Monday 7/27/15 service plays chatter/comps/requests & other stuff...

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Post your request, Comments or concerns here.
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[superbeets]

Russian Premier TODAY 18:00

Anzhi

v

Lok. Moscow

	HOME	DRAW	AWAY
		21/10	21/10	7/5	More markets

​

RECENT FORM	LAST HEAD-TO-HEADSAT ANZHI	RECENT FORM
–-–-–-–-–-HL​ Most recent​	2 - 2 2 - 1 3 - 1 0 - 1	ADHLHWHDALAW​ Most recent​

KEY STAT: Lokomotiv conceded only 13 away goals in 15 league matches last season

EXPERT VERDICT: Gone are the days when Anzhi could attract talent like Samuel Eto'o to the club, although they are at least back in the Russian top flight after finishing runners-up to Krylia Sovetov in the second division last season. However, they lost 1-0 to Krylia last week and could suffer another defeat at home to Lokomotiv Moscow.

RECOMMENDATION: Lokomotiv Moscow
1

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

AFL Betting Recap - Week 17
By Joe Williams

League Betting Notes

-- Favorites/underdog went 3-3 straight up in Week 17
-- Underdogs went 4-2 ATS in Week 17
-- Home teams posted a 5-1 SU record in Week 17
-- Home teams posted a 4-2 ATS record in Week 17
-- The 'over' went 4-2 in Week 17

Team Betting Notes

-- After one of the most shocking setbacks of the season, Jacksonville (8-7) bounced back with a 74-67 victory against Philadelphia (13-3). While it was an upset in terms of the Vegas line, and the overall records, the Soul might not have been as hungry after clinching the American Conference's East Division.

-- New Orleans (3-12) dealt Tampa Bay (6-9) a costly loss. The Storm have dropped three straight games and they have failed to cover in each outing, mainly due to a lack of defense. They're allowing 66.0 points per game during the skid, and it's no surprise the 'over' has hit in each of the games.

-- Cleveland (7-9) continues their shocking downward spiral, losing for the fourth consecutive game. They're also 0-4 ATS during the unimpressive stretch. The good news is that they do not face Orlando (10-6), a team which is 2-1 SU/3-0 ATS against the Gladiators this season.

-- Don't look now, but LA Kiss (4-11) has won back-to-back games, and they're 4-2 SU over their past six. And more importantly for bettors, LA has covered seven in a row with the 'under' going 6-1 during the span.

-- Las Vegas (5-10) suffered a low-scoring loss, 37-27 at Los Angeles, on Saturday. The Outlaws have managed to cover just twice in the past seven games. For bettors looking for a strong trend, the 'under' is 4-0 in the past four for Vegas, a team which is averaging just 37.3 points per game.

-- Arizona (12-3) was tripped up on the road at Spokane (5-10). SpoSho snapped a four-game losing streak at home, and had the 'under' connect for the third consecutive game.

-- San Jose (15-1) nearly did it again, losing straight-up to a much inferior opponent. Portland (4-11) entered as a 27-point underdog, but took the SaberCats to overtime. In the end, it was San Jose pulling out a 55-49 win, but the Thunder covered for a third straight week.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at The Meadows

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


Race 2 - Post: 1:15 - 1 mile. TROT - Class Rating: 66 - Purse:$8200 - CD 3-5YO NW 1 EXT PM RACES OR $5500 LIFE. AE: 2YO NW 2 EXT PM RACES LIFE


CONSORTIUM CHOICES


Chatsworth Consortium

# 5 UP FRONT MURRAY 3/1


# 2 FORWARD PROGRESS 2/1


# 1 INFORMED DECISION 6/1


UP FRONT MURRAY unquestionably could be the nice horse to beat in here. The knowledge group knows that speed is King in harness racing. This entrant will unlock our way to a nice victory. A really strong class horse can't be missed. With an avg class figure of 68 all signs say this is the one to beat. Talk about a dynamic duo, Palone and O'Donnell have some of the best driver/trainer rankings at the track. FORWARD PROGRESS - She's squaring off in fine form, recording sharp TrackMaster SRs. An excellent contender. With a nice 77 speed figure last time out, will most likely be a factor in this gathering. INFORMED DECISION - Heads into this contest with great TrackMaster class ratings as compared to the pack - worth a look. If effort in the most recent affair is any indication, this entrant will have a very great shot in this one. High last race speed fig.

 

[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. PACE - Class Rating: 70 - Purse:$14000 - 3 YEAR OLDS, NW 1 RACE OR $7,000 LIFETIME. NO ALLOWANCES.


CONSORTIUM CHOICES


Chatsworth Consortium

# 4 BRING ON THE BEACH 2/1


# 3 COLONYS BEST 10/1


# 9 BIG MAGICK 12/1


BRING ON THE BEACH sure does look ready to score. Getting a good idea about this colt. Could surprise in here. Can't pass over based on speed ratings which have been exemplary (75 avg) in recent times. The number crunching team keenly points out that when Waples drives this horse, the odds of finishing top 3 go way up. COLONYS BEST - This harness racer recorded a really strong speed fig last out. Looks fit to come right back. BIG MAGICK - This gelding getting the triumph wouldn't be impossible, a chance.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Valuline at Delaware Park

Today's Most Likely Winner Is at:
Delaware Park, Race 1 (Monday July 27, 2015)

SLAN ABHAILE

DEL-1 6f DIRT Eight Horses
"A" CLM 6,000 3YUP $12,000
P# dd ex p3 p4 t s ML WP TVL

6 SLAN ABHAILE 9/5 36% 9/5 Strong Favorite icon
4 BROTHER MARK 3/1 22% 7/2

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Finger Lakes

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


Race 6 - Maiden Claiming - 5.5f on the Dirt. Purse: $13000 Class Rating: 64

FOR MAIDENS, FILLIES AND MARES THREE YEARS OLD AND UPWARD. THREE YEAR OLDS, 119 LBS.; OLDER, 124 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $12,500.


RECOMMENDED CHOICES

The Walker Group Picks

# 4 TOO FAST FOR LOVE 3/1


# 7 KEEPNHERINTHEDARK 7/2


# 8 PERSONAL GOLD 8/1


TOO FAST FOR LOVE looks to be a strong contender. Very good rider and trainer combo winning 17 percent of their races working together. In this field, this one is highly ranked earnings per start in dirt sprint events. Meeting a much less demanding lot than last time out. KEEPNHERINTHEDARK - Has solid Equibase Speed Figures and has to be considered for a bet here. Ought to compete well in the early speed clash which bodes well with this field.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Thistledown

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


Race 7 - Claiming - 6.0f on the Dirt. Purse: $13000 Class Rating: 75

FOR THREE YEAR OLDS AND UPWARD WHICH HAVE NEVER WON TWO RACES. THREE YEAR OLDS, 119 LBS.; OLDER, 122 LBS. NON-WINNERS OF A RACE SINCE JUNE 27 ALLOWED 2 LBS. A RACE SINCE MAY 27 ALLOWED 4 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $7,500.


RECOMMENDED CHOICES

The Walker Group Picks

# 6 OVERSTAND 4/1


# 1A BONITA'S GIFT 7/2


# 3 TEPU WAR 5/1


I back OVERSTAND here. Is worth taking a close look at and may be a wager - strong Equibase Speed Figures (64 average) at today's distance and surface as of late. Delacruz has been on fire the last month, winning at a nifty 21 percent rate. Have to look at solely on class, with some of the strongest class numbers of this field. BONITA'S GIFT - Ought to go to the front end and may never look back. Posted a solid Equibase Speed Fig last time out. TEPU WAR - He has earned strong figures under today's conditions and ought to fare well versus this group. Has ran solidly in dirt sprint races.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Bar

Mountaineer - Race #2 - Post: 7:22pm - Allowance - 7.0 furlongs on the Turf. Purse: $18,400 Class Rating: 64

Rating: Golden DollarGolden DollarGolden Dollar

#3 MISTRESS MASTER (ML=3/1)
#6 BRIGADE FLAG (ML=9/2)


MISTRESS MASTER - Vigil and Martin perform well when they team up. It's hard to beat a +28 ROI for a rider and handler. This filly is in superb form right now. Finished second last time around the track and comes back rapidly. I think this filly is ready to run a good one. She's had enough outings since the layoff and should be fit. This thoroughbred is not the morning line choice, yet she finished ahead of today's chalk in their last race together. You have to like that last race speed rating, 73, which is the best most recent race fig of this field. BRIGADE FLAG - It looks like the early speed horses may duel each other into the ground. When the real running starts this mare should be rolling down the lane. Mare is a few starts into a comeback here. Should give a big performance today.

Vulnerable Contenders: #5 WELLS NOTICE (ML=5/2), #7 DYNAMIZZEN (ML=7/2), #1 FAIRLY LOVELY (ML=5/1),

WELLS NOTICE - Finished sixth on July 13th after the very long layoff. Doubtful if there will be any improvement in this race. DYNAMIZZEN - Doubtful for this horse to make a winning move with no recent good showings in a short distance event. FAIRLY LOVELY - Didn't do much last time. Probably won't make an impact in today's race. Finished fifth in her most recent race with a mediocre rating. When I look at today's class rating, it would take an improved performance to win after that in this bunch.


STRAIGHT WAGERS:
Put your money on #3 MISTRESS MASTER on the nose if you can get odds of 2/1 or more

EXACTA WAGERS:
Box [3,6]

TRIFECTA WAGERS:
None

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:
Pass

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Bar

Parx Racing - Race #2 - Post: 1:22pm - Claiming - 7.0 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $19,000 Class Rating: 81

Rating: Golden DollarGolden DollarGolden DollarGolden Dollar

#7 LEXIAN (ML=4/1)
#2 ALSACE (ML=12/1)


LEXIAN - That recent bullet 102.4 work shows that this gelding is ready for a top race today. ALSACE - This horse should be rumbling in the stretch.

Vulnerable Contenders: #1A NATORIOUS ZAPPER (ML=8/5), #1 SURFING U S A (ML=8/5), #4 TWILL BE (ML=5/2),

NATORIOUS ZAPPER - No picnic to wager on any pony in a short distance race if he hasn't finished in the money in a sprint in the last couple months. Don't believe this pony will make a winning move in today's race. That last rating was somewhat easily forgotten when compared with today's class figure. SURFING U S A - Tough to wager on any mount in a sprint affair if he hasn't finished in the money in a sprint in the last couple months. This gelding finished out of the money on May 25th and wasn't near the winner last time out either. Don't believe this less than sharp equine will do much running in today's race. That last speed rating was mediocre when compared with today's class rating. TWILL BE - This gelding hasn't had any recent favorable outcomes in short distance contests. Not easy to bet on him in this affair. Should take this one off your contenders list with the shortage of early speed in that last route clash.


STRAIGHT WAGERS:
Play #7 LEXIAN to win if you can get odds of 8/5 or more

EXACTA WAGERS:
Box [2,7]

TRIFECTA WAGERS:
None

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:
Pass

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Rick Needham at Saratoga

RACE #7 -SARATOGA RACE COURSE - 4:13 PM EASTERN POST


The Lucky Coin Stakes

5½ FURLONGS TURF FOUR YEARS OLD AND UPWARD STAKES $100,000.00 PURSE

#1 SHORE RUNNER
#3 BOLD THUNDER
#9 SHARP SENSATION
#6 AMELIA'S WILD RIDE

Here in just the 2nd running of this stakes test (won last year by #8 Sprint to the Sky - entered into this race this afternoon) ... #1 SHORE RUNNER is the pace profile leader in this stakes field sprinting at, or about, 5½ furlongs on the turf and has posted a quartet of "POWER RUN WINS" in his last five starts. Jockey Ken Carmouche has been in his irons on one previous occasion, posting a win, and is back this afternoon here at "The Spa" gunning for back-to-back "Circle Trips!" #3 BOLD THUNDER, a 6-1 shot, has nice early speed abilities to compliment for this sprint, and has turned in four straight "POWER RUN PERFORMANCES," hitting the board in three, including a "POWER RUN WIN" in his 4th race back.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Mohawk: Monday 7/27 Analysis
By Garnet Barnsdale

DRF HARNESS

Race 4 - $50,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool

EARLY PICK 4:

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


LATE PICK 4: 5,8/1,4,6/2,3,5/3 = $18

MEET STATS: 189 - 615 / $1070.70 BEST BETS: 25 - 55 / $86.30

SPOT PLAYS: 7 - 55 / $57.30

Best Bet: MR DENNIS (11th)

Spot Play: ADVERSITY (8th)


Race 1

(7) ARRAKIS faced much better last time and couldn't keep up late. He stands an excellent chance of repeating his June 18 win if he stays flat tonight. (6) MY MY HEY HEY was a comfortable winner two back despite a long trip then broke most recently. He can threaten here if he minds his manners. (8) STANLEYSONTHEWAY raced okay for a minor share last week and could do the same here.

Race 2

(8) NO SHADOWS left hard for the top, took a seat in the pocket then lacked room early in the lane last time at Georgian but still came back on for third. She looks best here and is likely heading straight for the front when the gate leaves. (4) MAYHEM SEELSTER impressively roared by seven rivals in the short Georgian stretch to win her debut and can't be counted out here. (6) VERA BON didn't do much from a bad post out of town last week but gets a positive driver change here and can improve.

Race 3

(3) KOKANEE SEELSTER was an impressive maiden breaker two back then was stuck in the 10-hole trying OSS Gold company and couldn't get close. He has a good shot to rebound here. (5) CONTROL THE MOMENT is 2 for 2 and has shown good speed both early and late in both starts. He looks like the one to beat. (1) MINDTRIP was unhurried early but closed nicely late in his debut and he wouldn't be a shock here.

Race 4

(6) TAHITI SEELSTER flew late to win her debut two back then had a rough trip at Georgian. She can bounce back here. (5) THREE DREAMS has yet to be close enough to win turning for home in any of her starts. That will likely change tonight; beware. (8) LIFE BOOK closed a huge gap quickly late to break her maiden at Georgian. Use her on your pick 4 tickets.

Race 5

(7) ABSOLUTLY OFFICIAL raced evenly in a quick mile last week. Getting back to a 7-day cycle may help him rediscover better late speed; slight nod. (1) SURGE SEELSTER wasn't far behind a big favorite that was winning his third straight and he should get a good trip here leaving from the inside. (8) MYSTICAL JET has missed three weeks but should be coming late for a minor share in this weak field.

Race 6

(4) MUSCLE UP THE GOAL has been super in two starts with trotting hopples and can take this group if aggressively handled. (8) DOMEDOMEDOME has been a solid 2nd twice in a row to the same very sharp winner and that one isn't in here; big shot. (9) THERESADEMONINME has won two straight and three of his last five and is as sharp as he has been all year. Keep him on your pick 4 tickets.

Race 7

(4) BRING ON THE BEACH miscued when making his move for the front last time. If he can come close to duplicating his June 29 mile he should beat these and his price should be better tonight. (3) COLONYS BEST makes his 2015 debut and judging by his qualifiers he looks faster this year. This is a pretty good spot to try to break his maiden; using. (1) AXELERATE SEELSTER had a long overland trip last week in his second start for a new trainer. Third time could be the charm starting from a better post and facing mostly easier.

Race 8

(8) ADVERSITY exits a quick dash where he couldn't close into a fast last 1/4. He should be able to do some damage in this group if he's close enough turning for home. (5) BAX OF LIFE was beat in the very last stride be a rival that she had already passed that surged again between horses. She figures highly anytime she is in this class but she's also a bit win-shy. (2) MONEY MAVEN is a good one for the bottom of tris and supers here as he should be passing horses in the stretch.

Race 9

(4) PEG didn't get her rally going until it was a bit too late in her debut but still managed to nail 2nd after falling behind a slow pace. On paper she looks much the best here but will likely be odds-on, too. (1) COLUMNIST broke last time but two back roared home to just miss. She looks like the main rival if she stays on gait. (6) SOUTHWIND SHANIA drops from the OSS Gold class and could wake up here.

Race 10

(3) E L TITAN raced super in his season's debut, powering up late to just miss. We'll give him the slight nod here over (5) INTIMIDATE, who returns from a slight break still looking for his first win of the year. He is going to have to show something fairly quick if he has designs on some of the bigger stakes this summer and fall. (2) DAYLON MAGICIAN pulled first up and had little to offer late but perhaps the 17-day break in action had something to do with it. Keep him on your pick 4 tickets.

Race 11

(3) MR DENNIS had his sights set on the front last week, but so did a speedy rival that bottomed out the field. The early lead looks like it's his for the taking here and he will be tough to chase down if allowed any breathers; top call. (2) DERBY DYLAN when last leaving from an inside post was a winner and his form is likely better than it looks. He could threaten the choice if he lands in the pocket early. (4) WARAWEE NEWTON wired a conditioned class in very good time at Hanover last time out and can't be dismissed here. (1) JUSTALITTLELUCK can leave in the top half of the field here and follow along for a share. (8) GRANDKIDS ATTACK ships north in pretty good form and could crash the exotics at a big price.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Yonkers: Monday 7/27 Analysis
By Brewster Smith

DRF HARNESS

Race 7 - $10,000 Guaranteed Pick Five Pool ($4,100 C/O)

MEET STATS: 120 - 615 / $847.20 BEST BETS: 14 - 53 / $65.60

Best Bet: LUCK BE A LINDY (2nd)

Spot Play: STONEBRIDGE TONIC (5th)


Race 1

(6) MACH TO THE MAX stayed in the pocket the entire trip last out but did gain some ground in the passing lane; threat to take this. (3) BOBJACKS ANGLE A was third best recently; could move forward with these. (5) FOUR CORNERS A was fast out of the gate, but could not hold the lead and had to settle for the place spot; watch out.

Race 2

(7) LUCK BE A LINDY makes her return to Yonkers where three starts back she raced evenly for the show spot; could be ready to fire her best. (1) PICKSYNC HANOVER comes by way of Philly, has some late punch; rail factor. (5) ABIDA HANOVER has been good enough to hit the board in her last four tries; not out of this.

Race 3

(4) LITTLE JOKE closed like a rocket for third four trips ago. Filly flashed speed at Monti last out; contender. (2) HILLBILLYSWEETSHRK was first up from 6th to second on the backstretch, did race well to hold the show spot; main danger. (3) FAN MAIL was quite game in her last try; must be considered against these.

Race 4

(4) MAH SISH N Nice score at The Meadowlands last time out. Gelding seems to be moving in the right direction; repeat not out of the question. (3) K SLATER could get involved with the post relief. (2) FASTLANELUKE was on the rim down the backstretch, but tired when they turned for home in his latest; the 2-hole can help his cause.

Race 5

(4) STONEBRIDGE TONIC was kind of sharp in his most recent try at Pocono. Makes his return to the Hilltop where he showed good early zip two starts ago; big threat. (2) FREE LOVE can be ready to fire his best given the fact he closed strongly to just miss the victory two tries back. (3) HOT SHOT LAWYER got the jump on them in the early stages but faded to fourth recently; don't overlook.

Race 6

(3) RURAL ART slingshot from 8th to third in the blink of a eye last time at Philly. Capable of moving forward so he can boss these at his best. (1) DEMOCRACY N rallied well to just miss by three quarters of a length last time out; main danger. (4) MIDNIGHT DYLAN N Gelding did show speed in the pocket but could not get to the winner Fool Me Once recently; beware.

Race 7

(3) COLOSSAL Have to love his versatility when he closed well for the show spot last out. Gets the 3-hole and that might be what he needs to make tonight a winning one. (2) WESTERN COLE gets class relief when his last score was on May 18th; dangerous against this group. (1) MACH PRIDE two bad tries, but hey they were from the 8-hole; should fare much better from the fence.

Race 8

(3) NATY post 6 did not help her so maybe the three slot should fit her nicely. Very game mare did go down the road three starts ago and was on the rim to get the job done by three and a half lengths two outings back; all systems go to get back to her winning ways. (5) VRAKA HANOVER makes her return to Yonkers. Was second best at Monticello last out and flashed good speed in her third & fourth starts here; dangerous. (1) YES YOU CAN Sharp upstate with a wire to wire victory last time around; watch out from the rail.

Race 9

(2) ROCK MY WORLD 3-year-old filly has shown fine speed upstate; can top these all the way. (3) MELANIES SHARKETTE made a mild rally for third in her latest; can move forward. (7) ROCKERS ALLEY Was inside the entire trip and the 6-5 favorite Intoview was on her way to victory but the former shot up along the fence to put the latter to sleep; big player in here.

Race 10

(5) SECRETSOFTHEKNIGHT Is back at the NW12000 ranks where this gelding has done his best running. Was sharp on July 2 when he was a game second; threat. (1) TWIN B HOLLISTER was dull last time out, but is back on the rail where he was a good second. (3) UF ROCKIN DRAGON came close for win honors when he rallied for the show spot; don't overlook.

Race 11

(6) NIPPY W HANOVER Very consistent filly. Last time we saw her in the Sire Stakes on June 15, she was off the charts in seventh and closed like a shot to nail down the place spot; ready to fire her best. (2) SHES HEAVENLY Two third place finishes in a row puts this gal right in the mix. (4) LYONS SHADOW makes her return to Yonkers where she has showed good speed on June 22 & July 6 respectably.

Race 12

(5) THE LUNCH PAIL Gelding put in late kick last time out to just miss by only a length and a half. Form on the 4-year seems to be good for him to get back into the winner's circle. (4) VILLAGE BEAT was sitting in the pocket but was shuffled back, but did race gamely; dangerous. (3) OUTRAGEOUS ART gets class and post relief. The rest will have to run for second money if he returns to his down the road score on July 4; beware.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

SPOT PLAYS

For Monday


TRACK (RACE) HORSE, MORNING LINE

Delaware Park (4th) Pasta Giovanni, 6-1
(5th) Majestic Number, 4-1


Finger Lakes (6th) Too Fast for Love, 3-1
(9th) Paris Sunshine, 5-1


Mountaineer (2nd) Mistress Master, 3-1
(3rd) Most Desirable, 7-2


Parx Racing (6th) Silver Vixen, 10-1
(8th) Nibiru's Return, 10-1

Presque Isle Downs (1st) Tenth Legion, 4-1
(4th) It's Surreal, 8-1


Saratoga (1st) Zoetic, 10-1
(2nd) Wild Finish, 7-2


Thistledown (2nd) Gold Legion, 7-2
(8th) Greatest Moment, 7-2

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

MLB Preview: Braves (46-52) at Orioles (48-49)

Game: 1
Venue: Oriole Park at Camden Yards
Date: July 27, 2015 7:05 PM EDT

With Nick Markakis providing a dependable bat and stellar defense, the Baltimore Orioles made runs to the playoffs in two of the previous three seasons.

Now they're hoping they have what it takes to do it again with Markakis now in Atlanta.

As their one of their former cornerstones returns to Camden Yards for the first time, the Orioles seek their first three-game winning streak in nearly a month Monday night against the Braves.

Markakis, Baltimore's first-round pick in 2003, emerged as one of the club's top players early on during his nine-year stay. He then batted near the top of the lineup when the Orioles claimed an AL wild-card spot in 2012 and their first East title in 17 years last season.

The right fielder also won his second Gold Glove Award in 2014 before grabbing an opportunity to return to his roots by inking a four-year, $44 million deal with Atlanta in the offseason. He lived in Woodstock, Georgia, after moving there when he was 10 years old.

"Nick is having a good year, like everybody knew he would," Baltimore manager Buck Showalter told MLB's official website. "We know one thing, he can play the right field wall well. I'm sure they'll use him in the advanced meeting."

Markakis, a career .288 hitter at Camden Yards, is batting .286 with the Braves (46-52) after going 1 for 5 in Sunday's 3-2 win over St. Louis that snapped a season-high seven-game road skid. He's hit well versus AL pitching this year, going 12 for 31 (.387) in nine interleague games.

The Orioles, meanwhile, have used eight different players in right field. Delmon Young, who has played a team-high 40 games there, was released earlier this month. Travis Snider has struggled of late with just two hits in 27 at-bats over his last 10 games.

Nolan Reimold, though, shined there Sunday with three hits and two RBIs in a 5-2 win at Tampa Bay. Baltimore (48-49) has totaled 10 runs and 17 hits in the last two games after hitting .175 and scoring nine times while losing its previous four.

After falling out of first place during a 5-15 stretch, the Orioles hope to take another step forward by winning three straight for the first time since a four-game run from June 25-28.

Atlanta's Alex Wood struggled in an 11-3 loss at Colorado on July 12, but got back on track Tuesday by giving up three runs over 6 2-3 innings in a 4-3 home win over the Los Angeles Dodgers.

The left-hander has never faced the Orioles, though Snider has gone 3 for 7 with a home run off Wood (7-6, 3.78 ERA) dating to his time with Pittsburgh.

Since allowing two runs over 11 1-3 innings in his first two starts, Kevin Gausman has surrendered 12 runs over 9 2-3 while dropping his last two. He yielded four runs over six in Wednesday's 4-3 loss at Yankee Stadium in his first outing following a two-week stint at Triple-A Norfolk.

Gausman (1-2, 5.18) has given up three first-inning runs in each of his last two starts. Atlanta, however, hasn't scored in the first while batting .194 and totaling six runs in its last four games.

Freddie Freeman went 1 for 3 Sunday in his first start since June 17 due to a wrist injury, while rookie third baseman Adonis Garcia hit his first career home run.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Tigers (48-50) at Rays (49-51)

Game: 1
Venue: Tropicana Field
Date: July 27, 2015 7:10 PM EDT

The Tampa Bay Rays and Detroit Tigers have been two of baseball's more consistent franchises over the last seven years.

But a postseason trip for either this year is far from a guarantee, which could prompt some tough decisions before the trade deadline.

These two struggling clubs open a three-game series Monday night at Tropicana Field.

Both teams rank among baseball's top six in winning percentage since 2008, but are four games out of the AL's second wild-card spot. Tampa Bay (49-51) is in danger of missing the postseason for a second straight year for the first time since 2007, while Detroit (48-50) has reached the playoffs in a major league best-tying four straight seasons.

The clock is ticking for both clubs to decide if they'll be buyers or sellers ahead of Friday's trade deadline, though if their recent play is any indication the latter appears likely.

The Rays have dropped six of nine since the All-Star break while averaging 2.1 runs and are a big league-worst 7-17 since June 28. John Jaso is the only player hitting better than .244 with at least 45 at-bats in that span, going 16 for 48, while six others are batting below .235.

Tampa Bay's 3.5 runs per game would be its fewest ever for a season. Even the 100-plus loss teams of 2001, '02 and '06 all averaged 4.2 or better.

"All we needed to do is get back to playing crisp, fundamental baseball, limiting the mistakes that we make," said outfielder Steven Souza Jr., whose 15 homers lead the team but is 4 for his last 50 with 27 strikeouts. "The reason we were so good the first two months is, we didn't give teams extra outs. We scored when we needed to. There's no one thing you can blame right now, we just needed to play good baseball."

The Tigers (48-50) have lost nine of 13, though unlike Tampa Bay, it's difficult to fault their bats, as they've averaged 4.2 runs and scored five-plus in three of those defeats.

However, they had just three hits and were pummeled for 20 in Sunday's 11-1 setback to a Boston team that had dropped nine of 10.

"I mean there's really not much to say," manager Brad Ausmus said.

Scheduled starter Nathan Karns (5-5, 3.47 ERA) has felt the brunt of Tampa Bay's futile offense, posting a 2.83 ERA in his last seven starts but left with a 2-2 record due to receiving six runs of support in 41 1-3 innings.

He allowed three hits over five scoreless innings and homered in a 1-0 win at Philadelphia on Tuesday, bouncing back after surrendering a career-high seven runs in an 8-3 loss at Kansas City before the All-Star break.

The right-hander has never faced Detroit.

The Tigers counter with Anibal Sanchez, who is 7-0 with a 3.16 ERA in his last eight starts. Sanchez (10-7, 4.59) also won seven straight decisions in 2013 but has never taken eight in a row.

The righty was bombarded the last time he saw Tampa Bay, giving up seven runs and walking four over 5 2-3 innings of a 7-2 home loss July 5, 2014. That defeat moved him to 2-2 with a 5.08 ERA in six career meetings.

Jaso is 1 for 14 off Sanchez.

The Rays won last season's series, 4-3.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: White Sox (46-50) at Red Sox (44-55)

Game: 1
Venue: Fenway Park
Date: July 27, 2015 7:10 PM EDT

With the trade deadline fast approaching, the Chicago White Sox are pondering their faint playoff hopes following a sweep of a division rival. Their next opponent appears closer to looking toward next season even after a blowout win in their latest game.

While trying to extend a scoreless streak, John Danks will seek to lead the White Sox to a fifth consecutive win Monday night when they visit the Boston Red Sox, losers in eight of 10.

Chicago (46-50) is still expected to trade off at least one notable player - likely pitcher Jeff Samardzija - before Friday's deadline but breathed some life into its postseason chances with a four-game road sweep at Cleveland. The White Sox, however, are five games behind Minnesota for the AL's second wild-card spot and currently need to overtake five other teams.

"Why not us? That's the mentality we've got to have," pitcher Carlos Rodon said. "Why can't we do it? Keep on winning and keep on plugging away. This brand of baseball we've been playing this weekend, we need to keep it going."

The Red Sox (44-55) are further back, though they moved out of the AL cellar with an 11-1 rout of Detroit on Sunday. David Ortiz drove in a career-high seven runs and hit two homers, putting him on the brink of reaching 20 for the 14th consecutive season.

"Big night for David and a big night for us offensively overall," said manager John Farrell, whose team had a season-high 20 hits after batting .209 and scoring 16 runs in its previous nine games.

Boston looks to earn its ninth victory in 12 games against the White Sox and deny their attempt to match their longest road win streak this season.

Chicago, winner in eight of nine away from home, took five in a row there May 12-17 as part of a season-best six-game overall run.

Danks (5-8, 4.66 ERA) seeks to deliver that win while pursuing a career-high third consecutive scoreless start. The left-hander hasn't allowed a run in 12 2-3 innings, seven shy of matching his longest personal streak from April 2008.

He was in line for a third straight win Wednesday against St. Louis, but David Robertson gave up Yadier Molina's three-run triple in the eighth inning of a 3-2 loss.

Danks has produced three scoreless outings of at least six innings in four games this month, but all of those have been at home. He's 2-5 with a 5.68 ERA in his eight road starts but performed respectably in two matchups against Boston last season, going 1-0 with a 3.09 ERA.

Joe Kelly (2-6, 5.74) will make his first appearance against the White Sox and his second start since returning from the minors. He gave up a career-high three homers in 5 1-3 innings in a 4-2 loss in Houston on Wednesday.

Melky Cabrera, batting .400 (14 for 35) with 11 RBIs in his last eight games, is one of three White Sox hitters to have faced Kelly and went 2 for 6.

Adam Eaton could return for Chicago after missing Sunday's win because of an ailing left shoulder. Brock Holt's status is unknown for Boston because of left knee tightness.

Red Sox shortstop Xander Bogaerts, batting .413 with 14 RBIs in his last 19 games, is 4 for 6 lifetime against Danks.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Royals (59-38) at Indians (45-52)

Game: 1
Venue: Progressive Field
Date: July 27, 2015 7:10 PM EDT

As rumors of the club's acquisition of a much-needed ace became a reality, the Kansas City Royals broke out of their recent offensive slump in unlikely fashion.

After making a big move by adding Johnny Cueto, the AL-best Royals seek their 15th win in 20 games in the opener of a 10-game trip against the slumping Cleveland Indians on Monday night.

Seeking its first division title in 30 years, Kansas City (59-38) solidified its rotation by picking up one of the top starters on the market Sunday. Cueto won 20 games en route to his first All-Star appearance last season and is 7-6 with a 2.62 ERA in 19 starts this year.

The Royals sent left-handers Brandon Finnegan, John Lamb and Cody Reed to Cincinnati.

'I know they play baseball very good," Cueto said with Reds catcher Brayan Pena serving as his translator. "I'm excited because I know it's going to be good for my career and good for the team.'

Yordano Ventura was projected to be the ace this season, but the opening day starter has struggled with consistency. He was send to Triple-A Omaha for one day last week before getting recalled after the club learned Jason Vargas will need Tommy John surgery.

Ventura, though, took a positive step by holding Houston to one run in seven innings in Sunday's 5-1 win.

After totaling five runs in their previous three games, the Royals tagged All-Star starter Dallas Keuchel for 10 hits - the most he's allowed all season. Lorenzo Cain hit his 11th home run and Kendrys Morales had a season high-tying three hits.

Eric Hosmer, who entered as a defensive replacement Sunday, is expected to be in the lineup Monday after batting .484 in his previous eight games. He's 13 for 36 (.361) with three home runs against the Indians this season, while Mike Moustakas has gone 15 for 36 (.417).

Kansas City's Edinson Volquez (9-5, 3.15 ERA) has done his best to fill the stopper role of late, posting a 1.85 ERA over his last four starts. The right-hander lasted 7 2-3 innings Wednesday, allowing one run in a 5-1 home win over Pittsburgh.

Volquez, however, has gone 1-2 with an 11.48 ERA in four starts against Cleveland (45-52) dating to his time with Texas. In his only matchup since 2011, he gave up three runs and walked a season-high six over three innings while dealing with a blister in a 7-4 home win May 7.

Brandon Moss, 0 for 7 when facing Volquez, had two of the team's six hits Sunday when the Indians couldn't avert a four-game sweep in a 2-1 loss to the Chicago White Sox.

Cleveland, which has totaled five runs in its last five home games, will try to avoid its first seven-game skid at Progressive Field since May 24-June 6, 2011.

"Nobody's held accountable and it's just not the way we're going to do business here," second baseman Jason Kipnis said after the team held a post-game meeting Sunday.

After going 2-1 with a 0.89 ERA in his first four outings, Cody Anderson (2-1, 1.91) gave up four runs and 10 hits over 2 2-3 innings of Wednesday's 7-5 win at Milwaukee. The rookie right-hander has never faced the Royals, who took two of three at Progressive Field in April.

Moss has gone 10 for 34 (.294) with four homers while Cleveland has lost five of nine in the series.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Rockies (42-54) at Cubs (51-46)

Game: 1
Venue: Wrigley Field
Date: July 27, 2015 8:05 PM EDT

Ten straight games against last-place clubs were supposed to provide the Chicago Cubs with a prime opportunity to bolster their chances of reaching the postseason.

Getting swept by the worst team in baseball wasn't an ideal way to begin that stretch.

Now the Colorado Rockies enter a three-game series at Wrigley Field coming off their best offensive performance of the season as Kyle Hendricks takes the mound for the Cubs on Monday night.

The Cubs (51-46) have aspirations of making the playoffs for the first time since 2008 and could be major players in the trade market leading up to Friday's non-waiver deadline. They got a close look at rumored target Cole Hamels on Saturday as the left-hander struck out 13 in a no-hitter to beat the Cubs 5-0.

Philadelphia, which has an MLB-worst 37 wins, also won 5-3 in 10 innings Friday and 11-5 on Sunday, dealing the Cubs their ninth defeat in 14 games. Chicago is now 2 1/2 games behind San Francisco for the NL's second wild card.

"You don't change your format. You don't reboot and become somebody else," manager Joe Maddon said. "We didn't play up to our standards."

The Cubs will travel to Milwaukee for four games after this series with the Rockies (42-54), but facing those cellar dwellers might not provide any relief unless All-Stars Kris Bryant and Anthony Rizzo start hitting again.

Bryant is 6 for 50 with one homer and 23 strikeouts over his last 13 games and Rizzo is 3 for 27 over his last seven for the Cubs, whose .237 average ranks near the bottom of the majors.

Their starting pitchers also have been inconsistent, with two going fewer than four innings over the last four games. Hendricks (4-5, 3.66 ERA) went 2-0 with a 0.35 ERA over his previous four starts before allowing five runs - four in the first - in six innings of Wednesday's 9-1 loss at Cincinnati in the first game of a doubleheader.

The right-hander walked two, marking the first time he walked multiple hitters in nine outings.

'I'll be the first to say when I'm not making pitches, but I thought I threw the ball well,' Hendricks said. 'I got some bad breaks."

Hendricks couldn't make any excuses the last time he faced the Rockies. He gave up five runs and eight hits in 4 1-3 innings before the Cubs rallied for a 6-5 win April 12, his first outing of the season that still stands as his shortest.

Former Cub DJ LeMahieu hit a three-run triple off Hendricks in that contest. He's batting .406 during a 16-game hitting streak and had a two-run double during a 10-run third inning of the Rockies' 17-7 rout of Cincinnati on Sunday.

Nolan Arenado, Ben Paulsen and Carlos Gonzalez each homered in that inning. Gonzalez finished with a career high-tying six RBIs and Paulsen set a personal best by driving in four.

Troy Tulowitzki, 0 for 15 over his last four, got the day off.

'You don't get a lot of those days where you get to coast to the finish line,' manager Walt Weiss said.

Jorge De La Rosa (6-4, 4.62) takes the hill looking to remain unbeaten against Chicago. He went 2-1 with a 2.17 ERA over his previous five starts before giving up six runs in six innings of Wednesday's 10-8 loss to Texas.

The left-hander is 4-0 with a 2.32 ERA in 10 appearances - six starts - against the Cubs after giving up three runs and striking out seven in six innings of the Rockies' 4-3, 16-inning loss July 29.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Yankees (55-42) at Rangers (47-50)

Game: 1
Venue: Globe Life Park in Arlington
Date: July 27, 2015 8:05 PM EDT

At the age of 25, Alex Rodriguez arrived in Texas in 2001 a celebrated star after being rewarded with the then-most lucrative contract in sports history.

Rodriguez later claimed the pressure of living up to the deal, his young age and extremely naive nature led to him taking banned substances during his three seasons with the Rangers before further tarnishing his legacy with more steroid use with the New York Yankees.

He'll turn 40 on Monday night in Arlington as more the villain who has spun last year's season-long suspension for the use of performance-enhancing drugs into motivation for his resurgence in 2015.

Rodriguez's 10-year, $252 million contract was a hefty price to pay, even for a player who won the AL batting title at 21 and was coming off three straight 40-homer seasons. He hit 156 of his now 677 career home runs and won his first of three MVPs in 2003 with the Rangers - all while taking PEDs - before being traded to New York in 2004.

He apologized for his use during that period but has only shown remorse for his latest transgressions through a handwritten letter "mistakes that led to my suspension for the 2014 season." Rodriguez has fought off public barbs and a battle with the team over milestone bonus money to help the Yankees (55-42) lead the AL East.

The fact he's turning 40 isn't affecting him much, either. Rodriguez hit three homers in Saturday's 8-5 win over Minnesota before getting the day off for Sunday's 7-2 win that marked the Yankees' 11th victory in 14 games.

"I think all of (the reflection over getting older) happened for me last year," said Rodriguez, who has 23 homers and ranks among the majors' leaders with a .914 OPS. "It was a good time for me to pause and just get a full understanding of making smart choices and surrounding myself with good people, and really appreciating everything that baseball and life has to offer."

This will be Rodriguez's first game in Arlington in more than three years. He went 4 for 11 as the Rangers (48-49) swept the Yankees in a three-game series from May 22-24 in the Bronx.

Rodriguez is 5 for 12 with two doubles in his career off Matt Harrison, who takes the mound for Texas looking to build on a solid outing.

Harrison (1-1, 5.40 ERA) hadn't pitched in the majors in nearly 14 months because of back surgery when gave up six runs in four innings of a 7-4 loss to Arizona on July 8. He was much better Tuesday, scattering seven hits in six innings of a 9-0 win over Colorado.

'The first time I stepped on the mound it was an accomplishment,' said Harrison, who made only six starts combined in 2013 and '14. '(Tuesday) was a confidence booster, but also showed I can still pitch here.'

The left-hander won 32 games from 2011-12, going 1-2 with a 1.77 ERA in three starts against the Yankees during that stretch. He'll look to help Texas bounce back after it had a four-game winning streak snapped with Sunday's 13-7 loss to the Los Angeles Angels.

Ivan Nova (2-3, 3.34) knows what it's like to come back from a major injury. He tossed 94 pitches while giving up two runs in six innings of Wednesday's 4-3 win over Baltimore, his most in five starts since returning from Tommy John surgery June 24.

"I was focused on making one pitch at a time," Nova said. "I got my defense to help."

The right-hander last faced the Rangers on July 22, 2013, when he allowed three runs in seven innings of a 3-0 loss.

Josh Hamilton is 6 for 10 with three doubles lifetime off Nova.