Dave Cokin
Bonus Play Sunday
YANKEES (Sabathia) @ ORIOLES (Gausman) 1:35 PM
Take: YANKEES +120
Current pitching form charts are in play today as the Yankees conclude their weekend set at Baltimore.
C.C. Sabathia seems to finally be adjusting to his new identity as a finesse pitcher. It took him some time for sure, but he has looked very good lately and today gets to face a Baltimore team that has not been especially productive against lefties.
Kevin Gausman is in lousy form, lots of problems with his fastball command as he’s been in the middle of the plate lately. He’s got talent and I assume this is just a bump in road that could straighten out anytime, but for right now I’d rather fade than tail Gausman.
Outside of Andrew Miller, who threw 28 pitches in the Saturday win, the Yankee end game pen is fresh enough. So the big key today should be Sabathia getting through six, or perhaps seven okay innings. If he can locate as well has been the case in his recent outings, I think there’s a decent chance for the big lefty to chalk up a quality start.
Adding in Sabathia’s career long dominance against this opponent, as well as Gausman’s struggles in day games plus his shaky present form, I think there’s enough to back the Yankees as a dog here.
Bonus Play Sunday
YANKEES (Sabathia) @ ORIOLES (Gausman) 1:35 PM
Take: YANKEES +120
Current pitching form charts are in play today as the Yankees conclude their weekend set at Baltimore.
C.C. Sabathia seems to finally be adjusting to his new identity as a finesse pitcher. It took him some time for sure, but he has looked very good lately and today gets to face a Baltimore team that has not been especially productive against lefties.
Kevin Gausman is in lousy form, lots of problems with his fastball command as he’s been in the middle of the plate lately. He’s got talent and I assume this is just a bump in road that could straighten out anytime, but for right now I’d rather fade than tail Gausman.
Outside of Andrew Miller, who threw 28 pitches in the Saturday win, the Yankee end game pen is fresh enough. So the big key today should be Sabathia getting through six, or perhaps seven okay innings. If he can locate as well has been the case in his recent outings, I think there’s a decent chance for the big lefty to chalk up a quality start.
Adding in Sabathia’s career long dominance against this opponent, as well as Gausman’s struggles in day games plus his shaky present form, I think there’s enough to back the Yankees as a dog here.
Jim Feist
Jim Feist's Comp MLB Pick, Sunday, June 5, 2016 4:10 PM
(961) ATLANTA BRAVES VS (962) LOS ANGELES DODGERS
Take: UNDER
Reason: Your Bonus Play for Sunday, June 5, 2016 is in the MLB scheduled contest between the Atlanta Braves and Los Angeles from Dodger stadium. This is a big park in centerfield, tough on hitters, and a Atlanta offense is in town ranked No. 29 in runs scored. Atlanta is on a 4-1-3 run under the total against the NL West. At least they have a hot starter going in Matt Wisler (3.16 ERA). Opponents are hitting .207 off him, but he's 2-5 because the offense can't get him any runs and the under is 7-2 in Wisler's last 9 starts vs. a team with a winning record. Scott Kazmir threw six shutout innings and held the Cubs to just one hit and one walk with seven strikeouts but was stuck with a no-decision Tuesday night. Kazmir is starting to turn around his season, as he has allowed just one run with 19 strikeouts over 12 innings in his past two starts. The Under is 15-4-3 when the Dodgers face a team with a winning percentage below .400, plus they are on an 19-8 run under at home. Play Atlanta/LA Dodgers Under the total.
Jim Feist's Comp MLB Pick, Sunday, June 5, 2016 4:10 PM
(961) ATLANTA BRAVES VS (962) LOS ANGELES DODGERS
Take: UNDER
Reason: Your Bonus Play for Sunday, June 5, 2016 is in the MLB scheduled contest between the Atlanta Braves and Los Angeles from Dodger stadium. This is a big park in centerfield, tough on hitters, and a Atlanta offense is in town ranked No. 29 in runs scored. Atlanta is on a 4-1-3 run under the total against the NL West. At least they have a hot starter going in Matt Wisler (3.16 ERA). Opponents are hitting .207 off him, but he's 2-5 because the offense can't get him any runs and the under is 7-2 in Wisler's last 9 starts vs. a team with a winning record. Scott Kazmir threw six shutout innings and held the Cubs to just one hit and one walk with seven strikeouts but was stuck with a no-decision Tuesday night. Kazmir is starting to turn around his season, as he has allowed just one run with 19 strikeouts over 12 innings in his past two starts. The Under is 15-4-3 when the Dodgers face a team with a winning percentage below .400, plus they are on an 19-8 run under at home. Play Atlanta/LA Dodgers Under the total.
Brandon Shively
TAM vs MIN
1* Bonus Play on the Rays/ Twins Over the Total
The Rays have lost Drew Smyly’s last three starts and it’s because he hasn’t been able to strike batters out and they are taking him deep. Smyly is coming off his shortest outing of the season against the Royals who tagged him for 12 hits in 4 IP. For the Twins, they will send Tyler Duffey to the mound who has gotten drilled his last three starts to the tune of a 8.47 ERA and the OVER is 3-0. I expect at least one if not both of these pitchers to give up their fair share of runs today. I can’t just see them fixing their troubles as Duffey is a bottom of the rotation starter and Smyly appears to have hit a rough patch in his season.
The OVER is now 13-2-2 in Ray’s last 17 road games and the OVER is 5-0-1 in Smylys last 6 starts overall. The OVER is 9-3 in the Twins last 12 games overall, as their bats have heated up somewhat while the starting pitching is still sub-par.
The wind is expected to be blowing out at 16 MPH. Both teams are ranked in the middle of the pack over the last seven days in weighted on base average. (1* OVER the TOTAL)
TAM vs MIN
1* Bonus Play on the Rays/ Twins Over the Total
The Rays have lost Drew Smyly’s last three starts and it’s because he hasn’t been able to strike batters out and they are taking him deep. Smyly is coming off his shortest outing of the season against the Royals who tagged him for 12 hits in 4 IP. For the Twins, they will send Tyler Duffey to the mound who has gotten drilled his last three starts to the tune of a 8.47 ERA and the OVER is 3-0. I expect at least one if not both of these pitchers to give up their fair share of runs today. I can’t just see them fixing their troubles as Duffey is a bottom of the rotation starter and Smyly appears to have hit a rough patch in his season.
The OVER is now 13-2-2 in Ray’s last 17 road games and the OVER is 5-0-1 in Smylys last 6 starts overall. The OVER is 9-3 in the Twins last 12 games overall, as their bats have heated up somewhat while the starting pitching is still sub-par.
The wind is expected to be blowing out at 16 MPH. Both teams are ranked in the middle of the pack over the last seven days in weighted on base average. (1* OVER the TOTAL)
Matt Josephs
MIL vs PHI
Bonus Play UNDER 8.5
Aaron Nola continues to be stellar for Philadelphia despite a 4-4 record. The righty has a 3.12 ERA and a WHIP of 0.944 in 72 innings of work. Nola beat these Brewers at their place back in April holding them to one run and four hits in seven innings. Milwaukee's offense is scuffling a bit. They have scored just 19 runs in their last six games with three of them going under the total. The Phillies bullpen has just two losses and one blown save at home. Wily Peralta has been trying to improve from a slow start allowing just eight runs in his last three starts. Peralta beat the Phillies at home back on April 24th despite allowing four runs and seven hits in six innings. The Philly offense has been awful scoring three runs or less in eight of their last nine games. They don't have a ton of threats to worry about going under in 17 of their 28 home games. I think anytime I can get an 8 or 8.5 even with this team, I'll try the under.
MIL vs PHI
Bonus Play UNDER 8.5
Aaron Nola continues to be stellar for Philadelphia despite a 4-4 record. The righty has a 3.12 ERA and a WHIP of 0.944 in 72 innings of work. Nola beat these Brewers at their place back in April holding them to one run and four hits in seven innings. Milwaukee's offense is scuffling a bit. They have scored just 19 runs in their last six games with three of them going under the total. The Phillies bullpen has just two losses and one blown save at home. Wily Peralta has been trying to improve from a slow start allowing just eight runs in his last three starts. Peralta beat the Phillies at home back on April 24th despite allowing four runs and seven hits in six innings. The Philly offense has been awful scoring three runs or less in eight of their last nine games. They don't have a ton of threats to worry about going under in 17 of their 28 home games. I think anytime I can get an 8 or 8.5 even with this team, I'll try the under.
Art Aronson
SEA vs TEX
1* Bonus Play OVER Mariners/Rangers
The visitors hand the ball to the struggling Hisashi Iwakuma (4-4, 4.41 ERA) who earned a win vs. the Padres on Tuesday despite allowing four runs off five hits while striking out five. Three of the hits he allowed were home runs. Iwakuma has been consistently inconsistent this year and has particularly struggled in this spot already, going 1-2 with a ballooned 5.21 ERA in all day games thus far. The home side counters with Derek Holland (4-4, 4.78) who comes in off one of his best starts of the season, giving up one run off six hits and two walks with two strikeouts over six innings for the victory over Cleveland on Monday. Holland though has yet to strike out more than five batters in a start this year and owns a pedestrian 0-1, 4.26 ERA in all day games to date. With these two volatile starters going head-to-head on Sunday afternoon, the OVER is definitely worthy of a second look in this matchup.
AAA Sports
SEA vs TEX
1* Bonus Play OVER Mariners/Rangers
The visitors hand the ball to the struggling Hisashi Iwakuma (4-4, 4.41 ERA) who earned a win vs. the Padres on Tuesday despite allowing four runs off five hits while striking out five. Three of the hits he allowed were home runs. Iwakuma has been consistently inconsistent this year and has particularly struggled in this spot already, going 1-2 with a ballooned 5.21 ERA in all day games thus far. The home side counters with Derek Holland (4-4, 4.78) who comes in off one of his best starts of the season, giving up one run off six hits and two walks with two strikeouts over six innings for the victory over Cleveland on Monday. Holland though has yet to strike out more than five batters in a start this year and owns a pedestrian 0-1, 4.26 ERA in all day games to date. With these two volatile starters going head-to-head on Sunday afternoon, the OVER is definitely worthy of a second look in this matchup.
AAA Sports
Marc Lawrence
Nationals vs Reds
Play - Washington Nationals w/Roark vs. Moscot
Edges - Nationals: Tanner Roark 1.69 ERA in three career team starts versus Cincinnati. Reds: Jon Moscot 1-5 overall MLB career team starts. With Roark sporting a 2.70 ERA and a 1.19 WHIP this season, and Moscot 0-4 with a 7.13 ERA and a 1.70 WHIP, we recommend a 1* play on Washington. Thank you and good luck as always.
Nationals vs Reds
Play - Washington Nationals w/Roark vs. Moscot
Edges - Nationals: Tanner Roark 1.69 ERA in three career team starts versus Cincinnati. Reds: Jon Moscot 1-5 overall MLB career team starts. With Roark sporting a 2.70 ERA and a 1.19 WHIP this season, and Moscot 0-4 with a 7.13 ERA and a 1.70 WHIP, we recommend a 1* play on Washington. Thank you and good luck as always.
BOB HARVEY
NBA | Jun 05, 2016
Cavs vs. Warriors
Warriors-6-109
The Cleveland Cavaliers look to square the NBA finals at a win apiece when they visit the Golden State Warriors in tonight’s prime time affair. The Warriors took the series opener 104-89 jumping out to a 1-0 lead for the second year in a row.
The Cavaliers (69-28, 46-48 ATS) held Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson to a combined 20 points on 27 shots but still lost by 15. They were outscored 45-10 in bench points and saw Golden State score 25 points off turnovers. LeBron James had 23 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists in Game 1 but also committed four turnovers. The Cavaliers are averaging 13.9 made 3-pointers in the playoffs – tops in the NBA – but went 7 of 21 from beyond the arc in the series opener.
The Warriors (86-14, 57-41 ATS)have won six straight games against the Cavaliers dating back to last season’s Finals. While Curry and Thompson struggled, Golden State’s bench Ike Iguodala, Shawn Livingston and Leandro Barbosa combined to shoot 18-of-24 from the field to pick up the slack for their star teammates, who appreciated the effort.
Golden State is 4-0 ATS in its last four championship games and 4-0 ATS in its last four home games. The Warriors are also 4-0 ATS in their past four games.
Cleveland is 6-2 ATS vs. the number in its last eight but is 0-4 ATS in its last four NBA title games.
The UNDER is 5-1 in the Cavs last six games vs. the Western Conference while the Warriors are 5- to the low side last five vs. the Eastern Conference.
NBA | Jun 05, 2016
Cavs vs. Warriors
Warriors-6-109
The Cleveland Cavaliers look to square the NBA finals at a win apiece when they visit the Golden State Warriors in tonight’s prime time affair. The Warriors took the series opener 104-89 jumping out to a 1-0 lead for the second year in a row.
The Cavaliers (69-28, 46-48 ATS) held Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson to a combined 20 points on 27 shots but still lost by 15. They were outscored 45-10 in bench points and saw Golden State score 25 points off turnovers. LeBron James had 23 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists in Game 1 but also committed four turnovers. The Cavaliers are averaging 13.9 made 3-pointers in the playoffs – tops in the NBA – but went 7 of 21 from beyond the arc in the series opener.
The Warriors (86-14, 57-41 ATS)have won six straight games against the Cavaliers dating back to last season’s Finals. While Curry and Thompson struggled, Golden State’s bench Ike Iguodala, Shawn Livingston and Leandro Barbosa combined to shoot 18-of-24 from the field to pick up the slack for their star teammates, who appreciated the effort.
Golden State is 4-0 ATS in its last four championship games and 4-0 ATS in its last four home games. The Warriors are also 4-0 ATS in their past four games.
Cleveland is 6-2 ATS vs. the number in its last eight but is 0-4 ATS in its last four NBA title games.
The UNDER is 5-1 in the Cavs last six games vs. the Western Conference while the Warriors are 5- to the low side last five vs. the Eastern Conference.
GABRIEL DUPONT
The STORYLINE in this game today - The Washington Nationals are understandbly big favorites in Cincinnati against the Reds once again. But for the second day in a row, I point out the problem, in that the Reds are rolling right about now, and it's worth taking a look at them with this big a price, as they come in having won four in a row after yesterday's big win at the same price.
The X-FACTOR in making this choice on this game - I'm rolling with confidence as my key factor. See, not only has Cincinnati won four in a row, but it's also won seven of the last eight meetings with the Nationals. Remember yesterday, when I told you Washington hadn't lost one of Stephen Strasburg's starts since Sept. 9? I also told you he struggled in four outings against the Reds, building a 5.68 ERA heading into yesterday. The Reds showed no fear in that game and will show no fear tonight.
BOTTOM LINE is - I am not listing pitchers today, as I don't care much about who is going. I like the price no matter what, and would rather grab the big number with straight action, and be able to keep that price if there is a scratch. Take the Reds with a shot here, as the dog price will come in as a nice complement to my premium winner tonight.
5* REDS
The STORYLINE in this game today - The Washington Nationals are understandbly big favorites in Cincinnati against the Reds once again. But for the second day in a row, I point out the problem, in that the Reds are rolling right about now, and it's worth taking a look at them with this big a price, as they come in having won four in a row after yesterday's big win at the same price.
The X-FACTOR in making this choice on this game - I'm rolling with confidence as my key factor. See, not only has Cincinnati won four in a row, but it's also won seven of the last eight meetings with the Nationals. Remember yesterday, when I told you Washington hadn't lost one of Stephen Strasburg's starts since Sept. 9? I also told you he struggled in four outings against the Reds, building a 5.68 ERA heading into yesterday. The Reds showed no fear in that game and will show no fear tonight.
BOTTOM LINE is - I am not listing pitchers today, as I don't care much about who is going. I like the price no matter what, and would rather grab the big number with straight action, and be able to keep that price if there is a scratch. Take the Reds with a shot here, as the dog price will come in as a nice complement to my premium winner tonight.
5* REDS
SCOTT DELANEY
My Bonus Play for Sunday is on the Chicago Cubs, getting it done over the Arizona Diamondbacks. With the price so big, obviously we're playing this one on the run line, which will also carry a hefty price tag, but I'm rolling anyway as it's just a free pick, and we're not wagering big stakes on it.
PITCHING NOTE: Although all Run Line/Total plays will list pitchers with the starting pitchers scheduled to go at the time of the wager, I don't care about who is starting for either team and want you playing this game regardless. Thus, please be sure you have action if one of the pitchers scheduled to start is scratched. Simply check back occasionally and in the event of a scratch, re-wager the game. This play will stand no matter what, so be sure you have action.
It doesn't really matter who goes for the Cubbies in this one, as they've been throwing gems up and down the rotation. Chicago starters boast an MLB-best 2.33 ERA, and most recently have posted less than a 1.00 mark and less than a 1.00 WHIP through nine of their 11 consecutive home games.
Yesterday the Cubs did it again in a 5-3 victory. No matter who is on the hill, this is a staff that steps to the hill and gives the Cubs a chance to win every single day.
Chicago improved to 8-1 during a current homestand at Wrigley Field, while improving to 10-1 in its last 11 overall.
Meanwhile, Arizona has lost five straight at Wrigley, and has lost nine of 12 overall. The Diamondbacks have also dropped six of seven on the road.
Take the Cubs on the Run Line here.
5* CUBS RUN LINE
My Bonus Play for Sunday is on the Chicago Cubs, getting it done over the Arizona Diamondbacks. With the price so big, obviously we're playing this one on the run line, which will also carry a hefty price tag, but I'm rolling anyway as it's just a free pick, and we're not wagering big stakes on it.
PITCHING NOTE: Although all Run Line/Total plays will list pitchers with the starting pitchers scheduled to go at the time of the wager, I don't care about who is starting for either team and want you playing this game regardless. Thus, please be sure you have action if one of the pitchers scheduled to start is scratched. Simply check back occasionally and in the event of a scratch, re-wager the game. This play will stand no matter what, so be sure you have action.
It doesn't really matter who goes for the Cubbies in this one, as they've been throwing gems up and down the rotation. Chicago starters boast an MLB-best 2.33 ERA, and most recently have posted less than a 1.00 mark and less than a 1.00 WHIP through nine of their 11 consecutive home games.
Yesterday the Cubs did it again in a 5-3 victory. No matter who is on the hill, this is a staff that steps to the hill and gives the Cubs a chance to win every single day.
Chicago improved to 8-1 during a current homestand at Wrigley Field, while improving to 10-1 in its last 11 overall.
Meanwhile, Arizona has lost five straight at Wrigley, and has lost nine of 12 overall. The Diamondbacks have also dropped six of seven on the road.
Take the Cubs on the Run Line here.
5* CUBS RUN LINE
Preview: White Sox at Tigers
GAME: Chicago White Sox (29-27) at Detroit Tigers (27-28)
DATE/TIME: Sunday, June 05 - 1:10 PM EST
WHERE: Comerica Park, Detroit, Michigan
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A
The Chicago White Sox needed to make a move to get out of the rut they’ve been in lately and did just that with the acquisition of veteran right-hander James Shields on Saturday. The White Sox hope the arrival of Shields can give the team enough of an emotional boost to avoid a three-game sweep when they visit the Detroit Tigers for the series finale on Sunday.
Chicago already has Chris Sale, Jose Quintana and Carlos Rodon at the top of the rotation but, with no impact bats on the market this early, decided to add to an area of relative strength by trading right-handed pitcher Erik Johnson and 17-year-old shortstop prospect Fernando Tatis Jr. to the San Diego Padres in exchange for Shields. "We're pleased to add a starter of James Shields' caliber to our starting rotation," White Sox general manager Rick Hahn told reporters. "We believe this move makes the entire pitching staff stronger, and the club certainly benefits from his addition, in terms of pitching depth and quality.” Detroit is having little trouble with the Chicago staff in the series and pounded out 17 runs in taking the first two games. The Tigers need a win on Sunday to pull back to .500 as they attempt to stay close in the tightly-packed American League Central with the Kansas City Royals, Cleveland Indians and White Sox.
TV: 1:10 p.m. ET, WGN (Chicago), FSN Detroit
PITCHING MATCHUP: White Sox LH Jose Quintana (5-5, 2.13 ERA) vs. Tigers RH Justin Verlander (4-5, 4.11)
Quintana is suffering through a four-game losing streak despite posting a quality start in three of those four outings. The Colombia native surrendered one run on six hits in seven innings at the New York Mets on Monday but took the loss in a game the team went on to drop 1-0. Quintana is 4-3 with a 4.02 ERA in 13 career starts against the Tigers, including 0-2 with a 5.59 mark in five outings last season.
Verlander tossed seven scoreless innings at the Los Angeles Angels on Monday but was charged with four runs in the eighth and ended up with the loss. The former MVP struck out seven without walking a batter in that turn and recorded 44 strikeouts in 37 2/3 innings over his last five outings. Verlander fanned 17 in 13 total innings against Chicago last season and is 18-13 with a 3.95 ERA in 36 career starts against the division rivals.
WALK-OFFS
1. The Tigers activated RHP Shane Greene (finger) from the 15-day disabled list on Saturday and slotted him in the bullpen.
2. Chicago LF Jason Coats left Saturday’s game after a collision in the outfield with teammate J.B. Shuck and received five stitches to close a cut in his mouth.
3. Detroit 1B Miguel Cabrera (back tightness) went 1-for-5 on Saturday after leaving Friday’s game in the seventh inning.
PREDICTION: White Sox 2, Tigers 1
GAME: Chicago White Sox (29-27) at Detroit Tigers (27-28)
DATE/TIME: Sunday, June 05 - 1:10 PM EST
WHERE: Comerica Park, Detroit, Michigan
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A
The Chicago White Sox needed to make a move to get out of the rut they’ve been in lately and did just that with the acquisition of veteran right-hander James Shields on Saturday. The White Sox hope the arrival of Shields can give the team enough of an emotional boost to avoid a three-game sweep when they visit the Detroit Tigers for the series finale on Sunday.
Chicago already has Chris Sale, Jose Quintana and Carlos Rodon at the top of the rotation but, with no impact bats on the market this early, decided to add to an area of relative strength by trading right-handed pitcher Erik Johnson and 17-year-old shortstop prospect Fernando Tatis Jr. to the San Diego Padres in exchange for Shields. "We're pleased to add a starter of James Shields' caliber to our starting rotation," White Sox general manager Rick Hahn told reporters. "We believe this move makes the entire pitching staff stronger, and the club certainly benefits from his addition, in terms of pitching depth and quality.” Detroit is having little trouble with the Chicago staff in the series and pounded out 17 runs in taking the first two games. The Tigers need a win on Sunday to pull back to .500 as they attempt to stay close in the tightly-packed American League Central with the Kansas City Royals, Cleveland Indians and White Sox.
TV: 1:10 p.m. ET, WGN (Chicago), FSN Detroit
PITCHING MATCHUP: White Sox LH Jose Quintana (5-5, 2.13 ERA) vs. Tigers RH Justin Verlander (4-5, 4.11)
Quintana is suffering through a four-game losing streak despite posting a quality start in three of those four outings. The Colombia native surrendered one run on six hits in seven innings at the New York Mets on Monday but took the loss in a game the team went on to drop 1-0. Quintana is 4-3 with a 4.02 ERA in 13 career starts against the Tigers, including 0-2 with a 5.59 mark in five outings last season.
Verlander tossed seven scoreless innings at the Los Angeles Angels on Monday but was charged with four runs in the eighth and ended up with the loss. The former MVP struck out seven without walking a batter in that turn and recorded 44 strikeouts in 37 2/3 innings over his last five outings. Verlander fanned 17 in 13 total innings against Chicago last season and is 18-13 with a 3.95 ERA in 36 career starts against the division rivals.
WALK-OFFS
1. The Tigers activated RHP Shane Greene (finger) from the 15-day disabled list on Saturday and slotted him in the bullpen.
2. Chicago LF Jason Coats left Saturday’s game after a collision in the outfield with teammate J.B. Shuck and received five stitches to close a cut in his mouth.
3. Detroit 1B Miguel Cabrera (back tightness) went 1-for-5 on Saturday after leaving Friday’s game in the seventh inning.
PREDICTION: White Sox 2, Tigers 1
Preview: Royals at Indians
GAME: Kansas City Royals (30-25) at Cleveland Indians (30-24)
DATE/TIME: Sunday, June 05 - 1:10 PM EST
WHERE: Progressive Field, Cleveland, Ohio
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A
While defeating non-division opponents has been an issue for the Cleveland Indians, winning inside the American League Central has proven to be much simpler. After moving into first place in the division for the second time this season their last time out, the Indians attempt to post their seventh straight AL Central victory Sunday, when they vie to complete a four-game home sweep of the Kansas City Royals.
Cleveland is 5-6 against the AL East, 3-6 versus the West and 5-5 in interleague action thus far, but it has outscored the Central 124-83 en route to winning 17 of its 24 divisional contests. A fair amount of that success has come at the expense of the defending World Series champions, whom the Indians beat for the fifth time in their six meetings this year with Saturday's 7-1 victory - a win that moved Cleveland one-half game ahead of Kansas City in the division. The Royals' pitching staff - ranked fourth in the AL in ERA at 3.85 - has been unable to hold down Cleveland's offense this season, giving up at least five runs in all but one game. However, Kansas City received some good news Saturday, as three-time All-Star Salvador Perez returned to the lineup and went 2-for-4 after missing six games with a bruised left thigh.
TV: 1:10 p.m. ET, FSN Kansas City, SportsTime Ohio (Cleveland)
PITCHING MATCHUP: Royals RH Chris Young (2-5, 5.94 ERA) vs. Indians RH Corey Kluber (4-6, 4.15)
After appearing twice in relief following a stint on the disabled list to recover from forearm tightness, Young will make his first start since getting roughed up for five runs in 2 2/3 innings at the New York Yankees on May 9. The 37-year-old Princeton alum proved his health in the relief outings at the end of May, however, allowing two hits and fanning six over four frames. The Dallas native has fared well in his career versus the Indians, going 3-1 with a 2.89 ERA in nine appearances (six starts).
Kluber endured one of his worst outings of the season Tuesday versus Texas, giving up a season high-tying six runs and eight hits over seven innings to fall to 1-4 with a 5.29 ERA at home. The 2014 AL Cy Young Award winner allowed two home runs in the outing, marking only the fifth time in his last 90 turns he has surrendered more than one. Kluber went 1-4 with a 4.36 ERA in five starts versus the Royals in 2015, sending his career marks in 14 outings against them to 5-5 and 3.38, respectively.
WALK-OFFS
1. Perez is expected to sit out Sunday and will play every other day for the immediate future in an effort to aid his return, according to Kansas City manager Ned Yost.
2. Cleveland 1B Mike Napoli is batting .286 with nine home runs and 31 RBIs at home, as opposed to .189 with four blasts and 10 RBIs on the road.
3. The Royals have totaled two runs and 10 hits over the last two contests following a 10-game stretch in which they averaged 6.8 runs and set a club record with at least 10 hits in every outing.
PREDICTION: Royals 5, Indians 4
GAME: Kansas City Royals (30-25) at Cleveland Indians (30-24)
DATE/TIME: Sunday, June 05 - 1:10 PM EST
WHERE: Progressive Field, Cleveland, Ohio
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A
While defeating non-division opponents has been an issue for the Cleveland Indians, winning inside the American League Central has proven to be much simpler. After moving into first place in the division for the second time this season their last time out, the Indians attempt to post their seventh straight AL Central victory Sunday, when they vie to complete a four-game home sweep of the Kansas City Royals.
Cleveland is 5-6 against the AL East, 3-6 versus the West and 5-5 in interleague action thus far, but it has outscored the Central 124-83 en route to winning 17 of its 24 divisional contests. A fair amount of that success has come at the expense of the defending World Series champions, whom the Indians beat for the fifth time in their six meetings this year with Saturday's 7-1 victory - a win that moved Cleveland one-half game ahead of Kansas City in the division. The Royals' pitching staff - ranked fourth in the AL in ERA at 3.85 - has been unable to hold down Cleveland's offense this season, giving up at least five runs in all but one game. However, Kansas City received some good news Saturday, as three-time All-Star Salvador Perez returned to the lineup and went 2-for-4 after missing six games with a bruised left thigh.
TV: 1:10 p.m. ET, FSN Kansas City, SportsTime Ohio (Cleveland)
PITCHING MATCHUP: Royals RH Chris Young (2-5, 5.94 ERA) vs. Indians RH Corey Kluber (4-6, 4.15)
After appearing twice in relief following a stint on the disabled list to recover from forearm tightness, Young will make his first start since getting roughed up for five runs in 2 2/3 innings at the New York Yankees on May 9. The 37-year-old Princeton alum proved his health in the relief outings at the end of May, however, allowing two hits and fanning six over four frames. The Dallas native has fared well in his career versus the Indians, going 3-1 with a 2.89 ERA in nine appearances (six starts).
Kluber endured one of his worst outings of the season Tuesday versus Texas, giving up a season high-tying six runs and eight hits over seven innings to fall to 1-4 with a 5.29 ERA at home. The 2014 AL Cy Young Award winner allowed two home runs in the outing, marking only the fifth time in his last 90 turns he has surrendered more than one. Kluber went 1-4 with a 4.36 ERA in five starts versus the Royals in 2015, sending his career marks in 14 outings against them to 5-5 and 3.38, respectively.
WALK-OFFS
1. Perez is expected to sit out Sunday and will play every other day for the immediate future in an effort to aid his return, according to Kansas City manager Ned Yost.
2. Cleveland 1B Mike Napoli is batting .286 with nine home runs and 31 RBIs at home, as opposed to .189 with four blasts and 10 RBIs on the road.
3. The Royals have totaled two runs and 10 hits over the last two contests following a 10-game stretch in which they averaged 6.8 runs and set a club record with at least 10 hits in every outing.
PREDICTION: Royals 5, Indians 4
Preview: Nationals at Reds
GAME: Washington Nationals (33-23) at Cincinnati Reds (21-35)
DATE/TIME: Sunday, June 05 - 1:10 PM EST
WHERE: Great American Ball Park, Cincinnati, Ohio
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A
The Cincinnati Reds look to extend their season-high winning streak to five games and vie for their second series sweep of 2016 on Sunday afternoon when they host the Washington Nationals. Adam Duvall's three-run homer in Saturday's 6-3 triumph was his third blast in as many days for the Reds, who have outscored the opposition by a 31-11 margin during their winning streak.
The 27-year-old Duvall is riding quite the power surge, belting nine of his team-leading 16 homers in his last 13 games. While cellar-dwelling Cincinnati has some work to do to make noise in the National League Central, Washington saw its lead in the East dwindle to just one game over the New York Mets despite falling for just the 12th time in 30 road contests. The Nationals have mustered five runs on 10 hits in the series, with three homers providing most of their damage. Anthony Rendon launched a two-run shot on Saturday and has reached base seven times in his last three games.
TV: 1:10 p.m. ET, MASN2 (Washington), FSN Ohio (Cincinnati)
PITCHING MATCHUP: Nationals RH Tanner Roark (4-4, 2.70 ERA) vs. Reds RH Jon Moscot (0-3, 7.13)
Roark has rebounded from getting blitzed for seven runs in a start on May 14, going 2-1 with four earned runs allowed in 20 2/3 innings. The 29-year-old permitted just two runs on four hits in seven frames in a 4-3 victory over Philadelphia on Monday. Roark has struggled with the long ball, however, surrendering one homer in each of his last four starts after keeping the ball in the park in four straight outings.
Moscot's return from the disabled list was a disastrous one, as the 24-year-old was blitzed for four homers in two innings of a 17-4 rout by Colorado on Tuesday. Moscot, who has been taken deep eight times in four starts, yielded seven runs on eight hits in his short stint versus the Rockies. Moscot will be making his eighth career start and first versus Washington.
WALK-OFFS
1. Washington 2B Daniel Murphy is 0-for-8 in the series to see his average drop from .394 to .379.
2. Cincinnati RF Jay Bruce is 13-for-34 with four homers, eight RBIs and as many runs scored in his last eight contests.
3. The Reds swept Philadelphia on April 4-7 to open the season on a high note.
PREDICTION: Nationals 4, Reds 3
GAME: Washington Nationals (33-23) at Cincinnati Reds (21-35)
DATE/TIME: Sunday, June 05 - 1:10 PM EST
WHERE: Great American Ball Park, Cincinnati, Ohio
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A
The Cincinnati Reds look to extend their season-high winning streak to five games and vie for their second series sweep of 2016 on Sunday afternoon when they host the Washington Nationals. Adam Duvall's three-run homer in Saturday's 6-3 triumph was his third blast in as many days for the Reds, who have outscored the opposition by a 31-11 margin during their winning streak.
The 27-year-old Duvall is riding quite the power surge, belting nine of his team-leading 16 homers in his last 13 games. While cellar-dwelling Cincinnati has some work to do to make noise in the National League Central, Washington saw its lead in the East dwindle to just one game over the New York Mets despite falling for just the 12th time in 30 road contests. The Nationals have mustered five runs on 10 hits in the series, with three homers providing most of their damage. Anthony Rendon launched a two-run shot on Saturday and has reached base seven times in his last three games.
TV: 1:10 p.m. ET, MASN2 (Washington), FSN Ohio (Cincinnati)
PITCHING MATCHUP: Nationals RH Tanner Roark (4-4, 2.70 ERA) vs. Reds RH Jon Moscot (0-3, 7.13)
Roark has rebounded from getting blitzed for seven runs in a start on May 14, going 2-1 with four earned runs allowed in 20 2/3 innings. The 29-year-old permitted just two runs on four hits in seven frames in a 4-3 victory over Philadelphia on Monday. Roark has struggled with the long ball, however, surrendering one homer in each of his last four starts after keeping the ball in the park in four straight outings.
Moscot's return from the disabled list was a disastrous one, as the 24-year-old was blitzed for four homers in two innings of a 17-4 rout by Colorado on Tuesday. Moscot, who has been taken deep eight times in four starts, yielded seven runs on eight hits in his short stint versus the Rockies. Moscot will be making his eighth career start and first versus Washington.
WALK-OFFS
1. Washington 2B Daniel Murphy is 0-for-8 in the series to see his average drop from .394 to .379.
2. Cincinnati RF Jay Bruce is 13-for-34 with four homers, eight RBIs and as many runs scored in his last eight contests.
3. The Reds swept Philadelphia on April 4-7 to open the season on a high note.
PREDICTION: Nationals 4, Reds 3
