Service Play Spreadsheet Notes
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There was not a lot of activity over the weekend from the services ranked at the top of the primary spreadsheet. Only eight of the top sixteen ranked services had plays that were available for tracking and recording. And only three of those eight services had winning weekends from a win-loss record standpoint.
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Here are the top services listed on the primary spreadsheet:
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Power Play………………8~1……89%<o></o>
Cannon (15~20*)………..9~2……82%<o></o>
Larry Ness………………17~5….77%<o></o>
Big Al…………………....10~3.....77%<o></o>
B. Coleman……………...24~9….73%<o></o>
B. Lang (15~20*)…….….8~3…...73%<o></o>
Wunderdog…………..….7~3……70%<o></o>
B. Eckstein………………6~1……86%**
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As stated before, I think that the total number of tracked plays are important when deciding which service might be worthy of tailing. Obviously the records of Larry Ness (17~5) and B. Coleman (24~9) have more weight than the other top ranked services despite a slightly lower winning percentage. Calculate the effect of a losing day or two on each service’s winning percentage to see what I mean.
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** B. Eckstein needs a few more tracked plays in order to join the top group on the spreadsheet based on the 10-play minimum criteria. If Eckstein can hit 50% of this plays or better during this time he will likely be ranked somewhere between Big Al and Wunderdog.
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Service Play FADES Spreadsheet Notes
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There was a little bit more activity over the weekend on the FADES spreadsheet. Seven of the top twelve services had plays that were available for tracking and recording.
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Here are the top (or should I say bottom?) services on the FADES spreadsheet:
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Gator………………….3~9……25%<o></o>
Stu Feiner (200*)……..3~8……27%<o></o>
Ben Burns (Free)……..3~7……30%<o></o>
Randle the Handle……8~15…..35%<o></o>
MTI…………………...2~7.…...22%**<o></o>
Larry Ness (Free)…….2~6....…25%**
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** MTI and Larry Ness (Bonus Plays) only need one and two more tracked plays respectively in order to join the top group on the spreadsheet based on the 10-play minimum criteria.
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I will repost Bookie Buster’s service plays ASAP when I see them posted in the NBA Forum. I have a light work schedule today and should be able to notice and repost them early today.
<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com
fficeffice" /><o></o>There was not a lot of activity over the weekend from the services ranked at the top of the primary spreadsheet. Only eight of the top sixteen ranked services had plays that were available for tracking and recording. And only three of those eight services had winning weekends from a win-loss record standpoint.
<o
></o>Here are the top services listed on the primary spreadsheet:
<o
></o>Power Play………………8~1……89%<o
></o>Cannon (15~20*)………..9~2……82%<o
></o>Larry Ness………………17~5….77%<o
></o>Big Al…………………....10~3.....77%<o
></o>B. Coleman……………...24~9….73%<o
></o>B. Lang (15~20*)…….….8~3…...73%<o
></o>Wunderdog…………..….7~3……70%<o
></o>B. Eckstein………………6~1……86%**
<o
></o>As stated before, I think that the total number of tracked plays are important when deciding which service might be worthy of tailing. Obviously the records of Larry Ness (17~5) and B. Coleman (24~9) have more weight than the other top ranked services despite a slightly lower winning percentage. Calculate the effect of a losing day or two on each service’s winning percentage to see what I mean.
<o
></o>** B. Eckstein needs a few more tracked plays in order to join the top group on the spreadsheet based on the 10-play minimum criteria. If Eckstein can hit 50% of this plays or better during this time he will likely be ranked somewhere between Big Al and Wunderdog.
<o
></o>Service Play FADES Spreadsheet Notes
<o
></o>There was a little bit more activity over the weekend on the FADES spreadsheet. Seven of the top twelve services had plays that were available for tracking and recording.
<o
></o>Here are the top (or should I say bottom?) services on the FADES spreadsheet:
<o
></o>Gator………………….3~9……25%<o
></o>Stu Feiner (200*)……..3~8……27%<o
></o>Ben Burns (Free)……..3~7……30%<o
></o>Randle the Handle……8~15…..35%<o
></o>MTI…………………...2~7.…...22%**<o
></o>Larry Ness (Free)…….2~6....…25%**
<o
></o>** MTI and Larry Ness (Bonus Plays) only need one and two more tracked plays respectively in order to join the top group on the spreadsheet based on the 10-play minimum criteria.
<o
></o>I will repost Bookie Buster’s service plays ASAP when I see them posted in the NBA Forum. I have a light work schedule today and should be able to notice and repost them early today.
Monday's Service Plays from BB:
Monday’s Service Plays from Bookie Buster:<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-comfficeffice" /><o></o>
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Hondo
Houston Astros
Michael Cannon Money Train
5 DIME: ORIOLES (With Bedard as listed pitcher)
Take the Orioles as a cheap home chalk over the A’s behind Erik Bedard.
Baltimore hasn’t had much success against Oakland in Camden Yards since Miguel Tejada signed as a free agent, but they’ve been money at home this year and I see Bedard turning in a solid start.
The Orioles have won six straight at home, four straight overall and eight out of nine.
Bedard will be shooting for his fourth straight win despite posting some substandard numbers. The southpaw is 3-1 with a 5.40 ERA this year, allowing 27 hits in 23 1-3 innings. He’s also been touched for four homeruns.
His mound opponent, Dan Haren, has pitched great this year but has suffered from a lack of run support. Haren is 1-2 despite a sparkling 1.44 ERA.
This is the game Bedard posts a bunch of zeros as the A’s bats fail to give Haren any run support once again.
Take the Orioles as a cheap home chalk for the win.
5 DIME: WHITE SOX (With Buehrle as listed pitcher)
Take the White Sox as a cheap road chalk over the Royals tonight.
I had Mark Buehrle last week as a 5 dime winner for my paying clients when he pitched his no-hitter.
I don’t expect him to pitch another one tonight, but he does have great career numbers against Kansas City. The left-hander is 15-6 with a 3.26 ERA in 28 games against the Royals. He’s 2-0 with a 2.25 ERA in his last three starts at Kauffman Stadium.
The Royals will send their prized free agent acquisition to the mound in Gil Meche. The right-hander did not receive a decision in two starts against the ChiSox last season but gave up nine runs and nine hits in 10 1-3 innings.
Take the White Sox for the road win as a cheap chalk.
5 DIME: TWINS (With Sowers and Silva as listed pitchers)
Take the Twins for the win at home over the Indians.
Cleveland starter Jeremy Sowers lasted only 2 2-3 innings in his last start against the Yankees and tonight he’ll have to face another hot lineup in the Twins.
Minnesota is averaging more than six runs over its last six games.
They usually play well at home and I like them here in this spot over the Tribe.
Cleveland went 3-6 at the Metrodome last season and is 7-11 there the last two years.
Carlos Silva has started off the season strong for the Twins, posting a 2.00 ERA through three starts. This will be his second home start this season. He pitched 6 2-3 scoreless innings April 12 against Tampa Bay, allowing seven hits in a 3-2 win.
Take Minnesota for the home win over the Tribe.
Big Al McMordie
Houston vs. Philadelphia
Take: Houston Astros
At 7:05pm our complimentary selection is on the Houston Astros over the Philadelphia Phillies. This Monday game is a re-schedule of the rainout between these two teams back on April 15. Picked by some before the start of the season to at least win their division in 2007, nothing seems to have gone right for the Phils so far. At 6-11, the only thing keeping them out of the cellar in the NL East are the unbelievably bad Washington Nationals. Many are calling for the head of manager Charlie Manuel, who had a meltdown a few days ago after a meeting with reporters. The Phillies will send out veteran righthander Adam Eaton to face hot rookie Chris Sampson of the 'stros. It's hard to believe that this is the same Adam Eaton who looked so promising several years ago when he came up with the San Diego Padres. Last year, although he had a winning record, Eaton was pretty bad in his first and only year in Texas with the Rangers. This year looks even worse so far as Eaton has an incredible ERA of 6.62 after his first 3 starts with his new team. The Phillie bullpen has been extremely disappointing as well, with a 4.58 ERA after the first 3 weeks. It would seem the only good news is that Philadelphia just got MVP first baseman Ryan Howard back after he had been out with a knee injury, and Howard helped the Phillies on Sunday with a home run in his return. Unfortunately, Howard can't go out to the mound and mend Philadelphia's pitching woes. The Phillies have only won 1 game at home this season, while the Astros have done their best work on the road, going 6-3 so far. Take Houston. As always, good luck...Al McMordie.
MATT *****
New York (A) vs. Tampa Bay
Take: Tampa Bay Devil Rays
New York heads into this game coming off the big series against Boston and like every other sport, there are letdowns in baseball as well. It has showed in the past that the Yankees are below average when coming off a series against the Red Sox. The Yankees went 4-5 in the nine games following a series against the Red Sox over the last two seasons and dropped over four units in those games. Tampa Bay is coming off a series loss but the offense remains potent and that is important in this first game. The Devil Rays send Casey Fossum to the mound as the lefty is coming off two straight quality starts after getting hammered against the Blue Jays in his first start this season. Facing the Yankees has not been a problem for Fossum as he has posted a 3.16 ERA and 1.28 WHIP in five starts against New York since coming to Tampa Bay in 2005. Being a non-favorite is great as he is 12-5 against the money line as a home underdog of +100 or higher over the last three seasons, picking up over 11 units in the process. New York counters with Kei Igawa who has also tossed back-to-back quality starts after getting shelled in his opening outing. He has a 6.06 ERA on the season and has been fortunate to not have a loss yet as he has been given some great run support. His problem thus far has been keeping the ball up as he has a horrendous .56 ground ball/fly ball ratio and that will hurt him against the Devil Rays. Tampa Bay has a .449 slugging percentage which is best in the American League while their 22 home runs are second in all of baseball. Play against road favorites with a money line of -125 to -175 with a very good bullpen whose ERA is 3.33 or better on the season, starting a pitcher who gave up two earned runs or less in his last two outings. This situation is 63-40 against the moneyline (61.2 percent) over the last five seasons. Being an underdog situation, it is that much stronger being over 61 percent as it has picked up over 46 units in those 103 games. This is a great spot for the Devil Rays to grab the first game of this series.
Play Tampa Bay Devil Rays 1 Unit
Ben Burns
NYM (-200)
Analysis:
The Mets lead the National League in both hits (10.5) and runs scored. In fact, their 6.1 runs per game ranks second (behind the Yankees) in all of baseball. Conversely, the Rockies rank near the bottom of the league with only 3.7 runs per game, including a measly 3.1 away from Coors Field. Not surprisingly, theyre just 3-6 on the road for the season. That brings them to an awful 60-109 on the road since the start of the 2005 season and a horrid 311-506 (-95.8!) the past decade. They are also just 1-13 the last 14 times they traveled to New York to face the Mets. In addition to having the better offense and home-field advantage, the Mets should also have the edge on the mound. Maine has been terrific thus far, going 2-0 (Mets are 3-0) with a stellar 1.93 ERA and 1.071 WHIP. Buchholz, on the other hand, has allowed 11 hits and four walks in just 6 1/3 innings for an ugly 2.381 WHIP. Dating back to last season, Buchholzs team has lost his last four starts, including a 7-0 loss to Maine and Mets here last July. Expect a blowout and consider laying the price with the better team.
Gator's 70% Situations
MLB (Monday) Play Against MLB home underdogs with a money line of +100 or higher an AL team that averages scoring <=4.5 runs per game versus a team (AL) with a bullpen ERA of <=3.33 and a starting pitcher whose ERA is 4.20 or better on the year.
(32-7 since 1997.) (82.1%)
PLAY: Chicago White Sox -125
Alex Smart
Chicago White Sox (-125)
Mark Buehrle, LHP (1-0, 2.08) the ChiSox starting pitcher here today against the Kansas City Royals, off pitching a no hitter last time out . The southpaw hurler has allowed just 1 hit in his L/15 innings of work, and looks to be at the top of his game at the moment. Look for Buehrles current hot run to continue against a KC team he has had success against in his career , as is evident by posting a 15-6 record along with a stable 3.26 ERA. Final notes & Trends: Buehrle is a noted fast starter, recording a 27-8 L/35 mark against the money line in the first half of the season over the past few years.
Play on the White Sox
Dave Cokin
Take MIN Twins
Jeremy Sowers is already earning the crafty lefthander tag that seems to accompany every southpaw who gets his outs with off speed stuff. But Sowers just isn't getting any swings and misses in the early going and he's had some issues with his control. I'm not as high on Sowers as many experts, and think he'll be no better than a #3 starter at his best, and right now he's not at his best. Carlos Silva appears to be back to his 2005 form and is a little undervalued presently, so I'll back the Twins here
Jim Feist
(919) DET Tigers and (920) LA Angels
Take DET Tigers
There aren't many teams in baseball that have a better bullpen than the Angels, but the Tigers do. Defending AL champion Detroit is actually playing better on the road and they go with lefty Mike Maroth. The Angels have lost 2 of their last 3 starts against lefties. Maroth is 2-0 this season and 4-2 lifetime against the Angels. LA's bats have been in a slump for much of the season and it won't get easier against this Detroit staff. Angel starter Jared Weaver is still a concern, coming off some injury problems. He's made only one start and has a 4.50 ERA. He was lights out last season, but this is a brand new year. The defending AL champs offer excellent wagering value.
Play the Tigers
Larry Ness MLB
Las Vegas Insider - Marlins
15* Blowout GOW - Cubs
Cappers Access
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(Mon) MLB Cubs Brewers 145 Cubs
Lenny Del Genio
Brewers at Cubs
Prediction: Cubs
The Cubs are expected to get Alfonso Soriano back in the lineup for Monday night's game against the Brewers. He'll move to left field in order to put less strain on his injured hamstring. The Brewers have opened the 2007 season 11-7 with the Cubs going 7-11. However, the Cubbies do have a major advantage in the pitching matchup. Claudio Vargas of the Brewers is coming off a career-high 11 strikeouts in his last outing, but the fifth year right-hander is just 33-32 (4.89) in 122 career appearances (89 starts). His teams have gone 44-45 in those starts. Meanwhile, Carlos Zambrano of the Cubs has been an outstanding pitcher the past four years for the Cubs. He's 59-32 with a 3.14 ERA and the Cubs have gone 77-55 in his starts. Zambrano has not gotten off to a good start in 2007 posting an ERA of 7.77 in four starts and going 1-2 (team is 1-3). His lone win came against these Brewers in Milwaukee on April 7. It should be noted that Milwaukee went just 27-54 away from Miller Park last year. Go with the Cubs.
Vegas Experts
New York Yankees at Tampa Bay Devil Rays
Yankees have gone over in seven straight and four in a row on the road. With his bullpen overworked Torre will have to leave starter Igawa in longer than he'd like. NY YANKEES are 55-36 OVER in road games over the last 2 seasons. TAMPA BAY is 12-3 in all games this season. FOSSUM is 17-7 OVER in all games over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
Play on: Over
Monday’s Service Plays from Bookie Buster:<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com
fficeffice" /><o></o><o
></o>Hondo
Houston Astros
Michael Cannon Money Train
5 DIME: ORIOLES (With Bedard as listed pitcher)
Take the Orioles as a cheap home chalk over the A’s behind Erik Bedard.
Baltimore hasn’t had much success against Oakland in Camden Yards since Miguel Tejada signed as a free agent, but they’ve been money at home this year and I see Bedard turning in a solid start.
The Orioles have won six straight at home, four straight overall and eight out of nine.
Bedard will be shooting for his fourth straight win despite posting some substandard numbers. The southpaw is 3-1 with a 5.40 ERA this year, allowing 27 hits in 23 1-3 innings. He’s also been touched for four homeruns.
His mound opponent, Dan Haren, has pitched great this year but has suffered from a lack of run support. Haren is 1-2 despite a sparkling 1.44 ERA.
This is the game Bedard posts a bunch of zeros as the A’s bats fail to give Haren any run support once again.
Take the Orioles as a cheap home chalk for the win.
5 DIME: WHITE SOX (With Buehrle as listed pitcher)
Take the White Sox as a cheap road chalk over the Royals tonight.
I had Mark Buehrle last week as a 5 dime winner for my paying clients when he pitched his no-hitter.
I don’t expect him to pitch another one tonight, but he does have great career numbers against Kansas City. The left-hander is 15-6 with a 3.26 ERA in 28 games against the Royals. He’s 2-0 with a 2.25 ERA in his last three starts at Kauffman Stadium.
The Royals will send their prized free agent acquisition to the mound in Gil Meche. The right-hander did not receive a decision in two starts against the ChiSox last season but gave up nine runs and nine hits in 10 1-3 innings.
Take the White Sox for the road win as a cheap chalk.
5 DIME: TWINS (With Sowers and Silva as listed pitchers)
Take the Twins for the win at home over the Indians.
Cleveland starter Jeremy Sowers lasted only 2 2-3 innings in his last start against the Yankees and tonight he’ll have to face another hot lineup in the Twins.
Minnesota is averaging more than six runs over its last six games.
They usually play well at home and I like them here in this spot over the Tribe.
Cleveland went 3-6 at the Metrodome last season and is 7-11 there the last two years.
Carlos Silva has started off the season strong for the Twins, posting a 2.00 ERA through three starts. This will be his second home start this season. He pitched 6 2-3 scoreless innings April 12 against Tampa Bay, allowing seven hits in a 3-2 win.
Take Minnesota for the home win over the Tribe.
Big Al McMordie
Houston vs. Philadelphia
Take: Houston Astros
At 7:05pm our complimentary selection is on the Houston Astros over the Philadelphia Phillies. This Monday game is a re-schedule of the rainout between these two teams back on April 15. Picked by some before the start of the season to at least win their division in 2007, nothing seems to have gone right for the Phils so far. At 6-11, the only thing keeping them out of the cellar in the NL East are the unbelievably bad Washington Nationals. Many are calling for the head of manager Charlie Manuel, who had a meltdown a few days ago after a meeting with reporters. The Phillies will send out veteran righthander Adam Eaton to face hot rookie Chris Sampson of the 'stros. It's hard to believe that this is the same Adam Eaton who looked so promising several years ago when he came up with the San Diego Padres. Last year, although he had a winning record, Eaton was pretty bad in his first and only year in Texas with the Rangers. This year looks even worse so far as Eaton has an incredible ERA of 6.62 after his first 3 starts with his new team. The Phillie bullpen has been extremely disappointing as well, with a 4.58 ERA after the first 3 weeks. It would seem the only good news is that Philadelphia just got MVP first baseman Ryan Howard back after he had been out with a knee injury, and Howard helped the Phillies on Sunday with a home run in his return. Unfortunately, Howard can't go out to the mound and mend Philadelphia's pitching woes. The Phillies have only won 1 game at home this season, while the Astros have done their best work on the road, going 6-3 so far. Take Houston. As always, good luck...Al McMordie.
MATT *****
New York (A) vs. Tampa Bay
Take: Tampa Bay Devil Rays
New York heads into this game coming off the big series against Boston and like every other sport, there are letdowns in baseball as well. It has showed in the past that the Yankees are below average when coming off a series against the Red Sox. The Yankees went 4-5 in the nine games following a series against the Red Sox over the last two seasons and dropped over four units in those games. Tampa Bay is coming off a series loss but the offense remains potent and that is important in this first game. The Devil Rays send Casey Fossum to the mound as the lefty is coming off two straight quality starts after getting hammered against the Blue Jays in his first start this season. Facing the Yankees has not been a problem for Fossum as he has posted a 3.16 ERA and 1.28 WHIP in five starts against New York since coming to Tampa Bay in 2005. Being a non-favorite is great as he is 12-5 against the money line as a home underdog of +100 or higher over the last three seasons, picking up over 11 units in the process. New York counters with Kei Igawa who has also tossed back-to-back quality starts after getting shelled in his opening outing. He has a 6.06 ERA on the season and has been fortunate to not have a loss yet as he has been given some great run support. His problem thus far has been keeping the ball up as he has a horrendous .56 ground ball/fly ball ratio and that will hurt him against the Devil Rays. Tampa Bay has a .449 slugging percentage which is best in the American League while their 22 home runs are second in all of baseball. Play against road favorites with a money line of -125 to -175 with a very good bullpen whose ERA is 3.33 or better on the season, starting a pitcher who gave up two earned runs or less in his last two outings. This situation is 63-40 against the moneyline (61.2 percent) over the last five seasons. Being an underdog situation, it is that much stronger being over 61 percent as it has picked up over 46 units in those 103 games. This is a great spot for the Devil Rays to grab the first game of this series.
Play Tampa Bay Devil Rays 1 Unit
Ben Burns
NYM (-200)
Analysis:
The Mets lead the National League in both hits (10.5) and runs scored. In fact, their 6.1 runs per game ranks second (behind the Yankees) in all of baseball. Conversely, the Rockies rank near the bottom of the league with only 3.7 runs per game, including a measly 3.1 away from Coors Field. Not surprisingly, theyre just 3-6 on the road for the season. That brings them to an awful 60-109 on the road since the start of the 2005 season and a horrid 311-506 (-95.8!) the past decade. They are also just 1-13 the last 14 times they traveled to New York to face the Mets. In addition to having the better offense and home-field advantage, the Mets should also have the edge on the mound. Maine has been terrific thus far, going 2-0 (Mets are 3-0) with a stellar 1.93 ERA and 1.071 WHIP. Buchholz, on the other hand, has allowed 11 hits and four walks in just 6 1/3 innings for an ugly 2.381 WHIP. Dating back to last season, Buchholzs team has lost his last four starts, including a 7-0 loss to Maine and Mets here last July. Expect a blowout and consider laying the price with the better team.
Gator's 70% Situations
MLB (Monday) Play Against MLB home underdogs with a money line of +100 or higher an AL team that averages scoring <=4.5 runs per game versus a team (AL) with a bullpen ERA of <=3.33 and a starting pitcher whose ERA is 4.20 or better on the year.
(32-7 since 1997.) (82.1%)
PLAY: Chicago White Sox -125
Alex Smart
Chicago White Sox (-125)
Mark Buehrle, LHP (1-0, 2.08) the ChiSox starting pitcher here today against the Kansas City Royals, off pitching a no hitter last time out . The southpaw hurler has allowed just 1 hit in his L/15 innings of work, and looks to be at the top of his game at the moment. Look for Buehrles current hot run to continue against a KC team he has had success against in his career , as is evident by posting a 15-6 record along with a stable 3.26 ERA. Final notes & Trends: Buehrle is a noted fast starter, recording a 27-8 L/35 mark against the money line in the first half of the season over the past few years.
Play on the White Sox
Dave Cokin
Take MIN Twins
Jeremy Sowers is already earning the crafty lefthander tag that seems to accompany every southpaw who gets his outs with off speed stuff. But Sowers just isn't getting any swings and misses in the early going and he's had some issues with his control. I'm not as high on Sowers as many experts, and think he'll be no better than a #3 starter at his best, and right now he's not at his best. Carlos Silva appears to be back to his 2005 form and is a little undervalued presently, so I'll back the Twins here
Jim Feist
(919) DET Tigers and (920) LA Angels
Take DET Tigers
There aren't many teams in baseball that have a better bullpen than the Angels, but the Tigers do. Defending AL champion Detroit is actually playing better on the road and they go with lefty Mike Maroth. The Angels have lost 2 of their last 3 starts against lefties. Maroth is 2-0 this season and 4-2 lifetime against the Angels. LA's bats have been in a slump for much of the season and it won't get easier against this Detroit staff. Angel starter Jared Weaver is still a concern, coming off some injury problems. He's made only one start and has a 4.50 ERA. He was lights out last season, but this is a brand new year. The defending AL champs offer excellent wagering value.
Play the Tigers
Larry Ness MLB
Las Vegas Insider - Marlins
15* Blowout GOW - Cubs
Cappers Access
<o
></o>(Mon) MLB Cubs Brewers 145 Cubs
Lenny Del Genio
Brewers at Cubs
Prediction: Cubs
The Cubs are expected to get Alfonso Soriano back in the lineup for Monday night's game against the Brewers. He'll move to left field in order to put less strain on his injured hamstring. The Brewers have opened the 2007 season 11-7 with the Cubs going 7-11. However, the Cubbies do have a major advantage in the pitching matchup. Claudio Vargas of the Brewers is coming off a career-high 11 strikeouts in his last outing, but the fifth year right-hander is just 33-32 (4.89) in 122 career appearances (89 starts). His teams have gone 44-45 in those starts. Meanwhile, Carlos Zambrano of the Cubs has been an outstanding pitcher the past four years for the Cubs. He's 59-32 with a 3.14 ERA and the Cubs have gone 77-55 in his starts. Zambrano has not gotten off to a good start in 2007 posting an ERA of 7.77 in four starts and going 1-2 (team is 1-3). His lone win came against these Brewers in Milwaukee on April 7. It should be noted that Milwaukee went just 27-54 away from Miller Park last year. Go with the Cubs.
Vegas Experts
New York Yankees at Tampa Bay Devil Rays
Yankees have gone over in seven straight and four in a row on the road. With his bullpen overworked Torre will have to leave starter Igawa in longer than he'd like. NY YANKEES are 55-36 OVER in road games over the last 2 seasons. TAMPA BAY is 12-3 in all games this season. FOSSUM is 17-7 OVER in all games over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
Play on: Over
BIG AL'S PAID PLAY
At 10:05pm our American League Game of the Month is on the Los Angeles Angels over the Detroit Tigers. As the favorites to win their respective divisions, the Angels and Tigers have had somewhat disappointing starts to the season so far. Each of them has a record around .500, and their team hitting and pitching have been below par to this point. The Tigers were without lefthanded starter Mike Maroth for most of last season due to injury and so far in 2007 a healthy Maroth has been perhaps the worst undefeated pitcher in baseball. His record may be 2-0 and his team's record may be 3-0, but Maroth has a 5.40 ERA and he has given up 22 hits in 16 2/3 innings while opponents have hit .328 against him. He will need to step it up and cannot necessarily depend on a bullpen that has an overall ERA of 4.78 to bail him out. The Angels will turn to young stud Jered Weaver in what will be his 2nd start of the season. Although he lost his first start to the A's 4-1, he pitched very well in defeat. The Angels are without 2B Howie Kendrick, who is on the DL with a hand injury, but they just got back the services of their best hitter and all-star outfielder Vladimir Guerrero. Guerrero has not missed a beat since coming back from a minor wrist injury, hitting home runs in both games since his return. Guerrero and his Angels teammates are hitting a scorching .282 vs. lefties this season while the Tigers are batting a putrid .228 vs. righties. This is the first meeting of the season between these two squads and last year L.A. won 5 of the 8 contests between them. Take the Angels. As always, good luck...Al McMordie.
At 10:05pm our American League Game of the Month is on the Los Angeles Angels over the Detroit Tigers. As the favorites to win their respective divisions, the Angels and Tigers have had somewhat disappointing starts to the season so far. Each of them has a record around .500, and their team hitting and pitching have been below par to this point. The Tigers were without lefthanded starter Mike Maroth for most of last season due to injury and so far in 2007 a healthy Maroth has been perhaps the worst undefeated pitcher in baseball. His record may be 2-0 and his team's record may be 3-0, but Maroth has a 5.40 ERA and he has given up 22 hits in 16 2/3 innings while opponents have hit .328 against him. He will need to step it up and cannot necessarily depend on a bullpen that has an overall ERA of 4.78 to bail him out. The Angels will turn to young stud Jered Weaver in what will be his 2nd start of the season. Although he lost his first start to the A's 4-1, he pitched very well in defeat. The Angels are without 2B Howie Kendrick, who is on the DL with a hand injury, but they just got back the services of their best hitter and all-star outfielder Vladimir Guerrero. Guerrero has not missed a beat since coming back from a minor wrist injury, hitting home runs in both games since his return. Guerrero and his Angels teammates are hitting a scorching .282 vs. lefties this season while the Tigers are batting a putrid .228 vs. righties. This is the first meeting of the season between these two squads and last year L.A. won 5 of the 8 contests between them. Take the Angels. As always, good luck...Al McMordie.
More Service Plays from BB:
Monday’s Service Plays from Bookie Buster:<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-comfficeffice" /><o></o>
<o></o>
Lenny Del Genio
Brewers at Cubs
Prediction: Cubs
The Cubs are expected to get Alfonso Soriano back in the lineup for Monday night's game against the Brewers. He'll move to left field in order to put less strain on his injured hamstring. The Brewers have opened the 2007 season 11-7 with the Cubs going 7-11. However, the Cubbies do have a major advantage in the pitching matchup. Claudio Vargas of the Brewers is coming off a career-high 11 strikeouts in his last outing, but the fifth year right-hander is just 33-32 (4.89) in 122 career appearances (89 starts). His teams have gone 44-45 in those starts. Meanwhile, Carlos Zambrano of the Cubs has been an outstanding pitcher the past four years for the Cubs. He's 59-32 with a 3.14 ERA and the Cubs have gone 77-55 in his starts. Zambrano has not gotten off to a good start in 2007 posting an ERA of 7.77 in four starts and going 1-2 (team is 1-3). His lone win came against these Brewers in Milwaukee on April 7. It should be noted that Milwaukee went just 27-54 away from Miller Park last year. Go with the Cubs.
<o></o>
Coaches Corner
<o></o>
907 Ok A's +114
912 TB Devil Rays +158
<o></o>
GridIron<o></o>
<o></o>
Take Houston (Sampson) +110 at Philadelphia (Eaton) [2 Unit Play]
Take Atlanta (Davies) +135 at Florida (Willis)
Take Milwaukee (Vargas) +140 at Chicago Cubs (Zambrano) [2 Unit Play]
Take Minnesota (Silva) -120) v. Cleveland (Sowers)
Take Kansas City (Meche) +120 v. Chicago White Sox (Buehrle)
<o></o>
Randall H
<o></o>
Oakland +1.12 over Baltimore
The Orioles have been winning and some may even argue that they’re this year’s surprise team, however, when we can get a take-back on the A’s Dan Haren you can count us in. Haren is so tough and comes in with an ERA of 1.44 after four starts. In two of those starts he didn’t give up a single run and in one other he surrendered just one run. The other start was against the Yanks and Haren surrendered just three runs. The man is the straight goods. Erik Bedard is another good one and when he’s on his game he’s one of the better southpaws in the business. However, he’s shown inconsistencies in the past and that’s continued into this year, as he’s had two solid outings and two shaky one’s. Bedard has also surrendered four bombs already in just 23 frames. Haren plus a tag is always appealing and this one is no different. Play: Oakland +1.12 (Risking 2 units).
Brandon Lang<o></o>
10 DIME:
Orioles - - Specify Pitchers - Haren vs Bedard
Rangers - Specify Pitchers - Baek vs Millwood
Angels - Specify Pitchers - Maroth vs Weaver
5 DIME:
<o></o>
D'Rays - Specify Pitchers - Igawa vs Fossum
Royals - Specify Pitchers - Buerhle vs Meche
Free Pick: Marlins
Teddy Covers
20* Over 9 Braves/Fish
ScottsPicks
<o></o>
Bonus Play: Tampa Bay DevilRays +165 Fossum
<o></o>
Marc Lawrence
Bonus Play: New York (A) Yankees vs Tampa Bay Devil Rays
Tampa Bay over NY Yankees w/Igawa Yankees rookie Ogawa takes to the road off his 1st MLB win in his last start. With New York in off a big weekend series with Boston, look for the Devil Rays to bring Igawa back down to earth here tonight. Marc Lawrence releases his TOP DOG GAME OF THE MONTH on Monday night's MLB card and it's backed by two awesome situations in the same game that have NEVER LOST! Get it now, you'll be glad you did.
Monday Comps
<o></o>
Sebastian-Minnesota
Kevin Carr-Detroit(baseball)
Winner Line- also Detroit(baseball)
OTM-Anaheim
Feiner-OVER Yankees
Ty Gaston-Orlando
Kevin (irritating voice)Kennedy-Texas
<o></o>
Sebastian
<o></o>
5* Tampa Bay
7* Florida
10* Mets
10* LAA
20* Cubs
<o></o>
Sports Betting Solutions
New York (A) vs. Tampa Bay Premium
Yankees -175 $875/$500
Colorado vs. New York
Mets -240 $1200/$500
Chicago (A) vs. Kansas City
Whitesox -128 $640/$500
Drew Gordan
<o></o>
100,000* Marlins
100,00* White Sox
<o></o>
Proffit Plays
Boston
Houston
Baltimore
Bob Balfe
Phillies -115 over Astros (Eaton/Sampson)
<o></o>
Whale Report
NY Yankees Over 10.5
Big Al's American League Game of the Month!
Al McMordie is on a 12-4 Run here over his last 16 Baseball plays, and is releasing his STRONGEST American League play yet this year. It's Big Al's AMERICAN LEAGUE GAME OF THE MONTH! Don't miss out. Hop on board right now.
Pick: Angels
Professional-Plays
3 units Oakland @ Baltimore under 8.5
<o></o>
Gold Key Games
<o></o>
3 Units (Bonus Play): Milwaukee Brewers +1.5 runs -155
Silver Key (Bonus Play): Texas Rangers (Milwood) -140
John Ryan
Oakland Athletics vs. Baltimore Orioles (MLB) - Apr 23, 2007 7:05 PM EDT
Play: Money Line: -124 Baltimore Orioles Play Title: Bedard is becoming the ACE
Ai Simulator 3* graded play on the Baltimore Orioles - Supporting this graded play is a system that has gone 54-13 and has made 37 units since 1997. Play against any team with a very bad AL offensive team scoring <=4.2 runs/game against a team with a good bullpen sporting an ERA<=3.75, with a starting pitcher whose gives up 5.5 or less hits/start. Tweeking this system produces an 85% winning one that has gone 46-8 and has made 33.1 units since 1997. Play against all underdogs with a money line of +100 or higher that are very bad AL offensive teams scoring <=4.2 runs/game against a team with a very good bullpen sporting an ERA<=3.33, with a starting pitcher whose gives up 5.5 or less hits/start. BALTIMORE is 36-16 (+15.6 Units) against the money line as a favorite of -110 or higher over the last 2 seasons. Reik Bedard has an opportunity to show that he can be the ace of this pitching staff and so far he is responding quite well. He has gone 3-0 with 3.86 ERA and WHIP over his last 3 starts. He also completely dominated the current members of the Oakland A's in their respective careers allowing a 151 BA. Marco Scutaro is 0 for 14 by way of example. Take Baltimore.
<o></o>
FPBE Free Picks
<o></o>
Marc Lawrence - TB +148 MLB
Rocky Atkinson - TB +148 MLB
Matty O'Shea - FLA -140 MLB
Ben Burns - NYM -200 MLB
Larry Ness - KC +117 MLB
JB Sports - ATL/FLA under 9 ML
B
<o></o>
Wunderdog (Comp Play)
<o></o>
Game: Cleveland at Minnesota (8:10 PM Eastern)
Pick: Cleveland +104
Carlos Silva has had three great starts. We are not convinced. It just depends on what you believe? Do you believe the 8.44 ERA this spring? Do you believe the 6.13 ERA last year over 173 innings? Silva has yielded 697 hits in 463 innings the last three years - more hits than any other pitcher in baseball. He has a career 5 ERA against the Indians and has a history of struggling against left-handed hitters. That spells trouble vs. Cleveland, as the middle of the order are all left handed and have killed him. Martinez (.455), Hafner (.391), and Sizemore (.548) and all three hit well above their average against right-hand pitching. Jeremy Soweres has kept Minnesota in check in his short career. He has a 2.81 ERA, and being left handed, will help neutralize Mauer and Morneau - the Twins two biggest threats. The Tribe has a bullpen for once, and they have four pitchers they can bring in that are holding opponents under .200. They also feature four with ERA's below 2 and five below 3. This is a great match up for the Indians, so we ride with the dog here.
<o></o>
Miami Service
Top-Rated Play 3* on Texas with Millwood
<o></o>
Bonus Play 2* on the White Sox with Buehrle
Monday’s Service Plays from Bookie Buster:<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com
fficeffice" /><o></o><o
></o>Lenny Del Genio
Brewers at Cubs
Prediction: Cubs
The Cubs are expected to get Alfonso Soriano back in the lineup for Monday night's game against the Brewers. He'll move to left field in order to put less strain on his injured hamstring. The Brewers have opened the 2007 season 11-7 with the Cubs going 7-11. However, the Cubbies do have a major advantage in the pitching matchup. Claudio Vargas of the Brewers is coming off a career-high 11 strikeouts in his last outing, but the fifth year right-hander is just 33-32 (4.89) in 122 career appearances (89 starts). His teams have gone 44-45 in those starts. Meanwhile, Carlos Zambrano of the Cubs has been an outstanding pitcher the past four years for the Cubs. He's 59-32 with a 3.14 ERA and the Cubs have gone 77-55 in his starts. Zambrano has not gotten off to a good start in 2007 posting an ERA of 7.77 in four starts and going 1-2 (team is 1-3). His lone win came against these Brewers in Milwaukee on April 7. It should be noted that Milwaukee went just 27-54 away from Miller Park last year. Go with the Cubs.
<o
></o>Coaches Corner
<o
></o>907 Ok A's +114
912 TB Devil Rays +158
<o
></o>GridIron<o
></o><o
></o>Take Houston (Sampson) +110 at Philadelphia (Eaton) [2 Unit Play]
Take Atlanta (Davies) +135 at Florida (Willis)
Take Milwaukee (Vargas) +140 at Chicago Cubs (Zambrano) [2 Unit Play]
Take Minnesota (Silva) -120) v. Cleveland (Sowers)
Take Kansas City (Meche) +120 v. Chicago White Sox (Buehrle)
<o
></o>Randall H
<o
></o>Oakland +1.12 over Baltimore
The Orioles have been winning and some may even argue that they’re this year’s surprise team, however, when we can get a take-back on the A’s Dan Haren you can count us in. Haren is so tough and comes in with an ERA of 1.44 after four starts. In two of those starts he didn’t give up a single run and in one other he surrendered just one run. The other start was against the Yanks and Haren surrendered just three runs. The man is the straight goods. Erik Bedard is another good one and when he’s on his game he’s one of the better southpaws in the business. However, he’s shown inconsistencies in the past and that’s continued into this year, as he’s had two solid outings and two shaky one’s. Bedard has also surrendered four bombs already in just 23 frames. Haren plus a tag is always appealing and this one is no different. Play: Oakland +1.12 (Risking 2 units).
Brandon Lang<o
></o>10 DIME:
Orioles - - Specify Pitchers - Haren vs Bedard
Rangers - Specify Pitchers - Baek vs Millwood
Angels - Specify Pitchers - Maroth vs Weaver
5 DIME:
<o
></o>D'Rays - Specify Pitchers - Igawa vs Fossum
Royals - Specify Pitchers - Buerhle vs Meche
Free Pick: Marlins
Teddy Covers
20* Over 9 Braves/Fish
ScottsPicks
<o
></o>Bonus Play: Tampa Bay DevilRays +165 Fossum
<o
></o>Marc Lawrence
Bonus Play: New York (A) Yankees vs Tampa Bay Devil Rays
Tampa Bay over NY Yankees w/Igawa Yankees rookie Ogawa takes to the road off his 1st MLB win in his last start. With New York in off a big weekend series with Boston, look for the Devil Rays to bring Igawa back down to earth here tonight. Marc Lawrence releases his TOP DOG GAME OF THE MONTH on Monday night's MLB card and it's backed by two awesome situations in the same game that have NEVER LOST! Get it now, you'll be glad you did.
Monday Comps
<o
></o>Sebastian-Minnesota
Kevin Carr-Detroit(baseball)
Winner Line- also Detroit(baseball)
OTM-Anaheim
Feiner-OVER Yankees
Ty Gaston-Orlando
Kevin (irritating voice)Kennedy-Texas
<o
></o>Sebastian
<o
></o>5* Tampa Bay
7* Florida
10* Mets
10* LAA
20* Cubs
<o
></o>Sports Betting Solutions
New York (A) vs. Tampa Bay Premium
Yankees -175 $875/$500
Colorado vs. New York
Mets -240 $1200/$500
Chicago (A) vs. Kansas City
Whitesox -128 $640/$500
Drew Gordan
<o
></o>100,000* Marlins
100,00* White Sox
<o
></o>Proffit Plays
Boston
Houston
Baltimore
Bob Balfe
Phillies -115 over Astros (Eaton/Sampson)
<o
></o>Whale Report
NY Yankees Over 10.5
Big Al's American League Game of the Month!
Al McMordie is on a 12-4 Run here over his last 16 Baseball plays, and is releasing his STRONGEST American League play yet this year. It's Big Al's AMERICAN LEAGUE GAME OF THE MONTH! Don't miss out. Hop on board right now.
Pick: Angels
Professional-Plays
3 units Oakland @ Baltimore under 8.5
<o
></o>Gold Key Games
<o
></o>3 Units (Bonus Play): Milwaukee Brewers +1.5 runs -155
Silver Key (Bonus Play): Texas Rangers (Milwood) -140
John Ryan
Oakland Athletics vs. Baltimore Orioles (MLB) - Apr 23, 2007 7:05 PM EDT
Play: Money Line: -124 Baltimore Orioles Play Title: Bedard is becoming the ACE
Ai Simulator 3* graded play on the Baltimore Orioles - Supporting this graded play is a system that has gone 54-13 and has made 37 units since 1997. Play against any team with a very bad AL offensive team scoring <=4.2 runs/game against a team with a good bullpen sporting an ERA<=3.75, with a starting pitcher whose gives up 5.5 or less hits/start. Tweeking this system produces an 85% winning one that has gone 46-8 and has made 33.1 units since 1997. Play against all underdogs with a money line of +100 or higher that are very bad AL offensive teams scoring <=4.2 runs/game against a team with a very good bullpen sporting an ERA<=3.33, with a starting pitcher whose gives up 5.5 or less hits/start. BALTIMORE is 36-16 (+15.6 Units) against the money line as a favorite of -110 or higher over the last 2 seasons. Reik Bedard has an opportunity to show that he can be the ace of this pitching staff and so far he is responding quite well. He has gone 3-0 with 3.86 ERA and WHIP over his last 3 starts. He also completely dominated the current members of the Oakland A's in their respective careers allowing a 151 BA. Marco Scutaro is 0 for 14 by way of example. Take Baltimore.
<o
></o>FPBE Free Picks
<o
></o>Marc Lawrence - TB +148 MLB
Rocky Atkinson - TB +148 MLB
Matty O'Shea - FLA -140 MLB
Ben Burns - NYM -200 MLB
Larry Ness - KC +117 MLB
JB Sports - ATL/FLA under 9 ML
B
<o
></o>Wunderdog (Comp Play)
<o
></o>Game: Cleveland at Minnesota (8:10 PM Eastern)
Pick: Cleveland +104
Carlos Silva has had three great starts. We are not convinced. It just depends on what you believe? Do you believe the 8.44 ERA this spring? Do you believe the 6.13 ERA last year over 173 innings? Silva has yielded 697 hits in 463 innings the last three years - more hits than any other pitcher in baseball. He has a career 5 ERA against the Indians and has a history of struggling against left-handed hitters. That spells trouble vs. Cleveland, as the middle of the order are all left handed and have killed him. Martinez (.455), Hafner (.391), and Sizemore (.548) and all three hit well above their average against right-hand pitching. Jeremy Soweres has kept Minnesota in check in his short career. He has a 2.81 ERA, and being left handed, will help neutralize Mauer and Morneau - the Twins two biggest threats. The Tribe has a bullpen for once, and they have four pitchers they can bring in that are holding opponents under .200. They also feature four with ERA's below 2 and five below 3. This is a great match up for the Indians, so we ride with the dog here.
<o
></o>Miami Service
Top-Rated Play 3* on Texas with Millwood
<o
></o>Bonus Play 2* on the White Sox with Buehrle
More Service Plays from BB:
Monday’s Service Plays from Bookie Buster:<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-comfficeffice" /><o></o>
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Chris Jordan
500* Twins
<o></o>
200* Mets
<o></o>
Drew Gordon
100,000* Marlins
100,000* White Sox
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Marlin Write-Up:
<o></o>
I'm looking for Dontrelle Willis to bounce back in this match up coming off a rough outing against the Mets, where he allowed 8 runs (7 earned) in 5 innings. Why? Simple, his career numbers in April are outstanding, going 12-2 with a 2.92 ERA, despite his last start, he should be just fine tonight.
Both teams rely heavily on their strong pitching staffs, but the biggest problem for the Braves has been offense. Eventhough they're a solid 12-6, their .243 team batting average leaves a lot to be desired, especially when compared to the Marlins .271 average. It won't get any easier for Atlanta tongiht, as a motivated Willis will be tough to beat.
You remember the last time Willis faced-off against the Braves, don't you? He got the "W," allowing 3 runs in 7 innings of work at Turner Field... What makes you think tonight will be any different, especially coming off a bad loss?!
Opposing Willis will be Kyle Davies, who has been better this season after changing his delivery. He has yet to get a decision this year, but was relatively unimpressive in his last start, allowing 4 runs in 6 innings to the Cubs. He'll be tested in his first road start of the season, against a young Marlins batting order that has started the season red-hot.
<o></o>
Bottom line, Willis coupled with the Marlins solid offense is too good to pass up in this spot. While Davies has looked better than last year, that's not saying much, being he was just 3-7 with an 8.38 ERA last season! Marlins roll as Willis bounces back hard in this one!
<o></o>
White Sox Write Up: <o></o>
For the price, can you really afford to pass on Mark Buehrle against the lowly Royals? Listen guys, I'll be the first to say Gil Meche has pitched very well for Kansas City, but overall Buehrle has been better and the numbers prove it.
<o></o>
Coming off the first no-no by a White Sox pitcher in 16 years, you'd maybe expect a let-down by the southpaw in this one, but I couldn't disagree more. Buehrle is rolling right now, allowing 1 hit over the last 15 innings, but that's not even the half of it. He's also dominated the Royals throughout his career, going 15-6 with a 3.26 ERA against Kansas City.
<o></o>
Opposing Buehrle will be Gil Meche, who's looked a lot like the staff ace in his four starts this season. He had one bad game against the Tigers at home, but otherwise has been rock-solid for the Royals this season. The problem for KC hasn't been Meche, but their offense, which is averaging just 3.8 runs per game.
<o></o>
Bottom line, the White Sox, winners of 4 of their last 5, should have no trouble with the Royals in this match up. Meche has pitched well, but Buehrle has been almost unhittable of late. Granted, the White Sox offense has been sluggish, but with Buehrle on the mound they won't need much!
Take the White Sox behind Buehrle over the Royals in this AL Central showdown.
Karl Garrett
10 DIMER - PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES WITH EATON
The Phillies have quietly won their last pair of games, and the best thing for this team is to play again tonight, as they host the Astros in a makeup game.
Sampson has been a bright spot for Phil Garner's rotation, but can this kid really keep up the pace he has set for himself? My answer is "nay"!
Adam Eaton has shown flashes of his past brilliance, and I think he can keep the Astro bats in check long enough tonight for the suddenly hot Philly bats to break through.
Philadelphia scored 9 in yesterday's, while Houston is coming off a pair of close losses at Milwaukee.
Look for the Phils to make it 3 straight victories, while the Astros fall for their 3rd time in a row.
10 DIMER - TEXAS RANGERS WITH MILLWOOD
One of Kevin Millwood's 2 wins this spring came against Seattle, as he baffled the Mariners over 6 innings while allowing just 1 earned run.
I like Millwood to do it again, as Seattle has hit the skids with 6 losses in a row, and they have not had much success playing at Arlington, as they are 6-14 the last 2 season's at Texas.
Baek gets his first start of the season for the M's, and while he did win both starts against Texas last year, this revamped Rangers attack figures to get their licks in against the slumping Mariners.
I will lay a little wood, and go with Millwood tonight!
Monday’s Service Plays from Bookie Buster:<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com
fficeffice" /><o></o><o
></o>Chris Jordan
500* Twins
<o
></o>200* Mets
<o
></o>Drew Gordon
100,000* Marlins
100,000* White Sox
<o
></o>Marlin Write-Up:
<o
></o>I'm looking for Dontrelle Willis to bounce back in this match up coming off a rough outing against the Mets, where he allowed 8 runs (7 earned) in 5 innings. Why? Simple, his career numbers in April are outstanding, going 12-2 with a 2.92 ERA, despite his last start, he should be just fine tonight.
Both teams rely heavily on their strong pitching staffs, but the biggest problem for the Braves has been offense. Eventhough they're a solid 12-6, their .243 team batting average leaves a lot to be desired, especially when compared to the Marlins .271 average. It won't get any easier for Atlanta tongiht, as a motivated Willis will be tough to beat.
You remember the last time Willis faced-off against the Braves, don't you? He got the "W," allowing 3 runs in 7 innings of work at Turner Field... What makes you think tonight will be any different, especially coming off a bad loss?!
Opposing Willis will be Kyle Davies, who has been better this season after changing his delivery. He has yet to get a decision this year, but was relatively unimpressive in his last start, allowing 4 runs in 6 innings to the Cubs. He'll be tested in his first road start of the season, against a young Marlins batting order that has started the season red-hot.
<o
></o>Bottom line, Willis coupled with the Marlins solid offense is too good to pass up in this spot. While Davies has looked better than last year, that's not saying much, being he was just 3-7 with an 8.38 ERA last season! Marlins roll as Willis bounces back hard in this one!
<o
></o>White Sox Write Up: <o
></o>For the price, can you really afford to pass on Mark Buehrle against the lowly Royals? Listen guys, I'll be the first to say Gil Meche has pitched very well for Kansas City, but overall Buehrle has been better and the numbers prove it.
<o
></o>Coming off the first no-no by a White Sox pitcher in 16 years, you'd maybe expect a let-down by the southpaw in this one, but I couldn't disagree more. Buehrle is rolling right now, allowing 1 hit over the last 15 innings, but that's not even the half of it. He's also dominated the Royals throughout his career, going 15-6 with a 3.26 ERA against Kansas City.
<o
></o>Opposing Buehrle will be Gil Meche, who's looked a lot like the staff ace in his four starts this season. He had one bad game against the Tigers at home, but otherwise has been rock-solid for the Royals this season. The problem for KC hasn't been Meche, but their offense, which is averaging just 3.8 runs per game.
<o
></o>Bottom line, the White Sox, winners of 4 of their last 5, should have no trouble with the Royals in this match up. Meche has pitched well, but Buehrle has been almost unhittable of late. Granted, the White Sox offense has been sluggish, but with Buehrle on the mound they won't need much!
Take the White Sox behind Buehrle over the Royals in this AL Central showdown.
Karl Garrett
10 DIMER - PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES WITH EATON
The Phillies have quietly won their last pair of games, and the best thing for this team is to play again tonight, as they host the Astros in a makeup game.
Sampson has been a bright spot for Phil Garner's rotation, but can this kid really keep up the pace he has set for himself? My answer is "nay"!
Adam Eaton has shown flashes of his past brilliance, and I think he can keep the Astro bats in check long enough tonight for the suddenly hot Philly bats to break through.
Philadelphia scored 9 in yesterday's, while Houston is coming off a pair of close losses at Milwaukee.
Look for the Phils to make it 3 straight victories, while the Astros fall for their 3rd time in a row.
10 DIMER - TEXAS RANGERS WITH MILLWOOD
One of Kevin Millwood's 2 wins this spring came against Seattle, as he baffled the Mariners over 6 innings while allowing just 1 earned run.
I like Millwood to do it again, as Seattle has hit the skids with 6 losses in a row, and they have not had much success playing at Arlington, as they are 6-14 the last 2 season's at Texas.
Baek gets his first start of the season for the M's, and while he did win both starts against Texas last year, this revamped Rangers attack figures to get their licks in against the slumping Mariners.
I will lay a little wood, and go with Millwood tonight!
More from BB:
Monday’s Service Plays from Bookie Buster:<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-comfficeffice" /><o></o>
<o></o>
Tony Mathew's (Free Pick)
Matchup: Toronto Blue Jays vs. Boston Red Sox
Selection: Boston Red Sox -1.5 Runs (-110)
Explanation: We will side with the Boston Red Sox -1.5 Runs as they face-off against the Toronto Blue Jays in Monday's MLB contest.
We don't see the Toronto Blue Jays scoring many runs. That's because the Boston Red Sox will use starting pitcher Tim Wakefield. Tim Wakefield has pitched great this season (1.35 ERA) and the Toronto Blue Jays will find it hard to gets hits and runs.
As for the Boston Red Sox, they will be able to score many runs. That's because the Toronto Blue Jays will use starting pitcher Tomo Ohka. Tomo Ohka struggled so far this season (0-2 with a 7.02 ERA), and things will not get any better for Tomo Ohka as the Boston Red Sox will score many runs tonight! This one has all of the signs of a Boston Red Sox blowout victory!
Take the Boston Red Sox -1.5 Runs!
<o></o>
Winning Points [reports a record of 13~1]
6* Oakland
4* Houston
4*Milwaukee
Tony Onio
<o></o>
500* Mets Run Line
<o></o>
John Ryan
A.I. Simulator 3* graded play on the Baltimore Orioles
Monday’s Service Plays from Bookie Buster:<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com
fficeffice" /><o></o><o
></o>Tony Mathew's (Free Pick)
Matchup: Toronto Blue Jays vs. Boston Red Sox
Selection: Boston Red Sox -1.5 Runs (-110)
Explanation: We will side with the Boston Red Sox -1.5 Runs as they face-off against the Toronto Blue Jays in Monday's MLB contest.
We don't see the Toronto Blue Jays scoring many runs. That's because the Boston Red Sox will use starting pitcher Tim Wakefield. Tim Wakefield has pitched great this season (1.35 ERA) and the Toronto Blue Jays will find it hard to gets hits and runs.
As for the Boston Red Sox, they will be able to score many runs. That's because the Toronto Blue Jays will use starting pitcher Tomo Ohka. Tomo Ohka struggled so far this season (0-2 with a 7.02 ERA), and things will not get any better for Tomo Ohka as the Boston Red Sox will score many runs tonight! This one has all of the signs of a Boston Red Sox blowout victory!
Take the Boston Red Sox -1.5 Runs!
<o
></o>Winning Points [reports a record of 13~1]
6* Oakland
4* Houston
4*Milwaukee
Tony Onio
<o
></o>500* Mets Run Line
<o
></o>John Ryan
A.I. Simulator 3* graded play on the Baltimore Orioles
Bookie Buster MLB 4/23
YTD Record: 5-7 (-278)
I will be flat betting $100, 200, 300 etc.
Lines at Bodog.
New York Mets
John Maine (R) -230
Chicago Cubs
Carlos Zambrano (R) -157
Baltimore Orioles
Erik Bedard (L) -120
New York Yankees
Kei Igawa (L) -167
Chicago White Sox
Mark Buehrle (L) -133
Detroit Tigers
Mike Maroth (L) +137
GL
YTD Record: 5-7 (-278)
I will be flat betting $100, 200, 300 etc.
Lines at Bodog.
New York Mets
John Maine (R) -230
Chicago Cubs
Carlos Zambrano (R) -157
Baltimore Orioles
Erik Bedard (L) -120
New York Yankees
Kei Igawa (L) -167
Chicago White Sox
Mark Buehrle (L) -133
Detroit Tigers
Mike Maroth (L) +137
GL
More from BB:
Monday’s Service Plays from Bookie Buster:<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-comfficeffice" /><o></o>
<o></o>
Jim Feist (Executive Service Plays)
Top Play: Twins
5* Whitesox
More Comp Plays
<o></o>
NSA – Oakland Under 8.5
VegasSI.com MLB – Seattle +130
Gameday Network – Mets Over 9
Tony Campone – Colorado +190
Fred Callahan – Toronto +190
Vincent Pioli – Houston +110
Gerry "Big Cat" Andino – Tampa Bay +145
Charlies Sports – Atlanta Under 9
Chicago Sports Group – Boston Over 10
Monday’s Service Plays from Bookie Buster:<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com
fficeffice" /><o></o><o
></o>Jim Feist (Executive Service Plays)
Top Play: Twins
5* Whitesox
More Comp Plays
<o
></o>NSA – Oakland Under 8.5
VegasSI.com MLB – Seattle +130
Gameday Network – Mets Over 9
Tony Campone – Colorado +190
Fred Callahan – Toronto +190
Vincent Pioli – Houston +110
Gerry "Big Cat" Andino – Tampa Bay +145
Charlies Sports – Atlanta Under 9
Chicago Sports Group – Boston Over 10
