Sunday 9/20/15 service plays chatter/comps/requests & other stuff...

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

See spot. See spot bet: This week's best spot bet opportunities
By BEN BURNS

Spot bets are classic handicapping practices that have proven profitable no matter what sport you're betting. Whether it's a team looking past this week's opponent, one coming off a hard-fought victory, or a rough patch of schedule, bettors can find value picking their spots. Ben Burns points out his favorites:

Letdown spot

For once, the Dallas Cowboys were on the winning side of bad clock management in their come-from-behind home win over the New York Giants in Week 1. Eli Manning bumbled the closing minutes of the game, leaving the door open for Tony Romo to march downfield and score a one-point victory. The Cowboys, high off that incredible win and missing an injured Dez Bryant, head to Philadelphia to take on the Eagles in Week 2.

Philadelphia looked terrible in the opening two frames against the Atlanta Falcons but started to get the chains moving in the second half. Chip Kelly will iron out the kinks before the home opener and scores a huge break with Bryant out (especially after Julio Jones torched the Eagles secondary for huge gains Monday). We could see the Cowboys coming in flat and unable to match the points the Eagles can put up.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NFL injury report for Sunday games
By THE SPORTS XCHANGE

NFL injury report for Sunday games

ARIZONA CARDINALS at CHICAGO BEARS

ARIZONA CARDINALS

--Out: RB Andre Ellington (knee), G Mike Iupati (knee)

--Questionable: S Deone Bucannon (groin), S Tony Jefferson (hamstring)

--Probable: WR Michael Floyd (hand), TE Jermaine Gresham (hamstring),

CHICAGO BEARS

--Out: LB Jon Bostic (ankle), CB Tracy Porter (hamstring)

--Questionable: DT Ego Ferguson (knee), WR Alshon Jeffery (hamstring), LB Pernell McPhee (wrist)

--Probable: LB Sam Acho (illness), T Jermon Bushrod (back), CB Sherrick McManis (thigh)

ATLANTA FALCONS at NEW YORK GIANTS

ATLANTA FALCONS

--Out: DE Malliciah Goodman (elbow), WR Devin Hester (toe), LB Brooks Reed (groin)

--Probable: DE Adrian Clayborn (thumb), WR Julio Jones (hamstring), T Jake Matthews (back), S William Moore (illness), DE O'Brien Schofield (hip)

NEW YORK GIANTS

--Out: WR Victor Cruz (calf), TE Daniel Fells (foot), DT Markus Kuhn (knee), DE Owamagbe Odighizuwa (foot)

--Doubtful: LB Jon Beason (knee)

--Probable: T Ereck Flowers (ankle), LB Uani' Unga (knee)

BALTIMORE RAVENS at OAKLAND RAIDERS

BALTIMORE RAVENS

--Out: T Eugene Monroe (concussion), WR Breshad Perriman (knee)

--Questionable: CB Rashaan Melvin (thigh), WR Darren Waller (ankle)

--Probable: DE Chris Canty (not injury related), RB Justin Forsett (shoulder), DT Timmy Jernigan (knee), LB Daryl Smith (not injury related), RB Lorenzo Taliaferro (knee)

OAKLAND RAIDERS

--Out: DT Justin Ellis (ankle), DE Benson Mayowa (knee), RB Jamize Olawale (ankle)

--Questionable: S Charles Woodson (shoulder)

--Probable: QB Derek Carr (right hand)

DALLAS COWBOYS at PHILADELPHIA EAGLES

DALLAS COWBOYS

--Out: WR Dez Bryant (foot), DE Randy Gregory (ankle)

--Doubtful: G Ronald Leary (groin)

--Questionable: TE James Hanna (knee)

--Probable: QB Tony Romo (back), WR Lucky Whitehead (not injury related)

PHILADELPHIA EAGLES

--Out: WR Seyi Ajirotutu (concussion, elbow)

--Probable: LB Marcus Smith (hamstring)

DETROIT LIONS at MINNESOTA VIKINGS

DETROIT LIONS

--Out: TE Brandon Pettigrew (hamstring)

--Doubtful: LB DeAndre Levy (hip)

--Questionable: DT Haloti Ngata (shoulder), DT Caraun Reid (ankle)

--Probable: CB Darius Slay (ankle), QB Matthew Stafford (right upper arm), WR Golden Tate (quadriceps), T LaAdrian Waddle (elbow), G Larry Warford (ankle)

MINNESOTA VIKINGS

--Probable: RB Jerick McKinnon (ankle), DT Shamar Stephen (knee)

HOUSTON TEXANS at CAROLINA PANTHERS

HOUSTON TEXANS

--Out: S Lonnie Ballentine (knee), RB Arian Foster (groin), LB Mike Mohamed (calf), G Xavier Su'a-Filo (calf)

--Questionable: T Duane Brown (hand)

--Probable: T Jeff Adams (abdomen), DT Christian Covington (shoulder), CB Kevin Johnson (thigh), LB Carlos Thompson (concussion), WR Nate Washington (abdomen)

CAROLINA PANTHERS

--Out: T Daryl Williams (knee)

--Doubtful: LB Luke Kuechly (concussion)

--Questionable: TE Richie Brockel (shoulder), DE Wes Horton (shoulder), DT Star Lotulelei (foot)

--Probable: DT Dwan Edwards (groin), RB Jonathan Stewart (knee)

MIAMI DOLPHINS at JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS

MIAMI DOLPHINS

--Out: TE Dion Sims (concussion)

--Questionable: S Reshad Jones (hamstring), DE Derrick Shelby (eye), DE Cameron Wake (hamstring)

--Probable: DE Olivier Vernon (ankle)

JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS

--Out: DE Andre Branch (knee), CB Dwayne Gratz (ankle), DT Sen'Derrick Marks (knee), TE Julius Thomas (hand)

--Doubtful: S Johnathan Cyprien (finger, calf), RB Toby Gerhart (abdomen)

--Questionable: LB Thurston Armbrister (back), T Luke Joeckel (ankle)

--Probable: S Josh Evans (illness), WR Rashad Greene (back), WR Marqise Lee (hamstring)

NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS at BUFFALO BILLS

NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS

--Out: C Ryan Wendell (illness)

--Doubtful: DT Dominique Easley (hip)

--Probable: RB Travaris Cadet (hamstring), DE Trey Flowers (knee), S Tavon Wilson (quadriceps)

BUFFALO BILLS

--Out: WR Marquise Goodwin (ribs), LB Tony Steward (knee)

--Questionable: RB LeSean McCoy (hamstring)

--Probable: CB Corey Graham (concussion), WR Percy Harvin (hip)

SAN DIEGO CHARGERS at CINCINNATI BENGALS

SAN DIEGO CHARGERS

--Out: G Johnnie Troutman (forearm), LB Tourek Williams (foot)

--Doubtful: S Jahleel Addae (ankle), T D.J. Fluker (ankle), WR Jacoby Jones (ankle)

--Questionable: LB Kyle Emanuel (shoulder)

--Probable: LB Jeremiah Attaochu (hamstring), CB Brandon Flowers (knee), CB Craig Mager (hamstring)

CINCINNATI BENGALS

--Out: DT Marcus Hardison (knee)

--Questionable: S George Iloka (ankle), CB Josh Shaw (groin)

--Probable: CB Dre Kirkpatrick (calf), S Reggie Nelson (groin)

SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS at PITTSBURGH STEELERS

SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS

--Out: RB Reggie Bush (calf)

--Questionable: WR Bruce Ellington (ankle)

PITTSBURGH STEELERS

--Questionable: CB Cortez Allen (knee)

--Probable: S Will Allen (concussion), CB Brandon Boykin (groin), QB Landry Jones (concussion), S Michael Mitchell (hip), LB Ryan Shazier (knee), LB Sean Spence (hamstring)

ST. LOUIS RAMS at WASHINGTON REDSKINS

ST. LOUIS RAMS

--Out: RB Chase Reynolds (knee), DE Eugene Sims (knee)

--Questionable: RB Todd Gurley (knee), RB Tre Mason (thigh)

--Probable: LB Daren Bates (knee), CB Trumaine Johnson (concussion)

WASHINGTON REDSKINS

--Out: WR DeSean Jackson (hamstring), CB Justin Rogers (foot), LB Martrell Spaight (concussion)

--Questionable: T Tom Compton (calf), LB Jackson Jeffcoat (thigh), DT Terrance Knighton (rib), TE Jordan Reed (quadriceps)

--Probable: CB DeAngelo Hall (rib), C Kory Lichtensteiger (finger), T Trent Williams (ankle)

TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS at NEW ORLEANS SAINTS

TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS

--Out: DE T.J. Fatinikun (shoulder), S Major Wright (abdomen)

--Questionable: LB Bruce Carter (ribs), WR Mike Evans (hamstring), CB Mike Jenkins (hamstring), LB Danny Lansanah (ankle)

NEW ORLEANS SAINTS

--Out: S Jairus Byrd (knee), LB Dannell Ellerbe (toe), CB Keenan Lewis (hip)

--Questionable: RB C.J. Spiller (knee)

TENNESSEE TITANS at CLEVELAND BROWNS

TENNESSEE TITANS

--Out: RB Antonio Andrews (hamstring), DT Sammie Lee Hill (knee), CB Cody Riggs (knee)

--Doubtful: CB Jason McCourty (groin)

--Questionable: TE Delanie Walker (hand)

Practice Report

CLEVELAND BROWNS

--Out: QB Josh McCown (concussion), LB Scott Solomon (ankle), RB Robert Turbin (ankle)

--Questionable: WR Dwayne Bowe (hamstring), DE Desmond Bryant (shoulder), LB Karlos Dansby (foot), CB Justin Gilbert (hip)

--Probable: G Joel Bitonio (knee), QB Johnny Manziel (right elbow), LB Nate Orchard (back), T Mitchell Schwartz (thumb)

SEATTLE SEAHAWKS at GREEN BAY PACKERS on Sunday night

SEATTLE SEAHAWKS

--Out: LB Michael Morgan (hamstring)

--Questionable: T Garry Gilliam (rib), LB Bruce Irvin (rib), CB Tharold Simon (toe), RB Will Tukuafu (foot)

--Probable: DE Michael Bennett (ankle), DE Demarcus Dobbs (back), RB Marshawn Lynch (not injury related), LB Bobby Wagner (ankle)

GREEN BAY PACKERS

--Out: T Bryan Bulaga (knee)

--Questionable: S Morgan Burnett (calf)

--Probable: WR Randall Cobb (shoulder), LB Jay Elliott (quadriceps)

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Gridiron Angles - Week 2
By Vince Akins

NFL PLAY ON ATS TREND:

-- The Chargers are 11-0-1 ATS (14.3 ppg) since December 2011 vs an opponent averaging at least 30 rushes per game.

NFL PLAY AGAINST TREND:

-- The Lions are 0-12 ATS (-9.2 ppg) since October 2006 as a road dog after a game that went over the total by at least 10 points.

TOP NFL PLAYER TREND:

-- Philip Rivers is 10-0 OU (10.6 ppg) since October 2009 on the road after a win as a home favorite where he threw for at least 250 yards.

NFL O/U UNDER TREND:

-- The Raiders are 0-20 OU (-7.9 ppg) since December 30, 2001 as a dog when the total is at least 37 coming off a home game there they scored at least five points fewer than expected.

NFL O/U OVER TREND:

-- The Bills are 10-0 OU (15.0 ppg) since 2001 off a game as a dog where they allowed at least six points fewer than expected and less than 340 passing yards.

NFL BIBLE ACTIVE TREND:

-- The Cowboys are 10-0 ATS as a dog when facing a team that has allowed less than 3.8 yards per carry season-to-date

NFL DFS STAT OF THE WEEK:

-- Drew Brees averages 308 passing yards and 2.7 touchdowns per game since November 2007 in 27 games coming off a road loss.

NFL FEATURED SYSTEM:

Teams in the first four week of the season that are road dogs of less than a TD and won less than seven games last season are 127-69-9 ATS (64.8%).

The NFL is a league of constant change where good teams fall off and bad teams improve all of the time. Early in the season, many of these lines already reflect the changes or perceived changes. However, we have found a spot where improving teams are undervalued in the early going.

Teams in the first four week of the season that are road dogs of less than a TD and won less than seven games last season are 127-69-9 ATS (64.8%). What we like about this system is how the lines fall into an area that is completely nondescript. When scanning lines during the first few weeks of the season, it would stand out if a bad team from a season ago was road favorite or a huge underdog, but seeing these teams as a small or medium road dog is exactly what would be casually expected, not alerting bettors to potential value right off the bat.

This system went just 10-9 in the 2013 and 2014 season, but you do not have to look back much further to see its massive potential. In the 2011 and 2012 seasons, the system was 15-3 ATS. And already this season, these underdogs have gone 2-0 with Tennessee and NY Giants both covering comfortably in week one.

This week, the system is currently active on three teams though we expect by kickoff there will only be one left to focus our interest on. Tennessee is an ever so slight underdog in Cleveland and is likely to be favored by game time and the Jets are 6.5-point dogs at Indianapolis in a game likely to be at 7+ points by kickoff. That leaves Atlanta, who is a nondescript 2.5-point dog traveling to the Giants this week.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Sunday's Week 2 NFL betting cheat sheet

We preview the Week 2 NFL action to bring you the need-to-know facts and figures in order to make a wager on the gridiron.

Houston Texans at Carolina Panthers (-3, 39.5)

* Houston coach Bill O'Brien benched Brian Hoyer in favor of Ryan Mallett during the Texans' 27-20 loss to Kansas City last week. O'Brien decided he will go forward with Mallett as the starter as Houston prepares for a stingy Panthers defense which throttled Jacksonville 20-9 last week.

* Cam Newton was the focal point of the offense in Week 1, passing for 175 yards and running for 35 more. Tight end Greg Olsen caught just one pass for 11 yards last week and he may not get much more involved in the passing game this week as he will bear some of the responsibility of blocking Texans star lineman J.J. Watt.


San Francisco 49ers at Pittsburgh Steelers (-6.5, 45.5)

* 49ers head coach Jim Tomsula was particularly thrilled with what he saw from Colin Kaepernick, although the quarterback's statistics (165 yards passing, 41 rushing) don't exactly jump off the page. "I don't think we had something that was broke," Tomsula said of the 27-year-old Kaepernick. "He's a very talented athlete. He's a very talented quarterback. He's got a skill set, we just want to utilize his skill set."

* DeAngelo Williams put forth an admirable performance by rushing for 127 yards while playing in place of Le'Veon Bell, who will sit out the second contest of his two-game suspension for violating the league's substance-abuse policy.


Tampa Bay Buccaneers at New Orleans Saints (-10, 47)

* Bucs wide receiver Mike Evans will be a game-time decision, according to Greg Ausman of the Tampa Bay Times. "Mike Evans has been able to do more and more each day, which is a good thing," coach Lovie Smith said. "You want them to say they're ready to go, but Mike wasn't ready to go last week. He's closer this week, and we have a little bit of time before game time."

* “The defense got off the field a few times and we had some chances to go down and get significant points, and we just ended up with field goals,” quarterback Drew Brees told reporters. “Red-zone efficiency obviously (is a priority) as we look forward to the Bucs.”


Detroit Lions at Minnesota Vikings (-2, 43)

* Detroit WR Golden Tate told reporters that he expects to be a game-time decision as he deals with a quadriceps injury.

* The Vikings have gone 6-2-2 ATS in the last 10 meetings with the Lions in Minnesota. Furthermore, the Under has gone 5-2 in the last seven games between the two NFC North rivals in Minny.


Arizona Cardinals at Chicago Bears (+1.5, 46.5)

* Arizona will be without running back Andre Ellington (knee) for 2-3 weeks, meaning veteran Chris Johnson and rookie David Johnson will take on extra work in the backfield.

* Chicago stayed in the game against the Packers thanks to a huge effort from Matt Forte (141 rushing yards, TD). The Bears likely will have a tougher time running the ball against Arizona and will need Jay Cutler to improve upon last week’s 18-of-36 performance for 225 yards with a TD and an interception.


New England Patriots at Buffalo Bills (+1, 44)

* Tom Brady, who said the Bills had “probably the best D-line in football,” showed no signs of any wear in his game following a summer spent defending his reputation and completed 19 passes in a row at one point en route to a 25-of-32, 288-yard, four-TD performance in the opener.

* Rex Ryan’s Jets teams always played Tom Brady tough, and he has built a similarly stacked defense with Buffalo that's led by Marcell Dareus. The defensive tackle, who signed a six-year contract extension reportedly worth more than $100 million at the end of training camp, will be making his season debut after sitting out Week 1 due to a suspension.


San Diego Chargers at Cincinnati Bengals (-3.5, 46.5)

* The Chargers tallied a Week 1-best 483 yards on offense in their season-opening win against the Detroit Lions. One player to check for on that side of the ball is rookie running back Melvin Gordon, a player who offensive coordinator Frank Reich was impressed with in Week 1. "I thought Melvin had a good game. The thing I liked most about Melvin was, he just appeared confident, poised, the whole game. I just felt like he had a good look in his eyes."

* The Bengals have won each of their last three regular-season contests against the Chargers and are 3-0 against the spread in those three games.


Tennessee Titans at Cleveland Browns (+2.5, 41.5)

* Titans tight end Delanie Walker was back at practice Friday and is hopeful to play after injuring his hand in Tennessee's Week 1 victory. "It felt good to be back out there running around, catching some passes,’’ Walker said. “I still have a few more days to let it heal up and then go from there.”

* According to Scott Petrak of the Elyria Chronicle-Telegram, Browns quarterback Johnny Manziel will be more prepared for Cleveland's date with Tennessee than he was the last time he started at home. "I definitely feel I’m in a lot better place now, so I guess if I thought I was prepared then, I think I’m even more prepared now,” Manziel said Friday.


Atlanta Falcons at New York Giants (-2.5, 51)

* The Falcons will face their second straight NFC East opponent after outlasting visiting Philadelphia 26-24 on Monday to give Dan Quinn a victory in his NFL head coaching debut. Atlanta has dropped four of the last five regular-season meetings, including a 30-20 setback at New York last season.

* New York's offense wasn't sharp in the opener, with one touchdown coming on Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie's fumble return and the other coming on Jennings' plunge after an interception return to the 1-yard line. Manning threw for 193 yards on 20-of-36 while Jennings rushed for 52 yards and wideout Odell Beckham had a team-high five receptions for 44 yards.


St. Louis Rams at Washington Redskins (+3, 41)

* Rams quarterback Nick Foles, formerly of the Philadelphia Eagles, has won his last two starts against Washington, completing 65.7 percent of his passes for 623 yards with three TDs and no interceptions. He is 1-1 ATS against Washington.

* Washington’s offense struggled to find the end zone in a 17-10 loss to Miami last week and will be short-handed on that side of the ball with receiver DeSean Jackson (hamstring) out for 3-4 weeks and tight end Jordan Reed (quadriceps) listed as questionable after making seven catches for 63 yards and a touchdown last week.


Miami Dolphins at Jacksonville Jaguars (+5.5, 41.5)

* Dolphins offseason acquisition Ndamukong Suh declared his performance as "poor" after recording two tackles in the season opener. "At the end of the day, you want to outdo whatever you did in the past," said Suh, who inked a six-year, $114 million deal in March. "That’s how I live my life, just try to and do better each and every day."

* The Jaguars have lost the last three meetings between these two Florida clubs and have posted an ATS record of 0-3 in the process.


Baltimore Ravens at Oakland Raiders (+6.5, 42.5)

* The Ravens attempt to continue their dominance in the all-time series when they visit the Raiders. Baltimore has won six of its seven meetings with Oakland and each of the last four, including a 55-20 pounding on Nov. 11, 2012. The Ravens are 5-2 ATS in those meetings.

* Raiders QB Derek Carr exited Oakland's season-opening loss to Cincinnati with a bruised right hand suffered while attempting a stiff-arm but participated in Wednesday's practice without incident. In addition to Carr, Oakland lost three defensive starters to injuries in the opener. Safety Charles Woodson separated his shoulder in the final minute of the contest and is questionable for Sunday as he participated in Wednesday's early-practice drills without equipment. Cornerback D.J. Hayden and defensive tackle Justin Ellis went down with ankle injuries, although the former practiced on Wednesday.


Dallas Cowboys at Philadelphia Eagles (-5, 55)

* Dallas has won the past three matchups in Philadelphia by an average of 13.3 points and is 3-0 ATS in those games.

* Eagles running back DeMarco Murray will face his former teammates but said he will be taking a business-as-usual approach against Dallas, which was unwilling to match the Eagles' offer to him. "I'm not looking at it as facing the Cowboys," said Murray, who ripped off 12 100-yard games last season. "Just preparing like I always prepare for any other game."


Seattle Seahawks at Green Bay Packers (-3.5, 49)

* Coach Pete Carroll reiterated that he is "disappointed" in the situation that has led safety Kam Chancellor to remove himself from the team, but is prepared to go without him on Sunday. "Nothing has changed. It really has never been a negotiation. It's been conversations. Nothing's changed though," Carroll told reporters. "...I'm just disappointed like I know he is and everybody is that it hasn't found a way to get him here. That's all."

* Green Bay may receive a much-needed boost to its defense as safety Morgan Burnett (strained calf) is in line to make his season debut after watching the team get shredded for 189 yards rushing by the Bears. "To be honest with you, one guy doesn't make a difference," Burnett told ESPN of the expectations of the defense. "It's a collective effort, a collective group, and we make each other look good, we make each other better. Honestly, one guy doesn't make a difference to me."

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Sunday Night Football betting preview: Seahawks at Packers

Seattle Seahawks at Green Bay Packers (-3.5, 49)

The Green Bay Packers were nursing a 12-point lead over the Seattle Seahawks in the latter stages of the NFC Championship Game last season before the bottom fell out in horrific fashion. Eight months after the onside kick went awry and the Seahawks won in overtime, the Packers will look to exact a measure of revenge when the teams meet at Lambeau Field on Sunday night.

Aaron Rodgers tossed three touchdown passes - two to reacquired wideout James Jones - in Green Bay's 31-23 season-opening victory over Chicago on Sunday. While the reigning NFL MVP dismissed ideas of getting even with their opponent, Seattle would like to level its record after suffering a 34-31 overtime loss in St. Louis last week. Marshawn Lynch was stuffed on a fourth-and-1 rushing play against the Rams after famously being bypassed on Russell Wilson's pivotal interception in a 28-24 loss to New England in Super Bowl XLIX. Lynch gashed the Packers, however, for 110 yards and two touchdowns in a 36-16 triumph in Week 1 last season before amassing 157 yards in the NFC title game.

TV: 8:30 p.m. ET, NBC.

LINE HISTORY: Books opened Green Bay -3 but that is now -3.5. The total has held at 49.

INJURY REPORT: Seahawks - S Kam Chancellor (Holdout), CB Tharold Simon (Questionable, toe), LB Mike Morgan (Out, hamstring). Packers - S Morgan Burnett (Probable, calf), DE Datone Jones (Probable, suspension), T Bryan Bulaga (Out, knee).

WEATHER: Temperatures in the high-50s with wind blowing toward the north end zone at around five mils per hour.

POWER RANKINGS: Seahawks (-3.5) + Packers (-5) + home field (-3.0) = Packers -4.5

WHAT CAPPERS SAY: "Yea, yea, we all know about how good Aaron Rodgers is, even minus his favorite target. But the Packers D allowed Chicago to convert 11-17 on 3rd downs, and nearly blew the game late. The Seahawks finished +2 in turnovers. They had a punt return touchdown and a defensive touchdown. Yet they lost the game outright as road favorites, a very troubling sign." Teddy Covers.

WHAT BOOKS SAY: "The marquee matchup of the week has resulted in interesting action. The majority of wagers, around 65 percent, have been on Green Bay but we've moved down a half point because we have a greater amount of the handle on Seattle. I predict this will move back past the key number by kickoff with everyone recognizing the Packers' revenge factor. The over has been popular with both sides of the betting spectrum." John Lester.

ABOUT THE SEAHAWKS (0-1 SU, 0-1 ATS, 1-0 O/U): Coach Pete Carroll reiterated that he is "disappointed" in the situation that has led safety Kam Chancellor to remove himself from the team, but is prepared to go without him on Sunday. "Nothing has changed. It really has never been a negotiation. It's been conversations. Nothing's changed though," Carroll told reporters. "...I'm just disappointed like I know he is and everybody is that it hasn't found a way to get him here. That's all." Defensive back Dion Bailey, who made his NFL debut and started in Chancellor's place against the Rams, gave up the game-tying touchdown to Lance Kendricks in the waning moments of regulation.

ABOUT THE PACKERS (1-0 SU, 1-0 ATS, 1-0 O/U): Green Bay may receive a much-needed boost to its defense as safety Morgan Burnett (strained calf) is in line to make his season debut after watching the team get shredded for 189 yards rushing by the Bears. "To be honest with you, one guy doesn't make a difference," Burnett told ESPN of the expectations of the defense. "It's a collective effort, a collective group, and we make each other look good, we make each other better. Honestly, one guy doesn't make a difference to me." With respect to Burnett, the season-ending foot injury to linebacker Sam Barrington could be a difference-maker as his replacement, Nate Palmer, is still dealing with a left hand injury.

TRENDS:

* Over is 5-1-1 in the last seven meetings.
* Seahawks are 1-3-1 ATS in their last five meetings in Green Bay.
* Seahawks are 2-6 ATS in their last eight games in Week 2.
* Over is 8-1 in Packers' last nine games in September.

CONSENSUS: Sixty percent are backing the Packers.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

At the Gate - Sunday
By Mike Dempsey

Frosted got the job done as the betting favorite in yesterday’s $1 million Pennsylvania Derby (G2), rallying in the stretch to win by two lengths and stamp himself as a legit threat in the Breeders’ Cup Classic (G1).

The colt was my top pick after the scratch of Gimme Da Lute, but I had a hard time getting excited about betting him at 4-5, although he clicked up to even money late and paid $4.00 to win.

The colt snapped a four racing losing streak and picked up his first victory since taking the Wood Memorial (G1) on April 4. He is currently listed at 14-1 odds for the Classic at Sportsbook.ag, good for the seventh choice in the betting. Triple Crown winner American Pharoah remains the favorite at 8-5.

I’m a Chatterbox got her first Grade 1 victory by taking the $1 million Cotillion by two lengths over the stubborn longshot Calamity Kate, who set the early fractions held on to the runner up spot at 22-1.

It looked like it was going to be a quiet day in horse racing on Sunday without any major stakes, but it turns out we have a four day carryover in the Pick 6 at Belmont Park. There is $609,596 in the pot and that should easily grow to over $1 million.


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

BEL Race 1 Md Sp Wt (12:55 ET)
4 Future Show 2-1
7 Elated 5-2
5 C Note 6-1
3 Right Decision 7-2

Analysis: Future Show stalked the early pace while saving ground and finished up well for the runner up spot in her debut, sent off at 10-1 in a field of nine for the Motion barn that usually does not have them fully cranked first out. She does not need to move forward much off her debut effort to pick up her diploma here. She is out of a Red Ransom mare that has dropped a pair of winners and they are both stakes winners on grass, Daring Dancer ($235,392) and Hamp ($201,169).

Elated makes her sixth career start and has three seconds and a third, the beaten favorite in three of her starts. The $270,000 Keeneland purchase has a couple of sibs that have won on grass including multiple stakes winner Burn the Mortgage ($332,424). Steady figures but it looks as if our top pick has more upside.

Wagering
WIN: #4 to win at 8-5 or better.
EX: 4,7 / 3,4,5,7
TRI: 4,7 / 3,4,5,7 / 2,3,4,5,7

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

BEL Race 8 The John Hettinger (4:46 ET)
10 Invading Humor 5-1
11 Selenite 3-1
8 Freudie Anne 6-1
2 The Tea Cups 5-2

Analysis: Invading Humor is one of six in here that exit the state bred Yaddo which was won by The Tea Cups at nearly 10-1. Our top pick prompted the early pace after breaking from the far outside and weakened in the final furlong to check in eighth. The mare has won six of her 14 career starts and three times here including winning the state bred Mt. Vernon three back at a mile. She won this race last year which was her lone go at nine furlongs.

Selenite stumbled coming out of the gate last out in the Yaddo and came with a good rally and finished gamely in a third place finish, beaten 1 1/4 lengths. She was third in the Sheepshead Bay (G3) at 1 3/8 miles here back in May, beaten 1 3/4 lengths. She was fourth in this race last year. Needs to overcome a tough post, but thinking her price may end up higher than her 3-1 morning line.

Wagering
WIN: #10 to win at 7-2 or better.
EX: 10,11 / 2,8,10,11
TRI: 10,11 / 2,8,10,11 / 1,2,8,10,11

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

MTH Race 7 Clm $5,000B (3:52 ET)
4 Jojo's Gal 3-1
9 Charlie's Rainbow 7-2
1 Chubby Charlie 4-1
5 Glass Zealing 5-1

Analysis: Jojo's Gal dueled for the early lead, opened up a lead heading for home and could not hold off the winner late, beaten just a neck in a game effort at this level. The cut back form two turns seems to have suited her and she does not need to move forward much off her last effort to beat this group.

Charlie's Rainbow stumbled badly coming out of the gate and after pressing the pace she faded to finish a well-beaten seventh. She was a sharp winner two back against $7,500 non-winners of two in her previous start. Looking for her to bounce back with a much better effort here if she gets away cleanly in this spot.

Wagering
WIN: #4 to win at 5-2 or better.
EX: 4,9 / 1,4,5,9
TRI: 4,9 / 1,4,5,9 / 1,4,5,8,9

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

Belmont Park
R2: #8 Sandcat 12-1
R3: #4 Runaway Posse 12-1
R6: #8 Mascarello 10-1

Good luck today!

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at Flamboro Downs

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

Race 8 - Post: 8:20 - 1 mile. TROT - Class Rating: 83 - Purse:$7500 - PREFERRED 3

CONSORTIUM CHOICES
Chatsworth Consortium


# 2 THUNDERING OVATION 2/1

# 7 PUREFORM OLYMPIA 7/2

# 3 KASHS CAVIAR 5/2

Feel pretty confident putting some profits down on THUNDERING OVATION. May provide us a victory based on formidable recent speed ratings - earning an avg of 90. The group gives this fine animal a very good chance to win this one, class numbers are tops in the pack. Always solid driver-conditioner team. 33 percent winners when they combine to do work. PUREFORM OLYMPIA - Could be considered in this one if only for the nice speed rating recorded in the last outing. Don't let a fine animal with such a sharp winning rate like this be forgotten. KASHS CAVIAR - Reason to like this gelding as he has in the sulky one of the top drivers in win percentage this last month.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at St. John's Racing

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

Race 6 - Post: 3:40 - 1 mile. PACE - Class Rating: 68 - Purse:$460 - CLASS A

CONSORTIUM CHOICES
Chatsworth Consortium


# 4 STOVEONFIRE 2/1

# 2 PRINCETOWN DARCY 6/1

# 1 DANS IDEAL 5/1

Feel pretty confident putting money down on STOVEONFIRE. Feel the need for speed, this horse has been turning in some stellar speed figures averaging around 68. With a 68 avg class stat, this nice horse has one of the finest class edges in the pack. With a respectable 69 speed rating last time out, will definitely be a factor in this race. PRINCETOWN DARCY - The trainer/horse combo percentages point out that this combination are solid in the money finishers when working as a team. Should compete solidly in this outing as his style of running fits well in this field of horses. DANS IDEAL - This interesting entrant and Dillon have a very good relationship. In the money pct for this duo is high. This nice horse recorded a very good speed fig last time out. Looks in good form to come right back.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Central Wyoming Fair

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

Race 1 - Maiden - 250y on the Dirt. Purse: $5000 Class Rating: 76

QUARTER HORSE 250Y, FOR MAIDENS, THREE YEARS OLD AND UPWARD. THREE YEAR OLDS, 124 LBS.; OLDER, 126 LBS.


RECOMMENDED CHOICES

The Walker Group Picks

# 1 GONE INA FLASH 10/1

# 5 SEPERATE PROSPECT 9/5

# 8 BLUE DAGGER 4/1

GONE INA FLASH has a respectable shot to take this race and is a respectable value-based wager given the 10/1 line. Could beat this group of horses in this race given the 69 Equibase Speed Fig garnered in his last outing. Has been racing in the most competitive company of the field recently. SEPERATE PROSPECT - Could best this group of horses in this race here, showing quite good figs of late. He looks very good in this spot and I expect will be on the lead or close at the halfway point. BLUE DAGGER - Ran a solid last race.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Prairie Mdws

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

Race 6 - Claiming - 300y on the Dirt. Purse: $8500 Class Rating: 76

QUARTER HORSE 300Y, FOR THREE YEAR OLD AND UPWARD WHICH HAVE NEVER WON THREE RACES OR WHICH HAVE NOT WON A RACE IN 2015. THREE YEAR OLDS, 124 LBS.; OLDER, 126 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $7,500, IF FOR $5,000, ALLOWED 2 LBS. IOWA BRED CLAIMING PRICE $12,500.


RECOMMENDED CHOICES

The Walker Group Picks

# 7 SHAKE DOS VIOLETS 5/1

# 2 TUCAN SAM 5/1

# 3 JUMP THE CREEK 6/1

SHAKE DOS VIOLETS has a formidable shot to take this race. Reliable average speed figures in short races make this equine a key contender. Could beat this group given the 71 speed fig earned in her last outing. TUCAN SAM - The average Equibase class rating alone makes this entrant a solid choice. Has posted sound Equibase Speed Figs in short races in the past. JUMP THE CREEK - Demonstrates the look of a lucrative play, averaging a solid 71 speed rating which is one of the best in this field. With a nice class rating average of 86, has one of the strongest class advantages in this field.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Bar

Woodbine - Race #4 - Post: 2:24pm - Allowance - 6.0 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $47,500 Class Rating: 85

Rating: Golden DollarGolden DollarGolden Dollar

#9 CLASSIC TALE (ML=5/2)
#8 DEL CIELO (ML=9/2)


CLASSIC TALE - I have to like this filly's chances to win at the shorter distance. Filly flopped as the favorite in an Allowance race last time out. Was a good effort even though she finished third. Dasilva and Katryan perform well when they work together. It's hard to beat a +58 ROI for a jock and trainer. Have to make this filly a serious competitor; she comes off a good effort on August 23rd. Katryan enters this thoroughbred in a spot where she should fit well based on her last 2 speed ratings. DEL CIELO - That last race must not have been too hard on this filly for her to be able to race again so quickly. With 'blinkers-on' this filly should be very competitive.

Vulnerable Contenders: #1 DANCING ON FIRE (ML=3/1), #7 COZSHECAN (ML=6/1),

DANCING ON FIRE - Finished second in her most recent effort with a mediocre speed rating. When I look at today's Equibase class figure, it would take an improved performance to score after that in this bunch. COZSHECAN - This filly won last time, but probably won't come back today versus tougher competition. Don't believe this racer will make an impact in today's event. That last speed fig was run-of-the-mill when compared with today's Equibase class figure.

Top HatGUEST COMMENTARY: Hal - CLASSIC TALE - Comparing last speed ratings in this field, nobody beats this filly. Tops in the field with a last speed rating of 86 on Aug 23rd.



STRAIGHT WAGERS:
Putting our cash on #9 CLASSIC TALE to win. Have to have odds of at least 3/2 or better though

EXACTA WAGERS:
Box [8,9]

TRIFECTA WAGERS:
9 with 8 with [1,2,7] Total Cost: $3

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:
Skip

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Bar

Churchill Downs - Race #6 - Post: 3:16pm - Maiden Claiming - 8.5 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $19,500 Class Rating: 68

Rating: Golden DollarGolden DollarGolden DollarGolden Dollar

#1 MARKET MAKER (ML=2/1)


MARKET MAKER - This rider and handler have a fantastic winning percent when they team up. Adding blinkers sometimes leads to improvement on the racetrack. Has a good chance to break maiden switching over to the dirt in this event.

Vulnerable Contenders: #2 IS THAT JACK (ML=5/2), #4 HE'S FROM QUEENS (ML=3/1), #3 DRAWBRIDGE (ML=8/1),

IS THAT JACK - When examining today's Equibase class figure, he will have to garner a much better speed figure than last time around the track to compete in this dirt route. HE'S FROM QUEENS - In the last affair this less than sharp equine finished seventh. Doesn't look promising for his chances today. Will not be easy for this horse to beat this field off of that last speed figure. Not probable to improve enough to run a figure close to today's class figure, so put him on the possibly overvalued equines list. DRAWBRIDGE - Awfully hard to bet on this steed when he hasn't been showing any signs of readiness recently.


STRAIGHT WAGERS:
Bet on #1 MARKET MAKER to win if you can get at least 1/1 odds

EXACTA WAGERS:
1 with [3,7]

TRIFECTA WAGERS:
Pass

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:
None

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Rick Needham at Belmont Park

RACE #3 - BELMONT PARK - 2:01 PM EASTERN POST

The Ashley T. Cole Stakes

9.0 FURLONGS INNER TURF THREE YEARS OLD AND UPWARD STAKES $125,000.00 PURSE

#7 LUBASH
#1 IRON POWER
#8 KHARAFA
#6 EMPIRE DREAMS

This race honors the memory of the late ASHLEY T. COLE served as chairman of the New York State Racing Commission. He played a pivotal role in the formation of The New York Racing Association. Here in the 30th running of this stake event for New York Breds ... #7 LUBASH is the overall speed leader in this field racing at, or about, 9.0 furlongs on the grass, and has hit the board in "POWER RUN FASHION" in each of his last five outings, and this recent streak of racing consistency includes a quartet of "POWER RUN WINS!" Jockey Junior Alvarado has been in his irons on 14 previous occasions, hitting the board in each of those "adventures," including 7 Circle Trips, en route to a +65% profit in the process, and is back today for his 15th ride! #1 IRON POWER has also produced "POWER RUN PERFORMANCES" in five straight hitting the board in three, including a "POWER RUN WIN" in his 2nd race back.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Balmoral: Sunday 9/20 Analysis
By Jeremey Day

DRF HARNESS

Race 7 - $30,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool

Best Bet (41 - 62 / $145.20): JD CHEESE (5th)

Spot Play: SEEYOUATTHEFINISH (6th)


Race 1

(5) SHEZ SO SASSY filly is much more talented than most of the field when she minds her manners. (6) DIVENELY FLOOZY has been progressing nicely but needs some racing luck to hit the top spot. (2) FOX VALLEY HARRAH filly is better than what she shows on paper; threat.

Race 2

In a field that's a combined 0 for 43, (1) LK'S NANCY LEE is very inconsistent but a good effort makes her the horse to beat. (6) FAT AND POE just missed last week and might have needed the start. (5) GOING SHOOTEN filly pacer has just been racing evenly in her last two; command a price.

Race 3

(2) VENGEFUL two-year-old filly just needs to stay trotting to get her picture taken. (7) MORE THAN LIKELY owns a nice win on the year and finds a field full of question marks. (4) IMA NEW FLYER filly has shown good improvement in her last two; threat.

Race 4

In a wide-open and evenly matched race on paper, (7) SUNSET DREAMER should be much closer turning for home and will offer a nice price. (2) LIL AL BUNDY showed a nice burst of speed late last week and looks to be a handful with a smooth trip. (4) CAMWISER gets sent out first start in a hot barn; big chance.

Race 5

(5) JD CHEESE two-year-old can score his first lifetime victory with a trouble-free trip. (9) SURVIVER DI didn't fare well on the big track a few weeks back but the filly trotter sports a solid record on the fair tracks. (7) LIMA PIZZAZ well bred filly will take a ton of tote action but has had nothing late in the lane in her last three; use caution.

Race 6

(6) SEEYOUATTHEFINISH will likely offer the best value of the contenders and has been sharp. (8) RYLEIGH'S LILLY is just now back in racing shape after a five week layoff and should have more in the tank this week. (4) NORTHERN DALI Indiana bred pacer is super fast and just went a big effort at Maywood a few weeks back.

Race 7

(9) DELIGHT FASHION went a huge mile last week after spotting the field over ten lengths at the start. (8) PISTOPACKINPIPER beat this same bunch last week but will need more if the top choice brings his best effort. (3) MIGHTY HOT SHOT has been facing tougher and should offer value underneath.

Race 8

(8) HUDSON JESSE trotting mare just needs a good setup to beat this bunch; top driver's choice. (4) REVRAC HARBOUR gets set out for capable connections against easier; threat. (10) KING MUFASA gelding gets a tough starting post and could need a start over the big track.

Race 9

(3) FOXY DANCIN four-year-old mare should show improvement in her second lifetime start after a promising first effort. (2) LUCKY DALI filly has a big burst of speed but has been unable to put it all together so far; threat. (5) FIGHTING MAJORETTE has just been racing evenly; use underneath.

Race 10

(4) BOYS ROUND HERE dropped and popped last week and could have gained some needed confidence to tackle better. (1) HARPER VALLEY BOY gelding might be starting to turn a corner after an improved effort in his last. (3) LEO gets sent out for proven connections; threat

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

SPOT PLAYS

For Sunday


TRACK (RACE) HORSE, MORNING LINE


Belmont Park (2nd) Attractive Ride, 3-1
(6th) Thank You, 7-2


Belterra Park (2nd) Auscar, 8-1
(6th) Strong Resolve, 7-2


Belterra Park (4th) Miss Mizzen Silver, 3-1
(7th) El Grande Rojo, 4-1


Emerald Downs (3rd) Noble Nick, 7-2
(5th) Land Rocket, 7-2


Fort Erie (1st) Lifes Not a Breeze, 5-1
(8th) Whyagottobethatway, 4-1


Gulfstream Park (8th) American Phantom, 10-1
(11th) Sasstalk, 7-2


Hastings (3rd) Don't Hold Me Back, 8-1
(4th) Flemings Beach, 7-2


Laurel (8th) Maxine, 3-1
(9th) Nashly's Vow, 3-1


Los Alamitos (6th) Solid Wager, 4-1
(7th) Stealth Drone, 4-1


Monmouth Park (2nd) Lizzie Quinn, 9-2
(7th) Chubby Charlie, 4-1


Mountaineer (7th) Marshtini, 9-2
(9th) Panzer Attack, 3-1


Parx Racing (3rd) Believe in Luck, 5-1
(9th) Tiz'naz, 8-1


Presque Isle Downs (2nd) Siyawe, 5-1
(3rd) Candy War, 7-2


Retama Park (3rd) Dust 'Em Early, 6-1
(7th) Sardaearly, 7-2


Stockton (8th) Marynetta, 7-2
(10th) Wild At Best, 6-1


Woodbine (1st) Essence of Audre, 8-1
(8th) Kingsport, 6-1

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

MLB Preview: Red Sox (70-77) at Blue Jays (85-63)

Game: 3
Venue: Rogers Centre
Date: September 20, 2015 1:07 PM EDT

From an under-.500 disappointment before the All-Star break to baseball's best team in the second half, the Toronto Blue Jays can essentially put the AL East on ice with an upcoming visit from their closest competition.

Just don't expect them to overlook their final game against the division's cellar dweller.

After blowing a ninth-inning lead for the first time all season, the Blue Jays try to bounce back Sunday and avoid losing their season series against the visiting Boston Red Sox.

The New York Yankees will be at Rogers Centre for three games starting Monday, and it's possible by the time they leave that the Blue Jays (85-63) could have a 7 1/2-game lead with 10 to play.

For now, Toronto needs to stay focused on the Red Sox (70-77), who on Saturday did something firmly against the odds with the Blue Jays up 4-2 in the ninth. Boston had been 0-65 when trailing after eight innings and Toronto had won its first 73 when exiting the eighth with a lead, but the Red Sox scored five times in the ninth and needed them all while holding on for a 7-6 win.

Jackie Bradley Jr.'s two-run shot tied it and was the third homer Jays closer Roberto Osuna has allowed this month, equaling the number he gave up prior to September.

"The kid's had a great year and he's good," manager John Gibbons said. "That's part of baseball."

The Jays' lead dropped to 3 1/2 after the Yankees won, and they might not have an easy time maintaining that edge prior to New York's arrival. Toronto is 9-9 against the last-place Red Sox and has dropped six of the last nine meetings.

Mark Buehrle (14-7, 3.66 ERA) started two of those and had vastly different experiences. He held Boston to a run and four hits over seven innings while striking out seven in an 11-2 home win July 1, then surrendered five runs over a season-low 3 1-3 in an 11-4 loss at Fenway Park on Sept. 7 without a whiff.

That rough outing wasn't a complete aberration for Buehrle of late. After completing seven innings in 14 of 16 starts from May 17-Aug. 13, the left-hander hasn't recorded an out past the sixth while posting a 5.92 ERA over his last five.

Buehrle got a cortisone shot in his left shoulder after his outing at Fenway and went eight days between starts, allowing two runs over five innings Tuesday at Atlanta while throwing 66 pitches.

"It had been a long layoff for him, but I thought it was good that he got through five, and the last three innings were much better," Gibbons told MLB's official website.

"Ideally you'd like to see them all go six or seven innings, but that doesn't happen all the time."

It happened for Rich Hill (0-0, 0.00) last Sunday in his first start in the majors since 2009. The 35-year-old left-hander, a bullpen arm with three different teams over the last few years who began this season with independent league Long Island, allowed only an infield hit over seven innings at Tampa Bay while striking out 10 in a 2-0 win.

"The outing speaks for itself," interim manager Torey Lovullo said. "It was a pretty special moment for Rich to walk on the mound. Just a great story."

It's been four years since he's faced Jose Bautista, but Hill used to have his way with him. The Jays slugger, who hit his 36th homer in the ninth inning Saturday, is 3 for 21 off Hill.

Boston outfielder Mookie Betts has hit safely in all 16 games he's played against Toronto this season, posting a 1.112 OPS.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Orioles (73-75) at Rays (71-77)

Game: 4
Venue: Tropicana Field
Date: September 20, 2015 1:10 PM EDT

The Baltimore Orioles remain in sight of the AL's second wild card thanks greatly to Houston's struggles, but a more pressing issue is the three other teams in front of them.

The Tampa Bay Rays are further down the pack but have one more shot to hinder the Orioles' chances as the AL East foes finish their season series Sunday at Tropicana Field.

Baltimore (73-75) has won eight of 11 and two of three in this four-game series, climbing within 4 1/2 games of an Astros team which has lost five of six this week. But the Orioles still trail the Los Angeles Angels, Minnesota and Cleveland for the league's final postseason spot with 14 games to play.

"We're hanging in there," manager Buck Showalter said. "We're trying to do what we can do to get back in this thing."

The Rays (71-77), meanwhile, have lost six of eight and are 6 1/2 games back of Houston due in part to slumps by Evan Longoria (2 for 28), Logan Forsythe (4 for 25) and Kevin Kiermaier (1 for 15).

Adam Jones has keyed the Orioles' surge with 13 RBIs in his last eight games, and Chris Davis has been hot all month with a .379 average, seven homers and 15 RBIs in 17 games. Jones drove in both runs in Saturday night's 2-1 victory, while Davis went 3 for 4 with two doubles.

The pair has helped cover up a pitching staff that holds a 5.40 ERA in September, including a 6.14 mark from the starters. Kevin Gausman, though, has been one of the bright spots lately.

Gausman (3-6, 4.15 ERA) picked up his second win since joining Baltimore's rotation in mid-June by logging six innings of two-hit ball in a 2-0 win over Boston on Monday. He is 2-6 with a 4.09 ERA in 14 starts, but he has an ERA of 0.82 in his last two.

The right-hander's last start against the Rays on Sept. 2 was the shortest of his career at 2 1-3 innings, allowing eight hits and four runs in a 7-6 win. Gausman is 1-3 with a 5.97 ERA in six career starts against the Rays, with James Loney (5 for 14), J.P. Arencibia (3 for 5, two homers) and Brandon Guyer (3 for 5, three doubles) all finding success against him.

Jake Odorizzi (8-8, 3.26) will go for his third win in as many tries versus Baltimore this season. He held the Orioles to two hits in 6 2-3 innings of a 2-0 victory in his first start of the season, but gave up three homers and four runs in six innings of a 9-5 win May 31.

Manny Machado had one of those home runs but is just 2 for 13 against Odorizzi lifetime, while Jones is 8 for 17 with a home run and a double.

Odorizzi ranks toward bottom of MLB with a 3.62 run support average, but he's received a combined 12 runs of support to win his last two starts while allowing three runs in 12 innings.

"It's nice to be the beneficiary of it," Odorizzi said after Nick Franklin's two-run homer in the sixth helped him beat the Yankees 6-3 on Tuesday. "... that's been kind of tough to find this year."

Baltimore's Jonathan Schoop extended his career-best hitting streak to 12 games with a fourth-inning single Saturday.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: White Sox (70-77) at Indians (73-74)

Game: 3
Venue: Progressive Field
Date: September 20, 2015 1:10 PM EDT

Not much was expected from him after undergoing shoulder surgery in the spring, but Josh Tomlin has played a key role in the Cleveland Indians' late playoff push.

With the Indians looking to avoid their first back-to-back home losses since July, the right-hander will try to win for the sixth time in seven starts Sunday against the Chicago White Sox.

Tomlin (5-2, 2.70 ERA) experienced some discomfort in his right shoulder while struggling during spring training. The issue ended up being worse than initially thought, and he missed the first four months of the season following surgery on his AC joint.

After working through a rehab assignment, Tomlin has been stellar in his return with 44 strikeouts and only three walks over seven starts. He won a career-high five straight starts before giving up two runs and four hits and going the distance in a 2-0 home loss to Kansas City on Tuesday.

"He'll continue to pitch well and, if he keeps on pitching like that, he's going to keep getting more wins than losses," pitching coach Mickey Callaway told MLB's official website.

Cleveland made things interesting by winning 12 of 16 from Aug. 25-Sept. 13, but the drive has stalled while the club has alternated wins and losses over the past seven games.

The Indians lost ground in the race for the AL's second wild-card spot Saturday after a sloppy 4-3 loss and Houston's win over Oakland. Now they're four games back with three teams to jump.

'These losses hurt a little bit because we're very close,' losing pitcher Carlos Carrasco said.

Cleveland (73-74), 14-5 at home since Aug. 8, will try to avoid a split of this 10-game homestand and its first back-to-back losses at Progressive Field since an eight-game skid in July.

Tomlin is 1-1 with a 4.34 ERA while allowing seven home runs in five starts versus Chicago (70-77). In his only meeting this season, he yielded solo shots to Tyler Saladino, Jose Abreu and Trayce Thompson over 5 2-3 innings in a 6-4 win Sept. 9.

Melky Cabrera, Alexei Ramirez and Adam Eaton, though, are a combined 2 for 29 in the matchup.

Eaton had two hits and drove in a run Saturday when the White Sox won for the sixth time in eight games at Progressive Field this season. He's batting .378 over an eight-game hitting streak.

John Danks (7-12, 4.56) has a 2.45 ERA over his last three starts after allowing three hits - all solo home runs - over seven innings in Monday's 8-7, 14-inning home win over Oakland.

The left-hander had been 2-8 with a 6.48 ERA in 12 road starts before scattering seven hits in a complete-game 12-1 victory at Kansas City on Sept. 4. He's 0-2 with a 6.75 ERA in three outings versus Cleveland this season and is 5-13 with a 5.29 mark in 25 career meetings.

Mike Aviles is 4 for 7 with a home run off him in 2015 and has a .364 average in 33 lifetime at-bats. Ryan Raburn is hitting .340 with four homers in 50 at-bats, but Carlos Santana is batting .188 in 32.

Cleveland third baseman Giovanny Urshela could sit for the fourth time in five games due to a sore right shoulder.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Marlins (64-85) at Nationals (77-71)

Game: 4
Venue: Nationals Park
Date: September 20, 2015 1:35 PM EDT

Stephen Strasburg is doing his part to help keep the Washington Nationals' faint postseason hopes alive.

Looking to build on his best outing of the year, Strasburg tries to end his season-long struggles against the Miami Marlins on Sunday at Nationals Park.

Since coming off his season's second stint on the disabled list Aug. 8, Strasburg (9-7, 3.98 ERA) is 4-2 with a 2.38 ERA in seven starts. He allowed one hit and matched a career best with 14 strikeouts in eight innings of Tuesday's 4-0 victory at Philadelphia.

"I trust my instincts, go out there and battle," the right-hander said. "I don't worry about what the stuff is doing. I want to go out there and compete."

Strasburg, who fanned 13 against the New York Mets on Sept. 9, joined Pedro Martinez as the only pitchers in franchise history to strike out at least 13 in back-to-back contests.

Simply being at full strength has gone a long way for Strasburg.

"I think health is huge for anybody," he told MLB's official website. "It's a good learning process for me. It helps me have a better understanding that I need to have my body to go out ... and execute pitches."

Strasburg has struggled with the latter against Miami (64-85) this year, going 0-2 with a 6.92 ERA in three starts. He's only lasted 13 innings in those games and allowed 19 hits.

Washington (77-71), meanwhile, tries for a seventh win in eight games after Saturday's 5-2 victory. Seven games back of the first-place Mets in the NL East, the Nationals continue to realistically press on.

"Just worry about ourselves and worry about us winning games," NL MVP candidate Bryce Harper said. "If we don't win, it don't matter."

Harper had three RBIs and broke open a one-run contest with a two-run homer in the seventh. He tops the NL with a .340 average and 41 home runs, including five in the past six games as he's gone 11 for 23 with 10 RBIs.

"He's fun to watch. And anytime we can get some guys on base while he's coming up, something good usually happens," Saturday's winning pitcher Jordan Zimmermann said.

Harper and the rest of the Nationals get their first look at rookie Justin Nicolino (3-3, 3.81), who has allowed eight runs and 15 hits in 10 1-3 innings in two starts since opening September with seven scoreless innings at Atlanta. The left-hander has made seven of his nine career starts since Aug. 11, but Marlins manager Dan Jennings has no plans of shutting him down.

"I think, stamina-wise, he's fine," Jennings said. "He's not a power pitcher. He mixes pitches, he locates."

Miami's Justin Bour has a 1.255 OPS with eight RBIs over the last five games after collecting three hits Saturday. The first baseman is batting .333 with 12 RBIs in 17 games against Washington this season, and he's 4 for 10 with a homer off Strasburg.

While injured slugger Giancarlo Stanton (hand) won't return until next week at the earliest, teammate Martin Prado (wrist) could miss a third straight contest.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Reds (63-84) at Brewers (62-86)

Game: 3
Venue: Miller Park
Date: September 20, 2015 2:10 PM EDT

Manager Bryan Price is trying to learn all he can about the Cincinnati Reds' stockpile of young arms. He certainly likes the stuff and makeup of Anthony DeSclafani.

The right-hander will try to keep making a strong impression Sunday when the visiting Reds look to send the Milwaukee Brewers to their longest losing streak in more than a year.

With an eye on the future, Cincinnati (63-84) has given its rookies a franchise-record 95 starts. Rookies have also made a major league-record 48 consecutive starts for the club.

DeSclafani (9-10, 3.67 ERA) has been a bright spot in the group, limiting opponents to three runs or fewer in nine of his last 10 starts. Now he's looking to match a career high by winning his third straight outing.

The 25-year-old, who made five starts for Miami last season, allowed hits to the first three batters before setting down 15 in a row in a 5-1 win over St. Louis on Sept. 12. He gave up one run with a career-high 10 strikeouts over six innings to beat MLB's best club for the third time.

"I know we talk a lot about how good his stuff is, but if he doesn't have the demeanor that he has, he doesn't persevere through that first inning, most likely," Price told MLB's official website. "I'm really happy about the development as a pitcher, but he came up with the makeup intact, he didn't have to be taught how to be a tough kid."

DeSclafani, who is relying on an effective breaking ball, has posted a 2.08 ERA while fanning 29 over 26 innings in his last four starts. He was dominant in his only career start at Miller Park, yielding two hits over eight scoreless innings in a 6-1 victory April 20.

Milwaukee (62-86) has been outscored 51-29 during an eight-game skid that has dropped it 1 1/2 games behind Cincinnati into last place. The club last lost nine in a row Aug. 26-Sept. 4, 2014.

Domingo Santana went 3 for 4 with his sixth home run and five RBIs for the Brewers on Saturday. The right fielder has gone 9 for 16 with eight RBIs in his last four games against the Reds.

Milwaukee likely won't have Elian Herrera after he collided with teammate Shane Peterson while trying to catch a fly ball. He was placed on a backboard and stretcher and left in an ambulance.

'It didn't look good,' manager Craig Counsell said. 'To get a negative X-ray, I know his spirits are lifted. It's a right thigh contusion, but it's pretty significant. He got hit pretty good.'

The Brewers want to see what they have in Ariel Pena (1-0, 3.46), who was acquired from the Los Angeles Angels in the Zack Greinke trade in July 2012. The right-hander earned the win in his big-league debut Sept. 5 when he allowed two runs over three innings of relief at Cincinnati.

He's made it through five innings in each of his first two starts, yielding a total of three runs.

Pena will have to be careful with Todd Frazier and Joey Votto, who hit their 35th and 28th home runs, respectively, on Saturday. Frazier became the second Reds player with at least 40 doubles and 35 home runs in a season, joining Frank Robinson (1962).

The Reds haven't swept a series at Milwaukee since August 2009.