Monday 6/1/15 service plays chatter/comps/requests & other stuff...

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

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[superbeets]

German Bundesliga 1 TODAY 18:00

Karlsruhe

v

Hamburg

	HOME	DRAW	AWAY
		—	—	—	More markets

​

RECENT FORM	LAST HEAD-TO-HEADSAT KARLSRUHE	RECENT FORM
–-–-–-AWALAD​ Most recent​	3 - 2 1 - 1 1 - 0 0 - 1	HWAWHDALHWHD​ Most recent​

KEY STAT: Hamburg have lost six of their last seven away games

EXPERT VERDICT: Hamburg have looked a poor side for two years and are likely to be relegated by a defeat away to Karlsruhe in the second leg of their playoff. A 1-1 draw has left Hamburg in a precarious position and they may be put to the sword by their second-tier hosts, who have lost just two home league games this season.

RECOMMENDATION: Karlsruhe
1

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

ARLINGTON, Texas -- Rangers third baseman Adrian Beltre will be out at least two weeks after he left Sunday's game with a sprained thumb.

Beltre, who had two hits and two RBIs against the Boston Red Sox, suffered the injury sliding into second base in the fifth inning.

X-rays were negative, and team physician Dr. Keith Meister diagnosed a sprain after examining Beltre. The third baseman, who was being fitted for a splint, also needed four stitches for a cut he sustained on the play.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

MLB

National League
Cubs @ Marlins
Hammel is 2-1, 2.51 in his last six starts; five of his last seven went under.

Urena allowed five runs in 4.2 IP (98 PT) in his first MLB start.

Cubs won five of last seven games with Miami (over 5-1-1). Chicago lost four of last six games (under 5-1). Marlins lost four of last six games; six of their last eight stayed under total.

Brewers @ Cardinals
Fiers is 0-2, 4.33 in his last five starts, last four of which stayed under.

Garcia is 1-2, 5.00 in his last three starts; four of his last five stayed under.

Milwaukee snapped 7-game skid with 17-inning win Sunday; they're 3-6 in last nine games with St Louis (under 6-3). Cardinals won six of last seven games, as last four stayed under total. Five of last six Milwaukee games went over.

Dodgers @ Rockies
Dodgers are only 5-5 when Kershaw starts; he is 0-1, 5.31 in his last three on road-- three of his last four starts overall went over.

Kendrick is 1-2, 3.58 in his last four starts; four of his last six went over.

Dodgers lost five of last six on road; their last four games stayed under- LA is 8-2 in last ten games with Colorado; four of last five went over. Rockies won seven of last eight games, with four of last five staying under.

Braves @ Diamondbacks
Wood is 2-0, 1.93 in his last two starts; over is 6-2-1 in his last nine.

Bradley is 0-2, 11.81 in his last three starts; his last six went over.

Arizona is 7-5 in last 12 games; four of last five went over total. Braves won six of last nine games with Arizona; four of last six stayed under. Atlanta won its last two games, scoring 15 runs; five of its last seven went over.

Mets @ Padres
deGrom is 2-0, 1.27 in his last three starts, but 0-3, 6.75 in his last three on foreign soil (under 2-0-1).

Cashner is 0-4, 4.50 in his last four home starts; Padres scored 10 runs in his last seven starts overall- four of his last five stayed under.

Mets are 3-5 in last eight games with San Diego; four of last five went under the total. NY won four of last six games overall; six of its last eight went over. Padres are 5-3 in last eight games; over is 4-0-1 in their last five.

Pirates @ Giants
Cole is 3-1, 2.22 in his last four starts; his last five stayed under.

Vogelsong is 4-0, 1.14 in his last five starts; his last three at home went under the total.

Giants won five of last seven games but lost last two; eight of their last 11 games went over. Pirates won eight of last ten games; they won four of last six games with SF. Over is 3-0-1 in last four Pittsburgh games.

American League
Twins @ Red Sox
Pelfrey is 2-1, 3.28 in his last four starts; under is 5-3 in his last eight.

Buchholz is 0-2, 2.38 in his last three starts- Boston lost 2-1/3-1/2-1. In his last five starts, under is 4-0-1.

Home side won last seven Minnesota-Boston games (under 5-2); Twins won seven of last eight games- three of last four went over. Red Sox lost six of last seven games, with three of last four staying under.

Orioles @ Astros
Jimenez is 0-1, 4.50 in his last three starts; under is 6-3-1 in his last ten.

Oberholtzer is 0-3, 5.12 in his last four starts; four of his last five went under.

Baltimore won four of last five games with Houston; six of last eight in series stayed under total. Orioles are 4-6 in last ten games; seven of their last ten stayed under. Astros lost three of last four; four of their last six went under. .

Rays @ Angels
Colome is 1-0, 1.74 in his last two starts; three of his last four went over.

Richards is 1-2, 5.31 in his last three starts; four of his last six went over.

Tampa Bay lost six of last eight games with Angels; last four went over total. Rays won last two games after losing previous six; three of last four stayed under total. Angels won last four games, scoring 26 runs.

Bronx @ Mariners
Former Mariner Pineda is 1-2, 6.50 in his last three starts; over is 3-1-1 in his last five outings.

Seattle is 9-1 when Hernandez pitches; he is 4-1, 2.00 in his last five starts- under is 7-0-1 in his last eight.

Road team won last eight Bronx-Seattle games; seven of last ten went under the total. Bronx lost 10 of last 12 road games; three of last four went over the total. Mariners lost three of their last four games.

Interleague
Blue Jays @ Nationals
Dickey is 1-2, 7.92 in his last four starts; his last three went over.

Zimmerman is 2-0, 1.35 in his last three starts; four of his last six went over.

Toronto lost six of last seven games with Washington; under is 4-2-1 in last seven. Blue Jays lost three of last four games overall. Nationals lost three in a row; five of their last seven games stayed under.

Win-loss records this year for team with this starting pitcher:
Chi-Mia-- Hammel 4-5; Urena 0-1
Mil-StL-- Fiers 4-6; Garcia 1-1
LA-Colo-- Kershaw 5-5; Kendrick 3-7
Atl-Az-- Wood 3-7; Bradley 5-2
NY-SD-- deGrom 6-4; Cashner 2-8
Pitt-SF-- Cole 7-3; Vogelsong 6-2

Min-Bos-- Pelfrey 7-2; Buchholz 2-8
Balt-Hst-- Jimenez 5-4; Oberholtzer 1-0
TB-LAA-- Colome 3-3; Richards 5-3
NY-Sea-- Pineda 7-3; Hernandez 9-1

Tor-Wsh-- Dickey 4-6; Zimmerman 6-4

Times this starting pitcher allowed a run in first inning:
Chi-Mia-- Hammel 2-9; Urena 1-1
Mil-StL-- Fiers 1-10; Garcia 1-2
LA-Colo-- Kershaw 3-10; Kendrick 6-10
Atl-Az-- Wood 4-10; Bradley 4-7
NY-SD-- deGrom 3-10; Cashner 3-7
Pitt-SF-- Cole 3-10; Vogelsong 1-8

Min-Bos-- Pelfrey 1-9; Buchholz 4-10
Balt-Hst-- Jimenez 1-9; Oberholtzer 1-1
TB-LAA-- Colome 2-6; Richards 0-8
NY-Sea-- Pineda 3-10; Hernandez 2-10

Tor-Wsh-- Dickey 3-10; Zimmerman 5-10

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at Grand River Raceway

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


Race 1 - Post: 6:30 - 1 mile. PACE - Class Rating: 60 - Purse:$5600 - HORSES & GELDINGS - N/W $2500. LIFETIME


CONSORTIUM CHOICES


Chatsworth Consortium

# 5 PREPPY ART 8/5


# 1 GHOSTWRITER 2/1


# 3 FREEDOM LAND 9/2


Hey, listen up! PREPPY ART is the intelligent bet if you like to win. Horoscope said take a chance today, this interesting entrant is as good as any to take a shot with. Take a look at this solid standardbred's average speed statistic of 62 and compare to today's class rating. Looks like a really strong bet. With a 61 avg class rating, this entrant has one of the top class advantages in the group of horses. GHOSTWRITER - With a really good 50 TrackMaster Speed Rating last time out, will more than likely be a factor in this outing. A formidable win percent has been achieved by solid standardbreds starting from the 1 post. FREEDOM LAND - Many bettors know speed is is such an important factor. This entrant has credentials with a 60 avg rating. Good for a win bet just off the excellent prior class figures. Have to like this entrant.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at Tioga Downs

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


Race 4 - Post: 7:15 - 1 mile. PACE - Class Rating: 78 - Purse:$4000 - CLAIMING $5,000


CONSORTIUM CHOICES


Chatsworth Consortium

# 4 WESTERN LEGEND 12/1


# 5 PHILANA CHALICE 9/2


# 2 SAMBAD 5/2


Hey, listen up! WESTERN LEGEND is the knowledgeable wager if you like to win and could score at a price in here. A better than expected return on investment exists for standardbreds starting from the 4 slot at Tioga Downs. Have to support a harness racer coming out of the Tioga Downs 4 hole. The win percent is great, way above normal. PHILANA CHALICE - Have to back a fine animal coming out of the Tioga Downs 5 post. The win pct is excellent, way above normal. Can't gloss over this contender, especially in exotics. Pace ratings put him in the mix in this one. SAMBAD - Could very well be the most competitive in the field of horses here, showing great markings of late. Avg speed is a solid 78. Good for a win wager just off the stellar prior class ratings. Have to like this interesting entrant.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Finger Lakes

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


Race 1 - Claiming - 5.0f on the Dirt. Purse: $9000 Class Rating: 70

FOR FILLIES AND MARES THREE YEARS OLD AND UPWARD WHICH HAVE NEVER WON FOUR RACES. THREE YEAR OLDS, 119 LBS.; OLDER, 124 LBS. NON-WINNERS OF TWO RACES SINCE MAY 1 ALLOWED 2 LBS. A RACE SINCE APRIL 1 ALLOWED 4 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $5,000.


RECOMMENDED CHOICES

The Walker Group Picks

# 2 RIVERESSED 5/2


# 5 MANHATTAN GIN 8/5


# 3 NUNZIATA 5/1


RIVERESSED looks to be a very good contender. Her 66 average has this mare with among the most respectable speed figures for this event. This mare gets a boost with Davila in the irons. Will more than likely be one of the leaders of the bunch going into the halfway point of the race. MANHATTAN GIN - Could best this group here, showing respectable numbers of late. Has solid front speed and will almost certainly fare admirably versus this field. NUNZIATA - Trainer boasts strong win figs at this distance and surface. Trainers don't bring horses back this quickly without a good reason.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Ruidoso

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


Race 6 - Claiming - 350y on the Dirt. Purse: $9000 Class Rating: 86

QUARTER HORSE 350Y, FOR THREE YEAR OLDS AND UPWARD. THREE YEAR OLDS, 121 LBS.; OLDER, 124 LBS. NON-WINNERS OF A RACE SINCE MAY 1 ALLOWED 3 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $10,000.


RECOMMENDED CHOICES

The Walker Group Picks

# 1 MARTIN RAY 6/1


# 4 ES DOVE 4/1


# 2 SURF N TURF DUDE 7/2


I think MARTIN RAY is a formidable choice. Ought to be carefully examined here on the basis of the numbers in the speed realm alone. Earned a sound speed fig in the latest race. Can run another good one in this race. Has performed quite well recently in short races, posting a nifty 81 avg speed rating. ES DOVE - Martinez has been hot the last month, winning at a nifty 33 percent rate. Put up a competitive Equibase Speed Fig last time out. SURF N TURF DUDE - Could best this field based on the speed rating - 78 - of his last contest. Has to be given a shot versus this group displaying quite good numbers lately and an average Equibase Speed Fig of 81 under similar conditions.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Bar

Parx Racing - Race #9 - Post: 4:31pm - Claiming - 8.3 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $21,000 Class Rating: 97

Rating: Golden DollarGolden DollarGolden Dollar

#8 SPEEDING TRAIN (ML=5/1)
#9 FIRE ALARM (ML=4/1)
#1 POLIZIANO (ML=8/1)


SPEEDING TRAIN - This jock and conditioner have a lucrative ROI when they combine forces. Rider hops up aboard after getting to know the horse by riding last out. That's always a good thing. Multiple trips to the winner's circle over the surface right here at Parx Racing. Maybe, another trip to the winner's circle in this event. FIRE ALARM - Earnings per start is something that I think can be a key factor. This horse is ranked number 1 in this field. POLIZIANO - This gelding has higher odds on the morning line than the other entrant from the stable of Farro. Better beware of this angle.

Vulnerable Contenders: #10 SACRED GROUND (ML=5/2), #7 IRISH SMARTY (ML=6/1), #2 HOPPY DO (ML=6/1),

SACRED GROUND - This horse doesn't have a tenacious make-up. Often finishes in the place and show hole. You cannot keep making allowances for a pony that just doesn't win. Don't play him. IRISH SMARTY - Looked like he was in good form on May 4th. Hasn't been near the track since then though. Not a positive sign. Unlikely that the speed fig he notched on May 4th will be enough in this race. HOPPY DO - Finished fourth last time out. Would have to move up to be there at the wire in today's event. When examining today's class rating, he will have to earn a much better speed figure than in the last race to be competitive in this dirt route.


STRAIGHT WAGERS:
Put your money on #8 SPEEDING TRAIN on the nose if you can get odds of 7/2 or more

EXACTA WAGERS:
Box [1,8,9]

TRIFECTA WAGERS:
Box [1,8,9] Total Cost: $6

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:
[1,8,9] with [1,8,9] with [1,7,8,9,10] with [1,7,8,9,10] Total Cost: $36

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Bar

Mountaineer - Race #9 - Post: 9:56pm - Claiming - 6.0 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $6,300 Class Rating: 68

Rating: Golden DollarGolden DollarGolden DollarGolden Dollar

#7 MIRACLEINOURMIDST (ML=4/1)


MIRACLEINOURMIDST - A winning percentage the likes of what Whitacre and Shryock have achieved together is tremendous. This horse could be tough in today's race, especially since Whitacre rode last time around the track and now should be more familiar with this one. Have to like this filly today. If you take a look at her PP lines you see a definite trend, getting closer with all race.

Vulnerable Contenders: #8 CHEER N SHOUT (ML=2/1), #1 ALMOSTEVENWITHEVAN (ML=5/2), #6 SWEETIE TIY (ML=5/1),

CHEER N SHOUT - Should have at least hit the board in the last sixty days in a short distance event to be any kind of value at small odds in a sprint. ALMOSTEVENWITHEVAN - I can't play this continual non-winner. Gets the assignment finished now and then. SWEETIE TIY - Tough to bet on a campaigner that loses so frequently. This thoroughbred likes to finish in the money, but doesn't usually win. Forget the top spot.

Top HatGUEST COMMENTARY: Winston - MIRACLEINOURMIDST - Put a prime bet on this filly. In the top spot in earnings per start and has a lot more to offer as well.


STRAIGHT WAGERS:
Have to go with #7 MIRACLEINOURMIDST on the win end if we get at least 1/1 odds

EXACTA WAGERS:
7 with [2,3]

TRIFECTA WAGERS:
7 with [2,3] with [1,2,3,6] Total Cost: $6

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:
7 with [1,2,3,6] with [1,2,3,6] with [1,2,3,6] Total Cost: $24

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Mohawk: Monday 6/1 Analysis
By Garnet Barnsdale

DRF HARNESS

Race 4 - $50,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool

EARLY $1 PICK 4:

4/3,8/2,3/4,5,7,9 = $16


LATE $1 PICK 4: 4,5,7,9/5,6,8/7/3,4,6 = $36

MEET STATS: 98 - 303 / $559.00 BEST BETS: 13 - 27 / $45.90

SPOT PLAYS: 4 - 25 / $40.00

Best Bet: CORSICA HALL (4th)

Spot Play: LOVES A CHALLENGE (10th)


Race 1

(2) SEAWIND PASCALE has faced much better for many weeks and likely is prominent here throughout from on or near the pace. The 3-week gap in action is a bit disconcerting, however. (3) STRONG HOPE was looped early when trying to leave and forced to drive on which took too much out of him and softened him up for the closers. He should get a better trip and result here. (5) I AM SPECIAL is one of the better ones in here but has had serious gait issues in recent starts.

Race 2

(1) INTIMIDATE obviously has bigger events on his 2015 schedule, but he also looks ready to roll here and drawing inside is a bonus; top call but wary of a prohibitive price in what could be a tightener. (5) DAYLON MAGICIAN has won four of five Preferreds this year, most recently from the 10-hole and may offer a better price than usual here. (2) CHARMED LIFE has been somewhat ordinary - for her - the past two starts and now faces a couple of tough boys in the two above.

Race 3

(4) THERESADEMONINME was given way too much to do last time when taken to the back early. Back on a 7-day rotation expect a more aggressive steer here from a better post. (8) WINDSONG GEANT is the obvious one with the drop in class but has also missed 3 weeks action and could go down at a very short price. (3) BAGS FOR ALL vainly chased a very sharp winner last week and should be closer early here and get a more favorable trip.

Race 4

(4) CORSICA HALL will likely never meet a weaker group and probably breaks his maiden with flair here. (1) MULLET BLUE CHIP had a decent debut and looks like the only challenger on paper. (7) THINK AGAIN shows a rapid final 1/4 last start but was still several lengths behind the one above.

Race 5

(8) ELEGANT SERENITY likely will never get a better chance to break her maiden as she has here; top call. (3) MONOPOLY BLUE CHIP looks faster this year based on the late speed displayed in his qualifiers; the main threat. (1) BACK TO BLACK made a threatening move but was overtaken by a well-meant, heavily-bet winner and then narrowly lost the place. He can build on that outing.

Race 6

(2) FASHION MAVEN closed from a tough spot to finish a clear second to what may become one of the top 3YO colts in North America. He looks solid here facing weaker from a better post. (3) RATHER SWELL is 0-16 but the one that beat him narrowly last time repeated from the 10-hole Thursday night vs. better. He's a threat here. (5) LIBRADO HANOVER takes a lot of cash every week but seems to be a bit of a money burner.

Race 7

(4) BODY BALANCE was out of contention early last time but closed quickly, retaining his sharpness. He should get a better trip closer to the pace here. (5) BAX OF LIFE closed hard to be a good second but was too far back early. She should leave closer to the pace here and move earlier. (7) RIVETING ROSIE bottomed out the field last week and is a worthy favorite here vs. many of the same.

Race 8

(5) BUDDY HALLY has fired off rapid final 1/4's four times in a row but in most cases has been too far back. Look for McNair to keep him closer and trip him out vs. this group. (8) MMS LUCKY BOY went a big trip on the lead and was only nailed late. He is extra-dangerous from out of the pocket, a trip which he might be able to carve out here. (6) HLDONTGHTTOYURDRMS gets class and post relief and is a must-use on late pick 4 tickets.

Race 9

(7) WASHINGTON HANOVER ships in for trainer Cirasuola off a blowout win at Northville and some quick miles at Balmoral. He looks good vs. this group; top call. (6) IDEAL SHADOW did well to lose by less than 4 lengths considering the brutal trip from the 10-hole last time out. He's dangerous here. (5) KEYSTONE DALTON comes in off an easy win and is sharp enough to contend here.

Race 10

(6) LOVES A CHALLENGE has shown dramatic improvement in his overall speed in his past two starts and could take this group down at a square price. (4) SWEET COLT OF MINE was very tough first-over last time and just nailed late by one that had a much easier trip; contender here. (3) CLICK BOOM does much better from inner posts and likely gets the benefit of a good trip here. He's dangerous, too. (5) ROCK CAMROLLER comes in off two powerful wins in London and is another that could complete the late pick 4 ticket. (1) GREYSTONE MOE is almost always on the ticket and that likely won't change here starting from the inside.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Yonkers: Monday 6/1 Analysis
By Brewster Smith

DRF HARNESS

Race 7 - $10,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool

MEET STATS: 81 - 450 / $591.10 BEST BETS: 7 - 39 / $34.40


Best Bet: BURKENTINE HANOVER (11th)

Spot Play: COLONIAL ROAD (3rd)


Race 1

(1) BACK TO THE WEST flashed good speed in his recent trip. Gelding fits well in here and he retains the fence and drops a bit, so that might help this pacer get the job done. (5) KINGS BARNS put in a mild bid in his last try. (2) HELLO HOT SHOT gets post relief.

Race 2

(1) IWANNAGOHOME raced evenly in her latest. Sophomore filly can boss these at her best. (4) INTOVIEW was second best last time out; threat. (2) GAME THEORY Philly invader can be right in the mix.

Race 3

(1) COLONIAL ROAD This should be a perfect spot for this 8-year-old pacer to make tonight a winning one. (3) THEREISAPACEFORUS put in a mild bid last out; contender. (4) JACKED UP has some early zip; watch out.

Race 4

(5) ALL FIRED UP moves down the ladder and gets a cozier post. With a fine-timed drive from Brennan, he can take all the marbles. (1) DR CS Z TAM Even finish in his last try; main danger. (6) FASHION DELIGHT Maywood invader has wheeled off two straight victories; not out of this.

Race 5

Will go with (4) PACIFIC DESPERADO to get back on the winning track; longshot play. (3) BLADE SEELSTER moves down a bit in class; big factor. (6) DREAMLANDS CHAMP also gets class relief in here and can't be counted out of this.

Race 6

(1) KEEMOSABE moves to the rail slot and has the speed to boss these down the road. (4) REPORT FOR DUTY N put in a nice run but tired in the stretch drive; major player. (5) OR completes the trifecta.

Race 7

(3) TERRACOTTA HANOVER Ohio shipper has good tactical speed. Has every right to take this group to task for all the cash. (2) APRICOT SOUR took the pocket route home to victory at Philly last time out. (1) EAGLE MOLLY should fare well from the fence.

Race 8

(2) ATLAS ALLIANCE N mild bid in his last start. Is 0 for 11 this year but he seems to be coming around to form; worth a shot. (7) ALLSTAR PARTNER was nailed last out for win honors; main danger. (4) LISTOWEL was quite game to grab the placing last week.

Race 9

(1) HILARIOUS HALO gets post & class relief and that should help this 9-year-old's cause. (2) GRAND MASTER might have moved too soon in his latest; big threat. (4) IDEAL WILLIE Very sharp in his last three tries; beware.

Race 10

(4) JACK ATTACK did not race badly last time around. Gelding could be ready to fire his best with Carlson at the helm. (6) IDEAL COWBOY was sent down the road last out for all the glory. The one to deny. (5) SKYFUL OF LIGHTERS took the pocket route home to victory in his most recent outing.

Race 11

(1) BURKENTINE HANOVER Maine invader is back at Yonkers where he was a sharp second on March 27. Ready to boss these at his best. (3) GOBAN rallied strongly to nail down the show spot recently. (4) SECOND WIND N could have a say in the outcome.

Race 12

(1) BY A TIME moves back to the rail slot and has some speed. Gelding could move forward with a golden trip. (7) ALBERTO CONTADOR N just missed the score in his last start. (2) MAINLAND KEY N gets post relief; don't count out.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

SPOT PLAYS

For Monday


TRACK (RACE) HORSE, MORNING LINE


Delaware Park (3rd) Stormy Holiday, 6-1
(8th) Tiz My Valentine, 6-1


Finger Lakes (4th) Saratoga Shock, 7-2
(9th) Glenbrook, 3-1


Mountaineer (1st) Barnyard Fiddler, 8-1
(2nd) Fighting Xena, 6-1


Parx Racing (3rd) Ring It Up, 9-2
(8th) A Fleet Attitude, 5-1

Presque Isle Downs (5th) Shamrock Omega, 6-1
(7th) Medieval Sword, 7-2


Thistledown (1st) Dr. Copper, 9-2
(5th) Kiki's War, 6-1

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

MLB June Pitchers Report
By Marc Lawrence

May flowers bring June showers, or so the saying goes. For Major League Baseball pitchers toeing the slab during the month of June, showers are hopefully not in their immediate plans. Instead, it’s the hope of all MLB starting pitchers to stay around long enough to avoid having to clean up early.

Listed below are hurlers that have enjoyed a two-to-one or better success ratio in team-starts over the course of the last three seasons during the month of June. On the flip side, we've also listed pitchers that struggle in June, winning 33% percent or less of their team-start efforts. To qualify pitchers must have made a minimum of 10 starts, with at least one start each June over the last three years. And for your convenience alongside each record we break down each pitcher’s greatest success or greatest failure rate either home (H) or away (A) within his good or bad month.

Note: * designates a categorical repeat appearance by this pitcher, maintaining status quo from last season’s June list.

GOOD MONTH PITCHERS:

*Burnett, A.J. - 8-4 (5-2 A)

It is hard to pitch much better than Burnett has in his announced last season of his career with a 1.81 ERA and WHIP 1.16, both of which would be career lows. The right-hander has been very hard on left-handed hitters who are batting just .200 against him.

*Colon, Bartolo - 11-4 (6-1 H)

The ageless Colon just keeps rolling along. His 7-3 record is better than he’s actually pitched thru May with an ERA approaching five. At 42 years old he’s not tricky, throwing over 70 percent fastballs. He just keeps winning games and typically does so in June.

Cueto, Johnny - 9-4 (6-1 H)

The Cincinnati ace has been on the DL with elbow inflammation and is 3-4 with 3.03 ERA thus far in 2015. When right, Cueto has three what scouts call “plus pitches”, including a darting fastball in the mid-90’s. He commands all his pitches and creates deception by turning his back to hitters.

*Dickey, R. A. - 11-5 (7-3 A)

Another pitcher who has reached the 40-year threshold is the Toronto knuckleballer, who also is having a tougher time with a 5.77 ERA as this month commences. His undoing is runners in scoring position, with opposing batters hitting .286. Let’s see if history repeats itself for Dickey this month.

Kershaw, Clayton - 11-5 (6-2 H)

Not having typical Kershaw year to this point with fastball command the reason opponents are hitting .242 vs. career average of .210. However, still four months are eft in the season and few would think the best pitcher in baseball the last few years will not once again get in a groove where he becomes untouchable.

Lohse, Kyle - 11-5 (6-1 H)

The Milwaukee righty’s season has mirrored the Brewers. A horrible April start (1-4, 7.28 ERA), modest improvement the first 20 days of May (lowered ERA to 5.53) and pounded again to finish the month (ERA back up to 6.50). Lohse is terrible thus far at Miller Park with 7.31 ERA and hopes to come close to past results might have to do it on the road this time.

*Scherzer, Max - 10-5 (5-2 H)

Been everything Washington could have hoped for with puny 1.51 ERA, a WHIP of 0.88 and better than 8-to-1 strikeout to walk ratio. RH batters are a feeble .172 against his pitches and the leadoff batters in an inning are at .130 BA. Once he gets rolling, by the fifth inning he’s like a caged lion prowling around the mound.

*Zimmermann, Jordan - 12-4 (7-2 H)

If you think the Nationals are set up to have a good month in June, check out Zimmermann’s record and the guy above. The 29-year old right-hander is the perfect No. 2 starter who throws quality strikes in the mid 90’s, a tightly spun curve, slider with late bite and a ‘plus’ change. Good luck against Washington this month!


BAD MONTH PITCHERS:

Eovaldi, Nate - 3-12 (1-6 H)

Eovaldi has more ability than his record shows overall and this month in particular. Has 96 to 100 MPH heater, but it does not always have a lot of movement and his secondary pitches are not consistent enough which is why he’s never approached a strikeout per inning. The Dodgers and Miami both gave up on him though he’s still only 25.

Lincecum, Tim - 5-10 (1-7 A)

Lincecum’s weak record in June primarily has been the last few seasons, not so much in his Cy Young years. No longer capable of upper 90’s fastball, he went back to work in the off-season with his father who helped him become who he was and the results the first two months have been positive. Whether Tiny Tim has good or bad month will revolve on having his command back.

*Nolasco, Ricky - 5-10 (2-5 A)

If you compare Nolasco’s key peripheral numbers this season to date versus last year, they are very close with an ERA over 5 and being smacked around for a .315 BA, yet he’s 5-1 compared to 6-12 in 2014. He can be thankful for the Twins offense making him better than he is, but don’t worry, this joy ride will end soon.

Peavy, Jake - 2-11 (0-8 A)

Peavy’s lower back recovery suffered a setback on May 29th when it flared up during minor league injury rehab outing and he will be evaluated again to see the next step with no time table for his return, which is probably good based on June results.

Samardzija, Jeff - 5-12 (2-6 H)

The former Notre Dame pass-catcher has an ERA of 3.84 to begin the third month of the season, which is more typical of his numbers before last year. He’s been neither good in away games (.296 BA allowed), nor during the day (.286 BA allowed). And when there been a lone runner on third base, the opposing batter is five for 10, a cool .500.

Stults, Eric - 3-10 (1-6 A)

After a 1-5 record with a 5.85 ERA with Atlanta, Stults was demoted and a thrown in on the Juan Uribe for Alberto Callaspo trade. He was immediately designated for assignment by the Dodgers and frankly why anyone would want this 35-year old hurler, even if he is left-handed, in unimaginable. (Though we think somebody will pick him up.)

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

MLB roundup: Hamilton gives Texas walk-offf win
By THE SPORTS XCHANGE

ARLINGTON, Texas -- Pinch hitter Josh Hamilton lined a two-run double to left-center with two outs in the bottom of the ninth, lifting the Texas Rangers to a 4-3 win over the Boston Red Sox on Sunday.

Hamilton's liner off Koji Uehara scored Hanser Alberto from third, and Prince Fielder motored in from first.

Hamilton started the previous six games since returning to Texas but was left out of Sunday's starting lineup by manager Jeff Banister, who was ejected in the top of the ninth for arguing a call at second base.

Texas trailed 3-2 before Alberto opened the ninth inning by reaching on an error by Boston third baseman Pablo Sandoval. A sacrifice bunt and a groundout got Alberto to third before Fielder was intentionally walked. That set the stage for Hamilton.

Brewers 7, Diamondbacks 6 (17 innings)

MILWAUKEE -- Martin Maldonado hit a solo home run in the bottom of the 17th, snapping Milwaukee's seven-game losing streak with a victory over Arizona in the longest game in the history of Miller Park.

Right-hander Matt Garza (3-7), scheduled to start Monday in St. Louis, put up five scoreless innings of relief, holding the Diamondbacks scoreless while scattering three hits and a pair of intentional walks.

Right-hander Vidal Nuno (0-1) went 5 1/3 innings and struck out six, including second baseman Luis Sardinas to open the 17th. That brought up Maldonado, who had three hits and two walks already on the day. He smacked Nuno's first offering to the batter's eye in center to end it.

Reds 8, Nationals 2

CINCINNATI -- Todd Frazier and Brandon Phillips homered, helping Cincinnati complete a three-game sweep of first-place Washington.

The Nationals were the hottest team in baseball coming into the series, having won 21 of 27. However, they were swept for the first time since April 24-26 at Miami.

Frazier went 3-for-4 with a homer, double and three RBIs for the Reds, who swept Washington for the first time since 2011. There was some good news for the Nationals, as Bryce Harper returned to the lineup after being scratched from Saturday's start with a sore back. He went 0-for-2 with two walks.

Mets 4, Marlins 3

NEW YORK -- Bartolo Colon took over the National League lead in wins, throwing seven solid innings and helping his own cause with an RBI double as New York beat Miami.

The Mets salvaged the finale of the three-game series and moved within a half-game of the Nationals for first place in the NL East. The Marlins were pursuing just their second three-game winning streak of the season.

The 42-year-old Colon (8-3) has earned a decision in each of his last 23 starts. He allowed three runs on six hits and no walks while striking out two and throwing just 79 pitches, 55 for strikes.

Rockies 4, Phillies 1

PHILADELPHIA -- Colorado slugged its way to a three-game sweep of Philadelphia.

After hitting six home runs over the first two games, the Rockies clubbed two more, as Nolan Arenado and DJ LeMahieu connected for a pair of two-run shots to help Colorado win its seventh game in the last eight.

On the contrary, the Phillies homered just once over their last seven games -- all losses -- marking their longest skid of the season to dip to a season-worst 14 games under .500.

Cardinals 3, Dodgers 1

ST. LOUIS -- Call it Carlos Martinez's tribute to former teammate and countryman Oscar Taveras. On the day St. Louis honored the late Taveras with a pregame ceremony, Martinez channeled his emotions into seven powerful shutout innings to beat Los Angeles.

While warming up in the bullpen, Martinez (5-2) appeared to wipe tears from his eyes as a tribute to Taveras, who died last October in an auto accident in the Dominican Republic, played on a video board. Martinez then allowed just one hit -- a second-inning single to Andre Ethier -- and walked three with eight strikeouts.

Martinez hasn't allowed a run in his past three starts, covering 20 1/3 innings.

White Sox 6, Astros 0

HOUSTON -- With his spot in the rotation on shaky ground, John Danks threw a shutout and Chicago claimed the rubber match of it three-game series with Houston.

Danks (3-4) worked more than seven innings for the first time this season while also recording his first shutout of the season. He had surrendered 11 earned runs over his last two starts and 10 1/3 innings, but against the Astros, Danks was in control from the first pitch. He scattered 10 hits.

The White Sox provided early run support against Houston right-hander Roberto Hernandez, scratching across one run on three singles in the second inning before expanding their lead to 4-0 with a three-run third inning.

Rays 9, Orioles 5

BALTIMORE -- Right-hander Jake Odorizzi snapped a three-game losing streak, Steven Souza had three hits, including a home run, and Tampa Bay beat Baltimore.

After losing six straight, the Rays have won consecutive games, taking the three-game series against the defending American League East champions.

Odorizzi (4-5) allowed four runs on seven hits with six strikeouts and two walks over six-plus innings.

Twins 6, Blue Jays 5

MINNEAPOLIS -- Torii Hunter's two-run double in the bottom of the seventh inning lifted Minnesota over Toronto in the rubber match of a three-game series.

With the Twins trailing by a run after a solo homer by Toronto's Josh Donaldson in the top of the inning, Minnesota got the leadoff man aboard after a throwing error by Jays shortstop Jose Reyes. Brian Dozier followed with a single two batters later, setting up Hunter, who ripped the first pitch he saw off the wall in left-center field.

Blaine Boyer pitched a scoreless eighth and closer Glen Perkins the ninth for his league-leading 19th save.

Cubs 2, Royals 1 (11 innings)

CHICAGO -- David Ross delivered a walk-off RBI single with bases loaded in the 11th inning, giving Chicago a victory over Kansas City.

Shortstop Alcides Escobar sprinted to short left to try to catch Ross' bloop shot, but it fell in for a hit as Escobar appeared to slip, allowing Kris Bryant to score from third.

Zac Rosscup (2-1) pitched one-third of an inning for the victory. The walk-off win was the major-league-leading sixth of the season for Chicago.

A's 3, Yankees 0

OAKLAND, Calif. -- Jesse Chavez threw eight shutout innings, and Stephen Vogt hit a two run homer and drove in three runs, leading Oakland to a victory over New York.

The A's took three of four games from the Yankees and won a series at home for the first time this season after six losses and a split.

Chavez (2-5) allowed seven hits, struck out six and walked none. The right-hander threw a career-high 110 pitches and matched his career high for innings pitched. Tyler Clippard pitched a scoreless ninth inning for his seventh save.

Indians 6, Mariners 3 (12 innings)

SEATTLE -- A bases-loaded walk from Seattle's seventh relief pitcher, Dominic Leone, resulted in the go-ahead run in the 12th before Cleveland added another hit and two more runs.

Cleveland finished with a season-high 18 hits and rallied from an early 3-0 deficit to win the series by way of its third victory in four games.

Zach McAllister (1-2) earned his first win of the season after pitching a scoreless 11th, while Austin Adams earned his first career save as Cleveland's seventh, and final, pitcher used in the game. The Indians won despite leaving 17 runners on base.

Braves 7, Giants 5

SAN FRANCISCO -- Jace Peterson capped a four-run, ninth-inning rally with a bases-clearing triple, lifting Atlanta to a victory over San Francisco.

In winning their second in a row to earn a 2-2 split in the four-game series, the Braves overcame a 5-3 deficit in the ninth against Giants closer Santiago Casilla with the help of an error on shortstop Brandon Crawford on what could have been the final play of the game.

Freddie Freeman started Atlanta's rally with a solo home run, his seventh of the season. Nick Masset (1-1) threw 1 2/3 scoreless innings for the win, and Jason Grilli pitched a scoreless ninth for his 15th save.

Angels 4, Tigers 2

ANAHEIM, Calif. -- Johnny Giavotella hit a two-run single in the eighth inning, giving Los Angeles a win over Detroit.

The Angels earned their fourth win in a row and fifth in seven games while handing the Tigers their fourth consecutive loss and seventh in nine games.

Giavotella and Chris Iannetta had two hits apiece for Los Angeles, which swept the four-game series.

Padres 7, Pirates 1

SAN DIEGO -- Will Middlebrooks hit a home run and drove in three runs, and San Diego earned a spilt of the four-game series.

The Padres' Clint Barmes and Justin Upton each had three hits.

San Diego scored seven runs in the first four innings, which was more than enough for Odrisamer Despaigne (3-3), who pitched a career-high eight innings, allowing one run on seven hits. He struck out four and walked one.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Rockies RHP Lyles, LF Paulsen leave game
By THE SPORTS XCHANGE

PHILADELPHIA -- Colorado Rockies right-hander Jordan Lyles and left fielder Ben Paulsen both left Sunday's game against the Philadelphia Phillies for health reasons.

Lyles left his start after 1 1/3 innings with an aggravation of his sprained left big toe, and Paulsen departed in the fourth inning with a migraine headache.

Lyles was relieved by left-hander Chris Rusin.

Lyles exited his previous start on May 23 with the toe injury, which pushed back his next scheduled outing from Friday to Sunday against the Phillies at Citizens Bank Park.

Lyles allowed a single to third baseman Cody Asche with one out in the bottom of the second inning when trainers came out to check on the 24-year-old. Lyles threw a pair of warm-up pitches to test the toe before being taken out.

Lyles surrendered two hits, an earned run and struck out two. In his last six starts, he is 0-4 with a 7.40 ERA.

Paulsen was replaced in left field by Brandon Barnes.

Paulsen homered in the first two games of the three-game series at Citizens Bank Park.

In 13 games this season, the 27-year-old is hitting .350 with three home runs and eight RBIs.

"Benny's been great for us, came up last year and performed extremely well," Rockies manager Walt Weiss said after Saturday's 5-2 win over the Phillies. "He's doing the same again this year. He's a dangerous bat and he's a good hitter. He's not just a power hitter, he hits the ball to all fields and drives the ball."

It is uncertain whether Lyles or Paulsen will miss any additional playing time.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Reds RHP Cueto expected to start Tuesday
By THE SPORTS XCHANGE

Cincinnati Reds right-hander Johnny Cueto, who has not pitched since May 19 because of elbow soreness, expects to return to the rotation on Tuesday against the Philadelphia Phillies, the Cincinnati Enquirer reported Sunday.

Cueto had an MRI last week and was cleared to continue throwing. He threw a bullpen session on Sunday, and declared afterward that he is ready to go.

"I feel like I lost a month. I feel like it's been forever," Cueto told the newspaper through an interpreter. "Thank God it was only a little thing that happened, I'm fine, and I'm good to go."

Although Cueto expects to return Tuesday, Reds manager Bryan Price said he would wait until Monday until he made a final decision on Cueto's return.

"We haven't had any setbacks since he started throwing, so I don't anticipate any issues with recovery, but after much time off it just makes sense to make sure the elbow doesn't flare up," Price said before Cueto completed his bullpen session. "No one anticipates that but I don't think it will be probably until tomorrow that we would finalize that commitment."

Cueto has a 3-4 record and a 3.03 ERA this year after going 20-9 with a 2.25 ERA in 2014.

Cueto, 29, will become a free agent after this season.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Dodgers place LHP Rodriguez on DL
The Sports Xchange

The Los Angeles Dodgers placed left-handed reliever Paco Rodriguez on the 15-day disabled list with a strained pitching elbow.

The Dodgers also recalled right-hander Matt West from Triple-A Oklahoma City on Sunday. West, 26, was 1-1 with a save and a 1.46 ERA in Double-A this season.

Mattingly said Rodriguez will travel back to Los Angeles to consult with team physician Neal ElAttrache. Rodriguez has struggled in his last several outings.

"He's not really having any pain, per se, but we know he's having trouble getting extended and finishing pitches," Mattingly said. "So we're going to try and catch this before it gets to anything."

Rodriguez has a 2.61 ERA in 18 appearances this season.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Nationals' Harper returns to lineup
By THE SPORTS XCHANGE

CINCINNATI -- Bryce Harper returned to the Washington Nationals' lineup on Sunday after being scratched from Saturday's start with a sore back.

Harper went 0-for-2 on Sunday with a pair of walks and played flawlessly in right field during an 8-2 loss to the Cincinnati Reds.

The Nats right fielder was hit in the back by a pitch from Reds left-hander Tony Cingrani in the ninth inning of Friday night's 5-2 loss. After being struck, Harper emphatically flung his bat and shin guards then briefly exchanged words with Cingrani and first baseman Joey Votto.

Clint Robinson replaced Harper in right field in Saturday's 8-5 loss to the Reds.

"I tried to get loose but when I went on the field, it didn't feel very good," Harper said Saturday. "It's more of a bone bruise. When I swing and I turn, it doesn't feel very good."

The last thing Harper is a two-time National League player of the week who's been among the hottest hitters in baseball during the past month or so. The last thing he wants to do is compensate during his swing.

"I don't want to switch anything up," said Harper, on Saturday. "I don't want to try to do something else that I haven't been doing."

Harper set a Nationals record for homers in a month when he clubbed 13 in May. He leads the major leagues with 43 RBIs, a .468 on-base percentage and a .733 slugging percentage.

His 18 homers are tied for the major-league league. His .329 average ranks fourth-best in the NL.

Including Sunday's game, Harper has reached base in 19 of 21 games, batting .434 with 13 homers and 28 RBIs in that stretch.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

'Pitchers Duel'

The meeting at AT&T Park Monday night between San Francisco and Pittsburgh looks to be a pitcher's duel. The duel in question will be between Giants' Ryan Vogelsong and Pirates' Gerrit Cole. Vogelsong carrying a 4-2 record, 4.24 ERA over 8 starts 2 relief appearances is off 6 innings of 1 run ball in a win at Milwaukee closing the month of May undefeated (5-0 TSR). On the other side, Cole off 7 innings of 2 run ball in a win vs Miami finished the month 3-2 bringing his yearly mark to 7-2 with a 2.11 ERA. Vogelsong able to limit runs from being scored allowing an average 1.1 runs/game the past five, Cole in much the same boat as Vogelsong surrendering an average 2.7 runs/game his last five oddsmakers have noted the possibility of a low-scoring affair setting the total at 6.5 runs. While some may be scared off at the low totals number, that usually is a sign to jump in, so make the right call and take the 'Under'. The past 10 meetings at AT&T Park the 'Under' has cashed seven times. The 'Under' is 5-0 when Vogelsong faces Pirates, the 'Under' is 5-0 in Cole's last five on the diamond, 3-1 opening a new series. The Giants are 4-0 'Under' as home underdogs, the Pirates 6-3-1 'Under' off a loss.