Thursday 8/25/16 service plays chatter/comps/requests & other stuff...

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

At the Gate - Thursday
By Mike Dempsey

A field of 14 will line up for Saturday’s $1.25 million Travers (G1) at Saratoga led by Preakness Stakes (G1) and Haskell Invitational (G1) winner Exaggerator, who was installed as the 3-1 morning line favorite.

The 13-race card also features four Breeders’ Cup Challenge “Win and You’re In” races and the return of the undefeated Lady Eli, who makes her first start since last July in the $400,000 Ballston Spa (G2).

But before we get to Saturday’s 13-race marathon card we have some pretty good action on Friday, which is New York Showcase Day. There are six stakes for New York breds and over $1 million in purses up for grabs.

We will warm up for the two days of action with a 10-race card today featuring a pair of stakes. The day starts with the $150,000 New York Turf Writers Cup Handicap (G1), a 2 3/8 mile steeplechase race that drew a small field of six.

The feature is the $100,000 Riskaverse for three-year-old fillies that will go one mile on turf. The morning line favorite at 3-1 is Pricedtoperfection, who was fourth in the Belmont Oaks Invitational (G1) in her last outing.

She is trained by Chad Brown, who picked up his 1000th career victory yesterday with Mr Maybe in the John’s Call. His filly has won twice on turf including the Sweet Chant (G3) back in January at Gulfstream Park.

I am looking for a bit more value with the Shug McGaughey trained On Leave, a well bred filly who has five sibs that are stakes winners and she will be making her stakes debut


Here is second race (the opener is a steeplechase) from Saratoga to get the day off to a good start:

SAR Race 2 Md $25,000 (1:33 ET)
#4 Zababa 7-2
#7 Mr Curiosity 8-5
#2 Trappe 6-1
#3 Risener 8-1

Analysis: Zababa makes his first start since December for the Baker barn that is 19% winners with runners returning off a +180-day layoff. The gelding tracked the early pace and weakened to finish fourth versus $40,000 state breds in his last outing on the inner track at the Big A. The barn hits at a 24% clip first off the claim and is having a strong meeting, winning with 8 of 20 starters.

Mr Curiosity set the early factions and could not hold off the winner late in a runner up finish at this level last out. It was an improvement over his first three starts where he was beaten by a combined 66 1/4 lengths. He comes back here off a two-month break for the RRod barn that is 21% winner with runners coming back off a 46-90-day break. He owns the edge in early and mid pace numbers and will be the one to catch again today.

Wagering
WIN: #4 to win at 5-2 or better.
EX: 4,7 / 2,3,4,7
TRI: 4,7 / 2,3,4,7 / 1,2,3,4,7

Today’s Featured Race of the Day from Saratoga:

SAR Race 9 The Riskaverse (5:40 ET)
#7 On Leave 7-2
#8 Pricedtoperferction 3-1
#10 Sky My Sky 5-1
#3 Thrilled 12-1

Analysis: On Leave came with a good late rally to get up and beat Alw-1 optional claimers last out in her first start against winners. She was making her second start off the bench, breaking her maiden two back off an eight-month layoff. This gal has a nice pedigree, a half to five stakes winners, top earner Ironicus ($848790). She looks primed for a type effort third off the bench.

Pricedtoperfection made a mild late run to finish fourth last out in the Belmont Oaks Invitational (G1) last out going nine furlongs. Two back at this distance she was a good second in the Penn Oaks. The Brown trainee is a stakes winner, taking the Sweet Chant back in January on turf. She should get an honest pace to run at.

Wagering
WIN: #7 to win at 3-1 or better.
EX: 7,8 / 3,7,8,10
TRI: 7,8 / 3,7,8,10 / 2,3,7,8,10

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.

Saratoga
R1: #6 Schoodic 8-1
R2: #3 Risener 8-1
R3: #1 Majestic Tango 15-1
R4: #7 Dreamboat Annie 8-1
R5: #1 Dom the Bomb 8-1
R6: #1 Crags 8-1
R6: #5 Bright Side Up 15-1
R7: #7 Excluded 12-1
R9: #3 Thrilled 12-1
R10: #2 It’s Two Hot Bunny 12-1
R10: #1 Peppermint Stick 12-1

Good luck today!

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at Hoosier Park

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

Race 11 - Post: 9:05 - 1 mile. TROT - Class Rating: 76 - Purse:$20000 - **INDIANA SIRES STAKES** 3 YEAR OLD COLTS AND GELDINGS - LEG 4
CONSORTIUM*CHOICES

# 8 DREAMSTYLE HERBIE 7/2
# 1 LIL' DAY DRINKIN 4/1
# 2 ARTHUR LUCK 10/1

DREAMSTYLE HERBIE has a respectable shot to take this contest. Has a strong shot in here, if he can perform to his back racing class. The panel of smart guys noted a huge race out of this solid standardbred last time. Hoping for a duplicate of that to score. LIL' DAY DRINKIN - A competitive play in here as he has one of the highest winning clips in the group of animals as well as terrific credentials all around. Haynes has been able to get this fine animal to perform when sending to the post. Definite exotic possibilities. ARTHUR LUCK - He looks competitive in this race and should find a way to take advantage of favorable pace ratings.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at Saratoga Harness

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

Race 8 - Post: 9:25 - 1 mile. PACE - Class Rating: 83 - Purse:$8000 - FILLIES & MARES - NON-WINNERS $6,500 LAST 5 STARTS AE: NON-WINNERS 8 EXTENDED PARI-MUTUEL RACES OR $50,000 LIFE OPT. CLM. ALW. $20,000 SARATOGA
CONSORTIUM*CHOICES

# 1 BYE BYE MICHELLE 7/5
# 4 SUPER SOPH 5/2
# 5 SOMETIMES GRACEFUL 10/1

After thorough analysis by the consortium, BYE BYE MICHELLE comes out as the top selection. Could provide us a score based on great recent speed ratings - earning an average of 85. The knowledge group gives this entrant a really strong chance to win this one, class figures are tops in the pack. With a formidable 83 TrackMaster speed fig last time out, will more than likely be a factor in this competition. SUPER SOPH - She's competing in fine form, recording very compelling TrackMaster Speed Ratings. An excellent pick. The handicapping team gives this solid standardbred a great chance to come home a winner, class stats are tops in the field. SOMETIMES GRACEFUL - Comp pace figs show this contender has what it takes to dominate for this one. Great in the money statistic for Reddick and this nice horse. A really strong probability to get the victory.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Charles Town

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


Race 7 - Claiming - 7.0f on the Dirt. Purse: $15500 Class Rating: 76

FOR THREE YEAR OLDS AND UPWARD WHICH HAVE NEVER WON TWO RACES. THREE YEAR OLDS, 120 LBS.; OLDER, 124 LBS. NON-WINNERS OF A RACE SINCE JULY 25 ALLOWED 2 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $10,000, FOR EACH $1,000 TO $8,000 1 LB. W V A RACES NOT CONSIDERED IN ELIGIBILITY)


RECOMMENDED*CHOICES


# 5 ROLO TAMACI 9/5

# 3 WHO STOLE MY SOCK 8/1

# 2 QUIET CANADIAN 12/1

ROLO TAMACI is the strongest bet in this race. Is hard not to look at based on speed figures which have been respectable - 76 avg - of late. Has been racing in the most competitive company of the group of horses recently. Has recorded formidable Equibase Speed Figures in dirt sprint races in the past. WHO STOLE MY SOCK - Some respectable figures have been posted by this trainer's starters racing at this distance and surface. Could best this field based on the speed figure - 73 - of his last contest.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Presque Isle Downs

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


Race 1 - Allowance - 8.0f on the Dirt. Purse: $28000 Class Rating: 95

FOR THREE YEAR OLDS AND UPWARD WHICH HAVE NEVER WON A RACE OTHER THAN MAIDEN, CLAIMING, STARTER, OR PA BRED. THREE YEAR OLDS, 118 LBS.; OLDER, 122 LBS. NON-WINNERS OF A RACE AT A MILE OR OVER SINCE JULY 25 ALLOWED 3 LBS.


RECOMMENDED*CHOICES


# 5 DOWNTOWN COWBOY 8/1

# 9 WAR READY 5/1

# 3 BERNIE'S BEST 9/2

I give my vote to DOWNTOWN COWBOY here particularly if the morning line of 8/1 holds. Gallardo will almost certainly be able to get this gelding to break out early in this event. A solid 93 avg Equibase class figure may give this gelding a distinct class edge versus this group. With a strong 91 average Equibase speed fig at the distance, seems well suited for today's race. WAR READY - He has been racing soundly lately while recording solid speed figures. Recent figs for the rider - 17 win percent - make this gelding stand out in this group. BERNIE'S BEST - This gelding is coming back almost immediately to race. Should be considered based on the solid speed figure posted in the last contest.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts


Delaware Park - Race #5 - Post: 3:15pm - Claiming - 6.0 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $13,000 Class Rating: 93

Rating:

#2 CELTIC MOON (ML=4/1)


CELTIC MOON - The ROI when Cintron and Simoff team up is terrific. I am keen on that last outing on Aug 3rd at Delaware Park where he ran first. Have to like the way Simoff has raced this gelding back into shape off the layoff. Horse is well spotted in this sprint and I think he'll run well today.

Vulnerable Contenders: #10 IMSLOPOKERODRIGUEZ (ML=6/5), #4 PULLING AWAY (ML=5/1), #7 CASANOVA WAY (ML=8/1),

IMSLOPOKERODRIGUEZ - This colt hasn't had any recent good results in short distance affairs. I find it hard to bet on him in this race. You should normally bet against morning-line choices that haven't raced or show no activity in the morning over the last three weeks. On a downward cycle. Equibase speed figs keep lessening. PULLING AWAY - You figure that this horse is going to finish first just because he's always close. Just doesn't get the job done frequently. CASANOVA WAY - This gelding hasn't had any recent good fortune in short distance contests. I find it hard to invest in him in this contest. Won't be easy for this animal to beat this bunch off of that last speed figure. Not likely to improve enough to run a figure close to today's class rating, so put him on the possibly overvalued equines list.


STRAIGHT WAGERS:

Go with #2 CELTIC MOON on top if we're getting at least 1/1 odds

EXACTA WAGERS:

2 with 7

TRIFECTA WAGERS:

Pass

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:

None

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Gulfstream Park - Race #4 - Post: 2:27pm - Maiden Claiming - 6.0 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $25,000 Class Rating: 77

Rating:

#4 SUMMER SCAMP (ML=5/1)
#5 ARIDAIOS (ML=7/5)


SUMMER SCAMP - Monterrey is back for another race today after riding aboard this horse for the first time on July 3rd and ought to know the ropes to this one a little better. Just check out his most recent speed figure, 78. That one fits well in this group. ARIDAIOS - Zayas and Ziadie perform well when they join forces. It's hard to beat a +33 return on investment for a jock and trainer. This entrant ran out of the money at Gulfstream Park last time around the track on a track listed as good. He should improve today with the benefit of a fast track. After the race aboard this animal on August 7th, the jockey is going to be in touch with the gelding much better. Entered last at Gulfstream Park. Finished fourth, but had a decent chunk of the win pool. Could be dangerous in this race.

Vulnerable Contenders: #6 AVE CAESAR (ML=7/2), #1 THREE STAR STONE (ML=4/1), #2 WHIP N NAY NAY (ML=6/1),

AVE CAESAR - Just don't believe he is offering enough value at the likely odds. THREE STAR STONE - This colt hasn't had any recent good fortune in short distance contests. Difficult to wager on him in this event. WHIP N NAY NAY - Didn't look like a winner last time out. Probably won't do much running in today's race.


STRAIGHT WAGERS:

Bet on #4 SUMMER SCAMP to win if we can get at least 8/5 odds

EXACTA WAGERS:

Box [4,5]

TRIFECTA WAGERS:

None

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:

Skip

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Rick Needham at Saratoga

RACE #1 - SARATOGA RACE COURSE - 1:00 PM EASTERN POST

The New York Turf Writers Cup Handicap

19.0 FURLONGS NATIONAL FENCE COURSE GRADE I STEEPLECHASE $150,000.00 PURSE

#3 BOB LE BEAU
#4 SCORPIANCER
#6 SCHOODIC
#1 ANDI'AMU

Following the passing of renowned trainer Tom Voss in January of 2014, it was announced that the 2014 edition of the Turf Writers would be run in his honor. The race's official name is thus the New York Turf Writers Cup Run in Memory of Thomas H. Voss. The race over national fences was first run in 1938 and has been held at varying distances at Belmont Park and Aqueduct Racetrack as well as Saratoga. Not run from 1972-74, the Turf Writers Cup was contested at two miles on the turf as a flat event in 1985 at Belmont. One of the oldest organizations for journalists in America, the New York Turf Writers Association was founded in 1923. Here in the 74th renewal of this stakes test, #3 BOB LE BEAU, an Irish bred entry, has won 12 times in his career to date over the fences, including a quartet of "POWER RUN WINS" in his last five starts. Jockey Jack Doyle and Trainer Elizabeth Voss send him to the post ... they've hit the board with 58% of their entries saddled as a team to date. #4 SCORPIANCER, who was also bred in Ireland, has hit the board in "POWER RUN FASHION" in four of his respective last five starts, including a "POWER RUN WIN" in his 5th race back.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

DDLohaus’ Saratoga analysis

Thursday’s selections

Day*2 of Travers Week….keep the faith!

Race #2
$10WP Trappe

Race #7
$10WPS Knight of Valor

Total Bets: $50.00
Meet Total: $-478.00

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Mohawk: Thursday 8/25 Analysis
By Garnet Barnsdale

DRF

Race 1 - $30,000 Guaranteed Pick Five Pool

Race 4 - $50,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool


PICK 5: 3,6,7,8/4,5/2,5/2,6,7/1,4,5 = $28.80

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

LATE PICK 4: 6/2,4,5/3,5,8/5,6,7,10 = $36

MEET STATS: 300 - 874 / $1567.20 BEST BETS: 52 - 81 / $166.60

SPOT PLAYS: 18 - 81 / $102.00

Best Bet: ZARAHA SEELSTER (7th)

Spot Play: GIVE EM HECK (4th)


Race 1

(8) SIGNAL HILL was one-paced late in the mile last week when bet heavily. He had missed three weeks then and now returns on a 7-day cycle, which could make a big difference; top call in the opener. (7) ODD BALL - a $25K Lexington buy - looks ready to roll for hot connections; using. (3) WHIRLAWAY HANOVER brought $57K at auction but he hasn't been able to stay flat so far. Trainer Zeron qualified him for this now he takes over the lines. Keep him in mind for Pick 5 bets. (6) MAJESTIC STREAK also goes for a top barn and he qualified solidly on August 19th; consider.

Race 2

(4) COLUMNIST and (5) THIS DAY FORWARD appear to be the two main contenders in this group that has compiled a 1 for 97 record collectively. But keep in mind that these two contribute 41 losses to that total. Slight nod to the former, who raced tough first-over last week. (1) TOUCHING THOUGHT - one of a duo of 2-year-olds in here - should get a decent trip starting from the inside and has a fair chance in here. (3) TWIN B ONAROLL is the other rookie in the field. She has taken some smaller checks in sires stakes action in New York and she can take a share here.

Race 3

(2) SOUTHWIND ION was probably over bet last time out vs. experienced stake foes, but she fits much better here and should be driven more aggressively. (5) DOCS SAUSALITO miscued early last time then hung in well after a long trip. She is erratic, but capable on her best day. (8) VINTAGE BABE was well-prepped for a sharp effort off the shelf last week to beat maidens. She is worthy of consideration despite the class rise. (6) CHARMING HILL should get asked for more speed early here from the improved post. Consider using her in exotic wagers.

Race 4

(7) GIVE EM HECK was part of some wild early fractions last week yet he managed to survive the war to finish 2nd. A slightly easier trip is expected here, which might be all he needs. (6) SCOTTY MACH N was also part of that duel (pacing a 26 3/5 second 1/4) and I would think he will take a more conservative approach here and look for a helmet to follow. (2) JET AIRLINER has really improved in his past few starts and he isn't out of the question here. (8) YOUR MY HERO is worth a look going for Auciello off the claim.

Race 5

(4) HILL OF A COLT - 1/2 brother to $790K earner J L Cruze - brought only $24K at Harrisburg but he could turn out to be a bargain based on the progression he showed in his three qualifiers; call at first asking. (1) SAFEKEEPING gets turned over to Henriksen here and she qualified well with him in the bike on the 19th; using. (5) ANDOVERS CHOICE closed well from the 10-hole in his WEG debut. It makes sense to expect improvement here from an improved post. (2) STORMONT DUNDAS is on the improve and he could better this prediction.

Race 6

(8) JUSTCALLMERONALD has not been the most sure-gaited horse on the grounds in the past, but he's looked great in his last couple of starts out of town and fits here; slight nod. (9) BLUSH AND CRUSH goes for four straight here making her first start off a claim and is the one to beat. (3) WARAWEE PROTON drops his tag $3K which gets him a better post; improvement expected. (1) R CHOOCHOO CHARLIE fits this class well, but he has always been a bit win shy.

Race 7

(6) ZAHARA SEELSTER gets faster and closer each week; graduation time tonight. (7) GRANNY PANTS was in a hopeless spot trying to close into a rapidly accelerating pace last week. She can be closer here at a price. (8) EMOTIONS is worth a look after taking checks in every start south of the border. (1) SOUTHWIND JINGA brought $30K at the Lexington sale but she would need to knock about six seconds off to win this; minor share is predicted.

Race 8

(2) WINTER HARBOR was a sharp winner last week and this field doesn't look much tougher; call to repeat. (5) RADIANT BEAM was an easy winner last time he raced in a class similar to this one; using. (4) PREMIER GLITTER can threaten these late and could beat them all if she is close enough to the leaders turning home. (3) FRENCH BASTILLE finishes 3rd or 4th every week. Expect more of the same here.

Race 9

(5) WHOSGOINGTOCATCHUS should show a lot more early speed here starting from the middle of the gate and she has a chance to score at what should be a square price. (3) MYRETIREMENTTICKET faces much easier and is another that surely will be on the move early. (8) COUNTRY PROPHET shows improving form in each of the past three starts; beware. (7) UNICUM BI should threaten if he can stay flat.

Race 10

(6) HEMINGWAY drops to the bottom claiming level here and he could get a great trip chasing a rapid early pace. (5) C C NITE RAIDER also drops to the bottom and should improve in a race with several possibilities. (10) SOAKING UP THE SUN is in good form but the outer post could be trouble here with several other quick leavers signed on. (7) E L SPARTACUS should be passing many of these late; consider. (9) PANEDICTINE is another that can pass many of these down the lane and make the ticket.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Yonkers: Thursday 8/25 Analysis
By Brewster Smith

DRF

MEET STATS: 198 - 859 / $1,262.30

BEST BETS: 25 - 82 / $129.70

Best Bet: NIPPY W HANOVER (4th)

Spot Play: ROCK OUT (10th)


Race 1

(5) GALLANT MAJOR showed some life finishing fourth last out so he clearly can move forward against this weak group. (4) LIGHT UP THE SKY has hit the board in his last five tries; big player. (1) JC KINGDOM was on the engine most of the way but tired in deep stretch and had to settle for the placing in his Philly finale.

Race 2

(1) FLYING ISA N put in two strong victories at the Meadowlands in a row. Now this trotter will try for the hat trick at the half-mile oval; the pick. (4) GEORGINA CORNER has good early zip and most likely will be the one to catch. (2) NEWCASTLE was facing open foes at Saratoga last out and showed good speed; watch out.

Race 3

(3) RETURN TO SENDER N might have found a perfect spot to grab his first score of the year and good to see Bartlett at the helm. (6) BIG BAMBU rallied strongly to lose glory by only a nose; big threat. (8) WINDSONG GORGEOUS was sharp in his Meadowlands finale; post hurts but gelding is very capable.

Race 4

(7) NIPPY W HANOVER did not fire at odds-on last out but this pacing mare did not have the best trip. With a favorable journey she can return to her winning ways. (6) KIDDIE MCCARDLE might have moved too soon in her latest; main danger. (3) KAMWOOD LAUGHTER N gets post relief and that might help her cause; maybe.

Race 5

(2) CRUISINWITHMYBABY was nailed for win honors last time around and this gal is in super form. She is very capable of returning back to the winner's circle. (3) INTOVIEW closed well and held on for the place spot in her last trip to the post; contender in here. (1) BAD NIGHT MARE moves to the fence and could have a say in the outcome.

Race 6

(4) I DO IT MYSELF did not fire from the 8-hole and now she gets back to a winning post where she was a down the road winner two trips ago; gets the call. You have to love the consistency of (2) KAITLYN RAE. She is knocking at the door and could be dangerous. (8) NORTHERN DALI has reeled off two straight victories; gets a bad draw but mare could be right in the mix with these.

Race 7

(2) BITTERSWEET CHAMP moves down in class off a dull effort against tougher last out. Gelding knows how to get the job done, just like he did two trips ago; threat at his best. (7) PASS THEM BY N has tactical speed and is knocking at the door based on his last three starts. (1) YORK SEELSTER retains the rail and is on the drop-down; not out of this.

Race 8

(3) MARTIAL BLISS has put in two sharp efforts in a row. Gelding appears to be rounding into winning form, so he can boss these with a well-judged drive. (2) THISGUYSAROCKSTAR got the job done via the pocket route last time around; main danger. (7) SMOOTH CRIMINAL scored the hat trick in his most recent outing; bad post, but must be considered in all the exotic slots.

Race 9

(4) SPORTSKEEPER was sharp in victory last time out. This gelding appears to be in excellent form and stays in same company; the pick. (2) PAMS LEGACY took the pocket route home to glory last time out; threat. (1) CARD SHOCK was sent down the road in his last start for all the marbles and retains the fence; don't overlook.

Race 10

(1) ROCK OUT comes off two sharp tries and that makes this gelding a strong contender to greet the cameraman for pictures. (7) GALLANT SEELSTER might have been used up in the early stages last time around; big player. (8) UNION MAN HANOVER showed good speed and lasted for place money recently. Don't overlook this guy despite leaving from the 8-hole.

Race 11

(5) ROYAL MAX has sharp speed with three strong efforts in Pennsylvania. Gelding should find these to his liking and the half-mile oval should not be a problem. (3) IN NOMINE PATRI put in a late rally for fourth money in his Pocono finale; main danger. (4) ZORGWIJK NOVA was sitting in the pocket most of the way but she could not get to the winner. She did save the placing last time out.

Race 12

(6) VILLAGE JESSICA put in a mild rally to land the fourth spot last time out. She does have speed and with a better trip she can get back to the winner's circle. (1) CHERRY BLISS is knocking at the door based on her last three outings. (3) SIR JILLIAN Z TAM took the pocket route on her way to victory last time around against lesser company.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

SPOT PLAYS

For Thursday

TRACK (RACE) HORSE, MORNING LINE

Arlington (3rd) Chica Bonita, 3-1
(6th) Mr. Stein, 3-1


Belterra Park (1st) Master Landon, 4-1
(8th) My Italian Posh, 5-1


Canterbury (1st) Raspberry Punch, 8-1
(6th) City Sage, 5-1


Charles Town (1st) Bopzilla, 9-2
(6th) This Is Me Now, 4-1


Del Mar (1st) Sturdy One, 4-1
(5th) Mrs. Norris, 5-1


Delaware Park (4th) Shamrock Empire, 10-1
(7th) Start Jumping, 5-1


Evangeline Downs (1st) Il Est Vite, 5-1
(9th) Eden Grey's Kitten, 10-1


Finger Lakes (3rd) Pete's Fleet, 4-1
(7th) Real Deal Lady, 5-1


Golden Gate Fields (1st) Can't Beat L. A., 5-1
(5th) Redneck Girl, 6-1


Gulfstream Park (4th) Summer Camp. 5-1
(10th) Bay Runner, 4-1


Indiana Grand (4th) Wild Kard Kowgirl, 7-2
(8th) Thunder Bye, 9-2


Louisiana Downs (4th) Theboyzgrand Kis, 5-1
(7th) Brother Love, 3-1


Penn National (3rd) Coach Bennett, 9-2
(4th) Ramsey Branch, 4-1


Presque Isle Downs (1st) Bernie's Best, 9-2
(8th) Sweeter Surprise, 3-1


Remington Park (5th) Big Headed Jerry, 4-1
(9th) Golden York, 4-1


Saratoga (5th) Sam Sparkle, 9-2
(9th) On Leave, 7-2

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

August Pitchers Report
By Marc Lawrence

With the MLB trading deadline officially closed, and the NFL preseason whetting our pigskin palates, the month of August sets the table for the stretch run of the baseball season. Which pitchers can we count on to satisfy our tastes, and which ones figure to sour our stomachs?

Take a look below.

Listed below are hurlers that have enjoyed a two-to-one or better success ratio in team-starts over the course of the last three seasons during the month of August.

On the flip side, we've also listed pitchers that struggle in August, winning 33% percent or less of their team-start efforts.

To qualify pitchers must have made a minimum of 10 starts, with at least one start each April over the last three years. And for your convenience alongside each record we break down each pitcher’s greatest success or greatest failure rate either home (H) or away (A) within his good or bad month.

Note: * designates a categorical repeat appearance by this pitcher, maintaining status quo from last season’s August list.

I’ll be back next month with September’s Good Month Pitchers.

Until then, as legendary singer and songwriter Neil Diamond would say, enjoy the hot August nights.

GOOD MONTH PITCHERS:

Arrieta, Jake - 10-5 (6-3 A)

After being Clayton Kershaw-like for nearly 12 months, the Cubs starter has "regressed" back to just being among the best starters in baseball. Arrieta has a nearly 3-to-1 strikeout to walk ratio and only allows a base hit 70 percent of the time in innings pitched this season, among the finest in the majors.

Duffy, Danny - 11-4 (6-1 H)

After starting the season as a reliever, the Kansas City left-hander was forced back into the rotation based on need and he has responded. Since June, after a pair of starts, Duffy has put up an ERA of just over 3.00 and opposing batters have just a .289 on-base percentage against him.

*Gallardo, Yovani - 9-4 (5-2 A)

Not close to the same pitcher he used to be with Milwaukee, with ERA so far this season approaching almost two runs higher than career average (5.37 vs. 3.73). The lost velocity is to blame and secondary pitches have less bite. For Baltimore to win AL East, Gallardo has to find some of his old magic.

Greinke, Zack - 10-5 (5-2 H)

After being on the shelf with oblique injury since late June, Greinke is close to returning for Arizona if no reoccurrence were to take place after a rehab start or two this month. After pathetic start to season, the D-Backs prized starter has cut ERA by 2 1/2 runs and is close to career norms in all major categories. Elite starter.

*Hamels, Cole - 12-6 (8-4 H)

Having typical Hamels season, with low numbers across the board. In bigger picture, underrated high level hurler who has not been getting acclaim after Phillies fall, but has been ace with Texas. As usual, left-handed batters have no chance with .176 batting average and .287 slugging percentage.

*Iwakuma, Hisashi - 12-5 (7-1 A)

Not having normal season for Seattle, with hits allowed much higher than usual for Iwakuma. However, has won four of five starts and the Mariners are 10-3 when the righty has toed the rubber since May 20. With Felix Hernandez back, this pair could lead Seattle charge to postseason.

Milone, Tom - 7-3 (4-1 A)

Milone starts for bad Minnesota club and is inconsistent as ever. Of his 74 hits allowed in only 59 2/3 innings, 11 have gone the yard. Maybe he can keep the ball down and spot his pitches better like previous August’s.

*Sanchez, Anibal - 9-3 (5-1 H)

With decreased velocity and no action on breaking pitches, Sanchez ERA has been six or higher almost all season. Not sure if he can respond this month, with opponents having BA over .300 and owning a WHIP of 1.64.

*Strasburg, Stephen - 13-3 (8-1 H)

Only July 21st, Strasburg suffered first loss of entire season after 13 consecutive wins. Though the fastball is no longer in upper 90's all the time, the breaking pitches disappear from batter's view and he's been exceptional. If Strasburg has true to form month, he will have real shot at 20 wins in 2016.

Teheran, Julio - 11-5 (7-2 H)

Suffered lat strain in late July and has been a victim of no run support from bad Braves club with 2.81 ERA, 0.97 WHIP and opposing batters at only .205 batting average. Note: Teheran’s record also represents his MLB career team start mark during the month of August.

Weaver, Jered - 12-5 (7-3 A)

Shell of his former self at 33. Never a hard thrower, Weaver's fastball only occasionally makes the upper 80's these days and his once dominating changeup is a pitch batter's wait on now with lack of variance of speed of pitches. Will blend good and really awful performances these days.

*Zimmermann, Jordan - 12-6 (8-3 H)

On July 24th had excellent rehab start and will be rejoining Detroit this month. After sensational start with Tigers, Zimmermann was tagged for at least five runs in four of his last five outings. Detroit needs the Zimmermann they had early in the season to have chance to catch Cleveland in AL Central.

BAD MONTH PITCHERS:

Gray, Sonny - 5-11 (0-7 A)

Given Gray's troubles this month, his woes of all season are very likely to continue. Gray simply has been more hittable the entire season, permitting those with bats to hit almost 50 points higher than normal batting average permitted of .233. Note: Gray’s record also represents his MLB career team start mark during the month of August.

*Hellickson, Jeremy - 4-11 (2-9 A)

Back of the rotation starter, Hellickson has largely performed better than expected for Philadelphia and as this article went live, he was rumored to be traded. His KW ratio is significantly higher at 4 to 1 compared to 3 to 1 for his career. Will he be able to maintain the rest of season?

Kazmir, Scott - 5-11 (1-7 A)

The Dodgers port-sider has 9-4 record, but his 4.41 ERA is still above career average of 3.98. Durability has been issue all season, with too many starts around five innings for what is supposed to be Los Angeles No. 2 or 3 starter.

Koehler, Tom - 4-13 (0-10 A)

Above average arm but always up or down and unless he pulls a Rich Hill, at 30 is not likely to change. An 8-8 record, 4.18 ERA and WHIP of 1.46, is about what we have come to expect from Mr. Koehler. Note: Koehler’s record also represents his MLB career team start mark during the month of August.

*Miley, Wade - 5-11 (1-6 A)

Overrated lefty who does not miss many bats and fails to come anywhere close to averaging punch-out an inning. Strictly an innings-eater and provides nothing more than 50-50 chance to win.

Miller, Shelby - 5-11 (2-8 H)

Demoted to Triple-A in July after disastrous campaign. Miller hopes to regain confidence and repair mechanics that are really out of whack and return to Arizona yet this season.

Samardzija, Jeff - 5-13 (3-8 H)

After appearing as the No.3 starter San Francisco wanted for two months, Smards has returned to same old serviceable pitcher of the past and seen his ERA climb from 2.84 to present 4.30 heading into this month.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

MLB roundup: Darvish homers; Rangers edge Reds
By The Sports Xchange

CINCINNATI -- Yu Darvish hit his first career home run in a no-decision and Adrian Beltre drove in the eventual winning run with a double in the eighth inning, lifting the Texas Rangers to a 6-5 victory over the Cincinnati Reds on Wednesday night at Great American Ball Park.
The Rangers gained a split of the two-game interleague series and lead the Seattle Mariners by 6 1/2 games in the American League West.
Jake Diekman (4-2) picked up the victory. Darvish didn't allow a hit until the fifth and wound up yielding five runs (three earned), four hits and five walks while striking out five, but Cincinnati rallied from a three-run deficit to hand Darvish a no-decision.
Texas regained the lead in the eighth on Beltre's two-out RBI double off Blake Wood. It was career hit No. 2,900 for Beltre.
With two outs in the fifth, Darvish crushed a pitch onto the grassy knoll in center for his third career hit. Ian Desmond followed with his 21st homer to give Texas a 5-2 lead.

Dodgers 1, Giants 0
LOS ANGELES -- Justin Turner's homer was the difference for Los Angeles.
The win boosted LA's cushion in the National League West to three games over San Francisco, which lost its fourth in a row. The Dodgers won (71-55) their fourth straight.
Pedro Baez, Adam Liberatore and Joe Blanton combined to blank the Giants for two innings. Kenley Jansen posted his 37th save by striking out two in a perfect ninth.
Adrian Gonzalez went 1-for-3 and extended his hitting streak to 17 games, and Corey Seager had his end at 14 in a row with an 0-for-4 outing. Giants outfielder Angel Pagan went 0-for-3 with a walk, snapping his 19-game hitting streak.

Marlins 3, Royals 0
MIAMI -- Jose Fernandez improved his career home record to 27-2 and set a franchise record for strikeouts, leading Miami over red-hot Kansas City.
The Royals had their nine-game win streak snapped.
Fernandez (13-7) set his personal best with his 13th win. He also finished the game with 213 strikeouts this year, breaking the Marlins' previous season record of 209 set by Ryan Dempster in 2000.
Fernandez went 2-for-2 as a hitter, raising his batting average to .286. His one-out single in the sixth inning started a three-run Miami rally. Dee Gordon and Martin Prado followed with singles, and Christian Yelich, up with the bases loaded, lined a two-run single to right. Marcell Ozuna capped the rally with a sacrifice fly.

Orioles 10, Nationals 8
WASHINGTON -- Manny Machado had four hits and four RBIs, Matt Wieters had two hits and four RBIs and Wade Miley picked up his first win in five starts with Baltimore.
Machado drove in Hyun Soo Kim, who also had two hits, with a single and Jonathan Schoop had an RBI single in the eighth to give the Orioles a 7-3 lead. Wieters then hit a three-run homer to make it 10-3. That came after an RBI single by Washington's Daniel Murphy had trimmed the margin to 5-3 in the seventh.
Murphy (three hits) hit a grand slam with one out in the ninth to pull the Nationals to 10-7. That brought on closer Zach Britton, who gave up an RBI double to Anthony Rendon to make it 10-8 before Ryan Zimmerman hit into a double play to end the game.

Rays 4, Red Sox 3 (11)
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. -- Boston dropped the ball on potential third outs twice on one play and Tampa Bay walked off with an 11-inning win as Kevin Kiermaier drove in Luke Maile.
With two outs and two on in the 11th, Kiermaier hit a ground ball to first base, but the throw to reliever Heath Hembree went off his glove for a fielding error. The throw home was in time to get Maile at the plate, but catcher Sandy Leon didn't hold onto the ball and the winning run scored.
Before Longoria's 30th home run, Boston's David Ortiz got his 30th, becoming the oldest player in baseball history to reach 30 in a season. Ortiz, 40, also got to 100 RBIs with the home run, giving him 10 seasons of 30-plus home runs and 100-plus RBIs, the most ever for a Red Sox player.

Phillies 5, White Sox 3
CHICAGO -- Jerad Eickhoff allowed a sixth-inning home run and little else to help lead Philadelphia over Chicago and a split in the two-game interleague series.
Eickhoff (9-12) made it three straight wins while allowing two runs on four hits and striking out two in six innings.
White Sox starter James Shields (5-16) suffered his fourth straight loss and seventh since July 10. He gave up two home runs, including Tommy Joseph's 17th of the season to open a 4-0 Phillies lead in the sixth.

Tigers 9, Twins 4
MINNEAPOLIS -- Miguel Cabrera homered and finished a triple short of the cycle as Detroit hammered Minnesota.
Cabrera's solo home run in the first inning gave Detroit the lead and the Tigers never trailed, scoring five runs in the third and tacking on three in the eighth to put the game out of reach.
Justin Upton also homered and now has four consecutive two-hit games after a 1-for-31 skid put him on the bench for a few games last week.

Cardinals 8, Mets 1
ST. LOUIS -- Carlos Martinez Martinez limited New York to four hits and a run in eight dominant innings and St. Louis pounded Jacob deGrom.
Martinez (12-7) walked three and struck out five while inducing two more double play balls, giving him a National League-high 27 for the year. Meanwhile, deGrom (7-7), who allowed 13 hits and eight runs Thursday night at San Francisco, was ripped for 12 hits and five runs in 4 2/3 innings, walking two and fanning three.
The Cardinals (67-58) tied a season high with 19 hits. Stephen Piscotty went 3-for-5 with three RBIs, and Yadier Molina also went 3-for-5, singling home the last run in the eighth to cap the onslaught.

Brewers 7, Rockies 1
MILWAUKEE -- Ryan Braun hit two home runs, Zach Davies struck out eight and Milwaukee finished a three-game sweep of Colorado at Miller Park.
Davies (10-6) had lost two in a row coming into the game but scattered five hits and three walks in six innings. The only blemish on his line was a first-inning home run by Nolan Arenado, who moved into sole possession of first place on the National League leaderboard with 34 for the season -- one ahead of Chicago's Kris Bryant.
Colorado starter Tyler Anderson (4-5) struck out 10 while allowing three hits and two walks in five innings.

Astros 5, Pirates 4
PITTSBURGH -- Evan Gattis belted a two-run homer and three others drove in a run as Houston built an early lead and held on for a victory over Pittsburgh at PNC Park.
Houston claimed the rubber match of the interleague series and has won five of its past six games.
Gregory Polanco drove in two runs and Jordy Mercer hit a homer for Pittsburgh, which has lost five of its past six.

Cubs 6, Padres 3
SAN DIEGO -- Kyle Hendricks tossed six strong innings and Ben Zobrist hit a two-run triple and scored two runs as the Cubs completed a three-game sweep.
The Cubs outscored the Padres 16-7 in the three games and their pitchers held the San Diego hitters to 16 hits.
Hendricks (12-7) allowed two runs and four hits and struck out eight in the win. Left-handed closer Aroldis Chapman picked up his second save in as many games, giving him nine with Chicago and 29 for the season.

Athletics 5, Indians 1
OAKLAND, Calif. -- Oakland's Kendall Graveman (10-8) took a shutout into the seventh inning and yielded just one run in 6 2/3 innings against first-place Cleveland.
Khris Davis triggered a five-run second inning with a triple off Indians right-hander Trevor Bauer, helping the A's win a second straight game against an Indians team that was held to one run in each of the three games in the series.
The only run Graveman allowed was a disputed solo home run by Roberto Perez with two outs in the seventh inning. The ball appeared to hit the top of the right-field fence and bounce back into play, but the umpires ruled it had cleared the wall and replay confirmed the call.
All three Indians runs in the series came on homers.

Yankees 5, Mariners 0
SEATTLE - Red-hot rookie Gary Sanchez homered for the seventh time in eight games and Masahiro Tanaka outdueled former Japanese league teammate Hisashi Iwakuma to lift New York.
Besides his first-inning homer, Sanchez doubled in the fifth and was walked intentionally in the seventh and ninth with runners aboard and first base open.
Tanaka (11-4) allowed six hits in seven scoreless innings, striking out five and walking one to improve to 5-0 in five career starts against the Mariners.
Iwakuma (14-9), who had won eight of his 10 previous starts, allowed three runs and six hits in six innings to lose consecutive decisions for the first time since April.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Tigers (67-59) at Twins (49-77)

Game: 3
Venue: Target Field
Date: August 25, 2016 1:10 PM EDT

MINNEAPOLIS -- The Detroit Tigers will go for the three-game sweep of the Minnesota Twins when the teams play at Target Field on Thursday afternoon.

Detroit owns a 9-2 record against Minnesota this season and has won three-straight games overall. The Twins, after a solid stretch of play in July and into early August have lost their last six dating back to last Thursday against Kansas City.

The Tigers have gotten plenty of offense in the series thus far, scoring eight runs in the opener on Tuesday before posting nine runs in Wednesday's 9-4 victory.

All nine runs came with two outs, something that has been a bugaboo of the Twins virtually all season. The 287 runs allowed by Minnesota with two outs are by far the most in baseball, more than 20 ahead of Arizona, which is second.

"It's kind of painful," said Twins manager Paul Molitor. "A lot of opportunities to try and get off the field and it just wasn't happening."

The main culprits on Wednesday were Tigers sluggers Miguel Cabrera and Justin Upton. Cabrera finished with four hits, including his team-leading 28th home run, and finished a triple short of the cycle.

Upton has been red hot since returning to the lineup, posting his fourth-straight two hit effort. He also homered, marking the third time in four games that he has hit a three-run blast.

"He lengthens the lineup and he's got power as we saw tonight. He can hit the ball as far as anyone in the lineup," said Tigers manager Brad Ausmus. "We just want to keep him rolling."

Upton, in his first regular appearances against American League pitching, has found things to be challenging in his first year in Detroit. That hasn't applied to Twins hurlers or at Target Field, where Upton has 11 hits in 21 at-bats in four games at the park.

After a recent 1-for-31 stretch at the plate, Ausmus gave Upton a few days on the bench to help clear his head. So far, the results are encouraging.

"Sometimes that's needed," Upton said. "A little break, but I'm back at it now. My timing is better. And I'm seeing some pitches."

Thursday's game will feature a pair of young pitchers, with Detroit sending left-hander Daniel Norris to the bump against Twins righty Jose Berrios.

Norris will be making his eighth start in the Majors this season; in none of the previous seven has he allowed more than three runs. Despite that, Norris hasn't lasted more than 5 1/3 innings in any start and hasn't earned a victory since June 29. Thursday's start will mark the second against the Twins in Norris' career; he allowed one run on one hit in 3 2/3 innings last season.

Berrios, arguably the top player in the Twins farm system, has found the adjustment to the Majors rough during his rookie season. He's been blasted in each of his last three outings. In four starts since being recalled from Triple-A Rochester earlier this month, opponents are hitting .329 off Berrios who has a 1-2 record and a 8.47 ERA.

The right-hander will be looking to bounce back from his shortest outing of the season so far against Detroit on May 16, when he allowed seven runs on three hits and four walks in just two-thirds of an inning at Comerica Park.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Red Sox (71-55) at Rays (53-72)

Game: 4
Venue: Tropicana Field
Date: August 25, 2016 1:10 PM EDT

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. -- The Boston Red Sox lost in 11 innings on Wednesday night to the Tampa Bay Rays, but as they wrap up a four-game series Thursday afternoon, the bigger loss could be rookie outfielder Andrew Benintendi.

Benintendi sprained his left knee while running the bases in the seventh inning. He was between second and third when a ground ball was hit to Red Sox shortstop Matt Duffy, who turned and tagged Benintendi. He took one step and landed awkwardly on his leg. He will undergo an MRI on Thursday to determine the severity of the injury.

"You never like to see a player come off, but he certainly has grabbed the attention of the sport. He's been embraced by the rest of this club," Red Sox manager John Farrell said. "We're just going to make sure we get all the appropriate information on any further injury or the extent of it tomorrow morning."

Benintendi, 22, has made a splash in his first month in the majors since being recalled Aug. 2, only 14 months after he was drafted. He is hitting .324 with 10 RBIs in 68 at-bats, providing production from the No. 9 slot in the batting order.

The injury puts a damper on what had been a strong run for Boston, winning 10 of 12 games before Wednesday's loss to move into a tie for first in the American League East with Toronto.

Tampa Bay starter, RHP Jake Odorizzi, has the best ERA in the American League since the All-Star break, going 5-0 with a 1.64 ERA. After getting just three wins in his first 19 starts of the season and leading the majors in no-decisions, he now has five wins in his last seven starts.

Odorizzi has pitched well against Boston at Tropicana Field, with a 0.92 career ERA there in 19 2/3 innings. This year, he has faced the Red Sox twice and has a 9.00 ERA. For his career, he's 2-3 with a 4.36 ERA in 10 starts against Boston.

It's a quick turnaround for the Rays, who used five relievers in Wednesday's 11-inning win, but they have the momentum of an unlikely walk-off win on a fielding error.

"Our bullpen was outstanding -- that's two nights in a row where our bullpen's done a really nice job coming in and keeping it right there, giving us every opportunity to win a ballgame," said manager Kevin Cash, who recalled RHP Tyler Sturdevant from Triple-A Durham to help the bullpen after the game.

Thursday's Red Sox starter Drew Pomeranz has won his last two starts but is just 2-2 with a 4.23 ERA in seven starts since being acquired from the San Diego Padres last month.

Pomeranz has gotten into a groove of late -- in his last four starts, he has allowed a total of six runs for a 2.25 ERA. His biggest problem since joining the Red Sox has been home runs -- he has given up eight in his seven starts, at least one in each outing, after allowing eight total in 17 starts with the Padres.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Angels (53-73) at Blue Jays (71-55)

Game: 3
Venue: Rogers Centre
Date: August 25, 2016 7:07 PM EDT

TORONTO -- The Toronto Blue Jays are among the remaining major league clubs that can still say team goals are the priority and really mean it.

It is different for the Los Angeles Angels, who are last in the American League West despite an 8-2 win over the Blue Jays on Wednesday night.

They have split the first two games of a three-game series with the rubber game on Thursday at Rogers Centre.

The Blue Jays remained tied for the American League East lead because the Boston Red Sox also lost, 4-3 in 11 innings to the Tampa Bay Rays on Wednesday.

So when starter Marco Estrada was asked about his state of mind after having his second straight poor outing, he could say: "We're still in first, I mean we're up there, so as long as we keep winning games, I'm going to be just as happy as everybody else is.

"Obviously, it's not something I want to keep doing. My last two outings haven't gone well. Things happen."

Despite allowing six runs in five innings on Wednesday, Estrada knows he is pitching for a team that has a chance to repeat as AL East champions.

In the Angels' clubhouse, the emphasis was on an individual achievement, more than a team goal.

Albert Pujols hit his 24th homer of the season and the 584th of his career in the first inning after Mike Trout hit his 24th homer of the season.

Pujols moved past Mark McGwire into 10th place on the career home run list. He is two homers from tying Frank Robinson for ninth. A few dingers Thursday would do that. His next RBI will give him 100 for the season for the 13th time in his career. Chances are better that he does that Thursday.

Pujols did not talk to the media after the game, but others did.

"That's pretty special," Trout said. "Obviously, he and McGwire were teammates, they know each other well. It's pretty special for him.

"He's done it his whole career. He hasn't shown any signs of slowing down. He's still putting up numbers, still driving in 100. It's fun to watch, for sure."

"We're happy for him and hopefully he keeps doing that," said Matt Shoemaker, the winning pitcher. "Albert will probably pass a few more of those guys, hopefully all of them."

The Blue Jays have left-hander J.A. Happ (17-3, 3.05 ERA) going Thursday and the Angels will start right-hander Jered Weaver (8-11, 5.47).

Happ is going for his 12th straight win in his past 13 starts, but he is 0-4 with an 8.00 ERA in four career starts against the Angels.

On the other hand, Weaver, who has struggled this season, has had success in his career against the Blue Jays.

In 13 career starts against them, he is 10-2 with a 3.42 ERA. In four starts against Toronto since 2013, he is 3-0 with a 2.74 ERA. He is 4-1 with a 4.22 ERA in five career starts at Rogers Centre.

The Blue Jays said they were not taking the Angels lightly in this series. The results on Wednesday showed why they can't afford to do so.

"I choose to be optimistic and look forward," Blue Jays manager John Gibbons said. "It was one of those games where they outplayed us in every phase. It's not the first one, it won't be the last."

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Orioles (70-56) at Nationals (73-53)

Game: 4
Venue: Nationals Park
Date: August 25, 2016 7:05 PM EDT

WASHINGTON -- For the second time in four days, a right-handed pitcher with 15 wins will be scratched from making a start in the Beltway Series.

Baltimore ace Chris Tillman (15-5, 3.76 ERA) was slated to start against the Washington Nationals in the finale of the two-city, four-game series.

But Tillman went on the 15-day disabled list Wednesday with right shoulder bursitis. That came after Washington right-hander Stephen Strasburg was pulled from making a start Monday in Baltimore as he went on the DL with elbow concerns.

The Orioles will start Ubaldo Jimenz on Thursday against Washington right-hander Max Scherzer, who is 13-7 with a 3.05 ERA. Jimenez is 5-10 with a 6.94 ERA in 22 games (18 starts).

"We think he is the best option," Orioles manager Buck Showalter said of Jimenez, who began the season in the rotation but was removed due to ineffectiveness. "Everyone has a choice. A lot of things factor in.

"He's probably the most equipped. He's pitched well here and against these guys. We looked at our options and felt like he was worthy of getting another opportunity. Actually, it probably makes our bullpen work a little better, too, the other four days."

Have the Orioles considered using Vance Worley, a long reliever, as a starter this year?

"A guy who can give you long innings in the American League is extremely important. It allows you to keep your bullpen healthy," Showalter said. "And when you don't have a maneuverable bullpen with options and stuff, you've got to do it from within."

Jimenez was signed to a four-year contract as a free agent prior to the 2014 season.

"He hasn't started for us in a long time," Showalter said. "We felt he was the one."

It will be a tough test against Scherzer, who may be want to be careful against Baltimore center fielder Adam Jones.

Jones is 11-for-22 against the right-hander, and three of those hits are home runs. Scherzer is 8-3 with a 2.32 ERA in his last 15 starts and is 4-2, 3.81 in eight career starts against the Orioles.

Jimenez doesn't have much of a track record against Washington hitters.

Ben Revere is hitting .333 in 12 at-bats against the right-hander while Daniel Murphy is 3-for-11 with one homer. Revere did not start Wednesday in a 10-8 loss to the Orioles but came off the bench and hit a pinch-hit double to left in the seventh.

Chris Davis is hitting .381 with one homer in 21 at-bats against Scherzer.

Jimenez will have to deal with Washington center fielder Trea Turner, who had singles in his first four at-bats Wednesday to give him eight hits in a row. That tied a Montreal/Washington franchise record as Andre Dawson had eight hits in a row in 1983 for the Expos. He also made a diving catch for the first out of the game on the warning track in center.

"That was big. He just outran that ball," Washington manager Dusty Baker said. "Trea's been playing great. He had a great night at the plate. He's also a very determined young man. That determination and youthful exuberance I think has rubbed off on the team."

Turner was finally retired for the first out in the top of the ninth Wednesday. Later in the inning, Murphy hit a grand slam to make it 10-7 and Anthony Rendon had an RBI double to make it 10-8 before Zach Britton got the final two outs to nail down the win.

The Nationals have lost four straight.

"Physical puts wear and tear on your body and mental puts wear and tear on your mind," Baker said. "If you're body's weak and your mind is strong, that makes your body strong. Like I said, these guys showed a lot of mental strength tonight because they could have just rolled over and just wrote the game off, but they didn't. We were a hit away from walking away with that game, and that would have been probably one of the greatest comebacks of all-time because I talk to them all the time about the old comeback, and that was almost the old comeback, so we'll get there."

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Royals (65-61) at Marlins (66-60)

Game: 3
Venue: Marlins Park
Date: August 25, 2016 7:10 PM EDT

MIAMI -- After snapping the Kansas City Royals' nine-game winning streak on Wednesday, the Miami Marlins will try to take the deciding game of the three-game series on Thursday.

The Marlins (66-60) have the edge over the Royals (65-61) in terms of the series finale's starting-pitching matchup.

Marlins right-hander Tom Koehler (9-8, 3.82 ERA) has a 1.62 ERA in 39 innings since the All-Star break, covering six starts. He has allowed just 26 hits while striking out 30 in that span.

The Royals will counter with Edinson Volquez (9-10, 5.04 ERA). The right-hander has a bloated 7.16 ERA over his past five starts, allowing six homers and 26 runs in that span.

If the Royals can be tied or ahead once the game gets to the bullpen, then they have the advantage. Kansas City relievers have pitched a franchise-record 34 2/3 consecutive scoreless innings.

"Our bullpen is doing fine," Royals manager Ned Yost said after Kansas City's 3-0 loss to Miami on Wednesday. "They came in (on Wednesday) and held (Miami) right there, did their job."

The Marlins will have a new arrival Thursday, as they acquired outfielder Jeff Francoeur on Wednesday night from the Atlanta Braves.

Francoeur, 32, has 160 career homers, including seven this year in 257 at-bats. He figures to give the Marlins some right-handed power off the bench.

Miami general manager Michael Hill said he was looking for help since his star right fielder, Giancarlo Stanton, went down recently with a groin injury.

"Once the injury to (Stanton) happened, we wanted to get a right-handed outfielder," Hill said. "He wanted someone who could give us punch against left-handed pitching.

"As well as our team has played, we wanted to do anything we could to get us to where we want to be, which is October baseball."

The Marlins will have to make a roster move Thursday to clear room for Francoeur. The player most likely to go down to the minors is infielder/outfielder Robert Andino, a recent call-up.

As for the Marlins' regulars, manager Don Mattingly said Wednesday that he "doesn't see a huge difference" between starting shortstop Adeiny Hechavarria and backup Miguel Rojas.

It was a surprising comment because Hechavarria is a Gold Glove-caliber shortstop who is in the prime of his career at age 27. This is his fourth year as the Marlins' starter. Hechavarria came off the bench Wednesday night to make a spectacular diving catch on a line drive by Alcides Escobar for the first out of the ninth inning.

"That was a great play," Escobar said. "That changed the game right there in that situation. I hit that ball really well. When I saw the catch, I said, 'Oh!'"

Mattingly, though, seems to favor Rojas, who is also 27 but has never been an everyday starter in the big leagues. This is his third year in the majors, and he has a .598 career on-base-plus-slugging percentage (OPS). Hechavarria's career OPS isn't great, either, but it is better at .634.

Defensively, Hechavarria has the edge again, posting a .979 career fielding percentage to a .976 mark for Rojas.

However, Mattingly seems to value Rojas' versatility and ability to play any spot on the infield, including first base.

"Overall, 'Hech' is our shortstop, but I'm comfortable with either guy," Mattingly said.

Given Mattingly's comments, it seems as if the Marlins are setting up to trade Hechavarria in the offseason, turning to the cheaper option in Rojas.

Hechavarria is making $2.6 million this season and should get a raise as he is eligible for arbitration. Rojas is making only $511,000 and is not yet eligible for arbitration.

"Miggy is a solid player who can do different things," Mattingly said. "Miggy is valuable because he can play all over the place. Hech is more suited to play one spot (shortstop)."

The Royals have no controversy at shortstop, where Alcides Escobar has started all 126 games this season.

Escobar went 2-for-4 on Wednesday, raising his average to .261 and his OPS to .613. In his past 12 games, Escobar has six multi-hit contests, and he is batting .378 (17-for-45) overall in that span.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Mets (63-63) at Cardinals (67-58)

Game: 3
Venue: Busch Stadium
Date: August 25, 2016 7:15 PM EDT

ST. LOUIS -- After most of their losses this year, the St. Louis Cardinals have consistently reminded everyone that there's still plenty of time left in the season.

Following Wednesday night's 8-1 rout of the New York Mets, right fielder Stephen Piscotty was asked about the wild-card race in which the team is entwined.

"There's no time to waste now," he said. "We're competing against four or five other clubs for two spots. We can't worry about it. We just have to win every night."

That goes double for New York (63-63), which badly needs a victory in Thursday night's series finale in Busch Stadium. The Mets fell 4 1/2 games behind St. Louis for the National League's second wild-card spot and will need a big finish if they are to defend their NL championship.

Meanwhile, the Cardinals are playing themselves into a more favorable position. They remained 1 1/2 games ahead of Miami for the NL's second wild-card slot and are a game behind reeling San Francisco for the first wild-card spot, which would bring with it a home game on Oct. 5.

St. Louis (67-58) can climb to 10 games above .500 for the first time all year if it can win the series finale. It will hope for a good start from Adam Wainwright (9-7, 4.71), whose six-inning outing Friday night at Philadelphia was his first start past the fifth inning since July 27.

Wainwright gave up three runs to the Phillies and left trailing 3-1, but the Cardinals rallied for a 4-3 win in 11 innings. He's traditionally struggled against New York, going 3-4 with a 5.17 ERA in 10 career outings.

As for the Mets, they'll turn to right-hander Seth Lugo (0-2, 3.04), who will make his second MLB start. Lugo pitched decently in an 8-1 loss Friday night at San Francisco, pitching 6 2/3 innings and giving up three runs off seven hits and a walk with three strikeouts.

New York has battled injuries lately and absorbed two more Wednesday. After putting left-hander Jonathon Niese on the 15-day DL with left knee pain, the Mets had to pull right fielder Jay Bruce with a right calf cramp in the second inning.

But New York could get Bruce back in the lineup Thursday night, which would have to serve as a relief to manager Terry Collins.

"His calf knotted up when he was actually jogging out to right field in the first inning," Collins said of Bruce. "We're going to wait to see how it is tomorrow. We couldn't afford to have him blow it out, so we took him out."

While Bruce is just 13-for-77 since being acquired from Cincinnati on Aug. 1, he still has 27 homers and 86 RBI for the season, giving opponents pause when they think about pitching around Yoenis Cespedes.

The Mets will need all the offense they can get against the Cardinals, which tied a season high with 19 hits Wednesday night and lead the NL with 178 homers. In its last 13 games, dating back to Aug. 9, St. Louis has cracked 28 homers.