Sleepyj
ARIZONA+ 1.5 (-131)
Analysis: A small price to pay here for Corbin and +1.5....I'm sure most will look RL w/ Kershaw, but i'm not feeling the Dodgers during the day at home right now...This team has hit a bit of a rutt and the run production from them is a little lazy right now..They got the ship turned around last night, but the runs are not coming..It's going to take a Kershaw or Greinke to grab wins here if this keeps up...Putting a quality pitcher like Corbin on the mound may give the Dodgers issues here...Corbin has a 2.99 ERA and a WHIP of 1.18....This guy is about as quality as it gets...His last 10 games have been rather solid...He has allowed 3ER or more in only 3 of 10...IMO Corbin needed some time to get back to form..I think this guy will dominate next year and finish off his remaining starts well..He just faced the Dodgers in a game he lost 10 days ago..He looked "ok" and only allowed 2ER in that game..I think he can get back at the Dodgers with how they are swinging the bats right now...D-Backs have been the hotter team here over the last week...Kershaw is Kershaw..The guy is a beast on the mound..Can't knock him for much at all....All we can use is trends really with him at this point..He has a big overhaul in innings right now...He was so tough the last 2 months his outings have been lasting 7+ 8+ innings every game...I have noticed his strikeouts have tailed off his last three games..He has walked 6 batters in his last three starts combined..It's not much to use, but i still feel dueing the day the D-backs will be ok for a few runs..Kershaw is trending down just a tad..Sometimes that's all you need when you take the RL with a quality pitcher and a hotter team on our side...Corbin can hang with this team here today...I like the +1.5 in a game i think the D-Backs can actually win here..Give me some insurance and a cheap price here.
ARIZONA+ 1.5 (-131)
Analysis: A small price to pay here for Corbin and +1.5....I'm sure most will look RL w/ Kershaw, but i'm not feeling the Dodgers during the day at home right now...This team has hit a bit of a rutt and the run production from them is a little lazy right now..They got the ship turned around last night, but the runs are not coming..It's going to take a Kershaw or Greinke to grab wins here if this keeps up...Putting a quality pitcher like Corbin on the mound may give the Dodgers issues here...Corbin has a 2.99 ERA and a WHIP of 1.18....This guy is about as quality as it gets...His last 10 games have been rather solid...He has allowed 3ER or more in only 3 of 10...IMO Corbin needed some time to get back to form..I think this guy will dominate next year and finish off his remaining starts well..He just faced the Dodgers in a game he lost 10 days ago..He looked "ok" and only allowed 2ER in that game..I think he can get back at the Dodgers with how they are swinging the bats right now...D-Backs have been the hotter team here over the last week...Kershaw is Kershaw..The guy is a beast on the mound..Can't knock him for much at all....All we can use is trends really with him at this point..He has a big overhaul in innings right now...He was so tough the last 2 months his outings have been lasting 7+ 8+ innings every game...I have noticed his strikeouts have tailed off his last three games..He has walked 6 batters in his last three starts combined..It's not much to use, but i still feel dueing the day the D-backs will be ok for a few runs..Kershaw is trending down just a tad..Sometimes that's all you need when you take the RL with a quality pitcher and a hotter team on our side...Corbin can hang with this team here today...I like the +1.5 in a game i think the D-Backs can actually win here..Give me some insurance and a cheap price here.
Preview: Pirates at Rockies
GAME: Pittsburgh Pirates (92-60) at Colorado Rockies (63-89)
DATE/TIME: Thursday, September 24 - 3:10 PM EST
WHERE: Coors Field, Denver, Colorado
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A
The Pittsburgh Pirates have checked one major item off their list, but other goals remain in sight. After clinching a playoff spot for the third straight season, the Pirates continue their pursuit of the National League Central crown when they go for a four-game sweep against the Rockies in Colorado on Thursday.
Neil Walker's career-high six RBIs led Pittsburgh to a 13-7 triumph on Wednesday, its fifth consecutive win and ninth in 13 games overall. The surge has allowed the Pirates to secure at least a wild-card spot, but it has not pushed the club any closer to first-place St. Louis, which maintains a four-game lead in the division. Pittsburgh hosts St. Louis for three games to begin its final homestand next week. The Rockies have given up 38 runs during a four-game slide and are one loss away from reaching 90 for the third time in the last four seasons.
TV: 3:10 p.m. ET, ROOT (Pittsburgh)
PITCHING MATCHUPS: Pirates LH Jeff Locke (8-11, 4.48 ERA) vs. Rockies RH Chad Bettis (8-5, 4.46)
Locke will be making his 30th start for the second time in his career and needs just four innings to establish a career best. He gave up five runs (four earned) in 6 1/3 frames of a 6-2 loss at the Los Angeles Dodgers on Friday, suffering his third road loss this month alone. The 27-year-old is 4-7 with a 5.69 ERA in 14 road starts overall and owns a 5.11 mark in two career appearances at Coors Field.
Bettis has yielded a run and seven hits while striking out 12 in 12 frames over his last two starts - both wins. He limited San Diego to one run on Friday after giving up 21 in 18 2/3 innings over his previous four appearances at home. The former second-round pick has a 7.36 ERA in three career games (one start) in against Pittsburgh.
WALK-OFFS
1. Rockies CF Charlie Blackmon (neck) was a late scratch from Wednesday's lineup.
2. Pirates LF Starling Marte is 11-for-20 with two homers, seven RBIs and five runs scored during his four-game hitting streak.
3. Pittsburgh leads the all-time series 92-91.
PREDICTION: Pirates 7, Rockies 5
GAME: Pittsburgh Pirates (92-60) at Colorado Rockies (63-89)
DATE/TIME: Thursday, September 24 - 3:10 PM EST
WHERE: Coors Field, Denver, Colorado
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A
The Pittsburgh Pirates have checked one major item off their list, but other goals remain in sight. After clinching a playoff spot for the third straight season, the Pirates continue their pursuit of the National League Central crown when they go for a four-game sweep against the Rockies in Colorado on Thursday.
Neil Walker's career-high six RBIs led Pittsburgh to a 13-7 triumph on Wednesday, its fifth consecutive win and ninth in 13 games overall. The surge has allowed the Pirates to secure at least a wild-card spot, but it has not pushed the club any closer to first-place St. Louis, which maintains a four-game lead in the division. Pittsburgh hosts St. Louis for three games to begin its final homestand next week. The Rockies have given up 38 runs during a four-game slide and are one loss away from reaching 90 for the third time in the last four seasons.
TV: 3:10 p.m. ET, ROOT (Pittsburgh)
PITCHING MATCHUPS: Pirates LH Jeff Locke (8-11, 4.48 ERA) vs. Rockies RH Chad Bettis (8-5, 4.46)
Locke will be making his 30th start for the second time in his career and needs just four innings to establish a career best. He gave up five runs (four earned) in 6 1/3 frames of a 6-2 loss at the Los Angeles Dodgers on Friday, suffering his third road loss this month alone. The 27-year-old is 4-7 with a 5.69 ERA in 14 road starts overall and owns a 5.11 mark in two career appearances at Coors Field.
Bettis has yielded a run and seven hits while striking out 12 in 12 frames over his last two starts - both wins. He limited San Diego to one run on Friday after giving up 21 in 18 2/3 innings over his previous four appearances at home. The former second-round pick has a 7.36 ERA in three career games (one start) in against Pittsburgh.
WALK-OFFS
1. Rockies CF Charlie Blackmon (neck) was a late scratch from Wednesday's lineup.
2. Pirates LF Starling Marte is 11-for-20 with two homers, seven RBIs and five runs scored during his four-game hitting streak.
3. Pittsburgh leads the all-time series 92-91.
PREDICTION: Pirates 7, Rockies 5
Preview: Diamondbacks at Dodgers
GAME: Arizona Diamondbacks (73-79) at Los Angeles Dodgers (86-65)
DATE/TIME: Thursday, September 24 - 3:10 PM EST
WHERE: Dodger Stadium, Los Angeles, California
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A
The Los Angeles Dodgers can move a step closer to their third straight division title on Thursday when ace Clayton Kershaw takes the mound against the visiting Arizona Diamondbacks. The Dodgers snapped a four-game skid with Wednesday’s 4-1 victory and lead the National League West by seven games over the San Francisco with 11 to play.
The Dodgers remain unsure if right fielder Yasiel Puig (hamstring) will play again this season, but shortstop Jimmy Rollins (hand) was able to return to the starting lineup Wednesday for the first time since Sept. 6. Rollins’ return moved rookie Corey Seager to third base while Chase Utley started at second and hit leadoff. Seager has reached base in each of his first 18 major-league starts and likely will share playing time at third with Justin Turner, who has missed the last four games due to tendinitis in his left knee but could be available for this weekend’s series at Colorado. Los Angeles has won 12 of its last 16 games against Arizona despite the efforts of Diamondbacks star Paul Goldschmidt, who has homered in three straight games and is hitting .339 in his career against the Dodgers.
TV: 3:10 p.m. ET, FSN Arizona, SportsNet LA (Los Angeles)
PITCHING MATCHUP: Diamondbacks LH Patrick Corbin (6-4, 2.99 ERA) vs. Dodgers LH Clayton Kershaw (14-7, 2.18)
Corbin improved to 3-1 with a 1.44 ERA in his last five starts after tossing seven shutout innings against San Francisco on Saturday. The 26-year-old has recorded five straight quality starts with 85 pitches or fewer while yielding a total of two walks over that stretch. Corbin is 3-3 with a 3.63 ERA in eight career games (seven starts) against Los Angeles, including 2-0 with a 2.60 ERA in three starts at Dodger Stadium.
Kershaw saw his streak of nine consecutive decisions won come to an end Saturday as he allowed three runs over seven innings in a 3-2 loss to Pittsburgh. The three-time NL Cy Young award winner owns a 9-1 mark and 1.16 ERA with 125 strikeouts against 13 walks over his last 13 starts. Diamondbacks outfielder A.J. Pollock is 7-for-22 against Kershaw, who is 10-8 with a 2.76 ERA in 22 career starts against Arizona, including 5-1 in 10 starts at Dodger Stadium.
WALK-OFFS
1. Dodgers RHP Zack Greinke was scratched prior to Wednesday’s game due to a calf injury, but the Cy Young Award candidate is expected to make his next start.
2. Arizona SS Nick Ahmed missed Wednesday’s game due to a jammed lower back and is listed as day-to-day.
3. Los Angeles OF Carl Crawford is battling bursitis in his left shoulder but was able to appear as a pinch-hitter in Wednesday’s contest.
PREDICTION: Dodgers 3, Diamondbacks 1
GAME: Arizona Diamondbacks (73-79) at Los Angeles Dodgers (86-65)
DATE/TIME: Thursday, September 24 - 3:10 PM EST
WHERE: Dodger Stadium, Los Angeles, California
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A
The Los Angeles Dodgers can move a step closer to their third straight division title on Thursday when ace Clayton Kershaw takes the mound against the visiting Arizona Diamondbacks. The Dodgers snapped a four-game skid with Wednesday’s 4-1 victory and lead the National League West by seven games over the San Francisco with 11 to play.
The Dodgers remain unsure if right fielder Yasiel Puig (hamstring) will play again this season, but shortstop Jimmy Rollins (hand) was able to return to the starting lineup Wednesday for the first time since Sept. 6. Rollins’ return moved rookie Corey Seager to third base while Chase Utley started at second and hit leadoff. Seager has reached base in each of his first 18 major-league starts and likely will share playing time at third with Justin Turner, who has missed the last four games due to tendinitis in his left knee but could be available for this weekend’s series at Colorado. Los Angeles has won 12 of its last 16 games against Arizona despite the efforts of Diamondbacks star Paul Goldschmidt, who has homered in three straight games and is hitting .339 in his career against the Dodgers.
TV: 3:10 p.m. ET, FSN Arizona, SportsNet LA (Los Angeles)
PITCHING MATCHUP: Diamondbacks LH Patrick Corbin (6-4, 2.99 ERA) vs. Dodgers LH Clayton Kershaw (14-7, 2.18)
Corbin improved to 3-1 with a 1.44 ERA in his last five starts after tossing seven shutout innings against San Francisco on Saturday. The 26-year-old has recorded five straight quality starts with 85 pitches or fewer while yielding a total of two walks over that stretch. Corbin is 3-3 with a 3.63 ERA in eight career games (seven starts) against Los Angeles, including 2-0 with a 2.60 ERA in three starts at Dodger Stadium.
Kershaw saw his streak of nine consecutive decisions won come to an end Saturday as he allowed three runs over seven innings in a 3-2 loss to Pittsburgh. The three-time NL Cy Young award winner owns a 9-1 mark and 1.16 ERA with 125 strikeouts against 13 walks over his last 13 starts. Diamondbacks outfielder A.J. Pollock is 7-for-22 against Kershaw, who is 10-8 with a 2.76 ERA in 22 career starts against Arizona, including 5-1 in 10 starts at Dodger Stadium.
WALK-OFFS
1. Dodgers RHP Zack Greinke was scratched prior to Wednesday’s game due to a calf injury, but the Cy Young Award candidate is expected to make his next start.
2. Arizona SS Nick Ahmed missed Wednesday’s game due to a jammed lower back and is listed as day-to-day.
3. Los Angeles OF Carl Crawford is battling bursitis in his left shoulder but was able to appear as a pinch-hitter in Wednesday’s contest.
PREDICTION: Dodgers 3, Diamondbacks 1
Preview: Rangers at Athletics
GAME: Texas Rangers (82-69) at Oakland Athletics (64-88)
DATE/TIME: Thursday, September 24 - 3:35 PM EST
WHERE: O.co Coliseum, Oakland, California
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A
The Texas Rangers look to complete a three-game sweep when they visit the American League West-rival Oakland Athletics on Thursday afternoon for the finale of their series. Texas also is hoping to increase its division lead over second-place Houston, which fell three games back thanks to a loss to the Los Angeles Angels and the Rangers' 10-3 triumph Wednesday.
Adrian Beltre and Elvis Andrus belted three-run homers while Rougned Odor added a solo shot for Texas, which attempts to get past Oakland before beginning a crucial three-game set at Houston on Friday. Beltre has been an RBI machine of late, driving in 17 runs over his last 10 games — a stretch that began with a five-RBI performance against Oakland on Sept. 13. Josh Reddick and Eric Sogard went deep for the Athletics, whose overall losing streak reached four games. Oakland has allowed a total of 29 runs in dropping three straight at home after blanking Houston on Sept. 8.
TV: 3:35 p.m. ET, FSN Southwest (Texas), CSN California (Oakland)
PITCHING MATCHUP: Rangers LH Cole Hamels (10-8, 3.67 ERA) vs. Athletics RH Chris Bassitt (1-6, 2.82)
Hamels is coming off his fourth straight victory, a triumph over Seattle on Saturday in which he allowed one run and seven hits with 12 strikeouts in seven innings. The 31-year-old Californian has worked at least seven frames in six of seven outings since falling at Seattle on Aug. 7 for his only loss in nine turns since being acquired from Philadelphia. Hamels made his only career start against Oakland on June 25, 2011, when he suffered a hard-luck loss for the Phillies after giving up just two runs in eight innings.
Bassitt will be making his first start since Aug. 26 due to a sore right shoulder. The 26-year-old native of Ohio suffered his second straight loss in that outing, yielding four runs on seven hits and four walks over 4 1/3 innings at Seattle. Bassitt made his only career appearance against the Rangers on May 2, when he surrendered two runs on one hit and two walks in one frame of relief at Texas.
WALK-OFFS
1. The Rangers have won eight of their last 10 contests, scoring at least six runs seven times in that span.
2. Oakland C Stephen Vogt (groin) returned to the lineup at first base Wednesday and went 0-for-4 in his first start in the field since Sept. 6.
3. Athletics CF Billy Burns' triple on Wednesday was the team's 41st of the season — a new Oakland record, eclipsing the 40 the club registered in 1968.
PREDICTION: Rangers 7, Athletics 3
GAME: Texas Rangers (82-69) at Oakland Athletics (64-88)
DATE/TIME: Thursday, September 24 - 3:35 PM EST
WHERE: O.co Coliseum, Oakland, California
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A
The Texas Rangers look to complete a three-game sweep when they visit the American League West-rival Oakland Athletics on Thursday afternoon for the finale of their series. Texas also is hoping to increase its division lead over second-place Houston, which fell three games back thanks to a loss to the Los Angeles Angels and the Rangers' 10-3 triumph Wednesday.
Adrian Beltre and Elvis Andrus belted three-run homers while Rougned Odor added a solo shot for Texas, which attempts to get past Oakland before beginning a crucial three-game set at Houston on Friday. Beltre has been an RBI machine of late, driving in 17 runs over his last 10 games — a stretch that began with a five-RBI performance against Oakland on Sept. 13. Josh Reddick and Eric Sogard went deep for the Athletics, whose overall losing streak reached four games. Oakland has allowed a total of 29 runs in dropping three straight at home after blanking Houston on Sept. 8.
TV: 3:35 p.m. ET, FSN Southwest (Texas), CSN California (Oakland)
PITCHING MATCHUP: Rangers LH Cole Hamels (10-8, 3.67 ERA) vs. Athletics RH Chris Bassitt (1-6, 2.82)
Hamels is coming off his fourth straight victory, a triumph over Seattle on Saturday in which he allowed one run and seven hits with 12 strikeouts in seven innings. The 31-year-old Californian has worked at least seven frames in six of seven outings since falling at Seattle on Aug. 7 for his only loss in nine turns since being acquired from Philadelphia. Hamels made his only career start against Oakland on June 25, 2011, when he suffered a hard-luck loss for the Phillies after giving up just two runs in eight innings.
Bassitt will be making his first start since Aug. 26 due to a sore right shoulder. The 26-year-old native of Ohio suffered his second straight loss in that outing, yielding four runs on seven hits and four walks over 4 1/3 innings at Seattle. Bassitt made his only career appearance against the Rangers on May 2, when he surrendered two runs on one hit and two walks in one frame of relief at Texas.
WALK-OFFS
1. The Rangers have won eight of their last 10 contests, scoring at least six runs seven times in that span.
2. Oakland C Stephen Vogt (groin) returned to the lineup at first base Wednesday and went 0-for-4 in his first start in the field since Sept. 6.
3. Athletics CF Billy Burns' triple on Wednesday was the team's 41st of the season — a new Oakland record, eclipsing the 40 the club registered in 1968.
PREDICTION: Rangers 7, Athletics 3
Preview: Orioles at Nationals
GAME: Baltimore Orioles (75-76) at Washington Nationals (78-73)
DATE/TIME: Thursday, September 24 - 4:05 PM EST
WHERE: Nationals Park, Washington, District of Columbia
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A
The Washington Nationals showed signs of life last week, but the pulse of their playoff hopes is faint heading into the finale of a three-game series with the visiting Baltimore Orioles on Thursday. The Orioles eked out a 4-3 victory Wednesday and have handed the Nationals consecutive losses after Washington had won seven of eight to regain a glimmer of hope in the National League East race.
By completing a three-game sweep, the Orioles could all but sink their Beltway rivals’ listing playoff hopes. Washington remains 6 1/2 games behind the New York Mets with 11 games to play, though the division rivals conclude the regular season with a three-game set in New York. The Orioles (75-76) have a chance to get back to .500 for the first time since they were 63-63 on Aug. 26, but still have an uphill climb in the American League wild-card race. Baltimore was eliminated from the AL East race with Toronto’s victory Wednesday and is four games behind Houston for the second wild card.
TV: 4:05 p.m. ET, MASN2 (Baltimore), MASN (Washington)
PITCHING MATCHUP: Orioles RH Tyler Wilson (2-2, 3.72 ERA) vs. Nationals RH Tanner Roark (4-6, 4.73)
Wilson had success in a pair of spot starts earlier in the season but was roughed up in his return from an oblique strain Friday. The Virginia native, who turns 26 on Friday, was tagged for six runs and eight hits in 4 1/3 innings in a loss at Tampa Bay after allowing a total of six runs in 24 2/3 innings over his first six big-league outings (two starts). Wilson has been exclusively used as a starter in a five-year minor-league career and was 5-5 with a 3.24 ERA in 17 starts at Triple-A Norfolk this year.
Roark has been unable to duplicate the success from last year’s breakout campaign, neither as a starter nor out of the bullpen. The 28-year-old gave the Nationals two decent outings while getting stretched out earlier this month, but gave up six runs and eight hits in five innings in a loss to Miami on Thursday. Roark has not won since July 4, when he pitched 4 1/3 innings in relief and allowed two runs to earn the win against San Francisco.
WALK-OFFS
1. Orioles 3B Manny Machado, whose two-run homer - his 30th - provided the tying and winning runs Wednesday, has scored 12 runs in his past 12 games.
2. Nationals RF Bryce Harper, who leads the majors with a .341 batting average, is 0-for-3 with five walks in the series after collecting 14 hits in his previous seven contests.
3. Baltimore 1B/OF Steve Pearce is 7-for-17 with three homers and six RBIs during a five-game hitting streak.
PREDICTION: Nationals 6, Orioles 4
GAME: Baltimore Orioles (75-76) at Washington Nationals (78-73)
DATE/TIME: Thursday, September 24 - 4:05 PM EST
WHERE: Nationals Park, Washington, District of Columbia
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A
The Washington Nationals showed signs of life last week, but the pulse of their playoff hopes is faint heading into the finale of a three-game series with the visiting Baltimore Orioles on Thursday. The Orioles eked out a 4-3 victory Wednesday and have handed the Nationals consecutive losses after Washington had won seven of eight to regain a glimmer of hope in the National League East race.
By completing a three-game sweep, the Orioles could all but sink their Beltway rivals’ listing playoff hopes. Washington remains 6 1/2 games behind the New York Mets with 11 games to play, though the division rivals conclude the regular season with a three-game set in New York. The Orioles (75-76) have a chance to get back to .500 for the first time since they were 63-63 on Aug. 26, but still have an uphill climb in the American League wild-card race. Baltimore was eliminated from the AL East race with Toronto’s victory Wednesday and is four games behind Houston for the second wild card.
TV: 4:05 p.m. ET, MASN2 (Baltimore), MASN (Washington)
PITCHING MATCHUP: Orioles RH Tyler Wilson (2-2, 3.72 ERA) vs. Nationals RH Tanner Roark (4-6, 4.73)
Wilson had success in a pair of spot starts earlier in the season but was roughed up in his return from an oblique strain Friday. The Virginia native, who turns 26 on Friday, was tagged for six runs and eight hits in 4 1/3 innings in a loss at Tampa Bay after allowing a total of six runs in 24 2/3 innings over his first six big-league outings (two starts). Wilson has been exclusively used as a starter in a five-year minor-league career and was 5-5 with a 3.24 ERA in 17 starts at Triple-A Norfolk this year.
Roark has been unable to duplicate the success from last year’s breakout campaign, neither as a starter nor out of the bullpen. The 28-year-old gave the Nationals two decent outings while getting stretched out earlier this month, but gave up six runs and eight hits in five innings in a loss to Miami on Thursday. Roark has not won since July 4, when he pitched 4 1/3 innings in relief and allowed two runs to earn the win against San Francisco.
WALK-OFFS
1. Orioles 3B Manny Machado, whose two-run homer - his 30th - provided the tying and winning runs Wednesday, has scored 12 runs in his past 12 games.
2. Nationals RF Bryce Harper, who leads the majors with a .341 batting average, is 0-for-3 with five walks in the series after collecting 14 hits in his previous seven contests.
3. Baltimore 1B/OF Steve Pearce is 7-for-17 with three homers and six RBIs during a five-game hitting streak.
PREDICTION: Nationals 6, Orioles 4
Preview: White Sox at Yankees
GAME: Chicago White Sox (72-80) at New York Yankees (83-68)
DATE/TIME: Thursday, September 24 - 7:05 PM EST
WHERE: Yankee Stadium, Bronx, New York
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A
After dropping two of three in a battle of the elite in the American League East, the New York Yankees look to dust themselves off on Thursday when they open a four-game series versus the visiting Chicago White Sox. New York (83-68) dropped a 4-0 decision to Toronto (87-65) on Wednesday to fall 3 1/2 games behind the first-place Blue Jays with 11 contests remaining on the schedule.
While Joe Girardi didn't concede the division after the loss, the manager did tell YES Network that New York needs to be "almost perfect" in order to capture the AL East crown. Battling for a potential postseason spot has long been off the table for the White Sox, who have lost five of eight while trying to fend off Detroit and avoid the cellar in the AL Central. Melky Cabrera belted his 100th career homer among his three hits in a 7-4 setback to the Tigers on Wednesday, but is 3-for-10 versus Thursday starter Michael Pineda. Left-hander Chris Sale provides the opposition and will look to slow rookie Greg Bird, who has five homers and 11 RBIs during his eight-game hitting streak.
TV: 7:05 p.m. ET, MLB Network, CSN Chicago, YES (New York)
PITCHING MATCHUP: White Sox LH Chris Sale (12-10, 3.47 ERA) vs. Yankees RH Michael Pineda (11-8, 4.10)
Sale lost his third straight start and saw his winless stretch extend to five after getting blitzed for seven runs on eight hits in seven innings of a 12-1 rout by Cleveland on Friday. The 26-year-old owns a 3-0 career mark and 0.72 ERA versus the Yankees while limiting the club to a .143 batting average despite yielding four runs in six innings in his last meeting. Brett Gardner has failed to solve Sale, going 0-for-7 with four strikeouts in his career.
Pineda improved to 2-0 in his last four starts after scattering four hits in 5 1/3 innings in a 5-0 triumph over the New York Mets on Saturday. The 26-year-old Dominican obviously kept the ball in the park in that outing after being taken deep three times in a 9-5 setback to Toronto on Sept. 12 and on nine occasions in his previous seven outings. Pineda fell to 0-2 in his career versus Chicago despite yielding two runs on three hits in six innings to take the loss in his last meeting.
WALK-OFFS
1. New York owns a 21-13 mark against its remaining schedule, which consists of Chicago, Boston and Baltimore.
2. White Sox 1B Adam LaRoche is day-to-day with patella tendinitis in his right knee.
3. Yankees 3B Chase Headley is 1-for-17 with nine strikeouts in his last five contests.
PREDICTION: Yankees 3, White Sox 1
GAME: Chicago White Sox (72-80) at New York Yankees (83-68)
DATE/TIME: Thursday, September 24 - 7:05 PM EST
WHERE: Yankee Stadium, Bronx, New York
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A
After dropping two of three in a battle of the elite in the American League East, the New York Yankees look to dust themselves off on Thursday when they open a four-game series versus the visiting Chicago White Sox. New York (83-68) dropped a 4-0 decision to Toronto (87-65) on Wednesday to fall 3 1/2 games behind the first-place Blue Jays with 11 contests remaining on the schedule.
While Joe Girardi didn't concede the division after the loss, the manager did tell YES Network that New York needs to be "almost perfect" in order to capture the AL East crown. Battling for a potential postseason spot has long been off the table for the White Sox, who have lost five of eight while trying to fend off Detroit and avoid the cellar in the AL Central. Melky Cabrera belted his 100th career homer among his three hits in a 7-4 setback to the Tigers on Wednesday, but is 3-for-10 versus Thursday starter Michael Pineda. Left-hander Chris Sale provides the opposition and will look to slow rookie Greg Bird, who has five homers and 11 RBIs during his eight-game hitting streak.
TV: 7:05 p.m. ET, MLB Network, CSN Chicago, YES (New York)
PITCHING MATCHUP: White Sox LH Chris Sale (12-10, 3.47 ERA) vs. Yankees RH Michael Pineda (11-8, 4.10)
Sale lost his third straight start and saw his winless stretch extend to five after getting blitzed for seven runs on eight hits in seven innings of a 12-1 rout by Cleveland on Friday. The 26-year-old owns a 3-0 career mark and 0.72 ERA versus the Yankees while limiting the club to a .143 batting average despite yielding four runs in six innings in his last meeting. Brett Gardner has failed to solve Sale, going 0-for-7 with four strikeouts in his career.
Pineda improved to 2-0 in his last four starts after scattering four hits in 5 1/3 innings in a 5-0 triumph over the New York Mets on Saturday. The 26-year-old Dominican obviously kept the ball in the park in that outing after being taken deep three times in a 9-5 setback to Toronto on Sept. 12 and on nine occasions in his previous seven outings. Pineda fell to 0-2 in his career versus Chicago despite yielding two runs on three hits in six innings to take the loss in his last meeting.
WALK-OFFS
1. New York owns a 21-13 mark against its remaining schedule, which consists of Chicago, Boston and Baltimore.
2. White Sox 1B Adam LaRoche is day-to-day with patella tendinitis in his right knee.
3. Yankees 3B Chase Headley is 1-for-17 with nine strikeouts in his last five contests.
PREDICTION: Yankees 3, White Sox 1
Preview: Rays at Red Sox
GAME: Tampa Bay Rays (74-78) at Boston Red Sox (72-79)
DATE/TIME: Thursday, September 24 - 7:10 PM EST
WHERE: Fenway Park, Boston, Massachusetts
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A
A miserable September pretty much robbed the Tampa Bay Rays of any chance to qualify for the postseason and recently had them on the verge of their first last-place finish in the American League East since 2007. Since spending a day in the division basement earlier this week, the Rays have won two straight to keep their faint playoff hopes alive as they attempt to take the season series from the Boston Red Sox when the teams wrap up their four-game set on Thursday in Boston.
Tampa Bay opened this month with an 11-2 thumping of Baltimore to leave itself 3 ½ games back of the second wild-card spot in the AL. The Rays proceeded to lose 12 of their next 18 contests before ending their struggles with a pair of victories over the Red Sox, although their recent surge still leaves them 5 ½ games behind Houston in the wild-card chase with 10 left to play. Boston (72-79) moved out of last place for the first time since June 8 with Monday’s series-opening win to close within five games of .500, but has come up short with runners in scoring position over the last two contests (3-for-18) to fall right back into the cellar. Tampa Bay has not been able to solve Red Sox leadoff hitter Mookie Betts, who has reached base in his last 26 games and 21 of his 22 career appearances against the Rays.
TV: 7:10 p.m. ET, Sun Sports (Tampa Bay), NESN (Boston)
PITCHING MATCHUP: Rays RH Erasmo Ramirez (10-6, 3.70 ERA) vs. Red Sox LH Wade Miley (11-10, 4.34)
Although Tampa Bay has dropped each of his last five starts, Ramirez has held up his end over the last two, allowing a total of two runs over 14 2/3 innings. The 25-year-old Nicaraguan followed up a no-decision in which he allowed one hit in 7 2/3 scoreless frames on Sept. 14 against the New York Yankees by yielding two runs on nine hits over seven innings in a loss Saturday versus Baltimore. Ramirez has yet to factor into the decision in five career appearances (four starts) against Boston while posting a 4.82 ERA.
Miley battled control problems in his last turn on Saturday at Toronto, issuing five walks while also permitting two runs on three hits in 6 2/3 frames in a no-decision. The 28-year-old Southeastern Louisiana product has otherwise pitched well in September thus far, going 1-0 with a 2.78 ERA while allowing opposing hitters to bat .181 against him. Miley has enjoyed similar success in six career starts versus the Rays, going 3-1 with a 1.85 ERA, 1.05 WHIP and .193 batting average against.
WALK-OFFS
1. Betts’ next extra-base hit will give him 61 for the season, tying him for the most by a Red Sox player under 23 years old since Tony Conigliaro had 61 in 1966 at age 21.
2. Tampa Bay closer Brad Boxberger is 2-0 with five saves against Boston the season, allowing five hits and two walks while striking out 17 in 9 1/3 scoreless innings.
3. Red Sox 3B Pablo Sandoval missed his third straight game with an upper respiratory infection.
PREDICTION: Rays 4, Red Sox 3
GAME: Tampa Bay Rays (74-78) at Boston Red Sox (72-79)
DATE/TIME: Thursday, September 24 - 7:10 PM EST
WHERE: Fenway Park, Boston, Massachusetts
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A
A miserable September pretty much robbed the Tampa Bay Rays of any chance to qualify for the postseason and recently had them on the verge of their first last-place finish in the American League East since 2007. Since spending a day in the division basement earlier this week, the Rays have won two straight to keep their faint playoff hopes alive as they attempt to take the season series from the Boston Red Sox when the teams wrap up their four-game set on Thursday in Boston.
Tampa Bay opened this month with an 11-2 thumping of Baltimore to leave itself 3 ½ games back of the second wild-card spot in the AL. The Rays proceeded to lose 12 of their next 18 contests before ending their struggles with a pair of victories over the Red Sox, although their recent surge still leaves them 5 ½ games behind Houston in the wild-card chase with 10 left to play. Boston (72-79) moved out of last place for the first time since June 8 with Monday’s series-opening win to close within five games of .500, but has come up short with runners in scoring position over the last two contests (3-for-18) to fall right back into the cellar. Tampa Bay has not been able to solve Red Sox leadoff hitter Mookie Betts, who has reached base in his last 26 games and 21 of his 22 career appearances against the Rays.
TV: 7:10 p.m. ET, Sun Sports (Tampa Bay), NESN (Boston)
PITCHING MATCHUP: Rays RH Erasmo Ramirez (10-6, 3.70 ERA) vs. Red Sox LH Wade Miley (11-10, 4.34)
Although Tampa Bay has dropped each of his last five starts, Ramirez has held up his end over the last two, allowing a total of two runs over 14 2/3 innings. The 25-year-old Nicaraguan followed up a no-decision in which he allowed one hit in 7 2/3 scoreless frames on Sept. 14 against the New York Yankees by yielding two runs on nine hits over seven innings in a loss Saturday versus Baltimore. Ramirez has yet to factor into the decision in five career appearances (four starts) against Boston while posting a 4.82 ERA.
Miley battled control problems in his last turn on Saturday at Toronto, issuing five walks while also permitting two runs on three hits in 6 2/3 frames in a no-decision. The 28-year-old Southeastern Louisiana product has otherwise pitched well in September thus far, going 1-0 with a 2.78 ERA while allowing opposing hitters to bat .181 against him. Miley has enjoyed similar success in six career starts versus the Rays, going 3-1 with a 1.85 ERA, 1.05 WHIP and .193 batting average against.
WALK-OFFS
1. Betts’ next extra-base hit will give him 61 for the season, tying him for the most by a Red Sox player under 23 years old since Tony Conigliaro had 61 in 1966 at age 21.
2. Tampa Bay closer Brad Boxberger is 2-0 with five saves against Boston the season, allowing five hits and two walks while striking out 17 in 9 1/3 scoreless innings.
3. Red Sox 3B Pablo Sandoval missed his third straight game with an upper respiratory infection.
PREDICTION: Rays 4, Red Sox 3
Preview: Phillies at Marlins
GAME: Philadelphia Phillies (57-95) at Miami Marlins (65-87)
DATE/TIME: Thursday, September 24 - 7:10 PM EST
WHERE: Marlins Park, Miami, Florida
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A
Dee Gordon is running out of games in his bid to win a National League batting title, but he still can add a few highlights down the stretch for the Miami Marlins. Gordon's walk-off double in the 11th inning halted a four-game losing streak for Miami, which goes for a series victory over the visiting Philadelphia Phillies on Thursday in the rubber match of a three-game set.
Gordon's three-hit night boosted his batting average to .332, leaving him nine points behind NL leader Bryce Harper of Washington. Even though the Phillies own the worst record in the majors, they had won eight of nine meetings and four straight in Miami prior to Wednesday's 4-3 setback. Philadelphia closer Ken Giles had converted all 13 save chances since Jonathan Papelbon was traded to Washington, but that string came to an end when he couldn't protect a one-run lead in the ninth inning Wednesday. Struggling rookie Alec Asher makes his fifth attempt to earn his first major-league win when he opposes Marlins right-hander Jarred Cosart.
TV: 7:10 p.m. ET, CSN Philadelphia, FSN Florida (Miami)
PITCHING MATCHUP: Phillies RH Alec Asher (0-4, 9.78 ERA) vs. Marlins RH Jarred Cosart (2-4, 4.43)
One of five minor-leaguers acquired by Philadelphia in the Cole Hamels trade, Asher is showing no signs he is ready for the next level through his first four major-league starts. He suffered his fourth defeat in as many outings, giving up four runs and seven hits over five innings of a 12-2 setback against Washington. The 23-year-old Asher has yet to make it through six innings and has allowed 21 runs and six homers in his four turns.
Cosart earned his first victory in three starts since spending two months on the disabled list with vertigo-related symptoms. The 25-year-old Cosart permitted only two runs on three hits over six innings - his longest outing since April 27 - to earn the victory against the Nationals. Cosart split a pair of decisions against the Phillies in a 12-day span early this season, yielding four runs and nine hits in 11 innings.
WALK-OFFS
1. Marlins 1B Justin Bour hit his 19th homer Wednesday but only six have come at home.
2. Phillies 1B Ryan Howard could be done for the season after a cyst behind his knee flared up.
3. Marlins C J.T. Realmuto has multiple hits in four of his last eight games.
PREDICTION: Marlins 6, Phillies 4
GAME: Philadelphia Phillies (57-95) at Miami Marlins (65-87)
DATE/TIME: Thursday, September 24 - 7:10 PM EST
WHERE: Marlins Park, Miami, Florida
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A
Dee Gordon is running out of games in his bid to win a National League batting title, but he still can add a few highlights down the stretch for the Miami Marlins. Gordon's walk-off double in the 11th inning halted a four-game losing streak for Miami, which goes for a series victory over the visiting Philadelphia Phillies on Thursday in the rubber match of a three-game set.
Gordon's three-hit night boosted his batting average to .332, leaving him nine points behind NL leader Bryce Harper of Washington. Even though the Phillies own the worst record in the majors, they had won eight of nine meetings and four straight in Miami prior to Wednesday's 4-3 setback. Philadelphia closer Ken Giles had converted all 13 save chances since Jonathan Papelbon was traded to Washington, but that string came to an end when he couldn't protect a one-run lead in the ninth inning Wednesday. Struggling rookie Alec Asher makes his fifth attempt to earn his first major-league win when he opposes Marlins right-hander Jarred Cosart.
TV: 7:10 p.m. ET, CSN Philadelphia, FSN Florida (Miami)
PITCHING MATCHUP: Phillies RH Alec Asher (0-4, 9.78 ERA) vs. Marlins RH Jarred Cosart (2-4, 4.43)
One of five minor-leaguers acquired by Philadelphia in the Cole Hamels trade, Asher is showing no signs he is ready for the next level through his first four major-league starts. He suffered his fourth defeat in as many outings, giving up four runs and seven hits over five innings of a 12-2 setback against Washington. The 23-year-old Asher has yet to make it through six innings and has allowed 21 runs and six homers in his four turns.
Cosart earned his first victory in three starts since spending two months on the disabled list with vertigo-related symptoms. The 25-year-old Cosart permitted only two runs on three hits over six innings - his longest outing since April 27 - to earn the victory against the Nationals. Cosart split a pair of decisions against the Phillies in a 12-day span early this season, yielding four runs and nine hits in 11 innings.
WALK-OFFS
1. Marlins 1B Justin Bour hit his 19th homer Wednesday but only six have come at home.
2. Phillies 1B Ryan Howard could be done for the season after a cyst behind his knee flared up.
3. Marlins C J.T. Realmuto has multiple hits in four of his last eight games.
PREDICTION: Marlins 6, Phillies 4
Preview: Mets at Reds
GAME: New York Mets (85-67) at Cincinnati Reds (63-88)
DATE/TIME: Thursday, September 24 - 7:10 PM EST
WHERE: Great American Ball Park, Cincinnati, Ohio
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A
With six losses in their last eight contests, the New York Mets hardly have the look of a team on the verge of its first National League East title since 2006. The Mets vie to inch closer to that goal on Thursday, when they begin a seven-game road trip with the opener of a four-game series versus the Cincinnati Reds.
New York was outscored 12-5 en route to losing the last two contests of a three-game set against Atlanta but remained 6 1/2 games ahead of second-place Washington with 10 to play after the Nationals dropped two in a row to their Beltway rival. Daniel Murphy launched a solo homer in the Mets' 6-3 setback to the Braves to extend his hitting streak to six games, during which he is 9-for-21 (.429) with two blasts and five RBIs. While New York has its eyes on the postseason, Cincinnati fell back into the basement of the NL Central following its fourth straight loss. Joey Votto, who swatted a solo homer in a 10-2 rout by St. Louis, has reached base safely in 40 consecutive games - one shy of his career high.
TV: 7:10 p.m. ET, SNY (New York), FSN Ohio (Cincinnati)
PITCHING MATCHUP: Mets LH Steven Matz (4-0, 1.80 ERA) vs. Reds RH Josh Smith (0-2, 7.71)
Matz improved to 2-0 in his last three starts since returning to the rotation after allowing one run and seven hits in six innings of a 5-1 triumph over the New York Yankees. The 24-year-old has pitched well in all five outings this season, permitting six runs and 24 hits in 30 frames. Matz picked up the win in his lone career meeting with Cincinnati, yielding two runs and five hits in 7 2/3 innings of a 7-2 victory on June 28.
Smith struggled in his last outing on Saturday, allowing four runs and six hits in four innings against Milwaukee but escaping with a no-decision. The 28-year-old pitched a bit better when he faced the Mets on June 28, permitting three runs and four hits, but his four walks drove up his pitch count to force his exit after five frames. Smith has done better with free passes, issuing just two in his last 6 1/3 innings after walking 13 batters in his first 12 1/3.
WALK-OFFS
1. Mets 3B David Wright has hit safely in three straight contests and eight of his last nine.
2. Cincinnati 3B Todd Frazier is 7-for-21 (.333) during his five-game hitting streak.
3. Mets OF Curtis Granderson is 2-for-19 (.105) with six strikeouts in his last six contests.
PREDICTION: Mets 5, Reds 2
GAME: New York Mets (85-67) at Cincinnati Reds (63-88)
DATE/TIME: Thursday, September 24 - 7:10 PM EST
WHERE: Great American Ball Park, Cincinnati, Ohio
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A
With six losses in their last eight contests, the New York Mets hardly have the look of a team on the verge of its first National League East title since 2006. The Mets vie to inch closer to that goal on Thursday, when they begin a seven-game road trip with the opener of a four-game series versus the Cincinnati Reds.
New York was outscored 12-5 en route to losing the last two contests of a three-game set against Atlanta but remained 6 1/2 games ahead of second-place Washington with 10 to play after the Nationals dropped two in a row to their Beltway rival. Daniel Murphy launched a solo homer in the Mets' 6-3 setback to the Braves to extend his hitting streak to six games, during which he is 9-for-21 (.429) with two blasts and five RBIs. While New York has its eyes on the postseason, Cincinnati fell back into the basement of the NL Central following its fourth straight loss. Joey Votto, who swatted a solo homer in a 10-2 rout by St. Louis, has reached base safely in 40 consecutive games - one shy of his career high.
TV: 7:10 p.m. ET, SNY (New York), FSN Ohio (Cincinnati)
PITCHING MATCHUP: Mets LH Steven Matz (4-0, 1.80 ERA) vs. Reds RH Josh Smith (0-2, 7.71)
Matz improved to 2-0 in his last three starts since returning to the rotation after allowing one run and seven hits in six innings of a 5-1 triumph over the New York Yankees. The 24-year-old has pitched well in all five outings this season, permitting six runs and 24 hits in 30 frames. Matz picked up the win in his lone career meeting with Cincinnati, yielding two runs and five hits in 7 2/3 innings of a 7-2 victory on June 28.
Smith struggled in his last outing on Saturday, allowing four runs and six hits in four innings against Milwaukee but escaping with a no-decision. The 28-year-old pitched a bit better when he faced the Mets on June 28, permitting three runs and four hits, but his four walks drove up his pitch count to force his exit after five frames. Smith has done better with free passes, issuing just two in his last 6 1/3 innings after walking 13 batters in his first 12 1/3.
WALK-OFFS
1. Mets 3B David Wright has hit safely in three straight contests and eight of his last nine.
2. Cincinnati 3B Todd Frazier is 7-for-21 (.333) during his five-game hitting streak.
3. Mets OF Curtis Granderson is 2-for-19 (.105) with six strikeouts in his last six contests.
PREDICTION: Mets 5, Reds 2
Preview: Brewers at Cardinals
GAME: Milwaukee Brewers (64-88) at St. Louis Cardinals (96-56)
DATE/TIME: Thursday, September 24 - 7:15 PM EST
WHERE: Busch Stadium, St. Louis, Missouri
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A
After having their way with one struggling National League Central rival, the St. Louis Cardinals look to administer a sound thrashing to another when they open a four-game series versus the visiting Milwaukee Brewers on Thursday. Matt Carpenter, who belted a pair of two-run blasts in St. Louis' 10-2 rout of Cincinnati on Wednesday, is 14-for-31 (.452) with five homers, nine runs scored and eight RBIs in his last eight contests.
Carpenter also played an integral role in the Cardinals' three-game sweep of Milwaukee from Sept. 15-17, going 6-for-9 with two homers and three doubles in the final two contests. Tommy Pham is 14-for-34 (.412) with four blasts and 12 RBIs in his last nine games for St. Louis, which owns a four-game lead over second-place Pittsburgh. While the Cardinals already have secured their franchise-high fifth consecutive postseason appearance and are vying for their third straight division title, one needs to look significantly down the standings to find Milwaukee. The Brewers posted just their second win in 12 contests with a 4-1 victory over the Chicago Cubs on Wednesday.
TV: 7:15 p.m. ET, MLBN, FSN Wisconsin (Milwaukee), FSN Midwest (St. Louis)
PITCHING MATCHUP: Brewers RH Taylor Jungmann (9-6, 3.31 ERA) vs. Cardinals RH Michael Wacha (16-6, 3.08)
Jungmann has struggled mightily in his last three outings but has been fortunate to walk away with just an 0-1 record. The 25-year-old has allowed 16 runs and 19 hits - including five homers - over 14 2/3 innings in that span. Prior to that stretch, Jungmann only had been taken deep three times in his first 16 starts.
After posting a 4-0 mark in six outings, Wacha suffered his second loss in three games on Saturday as he allowed four runs in five innings of a 5-4 setback to the Cubs. He has surrendered six homers in his last four trips to the mound after having been taken deep just 11 times in his previous 24 outings. Wacha owns a 1-0 career record in three appearances versus Milwaukee, but his 6.10 ERA and 1.74 WHIP leave plenty to be desired.
WALK-OFFS
1. St. Louis LF Randal Grichuk, who homered on Wednesday, is just 2-for-12 with five strikeouts this month.
2. Milwaukee RHP Wily Peralta will miss the remainder of the season after his oblique injury "flared up again," according to manager Craig Counsell.
3. The Cardinals have won 11 of their 15 meetings with the Brewers in 2015.
PREDICTION: Cardinals 4, Brewers 1
GAME: Milwaukee Brewers (64-88) at St. Louis Cardinals (96-56)
DATE/TIME: Thursday, September 24 - 7:15 PM EST
WHERE: Busch Stadium, St. Louis, Missouri
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A
After having their way with one struggling National League Central rival, the St. Louis Cardinals look to administer a sound thrashing to another when they open a four-game series versus the visiting Milwaukee Brewers on Thursday. Matt Carpenter, who belted a pair of two-run blasts in St. Louis' 10-2 rout of Cincinnati on Wednesday, is 14-for-31 (.452) with five homers, nine runs scored and eight RBIs in his last eight contests.
Carpenter also played an integral role in the Cardinals' three-game sweep of Milwaukee from Sept. 15-17, going 6-for-9 with two homers and three doubles in the final two contests. Tommy Pham is 14-for-34 (.412) with four blasts and 12 RBIs in his last nine games for St. Louis, which owns a four-game lead over second-place Pittsburgh. While the Cardinals already have secured their franchise-high fifth consecutive postseason appearance and are vying for their third straight division title, one needs to look significantly down the standings to find Milwaukee. The Brewers posted just their second win in 12 contests with a 4-1 victory over the Chicago Cubs on Wednesday.
TV: 7:15 p.m. ET, MLBN, FSN Wisconsin (Milwaukee), FSN Midwest (St. Louis)
PITCHING MATCHUP: Brewers RH Taylor Jungmann (9-6, 3.31 ERA) vs. Cardinals RH Michael Wacha (16-6, 3.08)
Jungmann has struggled mightily in his last three outings but has been fortunate to walk away with just an 0-1 record. The 25-year-old has allowed 16 runs and 19 hits - including five homers - over 14 2/3 innings in that span. Prior to that stretch, Jungmann only had been taken deep three times in his first 16 starts.
After posting a 4-0 mark in six outings, Wacha suffered his second loss in three games on Saturday as he allowed four runs in five innings of a 5-4 setback to the Cubs. He has surrendered six homers in his last four trips to the mound after having been taken deep just 11 times in his previous 24 outings. Wacha owns a 1-0 career record in three appearances versus Milwaukee, but his 6.10 ERA and 1.74 WHIP leave plenty to be desired.
WALK-OFFS
1. St. Louis LF Randal Grichuk, who homered on Wednesday, is just 2-for-12 with five strikeouts this month.
2. Milwaukee RHP Wily Peralta will miss the remainder of the season after his oblique injury "flared up again," according to manager Craig Counsell.
3. The Cardinals have won 11 of their 15 meetings with the Brewers in 2015.
PREDICTION: Cardinals 4, Brewers 1
Preview: Indians at Twins
GAME: Cleveland Indians (74-76) at Minnesota Twins (78-73)
DATE/TIME: Thursday, September 24 - 8:10 PM EST
WHERE: Target Field, Minneapolis, Minnesota
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A
The Minnesota Twins attempt to inch closer to a wild card and complete a sweep when they host the American League Central-rival Cleveland Indians on Thursday in the finale of their three-game series. Minnesota pulled within one game of Houston for the second AL wild-card spot by defeating Cleveland 4-2 on Wednesday for its third straight victory.
Trevor Plouffe went 3-for-4 with an RBI and Brian Dozier homered as the Twins scored four runs in the fourth inning and held on to improve to 4-5 on their 10-game homestand. Minnesota turns to Kyle Gibson in the hope of receiving a fourth consecutive superb start after Tyler Duffey, Ervin Santana and Phil Hughes combined to allow one run over 19 innings during the team's winning streak. Carlos Santana belted a two-out, two-run homer in the ninth Wednesday to prevent Cleveland from being shut out for the third time this month. The Indians remained 4 1/2 games behind Houston but saw their wild-card elimination number shrink to seven.
TV: 8:10 p.m. ET, STO (Cleveland), FSN North (Minnesota)
PITCHING MATCHUP: Indians RH Cody Anderson (5-3, 3.48 ERA) vs. Twins RH Kyle Gibson (10-10, 3.73)
Anderson looks to win his fourth consecutive start after going 0-2 over his previous six outings. The 25-year-old Californian has been outstanding during his winning streak, allowing a total of three runs over 19 1/3 innings in a pair of triumphs against Detroit and one versus the Chicago White Sox on Friday. Anderson made his only career start against Minnesota on Aug. 7, when he escaped with a no-decision after surrendering six runs and five hits in 2 2/3 frames.
Gibson allowed three runs in 6 1/3 innings against the Los Angeles Angels on Saturday but did not factor in the decision. The 27-year-old native of Indiana is 6-4 at home this season and hasn't lost at Target Field since falling to the New York Yankees on July 26. Gibson has made five career starts versus Cleveland, going 1-1 with a 5.61 ERA.
WALK-OFFS
1. Dozier's solo homer Wednesday ended his 13-game drought and gave him a career-high 72 RBIs.
2. Cleveland OF Michael Brantley sat out Wednesday's contest after jamming his right shoulder in the series opener.
3. Minnesota RHP Ricky Nolasco (ankle) will pitch in relief when he is activated from the 60-day disabled list, which could occur as soon as Friday.
PREDICTION: Indians 5, Twins 2
GAME: Cleveland Indians (74-76) at Minnesota Twins (78-73)
DATE/TIME: Thursday, September 24 - 8:10 PM EST
WHERE: Target Field, Minneapolis, Minnesota
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A
The Minnesota Twins attempt to inch closer to a wild card and complete a sweep when they host the American League Central-rival Cleveland Indians on Thursday in the finale of their three-game series. Minnesota pulled within one game of Houston for the second AL wild-card spot by defeating Cleveland 4-2 on Wednesday for its third straight victory.
Trevor Plouffe went 3-for-4 with an RBI and Brian Dozier homered as the Twins scored four runs in the fourth inning and held on to improve to 4-5 on their 10-game homestand. Minnesota turns to Kyle Gibson in the hope of receiving a fourth consecutive superb start after Tyler Duffey, Ervin Santana and Phil Hughes combined to allow one run over 19 innings during the team's winning streak. Carlos Santana belted a two-out, two-run homer in the ninth Wednesday to prevent Cleveland from being shut out for the third time this month. The Indians remained 4 1/2 games behind Houston but saw their wild-card elimination number shrink to seven.
TV: 8:10 p.m. ET, STO (Cleveland), FSN North (Minnesota)
PITCHING MATCHUP: Indians RH Cody Anderson (5-3, 3.48 ERA) vs. Twins RH Kyle Gibson (10-10, 3.73)
Anderson looks to win his fourth consecutive start after going 0-2 over his previous six outings. The 25-year-old Californian has been outstanding during his winning streak, allowing a total of three runs over 19 1/3 innings in a pair of triumphs against Detroit and one versus the Chicago White Sox on Friday. Anderson made his only career start against Minnesota on Aug. 7, when he escaped with a no-decision after surrendering six runs and five hits in 2 2/3 frames.
Gibson allowed three runs in 6 1/3 innings against the Los Angeles Angels on Saturday but did not factor in the decision. The 27-year-old native of Indiana is 6-4 at home this season and hasn't lost at Target Field since falling to the New York Yankees on July 26. Gibson has made five career starts versus Cleveland, going 1-1 with a 5.61 ERA.
WALK-OFFS
1. Dozier's solo homer Wednesday ended his 13-game drought and gave him a career-high 72 RBIs.
2. Cleveland OF Michael Brantley sat out Wednesday's contest after jamming his right shoulder in the series opener.
3. Minnesota RHP Ricky Nolasco (ankle) will pitch in relief when he is activated from the 60-day disabled list, which could occur as soon as Friday.
PREDICTION: Indians 5, Twins 2
Preview: Mariners at Royals
GAME: Seattle Mariners (74-78) at Kansas City Royals (88-63)
DATE/TIME: Thursday, September 24 - 8:10 PM EST
WHERE: Kauffman Stadium, Kansas City, Missouri
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A
The Kansas City Royals made a bold trade for Johnny Cueto with the hopes he would be the missing piece of the puzzle in their bid for a return trip to the World Series. Cueto has fallen far short of expectations and seeks his first victory since Aug. 15 against the visiting Seattle Mariners on Thursday in the rubber match of the three-game series.
Despite a 2-6 record and 5.12 ERA since joining Kansas City, Cueto is coming off a confidence-building performance at Detroit even though his winless drought reached six starts. "I feel good," Cueto said after allowing two runs in seven innings. "I was in rhythm. That's how I'm supposed to feel." Lorenzo Cain capped a three-hit night with a walk-off single in the 10th inning as the Royals lowered their magic number to two for clinching the American League Central title. Robinson Cano reached a significant milestone by becoming the 14th player - and first second baseman - in major-league history to collect 2,000 hits in his first 11 seasons.
TV: 8:10 p.m. ET, ROOT Northwest (Seattle), FSN Kansas City
PITCHING MATCHUP: Mariners LH James Paxton (3-4, 3.70 ERA) vs. Royals RH Johnny Cueto (9-12, 3.43)
Paxton is trying to build back his arm strength as he makes his third start after spending 3 1/2 months on the disabled list with an injury to his left middle finger. Paxton went 4 1/3 innings at Texas last time out, allowing one run on six hits while striking out six and walking four. The 26-year-old Canadian beat Kansas City in his fourth career start in September 2013, striking out a career-high 10 in seven scoreless frames.
Although he did not factor in the decision last time out, Cueto ended an ugly five-start losing streak with a strong performance at Detroit. He was battered repeatedly during the 0-5 skid, allowing a combined 30 runs and 48 hits over 26 1/3 innings. The 29-year-old Dominican also surrendered eight homers in that span after permitting only 11 blasts in 19 starts at Cincinnati's homer-happy Great American Ball Park.
WALK-OFFS
1. Mariners rookie SS Ketel Marte owns a 10-game hitting streak and has multiple hits in six of the last seven contests.
2. Royals LF Alex Gordon snapped an 0-for-22 slump with a 10th-inning single Wednesday.
3. Mariners RHP Felix Hernandez, whose last outing was cut short by elbow tightness, will start Saturday versus the Angels.
PREDICTION: Royals 5, Mariners 2
GAME: Seattle Mariners (74-78) at Kansas City Royals (88-63)
DATE/TIME: Thursday, September 24 - 8:10 PM EST
WHERE: Kauffman Stadium, Kansas City, Missouri
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A
The Kansas City Royals made a bold trade for Johnny Cueto with the hopes he would be the missing piece of the puzzle in their bid for a return trip to the World Series. Cueto has fallen far short of expectations and seeks his first victory since Aug. 15 against the visiting Seattle Mariners on Thursday in the rubber match of the three-game series.
Despite a 2-6 record and 5.12 ERA since joining Kansas City, Cueto is coming off a confidence-building performance at Detroit even though his winless drought reached six starts. "I feel good," Cueto said after allowing two runs in seven innings. "I was in rhythm. That's how I'm supposed to feel." Lorenzo Cain capped a three-hit night with a walk-off single in the 10th inning as the Royals lowered their magic number to two for clinching the American League Central title. Robinson Cano reached a significant milestone by becoming the 14th player - and first second baseman - in major-league history to collect 2,000 hits in his first 11 seasons.
TV: 8:10 p.m. ET, ROOT Northwest (Seattle), FSN Kansas City
PITCHING MATCHUP: Mariners LH James Paxton (3-4, 3.70 ERA) vs. Royals RH Johnny Cueto (9-12, 3.43)
Paxton is trying to build back his arm strength as he makes his third start after spending 3 1/2 months on the disabled list with an injury to his left middle finger. Paxton went 4 1/3 innings at Texas last time out, allowing one run on six hits while striking out six and walking four. The 26-year-old Canadian beat Kansas City in his fourth career start in September 2013, striking out a career-high 10 in seven scoreless frames.
Although he did not factor in the decision last time out, Cueto ended an ugly five-start losing streak with a strong performance at Detroit. He was battered repeatedly during the 0-5 skid, allowing a combined 30 runs and 48 hits over 26 1/3 innings. The 29-year-old Dominican also surrendered eight homers in that span after permitting only 11 blasts in 19 starts at Cincinnati's homer-happy Great American Ball Park.
WALK-OFFS
1. Mariners rookie SS Ketel Marte owns a 10-game hitting streak and has multiple hits in six of the last seven contests.
2. Royals LF Alex Gordon snapped an 0-for-22 slump with a 10th-inning single Wednesday.
3. Mariners RHP Felix Hernandez, whose last outing was cut short by elbow tightness, will start Saturday versus the Angels.
PREDICTION: Royals 5, Mariners 2
Preview: Giants at Padres
GAME: San Francisco Giants (79-72) at San Diego Padres (71-81)
DATE/TIME: Thursday, September 24 - 9:10 PM EST
WHERE: Petco Park, San Diego, California
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A
The San Francisco Giants send their ace to the mound for Thursday’s series finale against the host San Diego Padres, but even Madison Bumgarner might not be enough to keep their faint playoff hopes alive. Time is running out for the reigning World Series champions, whose 5-4 loss Wednesday dropped them seven games back of the first-place Los Angeles Dodgers in the National League West with 11 to play.
Jedd Gyorko has had a season to forget, but the Padres middle infielder celebrated his 27th birthday with four hits Wednesday, including a walk-off single. The victory likely sealed the fate of San Francisco, which was hoping to be within striking distance for next week’s four-game series against the Dodgers. The injury-plagued Giants could have another new starter in the lineup Thursday with the arrival of Kevin Frandsen, who was recalled from Triple-A Sacramento after Ehire Adrianza suffered a concussion in Tuesday’s contest. Frandsen, a Bay Area native who was drafted by the Giants in 2004, could see time at first base with Brandon Belt (concussion) not expected to return this season.
TV: 9:10 p.m. ET, CSN Bay Area (San Francisco), FSN San Diego
PITCHING MATCHUP: Padres RH Ian Kennedy (8-15, 4.29 ERA) vs. Giants LH Madison Bumgarner (18-8, 2.84)
Kennedy has dropped four straight decisions, including Friday when he allowed four runs (three earned) over six innings in a 7-4 loss at Colorado. The native Californian has pitched well against San Francisco, going 11-6 with a 2.73 ERA in 25 career starts against the Giants, including 2-2 with a 3.81 ERA in five outings this season. Buster Posey is 17-for-44 with a home run against Kennedy, who has allowed 29 homers in 28 starts this season.
Bumgarner was a hard-luck loser Friday as he yielded two runs (one earned) across eight innings in a 2-0 loss to Arizona. The three-time NL All-Star is the first Giants pitcher to win 18 or more games in two consecutive seasons since Gaylord Perry in 1969 (19 wins) and 1970 (23). Justin Upton is 12-for-36 with a home run against Bumgarner, who is 8-5 with a 3.26 ERA in 22 career games (21 starts) against San Diego.
WALK-OFFS
1. San Diego OF Wil Myers was scratched from Wednesday’s starting lineup due to left wrist discomfort but entered as a pinch hitter.
2. Giants starting pitchers have allowed three runs or fewer in each of their last 13 games, posting a 2.03 ERA over that stretch.
3. Padres 3B Yangervis Solarte likely will be unavailable Thursday after suffering a right hamstring cramp in Wednesday’s victory.
PREDICTION: Giants 5, Padres 1
GAME: San Francisco Giants (79-72) at San Diego Padres (71-81)
DATE/TIME: Thursday, September 24 - 9:10 PM EST
WHERE: Petco Park, San Diego, California
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A
The San Francisco Giants send their ace to the mound for Thursday’s series finale against the host San Diego Padres, but even Madison Bumgarner might not be enough to keep their faint playoff hopes alive. Time is running out for the reigning World Series champions, whose 5-4 loss Wednesday dropped them seven games back of the first-place Los Angeles Dodgers in the National League West with 11 to play.
Jedd Gyorko has had a season to forget, but the Padres middle infielder celebrated his 27th birthday with four hits Wednesday, including a walk-off single. The victory likely sealed the fate of San Francisco, which was hoping to be within striking distance for next week’s four-game series against the Dodgers. The injury-plagued Giants could have another new starter in the lineup Thursday with the arrival of Kevin Frandsen, who was recalled from Triple-A Sacramento after Ehire Adrianza suffered a concussion in Tuesday’s contest. Frandsen, a Bay Area native who was drafted by the Giants in 2004, could see time at first base with Brandon Belt (concussion) not expected to return this season.
TV: 9:10 p.m. ET, CSN Bay Area (San Francisco), FSN San Diego
PITCHING MATCHUP: Padres RH Ian Kennedy (8-15, 4.29 ERA) vs. Giants LH Madison Bumgarner (18-8, 2.84)
Kennedy has dropped four straight decisions, including Friday when he allowed four runs (three earned) over six innings in a 7-4 loss at Colorado. The native Californian has pitched well against San Francisco, going 11-6 with a 2.73 ERA in 25 career starts against the Giants, including 2-2 with a 3.81 ERA in five outings this season. Buster Posey is 17-for-44 with a home run against Kennedy, who has allowed 29 homers in 28 starts this season.
Bumgarner was a hard-luck loser Friday as he yielded two runs (one earned) across eight innings in a 2-0 loss to Arizona. The three-time NL All-Star is the first Giants pitcher to win 18 or more games in two consecutive seasons since Gaylord Perry in 1969 (19 wins) and 1970 (23). Justin Upton is 12-for-36 with a home run against Bumgarner, who is 8-5 with a 3.26 ERA in 22 career games (21 starts) against San Diego.
WALK-OFFS
1. San Diego OF Wil Myers was scratched from Wednesday’s starting lineup due to left wrist discomfort but entered as a pinch hitter.
2. Giants starting pitchers have allowed three runs or fewer in each of their last 13 games, posting a 2.03 ERA over that stretch.
3. Padres 3B Yangervis Solarte likely will be unavailable Thursday after suffering a right hamstring cramp in Wednesday’s victory.
PREDICTION: Giants 5, Padres 1
MLB
Dunkel
Thursday, September 24
NY Mets @ Cincinnati
Game 953-954
September 24, 2015 @ 7:10 pm
Dunkel Rating:
NY Mets
(Matz) 13.502
Cincinnati
(Smith) 14.372
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Cincinnati
by 1
7 1/2
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
NY Mets
-165
8
Dunkel Pick:
Cincinnati
(+145); Under
Philadelphia @ Miami
Game 955-956
September 24, 2015 @ 7:10 pm
Dunkel Rating:
Philadelphia
(Asher) 13.579
Miami
(Cosart) 14.985
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Miami
by 1 1/2
7
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Miami
-175
8 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Miami
(-175); Under
Milwaukee @ St. Louis
Game 957-958
September 24, 2015 @ 7:15 pm
Dunkel Rating:
Milwaukee
(Jungmnn) 13.502
St. Louis
(Wacha) 15.678
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
St. Louis
by 2
8
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
St. Louis
-190
7 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
St. Louis
(-190); Over
San Francisco @ San Diego
Game 959-960
September 24, 2015 @ 9:10 pm
Dunkel Rating:
San Francisco
(Bumgrner) 16.409
San Diego
(Kennedy) 14.813
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
San Francisco
by 1 1/2
8
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
San Francisco
-165
6 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
San Francisco
(-165); Over
Arizona @ LA Dodgers
Game 961-962
September 24, 2015 @ 3:10 pm
Dunkel Rating:
Arizona
(Corbin) 13.229
LA Dodgers
(Kershaw) 16.998
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
LA Dodgers
by 3 1/2
5
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
LA Dodgers
-220
6 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
LA Dodgers
(-220); Under
Texas @ Oakland
Game 963-964
September 24, 2015 @ 3:35 pm
Dunkel Rating:
Texas
(Hamels) 14.579
Oakland
(Bassitt) 15.481
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Oakland
by 1
9
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Texas
-150
8
Dunkel Pick:
Oakland
(+130); Over
Chicago White Sox @ NY Yankees
Game 965-966
September 24, 2015 @ 7:05 pm
Dunkel Rating:
Chicago White Sox
(Sale) 15.431
NY Yankees
(Pineda) 14.081
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Chicago White Sox
by 1 1/2
5 1/2
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
NY Yankees
-125
7
Dunkel Pick:
Chicago White Sox
(+105); Under
Tampa Bay @ Boston
Game 967-968
September 24, 2015 @ 7:10 pm
Dunkel Rating:
Tampa Bay
(Ramirez) 16.648
Boston
(Miley) 15.161
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Tampa Bay
by 1 1/2
9
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Boston
-125
8
Dunkel Pick:
Tampa Bay
(+105); Over
Cleveland @ Minnesota
Game 969-970
September 24, 2015 @ 8:10 pm
Dunkel Rating:
Cleveland
(Anderson) 17.113
Minnesota
(Gibson) 13.576
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Cleveland
by 3 1/2
7
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Minnesota
-120
8
Dunkel Pick:
Cleveland
(+100); Under
Seattle @ Kansas City
Game 971-972
September 24, 2015 @ 8:10 pm
Dunkel Rating:
Seattle
(Paxton) 17.181
Kansas City
(Cueto) 16.099
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Seattle
by 1
7
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Kansas City
-165
8
Dunkel Pick:
Seattle
(+145); Under
Pittsburgh @ Colorado
Game 951-952
September 24, 2015 @ 3:10 pm
Dunkel Rating:
Pittsburgh
(Locke) 13.971
Colorado
(Bettis) 15.534
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Colorado
by 1 1/2
12 1/2
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Pittsburgh
-130
11
Dunkel Pick:
Colorado
(+110); Over
Baltimore @ Washington
Game 973-974
September 24, 2015 @ 4:05 pm
Dunkel Rating:
Baltimore
(Wilson) 16.310
Washington
(Roark) 14.279
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Baltimore
by 1
9
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Washington
-145
8
Dunkel Pick:
Baltimore
(+125); Over
Dunkel
Thursday, September 24
NY Mets @ Cincinnati
Game 953-954
September 24, 2015 @ 7:10 pm
Dunkel Rating:
NY Mets
(Matz) 13.502
Cincinnati
(Smith) 14.372
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Cincinnati
by 1
7 1/2
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
NY Mets
-165
8
Dunkel Pick:
Cincinnati
(+145); Under
Philadelphia @ Miami
Game 955-956
September 24, 2015 @ 7:10 pm
Dunkel Rating:
Philadelphia
(Asher) 13.579
Miami
(Cosart) 14.985
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Miami
by 1 1/2
7
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Miami
-175
8 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Miami
(-175); Under
Milwaukee @ St. Louis
Game 957-958
September 24, 2015 @ 7:15 pm
Dunkel Rating:
Milwaukee
(Jungmnn) 13.502
St. Louis
(Wacha) 15.678
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
St. Louis
by 2
8
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
St. Louis
-190
7 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
St. Louis
(-190); Over
San Francisco @ San Diego
Game 959-960
September 24, 2015 @ 9:10 pm
Dunkel Rating:
San Francisco
(Bumgrner) 16.409
San Diego
(Kennedy) 14.813
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
San Francisco
by 1 1/2
8
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
San Francisco
-165
6 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
San Francisco
(-165); Over
Arizona @ LA Dodgers
Game 961-962
September 24, 2015 @ 3:10 pm
Dunkel Rating:
Arizona
(Corbin) 13.229
LA Dodgers
(Kershaw) 16.998
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
LA Dodgers
by 3 1/2
5
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
LA Dodgers
-220
6 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
LA Dodgers
(-220); Under
Texas @ Oakland
Game 963-964
September 24, 2015 @ 3:35 pm
Dunkel Rating:
Texas
(Hamels) 14.579
Oakland
(Bassitt) 15.481
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Oakland
by 1
9
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Texas
-150
8
Dunkel Pick:
Oakland
(+130); Over
Chicago White Sox @ NY Yankees
Game 965-966
September 24, 2015 @ 7:05 pm
Dunkel Rating:
Chicago White Sox
(Sale) 15.431
NY Yankees
(Pineda) 14.081
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Chicago White Sox
by 1 1/2
5 1/2
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
NY Yankees
-125
7
Dunkel Pick:
Chicago White Sox
(+105); Under
Tampa Bay @ Boston
Game 967-968
September 24, 2015 @ 7:10 pm
Dunkel Rating:
Tampa Bay
(Ramirez) 16.648
Boston
(Miley) 15.161
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Tampa Bay
by 1 1/2
9
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Boston
-125
8
Dunkel Pick:
Tampa Bay
(+105); Over
Cleveland @ Minnesota
Game 969-970
September 24, 2015 @ 8:10 pm
Dunkel Rating:
Cleveland
(Anderson) 17.113
Minnesota
(Gibson) 13.576
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Cleveland
by 3 1/2
7
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Minnesota
-120
8
Dunkel Pick:
Cleveland
(+100); Under
Seattle @ Kansas City
Game 971-972
September 24, 2015 @ 8:10 pm
Dunkel Rating:
Seattle
(Paxton) 17.181
Kansas City
(Cueto) 16.099
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Seattle
by 1
7
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Kansas City
-165
8
Dunkel Pick:
Seattle
(+145); Under
Pittsburgh @ Colorado
Game 951-952
September 24, 2015 @ 3:10 pm
Dunkel Rating:
Pittsburgh
(Locke) 13.971
Colorado
(Bettis) 15.534
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Colorado
by 1 1/2
12 1/2
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Pittsburgh
-130
11
Dunkel Pick:
Colorado
(+110); Over
Baltimore @ Washington
Game 973-974
September 24, 2015 @ 4:05 pm
Dunkel Rating:
Baltimore
(Wilson) 16.310
Washington
(Roark) 14.279
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Baltimore
by 1
9
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Washington
-145
8
Dunkel Pick:
Baltimore
(+125); Over
MLB
Thursday, September 24
Trend Report
3:10 PM
PITTSBURGH vs. COLORADO
Pittsburgh is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games when playing Colorado
Pittsburgh is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Colorado
Colorado is 1-6 SU in its last 7 games when playing Pittsburgh
Colorado is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games
3:10 PM
ARIZONA vs. LA DODGERS
The total has gone OVER in 7 of Arizona's last 10 games when playing LA Dodgers
Arizona is 2-10 SU in their last 12 games when playing on the road against LA Dodgers
LA Dodgers are 1-4 SU in their last 5 games
LA Dodgers are 1-4 SU in their last 5 games at home
3:35 PM
TEXAS vs. OAKLAND
Texas is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing Oakland
The total has gone OVER in 9 of Texas's last 12 games when playing on the road against Oakland
The total has gone OVER in 7 of Oakland's last 10 games
Oakland is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games when playing at home against Texas
4:05 PM
BALTIMORE vs. WASHINGTON
Baltimore is 8-3 SU in its last 11 games when playing Washington
Baltimore is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games when playing on the road against Washington
Washington is 3-8 SU in its last 11 games when playing Baltimore
Washington is 3-6 SU in its last 9 games at home
7:05 PM
CHI WHITE SOX vs. NY YANKEES
Chi White Sox are 1-7 SU in their last 8 games when playing NY Yankees
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Chi White Sox's last 5 games when playing NY Yankees
NY Yankees are 1-5 SU in their last 6 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 4 of NY Yankees's last 6 games when playing at home against Chi White Sox
7:10 PM
PHILADELPHIA vs. MIAMI
Philadelphia is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Miami
Philadelphia is 1-8 SU in its last 9 games on the road
Miami is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Miami's last 6 games at home
7:10 PM
TAMPA BAY vs. BOSTON
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Tampa Bay's last 9 games when playing on the road against Boston
Tampa Bay is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Boston's last 6 games
Boston is 6-3 SU in its last 9 games at home
7:10 PM
NY METS vs. CINCINNATI
NY Mets are 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Cincinnati
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of NY Mets's last 6 games when playing on the road against Cincinnati
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Cincinnati's last 6 games when playing at home against NY Mets
The total has gone OVER in 7 of Cincinnati's last 10 games at home
7:15 PM
MILWAUKEE vs. ST. LOUIS
Milwaukee is 1-7 SU in its last 8 games when playing St. Louis
The total has gone OVER in 13 of Milwaukee's last 16 games on the road
St. Louis is 7-1 SU in its last 8 games when playing Milwaukee
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of St. Louis's last 5 games when playing at home against Milwaukee
8:10 PM
CLEVELAND vs. MINNESOTA
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Cleveland's last 5 games when playing on the road against Minnesota
Cleveland is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games when playing on the road against Minnesota
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Minnesota's last 5 games at home
Minnesota is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games when playing at home against Cleveland
8:10 PM
SEATTLE vs. KANSAS CITY
Seattle is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Kansas City
The total has gone OVER in 10 of Seattle's last 13 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Kansas City's last 6 games
Kansas City is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Seattle
9:10 PM
SAN FRANCISCO vs. SAN DIEGO
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of San Francisco's last 5 games on the road
San Francisco is 4-8 SU in its last 12 games when playing on the road against San Diego
San Diego is 1-6 SU in its last 7 games when playing San Francisco
San Diego is 3-6 SU in its last 9 games at home
Thursday, September 24
Trend Report
3:10 PM
PITTSBURGH vs. COLORADO
Pittsburgh is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games when playing Colorado
Pittsburgh is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Colorado
Colorado is 1-6 SU in its last 7 games when playing Pittsburgh
Colorado is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games
3:10 PM
ARIZONA vs. LA DODGERS
The total has gone OVER in 7 of Arizona's last 10 games when playing LA Dodgers
Arizona is 2-10 SU in their last 12 games when playing on the road against LA Dodgers
LA Dodgers are 1-4 SU in their last 5 games
LA Dodgers are 1-4 SU in their last 5 games at home
3:35 PM
TEXAS vs. OAKLAND
Texas is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing Oakland
The total has gone OVER in 9 of Texas's last 12 games when playing on the road against Oakland
The total has gone OVER in 7 of Oakland's last 10 games
Oakland is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games when playing at home against Texas
4:05 PM
BALTIMORE vs. WASHINGTON
Baltimore is 8-3 SU in its last 11 games when playing Washington
Baltimore is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games when playing on the road against Washington
Washington is 3-8 SU in its last 11 games when playing Baltimore
Washington is 3-6 SU in its last 9 games at home
7:05 PM
CHI WHITE SOX vs. NY YANKEES
Chi White Sox are 1-7 SU in their last 8 games when playing NY Yankees
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Chi White Sox's last 5 games when playing NY Yankees
NY Yankees are 1-5 SU in their last 6 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 4 of NY Yankees's last 6 games when playing at home against Chi White Sox
7:10 PM
PHILADELPHIA vs. MIAMI
Philadelphia is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Miami
Philadelphia is 1-8 SU in its last 9 games on the road
Miami is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Miami's last 6 games at home
7:10 PM
TAMPA BAY vs. BOSTON
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Tampa Bay's last 9 games when playing on the road against Boston
Tampa Bay is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Boston's last 6 games
Boston is 6-3 SU in its last 9 games at home
7:10 PM
NY METS vs. CINCINNATI
NY Mets are 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Cincinnati
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of NY Mets's last 6 games when playing on the road against Cincinnati
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Cincinnati's last 6 games when playing at home against NY Mets
The total has gone OVER in 7 of Cincinnati's last 10 games at home
7:15 PM
MILWAUKEE vs. ST. LOUIS
Milwaukee is 1-7 SU in its last 8 games when playing St. Louis
The total has gone OVER in 13 of Milwaukee's last 16 games on the road
St. Louis is 7-1 SU in its last 8 games when playing Milwaukee
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of St. Louis's last 5 games when playing at home against Milwaukee
8:10 PM
CLEVELAND vs. MINNESOTA
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Cleveland's last 5 games when playing on the road against Minnesota
Cleveland is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games when playing on the road against Minnesota
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Minnesota's last 5 games at home
Minnesota is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games when playing at home against Cleveland
8:10 PM
SEATTLE vs. KANSAS CITY
Seattle is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Kansas City
The total has gone OVER in 10 of Seattle's last 13 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Kansas City's last 6 games
Kansas City is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Seattle
9:10 PM
SAN FRANCISCO vs. SAN DIEGO
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of San Francisco's last 5 games on the road
San Francisco is 4-8 SU in its last 12 games when playing on the road against San Diego
San Diego is 1-6 SU in its last 7 games when playing San Francisco
San Diego is 3-6 SU in its last 9 games at home
WNBA
Dunkel
Thursday, September 24
Phoenix @ Minnesota
Game 653-654
September 24, 2015 @ 8:00 pm
Dunkel Rating:
Phoenix
116.146
Minnesota
114.658
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Phoenix
by 1 1/2
162
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Minnesota
by 5
145
Dunkel Pick:
Phoenix
(+5); Over
Dunkel
Thursday, September 24
Phoenix @ Minnesota
Game 653-654
September 24, 2015 @ 8:00 pm
Dunkel Rating:
Phoenix
116.146
Minnesota
114.658
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Phoenix
by 1 1/2
162
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Minnesota
by 5
145
Dunkel Pick:
Phoenix
(+5); Over
WNBA
Long Sheet
Thursday, September 24
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PHOENIX (22 - 14) at MINNESOTA (24 - 13) - 9/24/2015, 8:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
PHOENIX is 13-21 ATS (-10.1 Units) in all games this season.
PHOENIX is 7-15 ATS (-9.5 Units) after a division game this season.
PHOENIX is 2-8 ATS (-6.8 Units) after a win by 10 points or more this season.
MINNESOTA is 6-13 ATS (-8.3 Units) in August or September games this season.
Head-to-Head Series History
MINNESOTA is 10-9 against the spread versus PHOENIX over the last 3 seasons
MINNESOTA is 11-8 straight up against PHOENIX over the last 3 seasons
15 of 19 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
Long Sheet
Thursday, September 24
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PHOENIX (22 - 14) at MINNESOTA (24 - 13) - 9/24/2015, 8:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
PHOENIX is 13-21 ATS (-10.1 Units) in all games this season.
PHOENIX is 7-15 ATS (-9.5 Units) after a division game this season.
PHOENIX is 2-8 ATS (-6.8 Units) after a win by 10 points or more this season.
MINNESOTA is 6-13 ATS (-8.3 Units) in August or September games this season.
Head-to-Head Series History
MINNESOTA is 10-9 against the spread versus PHOENIX over the last 3 seasons
MINNESOTA is 11-8 straight up against PHOENIX over the last 3 seasons
15 of 19 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
WNBA
Thursday, September 24
Trend Report
8:00 PM
PHOENIX vs. MINNESOTA
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Phoenix's last 5 games when playing Minnesota
Phoenix is 1-5 ATS in its last 6 games when playing on the road against Minnesota
Minnesota is 17-8 SU in its last 25 games when playing Phoenix
Minnesota is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games when playing Phoenix
Thursday, September 24
Trend Report
8:00 PM
PHOENIX vs. MINNESOTA
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Phoenix's last 5 games when playing Minnesota
Phoenix is 1-5 ATS in its last 6 games when playing on the road against Minnesota
Minnesota is 17-8 SU in its last 25 games when playing Phoenix
Minnesota is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games when playing Phoenix
NFL
Long Sheet
Thursday, September 24
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WASHINGTON (1 - 1) at NY GIANTS (0 - 2) - 9/24/2015, 8:25 PM
Top Trends for this game.
WASHINGTON is 11-23 ATS (-14.3 Units) in all games over the last 3 seasons.
WASHINGTON is 11-23 ATS (-14.3 Units) in all lined games over the last 3 seasons.
WASHINGTON is 8-19 ATS (-12.9 Units) as an underdog over the last 3 seasons.
WASHINGTON is 3-12 ATS (-10.2 Units) in all games where the total is between 42.5 and 49 points over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
NY GIANTS is 4-0 against the spread versus WASHINGTON over the last 3 seasons
NY GIANTS is 4-0 straight up against WASHINGTON over the last 3 seasons
3 of 4 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
Long Sheet
Thursday, September 24
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
WASHINGTON (1 - 1) at NY GIANTS (0 - 2) - 9/24/2015, 8:25 PM
Top Trends for this game.
WASHINGTON is 11-23 ATS (-14.3 Units) in all games over the last 3 seasons.
WASHINGTON is 11-23 ATS (-14.3 Units) in all lined games over the last 3 seasons.
WASHINGTON is 8-19 ATS (-12.9 Units) as an underdog over the last 3 seasons.
WASHINGTON is 3-12 ATS (-10.2 Units) in all games where the total is between 42.5 and 49 points over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
NY GIANTS is 4-0 against the spread versus WASHINGTON over the last 3 seasons
NY GIANTS is 4-0 straight up against WASHINGTON over the last 3 seasons
3 of 4 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons
