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2016 U.S. Open Odds

The 2016 United States Open Tennis Championships begin in late August at the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows, New York.

The event takes place over a two-week period, starting on Monday Aug. 29 and concluding with the Women’s Final on Saturday Sept. 10 and the Men’s Final on Sunday Sept. 11.

Novak Djokovic has been installed as a the top betting choice at 10/11 (Bet $110 to win $100) to win this year’s men’s championship with Andy Murray (2/1), Juan Martin del Potro (14/1), Milos Raonic (14/1) close behind.

Djokovic won the event in 2011 and 2015 while finishing as runner-up in 2010, 2012 and 2013. Last year, he defeated Roger Federer in the championship as Federer will not compete in the U.S. Open after recovering from knee surgery.

For the women, it’s no surprise that Serena Williams has been made a 6/5 (Bet $100 to win $120) betting favorite. She captured three straight U.S. Open championships between 2012 and 2014 but was denied a fourth last September when Williams lost to Roberta Vinci in the semifinals.

Vinci eventually lost to fellow Italian Flavia Pennetta in the women's finals as Pennetta won't defend her title after announcing her retirement at the end of the 2015 season.

Odds to win 2016 Men's US Open (9/11/16)
Novak Djokovic 10/11
Andy Murray 2/1
Juan Martin del Potro 14/1
Milos Raonic 14/1
Rafael Nadal 16/1
Marin Cilic 20/1
Stan Wawrinka 20/1
Kei Nishikori 22/1
Nick Kyrgios 40/1
Dominic Thiem 50/1
Gael Monfils 66/1
Grigor Dimitrov 66/1
Jo-Wilfried Tsonga 66/1
John Isner 100/1
Bernard Tomic 125/1
Kevin Anderson 125/1
Richard Gasquet 125/1
Borna Coric 150/1
David Ferrer 150/1
David Goffin 150/1
Jack Sock 150/1
Ernests Gulbis 200/1
Gilles Simon 200/1
Jeremy Chardy 200/1
Jerzy Janowicz 200/1
Roberto Bautista Agut 200/1
Thanasi Kokkinakis 200/1
Andreas Seppi 250/1
Fabio Fognini 250/1
Feliciano Lopez 250/1
Fernando Verdasco 250/1
Vasek Pospisil 250/1
Guillermo Garcia-Lopez 400/1
Martin Klizan 500/1

Odds to win 2016 Women's US Open (9/10/16)
Serena Williams 6/5
Angelique Kerber 8/1
Simona Halep 8/1
Garbine Muguruza 9/1
Madison Keys 14/1
Petra Kvitova 18/1
Belinda Bencic 20/1
Karolina Pliskova 25/1
Agnieszka Radwanska 28/1
Monica Puig 28/1
Eugenie Bouchard 33/1
Johanna Konta 40/1
Dominika Cibulkova 50/1
Lucie Safarova 50/1
Timea Bacsinszky 50/1
Venus Williams 50/1
Ana Ivanovic 66/1
C Vandeweghe 66/1
Caroline Wozniacki 66/1
Elina Svitolina 66/1
Sam Stosur 66/1
Ekaterina Makarova 80/1
Andrea Petkovic 100/1
Camila Giorgi 100/1
Caroline Garcia 100/1
Jelena Jankovic 100/1
K Mladenovic 100/1
Sabine Lisicki 100/1
Heather Watson 125/1
Laura Robson 125/1
Sara Errani 150/1
Alize Cornet 200/1

Odds Subject to Change

US Open Women's betting preview and odds: Serena out for revenge

Serena Williams looks to avenge last year’s semi-final meltdown and surpass Steffi Graff’s Grand Slam titles record. This will be no easy task though, with shoulder issues & Angelique Kerber breathing down her neck for the No.1 spot in the rankings.

Favorite

Serena Williams (+125)

While Serena Williams hasn’t dominated 2016, she’s played a large part in the proceedings. Runner up in Australia & Paris, she finally sealed her 22nd Major Title in Wimbledon, overcoming another dogged performance from Angelique Kerber. Shoulder issues have hindered her preparations, she crashed out in singles and doubles in Rio, before withdrawing from the Western & Southern Open in Cincinnati.

She’s won many tournaments while carrying injuries though, and her performances in New York have been outstanding. 84-10 for her career and she’s reached the semi-finals or better in her last six visits. While the chasing pack will feel confident of an upset, it seems Serena’s main opponent is herself, if she keeps mentally strong she should lift an Open Era record 7th title.

Underdog to watch

Angelique Kerber (+1000)

This price seems high for a player who’s made so many strides in the 2016 season. Australian Open champion, Wimbledon finalist, Olympic Silver Medallist. Three accolades most players would be delighted to accomplish throughout their careers but the German doesn’t look like stopping. Her performance in Cincinnati just days after losing the Olympic final in a deciding set to Monica Puig was eye catching, and while she did fail to win the final and become World No.1, she looks in good shape to finish the season strongly.

Her slightly high price is due to her lack of a major breakthrough at this tournament, but she is a former semi-finalist (2011) and it’s worth noting she hadn’t gone further than the 4th round prior to her Australian Open victory in January. Her No.2 seeding should help her also, and she’s a tough competitor who’ll be difficult to defeat.

Live long shot

Johanna Konta (+4000)

Konta has regained her Australian Open (semi-finalist) form during this US Hard Court swing. She defeated Venus Williams in the final in Stanford, backing these performances up with quarter-final showings in Montreal & Rio, before fatigue caught up with her in Cincinnati. She did withdraw from this week’s tournament in Connecticut, but she was joined by three fellow seeded players and these are presumably all precautionary, the schedule was tightly packed this season with the addition of the Olympics. Her round of 16 appearance at Flushing Meadows was a sign of things to come, and now with her highest ever major seeding (No.13) anything less than a quarter finals appearance will be disappointing.

US Open Men's betting preview and odds: Can Djokovic recover from Olympic disaster?

The final Grand Slam of the 2016 season is upon us, and the fitness of the two major contenders, Novak Djokovic & Andy Murray is in question. Both men will surpass +50 wins for the season here, and will be expected to overcome any fitness doubts to contend for the U.S. Open title.

Favorite:

Novak Djokovic (-110)

The first 6 months of 2016 were completely dominated by the Serbian, but as the saying goes “what goes up must come down”. Djokovic’s 30th Masters Title in Toronto was sandwiched in between early exits in Wimbledon and the Rio Olympics, both possibly due to a “wrist problem”. The extent of this problem is unknown, but Djokovic should benefit from his No.1 seeding and avoid any major challenges until the 4th round.

His 57-9 record has yielded a perhaps disappointing two titles for a player of his caliber, but his technical & mental ability makes him probably the best hard court player ever, and for this reason, injury or not, it’s impossible to write him off. Andy Murray appears the main danger, but again the question of burnout raises its’ head. 22 consecutive wins since June rewarded the Brit with his 2nd Wimbledon title & a defense of his Olympic Gold medal. Shoulder issues are apparent now though, and 2 weeks in tough conditions could hinder him. He crashed out in Round Four last year.

Underdog to watch:

Stan Wawrinka (+1600)

Wawrinka is always a dangerous player to wager on, and Grand Slams seem the safest option, as his motivation for anything outside of the majors is extremely low. The past three seasons have included two semifinal berths & one quarterfinal appearance, falling in a 5th set to Djokovic & Nishikori in 2013 & 2014. High seeding courtesy of two grand slam titles has helped him gain a foothold into tournaments as he’s a player who takes time to heat up. He has the tools needed to succeed here, and the prospect of another battle with Novak Djokovic is mouth-watering.

Live Longshot:

Marin Cilic (+2500)

A rather high price for the former champion & winner in Cincinnati last week. Cilic had a tough time burying the disappointment of dropping a 2 set lead to Roger Federer in the Wimbledon quarterfinal, which eventually led to a split from Coach Goran Ivanisevic. The addition of Jonas Bjorkman (worked with Andy Murray) should improve his game further, Bjorkman forged his career around a fantastic volley & general net play, which Cilic struggles with massively. He seems to have regained the form that led to his 2014 US Open win, and his groundstrokes were tremendous in Cincinnati. He’ll still want to avoid Novak Djokovic in this draw (0-14), but outside Murray & Djokovic the field doesn’t look particularly strong, so anything less than a semifinal will be disappointing.

Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at Grand River Raceway

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

Race 6 - Post: 8:15 - 1 mile. TROT - Class Rating: 67 - Purse:$7000 - N/W $10000.
CONSORTIUM*CHOICES

# 5 SOS HARDDRIVE 4/1
# 2 P L JADE 3/1
# 6 WITHAHEARTTOMATCH 5/1

Look no further than SOS HARDDRIVE as the bet in this contest. Has the makings of a profitable play, averaging a rather good 75 TrackMaster Speed Rating. This mare has been racing against some of the most competitive company in this pack recently. Could unquestionably better this group given the 72 TrackMaster Speed Rating recorded in her most recent competition. P L JADE - Post 2 has been winning at an above average clip, suggesting really strong probability of success in this event. May be the most favorable in the group here, showing respectable markings of late. Average speed is a solid 68. WITHAHEARTTOMATCH - McClure has been blazing hot this last month, winning at a really strong 20 percent.

Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at Monticello Raceway

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

Race 3 - Post: 1:34 - 1 mile. TROT - Class Rating: 78 - Purse:$4400 - N/W $300 P/S L/5 OR P/S IN 2016 $5600 P/C L/S AE: N/W 7 PM LT AE: $7500 CLM W/A NO. 9 STARTS FROM 2ND TIER J TAGGART JR 1 OVER 4
CONSORTIUM*CHOICES

# 9 NICE DREAM 6/1
# 1 BEST FRIEND ALWAYS 5/2
# 6 CSI WHAT'S MY NAME 7/2

The consensus in this race is that NICE DREAM is the one to beat. Enters this competition with competitive TrackMaster class stats relative to the grouping - could be worth a shot. This horse will have to be a wager, based on the very good driver/trainer win stat. Tough to pass on this gelding with talented Aldrich in the sulky. Major player for the top prize. BEST FRIEND ALWAYS - Hands down the best post at Monticello Raceway is the 1. The win statistic is great. The consortium happens to know that when you put Taggart and Parker together great results happen frequently. CSI WHAT'S MY NAME - This horse looks very good. Look at the 82 average speed figure. If effort in the most recent race is any indicator, this horse will have a very really strong shot in this contest. High last race speed fig.

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Hastings Park

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


Race 3 - Maiden Special Weight - 6.0f on the Dirt. Purse: $25000 Class Rating: 64

FOR MAIDENS, TWO YEARS OLD. WEIGHT, 120 LBS.


RECOMMENDED*CHOICES


# 6 COLONEL KEVIN 5/2

# 2 RUN HARVEY RUN 9/2

# 8 BLUR'SFINALCOMMAND 5/1

COLONEL KEVIN is the most respectable bet in this race. Have to bet on this gelding with the solid earnings per start in dirt sprint events. He has garnered very good figs under today's conditions and will almost certainly fare well against this field. Reason to like this gelding as he has in the irons one of the best jocks using winning percentages over the last 30 days. RUN HARVEY RUN - This choice will feel the med change - with second time Lasix today. Have to examine solely on class, with some of the best class figures of this group. BLUR'SFINALCOMMAND - Has been running quite well lately and will probably be on or close to the lead early on.

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Ruidoso Downs

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


Race 5 - Allowance - 350y on the Dirt. Purse: $11200 Class Rating: 82

QUARTER HORSE 350Y, FOR THREE YEAR OLDS AND UPWARD WHICH HAVE NEVER WON A RACE OTHER THAN MAIDEN, CLAIMING, STARTER, OR TRIAL OR WHICH HAVE NEVER WON TWO RACES. THREE YEAR OLDS, 121 LBS.; OLDER, 124 LBS.


RECOMMENDED*CHOICES


# 7 TO THE TOP FIRST 8/1

# 5 JETSTONE BAY 6/1

# 4 NOTAVAILABLEINSTORES 5/2

My choice in here is TO THE TOP FIRST especially at a such a nice price. The Equibase Speed Figure of 82 from his latest race looks strong in here. Has been running admirably and has among the best speed in the race for today's distance. JETSTONE BAY - With a strong ROI of +81 this handler has shown respectable results with entries running at this distance and surface. Will probably compete very well in the early pace contest which bodes well with this field. NOTAVAILABLEINSTORES - His 80 average has this gelding with among the best speed figures for this race. Is hard not to examine given the company run in lately.

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts


Thistledown - Race #6 - Post: 4:10pm - Claiming - 6.0 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $9,800 Class Rating: 69

Rating:

#4 I GOT THE TIME (ML=4/1)
#5 CHARLIES HOT (ML=6/1)
#2 AWESOME SWIRL (ML=9/2)


I GOT THE TIME - Ran last time around the track against much better company at Thistledown. The move to a lower level should suit her well. This campaigner coming off a good try in the last thirty days is a solid contender in my book. A repeat of that latest effort on August 15th where she registered a speed figure of 69 looks strong enough to prove victorious in this race. CHARLIES HOT - I took a look at this filly's finishes. She's almost always in the money. Have to give this filly a good chance. Ran a sharp race in the last race within the last month. AWESOME SWIRL - Entered at the same class level and distance of her last win, which is a big plus for this filly.

Vulnerable Contenders: #9 MOCHIMA (ML=6/1), #7 LA CHURRUCA (ML=8/1), #3 WHERESTHEPRENUPT (ML=8/1),

MOCHIMA - Just can't bet on this steed. Didn't show me anything positive last out or on Jul 18th. LA CHURRUCA - Really don't think the recent speed figure was attained legitimately. The off conditions may have lead to such a high rating. This vulnerable equine ran a run-of-the-mill speed rating in the last race. She shouldn't show signs of improvement and will probably get beat in today's race running that fig. WHERESTHEPRENUPT - This thoroughbred likes to hit the board, but doesn't usually win. Don't play in the top spot.


STRAIGHT WAGERS:

Bet on #4 I GOT THE TIME to win if you can get at least 7/2 odds

EXACTA WAGERS:

Box [2,4,5]

TRIFECTA WAGERS:

Box [2,4,5] Total Cost: $6

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:

Skip

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts


Presque Isle Downs - Race #8 - Post: 8:20pm - Claiming - 8.3 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $10,000 Class Rating: 84

Rating:

#3 LIQUID ASSET (ML=6/1)
#1 MR NUM NUM (ML=6/1)


LIQUID ASSET - Great chance for this pony. Strong late speed and should have good position. I like to wager on this handicapping angle, a horse coming back off a sharp effort within the last 30 days. MR NUM NUM - Always be wary of the longer priced animal when a trainer has an 'uncoupled' entry in a race.

Vulnerable Contenders: #5 METRO (ML=2/1), #6 PEASANT (ML=5/2), #2 ARAB SPRING (ML=7/2),

METRO - The finish position of eighth in the last race shows me that this equine may be getting out of condition. When checking today's class figure, he will have to garner a better speed fig than last time out to be competitive in this dirt route. PEASANT - Didn't meet expectations as the favorite the last two times. ARAB SPRING - Awfully hard to wager on this pony when he hasn't been showing any signs of life recently.


STRAIGHT WAGERS:

Go with #3 LIQUID ASSET on top if we're getting at least 5/2 odds

EXACTA WAGERS:

Box [1,3]

TRIFECTA WAGERS:

Pass

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:

Skip

DDLohaus’ Saratoga analysis

Monday’s picks
Started the day of with a nice score but couldn’t match it up with our second pick.
Baby steps….

Race #8
$14WPS Saratoga Giro
$1PIK3 Saratoga Giro/Dragon Bay, Hammers Vision/Over Promised, Blue Xanadu, Irish Marauder, Helluva Choice

Total Bets: $50.00
Meet Total: – $585.00

Mohawk: Monday 8/29 Analysis
By Garnet Barnsdale

DRF

Race 1 - $30,000 Guaranteed Pick Five Pool

Race 4 - $50,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool


PICK 5: 2,6,8/3,7,8/5,6,9/1,4,8/6,7 = $32.40

EARLY PICK 4: 1,4,8/6,7,9/4,8/5,7 = $36

LATE PICK 4: 5,7/1,3,4,7/3,4,8/7,9 = $48

MEET STATS: 306 - 894 / $1591.40 BEST BETS: 52 - 83 / $166.60

SPOT PLAYS: 19 - 83 / $108.60

Best Bet: SPORTSMANSHIP (10th)

Spot Play: TIGERS WAY (2nd)


Race 1

(6) NORTHERN OATH closed well in a promising debut. She should be able to build off that mile and looks like one of the top contenders in this field. (2) MAGIC MADDY faces straight maidens for the first time and she adds trotting hopples. She will likely take lots of action, but should be used on Pick 5 tickets at a minimum. (8) LADY GREY picks up McNair here which could mean an aggressive steer is forthcoming. (4) HUDSONS YA YA can pass some of these late and take a smaller share.

Race 2

(8) TIGERS WAY has raced well in each Grassroots race to date. He'll break through with his first win soon; maybe tonight at a price? (7) TRIDENT SEELSTER should get good position early here and he is another that should take his maiden win soon. (3) MC MACH took a Grassroots win at Georgian two back and he should be a pace factor here if he can stay pacing. (2) TREMENDOUS PLAY hasn't missed the board yet, but missing time will likely relegate him to a minor award here.

Race 3

(6) THE ERM escapes impressive rival Dream Together here and this filly should be prominent throughout here. (5) P C PIPE DREAM gets a big driver switch here; beware. (9) STORMONT ROYALTY gets class relief here. Don't be surprised if Zeron blasts off early here. (7) LATE SHIFT - five for five in the money so far - is another to consider in this contentious Pick 5 leg. Driver Macdonald had a big night here on Thursday.

Race 4

(1) JUST TOO SPOILED made up a lot of ground early in the stretch with an impressive burst last week. Moving inside she should get put into the flow early here. (8) GATEWAY TO VICTORY should be right there if she stays flat here. (4) STONEBRIDGE SUNDAE fits well here and should be heard from. (3) TODAYS SPORTS should be contentious with the move inside and she is another to consider for multi-race tickets.

Race 5

(7) STORMONT VICEROY set some wildly fast fractions for this class last week and he was understandably winded by the time he hit the stretch. Filion sticks with him and will probably work out a better trip this time. (6) NORTHERN MAJOR was almost a winner last time he raced vs. similar several starts back; using at a price. (9) PARKHILL MAVERICK is capable of entering contention but his gait issues make him risky. (4) WEVE HAD ENOUGH seems likely to take a minor share here.

Race 6

(4) LIL PIECEOFHEAVEN raced well from an outer post vs. a dominant winner last time. She looks like one of the main threats here. (8) ACTIVE LADY stands a decent chance here if she is sent hard off the gate, but that part of the equation isn't a given. (3) TWENTY THREE RED should get good position early but is likely to stick around only for a smaller share. (1) MORE THAN MANY can follow along here and close for a spot on the Super ticket.

Race 7

(5) DREAMFAIR B J paced his back 1/2 in 54 4/5 for Henry in his August 23rd qualifier and that teamster sticks here; top call. (7) BET ON BRETT did all the work last week and led for every step except the last one. He is a must-use on Pick 4 tickets. (3) ONE SOURCE races best for Filion, but he needs a better trip than he got last time at Grand River. (1) ASTON HILL DAVE looks like one of the best in here on paper, but I will take a stand against with him having missed four weeks.

Race 8

(4) SILVERINYOURPOCKET hasn't lost in Grassroots races to date and he should be mighty tough in here, too. (1) LINDY THE KID made a huge move down the backstretch in his debut and almost sustained it to the wire. He has some upside; using. (7) DOWN ON MY LUCK used inside posts on smaller tracks to full advantage in his last two. He isn't out of this, but the waters get deeper here. (3) TYMAL PEACEMAKER fits better here and is another to consider for Pick 4 bets.

Race 9

(3) TONIGHTIMLOVINGYOU has a good post from which she will likely try to control things here; slight nod. (8) FOREVER LIZA is probably the best filly in here, but it's possible she could be closing from far back and her rally may fall short. (4) FREE SHOW should work out a good trip near the front and is in with a decent shot to convert that trip into a win. (6) BERNADETTE never misses a check but she can't seem to manage to hit the wire first.

Race 10

(7) SPORTSMANSHIP dives to the bottom off the conditioned ranks here. I would expect he will be put into this race earlier than he has been most nights. (9) SILVERHILL SHADOW also faces his easiest test yet and should be in the thick of things here. (5) GALLAGHER SEELSTER almost pulled off a big upset last week. He's worth a look off the aggressive approach he took in that mile. (6) RAYLEN GIVENS may be starting to turn his form around. He could sneak into the picture here. (1) B N BAD should turn a following trip into a minor share here.

Yonkers: Monday 8/29 Analysis
By Brewster Smith

DRF

MEET STATS: 198 - 859 / $1,262.30

BEST BETS: 25 - 82 / $129.70

Best Bet: THE ROCK (12th)

Spot Play: PLACE TO ROCKNROLL (4th)


Race 1

(4) MEETYOUATMIDNIGHT moves down the ladder and figures to get a favorable trip; gets the call. (5) BJS GUY rallied strongly to nail down the victory upstate last out; main danger. (6) SAFE HARBOR showed good speed against better last out and must be considered.

Race 2

(5) LUCKY MCTRUCKY is clearly knocking at the door based on his latest; can move forward against this group. (4) VAGUE TRACES was on the engine most of the way last out but did not have enough gas in the tank; could make a quick turnaround. (1) ITSONLYROCKNROLL A gets post relief and that might help his cause; maybe.

Race 3

(2) WINNING LINC put in a nice run and got up for the placing last time around. Sophomore can mow these down with a well-judged drive. (6) SOMELUCKSOMEROCK takes a shot downstate against these and has some early zip; threat. (1) MITCH RYDER could have a say from the fence.

Race 4

(5) PLACE TO ROCKNROLL showed signs of life when this filly moved her trade to Yonkers; capable of moving forward. (2) BONIELLO has showed good speed in her last two tries; contender. (7) VERMILION BIRD has wheeled off two straight victories and should be right in the exotic mix.

Race 5

(7) I SAID PLEASE was sharp losing the victory by only a nose in her most recent outing. 3-year-old miss seems to be in good form so moving forward is clearly not out of the question. (1) THREE DIAMONDS was sent down the road in her latest for all the glory; dangerous from the rail. (6) PEACHY was sitting in the pocket most of the way but could not get close to the winner in her last try; watch out.

Race 6

(7) NEW JOEZ was third best in her last two trips to the post and this pacing mare could be rounding to form; worth a shot from the 7-hole. (2) ART CRITIC was facing slightly tougher in her last start so this might be a better spot for her to contend in here. (5) TRACEYS DESIRE leaves the 8-hole and could make some noise in the final strides.

Race 7

(6) HOT LEMONADE did not race badly in her last start and this pacing filly has tactical speed; poised to get the job done. (5) BELLATRICKS is very consistent and is knocking at the door to greet the cameraman for pictures. (2) HEAVENLY BRIDE put in a mild rally for the show spot last out.

Race 8

(7) SHOW THE FASHION Gelding was very game last out and retains the 7-hole; all systems go for win honors. (1) BRED TO RACE was flashing speed last time out but tired badly at the 3/4 pole; could turn things around. (5) COBRA JOE should be in a much better spot to contend with these; not out of this.

Race 9

(4) ANGS DELIGHT took charge turning for home but was caught at the wire in his last try; can atone in here. (2) BOTTOM DEALS was late on the scene to land down the place spot last time out; big threat. (3) HURRIKANE ALI Sharp for place honors last time around and figures to be right square in the hunt.

Race 10

(4) MR DS DRAGON got the job done right down the road last out and this gelding has been very sharp and consistent; can land another. (1) SHANE ADAM should fare much better from the fence and was a fast closing third two trips ago. (3) ENDEAVOR rallied strongly for show honors at Tioga recently.

Race 11

(2) SAFENSOUND HANOVER has been in the exacta in his last four starts and good to see Brennan with the assignment; the pick. (1) QUICK FUN N moves back to the fence where this gelding was a game second two starts back; contender. (5) IDEAL JIMMY raced evenly for show honors last out and could have a say in the outcome.

Race 12

(3) THE ROCK is knocking at the door based on his last two starts and this gelding can cook their goose turning for home. (1) BLOOD BROTHER leaves the Open ranks and gets the rail slot, plus Bartlett is keeping the faith; big threat. (5) JK HEAVEN SENT just held on for the score last time around and must be considered in all the exotic slots.

SPOT PLAYS

For Monday

TRACK (RACE) HORSE, MORNING LINE

Delaware Park (5th) Invisible Crown, 5-1
(6th) Bustin Gold, 3-1


Finger Lakes (1st) Berb's Monarchy, 7-2
(5th) Theopieofmyeye, 8-1


Hastings Park (4th) The Grey One, 4-1
(7th) Adams River Run, 3-1


Mountaineer (1st) Unbridled Ghost, 9-2
(4th) Zarch, 6-1


Presque Isle Downs (3rd) Merry Lady, 3-1
(5th) Echoes of Thunder, 3-1


Saratoga (3rd) True Charm, 6-1
(6th) Miss Meteor, 7-2


Thistledown (3rd) Slingin' Sammy, 7-2
(6th) I Got the Time, 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.

Preview: Nationals (75-55) at Phillies (60-70)

Game: 1
Venue: Citizens Bank Park
Date: August 29, 2016 7:05 PM EDT

PHILADELPHIA -- A.J. Ellis, the Philadelphia Phillies' recently acquired catcher, has made an immediate impact with his new team.

The same cannot be said of Jake Thompson, the Phillies' rookie right-hander.

Thompson (1-3, 9.78) will be looking to get untracked Monday, when the Phillies open a three-game series against the Washington Nationals. Tanner Roark (13-7, 2.99) gets the start for the National League East leaders.

Thompson, called up from Triple-A Lehigh Valley in early August, has not worked more than five innings, nor allowed fewer than three runs, in any of his four major league starts to date. His last time out he lost on the road to the Chicago White Sox, surrendering seven runs on eight hits in five innings while striking out two and walking four.

In 19 1/3 innings to date, he has walked 13 while allowing 22 hits, a far cry from the form he showed at Lehigh Valley, where he gave up 105 hits and walked just 37 in 129 2/3 innings.

"I'm not used to this," Thompson said after the loss to White Sox, according to Major League Baseball's official web site. "The issue is pretty evident. I'm not throwing strikes, and when I am throwing strikes, they're not good strikes. It's coming back to the drawing board and figuring it out a little bit."

Thompson has never faced Washington.

Ellis, acquired from the Los Angeles Dodgers in exchange for fellow catcher Carlos Ruiz last Thursday, belted a tie-breaking two-run double in the seventh inning of his first game with Philadelphia, a 5-1 road victory over the New York Mets on Sunday.

"It felt good regardless of what's happened in the last four days," Ellis said, according to MLB.com. "It feels good to drive in runs, feels good to help put your team ahead and help contribute to a team win."

Roark, a model of consistency most of the season for the Nationals, is winless in his last two starts. His last time out he absorbed a 10-8 loss to Baltimore, going five innings and allowing five runs (four earned) on seven hits while striking out four and walking three.

It was Roark's shortest outing in his last six starts, and the most runs he has allowed in the same span. All five of those runs came in the first two innings, when he threw 62 pitches and hit three batters.

"I couldn't locate; it was as simple as that," Roark said, according to MLB.com. "I was trying to go inside to get them off the plate and make them feel uncomfortable. That's how I pitch. Obviously not my best outing. What I love is that we came back and came pretty darn close to tying it up or possibly winning it."

Roark is 4-5 with a 4.35 ERA in 10 career games against the Phillies, eight of them starts.

The Nationals' comeback attempt also fell short Sunday, in a 5-3 loss to Colorado. They spotted the Rockies a 4-1 lead after three innings, but could muster only three solo homers, by Trae Turner, Wilson Ramos and Bryce Harper.

Harper's homer, his 23rd of the season, was a leadoff shot off reliever Boone Logan in the ninth inning. Adam Ottavino, Logan's successor, then retired Anthony Rendon, Ramos and Ryan Zimmerman, sending Washington to its sixth loss in eight games.

MLB roundup: Donaldson cranks 3 homers in Jays' win
By The Sports Xchange

TORONTO -- Josh Donaldson hit three home runs and Troy Tulowitzki added another one as the Toronto Blue Jays defeated the Minnesota Twins 9-6 on Sunday afternoon to complete a sweep of the three-game series.
Donaldson's second homer of the game was a two-run shot that put Toronto into a 6-5 lead during the four-run seventh. His home run in the eighth gave him the first three-homer game of his career.
It was the 10th loss in a row for the Twins, while the Blue Jays remain at the top of the American League East.
Toronto reliever Scott Feldman pitched two-thirds of an inning to pick up the win and Twins reliever Pat Light allowed three hits and three runs over 1 1/3 innings to take the loss.

Padres 3, Marlins 1
MIAMI -- Luis Perdomo induced six double-play balls and Luis Sardinas had the go-ahead RBI double as San Diego defeated Miami at Marlins Park.
The six double plays are a Marlins record. It is also a record for the Padres in a nine-inning game. It was the first complete game in the career of Perdomo, who threw 99 pitches.
Perdomo, a 23-year-old rookie who had never pitched above Class A before this season, has the best ground-ball rate (59 percent) of any NL pitcher with at least 100 innings this year.

Orioles 5, Yankees 0
NEW YORK -- Kevin Gausman pitched seven effective innings for his first road win in over two years and Mark Trumbo became the first player in the majors to reach 40 home runs as Baltimore salvaged a frustrating weekend with a victory over New York.
Steve Pearce drove in Baltimore's first three runs with a solo home run off CC Sabathia and a two-run single off Adam Warren. Trumbo added some insurance with a 427-foot drive off Ben Heller into the visiting bullpen beyond the left-center field wall.
Those hits were more than enough for Gausman, who won his third straight start and turned in his second straight scoreless outing.

Angels 5, Tigers 0
DETROIT -- Jefry Marte tormented his old teammates with a two-run home run plus a sacrifice fly while Tyler Skaggs and three relievers combined on a four-hit shutout to help Los Angeles knock off Detroit for the second game in a row.
Marte came up after Andrelton Simmons singled to open the fifth inning and hit a 1-2 fastball that was right down the middle for his 10th home run of the season. It broke a scoreless tie and was Marte's second home run and third hit in four at-bats against Anibal Sanchez. Marte hit his sacrifice fly in the sixth to make it 4-0.

Phillies 5, Mets 1
NEW YORK -- A.J. Ellis' first hit as a member of Philadelphia, a two-run double in the seventh inning, snapped a tie and jump-started a four-run outburst in a win over New York at Citi Field.
The Phillies salvaged the finale of the three-game series. The Mets had their three-game winning streak snapped as they lost for just the second time in the last eight games.
Right-hander David Hernandez earned the win with a scoreless sixth in relief of Vince Velasquez, who allowed one run on five hits and one walk while striking out seven over five innings.

Rockies 5, Nationals 3
WASHINGTON -- Nolan Arenado was 4-for-4 with three RBIs and Chad Bettis allowed just two runs in seven innings as Colorado posted a series victory with a win over host Washington.
Bettis leads the team in wins after he struck out six with one walk while throwing 106 pitches
The Rockies are 4-2 this year against the Nationals. Washington is 8-9 in the midst of a string of 20 games in 20 days and has lost six of its last eight.

White Sox 4, Mariners 1
CHICAGO -- Melky Cabrera went 2-for-4 with a double, triple and an RBI, and Chicago pulled away for a win over Seattle.
Justin Morneau finished 2-for-4 with a double and two RBIs. The White Sox won three of four games in the series and concluded a nine-game homestand with a 6-3 record.
Robinson Cano went 2-for-4 with a solo home run to power the Mariners. Kyle Seager finished 3-for-4 with a triple as Seattle lost for the sixth time in its past eight games.

Pirates 3, Brewers 1
MILWAUKEE -- John Jaso, Gregory Polonco and Starling Marte all hit solo home runs while Ivan Nova struck out four over six innings as Pittsburgh finished off their first-ever four-game sweep of Milwaukee at Miller Park.
Nova stayed undefeated since joining the Pirates, holding the Brewers to just a run -- a solo homer by Jonathan Villar in the third - on two hits without a walk. In five starts for Pittsburgh, Nova is 4-0 with a 2.47 ERA. He needed just 75 pitches to get through his six innings of work but left the game because of discomfort in his left hamstring.

Athletics 7, Cardinals 4
ST. LOUIS -- Andrew Triggs recorded his first major league win, tossing six innings as Oakland knocked off St. Louis at Busch Stadium.
Triggs allowed three runs on four hits, walked none and fanned a career-high eight. Three relievers took care of the last nine outs, with Ryan Madson pitching the ninth to notch his 27th save in 33 chances.
Jaime Garcia was tagged with the loss after going seven innings, yielding five runs and seven hits. Garcia walked one and struck out six.

Rays 10, Astros 4
HOUSTON -- Chris Archer produced another quality start at Minute Maid Park and Tampa Bay averted a series sweep with a late power surge over Houston.
Archer scuffled through the fourth inning but was otherwise outstanding, limiting the Astros to three runs on four hits and two walks with 10 strikeouts. He reached 200 strikeouts on the season to close the sixth inning for his second consecutive 200-strikeout campaign.
The Rays built a four-run lead against right-hander Doug Fister before exploding for five runs in the eighth. Matt Duffy socked a two-run home run, his fifth on the season, and Corey Dickerson hit his 18th home run five batters later.

Rangers 2, Indians 1
ARLINGTON, Texas -- Derek Holland allowed one run in six innings and won for the first time since June 5 as Texas edged Cleveland.
Holland, making his second start since missing two months because of shoulder inflammation, didn't walk a batter and struck out five on four hits.
Elvis Andrus drew a one-out walk in the third, stole second and scored on a two-out single to right by Ian Desmond. The Rangers made it 2-0 in the fifth after Adrian Beltre opened the inning with a walk and moved to second on a wild pitch. Jonathan Lucroy's single to center brought Beltre home.

Dodgers 1, Cubs 0
LOS ANGELES -- Adrian Gonzalez hit a fielder's choice that brought home Andrew Toles with the winning run in the bottom of the eighth inning to give Los Angeles a win over Chicago at Dodger Stadium.
Right-hander Joe Blanton received the victory in relief. In his lone inning of work, Blanton conceded just one hit in facing four batters.
Closer Kenley Jansen pitched a perfect ninth inning with one strikeout for this 39th save, ensuring that the Dodgers would remain two games ahead of the second-place San Francisco Giants in the National League West.

Giants 13, Braves 4
SAN FRANCISCO -- Joe Panik highlighted an 18-hit attack with two home runs, leading San Francisco to a shellacking of Atlanta.
Madison Bumgarner benefited from the Giants' highest scoring game in more than two months, helping San Francisco post just its second series win since the All-Star break.
The win also allowed the Giants to take the season series from the Braves after the clubs split the first six games.

Diamondbacks 11, Reds 2
PHOENIX -- Yasmany Tomas homered, Welington Castillo drove in four runs and right-hander Archie Bradley won his first home start in almost three months in Arizona's victory over Cincinnati.
Chris Owings, Michael Bourn and A.J. Pollock had three hits apiece as Arizona tied a season-high with 18 hits. Bourn scored three times and Pollock had two stolen bases.
The Diamondbacks won four of seven games on the homestand, their first winning homestand this year not counting an abbreviated three-game sweep of the Mets earlier this month.

Royals 10, Red Sox 4
BOSTON -- Surging Kansas City exploded for eight runs in the sixth inning and blew past Boston for a win in the rubber game of a three-game series.
The win, the 13th in the past 15 games and 17th in the 21 for the defending World Series champions, moved the Royals within two games of an American League wild-card spot.
Raul Mondesi ripped a three-run triple and Eric Hosmer collected a two-run single as seven consecutive Kansas City batters reached base in the sixth. Salvador Perez hit his third homer in two games, his 20th of the season, in the second inning, and Kendrys Morales had three hits for the Royals.

Preview: Blue Jays (74-56) at Orioles (71-59)

Game: 1
Venue: Oriole Park at Camden Yards
Date: August 29, 2016 7:05 PM EDT

BALTIMORE -- The Toronto Blue Jays want to take even tighter control of the American League East and the Baltimore Orioles hope to pull closer to first place when the teams start their crucial three-game series on Monday at Camden Yards.

The Jays (74-56) completed a three-game sweep of the Minnesota Twins on Sunday with a 9-6 victory and held a 1 1/2-game lead over the Boston Red Sox, who played Sunday night.

Baltimore, meanwhile, has slipped in recent weeks but came on late for a 5-0 victory over the New York Yankees on Sunday afternoon in New York. That avoided a three-game New York sweep and kept the Orioles (71-59) in third place, three games behind Toronto.

The games being played in Baltimore could help the Orioles, who have fared much better at home than on the road. They have a 42-22 record at Camden Yards despite losing five of six there on last homestand.

Even though the Orioles have been struggling some in recent weeks, they are intent on staying in this race until the end.

"It's going to be a dogfight," said Baltimore's Steve Pearce, who homered and drove in three runs in Sunday's win. "It's the AL East in September. It's what it's all about, and we're going to have them at our place. We're going to go out there, bring everything we got, and we're going to take care of business."

The Blue Jays will make it tough because they're hot right now. Josh Donaldson homered three times Sunday in the victory over Minnesota, something he has never done before in his career.

"It's nice," Donaldson told reporters after the game. "It's kind of one of those things as a baseball player you want to have it happen one day, and you don't know if it's ever going to happen. It's a rare thing, and I was happy to do it."

Wade Miley (8-10, 5.51 ERA) will start for Baltimore, but the left-hander has struggled since the team acquired him from the Mariners in a late July trade. He won his first game with the team in his last start, beating Washington but going just five innings.

He's 1-2 with an 8.18 ERA in his five Orioles starts.

Marco Estrada (7-6, 3.47) starts for the Blue Jays, and he also has run into trouble lately. He has given up 11 runs and 15 hits -- with five homers -- in nine innings of his last two starts, getting a no-decision against the Yankees and a loss to the Angels.

The Orioles made a flurry of bullpen moves during the weekend to help a taxed group, and one of them paid off Sunday when newly signed Tommy Hunter threw a shutout inning. He had spent much of his career in Baltimore before being traded to the Chicago Cubs last year.

They're also hoping center fielder Adam Jones can return. He left early in Friday's game with New York with a strained left hamstring and missed the rest of the series, but MLB.com said that he might return Monday.

The Jays picked up catcher Dioner Navarro this weekend, and MLB.com reported Sunday that he should come to the team on Monday. Also, he served as Estrada's catcher last year with the Jays.

Plus, right-hander Aaron Sanchez, who had been with Class A Dunedin as Toronto has been watching his innings carefully, will come back Wednesday and start the third game of the series.

Toronto leads the season series 7-6, but Baltimore has won both series at Camden Yards.