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RECENT FORM	LAST HEAD-TO-HEADSAT LEGIA WARSAW	RECENT FORM
HDHDAD*ALAWHL​ Most recent​	Unknown	ADALHWALALHL​ Most recent​

KEY STAT: Legia have won only one of their last four home matches

EXPERT VERDICT: Aleksander Prijovic’s late strike has left Dundalk’s Champions League hopes looking remote after a 2-0 first-leg loss to Legia Warsaw. The Irish side can take comfort from the fact they were the dominant side until a controversial penalty gave Legia the lead and they may at least give themselves hope by netting in Poland.

RECOMMENDATION: Both teams to score
2

RECENT FORM	LAST HEAD-TO-HEADSAT LEGIA WARSAW	RECENT FORM
HDHDAD*ALAWHL​ Most recent​	Unknown	ADALHWALALHL​ Most recent​

KEY STAT: Legia have won only one of their last four home matches

EXPERT VERDICT: Aleksander Prijovic’s late strike has left Dundalk’s Champions League hopes looking remote after a 2-0 first-leg loss to Legia Warsaw. The Irish side can take comfort from the fact they were the dominant side until a controversial penalty gave Legia the lead and they may at least give themselves hope by netting in Poland.

RECOMMENDATION: Both teams to score
2

Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at The Meadows

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

Race 6 - Post: 2:40 - 1 mile. TROT - Class Rating: 76 - Purse:$6600 - CD CLAIM 3-6YO NW 6 EXT PM RACES OR $15,000 LIFE. CLAIM PRICE $17,000 W/A
CONSORTIUM*CHOICES

# 3 RALPH R 4/1
# 4 HA TAYLOR 3/1
# 9 HOORAYFORTHEWINNER 5/1

RALPH R will have you running to the cashier's window for this one. His 78 average has this horse among the strongest speed figs in this contest. Had one of the most solid speed ratings of the group of animals in his last affair. I'd recommend using in your plays. When Wilder drives this interesting entrant you can bet they'll be in the top 3, percentages show them there 100 percent of the time. HA TAYLOR - Worth careful consideration here based on the markings in the speed fig department alone. Bettors should make a mental note that this entrant runs with second time Lasix today. HOORAYFORTHEWINNER - With a excellent driver, who has won at a really strong 21 percent rate the past month, this has to be one of the best contenders.

Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at Yonkers Raceway

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

Race 6 - Post: 8:50 - 1 mile. PACE - Class Rating: 76 - Purse:$20000 - NON-WINNERS OF 4 P-M RACES OR $40,000 LIFETIME. 3& 4 YEAR OLD FILLIES & MARES
CONSORTIUM*CHOICES

# 3 KEYSTONE PAULA 5/2
# 5 THREE DREAMS 9/2
# 1 CHEYENNE TRIENGEL 7/2

KEYSTONE PAULA sure does look ready to end up in the winner's circle. Can't overlook based on TrackMaster Speed Ratings which have been outstanding (77 avg) recently. THREE DREAMS - The number crunching team happens to know that when you put Bartlett and Bamond together respectable results are not far behind. Overall percentages look competitive. Can't throw her out of the picture. CHEYENNE TRIENGEL - Comes into this outing with really good TrackMaster class rankings as compared to the bunch - worth a look. Is a very promising choice given the 77 speed fig from her most recent race.

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Ruidoso Downs

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


Race 7 - Claiming - 5.5f on the Dirt. Purse: $6900 Class Rating: 63

FOR REGISTERED NEW MEXICO BRED THREE YEAR OLDS AND UPWARD WHICH HAVE NEVER WON TWO RACES. THREE YEAR OLDS, 117 LBS.; OLDER, 122 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $5,000.


RECOMMENDED*CHOICES


# 3 PRIVATE CRUISE 6/1

# 4 GETTIN YOU HOME 4/1

# 1 ALARMING WAY 2/1

I've got to go with PRIVATE CRUISE. Posted a strong speed rating in the latest race. Can run another good one in this race. Has solid Equibase Class Figures relative to this field - worth a look. GETTIN YOU HOME - His 52 average has this gelding with among the best Equibase Speed Figures in this competition. Has been racing solidly and has among the strongest speed in the race for today's distance. ALARMING WAY - Well above average win rate at this distance/surface. Is a solid choice - given the 57 speed figure from his most recent race.

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Thistledown

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


Race 6 - Maiden Special Weight - 5.5f on the Dirt. Purse: $29000 Class Rating: 60

FOR REGISTERED OHIO FOALS MAIDENS, THREE YEARS OLD AND UPWARD. THREE YEAR OLDS, 119 LBS.; OLDER, 122 LBS.


RECOMMENDED*CHOICES


# 3 HOSTILE CRUZ 5/1

# 4 RAY'S LEGACY 10/1

# 8 BUCKEYE BROWN 15/1

HOSTILE CRUZ has a solid shot to take this race. RAY'S LEGACY - Musarro has this gelding racing well and is a very strong selection based on the competitive speed figs recorded in sprint races lately. Has solid Equibase Class Figures relative to this field - worth a look. BUCKEYE BROWN - This gelding has some longshot angles I like to wager on. Must be in good form if the trainer is bringing him back so soon.

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Delaware Park - Race #3 - Post: 2:15pm - Claiming - 8.3 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $13,000 Class Rating: 83

Rating:

#2 DA WINNER IS (ML=8/1)
#6 DON'T THINK TWICE (ML=10/1)
#8 UNCLE CARM (ML=6/1)


DA WINNER IS - Great chance for this racer. Solid late speed and should have good position. When this jockey and trainer are put together you have to take a look. Saez and Talley have been fabulous together. DON'T THINK TWICE - Entered at the same class level and distance of his last win, which is a big plus for this gelding. Davis and Wyner partnered with one another are a punter's friend. Taking a big drop in class rating points from his August 4th race at Delaware Park. Based on that data point, I will give this thoroughbred the advantage. UNCLE CARM - Rodriguez and Lake perform well when they are put together. Hard to top a win percentage of 33. A thoroughbred coming back this soon after a solid race is a good omen.

Vulnerable Contenders: #3 TEMPIETTO (ML=5/2), #5 YOU'RE MY BLUE SKY (ML=7/2), #7 PURIM'S GOLD (ML=9/2),

TEMPIETTO - Common speed rating last time out at Delaware Park at 1 mile 70 yards. Don't think this mount will improve too much in today's race. YOU'RE MY BLUE SKY - The finish position of sixth in the last affair shows me that this horse may be getting out of condition. Somewhat easily forgotten speed fig last time around the track at Delaware Park at 1 mile 70 yards. Don't feel this runner will improve too much today. PURIM'S GOLD - This mount will probably be near the rear of the pack as this group crosses the finish line.


STRAIGHT WAGERS:

#2 DA WINNER IS is going to be the play if we are getting 5/2 or better

EXACTA WAGERS:

2 with [6,8]

TRIFECTA WAGERS:

Box [2,6,8] Total Cost: $6

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:

[2,6,8] with [2,6,8] with [2,5,6,8,9] with [2,5,6,8,9] Total Cost: $36

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts


Mountaineer Park - Race #5 - Post: 8:28pm - Maiden Special - 8.0 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $14,100 Class Rating: 70

Rating:

#2 LOVEYOU LIKETHAT (ML=5/2)
#6 LOVE THOSE LEGS (ML=6/1)


LOVEYOU LIKETHAT - Maiden is switching to the dirt, and may not have liked the turf last out. Has a good chance to get to the winner's circle for the 1st time. LOVE THOSE LEGS - This filly is number one in earnings per race. Check out this animal in the paddock.

Vulnerable Contenders: #7 WHIM (ML=7/5), #4 LA INDIA ANACAONA (ML=4/1), #3 BATALLA (ML=8/1),

WHIM - I can't play this repeated non-winner. Gets the assignment completed from time to time. LA INDIA ANACAONA - You always think this horse has a shot to win, but she falls short most of the time. BATALLA - This horse likes to be there at the wire, but doesn't usually get the job done. Don't put in the top spot. Will be tough for this mount to beat this field off of that last speed fig. Doubtful to improve enough to run a figure anywhere near today's class rating, so put her on the questionable challengers list.

GUEST COMMENTARY: Winston - LOVE THOSE LEGS - I look forward to wagering on big class droppers like this one. Much easier bunch this time out.


STRAIGHT WAGERS:

Play #2 LOVEYOU LIKETHAT to win if you can get odds of 7/5 or more

EXACTA WAGERS:

Box [2,6]

TRIFECTA WAGERS:

Skip

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:

Pass

Handicapped by Rick Needham at Saratoga

RACE #8 - SARATOGA RACE COURSE - 4:45 PM EASTERN POST

The Summer Colony Stakes

9.0 FURLONGS DIRT FILLIES AND MARES FOUR YEARS OLD AND UPWARD STAKES $100,000.00 PURSE

#6 ESKENFORMONEY
#2 TIGER RIDE
#3 SWEETGRASS
#5 MILAYA

This race honors the career of Summer Colony, who broke her maiden by 32 3/4 lengths at Saratoga, defeated Azeri in the 2002 La Canada Stakes (gr. II) at Santa Anita. She captured five other stakes during her career, including this year's Molly Pitcher Breeders' Cup Handicap (gr. II) at Monmouth Park and the Personal Ensign Handicap (gr. I) at Saratoga. She was retired at age five with earnings of $1,448,930. Here in just the 3rd running of this stakes test, #6 ESKENFORMONEY has hit the board in three straight, winning in her 3rd race back, and comes off a "POWER RUN PLACE" finish in her last start, missing a "Circle Trip" in that race by just a "photographed neck" at the wire. Jockey Javier Castellano and Trainer Todd Pletcher send her to the post for the "Monday Feature" ... they've hit the board with 54% of more than 200 entries saddled as a team to date. #2 TIGER RIDE takes a class drop (-3), is the speed and pace profile leader, and has hit the board in "POWER RUN FASHION" in three of her last five outings, including a "POWER RUN WIN" in her 5th race back.

DDLohaus’ Saratoga analysis

Monday’s picks

“I didn’t lose” to quote my favorite movie Let it Ride.* Hit a nice exacta right away ($52.00) but couldn’t make a large dent with a win in the Adirondack…bad start did us in right from the get-go but I’m not sure our selection could have beaten the top two anyway.
Weather a bit unknown so we will not have any plays in the bankroll today but one selection.

Race #8
Tiger Ride

Total Bets: 0
Meet Total: – $448.00

Mohawk: Monday 8/22 Analysis
By Garnet Barnsdale

DRF

Race 1 - $30,000 Guaranteed Pick Five Pool

Race 4 - $50,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool


20-CENT PICK 5: 3/2,5,6/5,6,7,8/4,5,9/4,5,8 = $21.60

EARLY PICK 4: 4,5,9/4,5,8/1,4,5,6,7/7 = $45

LATE PICK 4: 7/1,5,6/5/1,2,3,4,8 = $15

MEET STATS: 290 - 842 / $1520.30 BEST BETS: 49 - 78 / $158.50

SPOT PLAYS: 17 - 78 / $86.60

Best Bet: P L KAHLUAA (9th)

Spot Play: TREASURES PEARL (5th)


Race 1

(3) THE MUSCLE TOUCH - 0 for 18 at this point - will not find an easier spot to break his maiden than this. It's now or never, it seems. (7) STORMONT VICEROY was sensational in his August 12th qualifier but he has had issues staying flat when racing for money. If he can trot the whole way here he should be a threat. (9) WEVE HAD ENOUGH showed early foot from the 10-hole last time and if he is driven in a similar fashion here he could stick around for a share. (5) HIGHLAND TOP HILL still has some upside being so lightly raced but she is another that has to show she can stay trotting.

Race 2

(2) LOVES ANGEL rebounded with a better performance last time and finished well without threatening the top three. Moving inside gives her a decent shot here. (5) P L KARIS should be tough in here if she can stay flat and produce the same speed she displayed in her latest qualifier. (6) ROYAL POINT races better near the front. Expect a more aggressive approach here. (9) ODDYSSEUS comes off her best mile to date and is another that's in with a chance here.

Race 3

(5) SWEET KIMMY had a decent debut race that she can build on and this field is easier; top call. (8) MOTOWN JACKPOT faces much easier here and he is one that you need to have on Pick 5 tickets. (6) UPVOTE HANOVER goes for a high % barn and is worth a look on debut. (7) YO YO MASS exits Grassroots races and is another to consider in what looks like a Pick 5 spread race.

Race 4

(5) TALBOT CHANEL roared home late to win last time she was in a similar class. She should be put into this race earlier. (9) JUST TOO SPOILED is getting closer each week but you have to wonder where she will be positioned turning for home being saddled with an outer post. (4) ANDERSON SEELSTER faces weaker here and has to be considered for multi-race tickets. (1) COME WHAT MAY is likely to try a following inside trip here and she can share off that type of a journey.

Race 5

(8) TREASURES PEARL lacked room until it was too late last time. These things tend to even out and she should be prominent again near the front here; slight nod. (5) WHITE DANCER continues to improve and she is a big threat to double up here. (4) SHEWEARSTHEPANTS bottomed the field out with a third 1/4 brush-and-crush move last time. She is the main speed threat again. (1) DUDESALADY did everything but win last week in her first try on the circuit. She is another that can take this dash.

Race 6

(4) LINDYS TRU GRIT had some trot at the end of his comeback race but he was free too late to catch the leaders. He could offer a good price again here and is worth a play. (1) RUBBER DUCK is always dangerous at this level from the inside; using. (7) HARPER BLUE CHIP is rounding into form quickly after a long absence but he could be overbet here, too. (6) CHARMED LIFE is also a big threat on the class drop in a very contentious race.

Race 7

(7) SHANGHAI SUGAR raced well in the Battle of the Belles and she should prove best here if given a reasonable trip. (6) HEY MOMMA ROCK ME was sharp in victory on a track rated a second slow while qualifying on August 12 and she should be a threat here. (9) TODAYS SPORTS hasn't missed the board and can contend here despite drawing the outermost post. (4) CAMS LUCKY STAR had an okay debut last week at Grand River and can build on that initial try to sneak into the picture late here.

Race 8

(1) SILVERHILL SHADOW was a bit sluggish on the lead last time and fell short late as a result. Maybe third start back will be the charm, but beware taking too low a price here. (5) HIDDEN POTENTIAL gets a huge driver change here and is worth a look. (6) CURATOR was game despite enduring a long trip last week and merits Pick 4 inclusion off that good effort. (2) THORN IN YOUR SIDE may have disliked the wet track last week and could show marked improvement here.

Race 9

(5) P L KAHLUAA was lights out in her debut for leading trainer Moreau and there is no reason not to think she'll be at least that good here, too. (2) SPORTS LEADER is getting closer to that initial win and looks next best here. (9) SPORTS BEAUTY can close late for a share here similar to last time when she also faced the choice. (3) AMULET SEELSTER should be a speed threat again but needs to find more late in the mile.

Race 10

(2) SPORTS LIGHTNING won last time he raced in a similar class on this track and he flew home in 27 flat to do it; slight nod in a puzzling finale. (3) MAC RAIDER will be a big threat if he can duplicate his August 13 effort over Kawartha Downs. He has won several races on the WEG circuit in the past. (4) WEATHERLY faces much easier and is an obvious contender, but he could but could be overbet here. (1) JAKE PARRISH also faces easier here and should take a share starting from the inside. (8) SWORD OF THE SPIRIT should be heard from early then hang around for a small slice.

Yonkers: Monday 8/22 Analysis
By Matt Rose

DRF

MEET STATS: 279 - 821 / $1,540.00

BEST BETS: 37 - 68 / $125.60

Best Bet: JK HEAVEN SENT (11th)

Spot Play: CHEYENNE TRIENGEL (6th)


Race 1

(2) HI HO STEVERINO hung in there pretty well after being left uncovered last out; veteran is always a threat from inside posts. (4) VAGUE TRASCES seems to have serious ability but can't seem to put it all together. (1) JK ALLNITELONG had no excuse from the pocket in his debut for the Allard barn off the claim but he lands the rail again and should be considered.

Race 2

(4) JAKESAGALINTRAINING ships from Monticello for Team Stalbaum off a series of good efforts and the mare looks like she can fit well here. (3) IDEAL FANTASY was overmatched in Sire Stakes action; back where she belongs. (1) BRICKWARD QUEENIE draws best and that was a good effort three back.

Race 3

(5) FROG POND PRINCESS jogged in her local debut and she can easily repeat. (4) CHEYENNE MOLLY had no chance after getting shuffled last out but finished with late pace; consider. (3) GYPSY BELLEVUE raced pretty well for Burke upon arrival.

Race 4

(7) ONE WILL BJ made some forward progress in a much-improved effort last out and Brennan drives again; consider at a price. (8) CARLOS DANGER was a fringe player in NYSS competition but he did beat this type last out; only problem is the post. (1) STELLA'S PHELLA is 0 for 58 and counting but he never misses a check.

Race 5

(5) SUNKEN TREASURE dug in gamely when engaged last out, his debut for Milici; 3-year-old can repeat. (4) ROLL WITH FRED keeps coming up just short; I guess he'll win one eventually. (6) CENOVIS was a winner here last month in an Excelsior event.

Race 6

(1) CHEYENNE TRIENGEL was a game multiple-move winner last out and now she draws best looking to repeat. (3) KEYSTONE PAULA was nailed late after battling on the lead in last; that's three consecutive solid efforts. (6) UPSIDE SURPRISE exits NYSS competition and showed good speed when last in with this type.

Race 7

(6) FREEZE OUT draws outside of her main competition but she's been a steady commodity and only needs a smooth trip. (3) I SAID PLEASE returns to the races off two solid qualifiers. (1) TWIN B SWEETHEART gets serious post relief and promises to be part of the early action.

Race 8

(6) MR D'S DRAGON was a solid second last out to a tough winner; he will be on the move early again. (1) DATELINE HANOVER was flying home to just miss when last seen here and followed that up with two wins out of town; main threat. (2) PRETTY BOY HILL had nothing to offer upon arrival and burned the money; perhaps he can show a bit more tonight.

Race 9

(1) NITRO GLISTENING gets a nice driver upgrade while drawing best. (6) STONEBRIDGE BEACH ships in from Canada for Lachance which has always been a good angle; will he need one? (2) HURRIKANE ALI makes his first start in a year; use underneath and keep an eye on him for future efforts.

Race 10

(5) ARIELLE LYNN was very game in defeat last week and she can take this with any sort of smoother trip. (7) ALBANY GIRL was outbattled late in her local debut and Bartlett may be hustling her hard early. (1) VINO AND FORMAGGIO should never be too far back and she can land a share.

Race 11

(1) JK HEAVEN SENT kicked home very nicely last out but was second best to the trip-sitting winner; from this spot it's her turn to sit the winning trip. (4) DEETZY never got involved in his latest but it looks like he can leave the gate from this spot. (2) MIDNIGHT LIGHTNING has made a habit of coming up a bit short, however he seems live enough to include on tickets.

Race 12

(4) TWIN B IMPRESSIVE doesn’t seem to win as often as he should but perhaps the new set of hands will get him over the top. (8) MACHS BEACH BOY is up a notch in class after finally winning one and the Lachance trainee is overloaded with back class. (3) THE LUNCH PAIL gets class relief and should be right there but he's another camera-shy type.

SPOT PLAYS

For Monday

TRACK (RACE) HORSE, MORNING LINE

Delaware Park (3rd) Purim's Gold, 9-2
(5th) Loyalty Spirit, 3-1


Finger Lakes (4th) Ten Carat Rock, 5-1
(6th) Noble Doss, 7-2


Hastings Park (2nd) P B Bolt, 3-1
(3rd) Stratify, 3-1


Mountaineer (5th) La India Anacaona, 4-1
(8th) Island Sunset, 7-2


Presque Isle Downs (1st) Mystic Cotton, 6-1
(4th) Red Raven, 6-1


Saratoga (5th) Proud Zip, 8-1
(6th) Ostrolenka, 3-1


Thistledown (4th) Wedded Prince, 5-1
(8th) Show Me Some Majic, 4-1

August Pitchers Report
By Marc Lawrence

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

Take a look below.

Listed below are hurlers that have enjoyed a two-to-one or better success ratio in team-starts over the course of the last three seasons during the month of August.

On the flip side, we've also listed pitchers that struggle in August, winning 33% percent or less of their team-start efforts.

To qualify pitchers must have made a minimum of 10 starts, with at least one start each April over the last three years. And for your convenience alongside each record we break down each pitcher’s greatest success or greatest failure rate either home (H) or away (A) within his good or bad month.

Note: * designates a categorical repeat appearance by this pitcher, maintaining status quo from last season’s August list.

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

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

GOOD MONTH PITCHERS:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

BAD MONTH PITCHERS:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

MLB roundup: Mets shut out Giants
By The Sports Xchange

SAN FRANCISCO -- Yoenis Cespedes provided Noah Syndergaard all the offensive support he needed with a two-run home run in the seventh inning Sunday night as the New York Mets duo combined to overpower the San Francisco Giants in a 2-0 victory.
Syndergaard limited the Giants to two hits over eight innings as the Mets managed a split of the four-game series after losing the first two games Thursday and Friday. He walked two and struck out six. Jeurys Familia completed the shutout with a one-hit ninth for his 41st save.
Curtis Granderson led off the Mets' seventh inning with a double, ending the no-hit bid of San Francisco starter Jeff Samardzija, before Cespedes launched a tremendous blast just inside the left field foul pole.
Samardzija (10-9) was pulled after the seventh inning, having allowed two runs on three hits. He walked one and struck out seven.

Indians 3, Blue Jays 2
CLEVELAND -- Jose Ramirez hit a two-run homer in the bottom of the eighth inning to lift Cleveland past Toronto.
With one out in the eighth inning and Toronto leading 2-1, Brett Cecil relieved starter Marcus Stroman. Cecil retired Jason Kipnis on a fly out for the second out, but Francisco Lindor reached on an infield single.
Ramirez then hit the first pitch over the left field wall for his 10th home run, giving Cleveland a 3-2 lead. It was Ramirez's second late-game homer of the series.

Tigers 10, Red Sox 5
DETROIT -- Justin Upton hit a pair of three-run homers, J.D. Martinez squibbed a two-run double and Justin Verlander held Boston to one run in six innings to help Detroit gain a split of a four-game series.
Upton, hitting .228 at game time, was in his second game back from three days of not starting. He came up in the third with two on and tagged Boston emergency starter Henry Owens (0-1) for his 14th home run of the season. Owens, subbing for injured Eduardo Rodriguez, fed Upton a 2-0 changeup that Upton hit halfway up the stands in left to give Detroit a 5-0 lead.

Rays 8, Rangers 4
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. -- Logan Forsythe hit a three-run homer in his return to the lineup to lead Tampa Bay over Texas.
Forsythe's home run completed a five-run fourth inning that gave the Rays a 6-2 lead as Tampa Bay took two out of three games from the American League West leaders.
Tampa Bay trailed 2-1 going into the bottom of the fourth when second baseman Tim Beckham hit a double down the right field line. Right fielder Steven Souza Jr. and left fielder Corey Dickerson followed with singles and Beckham scored to tie the game. Catcher Bobby Wilson executed a perfect bunt on a squeeze play that Souza Jr. scored on to give the Rays a 3-2 lead. Forsythe came up with two on and sent a 2-1 offering from Rangers starter Martin Perez over the wall in left center.

White Sox 4, Athletics 2
CHICAGO -- Jose Quintana reached a career high with his 10th victory as Chicago beat Oakland.
Quintana (10-9) struck out six, walked one and gave up two runs and eight hits in seven innings. He exited after issuing a leadoff walk in the eighth. Quintana reached nine victories in each of his last three seasons.
Jose Abreu homered for the White Sox, who have won five of their last nine games. The Athletics have lost seven of eight and 16 of 22.

Royals 2, Twins 1
KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- Danny Duffy pitched superbly into the seventh inning as Kansas City nipped Minnesota for its eighth straight victory.
The Royals' winning streak is their longest since winning eight in a row in August 2014. They swept a four-game series from the Twins at Kansas City for the first time since 1975.
Duffy (11-1) won his 10th straight decision, holding the Twins to one run on eight hits over 6 2/3 innings before being replaced by Peter Moylan after throwing 95 pitches. Duffy lowered his ERA to 2.66, which ranks second in the American League.

Dodgers 4, Reds 0
CINCINNATI -- Chase Utley homered and Julio Urias pitched six shutout innings to send Los Angeles over Cincinnati.
The Dodgers snapped a three-game losing skid. The loss ended a five-game winning streak for the Reds.
Urias (4-2) allowed six hits and had six strikeouts over 97 pitches.

Cardinals 9, Phillies 0
PHILADELPHIA -- Brandon Moss' 23rd home run of the season helped open up the St. Louis offense and seven strong innings from Mike Leake paved the way to a win over Philadelphia.
Leake (9-9) gave up seven hits and struck out eight.
Vince Velasquez (8-6) took the loss. Since picking up a win on July 8 that moved him to 8-2 with a 3.32 ERA, the 24-year-old is 0-4 with a 6.25 ERA.

Marlins 3, Pirates 2
PITTSBURGH -- In a somewhat sloppy ballgame, Miami held it together to sweep Pittsburgh.
Christian Yelich hit a solo home run to get the Marlins on the board in the first inning and Miami took advantage of poor defense by the Pirates to add two more runs in the fifth.
Marlins right-hander Jose Urena (2-4) allowed two earned runs on four hits through six innings for his first win since allowing one earned run in three innings of a relief appearance against the Washington Nationals on May 14.

Rockies 11, Cubs 4
DENVER -- Nolan Arenado hit two three-run homers as Colorado piled on Chicago for seven runs in the first inning and walloped them in the rubber game of the three-game series.
The Rockies won for the fourth time in five games as they finished a 4-2 homestand against the Cubs and Washington Nationals. The loss was just the fifth in 24 games for the Cubs.
Arenado went 4-for-5 with six RBIs, one shy of his career high. He tied his career high with four hits. It was the seventh four-hit game of his career and second this season.

Brewers 7, Mariners 6
SEATTLE -- Milwaukee pinch hitter Scooter Gennett delivered an RBI single in the top of the ninth, capping off a four-run frame as Milwaukee rallied from three down to beat Seattle while snapping a six-game losing streak.
Brewers center fielder Keon Broxton had a pair of solo home runs, including a leadoff shot that sparked the four-run ninth. Broxton entered the Seattle series with three home runs on the season, then hit three more in three games against the Mariners.
Ryan Braun's two-out, two-run double in the sixth cut the deficit to 6-3.

Padres 9, Diamondbacks 1
SAN DIEGO -- Right-hander Luis Perdomo took a shutout into the seventh inning and hit a run-scoring double, and fellow rookies Travis Jankowski and Alex Dickerson homered as San Diego defeated Arizona at Petco Park.
Patrick Kivlehan, the third rookie member of the Padres outfield, reached base in all four of his plate appearances and scored three runs.
Perdomo, 23, allowed one unearned run on five hits and no walks over seven innings while striking out five in easily the best of his 14 starts this season. Perdomo improved to 6-7 while lowering his earned run average from 6.68 to 6.24.

Braves 7, Nationals 6
ATLANTA -- Jace Peterson hit a 3-2 hanging slider from Shawn Kelly over the right-field fence with two outs in the 10th inning for an Atlanta win over Washington.
It was just the second win for the Braves over the Nationals in 13 games this season.
Peterson, playing his first game in center field, made a catch crashing into the fence early in the game and then won it with his seventh homer of the season.

Angels 2 Yankees 0
ANAHEIM, Calif. -- Right-hander Jhoulys Chacin earned his first victory in nearly 10 weeks by combining with three relievers on a six-hit shutout in Los Angeles' win over New York Yankees at Angel Stadium.
Chacin, who had lost four successive decisions, conceded six hits and one walk in 5 2/3 innings while collecting five strikeouts.
Andrelton Simmons drove in both runs while Albert Pujols collected three hits.

Astros 5, Orioles 3
BALTIMORE -- Dallas Keuchel allowed just two runs in eight innings for his first road win since June 29 and Carlos Correa had two hits and two RBIs as Houston defeated Baltimore in a rain-delayed series finale.
Keuchel allowed seven runs in five innings in his last road start -- at Detroit on July 31. He last tasted victory away from home when he gave up two earned runs in six innings against the Angels nearly two months ago.
The Astros won three of four games in the series while the Orioles have lost five of their last six.