Thursday 9/17/15 service plays chatter/comps/requests & other stuff...

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Thursday Night Football Betting Preview: Broncos at Chiefs

Denver Broncos at Kansas City Chiefs (-3, 41.5)

The Denver Broncos have won four consecutive AFC West titles but they'll face an early-season showdown for division supremacy when they visit the Kansas City Chiefs on Thursday night. The Broncos failed to score an offensive touchdown in a 19-13 victory over visiting Baltimore while Kansas City eased to a 27-20 win at Houston that was not as close as the final score indicated.

Denver quarterback Peyton Manning attempted to allay concerns over the lack of productivity from the offense as the team adopts more of a ball-control offense under new coach Gary Kubiak. "Everybody is looking for these summaries of our offense and our team after Week 1 and I just don't think we're going to be able to do that," Manning said. "It's Week 1. We're a work in progress. ... We're trying to get better every single week." Meanwhile, the Chiefs shot out to a 27-9 halftime lead over the Texans behind three scoring passes from Alex Smith, but they face a nemesis in Manning and the Broncos. Denver has won six consecutive meetings in the series, including its last four visits to Kansas City.

TV: 8:25 p.m. ET, CBS, NFL Network.

LINE HISTORY: Books opened the Chiefs as 2.5-point home faves but that is now up to -3. The total is down to 41.5 from the opening 43.

INJURY REPORT: Broncos - QB Peyton Manning (Probable, back), LB Lerentee McCray (Probable, groin), S David Bruton Jr. (Probable, ankle), WR Demaryius Thomas (Probable, hand), S Darian Stewart (Questionable, groin), DE Malik Jackson (Questionable, concussion), RB C.J. Anderson (Questionable, toe), S Omar Bolden (Doubtful, foot), DE Kenny Anunike (Out, knee). Chiefs - LB Tamba Hali (Probable, neck), DB Sean Smith (Eligible Week 4, suspension).

WEATHER: Temperatures will be in the low-80s with a 15 percent chance of rain. Wind will blow toward the north at around 14 miles per hour.

POWER RANKINGS: Broncos (-4) + Chiefs (-2.5) + home field (-3) = Chiefs -1

WHAT CAPPERS SAY: "Denver showed on Sunday that they are capable of winning games against solid foes even when Peyton Manning looks like the 39-year-old QB that he is. Alex Smith still didn't throw a touchdown pass to a wide receiver, but he did throw three TD?s to TE Travis Kelce and RB Jamaal Charles." Teddy Covers.

WHAT BOOKS SAY: "We opened the Chiefs as 2.5 point faves at home and after the struggles of the Denver offense on Sunday we went to Chiefs -3 where we currently sit adjusting the juice as the week has moved on. The Chiefs are seeing 58 percent of the action to cover the spread as of writing this." Michael Stewart.

ABOUT THE BRONCOS (1-0 SU, 1-0 ATS, 0-1 O/U): Manning's arm strength, or lack thereof, has been a hot-button topic throughout the preseason and he finished with only 175 yards without a scoring pass in the opener, but he has thrown for 1,736 yards with 16 TDs versus three interceptions in six meetings against the Chiefs since joining Denver. C.J. Anderson was limited to 29 yards on 12 carries while dealing with a sprained toe, but he was at practice Tuesday night along with star wideout Demaryius Thomas, who suffered a hand injury versus Baltimore. The Broncos' defense, which produced the lone touchdown in Week 1 on Aqib Talib's interception return, limited the Ravens to only 173 total yards.

ABOUT THE CHIEFS (1-0 SU, 1-0 ATS, 1-0 O/U): Smith has been typecast as a game manager but he got a vote of confidence - “Alex was on the money all day” - from tight end Travis Kelce, who had a huge opening game with six catches for 106 yards and a pair of scores. Running back Jamaal Charles had a relative quiet season debut with 57 yards rushing while matching newcomer Jeremy Maclin with five catches, but he has scored 15 touchdowns in his last 14 games overall. Kansas City yielded an AFC-low 281 points last season and received a boost with the return of linebacker Derrick Johnson, who registered a team-high eight tackles in his first game back after suffering a ruptured Achilles tendon.

TRENDS:

* Under is 7-1-1 in the last nine meetings.
* Broncos are 5-1 ATS in their last six meetings in Kansas City.
* Broncos are 5-0 ATS in their last five vs. AFC West.
* Chiefs are 6-1 ATS in their last seven home games.

CONSENSUS: Fifty-nine percent are the Chiefs.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Free NFL Picks: Denver Broncos at Kansas City Chiefs Odds and Predictions
by Alan Matthews

I clearly should have done my homework last week because I generally don't like previewing the same NFL team two weeks in a row if avoidable. I picked the Ravens-Broncos game in Week 1 because it was a potential playoff preview, but I didn't bother looking ahead to Week 2, and it's Denver at Kansas City on Thursday night, the first NFL Network/CBS Thursday telecast of the season. So I'll try and focus more on the Chiefs here if possible. The good news is I did hit on the Broncos in that game on Sunday.


Broncos at Chiefs Betting Story Lines

Denver closed as a 4.5-point favorite against Baltimore and won very ugly, 19-13 (I did miss on the total of 46.5). That's obviously a nice win over a potential Super Bowl contender, but I am a tad concerned if I'm a Broncos backer. Peyton Manning looked really shaky at the end of last season, and that was on display again vs. Baltimore. He threw for only 175 yards, no touchdowns and had a pick returned for a score. Counting the preseason, the NFL's greatest regular-season QB ever has yet to find the goal line in 21 drives. He might really miss former Pro Bowl tight end Julius Thomas this season; Thomas was his red-zone guy. Manning was also sacked four times.

The Broncos were expected to run a bit more this season under new coach Gary Kubiak, but they had 25 carries for only 69 yards against Baltimore. Top Broncos running back C.J. Anderson hurt his ankle a bit in the win and didn't practice on Monday. But Anderson says he's fine and will play Thursday. Manning was also on the injury report with a back problem, but he's fine too. The Broncos also will get starting safety T.J. Ward back here after he was suspended for Week 1.

Kansas City looked like an AFC contender in Week 1, dominating Houston 27-20 as a 1-point road favorite. That score is pretty misleading as the Chiefs were up 27-6 late in the third quarter. Texans backup QB Ryan Mallett led his team to some garbage scores after Coach Bill O'Brien pulled ineffective starter Brian Hoyer. Alex Smith was sharp for K.C., completing 22-for-33 for 243 yards, three touchdowns and no turnovers. Jamaal Charles was relatively quiet with 16 carries for 57 yards, but did have five catches for 46 yards and a TD. New No. 1 receiver Jeremy Maclin had five catches for 52 yards. Tight end Travis Kelce caught six passes for 106 yards and two scores. And 2014 sack king Justin Houston had a sack, forcing a Hoyer fumble that would eventually lead to a Chiefs score. I doubt Coach Andy Reid has much to complain about this week in practices.

There was one really interesting story out of that game. K.C. right tackle Eric Fisher, the No. 1 overall pick in 2013 (that looks like a bust so far), reportedly told the team late last week that he wasn't ready to "deal" with Houston superstar defensive lineman J.J. Watt because Fisher had a high ankle sprain. Yet Fisher practiced last week. Reid denied that Fisher asked out of the lineup and said it was his decision to hold Fisher out. In Fisher's place, Reid started Jah Reid, who was signed last Monday after spending the past four seasons with Baltimore and had only a couple of practices to get up to speed. Presumably Fisher plays here unless he's scared of Von Miller or whomever. That Denver defense was fantastic vs. the Ravens, holding them to 173 total yards and no offensive touchdowns.

Broncos at Chiefs NFL Week 2 Betting Odds and Trends

The Chiefs are 3-point favorites (-120) with a total of 42. They are -170 on the moneyline. The site has two alternate lines currently: Chiefs -3.5 (+105) and -2.5 (-145).

The Broncos are 5-0 against the spread in their past five vs. the AFC West. They are 2-5 ATS in their past seven following a win. Denver has covered six of its past seven on Thursday. The Chiefs are 6-1 ATS in their past seven at home. They are 6-2 ATS in their past eight vs. the AFC West. The "over/under" has gone under in five of Denver's past six after a win. The under is 9-4 in the Chiefs' past 13 overall. The under is 7-1-1 in the past nine meetings. Denver has covered five of the past six in K.C.

Free NFL Picks: Denver Broncos at Kansas City Chiefs Betting Predictions

Manning is the all-time leader on Thursdays with 3,591 passing yards, 38 touchdown passes and a 123.7 passer rating. Since joining Denver in 2012, he has 1,347 passing yards and 13 touchdowns for a 118.1 passer rating on Thursdays. He's also just 134 yards shy of 70,000 career passing yards. The Chiefs, meanwhile, will honor their Super Bowl I and IV teams before the game and at halftime.

Denver has won all six meetings vs. Kansas City under Manning. The Broncos won 24-17 at home in Week 2 last year and 29-16 in Week 13 at Arrowhead. Manning had five combined TD passes and no picks in those games but not a ton of yards.


I'll take Denver on the 3.5-point alternate line and go under the total. Chiefs may win, but I find it hard to imagine it would be by more than a field goal.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

'Thursday Night Football'

Denver Broncos will visit the Kansas City Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium to start off the second week of NFL action. In Broncos' opening week 19-13 victory over Baltimore, Peyton Manning looked a little weak and a lot off target hitting 24-of-40 passes for 175 yards, no TD's and a pick. A good thing the Denver defense was solid or Broncos would have seen Manning's string of three straight Broncos home openers come to a halt. As for Kansas City, QB Alex Smith contrary to public perception didn't have much trouble against a very tough Texan defense hitting 22-of-33 for 243 yards with 3 TD's no interceptions in a season opening victory.

The Broncos have won six straight against their AFC West rival (4-2 ATS). Yet, offshores have Chiefs a field goal favorite for Thursday's tilt. When handicapping this contest a few betting trends to ponder. Chiefs have responded facing a division opponent following a win the previous effort posting a 4-1 ATS record. Chiefs have covered 6 of their last 7 home games. Broncos are 5-0 ATS in their last five division games and 6-1 ATS in their last seven in Tursday Night Football. Broncos have not been good bets as underdogs going 2-5 ATS last seven in the roll. The past nine meetings, 'Under' has been the right choice with 7 'Under', 1 'Over', 1 'Push'.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

At the Gate - Thursday
By Mike Dempsey

Coming up on Saturday is the $1 million Pennsylvania Derby (G2) at Parx, a race that drew a field of 10 including five runners that competed in at least one Triple Crown race.

Last year’s winner Bayern went on to win the $5 million Breeders’ Cup Classic (G1).

The Kiaran McLaughlin trained Frosted was installed as the 5-2 morning line favorite. The colt ran fourth in the Kentucky Derby (G1) and second In the Belmont Stakes (G1). He has run twice since, landing third in the Jim Dandy (G2) and most recently third in the Travers (G1).

Among the foes he will face is West Virginia Derby (G2) winner Madefromlucky (4-1), Travers fourth place finisher Upstart (9-2) and El Cajon winner Gimme Da Lute, who ships in from the west coast for the Bob Baffert barn, who saddled Bayern last year.

Also on the card is the $1 million Cotillion (G1) which has drawn very strong fields the past few years. Recent winners include Untapable, Close Hatches, My Miss Aurelia, Plum Pretty and Havre de Grace. Last year Untapable went on to win the Breeders’ Cup Distaff (G1).

They are both great betting races, and while I will be handicapping both races for my Best Plays Report on Saturday, I will wager little on none on the races.

Parx has a takeout rate of 30% for trifectas and superfectas, one of the highest of any racetrack in the U.S. The track is ranked 56th out of 62 tracks by the Horseplayers Association of North America.

It is hard to believe as price sensitive as many horseplayers are that a track that has their purses subsidized by slots would have such a high takeout.

The takeout on win, place and show is 17% and the exacta takeout is 20%, which is more in line with other racetracks.

If you plan on wagering on Parx on Saturday, make sure your online racebook is offering you rebates or wager into pools without such a larcenous takeout rate.

Here is today’s second race (the opener looks too chalky) from Belmont Park to get the day off to a good start:

BEL Race 2 Clm $25,000 (1:28 ET)
4 Bounty Pink 7-2
5 Lotsa Noodles 5-2
6 Star of the Forest 6-1
1 So Good to Go 5-1

Analysis: Bounty Pink was fourth behind a trio of these last out when making her first start off the claim by the Gargan barn. She is better at one turn and has done some of her best work over the main tack here, winning four of her five trips. She can turn the tables here as she makes her third start of her current form cycle for a barn that does good work with recent claims.

Lotsa Noodles exits the same race she crossed the wire second and was placed first via a DQ. She was making her first start off the claim by the RRod barn that took her out of a win two back for a $20,000 tag. She comes in here sharp and the switch from the chilly Arroyo to Ortiz seems to have done the trip. She fits here with her best.

Wagering
WIN: #4 to win at 5-2 or better.
EX: 4,5 / 1,4,5,6
TRI: 4,5 / 1,4,5,6 / 1,2,4,5,6

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

BEL Race 8 OClm $40,000N2X (4:46 ET)
7 Beyond Empire 5-2
6 All About Ashley 5-1
1 Sioux 3-1
2 Force 7-2

Analysis: Beyond Empire cuts back from nine furlongs and two turns here after a third last out at this level at the Spa. The gelding made a mild late run to finish three lengths back of the winner Royal Posse, who came back to win the state bred Evan Shipman in his next outing on Sept. 4 at the Spa. He is 0 for 3 since returning from Dubai where he was badly outrun in two starts but fits well at this level and looks capable of handling this group.

All About Ashley faded to finish seventh last out in his first go at this level, bouncing off a nose win and career top speed fig two back beating state bred Alw-1 company. The runner up and seventh place finisher exited that Alw-1 race to win next out. The Mott trainee is perfect in two trips over the main track here and figures to bounce back with a better effort.

Wagering
WIN: #7 to win at 2-1 or better.
EX: 6,7 / 1,2,6,7
TRI: 6,7 / 1,2,6,7 / 1,2,3,6,7

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.

Belmont Park
R1: #3 Kay’s Little Mug 15-1
R3: #6 No Texting 10-1
R5: #3 Groomedforvictory 15-1
R6: #10 Lana’s Fortune 10-1
R6: #2 Blue Earth 8-1
R7: #9 Battle Axe 15-1
R7: #6 Milkyyourway 8-1

Good luck today!

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at Harrington Raceway

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


Race 11 - Post: 8:20 - 1 mile. PACE - Class Rating: 63 - Purse:$4000 - H & G NW 1 PM RACE OR $5,001 LIFETIME 4 YEAR OLDS & UNDER


CONSORTIUM CHOICES


Chatsworth Consortium

# 7 CEDAR HALL DREAM 5/2


# 3 MR PEARL 2/1


# 4 SEACOAST 6/1


Feel pretty confident putting money down on CEDAR HALL DREAM. Might be there at a nice price tag. Positively one to keep in your exotics. If effort in the last race is any indication, this contender will have a very nice shot this time. High last race speed rating. When Wright sends this entrant out you can bet they'll hit the board, percentages show them there 50 percent of the time. MR PEARL - This affair may be controlled by this gelding. One look at the avgerage speed rating will verify that. Enters this affair with really strong TrackMaster class numbers relative to the grouping - could be worth a shot. SEACOAST - Should compete strongly in this contest as his style of running fits well in this field. Not many folks know, but the 4 position here at Harrington Raceway has been terrific for a much higher than average win rate.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at Maywood Park

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


Race 4 - Post: 8:30 - 1 mile. PACE - Class Rating: 74 - Purse:$2500 - FILLIES & MARES, CLAIMING PRICE $4,000


CONSORTIUM CHOICES


Chatsworth Consortium

# 4 SUN DREAM 9/5


# 2 HOOSIERS FANTASY 5/2


# 5 SAND TARYN 8/1


SUN DREAM has a competitive shot to take this contest. This nice horse looks strong. Take a good look at the 78 average TrackMaster Speed Rating. This horse has shown us some prior ability, just look at the 74 average class rating. Should play well in this contest. Had one of the most favorable speed ratings of the grouping in her last outing. Must use in your wagers. HOOSIERS FANTASY - Could be the most favorable in the field here, showing formidable figures of late. Avg speed is a solid 80. Good for a win bet just off the fantastic prior class stats. Have to like this fine animal. SAND TARYN - Drawing the 5 hole at this track has lead to a well above average win percentage. Tough to pass on this mare with cagey Leonard in the sulky. Major player for the win.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Penn National

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


Race 6 - Optional Claiming - 6.0f on the Dirt. Purse: $30400 Class Rating: 100

FOR THREE YEAR OLDS AND UPWARD WHICH HAVE NEVER WON TWO RACES OTHER THAN MAIDEN, CLAIMING, STARTER, OR PENNSYLVANIA BRED. THREE YEAR OLDS, 120 LBS.; OLDER, 123 LBS. NON-WINNERS OF A RACE SINCE AUGUST 17 ALLOWED 2 LBS. A RACE SINCE JULY 17 ALLOWED 4 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $25,000


RECOMMENDED CHOICES

The Walker Group Picks

# 6 GRYVON 5/1


# 1 KING HENRY 3/1


# 2B LAST HEARTBREAKER 9/2


I favor GRYVON here. This equine has some longshot angles going for him. This gelding must be given consideration just off the earnings per start in dirt sprint events alone. KING HENRY - With a solid jockey who has won at a decent 18 percent rate over the last 30 days. This has to be one of the top selections. Ran a strong last race. LAST HEARTBREAKER - With a solid 96 average speed rating at the distance, seems well suited for today's outing. Win percentage under similar conditions may be the key for this gelding.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Remington Park

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


Race 4 - Claiming - 6.0f on the Dirt. Purse: $15428 Class Rating: 69

FOR ACCREDITED OKLAHOMA-BRED FILLIES AND MARES THREE YEAR OLDS AND UPWARD WHICH HAVE NEVER WON THREE RACES. THREE YEAR OLDS, 120 LBS.; OLDER, 123 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $7,500.


RECOMMENDED CHOICES

The Walker Group Picks

# 5 NOTHING BUT ME 20/1


# 8 OKIE WEST 9/5


# 1 B'S HONEY 9/2


NOTHING BUT ME looks to be a solid contender especially at such a decent 20/1. With Keith controlling the reins on her, this filly ought to be able to break out early in this competition. Recorded a solid Equibase Speed Fig in the most recent race. Can run another good one in this contest. Strong returns over time for this jock and conditioner combo. OKIE WEST - She looks very good in this slot and I expect will be on the front end or close at the halfway point. Win percentage one of the best in this group of horses. B'S HONEY - With McMahon getting the mount, watch out for this horse.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Bar

Arlington - Race #1 - Post: 1:15pm - Claiming - 8.0 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $8,550 Class Rating: 82

Rating: Golden DollarGolden DollarGolden DollarGolden Dollar

#1 PRIZE NATIVE (ML=7/2)


PRIZE NATIVE - This gelding is in good physical condition, having run a good race on August 30th, finishing fourth. The August 30th contest at Arlington was at a class level of (90). Dropping down in class considerably, so he should be in a good position to win. Last race out, finished fourth on the soft turf at Arlington. Expect better in this event.

Vulnerable Contenders: #2 SUMMER IN MONTANA (ML=5/2), #6 COWBOYSTEVIEWONDER (ML=4/1), #7 QUICKHUTCH (ML=9/2),

SUMMER IN MONTANA - You always figure that this horse has a shot to win, but he falls short regularly. COWBOYSTEVIEWONDER - A bit of a lackluster outing when this gelding finished seventh. Hard to keep chasing this sort of 'bridesmaid' horse. When examining today's class figure, he will have to register a better speed fig than in the last race to compete in this dirt route. QUICKHUTCH - Tough to like the downward moving flow (80/74/48) of Equibase speed figures. The fig in the last race doesn't fit very well in this race when I look at the class figure of today's contest. Mark this horse as a vulnerable competitor.


STRAIGHT WAGERS:
Putting our cash on #1 PRIZE NATIVE to win. Have to have odds of at least 1/1 or better though

EXACTA WAGERS:
Skip

TRIFECTA WAGERS:
Pass

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:
None

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Bar

Gulfstream - Race #10 - Post: 6:15pm - Maiden Claiming - 8.0 furlongs on the Turf. Purse: $20,000 Class Rating: 81

Rating: Golden DollarGolden DollarGolden DollarGolden Dollar

#8 STARSHIP REVENUE (ML=8/1)
#3 STARSHIP SENORITA (ML=3/1)
#6 OUR SISTER ANIA (ML=10/1)


STARSHIP REVENUE - This filly is in good condition, having run a nice race on August 27th, finishing second. This filly's last speed rating notched on August 27th is tops in last race speed figures. This horse is for real on the turf. TrackMaster turf fig in last race at Gulfstream was tops in this bunch. STARSHIP SENORITA - That last race at 5 furlongs was too short. She'll love the added distance today. 58-78-80 are last 3 Equibase speed figures. Improving each time out is something she should do again in this event. OUR SISTER ANIA - In this race here, this magnificent animal has garnered the highest Equibase speed figure at the distance, so I have to give her the edge. Just missed hitting the board on August 27th at Gulfstream. With decent morning odds in this event, she has my interest.

Vulnerable Contenders: #9 SWEET ESPRIT (ML=4/1), #2 HARD TO PICTURE (ML=5/1), #5 STARSHIP ESPRESSO (ML=6/1),

SWEET ESPRIT - Didn't finish in the money on July 23rd at Gulfstream. Followed it up with another lackluster effort. HARD TO PICTURE - Has been thwarted as the public's top choice back to back. A repeat is probably in store. STARSHIP ESPRESSO - Difficult to put your dough on the win end of any mount that finishes second and third as often as this entrant does.


STRAIGHT WAGERS:
Putting our cash on #8 STARSHIP REVENUE to win. Have to have odds of at least 3/1 or better though

EXACTA WAGERS:
8 with [3,6]

TRIFECTA WAGERS:
Box [3,6,8] Total Cost: $6

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:
Skip

SUPER HI 5 WAGERS:
Skip

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Mohawk: Thursday 9/17 Analysis
By Garnet Barnsdale

DRF HARNESS

Race 4 - $50,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool

EARLY PICK 4:

4,5,6,9/3,5,8/1,4,10/2 = $36


LATE PICK 4: 2/2,3,9/2,4,7,9/2,3,7 = $36

MEET STATS: 319 - 1018 / $1735.70 BEST BETS: 45 - 91 / $146.30

SPOT PLAYS: 12 - 87 / $92.30

Best Bet: MAGICAL STEPH (2nd)

Spot Play: BINGO INGO (6th)


Race 1

This Grassroots semi-final looks made to order for a closer so we’ll try (8) CLASSICAL SON on top, likely at a good price. There seems to be an abundance of early speed here and he could pounce as the race falls apart late. (10) THEE DESPERADO is the obvious pick being unbeaten and fast, but the 10-hole may be his undoing here. (1) MUSCLES FOR LIFE has figured things out in his last two while showing good last speed and would be no surprise.

Race 2

(9) MAGICAL STEPH has won 4 of her last 5 and is obviously the fastest filly in here; post 9 shouldn’t be a problem for her. (1) MYRETIREMENTTICKET switched to a top catch-driver last time and was a predictable winner. She likely has more improvement coming with Henry at the controls. (5) JANDONE won impressively last week and should make the ticket here if she stays flat.

Race 3

(4) TRAVIATA has peeled off three straight wins using a variety of racing styles and should be good for a 4th here with the excellent late speed she has been displaying. (1) MARIANA spoiled a perfect record of exacta finishes by breaking last week. If she behaves she’ll be passing most of these in the second half on her way to an on-the-board finish. (5) THE MUSCLE TOUCH raced better last week when 2nd to the division leader and could spice up the exotics at a price here.

Race 4

(5) NICE TRIP waited way too long to make her move last week but was closing best at the end. She’s had many chances but meets a field she can beat here. (9) NOT DEPRESSED raced big two back here when only nailed very late, then was first up against a big winner at Grand River. Dropping out of the Grassroots gives her a better chance to break her maiden. (4) SO RAVEN blew a big lead late last time and is looking like a professional maiden at this point.

Race 5

(3) SPORTS EXPERT tried the best rookie filly pacer in the country last weekend and did well to close ground late. She should get a good pace to stalk here in this Grassroots semi-final. (8) PARTY IN ROME has caught fire, winning her last three in faster time each week. She’s the one to beat. (5) ROSY OUTLOOK has the ability to stalk and overcome a quick pace and can’t be discounted.

Race 6

(10) BINGO INGO has two big wins at this track in her past five starts – both times long odds – and will likely be overlooked here from the 10-hole; upset special. (4) GERRIES SPORT was trapped until it was too late two back then atoned with a nice win at Grand River last time; contender. (1) ST LADS MOONWALK has been rock-solid the past month and is another to include in the early pick 4.

Race 7

(2) SHES LIGHTS OUT tried it first up vs. L A Delight in the Eternal Camnation final and was swatted away like a fly. These are much easier and she should improve dramatically here. (5) SHOW TIME HILL exits the same heat and finished behind the choice, but should also perform much better here. (6) PEG is another from that same dash and this filly had a subsequent start in which she had some late pace; using.

Race 8

(2) MAYHEM SEELSTER hasn’t missed the exacta yet and is getting faster at the right time. She looks solid here to kick off the late pick 4. (6) BOURBON SEELSTER’s only loss came in the Battle of the Belles elimination. Her good early speed makes her a contender, but she also comes off a vet scratch and a 3-week break; mixed signals. (1) MATTJESTIC TEMPO raced tough last week and fits Grassroots company like a glove. She should be on the ticket here.

Race 9

(9) GEORGIES POCKETS has five wins and two seconds in seven starts and the trainer hands the lines over to a catch-driver here. He looks best in a competitive Grassroots semi-final. (3) WILDWILD MEN has four blowout wins in a row on his card but I suspect he’ll get picked off late. (2) ROMEO has been sharply improved in his past three starts and is another to consider.

Race 10

(4) SECRECY was a sharp winner here two back then closed too late at Grand River. He gets Filion back here and should get a more aggressive drive. (2) KING OF SPORTS beat the choice last time and was a narrow loser to him at this track two back. There is very little to choose between the top two. (7) KOKANEE SEELSTER went first up in the Champlain on Saturday and was easily repelled. These are easier; obviously.

Race 11

(3) LINDYS OLD LADY drops from Grand Circuit competition to NW2L and should go much better here. (7) LADY SPARTACUS was an easy winner vs. similar last week and has obviously found her best stride. (2) ATRIAWITCHTOYOU set solid fractions and was picked off late. She is far more dangerous racing out of the pocket, which is possible here. (4) MISCHIEVOUS GIRLS has 11 exacta finishes in 29 starts and two of them came here in just three tries; using. (9) ABBIJADE HANOVER has two wins in her last three and good tactical speed to overcome this post. She should take a lesser share.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Yonkers: Thursday 9/17 Analysis
By Brewster Smith

DRF HARNESS

MEET STATS: 183 - 867 / $1,283.40 BEST BETS: 20 - 73 / $95.20

Best Bet: LITTLE MERMAID N (4th)

Spot Play: JC KINGDOM (7th)


Race 1

(5) WHOLLY LOUY showed speed in his last two; has every right to put it all together against these. (2) BIG BAD BOSSMAN posted an easy score at this level last out; likely favorite. (4) TREND SPOTTER went down the road two starts back; could have a say in the outcome.

Race 2

(4) JUST SAYIN was late on the scene to nail down the place spot last time around. Based on her last two trips she is ready to put her best foot forward. (2) PITA charged down the lane to bring home all the bacon last out; threat again. (8) MY CAROLINE flashed good speed in her last two; post hurts but she is very capable.

Race 3

(3) BELLA NOCHE is 0 for 20 this year, however, in her last try she did show speed. With a fine-timed drive from Holland this mare can get back into the swing of things. (4) CAM FUNNY put in a mild bid for the show spot last week; contender. (7) CAMS MACHARENA fits well in here and can't be counted out of this.

Race 4

(3) LITTLE MERMAID N 13-year-old mare seems to have a fondness for the $12.5 claiming ranks. She posted a sharp victory last week and two straight is clearly not out of the question. (6) CASE SOLVED has hit the board in her last 6 starts; big threat. (2) NUTMEGS DESIRE has tactical speed and should make some noise in the final stretch drive.

Race 5

(3) LEGAL LITIGATOR put in an even finish in his last trip. This gelding can get the job done with a return to his August 13th start. (2) OUTA MY HEAD was nailed for win honors at odds-on recently; main danger. (1) BETTOR DESIGN stays on the fence and will need a better trip to contend; maybe.

Race 6

After a brief stay at the Meadows, (3) ELM GROVE INARUSH returns to Yonkers where she just missed the victory by only a half-length; ready for action. (2) DEREK DELIGHT has good early zip and Brennan stays; dangerous. (1) LET HER ROCK gets class relief and that should help her cause; watch out.

Race 7

(5) JC KINGDOM is much better than his September 3rd start. The gelding has good speed and with a favorable trip, he can take this at his best. (1) WHITE MOUNTAIN TOP comes by way of Pocono and this seems to be a perfect spot for him to contend. (3) COACH CAL was sharp at Saratoga in his last four tries; not out of this.

Race 8

(5) KIMS DAY has been on the board in 14 of 27 trips this year; made August 20th a winning one down the road; capable. (1) BAZOOKA TERROR should be right there from the rail slot with a favorable trip. (2) ROYAL KNOCKOUT showed good speed at Philly last out; beware.

Race 9

(1) IDEAL A LITTLE is a consistent pacing mare that got the job done in her latest. You can't knock her solid form this year, so the repeat is not out of the question. (5) DENYITTOTHEEND might have been used up in the early stages last out and is better than that effort; player. (2) MIKELEH got beat by Ideal A Little last week but she has a better post to turn the tables; maybe.

Race 10

(5) LUCKY MCTRUCKY flashed good speed in his return to Yonkers. With a fine-timed drive from MacDonald this guy can be the boss over these. (3) DIAMOND COWBOY faced open foes at Plainridge last time out; was second best here on May 7 and Sears is back in the bike; big threat. (1) ABBEYLARA should have a say from the fence.

Race 11

(3) MC DYNAMITE put in a even finish last time around. He has tactical speed and could rate and score over this group; we shall see. (4) FITZS Z TAM has good early pace and needs to save some gas in the tank to be a factor; capable. (6) IM BLUE TOO was second best on August 27th and could be right in the mix.

Race 12

(4) SIR LEHIGH Z TAM has put in two nice efforts and she has every right to mow them down when it counts in the final stretch run. (3) KAITLYN RAE was quite good in her last trip to the post grabbing the second money; main danger. Based on her last two, (1) EYRE HOSTESS N is knocking at the door; beware from the rail slot.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

SPOT PLAYS

For Thursday


TRACK (RACE) HORSE, MORNING LINE


Arlington Park (5th) Jazzy Sun, 9-2
(7th) Jazzy Genius, 5-1

Belmont Park (1st) Ferzetti, 4-1
(8th) Petrocelli, 6-1

Belterra Park (3rd) Buck the System, 8-1
(4th) Exclusive Glitter, 4-1


Charles Town (4th) Compadre's Time, 7-2
(8th) Ruth Gleans, 9-2


Churchill Downs (4th) Errant, 3-1
(7th) Pretty Fancy, 5-1


Finger Lakes (3rd) Loveintheafternoon, 4-1
(8th) Patriot Star, 7-2


Gulfstream Park (5th) Inexcessiveness, 3-1
(8th) El Gran Gayego, 8-1


Indiana Grand (6th) Space Me Out, 4-1
(8th) Lady Caroline, 6-1


Los Alamitos (4th) Love Phone, 3-1
(7th) Warren's Rail Bird, 6-1


Louisiana Downs (5th) Burning Warrior, 3-1
(7th) Logically Tough, 6-1


Penn National (2nd) Gain, 5-1
(4th) Ponselle, 4-1


Presque Isle Downs (7th) King Cyrus, 3-1
(8th) Doubly Distinct, 4-1


Remington Park (2nd) Lingering Smoke, 4-1
(8th) T. Mag, 6-1

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Cubs (84-61) at Pirates (87-58)

Game: 3
Venue: PNC Park
Date: September 17, 2015 12:35 PM EDT

After briefly getting within two of the NL Central lead and opening a five-game gap for the top wild-card spot, Pittsburgh finds itself back closer to the Chicago Cubs than division-leading St. Louis.

The race for home-field advantage in the wild card could get more interesting if the Cubs close their 11-game trip Thursday with a third win in four games against the Pirates.

It's been a busy two days for the NL's only true wild-card contenders, who split a doubleheader Tuesday before the Cubs won 3-2 in 12 innings one night later. The Pirates (87-58), four back of the Cardinals, still hold a three-game edge over Chicago (84-61).

Pittsburgh is batting .192 in the series, and curiously neither team has homered through three games. The last time two teams completed a four-game set without a home run was in 2011. The Cubs haven't been in such a series since 1979 and the Pirates since '84.

The Cubs, an NL-best 32-14 dating to July 29, have won nine of 15 in the season series, and another would ensure them of their first winning record against Pittsburgh since 2009. That was also the last time they had a winning record overall, and Wednesday's victory surpassed that 83-win season for their best since winning the Central in 2008.

Neither club has an ace going in the finale with Pittsburgh's Charlie Morton opposing Kyle Hendricks.

Morton (9-7, 4.02 ERA) has been fairly consistent in his last three starts, pitching six innings in each and posting a 3.00 ERA. Friday's 6-3 home win over Milwaukee was his first victory of the bunch and snapped a three-start losing streak. He gave up two runs and matched a season low with three hits allowed.

Even if the wins haven't been flooding in, the right-hander, whose stuff has never been untouchable, has a .218 opponent batting average in his last six starts.

"As the game went on, the command got sharper, and he was able to work in to left-handers and sink it down to right-handers," Clint Hurdle told MLB's official website after Morton's previous start.

Morton has avoided the Cubs since going 1-1 with a 5.68 ERA in his last three starts in the series last year. Starlin Castro (12 for 27 with three home runs) figures to be in the lineup, and Chris Coghlan (4 for 10 with a homer and triple) has also had success.

Hendricks (7-6, 4.08) hasn't had the best control in the second half, walking 3.60 per nine innings in 11 starts after issuing 1.55 over 17 before the All-Star break. That's resulted in a 3-2 record, 4.95 ERA and .329 opponent on-base percentage after he went 4-4 with 3.55 and .293 marks in the first half.

The right-hander has countered that in his last two outings by limiting Arizona and Philadelphia to a .175 average, resulting in two Chicago wins, a 1-0 record and 3.09 ERA.

For the 25-year-old, though, team wins are all that really matters at this point.

"The consensus here is everybody's thinking about October," Hendricks told MLB's official website. "We're that close. We can smell it. With that lead, you never can take anything for granted. We're in a good spot."

The Pirates have tagged him with a 0-1 record and 5.63 ERA in three starts this season. Pedro Alvarez is 3 for 8 with a home run.

Chicago's Miguel Montero is batting .366 in his last 11 to boost his average (.248) to its highest since June 26.

Pittsburgh follows this contest with a 10-game trip that closes with three at Wrigley Field as part 10-game homestand for the Cubs which begins Friday against St. Louis.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Athletics (62-84) at White Sox (69-75)

Game: 4
Venue: U.S. Cellular Field
Date: September 17, 2015 2:10 PM EDT

Since the start of 2013, 12 pitchers have made at least 90 starts and maintained an ERA under 3.50. Jose Quintana is one of them, and he has just 27 wins to show for it.

The list figures to grow to 17 by the end of the regular season. What's unlikely to change is Quintana's misfortune being matched by anyone other than Cole Hamels over the three-season span.

There's a small consolation: The Chicago White Sox left-hander can win 10 games for the first time in his career Thursday at home against the Oakland Athletics.

Quintana (9-10, 3.53 ERA) is 27-28 with a 3.45 ERA in 94 starts since the start of 2013. Hamels has 26 wins in 91 starts in that time, while the Texas ace's 3.52 run-support average is also the only lower than Quintana's 3.92 mark among the 17.

Unsurprisingly, the list includes some impressive names: Scherzer, Bumgarner, Zimmermann, Hernandez, Lester, Lynn, Price, Shields, Teheran and Miller with Kershaw, Greinke, Kluber, Lackey and Kazmir all likely to reach 90 starts by season's end.

Granted, the 26-year-old Quintana's ERA is the highest of the bunch, but Chicago is well aware he hasn't gotten the results he deserves.

That's begun to change modestly dating to his shutout in Cleveland on July 24 with Quintana going 5-1 with a 2.98 ERA in 10 starts.

After allowing an earned run and four hits in six innings of Saturday's 8-2 home win over Minnesota, he can win three straight starts for the first time in what will be the 117th of his career. He got at least seven runs of support for the eighth time in those 94 starts over three years, a far cry from the 36 times the White Sox have given him one run or none.

"I think deep down inside he's probably ecstatic," manager Robin Ventura told MLB's official website. "He doesn't like to show it, but when you've gone through what he's gone through of not getting runs, he will sleep well tonight."

He's without a decision against Oakland (62-84), though that's more on him with a 4.85 ERA in two starts. Neither came this season, and first-year A's Brett Lawrie (1 for 9), Danny Valencia (2 for 14) and Billy Butler (5 for 27 with 11 strikeouts) have all struggled with Quintana.

He's up against Sean Nolin, who's a mere 87 career starts shy of 90. Nolin (1-1, 3.09) has made two this season since being called up on Sept. 4, earning his first big league win in Saturday's 5-3 victory in Texas. He gave up a run and five hits in 5 2-3 innings of his first road outing.

"It's something I've always dreamt about, as a young kid," said Nolin, one of four players Oakland acquired from Toronto last November in the trade for Josh Donaldson. "Overall, the last few years, fighting one injury that prolonged everything else, now I feel like things are lining up."

The White Sox (69-75) have won two of the first three games in the series after Wednesday's 9-4 victory. They've also won nine of the last 11 against Oakland and haven't lost a home set to the A's since April 2011, going 12-6 since.

Jose Abreu is 7 for 13 with two home runs and seven RBIs in the series, getting him within one of a second 30-homer season.

Oakland is in danger of dipping 23 games under .500 for the first time since 1997.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Marlins (63-83) at Nationals (75-70)

Game: 1
Venue: Nationals Park
Date: September 17, 2015 7:05 PM EDT

Trying to get back into the NL East race, the Washington Nationals need to do a lot better this time against the Miami Marlins.

Good thing the club's offense appears capable.

The Nationals look to continue their recent turnaround Thursday night in the opener of this four-game set with the Marlins.

Washington (75-70) is second in the division, 7 1/2 games behind the New York Mets. The Nationals have gained some ground with a four-game winning streak, averaging 7.3 runs and hitting .325 with 10 homers. That marks a tremendous improvement after they lost five straight with a .232 average, three homers and 3.2 runs per contest.

That poor stretch included two defeats at Miami (63-83) last weekend before the Nationals concluded the series with Sunday's 5-0 victory to begin their win streak.

They showed off some power Wednesday as Jayson Werth hit two solo homers and Bryce Harper added a two-run blast - his 40th of the season - in a 12-2 win over Philadelphia.

"We have to keep grinding and keep winning," said Harper, who went 7 for 13 with four homers and seven RBIs in the three-game series after going 1 for 8 with five strikeouts in three meetings with Miami.

Werth was 2 for 10 in that series but bounced back by going 5 for 13 with four homers and seven RBIs against the Phillies.

Harper sits atop the majors with a career-best .338 average, while his 40 homers are among the leaders and make him just the third in franchise history to reach the mark and first since Alfonso Soriano's team-record 46 in 2006.

"He plays hard, plays like he's having fun," left-hander Gio Gonzalez said. "It's just unbelievable and fun to watch. To say the sky's the limit is an understatement."

The offense didn't come through for Tanner Roark (4-5, 4.38 ERA) in Saturday's 2-0 loss to the Marlins. The right-hander yielded two runs in 4 2-3 innings, dropping to 2-2 with a 2.62 ERA in five starts against them.

Roark is 3-2 with a 5.06 ERA in eight starts on the season, but he's allowed three runs in nine innings over his last two after replacing Joe Ross in the rotation.

The Marlins have won 11 of their past 15 games, taking five consecutive series to tie a team record set in 2003.

"The thing for me that makes me the most proud is that these guys are playing the game the right way," manager Dan Jennings said after Wednesday's 6-0 win over the Mets. "We realize that we're not playing for the postseason but at the same time we're playing to get ready for 2016."

That's certainly true for Jarred Cosart (1-4, 4.58), who has missed much of this year with vertigo and an inner-ear infection after winning a career-high 13 games with Miami and Houston in 2014.

"I'm just trying to show them that last year wasn't a fluke," Cosart told MLB's official website. "Obviously, what I dealt with earlier this year, it changed everything."

The right-hander has allowed one run in 9 2-3 innings while not getting a decision in his last two starts. He tossed five scoreless in Friday's 2-1 win over Washington and is 0-2 with a 2.82 ERA in four starts against the Nats, getting six total runs of support.

That could change with Dee Gordon - second in the NL batting chase at .332 - looking to build on his eight hits in the last three games after going 2 for 10 against the Nationals. Gordon is a .380 hitter in his last 11 games at Washington.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Royals (85-60) at Indians (72-72)

Game: 4
Venue: Progressive Field
Date: September 17, 2015 7:10 PM EDT

The Cleveland Indians are hoping Corey Kluber can extend their late push in his return, while the Kansas City Royals need Yordano Ventura to find his 2014 playoff form.

As their reigning AL Cy Young Award winner makes his first September start, the host Indians seek their 15th victory in 21 games Thursday night against the reeling Royals.

Kluber (8-13, 3.41 ERA) hasn't been nearly as dominant as last season, when he went 18-9 with a 2.44 ERA. But the ace has a chance to help Cleveland make things interesting in the playoff race.

The Indians (72-72) have turned things around since they were in the basement of the Central on Aug. 24. They moved within four games of a wild-card spot with Wednesday's 5-1 victory and Houston's loss to Texas.

Kluber will try to help Cleveland take three of four from the Royals and move above .500 for the first time since the third game of the season. He had gone 2-1 with a 2.63 ERA over a five-start stretch before getting shut down for 2 1/2 weeks because of a hamstring injury.

Manager Terry Francona said Kluber won't be on a pitch count.

"He's our ace of the staff, he's our leader," right fielder Lonnie Chisenhall told MLB's official website. "We're always in a good position with him up there."

After posting a 5.85 ERA while dropping his first three meetings with the Royals, Kluber threw a five-hitter - his second straight complete game against them - in a 12-1 home win July 29.

Mike Moustakas has gone 8 for 14 when facing Kluber this season and Eric Hosmer is 6 for 12 with a homer and three doubles. Moustakas is also batting .457 over 35 lifetime at-bats, though Kendrys Morales (3 for 16) and Ben Zobrist (1 for 11) are among several Royals who have struggled.

Moustakas accounted for the only run with his 19th homer Wednesday when Kansas City (85-60) scored three or fewer for the seventh time during this 3-9 stretch. The club still owns a big division lead, but Toronto has cut its hold on the AL's top record to two games.

'I know our guys are human, but (slumps) like this generally don't last too long," manager Ned Yost said. "We've got to balance it out here pretty soon.'

Ventura (11-8, 4.42) is trying to find his big-game form in time for the postseason. The hard-throwing right-hander went 1-0 with a 2.52 ERA in four starts during last year's playoff run.

Ventura, however, has allowed eight runs and 16 hits over 11 innings in his last two starts. He's particularly struggled on the road this season, posting a 5.15 ERA in 11 outings.

The 24-year-old went 3-0 with a 1.57 mark in his first five career starts against Cleveland before giving up five runs while walking four over 5 1-3 innings in a 7-5 loss at Progressive Field on April 29.

Jason Kipnis homered against Ventura in that contest, but the All-Star second baseman is batting just .179 over his last 28 games. Carlos Santana is 5 for 15 with two home runs lifetime in the matchup.

Defensive wiz Francisco Lindor matched career highs with three hits - including his ninth home run - and four RBIs on Wednesday. The rookie is batting .463 with 19 RBIs over his last 18 home games.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Orioles (71-74) at Rays (70-75)

Game: 1
Venue: Tropicana Field
Date: September 17, 2015 7:10 PM EDT

Two years removed from leading their respective teams in wins, the Baltimore Orioles' Chris Tillman and Tampa Bay Rays' Matt Moore are struggling to find their way.

As both try to snap four-game losing streaks, the Orioles hope to give a boost to their shrinking playoff hopes Thursday night when they open a four-game series at Tropicana Field.

Tillman emerged as one of Baltimore's top hurlers in 2013 when he went 16-7 with a 3.71 ERA, then went 13-6 with a 3.34 mark last season and won a playoff game.

The right-hander, however, has taken a step back in a wildly inconsistent 2015. He went 0-6 with a 6.10 ERA from April 23-May 31 before going 7-0 with a 3.47 mark in his next 12 starts.

Tillman (9-11, 5.21 ERA), though, has since gone 0-4 with an 8.42 ERA in five outings. He'll face Tampa Bay for a sixth time in 2015, having posted a 1.74 ERA in three on the road.

The Orioles (71-74) had won six of seven before Tuesday's 10-1 loss to Boston kept them 5 1/2 games back of an AL wild-card spot with 17 remaining. They've won six of nine at Tropicana this season.

"We've said we need to go out there and win 'em all," shortstop J.J. Hardy said. "We need to take that same approach going into the next series (at Tampa)."

The Rays (70-75), one game behind Baltimore, are turning to Moore (1-4, 8.42) as they try to avoid their 10th loss in 14 games.

The left-hander went 17-4 with a 3.29 ERA for the 2013 playoff team before he was limited to two starts the following season. Moore returned from Tommy John surgery in July, going 1-3 with an 8.78 ERA in six starts before getting sent to Triple-A Durham. He hasn't been much better in two outings since being called back up, going 0-1 with a 7.45 ERA.

The 2013 All-Star allowed eight runs and a career-high four homers over five innings in Saturday's 10-4 home loss to Boston. He hasn't pitched into the sixth inning in a team-record nine straight starts.

"We have to stay more competitive on my day on the mound," he told MLB's official website.

Moore had been 4-2 with a 1.89 ERA in six starts versus Baltimore before posting an 11.70 mark while losing the last two. In his only start against the Orioles this season, he gave up five runs over five innings in a 5-2 home loss July 26.

Matt Wieters is 8 for 14 against Moore, Adam Jones is 11 for 21 and each has two homers off him.

Tampa Bay fell to 2-4 on its 10-game homestand Wednesday following a 3-1 loss to the New York Yankees. James Loney had three hits and Steven Souza went 2 for 3 with an RBI.

Evan Longoria enters in a 1-for-16 slump, but he's hit .348 against Tillman and his six homers off him are the most of anyone. Logan Forsythe is 6 for 11 when facing Tillman this season.

Asdrubal Cabrera is likely to miss his second straight game due to a strained knee.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Blue Jays (83-62) at Braves (57-89)

Game: 3
Venue: Turner Field
Date: September 17, 2015 7:10 PM EDT

Although the Toronto Blue Jays' potent offense hadn't been faring too well in NL parks, it's coming off its most productive performance yet.

The AL East-leading Blue Jays try to finish their road interleague schedule at .500 by again teeing off on the lowly Atlanta Braves on Thursday night.

Toronto (83-62) leads the division by three games over New York, and much of the credit goes to an offense leading the majors with 5.5 runs per game and 204 homers.

The Blue Jays, however, might be in a more comfortable position if not for going 4-5 on the road during interleague play - and the problem there has been the offense.

The bats have mustered a .232 average with 11 homers while averaging 4.8 runs in those games, a stark contrast to hitting .297 with 18 homers and 6.2 runs per contest while winning seven of 10 at home against NL opponents.

The offense came through Wednesday with half of its 12 hits going for extra bases in a 9-1 win at Atlanta (57-89). Toronto totaled two runs and nine hits while losing the previous two games.

"It's the best offense in all of baseball," said left-hander David Price, who earned the win and moved to 7-1 with Toronto since being acquired in a trade with Detroit.

Having Edwin Encarnacion healthy is a big plus. He had three hits and two walks after missing two games with a sore left middle finger. He's 9 for 17 with two homers and five RBIs in his last five games.

Encarnacion's next RBI will give him 100 this season, joining Josh Donaldson (119) and Jose Bautista (102) at the century mark. They would be the fourth Blue Jays trio to do it and first since Carlos Delgado (137), Tony Batista (114) and Brad Fullmer (104) in 2000.

Toronto hands the ball to Marco Estrada (12-8, 3.31 ERA), who is 2-0 with 16 strikeouts in 16 2-3 scoreless innings over his last five meetings with Atlanta, including two starts. He tossed 1 1-3 innings of relief against the Braves in a 5-2 win April 19.

Estrada wasn't very sharp Saturday, giving up four runs and a season-high three homers in five innings of a 9-5 win in 11 over the Yankees before Toronto swept the doubleheader with a 10-7 victory in the second game. The right-hander was 5-2 with a 2.42 ERA over his previous eight starts.

The Braves have lost 25 of their last 29 games, including 13 of 15 at home.

They're hoping Matt Wisler (5-7, 5.60) can build on his performance from Friday's 5-1 loss to the Mets. The rookie right-hander allowed two runs and seven hits with six strikeouts in six innings. His aggressiveness carried over from a surprise relief outing at Washington five days earlier in which he tossed two hitless innings in an 8-4 loss.

That appearance was designed to help Wisler snap out of his funk, which included going 0-5 with a 9.49 ERA over his seven previous starts.

"I've got a lot to work on, there was still a lot of guys on base, but I felt better out there," Wisler told MLB's official website Friday. "I not only felt better, I felt confident attacking guys the whole game."

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Astros (77-69) at Rangers (78-67)

Game: 4
Venue: Globe Life Park in Arlington
Date: September 17, 2015 8:05 PM EDT

Lance McCullers must've been experiencing flashbacks while watching the Texas Rangers hang a six-spot on teammate Dallas Keuchel in the first inning Wednesday.

McCullers, too, surrendered six first-inning runs the last time he took the mound in Arlington. The major difference is that his Houston Astros were still seven games clear of the Rangers in the AL West following his rough outing Aug. 3.

He'll face Texas again Thursday night, this time with Houston trailing the first-place Rangers and hoping to prevent a four-game sweep.

McCullers (5-5, 3.10 ERA) had the worst performance of his rookie season the first time he faced Texas, allowing eight of the nine hitters he faced to reach base before being removed in a 12-9 defeat.

The right-hander was sent to the minors for nearly three weeks following that outing, but he's posted a 2.88 ERA in four starts since returning.

"This is just baseball," McCullers said after allowing two runs in five innings of a 3-2 loss to the Los Angeles Angels on Saturday. "I mean, yeah it's a little more under the microscope and we're down the stretch a little bit, but if you try to approach the game different than you've been approaching it (the whole season), that's when things are going to go bad."

Houston's issues away from home certainly haven't gotten any better. The Astros (77-69) are tied with Baltimore for the AL's worst road record at 29-45 after falling to 2-7 on their season-high 10-game trip with Wednesday's 14-3 defeat, dropping 1 1/2 games behind Texas.

They had been in first place since July 28 before losing Tuesday's series opener.

"Our guys are very well aware of where we are in the calendar and what we need to do to make things better," manager A.J. Hinch said. "We have some time to correct it and salvage a game tomorrow."

Texas (78-67), meanwhile, has won nine of 10 at home, four in a row overall and six straight against Houston - all in Arlington.

Prince Fielder hit two of the Rangers' season-high five homers and drove in five runs as his club scored nine times off Keuchel, who entered with the AL's best ERA.

"We can't let up now, we've still got games to play," said Fielder, 8 for 13 with eight RBIs in this series.

Texas is averaging 9.3 runs during its four-game win streak, but Colby Lewis (15-8, 4.45) didn't need much support Friday in one of the best starts of his career. He had a perfect game through seven innings and finished with a two-hitter in a 4-0 win over Oakland.

The right-hander dropped his previous three outings with an 8.62 ERA.

"The things that he's gone through and the resilience that he has, I've got to believe, a pretty tough cat," manager Jeff Banister said of Lewis, who set a career high for wins. "I don't think you're going to push him around much."

The Astros got to Lewis last month when he opposed McCullers, though. He went six innings but allowed seven runs on a two-run homer to Carlos Correa, a solo shot to Luis Valbuena and a grand slam to Jason Castro. Lewis, though, won that game and is 7-0 with a 2.57 ERA in his last nine starts versus the Astros.

Houston will be without closer Luke Gregerson, who left prior to Wednesday's contest after his wife went into labor with the couple's first child. Hinch said Castro could play after missing the last 17 with a right quad strain.