Sunday 7/31/16 service plays chatter/comps/requests & other stuff...

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PGA - 3rd & Final Round Odds

The third round of the 2016 PGA Championship at Baltusrol Golf Club has been called Saturday evening after nearly four hours of play being suspended by dangerous weather including a lot of heavy rain.

Six pairings did not even start their rounds and 31 players were on the course when play was stopped at 2:15 p.m. ET.

Play will resume at 7:00 a.m. ET on Sunday morning to complete the third round with the final round of the year's final major to follow.

Unfortunately, the forecast for Sunday includes more rain which means a Monday finish is very possible.

Jimmy Walker and Robert Streb remain the co-leaders at 9-under and were two of the 12 golfers that didn't get to play a hole on Saturday.


Odds to win 2016 PGA Championship (7/31/16) -
Jason Day 5/2
Henrik Stenson 4/1
Jimmy Walker 7/1
Robert Streb 12/1
Emiliano Grillo 15/1
Brooks Koepka 20/1
Jordan Spieth 20/1
Martin Kaymer 20/1
Patrick Reed 20/1
Rickie Fowler 25/1
Hideki Matsuyama 35/1
Adam Scott 60/1
Branden Grace 75/1
Harris English 90/1
Paul Casey 90/1
Webb Simpson 90/1
William McGirt 90/1
Zach Johnson 100/1
Daniel Summerhays 125/1
Jamie Donaldson 125/1
Kevin Kisner 125/1
Gregory Bourdy 150/1
John Senden 150/1
Jon Curran 150/1
Tyrrell Hatton 150/1
Billy Hurley III 175/1
Brandt Snedeker 175/1
Louis Oosthuizen 175/1
Marc Leishman 175/1
Andy Sullivan 200/1
Padraig Harrington 200/1
Ross Fisher 200/1
Russell Knox 200/1
Scott Hend 200/1
Steve Stricker 200/1
Hideto Tanihara 225/1
Bill Haas 250/1
Danny Lee 250/1
K.J. Choi 250/1
Kevin Na 250/1
Russell Henley 250/1
Yuta Ikeda 250/1
Alex Noren 300/1
Bubba Watson 300/1
David Lingmerth 300/1
Kyle Reifers 300/1
Phil Mickelson 400/1
Ryan Moore 400/1
Andrew Johnston 450/1
Jhonattan Vegas 450/1
Charl Schwartzel 500/1

Odds Subject to Change

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Pennsylvania 400 Preview
By Micah Roberts

There's only six races remaining before the Chase starts and five of the 16 slots are still unclaimed. Each of the next six weeks we'll see a vastly different track beginning with the most unusual of all tracks coming this weekend at Pocono Raceway's tricky triangle.

We should have a leg up on handicapping Sunday's Pocono race because we've already done the process needed twice this season, including last weeks prep work for the Brickyard 400. Mix in what happened June 6 in the first Pocono run and you should be armed with just about everything needed prior to Friday and Saturday's important practices.

Because Pocono and Indy are both 2.5-mile tracks with the longest straights in the series, we can lump them together as being similar even though Indy is rectangular with four equally flat turns and Pocono is triangular with banking that gets progressively flatter at each turn. If a driver does well at one of the places, they're likely to do well at the other.

So let's recap the information gathered from those two races where all the teams notes are still fresh and relevant. Kurt Busch won at Pocono in June for his only win of the season and third overall on the track. Dale Earnhardt Jr. was second, Brad Keselowski third and Chase Elliott led a race-high 51 laps before finishing fourth. Four of the top-six finishers were Chevrolet with the Penske Fords taking the other two spots. Matt Kenseth, who won at Pocono last fall, was the highest finishing Toyota in seventh. A Chevrolet has won seven of the last eight at Pocono.

Joe Gibbs Racing Toyotas came in fast off the hauler last week at Indy with three of its cars finishing in the top-four, including Kyle Busch winning there for the second consecutive season. Kenseth would finish second, Jimmie Johnson third and Denny Hamlin fourth. The new low downforce package produced some crummy racing with only four lead changes among three drivers as Busch led 149 of the 160 laps. It was impossible to pass.

Chevrolet has been strong at both Pocono and Indy in recent years, but if looking at last season as an example, Toyota has made a considerable move. After Kyle Busch ended a 12-year Chevrolet win streak at the Brickyard, Kenseth won at Pocono the next week to end a six race Chevrolet win streak. Because Indianapolis happened most recent, we should look to last week as being just bit more important than the June Pocono race.

All four JGR cars will be fast this week as well as Martin Truex Jr. who has used JGR equipment this season and won for the first time at Pocono last season (drove a Chevy). Hamlin is a four-time Pocono winner with a 12.3 average finish in 21 starts. Carl Edwards has won twice making Kyle Busch the only driver within the team that hasn't won at Pocono. Pick a Gibs car, any car, and your chances of winning this week will be pretty good.

A couple Chevy drivers will offer some nice value this week if willing to go against the Gibbs drivers. Kyle Larson comes off a fifth at Indy after showing lots of speed in practices. He finished 11th at Pocono in June and has a 9.4 average finish in five starts. You should be able to fetch 30/1 odds on him. Chase Elliott had his best showing of the season in June's race with fourth-place and dominating at times with the most laps led. Expect 18/1 odds on him.

Jeff Gordon will again be filling in for Dale Earnhardt Jr., who is recovering from concussion-like symptoms. Last week he came out of retirement to drive the No. 88, which he is part-owner of, and finished 13th in his first competitive racing since November. This week he should be a little more prepared and familiar with the team. He's a six-time winner at Pocono and has 20 top-five finishes in 46 career starts. Earnhardt drove the No. 88 to second-place in June and he also swept the 2014 season.

There are plenty more Chevy's on the track, and I thought that might be the right angle last week, but those Gibbs cars are really dialed in. They've now now 10 of the 20 races between the five of them. That's 35 other drivers to split up the other 10 wins. Crazy domination. And their wins come in bunches. They've won four straight at one juncture, three straight at another stretch and they're currently on a two-race win streak.

They should be the focus in betting driver match-ups and fantasy NASCAR play this week.

Top-5 Finish Prediction:

1) #18 Kyle Busch (7/1)
2) #11 Denny Hamlin (12/1)
3) #48 Jimmie Johnson (8/1)
4) #20 Matt Kenseth (8/1)
5) #78 Martin Truex Jr. (8/1)

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Drivers to Watch - Pocono

Sprint Cup Series
Pennsylvania 400
Pocono Raceway – Long Pond, PA

Pocono Raceway hosts the Pennsylvania 400 on what is expected to be a rainy Sunday afternoon in Long Pond, Pennsylvania.

This asphalt surface runs 2.5 miles long and features three turns. Chevrolet manufactured cars have done well here in the past, racking up 14 victories in the race.

Hendrick Motorsports and Penske Racing are the teams with the most victories, as each has won six races.

Guys like Kurt Busch, Denny Hamlin, Jeff Gordon and Matt Kenseth should all be looking forward to getting out there on Sunday. Busch, Hamlin and Gordon have all won this race three times, but Kenseth is the defending champion coming into this one.

Kyle Busch will be yet another confident driver coming into this race, as he was the winner at last week’s Brickyard 400 at Indianapolis Motor Speedway. With that out of the way, let’s now take a look at some of the better value plays this weekend:

Drivers to Watch

Matt Kenseth (+800) - At +800, Kenseth represents tremendous value in this week’s race. The driver is the defending champion here coming into the weekend and finished with the best time in the past three years of this event. Not only is Kenseth good on this track, he also comes into this race in some pretty tremendous form. He finished in second place at last week’s Brickyard 400 and that performance followed up a victory at the New Hampshire 301. It’s hard to find a driver that is hotter than Kenseth, so it’s tough to pass up on him. Putting a few units on Kenseth could pay off huge and it’s shocking that he’s not one of the top-three favorites to win this thing.

Denny Hamlin (+800) - Like Kenseth, it’s also surprising that Hamlin is not considered more of a favorite to win this race on Sunday. As previously mentioned, Hamlin has won this race twice in his career. He came away as the winner in both 2006 and 2009, and he’ll certainly be looking to win his third race this weekend. Hamlin also comes into this race on a bit of a hot streak, as he finished in ninth at the New Hampshire 301 and followed it up with a fourth place finish at the Brickyard 400. Look for Hamlin to be near the front of the pack again and don’t be afraid to put a few units on him this weekend, as there’s a good chance he and Kenseth finish one-two at Pocono.

Jeff Gordon (+2000) - As long as Gordon is on the track, he is going to represent some very good value in these races. Gordon is one of the best drivers to ever do it and his odds are a bit more favorable due to his absence early in the season. Still, Gordon has been very good at this track in his career. He won here back in 1998 and also as recently as 2012, so he is not far removed from being victorious on this track. Putting a unit on Gordon is a good high-upside play to pair with taking the favorites in this thing.

Kasey Kahne (+7000) - When looking for a dark horse to put a unit or half-unit on this weekend, it’s hard to look at anybody other than Kahne. Kahne has not had a great season, but he has always raced well at Pocono Raceway in his career. Kahne won this race back in 2013, and that was not his only good performance in Pennsylvania. Kahne has also finished inside the top-10 at this race on five different occasions. His 70-to-1 odds are extremely enticing and he’s worth taking a shot on with his success on this track.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

CFL Betting Notes - Week 6
By David Schwab

The early race for a title in each CFL division tightened up with last week’s results. Calgary improved its position in the West standings with last Thursday’s 33-18 victory against Winnipeg as a five-point road favorite. On Friday night, Saskatchewan stunned Ottawa 30-29 as a 6 ½-point underdog at home to post its first win of the year.

This past Saturday’s action in the CFL featured a big interdivision showdown between Hamilton and Edmonton with the Tiger-Cats prevailing as four-point road underdogs in a 37-31 upset. Week 5 closed things out on Monday night with Toronto knocking off Montreal 30-17 as a 4 ½-point favorite at home. Here is a look at Week 6 in the CFL.

Sunday, July 31

Toronto Argonauts (3-2 SU, 3-2 ATS) vs. Ottawa RedBlacks (3-1-1 SU, 3-2 ATS)
Point-spread: Ottawa OFF
Total: OFF

Game Overview

Toronto has now won three of its last four games both SU and against the spread including wins on the road against Saskatchewan and British Columbia. Credit Ricky Ray for Monday night’s win after throwing for three touchdowns. Ray left the game in the fourth quarter with a leg injury and right now it looks like Logan Kilgore might get the start on Sunday after coming into this past Monday’s game as his replacement.

The RedBlacks will look to quickly bounce back from their first SU loss of the season, but they may have to do it without the services of their starting quarterback Trevor Harris. He left last week’s game early in the first quarter with a leg injury and his status for Sunday remains up in the air. Harris has been one of the CFL’s top passers this season in both yards (1,499) and touchdowns (9). If he cannot go, we may see the return of Henry Burris at quarterback after missing the first five games with a hand injury.

Betting Trends

Ottawa drew first blood in this season’s series with a 30-20 victory on July 13 as a one-point road favorite. Toronto still has a SU 4-2 edge against the RedBlacks over the last six meetings and the total has gone OVER in three of the last four games.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Week 6 CFL games

Toronto (3-2) @ Ottawa (3-1-1)– Toronto QB Ray got hurt LW, is out a month, big blow for Argo squad that won three of last four games, scoring 25.5 ppg in road wins in Regina, Vancouver. RedBlacks (-1) won 30-20 in Toronto two weeks ago, outgaining Argos 476-300 after falling behind 13-0 early. just its second win in six series games- teams split pair played here. Toronto allowed 17 or less points in its three wins, 30+ in its two losses. Ottawa is on road for fifth time in six games- they lost first game LW, 30-29 to Saskatchewan.

— Toronto Argonauts @ Ottawa RedBlacks (-8, 48)

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

At the Gate - Sunday
By Mike Dempsey

He was a maiden with seven losses taking on the winners of the Belmont Stakes (G1), Fountain of Youth (G2), Tampa Bay Derby (G2) and the runner up of the Peter Pan (G2).

It is no wonder that Laoban was sent off at 27-1 in the $600,000 Jim Dandy (G2) at Saratoga, a key prep for the $1.25 million Travers (G1) next month.

Jockey Jose Ortiz took advantage of the lack of early speed and sent Laoban out to an easy early lead, cutting our fractions of 24.56, 49.07 and 1:12.46 for six furlongs and he had plenty left late to hold off Governor Malibu by 1 ¼ lengths.

The Eric Guillot trainee returned $56.00 to win and likely will move on to the Travers where he will meet up with Nyquist and Exaggerator, who square off on Sunday afternoon in the $1 million Haskell Invitational (G1).

Six will go to the post in the Haskell, with the three-year-old division leader up for grabs. Nyquist makes his first start since his first career loss in the Preakness and Exaggerator is looking to rebound off a disappointing 11th place finish in the Belmont (G1).

The Derby third place finisher Gun Runner comes in sharp off a win in the Matt Winn (G3) at Churchill Downs and American Freedom, the Iowa Derby (G3) winner will be saddled by trainer Bob Baffert, who has won the Haskell a record eight times.

I don’t think we are going to see another upset in the division, as I am backing Derby champ Nyquist, although it does not look as if we are going to get much of a price.

We have racing at Saratoga six days a week, with Tuesday our only off day.


Here is today’s opening race from Saratoga to get the day off to a good start:

SAR Race 1 Clm $50,000N3L (1:00 ET)
#5 Saratoga Heater 9-2
#3 Two Weeks Off 8-5
#1 Los Barrachos 4-1
#4 Cat Fiftyfive 3-1

Analysis: Saratoga Heater goes turf to dirt here for the Jacobson barn that claimed him two back for this tag. Last out he set the early fractions and weakened to finish fifth versus Alw-2 optional claimers going seven furlongs on turf. He is 0 for 4 on turf and has not won cine taking the state bred Bongard in the mud back in '14. The switch back to dirt and class drop should suit him. The barn is 21% winners moving runners from turf to dirt.

Two Weeks Off was third in last year's Peter Pan (G2) and then his form tailed off. He came back off the bench last out on the chilly side in the betting and was not much of a threat in a sixth place finish. He drops in for a tag here for Pletcher and tough call what we are going to see out of this guy here. The price is going to be on the light side so we will try to beat him for the top spot.

Wagering
WIN: #5 to win at 7-2 or better.
EX: 3,5 / 1,3,5
TRI: no play

Today’s Featured Race of the Day from Saratoga:

SAR Race 10 The Caress (6:18 ET)
#2 Miss Ella 5-1
#9 Miss Matzoball 10-1
#10 Unbridled Courage 4-1
#5 Rumble Doll 3-1

Analysis: Miss Ella is 0 for 4 on turf in her career but has run well on the surface on a couple of occasions. She ran a good second in the Coronation Cup here last summer behind Lady Shipman and was a decent third two back in the Intercontinental. She did not have a clean trip last out when fifth against $80,000 optional claimers. She gets Rosario back here and will to give her one more look on turf. She is a Grade 2 winner on dirt, winning the Beaumont last spring in her first start against winners.

Miss Matzoball faded to finish 10th last out going a mile over yielding footing in the state bred Mt. Vernon. She won the Captiva Island at Gulfstream Park four back going five furlongs on the grass. The cut back in distance should suit. The Lerman barn is capable and has a habit of popping with a longshot here, last year winning with runners that went off at 27-1 and 11-1.

Wagering
WIN: #2 to win at 4-1 or better.
EX: 2,9 / 2,5,9,10
TRI: 2,9 / 2,5,9,10 / 2,5,9,10,11

Today’s Featured Race of the Day from Monmouth Park:

MTH Race 12 The Haskell Inv. G1 (5:47 ET)
#1 Nyquist 6-5
#5 American Freedom 3-1
#4 Gun Runner 4-1
#6 Exaggerator 5-2

Analysis: Nyquist probably should have won the Preakness (G1) with better strategy, as getting into an early speed duel with a longshot was not the right move. It was his first defeat and he had beaten Exaggerator in four previous outings and likely does it again today. He owns solid early and mid pace numbers and can jump to the lead or sit just off of it.

American Freedom is coming off a win in the Iowa Derby (G3) for the Baffert barn that has won this race a record eight times. He gets a serious class test here but with just four starts under his belt still appears to have some upside. He will be forwardly placed and has enough pedigree for his first trip at nine furlongs, by Pulpit out of a Pleasant Tap mare.

Gun Runner took the field gate to wire to win the Matt Winn (G3) last out at Churchill Downs in his first start since his third in the Kentucky Derby. he came into the Derby off wins in the Risen Star (G2) and Louisiana Derby (G2) and his speed figures have moved forward i each of his last four starts. He has things relatively easy up front last out but the race should serve as a good prep for today.

Wagering
WIN: #1 to win at 6-5 or better.
EX: 1,5 / 1,4,5
TRI: no play

Live Longshots:
These are price plays for exotic players looking to find a couple of extra contenders to use in their trifecta and superfecta wagers. Or for those with smaller bankrolls, you might want to get in a small win-place wager.

Saratoga
R2: #7 Discreet Image 10-1
R2: #1 Majestic Tango 10-1
R3: #2 Sweetgrass 8-1
R3: #4 Joint Return 10-1
R4: #6 Arch Contender 20-1
R5: 32 Mean Season 8-1
R7: #10 Montrachet 8-1
R8: #9 Magagone 10-1
R10: #9 Miss Matzoball 10-1
R11: #8 Nominal Dollars 10-1

Good luck today!

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at Century Downs

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


Race 1 - Post: 1:10 - 1 mile. PACE - Class Rating: 52 - Purse:$3800 - MAIDEN CLAIMING 7000


CONSORTIUM CHOICES


Chatsworth Consortium

# 4 BUNKLETTER 3/1



# 6 MISSIONS ARTIST 10/1



# 7 ZAPPED 5/1



BUNKLETTER will not be denied the triumph in here. Hard to put finger on it, but love him in this contest. His 52 average has this colt among the strongest speed ratings here. MISSIONS ARTIST - It's somewhat dicey to consider based only on class, but this gelding has among the most compelling class ratings of the field of starters. ZAPPED - He's racing in good form, recording formidable speed ratings. An excellent play. Heads into this race with formidable TrackMaster class statistics in relationship to the field of horses - worth a look.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at Harrah's Philadelphia

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


Race 12 - Post: 4:20 - 1 mile. TROT - Class Rating: 79 - Purse:$14000 - 3 & 4 YR. OLDS NW 3 EXT. PM RACES OR $30,000 LIFETIME PA PREFERENCE


CONSORTIUM CHOICES


Chatsworth Consortium

# 1 CAPRINIA AS 8/5



# 3 JUDGE RUSSELL 2/1



# 5 JETTA MAGIC 7/2



CAPRINIA AS is the most compelling play in this race. Could very well be the best in the field here, showing respectable ratings of late. Average speed is a solid 77. Worth considering in this contest if only for the great TrackMaster SR achieved in the most recent outing. When the trainer Lorentzon puts Napolitano up for the drive great things happen. All you need to do is look at the 34 win percent. JUDGE RUSSELL - Has the look of a profitable play, averaging a rather good 80 TrackMaster speed fig. With a 80 avg class number, this horse has one of the strongest class advantages in the field of horses. JETTA MAGIC - Chances are greatly enhanced for nice horses coming from the 5 post at Harrah's Philadelphia. Certainly should be given a look based on the good TrackMaster speed fig recorded in the most recent race.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Fort Erie

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


Race 2 - Claiming - 6.5f on the Dirt. Purse: $10920 Class Rating: 69

FOR THREE YEAR OLDS AND UPWARD WHICH HAVE NEVER WON THREE RACES. THREE YEAR OLDS, 116 LBS.; OLDER, 122 LBS. NON-WINNERS OF A RACE SINCE JUNE 30 ALLOWED 2 LBS. A RACE SINCE MAY 31 ALLOWED 4 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $5,000, IF FOR $4,750, ALLOWED 2 LBS.



RECOMMENDED CHOICES

The Walker Group Picks

# 2 PENTAMETER 7/2


# 5 ULTIMATE BLUE 3/1


# 6 TIGER HALL 5/2


PENTAMETER appears to be the wager in here. Last time out, this gelding was up against a tougher field. Must be given consideration given the class of races run recently. Looks formidable for the conditions of this outing today, showing solid figures in dirt sprint races lately. ULTIMATE BLUE - Recorded a formidable speed figure in the latest race. Can run another good one in this race. Have to look at solely on class, with some of the most respectable class figures of this group. TIGER HALL - Well above average win clip at this distance/surface. Has to be given consideration here on the basis of the numbers in the speed realm alone.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Mountaineer Park

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


Race 2 - Claiming - 7.0f on the Turf. Purse: $8900 Class Rating: 77

FOR THREE YEAR OLDS AND UPWARD WHICH HAVE NEVER WON A RACE ON THE TURF. THREE YEAR OLDS, 119 LBS.; OLDER, 123 LBS. NON-WINNERS OF A RACE SINCE JUNE 30 ALLOWED 3 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $5,000.



RECOMMENDED CHOICES

The Walker Group Picks

# 8 BRET'S AT CADDIES 5/2


# 3 LONESOME HIGHWAY 2/1


# 2 RUHL PAUL 10/1


I lean toward BRET'S AT CADDIES here. Might best this field here, showing decent numbers of late. With a very good 87 speed rating last time out, will clearly be a factor in this competition. One of the strongest win percentages between this rider and handler make this gelding dangerous. LONESOME HIGHWAY - Quinones has been on fire the last month, winning at a nifty 22 percent rate. Looks very good to be up on the front end at the first call. RUHL PAUL - If you gander closely, this entrant has some longshot potential. He should have a strong outing versus this softer group.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Bar

Arlington - Race #7 - Post: 4:18pm - Optional Claiming - 8.0 furlongs on the Turf. Purse: $28,500 Class Rating: 104

Rating: Golden DollarGolden DollarGolden Dollar

#5 R. GREAT ADVENTURE (ML=7/2)
#1 PEEJ (ML=9/2)
#7 GIACALLURE (ML=15/1)
#4 CAMMACK (ML=5/1)
#10 MISTER MARTI GRAS (ML=8/1)


R. GREAT ADVENTURE - Notched a nice turf figure on July 9th at Arlington. A repeat right here, and this one has a great shot to win. PEEJ - This jockey/handler duo has been producing a very positive ROI, right at +23. Last workout was the second fastest of the day. Certainly on edge for a good one today. GIACALLURE - When this rider and trainer team up you have to take a look. Felix and Scherer have been fabulous together. A little change in scenery has got to do this horse well. Reading the PPs, it seems like he likes to visit the winner's circle at different tracks. CAMMACK - I have to like this gelding's chances of winning at the shorter trip. Have to watch for this animal on the turf. Last race at Arlington, scored a big turf figure. Have to think he can do it again in this event. Look at this pattern of improvement. 96/102/105 are the last 3 speed figures. The 105 most recent race speed fig looks sound in the TrackMaster PPs. MISTER MARTI GRAS - The morning line odds on this gelding are higher than those of the other entrant from the shedrow of trainer Block. Often the longer-priced part of a 'split' entry wins. Another way to judge class is earnings per start. This thoroughbred has the topmost in the field. I think he'll be close at the finish line.

Vulnerable Contenders: #6 COCO MON (ML=4/1), #2 CHIP LEADER (ML=6/1),

COCO MON - Don't believe this mount will make a winning move in today's race. That last speed fig was run-of-the-mill when compared with today's Equibase class figure. CHIP LEADER - Tough to play any horse like this that didn't land in the top three after the long vacation and comes right back. Hard to take this questionable contender at this price after the finish (seventh) in the last race. He's almost certainly going to get cooked at the front.

Top HatGUEST COMMENTARY: Hal - GIACALLURE - This gelding improved his speed rating two races back on May 21st and improved again in the last race.


STRAIGHT WAGERS:
Putting our cash on #5 R. GREAT ADVENTURE to win. Have to have odds of at least 4/1 or better though

EXACTA WAGERS:
5 with [1,4,7,10]

TRIFECTA WAGERS:
5 with [1,4,7,10] with [1,4,7,10] Total Cost: $12

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:
5 with [1,4,7,10] with [1,4,7,10] with [1,4,7,10] Total Cost: $24

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Bar

Belterra Park - Race #1 - Post: 1:30pm - Claiming - 8.0 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $7,200 Class Rating: 67

Rating: Golden DollarGolden DollarGolden DollarGolden Dollar

#1 BIG RED KITTEN (ML=4/1)
#2 SCARLET HOUR (ML=8/1)


BIG RED KITTEN - I like this horse. Should be familiar with this class since she ran against the same type last race out at Belterra Park. I like that last effort on Jul 8th at Belterra Park where she finished fourth. Finished off the board last out at Belterra Park, but was within 5 lengths of the winner. Opening at 4/1 makes me think she's got a chance. SCARLET HOUR - Have to give this filly a chance. Ran a sharp effort in the last race within the last 30 days. Faced tougher last out at Belterra Park. Based on class figures, this is a weaker group, so I will put this horse on my list of contenders in this race. Ranked at the top in EPS (earnings per start). Another sign that this horse has class.

Vulnerable Contenders: #5 VAN'S FLYING BABY (ML=2/1), #3 MERRYMAKING (ML=3/1), #6 PRIZE PERFECTION (ML=6/1),

VAN'S FLYING BABY - This morning-line favorite ran on July 7th and hasn't had a blow out after that. MERRYMAKING - This filly gave a lackluster effort last time out of the box. Finished fifth in her most recent effort with a pedestrian speed fig. When I look at today's class rating, it would take an improved performance to win after that in this field. PRIZE PERFECTION - The Equibase speed figures continue to sink, 67/48/23. Not a good omen.


STRAIGHT WAGERS:
Bet on #1 BIG RED KITTEN to win if you can get at least 6/5 odds

EXACTA WAGERS:
Box [1,2]

TRIFECTA WAGERS:
Pass

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:
None

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Rick Needham at Saratoga

RACE #3 - SARATOGA RACE COURSE - 2:02 PM EASTERN POST


The Shuvee Stakes

9.0 FURLONGS DIRT GRADE III FILLIES AND MARES THREE YEARS OLD AND UPWARD STAKES $200,000.00 PURSE

#1 CARRUMBA
#3 CURALINA
#2 SWEETGRASS
#4 JOINT RETURN

Well folks ... this race honors the career of Shuvee, who hit the board in 32 of 44 career starts, as a big, rugged, masculine mare, Shuvee was one of the best staying mares in American racing history. The only mare to win the Jockey Club Gold Cup, she did so twice when the race was still at the distance of 2 miles. Here in the 40th running of this graded stakes test ... #1 CARRUMBA is the overall speed and pace profile leader in this field this afternoon, and has hit the board in "POWER RUN FASHION" in each of her last five outings, including a pair of "POWER RUN WINS" being embedded in this recent streak of racing consistency. Jockey Jose Ortiz has been in her irons on 9 previous occasions, hitting the board in each, winning 4 times, and is back today for his 10th ride. The "unplayable" morning line favorite is #3 CURALINA who has hit the board in four of her respective last five starts, including a "POWER RUN WIN" in her 2nd race back.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Hawthorne Harness: Sunday 7/31 Analysis
By Jeremey Day

DRF

Race 7 - $20,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool

Best Bet (12 - 21 / $61.40): SEEYOUATTHEFINISH (6th)

Spot Play: SUNSET DREAMER (8th)


Race 1

(2) DANDY'S DUDUDIDUDU has some upside in a field full of question marks. (3) BOOGIE ON DOWN filly has room to improve and should be closer turning for home. (1) SHEADEALER gets the best post for proven connections.

Race 2

(2) PRO SIDE sophomore pacer was super sharp last month. If the pacer bounces back he can beat this field. (5) YOUDA SHARK raced poorly over the sloppy track last week. The pacer had put in two really nice efforts prior. (8) ALWAYS KENZER should offer a big price and can hit the board with a fast pace to close into.

Race 3

(8) PICKY PICKY VALOR flashed good ability in his debut before a miscue last week. If the trotter minds his manners he can score at a price. (7) PHOTO CASH has plenty of room to improve off a good first effort. (2) LUCY QUAIDER has made breaks in two of three but does have some upside in a wide open race.

Race 4

(7) DINKY DUNE is one of few threats in the race; versatile. (5) BEST MAN HANOVER the pacer's best effort would soundly beat this group. (6) UNCLE BUD should offer the best price of the contenders and will look to pick up the pieces late.

Race 5

In a very tough race to gauge, (5) CERTAINLY would need a big turnaround but has flashed good efforts in the past. (1) CELEBRITY HERCULES is a shell of his former self and looks to offer low value; use caution. (2) YOUTH GONE WILD is very inconsistent from week to week but looks to be in line for a nice trip up close.

Race 6

(8) SEEYOUATTHEFINISH pacing mare will look to make it eight wins in fifteen starts on the year. (7) RYLEIGH'S LILLY mare might not be quite right after coming up short in three straight. (1) FOX VALLEY CHARM threw in a clunker last week but was right with this group the start prior.

Race 7

(5) LETS GO DUNE has just been racing evenly but finds a weak field full of question marks. The pacer will offer a nice price and gets a good post with options. (7) KING OF THE SWAMP well bred pacer is 0 for 23 on the year; command a price. (1) HEARTLAND DESIRE blew up the tote board last week and faces similar.

Race 8

(8) SUNSET DREAMER just needs a good setup for a chance late. (5) YANKEE BOUNTY has started to come around in the last few months. The pacer was the driver's choice. (3) SMOKE RINGS raced really well at Hoosier last start despite the miscue. The pacer is one of the better closers in the race.

Race 9

(9) BS TYRICHESS has been facing much tougher and owns a win against better on the year. (2) OUR MISS LILY mare is just now back in racing shape after a layoff. The pacer has been close in two straight. (4) PEACELOVEPACE mare will offer a big price and is capable with some racing luck.

Race 10

In a really weak and inconsistent field, (3) TERRORIZE THE MOON is tough to endorse but if the 4-year-old can stay on a helmet he can score at a price. (6) WILLIWIN faces weaker and keeps the top driver. (7) H-AND-N LETSRACE mare closed good ground last week from a tough spot and looks to be improving.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

SPOT PLAYS

For Sunday


TRACK (RACE) HORSE, MORNING LINE


Arlington (2nd) Dynamical, 4-1
(8th) Guernsey, 3-1


Belterra Park (1st) Scarlet Hour, 8-1
(9th) Victory Salsa, 6-1


Canterbury (6th) Sham's Shoes, 7-2
(7th) Consultation, 6-1


Del Mar (5th) Unbridled Rocket, 9-2
(9th) Pee Wee Reese, 7-2


Ellis Park (4th) Linda, 7-2
(8th) Tis Kismet, 5-1


Emerald Downs (7th) Ace On the River, 6-1
(8th) Huya, 8-1


Fort Erie (2nd) C. C. Mobil, 5-1
(7th) Kinda Crafty, 7-2


Gulfstream Park (7th) Got Glee, 7-2
(8th) Holy Highway, 5-1


Hastings (2nd) Zenya, 4-1
(5th) Knock Kock, 5-1


Laurel (2nd) Stormy Mama, 7-2
(6th) Super Chunky, 6-1


Monmouth Park (3rd) Cohen's Kat, 3-1
(13th) Total Joint, 4-1


Mountaineer (4th) Horse Name Red, 9-2
(8th) Scipion's Gold, 8-1


Parx Racing (2nd) Next Right, 7-2
(9th) Artistic Drifter, 8-1


Prairie Meadows (3rd) Poetic Poser, 7-2
(4th) Runaway Bling, 3-1


Presque Isle Downs (2nd) Nuclear Fusion, 3-1
(6th) D J Soul Sista, 4-1


Santa Rosa (5th) Summer Jam, 6-1
(6th) American Pegasus, 9-2


Saratoga (6th) Dreamsdocometrue, 8-1
(10th) Disco Barbie, 6-1


Woodbine (7th) Perfect Tay, 7-2
(10th) New Sensation, 6-1

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Sunday's CFL betting preview and odds: Argonauts at RedBlacks

Toronto Argonauts at Ottawa RedBlacks (-10, 50)

The Ottawa Redblacks host the Toronto Argonauts in a battle for top spot in the East Division on Sunday. The Redblacks stayed in first place despite dropping a 30-29 decision to the previously winless Saskatchewan Roughriders in Week 5 and received a huge boost with the news that star quarterback Henry Burris will return to the fold after missing the last four games with a pinky injury on his throwing hand.

Backup quarterback Trevor Harris threw for 1,499 yards and nine touchdowns in Burris' absence, but suffered a knee injury against Saskatchewan and will be sidelined for at least a week and Ottawa hopes Burris returns to the form that saw him win the CFL's Most Outstanding Player award in 2015. Toronto overcame a sluggish start to beat the Montreal Alouettes 30-17 to secure its first victory at BMO Field and move within one point of the Redblacks at the top of the division. The victory came at a steep cost as veteran quarterback Ricky Ray, who missed 15 games in 2015, sprained his MCL after taking a low hit in the fourth quarter and will be sidelined for the next three to six weeks, meaning Logan Kilgore will get his first CFL start on Sunday. "That's why Logan is here as the guys have faith in him and I have faith in him," Toronto coach Scott Milanovich told reporters. "We'll try to put together a plan that's built around his talents and let him go to work."

TV: 7:30 p.m. ET, TSN, ESPN2

LINE HISTORY: The RedBlacks opened as heavy 10-point home favorites, but bettors still didn't think that was enough as the line has moved to Ottawa -11. Since then the number has bounced back to the opening number of -10. Meanwhile the total opened at 50.5 and was bet down to 49.5, before bouncing back to the current number of 50.

ABOUT THE ARGONAUTS (3-2, 3-2 ATS, 2-3 O/U): Ray went 29-of-34 for 235 yards and three touchdowns before Montreal defensive end Vaughn Martin fell on his knee after he released the ball and Toronto filed an official complaint to the league regarding the hit. Devon Wylie, who played for the Kansas City Chiefs in 2012 before bouncing around various practice squads in the NFL, caught five passes for 55 yards and a touchdown in his first CFL game. The Argos signed defensive back Marcus Alford, kicker Ryan Hawkins and running back Chase Price to the practice squad and activated quarterback Adrian McPherson from the six-game injured list.

ABOUT THE REDBLACKS (3-1-1, 3-2 ATS, 2-2-1 O/U): Harris was injured on Ottawa's first possession of the game against Saskatchewan and third-string quarterback Brock Jensen acquitted himself well by throwing for 271 yards and two touchdowns and will back up Burris on Sunday. Burris passed for 989 yards and four touchdowns in three losses to the Argonauts last season and was 23-of-31 for 251 yards and a score before going down in the third quarter of the 45-37 overtime win against the Edmonton Eskimos. "The thing is my body wasn't hurt it was just a finger," Burris told reporters. "I was able to stay physically into it and out there working on my conditioning."

TRENDS:

* Argonauts are 4-1 ATS in their last five road games.
* RedBlacks are 5-0 ATS in their last five versus Eastern Division opponents.
* Under is 4-0 in Argonauts last four road games.
* Over is 4-1-1 in RedBlacks last six home games.

CONSENSUS: The public thinks the double-digit chalk is too much to lay with the RedBlacks, with 61 percent of wagers on the Argonauts. As for the total, 56 percent of wagers are on the Over.

EXTRA POINTS:

* The Argonauts have won four of the last five meetings with the Redblacks.
* Ottawa WR Chris Williams leads the CFL in receiving yards (570) and receiving touchdowns (6).
* Redblacks K Chris Milo has missed at least one field goal in each of his last four games.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

July Pitchers Report
By Marc Lawrence

Fireworks and the MLB All-Star game go hand-in-hand during the month of July. It also denotes the start of the 2nd half of the MLB campaign. And as we’ve come to learn the key to each and every team’s fortune lies on the pitching staff.

Can they sustain or will they unravel like Jose Canseco going back on a fly ball? Stay tuned. What we do know is that certain pitchers love hurling this time of the season while others tend to get lit up like a roman candle on the 4thof July.

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 July.

On the flip side, we've also listed pitchers that struggle in July, 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 July 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 July list.

GOOD MONTH PITCHERS:

*Chen, Wei-Yin - 9-4 (5-1 H)

The Miami left-hander has not been terribly effective with an ERA hovering around 5. If Chen can develop more command, he's shown again this year he's tough when in challenging situations, allowing .186 batting average and .271 on-base percentage with runners in scoring position.

Garza, Matt - 9-3 (5-1 H)

Since coming back from spring training injury on June 14th, the Milwaukee right-hander has been a mix of good and bad, but come through when it counted. Opposing hitters are batting over .300 against Garza, but he's held those runners in check and induced a heavy dose of ground balls that have led to outs. If he continues, this Brewers starter might be effective.

Greinke, Zack - 11-4 (6-2 H)

Though Arizona is falling short of preseason expectations, the Diamondbacks ace is not and, other than Clayton Kershaw, has arguably been as effective as any pitcher since the end of April with batters hitting around .200 against him. Once again his array of pitches are finding the right spots and fastball is cooking!

Kazmir, Scott - 10-5 (6-2 H)

When Kazmir misses on location for fastball, the other team's lineup begins to look for off-speed stuff, which has caused his inconsistency this season. When he's working the corners on the knees early in the count, this sets up secondary pitches. In the past he's done so in July, let's see what he comes up with this time.

*Kershaw, Clayton - 12-3 (8-0 A)

When either Kershaw loses or has a less than stellar performance, which is infrequent, it is home page news on most sports websites. With opponents batting just .185 against him, baseball's best pitcher has close to as many home runs surrendered (6) as walks (9) to start the month over 121 innings. It’s no wonder his name is whispered in the same company as Sandy Koufax.

Kluber, Corey - 13-4 (9-2 H)

Since winning the Cy Young award in 2014, Kluber has not been able to match that magical season, but is part of a very good Cleveland rotation. Looking ahead, if the Indians righty can do a better job than permitting .281 batting averages with runners in scoring position, all his numbers will drop and his victories will go up. Note: Kluber’s numbers above also reflect his career team mark during July.

*Liriano, Francisco - 12-2 (7-0 H)

After several fine seasons with Pittsburgh, Liriano has not been effective in 2016. Walks and home runs have done him in and in order to reflect past results of July, he's going to have to stop leaving pitches in the heart of the plate.

Peralta, Wily - 8-4 (5-1 H)

Peralta has been thoroughly ineffective all season (6.68 ERA) and was sent to minors after June 11th start. His return this month or this season depends on his Triple-A results. Note: Peralta’s numbers above also reflect his career team mark during July.

Price, David - 11-5 (7-1 A)

To date, the Boston lefty could be described as a mild disappointment, with an ERA north of 4.5 most of the season. No longer owning an upper 90's heater, Price does not blow away as many hitters as before and the fastball lacks some of the previous movement of the past. The slider has not had the usual bite from start to start. Red Sox need this ace to be one.

Ross, Tyson - 10-4 (4-1 H)

Ross has not pitched since he hit the DL with right shoulder inflammation after first start in April. San Diego Union reports a return even this month appears optimistic.
Note: Ross’ numbers above also reflect his career team mark during July.

Santana, Ervin - 11-4 (8-1 H)

Like his teammates, Santana is not having a good year, as opposing hitters are clocking him for nearly .300 average, compared to .256 over his 11-year career. Little reason to believe this month will match the past even if he improves with this Twins club.

*Volquez, Edinson - 10-5 (6-1 A)

Never a frontline hurler, Volquez numbers this campaign have matched the Royals, being very ordinary to date. The Dominican Republic native has done the job against right-handed batters, who have been knocking him around for nearly .300 average.

BAD MONTH PITCHERS:

Wood, Alex - 4-8 (0-6 A)

Wood – the only pitcher to appear on the July Bad Month list this season - was initially expected to be shut down for four weeks after landing on the 15-day disabled list at the end of May with a posterior impingement in his throwing elbow. Currently, the timetable is for mid-July return, but the oft-injured pitcher can hardly be counted on as record shows. Note: Wood’’s numbers above reflect his career team mark during July.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

MLB roundup: Tigers rally with two out to beat Astros
By The Sports Xchange

DETROIT -- Jose Iglesias beat out a single to first with two outs in the ninth to score Tyler Collins from third to cap a two-run rally that gave the Detroit Tigers a 3-2 victory over the Houston Astros and extend their winning streak to five games.
James McCann tied the score at 2-2 with a line single to left on a 1-2 pitch by Houston closer Will Harris, who got the first two outs of the ninth but then walked Justin Upton and gave up a single to center to Collins.
Collins advanced to third after McCann's hit when left fielder Alex Bregman's throw was offline and bounced away from catcher Evan Gattis for an error.

Marlins 11, Cardinals 0
MIAMI -- Colin Rea threw only 3 1/3 innings in his Miami debut and left with a sore right elbow, casting a pall over the Marlins.
The Marlins' Ichiro Suzuki, who needs two hits to reach 3,000, entered the game as a defensive replacement and went 0-for-2.
Rea pitched well, retiring 10 of the 11 batters he faced, including four by strikeout. He allowed no runs, just a soft single in the third.

Indians 6, A's 3
CLEVELAND -- Cleveland hit four home runs and Josh Tomlin pitched seven strong innings.
Jason Kipnis, Jose Ramirez, Abraham Almonte and Mike Napoli all homered in support of Tomlin, who in seven innings gave up two runs and six hits with seven strikeouts and two walks.
Rookie Dillon Overton started for Oakland and gave up five runs on 10 hits, including three home runs, in 3 1/3 innings.

Rays 6, Yankees 3
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. -- Curt Casali hit his first home run in nearly two months and Drew Smyly picked up his first win since May, an unlikely combo helping the Tampa to its third straight win.
Smyly had not won in his last 11 starts and yet came up with his second win against the Yankees this season, limiting New York to two runs and four hits in six innings.
The Rays had other unlikely stars. Shortstop Tim Beckham hit a two-run homer in the seventh to add insurance against the Yankees, who have scored five total runs in its three-game losing streak.

Blue Jays 9, Orioles 1
TORONTO -- J.A. Happ struck out 11 in seven-plus innings, Kevin Pillar hit a pair of two-run doubles and Toronto moved into first place in the American League East.
Devon Travis hit a solo homer and Russell Martin and Pillar each hit two-run doubles in the seven-run fifth as the Blue Jays moved a half-game ahead of the Orioles, who have lost five in a row.
Happ held the Orioles to three hits, three walks and one run in winning his eighth straight decision. The left-hander has not lost since June 6.

Mariners 4, Cubs 1
CHICAGO -- Leonys Martin hit a go-ahead, two-run double against closer Aroldis Chapman in the eighth inning to lift Seattle over Chicago.
The Cubs led 1-0 in the eighth inning when Chapman entered the game with runners on second and third base and two outs. On a 1-1 count, Martin ripped the left-hander's third pitch to left-center field to score Shawn O'Malley and Nori Aoki. Martin later scored on a wild pitch by Chapman to make it 3-1.
Chapman suffered his first blown save with the Cubs since coming over from the New York Yankees in a blockbuster trade Monday. It was his second blown save of the season.

Giants 5, Nationals 3
SAN FRANCISCO -- Eduardo Nunez had two hits, including a two-run double, helping San Francisco rally from an early three-run deficit.
Six relievers combined to shut out the Nationals on three hits and two walks over the final five innings, allowing the Giants to win for the first time in three tries in the series and only the third time since the All-Star break.
Derek Law, the fourth Giants pitcher, was credited with the win after pitching one shutout inning. Closer Santiago Casilla pitched a 1-2-3 ninth for his 23rd save.

White Sox 6, Twins 5, 10 innings
MINNEAPOLIS -- Dioner Navarro delivered a go-ahead double to propel Chicago over Minnesota.
Navarro's one-out double came off Fernando Abad. Navarro drove in Avisail Garcia, who led off the inning with a double to right.
Chicago saw its 4-1 lead slip away and fell behind 5-4 in the bottom of the eighth after Eduardo Escobar hit a three-run home run to put the Twins up by one.

Brewers 5, Pirates 3
MILWAUKEE -- Home runs from Hernan Perez and Kirk Nieuwenhuis were the difference as Milwaukee held on.
Brewers starter Chase Anderson lasted only five innings, allowing an unearned run on four hits and a pair of walks while striking out a season-high seven.
The Pirates got strong six innings from Jameson Taillon, who only allowed two runs on six hits and didn't walk a batter while striking out six.

Padres 2, Reds 1, 10 innings
SAN DIEGO -- Adam Rosales led off the bottom of the 10th with a walk-off home run off Cincinnati right-handed reliever Jumbo Diaz to give San Diego the win.
Rosales drove a 2-2 pitch into the stands in left center. It was the fourth walk-off homer by a Padre this season.
Padres relievers Jose Dominguez, Ryan Buchter, Brandon Maurer and Brad Hand each worked a perfect inning as San Diego pitchers retired the final 13 Cincinnati hitters in the game.

Rangers 2, Royals 1
ARLINGTON, Texas -- Mitch Moreland's solo homer with two outs in the ninth inning gave Texas a walk-off win over Kansas City.
The win moved the Rangers five games ahead of the Houston Astros in the American League West, their largest lead since the All-Star break. The sliding Royals have lost seven of eight.
Moreland's homer capped a night in which the Rangers got seven innings of one-run pitching from starter Martin Perez and two scoreless innings from Matt Bush.

Rockies 7, Mets 2
NEW YORK -- Jorge De La Rosa earned his 100th career victory as he tossed six solid innings.
The Rockies have won five straight and nine of 10 to reach .500 after the All-Star break for the first time since 2010.
The skidding Mets have lost four straight and five of six to fall 2 1/2 games behind the Miami Marlins and St. Louis Cardinals in the race for the National League's second wild card.

Angels 5, Red Sox 2
ANAHEIM, Calif. -- Albert Pujols hit a two-run homer to lead Los Angeles over Boston.
Hector Santiago won his sixth consecutive start despite throwing a season-high 119 pitches during his five innings.
He allowed two runs, four hits, six walks and a wild pitch but finished with six strikeouts. Closer Huston Street pitched a perfect ninth inning with one strikeout for his ninth save.

Phillies 9, Braves 5
ATLANTA -- If Philadelphia is really going to trade pitcher Jeremy Hellickson before Monday's deadline, he'll be leaving the Phillies on a high note.
The right-hander allowed three runs in 5 2/3 innings and drove in two runs in Philadelphia's win.
The losing pitcher was Julio Teheran, who was making his first start since a sore back caused him to take extra days off between appearances.

Dodgers 4, Diamondbacks 2
LOS ANGELES -- Jean Segur'�s leadoff home run helped Arizona record the win at Dodger Stadium.
The loss dropped the Dodgers two games behind the National League West-leading San Francisco Giants, who defeated the Washington Nationals earlier Saturday.
The Diamondbacks won for only the fifth time in the last 23 games at Dodger Stadium.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

MLB trade roundup: Nationals close deal on Melancon
By The Sports Xchange

With the non-waiver trade deadline fast approaching, the Washington Nationals addressed their Achilles heel on Saturday by acquiring All-Star closer Mark Melancon from the Pittsburgh Pirates.
The 31-year-old right-hander is 1-1 with a 1.51 ERA and 30 saves in 45 appearances this season. He is a three-time All-Star with a 2.65 career ERA and 151 saves in eight seasons with the New York Yankees, Houston Astros, Boston Red Sox and Pirates.
Veteran closer Jonathan Papelbon struggled to close out games in the past week for the Nationals. Papelbon was pulled in the ninth inning of Thursday's game against the San Francisco Giants and took the loss in two other games in the past week.
The Pirates received left-handed reliever Felipe Rivero and minor league left-hander Taylor Hearn as part of the trade.
San Diego continued to clean house and jettison unfriendly salaries when the Padres shipped outfielder Matt Kemp to the Atlanta Braves for third baseman Hector Olivera, who was then designated for assignment.
Kemp, 31, was considered a disappointment in his 1 1/2 seasons with the Padres. He is batting .265 with 23 homers and 69 RBIs this season. He's also in the midst of an eighth-year, $160 million deal he signed while with the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Olivera, 31, is eligible to return Monday from an 82-game suspension for violating Major League Baseball's domestic-violence policy. He was arrested April 13 on one count of misdemeanor assault and battery and suspended in May.
Olivera is batting .211 in six games this season. The Cuban defector is the second season of a six-year, $62.5 million contract.
Published reports say the Padres agreed to pay more than $10 million of Kemp's remaining salary.
Kemp joins pitchers James Shields (White Sox), Fernando Rodney (Marlins), Drew Pomeranz (Red Sox), Andrew Cashner (Marlins) and Colin Rea (Marlins) and outfielder Melvin Upton Jr. (Blue Jays) as players the Padres have traded during this season.
In a swap of outfielders, Oakland sent Billy Burns to Kansas City for Brett Eibner.
Trade talks are expected to be 'round-the-clock with the 4 p.m. Aug. 1 non-waiver deadline just around the corner. The hot commodity this year is relief pitchers with no less than a dozen players' names being bandied about.
A handful of starters could be switching uniforms if the price is right, and the clock is ticking. But stay tuned, the hopes and dreams of many a team might be determined in the next day. Here are some of the players who might be on the move:

Jonathan Lucroy, catcher, Milwaukee Brewers:
One of the most sought-after players, he most certainly will be moved. Right now, the New York Mets and Cleveland Indians are the Brewers' most likely trade partners, but the Detroit Tigers and about 10 other teams are lurking in the Lucroy sweepstakes.
"I have not been traded," Lucroy told MLB.com on Saturday afternoon, when his absence from the lineup provided evidence the team was moving closer to trading the two-time All-Star.
According to multiple sources, the Mets and Indians are the front runners. The Mets have put together a package that includes a top prospect in outfielder Brandon Nimmo and catcher Travis d'Arnaud.
The Indians have few holes, but definitely there's a gaping one behind the plate with Yan Gomes out at least another month. Cleveland has the prospects -- seven in the top 100 and are dangling top catching prospect Francisco Mejia to land Lucroy, who has a no-trade clause including the Indians in his contract.
San Diego Padres, catcher, Derek Norris:
Texas is showing interest. The Mets would get in on Norris and the cost would be less than Lucroy. Late Saturday, reports had the Indians kicking the tires on bringing Norris aboard the AL Central leaders.
Kurt Suzuki, catcher, Minnesota Twins:
The Rangers could make a play for the Twins' veteran as well as the Indians, who Suzuki torments.
Jay Bruce, outfielder, Cincinnati Reds:
Teams looking for offense covet Bruce, who leads the National League with 80 RBIs to go with his 25 homers and .268 batting average.
ESPN is reporting that talks between the Reds and the Mets have picked up steam. But the rumor that has generated the most buzz involves the Dodgers showing interest in Bruce and having intimated that Yasiel Puig could be on the move. A third mystery team, perhaps the Tampa Bay Rays, could get involve and is showcasing starting pitcher Chris Archer.
With All-Star Michael Brantley's season in doubt, the Indians also have been mentioned as a landing spot for the Reds right fielder.
Josh Reddick, outfielder, Oakland A's:
Oakland has been in the middle of trade talks with a number of teams who are interested in Reddick and his eight home runs and 28 RBIs. Once again, the Dodgers are looking to upgrade their outfield and are reportedly interested in Reddick.
There are no shortage of relief pitchers who should have bags packed and be ready to move.
Andrew Miller, New York Yankees:
After trading Aroldis Chapman, New York said it would hang on to the left and his team-friendly contract. But after losing three straight games, the buzz is Miller could be on the move.
Will Smith, Jeremy Jeffress, Milwaukee Brewers: Either one of the Brewers' valuable relievers could be packaged with Lucroy and bring in a nice haul of young prospects. Left-handed relievers are a premium and the hulking Smith, 6 feet 5, 265 pounds, is an intimidating figure on the mound. His 20 strikeouts in 20 innings of work is highly valued by many a team.
Jeffress has saved 25 games with a 2.11 ERA. He has whiffed 33 in 42 2/3 innings this year. And he's under contract through 2020
Wade Davis, relief pitcher, Kansas City Royals:
Davis had been the subject of rumors for the past week and would have commanded a hefty price. But a likely trip to the disabled list will quell those talks. Davis is headed back to Kansas City for an MRI on his right arm.
Joe Smith, relief pitcher, Los Angeles Angels:
The veteran right-hander still has a bit of gas and lots of savvy. The Mets are said to be interested in the 32-year-old Smith.
Huston Street, relief pitcher, Los Angeles Angels:
San Francisco needs another arm in the back of the bullpen and have had talks with the Angels about Street.
Jim Johnson, relief pitcher, Atlanta Braves:
Rumors of the Braves shipping the veteran righty heated up Saturday night with possible landing spots being Toronto and the Mets. His 2-5 record is misleading as he has been almost unhittable since coming off the disabled list late in June.
Daniel Hudson, relief pitcher, Arizona Diamondbacks:
There were reports that Hudson was about to be dealt in the past week, but the deal fell through. Look for talks to intensify for the 29-year-old middle reliever.
Vincent Velasquez, starting pitcher, Philadelphia Phillies:
Texas is reportedly interested in the young righty and there is precedent between the two teams. On Aug. 1, 2015, the Phillies shipped Cole Hamels to the Rangers as part of an eight-player deal. The Rangers hope to catch lightning in a bottle -- since acquiring Hamels, Texas is 97-66 and Hamels is 19-3 in 33 starts.
To get Velasquez, the Rangers would have to part with a bevy of young talent involving a package that includes Nomar Mazara, Joey Gallo, Lewis Brinson and Jurickson Profar.
Chris Sale, starting pitcher, Chicago White Sox:
The odds of Chicago trading Sale are slim, but the Orioles, Marlins and Nationals have been scouting Sale, who leads the American League in wins with 14. The tall left-hander would come at a hefty price, no doubt, and when trade talks surround a player of Sale's talent, you can never count out the New York Yankees.