Saturday 8/15/15 service plays chatter/comps/requests & other stuff...

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at Pocono Downs

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


Race 7 - Post: 8:18 - 1 mile. PACE - Class Rating: 88 - Purse:$14000 - CLAIMING HANDICAP $15,000 - $20,000 POST POSITIONS BY PRICE MOHEGAN SUN POCONO NO.3 HOBOKEN HANOVER - 1ST TIME LASIX DRIVER`S CHOICES: TIM TETRICK #1 OVER #3 SIMON ALLARD #7 OVER #4 & #8 IF NO WINNING TICKETS ARE SOLD ON PICK 4 CARRYOVER IS 100%


CONSORTIUM CHOICES


Chatsworth Consortium

# 9 R GAUWITZ HANOVER 3/1


# 4 MAJOR MARCUS 10/1


# 1 BESTNOTLIE HANOVER 9/2


If you want a competitive play in this contest, feast your eyes on R GAUWITZ HANOVER. Hard to put finger on it, but favor him this time. Positive idea - going to post well enough to contend in this competition. The number crunching team knows that speed is very important in harness racing. This contender will unlock our way to a nice win. MAJOR MARCUS - The 4 slot is on fire here at Pocono Downs. More wins than the expected average. The 90 avg class number may give this gelding a distinct edge in the group. BESTNOTLIE HANOVER - With Tetrick in the sulky, watch out for this race horse to get the win. Certainly should be given a look based on the great speed rating achieved in the most recent gathering.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Laurel Park

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


Race 6 - Claiming - 8.0f on the Turf. Purse: $22000 Class Rating: 81

FOR THREE YEAR OLDS AND UPWARD WHICH HAVE NEVER WON TWO RACES. THREE YEAR OLDS, 119 LBS.; OLDER, 124 LBS. MAIDENS ALLOWED 5 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $15,000, FOR EACH $1,500 TO $12,000 2 LBS.


RECOMMENDED CHOICES

The Walker Group Picks

# 5 FUSE LINE 8/1


# 1 PROFOUND 15/1


# 8 PIRATE'S COVE 5/2


FUSE LINE has a very good shot to take this contest and the potential return justifies the risky nature of the long odds. Will probably come out solid - I have liked the way this gelding has moved rapidly to the lead recently. Has to be given a chance - I like the figs from the last contest. Strong average Equibase Speed Figures in turf route races make this pony a definite contender. PROFOUND - Boyce ought to be able to get this gelding to break out quickly for this event. This animal has some longshot handicapping angles going for him. PIRATE'S COVE - Looks respectable for the conditions of this affair today, showing solid figures in turf route races lately. Could beat this field given the 84 speed figure recorded in his last outing.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Woodbine

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


Race 5 - Optional Claiming - 8.5f on the Turf. Purse: $62300 Class Rating: 99

FOR THREE YEAR OLDS AND UPWARD WHICH HAVE NEVER WON TWO RACES OTHER THAN MAIDEN, CLAIMING, OR RESTRICTED ALLOWANCE OR WHICH HAVE NEVER WON THREE RACES OR CLAIMING PRICE $62,500. THREE YEAR OLDS, 119 LBS.; OLDER, 123 LBS. NON-WINNERS OF $34,200 AT A MILE OR OVER SINCE JULY 15 ALLOWED 2 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $62,500, IF FOR $60,000, ALLOWED 2 LBS.


RECOMMENDED CHOICES

The Walker Group Picks

# 3 TOO MANY EGBERT'S 10/1


# 7 EXPLORE 15/1


# 2 AVIE'S QUALITY 6/1


TOO MANY EGBERT'S looks to be a very strong contender especially at a such a nice price. Has raced solidly in turf route races. Moran will almost certainly be able to get this gelding to break out early for this race. Is a contender - given the 97 Equibase speed fig from his most recent race. EXPLORE - He has been running soundly and the Equibase Speed Figs are among the best in this field. Could best this group based on the Equibase speed fig - 96 - of his last affair. AVIE'S QUALITY - Very strong profits over time for this jockey and handler duo. With a nice class rating average of 108, has one of the most favorable class advantages in this group.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Bar

Monmouth - Race #12 - Post: 6:15pm - Maiden Claiming - 6.0 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $14,000 Class Rating: 58

Rating: Golden DollarGolden DollarGolden DollarGolden Dollar

#1A BELLA YOLANDA (ML=5/1)
#2 O'LUCEY (ML=4/1)


BELLA YOLANDA - I like horses that return to a similar class level after dropping at least 5 class points like this one did last race out. I believe she'll be competitive at this level. Should do well in this race. Weight shift of -5 from August 1st race at Monmouth. O'LUCEY - Centeno and Pimental partnered up are a horse gambler's friend. This filly is in top form right now. Finished second last out and comes back promptly.

Vulnerable Contenders: #6 CAROLINE'S COMEDY (ML=3/1), #10 FROLICKING GAL (ML=9/2), #1 HAREM HONEY (ML=5/1),

CAROLINE'S COMEDY - This probable favorite ran on July 12th and hasn't had a morning drill since. This filly notched a speed figure in her last event which probably isn't good enough in today's race. FROLICKING GAL - This horse hasn't been close in either of her last two outings. No good results for this horse in a short distance affair over the last couple months tells me that this filly is in a tough circumstance HAREM HONEY - Tough to wager on at 5/1 odds after the two most recent showings.

Top HatGUEST COMMENTARY: The Brain - BELLA YOLANDA - My analysis says it usually takes a thoroughbred one - Two races after a layoff to get back into condition. That's just what we have here, so I expect a really good race for this horse.


STRAIGHT WAGERS:
Putting our cash on #1 Entry to win. Have to have odds of at least 2/1 or better though

EXACTA WAGERS:
Box [1,2]

TRIFECTA WAGERS:
Pass

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:
Skip

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

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Bar

Santa Rosa - Race #6 - Post: 3:56pm - Maiden Claiming - 8.0 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $7,000 Class Rating: 63

Rating: Golden DollarGolden DollarGolden DollarGolden Dollar

#3 SILENT CODE (ML=3/1)


SILENT CODE - This filly finished well ahead of the 3rd horse on Jul 31st. Those horses tend to run well next time out. Rode this entrant on Jul 31st and Orozco is yet again in the irons this time. EPS (earnings per start) is something that I believe can be a vital handicapping factor. This thoroughbred is ranked number 1 in this field.

Vulnerable Contenders: #6 TURKO GULCH (ML=5/2), #1 LATIN'S WATCH (ML=7/2), #2 LEAD CLIMBER (ML=4/1),

TURKO GULCH - Last ran on June 14th at Golden Gate, finishing fifth. Unlikely to improve off of that try in today's race. LATIN'S WATCH - The rating in the last race doesn't fit very well in this event when I look at the class rating of today's race. Mark this thoroughbred as a likely underpriced contender. LEAD CLIMBER - Hasn't been close to winning at all lately.

Top HatGUEST COMMENTARY: Hal - SILENT CODE - At Santa Rosa on Jul 31st this filly posted a speed figure of 66 in her last race. She has the best last figure in the field.


STRAIGHT WAGERS:
#3 SILENT CODE is going to be the play if we are getting 1/1 or better

EXACTA WAGERS:
3 with 6

TRIFECTA WAGERS:
Skip

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:
Skip

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Rick Needham at Saratoga

RACE #4 - 2:33 PM


The Adirondack Stakes

6½ FURLONGS DIRT GRADE II TWO YEAR OLD FILLIES STAKES $200,000.00 PURSE

#4 DECKED OUT
#1 DELICATE LADY
#5 TONASAH
#7 JUST WICKED

For your information folks ... The Adirondack Stakes is named after the mountain region in northeastern New York State that lies north of Saratoga and is bounded by the Canadian border on the north, the Mohawk River valley on the south, the Saint Lawrence River and Black River valleys on the west, and the Lake Champlain area on the east. The Adirondacks are composed mainly of metamorphic and igneous rock, and are among the oldest in the world. Adirondack Park, established in 1892, houses Mount Marcy, the highest summit in the State of New York (5,344 feet). Here in the 99th running of this graded stakes test, #4 DECKED OUT, an 8-1 shot on top folks, is the overall speed leader in this stakes field, takes a class drop (-2), and has hit the board in "POWER RUN FASHION" in each of her three career starts to date, including a "POWER RUN WIN" to break her maiden in her "first asking." #1 DELICATE LADY, an 8-1 shot in her own right, comes off a maiden breaking, "POWER RUN WINS" in her respective "first asking." Jockey John Velasquez and Trainer Todd Pletcher send her to the post ... they've "whacked the tote board" with55% of nearly 300 entries saddled as a team to date.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Balmoral: Saturday 8/15 Analysis
By Jeremey Day

DRF HARNESS

Race 9 - $20,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool

Best Bet (36 - 54 / $132.40): ABC BIG SHOT (2nd)

Spot Play: BEST MAN HANOVER (8th)


Race 1

(3) TIM'S FINALE pacer needed his last start off three weeks and should be ready for an improved effort. (4) ALLAMERICAN MOTIVE just missed last week against the same bunch. (5) CAMWISER rebounded nicely last week taking a lot of tote action in the process. The pacer can repeat with a similar effort.

Race 2

(4) ABC BIG SHOT just needs to avoid an early battle for position to score a victory against a weak field. (6) CONTINENTAL DIVIDE impeccably bred trotter is capable of better and should offer a big price. (2) MAPLE GROVE JOE is 0 for his career but has been knocking on the door hitting the board a lot this year.

Race 3

(4) LUCKY DALI well bred pacer has some ability and looks to offer nice value. (5) ROCKN LEGEND nicely bred filly had never hit the board in fifteen career starts before winning at almost 50-1 last week. If the pacer can duplicate that effort she's the horse to beat. (1) MONANA REI benefits from the best post and has shown significant improvement.

Race 4

(4) SEEYOUATTHEFINISH mare can make it two in a row with a smooth trip. (1) JOYFUL GAME has been ultra sharp just missing in two straight; threat. (5) TOGETHERFOREVER was just given an easy trip around the oval last week. The pacing mare is in career form and could offer value underneath.

Race 5

(1) HAKUNA MATATA is 0 for the year but has been racing gamely facing much tougher. (3) MIGHTY HOT SHOT was the driver's choice and also faces weaker. (7) GOLD STAR IMAGE has been very inconsistent as of late but a good effort puts him in the mix.

Race 6

(2) SINISTER filly has a bunch of positives going for her including picking up the top driver. (4) SILVERSTARVICTORIA is the top choice's stablemate and was really good at the track two starts ago. (7) ASHLEE'S FINE LADY freshman pacer has some upside and room to improve in her third career start.

Race 7

(7) HUDSON JESSE trotting mare raced gamely last out just getting up but she should be much closer turning for home this week in a short field. (4) MASTER OF EXCUSES has been very sharp and almost picked off the top choice last week. (5) REVRAC HARBOUR gets sent out for capable connections but likely needs a start having been off over two months.

Race 8

(6) BEST MAN HANOVER looks to be primed for a good effort in a field full of question marks; versatile. (5) ST ELMO HERO has come back strong this year. The pacer is as game as ever and will be firing early. (3) SOUTHWIND SCORPION four-year-old is in career form and set lifetime marks in two of his last three.

Race 9

(1) FEELNLIKEAROCKSTAR Indiana bred pacer faces older but could be up to the task with some racing luck from the best post. (3) FANTASTIC ROCK six-year-old was pacing roughly at times in the mile last week but was still coming hard late against a better field. (6) COMPANY MAN the pacer could be the sleeper in the race. The trainer has an excellent winning percentage at this track in recent years.

Race 10

(1) CELEBRITY HERCULES veteran trotter gets the best post down in class; big chance. (6) MAYFAIR SOPHIE doesn't look the best on paper but every time you count out the mare she pops at a price. (8) PRAY WITH ME owns some ability but needs to find a way into the race; command a price.

Race 11

In a tough race to gauge, (4) WESTERN DEAL gets sent out for recent hot connections; threat. (5) TOO TALL TAMARAC makes his second start in a new barn and has been very competitive at this level. (6) JO JO SPUR will offer a much better price in an evenly matched field.

Race 12

(4) PARKLANE GLITTER nice-looking filly was real sharp first start off a long layoff and should only improve off that effort. (2) KIMBERLEY R mare is capable of pacing a big mile at times; threat. (9) ROCKNROLL CRYSTAL filly was a game winner last out but watch to see if her nose is on the gate. If the filly is lagging the starting gate don't use on the top of your gimmicks.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Mohawk: Saturday 8/15 Analysis
By Garnet Barnsdale

DRF HARNESS

Race 4 - $50,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool

EARLY PICK 4:

1,8/3,5,6/1,5/1,4,8 = $36


LATE PICK 4: 1,3,6,8,9/2,4,5/7/2,4,5 = $45

MEET STATS: 223 - 737 / $1282.30 BEST BETS: 32 - 66 / $107.50

SPOT PLAYS: 8 - 65 / $66.90

Best Bet: SHAMBALLA (3rd)

Spot Play: BUCKEROO (9th)


Race 1

(7) FLEXIBLE WOMAN was closing well late last time when dropped to this class and has won at this level previously this summer; slight nod in a tough opener. (4) E L ROCK powered home in :55 1/5 to grab second last time but is still winless this year. He should hit the ticket but is hard to love to win. (8) JUSTALITTLEFASTER broke when on the move last time, ending a string of good performances. He can rebound here if he stays flat.

Race 2

(1) TESSA SEELSTER raced okay first-up pressing solid fractions at Grand River in her first start in a month and only tired late. She has a big shot here starting from the inside. (7) GRACIES PARADR continues to motor home late but in many cases it's too late. She's sharp and capable but needs some luck to win. (8) ARTIAWITCHYOU got hung out to dry in a sires stake at Batavia. She can threaten these if she lands in the top 5 at the start.

Race 3

(6) SHAMBALLA produced a phenomenal kick last week, bridging a 9 1/2 length deficit at the 3/4 by pacing home in :25 2/5 to win going away. A sharper racehorse you will not find. (7) MELMERBY BEACH invades from the Meadowlands where he has been laying down some serious speed. He'll have to hold off the choice late though. (2) ULTIMATE BEACHBOY has been racing well and grabbing good shares but he'll have trouble beating both of the top two here likely.

Race 4

(1) WINDS OF CHANGE takes a big drop in class here and there is lots of early speed to chase; on top. (8) INTENDED STYLE is one of the hottest horses on the grounds. The speed he showed last week makes him a contender here despite the class rise. (7) CHEYENNE REIDER broke last week at the start but he is always a late threat when he minds his manners. He is a rarity in that he seems to prefer outer posts.

Race 5

(6) TWIN B SCANDAL has shown some serious early speed in both his last two starts and last time came back on late to win. Call to repeat in current form. (3) SOUTHWIND INDY failed as a big chalk last time but two back was an easy winner. He looks like the main threat. (5) HIS BOY ELROY has a recency advantage on many of these and would be the beneficiary of any mid-race battling should that scenario arise.

Race 6

(1) MOONWRITER has faced some very tough company the past month. He's capable vs. this group and might even be a square price; top call. (5) SPORTSMANSHIP chased a tough leader first-over last time and tired late. That one isn't in here and he looks like one of the best of this group. (9) MR CARROTS set some reasonable fractions but couldn't hold on late. He's still stuck on one win for the year which is a bit concerning although he fits in here.

Race 7

(1) FOREVER JUST left hard for the top, was overtaken then hung around for third in a good effort in this class last week. He projects to get a good trip here from the inside. (4) REAL ROCKER raced sharply first-up last week to just miss in this class last week; contender. (8) HERE COMES WILLIAM continues to show improved late speed and is one that will blow up the tote sometime soon; maybe tonight?

Race 8

(3) WRANGLER MAGIC had the passing lane blocked for part of the stretch last time which may have cost her the win. She figures highly here. (8) MOONLIT DANCE hasn't raced since a game victory in the Mistletoe Shalee. She can obviously win this, but you have to wonder if it's a prep for a bigger event. (9) BET YA is as consistent as they come and a threat even from the outer post.

Race 9

(5) BUCKEROO couldn't close into a :26 4/5 final 1/4 last time but may have found a field with a few that will battle each other into submission. Don't be surprised if he rolls by late. (2) PRESCOTTS HOPE couldn't hang on last time after getting a third 1/4 breather. He is a sharp contender, however. (4) P L IDAHO likes the front same as the one above. That could nullify both of their chances late.

Race 10

(7) MILEYS BIG WORLD has been on a big roll and last week's effort from the 10-hole was exceptional; top call despite the move out of claimers. (1) HAT TRICK HONEY was one stride short last time in a good effort; using. (6) KISS ME OR NOT could do here if she blasts off the gate early; hard to say if she will though.

Race 11

(2) MACHAL JORDAN has been live the past two weeks and aggressively driven. He has a good shot of taking these. (5) CARRACCI HANOVER went a big mile last time but couldn't hold off a classy veteran late. He is a big threat here. (4) A J CORBELLI set a quick pace then stopped. He could threaten with a better trip and more conservative drive.

Race 12

(9) SPORTING THE LOOK was a solid winner last time pressing quick fractions; call to repeat. (3) WINDSONG LORD finished 2nd for the fifth time in a row last time; make it six? (8) STEVES LEGACY has been closing well in each start and is a solid bet for a slice of this. (2) SURGE SEELSTER was a good 4th last time, passing six horses in the final 1/4; share likely here. (7) SPORTS LIGHTNING has a good late kick on his best day. He can nail a small share here.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Yonkers: Saturday 8/15 Analysis
By Matt Rose

DRF HARNESS

MEET STATS: 232 - 733 / $1306.90 BEST BETS: 31 - 58 / $107.10

Best Bet: HEEZ ORL BLACK N (5th)

Spot Play: CHEYENNE JEFFREY (1st)


Race 1

(4) CHEYENNE JEFFREY has been stuck with outside posts seemingly forever and always gives a good accounting of himself. From this improved starting spot Stalbaum should be firing hard. (1) UF ROCKIN DRAGON is back at the level where he just recently missed and he draws best. (6) DAVID THE SAINT takes a needed drop in class after being in too tough in his last few.

Race 2

(5) AMERCIAN VENTURE collapsed on the front end last out after blowing the doors off the field the start prior. Bartlett is back driving and clearly the Sabot trainee is better off stalking and making one big move. (4) SAFE HARBOR is back up a notch in class off a big eight-hole confidence-boosting try. (1) FREDDY DAY HANOVER ships in from The Meadowlands; veteran has talent and should fit nicely here.

Race 3

(4) OUR DRAGON KING returns locally now in the Croghan barn and he raced well when last here; gelding deserves top billing from this spot. (1) HARD TO MACH hasn't done much recently but from this post Dube should get very aggressive to protect early position. (6) FAMEOUS WESTERN cut the mile with a broken headpole last week and understandably tired; he fits well here and could be an off-the-pace threat.

Race 4

(2) LIFE UP FRONT was aggressively handled last week on the dropdown and came up just shy. Classy veteran drops again and draws well again; worth following. (7) BETTOREVER stormed home last out for sharp connections; I suspect he may be overbet off that effort and have too much to do especially with the tough outside post. (6) LETTUCEROCKU A returns to the level where he was a winner three back but that was from a good post; tough spot tonight but he could hit the ticket.

Race 5

(1) HEEZ ORL BLACK N finally lands that inside post that he's been craving for some time now and the classy import will handle his business tonight. (2) CHARGER BLUE CHIP is not a prolific winner but his last effort was solid and he should be close up throughout from this spot. (6) ASLAN closed belatedly from the eight hole last out and he does move in a couple of notches.

Race 6

(6) GREAT VINTAGE has given his all in practically every start this year and although this is a tough group he's facing if Dube can make the top he'll be tough to catch. (3) TEXICAN N toured the track last week from post eight; he's back inside and will be more involved. (2) DOCTOR BUTCH returns locally and gets a nice post assignment; threat.

Race 7

(7) FORTY FIVE RED has been solid in defeat in his last two, which were in the Open Handicap. He's back in with age-restricted types tonight and will be tough if he can make it near the lead. (6) SOMEWHERE FANCY finally took money last week and failed late; I looked elsewhere for the top spot so this 4-year-old will probably bounce right back at a price. (4) TWIN B TENACIOUS has clearly proven that he belongs with this elite type.

Race 8

(6) LUMINOSITY returns from a visit to The Meadowlands on Hambo day and he gets a better post than he's accustomed to; down the road. (2) BOFFIN has raced much better in his last two and it looks like the Lorentzon trainee is ready for a breakout performance. (5) DEWYCOLORINTHELINE has been first or second in his last five local starts.

Race 9

(5) TWIN B IMPRESSIVE has been just that in practically every start he's made since shipping in to Yonkers. He gets some post relief tonight which may enable him to be close enough to score. (1) ORILLIA JOE lands another good post and should be prominent throughout. (2) FOOL ME ONCE should fit with these but he's missed three weeks which could be a slight concern.

Race 10

(1) SOUTHWIND TERROR didn't fire trying to close from the back last out versus similar; as is often the case it's all about post position so this Allard trainee should be well primed from this spot. (6) KIWI IDEAL N found late clearance and was charging to the wire; clearly he's sharp but will need some luck. (3) SHADY CITY gets much-needed post relief.

Race 11

(8) THERAPUTIC is stuck in a poor outside spot but he returns to Brennan tonight and was sharp in prior efforts. (2) E R ELLIE dropped and popped last out and looks for two straight. (5) ILLUSIONSNDREAMS has plenty of early speed; late endurance may be an issue.

Race 12

(2) FLEM N EM N probably should have won last out but it was an improved effort; Bamond draws well in this very competitive event and he's got as good a shot as any. (1) PASS THEM BY N may lack the class of others but these Peter Tritton imports have all been sharp and this one gets serious post relief. (4) MCERLEAN dropped to this level and awakened, beating Sapphire City in the process; big threat.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

SPOT PLAYS

For Saturday

TRACK (RACE) HORSE, MORNING LINE

Arlington Park (1st) Proud Jackson, 4-1
(3rd) Mission Storm, 4-1


Canterbury Park (2nd) Missmolly, 8-1
(8th) Demis Nativedancer, 4-1


Charles Town (3rd) King's House, 7-2
(5th) Charitable Star, 3-1


Del Mar (2nd) Tiz a Kiss, 5-1
(10th) Illuminant, 7-2


Delaware Park (3rd) Reid the News, 10-1
(6th) Rhythm Blues, 3-1


Ellis Park (8th) C'est Bon, 4-1
(9th) Showered, 10-1


Emerald Downs (6th) Red Mystic, 7-2
(7th) Dance Affair, 6-1


Evangeline Downs (1st) Mighty Intimidator, 9-2
(4th) Southern Rose, 6-1


Finger Lakes (3rd) Lemme Rock, 8-1
(8th) Life of a Tiger, 6-1


Gulfstream Park (6th) Padilla, 7-2
(8th) R Javy's Dream, 4-1


Indiana Grand (1st) Lawyer Charles, 3-1
(2nd) Miss Bouviette, 4-1


Laurel Park (2nd) Kippy Fox, 9-2
(8th) Stack the Storm, 6-1


Louisiana Downs (6th) Lookout Mountain, 4-1
(8th) Lady Blue Belle, 4-1


Monmouth Park (1st) Steve's Adventures, 5-1
(7th) Phantom Flight, 6-1


Mountaineer (2nd) John's Mariah, 5-1
(5th) Bootleggin Cat, 3-1


Penn National (3rd) Fairly Complicated, 4-1
(6th) Silent Ruler, 8-1

Remington Park (3rd) Red Shooter, 4-1
(7th) Drowningndiamonds, 3-1


Saratoga (7th) Puppy Manners, 7-2
(11th) Aleander, 4-1


Thistledown (3rd) Circus Park, 9-2
(6th) Fashion Sea, 9-2


Woodbine (4th) Trader Dom, 6-1
(6th) Ariel's Vision, 3-1

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Yankees (63-51) at Blue Jays (64-53)

Game: 2
Venue: Rogers Centre
Date: August 15, 2015 1:07 PM EDT

Punch and counterpunch.

It seems destined that's how the AL East will be decided by the New York Yankees and Toronto Blue Jays the rest of the season, and the two teams continue to vie for the division lead Saturday.

It may be a stretch to call Carlos Beltran's three-run, go-ahead pinch-hit home run in the eighth inning Friday season-defining for the Yankees (63-51), but there's no doubt Friday night's 4-3 victory to open this three-game set was needed. They snapped Toronto's club record-tying 11-game win streak and regained a one-half game advantage in the East.

"I was thinking about trying to get one in with a runner on third and a runner on second and one out," Beltran said. "I have to put the ball in play and I got myself a good pitch to hit and put it out of the ballpark."

The blast capped a four-run eighth for New York, which had been shut out the previous 33 innings by Blue Jays pitchers and failed to score despite getting eight hits in the first seven innings off David Price.

"We've played them last weekend and we lost 2-0, 2-1 and played tough games," manager Joe Girardi said. "We weren't able to string a lot together. We were able to do it in the eighth and that was the difference. Hopefully it gives us confidence."

Beltran has hit .345 with three homers and two doubles during a nine-game hitting streak. He's 4 for 17 with two homers against Blue Jays starter Marco Estrada (10-6, 3.21 ERA), who looks to get Toronto back on track, win his fourth straight start and outpitch Masahiro Tanaka (8-5, 3.79) for the second time in six days.

Estrada was effective in Sunday's 2-0 victory, yielding three hits and three walks in 6 1-3 innings while holding the top three hitters in the Yankees lineup - Jacoby Ellsbury, Brett Gardner and Alex Rodriguez - hitless in nine at-bats. It was a stark contrast to his May 5 outing at the Rogers Centre, where he yielded five runs in 4 2-3 innings of a 6-3 defeat.

The right-hander has a 1.45 ERA during his winning streak while limiting opponents to a .131 average.

The Blue Jays (64-53) seem unfazed by the loss, nearly rallying in the ninth as Troy Tulowitzki struck out against closer Andrew Miller in a 12-pitch at-bat to end the game with runners on second and third. That may prevent Miller, who wound up throwing 28 pitches after tossing 18 on Thursday at Cleveland, from pitching a third consecutive day.

Beltran's homer also ended a 25-inning scoreless streak by Toronto relievers dating back to an Aug. 2 win over Kansas City.

"I don't think it will have any effect at all because it was a good game that went down to the wire," manager John Gibbons said. "We don't have young guys so there's no emotional rollercoaster. These guys have been through it so I don't think it'll be a problem."

Toronto had some problems with Tanaka - it had one other hit besides solo homers by Josh Donaldson and Jose Bautista. Friday's loss marked the first time the Blue Jays failed to homer in 13 games, and they haven't gone back-to-back games without going deep since a three-game stretch from July 8-10.

Tanaka, though, has given up eight homers in five starts since the All-Star break, but seven of them have been solo shots. While Bautista (2 for 13) and Donaldson (1 for 8) had rare success last weekend, Edwin Encarnacion is 5 for 10 with a homer and a double against the right-hander.

Rodriguez, who will get either Saturday or Sunday off according to Girardi, is 3 for 30 in his last seven games.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Mariners (54-62) at Red Sox (51-64)

Game: 2
Venue: Fenway Park
Date: August 15, 2015 1:35 PM EDT

Though the postseason doesn't seem like much of a reality for the Boston Red Sox, they have more than enough incentive to finish strong down the stretch.

A day after learning manager John Farrell will miss the rest of the season to undergo cancer treatment, the Red Sox look to keep Felix Hernandez from becoming the majors' first 15-game winner for the visiting Seattle Mariners on Saturday.

Hours before Boston (51-64) rolled to a 15-1 victory Friday, Farrell fought back tears while announcing he has a 'highly curable' form of cancer and will take a medical leave to deal with his lymphoma. Bench coach Torey Lovullo is guiding the club for the remainder of the season.

'I can honestly tell you I'm extremely fortunate that it was found," the 53-year-old Farrell said. "Treatment will begin in the coming days."

Though Farrell's illness is another blow to a beleaguered ballclub, the Red Sox are determined to rally around their manager and put forth the type of effort he expects from them while keeping things in perspective.

'We have a big family around here and definitely when it comes down to health issues, you want to be sure that everything goes OK," said slugger David Ortiz, who is batting .522 with nine RBIs in the last six games. "The organization is taking a lot of responsibility on that to make sure that John gets through it the way it's supposed to be."

The Red Sox will try to secure a winning series by getting the best of Hernandez (14-6, 3.11 ERA), who is 0-1 with a 4.15 ERA in his last four starts at Fenway Park. However, the right-hander can match his win total from last season by recording a third straight victory after he yielded two runs in seven innings of Sunday's 4-2 triumph over Texas.

"I believe Felix has a run in him," Mariners manager Lloyd McClendon told MLB's official website. "He may run the table, you never know."

Batting .395 with two home runs in 38 at-bats against Hernandez, Ortiz had two hits Friday as Boston set season highs for runs and hits (21). Rookie Travis Shaw homered twice and Rusney Castillo hit a two-run shot before leaving with a foot injury.

'We hit just about every emotion that you possibly can, that was topped off with a lot of excitement in the dugout," Lovullo said. "The guys did that for John. They fought hard and played hard for John.'

Boston has lost the last six starts by Wade Miley (8-9, 4.68), who is 0-2 in his last seven and tries to bounce back after he allowed five runs and nine hits while not factoring in the decision of a 7-6 loss at Detroit last Saturday.

The left-hander's only other appearance against the Mariners (54-62) came in 2012.

Kyle Seager, who is 2 for 3 against Miley and homered Friday, is batting .434 with seven home runs and 18 RBIs in his last 21 games against the Red Sox.

While Castillo's status for this contest is unknown, the same goes for teammate Hanley Ramirez after he missed a fifth consecutive game - also with a sore foot.

"He's been able to go through some pregame work," Farrell said prior to Friday's contest.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Athletics (51-66) at Orioles (58-56)

Game: 2
Venue: Oriole Park at Camden Yards
Date: August 15, 2015 7:05 PM EDT

Chris Davis is on quite a tear over the past three weeks. Now, if he can just get his teammates to follow suit.

Davis tries to continue his torrid pace Saturday night when the Baltimore Orioles continue their four-game series against the struggling Oakland Athletics.

Returning home after getting no-hit by Seattle's Hisashi Iwakuma on Wednesday, the Orioles (58-56) erased a 4-0 deficit and blew a two-run lead in the ninth before Manny Machado won Friday's series opener in the 13th inning with a two-run homer.

'We needed this win to get us going,' Machado said. 'We're just glad we got it over with, however it was.'

Adam Jones began the comeback with his third home run in four games - a three-run shot in the fifth - before Davis capped the seventh with a two-run homer, his 32nd of the season and eighth career onto Eutaw Street at Camden Yards.

Davis matched a season high with three hits and is batting .333 with 13 home runs, 32 RBIs and a 1.290 OPS in 22 games since July 22. He leads the AL in home runs and RBIs during that span and is tied with Toronto's Josh Donaldson for the major league lead with 85 RBIs.

Machado's second career walk-off homer gave Baltimore (58-56) its sixth win in eight home games and pulled it within 1 1/2 games of the Los Angeles Angels for the second AL wild card.

The Orioles have homered 14 times in the past eight games, scoring 22 of their 36 runs in that stretch via the longball.

Steven Vogt hit a two-run homer and Coco Crisp tied a career high with four hits for Oakland (51-66), which has surrendered 26 runs in losing the first four on a seven-game trip.

'Anytime you have a 4-0 lead, you feel you're in a pretty good position to win the game,' A's manager Bob Melvin said. 'Just a three-run homer - and that's what they do is hit home runs - got them right back in it.'

Crisp is 7 for 14 against the Orioles this season and 4 for 65 against everyone else.

Chris Bassitt's lone win this year came against Baltimore earlier this month, and he'll look for a repeat performance Saturday.

Bassitt (1-4, 2.48 ERA) has a 2.27 ERA in seven starts, allowing two or fewer runs six times while completing at least six innings in five straight appearances.

He had perhaps the best performance of his career Aug. 4, allowing five hits and two walks over seven innings while striking out seven in a 5-0 victory over the Orioles.

Miguel Gonzalez (9-8, 4.45) was the losing pitcher in that game, yielding three runs and five hits over 5 1-3 innings. That's part of a dismal stretch for Gonzalez, who is 0-2 with an 8.10 ERA in his last three starts.

The right-hander has been even worse at home lately, going 0-3 with a 12.08 ERA while yielding five homers over 12 2-3 innings in as many outings.

Baltimore could use some innings out of Gonzalez after its relievers pitched six innings or more three times in five games.

Brett Lawrie and Billy Butler have both struggled against Gonzalez, combining to go 5 for 30 (.167). Crisp, however, is 3 for 5 with two doubles.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Pirates (67-46) at Mets (63-53)

Game: 2
Venue: Citi Field
Date: August 15, 2015 7:10 PM EDT

Pitching is a major reason why the New York Mets and Pittsburgh Pirates appear headed for the postseason.

It's also why the Pirates are dominating the Mets.

Pittsburgh looks for Charlie Morton to solve his early struggles as they go for their longest winning streak over New York in 23 years Saturday night.

The Pirates (67-46) are third in the majors with a 3.24 ERA, while the NL East-leading Mets (63-53) are second at 3.17.

The success on the mound has Pittsburgh on top of the wild-card race, 1 1-2 games ahead of the red-hot Chicago Cubs.

Should the Pirates and Mets meet in the playoffs, that would figure to be a very favorable matchup for Pittsburgh. The Pirates have posted a 1.22 ERA in winning all four meetings this season, improving to 13-4 in the last 17.

They have won five straight against the Mets dating to last season. Extending the streak would give them their longest in the all-time series since taking seven in a row in 1992.

J.A. Happ and four relievers held New York to 0 for 7 with runners in scoring position in Friday's 3-2, 10-inning victory.

"I enjoy it," said Gregory Polanco, who had two hits including an RBI single and a run in the 10th. "Everybody enjoys it when you have a big hit, the RBI, and go-ahead run."

Morton (7-4, 4.48 ERA) hasn't enjoyed any of that success against the Mets, going 0-3 with a 5.01 ERA in his last four meetings. The right-hander, though, is facing a club that's hitting .226 in the season series and is 1 for 25 with runners in scoring position.

A bigger concern for Morton is his 11.20 ERA in the first inning, the highest by any pitcher with at least 10 starts.

He surrendered two runs in the first before giving up three more and leaving after the fifth without a decision in Sunday's 13-6 win over the Los Angeles Dodgers.

New York counters with Jonathon Niese (7-9, 3.46), who is 1-2 with a 7.40 ERA in his past four starts against the Pirates. The left-hander gave up four runs in 4 2-3 innings of a 9-1 loss May 24 as the Mets were swept in a three-game series at Pittsburgh.

Niese, though, is 2-0 with a 1.80 ERA in his last three starts overall. That's part of an 11-game stretch during which he's gone 4-3 with a 2.61 ERA.

Niese allowed two runs in seven innings of Monday's 4-2 win over Colorado.

"I've sort of figured it out now," Niese told MLB's official website. "I know now that my stuff is good enough to get outs. Not every out has to come on a strikeout. And the way we're hitting now, I don't have to think about taking chances to get outs. It's easier this way."

Niese has had a tough time with Andrew McCutchen, who is 7 for 15 with a homer and three doubles off him.

Most Mets pitchers have struggled against McCutchen, who is hitting .415 with 11 walks in the last 12 matchups. He went 0 for 2 with three walks Friday.

Polanco is batting .441 in his past seven games but is 0 for 4 with two strikeouts against Niese. He has a .197 average against left-handers.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Diamondbacks (56-58) at Braves (52-63)

Game: 2
Venue: Turner Field
Date: August 15, 2015 7:10 PM EDT

The Arizona Diamondbacks were surging offensively before being buttoned up by Julio Teheran and the Atlanta bullpen in their series opener with the Braves.

Saturday night's matchup with rookie Mike Foltynewicz at Turner Field figures to be a little easier.

The Diamondbacks (56-58) were averaging 5.9 runs and batting .308 while winning nine of 15 entering this series, including 36 runs and 63 hits in their last four. Teheran limited them to one run while striking out seven in six innings, and David Aardsma and Arodys Vizcaino helped preserve a 3-2 victory for the Braves (52-63).

"I knew they've been doing really good," Teheran said. "I was trying to pitch like I've been doing my last three starts and not worrying about they've been doing the games before."

David Peralta, who came in batting .471 with 17 RBIs in his previous 14 games, was 0 for 3 after not starting Wednesday's loss to Philadelphia due to a tight quadriceps. Nos. 5 and 6 hitters Welington Castillo and Jake Lamb accounted for three strikeouts apiece of Arizona's 10.

Foltynewicz (4-3, 5.23 ERA) gave up two runs over 5 2-3 innings in a 7-2 victory over Miami on Saturday. But even in his first win since May 24, he matched a career high with four walks, including three in a row during the third inning. He's managed a 4-1 record in seven home starts despite a 5.58 ERA, and opponents own a .364 on-base percentage overall.

While Teheran lowered his career ERA against the Diamondbacks to 2.17, Foltynewicz lost a 9-8 result at Arizona on June 3 when he allowed five runs in 5 2-3 innings. A.J. Pollock, hitting .414 over his last seven games, homered against the right-hander.

Arizona should also be boosted by third baseman Yasmany Tomas' expected return. He's hitting .471 in his last six games but missed the club's last two due to a strained calf.

The Braves (51-63) have won 12 of 14 in the series at home and improved to 31-23 at Turner Field this season. Cameron Maybin is hitting .400 in his last 21 meetings with the Diamondbacks after going 2 for 3 with a triple Friday.

Arizona's Patrick Corbin (2-3, 4.08) has logged quality starts in three of his past four outings. He yielded three runs over six innings in a 4-3, 10-inning win against Cincinnati on Sunday, throwing 88 pitches. He still hasn't tossed more than 89 in his seven games since returning from Tommy John surgery.

Corbin yielded three hits and five walks over seven innings in a 2-0 home victory against Atlanta on May 14, 2013, his only previous start against the Braves. Maybin is 3 for 6 with two doubles against him.

Atlanta signed right-hander Edwin Jackson Friday through the rest of the season. He's expected to work out of the bullpen after going 2-1 with a 3.19 ERA in 23 relief appearances for the Chicago Cubs before being released July 29. This marks the ninth big league team for Jackson, who went 6-10 with a 5.16 ERA in 21 starts for the Diamondbacks in 2010.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Phillies (46-70) at Brewers (49-68)

Game: 2
Venue: Miller Park
Date: August 15, 2015 7:10 PM EDT

Cole Hamels is gone and Chase Utley is about to follow.

With trade rumors swirling, Utley could be making his final appearance for the Philadelphia Phillies as they face the Milwaukee Brewers on Saturday night.

The major league-worst Phillies (46-70) are looking to the future and have already sent Hamels to Texas prior to last month's trade deadline.

Utley's impending exit is coming despite a career-low .208 average. The six-time All-Star, who has spent his entire 13-year career with Philadelphia, cleared waivers and is being pursued by San Francisco, the Chicago Cubs and Los Angeles Angels, according to MLB's official website.

He's 11 for 22 with four doubles and as many RBIs in the last six games.

"He looks as good as I've seen him," interim manager Pete Mackanin said. "He's showing his bat speed. The bat speed is there."

It surely was Friday when Utley had a season-high four hits with a double and one RBI, but Philadelphia opened this three-game series with a 3-1 loss.

The last-place Brewers (49-68) are also looking toward 2016 and Jimmy Nelson (9-9, 3.65 ERA) could very well play a big role in that season.

The right-hander is 6-1 with a 2.26 ERA in his last nine starts, including 3-0 with a 2.06 ERA in five at home.

Nelson allowed one run over the first six innings Sunday against St. Louis but surrendered Matt Carpenter's three-run homer in the seventh and left without a decision in a 5-4 win.

"It's a process," pitching coach Rick Kranitz told MLB's official website. "When you're going to the next level, (Nelson) has to do that. He's that guy for us. He's going to be the guy we probably lean on to be able to pitch big games."

Nelson was credited with a 7-4 win in his only appearance against Philadelphia on June 29, allowing four runs and six hits in five innings.

The Phillies would like to see Jerome Williams (4-8. 5.73) continue his improved pitching. He's allowed two runs over 12 innings in his last two starts after going 0-4 with an 8.44 ERA in his previous six.

The right-hander limited San Diego to one run and five hits over a season-best seven innings Sunday in a 5-3 victory.

"I just kept the ball down in the zone," Williams said. "If I consciously keep the ball down I get my ground balls. Then if I do throw one up in the zone I have them so conscious of looking down they miss the pitch."

Williams is 2-2 with a 5.40 ERA in five starts against the Brewers, the first coming in 2004.

Philadelphia's Cody Asche is hitting .370 with one homer and five doubles in his last seven games after going 2 for 12 over his previous six. He's a .341 hitter in 12 meetings with the Brewers, including 7 for 20 in five at Miller Park.

The Brewers have won all five meetings this year against the Phillies, batting .333 and averaging 6.2 runs. Ryan Braun is hitting .409 with 14 RBIs in 10 games versus Philadelphia since the start of last season even after Friday's 0-for-3 performance.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Tigers (55-60) at Astros (63-53)

Game: 2
Venue: Minute Maid Park
Date: August 15, 2015 7:10 PM EDT

Miguel Cabrera is back for the Detroit Tigers, but it remains to be seen if the star can help them make a run in the positive direction.

Looking to rebound from another defeat, the Tigers try to keep Collin McHugh from winning a sixth straight home start for the Houston Astros on Saturday night.

Detroit (55-60) went 15-20 while Cabrera endured his first stint on the disabled list with a strained left calf. Though he's batting .346, Cabrera went 0 for 3 with a walk and two strikeouts during Friday's 5-1 defeat.

'His timing is obviously not perfect,' manager Brad Ausmus said. "But that's to be expected.'

Sitting five games out of the AL's final wild-card spot with four teams ahead of them, the Tigers have little room for error and likely need Cabrera to spark a club that's totaled four runs in their four losses over the last five contests. Detroit managed six hits and struck out 11 times against Houston ace Dallas Keuchel and two relievers Friday.

Ex-Astro J.D. Martinez clubbed a three-run homer and the Tigers recorded eight other hits off McHugh (13-6, 4.22 ERA) in seven innings of a 6-2 home victory May 22. The right-hander, however, has a 2.73 ERA and allowed one home run while winning his last five at Minute Maid Park, where he's 9-2 despite a 4.81 ERA in 11 starts.

McHugh dropped a third straight road start after he allowed both runs and two of his three walks in the first of six innings in last Saturday's 2-1 defeat at Oakland.

"He did a good job of grinding through his outing," manager A.J. Hinch said.

The West-leading Astros (63-53) have won 15 of the last 17 at Minute Maid, where they are 39-18, but 24-35 away from.

'It's just one of those things where we play better at home right now," Keuchel said "We're going to have to figure it out before too long, but it's nice to be back home with the support of the fans and the city.'

Justin Verlander (1-5, 4.57) is 1-0 with a 2.08 ERA in his last two starts at Houston, and 1-0 with a 1.14 ERA in his last three on the road overall. The righty will look to avoid losing a third straight start even though he allowed two unearned runs in six innings of Sunday's 7-2 home loss to Boston.

'In probably four of my last six starts, I've pitched better than I did at any time last season,' said Verlander, who has received six runs of support in his last five starts. "I'm seeing reactions from hitters that I haven't seen in a while, but we still need to win the games.'

Carlos Gomez is 1 for 11 against Verlander, and 2 for 20 in the last six games. He showed some frustration by cracking his bat over his thigh after a second strikeout Friday.

'It's just one of those things that you get frustrated when you have the pitch and you miss it,' Gomez said. 'So it's something that you have to stop.'

Jose Altuve, meanwhile, went 2 for 3 with a double off Verlander last season, and is batting .556 with seven stolen bases in his last six home games against the Tigers.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Angels (60-55) at Royals (69-46)

Game: 3
Venue: Ewing M. Kauffman Stadium
Date: August 15, 2015 7:10 PM EDT

Albert Pujols remains among baseball's leaders with 30 homers, though he's gone a season-high 14 games without going deep.

It's unlikely that run will end Saturday night against a pitcher he has never taken out of the ballpark.

Johnny Cueto was sensational in his home debut for the Kansas City Royals in his last outing, and will look to continue his success against Pujols in this matchup with the Los Angeles Angels.

Pujols' resurgence has been a major story as he has reached 30 homers for the first time in three seasons. The slugger is hitting .203 since he last connected with one extra-base hit and three walks in 59 at-bats.

He committed his fifth error with a miscue that preceded Eric Hosmer's go-ahead two-run homer in the sixth inning in Friday's 4-1 defeat.

'A tough hop, nothing I could do,' Pujols said.

He's 7 for 29 with a double as the lone extra-base hit versus Cueto (1-1, 2.05 ERA), who notched his second shutout and first with Kansas City (69-46) as he struck out eight in a four-hitter in Monday's 4-0 victory over Detroit. It was Cueto's first home game at Kauffman Stadium, where he received a loud ovation with Royals mascot Sluggerrr wearing a Cueto-esque mane of dreadlocks.

"I felt really proud the fans were just feeding me that last little boost of energy I needed," Cueto said with catching coach Pedro Grifol acting as his interpreter.

The right-hander's only start against Los Angeles (60-55) came with Cincinnati in the 2013 opener. It marked his lone time facing Mike Trout, who went 1 for 3 against him.

Shane Victorino is 5 for 10 off Cueto.

The Royals evened this four-game set behind Danny Duffy, who pitched six effective innings despite hitting three batters. Angels starter Jered Weaver hit two.

Hosmer is hitting .333 with 11 RBIs in his last 11 games while Lorenzo Cain is batting .455 over an eight-game hitting streak.

"The good thing for us is we've got Hos and Cain going through real hot stretches right now," manager Ned Yost said. "That's a lot of offense that both of those guys are producing."

Pujols is 0 for 9 in this series for the Angels, who have dropped 10 of their last 11 road games.

Kansas City catcher Salvador Perez will likely miss his fourth straight game with soreness in his left wrist. Drew Butera is starting in his absence.

Angels shortstop Erick Aybar may return after missing the first two games of this series with tightness in his lower back. Taylor Featherston has started each of the last two nights.

Los Angeles starter Matt Shoemaker (5-8, 4.36) seeks to bounce back after getting pounded for seven runs over 5 2-3 innings in Monday's 8-2 defeat at the Chicago White Sox. He entered with a run of 19 scoreless innings.

The Angels have failed to score for the right-hander in his last three starts.

Shoemaker went 0-1 with a 6.60 ERA in three starts against the Royals last year, including one in the postseason. Hosmer was 5 for 8 against him in those games and Cain 4 for 9.

Kansas City's Ben Zobrist is 6 for 9 with a homer and three doubles off Shoemaker. Zobrist is 4 for 6 with two walks in this series.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Indians (54-60) at Twins (57-58)

Game: 2
Venue: Target Field
Date: August 15, 2015 7:10 PM EDT

Cleveland Indians starter Josh Tomlin will ironically make his long-awaited season debut in the same place he made his last major-league appearance - Target Field.

Although he is rusty, the Indians have to like their chances of winning because the Minnesota Twins are starting a rookie who was knocked around in his big-league debut and hasn't pitched in over a week.

Tomlin figures to have the edge against unheralded Tyler Duffey on Saturday night when the Indians look to defeat the Twins for the fourth straight meeting.

After missing nearly the entire 2013 season due to Tommy John surgery, Tomlin went 6-9 with a 4.76 ERA last year before undergoing shoulder surgery prior to this season. Cleveland (54-60) wants to see how he will perform, and the veteran right-hander is eager to get back on the mound.

"It feels good," Tomlin told MLB's official website. "It's kind of been another injury-stricken year for me. In that aspect, it's been pretty disappointing. But, to be able to get my way back here and to be able to help contribute to this team, it's a good feeling."

He closed out 2014 by failing to retire the only batter he faced Sept. 19 when Trevor Plouffe delivered a game-winning RBI single in the 10th inning of the Twins' 5-4 victory. Tomlin is 2-3 with a 6.43 ERA in six starts versus Minnesota, allowing 12 runs over 10 innings in two on the road.

Joe Mauer is 6 for 13 versus Tomlin and Plouffe is 3 for 8 with a homer.

Minnesota (57-58) gave Trevor May a spot start in Friday's 6-1 loss to open this series, with the right-hander logging three innings. That puts pressure on Duffey (0-1, 27.00 ERA) to help rest the bullpen, and it's unlikely the 24-year-old right-hander will deliver.

He was pounded for six runs over two innings in his debut, a 9-7 loss at Toronto on Aug. 5. This will be his last start before he will be sent down Sunday when Tommy Milone is activated from the disabled list.

Duffey realizes his days are numbered.

"I figured I'd just be hanging out there for a while so I'm just glad to be here. Hopefully I'll put a good one together," Duffey said.

He'll catch a break since Cleveland All-Star Michael Brantley is expected to miss a second straight game with a sore left shoulder. Brantley is second on the club with a .312 average.

Outfielder Ryan Raburn is expected to return from a six-game absence on the bereavement list.

Cleveland cruised Friday behind Corey Kluber, who fired a one-hitter - conceding Mauer's homer in the fourth. Francisco Lindor, Lonnie Chisenhall and Mike Aviles each had three hits and Giovanny Urshela had a two-run homer in the Indians' fifth win in six games - a stretch that includes their current run over Minnesota.

Twins left fielder Eddie Rosario has an outfield assist in three straight games and 10 overall to lead all rookies.

"He's making people aware that if you're going to run on him, you're at a little bit of peril there," manager Paul Molitor said.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Cubs (66-48) at White Sox (54-59)

Game: 2
Venue: U.S. Cellular Field
Date: August 15, 2015 7:10 PM EDT

While superstar Bryce Harper has been the favorite to win the NL MVP for months, the Chicago Cubs' Anthony Rizzo is making it clear his name belongs in the conversation.

Cubs starting pitcher Jake Arrieta isn't the most familiar name in baseball but he's also showing he should be considered for the league's Cy Young.

Rizzo looks to continue his torrid stretch and Arrieta tries to extend his scoreless streak as the Cubs go for a ninth straight win Saturday night against the Chicago White Sox at U.S. Cellular Field.

After completing a 7-0 homestand, the Cubs (66-48) pushed their winning streak to eight with Friday's 6-5 victory for their 14th win in 15 games to remain 1 1/2 games back of Pittsburgh for the top wild-card spot. This is the first time the team has won eight in a row since a nine-game run May 26-June 3, 2008, and it's best stretch since going 15-1 from May 19-June 7, 2001.

'I think right now, we feel like we're gonna win every game,' Chris Coghlan said. 'I think that's the reason why we're winning a lot of them. You can say, 'I hope we win a game.' But to actually believe it and be (convinced) in it is totally different than just saying, 'I hope we go win today.''

Coghlan hit a three-run homer in the top of the third and then tied the score with a solo shot in the fifth. Rizzo followed with his 23rd homer to give the Cubs 10 home runs in their last three games.

"They're playing great baseball right now," Friday's loser Jeff Samardzija said. "They play every out and they don't make any mistakes."

Rizzo has been the driving force behind the team's surge, batting .412 with seven homers, 16 RBIs and a 1.394 OPS in the last 15 games. He is also 15 for 30 with five homers and four doubles during a 7-1 stretch on the road.

One of the biggest improvements in his game is his ability to hit left-handed pitching.

After batting .226 against southpaws in his first four seasons, he is hitting .343 against lefties this year - the majors' second-best mark by a left-handed batter.

He was 1 for 3 against the left-handed Jose Quintana (6-9, 3.59 ERA) last month while Dexter Fowler went 3 for 4. Fowler is 5 for 11 in his last three games.

Quintana pitched well against the Cubs on July 12, permitting three runs while striking out nine over 7 1-3 innings, but was outdueled by Arrieta in the Cubs' 3-1 win. Arrieta struck out nine in a two-hitter and carries a 17 2-3 scoreless innings streak into this one.

Arrieta (13-6, 2.38) has the majors' third-best ERA since June 21 at 1.23, yielding two runs or fewer in nine of 10 starts. He also has baseball's best road ERA since June 4 at 1.29, going 6-0 in eight starts.

On the season, he is limiting left-handed hitters to a .178 average - the third-lowest among right-handed starting pitchers. Given his dominance of left-handers plus Adam LaRoche being 1 for 13 in their matchups and mired in an 0-for-13 slump, the White Sox first baseman/designated hitter could get the day off.

The left-handed-hitting Adam Eaton, who homered Friday, was 0 for 3 with two strikeouts against Arrieta last month.

The White Sox (54-59) lost their fifth straight home game to an NL team and Quintana has been plagued by some terrible luck at U.S. Cellular Field, recording one win in 10 starts despite a 3.58 ERA. His 2.34 run-support average at home is the third-lowest in the majors.

He gave up four runs and eight hits over 6 2-3 innings in Sunday's 5-4 loss at Kansas City after going 2-0 with a 1.69 ERA in his previous three starts.