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MLB

Padres @ Mets
Shields is 1-1, 2.48 in his last five starts, but he hasn't finished sixth inning in any of his last three.

Syndergaard is 2-1, 1.59 in his last five starts (under 4-0-1).

Padres won four of last five games with New York; last three series games got over total. San Diego is 7-3 in last ten games; their last four stayed under the total. Mets are 4-6 in last ten games; over is 4-2-1 in their last seven.

Nationals @ Marlins
Zimmerman is 3-0, 2.93 in his last five starts (over 3-1-1).

Fernandez is 3-0, 2.77 in his four starts, three of which went over.

Washington lost four of last six games with Miami; four of last five in series went over total. Nationals lost six of last nine games; over is 5-1-1 in the last seven. Marlins are off a 3-7 road trip; they won six of last seven at home.

Rockies @ Cubs
Flande is making first '15 start; he allowed eight runs in 17 IP in relief (seven games) this year. LY, he was 0-6, 5.19 in 10 MLB starts. .

Beeler is 0-0, 9.00 in two starts (seven IP, over 2-0) this year.

Cubs are 3-5 in last eight games overall, 6-2 in its last eight games with Colorado (over 5-2 in last seven). Rockies are 3-6 in their last nine games (over 5-2-1 in last eight). Rockies traded SS Tulowitzki late last night.

Reds @ Cardinals
Leake is 3-0, 0.82 in his last three starts; three of his last four stayed under.

Garcia is 2-2, 1.03 in his last five starts, four of which stayed under. .

Cincinnati lost five of last six games with St Louis; over is 5-4 in last nine series games. Reds lost four of last five games; over is 4-2-1 in last seven. St Louis won six of last seven games; under is 5-0-1 in last six.

Brewers @ Giants
Peralta is making first start since May 22 (oblique); he was 1-1, 3.91 in his last four starts before DL-- three of his last four starts went over.

Cain is 2-0, 2.65 in his last three starts; over is 3-1 in his '15 starts. .

SF won 12 of its last 13 games overall. Brewers lost five of last six games; they scored two runs in last three games- their last four games stayed under the total. Giants won last seven games with Milwaukee; three of last five series games went over total.

American League
Tigers @ Rays
Former Ray Price is 2-1, 1.80 in his last four starts; last three stayed under.

Odorizzi is 1-1, 1.40 in his last three hme starts; eight of his last ten starts overall stayed under the total.

Detroit lost ten of its last fourteen games; four of its last five games stayed under total. Tigers lost seven of last ten games with Tampa Bay- five of last eight series games went over. Rays lost three of last five; under is 7-1-2 in their last ten games.

White Sox @ Red Sox
Samardzija is 2-1, 1.71 in his last four starts; three of four stayed under.

Miley is 0-0, 0.69 in his last two starts; six of his last nine went over.

White Sox won their last five games, but they're 4-7 in last 11 games with Boston, which lost nine of last 11 games overall-- over is 6-3 in their last nine games. Three of last four series games went over the total.

Royals @ Indians
Young is 1-2, 5.85 in his last four starts; under is 3-1-2 in his last six.

Bauer is 0-2, 9.90 in his last two starts; four of his last five stayed under.

Royals won seven of last ten games overall (under 5-1-1 last seven). Indians lost last five games, outscored 35-9; seven of their last nine games went over. Over is 8-2-1 in last 11 series games.

Bronx @ Rangers
Capuano is making first start since May 29; he is 0-3, 7.82 in his three starts this year (under 2-1).

Perez is 0-1, 5.73 in his two starts this year (over 1-1).

Bronx won nine of last 11 games (four of last five went over); they lost four of last five games with Texas, allowing 35 runs (under 8-3 in last 11). Rangers won four of last six games (over 6-3 in last nine).

Angels @ Astros
Wilson is 3-1, 2.56 in his last five starts; four of the five stayed under.

McHugh is 5-2, 3.04 in his last seven starts; his last five all stayed under.

Angels won three of last four games with Houston; seven of last nine series games stayed under. Halos lost three of last four games; seven of their last nine away games went over total. Astros won five of last seven games; four of their last five stayed under total.

Interleague
Phillies @ Blue Jays
Morgan is 0-2, 4.98 in his last four starts (over 2-2).

Doubront is 1-1, 6.06 in his three starts (over 1-1-1).

Philly lost eight games with Toronto; last three went over total. Phils are 8-1 in their last nine games overall, scoring 26 runs in last four. Blue Jays traded Reyes for Tulowitzki late last night; they're 4-0 in game following last four losses-- over is 4-1-1 in their last six games.

Braves @ Orioles
Teheran is 0-1, 3.86 in his last three starts; three of last four stayed under.

Jimenez is 0-3, 7.11 in his last four starts; over is 5-2-1 in his last eight.

Atlanta lost four of last five games with Baltimore; last four stayed under. Braves lost four of last five games- under is 8-1-1 in their last ten. Orioles won last three games, allowing four runs; under is 5-1-1 in their last seven.

Pirates @ Twins
Morton is 0-3, 5.11 in his last four starts (under 3-0-1 in last four).

Pelfrey is 0-4, 7.52 in his last five starts (under is 3-1-2 in his last six).

Pirates lost seven of last ten games with Minnesota; six of last nine in series went over total. Pittsburgh won three of last four games overall (over 3-1). Twins lost six of last eight games; last three went over total.

A's @ Dodgers
Gray is 1-1, 2.86 in his last three starts (under is 3-0-1 in his last four).

Former Athletic Anderson is 0-1, 6.14 in his last three starts; over is 2-1-1 in his last four outings.

A's won seven of last nine games against the Dodgers; last four went under the total. Oakland lost last four games, scoring nine runs (under 3-1). LA lost four of last seven games; four of their last five home games stayed under.

Diamondbacks @ Mariners
Godley blanked Milwaukee for six innings (88 PT) in his first MLB start. .

Iwakuma is 2-0, 1.74 in his last three starts- all three stayed under.

Arizona lost eight of last 11 games with Seattle; they won four of last five games overall-- under is 6-2-1 in their last nine. Seattle won three of last five games; five of its last seven went over the total.

Win-loss records this year for team with this starting pitcher:
SD-NY-- Shields 11-10; Syndergaard 6-7
Wsh-Mia-- Zimmerman 13-7; Fernandez 3-1
Colo-Cubs-- Flande 0-0; Beeler 2-0
Cin-StL-- Leake 10-10; Garcia 3-4
Mil-SF-- Peralta 3-6; Cain 3-1

Det-TB-- Price 15-5; Odorizzi 7-8
CWS-Bos-- Samardzija 10-10; Miley 10-10
KC-Clev-- Young 9-6; Bauer 9-10
NY-Tex-- Capuano 0-3; Perez 1-1
LA-Hst-- Wilson 11-9; McHugh 13-7

Phil-Tor-- Morgan 3-2; Doubront 1-2
Atl-Balt-- Teheran 11-9; Jimenez 9-10
Pitt-Min-- Morton 7-4; Pelfrey 10-8
A's-LA-- Gray 12-8; Anderson 10-9
Ariz-Sea-- Godley 1-0; Iwakuma 3-4

Times this starting pitcher allowed a run in first inning:
SD-NY-- Shields 4-21; Syndergaard 3-13
Wsh-Mia-- Zimmerman 7-20; Fernandez 1-4
Colo-Cubs-- Flande 0-0; Beeler 0-2
Cin-StL-- Leake 4-20; Garcia 2-7
Mil-SF-- Peralta 2-9; Cain 1-4

Det-TB-- Price 4-20; Odorizzi 4-15
CWS-Bos-- Samardzija 10-20; Miley 5-20
KC-Clev-- Young 1-15; Bauer 3-19
NY-Tex-- Capuano 1-3; Perez 0-2
LA-Hst-- Wilson 4-20; McHugh 6-20

Phil-Tor-- Morgan 0-5; Doubront 1-3
Atl-Balt-- Teheran 7-20; Jimenez 4-17
Pitt-Min-- Morton 6-11; Pelfrey 3-18
A's-LA-- Gray 3-20; Anderson 7-17
Ariz-Sea-- Godley 0-1; Iwakuma 3-7

Umpires
Col-Chi-- Over is 6-3-1 in last ten Morales games.
Cin-StL-- Road team won all three Pattillo games.
Mil-SF-- Underdogs won seven of last ten Randazzo games.

KC-Clev-- Under is 3-0-1 in last four Cederstrom games.
Det-TB-- Over is 8-4 in last twelve Estabrook games.
Chi-Bos-- Under is 5-1-1 in last seven Eddings games.
NY-Tex-- Seven of last nine Fletcher games stayed under.

Atl-Balt-- Underdogs are 10-6 in last sixteen Barry games; over is 3-1-1 in his last five.
Az-Sea-- Five of last six Wolcott games stayed under.

Barcelona vs. Chelsea

International Champions Cup
Barcelona vs. Chelsea
Club Friendly
Kick-off: Tuesday, 8:00 p.m. ET

Line: Chelsea +167, Barcelona +145, Tie +235 Total: 2.5

In one of the best matchups of the International Champions Cup, Chelsea will look to defeat a Barcelona squad that will be missing superstars Lionel Messi and Neymar.

Thus far in the preseason tournament, Chelsea suffered a shocking defeat against the New York Red Bulls. Both Loïc Rémy and Eden Hazard found the back of the net, but the defense conceded four goals in the second half, including three in a seven-minute stretch, and the game finished 4-2 in favor of the American side.

Chelsea did manage to turn things around against Paris Saint-Germain with a victory in a penalty shootout after the match finished 1-1 in regulation. The 2015 English Premier League champions will likely feature a strong side in their match against Barcelona, as it is their last match in North America for the summer.

Barcelona won its first game of the International Champions Cup against the Los Angeles Galaxy 2-1 thanks to goals from Luis Suárez and Sergi Roberto, but the Spanish giants followed up this positive performance with a 3-1 defeat against Manchester United. Manager Luis Enrique does not have a full squad to choose from, and without Messi and Neymar available, Barcelona does not have the same attacking prowess that it displayed a season ago.

This game should be a wide-open affair, and over 2.5 goals should be scored. Chelsea will likely get the victory in this match, and it would not be surprising to see a score of 3-1 or 3-2 after the final whistle.

Game Props -

Goal Line
Chelsea -+0.5 (-190)
Barcelona FC 0.5 (+145)


Alternative Line
Chelsea +1.5 (-600)
Barcelona FC -1.5 (+375)
Over 1.5 (-450)
Under 1.5 (+300)

Chelsea -0.5 (+167)
Barcelona FC +0.5 (-225)
Over 3.5 (+190)
Under 3.5 (-275)

Total Chelsea Goals
Over 1.5 (+140)
Under 1.5 (-185)

Total Barcelona FC Goals
Over 1.5 (+125)
Under 1.5 (-165)

Both Teams to Score
Yes -155
No +135

Chelsea to keep a clean sheet (Shutout)
Yes +270
No -400

Barcelona FC to keep a clean sheet (Shutout)
Yes +240
No -360

Total Goals
1 goal +450
2 goals +240
3 goals +285
4 goals +425
5 goals +850
6 or more goals +1150
No goals +900

1st Team to Score
Barcelona FC -110
Chelsea +105
No Goal +900

Half Time/Full Time
Barcelona / Barcelona +240
Barcelona / Chelsea +4000
Barcelona / Tie +1300
Chelsea / Barcelona +2900
Chelsea / Chelsea +285
Chelsea / Tie +1300
Tie / Barcelona +450
Tie / Chelsea +475
Tie / Tie +400

Correct Score
Any Other Score +10000

Barcelona win 1-0 +850
Barcelona win 2-0 +1050
Barcelona win 2-1 +750
Barcelona win 3-0 +2300
Barcelona win 3-1 +1600
Barcelona win 3-2 +2500
Barcelona win 4-0 +6500
Barcelona win 4-1 +4500
Barcelona win 4-2 +7000
Barcelona win 4-3 +15000
Barcelona win 5-0 +20000
Barcelona win 5-1 +16000
Barcelona win 5-2 +20000
Barcelona win 5-3 +20000
Barcelona win 5-4 +20000

Chelsea win 1-0 +900
Chelsea win 2-0 +1200
Chelsea win 2-1 +800
Chelsea win 3-0 +2700
Chelsea win 3-1 +1800
Chelsea win 3-2 +2600
Chelsea win 4-0 +8000
Chelsea win 4-1 +5500
Chelsea win 4-2 +7500
Chelsea win 4-3 +16000
Chelsea win 5-0 +20000
Chelsea win 5-1 +20000
Chelsea win 5-2 +20000
Chelsea win 5-3 +20000
Chelsea win 5-4 +20000

Tie 0-0 +900
Tie 1-1 +475
Tie 2-2 +1150
Tie 3-3 +5500
Tie 4-4 +20000
Tie 5-5 +20000

Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at Hoosier Park

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


Race 12 - Post: 8:55 - 1 mile. TROT - Class Rating: 72 - Purse:$8050 - FILLIES AND MARES - INDIANA SIRED NON WINNERS OF 2


CONSORTIUM CHOICES


Chatsworth Consortium

# 9 BLUE SPARK 7/2


# 3 AKA CLYDE 3/1


# 4 HOLY JEAN 9/2


BLUE SPARK is the clear stand out wager in the eyes of the group. Take a look at this solid standardbred's average speed number of 73 and compare to today's class rating. Looks like a really good bet. Going to post competitively, earned a huge speed rating in her last contest (82). Considered a solid wager based solely on her high score figure. AKA CLYDE - Looks like a strong pick in this group of horses and her positive winning percentage says she has the raw talent to end up in the winner's circle for this race. This harness racer looks dangerous. Look at the 72 average speed rating. HOLY JEAN - White has been able to get this nice horse to perform when sending to the post. Definitely worth a look. This filly has room to improve, especially with second time Lasix.

Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at Scioto Downs

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


Race 11 - Post: 5:20 - 1 mile. PACE - Class Rating: 78 - Purse:$5000 - HORSES AND GELDINGS $5000


CONSORTIUM CHOICES


Chatsworth Consortium

# 5 AB'S ATTACK 4/1


# 1 MUSTABEENADREAMER 3/1


# 7 MUSTANG TOM 10/1

All signs point to AB'S ATTACK for the contender. This fine animal has shown us ability in its prior races, just look at the 82 avg class number. Should play well here. Smith fits this fine animal's style perfectly. They've enjoyed some strong results when teaming up. MUSTABEENADREAMER - He has been racing competitively and the TrackMaster Speed Ratings are among the best in the grouping. The knowledge group noted a substantial event out of this fine animal last time. Hoping for a duplicate of that to take the whole enchilada. MUSTANG TOM - Earned a 78 speed rating last time out. A duplicate outing here should get the win in this one. Great in the money percentage for Fuller and this horse. A respectable probability to get the top prize.

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Fort Erie

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


Race 7 - Claiming - 8.5f on the Turf. Purse: $15120 Class Rating: 87

FOR THREE YEAR OLDS AND UPWARD. THREE YEAR OLDS, 116 LBS.; OLDER, 122 LBS. NON-WINNERS OF A RACE AT A MILE OR OVER SINCE JUNE 28 ALLOWED 2 LBS. SUCH A RACE SINCE MAY 28 ALLOWED 4 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $10,000, IF FOR $9,000, ALLOWED 2 LBS. IF DEEMED INADVISABLE BY MANAGEMENT TO RUN


RECOMMENDED CHOICES

The Walker Group Picks

# 1 CELTIC CONVICTION 3/1


# 4 TAPITDAR 2/1


# 7 ALL FOR PEACE 4/1


CELTIC CONVICTION looks decent to best this field. Ought to be carefully examined here on the basis of the figures in the speed department alone. Expect a speed boost today from this horse going off blinkers. Looks very good versus this group of horses in this race and will most likely be one of the leaders. TAPITDAR - Has recorded strong speed figures in turf route races in the past. Looks very good versus this group of animals and should be one of the early speedsters. ALL FOR PEACE - Exhibits the look of a profitable play, averaging a solid 76 speed figure which is one of the top in this field.

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Mountaineer

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


Race 7 - Maiden Special Weight - 5.5f on the Dirt. Purse: $14100 Class Rating: 70

FOR MAIDENS, FILLIES THREE YEARS OLD. WEIGHT, 121 LBS.


RECOMMENDED CHOICES

The Walker Group Picks

# 3 PERFECT EXTENSION 8/5


# 2 OUR MARISOL 3/1


# 4 APPACHEE SQUALL 5/1


PERFECT EXTENSION looks to be a decent contender. Is a strong contender based on figs earned recently under today's conditions. Must be given consideration - I like the figs from the last affair. Has a sharp shot in this contest if you like back class. OUR MARISOL - Earnings per start at the distance/surface is a strong angle. This horse ranks at the top in this lot. In fine fettle, and coming right back again this time out. APPACHEE SQUALL - Martin and Vigil have a very good win percent together. Vigil ought to be able to get this filly to break out early for this event.

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Bar

Parx Racing - Race #6 - Post: 3:10pm - Claiming - 8.5 furlongs on the Turf. Purse: $33,000 Class Rating: 103

Rating: Golden DollarGolden DollarGolden Dollar

#9 BIG JOHNNY D (IRE) (ML=5/1)
#3 FRANKLIN (ML=6/1)
#10 SAINT PIERRE (ML=7/2)
#1 PLEIADIAN (ML=12/1)
#6 HARLINGTON NIGHT (ML=15/1)


BIG JOHNNY D (IRE) - This horse has recorded the best recent turf speed rating at the dist-surf. Have to make this gelding a solid contender; he comes off a sharp contest on July 4th. FRANKLIN - I seem to always make money betting Ness horses on the turf. That barn has a solid win pct for this distance/surface. Lets try to beat the chalks with this horse. Just missed last out, but ran a pretty decent race. SAINT PIERRE - This gelding is in top condition right now. Finished third last race out and comes back quickly. Running 1 1/16 miles on the turf, you've have to look at horse's turf figures. This thoroughbred has the tops in the bunch. Average class figure is tops in this field. I think that is a big edge for a grass race. PLEIADIAN - On board this thoroughbred on June 16th and Hernandezorteg is back again in the irons today. This jock and trainer have a lucrative return on investment when they join forces. HARLINGTON NIGHT - A repeat of that latest performance on June 27th where he registered a speed fig of 107 looks high enough to score in this affair. This gelding is in top condition right now. Ran third last time out and comes back soon. This jock and trainer have a positive ROI when they combine forces. When a racer drops at least five lbs (like this one is), you must take notice. It may not seem like much, but this could make a difference.

Vulnerable Contenders: #4 TICFAW (ML=5/2), #8 PASTA LOVER (ML=4/1),

TICFAW - You have to be concerned that this vulnerable equine added front wraps in the last race. PASTA LOVER - He had to show me more against that weaker group in the last race on June 23rd to get my support today.

Top HatGUEST COMMENTARY: Hal - HARLINGTON NIGHT - Steady improvement in his speed ratings, 107 last race and 100 two races back. This thoroughbred is going to be tough against these thoroughbreds.


STRAIGHT WAGERS:
Bet on #9 BIG JOHNNY D (IRE) to win if we can get at least 6/1 odds

EXACTA WAGERS:
Box [1,3,9]

TRIFECTA WAGERS:
None

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:
None

** Some or all wagers above involve entries and assume all parts of entry start the race **

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Bar

Mountaineer - Race #6 - Post: 8:50pm - Maiden Claiming - 8.0 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $6,100 Class Rating: 51

Rating: Golden DollarGolden DollarGolden DollarGolden Dollar

#3 BUCKEYE BRUTUS (ML=7/2)
#6 SNIP OF GOLD (ML=10/1)


BUCKEYE BRUTUS - This rider/trainer duo has been producing a very lucrative ROI, right at +28. This should be an easier task than what he was asked last time out against 'open' company. I like when a thoroughbred has dropped in class at least 5-points like this one did last time out and then runs against a similar field right back. Martin must've found the right class. This colt earned a strong speed figure of 38 in his last contest. That speed fig should be lofty enough to score in today's event. SNIP OF GOLD - He keeps getting closer at the finish with each and every start. You probably should throw out that last race at Mountaineer on a sloppy track where he finished outside the top 3. Should do well right here on a fast track.

Vulnerable Contenders: #2 ENJOYABLE JOURNEY (ML=7/5), #7 MR. REATTATUDE (ML=5/1), #1 K'S RED SOLO CUP (ML=6/1),

ENJOYABLE JOURNEY - Tough to put any dough on this gelding on the win end. Likes to land in the money though. MR. REATTATUDE - The third place result in the last event was not that great. K'S RED SOLO CUP - This equine doesn't win here at Mountaineer. He needs some alternative location to show his best.


STRAIGHT WAGERS:
#3 BUCKEYE BRUTUS is the play if we get odds of 3/2 or better

EXACTA WAGERS:
Box [3,6]

TRIFECTA WAGERS:
None

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:
None

Mohawk: Tuesday 7/28 Analysis
By Garnet Barnsdale

DRF HARNESS

Race 4 - $50,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool

EARLY PICK 4:

1,8/2,4,8/5,6,9/2,5 = $36


LATE PICK 4: 2,3,4,6,7,8/4,6/1,8/6,9 = $48

MEET STATS: 192 - 626 / $1093.40 BEST BETS: 25 - 56 / $86.30

SPOT PLAYS: 7 - 56 / $57.30

Best Bet: HAZMATT (4th)

Spot Play: AZUL POOL (7th)


Race 1

(3) RECREATE broke first time out in an OSS Gold dash then re-qualified nicely showing excellent late speed. We'll give him top call in one of several very tough races to handicap on tonight's card. (4) WILDWILD MEN has a win and a second in two Grassroots tries and seems to be one of the more reliably-gaited ones in this race for inexperienced rookie trotters. (5) THEE DESPERADO is a 1/2 brother to a couple of good ones including $691K earner Random Destiny. He has one solid qualifier on display and is in with a decent chance at first asking here.

Race 2

(1) UNITED BI has a win and a second from two Grassroots starts so far and, equally importantly, no breaks in stride showing on his card. Henry should be able to map out a good trip leaving from the inside; slight nod. (5) MUSCLE TIME has been solid on four starts for his owner/trainer/driver/breeder. The homebred should be a main contender here. (8) TUSCANS MEMORY is by the top trotting sire and the first foal of a solid mare that earned $185K. He should be competitive right away.

Race 3

(6) JLS BAD MOON RISIN improved in his second start over Clinton's 1/2 miler and has shown pretty good closing power in both starts. We'll give him the slight nod in a wide-open race. (3) BIG ATTRACTION was sold for only $10K as a yearling and based on pedigree and his lone qualifier it looks like that price has the potential to be a bargain; contender. (4) COOPER left from the worst post at Clinton and closed late for third into a slowing pace in a decent effort. He could build on that in this his third start.

Race 4

(1) HAZMATT ships in bringing two qualifiers with her race in time as fast as or faster than her opponents register in pari-mutuel dashes. That makes her an automatic play. (8) SO RAVEN was very good last time, taking it to an unbeaten rival despite leaving from an outside slot. She is the main danger off that sharp mile. (4) SEAWIND KERRY wasn't given the best steer last week but still closed for third late. Keep her in mind when punching your pick 4 tickets.

Race 5

(2) STORMONT WIZARD had two 10 holes to start the year then went a long uncovered trip at Kawartha pushing solid fractions and just failed to hold on. He looks like one of three with a good chance to win this. (4) LUCK O THE IRISH failed to advance at Grand River in the second half but his race two back puts him right there with these; using. (8) LMC MARSHMELLOW has a 2nd, 3rd and 4th in three tries in the OSS Gold class and obviously rates highly here in this NW2L class.

Race 6

(9) GEORGIES POCKETS was sent right to the front and never threatened while winning his debut at Georgian. If he makes front early here he will be equally tough to beat. (6) UF MUSCLEMASS STAR closed a big gap in the final 1/4 in his debut and can be a much bigger threat here if kept closer early. (5) COOL CREEK VICTORY failed to threaten vs. OSS Gold company last time but gets a huge driver change here; beware!

Race 7

(2) AZUL POOL is a full-brother to a gelding that won his debut at Yonkers in 1:53 2/5 then took his next three in a row and to date has won 15 of 75 starts and $165K and taken a mark of 1:50 1/5 over a 7/8 mile track. This colt looks well-prepped and 'O Sullivan sends them ready; top call. (5) GERRIES SPORT had a long trip vs. a very sharp winner and kept coming; the main threat. (1) OK ICEMAN shows matching :27 2/5 final 1/4s in both his qualifiers and should be passing horses late here in his debut.

Race 8

(8) DUH BUBBEES broke at the start when leaving from the worst post at Kawartha then had to endure a long trip. If he stays flat he can take this group a long way. (6) MYSTERY BET has obvious issues but is tough to leave off horizontal wagers because he also has an incredible late kick when he's right; using. (7) CALL ME RICHARD fell just short of beating the choice two back after a long trip from the 10-hole. He's another that should be used in the late pick 4.

Race 9

(6) CLONE THE TONE has three decent starts under his belt and has displayed good closing power in each; slight nod in a race several look like they could win. (4) GONNA FLY was a big winner at Clinton in decent time for two-year-olds on that oval; using. (10) ROSE RUN RUDI chased strong fractions last time in an OSS Gold dash and hung on for a cheque. He is a threat to lead all the way if sent early.

Race 10

(1) ESQUIRE is a full-brother to $822K earner Equity (1:52 1/5) who won his debut and earned more than $300K in his rookie year. There is likely much more under the hood than what was shown in the July 17 qualifier; call at first asking. (2) WILLYORWONTHE was an impressive debut winner then twice faces OSS Gold company. He should be tough vs. Grassroots foes. (5) THE LAND SHARK was a first-up winner at Clinton but that was in slow time. He will need to knock many seconds off to compete for the win here.

Race 11

(6) POKER HAT has been on fire in Delaware now switches to the potent Adams barn here; top call. (9) PASSIONATE PETE shipped in with a three-race win streak in cheaper classes out of town then proceeded to easily take a new life's mark. He's the main danger. (7) KOULTONS ROCKET has faced better recently and is also in with a shot. (10) GENESEE raced well last time but is likely for a minor share - if any - here. (8) WILDSVILLE rarely misses a cheque and will be passing horses late.

Yonkers: Tuesday 7/28 Analysis
By Matt Rose

DRF HARNESS

MEET STATS: 207 - 661 / $1162.50 BEST BETS: 28 - 52 / $97.30

Best Bet: ROLAND N ROCK (3rd)

Spot Play: BLOOMFIELDCANTIFLY (12th)


Race 1

(3) VANGURA raced very well in his local debut and a repeat of that effort will make him tough to beat; short price looming. (1) JACK REACHER qualified safely last out and he should be close up if he minds his manners. (7) REGGIANO will be offering speed, stamina seems to be the issue.

Race 2

(2) MUGSHOTS BRO raced just evenly last out but he has the looks of one who can show steady improvement as he gets more races under his belt; consider at a price from this inside post. (3) IMAGE OF LUCK races well when he minds his manners. (5) P MAC ATTACK has been flashing speed at The Meadowlands and hails from the sharp Johansson outfit.

Race 3

(7) ROLAND N ROCK saw his perfect win record snapped when he shipped to The Meadowlands to face the big boys but he certainly didn't disgrace himself; he looks like a strong play here despite the poor post. (1) FREEDOMFORMYSOUL has been a fringe player in NYSS events; this should be a better spot. (3) SPORTS BETTOR was good in his debut for Burke and he can have more to offer.

Race 4

(2) HOLLYWOODS THATWAY returns with some post relief and the 3-year-old sports a nice career record; Sears' choice. (4) WAITING ROOM has been minding her manners recently and has been flashing good speed; to the front. (8) GIANNI moves up in class looking for three straight and is stuck in the eight hole but the price will be right.

Race 5

(1) RAISE THE CURTAIN was used hard from the eight hole and held for a board spot last out, and prior to that he had been racing well out of town; post relief can get him over the top. (6) MOJITO AS throws in occasional breaks but when she minds her manners she's a big player. (4) SS POSIEDON has taken three of four and clearly Steve Smith gets along perfectly with him.

Race 6

(7) ROLLIN RING AFIRE took a shot in the Rooney, which didn't work out, but most recently he jogged at Tioga in a wicked-fast time; Charlie Norris trainee should be best here. (3) FAST MOVIN TRAIN seems to be camera-shy but he should be forwardly placed and a part of the number. (4) WELL WELL WELL gets needed post relief in his second start at this level for the Schnittker barn.

Race 7

(3) MAXI BON is still looking for that elusive first seasonal win but he did close welll last out and just needs some aggressive early handling to have a great chance. (1) CAVIART LUCA was third best to some good ones in last and is clearly the one to beat from this spot. (4) AMERICAN TOWER finally lands a better post to work with and should show more.

Race 8

(1) LIMITLESS has proven to be a good fit with this type and he recovered well after being bothered last out. The extremely talented Scott Zeron drives today and I have confidence in him to work out a good trip in this bulky field. (2) DREAMSTEELER has just missed in four straight; obviously the Banca mare can take all. (8) HOT SUMMER KNIGHT came from well out of it to score in his local return; he'll be at the back again today but seems capable of another rally.

Race 9

(5) BOUNCING BAX returns locally, now in the Noel Daley barn and she's been facing much better recently; Bartlett's choice can take these a long way. (2) CASH POOR ships back from Saratoga off a perfect-trip score and he picks up Brennan. (4) ELIAS JOY has never been one of my favorites but he switched barns last week and raced better.

Race 10

(10) PHOTOSAVVY hasn't fired with her best recently but she's faced better than these in the past and goes second-time Lasix. (9) STITCH IN TIME closed crisply last out after being used too hard the start prior in an added-distance event; Buter should be getting away decently midpack from this spot. (1) ALEXANDER LUKAS steps up after jogging upon arrival.

Race 11

(6) AS YA'LL LIKE IT double-jumps in class off a very impressive win and the mare does have some back class to work with; price should be decent in this wide-open event. (4) WINWOOD SCOUT is one of a number of trotters here with early speed and this gelding has been solid all season for all barns and at all distances. (1) ON THE PODIUM has tailed off recently but he beats these on his best day.

Race 12

(2) BLOOMFIELDCANTIFLY exits the amateur ranks, where she performed admirably, and gets Dube in the bike with a good post. Lots to like. (3) FALCOR BLUESTONE finally put it all together last out at Pocono and he can build off that effort. (6) ITZAZIAM has really fallen on hard times, earning less than $5,000 this year after banking 142K last season. Will he ever regain his form?

SPOT PLAYS

For Tuesday


TRACK (RACE) HORSE, MORNING LINE


Delaware Park (4th) Sophia's Night, 8-1
(5th) Noon Shadow, 10-1


Finger Lakes (5th) Augie Dawgie, 6-1
(9th) Wise Awake, 3-1


Fort Erie (1st) Golden Abby, 6-1
(3rd) Sandeman, 5-1


Indiana Grand (4th) El Coco Loco, 8-1
(6th) Red Zone, 7-2


Mountaineer (1st) Midnight Shine, 6-1
(9th) Diamond Dan, 6-1


Parx Racing (4th) Dan and Sheila, 6-1
(7th) Gangstress of Love, 6-1


Presque Isle Downs (2nd) Tippany, 3-1
(4th) Tranzip, 7-2

NL Futures analysis
By Tony Mejia

With August on the horizon, the odyssey that is the major league baseball season finally has an end in sight. The 60-game sprint has major appeal considering the volume of teams that still have to feel like they have a chance to make the postseason thanks to the second wild card.

Entering Monday’s games, the entire American League and 10 of the National’s teams were within eight games of the final playoff spot. With the trade deadline coming on July 31, a few teams are going to strengthen their chances, following the lead of AL-best Kansas City, which went out and got former Reds ace Johnny Cueto. A few other teams still in contention will wind up sellers, which makes this a great week to get in on MLB Futures.

Odds to win the AL and NL pennants as well as the World Series have been updated at numerous shops.

Arizona (+12000 to win NL, +23000 to win it all): While Paul Goldschmidt is having an MVP-type season, the Diamondbacks look like a team whose current ceiling is .500. Considering they won 64 games last year in finishing with baseball’s worst record, shooting for the stars and topping 80 would be an impressive improvement. That won’t make the playoffs though.

Atlanta (+10000 to win NL, +22000 to win it all): The Braves knew coming into the season that they were rebuilding and have actually performed far better than expected. Even with Freddie Freeman back, this offense would struggle to do enough damage to win your Tuesday night softball league.

Chi.Cubs (+930 to win NL, +2500 to win it all): Despite falling well behind the Cardinals and Pirates, the Cubs have realistic aspirations of making the postseason since 2008. Including the Bartman game, they’ve lost eight straight and this year’s best-case scenario likely offers one crack to snap that nasty streak and advance in a one-game playoff. You’ll either hear they’re too young or so young they’re bullet-proof, depending on the results. I’d hold off on any serious investments here.

Cincinnati (+16000 to win NL, +32000 to win it all): Selling off Cueto was your cue to check out here, even though the Reds did enter the season with a talent base that should’ve produced more victories than they’ve managed. Manager Brian Price should be on a short leash going forward.

Colorado (+30000 to win NL, +85000 to win it all): Last year’s Rockies won 66 games due to massive injuries. This year’s team barely got going and has often appeared disinterested despite the usual gaudy offensive numbers. Denver baseball fans have been stuck watching their team’s fifth straight losing season tediously unfold.

LA Dodgers (+290 to win NL, +600 to win it all): The brilliance of starting pitchers Clayton Kershaw and Zack Greinke has helped the Dodgers become chalk, but you’re best off pouncing now since there’s a chance they’ll become even more of a favorite to win the World Series. Expected to make an upgrade between now and week’s end, adding an arm like a Cole Hamels would definitely force books to adjust further as the betting public piles on. Yasiel Puig hasn’t even found his groove. The time is now to pounce on Don Mattingly’s Dodgers if you're going to.

Miami (+16000 to win NL, +42000 to win it all): Since Jose Fernandez, Giancarlo Stanton and Dee Gordon have all missed significant time, the Marlins never had a chance this season. The Fish scored four runs in the last three games of their West Coast swing, all losses, but should get Gordon back this week and will have Stanton back soon. They could play a spoiler role in September but have no chance at making the playoffs.

Milwaukee (+25000 to win NL, +80000 to win it all): Starting 4-17 effectively ended their season early. Although the Brewers have put together one eight-game winning streak already, coming up with another wouldn’t make much difference given the hole they’ve dug themselves. No chance here.

NY Mets (+1000 to win NL, +2200 to win it all): It’s tempting to take a shot on those wonderful Mets arms, but adding Jose Uribe and Kelly Johnson to upgrade the lineup isn’t going to cut it in terms of shoring up the massive weakness. David Wright should be back at some point, but expecting him to hit the ground running isn’t something I want to be stuck backing. Tyler Clippard joining the bullpen should help, but expecting New York to fall further out of the Wild Card race appears more likely.

Pittsburgh (+650 to win NL, +1300 to win it all): If Gerrit Cole, Francisco Liriano and AJ Burnett don’t wear down, there’s enough pitching to take a shot here, especially with Cole around to trust in a one-and-done Wild Card. The Pirates are likely to make an addition or two and certainly would pay off handsomely given the current odds. They’ve won 3-of-4 against the Cardinals and Nationals in July, not to mention sweeping the Padres. It’s time to hop on the bandwagon if you’re going to.

San Diego (+5500 to win NL, +21000 to win it all): They’re not through yet, but need to win at nearly a 70 percent clip to overcome a lethargic season thus far. Although the payoff would be tremendous, there’s no way to seriously expect the Padres to play well enough to overcome the seven teams already in front of them. Fairy tale endings are nice, but irrational to consider given what we’ve seen thus far from this bunch of underachievers. Odds are they’ll be sellers.

San Francisco (+860 to win NL, +2200 to win it all): The hottest team in baseball happens to be the defending champs, who have found their footing with wins in 12 of 13 games after opening their series with Milwaukee with a 4-2 win. They’re right on the Dodgers heels and still have a number of intangibles in play, including Madison Bumgarner to pitch a Wild Card game. Take advantage of these odds while your still can. They’re not going to be this friendly much longer.

St. Louis (+350 to win NL, +630 to win it all): The Cardinals have amassed the best record in baseball and are exceptional at home. This bodes well for them since they’ve got a substantial lead for home field advantage in the National League, but there are certainly questions about their starting rotation since it doesn’t appear they’ll replace Adam Wainwright. Although John Lackey, Carlos Martinez, Lance Lynn and Michael Wacha can hold the fort down, there are enough question marks to resist riding with the Redbirds. They’ve added Steve Cishek to the bullpen and are reportedly looking to pick up another bat, but I’d wait to see if there’s not a more lucrative payoff available next month in case they hit a rough patch. At the moment, having the best record in baseball in spite of a few glaring question marks doesn’t make for a good buy.

Washington (+390 to win NL, +725 to win it all): Ace Max Scherzer has done his part in anchoring a rotation that was expected to be baseball’s deepest and most formidable, but only Jordan Zimmermann has joined him in being consistent. Doug Fister, Stephen Strasburg and Gio Gonzalez have all had their issues, as has the bullpen. Both the defense and the bats have also had moments that haven’t inspired confidence, though it will help that slugger Jayson Werth is returning to the lineup to provide better protection for standout Bryce Harper. Playing in baseball’s weakest division lends itself nicely to ensuring the Nats will make the playoffs, but nothing Matt Williams has done as a manager leads you to believe he can lead this team to the top.

AL Futures analysis
By Tony Mejia

With August on the horizon, the odyssey that is the major league baseball season finally has an end in sight. The 60-game sprint has major appeal considering the volume of teams that still have to feel like they have a chance to make the postseason thanks to the second wild card.

Entering Monday’s games, the entire American League and 10 of the National’s teams were within eight games of the final playoff spot. With the trade deadline coming on July 31, a few teams are going to strengthen their chances, following the lead of AL-best Kansas City, which went out and got former Reds ace Johnny Cueto. A few others still in contention will wind up sellers, which makes this a great week to get in on MLB Futures.

Odds to win the AL and NL pennants as well as the World Series have been updated at numerous shops.

Baltimore (+1500 to win AL, +3500 to win it all): For the sheer value of it, the Orioles are most certainly worth investing in right now. After a demoralizing sweep at the hands of the Yankees, the Birds rallied to win two of three in Tampa Bay and have the Braves and Tigers coming into Camden Yards this week as they look to surge into August. Steve Pearce just hit the 15-day DL, but this is as healthy as they’ve been all season and the price is right since many have written them off.

Boston (+2500 to win AL, +5000 to win it all): Coming off a 7 RBI-game from David Ortiz and their first post-All-Star series win, it’s now or never for the AL’s biggest disappointment. Flushing money down the toilet would serve the same purpose as backing this bunch.

Chi.Sox (+4000 to win AL, +10000 to win it all): Though they’re coming off a four-game road sweep of the Indians, this team has too many holes to legitimately get behind despite the enticing odds.

Cleveland (+1900 to win AL, +3500 to win it all): Swept by the White Sox to fall to last in the Central, the Tribe is rebuilding on the run as young players like Giovanny Urshela and Francisco Lindor gain valuable experience. That doesn’t serve our purposes.

Detroit (+1600 to win AL, +3000 to win it all): You can’t responsibly buy right now, but if David Price remains on the roster following Friday, I’d suggest picking up a few shares here. Despite being a massive disappointments all season and lingering bullpen woes, they’re still in the wild card hunt. Miguel Cabrera should be back towards the middle of August and has already started moving some in his return from a severe calf sprain. If Price is around, they would be a tough out in a one-game Wild Card playoff.

Houston (+590 to win AL, +1400 to win it all): Though still right there with the Angels in the AL West and atop the Wild Card standings, I recommend passing here. The bullpen is worth backing, but barring another significant addition like Scott Kazmir, the starting pitching remains spotty and there are too many all-or-nothing propositions in the lineup.

Kansas City (+270 to win AL, +630 to win it all): Sign up here. In spite of manager Ned Yost’s maddening decisions, the Royals adding Cueto to a rotation that figures to improve with Yordano Ventura and Danny Duffy coming along strengthens the probability that they will end up with home field throughout the postseason. I don’t see their odds increasing, so you may as well buy now while the getting is good.

LA Angels (+520 to win AL, +1200 to win it all): There are still valid questions over an inconsistent starting rotation and a lineup that has been overly reliant on the brilliance of Mike Trout and Albert Pujols. On blind faith that they add a piece this week and wind up holding off Houston, I’d take a conservative shot here.

Minnesota (+1800 to win AL, +4700 to win it all): Currently the AL’s second Wild Card, it would be surprising to see them hold on to the spot. Their road record is indicative of a team that has played over their heads and is set to suffer a slide.

NY Yankees (+460 to win AL, +1300 to win it all): There’s a genuine dilemma here. The Yanks are thriving and have seen their value take a hit due to a hot streak that has caught everyone’s attention, but waiting a few weeks for them to suffer through a cold spell may not work out. Because they’ve opened a substantial lead in the AL East, picking up a difference-maker out of the bullpen or another bat will almost certainly force books to re-adjust their lines further. Better to get in now and hope Brian Cashman can land an Aroldis Chapman, Craig Kimbrel or Jonathan Papelbon.

Oakland (+3700 to win AL, +9000 to win it all): As the Kazmir deal illustrated, GM Billy Beane is already selling off assets and cutting his losses on a lost season. There’s no reason to invest any energy in the AL West’s worst team.

Seattle (+3300 to win AL, +9000 to win it all): With Felix Hernandez having given up four earned runs in the last 33 innings, he’s definitely locked in on leading his team back into contention. Young starters Hisashi Iwakuma, Mike Montgomery and Taijuan Walker have provided a boost of late, so with James Paxton due back in September, the Mariners arms should hold up. Among the current longshots, this is definitely the one to get behind.

Tampa Bay (+1700 to win AL, +5000 to win it all): A solid bullpen and some promising young bats have kept the Rays in contention, especially with ace Chris Archer emerging as a Cy Young candidate. That said, a losing home record and a lineup filled with guys who have no proven track record performing when the competition intensifies makes this a team to fade.

Texas (+4500 to win AL, +13500 to win it all): The Rangers have more games remaining in Arlington than any team in baseball has left in their own park. Unfortunately, the fact they have baseball’s worst winning percentage at home tempers any enthusiasm regarding that little tidbit. Texas may play the spoiler role well, but don’t expect to see them in the postseason.

Toronto (+1300 to win AL, +3300 to win it all): Their odds are similar to Baltimore’s and their record, .500 through 100 games, is actually superior. Unfortunately, despite one of baseball’s most explosive offenses, the pitching just isn’t there for me to endorse getting behind the Blue Jays. That said, if you're more hopeful or have the inclination they're about to land another arm, now is the time to pull the trigger. Getting Troy Tulowitzki from Colorado for Jose Reyes is a masterful move that will improve their already potent lineup. The buzz should also help the cause. Of Toronto’s next 19 games, 16 will be at home, which means their final push is likely to begin now.

MLB Preview: Angels (55-43) at Astros (55-45)

Game: 1
Venue: Minute Maid Park
Date: July 28, 2015 8:10 PM EDT

Mike Trout has put up MVP numbers since the Los Angeles Angels sent Houston home just over a month ago, and the Angels have overtaken the Astros for the AL West lead.

He's never been much of a threat at Minute Maid Park, but that could change Tuesday night as the Angels - who might have new acquisition Shane Victorino in the lineup - begin a three-game series with hopes of grabbing a firmer hold on the division.

Trout has batted .371 with a 1.303 OPS, 13 home runs and 23 RBIs in 24 games of the team's 18-7 span dating to June 26, when the Astros (55-45) had a five-game lead over the Angels (55-43) and Texas. Houston has gone 12-13 since.

Trout was 4 for 4 with a grand slam and a solo homer in Sunday's 13-7 home win over the Rangers that snapped a three-game losing streak. His 31 home runs lead the total of teammate Albert Pujols by two for the MLB lead, and he's five off his career high from last season with four games remaining in July.

Reaching 30 in his 97th game marks the fastest pace in club history.

"I don't look at that stuff," Trout said. "At the end of the year, if that's where it's at, then that's where it's at. I'm just trying to do whatever I can to help the team win."

It probably follows that he doesn't look at this stuff: Trout has batted .186 in 19 games in Houston for his worst average at any park in the majors, though he did open his season there with a two-homer, five-RBI game April 17.

Trout could have a new left fielder to get used to Tuesday after Los Angeles acquired Victorino and cash from Boston for infielder Josh Rutledge on Monday. The 34-year-old has spent the past three years in Boston, batting .245 in 33 games this season with two stints on the disabled list, but the Angels have struggled to find production in left after cutting ties with Josh Hamilton in April.

Los Angeles and Houston have split 10 games this season, with the Astros winning five of the last six home matchups.

Houston has dropped two straight and nine of 15, batting .228 in that span. It fell 5-1 at Kansas City on Sunday, and manager A.J. Hinch was already looking forward to the Angels and beyond.

"We have to play the whole schedule. These are three of them," Hinch said. "We have some more in September where we match up in our division. It'll be a fun series, two good teams. It's all part of trying to finish the season over the next couple of months rather than the next couple of days."

C.J. Wilson (8-7, 3.59 ERA) makes for a prime pitcher to break out against, going 1-4 with a 9.59 ERA in his last six starts against Houston. Luis Valbuena (4 for 4 with a home run), Jake Marisnick (4 for 8) and Chris Carter (9 for 27 with two homer) have had the most success, but Valbuena is in a 5-for-32 slump.

Wilson last faced the Astros on June 23 in a 13-3 loss, surrendering seven runs in 3 1-3 innings, but he's been better since. The left-hander gave up two runs in five innings of Wednesday's 5-2 win over Minnesota and is 3-1 with a 2.56 ERA in five starts.

He's up against Collin McHugh in a rematch of last month's game, and McHugh (11-5, 4.25) has won back-to-back starts despite surrendering 18 hits in 13 innings. The right-hander allowed two runs in seven innings of Wednesday's 4-2 home victory over Boston, his third straight home win.

McHugh is 3-2 with a 2.08 ERA in six starts against Los Angeles. Trout is 2 for 11 with a home run and five strikeouts in the matchup, and Chris Iannetta (0 for 8 with four strikeouts) and Erick Aybar (2 for 15) have also struggled.

Matt Joyce is 3 for 10 with three doubles against McHugh, but the left fielder could be headed to the seven-day concussion list after taking a knee to the head Sunday in a collision with Aybar.

Preview: Phillies (37-63) at Blue Jays (50-50)

Game: 1
Venue: Rogers Centre
Date: July 28, 2015 7:07 PM EDT

Running out of opportunities to make a move in the AL East race, the Toronto Blue Jays made a big trade overnight by acquiring five-time All-Star shortstop Troy Tulowitzki.

Following another costly loss, the Jays try to get back on track Tuesday night when they open a two-game home series with the last-place Philadelphia Phillies, who nevertheless have surged over the past two weeks.

Toronto (50-50) shipped Jose Reyes to Colorado for the talented but oft-injured Tulowitzki, who is hitting .300 with 12 homers and 53 RBIs this season. The trade was first reported shortly after the Rockies' stunning loss to the Chicago Cubs on Monday night.

The Blue Jays continued their up-and-down play Sunday by blowing a 5-3 lead and losing 6-5 in 10 innings at Seattle, the lowlight being a triple play caused by a baserunning blunder. The Jays have gone 9-14 in their last 23.

First-place New York, meanwhile, has baseball's best record in July and its largest lead of the season.

'We've got to go out there and play every day,' left-hander Mark Buehrle said. 'The Yankees, they're not giving up. We've got to obviously just play our game and hopefully win games when they start losing games. I don't think they're going to go on the roll that they are right now, but it could get to the point where it's too late. We've got to keep our heads up and keep on playing. We ran into some good teams and some good pitching. Just the way it goes.'

The Blue Jays have allowed 17 runs in the past three games, with the bullpen giving up three in 3 2-3 innings Sunday. Toronto's 4.07 ERA is near the bottom of the AL.

The club should very happy to be starting a 10-game homestand given its 28-19 record at Rogers Centre. The Jays' struggles on the road have been one of the major factors in their inability to keep up in the race.

'It's disappointing,' manager John Gibbons said after his team finished 3-3 on its West Coast trip. 'We're not in a position to do this. Time's not on our side. We're chasing some pretty good teams. Frustrating, tough game.'

Felix Doubront's last two starts probably won't encourage much optimism from Gibbons on Tuesday. The left-hander has given up seven earned runs over 9 2-3 innings of those games, both on the road.

Doubront (1-0, 4.34 ERA) threw 92 pitches in just 4 2-3 innings Wednesday, allowing two earned runs, seven hits and two walks in a 4-3 loss to Oakland. He's never faced Philadelphia.

He'll likely need be better against the Phillies (37-63), who despite their MLB-worst record have won eight of nine since the All-Star break and scored five or more runs in six of the last seven. They completed an impressive road sweep of the Cubs in emphatic fashion Sunday, winning 11-5 the day after Cole Hamels delivered a no-hitter.

Ryan Howard homered for the second straight day, Maikel Franco also went deep and had three RBIs and Domonic Brown drove in three for Philadelphia, which piled up 17 hits.

Twenty-one of the club's 40 hits in the three-game series went for extra bases.

" ... The reason you play the young guys ... You kind of hope it comes around in this manner to where you're putting some runs on the board and consistent at-bats," interim manager Pete Mackanin said. "And we're getting more consistent at-bats from these guys, and I think that's why we're scoring more runs."

Rookie left-hander Adam Morgan (1-2, 4.28) is set to make his sixth start for the Phillies after lasting 4 1-3 innings and giving up three runs and nine hits in a 5-4 home victory over Tampa Bay on Wednesday.

Trade rumors continue to swirl around Philadelphia, which could move Hamels, closer Jonathan Papelbon and others before Friday's deadline.

Toronto has won eight straight meetings in this series.

Preview: Braves (46-53) at Orioles (49-49)

Game: 2
Venue: Oriole Park at Camden Yards
Date: July 28, 2015 7:05 PM EDT

Win streaks have been hard to come by lately for the Baltimore Orioles. Facing a team that has struggled mightily on the road could help them extend their current one.

The Orioles hope to see Ubaldo Jimenez maintain his home success as they try to make it four straight wins Tuesday night against the Atlanta Braves.

This hasn't been a very good month for the Orioles, who are 8-13 in July even with their first three-game win streak since late June. They've fallen seven games off the pace in the AL East but are just three behind Minnesota in the race for the final wild-card spot.

It didn't look like the win streak would continue after All-Star closer Zach Britton surrendered a home run to Braves rookie Adonis Garcia in the ninth inning of Monday's series opener. That was the game's lone run to that point, but the Orioles (49-49) scored in the bottom half on J.J. Hardy's sacrifice fly and Matt Wieters led off the 11th with a home run for a 2-1 victory.

'To win the last three games, it's been a challenge for us, so I think it's coming at a good time,' manager Buck Showalter said.

Wieters matched a season high with three hits, connecting for his first home run in 19 games.

'Right now being where we are, cherishing a win is big,' Wieters said. 'To be able to keep piling up wins is what we need to do.'

Baltimore has only scored 12 runs and batted .229 during its three-game streak, instead relying on a starting staff that has posted a 1.31 ERA in those contests.

The Braves (46-53) have lost 14 of 18 on the road, batting .178 with runners in scoring position after Monday's 0-for-9 effort.

Eury Perez had three hits and Nick Markakis added a pair in his return to Baltimore, where he spent his first nine seasons.

Jimenez (7-6, 3.81 ERA) should be happy to be back on the Camden Yards mound after allowing 14 runs and 15 hits over seven innings in his first two starts since the All-Star break - both on the road.

The right-hander lasted a season-low 2 1-3 innings in Thursday's 9-3 loss to the New York Yankees, giving up seven runs, eight hits and three walks.

'I was executing my pitches down in the zone and right now I'm missing right down the middle,' said Jimenez in comparing his success before the break to his struggles after it.

He is 5-1 with a 2.06 ERA in seven home starts, tossing eight innings in a 4-0 victory over Cleveland on June 28 in his most recent appearance.

Jimenez is 2-2 with a 2.57 ERA in his past four starts against the Braves but will be facing them for the first time since 2013.

Jonny Gomes is 7 for 19 (.368) with three homers in this matchup.

Julio Teheran (6-5, 4.49) looks to continue a string of solid outings for Atlanta after going 1-1 with a 2.81 ERA in his last four starts.

The right-hander struck out seven of the first 10 batters he faced Wednesday against the Los Angeles Dodgers before struggling with his command in the fifth. He finished with a career high-tying 11 strikeouts over seven innings and allowed three runs in a 3-1 loss.

Teheran, who has never faced the Orioles, is 0-4 with a 7.61 ERA in nine road starts since winning his first of the season.

Travis Snider has the most experience of any Orioles hitter against Teheran, going 3 for 7 with two doubles. Snider is 2 for 31 (.065) this month, however.

Preview: Padres (47-52) at Mets (51-48)

Game: 1
Venue: Citi Field
Date: July 28, 2015 7:10 PM EDT

While James Shields' days with the San Diego Padres could be numbered, the New York Mets expect Noah Syndergaard to be one of the cornerstones of their future.

As Shields goes after only his second win in 10 starts, the Padres will try for their fourth straight victory Tuesday night in the opener of a 10-game trip against Syndergaard and the Mets.

Shields (8-3, 3.77 ERA) has been the subject of trade rumors in his first season with San Diego (47-52), which has been a disappointment at 8 1/2 games out in the NL West.

Since going 7-0 with 2.51 walks per nine innings and a 7.2 run-support average in his first 12 starts, the right-hander is 1-3 with 4.56 walks per nine and a 2.8 RSA in his last nine.

Shields hasn't lasted past the sixth in any of his last three starts. He allowed no runs and three hits with seven strikeouts over five innings in Wednesday's 7-1 home loss to San Francisco, throwing 96 pitches.

The 33-year-old is among several big-money players the club could move before the trade deadline.

"It's professional baseball and those types of things happen and whatever happens we are going to move forward," interim manager Pat Murphy told MLB's official website.

San Diego has made a push by winning eight of 11, though it's likely to be too little, too late. The team allowed just four runs in taking the last three of a four-game home series with Miami.

Justin Upton, one of those mentioned in trade rumors, isn't ready to give up. He went 2 for 3 with a home run in Sunday's 3-2 win after going 6 for 56 (.107) in his previous 16 games.

'I think this (Mets) series coming up is a big one for us," Upton said. "We have to play well against a good team with good pitching, so we're going to have to do some good pitching of our own.'

Shields gave up two runs over seven innings in a 7-3 home win over the Mets (51-48) on June 3. Curtis Granderson (7 for 61) and new addition Kelly Johnson (2 for 16) have struggled when facing Shields.

Syndergaard (4-5, 2.97) has solidified his place in New York's young rotation by going 2-1 with a 1.59 ERA with 34 strikeouts over 34 innings in his last five starts.

The rookie right-hander did not factor in a 4-3 loss at Washington on Wednesday when he overcame a season-high five walks and allowed one run in five innings. He's been particularly outstanding at home, going 4-1 with a 1.74 ERA.

The Padres were responsible for Syndergaard's worst outing June 2, tagging him for seven runs over four innings in a 7-2 home win. Derek Norris went 2 for 3 with a home run off him.

Yonder Alonso is batting .389 over a 10-game hitting streak versus New York, which is tied with San Diego for the worst batting average in the majors at .236.

The Mets, two games back in the NL East, took the last two of a four-game weekend series with the Los Angeles Dodgers to open a 10-game homestand.

They bolstered their bullpen Monday, acquiring closer Tyler Clippard from Oakland for minor league pitcher Casey Meisner in a swap of right-handers. The 30-year-old Clippard, who is eligible for free agency after this season, went 1-3 with a 2.79 ERA and 17 saves in 21 chances for the Athletics.

Ruben Tejada went 8 for 14 when New York dropped two of three in San Diego in June. The Mets haven't lost a home series to the Padres since 2009, going 11-6 over that span.