Tuesday 8/16/16 service plays chatter/comps/requests & other stuff...

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

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[superbeets]

European Cup TODAY 19:45

Steaua

v

Man City

	HOME	DRAW	AWAY
BT2		11/2	7/2	4/9	More markets

​

RECENT FORM	LAST HEAD-TO-HEADSAT STEAUA	RECENT FORM
AWADAWHWHWAW​ Most recent​	Unknown	HDALALHDADHW​ Most recent​

KEY STAT: Sergio Aguero scored 30 goals last season

EXPERT VERDICT: The Champions League remains a puzzle that City have failed to crack and it’s now down to Pep Guardiola to mastermind their European assault. Sergio Aguero is still arguably the Premier League’s best marksman and he should be the chief beneficiary of the attacking style that Guardiola likes his teams to play.

RECOMMENDATION: Sergio Aguero first goalscorer
2


REFEREE: Daniele Orsato STADIUM:

 

[superbeets]

European Cup TODAY 19:45

Young Boys

v

Mgladbach

	HOME	DRAW	AWAY
BT3		23/10	5/2	11/10	More markets

​

RECENT FORM	LAST HEAD-TO-HEADSAT YOUNG BOYS	RECENT FORM
AWALHLHW*HWAL​ Most recent​	Unknown	ALALHWADHWAW​ Most recent​

KEY STAT: Monchengladbach finished last season with three wins from their last four games

EXPERT VERDICT: Young Boys edged past Shakhtar Donetsk on penalties two weeks ago but their Swiss domestic form has been inconsistent and they will find Monchengladbach a tough opponent to keep at bay. The German club will be eyeing a first-leg lead and look worthy of support.

RECOMMENDATION: B Monchengladbach
1

 

[superbeets]

European Cup We 17Aug 19:45

Celtic

v

H Beer Sheva

	HOME	DRAW	AWAY
BT2		8/13	13/5	5	More markets

​

RECENT FORM	LAST HEAD-TO-HEADSAT CELTIC	RECENT FORM
ALHWADHWAWHW​ Most recent​	Unknown	ALHWHWADADHW​ Most recent​

KEY STAT: Celtic are unbeaten in 13 competitive home games

EXPERT VERDICT: There have already been a few anxious moments for Celtic in their pursuit of a Champions League group-stage berth. The Bhoys squeaked past Kazakh champions Astana in the previous round but they should negotiate the challenge of Hapoel with greater ease and ensure they take a telling advantage to Israel next week.

RECOMMENDATION: Celtic to win 2-0
2

 

[superbeets]

European Cup We 17Aug 19:45

Dundalk

v

Legia Warsaw

	HOME	DRAW	AWAY
BT3		14/5	12/5	19/20	More markets

​

RECENT FORM	LAST HEAD-TO-HEADSAT DUNDALK	RECENT FORM
HDADALHWALAL​ Most recent​	Unknown	AWAWHDHDAD*AL​ Most recent​

KEY STAT: Legia are unbeaten in four league games this term

EXPERT VERDICT: Whatever happens against Legia Warsaw, Dundalk have performed miracles to ensure that they embark on their first European group-stage campaign next month but that may be in the Europa League rather than the Champions League. Legia are a tough side to break down and look fair value at around even money to seize the initiative.

RECOMMENDATION: Legia Warsaw
2

 

[superbeets]

Europa League Th 18Aug 18:00

Astra Giurgiu

v

West Ham

	HOME	DRAW	AWAY
BT2		17/4	11/4	13/20	More markets

​

RECENT FORM	LAST HEAD-TO-HEADSAT ASTRA GIURGIU	RECENT FORM
HLHDADALHLHW​ Most recent​	2 - 1	HLHWALALHWAL​ Most recent​

KEY STAT: There were seven goals in the two games between these sides last season

EXPERT VERDICT: Romania’s Astra Giurgiu once again stand in West Ham’s way of a Europa League berth and on last season’s evidence this will be a close affair. Astra won 4-3 on aggregate last term, drawing the first leg at the Hammer’s former Upton Park home 2-2. West Ham looked shaky at the back in the previous round so backing both teams to score looks wise.

RECOMMENDATION: Both teams to score
3

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at Running Aces

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

Race 3 - Post: 7:44 - 1 mile. PACE - Class Rating: 71 - Purse:$3600 - FILLIES & MARES CLAIMING HANDICAP $2500-$3000 WITH ALLOWANCES RUNNING ACES NO. 1 & 7; 3 & 4 UNCOUPLED MUTUEL ENTRIES MN-SIRED ALLOWED: 1 EXTRA PM WIN; 30% ON ALL CONDITIONS ADDITIONAL 50% CLAIMING ALLOWANCE MN = MINNESOTA SIRED L = LASIX B = BUTE F = BANAMINE K = KETOPROFEN
CONSORTIUM*CHOICES

# 1 COUNTRY FRESH 6/1
# 4 BECKY B SKIPALONG 6/1
# 3 DOUBLE L FAB 2/1

COUNTRY FRESH gets the edge as our best wagering option in this competition. Appears that this standardbred's running style fits well in this race. Clearly will be there at the finish. Seems to have a good class advantage based on the field of horses she has faced. Considered a solid wager based solely on her high victory percentage. BECKY B SKIPALONG - Excellent win clip combined with recent formidable performances. We think she can handle this group. Look for Plano and this interesting entrant to end up in the winner's circle in this race. Great in the money clip for the trainer/horse tandem. DOUBLE L FAB - With a strong driver, who has won at a great 19 percent rate the last 30 days, this has to be one of the best contenders. This race may be controlled by this mare. One look at the avgerage speed rating will verify that.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at Hoosier Park

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

Race 10 - Post: 8:45 - 1 mile. TROT - Class Rating: 53 - Purse:$10500 - **INDIANA SIRES STAKES ELIGIBLE** 2 YEAR OLD FILLIES NO COUPLED ENTRIES
CONSORTIUM*CHOICES

# 3 SUNBURST POWERPLAY 5/2
# 6 GUIDA'S GEISHA 4/1
# 4 ABC SALLY 15/1

The pick in this contest is SUNBURST POWERPLAY. Take a look at this interesting entrant's avg speed rating of 56 and compare to today's class rating. Looks like a competitive wager. The brain trust keenly points out that when Fry trains this contender, the odds of finishing in the money go way up. GUIDA'S GEISHA - She has been battling solidly and the TrackMaster SRs are among the best in the field of starters. Could best this field of horses, just look at the TrackMaster SR - 59 - from her most recent performance. ABC SALLY - Seems to have a nice class advantage based on the competition she has faced. The panel of smart guys will always toss in a solid standardbred from the 4 hole here at Hoosier Park, definitely worth a look.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Finger Lakes

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


Race 7 - Claiming - 8.0f on the Dirt. Purse: $16700 Class Rating: 95

FOR THREE YEAR OLDS AND UPWARD. THREE YEAR OLDS, 120 LBS.; OLDER, 124 LBS. NON-WINNERS OF A RACE AT A MILE OR OVER SINCE JULY 16 ALLOWED 2 LBS. SUCH A RACE SINCE JUNE 16 ALLOWED 4 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $15,000


RECOMMENDED*CHOICES


# 2 FULLFAITHANDCREDIT 7/5

# 5 FOX ROX 8/5

# 4 SUNDAE ON SUNDAY 9/2

FULLFAITHANDCREDIT has a very good shot to take this race. Must be used in the exotic bets. Englehart has this gelding racing well and is a very good pick based on the quite good Equibase Speed Figures earned in route races recently. Recent figures for the jock - 22 win percent - make this gelding stand out in this group. FOX ROX - He looks strong in this slot and I expect will be on the lead or close at the halfway point. Had one of the most favorable speed figures of this group of horses in this race in his last competition. SUNDAE ON SUNDAY - Has been racing admirably and has among the top speed in the race for today's distance. Ferraro has a reliable 28 percent win rate with entries running at this distance and surface.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Fairmount Park

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


Race 2 - Claiming - 6.0f on the Dirt. Purse: $5500 Class Rating: 84

FOR THREE YEAR OLDS AND UPWARD. FOR HORSES THAT HAVE STARTED AT THE 2016 FAIRMOUNT PARK MEET AND HAVE NOT FINISHED FIRST, SECOND OR THIRD AT THE MEET. THREE YEAR OLDS, 116 LBS.; OLDER, 124 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $3,200.


RECOMMENDED*CHOICES


# 3 LAZYLOVIN 4/5

# 4 RIKCO MAN 3/1

# 2 DEZIP 5/1

LAZYLOVIN figures to be the bet in here. He has been running soundly and the Equibase Speed Figs are among the strongest in this group. Could best this group based on the speed figure - 73 - of his last effort. A solid 91 avg Equibase class figure may give this gelding a distinct class edge versus this group of horses. RIKCO MAN - Is worth thinking about and may be a wager - strong Equibase Speed Figs (67 average) at today's distance and surface recently. Might best this group of horses here, showing formidable figures of late. DEZIP - Has to be considered against this group displaying very good numbers recently and an average speed rating of 62 under similar conditions. Tavares has strong numbers that point to this gelding to be a strong contender.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Mountaineer Park - Race #9 - Post: 9:56pm - Claiming - 6.0 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $6,200 Class Rating: 63

Rating:

#10 I'M A LITTLE SHY (ML=3/1)
#2 O. T. BANDINI (ML=6/1)


I'M A LITTLE SHY - Stalking speed. My associates and I like this thoroughbred. O. T. BANDINI - After the contest aboard this animal on July 24th, the rider is going to 'know' the gelding much better. This gelding is in nice condition, having run a nice race on July 24th, finishing first.

Vulnerable Contenders: #8 CHANCE OF REIGN (ML=5/2), #7 ELEGANT BENI (ML=6/1), #5 DON DON CAT (ML=8/1),

CHANCE OF REIGN - 5/2 is not priced right for any horse in a sprint of 6 furlongs that hasn't finished in the money in a sprint clash recently. ELEGANT BENI - No picnic to play this less than sharp equine this time around. Make him show you something in a sprint event before you wager on him in a race of 6 furlongs. DON DON CAT - This colt hasn't had any recent success in short distance contests. Not easy to play him in this race.


STRAIGHT WAGERS:

#10 I'M A LITTLE SHY is the play if we get odds of 7/5 or better

EXACTA WAGERS:

Box [2,10]

TRIFECTA WAGERS:

Skip

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:

Skip

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts


Presque Isle Downs - Race #5 - Post: 7:05pm - Claiming - 8.0 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $10,000 Class Rating: 73

Rating:

#6 TRIPPYDOODLE (ML=4/1)


TRIPPYDOODLE - Radosevich brings her right back. I advocate you stay with this strong mare. When Morales and Radosevich team up on horses the ROI has been great at +35. Horse has improved at least two speed rating points in last two races. I look for that to continue its positive trend right here in this race. This horse wins a lot of money per race around the track. Tops in this contest.

Vulnerable Contenders: #5 CUP'N SPOON (ML=3/1), #1A WHOODOO MEADOW (ML=7/2), #1 SHALL WE GATHER (ML=7/2),

CUP'N SPOON - This horse doesn't have a winner's demeanor. Habitually finishes second or third. Doubtful that this vulnerable equine can take the punishment of another hard stretch run after the last two efforts. WHOODOO MEADOW - Just cannot wager on this entrant. Didn't show me anything last out or on Jul 13th. SHALL WE GATHER - This mare is always hitting the board, but just doesn't win. Difficult to play her on the win end. Based on the pace scenario in this race, this equine doesn't fit in here. With a single front-runner and this animal having to race from behind, she sure has a tough assignment.


STRAIGHT WAGERS:

#6 TRIPPYDOODLE is the play if we get odds of 1/1 or better

EXACTA WAGERS:

Pass

TRIFECTA WAGERS:

None

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:

Skip

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Mohawk: Tuesday 8/16 Analysis
By Garnet Barnsdale

DRF

Race 1 - $30,000 Guaranteed Pick Five Pool

Race 4 - $50,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool


20-CENT PICK 5: 3,5/1/2,5,7/2,4,6,7/4 = $4.80

EARLY PICK 4: 2,4,6,7/4/6,9/2,3,8,9 = $32

LATE PICK 4: 2,3,8,9/1,2/2,3/2,5,8 = $48

MEET STATS: 275 - 801 / $1456.10 BEST BETS: 46 - 74 / $148.90

SPOT PLAYS: 17 - 74 / $86.60

Best Bet: SILVERHILL SHADOW (5th)

Spot Play: TIGRA SEELSTER (8th)


Race 1

(3) MAGIC MISSIONS raced decently against one of the top Grassroots performers last time in a much-improved performance. He should be tough here if he can duplicate that effort. (5) PRINCE DE VIE was third vs. non-winners of two in his debut and he should find this task easier if he can stay flat. (4) ZLATAN is 0-14 but he usually shares when facing maidens. (8) GRACE DUHARAS is pretty good when she doesn't break, which so far has been a rarity. If she trots the whole way, she can take a piece of this.

Race 2

(1) LINDY THE KID is a 1/2 brother to Lindy's Nightmare, who has been sensational at this meet and has won five straight after breaking in her debut. This gelding looks ready to win at first asking, most likely as an odds-on choice. (3) ART SCENE - a $50K Lexington buy - is the third foal from his dam to race and the first two were both winners. He looks next best here and goes for a barn that has done well here. (4) CLOUSEAU HANOVER has been facing some tough ones to this point. He can make the ticket here. (6) ALWAYS ROCK N ROLL is another that can close late for a piece of the pie here.

Race 3

(7) JETPEDIA trotted faster in his August 12th race than his lifetime mark. If he can reproduce that mile here, he will be tough to overhaul. (2) MY REVENUER won but was tossed via a questionable judge's call last time. He fits this class well and should be right there again. (5) UTOPIA class drops again and merits Pick 4 and Pick 5 inclusion. (4) ETERNAL QUEST also gets class relief and he should wake up with a better performance here.

Race 4

(2) BADLANDS DELIGHT took the worst of it on the rim last week and fell just short. If she can avoid being having to pace a 27 2/5 third 1/4 while first up here, she can get the job done. (4) TOTAL KNOCKOUT took a new life's mark last week while being cleverly-driven by Zeron. She is one of the top contenders here, too. (6) JOLTS PRAYER has taken two straight after going a while without a win. She isn't out of the picture here. (7) TREASURED MOMENTS adds Lasix here, a move that has worked for this stable a few times in the past; consider.

Race 5

(4) SILVERHILL SHADOW went a pretty big trip from the 10-hole in his first start back at Mohawk, but speed is his game and he should be able to clear these and lead them on a merry chase; top call and Best Bet. (3) CURATOR was sent on an early mission last time but he couldn't clear and paid the price. He can be closer here off an easier trip. (5) ROCK N ROLL LEGACY was much closer than expected at the wire last time and he can make the ticket here too while passing horses late. (6) ROCKABELLA is another that will be closing late for a smaller share.

Race 6

(6) PREMIER GLITTER was a sharp winner two back before breaking last time. If she behaves here, she can beat these. (9) POWERFUL GLARE meets easier here, but it's always tough to predict how Grassroots horses will be raced in starts that don't count in those standings. (8) CAMERON HILL has enough talent to compete here, but remember she is a two-year-old filly racing against her elders. (10) AGENT DINOZZO will be camped out at the back early but can pass many of these late and grab a check.

Race 7

(2) BLUSH AND CRUSH made a remarkable recovery last time to take her second straight win. She is in top form now, but the break is a bit worrisome; slight nod. (8) GIRL DRAMA is usually competitive in the class and should be an exacta factor in this field. (3) JUSTALITTLEFASTER can also be close here if he stays trotting. (9) MICHAELS TURN drops into a claimer here and can be right there if he stays flat. Keep him in mind for Pick 4 tickets.

Race 8

(1) TIGRA SEELSTER moves inside and she should be able to make better use of her strong late kick from there vs. these. (2) GOLDIES MACH never misses the board it seems and she will be tough here from close range. (6) DONNA PARTY is likely to seek out a pocket trip here and if she gets it, she could be dangerous. (4) SHHH IT'S A SECRET is worth a look off the claim for vertical bets here.

Race 9

(3) WINTER HARBOR got some of the carbon out of his engine in the Ackerman last time. He should show much more here. (2) PENNIES FROM ABOVE motored home to win last time when confidently driven and she is a top contender here as well. (8) HONOR ABOVE ALL has already won in this class south of the border and should be used in vertical wagers. (9) FRENCH BASTILLE has a knack for finishing third or fourth and is a good one to use on the bottom of exotic wagers.

Race 10

(2) LUMIERE has improved his form in his past two starts and he could be cycling back to a winning effort now; top call. (5) GOLIATH REIGNS has raced well in both starts since being claimed and should be prominent from close range here. (8) CONFLICT DIAMOND was good last week when making his first start off the claim. He is worth a look here. (3) CONNERY BLUE CHIP can convert a following trip into a check here. (6) SOAKING UP THE SUN is unpredictable, but his best effort would put him right there vs. these.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Yonkers: Tuesday 8/16 Analysis
By Matt Rose

DRF

MEET STATS: 264 - 785 / $1431.70

BEST BETS: 36 - 65 / $123.40

Best Bet: CRESCENT FASHION (2nd)

Spot Play: GREYSTONE CASH (4th)


Race 1

(2) BULLVILLE KYLE gets class and post relief plus the aggressive Brennan in the bike; overdue. (3) BOOGIEWOOGIEBRIAN hasn't gotten a check in his two starts off the Milici claim; interesting. (6) CAVIART KEY returns locally and has been competitive here in the past.

Race 2

(2) CRESCENT FASHION was overmatched in stakes events recently at The Meadowlands but he jogged at odds-on when last seen here. (8) ARRIKIS was a solid front-end winner last out and he may be firing early again. (7) PETROSSIAN AS has raced well in all his local efforts and he can be considered for a share.

Race 3

(1) INTHEPERFECTSTORM prevailed last out after rating nicely on the front end; Allard trainee draws best again and will be in line for a good trip. (6) MUSTANG MACH N has clearly found a home at this level but he seems to have a case of seconditis. (5) NABBER AGAIN gets a bit of post relief and should be more involved.

Race 4

(4) GREYSTONE CASH had no chance from the eight hole in his first start off the Lance Hudson claim; veteran will be much closer today and he certainly knows how to win. (3) FOOLS GOLD is another with loads of back class and he looks for three straight. (3) ELECTRIC SHOOTER was a solid winner two back; contender with the move back inside.

Race 5

(2) STATION THREEOHSIX has been knocking on the door for some time now and is definitely overdue; post relief certainly helps. (4) J JS DELIVERY is up in class off a solid score as the odds-on chalk. (1) TWIN B HOLLISTER draws best and should be a player, but keep in mind this barn has been awful recently.

Race 6

(1) FLEM N EM N was much better in his last start and he's reunited with Bartlett from the best post. (2) BIG JER has early speed and should be close up throughout. (4) MANHATTAN BENNY picks up Bongiorno in his local return and could be driven aggressively.

Race 7

(9) GONEINAPUFFOFSMOKE has hinted at serious ability in his brief career and he's already won twice at this added-distance. (7) HIGHTENED SCRUTINY easily beat lesser last week and could have more to offer. (10) NOBLE POWER ships in from Canada where he's been racing well on the smaller circuit and he joins the Milici barn.

Race 8

(3) SOUTHERN PALMS was third best last week to two very good trotters in NYSS action and that effort should translate well here. (4) BJANTHONY wasn't awful last out and he shows some competitive lines in starts prior. (2) CREDEVIE was scratched sick out of an $89K race last week which clearly isn't a good sign but he's right back in today; threat.

Race 9

(1) PERFECTLY ENOUGH S faced much better in his last two with limited success; three back he jogged at this distance with Bartlett driving. (7) FASHION CHOCOLATE figures to be forwardly placed off the gate and can sit a close-up trip. (5) JACKS TO OPEN gets a professional driver in the bike today and can be considered for a share.

Race 10

(3) MUSCLE DEFINED returns locally now in the Rene Allard barn and is reunited with Dube; trotter looks like he's got as good a chance as any in this competitive event. (6) CAPRINIA AS ships in for connections who always have local success. (7) MUSCLESANDMARTINIS has Bartlett back in the bike and they teamed up to win two back.

Race 11

(4) LILY'S SWAN POND is not a prolific winner but he's usually close up when facing this caliber; Holland can work out a winning trip from this good starting spot. (3) ALEXANDER LUKAS qualified nicely and has been a threat with these in the past. (6) SURFACE TENSION was third best last out as no threat; he can hit the bottom of the ticket again.

Race 12

(4) MACHS BEACH BOY is still nowhere near his form of a season ago but he seems to be getting closer; veteran will win one eventually. (3) WYNBERG COURAGE N broke last out after an encouraging U.S. debut but that was over an off track. (6) PASS THEM BY N can fire out and loop the field into the turn but he's been having trouble finishing.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

SPOT PLAYS

For Tuesday

TRACK (RACE) HORSE, MORNING LINE

Finger Lakes (1st) George's Folly, 7-2
(9th) Flash Bullett, 6-1


Fort Erie (3rd) Splashy Girl, 7-2
(8th) Winstanley, 7-2


Indiana Grand (4th) Bossbossboss, 3-1
(7th) Divine Humor, 7-2


Mountaineer (1st) Page Ms Giacomo, 6-1
(7th) Sutter's Find, 7-2


Presque Isle Downs (1st) Hey Judy, 8-1
(8th) Heat Road, 3-1

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

August Pitchers Report
By Marc Lawrence

With the MLB trading deadline officially closed, and the NFL preseason whetting our pigskin palates, the month of August sets the table for the stretch run of the baseball season. Which pitchers can we count on to satisfy our tastes, and which ones figure to sour our stomachs?

Take a look below.

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 August.

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

I’ll be back next month with September’s Good Month Pitchers.

Until then, as legendary singer and songwriter Neil Diamond would say, enjoy the hot August nights.

GOOD MONTH PITCHERS:

Arrieta, Jake - 10-5 (6-3 A)

After being Clayton Kershaw-like for nearly 12 months, the Cubs starter has "regressed" back to just being among the best starters in baseball. Arrieta has a nearly 3-to-1 strikeout to walk ratio and only allows a base hit 70 percent of the time in innings pitched this season, among the finest in the majors.

Duffy, Danny - 11-4 (6-1 H)

After starting the season as a reliever, the Kansas City left-hander was forced back into the rotation based on need and he has responded. Since June, after a pair of starts, Duffy has put up an ERA of just over 3.00 and opposing batters have just a .289 on-base percentage against him.

*Gallardo, Yovani - 9-4 (5-2 A)

Not close to the same pitcher he used to be with Milwaukee, with ERA so far this season approaching almost two runs higher than career average (5.37 vs. 3.73). The lost velocity is to blame and secondary pitches have less bite. For Baltimore to win AL East, Gallardo has to find some of his old magic.

Greinke, Zack - 10-5 (5-2 H)

After being on the shelf with oblique injury since late June, Greinke is close to returning for Arizona if no reoccurrence were to take place after a rehab start or two this month. After pathetic start to season, the D-Backs prized starter has cut ERA by 2 1/2 runs and is close to career norms in all major categories. Elite starter.

*Hamels, Cole - 12-6 (8-4 H)

Having typical Hamels season, with low numbers across the board. In bigger picture, underrated high level hurler who has not been getting acclaim after Phillies fall, but has been ace with Texas. As usual, left-handed batters have no chance with .176 batting average and .287 slugging percentage.

*Iwakuma, Hisashi - 12-5 (7-1 A)

Not having normal season for Seattle, with hits allowed much higher than usual for Iwakuma. However, has won four of five starts and the Mariners are 10-3 when the righty has toed the rubber since May 20. With Felix Hernandez back, this pair could lead Seattle charge to postseason.

Milone, Tom - 7-3 (4-1 A)

Milone starts for bad Minnesota club and is inconsistent as ever. Of his 74 hits allowed in only 59 2/3 innings, 11 have gone the yard. Maybe he can keep the ball down and spot his pitches better like previous August’s.

*Sanchez, Anibal - 9-3 (5-1 H)

With decreased velocity and no action on breaking pitches, Sanchez ERA has been six or higher almost all season. Not sure if he can respond this month, with opponents having BA over .300 and owning a WHIP of 1.64.

*Strasburg, Stephen - 13-3 (8-1 H)

Only July 21st, Strasburg suffered first loss of entire season after 13 consecutive wins. Though the fastball is no longer in upper 90's all the time, the breaking pitches disappear from batter's view and he's been exceptional. If Strasburg has true to form month, he will have real shot at 20 wins in 2016.

Teheran, Julio - 11-5 (7-2 H)

Suffered lat strain in late July and has been a victim of no run support from bad Braves club with 2.81 ERA, 0.97 WHIP and opposing batters at only .205 batting average. Note: Teheran’s record also represents his MLB career team start mark during the month of August.

Weaver, Jered - 12-5 (7-3 A)

Shell of his former self at 33. Never a hard thrower, Weaver's fastball only occasionally makes the upper 80's these days and his once dominating changeup is a pitch batter's wait on now with lack of variance of speed of pitches. Will blend good and really awful performances these days.

*Zimmermann, Jordan - 12-6 (8-3 H)

On July 24th had excellent rehab start and will be rejoining Detroit this month. After sensational start with Tigers, Zimmermann was tagged for at least five runs in four of his last five outings. Detroit needs the Zimmermann they had early in the season to have chance to catch Cleveland in AL Central.

BAD MONTH PITCHERS:

Gray, Sonny - 5-11 (0-7 A)

Given Gray's troubles this month, his woes of all season are very likely to continue. Gray simply has been more hittable the entire season, permitting those with bats to hit almost 50 points higher than normal batting average permitted of .233. Note: Gray’s record also represents his MLB career team start mark during the month of August.

*Hellickson, Jeremy - 4-11 (2-9 A)

Back of the rotation starter, Hellickson has largely performed better than expected for Philadelphia and as this article went live, he was rumored to be traded. His KW ratio is significantly higher at 4 to 1 compared to 3 to 1 for his career. Will he be able to maintain the rest of season?

Kazmir, Scott - 5-11 (1-7 A)

The Dodgers port-sider has 9-4 record, but his 4.41 ERA is still above career average of 3.98. Durability has been issue all season, with too many starts around five innings for what is supposed to be Los Angeles No. 2 or 3 starter.

Koehler, Tom - 4-13 (0-10 A)

Above average arm but always up or down and unless he pulls a Rich Hill, at 30 is not likely to change. An 8-8 record, 4.18 ERA and WHIP of 1.46, is about what we have come to expect from Mr. Koehler. Note: Koehler’s record also represents his MLB career team start mark during the month of August.

*Miley, Wade - 5-11 (1-6 A)

Overrated lefty who does not miss many bats and fails to come anywhere close to averaging punch-out an inning. Strictly an innings-eater and provides nothing more than 50-50 chance to win.

Miller, Shelby - 5-11 (2-8 H)

Demoted to Triple-A in July after disastrous campaign. Miller hopes to regain confidence and repair mechanics that are really out of whack and return to Arizona yet this season.

Samardzija, Jeff - 5-13 (3-8 H)

After appearing as the No.3 starter San Francisco wanted for two months, Smards has returned to same old serviceable pitcher of the past and seen his ERA climb from 2.84 to present 4.30 heading into this month.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

MLB roundup: Mariners' Hernandez earns 150th career win
By The Sports Xchange

ANAHEIM, Calif. -- Right-hander Felix Hernandez earned his 150th career victory Monday night in the Seattle Mariners' 3-2 win over the Los Angeles Angels in front of 35,840 at Angel Stadium.
Hernandez (7-4) amassed eight strikeouts in 6 2/3 innings, induced 11 groundouts, issued four walks and conceded two runs on four hits. The American League's 2010 Cy Young Award winner retired 11 of 12 batters between the third and seventh innings.
The victory enabled Seattle to remain 5 1/2 games behind the first-place Texas Rangers in the American League West and two games behind the Boston Red Sox, who hold the second wild-card spot.
Right-hander Tom Wilhelmsen pitched 1 1/3 perfect innings of relief with one strikeout, and closer Edwin Diaz added another strikeout while retiring all three batters he faced for his seventh save. Nelson Cruz added his 30th home run of the season.

Rangers 5, Athletics 2
ARLINGTON, Texas -- Adrian Beltre's 10th career grand slam turned around the game for Texas, who rallied for a victory over Oakland.
Texas, which came into the game on a 21-inning scoreless streak, saw that stretch extended to 24 by Oakland starter Ross Detwiler (1-1) as the A's built a 2-0 lead.
Elvis Andrus cut Oakland's advantage to 2-1 with an RBI single in the fourth inning before Beltre gave Texas the lead in the fifth.
A hit batter and two singles loaded the bases for Beltre, who blasted a homer off Detwiler into the stands in left.

Diamondbacks 10, Mets 6
PHOENIX -- Welington Castillo tied a career high with four hits, drove in two runs and had two of Arizona's seven doubles in its victory over New York at Chase Field.
Castillo had RBI singles in a three-run first inning and in the sixth inning for an 8-2 lead, and he doubled and scored in the third and fifth innings. Arizona had 16 hits, nine for extra bases.
Paul Goldschmidt had three hits, including a double and a triple, to help left-hander Robbie Ray (6-11) break a three-game losing streak.

Royals 3, Tigers 1
DETROIT -- Ian Kennedy pitched 6 2/3 strong innings to collect his first victory since June 26 and suddenly resurgent Kansas City edged Detroit at Comerica Park.
Kennedy (7-9) snapped a streak of eight consecutive starts without a victory, though he was unlucky in his last three outings. He has gone at least six innings and given up one or no runs in fourth straight starts. He allowed one run on five hits and struck out five on Monday.
Eric Hosmer, Raul Mondesi and Lorenzo Cain drove in the Royals' runs.

Rays 8, Padres 2
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. -- Drew Smyly held the Padres to one hit in seven innings, and Tampa Bay opened a 10-game homestand with a win over San Diego at Tropicana Field.
Smyly (5-11) threw his fifth consecutive quality start, his only blemish a first-inning solo home run by Alexei Ramirez. The left-hander struck out four and walked two.
The Rays won their second straight, while the Padres fell for the sixth time in eight games.

Yankees 1, Blue Jays 0
NEW YORK -- Chad Green retired the first 12 hitters he faced, struck out a career-high 11 hitters in six outstanding innings and combined with three relievers on a three-hitter as the New York Yankees edged the Toronto Blue Jays 1-0 on Monday.
Aaron Judge drove in the only run with an RBI double in the fourth inning for the Yankees (61-57), who won for the seventh time in 10 games.
Green began his fifth start with a 7.50 ERA as a starting pitcher but resembled the right-hander who had eight strikeouts in eight innings July 3 at San Diego.

Red Sox 3, Indians 2
CLEVELAND -- David Ortiz and Jackie Bradley Jr. each homered in a three-run sixth inning, and that was all Boston needed to post a victory over Cleveland at Progressive Field.
Cleveland had a chance to tie it in the bottom of the ninth as Francisco Lindor led off the inning with a double into the left-field corner against Red Sox closer Craig Kimbrel.
Mike Napoli drew a walk, and was replaced by pinch runner Tyler Naquin. Kimbrel struck out Carlos Santana and Jason Kipnis before Abraham Almonte popped out to second on a 3-2 pitch to end the game.

Marlins 6, Reds 3
CINCINNATI -- David Phelps earned his first win of the season as a starter by allowing two runs and striking out eight batters in 5 1/3 innings as Miami beat Cincinnati at Great American Ball Park. Miami used six relievers to back up Phelps' effort.
Martin Prado went 3-for-5 while Chris Johnson and Marcell Ozuna each hit solo home runs to back up Phelps (6-6) in his third start of the season. Phelps had made 50 appearances out of the bullpen before getting his first start on Aug. 5 at Colorado.
He was pulled after giving up a one-out single to Ivan De Jesus with a 4-1 lead in the sixth inning.

Nationals 5, Rockies 4
DENVER -- Bryce Harper, once again a force in the middle of Washington's lineup, doubled home the go-ahead run in the seventh inning as Washington came back to beat Colorado.
The reigning Most Valuable Player in the National League, Harper went 9-for-67 (.134) after the All-Star break and then missed five games with a stiff neck. He returned Sunday and drove in a run with a double. Harper ramped up his offense against the Rockies in the series opener at Coors Field, going 3-for-3 with two doubles and two walks.
The loss was the fourth straight and 10th in 12 games for the Rockies. The Nationals kicked off a nine-game road trip with their third straight win and fourth in five games.

Pirates 8, Giants 5
SAN FRANCISCO -- Gregory Polanco drove in four runs with a home run and a single, helping make right-hander Ryan Vogelsong's return to AT&T Park a winning one in Pittsburgh's victory over San Francisco.
Center fielder Andrew McCutchen saved two runs with a diving catch and the Pittsburgh outfield threw out two Giants baserunners, helping Vogelsong win on a night when he was roughed up for four runs and nine hits in 5 2/3 innings.
The win was the third in four games in California for the Pirates (60-56), who remained tied in the loss column with Miami (62-56) and St. Louis (62-56) in the race for the second National League wild-card playoff spot.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Brewers (52-64) at Cubs (73-43)

Game: 1
Venue: Wrigley Field
Date: August 16, 2016 8:05 PM EDT

CHICAGO -- Following back-to-back series with teams very much in the postseason hunt the Chicago Cubs now play three against teams far off the pace.

While mathematically alive, the Milwaukee Brewers, Colorado Rockies and San Diego Padres are all playing sub-.500 baseball and trail leaders in their respective divisions by 10 1/2 games or more.

The Cubs (73-43) swept a pair from the Los Angeles Angels last week and then split a four-game series with division rival St. Louis to maintain a 12-game lead in the National League Central.

The Brewers and Cubs open a four-game series with Tuesday's day-night doubleheader at Wrigley Field. One game is a makeup from an April 27 rainout. Milwaukee (52-64) is fourth in the NL Central, 21 games behind Chicago.

The Brewers bring in one of baseball's hottest bats in Ryan Braun, batting .381 with 26 runs, nine homers, 21 RBIs and 14 walks since the All-Star Break.

"He's really locked in and producing, for sure," said Brewers manager Craig Counsell. "We were worried a little about what would happen after losing the hitter (Jonathan Lucroy) behind him but he's responded really well and he's certainly been swinging the bat great."

The Cubs counter with a pitcher making his first start of the season in Tuesday's opener and a short-handed bullpen exposed in last weekend's Cardinals series.

Right-hander Trevor Cahill gets a spot start in Tuesday's 12:20 p.m. game against Brewers righty and ex-Cub Matt Garza (4-4, 4.83 ERA). Chicago's Jason Hammel (12-5, 2.90 ERA) carries a five-start winning streak into Game 2 against Milwaukee's Chase Anderson (7-10, 4.93 ERA) at 7:05 p.m.

Cahill will come off the disabled list and serve as 26th man for Tuesday's doubleheader. He has been sidelined since July 9 with patellar tendinitis in his right knee but made six recent starts with Triple-A Iowa, going 0-3 with a 4.58 ERA.

He is 1-3 with a 3.07 ERA in 33 appearances with the Cubs this season.

Bullpen weakness was a contributing factor in Cubs losses on Saturday and Sunday.

Reliever Hector Rondon returned on Sunday after being out 12 days with a sore triceps. He gave up a go-ahead three-run homer to Stephen Piscotty in the eighth inning.

"His stuff wasn't as crisp as normal.," Cubs manager Joe Maddon said. "The fastball velocity wasn't up there. He obviously did not throw the ball where he wanted to."

Pedro Strop is out four to six weeks after undergoing arthroscopic surgery last week for a left meniscus tear.

"Not having Stroppy -- we just have to figure this out," Maddon said. "We have to restructure this somehow."

Chicago also had another pitching scare on Sunday night when starter John Lackey departed in the seventh inning with shoulder stiffness.

But Lackey said after the game that he was fine. He figures to start again later this week at Colorado.

"I'm OK," he said after Sunday's game. "(An) extra bullpen session was probably not the best for me. I feel a little tight since then. Nothing crazy. Trust me. I've been out there feeling a lot worse. I'll be all right."

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Dodgers (65-52) at Phillies (56-63)

Game: 1
Venue: Citizens Bank Park
Date: August 16, 2016 7:05 PM EDT

PHILADELPHIA -- For those in attendance at the Philadelphia Phillies' series opener against the Dodgers, the night will mean much more than just an opportunity to see an interdivision game.

It will be a chance to welcome one of the franchise's favorite players back home.

Chase Utley, who helped the Phillies to a 2008 World Series championship, will make his first visit to Citizens Bank Park as an opposing player on Tuesday night in what is sure to be an emotional evening for one of the cornerstones of the franchise's best squads.

Utley, the team's starting second baseman from shortly after his 2003 call-up until his trade midway through last season, accumulated 1,623 hits, 142 home runs and 916 RBIs in his time in Philadelphia, making six All-Star Games and finishing in the top 10 in MVP voting on three occasions.

His ultra-competitive nature and professional demeanor made him beloved in a town that values hard work above all else, and his departure -- while a necessary move given the team's rebuilding status -- was seen as the end of an era in the city.

"Obviously I have so many great memories from playing in the stadium and in front of those great fans," Utley told Philly.com before the Dodgers hosted the Phillies last week. "It's going to be exciting. It might be a bit emotional. But I'm looking forward to it."

Most of Utley's long-time teammates are also gone, though first base Ryan Howard and catcher Carlos Ruiz -- both likely in their final seasons in Philadelphia -- still remain.

Los Angeles entered Monday's action one game behind San Francisco in the National League West, and has a 3 1/2-game lead in the NL wild-card race over Saint Louis, which is up only a half-game over the rest of the field.

Philadelphia is 6 1/2 games in back of the Cardinals, 10 games behind the Dodgers.

The Dodgers will start right-hander Kenta Maeda (11.7, 3.31 ERA) on Tuesday. He has been the Dodgers' most consistent pitcher, but struggled the last time he faced the Phillies, allowing three runs in five innings.

On Wednesday, the Dodgers will go with left-hander Scott Kazmir, who is 9-6 with a 4.44 ERA.

As the Phillies try to chase down a wild-card spot over the final stretch of the season, manager Pete Mackanin is just hoping his starting pitching rotation can hold together.

A line drive off the left (throwing) arm of starter Adam Morgan led to his removal in the fourth inning of Sunday's 7-6 win over the Colorado Rockies, just the latest Phillies starter to suffer an injury.

Vince Velasquez (8-4, 3.94), who will start the series opener, suffered a biceps strain that has caused him to miss several starts in June and July. Although he has made his last four starts, he hasn't made it past the sixth inning in any of them. Jake Thompson (1-1, 8.68 ERA), who is pitching Wednesday, is making his third career start.

Jeremy Hellickson (back) had to leave his last start early, as did Zach Eflin (foot). Eflin, it turns out, was pitching with a broken bone in his foot and is likely done for the season.

"We've got the day off (Monday), they're going to inform me on whatever they have on Tuesday," Mackanin said.

How heavily has Philly's bullpen been taxed? Over the Phillies' last 14 games, Mackanin has used an average of 3.6 relief pitchers per game for nearly five innings per game (4.78). The 50 2/3 innings they've pitched in August are second-most in the NL and third-most in the majors.

The last time Mackanin was able to use fewer than three relievers for fewer than three innings in one game was on July 29, when Vincent Velasquez went six innings before two relievers threw an inning each. Of course, it helped that Atlanta didn't need to bat in the ninth inning.

"I looked back at my chart and we've been five innings, four innings, five innings, three innings with our starters and that really taxes the bullpen," Mackanin said.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Blue Jays (67-52) at Yankees (61-57)

Game: 2
Venue: Yankee Stadium
Date: August 16, 2016 7:05 PM EDT

NEW YORK -- On the wild-card front, the New York Yankees were not able to make any more progress on their deficit but they were able inch a little closer to first place Monday night.

The Yankees will look to gain another game on at least one front Tuesday night when they continue a three-game series with the Toronto Blue Jays at Yankee Stadium.

New York has won nine of its last 14 since the non-waiver trade deadline, which saw the trades of Aroldis Chapman, Carlos Beltran and Andrew Miller. The Yankees have tied a season high by going four games over .500 for the third time and this stretch has coincided with a younger roster, which was displayed during the series opening 1-0 win.

Rookie Chad Green struck out 11 in six innings while retiring the first 13 hitters and Aaron Judge had an RBI double in his third career game off R.A. Dickey. Green also was pitching to catcher Gary Sanchez, who is hitting .302 in 11 games since joining the Yankees on Aug. 3.

"I don't think anybody thought we were giving up," Green said. "Obviously when you trade Beltran, Miller and Chapman, everybody thinks you're giving up but you still got great players here. So the young guys are going out there, trying to enjoy the moment and take it day-by-day."

The Yankees won despite going 2-for-18 with runners in scoring position and stranding 14 but are 5 1/2 games out of first place for the second time in three days. They have not been less than five games out of the lead since April 28.

In terms of the Yankees interests in winning the division, their ideal scenario is to hope the Boston Red Sox beat the Orioles while they beat Toronto. If merely getting into the playoffs is fine, New York fans should root for the Orioles since the Yankees are 4 1/2 games out of the second wild-card spot.

Regardless of what unfolds in Baltimore, the Yankees will need continued improvement from Michael Pineda. Although Pineda is 6-10 with a 5.07 ERA, he is 4-4 with a 3.81 ERA in his last 13 starts.

The Yankees have won nine of those starts, including last Thursday in Boston. New York rallied late for a 4-2 win and Pineda put the Yankees in position to win by allowing two runs and eight hits in six innings.

"I thought he battled," Yankees manager Joe Girardi said. "They had baserunners, but he made some really big pitches when he had to."

Pineda has made pitches when he has to at times against the Blue Jays, going 2-3 with a 3.54 ERA in nine starts. He faced the Blue Jays April 13 in Toronto and allowed two earned runs and five hits in six innings.

Despite Monday's loss, Toronto still is the American League's best road team. Toronto has lost three straight road games for the third time this season although it still has won seven of its last 11 games outside of Canada.

"It's crucial," Toronto manager John Gibbons said before Monday's loss. "You got to hold your own on the road."

Toronto's only four-game road losing streak was two losses in Tampa Bay April 5-6 and two in Boston April 15-16.

After Dickey allowed a run and four hits in five innings, Marco Estrada will take the mound Tuesday. Estrada took the loss in the April 16 game but has not lost a road start since, going 4-0 with a 2.85 ERA in his last eight road outings.

Estrada was outstanding Aug. 3 in Houston when he allowed one run and four hits in seven innings. He followed it up by laboring through five innings last Tuesday in a 9-2 loss to Tampa Bay when he allowed three runs and seven hits while throwing 113 pitches.

"Just a little rusty, I guess," Estrada said. "Those things are going to happen. At least I gave the team a chance, I thought there were a few pitches that could have gone my way. I've got to do a better job I guess of getting ready."

In 12 starts on more than four days' rest, Estrada is 4-5 with a 3.57 ERA and the Blue Jays hope he resembles the pitcher who allowed one run and four hits in seven innings Aug. 3 in Houston.

The amount of rest has not mattered against the Yankees for Estrada, who is 3-2 with a 3.92 ERA in seven starts against them since joining the Blue Jays last season.

Estrada held the Yankees to a .243 average last year but has been sharper this season as evidenced by the .140 (7-for-50) mark New York had off him in two May starts this season.

On five days rest, he allowed three runs and four hits in seven innings during an 8-4 win at New York on May 25 and on May 30, he allowed three hits in eight scoreless innings during a 4-2 home victory.