Thursday 9/1/16 service plays chatter/comps/requests & other stuff...

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

At the Gate - Thursday
By Mike Dempsey

A field of nine was entered for Saturday’s $600,000 Woodward (G1) at Saratoga including Frosted, who was the second choice in early betting for the Breeders’ Cup Classic until last Saturday when Arrogate rolled to victory in the Travers (G1), relegating him down to third choice.

Sportsbooks have Frosted listed at +350 for the Classic while Arrogate went from nowhere to the second choice at +250 after his impressive Travers score. Arrogate earned a 122 Beyer Speed Figure while Frosted earned one of the highest of the last decade with his 123 in the Met Mile (G1) in June.

California Chrome solidified his position as the early favorite for the Breeders’ Cup Classic with his win in the Pacific Classic (G1) at Del Mar over Beholder. His current odds are +140.

Frosted came out of his big win in the Met Mile to win the Whitney (G1) over the main track at Saratoga. His Beyer for that win was 107.

He faces eight overmatched foes on Saturday in the Woodward in his final prep for the Classic. Samraat and Mubtahij, the runner up and third place finishers in the Suburban Handicap (G2) along with Monmouth Cup (G2) winner Bradester are his main foes.

The final Saturday of the Saratoga summer meeting also includes the $300,000 Spinaway (G1) for two-year-old fillies. The race is a Breeders’ Cup Challenge “Win and You’re In” race for the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Fillies (G1).

I will have selections for the Spinaway in Saturday’s column. The 12-race card on Saturday also includes a couple of good turf stakes, the $200,000 Glen Falls Handicap (G3) and the $300,000 Saranac.


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

SAR Race 2 Clm $25,000 (1:33 ET)
#1 Sun and Moon 5-2
#2 Sweetrayofsunshine 9-5
#6 Miss Amalita 5-1
#4 Mastic 9-2

Analysis: Sun and Moon chased the early pace and weakened to finish fifth last out for a $20,000 tag. The mare was claimed out of the race by the Servis barn that is 40% winners (with a +ROI) first off the claim. She has lost seven in a row since beating $32,000 claimers on the inner track at Aqueduct back in January but fits in this spot.

Sweetrayofsunshine tracked the early pace while saving ground, came with a four wide bid and finished gamely to just miss by a head last out against $32,000 foes in the slop here. She bounced back after getting beaten double digit lengths in her two previous starts. The Jacobson trainee has landed in the exacta in 20 of her 30 career outings with 13 wins. She owns solid early and mid pace numbers and will be right in the mix early here.

Wagering
WIN: #1 to win at 2-1 or better.
EX: 1,2 / 1,2,4,6
TRI: 1,2 / 1,2,4,6 / 1,2,3,4,6

Today’s Featured Race of the Day from Saratoga:

SAR Race 9 The P.G. Johnson (5:40 ET)
#6 Lady Joan 6-1
#4 Coasted 7-5
#3 Noble Ready 8-1
#7 Majestic Bonnie 7-2

Analysis: Lady Joan tracked the early pace and drew off sharply to break her maiden last out going 5 1/2 furlongs on turf in her third career start. She now stretches out to a route for the first time. She looks headed in the right direction and is out of Powerscourt mare, her first foal to race. Powerscourt crossed the wire in front of the Arlington Million (G1) twice, getting DQ'd once. The Serpe barn is 15% winners moving runners from sprint to route. Decent value if she goes off near her 6-1 morning line.

Coasted is proven going long on turf here, breaking her maiden in impressive style last out in her second career start by six lengths. The runner up Dream Dancing came back to graduate in her next outing on Aug. 28. The $210,000 Keeneland purchase is by Tizway out of the stakes winner Malibu Pier ($466,220). She is one of two in here with a win at the distance and owns the top last out speed fig. She is the logical one to beat but is going to be a light price.

Noble Ready went gate to wire to break her maiden at 7 1/2 furlongs at Delaware Park in her second career start. The Clement barn is 18% winners moving runners from sprint to route. This gal is bred to go long, a half to three other turf winners and a couple of stakes winners, top earner Zindaya ($401,240).

Wagering
WIN: #6 to win at 4-1 or better.
EX: 4,6 / 3,4,6,7
TRI: 4,6 / 3,4,6,7 / 1,3,4,6,7

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
R3: #6 Presumptuous 10-1
R6: #1 Love Blues 8-1
R8: #7 Callista 8-1
R9: 33 Noble Ready 8-1
R10: #9 Dance Graze 8-1

Good luck today!

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NFL notebook: NFL clears Harrison, Matthews, Peppers
By The Sports Xchange

The NFL has cleared Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker James Harrison and Green Bay Packers linebackers Clay Matthews and Julius Peppers over an Al-Jazeera America documentary that linked them to performance-enhancing drugs.
The league announced Wednesday that it "found no credible evidence" the three players were provided with or used substances prohibited under the NFL-NFLPA Policy on Performance-Enhancing Substances following an investigation into the allegations.
The three players participated in interviews last week at their team facilities.
The meetings stemmed from the Al-Jazeera report that named Harrison, Matthews and Peppers and former Packers linebacker Mike Neal as players who received performance-enhancing drugs from an anti-aging clinic in Indianapolis. The allegations against the players were made by former clinic employee Charles Sly, who later recanted his story.

-- The Steelers and wide receiver Antonio Brown agreed on a restructured contract.
The deal advances $4 million of 2017 money into this year's $6.25 million base salary for a total of $10.25 million, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter. The deal doesn't include any additional years but does include a $8.975 million signing bonus and a $1.275 million base salary.
Brown's 2017 salary -- the last year of a six-year, $43 million extension he signed in 2012 -- now drops from $8.7 to $4.7 million. The restructured deal is expected to set up a larger extension after this season.
Prior to the 2015 season, the Steelers moved up $2 million of Brown's 2016 salary into a signing bonus.

-- Quarterback Zach Mettenberger was claimed by the Steelers, one day removed from being waived by the San Diego Chargers.
Mettenberger figures to be the team's No. 3 quarterback behind Ben Roethlisberger and Landry Jones. He fills the void created when quarterback Bruce Gradkowski was placed on injured reserve with a hamstring injury,
Mettenberger was the backup to Marcus Mariota with the Tennessee Titans last season, Mettenberger started four games in 2015 and lost all four. In fact, he is 0-10 in his 10 career NFL starts over two seasons.

-- Philadelphia has been chosen to host the 2017 NFL Draft, multiple media outlets reported.
It was reported in April that Philadelphia was the favorite to serve as the landing spot the draft next year, and that is how it played out.
The NFL is expected to make an official announcement on Thursday.

-- The New England Patriots signed wide receiver and Pro Bowl special teams ace Matthew Slater to a one-year extension through 2017, according to reports.
The deal has a base value of $1.8 million -- $1.5 million of which is guaranteed -- and the maximum value is $1.95 million, a league source told ESPN's Field Yates.
Slater, 30, is a five-time Pro Bowl selection and three-time first-team All-Pro as a special teams player. He has made more than 120 tackles over his career.

-- The Buffalo Bills signed free agent linebacker Ramon Humber after he was released by the Patriots.
The Bills also cut kicker Jordan Gay to make room on the roster.
Humber, 29, has largely been a special teams players and inside linebacker in his NFL career, which began with the Indianapolis Colts in 2009. Humber spent parts of six seasons with New Orleans, including three under Bills assistant head coach Rob Ryan when he served as the Saints' defensive coordinator.

-- The New Orleans Saints agreed to a deal with the veteran outside linebacker Paul Kruger, according to reports.
The 30-year-old pass rusher was released Monday by the Cleveland Browns after three seasons.
Kruger, who also drew interest from the Kansas City Chiefs, visited with the Saints on Tuesday.

-- The Atlanta Falcons placed rookie wide receiver Devin Fuller on injured reserve and brought back fullback Will Ratelle.
Falcons coach Dan Quinn said Monday that Fuller may need surgery to repair a shoulder injury. Fuller injured his shoulder in the third preseason game against the Miami Dolphins.
Fuller was selected by the Falcons in the seventh round of the draft out of UCLA. In three preseason games, he caught five passes for 66 yards and one touchdown.

-- ESPN senior NFL analyst Chris Mortensen, who has been battling Stage IV throat cancer since January, is improving and expects to work this season.
Mortensen has been on a leave of absence the past few months, focusing on his treatment and recovery.
Mortensen joined ESPN in 1991 after a career at newspapers, including the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. He won the George Polk Award for reporting in 1987.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

At the Gate - Thursday
By Mike Dempsey

A field of nine was entered for Saturday’s $600,000 Woodward (G1) at Saratoga including Frosted, who was the second choice in early betting for the Breeders’ Cup Classic until last Saturday when Arrogate rolled to victory in the Travers (G1), relegating him down to third choice.

Sportsbooks have Frosted listed at +350 for the Classic while Arrogate went from nowhere to the second choice at +250 after his impressive Travers score. Arrogate earned a 122 Beyer Speed Figure while Frosted earned one of the highest of the last decade with his 123 in the Met Mile (G1) in June.

California Chrome solidified his position as the early favorite for the Breeders’ Cup Classic with his win in the Pacific Classic (G1) at Del Mar over Beholder. His current odds are +140.

Frosted came out of his big win in the Met Mile to win the Whitney (G1) over the main track at Saratoga. His Beyer for that win was 107.

He faces eight overmatched foes on Saturday in the Woodward in his final prep for the Classic. Samraat and Mubtahij, the runner up and third place finishers in the Suburban Handicap (G2) along with Monmouth Cup (G2) winner Bradester are his main foes.

The final Saturday of the Saratoga summer meeting also includes the $300,000 Spinaway (G1) for two-year-old fillies. The race is a Breeders’ Cup Challenge “Win and You’re In” race for the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Fillies (G1).

I will have selections for the Spinaway in Saturday’s column. The 12-race card on Saturday also includes a couple of good turf stakes, the $200,000 Glen Falls Handicap (G3) and the $300,000 Saranac.


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

SAR Race 2 Clm $25,000 (1:33 ET)
#1 Sun and Moon 5-2
#2 Sweetrayofsunshine 9-5
#6 Miss Amalita 5-1
#4 Mastic 9-2

Analysis: Sun and Moon chased the early pace and weakened to finish fifth last out for a $20,000 tag. The mare was claimed out of the race by the Servis barn that is 40% winners (with a +ROI) first off the claim. She has lost seven in a row since beating $32,000 claimers on the inner track at Aqueduct back in January but fits in this spot.

Sweetrayofsunshine tracked the early pace while saving ground, came with a four wide bid and finished gamely to just miss by a head last out against $32,000 foes in the slop here. She bounced back after getting beaten double digit lengths in her two previous starts. The Jacobson trainee has landed in the exacta in 20 of her 30 career outings with 13 wins. She owns solid early and mid pace numbers and will be right in the mix early here.

Wagering
WIN: #1 to win at 2-1 or better.
EX: 1,2 / 1,2,4,6
TRI: 1,2 / 1,2,4,6 / 1,2,3,4,6

Today’s Featured Race of the Day from Saratoga:

SAR Race 9 The P.G. Johnson (5:40 ET)
#6 Lady Joan 6-1
#4 Coasted 7-5
#3 Noble Ready 8-1
#7 Majestic Bonnie 7-2

Analysis: Lady Joan tracked the early pace and drew off sharply to break her maiden last out going 5 1/2 furlongs on turf in her third career start. She now stretches out to a route for the first time. She looks headed in the right direction and is out of Powerscourt mare, her first foal to race. Powerscourt crossed the wire in front of the Arlington Million (G1) twice, getting DQ'd once. The Serpe barn is 15% winners moving runners from sprint to route. Decent value if she goes off near her 6-1 morning line.

Coasted is proven going long on turf here, breaking her maiden in impressive style last out in her second career start by six lengths. The runner up Dream Dancing came back to graduate in her next outing on Aug. 28. The $210,000 Keeneland purchase is by Tizway out of the stakes winner Malibu Pier ($466,220). She is one of two in here with a win at the distance and owns the top last out speed fig. She is the logical one to beat but is going to be a light price.

Noble Ready went gate to wire to break her maiden at 7 1/2 furlongs at Delaware Park in her second career start. The Clement barn is 18% winners moving runners from sprint to route. This gal is bred to go long, a half to three other turf winners and a couple of stakes winners, top earner Zindaya ($401,240).

Wagering
WIN: #6 to win at 4-1 or better.
EX: 4,6 / 3,4,6,7
TRI: 4,6 / 3,4,6,7 / 1,3,4,6,7

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
R3: #6 Presumptuous 10-1
R6: #1 Love Blues 8-1
R8: #7 Callista 8-1
R9: 33 Noble Ready 8-1
R10: #9 Dance Graze 8-1

Good luck today!

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at The Red Mile

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

Race 7 - Post: 8:54 - 1 mile. PACE - Class Rating: 63 - Purse:$2800 - NW 1
CONSORTIUM*CHOICES

# 6 LOSIRA 5/2
# 7 DOC'S SUZIE 7/2
# 1 BIG BAD J R 3/1

Look no further than LOSIRA as the bet in this race. Can't pass over based on speed ratings which have been fantastic (64 avg) lately. Definitely the class of the grouping with an average rating of 68. A nice choice. With a nice 62 TrackMaster speed fig last time out, will more than likely be a factor in this race. DOC'S SUZIE - With a 67 avg class statistic, this interesting entrant has one of the finest class advantages in the grouping. With a respectable 58 TrackMaster Speed Rating last time out, will clearly be a factor in this competition. BIG BAD J R - McAleese is racking up the wins most recently. Top notch win percentage makes this fine animal our choice. More wins than normal have been recorded by nice horses lining up behind the 1 hole at The Red Mile.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Camarero Race Track

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


Race 7 - Claiming - 8.0f on the Dirt. Purse: $8100 Class Rating: 77

FOR NATIVE THREE YEAR OLDS AND UPWARD. THREE YEAR OLDS, 116 LBS.; OLDER, 120 LBS. NON-WINNERS OF A RACE SINCE AUGUST 19 ALLOWED 1 LBS. A RACE SINCE AUGUST 2 ALLOWED 2 LBS. A RACE SINCE JULY 2 ALLOWED 3 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $20,000, IF FOR $18,000, ALLOWED 3 LBS.


RECOMMENDED*CHOICES


# 1 VALENTINO P R 2/1

# 3 ABUELO PEDRO LUIS 3/1

# 4 MAURICIO R 5/2

VALENTINO P R looks to be a formidable contender. His chances to prove victorious are much better today facing this easier field of horses. With a nice Equibase class rating average of 87, has one of the best class advantages in this group. Is worth considering and may be a bet - strong Speed Figures (75 average) at today's distance and surface lately. ABUELO PEDRO LUIS - Should land in the top three without any trouble. Overall the Equibase speed figs of this animal look very strong in this outing. MAURICIO R - His 63 average has this gelding with among the best Equibase Speed Figures for this event. Garcia has a winning percentage of 16 over the last 30 days.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at Harrah's Philadelphia

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

Race 11 - Post: 4:00 - 1 mile. TROT - Class Rating: 83 - Purse:$16000 - 3 & 4 YR. OLDS NW 5 EXT. PM RACES OR $50,000 LIFETIME PA PREFERENCE
CONSORTIUM*CHOICES

# 4 CLOUD NINE HANOVER 4/1
# 2 IHOLDON 8/5
# 3 TYSON 3/1

The consensus for this one is that CLOUD NINE HANOVER is the one to beat. Take a look at this contender's avg speed rating of 87 and compare to today's class rating. Looks like a formidable play. This gelding has been doing work against some of the most competitive horses in this race within the recent past. Hands down the best post at Harrah's Philadelphia is the 4. The win clip is superb. IHOLDON - Could be the strongest in the group of horses here, showing nice statistics of late. Avg speed is a solid 88. With a competitive 89 speed figure last time out, will unquestionably be a factor in this contest. TYSON - Could be considered today if only for the great speed rating achieved in the most recent outing. Cannot put a finger on it, but support this gelding for a bet.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Gulfstream Park - Race #2 - Post: 1:23pm - Claiming - 5.0 furlongs on the Turf. Purse: $16,000 Class Rating: 91

Rating:

#4 STARSHIP FRONTIER (ML=8/1)
#5 FIVE WARS (ML=6/1)
#1 CHIA GHOST (ML=9/5)


STARSHIP FRONTIER - I cannot ignore the fact that this gelding is working extremely well. Wolfson brings him right back. I recommend you stick with this hot gelding. Based on his last TrackMaster turf number alone, I'm going to play this horse. FIVE WARS - Rodriguez had been running this gelding at higher levels recently. Did win a $30,000 Claiming race though, on Mar 30th. Could do it again here. Ran a less than stellar race at Gulfstream Park last time around the track. Racing without the slop puts this gelding at the top of my list of contenders. Getting a break of 7 pounds from last race at Gulfstream Park. He should make the most of this advantage. CHIA GHOST - Lopez brings him back again. I advise you stick with this live gelding. This gelding's last figure is high enough to win here, I'll play him right back in today's event. The improved Equibase speed figures over the last 3 races is solid. Lopez drops him in this affair conditioned to win.

Vulnerable Contenders: #3 GLOBAL MAGICIAN (ML=5/2), #2 FLICKERING (ML=4/1),

GLOBAL MAGICIAN - I can't play this continual non-winner. Gets the job fulfilled once in a while. Hasn't finished in the money in any short distance contests lately. Improbable to see him doing it this time around either. Finished third in his most recent race with a run-of-the-mill speed rating. When I look at today's class rating, it would take an improved performance to score after that in this field. FLICKERING - The speed figure in the last race doesn't fit very well in this event when I look at the class rating of today's event. Mark this mount as a possibly overvalued equine.


STRAIGHT WAGERS:

Put your money on #4 STARSHIP FRONTIER on the nose if you can get odds of 7/2 or more

EXACTA WAGERS:

Box [1,4,5]

TRIFECTA WAGERS:

Box [1,4,5] Total Cost: $6

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:

None

SUPER HI 5 WAGERS:

Skip

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Penn National

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


Race 8 - Maiden Claiming - 8.0f on the Dirt. Purse: $12400 Class Rating: 60

FOR MAIDENS, THREE YEARS OLD AND UPWARD. THREE YEAR OLDS, 120 LBS.; OLDER, 123 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $7,500.


RECOMMENDED*CHOICES


# 6 JOSH'S HERO 3/1

# 5 ACCELERATO 8/1

# 1 NATHAN O'BLUE 5/1

JOSH'S HERO looks to be a quite good contender. Formidable average speed figs in dirt route races make this horse a definite contender. Has to be given a chance - I like the figs from the last race. Has been running in the most competitive company of the group lately.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Louisiana Downs - Race #5 - Post: 5:03pm - Maiden Claiming - 8.3 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $6,500 Class Rating: 64

Rating:

#8 HESALUCKYCAT (ML=5/2)


HESALUCKYCAT - Last time this gelding ran today's distance he got a speed fig that would probably win today's contest.

Vulnerable Contenders: #2 CLASSIC HIGH (ML=3/1), #7 COURTNEY'S BEAU (ML=9/2), #3 CACTUS WILLIE (ML=8/1),

CLASSIC HIGH - If you keep betting these kind of 'bridesmaid' types, you're going to be disappointed most every time. Finished second in his most recent effort with a disappointing speed rating. When I look at today's class rating, it would take an improved performance to win after that in this field. COURTNEY'S BEAU - Would have to move up off that fifth place finish last time to make an impact here. CACTUS WILLIE - This horse hasn't been in the mix in either of his last two outings. This gelding registered a fig in his last event which probably isn't good enough in today's event.

GUEST COMMENTARY: The Brain - HESALUCKYCAT - Solid early-pace setting style on this gelding. Riquelme just needs to get him out of the gate, and they may never look back.
*


STRAIGHT WAGERS:

Go with #8 HESALUCKYCAT on top if we're getting at least 1/1 odds

EXACTA WAGERS:

8 with [3,10]

TRIFECTA WAGERS:

Skip

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:

Skip

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Rick Needham at Saratoga

RACE #9 - SARATOGA RACE COURSE - 5:18 PM EASTERN POST

The P. G. Johnson Stakes

8½ FURLONGS TURF TWO YEAR OLD FILLIES STAKES $100,000.00 PURSE

#1 NAIFAH
#4 COASTED
#7 MAJESTIC BONNIEa
#6 LADY JOAN

This turf race for juvenile fillies was first run in 2005 and was named after Hall of Fame trainer Philip George Johnson, who died the previous year. Johnson, a native of Chicago, bought his first horse in 1942 for $75 and won his first race with him two years later, the first victory in a career than spanned six decades. He was the leading trainer at Saratoga in 1983 and according to the National Museum of Racing, won at least one race each year at the Spa from 1962 to 2003. His biggest career victory came in 2002 with a horse he co-owned named Volponi, who pulled off a 43-1 upset of the Breeders' Cup Classic. Here in the 12th running of this stakes test, Here in the 12th running of The Johnson, #1 NAIFAH, an Irish-bred entry, and a 10-1 BOMB, takes the least significant step-up in class in this stakes field today (+2), and comes off back-to-back-to-back "POWER RUN PLACE" finishes in her last three starts. #4 COASTED, the morning line favorite, qualifies as a TrackMaster PLUS "PowerPony," is the speed and pace profile leader in this field, and comes off a 6-length, "POWER RUN WIN" in her last start, which was her maiden-breaker.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

DDLohaus’ Saratoga analysis

Thursday’s picks

Boy,* I really liked or play yesterday and he gave us a good run but unfortunately we sink deeper into the red….
No giving up…..

Race #7
$5WPS Veblen Good
$2EXBX Hudson River Gal/Indygita/Veblen Good
$1TRIBX Hudson River Gal/Indygita/Veblen Good/Khaleesi Kat

Total Bets: $51.00
Meet Total: – $685.00

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Mohawk: Thursday 9/1 Analysis
By Garnet Barnsdale

DRF

Race 1 - $30,000 Guaranteed Pick Five Pool

Race 4 - $50,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool


PICK 5: 1,2,3/5,7/5,6,8/1,2,8/1,4,7 = $32.40

EARLY PICK 4: 1,2,8/1,4,7/2,4,7,9/3,7 = $72

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

MEET STATS: 312 - 926 / $1619.90 BEST BETS: 52 - 86 / $166.60

SPOT PLAYS: 19 - 86 / $108.60

Best Bet: ARIANA G (8th)

Spot Play: PERSEVERANT (9th)


Race 1

(3) BLUSH AND CRUSH was used up a bit too much early from an outer post last time and she paid the price late in the mile. She should get a better trip here; top call. (2) GIRL DRAMA just missed to the choice last time and she looks like the main rival. (1) R CHOOCHOO CHARLIE raced tough last week when caught late by a sharp claimed winner. His 3-52 record in the past two years makes him tough to love on top, though. (6) TOY IS OURS has obvious gait issues, but if he stays trotting, he could surprise.

Race 2

(7) TOUCHING THOUGHT was flat last week after missing three weeks between starts. Back to a 7-day cycle, she should be much better here and could offer a square price. (5) WINDY SPORT takes a big class drop here and could be odds-on. She's the one to beat. (2) COLUMNIST came oh so close to finally breaking her maiden last week in a good effort. She isn't out of this, but demand a price. (3) SOUTHWIND JINGA had a useful debut and could show even more here with that experience in tow.

Race 3

(8) HILL OF A COLT was a sharp debut winner and is likely already worth a lot more than his $24K purchase price; call to repeat. (5) RADIANT BEAM was beaten by a sharp shipper last time. He should be right there vs. these. (6) READY ANY TIME faces easier after an eventful sires stakes trip; using. (3) SHESTHEREALTHING blew by some winded duelers late last time. She likely won't get that kind of a trip again here; minor share predicted.

Race 4

(2) A BETTORS RISK moves into the top trainer's barn here; expect immediate improvement. (8) INSPIRATION VIEW was impressive in defeat at Pocono last time and is a Pick 4 must-use here. (1) BETTOR MEMORIES has a solid record this year, is sharp and picks up Miller; using. (7) DAYLIGHT RUSH should be a pace factor and stick around for a slice.

Race 5

(4) GLITZEY GAL has been flying home late in her last two. Her opponents will likely have a tough time trying to hold her off here. (1) SIANNA HANOVER comes off a nice win and gets the inside and Tetrick. (7) DREAM TOGETHER is the best local hope and she is another that you need to have in the Pick 4 and Pick 5. (2) PRINCESS AURORA seems likely to take a smaller share coming off a break and a 3-week break.

Race 6

(7) HP BLACK SHADOW could get a great stalking trip here and pounce late at a price. (2) PUTNAMS NEW YEAR was driver Henry's pick over the choice and he does well with Weller's stock; using. (9) SOAKING UP THE SUN blew up last time, which cost him a chance at the win. He is erratic, but capable. (4) PANEDICTINE is worth including off the claim in a race where the late pace could collapse.

Race 7

(3) RED DOG SALOON has been very good in these Grassroots races and he should get plenty of pace to chase here; call to repeat. (7) FLAHERTY has been showing signs of reaching his best form again and he should be a good price. (10) CONTINUAL HANOVER comes off a lifetime best score and he is tough to leave out despite starting from the worst post. (4) JACK RACKHAM seems to really like Mohawk and he is in with an upset chance here.

Race 8

(5) ARIANA G is the unbeaten leader of this division. Even despite missing close to a month of action, she will likely take this Grand Circuit race. (7) PURE KEMP is one that has been progressing with each race that will offer some value in the exotics. (9) THATS ALL MONI was beaten by the choice last time, but she could get a better trip here and she should be close at the wire. (1) STUCK IN MY SPANKS showed some talent in making up a huge gap last time after breaking early, but these are much tougher.

Race 9

(7) PERSERVERANT took a costly shuffle at Georgian last time; notice the 52/1 score here a month ago in a Grassroots race; slight nod. (6) BLAISE MM HANOVER has been solid on the lead in his last several starts and he will be the one to catch again here. (4) KOKANEE SEELSTER has picked up his game in his last few starts. He is in with a chance. (10) ST LADS MOONWALK is obviously one of the best horses in this division, but the 10-hole will be a tough chore here as most of these Grassroots dashes are driven very aggressively. Finding a spot early could be troublesome.

Race 10

(8) LADY JEN gets Filion back in a race that seems void of quick leavers; gate-to-wire? (3) DONNA PARTY is capable of leaving for position and sitting a trip; using. (2) PRETTY HOT rode the inside to victory last time. She will likely try a similar approach here and could repeat if she gets room late. (1) PRETTYNDANGEROUS has a solid record and she is likely to take a smaller share here.

Race 11

(3) BADLANDS DELIGHT did all the work first up last time and was nailed late again. If she can find a helmet or blast to the front in the middle stages, she can win this. (2) LEAVING A LEGACY should be much more contentious moving inside here. Toss on Pick 4 tickets. (8) BIG TSUNAMI drops into a claimer off some decent conditioned races and she should make the ticket here, at a minimum. (6) TOTAL KNOCKOUT is a contender that could better this placing if she finds a live helmet to follow. (4) MISS PRINT almost never misses a check and should be on the High-5 ticket here.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Yonkers: Thursday 9/1 Analysis
By Brewster Smith

DRF

MEET STATS: 207 - 895 / $1,328.40

BEST BETS: 25 - 85 / $129.70

Best Bet: DEVIOUS MAN (7th)

Spot Play: GOTTA BE ME (1st)


Race 1

(4) GOTTA BE ME was sharp in her latest but did not have enough gas to hold on for win honors; threat at her best. (6) ARABELLA J was sent down the road in her last try to grab the victory against some tough pacers; main danger. (7) UPFRONTWHOSURLADY could be a factor with a favorable trip; maybe.

Race 2

(6) SOUTHWIND FERRARI was an easy winner two starts back here and was a fast closing third upstate last out; can boss these. (4) AMERICAN CHEQUE has fine speed and will most likely be the one to catch with Campbell at the controls. (7) RUFAS DE VIE just got up for the victory in one of these two starts back and must be considered in the exotics.

Race 3

In his last two tires, (3) EYE OF A TIGER AS was quite sharp and seems to be heading in the right direction; gets the call. (2) CHILI raced evenly last time out to grab third money; could have a say in the outcome. (5) TEXICAN fits with these and with a favorable trip he can be right in the mix.

Race 4

(5) HERETIC FRANCO N put in a mild rally to nail down the show spot last time out and this pacing mare is very capable of moving forward. (1) WRAPPED TO GO was solid on the lead, but she tired in deep stretch and held on for place money last out; main threat from the fence. (2) CANACO STAR gets post relief and that should help her cause; we shall see.

Race 5

(5) BARN WINNER took the pocket route home for all the marbles last out at Tioga. Trotter has good tactical speed and taking two straight is clearly not out of the question. (7) SOUTHWIND CRUZE posted a strong rally for the victory last time around and this juvenile is in fine form; dangerous. (2) LINDY THE SECOND did not fire in his last two trips but should find these to his liking; maybe.

Race 6

(2) SWELL CHAP showed signs of life last time around at Tioga when this 2-year-old colt closed nicely for the place spot. He seems to be ready to put his best foot forward. (5) MONEY MACINTOSH was very game last out and held on for the victory; big threat again. (3) SUCH AN ANGEL put in a break at the start at odds-on last time out upstate, but this trotter pulled off three straight victories before the flop recently; not out of this.

Race 7

(2) DEVIOUS MAN posted an easy score last time out at Tioga and was a fast-closing winner here two trips ago. He should keep on his winning ways against these. (4) ZACKS ZOOMER rallied strongly but could not get to the winner in his last try. (1) ANNAPOLIS HALL retains the fence and could make some noise.

Race 8

(2) MOTU MOONBEAM N came outside and lost the score by only a nose last time out. Mare is on top of her game and clearly is the one to beat. (6) CHERRY BLISS can have a say with a better trip. (7) FROST DAMAGE BLUES posted an easy qualifier at Pocono last time out and got the job done at the Meadowlands two starts back; watch out.

Race 9

(4) ELRAMA N is on a roll, scoring his fourth straight victory. Now he moves up in class, but how can you knock his excellent form? Five in a row is not out of the question. (1) CARD SHOCK was a fast-closing second recently and retains the fence; main danger. (3) SPORTSKEEPER flashed good speed most of the way but could not hold off the top two in his latest; threat at his best.

Race 10

(2) WESTERN BAYAMA moves up the ladder off two sharp scores in a row and at least he gets a cozy post to try to pull off the hat trick; we shall see. (3) REAL FLIGHT has good tactical speed and fits well against these; major player. (1) NATIONAL DEBT should do much better from the rail, so watch out.

Race 11

(7) FOR YOU ALMOSTFREE moves up in class off his down the road score against lesser last out. Bartlett knows him, so he figures to get a favorable trip and run them down in deep stretch; the pick. (1) SUMATRA is on the drop-down and draws the fence; big threat. (5) AUSPICIOUS HANOVER is back at Yonkers off his down the road score at Philly; factor.

Race 12

(4) HEY KOBE was dull last out, but this pacer is back with friends where she mowed them down for glory two starts ago; ready for action. (3) OUR ELS DREAM N should do much better moving down in class and draws the 3-hole. (8) ETERNAL RING takes a big drop in class. Post hurts, but clearly she is very capable.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

SPOT PLAYS

For Thursday

TRACK (RACE) HORSE, MORNING LINE

Canterbury (4th) Redneck Attack, 5-1
(7th) Captain of Summer, 6-1


Charles Town (2nd) Pelesh Castle, 3-1
(6th) Furrfield Miss, 10-1


Del Mar (1st) Generous Pour, 4-1
(4th) Back Beauty, 4-1


Delaware Park (2nd) Exclusive Symphony, 10-1
(5th) Im a Prankster, 9-2


Ellis Park (1st) Mankind, 4-1
(8th) Phenomenal Phoenix, 4-1


Finger Lakes (1st) Flag Handler, 7-2
(5th) Jordy, 3-1


Golden Gate Fields (3rd) Cazorla, 3-1
(4th) Hollywood Angel, 7-2


Gulfstream Park (4th) Esken Lady, 7-2
(9th) Anna Her Highness, 4-1


Louisiana Downs (3rd) Night Parade, 8-1
(6th) Escalady, 4-1


Penn National (3rd) Natal, 6-1
(5th) Diadema, 7-2


Presque Isle Downs (1st) Bryan Not Brian, 3-1
(5th) Indigo Pearls, 4-1


Remington Park (1st) J J's Forever, 3-1
(4th) Ambush Woman, 8-1


Saratoga (7th) Hudson River Gal, 3-1
(10th) Dab, 9-2

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

September Pitchers Report
By Marc Lawrence

Much like our waistlines after a tasty Labor Day barbeque, MLB rosters have expanded to accommodate September, the final month of the season. And as College Football and the NFL crash onto the scene, MLB pitchers take the final spotlight in hopes of leading their teams on to the playoff trail.

The question is which ones can we count on and which ones figure to be candidates for offseason Weight Watchers meetings?

Check it out.

Listed below are hurlers that have enjoyed a two-to-one or better success ratio in team starts the last three seasons during the month of September. On the flip side, we’ve also listed pitchers that struggle in September team starts, winning 33% percent or less of their efforts.

To qualify pitchers must have made a minimum of 10 starts, with at least one start each September over the last three years.

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

Enjoy the games.

GOOD MONTH PITCHERS:

Arrieta, Jake - 12-2 (8-1 H)

For nearly two full seasons, Arrieta has been as good as it gets in baseball as a starting pitcher. While strikeouts have been down a bit and walks are up of late, at this time it hard to find fault with a hurler who has opposing batters hitting below .200 against him and has a 2.84 ERA to start the month.

Cole, Gerrit - 14-3 (6-0 H)

The Pittsburgh ace has frankly had a mediocre injury-plagued season and on August 27th had an MRI on his elbow, which revealed no damage. If Pirates the are going to snare a third consecutive Wild Card bid, they will need the Cole of the past two years. Note: Cole’s record also represents his MLB career team start mark during the month of September.

*Grenike, Zack - 13-3 (7-1 H)

Greinke's ERA is higher than past year's but pitching in thinner air of Arizona has contributed to this. While the Diamondbacks have little too play for, expect Grienke to be tough as nails like usual.

Hamels, Cole - 12-5 (6-2 H)

Need a big game pitched in September? It’s hard to go wrong with Hamels, whose ERA of 2.91 is well below career mark of 3.26. Still owns lively fastball and changeup is knee-buckling. A true professional.

*Jimenez, Ubaldo - 12-1 (6-0 H)

Still toeing the rubber every five days or for Baltimore in spite of mid-sixes ERA. Baltimore has few options and Jimenez is not trustworthy in the bullpen either. Orioles need big month from their big man to reach the playoffs and this is his best month.

*Kershaw, Clayton - 12-3 (6-1 A)

Kershaw threw in simulated game on August 30 and later said "feeling really good" and if all goes well, the Dodgers hope Kershaw can pitch in September and beyond in some role, which only makes the Dodgers a bigger threat. Best pitcher in baseball.

Kluber, Corey - 10-3 (5-1 A)

Has been back to Cy Young form since the All-Star break with an ERA under 2.00 and Cleveland has won his last six outings. When he commands both sides of dish with fastball, for whatever reason, his curveball has more break. A true established ace for the Tribe trying to win the division.

Koehler, Tom - 10-5 (5-1 A)

Been very effective in a quiet way nationally, but has been extremely dependable for two months leading to this month for Miami, supplying six to seven solid innings per start. If he's throwing strikes inside to batters, he’s tough to hit. Note: Koehler’s record also represents his MLB career team start mark during the month of September.

Peavy, Jake - 11-3 (5-1 H)

Went on DL in late August with lower back strain. Had been working out of bullpen most of August and future status with San Francisco is as cloudy as the weather in the Bay.

*Price, David - 12-5 (7-2 H)

After a largely below season in Boston, Price has been much sharper in latter stages of August, which is what the Red Sox need. What has changed is Price became more effective in keeping the ball lower and is getting more fly ball outs as a power pitcher, which are genuinely more routine.

*Scherzer, Max - 11-4 (6-3 H)

After a somewhat slow start, Scherzer has been getting better and better and base hits allowed are well below innings pitched (128 vs. 190), yet walking few batters (45), especially compared to strikeouts (238). Back to pacing around mound like the king of the jungle.

*Shields, James - 13-4 (8-0 A)

It has been a wild ride for Shields this season, with numerous hideous outings blended in with several sharp ones. At this stage, hard to think the 34-year righty can duplicate the past seasons.

Strasburg, Stephen- 9-4 (5-1 A)

Starts the month on the DL after some very ugly starts last month. If Washington is to do anything in the postseason, Strasburg needs to regain early season form, which features moving fastball and big breaking curve.

*Zimmermann, Jordan - 11-4 (6-2 A)

If rehab assignments go well, September 10th is target date for return. Zimmermann has not been very effective for quite some time and easy to forget he had ERA of 2.45 in mid-May, compared to current 4.44.

BAD MONTH PITCHERS:

*Hellickson, Jeremy - 2-10 (1-5 H)

All things considered, Hellickson has not had a bad year in Philadelphia. However, upon closer inspection, most of his numbers are now near career norms and if that ends being the same this month, real bet against potential.

Leake, Mike - 5-10 (1-7 A)

The Cardinals right-hander has been a lot like his teams, when Leake has been good, he and St. Louis have generally won, when not they have too often lost badly. Cards are hoping not to see a repeat performance from the veteran.

Ross, Tyson - 3-11 (1-6 A)

Started on Opening Day and has not been seen since for San Diego with bum shoulder. Still trying to work way bad through rehab. Probably best to forget 2016.

*Sale, Chris - 2-12 (0-8 A)

It is almost unimaginable Sale could have a record like this in September, yet he does. Part of it is the White Sox offense is too unreliable and Sale's miscues end up being quite costly. Let's see what the final month brings for the big lefty.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Marlins (67-66) at Mets (69-64)

Game: 4
Venue: Citi Field
Date: September 01, 2016 7:10 PM EDT

NEW YORK -- The New York Mets are losing players almost as fast as they are winning games. The Miami Marlins need to figure out that equation in a hurry.

The surging Mets will look to complete a four-game sweep of the reeling Marlins on Thursday night when the two teams meet at Citi Field.

The wins and the injuries continued piling up for the Mets on Wednesday when Kelly Johnson laced a tiebreaking three-run double in the bottom of the eighth inning to lift New York to a 5-2 win over the Marlins at Citi Field.

Minutes after the game, manager Terry Collins announced that second baseman Neil Walker is expected to undergo season-ending surgery to repair a herniated disk in his back. Five of the Mets' 10 Opening Day starters are out for the season and another three have spent time on the disabled list. Only Curtis Granderson has remained on the 25-man roster all year.

The Mets will get another reminder of their fragility on Thursday, when right-hander Jacob deGrom takes the mound in place of injured Steven Matz. The left-hander was expected to be activated from the disabled list on Thursday but experienced soreness while playing catch on Tuesday.

Yet despite the litany of injuries, the Mets (69-64) have won nine of their last 11 and will enter Thursday just 1 1/2 games behind the St. Louis Cardinals in the race for the second wild card-spot in the National League.

"There's nothing like coming to the ballpark in the big leagues in the month of September in a pennant race," Collins said, his voice rising. "There is nothing like it. The energy level picks up. I'm real proud of the job they've done."

The Marlins (67-66) are plenty banged up as well in the midst of a stretch that threatens to ruin a once-promising season.

Miami capped an 8-18 August in appropriate fashion Wednesday, when right-hander David Phelps, who was supposed to start against the Mets, was instead placed on the disabled list with an oblique injury he suffered while taking batting practice on Tuesday.

In addition, outfielder Marcell Ozuna left in the fourth inning, one inning after he hurt his left wrist while making a diving catch. X-rays were negative and he is day to day.

Phelps became the fifth Marlins player to hit the disabled list in August. Of that quintet, only left-hander A.J. Ramos has returned to the active roster. Miami is missing 40 percent of its rotation with Phelps and left-hander Adam Conley (left middle finger) on the disabled list as well as its two biggest bats. Giancarlo Stanton has been out since Aug. 14 with a left groin strain and Justin Bour hasn't played since July 2 because of a right ankle sprain.

Manager Don Mattingly was in no mood to make excuses Wednesday night, though.

"You look at the whole picture and it's a lot of different things, but we're just not doing enough to win," Mattingly said. "We lost and we weren't very good this month, so it's pretty much on all of us."

Right-hander Jose Urena is scheduled to start for the Marlins against deGrom.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

MLB roundup: Odor hits two homers in Rangers' win
By The Sports Xchange

ARLINGTON, Texas -- Rougned Odor hit two home runs and matched a career high with five RBIs, and Carlos Gomez hit his third career grand slam to power the Texas Rangers to a 14-1 victory over the Seattle Mariners on Wednesday, completing a three-game sweep.
Odor had a two-run home run in the seventh and followed with a three-run shot -- his 27th of the season -- in the eighth of a game already out of reach.
Gomez's home run, his second since being acquired by Texas last week, was part of the Rangers' five-run fourth and the first of five Texas homers.
Adrian Beltre's 26th home run of the season was the 438th of his career, tying him with Andre Dawson for 43rd all-time. The Texas third baseman passed Willie McCovey for 37th all-time with 1,556 RBIs.

Tigers 3, White Sox 2
DETROIT -- Pinch hitter Tyler Collins hit a game-winning sacrifice fly as the Tigers swept a three-game series from the White Sox.
Rookie JaCoby Jones, who was playing in his second major league game, led off the bottom of the ninth with a double against David Robertson (4-3). Jones advanced to third on Jarrod Saltalamacchia's long fly out. Collins then hit a fly ball to left-center to allow Jones to score.
Francisco Rodriguez (3-4) tossed an inning of scoreless relief to pick up the win.

Rockies 7, Dodgers 0 (Game 1)
DENVER -- Colorado starter Tyler Anderson muffled the Dodgers in the first game of a doubleheader.
The 26-year-old left-hander pitched 6 1/3 innings, allowing six hits and two walks with five strikeouts. Anderson (5-5) won for the first time in five starts since defeating the Dodgers at Coors Field on Aug. 3. Anderson is 5-1 with a 3.11 ERA in 10 starts at Coors Field.
The shutout win on Wednesday was Colorado's first at Coors Field since Aug. 16, 2015.

Dodgers 10, Rockies 8 (Game 2)
DENVER -- Andrew Toles hit his first career grand slam with two outs in the ninth inning to highlight a five-run rally that gave the Los Angeles a doubleheader split.
Stephen Cardullo, whose first career homer was a pinch-hit blast in the first game, put the Rockies ahead 5-1 with his first career grand slam in the first inning of the nightcap. Cardullo joined Angel Pagan (2006) as the only players to hit their first two major league homers on their birthday, and he was the first since Tony Perez in 1972 to celebrate a birthday by homering in both ends of a doubleheader.
The Dodgers were trailing 8-2 before they packed eight runs into the final two innings, and Toles sealed the win with his grand slam off closer Adam Ottavino (0-1).

Astros 4, Athletics 3
HOUSTON -- Jose Altuve stroked a game-tying, RBI triple and Evan Gattis followed with a run-scoring single as the Astros fashioned a two-out, eighth-inning rally to complete a three-game sweep of Oakland.
The Astros rallied against Liam Hendriks (0-3) after Ross Detwiler stifled their lineup for seven listless innings. Detwiler allowed just one run on three hits and two walks with seven strikeouts over seven innings.
The Athletics took advantage of a fielding error by shortstop Carlos Correa to scratch across three runs in the second inning off right-hander Mike Fiers.

Red Sox 8, Rays 6
BOSTON -- Boston's Aaron Hill, mired in an 0-for-20 slump, singled home the tiebreaking run in the eighth inning in the rubber game of a three-game series.
Jackie Bradley, who hit his 22nd home run, provided insurance with an RBI double.
Hanley Ramirez, who hit a grand slam to wipe out a 4-1 deficit in the fifth inning, walked against Erasmo Ramirez (7-10) and took second on a sacrifice by Sandy Leon. Brock Holt stroked a pinch-hit single and Hill lined his hit to right field.

Giants 4, Diamondbacks 2
SAN FRANCISCO -- Buster Posey drove in two runs with a double and a sacrifice fly, and Matt Moore recorded his first home victory since being traded last month as the Giants earned a split of their two-game series.
Joe Panik had three singles in a nine-hit attack as the Giants spoiled the major league return of Diamondbacks right-hander Shelby Miller.
Posey and Hunter Pence drove in first-inning runs against Miller, who was returning from an eight-week stint at Triple-A, to give the Giants a lead they never relinquished en route to their third win in five games on their just completed homestand.

Indians 8, Twins 4
CLEVELAND -- Corey Kluber pitched eight strong innings and Carlos Santana and Roberto Perez homered as Cleveland completed a three-game sweep of Minnesota at Progressive Field.
It was the Twins' 13th loss in a row, the second-longest losing streak in team history. The longest is 14 in a row, in May and June of 1982.
Kluber gave up three runs on six hits with 11 strikeouts and two walks. Kluber hasn't lost a game since July 3. In 10 starts since then he is 7-0 with a 1.94 ERA.

Mets 5, Marlins 2
NEW YORK -- Kelly Johnson's three-run double with two outs in the bottom of the eighth inning snapped a tie and lifted red-hot New York over Miami at Citi Field.
The Mets have won the first three games of a four-game series against the Marlins and nine of their last 11 overall.
Addison Reed earned the win with a perfect eighth before Jeurys Familia notched his team-record 44th save with a 1-2-3 ninth. Christian Yelich had two hits, including a homer leading off the sixth for the Marlins, while J.T. Realmuto had three hits.

Nationals 2, Phillies 1
PHILADELPHIA -- Wilson Ramos drove in the go-ahead run with a seventh-inning single as Washington beat Philadelphia, completing a sweep of the three-game series.
Former Phillie Jayson Werth homered for the Nationals, who ran their winning streak against the Phillies to nine.
Freddy Galvis homered for the Phillies, who lost for the fifth time in six games.

Angels 3, Reds 0
ANAHEIM, Calif. -- Los Angeles' Ricky Nolasco needed just 94 pitches to throw a four-hit shutout against Cincinnati.
With the win, the Angels swept the three-game series, outscoring the Reds by a combined 16-4, while earning their fifth straight victory overall. The Reds are losers of four in a row.
C.J. Cron drove in two of the Angels' three runs with RBI singles in the sixth and eighth innings.

Blue Jays 5, Orioles 3
BALTIMORE -- Jose Bautista and Russell Martin each hit first-inning homers to give Toronto a lead it never lost against Baltimore.
The victory gave Toronto the win in the crucial three-game series, as the Blue Jays took two games while pushing the Orioles four games behind in the American League East.
Bautista led off the game with a homer and Martin added a two-run shot later in the inning to give the Jays a 3-0 lead after just five batters.

Braves 8, Padres 1
ATLANTA -- Matt Wisler turned in his second strong outing since being recalled from the minor leagues, pitching Atlanta over San Diego.
Wisler allowed one run on four hits over six innings and struck out a career-high 10 batters.
The victory ensured the Braves would win the series, just the third time they've done that at home this season.

Brewers 3, Cardinals 1
MILWAUKEE -- Kirk Nieuwenhuis had two hits, including his 13th home run of the season, and Matt Garza struck out eight batters as Milwaukee snapped a six-game losing streak with a victory over St. Louis at Miller Park.
Looking for his first victory since Aug. 11, Garza bounced back from a back-luck outing his last time out with his longest start of the season and held the Cardinals to use three hits with a pair of walks over seven innings of work.
Following a one-out home run by Yadier Molina in the fourth, Garza retired his next 13 batters in order and 14 of his last 15 before Greg Garcia singled and pinch-hitter Stephen Piscotty walked to open the eighth.

Cubs 6, Pirates 5
CHICAGO -- Kris Bryant went 2-for-4 with his National League-leading 36th home run as Chicago held on to complete a three-game sweep of Pittsburgh.
Cubs starter Jason Hammel (14-7) allowed one run and three hits, striking out six and walking three.
Francisco Cervelli singled home Starling Marte from third against Chicago closer Aroldis Chapman with two outs in the ninth to trim the lead to one run. However, Chapman struck out Jordy Mercer with two runners on to secure for his 12th Cubs save, 32nd of the season and second in two nights.

Yankees 5, Royals 4 (13 innings)
KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- Brian McCann's sacrifice fly in the 13th inning scored Didi Gregorius as New York edged Kansas City.
Gregorius led off the inning with an infield single off first baseman Eric Hosmer's glove, advanced to third on Starlin Castro's double down the left field and came home on McCann's sacrifice fly.
Ben Heller (1-0) worked a spotless 12th inning to pick up the victory, and Dellin Betances earned his seventh save.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Padres (55-77) at Braves (50-83)

Game: 3
Venue: Turner Field
Date: September 01, 2016 12:10 PM EDT

ATLANTA -- Two pitchers who are expected to be a big part of their teams' rotation for the foreseeable future will meet Thursday in the final game of the three-game series at Turner Field.

Padres right-hander Jarred Cosart (0-1, 4.23 ERA) will take the mound for San Diego's final appearance of the season at Turner Field, while Mike Foltynewicz (7-5, 4.30 ERA) will make the start for Atlanta.

Cosart will make his sixth start with the Padres since he was acquired from the Miami Marlins as part of a seven-player trade on July 29. Cosart, 26, has shown his potential since coming over to the West Coast, allowing one earned run or fewer in four of his previous five starts.

Cosart did not receive a decision his most recent outing on Sunday against his former club. He pitched five innings and allowed two runs, one earned, on five hits and three strikeouts during a game the Padres lost 7-5. His start was shortened because of a blister.

"I was starting to get into a good rhythm," he said. "Things were working. I had a good game plan going in. For the most part, I was executing it pretty well, and then it just started rubbing on me a little bit, started stinging. Felt like it was the right time to get me out before it got to where it ripped off."

The blister isn't expected to be an issue Thursday.

In four career starts against the Braves, Cosart is 3-0 with a 2.63 ERA. The one no-decision came on April 17, when he gave up five runs (four earned) and walked six in 5 2/3 innings during a 6-5 Miami loss.

Foltynewicz was acquired by Atlanta before the start of the 2015 season as the centerpiece of a deal that sent slugger Evan Gattis to the Houston Astros. The hard-throwing right-hander possesses a mid-90s fastball and has learned to pitch deeper into a game, something that hurt him a year ago.

Foltynewicz pitched 7 2/3 innings in his last start on Saturday against the San Francisco Giants. He allowed a second-inning homer to Brandon Crawford but otherwise retired 15 of the first 18 batters he faced. The old Foltynewicz might have come unglued by the homer, but he was able to shake it off and get back to business.

"A couple starts before this, I might have gotten a little upset and then maybe the next guy would have been walked," he said. "But after that, I just settled down, kept attacking and kept the same game plan. I didn't shy away from anything there."

In his lone career appearance against San Diego, Foltynewicz allowed five runs and a career-high-tying 12 hits in 5 2/3 innings during a no-decision on June 9, 2015.

Both teams are expected to make moves when rosters are allowed to expand Thursday. Atlanta manager Brian Snitker said the Braves likely will activate catcher A.J. Pierzynski (hamstring) and reliever Chris Withrow (elbow) from the disabled list, but they aren't likely to raid the minor league system until teams are through with their playoffs.

San Diego is expected to recall left-handed reliever Ryan Buchter from Triple-A El Paso on Thursday. Infielder Alexi Amarista, on the DL due to a strained hamstring, is expected to join the Padres when they return to the West Coast to play the Dodgers in Los Angeles on Friday. Infielder Jemile Weeks, also rehabbing a strained hamstring, is also expected to be added when he is healthy.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: White Sox (63-69) at Twins (49-84)

Game: 1
Venue: Target Field
Date: September 01, 2016 8:10 PM EDT

MINNEAPOLIS -- The Minnesota Twins will attempt to avoid the history books on Thursday when they open a four-game series against the Chicago White Sox at Target Field.

The Twins enter riding a 13-game losing streak, one shy of the franchise mark set in 1982. Their current skid is tied with the 1961 club for the second-longest streak in team history.

Minnesota finished the month of August 9-19 after a 15-11 mark in July.

"It's been a long week," Twins manager Paul Molitor told the St. Paul Pioneer Press. "We need to try to find a way to win a game at some point to just lighten the load. It's getting heavy. Guys are getting on the edge a little bit. You can feel it. It's building."

Chicago will also try and rebound after being swept in a three-game series against the Detroit Tigers at Comerica Park.

The three-game skid dropped the White Sox to 8 1/2 games out of the second wild card spot and 13 games back of division-leading Cleveland, which capped a three-game sweep of Minnesota.

"It's tough. We were playing pretty good baseball but these guys, they've been snipping us off at the end," said White Sox manager Robin Ventura. "We played fairly well early on but with the lineup they have, it's a pretty deep lineup that's hard to contain."

Jose Quintana will try for his ninth consecutive quality start. The left-hander allowed just one earned run in 7 2/3 innings his last time out in a win over the Seattle Mariners at U.S. Cellular Field on Saturday.

Quintana has faced the Twins more than any other opponent this season; Thursday's game marks his fifth start against Minnesota in 2016. In four previous outings, Quintana is 2-1 with a 2.36 ERA and 27 strikeouts in 26 2/3 innings pitched. His 2.77 ERA for the season leads the American League.

Ervin Santana will get the nod for the Twins, coming off his worst start since the end of May. The right-hander allowed six runs on five hits and five walks in 6 2/3 innings but did not figure into the final decision against the Toronto Blue Jays on Saturday at Rogers Centre.

Prior to Saturday's clunker, Santana has allowed three earned runs or fewer in 11 straight starts dating back to June 14. Santana is 1-2 against the White Sox this season but has pitched well in those games, compiling a 3.86 ERA with 15 strikeouts in 16 1/3 innings.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Giants (72-60) at Cubs (85-47)

Game: 1
Venue: Wrigley Field
Date: September 01, 2016 8:05 PM EDT

CHICAGO -- Jeff Samardzija will find himself on a familiar mound but in an unaccustomed role on Thursday.

A onetime baseball and football standout from northwest Indiana and a Chicago Cubs pitching mainstay from 2008 to 2014, Samardzija will try to shut down his former team as the San Francisco Giants arrive for the opener of a four-game weekend series.

The 31-year-old Samardzija, in his first season with the Giants, faces his former team for only the second time in his career and first at Wrigley Field at 8:05 p.m. ET Thursday.

"I'm sure he's excited about it," San Francisco manager Bruce Bochy said Wednesday. "He's spent some time there. He knows Wrigley Field. He's been throwing the ball well. I hope he continues that into tomorrow's game."

The Giants, currently leading the National League wild-card standings, are making their only Wrigley Field appearance of the season.They took two of three from the Cubs on May 20-22 at AT&T Park.

Samardzija declined a long-term Cubs offer in 2014 and began an odyssey that took him to Oakland (via trade), to the Chicago White Sox last year and finally this season to the Giants.

Set to make his 26th start of 2016, Samardzija is coming off a seven-inning shutout performance on Aug. 26 against the Atlanta Braves that included seven hits, six strikeouts and three walks.

He's 0-1 all-time against the Cubs, suffering the loss on Aug. 14, 2015, when the White Sox beat their cross-town rivals 6-5 at U.S. Cellular Field.

The Cubs counter with Mike Montgomery (1-1, 3.50 ERA), who was originally slated to pitch Wednesday but swapped spots with Jason Hammel.

Montgomery, 27, makes his third start with the Cubs, all against NL West opponents, including two against the Giants. He threw 91 pitches, allowed three runs despite walking four and gave up six hits in a no-decision on Aug. 26 at the Los Angeles Dodgers, a 6-4 extra-innings victory.

"I decided to give him an extra day," Cubs manager Joe Maddon told reporters. "It just made all the sense in the world to do it that way. I talked to Hammer (Jason Hammel) about it yesterday, and he was fine. Montgomery was good with it, so that's what we're going to do."

Montgomery has made 20 career starts, going 5-7 with a 4.39 ERA and two complete game shutouts in 2015.

Chicago's spacious new clubhouse will easily handle additions arriving this week as rosters expand to 40 on Thursday.

The Cubs got the jump on added personnel by recalling versatile infielder Tommy La Stella and his .295 bat from Triple-A Iowa and inserting him in Wednesday lineup.

LaStella had played in 51 games before a declining to report as assigned to Triple-A Iowa in late July, then later agreeing to a minor league stint.

He's expected to be a frequent September contributor and through the subsequent NL playoffs.

After the series against the Giants, the Cubs embark on a 10-day, nine-game road trip that takes them to Milwaukee, Houston and St. Louis.