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

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Astros (77-67) at Rangers (76-67)

Game: 2
Venue: Globe Life Park in Arlington
Date: September 15, 2015 8:05 PM EDT

Dallas Keuchel has already joined Roy Oswalt as the Houston Astros' only 17-game winners in a decade. Colin McHugh can now make it two in just over two weeks.

McHugh has earned a win in all of his career starts against the Texas Rangers, and another Tuesday night in Arlington would keep the Astros from falling out of first place.

The Rangers (76-67) opened the four-game set with Monday's 5-3 win to pull within a half game of Houston (77-67), which has been sitting atop the AL West since July 28. Texas, which remained a game up on Minnesota for the second wild card, hasn't been in first since April 11.

"Every day, we're going to talk about someone's going to have the lead," Houston manager A.J. Hinch said. "We have it, and we've had it for a long time."

Texas has won four straight in the season series and nine of 13 this year, and another will move the club 10 games over .500 for the first time since its 91-win season in 2013 ended without a postseason appearance.

Mitch Moreland got to 20 home runs for the second time in his career, while Prince Fielder went deep for just the second time in 32 games.

Keuchel matched Oswalt's 2008 win total on Sept. 6 for the first such mark since Oswalt won 20 and Andy Pettitte notched 17 in 2005.

McHugh (16-7, 3.89 ERA) is in position to match them thanks to wins in three straight starts, though the right-hander wasn't in top form in Wednesday's 11-5 victory at Oakland. He gave up five runs and six hits over 5 1-3 innings but improved to 7-2 with a 2.80 ERA in 10 starts since the All-Star break.

He knows the recent wins have a lot to do with a 9.31 run-support average.

"Our offense did an incredible job today," McHugh told MLB's official website. "Hats off to them, hats off to the defense for doing a great job. The only stat that really matters is a win in the column for us."

McHugh beat the Rangers in his first start after the All-Star break to get to 3-0 with a 1.89 ERA against them despite conceding a .320 batting average. Fielder (4 for 6), Adrian Beltre (4 for 9) and Elvis Andrus (4 for 9) have hit him best.

For Houston, Jose Altuve homered and is batting .409 with six extra-base hits in his last five games.

McHugh was supposed to face Martin Perez, who he beat July 17, but the Rangers reworked their rotation and will instead start Derek Holland. Manager Jeff Banister said they prefer to have Holland (3-2, 3.13) and Monday's starter Cole Hamels going on consecutive nights in the division race.

"It's awesome to hear, but no matter what, I'm not going to let that get to me," Holland said. "I still have to go out there and perform and be me. I can't worry about being the hottest pitcher or any of those sayings that are out there as well. I just have to go out there and be me."

The left-hander made his season debut against Houston back on April 10 and lasted an inning before suffering a shoulder injury and taking the loss. He returned Aug. 19 and is 3-1 with a 2.97 ERA in five starts, but he gave up season-highs of five runs and nine hits in seven innings of Thursday's 5-0 loss in Seattle.

Jason Castro is 4 for 6 with a home run against him. Castro (quadriceps strain) is on the 15-day disabled list but is now considered day to day.

Carlos Gomez, also 4 for 6 against Holland, will miss the series with an intercostal strain.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Cardinals (89-54) at Brewers (62-81)

Game: 1
Venue: Miller Park
Date: September 15, 2015 8:10 PM EDT

The St. Louis Cardinals got a little closer to full strength in their latest series, and Matt Adams could make his first appearance in the starting lineup in four months Tuesday night.

After homering in his latest game, Adams will try to help the Cardinals protect their NL Central lead in the opener of a three-game road set against the Milwaukee Brewers.

Initially expected to miss the rest of the season because of a torn right quad, Adams was activated from the disabled list Wednesday and made three pinch-hit appearances over four games at Cincinnati. He delivered a two-run shot Sunday as the Cardinals (89-54) pulled away for a 9-2 win that snapped a three-game slide.

Jon Jay had his first two-hit game since returning from an injured left wrist Sept. 4 and Matt Belisle made his first appearance since June 25 for St. Louis, which won for the third time in 11 contests to stay 2 1/2 games ahead of Pittsburgh.

Slugger Matt Holliday might also be close to returning from a strained right quad.

"It's good to have all of those guys coming, but at the same time, you can't sit around and wait for them," third baseman Matt Carpenter told MLB's official website. "This thing isn't going to change collectively until individually we are executing better and doing those things. You can't just hope that Matt Holliday is going to save us or Matt Adams is going to save us or whoever is coming off the DL."

The Cardinals have won 15 of 21 meetings with the Brewers - eight of 12 this season - and are 19-7 at Miller Park since the start of 2013.

Carlos Martinez (13-7, 3.12 ERA) won 3-0 at Milwaukee on April 24, pitching seven innings and striking out eight, but he's gone 1-3 with a 5.60 ERA in his last five starts. The right-hander matched a career high by allowing 10 hits in a 4-3 win over the Chicago Cubs on Wednesday and gave up three runs in five innings, not getting the decision.

The Brewers (62-81) have lost five of six overall but are 13-5 in their last 18 at home and have won four in a row there.

Ariel Pena (1-0, 4.50) will make his second career start and third major league appearance. The right-hander gave up two runs and three hits in five innings of a 5-2 loss at Miami on Wednesday.

'I felt a little emotional which you expect as something normal,' Pena said. 'I just concentrated on the signs and made my pitches."

Jonathan Lucroy hasn't played since suffering a concussion last Tuesday in Miami, and his status is uncertain.

Jean Segura has batted .371 in his last 14 games and .340 in the 12 against St. Louis this season. He had two of the Brewers' four hits off Martinez in April.

Jhonny Peralta is a career .340 hitter against Milwaukee, but has batted .151 in his last 16 games. Adams has a .322 average in 16 career contests at Miller Park.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Tigers (65-78) at Twins (75-68)

Game: 2
Venue: Target Field
Date: September 15, 2015 8:10 PM EDT

It's been a long career in Minnesota for Joe Mauer. Of his dozen years in a Twins uniform, the last four probably seemed like an eternity.

However, meaningful September games are back on the schedule with Minnesota a surprise postseason contender.

Mauer will try to help his team pull closer to the wild card while closing in on a career-long streak of his own as the Twins continue a home series against the last-place Detroit Tigers Tuesday night.

A 7-1 victory in the series opener gave the Twins (75-68) wins in four of five and helped them remain one game behind Texas for the AL's second wild card. That's surprising given Minnesota's four previous seasons, averaging 66.3 wins and finishing in last place in the Central three times.

Mauer is on pace to pass his career high of 147 games played after averaging 116.5 over the last two years. He went 3 for 5 in the opener to extend his on-base streak to 34 games, two shy of his career long.

"At this point in the season, the less days off, the better," Mauer told MLB's official website. "If you can't get up for a postseason run, then something is wrong. It's an exciting time. It's good to be playing meaningful games in September again."

Minnesota dropped eight of its first 10 games against Detroit this season but has won each of the last four. The most recent victory featured six runs in the first two innings after the Tigers (65-78) left the bases loaded in the opening frame.

'It's like taking a punch to the gut early,' manager Brad Ausmus said. 'You hope something sparks you along the way.'

Phil Hughes was 8-2 with a 3.91 ERA at Target Field before landing on the 15-day disabled list in mid-August with lower back inflammation. The right-hander will make his first start since Aug. 9 for the Twins, who are expected to hold him to 75-80 pitches after he did not make a rehab start.

Hughes (10-8, 4.49 ERA) did not fare well against the Tigers in three starts before his injury, going 1-1 with a 6.19 ERA. He has given up 15 home runs in 15 career starts against Detroit, pitching to a 7-7 record and 4.48 ERA.

Miguel Cabrera is 0 for 11 in his last three games, but still leads the majors with a .339 average. He stands a good chance to raise that number since he's batting .472 with five homers and five doubles in 36 career at-bats against Hughes.

Minnesota, which plays 12 of its final 19 games at home, has had mixed results in two games this season against Alfredo Simon. The right-hander limited them to one run over 7 2-3 innings before leaving without a decision in Detroit's 2-1 win on May 12, but lasted a season-low 2 1-3 innings in a 9-5 loss at Target Field on July 11, yielding seven runs and 10 hits.

Simon (12-9, 4.94) has been up and down since his most recent start against Minnesota. He's 4-3 with a 5.61 ERA in his last 10 outings, allowing four or more runs seven times and one or less in the other three.

The swings have been more exaggerated in his last five, starting with a one-hit shutout. Simon then gave up 14 runs in two losses, followed by seven scoreless innings in a win, and finally five runs in 6 2-3 of a defeat.

Kurt Suzuki is 5 for 11 against Simon with two home runs.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Athletics (61-83) at White Sox (68-74)

Game: 2
Venue: U.S. Cellular Field
Date: September 15, 2015 8:10 PM EDT

Jeff Samardzija might have a better home record if he could only keep the ball in Chicago's South Side park.

Plagued by the long ball, the right-hander tries to avoid becoming the first White Sox pitcher in 46 years to lose seven straight home starts Tuesday night against the Oakland Athletics.

Samardzija (9-12, 4.89 ERA) allowed three home runs while going 4-1 with a 2.59 ERA in his first eight starts at U.S. Cellular Field. Since then, he's served up 11 to go 0-6 with an 8.33 ERA. No White Sox pitcher has dropped seven consecutive starts at home since Tommy John in 1969.

'If you're going to miss location, it's hard to keep it in the yard,' Chicago manager Robin Ventura said about Samardzija, who has allowed a career-high 26 home runs this year. 'That's been tough for him in the last couple (starts), being able to keep that in the yard and limit things.'

Since the beginning of August, Samardzija is 1-7 with a 7.91 ERA overall. He gave up two solo homers and two other runs in 6 2-3 innings of a 6-4 home loss to Cleveland on Wednesday.

Samardzija allowed a two-run homer - the first of Max Muncy's career - plus one other run in eight innings of a 7-3 victory May 17 in his first appearance against an Oakland team he went 5-6 with a 3.14 ERA in 16 starts for last season.

He'll try to help Chicago (68-74) win two straight at home for the first time since a four-game run Aug. 5-12 after Monday's 8-7 victory over the A's in 14 innings. Melky Cabrera's fourth hit of the night was a game-winning single that came five innings after the White Sox blew a four-run lead in the ninth.

'Bullpen-wise, they did great. They were able to keep it going until we finally scored,' Ventura said. 'But you're more than disappointed with how the ninth went.'

Cabrera is 6 for 12 in his last two games after going 0 for 15 in his previous four. He's batting .409 with three RBIs in four games against Oakland (61-83) this season.

Chicago hopes to add to the recent misery of Aaron Brooks (1-3, 7.44), who has allowed 11 runs and 14 hits in 6 1-3 innings to lose his last two starts.

'I have to keep trying to get better every day," the rookie right-hander said after lasting four-plus innings in an 11-5 loss to Houston on Wednesday. "Getting the ball down would be big.'

While Brooks makes his first appearance against the White Sox, his teammates hope for more production after they recorded six hits all night while falling to 3-9 in September. Brett Lawrie had two of those hits and one of Oakland's three home runs.

"That was a very hard-fought game," A's manager Bob Melvin said.

Marcus Semien went 0 for 6 with two strikeouts and left three of his teammates on base. Part of the December deal that brought Samardzija to Chicago, Semien is 3 for 7 against him.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Padres (68-77) at Diamondbacks (68-76)

Game: 2
Venue: Chase Field
Date: September 15, 2015 9:40 PM EDT

Tyson Ross' uncharacteristic start his last time out began a losing streak for the San Diego Padres. The right-hander hopes a return to normalcy will help his team string two wins together.

Ross takes the mound Tuesday night against the host Arizona Diamondbacks looking to win a fifth straight road decision.

Ross (10-10, 3.24 ERA) was bitten by the home run for the first time this season during a 4-3 loss to Colorado on Thursday. He went 16 straight starts without allowing a homer earlier this year - the second-longest streak in franchise history - but gave up three solo shots to the Rockies, the first game an opponent has hit more than one against him since June 16, 2014.

Ross, battling a stomach bug, didn't factor into the decision after allowing three runs in seven innings.

"I didn't feel great physically out there," Ross told MLB's official website. "But I tried to grind it through, tried to make pitches and keep us in the ballgame."

The loss was the first of four straight for San Diego (68-77), a skid that was snapped with a 10-3 win over the Diamondbacks (68-76) in Monday's opener.

Wil Myers' leadoff home run ignited a five-run first inning, a number the Padres matched in the fifth to post 2 1/2 times their total (4) from a three-game sweep in San Francisco this weekend.

Ross is 4-0 with a 2.79 ERA in his last five road starts and tossed a four-hitter with nine strikeouts in an 8-1 victory at Chase Field on June 20. He hasn't allowed a home run in three meetings against Arizona this year, going 2-0 with a 2.14 ERA.

Ross has given up just two homers to the Diamondbacks in 11 career starts on the way to a 4-3 record and 2.79 ERA. Paul Goldschmidt hit both of those home runs, one in 2013 and the other in 2014.

Goldschmidt drove in the Diamondbacks' first run Monday with an RBI double in the first inning, joining Luis Gonzalez (2011-12) as the only players in club history with multiple 100-RBI seasons.

It was one of the few bright spots for Arizona, which has dropped three straight and eight of 11.

"They are embarrassed by the performance as a team, as a group, but I am sure they will bounce back,' manager Chip Hale said.

Two quality starts at the end of August weren't enough to keep Jhoulys Chacin with the Diamondbacks as he was sent to Triple-A Reno.

Chacin (0-1, 2.70) was called up last Tuesday and will stay in the rotation the rest of the season.

The veteran right-hander is 5-2 with a 2.57 ERA in nine career starts against the Padres, but hasn't faced them since 2013 with Colorado.

San Diego catcher Derek Norris left in the first inning Monday after getting hit on the top of his right hand by a foul ball off the bat of Goldschmidt.

The Padres will be without first baseman Yonder Alonso the rest of the season as he was placed on the 60-day disabled list with a stress reaction to a bone in his lower back.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Rockies (60-84) at Dodgers (83-60)

Game: 2
Venue: Dodger Stadium
Date: September 15, 2015 10:10 PM EDT

Plagued by injuries, the Los Angeles Dodgers continue relying on some top prospects to help their push toward the postseason.

Looking to maintain their surge, the Dodgers try for a fourth consecutive victory Tuesday night against the visiting Colorado Rockies.

Scott Schebler homered for the third time in 10 career games and shortstop Corey Seager stayed hot with two hits as Los Angeles (83-60) beat Colorado 4-1 on Monday. Owners of a 7 1/2-game lead in the NL West, the Dodgers have won 16 of 20 and are 20-6 at home since last losing a series there July 3-5 to the New York Mets.

The Dodgers' prized prospect, Seager is batting .432 with a homer, six doubles and seven RBIs in 11 games since making his major-league debut Sept. 3.

"I'm just getting good pitches to hit right now, putting good swings on them, and they're falling in," he said. "So I can't complain."

Seager is playing in place of the injured Jimmy Rollins (hand), who manager Don Mattingly said will return to the starting lineup when he's healthy. However, it's uncertain when that will be.

"(Seager's) played more than we thought because of injuries and done a good job," Mattingly told MLB's official website.

Half of Schebler's six hits in 23 career at-bats this season have left the park. His two-run shot in the eighth inning Monday broke open a one-run contest.

That pair has certainly helped matters while Rollins, Howie Kendrick (hamstring), Yasiel Puig (hamstring) and Carl Crawford (hamstring) continue to miss time with injuries.

Los Angeles' Brett Anderson (9-8, 3.36 ERA) will take the ball following a few extra days' rest since overcoming four walks and four hits to allow one run before leaving a 5-1 win at San Diego on Sept. 6 after 5 2-3 innings due to a cramp in his leg.

"I know I'm a sweater," Anderson told MLB's official website. "So I have to drink more fluids than most people, and I usually start two or three days before. I guess I just didn't get enough fluids."

Los Angeles has won the last three starts made by the left-hander, who is 2-0 with a 2.08 ERA in those contests.

Anderson, who was limited to eight starts because of finger and back injuries in 2014 during his only season with the Rockies (60-84), is 1-0 with a 1.74 ERA in two outings against his former team this year.

Nolan Arenado is 2 for 5 against Anderson, though he's gone 3 for 20 in the last five games. Arenado leads the NL with 38 home runs but has just two in nine games since homering in six straight contests.

After allowing three runs against San Francisco on Sept. 3 to record his second complete game in four starts, Colorado's Chris Rusin (5-8, 5.14) gave up six runs and eight hits in three innings of Wednesday's 11-4 loss at San Diego.

"I just didn't make my pitches," said Rusin, who is 0-6 with a 6.10 ERA in nine road starts this season. "Hopefully, I figure it out sooner rather than later."

The left-hander is making his first appearance against Los Angeles since 2013.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Angels (72-71) at Mariners (70-75)

Game: 2
Venue: Safeco Field
Date: September 15, 2015 10:10 PM EDT

The Los Angeles Angels just lost by nine against maybe Seattle's worst starter. Now facing its best, it could be a few days before they can make up any ground in either of their playoff pursuits.

Felix Hernandez has dominated the Angels for a few years and can help the Mariners win consecutive games against their division foe for the first time this season Tuesday night.

Taijuan Walker's 4.56 ERA is the highest for Seattle's rotation even after Monday's 10-1 win, as well as higher than the next eight pitchers Los Angeles is projected to face.

The Angels (72-71), winners of eight of 14 in the season series, remained 4 1/2 games behind Houston for the AL West lead but dipped four back of Texas for second place and the second wild card. They also trail Minnesota by three.

Once 14 games over .500, they're 18-31 dating to July 23 with an MLB-low .228 batting average after managing five hits Monday. What's worse is their .243 season mark and .304 on-base percentage are on pace to become the franchise's worst since 1992 (.243 and .301).

"The losses don't feel any different now than any other time of the year, but we don't have our heads buried in the sand," manager Mike Scioscia said. "We know what we need to do, but it's there for us."

It's hard to see that improving against Hernandez (17-8, 3.49 ERA), who can extend a 4-2 stretch on which Seattle (70-75) has posted a 1.17 ERA and .157 opponent average.

He's inching toward a career-high win total despite his highest ERA since 2007. The right-hander won 19 in 2009, and this season is the only other in which he's topped 15.

The ERA has been in decline over three straight victories and most drastically after Hernandez gave up three hits in eight innings of Thursday's 5-0 home win over Texas for his first scoreless outing since his last start before the All-Star break.

"I had good mechanics today," Hernandez said. "My fastball was good, my sinker was down. My changeup was down. Before it was not moving at all. Now it's down."

His ERA has taken a hit because of four starts with seven earned runs or more, but the Angels haven't contributed to any such inconsistency.

Hernandez is 6-0 with a 0.83 ERA in his last 10 starts in the series. He's held Los Angeles scoreless in five of the last seven for a 4-0 record and 0.39 ERA. He hasn't given up more than two runs to the Angels in Seattle since 2012, going 6-1 with a 0.90 ERA.

The list of individual struggles is lengthy and sustained: David Freese (0 for 16 with eight strikeouts), Chris Iannetta (2 for 26 with 10 Ks), Kole Calhoun (2 for 26 with nine Ks), Efren Navarro (1 for 12), C.J. Cron (1 for 11 with six Ks), Matt Joyce (2 for 27) and Albert Pujols (10 for 48).

Mike Trout, however, is batting .344 with three homers, two triples and three doubles in 61 at-bats for the top average among 18 players with at least 50 against Seattle's ace.

Nick Tropeano is making consecutive major league starts for the first time this season. He was called up for one in April, another in July and one in August before returning Sept. 1.

Tropeano (1-2, 5.66) has been limited to 4 1-3 innings in each of his last two and gave up three runs and eight hits without being stuck with the decision in a 7-5 home loss to the Dodgers on Sept. 7.

The right-hander earned a win in his only start against Seattle on Sept. 10, 2014, while with Houston, surrendering two runs and four hits in five innings on the road.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Reds (60-83) at Giants (76-68)

Game: 2
Venue: AT&T Park
Date: September 15, 2015 10:15 PM EDT

It wasn't long ago when San Francisco's Chris Heston had entered the discussion for NL Rookie of the Year following a dazzling stretch that included a no-hitter.

However, that talk has subsided with the right-hander struggling down the stretch.

Although it's likely to be too little, too late, Heston will try to end a string of five straight losses while leading the Giants to their fifth straight win Tuesday night against the visiting Cincinnati Reds.

Heston (11-10, 3.55 ERA) went 9-2 with a 3.05 ERA over 14 starts from May 12-July 27. He pitched the 17th no-hitter in franchise history June 9 against the New York Mets, gaining consideration amongst an outstanding field in the race for top rookie honors.

The 27-year-old, though, has shown fatigue late in his first full big-league season, making it out of the fifth inning only twice over his last seven starts with a 5.08 ERA. Heston even had a scheduled start skipped in late August amid his current skid.

"I'm just trying to take positives from every start into the next one," he told MLB's official website after lasting 4 2-3 innings in a 2-1 loss at Arizona on Wednesday.

In his only career start versus Cincinnati, he allowed five runs over two innings in a 9-8 road victory May 17.

The Giants (76-68) are in search of their longest winning streak since a six-game run in late July, but they're still 7 1/2 games back of the Los Angeles Dodgers in the NL West and seven behind the Chicago Cubs for the second wild card with 18 remaining.

Matt Duffy had two doubles and two RBIs, and Brandon Belt went 2 for 3 with a triple and two RBIs in Monday's series-opening 5-3 victory. Belt is batting .404 with 18 RBIs in his last 26 home games, while Angel Pagan has gone 6 for 13 in his last three.

San Francisco has batted .318 and averaged 8.0 runs while winning the first four of this nine-game homestand. The club is getting it done without Brandon Crawford (calf, side), Joe Panik (back), Hunter Pence (strained left oblique), Nori Aoki (concussion) and Gregor Blanco (concussion).

"It runs in cycles," manager Bruce Bochy said. "This is more the club that we are, the way we're playing at home."

Cincinnati's all-rookie rotation has posted a 6.96 ERA over its last 13 on the road, but John Lamb (1-3, 5.18) can end that trend by building on his first big-league victory.

The left-hander, who was acquired from Kansas City in the Johnny Cueto trade, overcame a season-high six walks and allowed three runs over five innings in Thursday's 11-0 win over St. Louis.

"I certainly feel like I got away with something," Lamb said.

Jay Bruce hit his 21st home run and Ramon Cabrera had four hits in his fifth career game Monday as the Reds dropped their 10th in 15 road games. Bruce, Todd Frazier and Brandon Phillips went a combined 5 for 5 off Heston at Great American Ball Park in May.

Joey Votto has reached base safely in 33 straight games, the third-longest active streak in the majors. Billy Hamilton, however, is day to day after leaving the opener with a sore shoulder.

The NL Central-worst Reds are looking to avoid their first series loss at AT&T Park since 2010.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Indians crushing right-handers at home
Andrew Caley

The Cleveland Indians crushing right-handers at home, scoring 8.0 runs per game in their last six games against right handers. The Indians and the over are 6-0 in those games.

Indians and overs backers hope the streak continues Tuesday night when the Tribe hosts the Kansas City Royals in the opener of a four-game series.

Cleveland sends Carlos Carrasco (3.70 ERA, 17-9 O/U) to the hill, while Kansas City will counter with Edison Volquez (3.49 ERA, 13-13 O/U). The Indians are currenly -139 favorites with a total sitting at 7.5 runs.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Kelly has been lights out for Red Sox bettors
Stephen Campbell

It's been a lost season for the Boston Red Sox, but Sox backers have found some relief when Joe Kelly has taken the mound lately.

Boston is undefeated in Kelly's last eight outings. He's the probable starte Tuesday versus Ubaldo Jimenez and the Baltimore Orioles.

The BoSox are presently slight +103 moneyline pups.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Pirates crusing to W's against Cubs behind Cole
Stephen Campbell

Pittsburgh Pirates right-hander Gerrit Cole loves facing the Chicago Cubs, evidenced by the Buccos winning six out of his last seven starts versus the Cubbies.

Both sides will renew acquaintances Tuesday at PNC Park with Jason Hammel slated to counter on the mound opposite of Cole.

Sportsbooks were offering Pittsburgh in the -155 at the time of writing. The total had not yet hit the board.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Phillies' Hernandez done for season
The Sports Xchange

The Philadelphia Phillies placed second baseman Cesar Hernandez on the 60-day disabled list on Monday, one day after he dislocated his left thumb in a game against the Chicago Cubs.

The season-ending injury occurred when Hernandez collided with Chicago's Anthony Rizzo. Hernandez is slated to meet with a hand specialist to determine the severity of the injury.

Hernandez batted .272 with 19 stolen bases in 127 games. His solid play helped prompt Philadelphia to deal stalwart Chase Utley to the Los Angeles Dodgers in mid-August.

The Phillies also recalled infielder Chase d'Arnaud from Triple-A Lehigh Valley.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at Hoosier Park

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


Race 9 - Post: 7:55 - 1 mile. TROT - Class Rating: 58 - Purse:$6900 - 2 YEAR OLD COLTS AND GELDINGS - INDIANA SIRED NON WINNERS OF 1 EXT PM RACE OR $4,500 LIFETIME OFF TIME 7:59


CONSORTIUM CHOICES


Chatsworth Consortium

# 3 COMEANDJOINME 10/1


# 8 JUDGE-M-ALL 3/1


# 7 KEEGAN HO 5/2


Hey, listen up! COMEANDJOINME is the smart wager if you like to win so don't let the high morning line scare you off. He has been racing solidly and the speed ratings are among the strongest in the bunch. Seems to have a really strong class advantage based on the competition he has raced against. Is a clear-cut choice given the 58 TrackMaster speed fig from his most recent race. JUDGE-M-ALL - The trainer Mogan has a knack with this gelding, regularly cashing in their outings. Wrenn has been able to get this horse to perform when in the race bike. Definite exotic possibilities. KEEGAN HO - He has been competing admirably and the speed figs are among the most compelling in the group of animals. Could beat this field, just look at the speed fig - 57 - from his most recent affair.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at Mohawk Racetrack

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


Race 7 - Post: 9:25 - 1 mile. TROT - Class Rating: 76 - Purse:$17000 - 4 YEAR OLDS & YOUNGER, NW 2


CONSORTIUM CHOICES


Chatsworth Consortium

# 5 E L LOVE 5/2


# 6 LMC MARSHMELLOW 6/1


# 7 CRAZY BLUE 9/2


If you want a very nice play for this race, feast your eyes on E L LOVE. This nice horse could get the triumph here beginning from the Mohawk Racetrack 5 post. Filly and trainer go together like a hand in a glove. They finish in the money 80 percent of their races. LMC MARSHMELLOW - Have to favor a interesting entrant coming out of the Mohawk Racetrack 6 post. The win statistic is exemplary, way above normal. This horse looks strong. Check out the 84 average TrackMaster Speed Rating. CRAZY BLUE - Arsenault has the way for getting horses in the right place to win. Especially knows how to win moving up in class. Really good driver Filion should find the pace of today's contest to this colt's liking - could be a good bet.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Indiana Downs

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


Race 4 - Maiden Special Weight - 8.0f on the Dirt. Purse: $34000 Class Rating: 52

FOR REGISTERED INDIANA BREDS SIRED BY REGISTERED INDIANA STALLIONS MAIDENS, FILLIES AND MARES THREE, FOUR, AND FIVE YEARS OLD. THREE YEAR OLDS, 118 LBS.; OLDER, 122 LBS.


RECOMMENDED CHOICES

The Walker Group Picks

# 6 WHISPERING JUSTICE 1/1


# 1 HOLLY JUSTICE 9/2


# 7 LILLIES FOR LOIS 6/1


WHISPERING JUSTICE looks solid to best this field. Put up a formidable speed fig last time out. Look for a strong effort with the class drop. HOLLY JUSTICE - She should have a strong outing versus this easier field of horses. LILLIES FOR LOIS - Expect a solid attempt with the class drop.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Parx Racing

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


Race 1 - Maiden Claiming - 8.3f on the Dirt. Purse: $35000 Class Rating: 73

FOR MAIDENS, THREE YEARS OLD AND UPWARD. THREE YEAR OLDS, 120 LBS.; OLDER, 124 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $15,000.


RECOMMENDED CHOICES

The Walker Group Picks

# 5 TAKE ME FOR A RIDE 8/1


# 2 OUR LUKESTER 3/1


# 1 SLAMINATOR 9/2


TAKE ME FOR A RIDE looks to be a decent contender especially at such a decent 8/1. Is difficult not to examine based on Equibase Speed Figures which have been solid - 68 avg - of late. Make a note that this entrant runs on Lasix today. Must be considered in this race if only for the solid speed figure posted in the last affair. OUR LUKESTER - His 65 average has this gelding with among the best Equibase Speed Figs in this event. The winning percentage shown by horses entered by Nations running at this distance are the best in this field. SLAMINATOR - Ought to come out strong - I have liked the way this gelding has moved promptly to the lead recently. Is worth considering and may be a bet - strong Equibase Speed Figures (64 average) at today's distance and surface recently.

 

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Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Bar

Zia Park - Race #4 - Post: 1:39pm - Claiming - 6.0 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $11,000 Class Rating: 74

Rating: Golden DollarGolden DollarGolden Dollar

#4 GRAND AND GREAT (ML=3/1)
#3 NICK NACK (ML=5/2)
#5 BOAST (ML=4/1)


GRAND AND GREAT - When the real racing starts, this gelding should be finishing well. Taking a trip down in the class scale; has the power to make his presence felt. NICK NACK - This gelding is in nice condition, having run a good race on August 24th, finishing first. Horse has improved at least two Equibase speed figure points in last 2 races. I look for that positive trend to continue right here. BOAST - Taking a trip down the class ladder; has the capability to make his presence felt. Finished fourth at Sun Ray Park last out. Was close at the end and at odds of 4/1 in this race, he looks like a possible contender. This gelding garnered a strong speed rating of 73 in his last race. That speed fig should be lofty enough to prove victorious this time.

Vulnerable Contenders: #1 POETIC POSER (ML=9/2), #6 CLOUD WRANGLER (ML=6/1), #2 IRON AXE (ML=8/1),

POETIC POSER - In any race of 6 furlongs, I like to wager on a contender that has been sharp in sprint events of late. CLOUD WRANGLER - This runner made little impact last time finishing fifth. No reason to expect any change in today's event. When examining today's class figure, he will have to garner a much better speed rating than last time around the track to be competitive in this dirt sprint. IRON AXE - This horse hasn't shown very much in the last pair of affairs. Pedestrian rating last time out at Ruidoso at 5 furlongs. Don't feel this pony will improve too much in today's event. Tough to back since I think a 'bounce' is in the works this time.

Top HatGUEST COMMENTARY: The Brain - NICK NACK - My analysis says it usually takes a racer 1 - 2 races after a layoff to get back into proper shape. That's just what we have here, so I have a good feeling for this horse.


STRAIGHT WAGERS:
Play #4 GRAND AND GREAT to win if you can get odds of 2/1 or more

EXACTA WAGERS:
4 with [3,5]

TRIFECTA WAGERS:
Box [3,4,5] Total Cost: $6

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:
Pass

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Bar

Presque Isle Downs - Race #7 - Post: 7:55pm - Allowance - 8.3 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $34,000 Class Rating: 94

Rating: Golden DollarGolden DollarGolden DollarGolden Dollar

#5 THUNDER'S ROLLIN' (ML=6/1)
#1 FORT COLLINS (ML=7/2)


THUNDER'S ROLLIN' - Looking at the pps on all of these ponies, this is the only one to stalk. Worth a good look at this thoroughbred. This thoroughbred coming off a solid effort in the last month or so is a serious competitor in my book. This horse is tops in earnings per race entered. Take a good look at this animal in the paddock. FORT COLLINS - I like that most recent contest on Sep 2nd at Presque Isle Downs where he finished first. Three consecutive improved speed figs (83-88-91) make this horse a powerful contender.

Vulnerable Contenders: #4 CHOSEN HEIR (ML=2/1), #3 CANDY TRAIN (ML=3/1), #6 WILD WINTER (ML=8/1),

CHOSEN HEIR - Don't think this runner has what it takes to cross the finish line in first in today's event. CANDY TRAIN - This runner ran a somewhat easily forgotten speed figure last time out. He shouldn't run better and will probably get beat in today's event running that number. WILD WINTER - You believe this animal is going to be first just because he's always close. Just doesn't finish first frequently. This gelding recorded a speed figure in his last event which likely isn't good enough today.


STRAIGHT WAGERS:
Play #5 THUNDER'S ROLLIN' to win if you can get odds of 8/5 or more

EXACTA WAGERS:
Box [1,5]

TRIFECTA WAGERS:
Skip

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Mohawk: Tuesday 9/15 Analysis
By Garnet Barnsdale

DRF HARNESS

Race 4 - $50,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool

EARLY PICK 4:

3,6/1,5,8,9/1,3,9/5,6 = $48


LATE PICK 4: 5,6/6,7/2,6,7,8/1,2,4 = $48

MEET STATS: 307 - 985 / $1684.40 BEST BETS: 43 - 88 / $141.50

SPOT PLAYS: 12 - 84 / $92.30

Best Bet: ALL THAT SPARKLES (2nd)

Spot Play: REASONABLE FORCE (10th)


Race 1

(8) THISLADYSDYNAMITE raced against colts last time and didn't fare too well. She races against her own sex here and looks like one of only two real contenders. (7) ITS ALL ABOUT SAM looks best on paper but has missed a month, has bigger races to worry about and is worth trying to beat at a short price here. (1) MAJESTIC DIVA stayed flat for the first time last week and hit the ticket. She could get another minor share here if she behaves.

Race 2

(6) ALL THAT SPARKLES has faced much better and should roll this field at a short price. (9) READY TO IGNITE drops out of the same Grand Circuit stake as the choice and looks next best. (7) FANCY STEP gets a catch driver for the first time and is longshot option for exotic wagers.

Race 3

(5) WHOSGOINGTOCATCHUS has amassed an 0-27 record but got much closer with Filion last week and retains the leading driver. She could finally breakthrough but I wouldn't take a short price. (1) AMITYVILLE LINDY took insane tote action last week and never really got close. Her late speed has been very good recently and she too could breakthrough here. (7) THE SPRINTER hung on well at Three Rivers despite being parked the mile and facing an accelerating late pace. Another chance in a wide-open dash.

Race 4

(3) MISS PRINCESS LEAH took heavy action last week but got going way too late to make an impact. She needs to get going sooner but is a top contender here. (6) SEXYANDINOITDEVIE closed impressively in her debut and will likely take lots of play here and get a more aggressive drive; using. (2) BIG WHITE PEARL was only 4 1/2 lengths back of the division leader last time but will likely be over bet on that basis; minor award predicted.

Race 5

(5) NOFEAR BLUE CHIP raced tough first-over in his best effort to date last week; top call here. (9) ROSE RUN REANNA stayed in last time but did have late trot to offer and now returns to a 7-day cycle here; using. (8) V FOR VICTORY drops out of the OSS Golds and gets Lasix. A Mac will likely be sending hard. Keep him on your early pick 4 tickets.

Race 6

(9) THOUGHTYOUDLIKEIT debuts for McIntosh facing a field that is 1 for 139 combined lifetime. He wouldn't have to be much to compete here right away. (1) SABINE PASS was too far back last time as the winner was taking breathers on the lead. He should be better here but also has hanging tendencies. (3) PACE SEELSTER has faced much better recently and isn't without a shot despite his 0-21 record.

Race 7

(5) E L LOVE was unbeaten in the spring until she faced some really fast ones at The Meadows and broke. Based on the qualifier she looks faster herself now and gets top call here. (6) LMC MARSHMELLOW was involved in a quick early pace last time and faded a bit. She gets Lasix here which should help her take these a long way; using on pick 4 tickets. (7) CRAZY BLUE has done well with Filion but need to find more late speed to contend for the win here.

Race 8

(6) NEW YORK NIGHTMARE faces easier here and last time was in a similar class he was an easy winner; top billing. (1) GOOD FRIDAY THREE is showing signs of returning to form and facing NW2L will help here. (7) NEW MIRACLE was a solid first-up winner last time and could trip out here on cover for resurgent teamster Condren.

Race 9

(6) LUCK O THE IRISH had trouble keeping up to the winner last time on the final turn but kept coming in a rapid last 1/4 to finish a solid 3rd. He looks tough in here. (2) ETERNAL QUEST closed from farther back to finish just behind the choice and figures to lay closer with the move inside. (8) HEMI SEELSTER took his Simcoe field a long way on the engine and is another contender in this very competitive tilt.

Race 10

(1) REASONABLE FORCE catches a field loaded with early speed and should leave mid-pack then pounce when the leaders start to falter. (2) THORN IN YOUR SIDE faced better down south and will be sent for all he's worth but may get in an early battle which could compromise his win chances. (4) REB THE RAIDER ripped off two quick miles at Hanover and looks good but may need to try to sit a trip here considering the other speed signed on. (6) WHOSURPAL pressed a rapid pace and took a clear lead into the stretch then tired a bit. He could better this prediction. (3) ADVERSARY SEELSTER is a good one for the bottom exotics slots but rarely threatens the winner.

 

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Yonkers: Tuesday 9/15 Analysis
By Brewster Smith

DRF HARNESS

MEET STATS: 179 - 843 / $1,266.70 BEST BETS: 20 - 71 / $95.20

Best Bet: ABIR HANOVER (11th)

Spot Play: CHANTEPLEURE (7th)


Race 1

(3) SMALL BILLS put in a good effort last out; now moves inside and Sears stays; the pick. (7) STICTH IN TIME drops a notch in class; post hurts but is capable. (4) EXPLOSIVE ACTION could land a share.

Race 2

(5) DCS BETTER LIFE flashed good speed in his latest; at his best, he can top these for his first score of the year. (6) WHITE BLISS came close to glory last time around; main danger. (2) HEAVEN ROCKS gets post relief; watch out.

Race 3

(5) TRADING PLACES was facing better last out and showed fine speed; should handle this group. (6) MAGIC WILL WORK was sent down the road against lesser company in his last trip; could be a factor with this group. (2) TIME WILL TELL ALL fits well in here; not out of this.

Race 4

(6) SHANE ADAM was late on the scene to just miss by only a length and a half; gelding seems ready to put his best foot forward. (3) DANCINGWITHDELIGHT returns to Yonkers and gets a cozy post to work with; dangerous. (2) MESHWHOGONNA could land a share of the purse.

Race 5

(2) DOUBLEDAY Sophomore should fit well from the 2-hole; with a return to his July 21st start, it could be game over for the rest of these. (1) CELEBRITY LAMPERT retains the rail after a brief stay at Pocono; should find the half-mile oval to his liking. (4) WHAT ABOUT LOVE Sharp in victory in her Pocono finale; watch out here.

Race 6

(2) COIN COLLECTOR closed nicely for the placing last time around; she gets the services of Brennan now for Burke and the two slot makes her a strong contender to take this. (6) THE LEHIGH LEGEND Quite fast pacing miss can make some noise with this group; maybe. (5) KINDA NAUGHTY has wheeled off four straight victories; not out of this.

Race 7

(4) CHANTEPLEURE was sharp in his last two starts and that makes this guy a major factor to top these at his best. (1) BERKLEY moves to the rail and that should help his cause. (5) REGGIANO got the job done last time around at Philly; don't overlook in here.

Race 8

(6) SOTO has been facing Sire stakes company; sophomore can make today a winning one with a fine-timed drive from Dube. (3) SECRET DELIGHT was sent down the road at Philly last time out for all the glory; main danger. (1) SOUTHWIND JOKER has scored in his last three trips to the post; can't be counted out with Sears in the bike.

Race 9

(3) ZORGWIJK NOVA Meadows invader put in an even finish last time around; seems to be fit and ready to get the job done against these. (6) MODEL BEHAVIOR was up against it at Mohawk last time out; should be right in the thick of it. (1) HOT SUMMER KNIGHT was second best last time out; should fare well from the fence.

Race 10

(3) B L CLASS ACT This looks like a good spot for this gelding to put it all together; threat at his best. (5) BRANDOS MUSCLE MAN just held on for win honors last time around; big player again. (1) CAN DO has wheeled off three straight victories; quite dangerous from the rail slot.

Race 11

(3) ABIR HANOVER has tactical speed and with a favorable trip, this sophomore can mow these down for all the glory. (1) LINDA MARIE returns to the fence where she got the job done on August 5th; factor. (2) RALPH R put in a mild rally for third last week at Philly; not out of this.

Race 12

(2) BADIX HANOVER took the pocket route home for the victory last time out; stays in same condition and moves to the 2-hole; gets the call. (3) BET YOU raced evenly last time out at Batavia; threat. (4) GOKUDO HANOVER could have a say in the outcome; maybe from the fourth slot.