Friday MLB

It's Friday. Feels like another scorcher in Los Angeles and the brush fires are raging in the outskirts.

I guess the sharp money is moving the Cubs line, but I don't know about this Mets/Cubs match up Cubs have not recorded 4 wins in a row since..... have they done it this season? Mets 1-8 in last 9 in Chicago, but when are we talking about? I think Cubs peaked in Milwaukee and reverse course at home.
There are better games on the board, but I lean Mets with improved price.

---------------------------------------------------------------
My take. Texas, Rangers after outscoring opponents by 5+ runs, against right hand pitcher who has not reached 7 innings in last 3 starts and pen with 4.00+ ERA in last 3 games.

TEX -118 for 2 units(W)
I know I should of posted the Mets as a play, but the wager window was already closed or just about and figured Rangers would be the easier play. They cashed, but Mets would of been the easier pick.
1-0 +2.00 units

Thursday MLB

Sorry the title has been corrected to "Thursday" from "Wednesday".

Taking the Run Line with the home team at Metrodome. Lee has pitched well in June, but Cleveland must be feeling bit disappointed with him this season. He could come back to finish strong, but I need to see some domination first. What's wrong? Opposition is hitting him much easier than last season, opposition on the road is hitting him, his ground out to fly out ratio is not consistent and his June start included teams on down trend with good run support (Cards, Cubs and against Angels got 14 runs).
On the other side look up "Domination" and you will find the photo of Francisco Lariano.


MIN -1.5 at +105 for 2 units(L)
The Kid did not have his game. Late inning looked interesting, but this one had no chance.
----------------------------------------------------------
Adding.

Texas with Padilla at Baltimore with Cabrera.
Cabrera is laboring throwing too many pitches. Padila has been logging quality starts.

TEX -0.5 First 5 innings at +115 for 1 unit(L)
Pure bad luck. All the Texas runs came in after the 5th inning.
I playing Texas again after outscoring opponents by 5+ runs.

0-2 -3.00 units

Backing the kid with 10-1 and wicked ERA. 

The aging Dome. 

Looking at the game in Minneapolis. This is another great city to visit the Twin City is so under rated it's great. If you get a chance to come here do take the RiverCity Trolley Tour. There's also the Mall of America, if your into Malls, it's the biggest.

If you like good old fashion Americana be sure to dine at Murray's.
Established in 1946 by Art and Marie Murray at 26 South Sixth Street in Minneapolis. Be sure to try the Butter Knife Steak.

All Star Game 2006

Just look at that back drop with Allegheny river on the north shore of downtown Pittsburgh great place for baseball.
We have chance for T-Storm tonight currently partly cloudy 82 F, 62% humidity and 9mph wind blowing south. Not much to point out as AL have been winning these match ups and interleague outcomes points to the same way. But looking at the match up AL holds little value.

ALL STAR GAME OVER 5.5 First 5 innings -122 for 1 unit(L)
Glad to take a break here.
0-1 -1.22 units

Beautiful PNC Park 

MLB All Star Game 

Sunday MLB

Early selection on the overnight line.

Reds with Arroyo/Atlanta with Thomson.
Arroyo took the loss in his last outing, but Thomson is really shaky his ERA is higher at home 5.63 ERA, right bats hitting .314 left hitting .288 and this month he is sporting 12.27 ERA.

CIN -0.5 First 5 innings +103 for 2 units(L)
--------------------------------------------------
O's with Lopez/Indians with Westbrook.
Baltimore 16-28 on the road with last 10 games going 3-7. O's have not won AL series going back into June.
Lopez is under achieving 5-10 and he is hittable in current form.
Westbrook is on the surge and Indians should take this from the start.

CLE -0.5 First 5 innings -120 for 2 units(W)

1-1 0.00 unit

Saturday MLB

Back to the basics.
Yanks with Wang against D-Rays with Kazmir.
Kaz has been throwing lights out at home and he has taken out the best of them. I expect the Tropicana Field to light up orange tonight.

TAMP -104 for 2 units(L)
----------------------------------------------------
Zona with Webb against Rockies with Jennings. I'll take Webb on the road.

ARZ -108 for 1 unit(W)
ARZ -0.5 First 5 innings at +124 for 1 unit(L)
------------------------------------------------------
Reds with Harang vs Braves with Smoltz. Taking Smoltz at home.
ATL -127 for 2 units(W)
--------------------------------------------------------
Once again Angels at Oakland to be a low scoring.
LAA/OAK Under 8.5 -124 for 1 unit(L)
LAA -125 for 2 units(W)
LAA -0.5 First 5 innings +109 for 1 unit(W)
------------------------------------------------------
Jays and Royals to be high scoring
TOR/KCR Over 9.5 -113 for 1 unit(W)
5-3 +2.77 units

Friday MLB

A new day, had a bad one last night.
That Reds vs Braves game last night was a blow out for me at the first 5, but the game turned close with Reds 5 run rally towards the end. Braves will need to put away games like that at home it just proved to me they are still to be faded. I'm not doing that tonight and it'll be a blue moon before I back Mays again.

My takes for tonight.
Arizona at Colorado, Batista vs B.H. Kim at Coors Field.
Batista coming off a gem. Kim effective at home
ARZ/COL UNDER 5.5 -112 for 2 units(L)
*It has been raining in Denver if they can't play this wager is cancelled.
That would be very lucky to get this loser off my book.
-----------------------------------------------
NYY/TAMP J. Wright vs J. Seo.
Seo just blows and he's been giving it up early, East Coast West Coast no difference. Wright was hit, but good thing Yanks were hitting harder, look for Wright to bounce bak.
NYY -0.5 First 5 innings -108 for 2 units(W)
-----------------------------------------------
Minnesota at Texas Rangers C. Silva vs J. Wasdin.
Fading Wasdin after Milwood getting pushed back. Heavy load with Twins even at home. I think Twins will step up after the KC set back.
MIN First 5 +109 for 2 units(L)

Zona and Rox resumed play and there goes my luck.
1-2 -2.24 units

Thursday MLB

You would think these short work week are easy, but in reality the work load is condensed and there are more to do than working a regular week. Nothing comes easy and if sounds too good to be true.... you know the rest.

Look at the game in Turner Field tonight. The Reds come to play with Mays who will get hit, but look at his outing 2 starts ago against the Mets when Joe was in the divers seat. In this Reds vs Braves match up I think Hudson is getting too much chalk for what he's done this season and Reds can get to him as much as Braves to Mays the difference is name recognition.
Taking the Reds on the short game. Not sold on strength of Atlanta.

CIN +170 First 5 innings for 2 units(L)
CIN -0.5 at +209 First 5 innings for 1 unit(L)
That was reaching, but got to take my shots at the dog sometimes.
-------------------------------------------------------------
Late game additions.
Hendrickson takes the mound at Dodger Stadium. He lost his first start on the road, but Dodgers are hot at home fighting for first place position in NL West.
Backing the Dodgers against Cain and the Giants. Giving 0.5 runs for the First 5 innings.

LAD -0.5 First 5 innings at +116 for 2 units(L)
---------------------------------------------------------------
Angels at Oakland. Escobar for the Halos going against Loaiza.
These two teams match up Under and that has played out 20-8-1.
Take the starting pitchers to do their job.

LAA/OAK Under 4.5 First 5 innings at +100 for 2 units(L)
Hitting rough road.
0-4 -7.00 units

Fourth of July MLB

Everyone's looking for fireworks today/tonight and you know how it is with the grill going, brews flowing, games going things could get out of hand before you know it. It's OK to have fun just keep your money on your mind.

The Total at Safeco Field is looking good when you could take it down to O/U 8
Santana's having some control issues, but Angels bats are coming back.

SEA/LAA OVER 8 at -106 for 1 unit(W)
1-0 +1.00 unit

Monday MLB

This is long 4th of July Weekend and I was planning to play some games, but no I'm taking care of people coming in and out. Can't a capper get some time around here?

Wang on the hill for the Yanks in Cleveland. Indians sending young Jeremy Sowers. Backing the Yanks on the road for the short game. NYY pen has been taxed, but the OPS is climbing. Look for the advantage in First 5 innings

NYY -128 First 5 innings for 2 units(L)
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Making late game additions.
Tigers at Oakland. Listed pitchers Robertson for Detroit, Blanton for Oakland.

DET -120 for 2 units(L)
--------------------------------------------------------------------
Angels at Seattle. Listed pitchers Jered Weaver for Angels against Felix Hernadez for Mariners.

LAA +117 for 1 unit(W)
It was not a good night. A little adjustment from inter-league plays will be required for 4th of July.
1-2 -3.79

Saturday MLB

Was planning to wait till morning, but I'll take it now.
Angels with Escobar coming off his worst outing this season against the Diamondbacks. He should be much better at home.
Dodgers with newly acquired Hendrickson looks to eat up innings.

Checking the line in the morning should of waited. You'll get better price now at -114 First Half.

LAD/LAA Under 5 First 5 innings -125 for 2 units(Push)

Friday MLB

I like the match up in Texas.
Taking Houston with Roy Oswalt over Rangers with Vincente Padilla.

HOU -107 for 2 units(L)
Public play gets killed. Padilla was on his game.
0-1 -2.14 units

Thursday MLB

Feeling the Under today at the Great American Ball Park.
Getting a good Total tonight with Bobby Keppel coming off shaky outing against the Brewers, but he was throwing strikes and the final total landed at 9.
Bronson Arroyo for the Reds at home. His last outing 6 innings 5 hit 3 runs loss is bad is it gets Arroyo is very good after 6 inning performance rebounding deep in the next game. He is pitching 2.49 ERA at home, 2.10 ERA at night and 2.03 ERA against right hand bats.

KCR/CIN UNDER 9.5 at -111 for 1 unit(L)
Keppel was throwing strikes again and batters got good wood on them.
This game did not look Under at all.
0-1 -1.11 units

Wednesday MLB

It's one of those hot no breeze day in L.A.
Early games are under way, but I'm looking at the game in Chase Field.
If you play the SEA/ARZ by the book the play is on ARZ ML after loss by 4 runs or more and against SEA after 3 straight wins.
But I going to buck the trend a bit by taking the Mariners on the short game.
Don't like RHP Edgar Gonzalez in this spot coming into Mariners hot wheel house. RHP Felix Hernandez is having the best month in 2006 so far.

SEA First 5 inning at -122 for 2 units(Push)
Try to get cute and get no prize. Should of played straight game.

Tuesday MLB

Looking to stay ahead of the count, but seems like I'm always chasing time.
How I wish there was 28 hours in a day.

Going with Boston Red Sox at home. Taking Lester the young left hander over the Cuban Alay Soler.
Like Red Sox at home and though Mets are playing great road games the Sox OPS percentage tells me Red Sox are the hotter team. Left hander pitching against the Mets is added plus.

BOS -0.5 First 5 innings +105 1 unit(W)
BOS First 5 innings -124 for 2 units(W)
BOS -125 for 2 units(W)

Very nice day with Red Sox doing what they're supposed to do.
3-0 +5.05 units

Monday MLB

Back from short hiatus.

Backing Twins at home hosting young Billingsley and the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Silva will take the mound for the home team. He is back in form since his struggles in May.

MIN -113 for 2 units(W)
Good to get right back on the winner.
Be back tomorrow.
1-0 +2.00 units

Friday MLB

Spot for both pitchers to recover under controlled conditions.

NYM/TOR UNDER 10 at -109 for 1 unit(W)
1-0 +1.00 unit

Thursday MLB

There is a big game today in Houston with the return of Roger Clemens.
All eyes on Rocket, but the prize is with Lariano.

MIN -114 for 1 unit(W)
1-0 +1.00 unit

Wednesday MLB

Last season Jeff Weaver than pitcher for LA Dodgers settled down this time of the year and had some games where he really looked liked Dream Weaver.
It doesn't mean it's going to happen again here, but he is a streaky pitcher with great stuff. I've always been amazed by the array of weapons he commands it's just he doesn't string them togeather all the time and he can get rattled giving up big innings. I love to see the Angels stop the skid, but falling defense and slumping bats make them a tough choice.
Noah Lowry was roughed up in Seattle, but his start before against Pirates at home was a good one.
Looking for another Under.

LAA/SFG UNDER 9 at -113 for 1 unit(Push)

0-0-1

Tuesday MLB

Another day another chance. One play on the short game
Twins with Radke and Astros with Oz to battle it out.

MIN/HOU First Half Under 4.5 -111 for 2 units(L)
0-1 -2.22 units

Monday MLB

Back to the bases. Moving along to mile high Denver, Oakland A's with Dan Haren against the home team Rockies with BK. Haren has been on fire and BK is not going to be a competition.
Take the early game and win this by a run or better.

OAK -0.5 First 5 innings at Even for 2 units(L)
That was a loser Kim looked much sharper than Haren.
0-1 -1.00 unit

Friday MLB

Interleague plays start today. I'll be on Minnesota at Pittsburgh with two winning pitchers, Larinao for the Twins and Snell for the Pirates. I'm Lariano bias, but giving respect to Snell pitching winning ball since mid May his last 3 starts gives him 0.93 WHIP and 1.40 ERA with all three games going Under. Lariano is lights out his last 3 is 0.89 WHIP with 1.42 ERA and I think he has the edge with Pirates only hitting 1.71 against LHP in last 10 games, but my play on this game is the early Under in National League ballpark with pitchers batting.

MIN/PIT Under 4.5 First 5 innings at -114 for 3 units(W)
I was right with Minny too.
1-0 +3.00 units

Thursday MLB

Fernando Nieve on the mound for Houston Astros in Wrigley where Carlos Zambrano will pick it up for the Cubs.
Nieve with improving 2.92 ERA in June throwing 2.20 ERA against right.
Carlos has given up more than 2 runs only once since May.
May the pitchers battle it out

HOU/CUB Under 5 First 5 innings at -107 for 2 units(W)
1-0 +2.00 units

Wednesday MLB

Now it's Wednesday selection.

Take a look at the game in PetCo Park.
Dodgers coming off a bad loss and today Los Angeles will send tough as nails Brad Penny to the mound. He is solid matching his best career start at 7-1.
San Diego will counter with Mike Thompson who bobbles and weaves his way.
Mike is pitching dangerously and I see the Dodgers tattooing him early.

LAD -0.5 First 5 innings at +102 for 2 units(L)
Can't believe this one lost. LA take 2 nothing lead to start, I step away to find the game go down 2-3 end of 5 innings. Penny with sub-par pitching Dodgers lose 2nd in a row.
0-1 -2.00 units

Tuesday MLB

Sorry the title should of read "Tuesday" instead of "Wednesday"

Seattle Mariners with veteran Jamie Moyer on the mound against Oakland A's with Joe Blanton getting the ball. This is a spot for Mariners to drop as they are 2-12 money line after 3 straight wins over past 2 seasons.
Oakland 6-1 against Seattle this season.
Blanton 4-1 against Seattle with his team recording 5-1.
Moyer is 13-11 against Oakland with his team recording 17-15.

OAK -121 for 2 units(W)

Bounce back day.
1-0 +2.00 units

Monday MLB

Since switching the title to start with the date instead of "MLB" selections are getting better, just kidding.

I'm going to side with Southern California pitcher, UCLA product Casey Janssen, taking the mound for the Blue Jays at home. He will be facing veteran Kris Benson and the Baltimore Orioles. Although Benson has been keeping the O's in game and eating innings he has recorded 2 losses, 2 no decision with three of those games being Orioles losses in his last 4 starts. He also sports inflated road 5.85 ERA.
Casey, the Jays rookie, has gone 4 wins and 1 no decision with all 5 games being Blue Jay wins in his last 5 starts. He has pitched 5 or more innings since May.
This kid can throw strikes and he's a winner.

I don't trust Toronto's pen.

TOR -0.5 First 5 innings -107 for 3 units(L)
I give the local kid all the praise and he lets me down. Benson did look vintage.
0-1 -3.21 units

Saturday MLB

Today I will side with Rockies to hit Tomko/Dodgers in the early going.
Jennings to hold the Blue at bay.

Tomko had been 0-4 with a 8.28 ERA over his first five starts in Denver.
The veteran right-hander is 0-3 with a 10.38 ERA over his last three outings.
He has not lasted longer than 5 1/3 innings in any of those starts while giving up four homers.

COL First 5 innings -111 for 2 units(W)

1-0 +2.00 units

Friday MLB

Taking the following selections with listed pitchers at Pinnacle.
Enjoy the games and good luck as always.

LAD -130 for 2 units(W)

TB -121 for 1 unit(L)

BAL +106 for 1 unit(L)

CWS -132 for 2 units(W)

SDP -169 for 1 unit(W)

*2 teamers
SDP + LAD(W 0.91)
SDP + CWS(W 0.86)
LAD + CWS(W 1.04) for 0.5 units ea.

*3 teamer SDP + LAD + CWS for 0.5 units(W 1.95)

*5 teamer with all of above for 0.25 units(L)

All games were in reach picked the perfect parlay combo to make today
exciting and profitable.
7-3 +7.30 units

MLB Tuesday

While I'm in the Big Apple just happens to be the Boston Yankees series.
What coincidence.....I'll be clearing my desk after lunch and promptly be in Bronx by batting practice time.

NYY -0.5 First 5 innings at -112 for 2 units(L)
They won the game, but does not help.

-----------------------------------------------------

Twins, Lariano taking the mound in Seattle against Felix Hernadez.
Twins are struggling on this road trip and they are lacking offense, but if there's a bright side it's Santana, Lariano and the pen. Besides they're schedule caught Angels surging and Oakland pitching at it's best. Mariners will be the softest part of this trip. Mariners start June at home on winning note, but it was the Royals series at home Twins are not as easy.
Felix is improving, but he's serving up the long ball in almost every outing. Lariano's is throwing nasty stuff with lefties hitting 1.84 ERA and commanding 0.42 ERA for last 30 days. That's lights out.


MIN -111 for 2 units(L)
Felix out pitched Lariano making it 2 losers for the day.
I don't have the edge when I don't have enough time.
I'm returning to So Cal where the girls are always tanned and I'll have home advantage.

0-2 -4.46 units

MLB Monday

How about them Angels now making their way South East to Tampa Bay.
Jamie Shields gets the ball for the D-Rays the kid's not bad, but the current Angels bats are meaner than what he faced in Baltimore.
Will Jeff Weaver give up a big inning? I'm counting on him to have a good game. He's been improving and his last outing ground out ratio was fantastic.
His younger brother on his heels I hope he feeds off of that.
This might be closer than the Indians game, but take the Angels.

LAA -128 for 2 units(L)
Weaver looked pretty good after the 1st, but damage was done.
Shields had that change up working and that was my only concern with this kid. The ML moved against me and the late players had TB.

-----------------------------------------------------
Mets are sending the Cuban, Alay Soler, on his third start. The bottom of the pitching rotation is a work in progress for the Mets. This guy is just throwing too many pitches and Dodgers are making good contact playing National League kind of ball. Tomko has been shaky this New York line up is going to give him trouble. Taking the First Half scoring.

NYM/LAD First Half Over 5 at -106 for 1 unit(L)
This was a game that started with that "Over" feel, but nothing doing all goose eggs after the 3 run 1st inning and Yes the public lost on Over 9 for the game.

0-2 -3.62 units

Sunday MLB

The weekend is winding down. This will be a busy week and I'll be careful not to make glance over plays.

Halos at Cleveland. I do like CC for the Indians, but Big John Lackey brings his game against the Indians. Lets look for this one to be a 1 run game or better yet Angels to take the series.

LAA +1.5 Runs -130 for 1 unit(W)
Didn't need any added runs.

1-0 +1.00 units

MLB Friday

Reds on the road with Harang against Astros and Rodriguez.
Harang and Rodriguez with deceiving records. Harang is the better pitcher his record should be better than what it is. Rodriguez with rising ERA is not a home park pitcher. I just don't trust the late innings here.

CIN First 5 innings -105 for 1 unit(W)
CIN First 5 innings -108 for 1 unit(W)

I'll work on baseball tonight.

I've decided to increased the Reds play and taking the Halos on the pitchers angle.
Jered Weaver the younger of the Weaver brothers is a pitching phenom.
He's up for the challenge against the Indians.
Jason Johnson coming off a good outing, but don't trust him to be consistent.

LAA First 5 innings +110 for 2 units(W)

Some late night capping paid off.
3-0 +4.20 units

MLB Thursday

Yanks with Wang vs Tiger with Verlander.
Wang is quietly eating up innings, increasing pitch count, not walking much and rarely gives up the long ball.
V is the Tigers phenom looking to stop the bleeding.
Like the score to stay down.

NYY/DET UNDER 9.5 at -109 for 2 units(L)

---------------------------------------------------
Phillies with Floyd vs Dodgers with Lowe.
I know Lowe bring quality pitching and Floyd's shaky, but Philly plays LA tough and they've arrived LA before the Dodgers.
Dodgers are expected in around 2:45 am so they're still in the air and this might be a let down spot.

PHL -1.5 at +245 for 1 unit(L)
Lowe was good again and Floyd was shaky as ever, but there will be spots for the big dog to hit.
0-2 -3.18 units

Return to MLB Wednesday

Los Angeles (B. Tomko) at Atlanta (T. Hudson)
Don't trust Tomko he's been shaky for the last two starts, but bull pen has been reliable. Braves are tough to sweep at home and if Dodgers are going to do it they'll need to rally again.

ATL -0.5 First 5 innings -112 for 1 unit(W)
----------------------------------------------------------
White Sox (F. Garcia) at Cleveland (J. Westbrook)
Both pitchers coming off poor outings. Garcia had his worst outing this season and though Westbrook pitches better at home wins have been tough to come. He did win against KC in his most recent home outing, but that was after getting knocked around by Royals in KC before that.
In simple terms Westbrook is pitching below par with 5.54 ERA and Garcia is much better with 3.09 ERA for the month of May.

CWS -107 for 2 units(L) Sorry Sportsline was showing Jon Garland as the pitcher in play, but that was a mistake. Freddy got knocked around and this play is a loser.

1-1 -1.14 units

MLB Friday

Start of the 3 day weekend. There will be games galore, but I'm headed to the mountains deep into the Sierra to Mammoth Lakes.
I'll be back monday night.

Taking the Dodgers on the road against the Nationals.

LAD -115 for 2 units(L)

0-1 -2.30 units

Thursday MLB

Looking at Baltimore at Mariners. safeco Field is one of the best new era ball park to watch a game and why not get there while the Mariners are hot.
O's are having starter issues and Lopez has a lot of issues.
Meche has his stuff working and if he continues where he left off against
San Diego he will be very tough today.

SEA -0.5 First 5 innings at -104 for 2 units(L)
SEA -1 at -104 for 2 units(L)

Forgot to grade this play.
0-2 -4.16 units

MLB Wednesday

I like the early game with Cleveland at Minny. CC Sabathia is pitching lights out. Brad Radke is still searching his form and he is giving up the long balls.
Indians will take advantage early.

CLE -0.5 First 5 innings -112 for 2 units(W)
CLE -1 -123 for 2 units(W)
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Angels finally got a win last night. A nice rally to take the game at Arlington.
Today LAA/TEX with Weaver and Tejeda. Both pitchers are shaky and day time temperature will climb with winds blowing out in Texas today.

LAA/TEX Over 6 First 5 innings at -109 for 1 unit(W)
LAA/TEX OVER 11 at -112 for 1 unit(W)

Nice MLB day cashing in early. If my mood swings I'll take a crack at the late game.
4-0 +6.00 units

MLB Tuesday

Atlanta Braves at San Diego Padres.
I'm taking the full game, but focus will be on the pitching angle.
Jorge Sosa for Braves against Mike Thompson picking up the slack for missing Woody at PetCo Park. Sosa finally getting a win on his last outing looked like the pitcher he was last season. Sosa has the stuff to make him lights out it's matter of him harnessing the power. Thompson's job is to eat innings and he knows it. Braves can get to him left handed bats are making good contact.

ATL -107 for 1 unit(L)
Braves drop a close one. Thompson did more than eat innings tonight.

0-1 -1.07 units

MLB Sunday Matinee

Texas Rangers at Houston Astros. This game will feature J. Koronka for the Rangers and T. Buchholz for the Stros. They may not be household names, but John Koronka 25 year old has been aroundand don't count him out he is simply nasty against left handed bats with .159 ERA he had a bad outing against the Yanks, but against the cold bats of Astros in day light John will be good.
Taylor Buchholz struggles in May, but he too is day time pitcher traditionally strong againstthe right handed bats .217 ERA. He can pitch better than what he showed in the past two games.

TEX/HOU First 5 innings UNDER 5.5 at -107 for 2 units(W)


There's other Unders I like with TAM/FLA , Chicago and L.A. interlegues, but in terms of value and inflated number at a National League park this one seems just right.

The Total was way over inflated.
1-0 +2.00 units

Saturday MLB

Match up in Chicago North vs South.
Heavy chalk game with Rich Hill and Freddy Garcia. The conventional wisdom in interleague play says to take the LHP, but Hill is disaster with Cubs OPS sinking in his starts. Freddy "G" is just the opposite with White Sox OPS sky rocketing in his starts. Make this short and sweet.

CWS -0.5 First 5 innings at -140 for 1 unit(W)
Expected game.
-------------------------------------------------------------
I'm going with the match up at the Bay. SFG and OAK.
Taking listed pitchers Jason Schmidt vs Brad Halsey.
Payback on the one run A's win Friday.
Halsey's not lasting long in May giving up 3~4 runs per 4~5 inning of work with high pitch count. Schmidt is eating up innings and have made limited mistakes.

SFG -125 for 2 units(W)
Almost gave it away in the 9th.

2-0 +3.00 units
-------------------------------------------------------

Friday Water Under the Bridge

I didn't publish any Baseball plays today.
This is meaningless, but I did a parlay card for fun.
Look what it did....


1. Win 19-May Baseball/MLB (Money)
Chicago Cubs vs Chicago White Sox for Game (-162)
1 - 6
2. Win 19-May Baseball/MLB (Money)
Pittsburgh Pirates vs Cleveland Indians for Game (-167)
1 - 4
3. Loss 19-May Baseball/MLB (Money)
Cincinnati Reds vs Detroit Tigers for Game (-150)
9 - 4
4. Win 19-May Baseball/MLB (Money)
Florida Marlins vs Tampa Bay Devil Rays for Game (-141)
4 - 5
5. Win 19-May Baseball/MLB (Money)
St Louis Cardinals vs Kansas City Royals for Game (-234)
9 - 6
6. Win 19-May-06 Baseball/MLB (Money)
LAA Angels vs Los Angeles Dodgers for Game (-126)
3-16
7. Win 19-May Basketball/NBA (Money)
Detroit Pistons vs Cleveland Cavaliers for Game (-265)
84 - 82


Tigers, Tigers, Tigers.......
Next time I have a hunch I'll post it.

MLB Thursday

It appears I'm not putting enough emphasis, but I am watching MLB and it won't be long before I'm back to my mid season form. Not really comfortable yet with stuff I have on the drawing board and keep in mind MLB break downs takes longer than any other sports I cap.

The card for Thursday. I'll go short game with the hot pitcher again.
Visiting pitcher Roy Halladay of Toronto against Big John Lackey and the Halos. Roy's had troubles in Southern California, but with the Angles declining OPS they are struggling to stay afloat. I don't think Roy will lose, it's a win or no decision and if the Halos are to take the rubber match it'll be in the late innings.

TOR First 5 innings at -126 for 2 units(L) (*line has moved to -128)
Woes continue in MLB. Angles losing in extra innings is sharing my frustration as the clubhouse errupted after the game and media members were shuttled out with door closing. I don't blame them there is no good reason for that loss.
0-1 -2.52 units

Since I only had 2 plays, this one and one in NBA, I decided to play them in parlay, but Pinny doesn't offer 1st 5innings for the combo, they have halves for NBA, so ended with Clips 1st Half -2.5 with Jays ML. It worked out.

Wednesday MLB Shorts

5 inning line on visiting Twins with Santana on the mound against Tigers and Verlander. Santana coming into form I expect him to shut down the Tigers line up for the half while Twins muster some hits and bring home the runs.

MIN First 5 innings -129 for 2 units(Push)

Twins go on to lose this game in the late innings in this pitcher battle.

MLB Monday

I running late.
Here's my pick without write up.

San Diego Padres/Arizona D-Backs
Total Points UNDER 4.5 for 1st Half -109 for 1 unit(L)
C. H. Park must start B. Webb must start

0-1 -1.09 units

Mother's Day MLB Play

Let's hit the early game and maybe we could all take our mother's out on this special day.

PHL -0.5 Runs First 5 innings -102 for 2 units(L)

OK one more play with White Sox to have the lead at the 5th inning.
CWS -0.5 Runs First 5 innings -112 for 2 units(W)
That was scary giving 7 runs in the first.

1-1 -0.02 units

MLB Saturday

Detroit (Bonderman) at Cleveland (Sabathia).
Wish I would of taken Indians earlier. It's still my play at the inflated price.

CLE -1 run at -102 for 2 units(L)


Arizona D-Backs (C. Vargas) at St Louis Cardinals (J. Marquis)
If the Cards are to lose one this is a good spot with pitchers going the opposite directions.
ARZ +124 for 1 unit(L)


Los Angeles Dodgers (A. Sele) at San Francisco Giants (N. Lowry)
First 5 innings OVER 5 at +103 for 1 unit(L)

My mind must of been on NBA as all MLB plays slipped through my fingers.
I hate playing the season from behind, but it's not the first time besides had a killer day at the baskets.
0-3 -4.04 units

Friday MLB

Thank God it's Friday.
I only have one MLB play, but feeling good about this pick.
Texas (Loe) at Boston (Clement)
Like the Under today with listed pitchers.

TEX/BOS UNDER 10.5 at -107 for 3 units(Rain in 6th)
Done in by the weather. The play is cancelled.

MLB Thursday

Early game, ARZ/PIT (Cruz vs Perz)
Perz will give it up early and first half looks easier than the full game.

ARZ First 5 innings -126 for 3 units(Rained Out)
-----------------------------------------------------

Dog play on A's with Saarloos at Toronto with Lilly.
Like the way Oakland plays at Rogers Center. Last night's game, even with 6 runs given up in the first inning they come back to take the lead at the top of the 4th, they lost that game by 2 runs. Blanton went 6 innings and the only Matt Roney was used. Value on A's took a slight bounce so I'll take it here.

OAK +137 for 1 unit(L)
--------------------------------------------------------
No luck for the early plays.
Taking Tigers to take the series in Baltimore. Veteran "Gambler" will take the mound for Detroit going against Bedard who's had tons of trouble against the Tigers. Baltimore's line up is bit thin tonight.

DET -111 for 2 units(Rained Out)
-------------------------------------------------------
Atlanta with Hudson is in Florida taking on the D-Train.
Wins are not coming as easily for Dontrelle this year and Hudson will not cooperate after his team gave up 13 runs last night.

ATL -127 for 1 unit(W)
--------------------------------------------------------
Reds at home with Arroyo hosting the visiting Nationals with Day.
Reds will take the series at home. Arroyo will bounce back and Reds bats will be too much for Day.
CIN RL -1.5 +106 for 1 unit(L)
Weather did not help matters and didn't notice Reds as big public play.
At least Batis was smart enough to take +1.5 with Nationals.
1-2 -1.00 unit

MLB Wednesday

I like the battle for the NL East. Mets are turning low scoring halfs and I'm going to ride it again. Tommy Glavine is pitching fine in his ripe age matter of fact he's been very good. Cory Lidle is eating up 6 innings plus, ERA dropping and coming off excellent ground out ratio of 11-2.
Both teams know where they stand. Looking for another tight one.

NYM/PHL UNDER 5 First 5 innings -105 for 2 units(L)

0-1 -2.10 units

MLB Tuesday

The system plays will go further development before taking real plays.
Todays pick is fundamental than anything else. Mets are at the top of NL East with their ace Pedro Martinez playing at Citizens Bank Park against the rising Phillies and their top man Myers.
Pedro is hot right now, Phillies will need to work him and Myers will need his best stuff to keep his team in game.

NYM/PHL Under 4 First 5 innings at -108 for 3 units(W)

Sometimes it pays to just study the game.
1-0 +3.00 units

Monday Plays

Two plays today. Good luck Players.

Pitchers: Weaver vs Halladay
LAA/TOR First 5 innings Under 4.5 runs at -103 for 2 units(L)

Pitchers: Lowry vs Oswalt
SFG/HOU UNDER 7.5 -128 for 2 units(L)

Blame it on NBA Playoffs. I'll study the card tomorrow.
0-2 -4.62 units

Sunday MLB System Play

I have one stand out in the filter.

Houston Astros (F. Nieve) at Colorado Rockies (A. Cook)
OVER 11 Runs at +103 for 2 units(L)
Sorry this loss was human error. Not getting into the explanation, but system play is positive with all games.

0-1 -2.00 units

No Plays Saturday MLB

System plays looks promising, but I don't have time to run them through fundamental filter today so No Published Plays.

Good luck players.

MLB Friday

• I'm going to publish some algorithm picks with a twist. I'm throwing out the one's with weak fundamentals.
• 1 unit across the board.

Pittsburgh Pirates/Washington Nationals
Total Points UNDER 9 for Game -120(W)
OL. Perez must start Z. Day must start

St Louis Cardinals
Money Line for Game -156(W)
J. Suppan must start S. Mitre must start

LAA Angels/Toronto Blue Jays
Total Points UNDER 9.5 for Game -120(L)
E. Santana must start G. Chacin must start

Detroit Tigers
Money Line for Game -138(W)
K. Rogers must start K. Lohse must start


Tampa Bay Devil Rays/Oakland Athletics
Total Points UNDER 8.5 for Game -115(W)
S. Kazmir must start J. Blanton must start

The heavy juice on these cards are because I copied them off my parlay card. You can get much better lines individually.

Nearly nailed the Parlay card, NOT (losing under was not even close), but good day at the bases.

4-1 +2.80 units

MLB No Sweep Thursday

To all the readers in cyberspace,
Fade me when I'm cold and tail me when I'm hot.
Now you know the Tigers pulled out the "W" last night, but my indicator was off as they were trailing at the bottom of the 5th.
The developing pattern over the last 2 days of MLB plays have lost full games which would of won in 5 innings and lost half game which would of won in full game.

AL East, 2005 trend on Yanks following BoSox series was easy money and today NYY is trying to erase those memories with a win in Tropicana Field.
I have a feeling the dome will light up Orange in tradition with Devil Rays win.

TB Run Line +1.5 at +140 for 1 unit(L)
I really thought these suckers could stop the sweep.

0-1 -1.00 units

MLB Wednesday

If it's worked try try again, is the thought behind J. Weaver fade in Detroit vs lefty Robertson. Pitchers heading in opposite direction and Halo batters are not cashing in the runs. Angels need a win badly and plays Tigers well, but they will be trailing at the bottom of 5th.

DET -0.5 for 1st 5 innings at -101 for 2 units(L)

0-1 -2.02 units

MLB Monday

Back to Monday.
The weekend is over and my thoughts are on Houston at Milwaukee.
Rodriguez gets the ball for Astros going against home team Ohka.
Ohka is pretty good, but can't seem to string wins and follows good outing with bad. Astros just seem to have the Brew Crews number and Rodriguez is winning games. Let takem' for the first half.

HOU -109 First 5 innings for 2 units(Push)

I got lucky Brew Crew looked better from the start.

Sunday MLB

Be back later with reviews on early selections all for single unit each.

ARZ at SFG UNDER 8 -110(L)

LAA -119(L)

CLE -1 at +109(L)

ATL First 5 innings -117(W)

TOR -0.5 First 5 innings +219(L)

What shame these should of all been for the 1st 5 innings.
1-4 -3.29 units

Halos, Escobar mow them South Siders down

This match has revenge implication from last night and last years ALCS.
Don't let last nights game fool you the Angels have the Champion characteristics and Angels took out the hot streaking White Sox at home in regular season last year. Kelvin, my man, Escobar on the mound and the big Cuban is going down tonight.

LAA +109 for 1 units(L)
Halos were there at the bottom of 9th with man in scoring position.
No cigar.
0-1 -1.00 unit

Working Friday MLB

Working the numbers at MLB take a look at Diamondbacks at Giants.
First Giants home factor AT&T Park which has been very productive.
(Run Scored +Runs Allowed at Home)/(Home Games)/
(Runs Scored + Runs Allowed on Road)/(Road Games)
SFG ranks 4th.
Second the pitching. ARZ, Miguel Batista, 2-0, 5.16 ERA, 1.68 WHIP.
His last outing against the Dodgers Nomar Garciapara's 1st inning line drive hit him in the shin. He ended leaving the game 5 innings later with stiffining shin. He faced the Giants 4/17 in Arizona and was drilled early lasting only 4 innings with 11 hits 7 runs 6 earned.
There are 2 Giants (Bonds and Wynn) with high OPS against Miguel.
Relief pitchers.
Used 4/26 (*4/27 no game) Luis Vizcaino 1.64 ERA, Brandon Lyon 0.93 ERA, Jose Valverde 3.24 ERA (S)Bull pen was perfect in low scoring road win against San Diego.
Used 4/25 Brandon Medders 10.80 ERA,Greg Aquino 4.32 ERA
Used 4/24 Jose Valverde (S. W)
Used 4/23 Grimsley 5.87 ERA, Cruz 3.00 ERA, Lyon 1.04 ERA

SFG, Jason Schmidt, 0-2, 5.33 ERA, 1.44 WHIP
His last outing against the Rockies in Denver 7 innings, 5 runs all earned
hit him early and often in a slug fest Rockies win in 9th inning rally.
4/15 against the Dodgers in LA loss, 6 innings, 6 hits, 2 runs earned with notable 7 walks throwing 114 pitches.
There are 2 Diamondbacks (Shawn Green and Chad Tracy) with high OPS against Jason.
Relief pitchers.
Used 4/26 (*4/27 no game) Fassero 6.97 ERA, Kline 5.14 ERA, Worrell 7.84 ERA, Benitez 0.00 ERA, Munter 5.59 ERA.
Used 4/25 Accardo 5.40 ERA
Used 4/24 Worrell 7.45 ERA, Munter 4.15 ERA.
Used 4/23 Correia 4.15 ERA, Wilson 0.00 ERA, Fassero 7.20 ERA

Momentum goes to Diamondbacks.
Giants are lacking stability at this point and to shoulder this game on Jason is too much. Arizona have shown to win on the road. If Batista can keep the game in striking range the late inning should prove to be in Diamondback's favor.
Take the Road Dog. ARZ +133 for 1 unit(L)

------------------------------------------------------------
I'm not going to write all the details for CWS at LAA.
In a nut shell Garcia will out pitch Weaver, but when the bull pen comes in it'll be a different game. Angels pen is the strength.

CWS First 5 innings -112 for 1 unit(W)
Made this game sound like it was going to be pitchers dual, anything but.
Should of taken the Over too. Never did trust Weaver although he has some of the best pitches in baseball, killer side arm he'll drop on you anytime, but his wheels tend to come off during games. Freddy G. is just getting up in age he's not going to give you the high heater in the mid 90's any more, but he has experience to get the batters out.

I guess all the details couldn't of helped the Diamondbacks.
Getting "Even" again.
1-1 even

MLB Wednesday

Greetings Cappers,
Welcome to Arlington, Texas, Ameriquest Field. Rangers are above .500 rolling 7-3 last 10. Interestingly this stadium ranks 18th in park factor for the Rangers. This game will feature Oakland flame thrower Rich Harden vs Texas 2nd year big man 6'7" 240lbs Kameron Loe, he is coming off chest cold and though he pitched well against the A's in their last meeting he has yet to record a win. Series tied here 1-1 and both games was 1 run difference.
I will back 3-0 Harden and the visiting A's for the first half. Loe is still learning at this level and he will get schooled by one of the best in American League.

OAK First 5 innings -123 for 1 unit(L)

Harden goes out of the game at bottom of 4th with 1 run lead, but leaves bases loaded for Kevin Mench on hot streak. Kiko was no match and promptly gives up the grand slam. This is looking like a loser with time running out.
Too bad I didn't take the complete game as Oakland took the lead in the latter innings.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------

Let's go to Anaheim where the recharged Tigers visit the Angels in bit of a slump. Big John Lacky who gave up too many walks against Oakland in his last outing will focus on taking down the Tiger batters. Maroth on the other side is sparkling. It's a day game and the air is warm in Southern California today, but this could still go down with very little runs. I'll count on the starting pitchers.

DET/LAA First 5 innings Under 4 +111 for 1 unit(Push)
Detroit error cost me the win.
------------------------------------------------------------------
Will persistence pay off?
Let's go to the North West where the White Sox are ready to take on the Mariners at Safeco. On the mound for the Champs Mark Buehrle and for the Mariners Jarrod Washburn. Mark has been hit at Safeco and Ichiro gives him trouble, but Wash has his own set of troubles with the White Sox line up.
In comparison Sox batter have the advantage over Mariners.
On the strength of the starters Buehrle is notch above Washburn and White Sox should take the early lead.

CWS -0.5 First 5 innings -102 for 2 units(L)

Washburn threw a gem. Buehrle was not good enough.
2-0-1 -3.27 units

MLB Friday

Friday already? This week went by in nothing flat. It must of been tax deadline and standard American tax paying rule, if you must pay wait till last minute.

I'm picking my spots right now and things are looking up.
Boston with Wakefield drops a rare one against the D-Rays and Kaz.
Today the Red Sox will be in Toronto with their big Texan Beckett and Jays will counter with ex-Florida team mate Burnett. Given these two pitchers I like Beckett's stuff better. Boston gets pretty good price here with Jays taking the first series at Boston and good match up history, but I wouldn't go against Red Sox with Schilling, Wakefield and Beckett on the mound. Both are fire ballers, but AJ gets hurt, he was hurt in the Spring and sidelined, so he's behind regular season form. Though American League batters have not seen much of ex-Natinal League pitchers Burnett and Beckett, Beckett pitched against Toronto in Boston home opener, Red Sox has the better line up to contact hard throwing righty. Beckett has set the tone and making progress for early season where as AJ needs few more outings. Red Sox playing their best game on the road (5-1) with top of the line up hitting well.
Under looks tempting here, but my take for this match will be the first 5 innings.

BOS PK First 5 innings -113 for 2 units(W)

Red Sox was up after the first 5 innings and that's what I was backing.
1-0 +2.00 units

MLB Tuesday

San Diego Padres C. Hensley vs Colorado Rockies J. Fogg:
Good spot for the Rox to stop the skid. Last time they did it with Fogg and he's looking for 3-0 start. Hensley is a fill in and high altitude will not be kind.

COL -128 for 1 unit(W)

This game went deep.
1-0 +1.00 unit

Moving on to Saturday

Mariners with Pineiro at Red Sox with Wakefield.
Working off long term indicators and current fundamentals.
Pineiro will get tagged and defense will hurt Wakefield.

SEA/BOS First 5 innings OVER 5.5 -119 for 2 units(L)
SEA/BOS First 5 innings OVER 6 +106 for 1 unit(L)
SEA/BOS OVER 10 -121 for 2 units(L)
SEA/BOS OVER 10.5 -102 for 1 unit(L)

--------------------------------------------------------
Angels with Colon at Orioles with Bedard.
I was not a fan of Colon last year thought he would wear down, but he went on to win 21, got the Cy Young and when the pitches are down it's still nasty. So what's he doing wrong? Yanks pounded him with the ball up in the zone. He says he was gripping the ball too hard causing the fastball to get up. Scioscia thinks he was over throwing and it was the Yankees playing to avoid the sweep.
It's a bounce back spot for Bartolo.
Bedard starting out nicely and two wins are helped by schedule against D-Rays who the O's dominate. Angels will be different. O's took the first game and on most nights Sheilds would of put that inning away to send it to the 10th.
Angels line up is seeing the ball well no advantage to the Birds.

LAA +100 for 1 unit(L)
---------------------------------------------------------------
Giants with Schmidt at Dodgers with Perez.
SFG/LAD UNDER 7.5 +100 for 1 unit(W)

1-5 -6.83 units

Making some adjustments in MLB

I'm going to take some early line for tomorrow.

Webb will take the ball for the Diamondbacks and Pettitte for the visiting Astros. So what's the adjustment? The plays will win.

HOU/ARZ First 5 innings Under 4.5 Runs at -114 for 2 units(W)
------------------------------------------------------------

Boston with Schilling dominating in the early season hosting the Mariners and Moyer. Jamie has trouble in Fenway and Boston's last two starters have failed at home. Red Sox to pound the Mariners.

BOS -0.5 First 5 innings -132 for 1 unit(W)
BOS -1.5 at -101 for 1 unit(L)
Out hit Seattle 10 to 4, but can't cash in the runs
----------------------------------------------------------
Cleveland with Westbrook at Detroit with Rogers.
Westbrook has been great and Rogers have been doing well Comerica Park.
On this match up I think Westbrook has the upper hand.

CLE PK First 5 innings -105 for 2 unit(L)
Damn the Gambler!

Looks like it still needs work. It's getting there.
2-2 -0.11 units

Been a Long Time since I Rock & Roll

I missed publishing Dodgers and Marlins for the first 5 innings and it has been tough posting winners lately.

Baltimore lost last night against the Devil Rays at home, but the O's have dominated the Rays and Bruce Chen puts up wins at Tropicana.
Doug Weachter is showing classic signs of brilliant spring to eroding April.
Not lasting 4 innings in his last outing, he gave up club leading 29 homers last year and the Rays are saying, he didn't give up any homer to the Blue Jays, will see what happens tonight.

BAL -0.5 First 5 innings +101 for 2 units(L)

Plays are still taking an beating. I knew this was bad when I saw Weachter mowing down the Birds.
0-1 -2.00 units

Cold Plays MLB

Baseball in the spring is off to a shaky start. Can Clutch recover form and play his way out of the slump? The cold plays from NBA is causing hangovers.
Unit denomination is 1% of the bankroll and it has been down sized.
The drama unfolds...

Astros at Giants. Backe will stay on his normal rotation for Houston and Morris will get the ball for the Giants. Both pitchers have started well.
The hitter are seeing the ball well right now, but still like good pitching over good hitting.

HOU/SFG 1st 5 innings UNDER 4.5 -103 for 1 unit(Rained Out)
------------------------------------------------------------
O's at Devil Rays. Cabrera vs Fossum is a match up looking for high score.
I'm thinking both pitchers improve. Runs may come, but the number is too high.

BAL/TAMP 1st 5 innings UNDER 5.5 -107 for 2 units(W)
--------------------------------------------------------------
Rangers at Angels. Escobar takes the ball after holding the Yankees at bay.
Always liked Escobar and expect him to be Halo's top gun.
Texas giving 2nd chance to Koronka. So he threw stikes and didn't walk a man against the Tigers still a loss and he is a call up going against very good line up with the Angels. I'd give up a full run if the books offered it for the first 5 innings.

LAA -0.5 1st 5 innings -123 for 2 units(L)
Got my ass kicked along side my man Kelvim.

1-1 -0.46 units

Tuesday MLB Totals

I will be playing the early game again with Mets at Nationals. You know there is expectation for a fight to erupt with Pedro hitting some of the Nats and today's Mets pitcher Bannister hit couple of Nats too. But I do like the early meeting playing out to high score of 9 or better.

NYM/WAS OVER 8.5 -110 for 2 units(L)
Over was knocking at the door. How many scoring chances went unanswered? Damn Zimmerman, bases loaded bottom of 9th strikes out on three pitches from shaky Wagner, WTF was that.
---------------------------------------------------------
Padres at Marlins total set at 8.5 and money is going towards Over.
Bit of a gut play here, but I think Woody pitches a gem and get no run support.

SDP/FLA UNDER 8.5 +102 for 1 unit(L)
--------------------------------------------------------
O's at Tampa Bay in the cozy confines of the enclosed Tropicana.
I underestimated Hendrickson's progress as a pitcher.
Benson needs to focus here, don't be thinking of Anna play ball.

BAL/TAM UNDER 9 -107 for 1 unit(Canceled)
Pitcher change for Tampa negates this wager.
-------------------------------------------------------
Seattle at Cleveland. I think this is another Under. Washburn is going to give Mariners the mileage they need and Lee will elevate the Indians, he'll put up good numbers this season.

SEA/CLE UNDER 8.5 -109 for 1 unit(L)

So there you go, full day of MLB action to follow or fade. Busy day tomorrow there will be no added plays. Good luck to all.

Sorry to say it was the faders today.
0-3 -4.29 units

PNC Park Opening Game

This is a early game with Dodgers sending O. Perez and Z. Duke will take the Pirates home mound for the day game.
Dodgers played a double header last night at Philly splitting the games.
They rushed out to catch their flight and they will be back on the field early.
Perez was rocked in his last outing, though he is much better than what he showed, it may have lingering effects. Duke also looked shaky in his last start, but pitched his way out and he should be psyched with Pirate coming off a losing streak breaking win combined with his first home opener.
Another Pirates advantage is Jim Tracy the ex-Dodger manager calling the shot.

PIT -0.5 First 5 innings +103 for 2 units(L)

I thought about Dodgers winning record against the Pirates, but still it was a good angle. I'd probably play that situation the same way.
0-1 -2.00 units

Sunday Please Shine Down on Me

Let's take the full game.

BAL +105(L)

ARZ/MIL UNDER 8.5 -114(W)

ATL -102(L)

1 unit each with listed pitchers.

EZ

Atlanta was so close.
1-2 -1.02 units

Saturday Baseball

Lets take it in chronological order.

Revenge of the Blue Jays with Lily on the mound facing Devil Rays, Weachter.
I hope Jays knock him out early. It's all short games today.
TOR -0.5 1st 5 innings -117 for 1 unit(W)
Jays rally in bottom of 5th....clutch
-----------------------------------------------------------

Marlins send D-Train to the mound and Mets will counter with Glavin.
It's young vs old. Taking the relief out of the risk and still the Mets line up is pretty good, but I'll go with the youth.

FLA 1st 5 innings +140 for 1 unit(Rained Out)
-----------------------------------------------------

Arizona at Milwaukee will match up Webb vs Davis. I like both pitchers.
ARZ/MIL 1st 5 innings UNDER 4.5 -111 for 2 units(L)
------------------------------------------------------
Twins with Baker is not going to cut it against the Indians.
J. Johnson takes the place of CC Sabathia and he may put the ball in play, but
he'll have the good hands behind to field the outs. He'll eat up some innings.
CLE -0.5 1st 5 innings -109 for 2 units(W)
-----------------------------------------------------
Yanks and the Big Unit are trying to get things started. Too bad young Santana is a Yankee slayer

LAA -0.5 1st 5 innings +177 for 1 unit(W)
Oh yeah, another bottom of the 5th takes the big puppy.

3-1 +2.95 units

Casual Friday

May the ball do the talking and silence the bats. amen.

Nationals at Astros
Listed pitchers T. Armas (Washington) vs B. Backe (Houston)
Total Under 9 -106 for 2 units (W)
--------------------------------------------
Braves at Giants
Listed pitchers K. Davies (Atlanta) vs M. Cain (SF)
Total Under 9 -109 for 2 units (L)
-------------------------------------------
White Sox at Royals
Listed pitchers J. Garland (Chicago) vs J. Affeldt (KC)
Total Under 9 -110 for 2 units(L)

That was little too casual. Should of posted the 2nd chance play on Giants at the 5th inning for a big +181 dog.

Never mind, Braves put up 8 runs in top of 7th!
1-2 -2.38 units

Come get your Baseball Fix

Get dirty boys. Every swing, every pitch, every motion, watch it like a bird in prey. Catch all idiosyncrasy than crunch every single stat known to man.
When you've done all you can take a deep breath, reach into your pockets pulling out your hard earned cash and tell the man......

TAMPA BAY/BALTIMORE TO GO OVER 9 RUNS -122 for 3 units(L)
Oh what a blow. I did miss a big indicator and should of posted a second chance play, now offered by Pinny after the first 5 innings, which is a nice option this season.

0-1 -3.66 units

Boston Red Sox vs Texas Rangers

This is two offensive powers closing out the first series.
Red Sox have the edge today with Big Josh Beckett taking the mound against new comer Kameron Loe. Can Loe hold his own? This will be a tough test, but I will back the score to stay Under 5.5 for the first half.

BOS/TEX 1st 5 innings UNDER 5.5 -105 for 1 unit(W)

---------------------------------------------------------------

Pirates at Brewers may not get much attention, but 1st half under and under game looks better than any other match up

PIT/MIL 1st 5 innings UNDER 4.5 -113 for 1 unit(W)
PIT/MIL UNDER 8.5 -118 for 2 units(W)

Lets roll boys !
3-0 +4.00 units

Snakes at Rocky Mountain High

National League sleepers in match up giving these teams very low juice.
Both of these teams did the spring in Tucson and know each other well.
The game will play out in Coors Field's thin air, but Webb does much better here than Jennings.

ARZ -106 for 1 unit(L)

I did go up in the 8th only to have Terry Mulholland give away my money.
0-1 -1.06 units

MLB Opening Day

The Spring is in the air. The days are getting longer and warmer, the Boys of Summer is back in action. Getting right into the main event, The Champions Chicago White Sox vs The Contender Cleveland Indians.

CC Sabathia sandbagging the grapefruit games, not really sandbagging more like testing pitches outside his means. Mark Buehrie is already in form
looking like he'll start of with string of early wins.

Take CLE/CWS UNDER 8 -112 for 1 unit(L)

------------------------------------------------------
I'm really stoked on Buehrie and 1st Half at PICKEM looks like money to me.

CWS 1st 5 innings -114 for 2 units(W)

1-1 +0.88 units

Grapefruit League Tuesday

Backing the Tribe today. CC will get the ball for Indians against Ramon Ortiz for home team Nationals.
Please check back for updates on this game.
Taking the over night line.

Here we go with Tuesday XMLB. Feel good play with the Indians traveling to Viera to meet the struggling Nationals on their home field.
Tribes will send LHP CC Sabathia with pitchers Guillermo Mota, Steve Karsay and Rafael Betancourt scheduled. This is the 2nd to last game in spring and Indians having won 6 of their last 7 games look to finish strong in the Grapefurit League.
Nats will go with Ramon Ortiz. He has been pitching well, but knowing Ramon I don't want to get too high on the right hander. Speculating about 6 innings of work and maybe Felix will throw or Joey or Gary Majewaski or Travis Hughes...not much of insight, but the fact is Nationals are work in progress, still adjusting where as the Indians are ready to start.

CLE -120 for 2 units(L)

0-1 -2.40 units

Cactus League Monday

XMLB is winding down. Today I will visit the Peoria Sports Complex to check out Kelvin Escobar and the Angels take on the home team San Diego Padres with Woody Williams on the mound. Angels coming off a split squad double win on Sunday and Pads rally in the 8th against SF Giants to tie the game.
Both team with spring winning record are in the final stages of tune up.
I would say Pads have the edge with Angels having played split squad and home field, but this is when the cream rises to the top. I see Pads throwing veteran pitching today and these are the guys players are familiar with.
I expect Angels to go far this season and take this game today.

LAA +108 for 2 units(W)
Got all caught up in this game and missed NBA Jazz for 2nd Half ATS.

1-0 +2.00 units

Cactus League Friday

Thursday game sure was disappointing. The errors did me in with 2 runs cashing in for the Sox. Games are getting tighter looking like the real thing.

Now the Oakland A's take out the hottest team in Cactus League, the Angels,
and they did it in signature fashion, by one run.
Zito vs Peavy should be a good game. Oakland looking to start the season on winning note. Pads cooling in the spring.

OAK -119 for 1 unit(L)

Cactus League White Sox at Rangers

Texas taking two game slide since reaching .500 on Sunday shut out of the Cubs, now record stands at 8-10-1 in Cactus League. Wednesday game (5-10 MIL) for Texas was a search for 5th starter gone bad and Tuesday game (0-9 LAA) was combination of good Angels pitching and cold Rangers batting.
Texas will send Kevin Milwood. His last game against Diamondbacks, 4 runs allowed in 4 2/3 innings was not that bad as he retired first 7 batters faced, then he walked 2 which turned into a run. Struck out the sides in 4th and gave up two run homer in the 5th.
Chicago South Siders will take the long bus ride to Surprise, they are coming into this contest 5-16 in Cactus League with 2 wins out of last 10 games.
Hideo Nomo will get the ball for this game. Nomo worked 2 innings against KC giving up 3 hits 2 runs earned with 2 strike outs and no walks. I'm thinking the White Sox pitching staff to be thin and Nomo may go longer this outing.
Texas bat has been too quiet and this maybe a good spot to make some noise.

TEX -114 for 2 units(L)

0-1 -2.28 units

Cactus League

Giants have dropped 5 of their last 6 and fallen below .500 in Cactus league. Angels come in winning 8 out of last 9 games. Angels sporting .667 winning percentage in Cactus League. Today the starters are Kelvin Escobar making his first Cactus League appearance since returning from WBC going 3-2 3.02 ERA. Other Angels slated for today areKevin Gregg, Jason Bulger, Scott Dunn and Chris Bootcheck.
Giants will start Matt Cain the top prospect making his forth appearance with extendedpitching in each outing. Other Giants on schedule are Jack Taschner, Jeff Fasero and Steve Kline. Giants are favored tonight as this game is the first in Cactus League where the 2006 projected starting 8 are all available for play. But I don't know if that's good enough to take out the visiting Angels.
I'll take the value with Angels staying hot.

LAA +100 for 1 unit(W)

1-0 +1.00 unit

Cactus League

I'll cool it with baseball, maybe pick my spots for now. I have the need to see more players in action and dynamics of spring is changing with return of World Baseball Classic players returning to their teams.

Thinking about going out to Scottsdale or Peoria, but small action on
Angels. Yes, Jeff got knocked around, but Wasdin does not strike fear and Angels line up picks are doing well away from home.

LAA -103 for 1 unit(W)

1-0 +1.00 unit

Grapefuit League

Good things happen with Santana on the mound.

MIN +108 for 1 unit(L)

0-1 -1.00 unit

The Amazing Padres

These guys are pulling off clutch plays. For two of the last three games, the Padres offense has lagged behind while the opposing team seems to have the game in hand. Then, with an inning or two left, the Padres bats get hot and they pull out the win.
Tuesday against the Athletics, the Friars trailed, 5-1, going into the eighth inning, but thanks to a pair of home runs by Ben Johnson and Eric Valent, San Diego scored five in the inning to get the win. Friday's game had a similar look to it, with the Padres trailing early and for most of the game against the Mariners. This time, Justin Leone was the late hero with a grand slam in the ninth to give the Padres a 9-7 win over Seattle, which at the close of the sixth inning had a 6-2 lead. Geoff Blum's two-out, three-run homer brought the Padres within one run of the Mariners at 6-5 in the top of the seventh.
We will not look to trail Saturday as Right-hander Dewon Brazelton (0-0, 2.25 ERA) will get his fourth start of the spring. His opponent will be left-hander Zach Jackson (2-0, 5.63 ERA) of the Brewers, last meeting with the Pads on 3/13 he was rocked for three runs and two homers, but starter David Bush for the Brew crew was sharp for 4 innings, where as San Diego on this day looked at too many pitchers which killed their chances after the 6th innings.
This game will play out different at Peoria as I feel San Diego will take it from the start.

SDP -116 for 2 units(W)

It was not a blow out and Brew was lurking close.
1-0 +2.00 units
Spring 06' +5.30

Spring Training Camp 2006

I'm not 100% for MLB yet, but I'm doing my homework and getting in shape.
WBC was a baseball nightmare for me. I didn't play much, but team USA killed it as far as wagerline goes. Here's what March has brought us so far.

3/17 ARZ -107 2 units (W)
3/16 LAD -124 1 unit (L)
3/16 ARZ -120 1 unit (L)
3/16 SDP -115 1 unit (W)
3/13 SFG -113 3 units (W)
3/13 NYY -128 2 units (L)
NYM -133 1 unit (W)
MIN +115 1 unit (W)
3/05 SDP +106 1 unit (W)
========================
Sub-Total Gain +4.30 units

3/13 WBC Game USA -3.5 +126 for 1 unit (L)
========================
Total Gain +3.30 units

Snakes vs Rox at Hi Corbelt

Take the short trip across town to Hi Corbelt field.
Make a lunch stop at El Charro Cafe, family owned in Tucson since 1922.
Some home made Posole Stew will hit the spot.

Now let's get the game on. Russ Ortiz for D-Backs will face Zack Day.
D-Backs take a rare loss at Electric Park (home), but bats are still hot.
Back on Zona to take care of business against the Rox.

ARZ -107 for 2 units(W)

Yes sir, the Rattlers are swinging the bat very well. They are one hot team in the Cactus League.
1-0 +2.00 units

Florida Grapefruit League to Arizona Cactus League

Got ya covered.

Florida:
I'm taking the Dodgers at Vero facing the Fish.
My thought is that Marlins are tinkering more than Los Angeles and I like Dodgers pitching options today.

LAD -124 for 1 unit(W)
--------------------------------------------------------

Arizona:
I'm taking the home team in Tucson, Diamond Backs, taking on the Royals.
I'm not considering the pitching, it's nothing to count on, but on the hot
D-Backs bats.

AZD -120 for 1 unit(L) *This is now -126
-----------------------------------------------------------
Late addition with Padres in Peoria. Rockies traveling all the way from Tucson and young Pads are playing well.

SDP -115 for 1 unit(L)

I hope to get this back on track. Having the edge doesn't always win.
1-2 -1.35 units

World Baseball Classic Korea vs USA

Everyone wants to topple team USA and the opponents will be gunning for the win. Here we have the Koreans backing with +3.5 run line.

I will go the other way
USA -3.5 +126 for 1 unit(L)

Vernon Wells strike out swinging on out of zone pitch.
That was bases loaded top of the 4th. We are down 3-1.

Dan Wheeler replaces shaky D-Train, takes care of the first two batters, gives up a ground rule double than a intentional walk and here comes pinch hitter Hee Seop Choi.....three run home run, are you kidding me 6-1 Korea bottom of 4th.

Yeah it was a 1 unit homer play, but this game got me upset and I did not watch after the Choi home run.
I've come to realize, I knew this and I didn't grasp it, how global MLB teams really are and Americans are not in the drivers seat.
Hat's off to the Korean team.
And to Team USA, you gotta bring better game than that ! Come hard or stay in bed.

Cactus League Play Ball in Scottsdale

Giants rested just about all their regulars except for Ray Durham and they will have everyone back in the beautiful Scottsdale stadium, home of the giants.
Thin line up for Texas will make the trip making this a set up game.
Don't want to get too excited, but I can just sense the regular season coming.

SFG -113 for 3 units(W)
Love it when they pitch to Barry, going 3-3 and basically won the game.

-------------------------------------------------------------
On the Grapefuit League.
Similar situation at Tampa Legends Field with the Yankees. Full regulars will make this game.

NYY -128 for 2 units(L)
Yanks lost at Legends field. NY did put up a fight, but this was Cards game.

1-1 +0.44 units

Grapefruit League Nighter

The New York Mets will host the Washington Nationals in Port St Lucie.
The starters will feature Pedro Astacio vs Tom Glavine. Nice card, edge to the home team. Mets are bit pricy tonight because following Pedro are two non-roster invitees Kyle Denny and Bill Bray. If Pedro holds his own, his releif will give up the runs.

NYM -133 for 1 unit(W)
-------------------------------------------------------------------

Minny offers value today. The line up is expected thin. Core members attended Kirby's memorial and the charter from Minny returned approximately 2:30 am back to Arizona, but this too is a nighter and you never know who want to get some time in and Twins young talents are dangerous.
Kyle Lohse will face Dave Williams for home team Reds.

MIN +115 for 1 unit(W)

Should of pounded the Baseball games and stayed off NBA.
2-0 +2.00

Cactus League Coming at you from Peoria

Thunderstorms canceling baseball games in Arizona.
My funds were returned for play on San Diego at home against Jon Garland & White Sox. This game would of featured non-regular Sox line up where as Jon would of taken the meat of hot hitting Pads.

We shall wait for the sun.

Grape Fruit League

Today was a major set up game which I will give some inside tips playing the Spring Exhibition game. These games are passed by many except for the hard seasoned player or specialists and that include insiders, I don't mean the players specifically, but the crew.....The other employees of the organized baseball industry and I will assure you they are not the high paid crowd.
Yanks at Reds, this game with Moose scheduled might hit most squares as a Yankees edge. Why not?, don't need to look further Yanks should crush the reds right? Well, No.
You see Grape Furit & Cactus League is basically minor leagues with majors playing them. They are played in minor league fields and trips are made on buses from town to town and many regulars will not participate in many of them because the team wants to look at their options in action.
Away trips by the Yankees are a Big Red Flag.
George's million dollar babies are not going to be riding around long bus trips
and today's road trip none of the regulars made it.
Yanks tied Reds at top of 9th, that was a huge upset in the making, but error causing RBI in bottom of 9th stopped any chance of a upset.
It's not rocket science, but hard to get info that requires a direct connection.
keep in mind there are more than one squad and many are receiving assignments to their minor league destinations.
Starters don't mean much either they only go 4 innings with lots of hit given up after that. Just remember Majors beats Minors.

Cactus League

No action today. I did not have enough time to study the plays.
It's still a long season so I'll be back on top of baseball.
I'm sure the boys of summer will be back with vengeance.

Cactus League in Phoenix

Taking in the sun and fun in Phoenix. Clearing my mind from the Association and watching some great American past time.
It's almost that time of the year so keep your eyes and ears open to make the moves.

Southpaw Shawn Estes makes his first start on Monday at Surprise against the Royals, followed by lefties Alan Embree and Erick Burke and right-handers Scott Cassidy, Steve Andrade and Jon Adkins. Estes pitched two scoreless innings in a charity game against the Mariners.
Mark Redman was scheduled to start on Monday against the Padres, but instead he will be in Kansas City having his sore left knee checked. The Royals sent Redman back to Kansas City to have team physician Dr. Steve Joyce examine the knee. In Redman's absence, left-hander Jeremy Affeldt will start on Monday.
Emil Brown is out with stiffness in his lower back and is not scheduled to play on Monday. Right-hander Zack Greinke left camp eight days ago to return to his Orlando, Fla., home for undisclosed personal reasons with the club's permission.
It is all quiet there," general manager Allard Baird said on Sunday. "There's nothing new, right now."
Affeldt will make his second spring appearance, starting against the Padres. The Royals will also throw Kyle Snyder and Jimmy Gobble.

Both teams coming in 2-1-1

But Pads display of power against Mariner was convincing.
I'll take the play with San Diego Padres as the visiting road dog.

SAN DIEGO PADRES +106 for 1 unit(W)

The Pads crush the Royal 8-3! Thank god for Baseball.
1-0 +1.06 units

World Baseball Classic

Group A Pool, Korea vs top conder Japan was a classic underdog come from behind win. They were having as much trouble scoring runs against Team Japan's pitchers as two other teams in the World Baseball Classic had scoring against their own Major League-dominated staff.
And then, like a bolt of lightning delivered from Seoul, two swings in the eighth inning produced two runs and a stunning turn of events that resulted in a 3-2 victory over Japan and top-seed status heading into the second round of the inaugural Classic.
The largest crowd of the series -- 40,553 -- included Crown Prince Naruhito and his wife.
First baseman Seung Yeop Lee, who will be playing his home games inside the Tokyo Dome this season, spoiled the night for his future fans when he sent a 3-and-1 pitch from left-handed reliever Hirotoshi Ishii into the right-field seats, turning a one-run deficit into a one-run lead -- and a noisy crowd into almost complete silence.
Familiarity served Seung Yeop well in the decisive at-bat of the game.
"In that situation (3-and-1 count), Japanese pitchers will throw a breaking ball," he said. "I was lucky because I could use my experience."
Ishii threw a slider that stayed up in the strike zone and rested right in the middle of Seung Yeop's wheelhouse and just as he did twice Saturday night against China, Lee drove it into the seats.
But this one was a whole lot larger than those others.
Japan manager Sadaharu Oh thought he had the final two innings of the game set up perfectly, starting with Ishii. Lefty against lefty usually is a good thing.
"I think the batter was too good for Ishii," Oh said. "It was the eighth inning and the batter came up with a big home run. If I knew he was going to do that, I wouldn't have (put Ishii into the game)."
Ishii struck out the first batter he faced, but Jong Beom Lee lined a single into center field. That set up Seung Yeop's decisive, smooth swing, resulting in a home run probably heard all the way to Seoul.
The Koreans wanted to win the Pool A series finale and gain Far East bragging rights from the inaugural Classic. But they seemed destined for the consolation prize -- a trip to the United States on Monday morning to prepare for the second round of the 16-team tournament, which will be played March 12-16 in Anaheim, as the number two seed from Pool A.
Now, as the top seed, Korea plays three exhibition games in Arizona -- Wednesday night against the Kansas City Royals in Surprise and Friday night against the San Diego Padres in Peoria. A date with the second seed from Pool B (United States, Canada, Mexico or South Africa) awaits Korea in Anaheim on Sunday, followed by two other games -- including a rematch against Japan.
Pool B teams begin play Tuesday afternoon with the U.S. playing Mexico at Chase Field in Phoenix and Canada taking on South Africa later that night in Scottsdale. The top two seeds from Pool B advance to Anaheim.
If pitching is the key to reaching the semifinals in San Diego, then Korea has an excellent shot of getting there.
"Our pitchers pitched so well," Korea manager In Sik Kim said. "(Japan) had good batters, but we had great pitchers who wouldn't let them hit."
A pitching staff that includes six Major Leaguers surrendered just one run in wins over Chinese Taipei (2-0) and China (10-1), but wobbled a bit in the first two innings on Sunday, surrendering a run in each inning.
A terrific, diving catch by right fielder Jin Young Lee that ended the fourth inning deprived Tsuyoshi Nishioka of what could have been a bases-loaded double or triple. It basically saved Korea's bacon.
"I knew he was capable of being a good fielder," In Sik said of his right fielder.
Oh admitted that the huge home run and super defensive play were, "The reasons we could not win. They had two heroes."
Well, maybe three.
Right-hander Chan Ho Park, the most famous pitcher in Korea history, pitched a perfect ninth inning for the save.
"He is a great veteran pitcher and I thought he as the best man for the job," In Sik said.
Oh credited the Korean pitchers for a job well done in shutting down an offense that scored 18 runs in its opening game victory over China and 14 against Chinese Taipei.
But it was a completely different story in the finale.
And Korea gets the honor of being number one in the Far East. For now, that definitely is enough to whet their appetite.

This sets up Japan nicely for Round 2 match up in California.

World Baseball Classic

Taiwan vs Korea.
Korea should take this with ease. The play is pricy and it's just a 0.5 unit play.

KOREA -171 for 0.5 unit(W)

Korean shuts out Taipei 2-0