Handicapped by The Walker Group at Arlington
Always check program numbers.
Odds shown are morning line odds.
Race 1 - Maiden Claiming - 6.0f on the Dirt. Purse: $9500 Class Rating: 71
FOR MAIDENS, THREE YEARS OLD AND UPWARD. THREE YEAR OLDS, 121 LBS.; OLDER, 124 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $7,500.
RECOMMENDED CHOICES
The Walker Group Picks
# 7 ANOTHER RICHIE 7/5
# 6 DR. MOVE 8/5
# 4 HIDE THE EVIDENCE 4/1
ANOTHER RICHIE is my choice. Earned a formidable Equibase Speed Figure last time out. Has run well when racing a dirt sprint race. Very solid jockey with trainer numbers make this horse a very strong betting selection. DR. MOVE - Could best this group based on the Equibase Speed Fig - 70 - of his last effort. Has posted formidable Equibase Speed Figures in dirt sprint races in the past. HIDE THE EVIDENCE - May best this group here, showing very good figures of late. A solid 75 avg class figure may give this gelding a distinct class edge against this group.
Always check program numbers.
Odds shown are morning line odds.
Race 1 - Maiden Claiming - 6.0f on the Dirt. Purse: $9500 Class Rating: 71
FOR MAIDENS, THREE YEARS OLD AND UPWARD. THREE YEAR OLDS, 121 LBS.; OLDER, 124 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $7,500.
RECOMMENDED CHOICES
The Walker Group Picks
# 7 ANOTHER RICHIE 7/5
# 6 DR. MOVE 8/5
# 4 HIDE THE EVIDENCE 4/1
ANOTHER RICHIE is my choice. Earned a formidable Equibase Speed Figure last time out. Has run well when racing a dirt sprint race. Very solid jockey with trainer numbers make this horse a very strong betting selection. DR. MOVE - Could best this group based on the Equibase Speed Fig - 70 - of his last effort. Has posted formidable Equibase Speed Figures in dirt sprint races in the past. HIDE THE EVIDENCE - May best this group here, showing very good figures of late. A solid 75 avg class figure may give this gelding a distinct class edge against this group.
Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts
Bar
Belterra Park - Race #8 - Post: 5:18pm - Claiming - 5.5 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $7,900 Class Rating: 71
Rating: 4
#6 PARKERELIZABETH (ML=5/1)
#2 APPLE ADDIE (ML=5/1)
PARKERELIZABETH - Entered at the same class level and distance of her last win, which is a big plus for this filly. Garcia brings this filly back into a race rather than a workout. He knows his filly is on top of her game. Rode this mount on Jul 25th and Riquelme is right back in the irons this time. You always have to be on the prowl for revenue generating rider/conditioner combinations; we have an instance right here. APPLE ADDIE - Prentice rode this thoroughbred for the initial time last time out and comes right back this race. This mare is in fine condition, having run a good race on July 20th, finishing second.
Vulnerable Contenders: #3 VACANZIE INN (ML=5/2), #8 SATURDAY'S CATCH (ML=7/2), #9 NASHA NADEZHDA (ML=6/1),
VACANZIE INN - This less than sharp equine didn't go to the lead and didn't close any ground down the lane last time she ran. SATURDAY'S CATCH - If you keep choosing these kind of 'bridesmaid' types, you're going to be let down regularly. Didn't show much run last out. Probably won't make a winning move today. NASHA NADEZHDA - This filly hasn't been showing me anything in the last two efforts.
Top HatGUEST COMMENTARY: Winston - APPLE ADDIE - This beautiful animal is a gem of consistency. Check out her running lines. Worth a wager today.
STRAIGHT WAGERS:
Bet on #6 PARKERELIZABETH to win if you can get at least 8/5 odds
EXACTA WAGERS:
Box [2,6]
TRIFECTA WAGERS:
Pass
SUPERFECTA WAGERS:
Pass
Bar
Belterra Park - Race #8 - Post: 5:18pm - Claiming - 5.5 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $7,900 Class Rating: 71
Rating: 4
#6 PARKERELIZABETH (ML=5/1)
#2 APPLE ADDIE (ML=5/1)
PARKERELIZABETH - Entered at the same class level and distance of her last win, which is a big plus for this filly. Garcia brings this filly back into a race rather than a workout. He knows his filly is on top of her game. Rode this mount on Jul 25th and Riquelme is right back in the irons this time. You always have to be on the prowl for revenue generating rider/conditioner combinations; we have an instance right here. APPLE ADDIE - Prentice rode this thoroughbred for the initial time last time out and comes right back this race. This mare is in fine condition, having run a good race on July 20th, finishing second.
Vulnerable Contenders: #3 VACANZIE INN (ML=5/2), #8 SATURDAY'S CATCH (ML=7/2), #9 NASHA NADEZHDA (ML=6/1),
VACANZIE INN - This less than sharp equine didn't go to the lead and didn't close any ground down the lane last time she ran. SATURDAY'S CATCH - If you keep choosing these kind of 'bridesmaid' types, you're going to be let down regularly. Didn't show much run last out. Probably won't make a winning move today. NASHA NADEZHDA - This filly hasn't been showing me anything in the last two efforts.
Top HatGUEST COMMENTARY: Winston - APPLE ADDIE - This beautiful animal is a gem of consistency. Check out her running lines. Worth a wager today.
STRAIGHT WAGERS:
Bet on #6 PARKERELIZABETH to win if you can get at least 8/5 odds
EXACTA WAGERS:
Box [2,6]
TRIFECTA WAGERS:
Pass
SUPERFECTA WAGERS:
Pass
F.A.S.T. Sheets Free Race for Indiana Downs
Indiana Downs - Race 8
Daily Double / Exacta / Trifecta / 50 Cent Trifecta / Superfecta 10 Cent Superfecta / 10 Cent Grand High 5 (Pentafecta)
Optional Claiming $25,000 • 1 Mile 70 yards • Dirt • Ages 3 and up • CR: 101 • Purse: $32,500 • Post: 9:21P
(PLUS UP TO 40% INDIANA STATE BRED SUPPLEMENT) FOR THREE YEAR OLDS AND UPWARD WHICH HAVE NEVER WON A RACE OTHER THAN MAIDEN, CLAIMING, STARTER OR INDIANA BRED OR CLAIMING PRICE $25,000. THREE YEAR OLDS, 118 LBS.; OLDER, 122 LBS. NON-WINNERS OF A RACE AT A MILE OR OVER SINCE JULY 5 ALLOWED 2 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $25,000 (RACES WHERE ENTERED FOR $15,000 OR LESS NOT CONSIDERED IN ALLOWANCES).
Contenders
Race Analysis
P#
Horse
Morn
Line
Accept
Odds
Race Type: Lone Front-runner. THUNDER BYE is the Lone Front-runner of the race. * KEY ANGLES * SALSA'S RETURN: Horse ranks in the top three in TrackMaster Power Rating. EPIC JOURNEY: Horse has run a Good Race within the last 30 days. BATTLE TAP: Horse ranks in the top three in TrackMaster Power Rating. THUNDER BYE: Jockey/Trainer combination return on investment is at least +20. BAGPIPES: Horse's win percentage at today's distance(sprint or route)/surface (dirt or turf) is at least 50.
1
SALSA'S RETURN
9/2
6/1
2
EPIC JOURNEY
7/2
7/1
8
BATTLE TAP
8/1
7/1
9
THUNDER BYE
6/1
7/1
6
BAGPIPES
9/2
8/1
Indiana Downs - Race 8
Daily Double / Exacta / Trifecta / 50 Cent Trifecta / Superfecta 10 Cent Superfecta / 10 Cent Grand High 5 (Pentafecta)
Optional Claiming $25,000 • 1 Mile 70 yards • Dirt • Ages 3 and up • CR: 101 • Purse: $32,500 • Post: 9:21P
(PLUS UP TO 40% INDIANA STATE BRED SUPPLEMENT) FOR THREE YEAR OLDS AND UPWARD WHICH HAVE NEVER WON A RACE OTHER THAN MAIDEN, CLAIMING, STARTER OR INDIANA BRED OR CLAIMING PRICE $25,000. THREE YEAR OLDS, 118 LBS.; OLDER, 122 LBS. NON-WINNERS OF A RACE AT A MILE OR OVER SINCE JULY 5 ALLOWED 2 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $25,000 (RACES WHERE ENTERED FOR $15,000 OR LESS NOT CONSIDERED IN ALLOWANCES).
Contenders
Race Analysis
P#
Horse
Morn
Line
Accept
Odds
Race Type: Lone Front-runner. THUNDER BYE is the Lone Front-runner of the race. * KEY ANGLES * SALSA'S RETURN: Horse ranks in the top three in TrackMaster Power Rating. EPIC JOURNEY: Horse has run a Good Race within the last 30 days. BATTLE TAP: Horse ranks in the top three in TrackMaster Power Rating. THUNDER BYE: Jockey/Trainer combination return on investment is at least +20. BAGPIPES: Horse's win percentage at today's distance(sprint or route)/surface (dirt or turf) is at least 50.
1
SALSA'S RETURN
9/2
6/1
2
EPIC JOURNEY
7/2
7/1
8
BATTLE TAP
8/1
7/1
9
THUNDER BYE
6/1
7/1
6
BAGPIPES
9/2
8/1
F.A.S.T. Sheets Free Race for Louisiana Downs
Louisiana Downs - Race 6
Daily Double / Exacta / .50 Trifecta / .10 Superfecta .50 Pick 3 (Races 6-7-8) / .50 Pick 4 (Races 6-7-8-9)
Stakes • 1 1/16 Miles • Turf • Ages 3 and up • CR: 101 • Purse: $50,000 • Post: 5:30P
LOUISIANA CUP TURF CLASSIC - FOR ACCREDITED LOUISIANA BRED THREE YEAR OLDS AND UPWARD. FREE NOMINATION. $250 TO PASS THE ENTRY BOX AND AN ADDITIONAL $250 TO START. SUPPLEMENTARY NOMINATION OF $1,500 DUE AT TIME OF ENTRY ( INCLUDES ENTRY AND STARTING FEES). $50,000 GUARANTEED OF WHICH 60% TO THE WINNER, 20% TO SECOND, 11% TO THIRD, 6% TO FOURTH AND 3% TO FIFTH. WEIGHTS: THREE YEAR OLDS 120 LBS.; OLDER 124 LBS. NON-WINNERS OF $30,000 AT A MILE OR OVER IN 2017 ALLOWED 2 LBS.; TWO RACES OTHER THAN MAIDEN, CLAIMING OR STARTER AT AMILE OR OVER IN 2017 ALLOWED 4 LBS.; A RACE OTHER THAN MAIDEN, CLAIMING OR STARTER AT A MILE OR OVER IN 2017 ALLOWED 6 LBS. IN THE EVENT THAT MORE THAN TWELVE (12) PASS THE ENTRY BOX, PREFERENCE WILL BE GIVEN TO THE HORSES WITH THE HIGHEST EARNINGS IN 20016-2017. DIFFERENT OWNERS HAVE EQUAL DRAW ACCORDING TO EARNINGS. THE SECOND PART OF SAME OWNER ENTRIES WILL HAVE NO CONSIDERATION OVER A SINGLE INTEREST. FAILURE TO DRAW INTO THE RACE CANCELS ALL FEES. LOUISIANA DOWNS WILL PRESENT
Contenders
Race Analysis
P#
Horse
Morn
Line
Accept
Odds
Race Type: Dominant Front-runner. TRUST FACTOR is the Dominant Front-runner of the race. * KEY ANGLES * TRUST FACTOR: Horse's win percentage at today's distance(sprint or route)/surface (dirt or turf) is at least 50. Horse has run a Good Race wit hin the last 30 days. SIR GENGHIS: Horse has run a Good Race within the last 30 days. Horse has the highest average Equibase Class Rating at the distance/surface. EDEN GREY'S KITTEN: Horse has a TrackMaster "+" designation or an "L" designation. Horse has run a Good Race within the last 30 days.
3
TRUST FACTOR
2/1
3/1
2
SIR GENGHIS
12/1
8/1
6
EDEN GREY'S KITTEN
6/1
10/1
Louisiana Downs - Race 6
Daily Double / Exacta / .50 Trifecta / .10 Superfecta .50 Pick 3 (Races 6-7-8) / .50 Pick 4 (Races 6-7-8-9)
Stakes • 1 1/16 Miles • Turf • Ages 3 and up • CR: 101 • Purse: $50,000 • Post: 5:30P
LOUISIANA CUP TURF CLASSIC - FOR ACCREDITED LOUISIANA BRED THREE YEAR OLDS AND UPWARD. FREE NOMINATION. $250 TO PASS THE ENTRY BOX AND AN ADDITIONAL $250 TO START. SUPPLEMENTARY NOMINATION OF $1,500 DUE AT TIME OF ENTRY ( INCLUDES ENTRY AND STARTING FEES). $50,000 GUARANTEED OF WHICH 60% TO THE WINNER, 20% TO SECOND, 11% TO THIRD, 6% TO FOURTH AND 3% TO FIFTH. WEIGHTS: THREE YEAR OLDS 120 LBS.; OLDER 124 LBS. NON-WINNERS OF $30,000 AT A MILE OR OVER IN 2017 ALLOWED 2 LBS.; TWO RACES OTHER THAN MAIDEN, CLAIMING OR STARTER AT AMILE OR OVER IN 2017 ALLOWED 4 LBS.; A RACE OTHER THAN MAIDEN, CLAIMING OR STARTER AT A MILE OR OVER IN 2017 ALLOWED 6 LBS. IN THE EVENT THAT MORE THAN TWELVE (12) PASS THE ENTRY BOX, PREFERENCE WILL BE GIVEN TO THE HORSES WITH THE HIGHEST EARNINGS IN 20016-2017. DIFFERENT OWNERS HAVE EQUAL DRAW ACCORDING TO EARNINGS. THE SECOND PART OF SAME OWNER ENTRIES WILL HAVE NO CONSIDERATION OVER A SINGLE INTEREST. FAILURE TO DRAW INTO THE RACE CANCELS ALL FEES. LOUISIANA DOWNS WILL PRESENT
Contenders
Race Analysis
P#
Horse
Morn
Line
Accept
Odds
Race Type: Dominant Front-runner. TRUST FACTOR is the Dominant Front-runner of the race. * KEY ANGLES * TRUST FACTOR: Horse's win percentage at today's distance(sprint or route)/surface (dirt or turf) is at least 50. Horse has run a Good Race wit hin the last 30 days. SIR GENGHIS: Horse has run a Good Race within the last 30 days. Horse has the highest average Equibase Class Rating at the distance/surface. EDEN GREY'S KITTEN: Horse has a TrackMaster "+" designation or an "L" designation. Horse has run a Good Race within the last 30 days.
3
TRUST FACTOR
2/1
3/1
2
SIR GENGHIS
12/1
8/1
6
EDEN GREY'S KITTEN
6/1
10/1
Handicapped by Rick Needham at Saratoga
RACE #9 - SARATOGA RACE COURSE - 5:14 PM EASTERN POST
The Whitney Stakes
9.0 FURLONGS DIRT GRADE I THREE YEARS OLD AND UPWARD STAKES $1,200,000.00 PURSE
#6 GUN RUNNER
#5 KEEN ICE
#2 BREAKING LUCKY
#4 TU BRUTUS
This race is named after the family that for generations has had so much to do with racing at Saratoga, the Whitney Handicap was first run in 1928. The Whitney family's involvement with thoroughbreds began when William Collins Whitney, one of the founders of The Jockey Club, began campaigning racehorses in 1898, bearing the familiar Eton blue-and-brown silks. His legacy was carried on by his son, Harry Payne Whitney, and grandson, Cornelius Vanderbilt "Sonny" Whitney, who died in 1992, with other family members involved under various names including Greentree Stables. Whitney-owned horses have won every major race in the United States including multiple wins at the Kentucky Derby, the Preakness Stakes, and the Belmont Stakes. Prior to 1954, the Whitney was run at 1 1/4 miles as a weight-for-age event, and from 1957-69 it was restricted to 4-year-olds and up. Beginning in 1955 it was run at its current distance of 1 1/8 miles. It returned to a weight-for-age event for the 2014 edition. Here in the 90th running of The Whitney, #6 GUN RUNNER is the overall speed and pace profile leader in this field, and has hit the board in "POWER RUN FASHION" in each of his last five starts, winning three times in this recent streak of racing consistency. Jockey Florent Geroux has been in his irons on 11 previous occasions, hitting the board in 10 of those races, winning 6 times, and is back today here at Saratoga for his 12th ride.
RACE #9 - SARATOGA RACE COURSE - 5:14 PM EASTERN POST
The Whitney Stakes
9.0 FURLONGS DIRT GRADE I THREE YEARS OLD AND UPWARD STAKES $1,200,000.00 PURSE
#6 GUN RUNNER
#5 KEEN ICE
#2 BREAKING LUCKY
#4 TU BRUTUS
This race is named after the family that for generations has had so much to do with racing at Saratoga, the Whitney Handicap was first run in 1928. The Whitney family's involvement with thoroughbreds began when William Collins Whitney, one of the founders of The Jockey Club, began campaigning racehorses in 1898, bearing the familiar Eton blue-and-brown silks. His legacy was carried on by his son, Harry Payne Whitney, and grandson, Cornelius Vanderbilt "Sonny" Whitney, who died in 1992, with other family members involved under various names including Greentree Stables. Whitney-owned horses have won every major race in the United States including multiple wins at the Kentucky Derby, the Preakness Stakes, and the Belmont Stakes. Prior to 1954, the Whitney was run at 1 1/4 miles as a weight-for-age event, and from 1957-69 it was restricted to 4-year-olds and up. Beginning in 1955 it was run at its current distance of 1 1/8 miles. It returned to a weight-for-age event for the 2014 edition. Here in the 90th running of The Whitney, #6 GUN RUNNER is the overall speed and pace profile leader in this field, and has hit the board in "POWER RUN FASHION" in each of his last five starts, winning three times in this recent streak of racing consistency. Jockey Florent Geroux has been in his irons on 11 previous occasions, hitting the board in 10 of those races, winning 6 times, and is back today here at Saratoga for his 12th ride.
Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts
Bar
Santa Rosa - Race #3 - Post: 2:18pm - Claiming - 5.0 furlongs on the Turf. Purse: $12,000 Class Rating: 86
Rating: 3
#1 SOONER TIME (ML=2/1)
#5 LACEY'S RAINBOW (ML=9/5)
SOONER TIME - Bellasis brings her right back. I recommend you stick with this hot filly. Likes to go to the lead and the fact that today is a shorter trip should help. I'm focusing on the class of this race horse, and this one is the 'classiest' of the bunch. LACEY'S RAINBOW - Last race out on the grass, this animal was great. Anything close in today's race, and this one should win. I like to see when a thoroughbred has a recent work at the same trip or farther of a race. Ran a speedy time for the last quarter on Jun 16th at Golden Gate Fields. Anything close in today's race should get the job done.
Vulnerable Contenders: #4 DANCING LINDSAY (ML=8/5), #3 KAJA (ML=8/1),
DANCING LINDSAY - Not a good 'situation' in this race. KAJA - 8/1 is just too low of a price to take on this participant.
STRAIGHT WAGERS:
#1 SOONER TIME is the play if we get odds of 2/1 or better
EXACTA WAGERS:
Box [1,5]
TRIFECTA WAGERS:
Pass
Bar
Santa Rosa - Race #3 - Post: 2:18pm - Claiming - 5.0 furlongs on the Turf. Purse: $12,000 Class Rating: 86
Rating: 3
#1 SOONER TIME (ML=2/1)
#5 LACEY'S RAINBOW (ML=9/5)
SOONER TIME - Bellasis brings her right back. I recommend you stick with this hot filly. Likes to go to the lead and the fact that today is a shorter trip should help. I'm focusing on the class of this race horse, and this one is the 'classiest' of the bunch. LACEY'S RAINBOW - Last race out on the grass, this animal was great. Anything close in today's race, and this one should win. I like to see when a thoroughbred has a recent work at the same trip or farther of a race. Ran a speedy time for the last quarter on Jun 16th at Golden Gate Fields. Anything close in today's race should get the job done.
Vulnerable Contenders: #4 DANCING LINDSAY (ML=8/5), #3 KAJA (ML=8/1),
DANCING LINDSAY - Not a good 'situation' in this race. KAJA - 8/1 is just too low of a price to take on this participant.
STRAIGHT WAGERS:
#1 SOONER TIME is the play if we get odds of 2/1 or better
EXACTA WAGERS:
Box [1,5]
TRIFECTA WAGERS:
Pass
Handicapped by The Walker Group at Wyoming Downs
Always check program numbers.
Odds shown are morning line odds.
Race 3 - Maiden Claiming - 350y on the Dirt. Purse: $1100 Class Rating: 72
QUARTER HORSE 350Y, FOR MAIDENS, THREE YEARS OLD AND UPWARD. THREE YEAR OLDS, 124 LBS.; OLDER, 126 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $8,000.
RECOMMENDED CHOICES
The Walker Group Picks
# 4 EVIL INVADER 4/1
# 2 CHASE N HAYDEN 8/1
# 6 CD PENDLETON PROUD 7/2
EVIL INVADER is my choice. Has to be given a shot against this field displaying very good numbers recently and an average Equibase Speed Figure of 77 under similar conditions. Maldonado has him trained admirably to break swiftly out of the starting gate. Is a solid choice - given the 77 speed rating from his most recent race. CHASE N HAYDEN - This pony enters today's race with second time Lasix. CD PENDLETON PROUD - Make a note that this one runs now going off Lasix today. He has very good class ratings, averaging 84, and has to be given a chance for this event.
Always check program numbers.
Odds shown are morning line odds.
Race 3 - Maiden Claiming - 350y on the Dirt. Purse: $1100 Class Rating: 72
QUARTER HORSE 350Y, FOR MAIDENS, THREE YEARS OLD AND UPWARD. THREE YEAR OLDS, 124 LBS.; OLDER, 126 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $8,000.
RECOMMENDED CHOICES
The Walker Group Picks
# 4 EVIL INVADER 4/1
# 2 CHASE N HAYDEN 8/1
# 6 CD PENDLETON PROUD 7/2
EVIL INVADER is my choice. Has to be given a shot against this field displaying very good numbers recently and an average Equibase Speed Figure of 77 under similar conditions. Maldonado has him trained admirably to break swiftly out of the starting gate. Is a solid choice - given the 77 speed rating from his most recent race. CHASE N HAYDEN - This pony enters today's race with second time Lasix. CD PENDLETON PROUD - Make a note that this one runs now going off Lasix today. He has very good class ratings, averaging 84, and has to be given a chance for this event.
Saturday's Diamond Notes
Hottest team: Dodgers (11-1 last 12, 42-7 last 49)
Yu Darvish threw seven shutout innings against the Mets in his team debut last night because of course he did. He was wearing a Dodgers uniform, which just about guarantees you walk off the field a winner these days. L.A. won 6-0 in Queens and hasn't lost to anyone but Atlanta since before July 4, currently 22-3 in that stretch. Lefty Rich Hill, who was named NL pitcher of the month for July after going 4-0 with a 1.45 ERA, will make his first August appearance. He beat the Mets on June 21, part of a 5-0 run the Dodgers are on against New York this season. L.A. has outscored the Mets 42-11, but will be facing young righty Seth Lugo for the first time. The Dodgers are looking to score a 14th series victory in 16 chances with a win, having split four-game sets against the Angels and Braves as the lone outliers. Washington was the last team to beat L.A. in a series -- two months ago (June 5-7).
Coldest team: White Sox (0-4 last four, 4-21 last 25)
Chicago dealt staff ace Jose Quintana, closer David Robertson, top set-up men Tommy Kahnle and Dan Jennings in addition to OF Melky Cabrera, so this latest swoon isn't exactly a surprise. Only the Giants and Phillies have worse records than the Sox, who lead the AL in losses and aren't likely to escape the basement. They're the only team in the American with a losing home record and have been better than only the A's on the road, which is why the surging Red Sox (-300) are Saturday's heaviest favorite despite needing 11 innings to survive 3-2 on Friday on the strength of Mitch Moreland's two-out game-winning blast. The White Sox are 4-12 on the road dating back to June 18 and run up against Boston lefty Drew Pomeranz, who has won four straight decisions. James Shields will take the mound for Chicago but has pitched in just two wins over eight starts since returning from the DL on June 18. His July ERA was 9.00.
Hottest pitcher: Zach Davies, Brewers (12-5, 4.42 ERA)
Although he lost his last start against the Cubs despite working seven innings, this category still applies most applies to the Brewers ace over even L.A.'s Hill. Davies has won 12 of his last 14 decisions and had a run of over 20 scoreless innings snapped by Chicago last time out. Davies comes off a July where where he had a season-best 3.23 ERA and remains perfect on the road in 2017, coming in 6-0 with a 2.80 ERA to improve to 13-3 in opposing stadiums in his career. This will be the first time he's pitching against Tampa Bay.
Coldest pitcher: Wade Miley, Orioles (5-9, 5.60 ERA)
The lefty from Louisiana snapped a personal 1-5 run thanks to a 10-6 win at Texas on Sunday, but he's still given up four or more earned runs in eight of 11 starts and had an 8.68 ERA, allowing hitters to bat .342 against him. His ERA since joining the Birds last season tops 6.00, and he was 1-3 with a 7.32 ERA last August. Miley pitched in a 13-11 win over the Tigers on May 16, surrendering eight hits, two of them homers. He'll be opposed by righty reliever Drew VerHagen, who will be making his second career start.
Biggest UNDER run: Brewers (6-0-1 last seven, 15-3-1 last 19)
After blanking Tampa Bay last night behind rookie Brandon Woodruff and a superb bullpen effort, Milwaukee has now held the opposition to two or fewer runs in five of its last seven games. The Brew Crew's own lack of offense has largely been the culprit throughout this lengthy run of low-scoring affairs, so last night's 2-0 win fell right in line as they've managed more than three runs only four times in 19 games. The number for this one opened at 8.5 with the sizzling Davies on the mound opposed by Rays righty Alex Cobb, who has allowed more than three runs in a game only four times in his last 18 outings. He's coming off his worst outing of 2017, lasting a season-low three innings after surrendering eight runs at Houston in a 14-7 loss on July 31.
Biggest OVER run: Blue Jays (5-1 last six)
Toronto was involved in Friday's highest-scoring game, getting lit up for a 9-run inning in a 16-7 loss at Houston. There have been at least nine runs scored in seven of the last eight involving the Jays, a run that began in style when Steve Pearce belted his first of two walk-off grand slams last week. The OVER is 5-1 in Marco Estrada's last six starts and has prevailed in 10 of 14 games involving the Astros, MLB's highest-scoring team. It's 4-0-1 in matchups involving these clubs this season. Houston is 3-2 against the Blue Jays, owning a 47-10 advantage in the victories.
Matchup to watch: Yankees at Indians
New York has seen its two new starters, Sonny Gray and Jaime Garcia, greeted rudely in Cleveland. Neither even tasted a lead as the Yankees have been outscored 12-3, bumbling ineptly. They committed as many errors (3) as they had hits in Thursday's series opener and left 10 men on base in being blown out last night.
Since putting together a six-game winning streak to take over the AL East lead, the Yanks have dropped five of six since July 30, scoring three or fewer runs in each of the losses. As a result, they've fallen a full three games back of Boston and own just a one-game edge over Kansas City for the top wild card.
Their task gets no easier with Danny Salazar on the mound for the Indians. The Dominican righty has been dominant since returning from the DL on July 22, showing off a live fastball and filthy complementary pitches in giving up two runs over 13 innings, striking out 16 while walking two. His arm should be fresh since he's pitching on eight days rest due to his start being pushed back.
The Tribe has survived the Royals' big push and lead the AL Central by 3.5 games as they look for their 60th win. Salazar is 1-1 with a 5.60 ERA in three career starts against the Yankees, who counter with rookie lefty Jordan Montgomery. New York is 1-5 in his last six outings.
Betcha didn’t know: San Francisco's Chris Stratton will get to start a game with more than a few hours notice for the first time when he takes the mound against Arizona, so it will be interesting to see how the former first-round pick fares. He threw 106 pitches on July 6 in a 6-2 loss at Detroit after being pressed into duty when Johnny Cueto was scratched, walking five and allowing five earned runs over 6.2 innings. He's taking struggling Matt Cain's turn in the rotation and is expected to be in the mix going forward to give the Giants a better idea of how they want to use him going forward. He'll be opposed by another former first-round pick, Taijuan Walker, who hasn't produced a D'Backs win in any of his last four starts.
Biggest public favorite: Cubs (-155) vs. Nationals
Biggest public underdog: Cardinals (+112) at Reds
Biggest line move: Astros (-150 to -175) vs. Blue Jays
Hottest team: Dodgers (11-1 last 12, 42-7 last 49)
Yu Darvish threw seven shutout innings against the Mets in his team debut last night because of course he did. He was wearing a Dodgers uniform, which just about guarantees you walk off the field a winner these days. L.A. won 6-0 in Queens and hasn't lost to anyone but Atlanta since before July 4, currently 22-3 in that stretch. Lefty Rich Hill, who was named NL pitcher of the month for July after going 4-0 with a 1.45 ERA, will make his first August appearance. He beat the Mets on June 21, part of a 5-0 run the Dodgers are on against New York this season. L.A. has outscored the Mets 42-11, but will be facing young righty Seth Lugo for the first time. The Dodgers are looking to score a 14th series victory in 16 chances with a win, having split four-game sets against the Angels and Braves as the lone outliers. Washington was the last team to beat L.A. in a series -- two months ago (June 5-7).
Coldest team: White Sox (0-4 last four, 4-21 last 25)
Chicago dealt staff ace Jose Quintana, closer David Robertson, top set-up men Tommy Kahnle and Dan Jennings in addition to OF Melky Cabrera, so this latest swoon isn't exactly a surprise. Only the Giants and Phillies have worse records than the Sox, who lead the AL in losses and aren't likely to escape the basement. They're the only team in the American with a losing home record and have been better than only the A's on the road, which is why the surging Red Sox (-300) are Saturday's heaviest favorite despite needing 11 innings to survive 3-2 on Friday on the strength of Mitch Moreland's two-out game-winning blast. The White Sox are 4-12 on the road dating back to June 18 and run up against Boston lefty Drew Pomeranz, who has won four straight decisions. James Shields will take the mound for Chicago but has pitched in just two wins over eight starts since returning from the DL on June 18. His July ERA was 9.00.
Hottest pitcher: Zach Davies, Brewers (12-5, 4.42 ERA)
Although he lost his last start against the Cubs despite working seven innings, this category still applies most applies to the Brewers ace over even L.A.'s Hill. Davies has won 12 of his last 14 decisions and had a run of over 20 scoreless innings snapped by Chicago last time out. Davies comes off a July where where he had a season-best 3.23 ERA and remains perfect on the road in 2017, coming in 6-0 with a 2.80 ERA to improve to 13-3 in opposing stadiums in his career. This will be the first time he's pitching against Tampa Bay.
Coldest pitcher: Wade Miley, Orioles (5-9, 5.60 ERA)
The lefty from Louisiana snapped a personal 1-5 run thanks to a 10-6 win at Texas on Sunday, but he's still given up four or more earned runs in eight of 11 starts and had an 8.68 ERA, allowing hitters to bat .342 against him. His ERA since joining the Birds last season tops 6.00, and he was 1-3 with a 7.32 ERA last August. Miley pitched in a 13-11 win over the Tigers on May 16, surrendering eight hits, two of them homers. He'll be opposed by righty reliever Drew VerHagen, who will be making his second career start.
Biggest UNDER run: Brewers (6-0-1 last seven, 15-3-1 last 19)
After blanking Tampa Bay last night behind rookie Brandon Woodruff and a superb bullpen effort, Milwaukee has now held the opposition to two or fewer runs in five of its last seven games. The Brew Crew's own lack of offense has largely been the culprit throughout this lengthy run of low-scoring affairs, so last night's 2-0 win fell right in line as they've managed more than three runs only four times in 19 games. The number for this one opened at 8.5 with the sizzling Davies on the mound opposed by Rays righty Alex Cobb, who has allowed more than three runs in a game only four times in his last 18 outings. He's coming off his worst outing of 2017, lasting a season-low three innings after surrendering eight runs at Houston in a 14-7 loss on July 31.
Biggest OVER run: Blue Jays (5-1 last six)
Toronto was involved in Friday's highest-scoring game, getting lit up for a 9-run inning in a 16-7 loss at Houston. There have been at least nine runs scored in seven of the last eight involving the Jays, a run that began in style when Steve Pearce belted his first of two walk-off grand slams last week. The OVER is 5-1 in Marco Estrada's last six starts and has prevailed in 10 of 14 games involving the Astros, MLB's highest-scoring team. It's 4-0-1 in matchups involving these clubs this season. Houston is 3-2 against the Blue Jays, owning a 47-10 advantage in the victories.
Matchup to watch: Yankees at Indians
New York has seen its two new starters, Sonny Gray and Jaime Garcia, greeted rudely in Cleveland. Neither even tasted a lead as the Yankees have been outscored 12-3, bumbling ineptly. They committed as many errors (3) as they had hits in Thursday's series opener and left 10 men on base in being blown out last night.
Since putting together a six-game winning streak to take over the AL East lead, the Yanks have dropped five of six since July 30, scoring three or fewer runs in each of the losses. As a result, they've fallen a full three games back of Boston and own just a one-game edge over Kansas City for the top wild card.
Their task gets no easier with Danny Salazar on the mound for the Indians. The Dominican righty has been dominant since returning from the DL on July 22, showing off a live fastball and filthy complementary pitches in giving up two runs over 13 innings, striking out 16 while walking two. His arm should be fresh since he's pitching on eight days rest due to his start being pushed back.
The Tribe has survived the Royals' big push and lead the AL Central by 3.5 games as they look for their 60th win. Salazar is 1-1 with a 5.60 ERA in three career starts against the Yankees, who counter with rookie lefty Jordan Montgomery. New York is 1-5 in his last six outings.
Betcha didn’t know: San Francisco's Chris Stratton will get to start a game with more than a few hours notice for the first time when he takes the mound against Arizona, so it will be interesting to see how the former first-round pick fares. He threw 106 pitches on July 6 in a 6-2 loss at Detroit after being pressed into duty when Johnny Cueto was scratched, walking five and allowing five earned runs over 6.2 innings. He's taking struggling Matt Cain's turn in the rotation and is expected to be in the mix going forward to give the Giants a better idea of how they want to use him going forward. He'll be opposed by another former first-round pick, Taijuan Walker, who hasn't produced a D'Backs win in any of his last four starts.
Biggest public favorite: Cubs (-155) vs. Nationals
Biggest public underdog: Cardinals (+112) at Reds
Biggest line move: Astros (-150 to -175) vs. Blue Jays
GAME: Washington Nationals (63-43) at Chicago Cubs (57-50)
DATE/TIME: Saturday, August 05 - 2:20 PM EST
WHERE: Wrigley Field, Chicago, Illinois
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A
Preview: Nationals at Cubs
Gracenote
Aug 5, 2017
The Washington Nationals continue to wreak havoc on the road, as they’ve won 10 of their last 14 contests away from home heading into the second of a three-game series with the host Chicago Cubs on Saturday. Washington boasts a National League-best 35-21 road record after Friday’s 4-2 win over the Cubs.
Daniel Murphy homered twice to power the Nationals in the opener, as Washington increased its NL East lead to 13 games. The Cubs have lost three straight for the first time since a four-game skid from June 7-10, and their lead in the NL Central is down to a half-game over Milwaukee. Former Cubs right-hander Edwin Jackson will start for the Nationals, but it might not be a happy homecoming for the veteran, as he is 10-19 with a 5.76 ERA in 43 career outings at Wrigley Field. The Cubs hope to get the bats going against Jackson after being stymied by Tanner Roark and an improved Washington bullpen, which combined for 2 2/3 innings of one-hit, scoreless relief Friday.
TV: 2:20 p.m. ET, MLB Network, MASN (Washington), ABC 7 (Chicago)
PITCHING MATCHUP: Nationals RH Edwin Jackson (2-1, 3.75 ERA) vs. Cubs RH John Lackey (8-9, 4.87)
Jackson has been solid in three starts for the Nationals, going 2-1 with a 2.84 ERA. The 33-year-old was excellent last time out against Colorado, holding a potent Rockies lineup to one run and four hits over seven frames. Jackson is 3-5 with a 5.89 ERA in 10 games (nine starts) against the Cubs.
Lackey has enjoyed a second-half revival, winning his first three starts since the All-Star break. The 38-year-old has allowed two runs or fewer in each outing and won at Milwaukee last time out, allowing two runs and five hits over six innings. Lackey is 2-1 with a 4.70 ERA in seven starts against the Nationals, including a loss earlier this season in which he was tagged for eight runs in 5 1/3 innings.
WALK-OFFS
1. Nationals RF Bryce Harper is 1-for-11 with three strikeouts against Lackey.
2. Cubs C Willson Contreras has reached base in 18 consecutive starts.
3. Washington LF Howie Kendrick is 10-for-21 in six games since being acquired from Philadelphia.
PREDICTION: Cubs 7, Nationals 6
DATE/TIME: Saturday, August 05 - 2:20 PM EST
WHERE: Wrigley Field, Chicago, Illinois
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A
Preview: Nationals at Cubs
Gracenote
Aug 5, 2017
The Washington Nationals continue to wreak havoc on the road, as they’ve won 10 of their last 14 contests away from home heading into the second of a three-game series with the host Chicago Cubs on Saturday. Washington boasts a National League-best 35-21 road record after Friday’s 4-2 win over the Cubs.
Daniel Murphy homered twice to power the Nationals in the opener, as Washington increased its NL East lead to 13 games. The Cubs have lost three straight for the first time since a four-game skid from June 7-10, and their lead in the NL Central is down to a half-game over Milwaukee. Former Cubs right-hander Edwin Jackson will start for the Nationals, but it might not be a happy homecoming for the veteran, as he is 10-19 with a 5.76 ERA in 43 career outings at Wrigley Field. The Cubs hope to get the bats going against Jackson after being stymied by Tanner Roark and an improved Washington bullpen, which combined for 2 2/3 innings of one-hit, scoreless relief Friday.
TV: 2:20 p.m. ET, MLB Network, MASN (Washington), ABC 7 (Chicago)
PITCHING MATCHUP: Nationals RH Edwin Jackson (2-1, 3.75 ERA) vs. Cubs RH John Lackey (8-9, 4.87)
Jackson has been solid in three starts for the Nationals, going 2-1 with a 2.84 ERA. The 33-year-old was excellent last time out against Colorado, holding a potent Rockies lineup to one run and four hits over seven frames. Jackson is 3-5 with a 5.89 ERA in 10 games (nine starts) against the Cubs.
Lackey has enjoyed a second-half revival, winning his first three starts since the All-Star break. The 38-year-old has allowed two runs or fewer in each outing and won at Milwaukee last time out, allowing two runs and five hits over six innings. Lackey is 2-1 with a 4.70 ERA in seven starts against the Nationals, including a loss earlier this season in which he was tagged for eight runs in 5 1/3 innings.
WALK-OFFS
1. Nationals RF Bryce Harper is 1-for-11 with three strikeouts against Lackey.
2. Cubs C Willson Contreras has reached base in 18 consecutive starts.
3. Washington LF Howie Kendrick is 10-for-21 in six games since being acquired from Philadelphia.
PREDICTION: Cubs 7, Nationals 6
Trends - Washington at Chi. Cubs
W/L Trends
Washington
•Nationals are 7-1 in their last 8 vs. National League Central.
• Nationals are 7-2 in their last 9 road games vs. a team with a winning home record.
• Nationals are 10-4 in their last 14 during game 2 of a series.
• Nationals are 7-3 in their last 10 road games vs. a right-handed starter.
• Nationals are 9-4 in their last 13 road games.
• Nationals are 2-6 in their last 8 games vs. a starter with a WHIP greater than 1.30.
Chi. Cubs
•Cubs are 4-0 in their last 4 vs. National League East.
• Cubs are 5-1 in their last 6 during game 2 of a series.
• Cubs are 14-5 in their last 19 overall.
• Cubs are 14-5 in their last 19 games on grass.
• Cubs are 3-7 in their last 10 home games vs. a team with a winning record.
• Cubs are 4-0 in Lackeys last 4 starts.
• Cubs are 4-0 in Lackeys last 4 starts on grass.
• Cubs are 6-2 in Lackeys last 8 starts vs. a team with a winning record.
• Cubs are 5-2 in Lackeys last 7 starts during game 2 of a series.
• Cubs are 5-2 in Lackeys last 7 home starts.
• Cubs are 2-5 in Lackeys last 7 starts following a Quality Start in his last appearance.
• Cubs are 1-4 in Lackeys last 5 starts vs. National League East.
• Cubs are 1-6 in Lackeys last 7 Saturday starts.
OU Trends
Washington
•Under is 4-0 in Nationals last 4 games vs. a right-handed starter.
• Under is 5-1 in Nationals last 6 road games vs. a team with a winning record.
• Under is 5-1 in Nationals last 6 road games vs. a right-handed starter.
• Under is 4-1 in Nationals last 5 road games.
• Under is 4-1 in Nationals last 5 road games vs. a team with a winning home record.
• Under is 7-2 in Nationals last 9 games vs. a starter with a WHIP greater than 1.30.
• Over is 6-2 in Nationals last 8 during game 2 of a series.
• Under is 11-5 in Nationals last 16 vs. a team with a winning record.
Chi. Cubs
•Under is 9-1 in Cubs last 10 Saturday games.
• Over is 6-1 in Cubs last 7 home games vs. a team with a winning record.
• Under is 8-2 in Cubs last 10 vs. National League East.
• Under is 15-5-1 in Cubs last 21 during game 2 of a series.
• Under is 5-2 in Cubs last 7 overall.
• Under is 5-2 in Cubs last 7 on grass.
• Over is 5-1-2 in Lackeys last 8 home starts.
• Under is 4-1-1 in Lackeys last 6 starts during game 2 of a series.
• Over is 4-1 in Lackeys last 5 home starts vs. a team with a winning record.
• Under is 5-2-1 in Lackeys last 8 starts on grass.
• Under is 5-2-1 in Lackeys last 8 starts overall.
• Under is 9-4-2 in Lackeys last 15 starts with 5 days of rest.
Head to Head
•Under is 6-2 in the last 8 meetings.
• Under is 5-2 in the last 7 meetings in Chicago.
• Nationals are 4-9 in the last 13 meetings.
• Nationals are 0-4 in the last 4 meetings in Chicago.
W/L Trends
Washington
•Nationals are 7-1 in their last 8 vs. National League Central.
• Nationals are 7-2 in their last 9 road games vs. a team with a winning home record.
• Nationals are 10-4 in their last 14 during game 2 of a series.
• Nationals are 7-3 in their last 10 road games vs. a right-handed starter.
• Nationals are 9-4 in their last 13 road games.
• Nationals are 2-6 in their last 8 games vs. a starter with a WHIP greater than 1.30.
Chi. Cubs
•Cubs are 4-0 in their last 4 vs. National League East.
• Cubs are 5-1 in their last 6 during game 2 of a series.
• Cubs are 14-5 in their last 19 overall.
• Cubs are 14-5 in their last 19 games on grass.
• Cubs are 3-7 in their last 10 home games vs. a team with a winning record.
• Cubs are 4-0 in Lackeys last 4 starts.
• Cubs are 4-0 in Lackeys last 4 starts on grass.
• Cubs are 6-2 in Lackeys last 8 starts vs. a team with a winning record.
• Cubs are 5-2 in Lackeys last 7 starts during game 2 of a series.
• Cubs are 5-2 in Lackeys last 7 home starts.
• Cubs are 2-5 in Lackeys last 7 starts following a Quality Start in his last appearance.
• Cubs are 1-4 in Lackeys last 5 starts vs. National League East.
• Cubs are 1-6 in Lackeys last 7 Saturday starts.
OU Trends
Washington
•Under is 4-0 in Nationals last 4 games vs. a right-handed starter.
• Under is 5-1 in Nationals last 6 road games vs. a team with a winning record.
• Under is 5-1 in Nationals last 6 road games vs. a right-handed starter.
• Under is 4-1 in Nationals last 5 road games.
• Under is 4-1 in Nationals last 5 road games vs. a team with a winning home record.
• Under is 7-2 in Nationals last 9 games vs. a starter with a WHIP greater than 1.30.
• Over is 6-2 in Nationals last 8 during game 2 of a series.
• Under is 11-5 in Nationals last 16 vs. a team with a winning record.
Chi. Cubs
•Under is 9-1 in Cubs last 10 Saturday games.
• Over is 6-1 in Cubs last 7 home games vs. a team with a winning record.
• Under is 8-2 in Cubs last 10 vs. National League East.
• Under is 15-5-1 in Cubs last 21 during game 2 of a series.
• Under is 5-2 in Cubs last 7 overall.
• Under is 5-2 in Cubs last 7 on grass.
• Over is 5-1-2 in Lackeys last 8 home starts.
• Under is 4-1-1 in Lackeys last 6 starts during game 2 of a series.
• Over is 4-1 in Lackeys last 5 home starts vs. a team with a winning record.
• Under is 5-2-1 in Lackeys last 8 starts on grass.
• Under is 5-2-1 in Lackeys last 8 starts overall.
• Under is 9-4-2 in Lackeys last 15 starts with 5 days of rest.
Head to Head
•Under is 6-2 in the last 8 meetings.
• Under is 5-2 in the last 7 meetings in Chicago.
• Nationals are 4-9 in the last 13 meetings.
• Nationals are 0-4 in the last 4 meetings in Chicago.
