Dave Cokin
Thursday Bonus Play 8:10 PM
MLB (971) ARIZONA DIAMONDBACKS (972) HOUSTON ASTROS
Take: (971) ARIZONA DIAMONDBACKS -109
It’s no longer easy to make a case against the Houston Astros. The former punching bag franchise has seen its fortunes turn around this season with the arrival of some major prospects and it looks like the lean time are about to become a bad memory for Astros faithful. But there are still some holes here and there, and one of the team’s struggling starting pitchers looks worth a bet against tonight.
Scott Feldman is getting hit very hard lately. The numbers over his last five starts are alarmingly bad. Feldman is giving up hits at a crazy rate, and while some of his stats are skewed by awful defense that has victimized him, there’s basically nothing positive at all to glean from any of these recent outings. The Diamondbacks are very average offensively against righties, and it’s not like this team is crushing the ball, but I think you have to like their chance of getting some production against Feldman tonight.
Wade Miley will throw for the Snakes, and that short left field porch is definitely a concern as Miley can get homer prone at times. The Astros have also posted some impressive digits against southpaws, particularly at home. So it’s not like I’m thrilled with Miley. But I do put the starting pitching check mark next to him as opposed to Feldman and the Arizona pen owns a bit of an edge as well.
The overall breakdown here says the number is just about on the button. So this is primarily a one-factor play for me and that’s simply riding the anti-Feldman bandwagon until such time as he again proves he can retire big league hitters on a reasonably regular basis. That just isn’t the case currently, so my choice here is the Diamondbacks to salvage a split of this four-game home and home set.
Thursday Bonus Play 8:10 PM
MLB (971) ARIZONA DIAMONDBACKS (972) HOUSTON ASTROS
Take: (971) ARIZONA DIAMONDBACKS -109
It’s no longer easy to make a case against the Houston Astros. The former punching bag franchise has seen its fortunes turn around this season with the arrival of some major prospects and it looks like the lean time are about to become a bad memory for Astros faithful. But there are still some holes here and there, and one of the team’s struggling starting pitchers looks worth a bet against tonight.
Scott Feldman is getting hit very hard lately. The numbers over his last five starts are alarmingly bad. Feldman is giving up hits at a crazy rate, and while some of his stats are skewed by awful defense that has victimized him, there’s basically nothing positive at all to glean from any of these recent outings. The Diamondbacks are very average offensively against righties, and it’s not like this team is crushing the ball, but I think you have to like their chance of getting some production against Feldman tonight.
Wade Miley will throw for the Snakes, and that short left field porch is definitely a concern as Miley can get homer prone at times. The Astros have also posted some impressive digits against southpaws, particularly at home. So it’s not like I’m thrilled with Miley. But I do put the starting pitching check mark next to him as opposed to Feldman and the Arizona pen owns a bit of an edge as well.
The overall breakdown here says the number is just about on the button. So this is primarily a one-factor play for me and that’s simply riding the anti-Feldman bandwagon until such time as he again proves he can retire big league hitters on a reasonably regular basis. That just isn’t the case currently, so my choice here is the Diamondbacks to salvage a split of this four-game home and home set.
Jim Feist
MLB Comp Pick for Thursday June 12, 2014: 7:05 PM EST
(959) CHICAGO CUBS VS (960) PITTSBURGH PIRATES
Take: (959) CHICAGO CUBS
Reason: Your free pick for Thursday, June 12th, 2014, comes in baseball as the Cubs and the Pirates meet in Pittsburgh. The Pirates are 9-19 in their last 28 vs. the National League Central and the Chicago comes to town playing well, recently winning 6 of 8, plus going 4-1 against teams with losing records. Pittsburgh has a weak offense, 19th in baseball in runs scored, 17th in slugging. Chicago has ace Jeff Samardzija going with a 2.54 ERA fanning 75 in 85 innings with just 24 walks. Samardzija pitched seven strong innings in earning his second win of the season Saturday. He give up five hits, two runs, and one walk while striking out eight. Pittsburgh has Edinson Volquez going, with a 4.27 ERA and the team 3-6 his last nine starts. Volquez took the loss in Saturday's home start against the Brewers, allowing four runs (three earned) on four hits and two walks over six innings, while striking out four. He only has 48 strikeouts in 71.2 innings, and hasn't pitched past the seventh inning in any of his starts. The Pirates are 1-4 in their last 5 home games vs. a team with a losing record, so grab the visitors and their ace. Play Chicago!
MLB Comp Pick for Thursday June 12, 2014: 7:05 PM EST
(959) CHICAGO CUBS VS (960) PITTSBURGH PIRATES
Take: (959) CHICAGO CUBS
Reason: Your free pick for Thursday, June 12th, 2014, comes in baseball as the Cubs and the Pirates meet in Pittsburgh. The Pirates are 9-19 in their last 28 vs. the National League Central and the Chicago comes to town playing well, recently winning 6 of 8, plus going 4-1 against teams with losing records. Pittsburgh has a weak offense, 19th in baseball in runs scored, 17th in slugging. Chicago has ace Jeff Samardzija going with a 2.54 ERA fanning 75 in 85 innings with just 24 walks. Samardzija pitched seven strong innings in earning his second win of the season Saturday. He give up five hits, two runs, and one walk while striking out eight. Pittsburgh has Edinson Volquez going, with a 4.27 ERA and the team 3-6 his last nine starts. Volquez took the loss in Saturday's home start against the Brewers, allowing four runs (three earned) on four hits and two walks over six innings, while striking out four. He only has 48 strikeouts in 71.2 innings, and hasn't pitched past the seventh inning in any of his starts. The Pirates are 1-4 in their last 5 home games vs. a team with a losing record, so grab the visitors and their ace. Play Chicago!
WNBA
Long Sheet
Thursday, June 12
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PHOENIX (6 - 2) at CONNECTICUT (3 - 6) - 6/12/2014, 7:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
PHOENIX is 32-48 ATS (-20.8 Units) in all games over the last 3 seasons.
PHOENIX is 10-26 ATS (-18.6 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 3 seasons.
CONNECTICUT is 3-12 ATS (-10.2 Units) after scoring 75 points or more over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
CONNECTICUT is 2-2 against the spread versus PHOENIX over the last 3 seasons
PHOENIX is 3-1 straight up against CONNECTICUT over the last 3 seasons
2 of 4 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
Long Sheet
Thursday, June 12
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PHOENIX (6 - 2) at CONNECTICUT (3 - 6) - 6/12/2014, 7:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
PHOENIX is 32-48 ATS (-20.8 Units) in all games over the last 3 seasons.
PHOENIX is 10-26 ATS (-18.6 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 3 seasons.
CONNECTICUT is 3-12 ATS (-10.2 Units) after scoring 75 points or more over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
CONNECTICUT is 2-2 against the spread versus PHOENIX over the last 3 seasons
PHOENIX is 3-1 straight up against CONNECTICUT over the last 3 seasons
2 of 4 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
WNBA
Thursday, June 12
Trend Report
7:00 PM
PHOENIX vs. CONNECTICUT
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Phoenix's last 6 games when playing Connecticut
Phoenix is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games when playing on the road against Connecticut
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Connecticut's last 5 games
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Connecticut's last 8 games when playing at home against Phoenix
Thursday, June 12
Trend Report
7:00 PM
PHOENIX vs. CONNECTICUT
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Phoenix's last 6 games when playing Connecticut
Phoenix is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games when playing on the road against Connecticut
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Connecticut's last 5 games
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Connecticut's last 8 games when playing at home against Phoenix
MLB
Long Sheet
Thursday, June 12
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LA DODGERS (35 - 32) at CINCINNATI (30 - 34) - 12:35 PM
ZACK GREINKE (R) vs. ALFREDO SIMON (R)
Top Trends for this game.
GREINKE is 12-23 (-19.4 Units) against the money line as a road favorite of -125 to -150 since 1997. (Team's Record)
GREINKE is 55-82 (-30.7 Units) against the money line in road games since 1997. (Team's Record)
SIMON is 10-3 (+7.8 Units) against the money line in all games this season. (Team's Record)
SIMON is 10-3 (+7.8 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season. (Team's Record)
LA DODGERS are 52-36 (+15.6 Units) against the money line in road games against right-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
LA DODGERS are 39-18 (+19.2 Units) against the money line in road games when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons.
GREINKE is 31-13 (+14.3 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
GREINKE is 31-13 (+14.3 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
GREINKE is 16-2 (+14.0 Units) against the money line after a loss over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
CINCINNATI is 103-124 (-40.4 Units) against the money line in home games in June games since 1997.
CINCINNATI is 60-61 (-18.0 Units) against the money line after a win over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
LA DODGERS is 4-2 (+1.4 Units) against CINCINNATI this season
3 of 6 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=-0.2 Units, Under=-0.3 Units)
ZACK GREINKE vs. CINCINNATI since 1997
GREINKE is 5-1 when starting against CINCINNATI with an ERA of 3.02 and a WHIP of 0.957.
His team's record is 6-3 (+2.9 units) in these starts. The OVER is 4-2. (+1.8 units)
ALFREDO SIMON vs. LA DODGERS since 1997
SIMON is 0-1 when starting against LA DODGERS with an ERA of 12.26 and a WHIP of 2.452.
His team's record is 0-1 (-1.0 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 0-1. (-1.2 units)
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SAN DIEGO (28 - 37) at PHILADELPHIA (27 - 36) - 1:05 PM
ERIC STULTS (L) vs. KYLE KENDRICK (R)
Top Trends for this game.
SAN DIEGO is 20-32 (-14.0 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters this season.
SAN DIEGO is 31-23 (+13.7 Units) against the money line after 3 or more consecutive losses over the last 3 seasons.
STULTS is 47-38 (+17.9 Units) against the money line in all games since 1997. (Team's Record)
STULTS is 47-37 (+18.9 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field since 1997. (Team's Record)
PHILADELPHIA is 100-125 (-29.4 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
PHILADELPHIA is 25-41 (-20.7 Units) against the money line in June games over the last 3 seasons.
PHILADELPHIA is 50-65 (-22.2 Units) against the money line in day games over the last 3 seasons.
PHILADELPHIA is 100-123 (-27.4 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
PHILADELPHIA is 43-57 (-18.8 Units) against the money line after a win over the last 2 seasons.
PHILADELPHIA is 48-59 (-19.9 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
PHILADELPHIA is 2-0 (+2.1 Units) against SAN DIEGO this season
2 of 2 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL this season . (Under=+2.0 Units)
ERIC STULTS vs. PHILADELPHIA since 1997
STULTS is 0-0 when starting against PHILADELPHIA with an ERA of 2.77 and a WHIP of 1.000.
His team's record is 1-1 (+0.1 units) in these starts. The OVER is 1-1. (-0.2 units)
KYLE KENDRICK vs. SAN DIEGO since 1997
KENDRICK is 2-1 when starting against SAN DIEGO with an ERA of 4.63 and a WHIP of 1.414.
His team's record is 3-1 (+1.5 units) in these starts. The OVER is 4-0. (+4.0 units)
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ATLANTA (34 - 30) at COLORADO (30 - 35) - 3:10 PM
ERVIN SANTANA (R) vs. JHOULYS CHACIN (R)
Top Trends for this game.
COLORADO is 5-16 (-14.3 Units) against the money line when playing on Thursday over the last 2 seasons.
COLORADO is 41-61 (-24.4 Units) against the money line after a win over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
ATLANTA is 4-2 (+1.2 Units) against COLORADO this season
4 of 5 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL this season . (Under=+3.0 Units)
ERVIN SANTANA vs. COLORADO since 1997
SANTANA is 2-0 when starting against COLORADO with an ERA of 5.58 and a WHIP of 1.396.
His team's record is 2-1 (+0.7 units) in these starts. The OVER is 2-0. (+2.0 units)
JHOULYS CHACIN vs. ATLANTA since 1997
CHACIN is 0-2 when starting against ATLANTA with an ERA of 6.23 and a WHIP of 2.385.
His team's record is 0-3 (-3.2 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 1-2. (-1.2 units)
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WASHINGTON (35 - 29) at SAN FRANCISCO (42 - 24) - 3:45 PM
BLAKE TREINEN (R) vs. TIM HUDSON (R)
Top Trends for this game.
WASHINGTON is 85-79 (-14.4 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
SAN FRANCISCO is 42-24 (+18.2 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
SAN FRANCISCO is 12-1 (+10.3 Units) against the money line as a home favorite of -150 to -175 this season.
SAN FRANCISCO is 17-6 (+11.9 Units) against the money line in day games this season.
SAN FRANCISCO is 42-24 (+18.2 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
SAN FRANCISCO is 27-16 (+10.0 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters this season.
SAN FRANCISCO is 21-11 (+12.3 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
HUDSON is 42-18 (+23.1 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 3 seasons. (Team's Record)
HUDSON is 47-15 (+22.3 Units) against the money line as a home favorite of -150 to -175 since 1997. (Team's Record)
HUDSON is 15-0 (+15.0 Units) against the money line in home games over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
HUDSON is 99-52 (+32.2 Units) against the money line in day games since 1997. (Team's Record)
HUDSON is 22-9 (+12.3 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
HUDSON is 71-27 (+28.0 Units) against the money line in home games after a loss since 1997. (Team's Record)
Head-to-Head Series History
WASHINGTON is 3-0 (+3.2 Units) against SAN FRANCISCO this season
2 of 3 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=+1.3 Units)
BLAKE TREINEN vs. SAN FRANCISCO since 1997
No recent starts.
TIM HUDSON vs. WASHINGTON since 1997
HUDSON is 16-5 when starting against WASHINGTON with an ERA of 2.45 and a WHIP of 1.086.
His team's record is 19-10 (+3.8 units) in these starts. The OVER is 14-15. (-2.1 units)
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CHICAGO CUBS (26 - 37) at PITTSBURGH (31 - 34) - 7:05 PM
JEFF SAMARDZIJA (R) vs. EDINSON VOLQUEZ (R)
Top Trends for this game.
CHICAGO CUBS are 153-235 (-48.8 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 3 seasons.
CHICAGO CUBS are 9-23 (-13.6 Units) against the money line when the total is 7 or less this season.
CHICAGO CUBS are 38-71 (-20.7 Units) against the money line against division opponents over the last 2 seasons.
CHICAGO CUBS are 153-235 (-48.8 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 3 seasons.
CHICAGO CUBS are 6-21 (-13.8 Units) against the money line in road games against right-handed starters this season.
CHICAGO CUBS are 664-666 (-158.5 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record since 1997.
SAMARDZIJA is 3-11 (-8.4 Units) against the money line in all games this season. (Team's Record)
SAMARDZIJA is 4-18 (-13.2 Units) against the money line against division opponents over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
SAMARDZIJA is 3-11 (-8.4 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season. (Team's Record)
PITTSBURGH is 128-105 (+18.6 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
PITTSBURGH is 40-23 (+23.4 Units) against the money line in June games over the last 3 seasons.
PITTSBURGH is 128-105 (+18.6 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
PITTSBURGH is 87-59 (+22.7 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons.
PITTSBURGH is 107-88 (+17.5 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
PITTSBURGH is 6-3 (+1.7 Units) against CHICAGO CUBS this season
5 of 8 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=+2.3 Units)
JEFF SAMARDZIJA vs. PITTSBURGH since 1997
SAMARDZIJA is 3-3 when starting against PITTSBURGH with an ERA of 2.05 and a WHIP of 0.930.
His team's record is 3-5 (-1.3 units) in these starts. The OVER is 2-5. (-3.0 units)
EDINSON VOLQUEZ vs. CHICAGO CUBS since 1997
VOLQUEZ is 5-0 when starting against CHICAGO CUBS with an ERA of 3.77 and a WHIP of 1.581.
His team's record is 8-0 (+8.4 units) in these starts. The OVER is 6-1. (+4.9 units)
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MILWAUKEE (39 - 27) at NY METS (29 - 36) - 7:10 PM
KYLE LOHSE (R) vs. JON NIESE (L)
Top Trends for this game.
MILWAUKEE is 11-24 (-15.0 Units) against the money line when playing on Thursday over the last 3 seasons.
MILWAUKEE is 39-27 (+10.4 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
MILWAUKEE is 23-14 (+13.9 Units) against the money line when the total is 7 or less over the last 2 seasons.
MILWAUKEE is 20-14 (+8.4 Units) against the money line in road games this season.
MILWAUKEE is 21-14 (+11.9 Units) against the money line on the road when the total is 7 or less over the last 2 seasons.
MILWAUKEE is 39-27 (+10.4 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
MILWAUKEE is 81-70 (+18.2 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons.
LOHSE is 9-1 (+9.5 Units) against the money line when the total is 7 or less over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
LOHSE is 8-1 (+8.5 Units) against the money line on the road when the total is 7 or less over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
LOHSE is 20-11 (+10.5 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
NY METS are 36-56 (-22.2 Units) against the money line when the total is 7 or less over the last 2 seasons.
NY METS are 13-31 (-16.2 Units) against the money line as a home underdog of +100 to +125 over the last 2 seasons.
NY METS are 47-66 (-24.0 Units) against the money line in home games over the last 2 seasons.
NY METS are 23-37 (-16.9 Units) against the money line at home when the total is 7 or less over the last 2 seasons.
NY METS are 47-66 (-24.0 Units) against the money line in home games in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
NY METS are 44-69 (-32.3 Units) against the money line in home games in night games over the last 3 seasons.
NY METS are 35-48 (-17.6 Units) against the money line in home games against right-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
NY METS are 34-57 (-23.2 Units) against the money line in home games when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 3 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
NY METS is 1-1 (+0.3 Units) against MILWAUKEE this season
1 of 2 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=+0.0 Units)
KYLE LOHSE vs. NY METS since 1997
LOHSE is 2-4 when starting against NY METS with an ERA of 5.40 and a WHIP of 1.645.
His team's record is 6-4 (+2.2 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 4-4. (-0.9 units)
JON NIESE vs. MILWAUKEE since 1997
NIESE is 2-0 when starting against MILWAUKEE with an ERA of 5.68 and a WHIP of 1.776.
His team's record is 4-1 (+4.5 units) in these starts. The OVER is 3-2. (+1.1 units)
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TORONTO (39 - 28) at BALTIMORE (33 - 31) - 7:05 PM
MARK BUEHRLE (L) vs. KEVIN GAUSMAN (R)
Top Trends for this game.
BALTIMORE is 215-180 (+43.1 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 3 seasons.
BALTIMORE is 90-72 (+19.6 Units) against the money line when the total is 8 to 8.5 over the last 3 seasons.
BALTIMORE is 30-16 (+14.5 Units) against the money line when playing on Thursday over the last 3 seasons.
BALTIMORE is 16-9 (+8.9 Units) against the money line against division opponents this season.
BALTIMORE is 195-156 (+42.2 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 3 seasons.
BALTIMORE is 147-123 (+29.8 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 3 seasons.
BALTIMORE is 113-96 (+34.9 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 3 seasons.
TORONTO is 39-28 (+9.5 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
TORONTO is 19-11 (+11.2 Units) against the money line in road games this season.
TORONTO is 17-9 (+10.3 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
TORONTO is 27-17 (+9.2 Units) against the money line in night games this season.
TORONTO is 10-3 (+7.5 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
BUEHRLE is 11-2 (+9.2 Units) against the money line in all games this season. (Team's Record)
BUEHRLE is 6-0 (+6.9 Units) against the money line in road games this season. (Team's Record)
Head-to-Head Series History
BALTIMORE is 3-3 (-0.2 Units) against TORONTO this season
4 of 6 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=+2.1 Units)
MARK BUEHRLE vs. BALTIMORE since 1997
BUEHRLE is 8-8 when starting against BALTIMORE with an ERA of 3.45 and a WHIP of 1.235.
His team's record is 11-9 (-0.7 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 10-9. (+0.1 units)
KEVIN GAUSMAN vs. TORONTO since 1997
GAUSMAN is 0-1 when starting against TORONTO with an ERA of 7.20 and a WHIP of 1.800.
His team's record is 0-1 (-1.0 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 0-1. (-1.2 units)
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CLEVELAND (33 - 33) at BOSTON (29 - 36) - 7:10 PM
JOSH TOMLIN (R) vs. JON LESTER (L)
Top Trends for this game.
CLEVELAND is 2-11 (-9.1 Units) against the money line in road games against left-handed starters this season.
BOSTON is 64-40 (+18.2 Units) against the money line after a loss over the last 2 seasons.
CLEVELAND is 125-104 (+22.2 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
CLEVELAND is 119-98 (+19.9 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
CLEVELAND is 71-37 (+28.2 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons.
BOSTON is 29-37 (-14.4 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
BOSTON is 12-20 (-12.5 Units) against the money line when the total is 8 to 8.5 this season.
BOSTON is 27-33 (-12.3 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
BOSTON is 16-27 (-15.4 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters this season.
Head-to-Head Series History
CLEVELAND is 3-0 (+3.2 Units) against BOSTON this season
2 of 3 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL this season . (Under=+0.7 Units)
JOSH TOMLIN vs. BOSTON since 1997
TOMLIN is 1-1 when starting against BOSTON with an ERA of 4.50 and a WHIP of 1.100.
His team's record is 2-1 (+2.3 units) in these starts. The OVER is 1-2. (-1.1 units)
JON LESTER vs. CLEVELAND since 1997
LESTER is 6-1 when starting against CLEVELAND with an ERA of 3.43 and a WHIP of 1.182.
His team's record is 10-3 (+4.4 units) in these starts. The OVER is 8-4. (+4.1 units)
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DETROIT (33 - 28) at CHI WHITE SOX (33 - 33) - 8:10 PM
MAX SCHERZER (R) vs. CHRIS SALE (L)
Top Trends for this game.
DETROIT is 131-103 (-19.2 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
DETROIT is 12-20 (-14.4 Units) against the money line when the total is 7 or less over the last 2 seasons.
DETROIT is 132-200 (-52.8 Units) against the money line as a road underdog of +100 to +125 since 1997.
DETROIT is 15-25 (-16.7 Units) against the money line on the road when the total is 7 or less over the last 3 seasons.
DETROIT is 127-100 (-19.8 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
DETROIT is 23-32 (-16.5 Units) against the money line in road games against left-handed starters over the last 3 seasons.
CHI WHITE SOX are 33-33 (+8.6 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
CHI WHITE SOX are 16-11 (+9.0 Units) against the money line against division opponents this season.
CHI WHITE SOX are 33-33 (+8.6 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
CHI WHITE SOX are 24-19 (+12.2 Units) against the money line in night games this season.
SCHERZER is 57-26 (+21.1 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
SCHERZER is 28-7 (+17.5 Units) against the money line against division opponents over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
Head-to-Head Series History
CHI WHITE SOX is 4-4 (+2.1 Units) against DETROIT this season
5 of 8 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=+2.0 Units)
MAX SCHERZER vs. CHI WHITE SOX since 1997
SCHERZER is 10-5 when starting against CHI WHITE SOX with an ERA of 2.57 and a WHIP of 1.035.
His team's record is 11-9 (-0.7 units) in these starts. The OVER is 9-11. (-2.8 units)
CHRIS SALE vs. DETROIT since 1997
SALE is 3-4 when starting against DETROIT with an ERA of 3.14 and a WHIP of 1.203.
His team's record is 3-5 (-1.5 units) in these starts. The OVER is 4-4. (-0.5 units)
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NY YANKEES (33 - 31) at SEATTLE (34 - 31) - 10:10 PM
CHASE WHITLEY (R) vs. ROENIS ELIAS (L)
Top Trends for this game.
SEATTLE is 31-12 (+17.8 Units) against the money line at home with a money line of -100 to -125 over the last 3 seasons.
SEATTLE is 16-9 (+10.5 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
NY YANKEES are 44-33 (+14.3 Units) against the money line against left-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
SEATTLE is 50-62 (-22.1 Units) against the money line in home games over the last 2 seasons.
SEATTLE is 140-174 (-47.3 Units) against the money line when playing on Thursday since 1997.
SEATTLE is 50-62 (-22.1 Units) against the money line in home games in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
SEATTLE is 34-45 (-20.2 Units) against the money line in home games in night games over the last 2 seasons.
SEATTLE is 29-41 (-17.6 Units) against the money line in home games against right-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
SEATTLE is 3-2 (+1.6 Units) against NY YANKEES this season
3 of 5 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL this season . (Under=+1.0 Units)
CHASE WHITLEY vs. SEATTLE since 1997
No recent starts.
ROENIS ELIAS vs. NY YANKEES since 1997
ELIAS is 1-0 when starting against NY YANKEES with an ERA of 1.29 and a WHIP of 1.143.
His team's record is 1-0 (+1.4 units) in these starts. The OVER is 0-1. (-1.1 units)
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ARIZONA (29 - 39) at HOUSTON (30 - 37) - 8:10 PM
WADE MILEY (L) vs. SCOTT FELDMAN (R)
Top Trends for this game.
FELDMAN is 13-5 (+8.9 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
HOUSTON is 33-84 (-36.9 Units) against the money line when the total is 8 to 8.5 over the last 2 seasons.
HOUSTON is 39-75 (-25.3 Units) against the money line in home games over the last 2 seasons.
HOUSTON is 20-46 (-21.1 Units) against the money line at home when the total is 8 to 8.5 over the last 2 seasons.
HOUSTON is 39-75 (-25.3 Units) against the money line in home games in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
FELDMAN is 30-41 (-22.2 Units) against the money line in home games since 1997. (Team's Record)
FELDMAN is 30-41 (-22.2 Units) against the money line in home games in games played on a grass field since 1997. (Team's Record)
FELDMAN is 19-33 (-24.0 Units) against the money line in home games in night games since 1997. (Team's Record)
FELDMAN is 15-24 (-15.0 Units) against the money line after a win over the last 3 seasons. (Team's Record)
Head-to-Head Series History
HOUSTON is 2-1 (+1.4 Units) against ARIZONA this season
3 of 3 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL this season . (Under=+3.0 Units)
WADE MILEY vs. HOUSTON since 1997
MILEY is 2-0 when starting against HOUSTON with an ERA of 1.38 and a WHIP of 1.077.
His team's record is 2-0 (+2.0 units) in these starts. The OVER is 1-1. (-0.1 units)
SCOTT FELDMAN vs. ARIZONA since 1997
FELDMAN is 0-1 when starting against ARIZONA with an ERA of 4.41 and a WHIP of 1.164.
His team's record is 1-2 (-1.5 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 0-3. (-3.6 units)
Long Sheet
Thursday, June 12
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LA DODGERS (35 - 32) at CINCINNATI (30 - 34) - 12:35 PM
ZACK GREINKE (R) vs. ALFREDO SIMON (R)
Top Trends for this game.
GREINKE is 12-23 (-19.4 Units) against the money line as a road favorite of -125 to -150 since 1997. (Team's Record)
GREINKE is 55-82 (-30.7 Units) against the money line in road games since 1997. (Team's Record)
SIMON is 10-3 (+7.8 Units) against the money line in all games this season. (Team's Record)
SIMON is 10-3 (+7.8 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season. (Team's Record)
LA DODGERS are 52-36 (+15.6 Units) against the money line in road games against right-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
LA DODGERS are 39-18 (+19.2 Units) against the money line in road games when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons.
GREINKE is 31-13 (+14.3 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
GREINKE is 31-13 (+14.3 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
GREINKE is 16-2 (+14.0 Units) against the money line after a loss over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
CINCINNATI is 103-124 (-40.4 Units) against the money line in home games in June games since 1997.
CINCINNATI is 60-61 (-18.0 Units) against the money line after a win over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
LA DODGERS is 4-2 (+1.4 Units) against CINCINNATI this season
3 of 6 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=-0.2 Units, Under=-0.3 Units)
ZACK GREINKE vs. CINCINNATI since 1997
GREINKE is 5-1 when starting against CINCINNATI with an ERA of 3.02 and a WHIP of 0.957.
His team's record is 6-3 (+2.9 units) in these starts. The OVER is 4-2. (+1.8 units)
ALFREDO SIMON vs. LA DODGERS since 1997
SIMON is 0-1 when starting against LA DODGERS with an ERA of 12.26 and a WHIP of 2.452.
His team's record is 0-1 (-1.0 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 0-1. (-1.2 units)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SAN DIEGO (28 - 37) at PHILADELPHIA (27 - 36) - 1:05 PM
ERIC STULTS (L) vs. KYLE KENDRICK (R)
Top Trends for this game.
SAN DIEGO is 20-32 (-14.0 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters this season.
SAN DIEGO is 31-23 (+13.7 Units) against the money line after 3 or more consecutive losses over the last 3 seasons.
STULTS is 47-38 (+17.9 Units) against the money line in all games since 1997. (Team's Record)
STULTS is 47-37 (+18.9 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field since 1997. (Team's Record)
PHILADELPHIA is 100-125 (-29.4 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
PHILADELPHIA is 25-41 (-20.7 Units) against the money line in June games over the last 3 seasons.
PHILADELPHIA is 50-65 (-22.2 Units) against the money line in day games over the last 3 seasons.
PHILADELPHIA is 100-123 (-27.4 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
PHILADELPHIA is 43-57 (-18.8 Units) against the money line after a win over the last 2 seasons.
PHILADELPHIA is 48-59 (-19.9 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
PHILADELPHIA is 2-0 (+2.1 Units) against SAN DIEGO this season
2 of 2 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL this season . (Under=+2.0 Units)
ERIC STULTS vs. PHILADELPHIA since 1997
STULTS is 0-0 when starting against PHILADELPHIA with an ERA of 2.77 and a WHIP of 1.000.
His team's record is 1-1 (+0.1 units) in these starts. The OVER is 1-1. (-0.2 units)
KYLE KENDRICK vs. SAN DIEGO since 1997
KENDRICK is 2-1 when starting against SAN DIEGO with an ERA of 4.63 and a WHIP of 1.414.
His team's record is 3-1 (+1.5 units) in these starts. The OVER is 4-0. (+4.0 units)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ATLANTA (34 - 30) at COLORADO (30 - 35) - 3:10 PM
ERVIN SANTANA (R) vs. JHOULYS CHACIN (R)
Top Trends for this game.
COLORADO is 5-16 (-14.3 Units) against the money line when playing on Thursday over the last 2 seasons.
COLORADO is 41-61 (-24.4 Units) against the money line after a win over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
ATLANTA is 4-2 (+1.2 Units) against COLORADO this season
4 of 5 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL this season . (Under=+3.0 Units)
ERVIN SANTANA vs. COLORADO since 1997
SANTANA is 2-0 when starting against COLORADO with an ERA of 5.58 and a WHIP of 1.396.
His team's record is 2-1 (+0.7 units) in these starts. The OVER is 2-0. (+2.0 units)
JHOULYS CHACIN vs. ATLANTA since 1997
CHACIN is 0-2 when starting against ATLANTA with an ERA of 6.23 and a WHIP of 2.385.
His team's record is 0-3 (-3.2 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 1-2. (-1.2 units)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
WASHINGTON (35 - 29) at SAN FRANCISCO (42 - 24) - 3:45 PM
BLAKE TREINEN (R) vs. TIM HUDSON (R)
Top Trends for this game.
WASHINGTON is 85-79 (-14.4 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
SAN FRANCISCO is 42-24 (+18.2 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
SAN FRANCISCO is 12-1 (+10.3 Units) against the money line as a home favorite of -150 to -175 this season.
SAN FRANCISCO is 17-6 (+11.9 Units) against the money line in day games this season.
SAN FRANCISCO is 42-24 (+18.2 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
SAN FRANCISCO is 27-16 (+10.0 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters this season.
SAN FRANCISCO is 21-11 (+12.3 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
HUDSON is 42-18 (+23.1 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 3 seasons. (Team's Record)
HUDSON is 47-15 (+22.3 Units) against the money line as a home favorite of -150 to -175 since 1997. (Team's Record)
HUDSON is 15-0 (+15.0 Units) against the money line in home games over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
HUDSON is 99-52 (+32.2 Units) against the money line in day games since 1997. (Team's Record)
HUDSON is 22-9 (+12.3 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
HUDSON is 71-27 (+28.0 Units) against the money line in home games after a loss since 1997. (Team's Record)
Head-to-Head Series History
WASHINGTON is 3-0 (+3.2 Units) against SAN FRANCISCO this season
2 of 3 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=+1.3 Units)
BLAKE TREINEN vs. SAN FRANCISCO since 1997
No recent starts.
TIM HUDSON vs. WASHINGTON since 1997
HUDSON is 16-5 when starting against WASHINGTON with an ERA of 2.45 and a WHIP of 1.086.
His team's record is 19-10 (+3.8 units) in these starts. The OVER is 14-15. (-2.1 units)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CHICAGO CUBS (26 - 37) at PITTSBURGH (31 - 34) - 7:05 PM
JEFF SAMARDZIJA (R) vs. EDINSON VOLQUEZ (R)
Top Trends for this game.
CHICAGO CUBS are 153-235 (-48.8 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 3 seasons.
CHICAGO CUBS are 9-23 (-13.6 Units) against the money line when the total is 7 or less this season.
CHICAGO CUBS are 38-71 (-20.7 Units) against the money line against division opponents over the last 2 seasons.
CHICAGO CUBS are 153-235 (-48.8 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 3 seasons.
CHICAGO CUBS are 6-21 (-13.8 Units) against the money line in road games against right-handed starters this season.
CHICAGO CUBS are 664-666 (-158.5 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record since 1997.
SAMARDZIJA is 3-11 (-8.4 Units) against the money line in all games this season. (Team's Record)
SAMARDZIJA is 4-18 (-13.2 Units) against the money line against division opponents over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
SAMARDZIJA is 3-11 (-8.4 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season. (Team's Record)
PITTSBURGH is 128-105 (+18.6 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
PITTSBURGH is 40-23 (+23.4 Units) against the money line in June games over the last 3 seasons.
PITTSBURGH is 128-105 (+18.6 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
PITTSBURGH is 87-59 (+22.7 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons.
PITTSBURGH is 107-88 (+17.5 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
PITTSBURGH is 6-3 (+1.7 Units) against CHICAGO CUBS this season
5 of 8 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=+2.3 Units)
JEFF SAMARDZIJA vs. PITTSBURGH since 1997
SAMARDZIJA is 3-3 when starting against PITTSBURGH with an ERA of 2.05 and a WHIP of 0.930.
His team's record is 3-5 (-1.3 units) in these starts. The OVER is 2-5. (-3.0 units)
EDINSON VOLQUEZ vs. CHICAGO CUBS since 1997
VOLQUEZ is 5-0 when starting against CHICAGO CUBS with an ERA of 3.77 and a WHIP of 1.581.
His team's record is 8-0 (+8.4 units) in these starts. The OVER is 6-1. (+4.9 units)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MILWAUKEE (39 - 27) at NY METS (29 - 36) - 7:10 PM
KYLE LOHSE (R) vs. JON NIESE (L)
Top Trends for this game.
MILWAUKEE is 11-24 (-15.0 Units) against the money line when playing on Thursday over the last 3 seasons.
MILWAUKEE is 39-27 (+10.4 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
MILWAUKEE is 23-14 (+13.9 Units) against the money line when the total is 7 or less over the last 2 seasons.
MILWAUKEE is 20-14 (+8.4 Units) against the money line in road games this season.
MILWAUKEE is 21-14 (+11.9 Units) against the money line on the road when the total is 7 or less over the last 2 seasons.
MILWAUKEE is 39-27 (+10.4 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
MILWAUKEE is 81-70 (+18.2 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons.
LOHSE is 9-1 (+9.5 Units) against the money line when the total is 7 or less over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
LOHSE is 8-1 (+8.5 Units) against the money line on the road when the total is 7 or less over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
LOHSE is 20-11 (+10.5 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
NY METS are 36-56 (-22.2 Units) against the money line when the total is 7 or less over the last 2 seasons.
NY METS are 13-31 (-16.2 Units) against the money line as a home underdog of +100 to +125 over the last 2 seasons.
NY METS are 47-66 (-24.0 Units) against the money line in home games over the last 2 seasons.
NY METS are 23-37 (-16.9 Units) against the money line at home when the total is 7 or less over the last 2 seasons.
NY METS are 47-66 (-24.0 Units) against the money line in home games in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
NY METS are 44-69 (-32.3 Units) against the money line in home games in night games over the last 3 seasons.
NY METS are 35-48 (-17.6 Units) against the money line in home games against right-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
NY METS are 34-57 (-23.2 Units) against the money line in home games when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 3 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
NY METS is 1-1 (+0.3 Units) against MILWAUKEE this season
1 of 2 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=+0.0 Units)
KYLE LOHSE vs. NY METS since 1997
LOHSE is 2-4 when starting against NY METS with an ERA of 5.40 and a WHIP of 1.645.
His team's record is 6-4 (+2.2 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 4-4. (-0.9 units)
JON NIESE vs. MILWAUKEE since 1997
NIESE is 2-0 when starting against MILWAUKEE with an ERA of 5.68 and a WHIP of 1.776.
His team's record is 4-1 (+4.5 units) in these starts. The OVER is 3-2. (+1.1 units)
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TORONTO (39 - 28) at BALTIMORE (33 - 31) - 7:05 PM
MARK BUEHRLE (L) vs. KEVIN GAUSMAN (R)
Top Trends for this game.
BALTIMORE is 215-180 (+43.1 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 3 seasons.
BALTIMORE is 90-72 (+19.6 Units) against the money line when the total is 8 to 8.5 over the last 3 seasons.
BALTIMORE is 30-16 (+14.5 Units) against the money line when playing on Thursday over the last 3 seasons.
BALTIMORE is 16-9 (+8.9 Units) against the money line against division opponents this season.
BALTIMORE is 195-156 (+42.2 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 3 seasons.
BALTIMORE is 147-123 (+29.8 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 3 seasons.
BALTIMORE is 113-96 (+34.9 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 3 seasons.
TORONTO is 39-28 (+9.5 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
TORONTO is 19-11 (+11.2 Units) against the money line in road games this season.
TORONTO is 17-9 (+10.3 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
TORONTO is 27-17 (+9.2 Units) against the money line in night games this season.
TORONTO is 10-3 (+7.5 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
BUEHRLE is 11-2 (+9.2 Units) against the money line in all games this season. (Team's Record)
BUEHRLE is 6-0 (+6.9 Units) against the money line in road games this season. (Team's Record)
Head-to-Head Series History
BALTIMORE is 3-3 (-0.2 Units) against TORONTO this season
4 of 6 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=+2.1 Units)
MARK BUEHRLE vs. BALTIMORE since 1997
BUEHRLE is 8-8 when starting against BALTIMORE with an ERA of 3.45 and a WHIP of 1.235.
His team's record is 11-9 (-0.7 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 10-9. (+0.1 units)
KEVIN GAUSMAN vs. TORONTO since 1997
GAUSMAN is 0-1 when starting against TORONTO with an ERA of 7.20 and a WHIP of 1.800.
His team's record is 0-1 (-1.0 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 0-1. (-1.2 units)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CLEVELAND (33 - 33) at BOSTON (29 - 36) - 7:10 PM
JOSH TOMLIN (R) vs. JON LESTER (L)
Top Trends for this game.
CLEVELAND is 2-11 (-9.1 Units) against the money line in road games against left-handed starters this season.
BOSTON is 64-40 (+18.2 Units) against the money line after a loss over the last 2 seasons.
CLEVELAND is 125-104 (+22.2 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
CLEVELAND is 119-98 (+19.9 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
CLEVELAND is 71-37 (+28.2 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons.
BOSTON is 29-37 (-14.4 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
BOSTON is 12-20 (-12.5 Units) against the money line when the total is 8 to 8.5 this season.
BOSTON is 27-33 (-12.3 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
BOSTON is 16-27 (-15.4 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters this season.
Head-to-Head Series History
CLEVELAND is 3-0 (+3.2 Units) against BOSTON this season
2 of 3 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL this season . (Under=+0.7 Units)
JOSH TOMLIN vs. BOSTON since 1997
TOMLIN is 1-1 when starting against BOSTON with an ERA of 4.50 and a WHIP of 1.100.
His team's record is 2-1 (+2.3 units) in these starts. The OVER is 1-2. (-1.1 units)
JON LESTER vs. CLEVELAND since 1997
LESTER is 6-1 when starting against CLEVELAND with an ERA of 3.43 and a WHIP of 1.182.
His team's record is 10-3 (+4.4 units) in these starts. The OVER is 8-4. (+4.1 units)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
DETROIT (33 - 28) at CHI WHITE SOX (33 - 33) - 8:10 PM
MAX SCHERZER (R) vs. CHRIS SALE (L)
Top Trends for this game.
DETROIT is 131-103 (-19.2 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
DETROIT is 12-20 (-14.4 Units) against the money line when the total is 7 or less over the last 2 seasons.
DETROIT is 132-200 (-52.8 Units) against the money line as a road underdog of +100 to +125 since 1997.
DETROIT is 15-25 (-16.7 Units) against the money line on the road when the total is 7 or less over the last 3 seasons.
DETROIT is 127-100 (-19.8 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
DETROIT is 23-32 (-16.5 Units) against the money line in road games against left-handed starters over the last 3 seasons.
CHI WHITE SOX are 33-33 (+8.6 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
CHI WHITE SOX are 16-11 (+9.0 Units) against the money line against division opponents this season.
CHI WHITE SOX are 33-33 (+8.6 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
CHI WHITE SOX are 24-19 (+12.2 Units) against the money line in night games this season.
SCHERZER is 57-26 (+21.1 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
SCHERZER is 28-7 (+17.5 Units) against the money line against division opponents over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
Head-to-Head Series History
CHI WHITE SOX is 4-4 (+2.1 Units) against DETROIT this season
5 of 8 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=+2.0 Units)
MAX SCHERZER vs. CHI WHITE SOX since 1997
SCHERZER is 10-5 when starting against CHI WHITE SOX with an ERA of 2.57 and a WHIP of 1.035.
His team's record is 11-9 (-0.7 units) in these starts. The OVER is 9-11. (-2.8 units)
CHRIS SALE vs. DETROIT since 1997
SALE is 3-4 when starting against DETROIT with an ERA of 3.14 and a WHIP of 1.203.
His team's record is 3-5 (-1.5 units) in these starts. The OVER is 4-4. (-0.5 units)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NY YANKEES (33 - 31) at SEATTLE (34 - 31) - 10:10 PM
CHASE WHITLEY (R) vs. ROENIS ELIAS (L)
Top Trends for this game.
SEATTLE is 31-12 (+17.8 Units) against the money line at home with a money line of -100 to -125 over the last 3 seasons.
SEATTLE is 16-9 (+10.5 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
NY YANKEES are 44-33 (+14.3 Units) against the money line against left-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
SEATTLE is 50-62 (-22.1 Units) against the money line in home games over the last 2 seasons.
SEATTLE is 140-174 (-47.3 Units) against the money line when playing on Thursday since 1997.
SEATTLE is 50-62 (-22.1 Units) against the money line in home games in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
SEATTLE is 34-45 (-20.2 Units) against the money line in home games in night games over the last 2 seasons.
SEATTLE is 29-41 (-17.6 Units) against the money line in home games against right-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
SEATTLE is 3-2 (+1.6 Units) against NY YANKEES this season
3 of 5 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL this season . (Under=+1.0 Units)
CHASE WHITLEY vs. SEATTLE since 1997
No recent starts.
ROENIS ELIAS vs. NY YANKEES since 1997
ELIAS is 1-0 when starting against NY YANKEES with an ERA of 1.29 and a WHIP of 1.143.
His team's record is 1-0 (+1.4 units) in these starts. The OVER is 0-1. (-1.1 units)
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ARIZONA (29 - 39) at HOUSTON (30 - 37) - 8:10 PM
WADE MILEY (L) vs. SCOTT FELDMAN (R)
Top Trends for this game.
FELDMAN is 13-5 (+8.9 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
HOUSTON is 33-84 (-36.9 Units) against the money line when the total is 8 to 8.5 over the last 2 seasons.
HOUSTON is 39-75 (-25.3 Units) against the money line in home games over the last 2 seasons.
HOUSTON is 20-46 (-21.1 Units) against the money line at home when the total is 8 to 8.5 over the last 2 seasons.
HOUSTON is 39-75 (-25.3 Units) against the money line in home games in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
FELDMAN is 30-41 (-22.2 Units) against the money line in home games since 1997. (Team's Record)
FELDMAN is 30-41 (-22.2 Units) against the money line in home games in games played on a grass field since 1997. (Team's Record)
FELDMAN is 19-33 (-24.0 Units) against the money line in home games in night games since 1997. (Team's Record)
FELDMAN is 15-24 (-15.0 Units) against the money line after a win over the last 3 seasons. (Team's Record)
Head-to-Head Series History
HOUSTON is 2-1 (+1.4 Units) against ARIZONA this season
3 of 3 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL this season . (Under=+3.0 Units)
WADE MILEY vs. HOUSTON since 1997
MILEY is 2-0 when starting against HOUSTON with an ERA of 1.38 and a WHIP of 1.077.
His team's record is 2-0 (+2.0 units) in these starts. The OVER is 1-1. (-0.1 units)
SCOTT FELDMAN vs. ARIZONA since 1997
FELDMAN is 0-1 when starting against ARIZONA with an ERA of 4.41 and a WHIP of 1.164.
His team's record is 1-2 (-1.5 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 0-3. (-3.6 units)
MLB
Thursday, June 12
Trend Report
12:35 PM
LA DODGERS vs. CINCINNATI
The total has gone UNDER in 9 of LA Dodgers's last 12 games when playing Cincinnati
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of LA Dodgers's last 8 games
Cincinnati is 2-4 SU in their last 6 games when playing LA Dodgers
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Cincinnati's last 6 games when playing at home against LA Dodgers
1:05 PM
SAN DIEGO vs. PHILADELPHIA
The total has gone UNDER in 8 of San Diego's last 11 games
San Diego is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games
Philadelphia is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games when playing San Diego
Philadelphia is 3-8 SU in its last 11 games
3:10 PM
ATLANTA vs. COLORADO
Atlanta is 6-3 SU in its last 9 games on the road
Atlanta is 17-4 SU in its last 21 games when playing Colorado
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Colorado's last 6 games
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Colorado's last 6 games at home
3:45 PM
WASHINGTON vs. SAN FRANCISCO
Washington is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against San Francisco
Washington is 8-1 SU in its last 9 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of San Francisco's last 5 games at home
San Francisco is 9-4 SU in its last 13 games at home
7:05 PM
TORONTO vs. BALTIMORE
Toronto is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games on the road
Toronto is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Baltimore's last 5 games when playing Toronto
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Baltimore's last 6 games when playing at home against Toronto
7:05 PM
CHI CUBS vs. PITTSBURGH
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Chi Cubs's last 6 games when playing Pittsburgh
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Chi Cubs's last 6 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 12 of Pittsburgh's last 17 games when playing at home against Chi Cubs
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Pittsburgh's last 6 games when playing Chi Cubs
7:10 PM
MILWAUKEE vs. NY METS
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Milwaukee's last 7 games on the road
Milwaukee is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 5 of NY Mets's last 7 games
NY Mets are 3-11 SU in its last 14 games when playing at home against Milwaukee
7:10 PM
CLEVELAND vs. BOSTON
The total has gone OVER in 8 of Cleveland's last 11 games when playing Boston
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Cleveland's last 6 games on the road
Boston is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 8 of Boston's last 11 games when playing Cleveland
8:10 PM
DETROIT vs. CHI WHITE SOX
Detroit is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 7 of Detroit's last 10 games on the road
Chi White Sox are 6-2 SU in their last 8 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Chi White Sox's last 5 games
8:10 PM
ARIZONA vs. HOUSTON
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Arizona's last 6 games when playing Houston
Arizona is 7-1 SU in its last 8 games when playing on the road against Houston
Houston is 13-5 SU in its last 18 games
Houston is 7-3 SU in its last 10 games at home
10:10 PM
NY YANKEES vs. SEATTLE
The total has gone UNDER in 8 of NY Yankees's last 10 games when playing Seattle
NY Yankees are 7-3 SU in their last 10 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 8 of Seattle's last 10 games when playing NY Yankees
Seattle is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games at home
Thursday, June 12
Trend Report
12:35 PM
LA DODGERS vs. CINCINNATI
The total has gone UNDER in 9 of LA Dodgers's last 12 games when playing Cincinnati
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of LA Dodgers's last 8 games
Cincinnati is 2-4 SU in their last 6 games when playing LA Dodgers
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Cincinnati's last 6 games when playing at home against LA Dodgers
1:05 PM
SAN DIEGO vs. PHILADELPHIA
The total has gone UNDER in 8 of San Diego's last 11 games
San Diego is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games
Philadelphia is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games when playing San Diego
Philadelphia is 3-8 SU in its last 11 games
3:10 PM
ATLANTA vs. COLORADO
Atlanta is 6-3 SU in its last 9 games on the road
Atlanta is 17-4 SU in its last 21 games when playing Colorado
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Colorado's last 6 games
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Colorado's last 6 games at home
3:45 PM
WASHINGTON vs. SAN FRANCISCO
Washington is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against San Francisco
Washington is 8-1 SU in its last 9 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of San Francisco's last 5 games at home
San Francisco is 9-4 SU in its last 13 games at home
7:05 PM
TORONTO vs. BALTIMORE
Toronto is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games on the road
Toronto is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Baltimore's last 5 games when playing Toronto
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Baltimore's last 6 games when playing at home against Toronto
7:05 PM
CHI CUBS vs. PITTSBURGH
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Chi Cubs's last 6 games when playing Pittsburgh
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Chi Cubs's last 6 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 12 of Pittsburgh's last 17 games when playing at home against Chi Cubs
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Pittsburgh's last 6 games when playing Chi Cubs
7:10 PM
MILWAUKEE vs. NY METS
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Milwaukee's last 7 games on the road
Milwaukee is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 5 of NY Mets's last 7 games
NY Mets are 3-11 SU in its last 14 games when playing at home against Milwaukee
7:10 PM
CLEVELAND vs. BOSTON
The total has gone OVER in 8 of Cleveland's last 11 games when playing Boston
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Cleveland's last 6 games on the road
Boston is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 8 of Boston's last 11 games when playing Cleveland
8:10 PM
DETROIT vs. CHI WHITE SOX
Detroit is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 7 of Detroit's last 10 games on the road
Chi White Sox are 6-2 SU in their last 8 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Chi White Sox's last 5 games
8:10 PM
ARIZONA vs. HOUSTON
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Arizona's last 6 games when playing Houston
Arizona is 7-1 SU in its last 8 games when playing on the road against Houston
Houston is 13-5 SU in its last 18 games
Houston is 7-3 SU in its last 10 games at home
10:10 PM
NY YANKEES vs. SEATTLE
The total has gone UNDER in 8 of NY Yankees's last 10 games when playing Seattle
NY Yankees are 7-3 SU in their last 10 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 8 of Seattle's last 10 games when playing NY Yankees
Seattle is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games at home
MLB
Thursday, June 12
Dodgers' SS Hanley Ramirez, doubtful Thursday
Ramirez is dealing with irritation to his right AC joint. He did not play Wednesday and he is not expected to return for Thursday's game against the Reds.
Home teams come through for backers Wednesday night
If you were backing home teams against the runline in Major League Baseball action Wednesday night, you probably went home happy.
Home teams put up a 10-5 record against the runline last night, hitting at almost 67 percent. Home favorites did most of the work going 7-3, while home dogs went 3-2.
This home team success bucks the trend that has been going on this year, with home teams hitting just under 43 percent of the time against the runline for the season.
With four shutouts Wednesday, under was great bet
There were several impressive pitching performance's Wednesday night in Major League Baseball action, including four shutouts, which meant it was a good night if you were playing unders.
Teams went 3-9 over/under on the diamond last night, good for a 75 percent success rate. That is way against the norm, with the under only coming in 49 percent of the time for the season.
Rangers' Darvish gets first career shutout
The Texas Rangers broke a four-game losing skid with the help of two key components.
If they hope to remain in the mix in the AL West Division, it would seem they'll need more of what Yu Darvish and Shin-Soo Choo gave them on Wednesday.
Darvish pitched his first career shutout, and Choo went 2-for-4 with four RBIs in Texas' 6-0 victory over the Miami Marlins.
Darvish struck out 10, including four of the last six batters he faced in the 73rd start of his three-year career. The right-hander allowed six hits and three walks while helping Texas earn an American League-best 12th shutout.
Mariners make DL swap of slumping first basemen
Before Wednesday's game, the Seattle Mariners swapped one struggling first baseman with injury problems for another.
Justin Smoak, who had just one hit in 18 June at-bats, was placed on the 15-day disabled list due to a sore left quadriceps. The move came as Logan Morrison was finishing up his rehab stint at Triple-A Tacoma following a hamstring injury that landed him on the DL in April.
Morrison will effectively become the Mariners' starting first baseman, despite the .125 batting average he carries after going 0-for-4 Wednesday in Seattle's 4-2 loss to the New York Yankees. Smoak was hitting just .208 after a horrible start to June.
Cueto, Reds shut out Dodgers 5-0
The Cincinnati Reds were in danger of dropping the first three games in their series against the Los Angeles Dodgers, so they turned to their ace to stop L.A. in its tracks.
Johnny Cueto pitched six shutout innings and struck out a career-high 12, lifting Cincinnati to a 5-0 victory Wednesday night at Great American Ball Park.
Cueto (6-5) struck out five straight batters and seven of nine in one stretch. He allowed three hits and no walks, and he reduced his major-league-leading ERA to 1.85.
Yankees make bullpen moves
The New York Yankees made two changes to their bullpen Wednesday, activating right-hander Shawn Kelley from the disabled list and acquiring left-hander David Huff from the San Francisco Giants for cash considerations.
To make room for the duo, right-hander Matt Daley was optioned to Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre and left-hander Wade LeBlanc was designated for assignment.
Kelley was out since May 7 due to back stiffness. He made two minor league rehab appearances over the past week, pitching a combined 1 2/3 scoreless innings. Kelley was 1-2 with a 3.52 ERA in 16 relief outings for the Yankees this year before getting hurt.
Huff was designated for assignment by the Giants last weekend after going 1-0 with a 6.30 ERA in 16 games. He split last season between the Cleveland Indians and the Yankees, going 3-1 with a 4.67 ERA in 11 games (two starts) for New York.
Daley had no decisions and a 4.85 ERA in 12 relief appearances for New York this season.
LeBlanc was acquired by the Yankees off waivers from the Los Angeles Angels last week. In his lone appearance for New York, he allowed two runs in one inning June 4 against the Oakland A's. He also pitched once for the Angels in 2014, giving up four runs in 6 1/3 innings at Oakland on May 30.
Thursday, June 12
Dodgers' SS Hanley Ramirez, doubtful Thursday
Ramirez is dealing with irritation to his right AC joint. He did not play Wednesday and he is not expected to return for Thursday's game against the Reds.
Home teams come through for backers Wednesday night
If you were backing home teams against the runline in Major League Baseball action Wednesday night, you probably went home happy.
Home teams put up a 10-5 record against the runline last night, hitting at almost 67 percent. Home favorites did most of the work going 7-3, while home dogs went 3-2.
This home team success bucks the trend that has been going on this year, with home teams hitting just under 43 percent of the time against the runline for the season.
With four shutouts Wednesday, under was great bet
There were several impressive pitching performance's Wednesday night in Major League Baseball action, including four shutouts, which meant it was a good night if you were playing unders.
Teams went 3-9 over/under on the diamond last night, good for a 75 percent success rate. That is way against the norm, with the under only coming in 49 percent of the time for the season.
Rangers' Darvish gets first career shutout
The Texas Rangers broke a four-game losing skid with the help of two key components.
If they hope to remain in the mix in the AL West Division, it would seem they'll need more of what Yu Darvish and Shin-Soo Choo gave them on Wednesday.
Darvish pitched his first career shutout, and Choo went 2-for-4 with four RBIs in Texas' 6-0 victory over the Miami Marlins.
Darvish struck out 10, including four of the last six batters he faced in the 73rd start of his three-year career. The right-hander allowed six hits and three walks while helping Texas earn an American League-best 12th shutout.
Mariners make DL swap of slumping first basemen
Before Wednesday's game, the Seattle Mariners swapped one struggling first baseman with injury problems for another.
Justin Smoak, who had just one hit in 18 June at-bats, was placed on the 15-day disabled list due to a sore left quadriceps. The move came as Logan Morrison was finishing up his rehab stint at Triple-A Tacoma following a hamstring injury that landed him on the DL in April.
Morrison will effectively become the Mariners' starting first baseman, despite the .125 batting average he carries after going 0-for-4 Wednesday in Seattle's 4-2 loss to the New York Yankees. Smoak was hitting just .208 after a horrible start to June.
Cueto, Reds shut out Dodgers 5-0
The Cincinnati Reds were in danger of dropping the first three games in their series against the Los Angeles Dodgers, so they turned to their ace to stop L.A. in its tracks.
Johnny Cueto pitched six shutout innings and struck out a career-high 12, lifting Cincinnati to a 5-0 victory Wednesday night at Great American Ball Park.
Cueto (6-5) struck out five straight batters and seven of nine in one stretch. He allowed three hits and no walks, and he reduced his major-league-leading ERA to 1.85.
Yankees make bullpen moves
The New York Yankees made two changes to their bullpen Wednesday, activating right-hander Shawn Kelley from the disabled list and acquiring left-hander David Huff from the San Francisco Giants for cash considerations.
To make room for the duo, right-hander Matt Daley was optioned to Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre and left-hander Wade LeBlanc was designated for assignment.
Kelley was out since May 7 due to back stiffness. He made two minor league rehab appearances over the past week, pitching a combined 1 2/3 scoreless innings. Kelley was 1-2 with a 3.52 ERA in 16 relief outings for the Yankees this year before getting hurt.
Huff was designated for assignment by the Giants last weekend after going 1-0 with a 6.30 ERA in 16 games. He split last season between the Cleveland Indians and the Yankees, going 3-1 with a 4.67 ERA in 11 games (two starts) for New York.
Daley had no decisions and a 4.85 ERA in 12 relief appearances for New York this season.
LeBlanc was acquired by the Yankees off waivers from the Los Angeles Angels last week. In his lone appearance for New York, he allowed two runs in one inning June 4 against the Oakland A's. He also pitched once for the Angels in 2014, giving up four runs in 6 1/3 innings at Oakland on May 30.
NBA
Thursday, June 12
Crucial line update for Game 4 of NBA Finals
Game 4 of the NBA Finals tips off at American Airlines Arena in tonight in Miami and it seems that bettors think the series will head back to San Antonio tied at 2 games apiece.
The line, in what is pretty much a must win game for the Heat, is back up to Miami -5.5. The Heat opened as 5.5-point favorites for the crucial matchup, but they were quickly bet to -5. However, the Heat were bet back to -5.5 just a few ours later.
Thursday, June 12
Crucial line update for Game 4 of NBA Finals
Game 4 of the NBA Finals tips off at American Airlines Arena in tonight in Miami and it seems that bettors think the series will head back to San Antonio tied at 2 games apiece.
The line, in what is pretty much a must win game for the Heat, is back up to Miami -5.5. The Heat opened as 5.5-point favorites for the crucial matchup, but they were quickly bet to -5. However, the Heat were bet back to -5.5 just a few ours later.
World Cup by the numbers: 20 must-know betting trends
Bettors aiming to make a profit at the 2014 World Cup should read these 20 World Cup betting trends to gain an insight into how the key numbers stack up across previous tournaments:
0 – The curse of the Ballon d’Or
No player who has won the Ballon d’Or (FIFA World Player of the Year) has ever become a world champion the following year. This doesn’t bode well for Portugal, whose Cristiano Ronaldo collected the prestigious award for the second time in 2013. Interestingly three players – Zinedine Zidane (1998), Gerd Muller (1974) and Xavi (2010) – who won the World Cup finished third in the Ballon d’Or the year before. Franck Ribery claimed third prize in 2013, and his French team are available at 22.000*
1 – Hosts struggle in the modern era
Despite six nations winning the World Cup on home soil – Uruguay (1930), Italy (1934), England (1966), West Germany (1974), Argentina (1978) and France (1998) -, only France have done so since 1978. This shows that despite a significant home advantage, hosts have struggled to lift the trophy in the modern era.
2 – Defending the trophy is tough
Only twice in the history of the World Cup have the defending champions retained their trophy – Italy (1934 and 1938) and Brazil (1958 and 1962). However, since Mexico 1986 – classed as the modern era – no nation has defended their title, which would mean Spain, which has an implied probability of 13.93 percent, would rewrite history if it wins in Brazil.
2 (again) – Final decided by a shoot-out
Only twice has the World Cup been decided by a penalty shootout – 1994 and 2006. Italy was involved in both occasions losing to Brazil 3-2 in 1994 and winning 4-3 against France in 2006. Gli Azzurri are +1,800 to win their fifth World Cup.
2.1 – Own goal shocker
Since Mexico 1986, there have been 15 own goals at an average of 2.1 per World Cup. World Cup 2006 winner, Italy, conceded its only goal in open-play when Cristian Zaccardo put it past his own goalkeeper against the USA.
2.46 – Average goals per game
In the modern era, an average of 2.46 goals has been scored per game at the World Cup. If you include all World Cups, that average raises significantly to 3.12 goals. Germany have been the highest-scoring team at the last two World Cups – 2006 (14) and 2010 (16) – despite exiting at the semi-final stage on both occasions.
3 – Always the bridesmaid
The Netherlands has finished runner-up three times in 1974, 1978 and 2010 – the most without ever winning a World Cup. The Dutch can be backed at +2,500 which gives them an implied probability of 3.7 percent.
5 – Brazil has the golden touch
Brazil is the most successful nation in the World Cup with five victories (1958, 1962, 1970, 1994 and 2002). Unsurprisingly, it also boasts the best historical win percentage, winning 67 percent of all World Cup games. The hosts are the +281 favorites to claim a sixth crown.
5 (again) – Salenko has a moment of inspiration
In the searing American heat, Russian striker Oleg Salenko scored five goals in a 6-1 rout of Cameroon in the group stage of the 1994 World Cup. Salenko’s five goals – which helped him share the Golden Boot with six total goals – is the most any player has scored in a match during the World Cup. Bizarrely these were his only ever international goals.
5.42 – Bore draw
There have been 38 goalless draws since Mexico 1986, which averages out at 5.42 per tournament. Interestingly the last two tournaments have witnessed the most 0-0 draws with eight apiece.
6 – Average goals for the Golden Boot winner
The Golden Boot winner has averaged six goals per tournament since Mexico 1986. The most ever scored in a World Cup was France’s Just Fontaine, who found the net an incredible 13 times in Sweden 1958. Read these factors to consider before you select a World Cup Golden Boot winner.
10 – Hiding to nothing
The biggest World Cup winning margin saw Hungary smash El Salvador 10-1 at the Spanish World Cup in 1982. Despite this opening Group 3 win, the Hungarians failed to qualify for the knockout stage, while El Salvador played more defensively against Belgium and Argentina, losing 1-0 and 2-0 respectively.
11 seconds – Blink and you’ll miss it
In 2002, it took Hakan Sukur just 11 seconds to score for Turkey against South Korea in the third place playoff. Sukur’s goal remains the fastest at a World Cup and helped Turkey secure its best ever World Cup finish.
13 – Point to the spot
Thirteen penalties have been awarded on average at each tournament since Mexico 1986, which equates to a penalty every 4.47 games. South Africa 2010 witnessed the fewest penalties (9) awarded in the modern era, while the most came at France 1998 (17).
16 – Host continent dominate
Looking back at the previous 19 World Cups, on only three occasions has the winner come from a different continent to the host – Brazil (1958 and 2002) and Spain (2010). The relevance of this trend for World Cup 2014 is that it suggests the South American teams will do well. Argentina can be backed at +400, while Uruguay are available at +2,000 to win their first title since 1950.
17 – Red mist
Seventeen is the average number of red cards at a World Cup finals since 1986. If you include all World Cups, the number drops to 8.2. The 2006 finals in Germany holds the record for the most red cards in a World Cup when an incredible 28 dismissals were shown at an average of 0.43 per game.
18 – French the lowest-ranked team to win
Since the FIFA World Rankings were introduced in 1992, France’s victory on home soil in 1998 ensured it became the lowest-ranked team – 18th – to win the World Cup. Mexico (19) and the Ivory Coast (21) can be backed at +12,000 and +8,000 respectively to win the World Cup.
19 – Nationality of the coach
One of the most striking World Cup trends, which covers all 19 events since the tournament was established back in 1930, is that the coach of the winning team has always been from that nation. Russia is managed by Fabio Capello and is at +8,000 to win and break the trend. All teams with shorter odds than the Russians have home grown coaches.
22 – Penalty shootouts
There have been 22 penalty shootouts in the history of the World Cup. Unbelievably, since 1986 Germany has a 100 percent record and has not missed a penalty in a World Cup shootout. At the other end of the spectrum is England, which has lost all three penalty shootouts it has been involved in at a World Cup.
100 percent – South Americans dominate in the Americas
Spain and Germany are amongst the favorites to win in Brazil, however, the World Cup history indicates when it comes to defending continental boundaries, South America has proven unbeatable. In the seven World Cups held in the Americas, South American nations have won on each occasion – Brazil (1962, 1970 and 1994), Uruguay (1930 and 1950) and Argentina (1978 and 1986). However, there are dangers in relying solely on historic trends to predict the winner
Bettors aiming to make a profit at the 2014 World Cup should read these 20 World Cup betting trends to gain an insight into how the key numbers stack up across previous tournaments:
0 – The curse of the Ballon d’Or
No player who has won the Ballon d’Or (FIFA World Player of the Year) has ever become a world champion the following year. This doesn’t bode well for Portugal, whose Cristiano Ronaldo collected the prestigious award for the second time in 2013. Interestingly three players – Zinedine Zidane (1998), Gerd Muller (1974) and Xavi (2010) – who won the World Cup finished third in the Ballon d’Or the year before. Franck Ribery claimed third prize in 2013, and his French team are available at 22.000*
1 – Hosts struggle in the modern era
Despite six nations winning the World Cup on home soil – Uruguay (1930), Italy (1934), England (1966), West Germany (1974), Argentina (1978) and France (1998) -, only France have done so since 1978. This shows that despite a significant home advantage, hosts have struggled to lift the trophy in the modern era.
2 – Defending the trophy is tough
Only twice in the history of the World Cup have the defending champions retained their trophy – Italy (1934 and 1938) and Brazil (1958 and 1962). However, since Mexico 1986 – classed as the modern era – no nation has defended their title, which would mean Spain, which has an implied probability of 13.93 percent, would rewrite history if it wins in Brazil.
2 (again) – Final decided by a shoot-out
Only twice has the World Cup been decided by a penalty shootout – 1994 and 2006. Italy was involved in both occasions losing to Brazil 3-2 in 1994 and winning 4-3 against France in 2006. Gli Azzurri are +1,800 to win their fifth World Cup.
2.1 – Own goal shocker
Since Mexico 1986, there have been 15 own goals at an average of 2.1 per World Cup. World Cup 2006 winner, Italy, conceded its only goal in open-play when Cristian Zaccardo put it past his own goalkeeper against the USA.
2.46 – Average goals per game
In the modern era, an average of 2.46 goals has been scored per game at the World Cup. If you include all World Cups, that average raises significantly to 3.12 goals. Germany have been the highest-scoring team at the last two World Cups – 2006 (14) and 2010 (16) – despite exiting at the semi-final stage on both occasions.
3 – Always the bridesmaid
The Netherlands has finished runner-up three times in 1974, 1978 and 2010 – the most without ever winning a World Cup. The Dutch can be backed at +2,500 which gives them an implied probability of 3.7 percent.
5 – Brazil has the golden touch
Brazil is the most successful nation in the World Cup with five victories (1958, 1962, 1970, 1994 and 2002). Unsurprisingly, it also boasts the best historical win percentage, winning 67 percent of all World Cup games. The hosts are the +281 favorites to claim a sixth crown.
5 (again) – Salenko has a moment of inspiration
In the searing American heat, Russian striker Oleg Salenko scored five goals in a 6-1 rout of Cameroon in the group stage of the 1994 World Cup. Salenko’s five goals – which helped him share the Golden Boot with six total goals – is the most any player has scored in a match during the World Cup. Bizarrely these were his only ever international goals.
5.42 – Bore draw
There have been 38 goalless draws since Mexico 1986, which averages out at 5.42 per tournament. Interestingly the last two tournaments have witnessed the most 0-0 draws with eight apiece.
6 – Average goals for the Golden Boot winner
The Golden Boot winner has averaged six goals per tournament since Mexico 1986. The most ever scored in a World Cup was France’s Just Fontaine, who found the net an incredible 13 times in Sweden 1958. Read these factors to consider before you select a World Cup Golden Boot winner.
10 – Hiding to nothing
The biggest World Cup winning margin saw Hungary smash El Salvador 10-1 at the Spanish World Cup in 1982. Despite this opening Group 3 win, the Hungarians failed to qualify for the knockout stage, while El Salvador played more defensively against Belgium and Argentina, losing 1-0 and 2-0 respectively.
11 seconds – Blink and you’ll miss it
In 2002, it took Hakan Sukur just 11 seconds to score for Turkey against South Korea in the third place playoff. Sukur’s goal remains the fastest at a World Cup and helped Turkey secure its best ever World Cup finish.
13 – Point to the spot
Thirteen penalties have been awarded on average at each tournament since Mexico 1986, which equates to a penalty every 4.47 games. South Africa 2010 witnessed the fewest penalties (9) awarded in the modern era, while the most came at France 1998 (17).
16 – Host continent dominate
Looking back at the previous 19 World Cups, on only three occasions has the winner come from a different continent to the host – Brazil (1958 and 2002) and Spain (2010). The relevance of this trend for World Cup 2014 is that it suggests the South American teams will do well. Argentina can be backed at +400, while Uruguay are available at +2,000 to win their first title since 1950.
17 – Red mist
Seventeen is the average number of red cards at a World Cup finals since 1986. If you include all World Cups, the number drops to 8.2. The 2006 finals in Germany holds the record for the most red cards in a World Cup when an incredible 28 dismissals were shown at an average of 0.43 per game.
18 – French the lowest-ranked team to win
Since the FIFA World Rankings were introduced in 1992, France’s victory on home soil in 1998 ensured it became the lowest-ranked team – 18th – to win the World Cup. Mexico (19) and the Ivory Coast (21) can be backed at +12,000 and +8,000 respectively to win the World Cup.
19 – Nationality of the coach
One of the most striking World Cup trends, which covers all 19 events since the tournament was established back in 1930, is that the coach of the winning team has always been from that nation. Russia is managed by Fabio Capello and is at +8,000 to win and break the trend. All teams with shorter odds than the Russians have home grown coaches.
22 – Penalty shootouts
There have been 22 penalty shootouts in the history of the World Cup. Unbelievably, since 1986 Germany has a 100 percent record and has not missed a penalty in a World Cup shootout. At the other end of the spectrum is England, which has lost all three penalty shootouts it has been involved in at a World Cup.
100 percent – South Americans dominate in the Americas
Spain and Germany are amongst the favorites to win in Brazil, however, the World Cup history indicates when it comes to defending continental boundaries, South America has proven unbeatable. In the seven World Cups held in the Americas, South American nations have won on each occasion – Brazil (1962, 1970 and 1994), Uruguay (1930 and 1950) and Argentina (1978 and 1986). However, there are dangers in relying solely on historic trends to predict the winner
World Cup 2014: 'Psychic' turtle Big Head tips Brazil win
A "psychic" turtle has predicted Brazil will win their World Cup opening match against Croatia.
'Big Head' had to choose to eat a piece of fish from under a Brazilian or Croatian flag, or a ball that indicated a draw.
The turtle chose the host country, much to the delight of the locals, and is the latest in a growing list of "psychic" animals to predict the outcome of football matches.
A "psychic" turtle has predicted Brazil will win their World Cup opening match against Croatia.
'Big Head' had to choose to eat a piece of fish from under a Brazilian or Croatian flag, or a ball that indicated a draw.
The turtle chose the host country, much to the delight of the locals, and is the latest in a growing list of "psychic" animals to predict the outcome of football matches.
