
TV: 4:05 p.m. ET, CSN Philadelphia, ROOT (Pittsburgh)
PITCHING MATCHUP: Phillies RH Aaron Nola (5-8, 4.41 ERA) vs. Pirates RH Tyler Glasnow (0-1, 6.75)
Missing a turn and the All-Star break paid dividends for Nola, who bounched back from a rocky stretch by tossing six scoreless innings of two-hit ball against Miami on Monday. Nola had been awful in his previous five outings, getting shelled for 30 runs while failing to get through the fourth inning on four occasions. After notching six straight quality road starts, Nola has allowed 17 runs in his last three away from home.
The highly touted Glasnow will be promoted from Triple-A Indianapolis to make the second start of his career and first at home. A fifth-round pick in the 2011 draft, the 22-year-old Glasnow allowed four runs on only three hits over 5 1/3 innings in a 5-1 loss at St. Louis on July 7. Glasnow has been superb at Indiananapolis, posting a 7-3 record and 1.94 ERA while recording 122 strikeouts in 102 innings.
WALK-OFFS
1. Phillies CF Odebel Herrera snapped out of a 4-for-41 funk with three hits Friday.
2. Pirates CF Andrew McCutchen is 3-for-21 in his last five games.
3. Phillies 3B Maikel Franco exited Friday's game after getting hit on the left wrist with a pitch.
PREDICTION: Phillies 4, Pirates 3
GAME: Philadelphia Phillies (45-53) at Pittsburgh Pirates (49-47)
DATE/TIME: Saturday, July 23 - 4:05 PM EST
WHERE: PNC Park, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A
Moving ace left-hander Cole Hamels at last year's trade deadline was a bold move by the Philadelphia Phillies, but the recent performances by their young pitchers is making the decision look better. The Phillies send Aaron Nola to the mound Saturday as they continue a three-game series at the Pittsburgh Pirates.
In four of the past five games, Philadelphia's starting pitcher has allowed no more than one run and five hits -- a stretch started by Nola and capped by rookie Zach Elfin with a three-hit shutout of the Pirates in the series opener. Cameron Rupp back Eflin with a homer and three RBIs to power the Phillies to a 4-0 victory Friday. John Jaso, who is 2-for-3 liftime against Nola, collected two of Pittsburgh's three hits against Elfin. The Pirates are 3-4 since the All-Star break and have been limited to three runs or fewer on five occasions.
TV: 4:05 p.m. ET, CSN Philadelphia, ROOT (Pittsburgh)
PITCHING MATCHUP: Phillies RH Aaron Nola (5-8, 4.41 ERA) vs. Pirates RH Tyler Glasnow (0-1, 6.75)
Missing a turn and the All-Star break paid dividends for Nola, who bounched back from a rocky stretch by tossing six scoreless innings of two-hit ball against Miami on Monday. Nola had been awful in his previous five outings, getting shelled for 30 runs while failing to get through the fourth inning on four occasions. After notching six straight quality road starts, Nola has allowed 17 runs in his last three away from home.
The highly touted Glasnow will be promoted from Triple-A Indianapolis to make the second start of his career and first at home. A fifth-round pick in the 2011 draft, the 22-year-old Glasnow allowed four runs on only three hits over 5 1/3 innings in a 5-1 loss at St. Louis on July 7. Glasnow has been superb at Indiananapolis, posting a 7-3 record and 1.94 ERA while recording 122 strikeouts in 102 innings.
WALK-OFFS
1. Phillies CF Odebel Herrera snapped out of a 4-for-41 funk with three hits Friday.
2. Pirates CF Andrew McCutchen is 3-for-21 in his last five games.
3. Phillies 3B Maikel Franco exited Friday's game after getting hit on the left wrist with a pitch.
PREDICTION: Phillies 4, Pirates 3
Preview: Padres at Nationals
GAME: San Diego Padres (42-55) at Washington Nationals (57-40)
DATE/TIME: Saturday, July 23 - 7:05 PM EST
WHERE: Nationals Park, Washington, District of Columbia
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A
Matt Kemp and the San Diego Padres haven't been shy about flexing their muscle of late. With six homers in his last six outings, Kemp looks to continue his torrid stretch as the Padres vie for a series victory on Saturday when they play the second contest of the three-game set against the host Washington Nationals.
Kemp went deep in the first to extend San Diego's franchise record to 20 straight contests with a homer and added a three-run shot in the fifth in the 5-3 victory on Friday. The 31-year-old might not find it so easy versus Saturday starter Max Scherzer, against whom he is 1-for-27 with nine strikeouts in his career. While San Diego snapped a four-game skid by winning the series opener, Washington has dropped four of five to see its lead atop the National League East dip to 4 1/2 games. Jayson Werth homered in the first inning on Friday to reach base for the 26th straight game and has four runs scored in as many contests versus the Padres this season.
TV: 7:05 p.m. ET, FSN San Diego, MASN (Washington)
PITCHING MATCHUP: Padres RH Edwin Jackson (1-1, 4.76 ERA) vs. Nationals RH Max Scherzer (10-6, 2.94)
Jackson carried a no-hitter into the seventh inning in his San Diego debut on Sunday before Conor Gillaspie belted a three-run homer. The 32-year-old was far from flawless before Gillaspie's blast, however, as he issued five free passes before picking up the win against San Francisco. Jackson will face the team with which he spent the 2012 season, against which he won his lone decision in 10 career encounters.
Scherzer owns a 5-2 mark with a 1.61 ERA and 81 strikeouts in his last nine starts (61 1/3 innings), but settled for a no-decision on Sunday despite allowing one run in seven frames. The 31-year-old also did not record a decision in his last meeting with San Diego on June 18 despite striking out 10 and permitting one run on four hits in six innings. Wil Myers took Scherzer deep in the first inning of that contest and is 4-for-6 with two solo homers in his career versus the hurler.
WALK-OFFS
1. Washington 2B Daniel Murphy went deep in the eighth inning on Friday for his fifth homer and 14th RBI during his nine-game hitting streak.
2. San Diego LF Alex Dickerson is 2-for-19 in his last six contests.
3. Nationals C Wilson Ramos, who is riding a 10-game hitting streak, had three singles on Friday to improve to 7-for-16 versus the Padres this season.
PREDICTION: Nationals 4, Padres 1
GAME: San Diego Padres (42-55) at Washington Nationals (57-40)
DATE/TIME: Saturday, July 23 - 7:05 PM EST
WHERE: Nationals Park, Washington, District of Columbia
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A
Matt Kemp and the San Diego Padres haven't been shy about flexing their muscle of late. With six homers in his last six outings, Kemp looks to continue his torrid stretch as the Padres vie for a series victory on Saturday when they play the second contest of the three-game set against the host Washington Nationals.
Kemp went deep in the first to extend San Diego's franchise record to 20 straight contests with a homer and added a three-run shot in the fifth in the 5-3 victory on Friday. The 31-year-old might not find it so easy versus Saturday starter Max Scherzer, against whom he is 1-for-27 with nine strikeouts in his career. While San Diego snapped a four-game skid by winning the series opener, Washington has dropped four of five to see its lead atop the National League East dip to 4 1/2 games. Jayson Werth homered in the first inning on Friday to reach base for the 26th straight game and has four runs scored in as many contests versus the Padres this season.
TV: 7:05 p.m. ET, FSN San Diego, MASN (Washington)
PITCHING MATCHUP: Padres RH Edwin Jackson (1-1, 4.76 ERA) vs. Nationals RH Max Scherzer (10-6, 2.94)
Jackson carried a no-hitter into the seventh inning in his San Diego debut on Sunday before Conor Gillaspie belted a three-run homer. The 32-year-old was far from flawless before Gillaspie's blast, however, as he issued five free passes before picking up the win against San Francisco. Jackson will face the team with which he spent the 2012 season, against which he won his lone decision in 10 career encounters.
Scherzer owns a 5-2 mark with a 1.61 ERA and 81 strikeouts in his last nine starts (61 1/3 innings), but settled for a no-decision on Sunday despite allowing one run in seven frames. The 31-year-old also did not record a decision in his last meeting with San Diego on June 18 despite striking out 10 and permitting one run on four hits in six innings. Wil Myers took Scherzer deep in the first inning of that contest and is 4-for-6 with two solo homers in his career versus the hurler.
WALK-OFFS
1. Washington 2B Daniel Murphy went deep in the eighth inning on Friday for his fifth homer and 14th RBI during his nine-game hitting streak.
2. San Diego LF Alex Dickerson is 2-for-19 in his last six contests.
3. Nationals C Wilson Ramos, who is riding a 10-game hitting streak, had three singles on Friday to improve to 7-for-16 versus the Padres this season.
PREDICTION: Nationals 4, Padres 1
Preview: Indians at Orioles
GAME: Cleveland Indians (56-39) at Baltimore Orioles (55-40)
DATE/TIME: Saturday, July 23 - 7:05 PM EST
WHERE: Oriole Park at Camden Yards, Baltimore, Maryland
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A
Josh Tomlin has made himself at home on the road and the 31-year-old looks to continue his charmed life away from Progressive Field on Saturday when the Cleveland Indians attempt to even their three-game series against the host Baltimore Orioles. Tomlin owns a 6-0 road mark with a 2.44 ERA this season for the American League Central-leading Indians, who dropped a 5-1 decision in the series opener on Friday to fall to 4-3 on their nine-game road trip.
Mark Trumbo belted his majors-best 29th homer and Manny Machado also went deep on Friday, increasing Baltimore's league-leading total to 144 after the team failed to go deep in its previous three games. While the Orioles have answered a four-game skid by winning each of the last two contests, Cleveland has dropped seven of its last 12. Tyler Naquin and All-Star shortstop Francisco Lindor certainly have done their part to pick up the Indians. The former is 9-for-18 with three homers, seven RBIs and six runs scored during his five-game hitting streak while the latter is 6-for-20 with two homers, four RBIs and five runs scored in his last five contests.
TV: 7:05 p.m. ET, SportsTime Ohio (Cleveland), MASN2 (Baltimore)
PITCHING MATCHUP: Indians RH Josh Tomlin (10-2, 3.34 ERA) vs. Orioles RH Kevin Gausman (1-7, 4.05)
Tomlin answered a brutal start with an impressive one on Sunday, following up an eight-run performance in a 12-2 loss to Detroit prior to the All-Star break by allowing one run on six hits in 7 2/3 innings of a 6-1 rout of Minnesota. The dominating result improved Tomlin to 3-1 with a 2.89 ERA in his last eight trips to the mound. The veteran hurler has struggled keeping the ball in the park, however, as Tomlin has surrendered 12 homers in his last seven outings.
Gausman's hard-luck season continued on Monday as the 25-year-old took the loss despite allowing just two runs on six hits in 6 2/3 innings of a 2-1 setback at the New York Yankees. The LSU product was taken deep for the fourth time in three outings when Alex Rodriguez homered in the second, but otherwise has pitched well in that stretch (19 strikeouts and two walks in 17 2/3 innings). Gausman was in top form in his last encounter with Cleveland, permitting just one run on two hits in six innings to pick up the win on Aug. 17, 2014.
WALK-OFFS
1. Although Cleveland owns a 30-13 record versus the AL Central, it has losing records versus both the East (11-12) and West (7-9).
2. Baltimore has battered the AL Central to the tune of a 17-6 mark.
3. The Indians placed RHP Joe Colon (right shoulder inflammation) on the 15-day disabled list and recalled fellow RHP Cody Anderson for Triple-A Columbus.
PREDICTION: Indians 3, Orioles 2
GAME: Cleveland Indians (56-39) at Baltimore Orioles (55-40)
DATE/TIME: Saturday, July 23 - 7:05 PM EST
WHERE: Oriole Park at Camden Yards, Baltimore, Maryland
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A
Josh Tomlin has made himself at home on the road and the 31-year-old looks to continue his charmed life away from Progressive Field on Saturday when the Cleveland Indians attempt to even their three-game series against the host Baltimore Orioles. Tomlin owns a 6-0 road mark with a 2.44 ERA this season for the American League Central-leading Indians, who dropped a 5-1 decision in the series opener on Friday to fall to 4-3 on their nine-game road trip.
Mark Trumbo belted his majors-best 29th homer and Manny Machado also went deep on Friday, increasing Baltimore's league-leading total to 144 after the team failed to go deep in its previous three games. While the Orioles have answered a four-game skid by winning each of the last two contests, Cleveland has dropped seven of its last 12. Tyler Naquin and All-Star shortstop Francisco Lindor certainly have done their part to pick up the Indians. The former is 9-for-18 with three homers, seven RBIs and six runs scored during his five-game hitting streak while the latter is 6-for-20 with two homers, four RBIs and five runs scored in his last five contests.
TV: 7:05 p.m. ET, SportsTime Ohio (Cleveland), MASN2 (Baltimore)
PITCHING MATCHUP: Indians RH Josh Tomlin (10-2, 3.34 ERA) vs. Orioles RH Kevin Gausman (1-7, 4.05)
Tomlin answered a brutal start with an impressive one on Sunday, following up an eight-run performance in a 12-2 loss to Detroit prior to the All-Star break by allowing one run on six hits in 7 2/3 innings of a 6-1 rout of Minnesota. The dominating result improved Tomlin to 3-1 with a 2.89 ERA in his last eight trips to the mound. The veteran hurler has struggled keeping the ball in the park, however, as Tomlin has surrendered 12 homers in his last seven outings.
Gausman's hard-luck season continued on Monday as the 25-year-old took the loss despite allowing just two runs on six hits in 6 2/3 innings of a 2-1 setback at the New York Yankees. The LSU product was taken deep for the fourth time in three outings when Alex Rodriguez homered in the second, but otherwise has pitched well in that stretch (19 strikeouts and two walks in 17 2/3 innings). Gausman was in top form in his last encounter with Cleveland, permitting just one run on two hits in six innings to pick up the win on Aug. 17, 2014.
WALK-OFFS
1. Although Cleveland owns a 30-13 record versus the AL Central, it has losing records versus both the East (11-12) and West (7-9).
2. Baltimore has battered the AL Central to the tune of a 17-6 mark.
3. The Indians placed RHP Joe Colon (right shoulder inflammation) on the 15-day disabled list and recalled fellow RHP Cody Anderson for Triple-A Columbus.
PREDICTION: Indians 3, Orioles 2
Preview: Twins at Red Sox
GAME: Minnesota Twins (36-60) at Boston Red Sox (54-40)
DATE/TIME: Saturday, July 23 - 7:10 PM EST
WHERE: Fenway Park, Boston, Massachusetts
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A
David Price has endured a roller-coaster debut season with the Boston Red Sox after signing the largest contract ever awarded a major league pitcher. Price will have another chance to find his groove when the Red Sox continue a four-game series with the visiting Minnesota Twins on Saturday.
After delivering a gem prior to the All-Star break, the former Cy Young Award winner gave up three runs on 11 hits in 5 2/3 innings of a loss at Yankee Stadium on Sunday, striking out a season low-tying one batter. "Not executing, again," Price told reporters after allowing at least three runs for the fourth time in five starts. "You guys are tired of hearing it, I’m tired of saying it." The poor effort in New York ended a six-game winning streak for the Red Sox, who will be looking for a pick-me-up after a frustrating 2-1 loss to the Twins on Friday night that dropped the club back into second place in the American League East. Boston took an early 1-0 lead on a solo homer by Mookie Betts - who left the game with a knee issue - but never scored again, even after loading the bases with no outs in the ninth for slugger David Ortiz.
TV: 7:10 p.m. ET, FSN North (Minnesota), NESN (Boston)
PITCHING MATCHUP: Twins RH Ricky Nolasco (4-8, 5.02 ERA) vs. Red Sox LH David Price (9-7, 4.36)
Nolasco has posted three straight quality starts after giving up a run and three hits in a hard-luck loss at Detroit on Monday. The 33-year-old is 3-2 with a 4.50 ERA in six career starts against the Red Sox but has been pounded for 10 runs in 8 1/3 innings over the course of two appearances at Fenway Park. Ortiz has four hits in 13 at-bats against Nolasco and three of them are home runs.
Price has owned Minnesota of late, going 5-0 with a 0.94 ERA in his last five meetings. Brian Dozier and Joe Mauer are a combined 12-for-65 with 14 strikeouts versus the 30-year-old, who entered the weekend ranked second in the AL in punchouts. Price has lasted exactly eight innings in each of his last four home starts and has gotten through at least seven in his last six outings at Fenway Park.
WALK-OFFS
1. Dozier was 3-for-3 with a home run Saturday and he has gone deep nine times in his last 23 games.
2. Betts was removed for precautionary reasons and is considered day-to-day.
3. Twins RHP Brandon Kintzler converted all seven of his save opportunities and has allowed one run in his last 11 1/3 innings.
PREDICTION: Red Sox 6, Twins 3
GAME: Minnesota Twins (36-60) at Boston Red Sox (54-40)
DATE/TIME: Saturday, July 23 - 7:10 PM EST
WHERE: Fenway Park, Boston, Massachusetts
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A
David Price has endured a roller-coaster debut season with the Boston Red Sox after signing the largest contract ever awarded a major league pitcher. Price will have another chance to find his groove when the Red Sox continue a four-game series with the visiting Minnesota Twins on Saturday.
After delivering a gem prior to the All-Star break, the former Cy Young Award winner gave up three runs on 11 hits in 5 2/3 innings of a loss at Yankee Stadium on Sunday, striking out a season low-tying one batter. "Not executing, again," Price told reporters after allowing at least three runs for the fourth time in five starts. "You guys are tired of hearing it, I’m tired of saying it." The poor effort in New York ended a six-game winning streak for the Red Sox, who will be looking for a pick-me-up after a frustrating 2-1 loss to the Twins on Friday night that dropped the club back into second place in the American League East. Boston took an early 1-0 lead on a solo homer by Mookie Betts - who left the game with a knee issue - but never scored again, even after loading the bases with no outs in the ninth for slugger David Ortiz.
TV: 7:10 p.m. ET, FSN North (Minnesota), NESN (Boston)
PITCHING MATCHUP: Twins RH Ricky Nolasco (4-8, 5.02 ERA) vs. Red Sox LH David Price (9-7, 4.36)
Nolasco has posted three straight quality starts after giving up a run and three hits in a hard-luck loss at Detroit on Monday. The 33-year-old is 3-2 with a 4.50 ERA in six career starts against the Red Sox but has been pounded for 10 runs in 8 1/3 innings over the course of two appearances at Fenway Park. Ortiz has four hits in 13 at-bats against Nolasco and three of them are home runs.
Price has owned Minnesota of late, going 5-0 with a 0.94 ERA in his last five meetings. Brian Dozier and Joe Mauer are a combined 12-for-65 with 14 strikeouts versus the 30-year-old, who entered the weekend ranked second in the AL in punchouts. Price has lasted exactly eight innings in each of his last four home starts and has gotten through at least seven in his last six outings at Fenway Park.
WALK-OFFS
1. Dozier was 3-for-3 with a home run Saturday and he has gone deep nine times in his last 23 games.
2. Betts was removed for precautionary reasons and is considered day-to-day.
3. Twins RHP Brandon Kintzler converted all seven of his save opportunities and has allowed one run in his last 11 1/3 innings.
PREDICTION: Red Sox 6, Twins 3
Preview: Tigers at White Sox
GAME: Detroit Tigers (51-46) at Chicago White Sox (46-50)
DATE/TIME: Saturday, July 23 - 7:10 PM EST
WHERE: U.S. Cellular Field, Chicago, Illinois
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A
Chris Sale started the All-Star Game for the American League and is tied for the major-league lead in victories, but there is no guarantee he will be remaining with the Chicago White Sox. Speculation is running rampant that Texas is pursuing the left-hander, who will be seeking his 15th victory when the White Sox host the Detroit Tigers on Saturday.
The 27-year-old Sale is signed through next season with club options of $12.5 million in 2018 and $13.5 million in 2019, but general manager Rick Hahn has indicated the team may decide to go into rebuilding mode. "We're mired in mediocrity," Hahn told reporters. "That's not the goal. That's not acceptable. That's not what we're trying to accomplish for the long term. We may well have to adjust and take a longer-term view and take a different approach going forward." Sale will be attempting to help the White Sox win for only the second time in 10 games after the Tigers captured each of the first two contests of this four-game series. Detroit's Miguel Cabrera tied his season high with four hits in Friday's 7-5 victory, and his tiebreaking two-run single in the seventh inning pushed his career RBI count to 1,501.
TV: 7:10 p.m. ET, FSN Detroit, CSN Chicago
PITCHING MATCHUP: Tigers LH Matt Boyd (1-2, 4.91 ERA) vs. White Sox LH Chris Sale (14-3, 3.18)
Boyd picked up his second career major-league victory when he blanked Minnesota on three hits over six innings on Monday. He has allowed one run and seven hits with 13 strikeouts over 11 frames in two starts this month after his latest promotion to the majors. Boyd did not figure in the decision against the White Sox on June 13 despite being staked to a 7-0 lead as he gave up six runs and seven hits in 4 1/3 innings and served up homers to Jose Abreu and Dioner Navarro.
Sale settled for a no-decision in his last outing despite limiting Seattle to one hit over eight scoreless innings. He walked three batters against the Mariners, marking just the second time he issued more than two in a game this season. Sale is 8-6 with a 3.20 ERA in 26 career appearances (16 starts) against Detroit and traditionally struggles versus Victor Martinez (18-for-36, four homers).
WALK-OFFS
1. Recently activated White Sox DH Justin Morneau hit a three-run homer on Friday - his first blast since going deep for Colorado on May 6, 2015.
2. Detroit LF Tyler Collins (neck) returned Friday after a four-game absence and went 1-for-5.
3. Chicago 2B Brett Lawrie (hamstring) underwent an MRI exam on Friday - one day after departing the series opener after three innings.
PREDICTION: White Sox 5, Tigers 2
GAME: Detroit Tigers (51-46) at Chicago White Sox (46-50)
DATE/TIME: Saturday, July 23 - 7:10 PM EST
WHERE: U.S. Cellular Field, Chicago, Illinois
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A
Chris Sale started the All-Star Game for the American League and is tied for the major-league lead in victories, but there is no guarantee he will be remaining with the Chicago White Sox. Speculation is running rampant that Texas is pursuing the left-hander, who will be seeking his 15th victory when the White Sox host the Detroit Tigers on Saturday.
The 27-year-old Sale is signed through next season with club options of $12.5 million in 2018 and $13.5 million in 2019, but general manager Rick Hahn has indicated the team may decide to go into rebuilding mode. "We're mired in mediocrity," Hahn told reporters. "That's not the goal. That's not acceptable. That's not what we're trying to accomplish for the long term. We may well have to adjust and take a longer-term view and take a different approach going forward." Sale will be attempting to help the White Sox win for only the second time in 10 games after the Tigers captured each of the first two contests of this four-game series. Detroit's Miguel Cabrera tied his season high with four hits in Friday's 7-5 victory, and his tiebreaking two-run single in the seventh inning pushed his career RBI count to 1,501.
TV: 7:10 p.m. ET, FSN Detroit, CSN Chicago
PITCHING MATCHUP: Tigers LH Matt Boyd (1-2, 4.91 ERA) vs. White Sox LH Chris Sale (14-3, 3.18)
Boyd picked up his second career major-league victory when he blanked Minnesota on three hits over six innings on Monday. He has allowed one run and seven hits with 13 strikeouts over 11 frames in two starts this month after his latest promotion to the majors. Boyd did not figure in the decision against the White Sox on June 13 despite being staked to a 7-0 lead as he gave up six runs and seven hits in 4 1/3 innings and served up homers to Jose Abreu and Dioner Navarro.
Sale settled for a no-decision in his last outing despite limiting Seattle to one hit over eight scoreless innings. He walked three batters against the Mariners, marking just the second time he issued more than two in a game this season. Sale is 8-6 with a 3.20 ERA in 26 career appearances (16 starts) against Detroit and traditionally struggles versus Victor Martinez (18-for-36, four homers).
WALK-OFFS
1. Recently activated White Sox DH Justin Morneau hit a three-run homer on Friday - his first blast since going deep for Colorado on May 6, 2015.
2. Detroit LF Tyler Collins (neck) returned Friday after a four-game absence and went 1-for-5.
3. Chicago 2B Brett Lawrie (hamstring) underwent an MRI exam on Friday - one day after departing the series opener after three innings.
PREDICTION: White Sox 5, Tigers 2
Preview: Dodgers at Cardinals
GAME: Los Angeles Dodgers (54-44) at St. Louis Cardinals (52-44)
DATE/TIME: Saturday, July 23 - 7:15 PM EST
WHERE: Busch Stadium, St. Louis, Missouri
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A
The St. Louis Cardinals aim for their sixth consecutive victory when they host the Los Angeles Dodgers on Saturday for the middle contest of their three-game set. St. Louis followed an impressive comeback win over San Diego on Thursday with another in the series opener, as Jedd Gyorko belted a two-out solo homer in the ninth inning to knot the contest before Matt Adams launched a shot in the 16th for a 4-3 triumph.
Aledmys Diaz recorded two hits for the fourth straight game for the Cardinals, who improved to 6-2 on their 10-game homestand and 25-28 overall at Busch Stadium. Los Angeles fell to 3-4 on its nine-game road trip despite another tremendous night at the plate by rookie Corey Seager. The 22-year-old posted his second four-hit performance of the season to improve to 13-for-31 during his six-game hitting streak. Justin Turner also continued his torrid pace, recording two hits - including a home run - to move to 12-for-32 with five blasts and 12 RBIs over the first seven games of the Dodgers' trek.
TV: 7:15 p.m. ET, SportsNet LA (Los Angeles), FSN Midwest (St. Louis)
PITCHING MATCHUP: Dodgers RH Kenta Maeda (8-7, 3.25 ERA) vs. Cardinals RH Mike Leake (7-7, 4.00)
Maeda was unable to build on a stellar effort in his final start of the first half, as he was tagged for five runs and seven hits in 4 1/3 innings of a loss at Arizona on Sunday. The 28-year-old native of Japan limited San Diego to one run and two hits over seven frames on July 10 while registering a season-high 13 strikeouts. Maeda, who never has faced St. Louis, is 5-2 with a 3.31 ERA in nine starts on the road.
Leake is coming off back-to-back impressive outings, winning both after losing each of his previous three starts. The 28-year-old Californian allowed one run and six hits over seven innings in a victory at Milwaukee on July 10 and giving up identical totals in six frames of a win over San Diego eight days later, registering a total of 21 strikeouts in the triumphs. Leake evened his career record against the Dodgers at 4-4 on May 15, when he yielded just one run and five hits over six innings in a win at Los Angeles.
WALK-OFFS
1. Cardinals LF Matt Holliday was in the lineup Friday, one day after being grazed on the nose by a pitch, but went 0-for-7 while Dodgers OF Yasiel Puig made a pinch-hitting appearance after leaving the team's game on Thursday with tightness in his right hamstring.
2. Los Angeles optioned LHP Julio Urias to Triple-A Oklahoma City on Friday and recalled C/INF Austin Barnes, who doubled in the series opener after going 2-for-19 in 10 games earlier this season.
3. Gyorko has gone 10-for-19 with five home runs and eight RBIs over his last five contests.
PREDICTION: Dodgers 4, Cardinals 3
GAME: Los Angeles Dodgers (54-44) at St. Louis Cardinals (52-44)
DATE/TIME: Saturday, July 23 - 7:15 PM EST
WHERE: Busch Stadium, St. Louis, Missouri
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A
The St. Louis Cardinals aim for their sixth consecutive victory when they host the Los Angeles Dodgers on Saturday for the middle contest of their three-game set. St. Louis followed an impressive comeback win over San Diego on Thursday with another in the series opener, as Jedd Gyorko belted a two-out solo homer in the ninth inning to knot the contest before Matt Adams launched a shot in the 16th for a 4-3 triumph.
Aledmys Diaz recorded two hits for the fourth straight game for the Cardinals, who improved to 6-2 on their 10-game homestand and 25-28 overall at Busch Stadium. Los Angeles fell to 3-4 on its nine-game road trip despite another tremendous night at the plate by rookie Corey Seager. The 22-year-old posted his second four-hit performance of the season to improve to 13-for-31 during his six-game hitting streak. Justin Turner also continued his torrid pace, recording two hits - including a home run - to move to 12-for-32 with five blasts and 12 RBIs over the first seven games of the Dodgers' trek.
TV: 7:15 p.m. ET, SportsNet LA (Los Angeles), FSN Midwest (St. Louis)
PITCHING MATCHUP: Dodgers RH Kenta Maeda (8-7, 3.25 ERA) vs. Cardinals RH Mike Leake (7-7, 4.00)
Maeda was unable to build on a stellar effort in his final start of the first half, as he was tagged for five runs and seven hits in 4 1/3 innings of a loss at Arizona on Sunday. The 28-year-old native of Japan limited San Diego to one run and two hits over seven frames on July 10 while registering a season-high 13 strikeouts. Maeda, who never has faced St. Louis, is 5-2 with a 3.31 ERA in nine starts on the road.
Leake is coming off back-to-back impressive outings, winning both after losing each of his previous three starts. The 28-year-old Californian allowed one run and six hits over seven innings in a victory at Milwaukee on July 10 and giving up identical totals in six frames of a win over San Diego eight days later, registering a total of 21 strikeouts in the triumphs. Leake evened his career record against the Dodgers at 4-4 on May 15, when he yielded just one run and five hits over six innings in a win at Los Angeles.
WALK-OFFS
1. Cardinals LF Matt Holliday was in the lineup Friday, one day after being grazed on the nose by a pitch, but went 0-for-7 while Dodgers OF Yasiel Puig made a pinch-hitting appearance after leaving the team's game on Thursday with tightness in his right hamstring.
2. Los Angeles optioned LHP Julio Urias to Triple-A Oklahoma City on Friday and recalled C/INF Austin Barnes, who doubled in the series opener after going 2-for-19 in 10 games earlier this season.
3. Gyorko has gone 10-for-19 with five home runs and eight RBIs over his last five contests.
PREDICTION: Dodgers 4, Cardinals 3
Preview: Angels at Astros
GAME: Los Angeles Angels (43-53) at Houston Astros (52-44)
DATE/TIME: Saturday, July 23 - 7:10 PM EST
WHERE: Minute Maid Park, Houston, Texas
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A
The Houston Astros are edging closer to first place in the American League West, and their dominance over a division rival has put them in striking position. The Astros go for their 10th consecutive victory over the visiting Los Angeles Angels on Saturday in the second contest of their three-game series.
Houston moved within 2 1/2 games of AL West-leading Texas with a 2-1 victory on Friday to halt Los Angeles' six-game winning streak. Jose Altuve is riding a seven-game hitting streak and has recorded multiple hits in five straight contests to lift his major league-best batting average to .358 and help the Astros improve to 15-5 in their last 20 games at Minute Maid Park. Angels star Mike Trout entered the series batting .355 versus Houston this season, but he struck out three times Friday for the first time since Sept. 16, 2015. Los Angeles will look to end the Astros' mastery in the season series when it sends Jered Weaver to the mound to oppose Collin McHugh.
TV: 7:10 p.m. ET, FSN West (Los Angeles), ROOT (Houston)
PITCHING MATCHUP: Angels RH Jered Weaver (8-7, 5.02 ERA) vs. Astros RH Collin McHugh (6-6, 4.25)
Weaver is coming off one of his top efforts of the season, as he gave up one run over seven innings to beat the Chicago White Sox and win back-to-back starts for the first time since April. He did not fare well in two home outings against the Astros this season, getting rocked for six runs on June 29 and giving up four in six innings on May 28. Altuve (13-for-33) and George Springer (8-for-18, 2 HRs) both have tormented Weaver.
McHugh appears to have put his early-season troubles behind him and is starting to resemble the pitcher that racked up 19 victories in 2015. He halted a seven-start winless drought by blanking Seattle on four hits over six innings while matching his season high with 10 strikeouts. McHugh has allowed a total of 10 runs over his last six turns, including back-to-back starts versus the Angels last month in which he gave up two runs in each.
WALK-OFFS
1. Altuve is 14-for-21 over his last five games to boost his batting average 18 points.
2. Angels SS Andrelton Simmons is 7-for-15 over his last four contests.
3. Astros LF Colby Rasmus is 0-for-24 over his last six games.
PREDICTION: Astros 4, Angels 2
GAME: Los Angeles Angels (43-53) at Houston Astros (52-44)
DATE/TIME: Saturday, July 23 - 7:10 PM EST
WHERE: Minute Maid Park, Houston, Texas
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A
The Houston Astros are edging closer to first place in the American League West, and their dominance over a division rival has put them in striking position. The Astros go for their 10th consecutive victory over the visiting Los Angeles Angels on Saturday in the second contest of their three-game series.
Houston moved within 2 1/2 games of AL West-leading Texas with a 2-1 victory on Friday to halt Los Angeles' six-game winning streak. Jose Altuve is riding a seven-game hitting streak and has recorded multiple hits in five straight contests to lift his major league-best batting average to .358 and help the Astros improve to 15-5 in their last 20 games at Minute Maid Park. Angels star Mike Trout entered the series batting .355 versus Houston this season, but he struck out three times Friday for the first time since Sept. 16, 2015. Los Angeles will look to end the Astros' mastery in the season series when it sends Jered Weaver to the mound to oppose Collin McHugh.
TV: 7:10 p.m. ET, FSN West (Los Angeles), ROOT (Houston)
PITCHING MATCHUP: Angels RH Jered Weaver (8-7, 5.02 ERA) vs. Astros RH Collin McHugh (6-6, 4.25)
Weaver is coming off one of his top efforts of the season, as he gave up one run over seven innings to beat the Chicago White Sox and win back-to-back starts for the first time since April. He did not fare well in two home outings against the Astros this season, getting rocked for six runs on June 29 and giving up four in six innings on May 28. Altuve (13-for-33) and George Springer (8-for-18, 2 HRs) both have tormented Weaver.
McHugh appears to have put his early-season troubles behind him and is starting to resemble the pitcher that racked up 19 victories in 2015. He halted a seven-start winless drought by blanking Seattle on four hits over six innings while matching his season high with 10 strikeouts. McHugh has allowed a total of 10 runs over his last six turns, including back-to-back starts versus the Angels last month in which he gave up two runs in each.
WALK-OFFS
1. Altuve is 14-for-21 over his last five games to boost his batting average 18 points.
2. Angels SS Andrelton Simmons is 7-for-15 over his last four contests.
3. Astros LF Colby Rasmus is 0-for-24 over his last six games.
PREDICTION: Astros 4, Angels 2
Preview: Diamondbacks at Reds
GAME: Arizona Diamondbacks (40-56) at Cincinnati Reds (37-59)
DATE/TIME: Saturday, July 23 - 7:10 PM EST
WHERE: Great American Ball Park, Cincinnati, Ohio
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A
The Cincinnati Reds can clinch a fourth victory in their last five series when the struggling Arizona Diamondbacks visit on Saturday for the second of a three-game set. The Reds, who will be busy as the trade deadline approaches in a little over a week, have won five of seven games since the All-Star break after knocking off Arizona 6-2 on Friday night.
Joey Votto has led Cincinnati during its surge, going 12-for-23 with three homers and eight RBIs over the last seven contests after a three-run blast Friday, while teammate Brandon Phillips takes a 10-game hitting streak into Saturday. While the Reds are showing progress, the Diamondbacks are going backward with eight losses in their past 10 games after getting shut out on three hits in the second through ninth innings Friday. Left-hander Robbie Ray goes to the mound to try and change the course for Arizona, which had won eight of its previous 10 games against Cincinnati coming into the series. The middle of the Diamondbacks lineup has been cold of late, but leadoff batter Jean Segura has been red hot at 8-for-15 over the last four contests.
TV: 7:10 p.m. ET, FSN Arizona, FSN Ohio (Cincinnati)
PITCHING MATCHUP: Diamondbacks LH Robbie Ray (5-8, 4.49 ERA) vs. Reds RH Keyvius Sampson (0-1, 5.51)
Ray comes in off one of his best starts of the season when he permitted four hits in seven scoreless innings to beat the Los Angeles Dodgers last Sunday. The 24-year-old was winless in his previous four starts (0-3), but boasts 122 strikeouts over 104 1/3 innings and owns a 3.70 ERA on the road this season. Phillips is 2-for-2 with a homer versus Ray, who lost his only career start against the Reds.
Sampson gets his first start of the season after allowing three hits over four scoreless innings with five strikeouts last Saturday against Milwaukee. The 25-year-old Florida native made 12 starts in 13 appearances last season with the Reds, going 2-6 with a 6.54 ERA overall. Segura is 2-for-4 with an RBI against Sampson, who limited the Diamondbacks to one run over six innings last year in a victory.
WALK-OFFS
1. Arizona 1B Paul Goldschmidt went 0-for-3 with a walk Friday and needs one homer to pass Chris Young (132) for third on the franchise’s all-time list.
2. Cincinnati C Tucker Barnhart has homered in consecutive games and boasts three blasts in July after recording two in the previous three months.
3. Diamondbacks 3B Jake Lamb is 0-for-11 with seven strikeouts over the last three games after going 7-for-12 in the previous three contests.
PREDICTION: Diamondbacks 6, Reds 3
GAME: Arizona Diamondbacks (40-56) at Cincinnati Reds (37-59)
DATE/TIME: Saturday, July 23 - 7:10 PM EST
WHERE: Great American Ball Park, Cincinnati, Ohio
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A
The Cincinnati Reds can clinch a fourth victory in their last five series when the struggling Arizona Diamondbacks visit on Saturday for the second of a three-game set. The Reds, who will be busy as the trade deadline approaches in a little over a week, have won five of seven games since the All-Star break after knocking off Arizona 6-2 on Friday night.
Joey Votto has led Cincinnati during its surge, going 12-for-23 with three homers and eight RBIs over the last seven contests after a three-run blast Friday, while teammate Brandon Phillips takes a 10-game hitting streak into Saturday. While the Reds are showing progress, the Diamondbacks are going backward with eight losses in their past 10 games after getting shut out on three hits in the second through ninth innings Friday. Left-hander Robbie Ray goes to the mound to try and change the course for Arizona, which had won eight of its previous 10 games against Cincinnati coming into the series. The middle of the Diamondbacks lineup has been cold of late, but leadoff batter Jean Segura has been red hot at 8-for-15 over the last four contests.
TV: 7:10 p.m. ET, FSN Arizona, FSN Ohio (Cincinnati)
PITCHING MATCHUP: Diamondbacks LH Robbie Ray (5-8, 4.49 ERA) vs. Reds RH Keyvius Sampson (0-1, 5.51)
Ray comes in off one of his best starts of the season when he permitted four hits in seven scoreless innings to beat the Los Angeles Dodgers last Sunday. The 24-year-old was winless in his previous four starts (0-3), but boasts 122 strikeouts over 104 1/3 innings and owns a 3.70 ERA on the road this season. Phillips is 2-for-2 with a homer versus Ray, who lost his only career start against the Reds.
Sampson gets his first start of the season after allowing three hits over four scoreless innings with five strikeouts last Saturday against Milwaukee. The 25-year-old Florida native made 12 starts in 13 appearances last season with the Reds, going 2-6 with a 6.54 ERA overall. Segura is 2-for-4 with an RBI against Sampson, who limited the Diamondbacks to one run over six innings last year in a victory.
WALK-OFFS
1. Arizona 1B Paul Goldschmidt went 0-for-3 with a walk Friday and needs one homer to pass Chris Young (132) for third on the franchise’s all-time list.
2. Cincinnati C Tucker Barnhart has homered in consecutive games and boasts three blasts in July after recording two in the previous three months.
3. Diamondbacks 3B Jake Lamb is 0-for-11 with seven strikeouts over the last three games after going 7-for-12 in the previous three contests.
PREDICTION: Diamondbacks 6, Reds 3
Preview: Cubs at Brewers
GAME: Chicago Cubs (58-37) at Milwaukee Brewers (40-54)
DATE/TIME: Saturday, July 23 - 7:10 PM EST
WHERE: Miller Park, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A
After spending more than a month on the shelf, Dexter Fowler didn't take long to announce his return to the top of the Chicago Cubs’ lineup. Fowler led off Friday's contest with a home run and finished with three hits and three RBIs in his first game back, and he and the Cubs will try for an encore performance when they continue their three-game road series against the Milwaukee Brewers on Saturday.
The Cubs stumbled into the All-Star break as their starting pitching sputtered while the offense struggled to find consistency. The rotation has righted itself – Chicago’s starters have posted a 1.76 ERA in seven games since the break – and Fowler sparked the lineup in his first game since injuring his hamstring on June 18. The Brewers have lost seven of their last nine overall and six of eight at home, where they’re 23-23. Cubs veteran John Lackey will try to change his fortunes on the road, where he is 3-2 with a 4.70 ERA this season - although he won at Miller Park on May 18, holding the Brewers to one run and four hits over six frames.
TV: 7:10 p.m. ET, WGN (Chicago), FSN Wisconsin (Milwaukee)
PITCHING MATCHUP: Cubs RH John Lackey (7-6, 3.75 ERA) vs. Brewers RH Zach Davies (6-4, 3.79)
Lackey is winless in seven starts since beating Philadelphia on June 8 and has allowed at least four runs in each of his last three outings. The 37-year-old gave the Cubs eight innings last time out against Texas, but he gave up four runs and six hits in a 4-1 defeat. Lackey is 5-1 with a 2.95 ERA in nine starts against the Brewers.
After losing his first three starts of the season, Davies has been rock-solid over the past 2 1/2 months, going 6-1 with a 2.95 ERA over his last 13 turns. The 23-year-old didn’t factor in the decision Sunday at Cincinnati despite an impressive outing in which he allowed four hits over seven scoreless innings. Davies has faced the Cubs just once and earned the win, allowing two hits over six scoreless frames last season.
WALK-OFFS
1. The Cubs have stolen a base in a season-high six consecutive games after recording just five steals over their previous 24 contests.
2. Brewers LF Ryan Braun homered Friday and is 9-for-26 during his seven-game hitting streak.
3. Milwaukee SS Jonathan Villar has reached base safely in 11 consecutive home games.
PREDICTION: Cubs 4, Brewers 3
GAME: Chicago Cubs (58-37) at Milwaukee Brewers (40-54)
DATE/TIME: Saturday, July 23 - 7:10 PM EST
WHERE: Miller Park, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A
After spending more than a month on the shelf, Dexter Fowler didn't take long to announce his return to the top of the Chicago Cubs’ lineup. Fowler led off Friday's contest with a home run and finished with three hits and three RBIs in his first game back, and he and the Cubs will try for an encore performance when they continue their three-game road series against the Milwaukee Brewers on Saturday.
The Cubs stumbled into the All-Star break as their starting pitching sputtered while the offense struggled to find consistency. The rotation has righted itself – Chicago’s starters have posted a 1.76 ERA in seven games since the break – and Fowler sparked the lineup in his first game since injuring his hamstring on June 18. The Brewers have lost seven of their last nine overall and six of eight at home, where they’re 23-23. Cubs veteran John Lackey will try to change his fortunes on the road, where he is 3-2 with a 4.70 ERA this season - although he won at Miller Park on May 18, holding the Brewers to one run and four hits over six frames.
TV: 7:10 p.m. ET, WGN (Chicago), FSN Wisconsin (Milwaukee)
PITCHING MATCHUP: Cubs RH John Lackey (7-6, 3.75 ERA) vs. Brewers RH Zach Davies (6-4, 3.79)
Lackey is winless in seven starts since beating Philadelphia on June 8 and has allowed at least four runs in each of his last three outings. The 37-year-old gave the Cubs eight innings last time out against Texas, but he gave up four runs and six hits in a 4-1 defeat. Lackey is 5-1 with a 2.95 ERA in nine starts against the Brewers.
After losing his first three starts of the season, Davies has been rock-solid over the past 2 1/2 months, going 6-1 with a 2.95 ERA over his last 13 turns. The 23-year-old didn’t factor in the decision Sunday at Cincinnati despite an impressive outing in which he allowed four hits over seven scoreless innings. Davies has faced the Cubs just once and earned the win, allowing two hits over six scoreless frames last season.
WALK-OFFS
1. The Cubs have stolen a base in a season-high six consecutive games after recording just five steals over their previous 24 contests.
2. Brewers LF Ryan Braun homered Friday and is 9-for-26 during his seven-game hitting streak.
3. Milwaukee SS Jonathan Villar has reached base safely in 11 consecutive home games.
PREDICTION: Cubs 4, Brewers 3
Preview: Mets at Marlins
GAME: New York Mets (51-44) at Miami Marlins (52-44)
DATE/TIME: Saturday, July 23 - 7:10 PM EST
WHERE: Marlins Park, Miami, Florida
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A
Jose Fernandez's performance at home has kept the inhabitants of South Florida in a frenzy ever since the 23-year-old Cuban came on the scene. Fresh off matching a personal best with 14 strikeouts in his last outing, Fernandez looks to improve upon his impressive 25-1 career home record on Saturday as his Miami Marlins attempt to even their three-game series against the visiting New York Mets.
Fourteen strikeouts are nothing new this season for Fernandez, who also fanned that many while scattering four hits over seven innings in a 1-0 win against the Mets on June 5. Former Marlin Jose Reyes was a month away from beginning his second tour of duty with New York at that time and has yet to face Fernandez in his career. The veteran speedster made his mark in Friday's 5-3 win, however, with an RBI single among his three hits. Miami's Christian Yelich went deep for the second straight contest to extend his hitting streak to nine games and is batting .318 versus Saturday starter Jacob deGrom.
TV: 7:10 p.m. ET, WPIX (New York), FSN Florida (Miami)
PITCHING MATCHUP: Mets RH Jacob deGrom (6-4, 2.38 ERA) vs. Marlins RH Jose Fernandez (11-4, 2.53)
DeGrom recorded his first career complete game in scintillating fashion on Sunday as he allowed just one hit and struck out seven in a 5-0 win over Philadelphia. The 28-year-old has won each of his last three starts, including a strong outing versus Miami on July 6 as he limited the club to just two runs in seven innings of a 4-2 victory. DeGrom improved to 4-1 with a 2.77 ERA in eight career encounters versus the Marlins.
Like deGrom, Fernandez also had his way with the Phillies on Monday before exiting after allowing two runs on four hits over 6 1/3 innings of a no-decision. The right-hander has routinely flustered the Mets in his career, posting a 2-0 mark with a 1.32 ERA and 0.88 WHIP while limiting the club to a paltry .162 batting average. James Loney provided insurance on Friday with a two-run homer to extend his hitting streak to six games and is 3-for-7 in his career versus Fernandez.
WALK-OFFS
1. New York SS Asdrubal Cabrera has hit safely in seven straight games and 12 of 14 in July.
2. Miami OF Ichiro Suzuki struck out on three pitches in his lone at-bat on Friday to remain four hits shy of 3,000 for his major-league career.
3. Mets 2B Neil Walker is mired in a 2-for-32 stretch in his last nine games.
PREDICTION: Mets 2, Marlins 1
GAME: New York Mets (51-44) at Miami Marlins (52-44)
DATE/TIME: Saturday, July 23 - 7:10 PM EST
WHERE: Marlins Park, Miami, Florida
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A
Jose Fernandez's performance at home has kept the inhabitants of South Florida in a frenzy ever since the 23-year-old Cuban came on the scene. Fresh off matching a personal best with 14 strikeouts in his last outing, Fernandez looks to improve upon his impressive 25-1 career home record on Saturday as his Miami Marlins attempt to even their three-game series against the visiting New York Mets.
Fourteen strikeouts are nothing new this season for Fernandez, who also fanned that many while scattering four hits over seven innings in a 1-0 win against the Mets on June 5. Former Marlin Jose Reyes was a month away from beginning his second tour of duty with New York at that time and has yet to face Fernandez in his career. The veteran speedster made his mark in Friday's 5-3 win, however, with an RBI single among his three hits. Miami's Christian Yelich went deep for the second straight contest to extend his hitting streak to nine games and is batting .318 versus Saturday starter Jacob deGrom.
TV: 7:10 p.m. ET, WPIX (New York), FSN Florida (Miami)
PITCHING MATCHUP: Mets RH Jacob deGrom (6-4, 2.38 ERA) vs. Marlins RH Jose Fernandez (11-4, 2.53)
DeGrom recorded his first career complete game in scintillating fashion on Sunday as he allowed just one hit and struck out seven in a 5-0 win over Philadelphia. The 28-year-old has won each of his last three starts, including a strong outing versus Miami on July 6 as he limited the club to just two runs in seven innings of a 4-2 victory. DeGrom improved to 4-1 with a 2.77 ERA in eight career encounters versus the Marlins.
Like deGrom, Fernandez also had his way with the Phillies on Monday before exiting after allowing two runs on four hits over 6 1/3 innings of a no-decision. The right-hander has routinely flustered the Mets in his career, posting a 2-0 mark with a 1.32 ERA and 0.88 WHIP while limiting the club to a paltry .162 batting average. James Loney provided insurance on Friday with a two-run homer to extend his hitting streak to six games and is 3-for-7 in his career versus Fernandez.
WALK-OFFS
1. New York SS Asdrubal Cabrera has hit safely in seven straight games and 12 of 14 in July.
2. Miami OF Ichiro Suzuki struck out on three pitches in his lone at-bat on Friday to remain four hits shy of 3,000 for his major-league career.
3. Mets 2B Neil Walker is mired in a 2-for-32 stretch in his last nine games.
PREDICTION: Mets 2, Marlins 1
Preview: Rangers at Royals
GAME: Texas Rangers (55-42) at Kansas City Royals (48-47)
DATE/TIME: Saturday, July 23 - 7:15 PM EST
WHERE: Kauffman Stadium, Kansas City, Missouri
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A
The American League West-leading Texas Rangers look to halt their losing streak and notch just their second win since the All-Star break when they visit the Kansas City Royals on Saturday for the middle contest of their three-game set. Texas fell to 1-6 on its second half-opening nine-game road trip on Friday, dropping a 3-1 decision in the series opener for its fourth consecutive defeat.
Rougned Odor provided the only run for the Rangers with his 18th homer of the season but struck out for the ninth consecutive game. Kansas City scored a run in each of the first three innings while Danny Duffy and three relievers combined on a five-hitter to help the team avoid a third straight loss. Cheslor Cuthbert homered and Paulo Orlando continued to swing a hot bat, going 2-for-3 as he has hit safely in eight of his last 10 contests - registering four two-hit performances in that span. The reigning world champion Royals, who are 2-2 on their nine-game homestand, trail Toronto by five games for the second wild-card spot in the AL and Cleveland by eight for first place in the Central.
TV: 7:15 p.m. ET, FS1
PITCHING MATCHUP: Rangers LH Cole Hamels (10-2, 3.00 ERA) vs. Royals RH Yordano Ventura (6-7, 4.97)
Hamels was superb in his first outing after the All-Star break, limiting the Cubs to an unearned run and four hits while striking out seven over eight innings in a victory at Chicago on Sunday. The 32-year-old Californian was roughed up twice by AL-worst Minnesota to end the first half of the season, going 0-1 while surrendering 10 runs on 15 hits and nine walks over 8 1/3 frames in the two turns. Hamels lost his only career start against Kansas City as he was battered for eight runs on nine hits and four walks in 5 2/3 innings on April 7, 2013 while with Philadelphia.
Ventura's winless streak reached four starts on Sunday, when he settled for a no-decision at Detroit despite allowing only two runs in seven innings. The 25-year-old Dominican, who hasn't won since blanking the Tigers for 6 1/3 frames on June 17, went 0-3 with an 8.40 ERA in his previous three turns. Ventura has made four career starts against Texas, going 2-2 with a 4.84 ERA while recording 22 strikeouts in 22 1/3 innings.
WALK-OFFS
1. Rangers reliever Jake Diekman (finger) tossed a scoreless inning on Friday after being activated from the disabled list earlier in the day, while fellow LHP Cesar Ramos was designated for assignment.
2. Kansas City OF Lorenzo Cain elected to continue rehabilitating his left hamstring on Thursday instead of accompanying the team to the White House.
3. Texas DH Prince Fielder will receive a second opinion on his neck injury on Monday and then decide whether or not to have season-ending surgery.
PREDICTION: Rangers 6, Royals 2
GAME: Texas Rangers (55-42) at Kansas City Royals (48-47)
DATE/TIME: Saturday, July 23 - 7:15 PM EST
WHERE: Kauffman Stadium, Kansas City, Missouri
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A
The American League West-leading Texas Rangers look to halt their losing streak and notch just their second win since the All-Star break when they visit the Kansas City Royals on Saturday for the middle contest of their three-game set. Texas fell to 1-6 on its second half-opening nine-game road trip on Friday, dropping a 3-1 decision in the series opener for its fourth consecutive defeat.
Rougned Odor provided the only run for the Rangers with his 18th homer of the season but struck out for the ninth consecutive game. Kansas City scored a run in each of the first three innings while Danny Duffy and three relievers combined on a five-hitter to help the team avoid a third straight loss. Cheslor Cuthbert homered and Paulo Orlando continued to swing a hot bat, going 2-for-3 as he has hit safely in eight of his last 10 contests - registering four two-hit performances in that span. The reigning world champion Royals, who are 2-2 on their nine-game homestand, trail Toronto by five games for the second wild-card spot in the AL and Cleveland by eight for first place in the Central.
TV: 7:15 p.m. ET, FS1
PITCHING MATCHUP: Rangers LH Cole Hamels (10-2, 3.00 ERA) vs. Royals RH Yordano Ventura (6-7, 4.97)
Hamels was superb in his first outing after the All-Star break, limiting the Cubs to an unearned run and four hits while striking out seven over eight innings in a victory at Chicago on Sunday. The 32-year-old Californian was roughed up twice by AL-worst Minnesota to end the first half of the season, going 0-1 while surrendering 10 runs on 15 hits and nine walks over 8 1/3 frames in the two turns. Hamels lost his only career start against Kansas City as he was battered for eight runs on nine hits and four walks in 5 2/3 innings on April 7, 2013 while with Philadelphia.
Ventura's winless streak reached four starts on Sunday, when he settled for a no-decision at Detroit despite allowing only two runs in seven innings. The 25-year-old Dominican, who hasn't won since blanking the Tigers for 6 1/3 frames on June 17, went 0-3 with an 8.40 ERA in his previous three turns. Ventura has made four career starts against Texas, going 2-2 with a 4.84 ERA while recording 22 strikeouts in 22 1/3 innings.
WALK-OFFS
1. Rangers reliever Jake Diekman (finger) tossed a scoreless inning on Friday after being activated from the disabled list earlier in the day, while fellow LHP Cesar Ramos was designated for assignment.
2. Kansas City OF Lorenzo Cain elected to continue rehabilitating his left hamstring on Thursday instead of accompanying the team to the White House.
3. Texas DH Prince Fielder will receive a second opinion on his neck injury on Monday and then decide whether or not to have season-ending surgery.
PREDICTION: Rangers 6, Royals 2
Preview: Braves at Rockies
GAME: Atlanta Braves (33-64) at Colorado Rockies (45-51)
DATE/TIME: Saturday, July 23 - 8:10 PM EST
WHERE: Coors Field, Denver, Colorado
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A
The Colorado Rockies haven't lost at home to Atlanta in 25 months and attempt to defeat the Braves at Coors Field for the ninth consecutive time when the teams meet Friday in the third contest of a four-game set. Colorado used two-run homers from third baseman Nolan Arenado and shortstop Trevor Story on Friday to continue its home dominance with a 4-3 victory.
Arenado halted an 11-game homerless drought with his sixth-inning blast and Story followed two batters later with one of his own. Both players have 24 homers, tied for second in the National League with Chicago's Anthony Rizzo and one behind leader Kris Bryant of the Cubs. Atlanta first baseman Freddie Freeman went 2-for-4 with a triple Friday after being hitless in 15 at-bats against the Rockies this season. The Braves, who possess the worst record in the majors at 33-64, have lost 10 of their last 11 overall games against Colorado.
TV: 8:10 p.m. ET, MLB Network, FSN Southeast (Atlanta), ROOT (Colorado)
PITCHING MATCHUP: Braves RH Matt Wisler (4-9, 4.67 ERA) vs. Rockies LH Tyler Anderson (2-3, 3.43)
Wisler served up five homers while being roughed up for 12 runs (11 earned) in 10 innings over his past two starts. He has allowed three homers on three occasions this season while giving up 18 overall. Wisler received a no-decision against the Rockies last season when he gave up two runs and six hits in six innings.
Anderson won his past two starts after going 0-3 over his first five major-league outings. He gave up a season-worst four runs in 6 1/3 innings while defeating Tampa Bay in his last turn Monday. Anderson is 2-1 with a 3.26 ERA in five home starts.
WALK-OFFS
1. Rockies OF Gerardo Parra (ankle), sidelined since June 14, is close to beginning a minor-league rehab stint.
2. Atlanta All-Star LHP Julio Teheran (right lat tightness) departed Friday's game in the fifth inning and is listed as day to day.
3. Colorado CF Charlie Blackmon extended his career-best hitting streak to 14 games with a first-inning single in Friday's game.
PREDICTION: Rockies 11, Braves 7
GAME: Atlanta Braves (33-64) at Colorado Rockies (45-51)
DATE/TIME: Saturday, July 23 - 8:10 PM EST
WHERE: Coors Field, Denver, Colorado
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A
The Colorado Rockies haven't lost at home to Atlanta in 25 months and attempt to defeat the Braves at Coors Field for the ninth consecutive time when the teams meet Friday in the third contest of a four-game set. Colorado used two-run homers from third baseman Nolan Arenado and shortstop Trevor Story on Friday to continue its home dominance with a 4-3 victory.
Arenado halted an 11-game homerless drought with his sixth-inning blast and Story followed two batters later with one of his own. Both players have 24 homers, tied for second in the National League with Chicago's Anthony Rizzo and one behind leader Kris Bryant of the Cubs. Atlanta first baseman Freddie Freeman went 2-for-4 with a triple Friday after being hitless in 15 at-bats against the Rockies this season. The Braves, who possess the worst record in the majors at 33-64, have lost 10 of their last 11 overall games against Colorado.
TV: 8:10 p.m. ET, MLB Network, FSN Southeast (Atlanta), ROOT (Colorado)
PITCHING MATCHUP: Braves RH Matt Wisler (4-9, 4.67 ERA) vs. Rockies LH Tyler Anderson (2-3, 3.43)
Wisler served up five homers while being roughed up for 12 runs (11 earned) in 10 innings over his past two starts. He has allowed three homers on three occasions this season while giving up 18 overall. Wisler received a no-decision against the Rockies last season when he gave up two runs and six hits in six innings.
Anderson won his past two starts after going 0-3 over his first five major-league outings. He gave up a season-worst four runs in 6 1/3 innings while defeating Tampa Bay in his last turn Monday. Anderson is 2-1 with a 3.26 ERA in five home starts.
WALK-OFFS
1. Rockies OF Gerardo Parra (ankle), sidelined since June 14, is close to beginning a minor-league rehab stint.
2. Atlanta All-Star LHP Julio Teheran (right lat tightness) departed Friday's game in the fifth inning and is listed as day to day.
3. Colorado CF Charlie Blackmon extended his career-best hitting streak to 14 games with a first-inning single in Friday's game.
PREDICTION: Rockies 11, Braves 7
