Thursday 9/24/15 service plays chatter/comps/requests & other stuff...

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Giants dominating Skins SU and ATS in past two years
Andrew Avery

The New York Giants have gone 4-0 both straight up and against the spread in the past four meetings with the Washington Redskins. The two NFC East rivals will renew acquaintances at MetLife Stadium Thursday night.

Quarterback Eli Manning and wide receiver Odell Beckham, Jr. have specifically feasted with the Redskins lined up opposite them. Manning, who will make his 169th consecutive start, was 51-of-73 for 550 yards with seven TDs and one interception in last season's sweep while Beckham had 12 catches for 143 yards and three TDs in the last meeting between the teams.

Books opened the Giants as 4-point home favorites, but that has since been adjusted to -3.5.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Beckham tabbed with 99.5 yards in Thursday nighter
By ANDREW AVERY

The Westgate LV Superbook has released props for the Thursday night matchup between the Washington Redskins and New York Giants and among the options on the board involves Giants wide receiver Odell Beckham, Jr.

The Superbook has put up 99.5 receiving yards (O/U -110) for they playmaker and the LSU product recorded 143 yards on 12 catches in his one appearance versus Washington last season.

Beckham heads into Week 3 off a big performance versus the Atlanta Falcons where he caught seven passes for 146 yards in the Giants' 24-20 loss.

Here is a look at what the Westgate LV Superbook is offering for the Thursday nighter:

FIRST SCORE OF THE GAME WILL BE:

TOUCHDOWN -155
ANY OTHER SCORE +135

TOTAL COMPLETIONS BY: KIRK COUSINS (WAS)

OVER 21.5 -110
UNDER 21.5 -110

TOTAL TOUCHDOWN PASSES BY: KIRK COUSINS (WAS)

OVER 1.5 +105
UNDER 1.5 -125

TOTAL GROSS PASSING YARDS BY: ELI MANNING (NYG)

OVER 264.5 -110
UNDER 264.5 -110

TOTAL TOUCHDOWN PASSES BY: ELI MANNING (NYG)

OVER 1.5 -140
UNDER 1.5 +120

TOTAL RECEIVING YARDS BY: ODELL BECKHAM JR (NYG)

OVER 99.5 -110
UNDER 99.5 -110

WILL ODELL BECKHAM JR (NYG) SCORE A TOUCHDOWN?

YES -120
NO EVEN

TOTAL QB SACKS BY: BOTH TEAMS

OVER 4.0 -140
UNDER 4.0 +120

TOTAL POINTS BY: REDSKINS

OVER 20.0 -110
UNDER 20.0 -110

TOTAL POINTS BY: GIANTS

OVER 23.5 -110
UNDER 23.5 -110

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NFL Tech Trends - Week 3
By Bruce Marshall

Thursday, Sept. 24

WASHINGTON at N.Y. GIANTS (CBS/NFL Network, 8:30 p.m. ET)
G-Men romped 45-14 over Skins in a Thursday game about this same time a year ago. NYG have now won and covered four straight in series, and Coughlin 10-5 last 15 as home chalk. Skins 5-11 vs. line away past two seasons.
Tech Edge: NYG, based on team and series trends.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NFL

Week 3

Redskins (1-1) @ Giants (0-2)-- Big Blue lost first two games after leading in 4th quarter, despite winning field position by 11-9 yards; Giants have only two TDs, four FGs in 8 red zone drives- opponents are 17-28 on third down against them. Giants won last four series games; Redskins lost last three visits here by 4-14-11 points. Since '07, Washington is 16-7 as road dog in divisional games; Giants are 7-12 as divisional home fave since '07. Redskins ran ball for 171.5 ypg in first two games; both were at home- Skins lost six of last seven road openers, with four of last six going over total. Giants have been outscored 35-20 in second half so far.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Free NFL Picks: Washington Redskins at New York Giants Odds
by Alan Matthews

So do I think either the Washington Redskins or New York Giants are any good? I don't. But I am not ruling out either winning the NFC East. That division is now totally wide open with Dallas losing both Tony Romo and Dez Bryant for likely two months and the Philadelphia Eagles massively underachieving thus far. Amazingly, the Eagles remain +130 favorites to win the division despite that 0-2 start. Dallas is +150, Washington at +600 and New York at +800.

I'd say the one thing the Redskins and Giants do have in common is that neither head coach will be back next season. I'm not sure that New York's Tom Coughlin makes it to October if the G-Men lose here to fall to 0-3. Meanwhile, Washington's Jay Gruden simply looks overmatched as a head coach, although his team comes off a moderately surprising win on Sunday. Reportedly Gruden has alienated former franchise QB Robert Griffin III so much that RGIII can't even be in the same room with current starter Kirk Cousins right now. The Redskins just need to trade Griffin. You hear some scuttlebutt of a deal to Dallas for RGIII, but there's no way that Redskins owner Dan Snyder would sign off on trading him to Washington's bitter rival. Griffin has been inactive in the first two games.

Redskins at Giants Betting Story Lines

The Giants completely blew their Week 1 game in Dallas because of horrible clock management by Eli Manning. And they pretty much blew their Week 2 home opener as well, a 24-20 loss to Atlanta. I'm not a head coach nor did I stay at a Holiday Inn Express last night. But how do you let the Falcons' best player, Julio Jones, get open for a 37-yard late-game pass from Matt Ryan? That set up Devonta Freeman's go-ahead 2-yard TD run with 1:14 left. So thanks to another fourth-quarter meltdown, the Giants are the first team in NFL history to blow a double-digit fourth-quarter lead in the first two games of the season. The Giants have now opened three straight seasons at 0-2, a first in franchise history.

Manning has to take the blame again, I think. He fumbled on a sack late in the third quarter, with the Giants ahead by 10 and inside the Falcons' 10. In the fourth quarter, he committed a crucial delay of game penalty. He did complete 27-for-40 for 292 yards and no picks. And Odell Beckham was his usually non-guardable self, catching seven balls for 146 yards and a touchdown. Beckham, who now has 103 career receptions, surpassed the 100-reception mark in his 14th career game, the fastest by any player in NFL history. Beckham's 1,495 career receiving yards are the most by a player through his first 14 games. New York No. 2 receiver Victor Cruz hasn't played yet this season due to a calf injury and won't Thursday. Also likely out is left tackle Ereck Flowers, who is dealing with an ankle injury. Justin Pugh would move from right guard to left tackle with Flowers sidelined. John Jerry will start at right guard.

The Redskins appeared to catch the Rams in a letdown game Sunday after St. Louis upset Seattle in Week 1. Washington won 24-10. Cousins was very good, completing 23-for-27 for 203 yards and a touchdown -- most important, no turnovers, which has been his problem. And there's going to be a guy who is a big waiver-wire pickup in your fantasy leagues this week. That would be Redskins running back Matt Jones, who rushed 19 times for 123 yards and two scores. And it's not like the Skins don't already have a good back in Alfred Morris, who carried 18 times for 59 yards. But it looks like we may have a running back-by-committee thing happening. Through the first two weeks of the season, the Redskins lead the league in rushing with 343 yards (171.5 yards per game). Washington is the only team that has two players with at least 150 rushing yards. Morris has rushed for at least 100 yards or scored a touchdown in four of six career meetings vs. the Giants.

Washington remains without receiver DeSean Jackson due to a hamstring injury. Ryan Grant took his starting spot opposite Pierre Garcon vs. the Rams. Grant caught three passes for 45 yards.

Redskins at Giants Betting Odds and Trends

New York is a 4-point favorite with a total of 43.5. On the moneyline, the Giants are -210 and the Skins +175. There are no alternate lines posted yet. The Redskins are 1-1 against the spread this season and 0-2 "over/under." This is their first road game. The Giants are 1-1 ATS and O/U.

Washington is 2-8 ATS in its past 10 after a win. It is 2-5-1 ATS in its past eight on Thursday. New York is 6-1 ATS in its past seven on Thursday. The over is 5-0 in the Redskins' past five following an ATS win. The over is 4-1 in the Giants' past five vs. the NFC East. The under is 6-1 in the past seven meetings. Washington is 3-7-1 ATS in its past 11 in New York.

Free NFL Picks: Redskins at Giants Betting Predictions

The Giants have won the past four games against Washington, including a 45-14 victory over the Redskins on "Thursday Night Football" last season at MetLife Stadium. Manning threw five touchdown passes in that one, three to tight end Larry Donnell. Cousins started that one and was pretty horrendous, going 19-for-33 for 257 yards, a touchdown, four picks and a lost fumble. Washington turned it over six times, leading to 31 New York points. The Giants have not lost at home to the Redskins since 2011. And they won't here. Give the points and go over the total.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at Harrah's Philadelphia

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


Race 5 - Post: 2:00 - 1 mile. PACE - Class Rating: 80 - Purse:$35000 - LIBERTY BELL E.C. SERIES 2 YEAR OLD COLTS & GELDINGS 2ND OF 4 DIVISIONS ALL HORSES RACE UNCOUPLED BY PERMISSION OF THE PHRC


CONSORTIUM CHOICES


Chatsworth Consortium

# 6 INNIT HANOVER 10/1


# 5 VICEROY HANOVER 15/1


# 4 SAFENSOUND HANOVER 9/2


INNIT HANOVER is the most respectable wager in this competition check out that good price on the line. Should be considered in this event if only for the formidable TrackMaster SR recorded in the most recent race. VICEROY HANOVER - The handicapping team happens to know that when you put Brennan and Burke together really strong results happen frequently. Drawing the 5 post at Harrah's Philadelphia has resulted in a very profitable return on investment. SAFENSOUND HANOVER - Hard to put finger on it, but get behind him in here.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at Yonkers Raceway

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


Race 10 - Post: 10:10 - 1 mile. PACE - Class Rating: 88 - Purse:$22000 - F& M NON-WINNERS OF $12,000 IN LAST 5 STARTS WINNERS OVER $70,000 IN 2015 NOT ELIGIBLE. AE. OPTIONAL CLAIMING ALLOWANCE $30,000


CONSORTIUM CHOICES


Chatsworth Consortium

# 3 FREETIME 7/1


# 5 CANACO STAR 5/2


# 4 BABY REMIND ME 12/1


The pick in this event is FREETIME and the morning line makes this a dynamite value bet. Overall stats appear nice. Can't throw out at this point. CANACO STAR - Enters this affair with great TrackMaster class rankings relative to the group - worth a look. That 90 speed rating clocked in the last race puts this contender in the mix in this event. BABY REMIND ME - The 88 avg class figure may give this mare a distinct edge in the field. Bucci has proven the ability to get a harness racer ready off a break and looks to have this one fit an ready.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Golden Gate

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


Race 1 - Maiden Claiming - 5.5f on the Dirt. Purse: $9000 Class Rating: 80

FOR MAIDENS, THREE YEARS OLD AND UPWARD. THREE YEAR OLDS, 119 LBS.; OLDER, 123 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $12,500.


RECOMMENDED CHOICES

The Walker Group Picks

# 6 INEXCESS AGAIN 7/2


# 2 MY FRIEND GEORGE 6/1


# 1 DESERT MOON 5/2


INEXCESS AGAIN looks quite good to best this field. With Hernandez controlling the reins on him, this gelding will almost certainly be able to break out quickly here. Put up a quite good speed figure last time out. A solid 85 avg Equibase class rating may give this gelding a distinct class edge against this group of animals. MY FRIEND GEORGE - Has quite good Equibase Speed Figures and has to be considered for a bet for this event. With a respectable 67 speed figure last time out, will unquestionably be a factor in this competition. DESERT MOON - Shows signs of the look of a profitable play, averaging a solid 72 speed rating which is one of the best in this field. Has been moving well and has among the strongest speed in the race for today's distance.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Remington Park

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


Race 3 - Claiming - 8.0f on the Turf. Purse: $16000 Class Rating: 79

FOR FILLIES AND MARES THREE YEAR OLDS AND UPWARD WHICH HAVE NEVER WON TWO RACES. THREE YEAR OLDS, 120 LBS.; OLDER, 123 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $25,000. OKLAHOMA BRED CLAIMING PRICE $30,000.


RECOMMENDED CHOICES

The Walker Group Picks

# 5 CAVIAR KITTY 7/2


# 3 RETRO CITIZEN 15/1


# 1 DISONES PRETTY 3/1


I've got to go with CAVIAR KITTY. Is worth considering and may be a wager - strong Equibase Speed Figures (76 average) at today's distance and surface recently. Players should probably feel comfortable with this pick given Johnstone's recent gains at the window. Is a key contender - given the 79 Equibase speed fig from her most recent race. RETRO CITIZEN - Her 68 average has this filly with among the top speed figures for this event. This racer has some longshot handicapping angles going for her. DISONES PRETTY - Looks solid to be close to the front end at the first call. With a solid 64 speed figure last time out, will definitely be a factor in this contest.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Bar

Charles Town - Race #3 - Post: 7:57pm - Maiden Claiming - 7.0 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $10,500 Class Rating: 59

Rating: Golden DollarGolden DollarGolden DollarGolden Dollar

#8 SHACK DADDY (ML=4/1)


SHACK DADDY - Correa drops him down to this level. You don't need too much more handicapping info to think this horse has a darn good chance at this level. Maiden is switching to the main track, and may not have liked the turf last out. Has a good chance to win for the 1st time.

Vulnerable Contenders: #9 HALEY'S LIL DIXIE (ML=5/2), #4 FLYING AGAIN (ML=3/1), #7 PHILITASTIC (ML=5/1),

HALEY'S LIL DIXIE - This horse hasn't been hitting the board in either of his last two outings. This morning-line choice may be out of form without any recent morning blow outs. FLYING AGAIN - Usually I need a sprinter to have some success lately in sprint races in order to play him. PHILITASTIC - Doesn't look inspiring to me after the lack of any type of closing ability on May 6th. This filly hasn't had any positive outcomes in sprint events in the last couple of months.


STRAIGHT WAGERS:
Have to go with #8 SHACK DADDY on the win end if we get at least 1/1 odds

EXACTA WAGERS:
None

TRIFECTA WAGERS:
None

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:
None

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Bar

Presque Isle Downs - Race #7 - Post: 7:55pm - Allowance - 6.0 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $35,000 Class Rating: 86

Rating: Golden DollarGolden DollarGolden DollarGolden Dollar

#6 MAYA ELIZABETH (ML=6/1)
#4 HAPPY TO GO (ML=2/1)


MAYA ELIZABETH - This jockey/conditioner duo has been producing a very beneficial ROI, right at +330. All systems look good for this filly. Last workout, 2nd fastest of the day, shows she's fit and ready. This filly is in good condition, having run a good race on Aug 28th, finishing first. HAPPY TO GO - Rodriguez rode this thoroughbred for the first time last time around the track and comes right back in today's contest. The August 9th event at Presque Isle Downs was at a class level of (91). Dropping down the ladder based on class considerably, so she should be in a good spot. I like this filly. Has the topmost earnings per race in today's contest.

Vulnerable Contenders: #1 AFLEET ALEXA (ML=5/2), #2 BEKKI'S DANCE (ML=3/1), #5 ADMIRING GLANCE (ML=8/1),

AFLEET ALEXA - Not easy to play any horse in a sprint affair at 5/2 when she hasn't shown any positive results in sprints in the last 60 days. BEKKI'S DANCE - 3/1 is not pegged at the proper price for any mount in a sprint of 6 furlongs that hasn't hit the board in a short distance clash recently. The finish position of fifth in the last event shows me that this horse may be going off form. The rating last time out doesn't fit very well in this event when I look at the class rating of today's contest. Mark this animal as a vulnerable contender.


STRAIGHT WAGERS:
Bet on #6 MAYA ELIZABETH to win if we can get at least 5/2 odds

EXACTA WAGERS:
Box [4,6]

TRIFECTA WAGERS:
Pass

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Rick Needham at Belmont Park

RACE #2 - BELMONT PARK - 1:28 PM EASTERN POST


The Lonesome Glory Handicap

20.0 FURLONGS NATIONAL FENCE COURSE GRADE I FOUR YEARS OLD AND UPWARD STAKES $150,000.00 PURSE

#2 BOB LE BEAU
#5 CHARMINSTER
#7 DIPLOMAT
#6 SYROS

#2 BOB LE BEAU is the overall pace profile leader in this stakes field this afternoon, and has posted a trio of "POWER RUN WINS" in his last four outings. Jockey Jack Doyle has been in his irons on 6 previous occasions, winning three times, en route to a +158% return on investment in the process, and is back today for his 7th ride, gunning for a "Grand Slam Win!" #5 CHARMINSTER, an Irish-bred entry and a 10-1 BOMB, has hit the board in "POWER RUN FASHION" in three straight, including a "POWER RUN WIN" in his 3rd race back.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Mohawk: Thursday 9/24 Analysis
By Garnet Barnsdale

DRF HARNESS

Race 4 - $50,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool

EARLY PICK 4:

6,8,9/1,2,4,5/2/3,4,7,8 = $48


LATE PICK 4: 3,4,7,8/2,5,6,8/4,5,6/7 = $48

MEET STATS: 335 - 1066 / $1874.30 BEST BETS: 47 - 95 / $152.40

SPOT PLAYS: 13 - 91 / $149.30

Best Bet: SOAKING UP THE SUN (6th)

Spot Play: MUSCLE MATTERS (8th)


Race 1

(5) T C SNO MASSIVE has been close vs. better and meets a field she should be able to beat here. (6) BOW TIES N BOURBON has had gait issues in his past two starts but would be a top contender here if he could stay trotting. (7) TUSCANS MEMORY was racing well in Quebec until last start when he broke in a sires stake final. This isn't the best betting race on the card to be sure.

Race 2

(5) PARTY IN ROME was used hard making the front in a quick 1/2 last week and that exertion took its toll late. She can bounce back here with an easier trip likely in this short field. (4) DIVAS IMAGE is the one that was battling with the choice early in that Grassroots semi-final. Tactics are likely to be far less aggressive here. (6) TOP ROYAL was 2nd to an impressive winner that roared by the field late. She has 4 exacta finishes in her last five and isn't without a shot here.

Race 3

(6) WORLDCLASS HANOVER faced much better in her past two starts and was an easy winner three back in a similar class to this one. Top call with the class relief. (8) SPIRIT SQUAD showed big improvement last week and may be starting to figure things out; exacta factor. (1) WEVE HAD ENOUGH tried a closing style last time and it didn't work. He can be a factor from close range here.

Race 4

(6) SEXYANDINOITDEVIE was simply too far back last week and was doomed when the final 1/4 was the quickest of that mile. Expect a more aggressive drive tonight, (8) NAUGHTY LADY B has greatly improved her late speed the past two starts and has a real shot to break her maiden here. (9) CAMPS BAY is another that has been closing fast but needs to be closer turning home.

Race 5

(4) SEAWIND PASCALE was sitting in a good spot when she made an uncharacteristic break last week. Let's give her another chance with Zeron returning to drive. (5) BURNIN MONEY was an easy winner mostly due to a great trip and a heady drive by JD last time. He looks good again in here but rarely doubles up; tough call. (1) EXEMPLAR left hard then took a costly shuffle last week. He is another to keep on your early pick 4 tickets.

Race 6

(2) SOAKING UP THE SUN has won two straight off the claim and looks good to notch a hat trick here considering the dearth of early speed signed on. (8) BRINGHOME THEBLUE looks like the only threat to the choice but will need to beat a few of these off the gate which seems doubtful based on his chart lines. (7) COLONYS BEST drops into a claimer for the first time but also faces some elders; minor award predicted.

Race 7

(3) NICE TRIP was noticed closing with good energy two back when too far behind the leader and last week was even better when motoring by the field late. With the improvement she's been showing this step up may not be tough for her; top call. (4) KATIES BEACH finally broke her maiden but she did it in style from the 10-hole and merits inclusion here. (9) DOUBLE OLIVES was an impressive winner in a similar class last week and can't be discounted.

Race 8

(5) MUSCLE MATTERS returns from Pocono which looks like a winning angle if you check his July 8 and July 27 lines. (2) CATCH THE DREAM was a bit sluggish first up last week but that's not his trip. He should go better here on cover. (8) O U SEXY GUY was claimed last week by Puddy which is always a dangerous angle; using.

Race 9

(4) CARTER BEACH had a busy stretch of 3 races in 8 days including the Metro elimination and consolation. The time off may benefit him and he faces a field he should be able to handle; top call. (5) DAYLIGHT RUSH lost to a rapidly-improving colt last week and will break through soon. (6) ADRIAN HANOVER beat similar two back then managed to grab a check in a Grand Circuit dash. Keep him on your late pick 4 tickets.

Race 10

(7) THOUGHTYOUDLIKEIT was an impressive debut winner when parked a long way and can double up here using a similar style. (10) NEWBIE has been beating elders in the top classes out of town and would take some beating if he could make the front from out there. With other speed signed on that may be a tall order, though. (9) MACH ON THE BEACH is another that has been tearing up the tracks out of town but he and several others may want the front here. (1) ALASKAN SEELSTER rarely misses a check and should get a good stalking trip here chasing lots of early speed. (5) SHOE SHINE was no match for the winner last time but was easily best of the rest and should get a piece of this.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Yonkers: Thursday 9/24 Analysis
By Brewster Smith

DRF HARNESS

MEET STATS: 191 - 903 / $1,355.00 BEST BETS: 22 - 76 / $101.40

Best Bet: K JS CAROLINE (12th)

Spot Play: SOUTHWIND SERENITY (10th)


Race 1

(3) THESEYESRCRYING Very sharp in his last two trips at Tioga; with a favorable trip, he can make tonight a winning one. (2) TRANSCENDING rallied strongly to just miss by only a length and a quarter; must be considered. (5) JETTY was used up in the early stages last out; could have a say in the outcome.

Race 2

(5) LET HER ROCK had the lead briefly in deep stretch but hit the brakes at the last jump to lose by a head; her last trip should be an indication she is ready to fire her best against these; primed. (1) DEREK DELIGHT has good early zip and the rail slot should help her cause; big threat. (7) PITA has wheeled off two straight victories at the Hilltop; got the job done from the 7-hole two starts ago; player again.

Race 3

(5) GIACOMETTI has late kick; based on his last two starts he seems to be knocking at the door; can take this with a fine-timed drive from Stratton. (1) SHOW STOPPING After a brief stay at Saratoga this pacer is back at Yonkers where he got the job done on July 31st; main danger. (3) THUNDERS FURY could hang around for a share; clearly is better than his latest.

Race 4

(3) LITTLE MERMAID N She has been quite good of late; 13-year-old miss was victorious in her last two tries; has the speed to keep on her winning ways. (1) NUTMEGS DESIRE is knocking at the door and the rail slot should put her right in the mix; contender. (6) FLYING MOCHA leaves the 8-hole and is clearly not out of this by far.

Race 5

(6) BAD GIRL VEGAS did not fire against better last time out; but this gal is back at the level she was second best on August 27 and September 17 respectfully; all systems go. (5) BIJOU THEATER was sent by Bartlett down the road last out for all the glory; dangerous again. (4) BABES CHIP gets a better post and needs to relax her speed to contend; maybe.

Race 6

(3) SOLID QUEEN Based on her last three trips to the post, she is poised to boss these at her best. (1) ALITTLEEASTERMAGIC has scored in her last two tries; has good speed and will be quite tough from the fence, (4) IDEAL A LITTLE has hit the board 15 of 28 starts this year; consider.

Race 7

(3) SODYS MOONSHINE just held on for win honors last out; 10-year-old gelding is very sharp now and Brennan takes over; ready for his second straight score. (1) JUST THAT retains the rail slot and could contend with a favorable trip. (5) DVCFLYINGFRENCHMAN surged late on the scene to nail down the place spot on September 10th; watch out.

Race 8

Will give (3) CANT STOP ME NOW a big shot to put it all together; on August 6th this gal just missed the score by only a length and a quarter; quite capable. (2) DENYITTOTHEEND has very good early zip; definitely the one to catch. (1) SUMMER SNOW moves to the rail and that should help her cause; factor in exotics.

Race 9

(1) COOL LIKE THAT gets post relief and has good speed; pacing gelding could top these at his best. (6) ROCKY MOUNTAIN GUY goes for a new barn and put in two nice efforts in a row; main danger. (2) IM BLUE TOO should do much better from the 2-hole; the one to catch.

Race 10

This looks to be a perfect spot for (1) SOUTHWIND SERENITY to get back into the winner's circle; pacing mare can mow these down with a fine-timed drive from Brennan. (6) GRACE SEELSTER She is going for the hat trick after her wire to wire victory last time out; threat. (5) CANACO STAR raced evenly and was beaten by only a length and 3/4; not out of this.

Race 11

(5) COLONIAL ROAD If you throw out his most recent outing, this 8-year-old has done quite well; can be the boss with a favorable trip. (1) INVICTUS HANOVER Easy victory down the road in his last try; moves to the rail and Brennan stays in the bike; tough despite the rise in class. (3) SOMEPLACE SPECIAL gets serious post relief and has fine speed; watch out.

Race 12

(2) K JS CAROLINE has been facing open foes upstate; should find the half-mile oval to her liking and good to see Brennan with the assignment; big threat to take this. (6) GODDESSS ROSA beat lesser company by 4 lengths last time around; must be considered despite the escalation in class. (1) ELM GROVE INARUSH was clearly out of it turning for home but closed like a shot to grab the victory against a lesser group; based on her fondness for Yonkers, she can't be counted out of this.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

SPOT PLAYS

For Thursday


TRACK (RACE) HORSE, MORNING LINE


Arlington Park (1st) Flying Phoebe, 4-1
(10th) Iker, 6-1

Belmont Park (8th) Sunrise Kitty, 4-1
(9th) Saturday's Charm, 7-2

Belterra Park (2nd) Blue Bull, 8-1
(7th) Jimmy the Whip, 4-1


Charles Town (2nd) Colonial Rocket, 7-2
(8th) Mean Bean, 7-2


Churchill Downs (5th) Gentlediva, 4-1
(8th) Serdynski, 7-2


Finger Lakes (5th) The Fashion Bug, 5-1
(6th) Trojan Warhorse, 7-2


Gulfstream Park (9th) Wild About Jass, 3-1
(10th) Pretty Patsy, 3-1


Indiana Grand (7th) Aft, 4-1
(8th) Gitcha Good, 4-1


Los Alamitos (5th) China Girl Lover, 4-1
(7th) Planet Sunshine, 8-1


Penn National (2nd) Veya, 3-1
(7th) Zeal Genius, 5-1


Presque Isle Downs (2nd) Trev, 4-1
(5th) Stinkster, 5-1


Remington Park (3rd) Disones Pretty, 3-1
(9th) Turner Burner, 8-1

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Pirates (92-60) at Rockies (63-89)

Game: 4
Venue: Coors Field
Date: September 24, 2015 3:10 PM EDT

Though the Pittsburgh Pirates are headed to the postseason for a third straight year, there's still work to be done before the playoffs begin.

With the NL Central title in their sights, the surging Pirates can complete a four-game road sweep of the Colorado Rockies with a sixth straight victory Thursday.

Neil Walker had four hits and recorded a career-high six RBIs to help Pittsburgh (92-60) clinch that postseason berth with Wednesday's 13-7 win at Coors Field.

"We know how hard we've worked," manager Clint Hurdle said. "We know what we've poured into this. We know what we've committed to this.

"We still have things in front of us we need to take care of."

The Pirates last made three consecutive playoff appearances during their division-title run from 1990-92, but are hardly content with just getting there again.

"We're in a different place than we were last year, certainly than a couple of years ago," Walker told MLB's official website.

Pittsburgh owns a three-game lead over the Chicago Cubs for the top wild-card spot in the NL and is four back of first-place St. Louis in the Central. The Pirates begin a three-game series at Wrigley Field on Friday then host the Cardinals for three.

"We still feel like we have the Cardinals in our grasp," Walker said.

Before all that, the Pirates look to sweep a series at Colorado (63-89) for the first time since 1999. They've batted .369 with 28 runs and 45 hits in the first three against a Rockies pitching staff that's posted a 9.50 ERA during the club's four-game skid.

Starling Marte is 9 for 15 with six RBIs in the set.

Chad Bettis (8-5, 4.46 ERA) last made a start against the Pirates in 2013. The right-hander has yielded one run and struck out 12 over 12 innings to win his last two starts. That run came through five innings of Friday's 7-4 victory over San Diego.

"As the game goes on, I get a little bit more dialed in," he said.

Walker is 2 for 5 against Bettis.

It's uncertain if Aramis Ramirez will be back in the Pittsburgh lineup after he sat for precautionary reasons Wednesday to deal with a left groin he tweaked while running the bases the night before.

"We'll see how it is (Thursday)," Ramirez said. "If I'm good enough to play (Thursday), I'll play."

Teammate Jeff Locke (8-11, 4.48) has struggled while posting a 6.00 ERA in losing all three road starts this month. The left-hander allowed four of his five runs in the first four innings and lasted 6 1-3 during Friday's 6-2 defeat at Dodger Stadium.

Locke was much worse in his most recent outing at Coors Field on July 26 of last season when he gave up six runs and three homers in 6 2-3 innings of an 8-1 loss.

Nolan Arenado hit one of those home runs and is 4 for 9 against Locke.

However, it's uncertain if the All-Star third baseman will play after he was rested Wednesday for a bump on the head he suffered Tuesday. Arenado is 1 for 13 with seven strikeouts in his last three contests.

Teammate Corey Dickerson is 5 for 9 with a homer and two doubles in the series.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Diamondbacks (73-79) at Dodgers (86-65)

Game: 4
Venue: Dodger Stadium
Date: September 24, 2015 3:10 PM EDT

Although Paul Goldschmidt is making things difficult, the Los Angeles Dodgers should feel confident about moving closer to history behind one of their Cy Young candidates.

Clayton Kershaw will try to slow down Goldschmidt's power surge and help Los Angeles trim its magic number to win the NL West on Thursday against the Arizona Diamondbacks.

The Dodgers overcame Goldschmidt's 31st home run Wednesday when Chase Utley hit his eighth homer and Corey Seager added his third in a 4-1 victory. Their magic number to clinch a third straight division title for the first time in franchise history was cut to five when San Francisco lost later in the night.

Los Angeles (86-65), which snapped a four-game losing streak, also holds a 1 1/2-game lead on East-leading New York in the race for home-field advantage in a potential division series matchup.

"Being in a playoff race is a nice change of pace from the last few years," said Utley, acquired from last-place Philadelphia on Aug. 19. "I'd almost forgotten what it was like to be in this atmosphere."

Kershaw (14-7, 2.18 ERA) is coming off his first loss since July 27, not that he pitched badly, though he did allow more than one earned run for the first time in eight starts. He was 9-0 with 0.98 ERA over his previous 13 outings before giving up three runs in seven innings in Saturday's 3-2 loss to Pittsburgh.

His outstanding run may have pushed him into the race for a fourth NL Cy Young Award, though teammate Zack Greinke (18-3, 1.65) - scratched Wednesday due to calf soreness - and Chicago's Jake Arrieta (20-6, 1.88) are the likely front-runners.

The reason he might lag behind is some early season struggles, including his only meeting with the Diamondbacks (73-79). Kershaw allowed season highs of six runs and 10 hits over 6 1-3 innings in that 6-0 road loss April 11, as Goldschmidt homered and A.J. Pollock went 3 for 3 off him. Kershaw, though, is 5-1 with a 1.47 ERA in 10 home starts versus Arizona.

Goldschmidt has gone 9 for 17 while homering in his last four games at Chavez Ravine, including three this week. He has a chance to become only the second player to go deep in five straight there in the same season. Dodgers rookie Joc Pederson was the first to do it from April 19-May 2.

The Diamondbacks are 6-12 in this season series despite Goldschmidt batting .391 with eight homers and 18 RBIs.

Arizona will turn to Patrick Corbin (6-4, 2.99) as it tries to win a series at Dodger Stadium for the first time since June 2013.

The left-hander has returned to his 2013 All-Star form after missing last season due to Tommy John surgery. He's gone 3-1 with a 1.44 ERA over his last five starts after allowing five hits over seven innings in Saturday's 6-0 win at San Francisco.

"My elbow feels great," Corbin said. "I haven't had an issue with that ever since I've come back. It seems like the last six or so starts, my arm is catching up, my body is getting used to doing this again. The season is coming to an end, but I wish I had a bunch more (starts)."

Corbin hasn't thrown more than 91 pitches in 14 starts since returning in July. He lost at home to the Dodgers on Sept. 13 despite allowing two runs in six innings, but he's 2-0 with a 2.60 ERA in three career outings at Chavez Ravine.

Justin Turner had two hits off Corbin earlier this month but is expected to miss a fifth straight game with a knee injury. Chris Heisey has two home runs in four career at-bats in the matchup.

The Dodgers, however, have batted .171 while totaling 13 runs over their last five games.

Arizona's Nick Ahmed is expected to miss at least two games with a sore lower back.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Rangers (82-69) at Athletics (64-88)

Game: 3
Venue: O.co Coliseum
Date: September 24, 2015 3:35 PM EDT

The bad news for Oakland is it has one more game against the Texas Rangers. Even worse for the Athletics is that Cole Hamels will be taking the mound.

The Rangers bumped Hamels' start up to Thursday night's series finale as they look to add to their division lead with a road sweep of last-place Oakland.

The A's (64-88) won nine of the first 13 matchups this season but have dropped four of their last five against Texas (82-69), which holds a three-game lead over second-place Houston in the AL West.

The Rangers used Monday's off day to shift Hamels into this finale, giving him three starts in the regular season's final two weeks - the last two coming Tuesday against Detroit and Oct. 4 against the Los Angeles Angels on the final day of the regular season.

The intriguing part is the option to save Hamels for the postseason opener if the Rangers have clinched prior to their final game. The downside is losing him for the opener of a key series in Houston this weekend.

"This is an opportunity to have him for three starts," manager Jeff Banister said. "All games matter, not just those three against the Astros. It's about taking care of what we need to every day."

Hamels (4-1, 3.73 ERA) has taken care of his business with a 4-0 record and 3.12 ERA in his last seven starts - all wins for Texas. The left-hander has pitched at least seven innings in his last five starts.

Also working for Texas is a surging offense which recorded three home runs and three doubles in Wednesday's 10-3 win. Adrian Beltre and Elvis Andrus each hit three-run homers, while Rougned Odor added a solo shot.

During their 8-2 spurt, the Rangers lead the majors in runs (76), home runs (17), batting average (.310), on base percentage (.392) and slugging percentage (.528).

Surging at the plate are Beltre (21 for 45), Andrus (14 for 42), Shin-Soo Choo (20 for 43), Mike Napoli (11 for 31), Mitch Moreland (6 for 14) and Delino DeShields (5 for 14).

"We're playing well at one of the most crucial times of the year," Banister told MLB's official website. "They have learned how to win games."

Oakland has lost four straight and had an odd game Wednesday, setting a franchise record with 41 triples on Billy Burns' three-bagger in the fifth inning, seeing Eric Sogard's 457-at-bat homerless streak end on his seventh-inning solo shot and watching Josh Reddick commit two errors in a game for the first time in his seven-year career.

"You don't see very often a one-error night let alone a two-error night," A's manager Bob Melvin said.

The Hamels move could have set up a prime pitching matchup in the series finale, but the Athletics announced Tuesday that All-Star Sonny Gray's scheduled start would be moved to the opener of a series against San Francisco on Friday night.

Instead, Chris Bassitt (1-6, 2.82) will make his first start since Aug. 26. Oakland has been careful with Bassitt since he felt right shoulder discomfort following his latest start, putting into question if he would return this year.

The right-hander is back, though, and looks to strengthen his case for the 2016 rotation. His record doesn't show it, but Bassitt has pitched well in 10 starts since June 30. He allowed two or fewer runs in seven of those outings while tossing six innings or more seven times.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Orioles (75-76) at Nationals (78-73)

Game: 4
Venue: Nationals Park
Date: September 24, 2015 4:05 PM EDT

The Baltimore Orioles can sweep the latest Beltway Series partly because they've controlled the opposing heart of the order and the Washington Nationals haven't.

Regardless of what their big hitters do, the Orioles and Nationals are unlikely to make the playoffs even though neither is far removed from having a very realistic chance to repeat as East Division champions.

Baltimore enters Thursday's season series finale in D.C. officially eliminated from the AL East chase after first-place Toronto won Wednesday. The Orioles (75-76) last led the division July 2 and were within four games of first Aug. 17 but went on to lose 13 of 15. The current 10-4 stretch has them four behind Houston for the second wild-card spot with 11 to play, but Minnesota and the Los Angeles Angels are also ahead of them.

Washington (78-73) is all but out of wild-card contention and six back of the New York Mets in the NL East. The Nationals led the division as recently as Aug. 2 but were amid a 4-13 stretch that let the Mets take control, and they wasted a chance to gain ground by losing 4-1 to the Orioles on Tuesday and 4-3 on Wednesday.

Prior to those defeats, Bryce Harper and Jayson Werth keyed a 7-1 span with nine home runs and 20 RBIs. Harper has drawn five walks in this series but was retired in his other three plate appearances. Issuing free passes to the MVP candidate has been a good strategy because Werth, batting cleanup behind Harper, is 0 for 8 while leaving 10 men on base.

Baltimore has had no such problems despite cleanup man Adam Jones missing both games with back spasms. Steve Pearce stepped in to deliver a two-run homer Wednesday and an RBI double Tuesday while batting behind Chris Davis, who has two doubles and an RBI.

It was No. 2 hitter Manny Machado, though, who had the biggest blow with a go-ahead, two-run homer off Max Scherzer in the seventh inning Wednesday.

There may be some lingering ill will after Nationals closer Jonathan Papelbon threw high and tight to Machado in the ninth and later plunked him on the upper arm. Machado yelled toward Papelbon, who was ejected, and the benches briefly cleared.

"When you throw at somebody's head on purpose first pitch, straight out the get-go, then you throw a curveball, then you throw again at the head, that's just ... ," Machado said using a street term. "You know it's coward stuff. It's just coward."

Harper is anticipating some retaliation.

"I mean Manny freaking hit a homer," Harper said. "Walked it off and somebody drilled him. I mean, it's pretty tired. It's one of those situations where it happens and, I don't know, I'll probably get drilled tomorrow."

The one to do it could be Tyler Wilson (2-2, 3.72 ERA).

The promising rookie is getting a try in Baltimore's rotation after being recalled last week, but he lost at Tampa Bay on Friday by allowing six runs and eight hits in 4 1-3 innings. The right-hander, who turns 26 on Friday, had a 2.19 ERA in six previous appearances for Baltimore, including two spot starts.

"You got to keep in mind these guys have never really pitched in September before," manager Buck Showalter told MLB's official website. "So it's part of the process, and I think he will learn from it. He's a sharp, competitive guy."

Washington goes with Tanner Roark (4-6, 4.73), who has failed to pitch past the fifth inning in three starts since his call-up.

His worst performance since returning came last Thursday when he surrendered six runs and eight hits in a 6-4 loss at Miami, though Roark said it was an effort he could "build off." He has a 5.66 ERA in nine starts this season.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: White Sox (72-80) at Yankees (83-68)

Game: 1
Venue: Yankee Stadium
Date: September 24, 2015 7:05 PM EDT

As the New York Yankees look to resume their pursuit of the AL East title, they'll do so with the memory of a late legend on their collective mind.

Back in the Bronx for the first time since the passing of Yogi Berra, the Yankees try for a ninth consecutive home victory over the Chicago White Sox on Thursday night.

One night after the Hall of Fame catcher died at age 90, New York (83-68) sported a patch with Berra's No. 8 on its uniform sleeve during Wednesday's 4-0 loss at Toronto.

"Yogi probably played as big a part in the Yankee organization being what it is today than any other person on the field," outfielder Brett Gardner said.

On Thursday, the Yankees plan to honor the man renowned as much for his lovable "Yogi-isms" as his 10 World Series titles. The tribute to the three-time MVP could provide some inspiration for a New York club that is in position to reach the postseason for the first time since 2012.

The Yankees trail the AL East-leading Blue Jays by 3 1/2 games after losing two of three north of the border, but they lead the wild-card race by four over Houston.

"I think that he'll be pulling for us. He always has. He's always kept up with us," Gardner said. "Finish strong and accomplish some of our goals that we want to accomplish, I think it will make him proud."

The Yankees, coming off a 5-4 road trip, have held the White Sox to 22 runs during an eight-game home winning streak which is their longest in the series since taking nine straight from 1951-52.

Extending this run could be difficult with their first 2015 look at Chris Sale (12-10, 3.47 ERA), who is 3-0 with an 0.79 ERA in five starts against them.

Sale, however, is 0-3 with a 5.40 ERA in four outings this month. He allowed six unearned runs in the third inning and one earned in the seventh of Friday's 12-1 loss at Cleveland to drop three straight starts for the first time since 2013.

Though the left-hander is 11 strikeouts shy of breaking Hall of Famer Ed Walsh's club record of 269, set in 1908, it's been a frustrating season for the Chicago ace. The White Sox have lost Sale's last five starts, giving him just eight runs of support.

"Saler realizes that expectations are high, so anytime he doesn't get a no-hitter, people don't understand it," manager Robin Ventura said. "He's human, like everyone else."

Chase Headley, who went 5 for 10 as the Yankees took two of three at Chicago (72-80) earlier this season, is 2 for 5 with a double and a home run off Sale. Gardner is 0 for 7 with four strikeouts against Sale and batting .103 in his last 10 games.

New York has lost 11 of 17 at home and Michael Pineda (11-8, 4.10) is 0-2 with a 7.06 ERA in his last four starts in the Bronx, including three since a stint on the disabled list with a forearm strain. However, he has something positive to build on after giving up four hits in 5 1-3 innings of a 5-0 road win over the New York Mets on Saturday.

"The injuries are part of the game," manager Joe Girardi said. "We felt that if we could get him on the mound, he would help us. And he's done that."

The right-hander's only two appearances against the White Sox came in 2011, both losses despite quality starts.

Melky Cabrera has faced Pineda more than any Chicago player, going 3 for 10, and clubbed his 100th home run in Wednesday's 7-4 loss at Detroit. He's batting .400 with three homers and 13 RBIs in his last 11 contests.