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

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Indians (67-70) at White Sox (66-71)

Game: 3
Venue: U.S. Cellular Field
Date: September 09, 2015 8:10 PM EDT

The Cleveland Indians were hoping Josh Tomlin's return would provide a spark to their fading playoff hopes.

They need him to do it again when he goes for the longest single-season winning streak of his career Wednesday night against the Chicago White Sox.

The Indians' chances of reaching the postseason dimmed further after losing 7-4 at Chicago on Tuesday after opening this three-game series with a 3-2 victory a day earlier.

Cleveland (67-70) is six games back of Texas for the AL's second wild-card spot, and giving the ball to Tomlin (4-1, 2.55 ERA) could at least help the Indians to a fourth win in six games.

The right-hander lost his first start after coming back from shoulder surgery but has won four straight since. He had a career-high six-game winning streak over seven starts bridging 2010 and '11.

More importantly, three of Tomlin's victories have come after Cleveland defeats, including a four-hitter in Friday's 8-1 win at Detroit after his scheduled start came a day early to replace injured ace Corey Kluber.

"We've known all year that we had a chance to get some serious help down the stretch from Josh," manager Terry Francona said. "We wanted to be as patient as possible, because we knew if we let him get ready, he could do this for us."

Tomlin, though, is 0-2 with a 4.24 ERA in four starts against Chicago (66-71).

The White Sox, seven games back of the Rangers, have won five of six behind the rotation's 2.55 ERA after Carlos Rodon allowed one run in seven innings Tuesday.

Chicago should like its chances of getting another strong effort with Jeff Samardzija (9-11, 4.87) taking the mound since he's allowed one run in 14 innings while winning both starts against the Indians this year.

Samardzija wasn't that sharp in a 6-4 win at Minnesota on Thursday. He served up a grand slam while walking a season-high four in 6 1-3 innings, ending a career-worst six-start losing streak.

"Usually when you're in the situation I've been in here the last month, that next turning point doesn't come easy," Samardzija said. "Very rarely do you come out and go eight innings shutout and get the win 10-nothing. Usually you've got to kick that by going out and working hard, and just trusting your stuff and battling."

Now Samardzija will try to snap the longest home slide of his career. He's compiled a 9.00 ERA and allowed nine homers while losing five consecutive games at U.S. Cellular Field.

Jose Abreu is hitting .417 with two homers, five RBIs and seven runs over the last six games. He came a triple short of the cycle while going 3 for 4 with two RBIs on Tuesday.

Abreu, who has never faced Tomlin, is batting .367 in his last 13 home matchups with Cleveland.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Rockies (57-81) at Padres (66-73)

Game: 3
Venue: PETCO Park
Date: September 09, 2015 9:10 PM EDT

The NL home run race has two Colorado Rockies leading the way with little fanfare since their headed for another finish at the bottom of the West.

While Carlos Gonzalez attempts to shake out of his funk, Nolan Arenado looks to continue his torrid hitting as the Rockies face the San Diego Padres on Wednesday night.

Colorado (57-81) is on track to finish in the division cellar for the third time in four years, but Arenado and Gonzalez continue to be among the few bright spots.

Arenado's career-high 37 homers lead the league, while Gonzalez's personal-best 36 rank second.

Arenado has pulled ahead by hitting seven home runs in nine games this month, adding a .444 average and 12 RBIs. That's still not changed the Rockies' downward trajectory since they've lost five of those games.

Gonzalez hasn't helped. He's 1 for 10 in four games after going 7 for 13 with five homers and 12 RBIs during a three-game winning streak.

Arenado's latest homer came in the ninth Tuesday before Jose Reyes' throw home in the bottom of the inning wasn't in time to catch Corey Spangenberg in a 2-1 defeat at San Diego (66-73).

Chris Rusin (5-7, 4.78 ERA) five-hit the Padres in a 5-0 home win for his first career complete game Aug. 16. The left-hander, however, followed that by giving up 14 runs in eight innings while losing his next two outings.

He bounced back by going the distance again Thursday, tossing a six-hitter in an 11-3 win over San Francisco.

"Chris has done a great job for us, and he's taken full advantage of the opportunity that he's gotten this year," manager Walt Weiss told MLB's official website. "He's got a great feel for pitching. He messes with hitters' timing by changing his delivery. He's just got a real good feel for getting outs. He commanded the ball really well."

Rusin, though, is 0-5 with a 6.05 ERA over his last seven starts on the road. This is his first in San Diego since going 6 1-3 scoreless innings with the Chicago Cubs on Aug. 25, 2013.

The Padres are turning to James Shields (10-6, 3.83), who is 2-2 with a 4.20 ERA in his last five starts at Petco Park.

The right-hander struggled through 107 pitches in five innings Friday. He surrendered three runs and two homers while walking a career-high six and left without a decision in an 8-4 defeat to the Los Angeles Dodgers.

"I don't think he was missing by much," manager Pat Murphy told MLB's official website. "I think that he certainly made big pitches and gave us a chance, but we were hoping he wasn't that deep in his pitch count in the fifth."

Shields is 4-0 with a 3.68 ERA in his past five starts against the Rockies. He's struggled greatly with Arenado and Gonzalez. Arenado is 8 for 14 with three homers off him and Gonzalez is 7 for 16 with a pair of home runs.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Giants (72-67) at Diamondbacks (66-73)

Game: 3
Venue: Chase Field
Date: September 09, 2015 9:40 PM EDT

A rookie season that started with plenty of promise and a no-hitter has turned sour for Chris Heston, and to make matters worse, the San Francisco Giants lineup has stopped producing for him.

He'll try for his first victory in seven starts Wednesday night against the Arizona Diamondbacks with the desperate Giants seeking a series win.

Heston was 11-5 with a 3.14 ERA and 2.50 walks per nine innings in 20 starts entering August as the team backed him with a 5.93 run-support average. The right-hander has since gone 0-4 with a 5.28 ERA and 4.66 walks per nine while receiving 2.48 runs a game.

Heston (11-9, 3.54 ERA) got tagged with back-to-back homers in Friday's 2-1 loss in Colorado and has given up seven in five starts after going 76 2-3 innings over his previous 12 without surrendering one.

All three of his games against the Diamondbacks came early on with Heston going 2-1 with a 1.45 ERA. He's limited A.J. Pollock (0 for 6 with three strikeouts) and Chris Owings (1 for 9), but Paul Goldschmidt is 3 for 6 with two doubles and David Peralta is 3 for 9 with a home run.

Fellow rookie Zack Godley (4-1, 3.62) also got off to an impressive start but saw his fortunes change drastically in Friday's 14-5 loss to the Chicago Cubs. Godley gave up six runs and four hits with six walks in 3 2-3 innings for easily his worst outing.

"I just couldn't locate," Godley told MLB's official website. "My arm feels great, my body feels great. For some reason I couldn't find it today. You've just got to let it go and come back and do better the next time."

The right-hander has pitched on the road in his last five outings after holding visiting Milwaukee scoreless in six innings of his big league debut, an 8-3 win July 23.

Venue hasn't helped the Diamondbacks (66-73) against the Giants (72-67). San Francisco won 6-2 on Tuesday to even the series and earn its sixth win in eight games in Arizona. The Giants haven't lost a series there since being swept in three to begin 2012, going 24-9 since while never losing consecutive contests.

The latest handed Arizona its fifth loss in six overall and eighth in 10 at home.

San Francisco has won three of four following a crippling seven-game losing streak, but it's lost ground with the Dodgers and Cubs each winning five straight. The Giants trail Los Angeles by 8 1/2 in the NL West and are nine back of Chicago for the second wild card.

Joe Panik has provided some spark with a home run and two doubles in four at-bats while scoring three times in two games back from the disabled list. The second baseman is batting .356 in his last 19 games and .426 in 14 against the Diamondbacks this year. Even so, manager Bruce Bochy said Panik won't be in the lineup every day in order to help manage his back issues.

"It's not going to be a chronic thing," Panik said. "I just have to listen to my body."

If he's in the lineup Wednesday, he could be without double-play partner Brandon Crawford, who left after the sixth inning Tuesday with tightness in his left calf and left side.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Astros (75-64) at Athletics (60-79)

Game: 3
Venue: O.co Coliseum
Date: September 09, 2015 10:05 PM EDT

Perhaps Collin McHugh is just the pitcher the Houston Astros need to end their struggles in Oakland and avoid possibly falling into a tie for the AL West lead.

Looking to continue his stellar stretch, the right-hander tries to help the Astros prevent being swept by the last-place Athletics on Wednesday night.

Houston (75-64) has held sole possession of the division lead since July 28 when it was tied with the Los Angeles Angels. However, if the Astros drop their sixth straight at Oakland and Texas wins at Seattle on Wednesday night, they would fall into a virtual tie for the West lead with the surging Rangers.

'You tell them this is an opportunity to play (Wednesday),' manager A.J. Hinch said after Tuesday's 4-0 loss. 'We're not going to carry any baggage with us. The drama surrounding multiple losses in a row, it certainly hurts. Our guys know what's at stake. Our guys are ready to play.'

A day after falling 10-9 in the opener, the Astros were held to five hits by Sonny Gray. A loser in seven of 11, Houston has been held to one or no runs three times during its five-game skid at Oakland (60-79).

However, the Astros should feel confident behind McHugh (15-7, 3.75 ERA). He's 3-2 with a 1.54 ERA in his last six starts, and the best of that stretch came Friday when he allowed seven hits in 7 2-3 innings of an 8-0 win over Minnesota.

'He's been terrific, specifically in the second half,' Hinch said. 'For him it's pitch execution. He's got so many different ways to get guys out and he's been very creative with his pitches. He's had better finish as the season's gone on.'

McHugh and 17-game winner Dallas Keuchel are the first Astros pitchers to win at least 15 games in the same season since Roy Oswalt won 20 and Andy Pettitte had 17 during the club's 2005 run to the NL pennant.

'When you get ahead of guys you've got to be able to put guys away,' McHugh said. 'Whether it's a curveball, whether it's cutters or high fastballs, we've been able to execute pretty well in all phases of the game when it comes to that.'

He's 1-1 with a 2.31 ERA against the A's this season.

Mark Canha is 0 for 3 with two strikeouts against McHugh, but belted a three-run homer Tuesday. The rookie first baseman is 9 for 20 with three homers, six RBIs and six runs scored in the last five games.

Perhaps the best of Aaron Brooks' six career starts came Aug. 6 when the right-hander gave up a run, four hits and struck out seven in seven innings of a 5-4, 10-inning home loss to Houston.

'He pitched great,' Oakland manager Bob Melvin said after that contest. 'That's all you can ask at that point. It would have been nice to reward him."

Brooks (1-2, 6.91), however, was far from great Friday when he allowed six runs and six hits in 2 1-3 innings of an 11-8 loss to Seattle.

All-Star Jose Altuve went 1 for 3 against Brooks last month but is batting .154 in the last six games.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Dodgers (80-58) at Angels (69-69)

Game: 3
Venue: Angel Stadium of Anaheim
Date: September 09, 2015 10:05 PM EDT

Mat Latos shut down the Los Angeles Angels in his Dodgers debut to make a great first impression on manager Don Mattingly.

Five weeks later, he's simply trying to hang onto his spot in the starting rotation.

The NL West leaders have done just fine lately despite Latos' struggles and seek a sixth straight win and three-game sweep of the Angels on Wednesday night in Anaheim.

The Dodgers (80-58) acquired Latos (4-9, 4.92 ERA) from Miami at the trade deadline to provide depth behind fellow starters Zack Greinke and Clayton Kershaw. The right-hander was solid in his first outing with the club Aug. 2, allowing one run in six innings of a 5-3, 10-inning win over the Angels.

Latos hasn't gotten out of the fifth in any of his four starts since, though, going 0-2 with an 8.31 ERA. If it weren't for Latos' quality outing against the Angels, Mattingly might have skipped his turn.

"That's pretty much the reason (for keeping Latos in the rotation)," Mattingly told MLB's official website. "He hasn't pitched as well as he's capable of, that's for sure. I think he would admit that."

One of the Dodgers' two losses over their last 15 games came in Latos' start against San Diego on Thursday. They've won all five since to move a season-high 22 over .500.

The Dodgers maintained their 8 1/2-game lead on San Francisco in the West with Tuesday's 6-4 win over the fading Angels (69-69). Justin Ruggiano led off the game with a homer before Kershaw pitched seven solid innings to win his eighth straight decision.

"I feel good about the way we're playing," Mattingly said. "You can't ask anything more than your guys coming ready to play."

It's a wonder what Angels manager Mike Scioscia is asking of his players. The Angels had a two-game lead atop the AL West on July 22, but they're 15-29 since and are 5 1/2 games behind Houston while trailing Texas by 4 1/2 for the second wild card.

Mike Trout went hitless Tuesday and is 0 for 16 with eight strikeouts in his last four against the Dodgers. David Freese had three of the Angels' six hits, and Kole Calhoun is batting .406 during a seven-game hitting streak after homering.

"Obviously, you want things to go your way, but it's not right now," said Calhoun, who also struck out three times. "I got plenty of pitches to hit in each at-bat, and you've got to put those balls in play."

Garrett Richards (13-10, 3.77) gets the ball looking to snap out of his own slump. Richards allowed 12 runs in 12 innings over his previous two starts before giving up two in six innings of Friday's 5-2 win over Texas, but he struggled with his command while hitting a batter and walking a season-high five.

"It didn't look like his release point was there. Garrett usually maintains his stuff," Scioscia said. "It was one of the few games where he got out of sync."

The right-hander didn't have any issues the last time he faced the Dodgers and pitched a five-hit shutout Aug. 4, 2014.

Dodgers catcher Yasmani Grandal has missed the last three with inflammation in his left shoulder and plans to rest at least a few more games.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Rangers (73-64) at Mariners (66-73)

Game: 3
Venue: Safeco Field
Date: September 09, 2015 10:10 PM EDT

Tuesday's offensive outburst is a good sign for the Texas Rangers and a very bad sign for several other playoff-hopeful teams.

Fresh off their highest scoring output since mid-August, the Rangers look to take the first three of a four-game series against the Seattle Mariners on Wednesday night.

A 9-6 victory in the second game helped Texas (73-64) claw within one game of AL West-leading Houston while bumping its advantage for the second wild card to 2 1/2 over Minnesota.

Even better, Texas showed signs of life at the plate with its highest run total since Aug. 15 and home runs from Shin-soo Choo, Mitch Moreland, Rougned Odor and Joey Gallo.

The Rangers - nine games over .500 for the first time since closing 2013 at 91-72 - averaged just 2.7 runs through the first seven games of their 10-game West Coast trip, but they have won nine of 12 to overtake the Twins for the second wild card.

"This is an offense that's been a formidable offense for us," manager Jeff Banister told MLB's official website, "...and when they come, they'll come in bunches."

Wednesday starter Martin Perez has been bitten by low run support in two of his last three starts. Perez (2-4, 5.07 ERA) has allowed three runs in each of his last five outings, but he took losses on Aug. 20 and Friday after receiving no runs and two runs, respectively.

The left-hander's most recent start featured another unlikely hurdle, stomach discomfort caused by food poisoning. Perez battled through to post a quality start, holding the Los Angeles Angels to three runs and five hits in six innings of a 5-2 loss. He walked four and struck out three.

Take out a dismal inning on July 28 against the New York Yankees in which Perez allowed eight runs during a 21-5 loss, and his ERA would be 3.70. Since then he is 2-2 with a 3.35 ERA, including six innings against the Mariners on Aug. 8 in which he gave up two earned runs in an 11-3 win.

Perez is 2-1 with a 2.67 ERA in five career starts and two relief appearances against Seattle.

Vidal Nuno will get his fifth spot start this year for the Mariners (66-73), all coming since Aug. 4. The left-hander last started on Aug. 31, allowing five runs and seven hits in six innings of an 8-3 loss in Houston. He made two relief appearances in Oakland since, facing three hitters combined and surrendering two singles while recording one out.

Nuno (0-2, 3.72) is 3-15 with a 4.23 ERA in 36 starts during his three-year career, and he hasn't won since June 27, 2014.

Nuno has given up at least one home run in each of his five starts this year, including a career high-tying three his last time out against the Astros.

"Giving up those home runs killed me a little bit," Nuno told MLB's official website. "I was leaving balls up, not finding my fastball."

Kyle Seager went 1 for 4 with an RBI for the Mariners on Tuesday to extend his hitting streak to 11 games. He has seven hits in 17 at-bats against Perez, including two home runs.

Delino DeShields was out of Texas' lineup and is day to day after spraining his left knee trying to steal third base in the series opener. Will Venable went 2 for 4 with an RBI out of the leadoff spot in his place.

Nelson Cruz (right quadriceps) and Franklin Gutierrez (right groin) were not in Seattle's lineup Tuesday and are each day to day.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NL East opponents teeing off vs. Phils' Buchanan
Stephen Campbell

Philadelphia Phillies starter David Buchanan has hated facing NL East competition lately, and for good reason.

In Buchanan's last 10 starts versus the division, the Phils are an ugly 1-9. He's the probable starter Wednesday opposite Julio Teheran and division foe Atlanta.

The Phils are currently in the +115 ballpark at books.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Cubs hate seeing this ump behind the plate
Stephen Campbell

The Chicago Cubs are a paltry 2-10 in their last 12 games with Vic Carapazza behind home plate, which is a bad sign for Cubs backers ahead of their clash with the St. Louis Cardinals Wednesday.

Carapazza is set to call balls and strikes for the tilt. Jon Lester and Carlos Martinez are slated to get the ball for the Cubbies and Cards, respectively.

As of this writing, the Cubs were +115 on the moneyline at sportsbooks.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at The Meadows

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


Race 12 - Post: 4:35 - 1 mile. TROT - Class Rating: 81 - Purse:$6200 - CLAIM $8000 W/A


CONSORTIUM CHOICES


Chatsworth Consortium

# 5 GREEN PEACE 3/1


# 3 HOMEPAGE 4/1


# 8 GLIDE TO GLORY 5/1


GREEN PEACE will have you running to the cashier's window in this one. This gelding getting the win wouldn't be impossible, a chance. Could provide us a win based on respectable recent TrackMaster Speed Ratings - earning an avg of 83. It's a bit chancy to consider based only on class, but this gelding has among the finest class markings of the group of horses. HOMEPAGE - Can't overlook based on speed figs which have been outstanding (82 avg) of late. With a 84 avg class rating, this nice horse has one of the finest class edges in the group of horses. GLIDE TO GLORY - Merriman will be looking to take the whole enchilada in this contest, has been en fuego in recent times. Win percent over the last 30 days is a sparkling 20.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at Saratoga Harness

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


Race 2 - Post: 7:05 - 1 mile. PACE - Class Rating: 59 - Purse:$6200 - 2-YEAR-OLD FILLIES NON-WINNERS 1 EXT PARI-MUTUEL RACE OR $10,000 LIFE SARATOGA


CONSORTIUM CHOICES


Chatsworth Consortium

# 4 BULLVILLEFIREWORKS 8/1


# 1 DW'SBLISSFULTHINKN 6/5


# 6 GERMAINE 10/1


The pick in this contest is BULLVILLEFIREWORKS so don't let the high morning line scare you off. Appears that this nice horse's running style fits well in this gathering. Clearly will be there at the finish. With one of the most respectable drivers in terms of crossing the wire first, don't count this filly out of the race. DW'SBLISSFULTHINKN - Is a sharp choice given the 58 TrackMaster Speed Rating from her most recent contest. With superior win percentages, Hennessey should have this filly in excellent position to win the outing. GERMAINE - This entrant may have some hidden form, a win would be a pleasant surprise.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Finger Lakes

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


Race 9 - Allowance - 5.5f on the Dirt. Purse: $19200 Class Rating: 83

FOR FOALED IN NEW YORK STATE AND APPROVED BY THE NEW YORK STATE-BRED REGISTRY FILLIES AND MARES THREE YEARS OLD AND UPWARD WHICH HAVE NOT WON A STATE BRED RACE OTHER THAN MAIDEN, CLAIMING, OPTIONAL, OR STARTER. THREE YEAR OLDS, 121 LBS.; OLDER, 124 LBS. NON-WINNERS OF A RACE SINCE AUGUST 9 ALLOWED 2 LBS. A RACE SINCE JULY 9 ALLOWED 4 LBS. (RACES WHERE ENTERED FOR


RECOMMENDED CHOICES

The Walker Group Picks

# 4 SWEET SWEET AFLEET 5/2


# 3 SKY FORTUNE 4/1


# 1 JEALOUS 6/1


I think SWEET SWEET AFLEET is a decent choice. She has been running very well and the speed figures are among the most favorable in this group. May see a major improvement with blinkers going on in this event. Win percentage one of the best in this group. SKY FORTUNE - This filly looks good in here since Englehart has a strong win percentage with horses going this distance. She looks quite good in this slot and I expect will be on the lead or close at the halfway point. JEALOUS - Has formidable Equibase Class Figures relative to this group - worth a look. Boasts reliable speed figures on average overall when compared with the rest of this group.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Mountaineer

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


Race 9 - Claiming - 5.0f on the Dirt. Purse: $6300 Class Rating: 73

FOR THREE YEAR OLDS AND UPWARD WHICH HAVE NOT WON A RACE SINCE SEPTEMBER 9, 2014. THREE YEAR OLDS, 122 LBS.; OLDER, 123 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $5,000


RECOMMENDED CHOICES

The Walker Group Picks

# 2 I'D MARRY ME 5/2


# 3 PEEKABOO VISION 5/1


# 5 EMKANAAT (GB) 9/2


I'D MARRY ME is my choice. Has been running soundly lately and will probably be up on the lead early on. Could provide positive dividends based on formidable recent Equibase Speed Figures with an average of 62. With a strong 64 average speed rating at the distance, seems well suited for today's affair. PEEKABOO VISION - In fine fettle, and coming back soon again this time out. EMKANAAT (GB) - The speed figure of 65 from his last race looks very good in here. Has been racing quite well in races of this distance, going 3 / 19 under similar conditions.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Bar

Louisiana Downs - Race #5 - Post: 5:03pm - Claiming - 8.0 furlongs on the Turf. Purse: $8,500 Class Rating: 77

Rating: Golden DollarGolden DollarGolden DollarGolden Dollar

#6 ANOTHER TWO EX (ML=4/1)
#11 ST. JAMES PARK (ML=8/1)


ANOTHER TWO EX - This gelding is in first-rate condition right now. Ended up third last time out and comes back promptly. ST. JAMES PARK - The horse with the top average Equibase class figure in turf events is usually a solid play. This thoroughbred fits the bill.

Vulnerable Contenders: #13 PACHUCO'S RULER (ML=3/1), #4 MY FAVORITE MARTIN (ML=7/2), #7 WON FOR KING (ML=9/2),

PACHUCO'S RULER - Going to have a hard go of it with all the front-runners in this event. MY FAVORITE MARTIN - The speed fig last time out doesn't fit very well in this event when I look at the Equibase class figure of today's event. Mark this mount as a questionable challenger. WON FOR KING - Hard to put any money on this gelding on the top end. Likes to end up on the board though.


STRAIGHT WAGERS:
Bet on #6 ANOTHER TWO EX to win if we can get at least 3/2 odds

EXACTA WAGERS:
Box [6,11]

TRIFECTA WAGERS:
6 with 11 with [3,8,9] Total Cost: $3

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:
None

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Bar

Thistledown - Race #8 - Post: 4:25pm - Claiming - 6.0 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $10,300 Class Rating: 73

Rating: Golden DollarGolden DollarGolden DollarGolden Dollar

#5 CHIEF'S REVENGE (ML=3/1)


CHIEF'S REVENGE - I think Shanyfelt is making a good move here. This horse can only be aided by the shorter trip. Last raced at Thistledown in a race with a class rating of 85. Dropping considerably in class figure today puts him in a solid position today.

Vulnerable Contenders: #3 SOUTHERN VALUES (ML=9/2), #4 TRUE HEAVEN (ML=5/1), #2 DR. COPPER (ML=6/1),

SOUTHERN VALUES - When you keep scanning through the TrackMaster pps and don't see a victory recently, you have to say to yourself, 'Not worth it on this horse'. TRUE HEAVEN - Looked like he was in good form on August 12th. Hasn't been near the track since then though. Not a positive sign. Tough to bet on a pony that loses so frequently. Not likely that the fig he registered on Aug 12th will be good enough in this event. DR. COPPER - Recent deteriorating Equibase speed figs of 64/55/47 give an indication that this animal may be going off form. This horse hasn't shown much life in the last couple contests.

Top HatGUEST COMMENTARY: Hal - CHIEF'S REVENGE - Coming off his last race with the top speed figure of 66 at Thistledown. He is the horse to beat today.


STRAIGHT WAGERS:
Bet on #5 CHIEF'S REVENGE to win if you can get at least 1/1 odds

EXACTA WAGERS:
5 with [3,4]

TRIFECTA WAGERS:
Pass

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:
None

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Northfield: Wednesday 9/9 Analysis + Pick Four ticket
By Jeremey Day

DRF HARNESS

Race 8 - $10,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool

Jeremey’s $1 Pick Four Play:

1,4 / 3,9 / 3 / 5,9 = $8


Best Bet: FERRISWHEEL JUNKIE (12th)

Spot Play: GLIDE BY SHOOTING (7th)


Race 1

(3) THE POWER OF MANY freshman filly was impressive in her last outing earning a victory; driver's choice. (1) ABES EARL makes his second start for a new barn off a winning effort. (5) ENRICHMENT will look to make it three wins in four starts on the year; threat.

Race 2

(5) STAND YOUR GROUND has the most upside in a weak and inconsistent field. (2) LADYWITHNODRESS faces older but could hit the ticket at a big price with some racing luck. (1) WHATA PACIIFIC gets good post relief in a field full of question marks.

Race 3

(3) MAKIN GREEN LAVEC trotting mare drops down to the bottom level and will be used aggressively. (1) CONTECH owns only one win on the year, however the 8-year-old gets the best post with the top driver. (5) CHARITY KID mare has not been able to seal the deal in her last few off easy fractions; use underneath.

Race 4

(8) GUNNIN' FORAFIGHT has been competitive against much better but needs to find a way into the race. (7) BLUE SCOOTIN MATT should offer a monster price and could hit the ticket with a fast pace to close into. (6) COLUMBIA ART will also need a good setup in a tough race to gauge.

Race 5

(2) ROMPAWAY ELVIS takes a significant drop in class and just needs to mind his manners for a big piece. (1) MORGANS MAJESTIC owns the fastest win on the year by far; threat. (9) MOM'S LOOKER looks to be in line for a ground saving trip; use underneath.

Race 6

(9) SHAM'S BIG GUY picks up a huge driver change against a soft bunch. (2) AWESOMEANDAMAZING has yet to win on the year but has been close at this level. (3) WATTAFINE RUSTY is the only dropper in the field but has just been racing evenly; command a price.

Race 7

(5) GLIDE BY SHOOTING trotting mare was sharp last start from a very tough post. (9) ROYAL REVENUE six-year-old has been off his game but can threaten with a smooth trip. (6) VICTORY CANDY MAN has burned tons of cash at this level; use caution.

Race 8

(4) LET LOOSE HANOVER three-year-old owns a win against similar on the year. (1) GORILLA MONSOON adds first time lasix with the best post; threat. (2) ROCKS CONFESSION well bred filly keeps the top driver and looks to be in line for a nice trip up close.

Race 9

(9) MODEL NINETYFOUR takes a huge drop down in class and has a knack for scoring at big prices on the year. (3) DERINGER GUN always offers good value and owns a good brush when timed right. (8) ZEBS CAM BO also drops down in competition but needs to find a way into the race from a tough post.

Race 10

(3) FOUNTAIN PEN nice looking filly will look to make it five straight wins. (2) RIVER CITY was an easy winner last start at this level; threat. (9) HOP ZIP has hit the board a lot this year but is best used underneath.

Race 11

(9) FALCON JUSTICE will look to drop and pop with the top driver against a suspect bunch. (5) UBETTERUBETTERUBET owns a win against much tougher on the year; threat. (3) MODERN WARFARE doesn't look the best on paper but does get some post relief.

Race 12

(6) FERRISWHEEL JUNKIE impeccably bred trotter makes her first start for a new barn that have good success in this scenario. (2) ROJAN'S LAST SHOT is a major player if he can mind his manners. (1) MS JETTA mare also makes her first start for a new barn and has flashed ability.

Race 13

(2) KINGS BEACH well bred pacer paced a decent mile last week and faces weaker. (6) FOX VALLEY ZIP owns a good win percentage on the year and has good experience on a small track; threat. (1) THREESOCKSNGO pacer benefits from the best post and early gate speed.

Race 14

(1) WELCOME WAGON has been a different pacer in his last two victories for the top barn. (6) KATIE AND J mare doesn't win often but should offer value underneath. (9) MAJOR MONTE gets sent out for a very inconsistent trainer but is capable of hitting the ticket with a good effort.

Race 15

(4) MAJOR MAYHEM pacer makes his first start in a capable barn with the top driver. (6) AS DUHARAS has been competitive against much better on the year. (1) IRON N STEEL is 0 for the year but should be in a great spot turning for home.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

SPOT PLAYS

For Wednesday


TRACK (RACE) HORSE, MORNING LINE


Charles Town (2nd) The Count, 4-1
(4th) Paul and Silas, 8-1

Delaware Park (2nd) Wendy Wend, 7-2
(8th) Concerto's Encore, 6-1

Finger Lakes (5th) Triple Fever, 7-2
(9th) Sky Fortune, 4-1


Indiana Grand (2nd) Commando Kat, 5-1
(7th) Tiger Ride, 4-1


Louisiana Downs (2nd) Les Tamer, 6-1
(5th) Another Two Ex, 4-1


Mountaineer (2nd) Sweet Sound, 9-2
(4th) O.T. Cat, 7-2


Penn National (1st) D'avignon, 3-1
(7th) Prithee, 4-1


Presque Isle Downs (4th) Tenth Legion, 8-1
(6th) Fatal Bear, 5-1


Thistledown (2nd) Redheaded Witch, 7-2
(5th) Bold Visionary, 6-1

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Five To Follow MLB Betting: Wednesday, September 9, 2015 Opening Line Report
by Alan Matthews

Washington's Bryce Harper is one of the five most popular players in baseball. So you think he would know better than to criticize his own team's fans. The vastly underachieving Nationals opened a huge series with the Mets on Monday -- maybe the most important regular-season series in team history. Washington lost 8-5, and Harper had this to say about the fans: "I mean, they left in the seventh, so that's pretty brutal," Harper said. "I don't know. Whatever." Harper can take part of the blame for that loss, going 0-for-4 with three strikeouts. At least Washington fans have Redskins football to look forward to starting Sunday. Oh, yeah, sorry.


Cubs at Cardinals (-122, 7)

This is your only matinee with a 1:45 p.m. ET start, and I don't know why it's not nationally televised. There's a chance the Cubs will get star rookie Kyle Schwarber back from a rib-cage strain for this finale. Schwarber hasn't yet experienced the Cubs-Cardinals rivalry up close and badly wants to play. It's lefty Jon Lester (9-10, 3.59) for the Cubs. He lasted only 5 innings last time out but got the win over Arizona, allowing two runs and five hits. Lester is 1-2 with a 1.96 ERA in three starts against the Cardinals in 2015. Jhonny Peralta is 8-for-34 with three homers and 10 strikeouts off him. Jason Heyward is 8-for-18 with four doubles. It's Carlos Martinez (13-7, 3.04) for St. Louis. After allowing three runs in just three of his first 18 starts, Martinez has allowed at least three in each of his last seven. He may be hitting the wall. Martinez is 1-0 with a 6.75 ERA in 10.2 innings this year vs. Chicago. Anthony Rizzo is 1-for-6 with a homer off him.

Key trends: The Cubs are 7-1in Lester's past eight vs. the NL Central. The Cards are 4-1 in their past five vs. a lefty. They are 7-2 in Martinez's past nine at home. The "over/under" has gone under in eight of Lester's past nine vs. teams with a winning record. The under is 5-1-1 in Martinez's past seven against teams with a winning record.

Early lean: Cardinals and under.

Mets at Nationals (-119, 7)

This is the first game of the ESPN doubleheader and will have live betting at sportsbooks. Jacob deGrom (12-7, 2.40) gets the call for New York. The Mets have lost his past two even though both were quality starts. DeGrom is 1-2 with a 3.47 ERA in four starts this year against Washington. Ian Desmond is 4-for-13 with a homer and five RBIs against him. Harper is 5-for-13 with a double. Washington's Stephen Strasburg (8-6, 4.35) hasn't lost since Aug. 13. He missed his last turn through the rotation, however, with back spasms. He is 1-1 with a 4.22 ERA this year in two starts vs. the Mets. David Wright is 6-for-19 with seven strikeouts vs. him career. Lucas Duda is 2-for-9 with a homer.

Key trends: The Mets are 6-1 in deGrom's past seven on the road. The Nats are 5-0 in Strasburg's past five at home. The over is 7-2 in deGrom's past nine vs. the NL East. The over is 4-1 in Strasburg's past five vs. the Mets.

Early lean: Nationals and under.

Dodgers at Angels (-135, 8)

This is your late ESPN game and also will have live betting at sportsbooks. The Dodgers aren't sure when shortstop Jimmy Rollins will be able to play with a sore knuckle, although X-rays on him came back negative on Monday. The Halos had to face Zack Greinke on Monday and then Clayton Kershaw on Tuesday, so things should be significantly easier here against Mat Latos (4-9, 4.92). He might lose his rotation spot with another poor performance. Latos hasn't even gone five innings in four straight starts. He made his Dodgers debut (following trade from Miami) vs. the Angels and that's been his only good start, allowing one run over six innings. Albert Pujols is 3-for-11 with three RBIs off him. Mike Trout is 1-for-6. It's Garrett Richards (13-10, 3.77) for the Angels. He hasn't faced the Dodgers in 2015. Andre Ethier is 2-for-6 off him with two doubles.

Key trends: The Dodgers are 9-1 in their past 10 on Wednesday. The Angels are 8-1in Richards' past nine interleague starts. The over is 4-1 in his past five.

Early lean: Angels and over.

Astros at A's (+137, 7.5)

Now here's an injury I wouldn't want: the A's aren't sure when catcher Stephen Vogt will return to the lineup after taking a foul tip directly in the groin on Sunday. Clearly he wasn't wearing a cup when you saw his reaction as he fell to the ground, did a 360-degree roll and gathered in a fetal position while the A's medical crew rushed to help. Josh Phegley takes over as the everyday catcher. Aaron Brooks (1-2, 6.91) goes here for Oakland. The former Royals prospect was roughed up for six runs in 2.1 innings last time out vs. Seattle. The rookie's best outing thus far was Aug. 6 vs. Houston where he allowed a run and four hits over 7.0 innings. Houston's Collin McHugh (15-7, 3.75) comes off one of his best starts of the year, shutting out the Twins over 7.2 innings in his last start. Since Aug. 1, McHugh has a 1.54 ERA.

Key trends: Houston is 1-5 in McHugh's past six road starts vs. teams with a losing record. The under is 8-0 in his past eight vs. clubs with a losing record.

Early lean: Astros and under.

Orioles at Yankees (-128, 8.5)

Orioles All-Star Adam Jones had to leave Monday's game with soreness in his shoulder and some wrist soreness, so monitor his status for the next few games. Jones thinks he's fine but missed eight games in June with a sore right shoulder. The free-falling Orioles go with Ubaldo Jimenez (10-9, 4.24) here. He actually won in Toronto last time out but lasted only 5.2 innings. He hasn't lasted six since Aug. 8. Jimenez is 1-1 with a 12.27 ERA in two starts this year against the Yankees. Chase Headley is 8-for-26 with three doubles and a homer off him. Carlos Beltran is a career .350 hitter off Jimenez with two homers. The Yankees are expecting to activate lefty CC Sabathia (4-9, 5.27) off the DL for this one. There was some talk his season might be over with knee issues, but Sabathia will try and pitch with a brace on. He is 0-1 with a 6.00 ERA in two starts this year vs. Baltimore. Jones is a .311 hitter off him with four homers in 61 at-bats.

Key trends: The Orioles are 0-7 in their past seven vs. lefties. The over is 4-1 in Jimenez's past five. The Yanks are 7-1 in Sabathia's past eight at home vs. Baltimore. The under is 4-1-1 in his past six at home vs. Baltimore.

Early lean: Yankees and over.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Dave Cokin

Bonus Play Wednesday

PIRATES (Happ) @ REDS (Sampson) 7:10 PM

Take: PIRATES -135

Okay, I’m as surprised as anyone. But the numbers tell the story loudly and clearly. JA Happ has been a raging success since getting dealt from Seattle to Pittsburgh and he’ll look to stay red hot tonight at Cincinnati.

Happ has never been known for his consistency. So there’s that cautionary note to throw into this analysis. But the fact is that the veteran southpaw is in superb form right now. Over his last five starts, covering 34.1 innings, Happ has given up only 21 hits while surrendering a paltry two runs. His 5/26 BB/K line is more than impressive. JA Happ is quite literally in go with mode right now.

Happ can lose command at times and when that happens, he gets lit up. This is not a guy who blows away the opposition. But something has clicked since he put on a Pirates uniform, and I have no problem backing him until what would seem to be a certain regression kicks in.

Keyvius Sampson will be the opposing hurler tonight, and he’s in terrible form. Sampson ha always had control problems and his location in each of his last four starts has been way off. Sampson is simply either missing the target altogether or placing it on a tee when he’s in the strike zone on too many occasions. This is not a recipe for success in the majors. I’m just not sold Sampson is a big league starter. The tease factor has always been there with this righty, but the consistent results have never really shown. My suspicion is that if Sampson has a real major league future, it’s more likely as a bullpen denizen.

The Pirates have had a peculiar time with divisional play this year. Who knows why, but the Bucs have had al kinds of problems winning against their NL Central brethren. But they did win the weekend series at Busch, and can finish off the road trip with another series win if they can get the victory tonight.

This is somewhat uncharted territory for Happ, who has rarely rated being this type of road chalk. But I definitely have to give him an edge over Sampson this evening, and in the process I will side with the Pirates to get the job done against the Reds.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Jim Feist

Jim Feist's Bonus Play for Wednesday, Sept. 9 10:10 PM ESt

(927) TEXAS RANGERS VS (928) SEATTLE MARINERS

Take: (927) TEXAS RANGERS

Reason: Your Bonus Play for Wedneday, September 9, 2015 is in the MLB contest between the Rangers and the Mariners from Safeco Park in Seattle. Texas has a top 10 offense in runs scored and the Rangers are 9-1 in their last 10 vs. a team with a losing record. Martin Perez goes here, allowing 3 runs in 5 straight starts and faces a bad Seattle offense that is 24th in runs scored, 23rd in OBP. The Rangers are 13-3 in Perez's last 16 starts vs. a team with a losing record. The Rangers are also 9-3 in their last 12 games vs. a left-handed starter and face southpaw Vidal Nuno. He is normally a reliever for Seattle and in his last start he allowed 5 runs in 6 innings of an 8-3 defeat. The Mariners are 1-5 at home against a left-handed starter and the Rangers are 4-0 in Perez's last 4 starts vs. the Mariners. Play the Texas Rangers.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Arthur Ralph Sports

Bonus Play WED SF Giants w/ Heston +105