Tuesday 7/25/17 service plays chatter/comps/requests & other stuff...

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

MLB

Tuesday, July 25


Top 5 MLB $ Starters:
1. C Kershaw 19-2 $1460
2. J Vargas 14-5 $1065
3. C Sabathia 12-4 $877
4. D Keuchel 10-1 $823
5. Z Davies 13-7 $787


Worst MLB $ Starters:
273. M. Bumgarner (0-6) $-976
272. J. Eickhoff (4-13) $-950
271. R. Nolasco (5-15) $-919
270. M. Moore (6-14) $-906

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Clayton Kershaw injury forces sportsbooks to drop National League Cy Young odds

Dodgers pitcher Clayton Kershaw was the odds on favorite to win the National League Cy Young award before injuring his back over the weekend.

Sportsbooks are taking down their National League Cy Young odds in reaction to news that Los Angeles Dodgers starting pitcher Clayton Kershaw is expected to be out four to six weeks according to Fox Sports reporter Ken Rosenthal.

Kershaw left his start on Sunday after just two innings of work because of pain in his lower back. He missed significant time last season because of a herniated disk in his back. The Dodgers have placed Kershaw on the 10-day disabled list but are not giving a specific time table for his return.

Kershaw, a three-time Cy Young winner, was the odds-on favorite to grab the award again this season before this setback. BetOnline.com listed Kershaw at -150 last week, while the Westgate Superbook in Las Vegas opened with the lefty as the preseason favorite at +160 and had him at -350 last weekend.

Kershaw is first in the National League in wins (15), ERA (2.04) and innings pitched (171), and he’s also second in WHIP (0.88), strikeouts (168) and WAR (4.5).

Washington Nationals ace Max Scherzer will take over pole position once the odds reopen and he’ll be heavy chalk too. This always was a two-man race between Kershaw and Scherzer for the award.

Scherzer, who already has two Cy Young awards in his trophy cabinet, was +110 at many offshore books last week and he opened the year at +500 at the SuperBook.

The Dodgers, meanwhile, remain big favorites to win their division (-15,000), the National League (+150) and the World Series (+350).

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

WNBA
Long Sheet

Tuesday, July 25

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WASHINGTON (12 - 9) at SAN ANTONIO (3 - 18) - 7/25/2017, 12:30 PM
Top Trends for this game.
WASHINGTON is 304-361 ATS (-93.1 Units) in all games since 1997.
WASHINGTON is 59-83 ATS (-32.3 Units) when playing with 3 or more days rest since 1997.
WASHINGTON is 2-8 ATS (-6.8 Units) against Western conference opponents this season.
WASHINGTON is 178-225 ATS (-69.5 Units) after a division game since 1997.
WASHINGTON is 2-8 ATS (-6.8 Units) in non-conference games this season.
SAN ANTONIO is 14-28 ATS (-16.8 Units) in home games on Tuesday since 1997.
SAN ANTONIO is 14-33 ATS (-22.3 Units) in home games off an upset win as an underdog since 1997.
SAN ANTONIO is 42-67 ATS (-31.7 Units) in home games after scoring 75 points or more since 1997.

Head-to-Head Series History
SAN ANTONIO is 4-2 against the spread versus WASHINGTON over the last 3 seasons
WASHINGTON is 4-2 straight up against SAN ANTONIO over the last 3 seasons
4 of 6 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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PHOENIX (11 - 9) at ATLANTA (9 - 11) - 7/25/2017, 7:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
PHOENIX is 2-13 ATS (-12.3 Units) on Tuesday over the last 3 seasons.
ATLANTA is 8-1 ATS (+6.9 Units) in home games in July games over the last 2 seasons.
ATLANTA is 9-2 ATS (+6.8 Units) in home games versus good offensive teams - scoring 77+ points/game after 15+ games over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
ATLANTA is 4-2 against the spread versus PHOENIX over the last 3 seasons
PHOENIX is 5-1 straight up against ATLANTA over the last 3 seasons
3 of 6 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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CHICAGO (8 - 13) at CONNECTICUT (12 - 9) - 7/25/2017, 7:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
CONNECTICUT is 14-7 ATS (+6.3 Units) in all games this season.
CONNECTICUT is 14-7 ATS (+6.3 Units) in May, June, or July games this season.
CONNECTICUT is 6-0 ATS (+6.0 Units) when playing with 3 or more days rest this season.
CONNECTICUT is 8-2 ATS (+5.8 Units) vs. division opponents this season.
CONNECTICUT is 8-1 ATS (+6.9 Units) after a division game this season.
CONNECTICUT is 29-15 ATS (+12.5 Units) after allowing 75 points or more over the last 2 seasons.
CONNECTICUT is 15-6 ATS (+8.4 Units) after a loss by 10 points or more over the last 3 seasons.
CONNECTICUT is 29-14 ATS (+13.6 Units) after scoring 75 points or more over the last 2 seasons.
CONNECTICUT is 18-7 ATS (+10.3 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons.
CONNECTICUT is 11-1 ATS (+9.9 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record after 15+ games after 15+ games over the last 2 seasons.
CONNECTICUT is 25-13 ATS (+10.7 Units) versus poor defensive teams - allowing 77+ points/game over the last 2 seasons.
CONNECTICUT is 26-12 ATS (+12.8 Units) versus good offensive teams - scoring 77+ points/game over the last 2 seasons.
CHICAGO is 8-2 ATS (+5.8 Units) after a non-conference game this season.
CHICAGO is 8-2 ATS (+5.8 Units) in road games after allowing 75 points or more this season.
CHICAGO is 15-6 ATS (+8.4 Units) in road games versus poor defensive teams - allowing 77+ points/game over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
CONNECTICUT is 6-3 against the spread versus CHICAGO over the last 3 seasons
CONNECTICUT is 5-4 straight up against CHICAGO over the last 3 seasons
5 of 9 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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INDIANA (8 - 13) at DALLAS (10 - 12) - 7/25/2017, 8:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
DALLAS is 9-20 ATS (-13.0 Units) against Eastern conference opponents over the last 2 seasons.
DALLAS is 9-20 ATS (-13.0 Units) in non-conference games over the last 2 seasons.
DALLAS is 19-31 ATS (-15.1 Units) after allowing 75 points or more over the last 2 seasons.
DALLAS is 5-14 ATS (-10.4 Units) versus poor defensive teams - allowing 77+ points/game after 15+ games over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
DALLAS is 3-3 against the spread versus INDIANA over the last 3 seasons
INDIANA is 4-3 straight up against DALLAS over the last 3 seasons
4 of 7 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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NEW YORK (10 - 9) at MINNESOTA (16 - 2) - 7/25/2017, 8:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
MINNESOTA is 7-1 ATS (+5.9 Units) when playing with 3 or more days rest this season.
MINNESOTA is 8-2 ATS (+5.8 Units) versus good offensive teams - scoring 77+ points/game this season.
NEW YORK is 45-27 ATS (+15.3 Units) in road games when playing with 3 or more days rest since 1997.
NEW YORK is 81-56 ATS (+19.4 Units) in road games against Western conference opponents since 1997.
NEW YORK is 81-56 ATS (+19.4 Units) in road games in non-conference games since 1997.

Head-to-Head Series History
MINNESOTA is 3-3 against the spread versus NEW YORK over the last 3 seasons
MINNESOTA is 3-3 straight up against NEW YORK over the last 3 seasons
4 of 5 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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SEATTLE (9 - 11) at LOS ANGELES (14 - 6) - 7/25/2017, 10:30 PM
Top Trends for this game.
SEATTLE is 15-33 ATS (-21.3 Units) in road games when playing with 3 or more days rest since 1997.
SEATTLE is 2-10 ATS (-9.0 Units) versus good offensive teams - scoring 77+ points/game this season.
LOS ANGELES is 62-91 ATS (-38.1 Units) in a home game where where the total is greater than or equal to 150 since 1997.
LOS ANGELES is 28-48 ATS (-24.8 Units) in home games on Tuesday since 1997.
LOS ANGELES is 173-221 ATS (-70.1 Units) after scoring 75 points or more since 1997.
LOS ANGELES is 11-21 ATS (-12.1 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons.
LOS ANGELES is 86-119 ATS (-44.9 Units) versus poor defensive teams - allowing 77+ points/game since 1997.

Head-to-Head Series History
SEATTLE is 7-2 against the spread versus LOS ANGELES over the last 3 seasons
SEATTLE is 7-2 straight up against LOS ANGELES over the last 3 seasons
6 of 9 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Ben Burns
Jul 25 '17, 7:10 PM
MLB | KC vs DET
Play on: UNDER 8½ -105

1* Bonus Play under Royals/Tigers. The visitors turn to Danny Duffy (5-6, 3.51 ERA) who gave up four runs off nine hits while stirking out four over five innings in a victory over these very Tigers on Thursday. Duffy’s peripherals (3.49 FIP) suggest that better times lie ahead (is 5-3 with a 3.31 ERA in all “night” games.) Detroit counters with Michael Fulmer (10-6, 3.06) who looks to rebound off perhaps the worst start of his career, allowing eight runs (five earned) off seven hits over 2.2 innings on a loss to the Royals throwing opposite Duffy last week. Starts like that though have been few and far between for Fulmer, who still owns an elite 1.11 WHIP and 3.33 FIP this season (he also has a 3.15 ERA in all “night” games.) Long-term track records exhibited by these starting pitchers suggests we’ll have a bit of a “duel” on our hands in this one, so consider the “under.”

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

GAME: Chicago White Sox (39-57) at Chicago Cubs (51-47)
DATE/TIME: Tuesday, July 25 - 2:20 PM EST
WHERE: Wrigley Field, Chicago, Illinois
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A





Chicago Cubs manager Joe Maddon cautioned his team against taking the crosstown-rival Chicago White Sox lightly, and the South Siders made him appear prescient. The Cubs look to bounce back and even the four-game, home-and-home series when they host the White Sox on Tuesday afternoon.



The White Sox snapped a nine-game skid with a 3-1 win in the series opener behind a pair of solo home runs and a strong pitching performance from Miguel Gonzalez and two relievers. The loss dropped the Cubs one-half game behind first-place Milwaukee in the National League Central and marked only their second defeat in 10 contests since the All-Star break. Cubs starting pitchers are 7-0 with a 1.93 ERA in the last nine games, a trend John Lackey looks to continue. White Sox starter Carlos Rodon hopes to find the same success he had when he faced the Cubs in 2015, when he struck out six and allowed two hits over six scoreless innings of a no-decision.

TV: 2:20 p.m. ET, MLB Network, WGN (White Sox), CSN Chicago (Cubs)



PITCHING MATCHUP: White Sox LH Carlos Rodon (1-3, 5.75 ERA) vs. Cubs RH John Lackey (6-9, 5.04)

Rodon has made four starts since returning from the disabled list and posted just one quality start. The 24-year-old has lost his last two turns and was dinged for five runs in 3 2/3 innings by the Los Angeles Dodgers on Wednesday. Rodon served up four home runs in the loss to the Dodgers.

Lackey was solid in his return from the disabled list last Tuesday at Atlanta, limiting the Braves to one run and five hits over five innings to record his first win in a month. The 38-year-old did give up a solo homer – the 25th blast he has allowed in 103 2/3 frames this season. Lackey is 4-7 with a 3.61 ERA in 17 career starts against the White Sox, but he has faced them only twice since 2010.



WALK-OFFS

1. After allowing 10 runs in the first inning of their final game before the All-Star break, the Cubs have yet to yield one in 10 contests during the second half.

2. White Sox 3B Matt Davidson homered on Monday and is 8-for-27 during his seven-game hitting streak.

3. The White Sox have recorded 10 or more hits in back-to-back contests and three of their last four.



PREDICTION: Cubs 6, White Sox 5

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

GAME: Cincinnati Reds (41-58) at New York Yankees (51-46)
DATE/TIME: Tuesday, July 25 - 7:05 PM EST
WHERE: Yankee Stadium, Bronx, New York
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A



After ending a drought of six weeks without winning a series, the New York Yankees will try to make it two in a row when they host the Cincinnati Reds on Tuesday night in the opener of a two-game interleague set. New York capped off an 11-game road trip by taking three of four in Seattle, its first series win since since June 9-11 against Baltimore.

Yankees shortstop Didi Gregorius clubbed a pair of homers in Sunday's 6-4 win to extend his hitting streak to six games, a stretch in which he's 12-for-22. Aaron Judge showed signs of emerging from his post-All-Star slump with a pair of homers against the Mariners to boost his major league-leading total to 32. The reeling Reds started their 10-game road trip by dropping a makeup game in Cleveland on Monday night, which came on the heels of a 2-8 homestand in which their pitching staff was gouged for 72 runs. Scooter Gennett has homered in back-to-back days for Cincinnati and takes a six-game hitting streak into the series at Yankee Stadium.

TV: 7:05 p.m. ET, FSN Ohio (Cincinnati), WPIX (New York)

PITCHING MATCHUP: Reds RH Luis Castillo (1-3, 3.86 ERA) vs. Yankees LH Jordan Montgomery (6-5, 4.09)

Castillo earned his first major league win with 6 2/3 scoreless innings at Arizona on July 8, but the Diamondbacks avenged that loss by reaching the 24-year-old Dominican for four runs over six innings on Thursday. Castillo also took the loss against Washington despite a quality start in his previous turn, allowing three runs on six hits over six innings. He has racked up 43 strikeouts in 35 innings.

Montgomery was rocked for six runs over six innings at Minnesota last time out to extend his winless drought to four turns, although it was his first defeat since May 29. It marked only the second time in 11 starts that Montgomery surrendered more than three runs, although he has allowed at least one homer in eight straight outings. He has made eight starts at Yankee Stadium, going 3-1 with a 3.77 ERA.

WALK-OFFS

1. Reds 1B Joey Votto broke an 0-for-14 drought Monday but is 5-for-35 since the All-Star break.

2. Yankees LF Brett Gardner, who has tied his career high with 17 homers, has hit safely in six straight games.

3. Reds SS Zack Cozart is 10-for-22 with three homers over his last six games.

PREDICTION: Yankees 8, Reds 3

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

GAME: Milwaukee Brewers (53-48) at Washington Nationals (59-38)
DATE/TIME: Tuesday, July 25 - 7:05 PM EST
WHERE: Nationals Park, Washington, District of Columbia
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A



The Milwaukee Brewers are clinging to first place in the National League Central after losing seven of their last eight games, and hope road warrior Zach Davies can turn the tide before their season gets completely washed away. The right-hander is 5-0 away from home this season as he prepares to face NL East-leading Washington - 7-2 since the All-Star break - on Tuesday in the opener of a three-game series at Nationals Park.

Milwaukee leads the Cubs by one-half game and kicks off a six-game homestand with three against Chicago beginning Friday after losing six of its first seven on a 10-game road trip. The Brewers' Ryan Braun, whose latest injury (wrist) forced him to miss three starts last week, went 4-for-6 with a home run and five RBIs on Saturday and Sunday, and his health is paramount to Milwaukee's success. Washington plays its first home game since the break and continues to sail along with a huge lead in the East and the help of Bryce Harper (.336, 25 home runs, 75 RBIs this season), who is batting .438 with seven homers, 17 RBIs and 23 runs scored during a career-high 16-game hitting streak. Edwin Jackson, whose second stint with Washington began splendidly last week, makes his second start of the season.

TV: 7:05 p.m. ET, FSN Wisconsin (Milwaukee), MASN 2 (Washington)

PITCHING MATCHUP: Brewers RH Zach Davies (11-4, 4.76 ERA) vs. Nationals RH Edwin Jackson (1-0, 4.50 ERA)

Davies received a no-decision after allowing one run (unearned) and eight hits in seven innings of Milwaukee's 3-2 loss at Pittsburgh on Wednesday. The 24-year-old state of Washington native, who has a 3.18 ERA in 10 road starts this season and is 12-3 with a 3.78 ERA in 23 career turns away from home, won his previous four starts and boasts a 3.16 ERA over his last five outings. Davies is 1-0 with a 3.86 ERA in two starts versus Washington, winning at Nationals Park last season.

Jackson took a big step toward securing the No. 5 spot in the rotation after yielding two runs (solo homers) and three hits in seven innings of Washington's 4-3 road victory over the Los Angeles Angels on July 18. "It felt good coming over here with a fresh start," said Jackson, who was 10-11 with the Nationals in 2012. Braun is 11-for-33 with a home run, three RBIs, five doubles and four walks versus Jackson, who is 6-7 with a 3.84 ERA in 18 games (15 starts) versus Milwaukee.

WALK-OFFS

1. Washington 3B Anthony Rendon (.314, 20 home runs, 66 RBIs) is batting .390 in 100 at-bats with nine homers, 27 RBIs, 22 runs scored and 21 walks since June 15.

2. Brewers 2B Jonathan Villar (.223) is batting .250 in 23 games since coming off the disabled list.

3. The clubs meet for the first of seven times this season after splitting 54 games since the start of 2009.

PREDICTION: Nationals 3, Brewers 2

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

GAME: Houston Astros (66-33) at Philadelphia Phillies (34-63)
DATE/TIME: Tuesday, July 25 - 7:05 PM EST
WHERE: Citizens Bank Park, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A



Jose Altuve is having a July to remember for the American League-best Houston Astros, while the majors-worst Philadelphia Phillies are enduring a season they'd love to forget. After collecting three RBIs and as many runs scored in the series opener, the two-time AL batting champion carries a career-best 16-game hitting streak into Tuesday's tilt with the Phillies at Citizens Bank Park.

Altuve had four hits in Monday's 13-4 rout to improve to 38-for-72 with four homers, 19 RBIs and 18 runs during his hitting streak. Alex Bregman had three hits and homered for the second time in three contests for the Astros, who have erupted for 145 runs in 18 games this month. Philadelphia rookie Nick Williams had a three-run triple to extend his hitting streak to nine games and is 23-for-73 with four homers and 18 RBIs since being recalled from Triple-A Lehigh Valley on June 30. Although their season-long results leave plenty to be desired, the Phillies have ignited their offense to the tune of scoring 49 runs in their last eight games (5-3).

TV: 7:05 p.m. ET, AT&T SportsNet-Southwest (Houston), CSN Philadelphia

PITCHING MATCHUP: Astros RH Charlie Morton (7-4, 4.18 ERA) vs. Phillies RH Nick Pivetta (3-5, 5.58)

Morton surrendered four earned runs for the second straight outing and sustained his first loss since returning from the disabled list in a 4-1 setback versus Seattle on Wednesday. The 33-year-old was taken deep for the third straight outing, although he didn't walk a batter after issuing five free passes in his previous encounter. "I think fastball command was better," Morton said. "I actually thought my curveball and my changeup (were) pretty good. Just there were some situations where I needed an out and I didn't make a pitch."

Pivetta improved to 2-2 in his last five outings after allowing three runs on five hits in 5 1/3 innings of a 10-3 romp over Miami on Wednesday. The 24-year-old surrendered two homers for the second straight outing and has been taken deep 11 times in his last six. Pivetta also struggled with his control, uncorking a pair of wild pitches on consecutive offerings to the plate against the Marlins.

WALK-OFFS

1. Houston INF Marwin Gonzalez has hit safely in seven straight games and 15 of his last 17.

2. Philadelphia 2B Cesar Hernandez has scored at least one run in five straight contests.

3. Phillies CF Odubel Herrera is riding a six-game hitting streak and is 24-for-66 with four homers, eight RBIs and 11 runs scored in July.

PREDICTION: Astros 8, Phillies 2

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

GAME: Oakland Athletics (44-55) at Toronto Blue Jays (45-54)
DATE/TIME: Tuesday, July 25 - 7:07 PM EST
WHERE: Rogers Centre, Toronto, Ontario
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A



The Toronto Blue Jays are in need of an impressive homestand if they wish to escape the cellar of the American League East and entertain any realistic thoughts of a third straight postseason appearance. After taking the first step in the opener, the Blue Jays look to even their home record after 48 contests on Tuesday when they continue their four-game set versus the Oakland Athletics.

Josh Donaldson had a double and scored in Monday's 4-2 victory to improve to 5-for-12 with a homer and three RBIs against his former team this season. The 2015 American League MVP is 3-for-7 versus Tuesday starter Sonny Gray while teammate Jose Bautista is 5-for-12 with a homer against the right-hander. While the Blue Jays are trying to break even at Rogers Centre, the Athletics are enduring horrific troubles on the road this season with a 1-3 mark during their current seven-game trek, while their 16 wins away from home are tied with Philadelphia and Cincinnati for fewest in the majors. Oakland rookie Matt Chapman continued his power surge by going deep for the third straight game, giving him homers in five of his last nine.

TV: 7:07 p.m. ET, NBCSN California (Oakland), Sportsnet (Toronto)

PITCHING MATCHUP: Athletics RH Sonny Gray (6-4, 3.66 ERA) vs. Blue Jays RH Cesar Valdez (0-0, 6.05)

Gray has won three straight starts and improved to 4-1 with a 1.62 ERA and 0.72 WHIP in his last five after another dominating performance on Wednesday. The 27-year-old allowed two runs in 6 1/3 innings in a 7-2 victory over Tampa Bay, with six strikeouts in that contest raising his total to 27 in his last 33 1/3 innings. While Gray has struggled against Donaldson and Bautista, he has flustered Justin Smoak (1-for-17, eight strikeouts) and Kendrys Morales (2-for-15).

Valdez is slated to make his first start for Toronto after Aaron Sanchez found himself back on the disabled list for the fourth time this season. The 32-year-old Dominican has made four appearances with the Blue Jays since being acquired from Oakland, although he allowed one run on four hits in 1 2/3 innings of Friday's 13-3 loss at Cleveland. The performance came two days after he worked four innings of scoreless relief following a recall from Triple-A Buffalo.

WALK-OFFS

1. Oakland DH Ryon Healy is 4-for-8 in his last three contests after going 1-for-21 in his previous six.

2. Toronto LF Steve Pearce has hit safely in five straight games and eight of his last nine.

3. Athletics RHP Frankie Montas is expected to rejoin his teammates after visa issues kept the 24-year-old Dominican in New York for the series opener.

PREDICTION: Blue Jays 5, Athletics 2

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

GAME: Kansas City Royals (51-47) at Detroit Tigers (45-53)
DATE/TIME: Tuesday, July 25 - 7:10 PM EST
WHERE: Comerica Park, Detroit, Michigan
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A



Michael Fulmer had the shortest start of his career in stifling heat at Kansas City in his last start, but he gets a chance to redeem himself when the Detroit Tigers host the streaking Royals on Tuesday night in the second of a three-game series. Kansas City received 12th-inning homers from Salvador Perez and Mike Moustakas on Monday for its sixth win in a row.

The Royals, who trail first-place Cleveland by 1 1/2 games in the American League Central, made a bold move for the stretch run by swinging a six-player deal with San Diego on Monday. They fortified their staff by acquiring three pitchers -- starter Trevor Cahill and relievers Brandon Maurer and Ryan Buchter -- in exchange for pitchers Matt Strahm and Travis Wood and a minor leaguer. "We needed to make sure we strengthened our pitching staff," Kansas City general manager Dayton Moore said. "Obviously, Trevor Cahill can slide into a spot in our rotation." Detroit, which has lost four it six since ripping off four straight wins, could be selling off some key pieces as the trade deadline approaches.

TV: 7:10 p.m. ET, FSN Kansas City, FSN Detroit

PITCHING MATCHUP: Royals LH Danny Duffy (6-6, 3.71 ERA) vs. Tigers RH Michael Fulmer (10-7, 3.35)

Duffy earned the win last time out versus Detroit despite giving up four runs on nine hits over five innings, but he was a hard-luck loser in his previous turn after permitting one run over a season-high 8 1/3 innings versus Texas. He made seven appearances (five starts) against the Tigers in his 12-3 season in 2016, going 2-1 with a 6.23 ERA. Victor Martinez is 13-for-37 with three homers against Duffy.

Fulmer was battered by the Royals for eight runs (five earned) and seven hits over 2 2/3 innings to halt his four-start winning streak, during which he yielded eight earned runs and pitched at least eight innings on three occasions. That included 8 2/3 innings of three-run ball against Kansas City on June 29, when Fulmer took a shutout into the ninth. Eric Hosmer is 5-for-17 with two homers off Fulmer.

WALK-OFFS

1. The Royals have hit 12 homers in the past three games.

2. Tigers 1B Miguel Cabrera is 2-for-19 with eight strikeouts over his last five games.

3. Royals OF Jorge Bonifacio has homered in three straight games.

PREDICTION: Royals 4, Tigers 3

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

GAME: Baltimore Orioles (48-51) at Tampa Bay Rays (51-49)
DATE/TIME: Tuesday, July 25 - 7:10 PM EST
WHERE: Tropicana Field, St. Petersburg, Florida
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A



Adam Jones is trying to pull the Baltimore Orioles back into the race and the veteran center fielder looks to continue his hot streak when they visit the slumping Tampa Bay Rays for the second of a three-game set Tuesday night. Jones had three hits, including a homer, in a 5-0 victory over the Rays on Monday as Baltimore won for the sixth time in its last eight contests to climb within three games of .500.

Jones is 16-for-33 with four homers, 11 RBIs and 12 runs scored during a seven-game hitting streak and Manny Machado came through with a key two-run single in the eighth inning that stretched out the lead Monday. Wade Miley has struggled this season, but hopes to continue his track record against Tampa Bay, and rookie Jacob Faria takes the mound for the Rays after his first career loss. Tampa Bay has dropped a season-high five straight games, including all four on its current homestand, and went 0-for-7 with runners in scoring position Monday night. Rays catcher Wilson Ramos is day-to-day and is not expected to be in the starting lineup after leaving the series opener when he was hit in the head by a broken bat and needed six staples in his head to stop the bleeding.

TV: 7:10 p.m. ET, MASN (Baltimore), FSN Sun (Tampa Bay)

PITCHING MATCHUP: Orioles LH Wade Miley (4-8, 5.58 ERA) vs. Rays RH Jacob Faria (4-1, 2.52)

Miley has not completed six innings in his last nine starts, allowing four or more runs in eight of those outings. The 30-year-old Louisiana native owns just one victory in his previous six starts, but limited Tampa Bay to two runs on four hits and six walks with eight strikeouts over seven innings in a no-decision April 25. Evan Longoria has gone deep twice versus Miley, who is 4-3 with a 2.60 ERA in 10 career games against the Rays.

Faria struggled for the first time in his major league career last time out when he permitted four runs on six hits and four walks over five innings at Oakland. The 23-year-old yielded just one run in five of his first seven starts, but walked 10 in the last three after surrendering five free passes in his first five. Joey Rickard is 3-for-5 with a homer against Faria, who gave up six runs on nine hits (three homers) over 12 2/3 innings in two no-decisions versus Baltimore.

WALK-OFFS

1. Longoria has hit safely in 16 of his last 19 games with 12 RBIs in that span after going 1-for-4 on Monday.

2. Baltimore 2B Jonathan Schoop saw a six-game hitting streak end Monday, but notched his 17th RBI in the last eight contests.

3. Tampa Bay 1B Logan Morrison is 0-for-12 with five walks and six strikeouts in the last four games.

PREDICTION: Rays 6, Orioles 3

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

GAME: Los Angeles Angels (49-51) at Cleveland Indians (52-45)
DATE/TIME: Tuesday, July 25 - 7:10 PM EST
WHERE: Progressive Field, Cleveland, Ohio
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A



The Cleveland Indians have won four in a row - all at home - and are over .500 at Progressive Field for the first time since winning their home opener April 11. The Tribe will try to keep the hot stretch going when they welcome the Los Angeles Angels to town for the first of three games Tuesday night.

Two homers by Carlos Santana and more solid pitching lifted Cleveland to a 6-2 win over Cincinnati on Monday, giving the club a 25-24 mark at home where it has endured some rocky moments this season. The Indians have given up a total of seven runs during the winning streak and give the ball Tuesday to one of their hottest arms in Mike Clevinger, who has a 0.75 ERA over his last four starts. The Angels are three games out of a playoff spot after taking two of three from the Boston Red Sox over the weekend. They've allowed a total of 11 runs over the course of a 3-1 stretch and superstar Mike Trout has homered in three of his last five games.

TV: 7:10 p.m. ET, FSN West (Los Angeles), STO (Cleveland)

PITCHING MATCHUP: Angels RH Jesse Chavez (5-10, 4.88 ERA) vs. Indians RH Mike Clevinger (5-3, 2.73)

Chavez is 0-4 over his last seven starts but has allowed three runs or fewer in four straight outings, including a six-inning, two-run effort in a no-decision against Washington last Tuesday. He struck out five batters and did not issue a walk for the fourth time this year. The 33-year-old earned the win at Progressive Field in his only career start against the Indians in 2014, although he has faced them 11 other times in relief.

Clevinger has thrown exactly six innings in each of his last four starts while allowing only 10 hits - one home run - in that 24-inning stretch. He limited San Francisco to one unearned run and three hits while fanning seven in a no-decision last Tuesday. The Florida native, who was drafted by the Angels in 2011 before being traded to the Indians three years later, allowed one run and one hit in 5 2/3 frames to defeat Los Angeles in his only prior encounter last year.

WALK-OFFS

1. Angels SS Andrelton Simmons is 5-for-12 with two homers and four RBIs during a three-game span.

2. Los Angeles' bullpen has posted 12 scoreless innings over its last four games while allowing only two hits.

3. Indians All-Star 3B Jose Ramirez is 0-for-8 over his last two games after recording three straight two-hit efforts.

PREDICTION: Indians 6, Angels 3

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

GAME: Miami Marlins (45-52) at Texas Rangers (48-51)
DATE/TIME: Tuesday, July 25 - 8:05 PM EST
WHERE: Globe Life Park in Arlington, Arlington, Texas
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A



The Miami Marlins are out of playff contention in the National League but they remain capable of inflicting plenty of damage on opponents, particularly away from home. The Marlins, winners of eight of their last 10 on the road, continue their three-game interleague set at the Texas Rangers on Tuesday after taking the series opener 4-0.

Giancarlo Stanton drove in three runs with a pair of homers Monday, giving him six blasts in the past seven games to move into a tie with Aaron Judge of the New York Yankees for the major league lead with 32. Miami may have lost a big bat in its lineup after Justin Bour exited the series opener with a strained right oblique and is listed as day-to-day. Rangers third baseman Adrian Beltre had half of his team's hits with a 4-for-4 performance to move within seven hits of reaching 3,000 for his career. Left-hander Cole Hamels, coming off his first loss of the season, takes a 9-15 careeer record against Miami into Tuesday's start - his most losses against any opponent.

TV: 8:05 p.m. ET, FSN Florida (Miami), FSN Southwest (Texas)

PITCHING MATCHUP: Marlins RH Dan Straily (7-5, 3.49 ERA) vs. Rangers LH Cole Hamels (4-1, 3.78)

Straily suffered his first loss in 1 1/2 months in his last start against Philadelphia, allowing four runs and a season high-tying nine nine hits over five innings. It was the first time in seven outings that Straily permitted more than three runs and snapped his seven-start unbeaten string. Elvis Andrus is only 2-for-24 against Straily, who owns a 4-3 record and 4.15 ERA in 11 appearances against Texas.

Hamels was riding a scoreless streak of 21 innings into his last start but it came to a jarring end in Baltimore, when he was battered for seven runs on nine hits over 5 1/3 innings. It was the fifth start since coming off the disabled list for Hamels, who was victimized by three home runs. Marcell Ozuna is 8-for-26 with three homers against Hamels, who is 3-0 with a 2.22 ERA in four home starts this season.

WALK-OFFS

1. Rangers 1B Mike Napoli is 0-for-13 with six strikeouts over his last four games.

2. Stanton had his 25th multiple-homer game, which leads the majors since he debuted in June 2010.

3. Rangers RHP Tyson Ross (blister) was placed on the 10-day disabled list Monday.

PREDICTION: Rangers 4, Marlins 3

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

GAME: Colorado Rockies (58-43) at St. Louis Cardinals (48-51)
DATE/TIME: Tuesday, July 25 - 8:15 PM EST
WHERE: Busch Stadium, St. Louis, Missouri
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A



Randal Grichuk looks to extend his career-best home run streak to a staggering five straight contests on Tuesday as the St. Louis Cardinals vie for a series victory over the visiting Colorado Rockies. The 25-year-old recorded his sixth homer in eight games overall by belting a two-run blast in Monday's 8-2 victory over the Rockies in the series opener.

Grichuk is 6-for-15 with seven RBIs and five runs in his last four contests since returning from a seven-game absence due to a back injury. Fellow outfielder Tommy Pham answered a brief two-game hiccup as his solo blast highlighted his seventh multi-hit performance in his last 12 contests, improving to 7-for-14 with three homers versus Colorado this season. While the Cardinals snapped a two-game skid and extended their home winning streak to three contests, the Rockies have dropped 14 of their last 17 on the road. DJ LeMahieu has hit safely in five straight and nine of his last 10, but is 1-for-13 in his career versus Tuesday starter Lance Lynn.

TV: 8:15 p.m. ET, MLB Network, AT&T SportsNet-Rocky Mountain (Colorado), FSN Midwest (St. Louis)

PITCHING MATCHUP: Rockies RH Jon Gray (3-1, 6.19 ERA) vs. Cardinals RH Lance Lynn (8-6, 3.30)

Gray recorded his third win in four outings despite allowing four runs on seven hits over six innings against San Diego last Wednesday. The majority of that damage was done in the sixth on Cory Spangenberg's three-run homer, but the 25-year-old was staked to a 13-run lead entering the frame. Gray will look to exact revenge against the Cardinals following a disastrous performance last season in which he yielded a career-high nine runs on eight hits in 3 1/3 innings of a 13-7 setback.

Lynn turned in his third straight strong performance on Thursday, but settled for a no-decision despite allowing one run on three hits in six innings against the New York Mets. The 30-year-old permitted a solo homer, accounting for the lone run he's allowed in his last three starts (19 1/3 innings). Lynn struggled in his last outing against Colorado, yielding four runs on six hits in five innings of an 8-4 loss on May 28.

WALK-OFFS

1. Colorado CF Charlie Blackmon has hit safely in 17 of his last 18 contests with seven homers, 12 RBIs and 23 runs scored in that stretch.

2. St. Louis SS Paul DeJong is 6-for-17 with two homers, five RBIs and three runs scored during his four-game hitting streak.

3. Rockies LF Gerardo Parra has hit safely in six straight contests and 11 of his last 12.

PREDICTION: Rockies 4, Cardinals 2

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

GAME: Atlanta Braves (47-51) at Arizona Diamondbacks (57-42)
DATE/TIME: Tuesday, July 25 - 9:40 PM EST
WHERE: Chase Field, Phoenix, Arizona
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A



It took a little while longer than expected, but J.D. Martinez's first hit with his new team was a pleasant reminder why the Arizona Diamondbacks traded for him last week. After doing his part to put the series opener away with a mammoth home run, Martinez attempts to lead the Diamondbacks to a series victory Tuesday, when they continue their three-game set against the visiting Atlanta Braves.

After the Braves closed within two runs in the fifth inning, Paul Goldschmidt gave the Diamondbacks some more breathing room in the sixth with an RBI double before Martinez drove a hanging slider high off the center field batters' eye in Chase Field for a three-run homer. The 2015 All-Star, who arrived from Detroit in exchange for three prospects last Tuesday, was hit in the hand by a pitch in his debut and missed three games before playing his first full contest with Arizona on Monday. Atlanta, which fell 9 1/2 games behind the Diamondbacks in the National League wild-card race, has dropped six of eight since reaching the break-even mark at 45-45 on July 16 following a three-game sweep of Arizona. Sean Rodriguez did give the Braves a spark in Monday's 10-2 defeat, delivering a two-run, pinch-hit homer for his first blast with the club since coming off the disabled list on July 17 following a five-month recovery from shoulder surgery.

TV: 9:40 p.m. ET, FSN Southeast (Atlanta), FSN Arizona

PITCHING MATCHUP: Braves RH Mike Foltynewicz (8-5, 3.87 ERA) vs. Diamondbacks RH Taijuan Walker (6-4, 3.61)

Foltynewicz remained unbeaten in his last nine starts with a win on Thursday in Los Angeles, ending the Dodgers' 11-game winning streak after allowing three runs and six hits across 6 1/3 innings. The 25-year-old has been particularly stingy of late, going 4-0 with a 2.93 ERA and 33 strikeouts in 30 2/3 frames over his last five outings. Goldschmidt is 2-for-13 with six strikeouts against Foltynewicz, who did not factor in the decision on July 15 against Arizona after giving up three runs in 5 1/3 innings.

Walker came off the paternity list Sunday and hopes to end a four-game winless streak against the same team he faced for the first time 11 days ago, settling for a no-decision in Atlanta despite permitting two runs over six innings. The Louisiana native has been considerably better on the road (4-2, 2.70 ERA) than at home (2-2, 4.50) and hasn't won at Chase Field since April 27. Matt Kemp is 2-for-9 versus Walker, who was tagged for five runs by Cincinnati in his last home start on July 8.

WALK-OFFS

1. The Braves are the only team in the majors this season that has yet to lose a game when scoring at least six runs (26-0).

2. Arizona OF A.J. Pollock went 3-for-5 with a homer and four RBIs on Monday and is batting .500 with four doubles, two triples and two home runs over his last six contests.

3. Atlanta traded LHP Jaime Garcia, C Anthony Recker and cash to Minnesota on Monday for RHP Huascar Ynoa.

PREDICTION: Braves 6, Diamondbacks 3

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

GAME: New York Mets (46-51) at San Diego Padres (43-56)
DATE/TIME: Tuesday, July 25 - 10:10 PM EST
WHERE: Petco Park, San Diego, California
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A



If Jacob deGrom could somehow start two out of every three games, the New York Mets likely would be buyers instead of sellers this week as the July 31 non-waiver trade deadline approaches. Alas, deGrom won’t be available Tuesday as New York continues its four-game set against the host San Diego Padres, who had few answers for the ace in a series-opening 5-3 loss.

DeGrom tossed eight strong innings en route to his eighth straight victory as the Mets won for the fifth time in six contests. New York is 13 games out of first place in the National League East and has several players on the trade block - including closer Addison Reed, Lucas Duda and Jay Bruce, who added to his value Monday by going 2-for-5 with two RBIs. San Diego began dealing on Monday, sending starter Trevor Cahill and relievers Brandon Maurer and Ryan Buchter to Kansas City for pitchers Matt Strahm and Travis Wood and infielder Esteury Ruiz. The rebuilding Padres received a boost Monday from Hunter Renfroe, who belted two home runs and is batting .310 with four blasts and eight RBIs over his last 15 games.

TV: 10:10 p.m. ET, SNY (New York), FSN San Diego

PITCHING MATCHUP: Mets RH Seth Lugo (4-2, 4.05 ERA) vs. Padres RH Jhoulys Chacin (9-7, 4.26)

Lugo pitched into the seventh inning for the second straight start on Thursday, when he held St. Louis to one run over 6 2/3 frames. The 27-year-old has performed well on the road, going 6-2 with a 3.61 ERA in 13 career games (eight starts) away from home. Lugo, who is making his second career appearance against San Diego, owns a 9-2 record and 3.32 ERA over his last 14 starts dating back to Aug. 25, 2016.

Chacin won his third consecutive decision on Thursday, allowing two runs and four hits over six innings in a 5-2 victory over San Francisco. The Venezuelan has been a pleasant surprise for the Padres, giving up fewer than three earned runs in seven of his last eight outings. Duda is 3-for-6 with two homers against Chacin, who is 1-5 with a 6.50 ERA in eight career games (seven starts) versus the Mets.

WALK-OFFS

1. Padres SS Erick Aybar could miss the rest of the season after being diagnosed with a fractured left foot.

2. The Mets placed Zack Wheeler on the disabled list with a stress reaction in his right arm and recalled fellow RHP Tyler Pill from Triple-A Las Vegas.

3. Chacin is 5-2 with a 1.94 ERA in 10 starts at Petco Park this season.

PREDICTION: Padres 6, Mets 3

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

GAME: Boston Red Sox (55-46) at Seattle Mariners (50-51)
DATE/TIME: Tuesday, July 25 - 10:10 PM EST
WHERE: Safeco Field, Seattle, Washington
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A



Things have gone downhill for the Boston Red Sox on their road trip since beginning it with a victory, but the American League East leaders look to turn things around when they visit the Seattle Mariners on Tuesday for the middle contest of their three-game series. Boston has lost three straight on its trek, including Monday's 4-0 setback in Seattle.

The Red Sox, whose division lead over the New York Yankees shrunk to two games, managed only four singles in the defeat while Dustin Pedroia struck out three times to raise his total to six over the last four contests after going without one over his previous seven games. Top prospect Rafael Devers had his contract purchased from Triple-A Pawtucket prior to the series opener and the 20-year-old will make his major-league debut on Tuesday. Seattle improved to 2-3 on its 10-game homestand thanks to a three-run second inning that was highlighted by Kyle Seager's leadoff homer. Ben Gamel is riding an 11-game hitting streak after going 2-for-3 for the Mariners, who are 2 1/2 games out of the second AL wild-card spot.

TV: 10:10 p.m. ET, NESN (Boston), ROOT Northwest (Seattle)

PITCHING MATCHUP: Red Sox LH Drew Pomeranz (10-4, 3.51 ERA) vs. Mariners RH Felix Hernandez (5-4, 3.88)

Pomeranz won his fifth consecutive decision on Wednesday despite issuing five walks as he limited Toronto to an unearned run and three hits in 6 2/3 innings. The 28-year-old native of Tennessee has lost just once in his last 12 outings, allowing more than two earned runs only twice in that span - and three times in 19 turns all season. Pomeranz has yet to lose to Seattle, going 3-0 with a 1.59 ERA in 12 career appearances (three starts).

Hernandez has been superb over his last three starts, giving up two earned runs and 11 hits while registering 22 strikeouts over 18 innings. The 31-year-old Venezuelan is coming off a hard-luck loss to the New York Yankees on Thursday in which he allowed one run and three hits while fanning a season-high nine batters over seven frames. Hernandez has posted an 8-4 record with two shutouts and a 3.90 ERA in 18 career starts against Boston.

WALK-OFFS

1. The Red Sox optioned RHP Kyle Martin to Triple-A Pawtucket and transferred LHP Robbie Ross Jr. (elbow) to the 60-day DL to make room on the 25- and 40-man rosters, respectively, for Devers.

2. After officially signing 2B Danny Espinosa on Monday, the Mariners optioned SS Taylor Motter to Triple-A Tacoma and transferred RHP Hisashi Iwakuma (shoulder) to the 60-day disabled list.

3. Boston had RHP Justin Haley returned by Minnesota. A Rule 5 pick of the Los Angeles Angels, the 26-year-old was traded to San Diego, then to the Twins, for whom he recorded one save and a 6.00 ERA in 10 relief appearances.

PREDICTION: Mariners 5, Red Sox 2

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

GAME: Minnesota Twins (49-49) at Los Angeles Dodgers (69-31)
DATE/TIME: Tuesday, July 25 - 10:10 PM EST
WHERE: Dodger Stadium, Los Angeles, California
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A



The Los Angeles Dodgers overcame some disappointing news to win the series opener and attempt to extend their winning streak to four games when they host the Minnesota Twins on Tuesday for the middle contest of their three-game set. Los Angeles rallied for a 6-4 triumph on Monday after learning ace Clayton Kershaw would miss at least a month with a lower back strain.

The Dodgers, who own an 11 1/2-game lead in the National League West, squandered a 3-2 advantage before rookie Cody Bellinger belted a three-run homer in the eighth inning for the victory. The 22-year-old Bellinger figures to run away with the NL Rookie of the Year award as he leads Los Angeles with 28 home runs and 67 RBIs in only 80 games. Eddie Rosario looks to continue his hot streak at the plate as he is 7-for-11 over his last three contests after collecting three hits - including a homer - and three RBIs on Monday. The Twins, who are 3 1/2 games behind first-place Cleveland in the American League Central and two back in the wild-card race, strengthened their postseason chances Monday by acquiring left-hander Jaime Garcia from Atlanta.

TV: 10:10 p.m. ET, FSN North (Minnesota), SportsNet LA (Los Angeles)

PITCHING MATCHUP: Twins RH Jose Berrios (9-3, 3.50 ERA) vs. Dodgers RH Kenta Maeda (8-4, 4.23)

Berrios is coming off a victory over the New York Yankees on Wednesday in which he allowed one run and six hits over 6 2/3 innings. The 23-year-old Puerto Rican has struggled on the road of late, going 0-2 while surrendering 16 runs - 11 earned - and 21 hits in 13 frames over his last three outings. Berrios has yet to face Los Angeles in his career but is 2-1 with a 2.12 ERA in three interleague starts.

Maeda has won each of his last two starts, allowing one run over five innings in both outings. The 29-year-old native of Japan has gone 5-0 with a 3.22 ERA in six starts at home since losing his season opener to San Diego. Maeda never has faced Minnesota but is 3-0 with a 1.06 ERA in three interleague starts this year after going 0-2 with a 6.43 mark in three turns last campaign.

WALK-OFFS

1. The Twins reshaped their pitching staff, recalling RHP Alan Busenitz from Triple-A Rochester, designating LHP Craig Breslow for assignment, trading RHP Nick Tepesch to Toronto and returning Rule 5 RHP Justin Haley to Boston.

2. Los Angeles placed Kershaw (back) and RHP Brandon McCarthy (finger) on the 10-day disabled list and optioned OF Trayce Thompson to Triple-A Oklahoma City while recalling RHP Josh Ravin and purchasing the contract of LHP Edward Paredes from the Pacific Coast League club and activating LHP Hyun-Jin Ryu (foot) from the DL.

3. In addition to Garcia, Minnesota also acquired C Anthony Recker and cash from Atlanta for RHP Huascar Ynoa.

PREDICTION: Dodgers 4, Twins 3

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

GAME: Pittsburgh Pirates (50-50) at San Francisco Giants (38-63)
DATE/TIME: Tuesday, July 25 - 10:15 PM EST
WHERE: AT&T Park, San Francisco, California
LINE: N/A TOTAL: N/A



The frustration level continues to rise for the cellar-dwelling San Francisco Giants, who saw manager Bruce Bochy and pitching coach Dave Righetti get ejected in Monday’s 10-3 loss to the visiting Pittsburgh Pirates. Both will be back on the bench Tuesday as the Giants resume their three-game series against the Pirates, who have re-entered the National League Central race with 10 wins in their last 13 contests.

Andrew McCutchen and Jordy Mercer combined for two homers and seven RBIs in Monday’s win as Pittsburgh recorded its seventh straight victory at AT&T Park. The Pirates have a question mark in right field with Gregory Polanco (hamstring) on the disabled list, but McCutchen has shown the ability to carry the offense by hitting .324 over his last 15 games. While Pittsburgh’s offense has reached another gear in recent weeks, the Giants entered Monday’s action averaging just 3.91 runs, the second-fewest in the majors. Joe Panik is mired in a 7-for-41 slump while Brandon Belt has recorded three hits in his last 25 at-bats.

TV: 10:15 p.m. ET, AT&T SportsNet-Pittsburgh, NBCSN Bay Area (San Francisco)

PITCHING MATCHUP: Pirates RH Jameson Taillon (6-3, 3.08 ERA) vs. Giants LH Madison Bumgarner (0-4, 3.57)

Taillon threw a career-high 116 pitches and earned the victory Thursday against Milwaukee, allowing two runs while striking out eight in 5 1/3 innings. The 25-year-old has won three of his last four outings, posting a 26-to-6 strikeout-to-walk ratio over that stretch. Taillon, who missed time earlier this season while battling testicular cancer, has worked fewer than six innings in eight of his last 10 starts and hasn’t completed seven frames since April 16.

Bumgarner made his second start since being activated from the disabled list Thursday against San Diego and took the loss after allowing four runs over 6 1/3 innings. The four-time All-Star has given up seven runs and 10 hits while posting a 10-to-3 strikeout-to-walk ratio in his last two outings covering 13 1/3 frames. Mercer is 5-for-11 versus Bumgarner, who is 2-4 with a 2.97 ERA in six career starts against Pittsburgh.

WALK-OFFS

1. The Giants have not hit a three-run homer in 49 home games this season.

2. The Pirates have won each of their last 11 contests in which they've scored at least four runs.

3. After going 2-for-9 in three games with Single-A San Jose, Giants 3B Pablo Sandoval will be promoted to Triple-A Sacramento on Tuesday as he continues his bid to return to the majors.

PREDICTION: Pirates 6, Giants 4

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Trends - Chi. White Sox at Chi. Cubs




W/L Trends


Chi. White Sox
•White Sox are 27-58 in their last 85 road games vs. a right-handed starter.
• White Sox are 3-7 in their last 10 Tuesday games.
• White Sox are 8-20 in their last 28 road games.
• White Sox are 8-20 in their last 28 games on grass.
• White Sox are 9-23 in their last 32 road games vs. a team with a winning home record.
• White Sox are 8-21 in their last 29 overall.
• White Sox are 8-22 in their last 30 vs. a team with a winning record.
• White Sox are 2-6 in their last 8 interleague road games vs. a right-handed starter.
• White Sox are 2-6 in their last 8 games following a win.
• White Sox are 2-6 in their last 8 interleague road games vs. a team with a winning record.
• White Sox are 2-7 in their last 9 interleague games.
• White Sox are 4-14 in their last 18 road games vs. a team with a winning record.
• White Sox are 2-8 in their last 10 interleague road games.
• White Sox are 2-8 in their last 10 interleague games vs. a team with a winning record.
• White Sox are 1-4 in their last 5 games vs. a right-handed starter.
• White Sox are 1-5 in their last 6 during game 2 of a series.
• White Sox are 1-7 in their last 8 when their opponent scores 2 runs or less in their previous game.
• White Sox are 0-4 in their last 4 games vs. a starter with a WHIP greater than 1.30.
• White Sox are 0-4 in their last 4 after allowing 2 runs or less in their previous game.
• White Sox are 5-2 in Rodons last 7 starts following a team loss in their previous game.
• White Sox are 4-9 in Rodons last 13 road starts.
• White Sox are 2-6 in Rodons last 8 starts during game 2 of a series.
• White Sox are 2-7 in Rodons last 9 road starts vs. a team with a winning record.
• White Sox are 1-5 in Rodons last 6 starts vs. a team with a winning record.



Chi. Cubs
•Cubs are 4-0 in their last 4 home games vs. a left-handed starter.
• Cubs are 9-1 in their last 10 interleague games vs. a team with a losing record.
• Cubs are 7-1 in their last 8 games vs. a starter with a WHIP greater than 1.30.
• Cubs are 13-3 in their last 16 games following a loss.
• Cubs are 4-1 in their last 5 interleague games.
• Cubs are 8-2 in their last 10 overall.
• Cubs are 4-1 in their last 5 interleague home games vs. a team with a losing record.
• Cubs are 8-2 in their last 10 games on grass.
• Cubs are 4-1 in their last 5 during game 2 of a series.
• Cubs are 7-2 in their last 9 vs. a team with a losing record.
• Cubs are 18-6 in their last 24 games vs. a left-handed starter.
• Cubs are 43-19 in their last 62 Tuesday games.
• Cubs are 9-4 in their last 13 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of less than .400.
• Cubs are 6-13 in their last 19 interleague home games vs. a left-handed starter.
• Cubs are 1-4 in their last 5 when their opponent allows 2 runs or less in their previous game.
• Cubs are 1-5 in their last 6 interleague home games.
• Cubs are 6-0 in Lackeys last 6 Tuesday starts.
• Cubs are 5-2 in Lackeys last 7 home starts vs. a team with a losing record.
• Cubs are 1-4 in Lackeys last 5 starts when their opponent allows 2 runs or less in their previous game.


OU Trends


Chi. White Sox
•Under is 5-0 in White Sox last 5 road games vs. a team with a winning record.
• Over is 7-0 in White Sox last 7 when their opponent scores 2 runs or less in their previous game.
• Under is 4-0-2 in White Sox last 6 vs. National League Central.
• Under is 6-1 in White Sox last 7 vs. a team with a winning record.
• Under is 5-1 in White Sox last 6 road games.
• Over is 5-1 in White Sox last 6 games following a win.
• Over is 5-1 in White Sox last 6 after allowing 2 runs or less in their previous game.
• Under is 5-1 in White Sox last 6 road games vs. a team with a winning home record.
• Under is 4-1 in White Sox last 5 interleague games vs. a team with a winning record.
• Under is 8-2 in White Sox last 10 games vs. a starter with a WHIP greater than 1.30.
• Under is 4-1 in White Sox last 5 interleague games.
• Over is 9-3 in White Sox last 12 games vs. a right-handed starter.
• Under is 9-3 in White Sox last 12 during game 2 of a series.
• Under is 8-3 in White Sox last 11 on grass.
• Under is 8-3 in White Sox last 11 overall.
• Over is 5-2 in White Sox last 7 road games vs. a right-handed starter.
• Under is 5-2 in White Sox last 7 interleague road games vs. a team with a winning record.
• Under is 5-2 in White Sox last 7 interleague road games.
• Over is 7-3-1 in White Sox last 11 interleague games vs. a right-handed starter.
• Under is 18-8-1 in White Sox last 27 interleague road games vs. a right-handed starter.
• Over is 5-0 in Rodons last 5 Tuesday starts.
• Over is 4-0 in Rodons last 4 starts following a team loss in their previous game.
• Over is 5-1 in Rodons last 6 starts during game 2 of a series.
• Under is 4-1 in Rodons last 5 starts with 5 days of rest.
• Over is 4-1 in Rodons last 5 starts on grass.
• Over is 4-1 in Rodons last 5 starts overall.
• Under is 9-3 in Rodons last 12 starts when their opponent scores 2 runs or less in their previous game.
• Under is 10-4 in Rodons last 14 starts after allowing 2 runs or less in their previous game.
• Under is 16-7-1 in Rodons last 24 starts vs. a team with a winning record.



Chi. Cubs
•Under is 4-0 in Cubs last 4 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of less than .400.
• Over is 6-1-1 in Cubs last 8 home games vs. a left-handed starter.
• Under is 5-1 in Cubs last 6 games vs. a starter with a WHIP greater than 1.30.
• Over is 4-1 in Cubs last 5 interleague games vs. a left-handed starter.
• Over is 4-1 in Cubs last 5 interleague home games.
• Under is 8-2 in Cubs last 10 during game 2 of a series.
• Under is 7-2-1 in Cubs last 10 home games vs. a team with a losing record.
• Under is 10-3-1 in Cubs last 14 interleague games vs. a team with a losing record.
• Over is 6-2 in Cubs last 8 interleague games.
• Under is 9-3-2 in Cubs last 14 vs. American League Central.
• Under is 17-6-1 in Cubs last 24 vs. a team with a losing record.
• Under is 16-6-4 in Cubs last 26 interleague home games vs. a team with a losing record.
• Under is 5-2-1 in Cubs last 8 on grass.
• Under is 5-2-1 in Cubs last 8 overall.
• Under is 7-3-1 in Cubs last 11 interleague home games vs. a left-handed starter.
• Under is 4-0 in Lackeys last 4 starts vs. a team with a losing record.
• Over is 3-0-2 in Lackeys last 5 home starts vs. a team with a losing record.
• Over is 5-1-1 in Lackeys last 7 home starts.
• Under is 4-1 in Lackeys last 5 starts during game 2 of a series.
• Over is 6-2 in Lackeys last 8 starts after scoring 2 runs or less in their previous game.


Head to Head


•Under is 4-0-2 in the last 6 meetings.
• Under is 17-6-3 in the last 26 meetings in Chicago.



Umpire Trends - Lance Barksdale


•Under is 5-0 in Barksdales last 5 interleague games behind home plate.
• Under is 3-0-1 in Barksdales last 4 Tuesday games behind home plate.
• Under is 4-0 in Barksdales last 4 games behind home plate vs. Chicago.
• Home team is 9-2 in Barksdales last 11 games behind home plate.
• Over is 3-1-1 in Barksdales last 5 games behind home plate vs. Chicago.
• Cubs are 5-2 in their last 7 games with Barksdale behind home plate.
• Under is 35-15-3 in Barksdales last 53 games behind home plate.
• White Sox are 2-6 in their last 8 games with Barksdale behind home plate.