Marc Lawrence
Tampa Bay Devil Rays vs Chicago (A) White Sox
Chicago White Sox w/Buerhle over Tampa Bay Pale Hose southpaw Mark Buerhle loves hurling during the month of May, especially at home where he is 12-0 in his last 12 team starts. He's also 7-1 in his team starts this season. With that, look for the Devil Rays to dip to 1-7 away in series openers here tonight.
Trev Rogers
A's/Orioles Under 7.5
Hondo
Hondo's freefall toward negative numbers continued last night as he flopped with the Orioles and saw his earnings plunge to a superskimpy 30 davalil los.
Tonight, Mr. Aitch will try to make some moolah with the Marlins' mighty Mitre over the Metamucils. Mmmm good. Ten units. Also, 10 on Byrd to fly right in Detroit.
LT Lock
ORIOLES
Big Al McMordie
Mets at Marlins
Prediction: Mets
The two starters in this game - Marlins right-hander Sergio Mitre and Mets right-hander Orlando Hernandez - have similarly impressive statistics on the season. Mitre has a 2.25 ERA and a 1.10 WHIP while Hernandez has a 2.53 ERA and a 1.09 WHIP. While the Marlins have won Mitre's last three starts after losing his first four, two of those last three starts have been at Tampa Bay and at Pittsburgh, two of the weakest offenses in all of baseball. Meanwhile, Hernandez has been out for about a month with shoulder bursitis and this is his first start since April 24. But the injury was not serious, and because of the depth of the New York roster, the Mets have been able to bring El Duque back slowly. He is definitely ready and recently threw 78 pitches in a simulated game without reporting any problems. He already has a very impressive victory over Florida earlier this year when he went seven solid innings giving up only three hits and striking out 10 Marlin batters. The Mets are an incredible 21-8 in their last 29 road games as well as 10-4 in their last 14 played on grass. The Marlins are 1-7 in Mitre's last eight home starts. Take New York.
Dennis Macklin
MLB for 05/25/2007
Phillies at Braves
Prediction: Braves
The Phillies are just 3-6 in their last nine roadies. The ancient Jamie Moyer (4-3, 4.37 ERA) toes the rubber for Philadelphia and he's been shelled to the tune of 15 earned runs on 23 hits and five walks in his last 16 innings over his last three starts. The lefty is 0-2 with a 4.36 lifetime ERA in three starts against the Bravos. Meanwhile, Atlanta starter Tim Hudson is having All-Star first half at 5-2 with 2.40 ERA; 3-1 at Turner Field with an ERA of just 2.00. The Braves are 7-3 in Hudson's 10 starts. The right-hander has already beaten Philly twice in 2007 with sparkling 1.80 ERA over 15 innings. Take the Braves.
Benjamin Lee Eckstein
Minnesota Twins
Friday Horse Racing Spot Picks
SPOT PLAYS
For Friday
TRACK (RACE) HORSE, MORNING LINE
Arlington Park (7th) Pirate Ship, 8-1
(8th) Gathering Kings, 4-1
Belmont Park (3rd) Malibu Moonshine, 10-1
(8th) Mohegan Sky, 7-2
Calder Race Course 1st) Mister Meadowlark, 8-1
(6th) Shadow Belle, 5-1
Canterbury Park (8th) Clever Lord, 4-1
(9th) Smoke Magic, 3-1
Charles Town (3rd) Jetta's Journey, 7-2
(9th) Monster Image, 7-2
Churchill Downs (7th) Gold Sterling, 3-1
(11th) New York Dixie, 6-1
Emerald Downs (5th) Chocolate Starr, 5-1
(6th) Silver Misty, 7-2
Evangeline Downs (6th) Ides Lady, 9-2
(8th) River Boat Blues, 3-1
Finger Lakes (5th) Isabellas Way, 3-1
(8th) Thresher, 9-2
Golden Gate Fields (6th) Madison's Lady, 9-2
(8th) October Surprise, 7-2
Hollywood Park (2nd) Beyond Loaded, 3-1
(5th) Steelin', 7-2
Indiana Downs (2nd) Galloping Gourmet, 7-2
(3rd) Winged Philly, 8-1
Lone Star Park (2nd) Luke's Whisper, 4-1
(10th) El Dayjur, 4-1
Louisiana Downs (5th) Glamour Shot, 4-1
(7th) Livvy Leigh, 7-2
Mountaineer (1st) Sir Luke, 6-1
(5th) General Mauk, 6-1
Penn National (3rd) Halo Heaven, 9-2
(5th) Dixie Avenue, 3-1
Pimlico (1st) Catlike Move, 7-2
(3rd) Sabotage, 3-1
Prairie Meadows (3rd) Lady Dancer, 7-2
(5th) Notable Exchange, 3-1
River Downs (6th) Latonia Storm, 7-2
(14th) Shore Blue, 6-1
Thistledown (1st) Darragh, 9-2
(7th) Era Bayou, 4-1
Woodbine (2nd) Serenading, 3-1
(3rd) When in Rome, 6-1
Mike Supersten's Hollywood Park Handicap for Friday, May 25
RACE ONE
LIKE JOSIE WELLS was an improved third when introduced to Cushion Track May 2, lures leading rider Michael Baze and can graduate in her fourth attempt. She's been kept fit with two drills since. MERGER MANIA showed speed sprinting and could prove difficult to catch if she can handle two turns. This looks like a match race on paper. ASCOREINGLADY has already run 15 times and isn't getting any better. However, she appears to be the best of the others.
RACE TWO
STORMY GRANT broke her maiden first time routing for Julio Canani in above average time for the level. Give her a slight edge in a wide open contest. C. T. ZEE came within a nose of pulling off an upset in the Snow Chief Stakes. This rapidly improving gelding has speed, but can also come from slightly off the pace. BOPPA BOB is unbeaten in three starts at three different race tracks. Clinton Potts will try to keep the streak going.
RACE THREE
DOUBLE TROUBLE set the pace then gave way grudgingly in the grassy Wilshire Stakes. That race marked her American debut and horses moving from turf to Cushion often fare quite well. FUN LOGIC ended a seven-race losing streak with a stylish local victory May 4. Apparently, Baze has found the key to success. BOSSET made her customary big move on the turn before flattening out as usual. She's still seeking her first U. S. victory for Kathy Walsh.
RACE FOUR
GARY JOHN tried the Cushion May 17 and powered home with an impressive daylight victory. He should have no trouble with this one level class hike. GOTTA GETCHA threw in a dud at the end of April, but his maiden victory one race prior puts him right in the thick of this. TOM WEST takes a severe drop from starter allowance $40,000 to $20,000 claimers. This cut back in distance will undoubtedly help.
RACE FIVE
STEELIN' was runnerup as the favorite April 1 and has been freshened up by Craig Dollase. Either of her two outings would be good enough to take down the top prize. Her pedigree indicates turf will not be a problem. CHOCOLATE LAVA has speed and switches to Corey Nakatani. She's trained forwardly since her last start. STOP THE HUMOR is much better on this surface and figures to be in good striking position early. Jon Court, who has ridden her the last six starts, is back aboard today.
RACE SIX
WIND WATER had better form last year but seems to be coming around again. Last time out at Golden Gate Fields, 'WATER was taken out of his front-running style when he broke slowly, but gathered himself and was a fast-closing second. BROOKER has been facing much better and is lowered into a claimer. In his last start both the second place finisher (Publication) and trailer (Gray Black N White) came back to win. DATTICUS is slowly rounding back to form after an extended layoff. This will be his first try against claimers.
RACE SEVEN
Though RUNNING FREE hasn't found the winner's circle since August of 2005, he gets the call. He was runnerup in his last two starts, including the Khaled Handicap April 29 and is poised to end the drought. SUPER STRUT has been close, but finished behind the top selection the last three times they met. Nakatani takes over trying to reverse that trend. RING OF FRIENDSHIP likes to win races and is one for one at this marathon trip. He'll take them as far as he can.
RACE EIGHT
SOCIAL SATIRE drops in for a tag and will take some beating. He's clearly the speed of the field and Flores sticks around to ride. CARIBBEAN'S HERD is the only alternative to 'SATIRE. He was second for this price in his California debut in February, his first start for John Sadler. 'HERD will have to hustle early to keep within range. VIA RODEO has piled up 18 losses and regressed badly in his last. The best he can do today is a third place finish.
Best Bet-GARY JOHN (4)
__________________
Belmont Park
By Art Gropper
BEST BET: Lemon Drop Gal (8th race)
First Race
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. Chunk of Love 2. College Girl 3. Angel Dancer
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CHUNK OF LOVE receives the much-needed additional yardage to get her back in the winner's circle. Burned money in last 3 when getting lost in the field early, her big rallies keep us thinking "one more time" with her and 7 panels seems the perfect trip. Finished 3rd in March key race, which saw the winner win for double this price (92 Beyer speed figure) in next start. Freshened COLLEGE GIRL's new trainer has outstanding win marks 1st off the buy and can improve off recent defeat. ANGEL DANCER did not show usual kick in last, but was in the hunt vs. this same bunch 3 weeks ago at Belmont Park
Second Race
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. Callmetony 2. Mister Supremo 3. My Dynomite
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CALLMETONY gets back to his best game today. Fired big race after big race on the Belmont main track in 2006 and figures to be set for a biggie, exiting a key race 2-turn test. Reunites with win rider Prado for this and the rock solid work for this clinches it. MISTER SUPREMO is nearly 3-for-4 off the claim. Drilled a Belmont Beyer Top last September and gets the services of Velazquez, who figures to improve his meet win figures. Picked a dream spot for latest, but is still the one to beat as he always seems to fire. MY DYNOMITE snuck thru the claim box 2-back, then was well spotted at the 'Lakes. Has a win over the track and displayed enough potential as a 2-year-old to consider in the exotics.
Third Race
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. Minister's Joy 2. Classic Campaign 3. Shakis
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MINISTER'S JOY blossomed to end his 4-year-old season and his February Gulfstream Park optional claiming win stamped him as a stakes calibar runner. Runnerup to next-out Grade 3 Ascertain at Keeneland was no disgrace, then lost a nose on the Polytrack. Only concern is if CLASSIC CAMPAIGN shakes loose early in a paceless event. CLASSIC' defeated MINISTER' in the Fort Lauderdale at GP, but MINISTER' seems a much different horse at the moment. SHAKIS is enetered with top pick in a DEL Park race tomorrow (7th). Hard to ignore getting the substantial weight break, 1st Lasix and a hefty 117 Timeform Rating in Feb. Turf defeat.
Fourth Race
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. Aunt Teree 2. Prom Dance 3. Lady Alice
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AUNT TEREE hopes to light up the tote board for this stretchout attempt. She passed tired rivals late sprinting and should love the added distance. Dam was a stakes-placed turfer (3-for-13, 24K) and produced 2-time turf winner Super Nationals (68K grass). PROM DANCE figures tough off recent 3rd when dueled hard for the lead in turf debut. The Mile distance can help her hang on. 1ster LADY ALICE is working well and is sired by a 1.2M turf runner (14% 1st-turf winners). 1st Lasix and gets a patient rider on a 'late runner's' turf course. Freshened PAPA'S KARA is clearly the top Main Track Only entrant.
Fifth Race
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. Ruban Bleu 2. Mama Theresa 3. Drama Lady
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
It's been 40 days since the eye-catching unveiling of RUBAN BLEU at Gulfstream Park. She swooped past the field and opened up daylight in a blink of an eye. Attempts to stretch her speed an extra two and a half furlongs in this 1-turn test. Rarely do you see a Mott-trained debut winner romp like that, so looking forward to seeing race number 2. MAMA THERESA has some proving to do at Belmont, but is as sharp as ever and figures to be a major early presence from the rail. DRAMA LADY disappointed late in latest vs. Delta Breeze and sibling to 1.9M Champion Round Pond seeks to make amends. Seems to have a bright upside and could improve here, making just 4th career start.
Sixth Race
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. Straight Blush 2. Pro Talent 3. Song Senor
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STRAIGHT BLUSH is the logical pick off recent near-miss over the track. Runnerup to a 73 Beyer repeater 3-back, he's never been better. PRO TALENT is a 1st-time starter in a racing lacking superstars. Dam banked 229K and is by a 13-percent debut sire, who was a Grade3 sprinter; 1st Lasix for this. SONG SENOR has been overmatched and been on the wrong surface since near miss for this price in March.
Seventh Race
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. Skip Dattt 2. Concert Line 3. Solewisher
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SKIP DATTT hasn't gotten a good trip yet in 5-race career, but still has a win and has fired well in 3 of 5 very solid grass efforts, including career debut at Saratoga. This turf plays well to deep closers like him and he's bred for better, by a G1 lawn sire (1.3M) and a sibling to 476K grass veteran In Frank's Honor. Improving CONCERT LINE would have to be scratched for sod debut, a sibling to 112K grasser Inside Affair. Four consecutive beaten favorite performances for SOLEWISHER. Can he possibly be the chalk again? Faced a tough group in last (place horse won back with an 80 Beyer) and Prado is a major improvement.
Eighth Race
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. Lemon Drop Gal 2. Latitude Forty 3. Homerette
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
LEMON DROP GAL has been dangerous in these 'fresh' situations and while this is a lengthy layoff, the recent work and her love of the Belmont Inner turf makes her tough to go past in the feature. Neck Sept. loss was to a runner, who captured a Grade 3 event at Santa Anita three starts later (100 Beyer). LATITUDE FORTY was superb racing long on the turf last summer and toss latest when 5-wide in Maryland; should be flying late. HOMERETTE is working well for this and was game in defeat in similar BEL Inner Turf sprints last spring.
Ninth Race
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. Innovator 2. Connie the Queen 3. Make It Come True
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
INNOVATOR needed her last start off an 11-week break and daughter of a 214K turf earner (5-for-14 sod) gets the call to avenge loss 29 days ago to MAKE IT COME TRUE, who should get 1st run on the closers, but might get caught up in what should be a legitimate early pace. CONNIE THE QUEEN is working well and improved dramatically on grass despite a rough gate break; scary late spark.
__________________
Churchill Downs
Analysis:: by Jill Byrne
Race 1 -
COWGIRL AFFAIR (3) looked poised for the victory in her last start at this level before she faded late. Today’s turn back in distance and second time blinkers should have her set for the score. LD’S HONEY (4) was a good second in the split division of the top pick's race, which was the faster of those races. She is clearly the one to beat if she can duplicate that effort. ALITTLE SWEETHEART (8) has run well in all of her starts this year and will run late
3-4-8
Race 2 -
HE’S MINE (4) just missed after a very wide trip last out at this level. He has dropped steadily down the claiming ladder, but gets some speed in this spot to help his closing kick. E AND DE’S DREAMS (2) ships in from Mountaineer for the Amoss stable off two close defeats against conditioned claimers and picks up the riding services of Borel. COLLATERAL DAMAGE (1) could not make up ground late against a tougher group, but figures as a strong player with today’s class drop.
4-2-1
Race 3 -
BOAZ (7) showed good speed but stopped against maiden allowance company at Hawthorne. He shortens up slightly, drops into a maiden claimer and gets the hot riding Albarado for today's event. CAPOTE’S FLAME (4) makes his first start since November and showed early speed in his previous races. He has a bullet workout in preparation for his return to racing. GREASE MONKEY (8) chased the speed early in a very strong maiden allowance race and figures to improve with both the experience of that start and today’s drop in class.
7-4-8
Race 4 -
PATRICIA’S CAT (2) ran evenly in her first start since September and looks set to score today with that race under her belt. ORIENTAL PUNCH (1) faces bottom level maiden claimers for the first time after unsuccessful attempts at Sunland and Houston against maiden allowance company. She did show some early foot in a couple of those efforts and figures to come out quickly from her rail post. SISTER PEGLEEN (3) just failed to get up in time at decent odds after a troubled trip. She is a factor here from off the pace with a repeat of that performance
2-1-3
Race 5 -
DUNMORE (2) ships in from Lone Star Park off a fourth place finish on the turf. He has good speed and a win at the distance, and looks well spotted here. WILD PASS (4) was steadied sharply on the inside when he tried to make a run at this level last out. He draws a better post for today and will likely be much closer early on. BAWDENS (5) was a distant second against allowance company at Mountaineer after he briefly made the lead. Expect him to be stalking the top two today under Borel.
2-4-5
Race 6 -
MS. SABBATICAL (1) was on her way to victory in her last start when the rider misjudged the finish line. She is well suited to the local surface with her good speed and looks like a strong contender in here. SLAMMINGPARTYGIRL (7) adds to what appears to be an abundance of speed in this race as she stretches out to a mile. Bejarano will need to harness that speed if she is to have anything left at the finish today. MISSAMERICA BERTIE (3) may not have cared for the sloppy going in her first local start and can rebound today. She would be a factor if she can rate off of the expected contested early pace. BEPPIN (8) is not out of the picture if she can transfer her recent Polytrack efforts here.
1-7-3
Race 7 -
EUPHORIC (2) made up ground late while running wide last out against a stronger field of conditioned claimers. He drops a peg today and gets a race with some early speed to set up for his closing kick. STARRY KNIGHT (5) comes out of the same race as the top pick where he set the pace before faltering late. He figures to get some pressure early on, but has shown that he fits well with this company level. DELTA SLAM (4) ran evenly in his first try against winners and this reliable runner yet to finish off the board this year
2-5-4
Race 8 -
KILN CREEK (3) broke poorly and was steadied on a sloppy track last out, but can rebound here with a better start. NO LAC O ZIP (5) is speedy, has a good local record and comes in off a sharp win. There appears to be a lot of pace in here, which could hurt his chances if he is pressured early. CAPTATION (2) has shown he can run well from on or off the pace and that versatility may help him today with all the early runners in this group.
3-5-2
Race 9 -
ALMONSOON (7) steps out of the Grade III Orchid Handicap, where she ran second to stable mate and next out stakes winner Safari Queen. She turns back in distance and seems capable of being in a perfect stalking position from the start under Bejarano. PRAIA DA PIPA (6) set very slow fractions on a yielding turf course before she faded late in a stronger version of this allowance race. She seems to prefer a firmer course. LEMONS FOREVER (3), winner of the 2006 Kentucky Oaks (GI), makes her turf debut and first start against allowance rivals since the winter of 2006. She has a bullet work over the turf course and is by Lemon Drop Kid, who has done very well with turf runners.
7-6-3
Race 10 -
EARLY VINTAGE (8) was eliminated at the start of her last race when she broke in the air and was unable to recover on a sloppy track. She has worked well since that start, draws nicely on the outside and gets another chance today to show the form she displayed when she broke her maiden here. GEM SLEUTH (6) comes out of the same race as the top pick and overcame traffic trouble to close well and only lose by a head. MEREDITH BEE (5) was fourth in the same race after she dropped back early on. That was her first start since November, and she will benefit from that race and could prefer a dry track
8-6-5
Race 11 -
BLOCK (6) returns to the turf today off an even effort as the favorite on Polytrack last out. She has been a bit of a money burner at the windows, but usually runs well enough to be tough to go against in this group. GDANSKA (10) is a first time starter from the Romans barn with a beautiful turf pedigree and some solid morning drills in preparation for her debut. NORMANDY QUEEN (3) showed nothing on a muddy track in her first start but can be a strong factor on the turf today for top connections.
6-10-3
__________________
Handicapped by Ellis Starr at Churchill Downs
Race #7
#6 Trickeration - (10-1) Fair odds 7/2
#9 Gambler's Honour - (6-1) Fair odds 7/2
#5 Starry Knight - (9/2) Fair odds 7/2
Exacta: Box 5,6,9
With FIVE of these being need-the-lead types, the early pace should be hot, and when the smoke clears one of the above, or hopefully two (for the exacta) of the 3 above should get the major awards. Trickeration won at the 15K maiden claiming level one before last with Borel up and although he lost at this 15K non-winners of 2 lifetime level last out over the track the change to Borel could signal a return to the winners' circle. Gambler's Honor closed fast for 2nd at this level three back then faced allowance foes twice since, not disgraced when 2nd in each race but perhaps a bit overmatched. Now with 4 second place finishes to go along with his one career win, the label of "non-win" type might be appropriate, but in this field with a return to the fast finish shown three back he can get up to win or at least to complete the exacta. Starry Knight rallied from 3rd to lead in the stretch one before last versus tougher 30K non-winners of 2 lifetime claimers, then moved too soon to get to 2nd before the turn last out and tired to 4th. Racing at this 15K nw2l level for the first time he has every right to turn either of those last two efforts into a winning result here.
Michael Cannon Wins 20 Dimer on the Cavs!
Michael Cannon Money Train
Friday's Plays..
15 Dime –
ANGELS (With Weaver and Clippard as listed pitchers)
Take the Angels for the win tonight in the Bronx over the Yankees.
I’m still not sold on the Yankees pitching staff right now and I think the Angels are going to spoil Tyler Clippard’s Yankee Stadium debut.
Jered Weaver gets the start for the Angels tonight and he’s looked more like the rookie that dominated the American League last year. The right-hander will be trying for his third straight win and is 2-0 with a 1.83 ERA in his last three starts after starting the year 1-3 with a 5.12 ERA.
The Angels have given the Yankees a tough time over the years, going 6-4 against New York last season. They are the only team with a winning record against the Yankees during Joe Torre’s tenure as manager, going 55-52 overall and 28-24 in the Bronx since Torre took over in 1996.
The Angels offense will be spurred on by Orlando Cabrera, who is hitting .431 (25-for-58) during his 14-game hitting streak, and of course Vladimir Guerrero, who is a career .309 hitter against New York and has hit .455 (10-for-22) in his last five games against the Yankees.
The pressure of pitching in Yankee Stadium may get to Clippard tonight, so take the Angels behind Weaver for the road win.
5 Dime –
INDIANS (With Byrd and Robertson as listed pitchers)
Take the Indians as the road dog for the win tonight over the Tigers.
Paul Byrd is scheduled to start for the Tribe and he’s been solid this year, going 4-1 with a 3.55 ERA in seven starts. His command has been unbelievable this year, as he’s walked only three batters over 45 2-3 innings, and he hasn’t issued a walk over his last 30 2-3 innings.
He should turn in a quality start tonight against the free-swinging Tigers.
Over his career, Byrd is 6-2 with a 3.04 ERA in 12 games against Detroit.
Tigers’ starter Nate Robertson has been shaky over his last three starts, going 1-2 with a 6.75 ERA in only 14 2-3 innings. The left-hander is 2-3 with a 5.00 ERA in 11 lifetime appearances against the Tribe.
Take the Indians as the road dog for the win.
WHITE SOX (With Buerhle as listed pitcher)
Take the White Sox as the home chalk for the win tonight over the Devil Rays.
Mark Buerhle gets the nod for the ChiSox and I expect him to out duel Tampa’s James Shields.
Buerhle is 5-1 lifetime against the Devil Rays with a 4.22 ERA.
Shields has been great this year for Tampa Bay, but they just can’t seem to get this guy any runs, as he’s just 3-0 in nine games despite a 2.94 ERA.
Take the White Sox as the Devil Rays offense fails to come through again tonight for Shields.
Bonus Play: RED SOX -1 1/2 RUN LINE
This is Jim Feist.
My free pick of the day is the game between (925) SEA Mariners and (926) KC Royals. Take "(925) SEA Mariners". Seattle's offense is clicking, striking for 12 runs yesterday. And they catch a break with their new ace going in hard-throwing Felix Hernandez. The team struggled when he was out, but he is back and looked sharp fanning 9 in 5 innings in his last start. He will have little trouble with this free swinging Kansas City lineup, too. He's already faced them once this season, fanning 11 and allowing 3 hits and one run. Play the Mariners!
paws
Survivor Pick Record: 32-18-2 (going for #11 in a row)
Fri pick: Det Tigers
!!!Do not play this guy's NBA picks!!! His MLB are money but NBA looks bad.
hunter49
Survivor Pick Record: 26-12-1 (going for #9)
Fri pick: Utah/SA Under 190
!!!Plays a lot of totals!!! Worst losing streak was 4 in a row.
__________________
yourwinnersonly
3* Mets
2* Padres
1* Nats
Rocketman
FREE MLB PLAY FRIDAY (108-75 59% run with freebies)
Philadelphia @ Atlanta 7:35 PM EST
Play On: 1* Atlanta -160 (Moyer/Hudson) Listed
Atlanta bullpen has a 2.70 ERA at home this year. Moyer has an 8.10 ERA his last 3 starts. Hudson is 5-2 with a 2.42 ERA overall this year and 3-1 with a 2.00 ERA at home this season. Atlanta has won 5 of 6 against Philadelphia this year. Moyer is 0-2 with a 4.36 ERA overall vs Atlanta since 1997. We're simply playing the better team with the better pitcher in this one. We'll recommend a small play on Atlanta tonight! Thanks and good luck, Rocky
__________________
Friday Comps
Sebastian-White Sox
Winner Line-San Francisco
OTM-OVER Seattle
Computer Boys-Atlanta
Kevin Kennedy-Detroit
Feiner-OVER Houston
Gator’s Friday E-Report:
Gator Report for Friday:
NBA (Friday): no scheduled game
MLB (Friday): Play On MLB (NL) teams when the money line is +125 to -125 with a team batting average of .275 or better on the season facing a starting pitcher whose ERA is less than 2.00 over his last 3 starts.
(37-15 last 5 seasons.) (71.2%) PLAY: New York Mets -115
MLB (Friday): Play Against MLB (AL) home underdogs with a money line of +100 or higher who average <=4.5 runs per game versus a team with a bullpen ERA <=3.33 with a starting pitcher whose ERA is 4.20 or better this year.
(32-7 since 1997.) (82.1%) PLAY: Seattle -105
Gator's MLB "Tech" Totals
Each week Gator releases his Top "Technical" Game of the Week in football, basketball and baseball. Gator also releases his MLB "Tech" Total Selections each day if we have qualifying plays.
MLB "Tech" Totals for Friday:
Game 1: (929) Toronto vs. (930) Minnesota (listed pitchers)
Selection: UNDER 9.5 (-120)
Guaranteed Pick: Tom Freese
Game: Cleveland Indians at Detroit Tigers May 25 2007 7:05PM
Prediction: Cleveland Indians
Reason: Cleveland starter Paul Byrd is in awesome KW form with 13 strikeouts and 0 walks in his last 3 starts. Byrd is 8-4 with a 2.74 ERA in 12 career team starts vs. the Tigers. Detroit starter Nate Robertson is off a phony win in his last start where he allowed twice as many baserunners as innings pitched. The Indians are swinging hot bats scoring 5 or more runs in 8 of their last 10 games and the Detroit bullpen has been getting hit hard of late. 10* MLB Game of the Month Play On Cleveland + (Byrd vs. Robertson)
Tampa Bay Devil Rays vs Chicago (A) White Sox
Chicago White Sox w/Buerhle over Tampa Bay Pale Hose southpaw Mark Buerhle loves hurling during the month of May, especially at home where he is 12-0 in his last 12 team starts. He's also 7-1 in his team starts this season. With that, look for the Devil Rays to dip to 1-7 away in series openers here tonight.
Trev Rogers
A's/Orioles Under 7.5
Hondo
Hondo's freefall toward negative numbers continued last night as he flopped with the Orioles and saw his earnings plunge to a superskimpy 30 davalil los.
Tonight, Mr. Aitch will try to make some moolah with the Marlins' mighty Mitre over the Metamucils. Mmmm good. Ten units. Also, 10 on Byrd to fly right in Detroit.
LT Lock
ORIOLES
Big Al McMordie
Mets at Marlins
Prediction: Mets
The two starters in this game - Marlins right-hander Sergio Mitre and Mets right-hander Orlando Hernandez - have similarly impressive statistics on the season. Mitre has a 2.25 ERA and a 1.10 WHIP while Hernandez has a 2.53 ERA and a 1.09 WHIP. While the Marlins have won Mitre's last three starts after losing his first four, two of those last three starts have been at Tampa Bay and at Pittsburgh, two of the weakest offenses in all of baseball. Meanwhile, Hernandez has been out for about a month with shoulder bursitis and this is his first start since April 24. But the injury was not serious, and because of the depth of the New York roster, the Mets have been able to bring El Duque back slowly. He is definitely ready and recently threw 78 pitches in a simulated game without reporting any problems. He already has a very impressive victory over Florida earlier this year when he went seven solid innings giving up only three hits and striking out 10 Marlin batters. The Mets are an incredible 21-8 in their last 29 road games as well as 10-4 in their last 14 played on grass. The Marlins are 1-7 in Mitre's last eight home starts. Take New York.
Dennis Macklin
MLB for 05/25/2007
Phillies at Braves
Prediction: Braves
The Phillies are just 3-6 in their last nine roadies. The ancient Jamie Moyer (4-3, 4.37 ERA) toes the rubber for Philadelphia and he's been shelled to the tune of 15 earned runs on 23 hits and five walks in his last 16 innings over his last three starts. The lefty is 0-2 with a 4.36 lifetime ERA in three starts against the Bravos. Meanwhile, Atlanta starter Tim Hudson is having All-Star first half at 5-2 with 2.40 ERA; 3-1 at Turner Field with an ERA of just 2.00. The Braves are 7-3 in Hudson's 10 starts. The right-hander has already beaten Philly twice in 2007 with sparkling 1.80 ERA over 15 innings. Take the Braves.
Benjamin Lee Eckstein
Minnesota Twins
Friday Horse Racing Spot Picks
SPOT PLAYS
For Friday
TRACK (RACE) HORSE, MORNING LINE
Arlington Park (7th) Pirate Ship, 8-1
(8th) Gathering Kings, 4-1
Belmont Park (3rd) Malibu Moonshine, 10-1
(8th) Mohegan Sky, 7-2
Calder Race Course 1st) Mister Meadowlark, 8-1
(6th) Shadow Belle, 5-1
Canterbury Park (8th) Clever Lord, 4-1
(9th) Smoke Magic, 3-1
Charles Town (3rd) Jetta's Journey, 7-2
(9th) Monster Image, 7-2
Churchill Downs (7th) Gold Sterling, 3-1
(11th) New York Dixie, 6-1
Emerald Downs (5th) Chocolate Starr, 5-1
(6th) Silver Misty, 7-2
Evangeline Downs (6th) Ides Lady, 9-2
(8th) River Boat Blues, 3-1
Finger Lakes (5th) Isabellas Way, 3-1
(8th) Thresher, 9-2
Golden Gate Fields (6th) Madison's Lady, 9-2
(8th) October Surprise, 7-2
Hollywood Park (2nd) Beyond Loaded, 3-1
(5th) Steelin', 7-2
Indiana Downs (2nd) Galloping Gourmet, 7-2
(3rd) Winged Philly, 8-1
Lone Star Park (2nd) Luke's Whisper, 4-1
(10th) El Dayjur, 4-1
Louisiana Downs (5th) Glamour Shot, 4-1
(7th) Livvy Leigh, 7-2
Mountaineer (1st) Sir Luke, 6-1
(5th) General Mauk, 6-1
Penn National (3rd) Halo Heaven, 9-2
(5th) Dixie Avenue, 3-1
Pimlico (1st) Catlike Move, 7-2
(3rd) Sabotage, 3-1
Prairie Meadows (3rd) Lady Dancer, 7-2
(5th) Notable Exchange, 3-1
River Downs (6th) Latonia Storm, 7-2
(14th) Shore Blue, 6-1
Thistledown (1st) Darragh, 9-2
(7th) Era Bayou, 4-1
Woodbine (2nd) Serenading, 3-1
(3rd) When in Rome, 6-1
Mike Supersten's Hollywood Park Handicap for Friday, May 25
RACE ONE
LIKE JOSIE WELLS was an improved third when introduced to Cushion Track May 2, lures leading rider Michael Baze and can graduate in her fourth attempt. She's been kept fit with two drills since. MERGER MANIA showed speed sprinting and could prove difficult to catch if she can handle two turns. This looks like a match race on paper. ASCOREINGLADY has already run 15 times and isn't getting any better. However, she appears to be the best of the others.
RACE TWO
STORMY GRANT broke her maiden first time routing for Julio Canani in above average time for the level. Give her a slight edge in a wide open contest. C. T. ZEE came within a nose of pulling off an upset in the Snow Chief Stakes. This rapidly improving gelding has speed, but can also come from slightly off the pace. BOPPA BOB is unbeaten in three starts at three different race tracks. Clinton Potts will try to keep the streak going.
RACE THREE
DOUBLE TROUBLE set the pace then gave way grudgingly in the grassy Wilshire Stakes. That race marked her American debut and horses moving from turf to Cushion often fare quite well. FUN LOGIC ended a seven-race losing streak with a stylish local victory May 4. Apparently, Baze has found the key to success. BOSSET made her customary big move on the turn before flattening out as usual. She's still seeking her first U. S. victory for Kathy Walsh.
RACE FOUR
GARY JOHN tried the Cushion May 17 and powered home with an impressive daylight victory. He should have no trouble with this one level class hike. GOTTA GETCHA threw in a dud at the end of April, but his maiden victory one race prior puts him right in the thick of this. TOM WEST takes a severe drop from starter allowance $40,000 to $20,000 claimers. This cut back in distance will undoubtedly help.
RACE FIVE
STEELIN' was runnerup as the favorite April 1 and has been freshened up by Craig Dollase. Either of her two outings would be good enough to take down the top prize. Her pedigree indicates turf will not be a problem. CHOCOLATE LAVA has speed and switches to Corey Nakatani. She's trained forwardly since her last start. STOP THE HUMOR is much better on this surface and figures to be in good striking position early. Jon Court, who has ridden her the last six starts, is back aboard today.
RACE SIX
WIND WATER had better form last year but seems to be coming around again. Last time out at Golden Gate Fields, 'WATER was taken out of his front-running style when he broke slowly, but gathered himself and was a fast-closing second. BROOKER has been facing much better and is lowered into a claimer. In his last start both the second place finisher (Publication) and trailer (Gray Black N White) came back to win. DATTICUS is slowly rounding back to form after an extended layoff. This will be his first try against claimers.
RACE SEVEN
Though RUNNING FREE hasn't found the winner's circle since August of 2005, he gets the call. He was runnerup in his last two starts, including the Khaled Handicap April 29 and is poised to end the drought. SUPER STRUT has been close, but finished behind the top selection the last three times they met. Nakatani takes over trying to reverse that trend. RING OF FRIENDSHIP likes to win races and is one for one at this marathon trip. He'll take them as far as he can.
RACE EIGHT
SOCIAL SATIRE drops in for a tag and will take some beating. He's clearly the speed of the field and Flores sticks around to ride. CARIBBEAN'S HERD is the only alternative to 'SATIRE. He was second for this price in his California debut in February, his first start for John Sadler. 'HERD will have to hustle early to keep within range. VIA RODEO has piled up 18 losses and regressed badly in his last. The best he can do today is a third place finish.
Best Bet-GARY JOHN (4)
__________________
Belmont Park
By Art Gropper
BEST BET: Lemon Drop Gal (8th race)
First Race
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. Chunk of Love 2. College Girl 3. Angel Dancer
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CHUNK OF LOVE receives the much-needed additional yardage to get her back in the winner's circle. Burned money in last 3 when getting lost in the field early, her big rallies keep us thinking "one more time" with her and 7 panels seems the perfect trip. Finished 3rd in March key race, which saw the winner win for double this price (92 Beyer speed figure) in next start. Freshened COLLEGE GIRL's new trainer has outstanding win marks 1st off the buy and can improve off recent defeat. ANGEL DANCER did not show usual kick in last, but was in the hunt vs. this same bunch 3 weeks ago at Belmont Park
Second Race
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. Callmetony 2. Mister Supremo 3. My Dynomite
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CALLMETONY gets back to his best game today. Fired big race after big race on the Belmont main track in 2006 and figures to be set for a biggie, exiting a key race 2-turn test. Reunites with win rider Prado for this and the rock solid work for this clinches it. MISTER SUPREMO is nearly 3-for-4 off the claim. Drilled a Belmont Beyer Top last September and gets the services of Velazquez, who figures to improve his meet win figures. Picked a dream spot for latest, but is still the one to beat as he always seems to fire. MY DYNOMITE snuck thru the claim box 2-back, then was well spotted at the 'Lakes. Has a win over the track and displayed enough potential as a 2-year-old to consider in the exotics.
Third Race
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. Minister's Joy 2. Classic Campaign 3. Shakis
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MINISTER'S JOY blossomed to end his 4-year-old season and his February Gulfstream Park optional claiming win stamped him as a stakes calibar runner. Runnerup to next-out Grade 3 Ascertain at Keeneland was no disgrace, then lost a nose on the Polytrack. Only concern is if CLASSIC CAMPAIGN shakes loose early in a paceless event. CLASSIC' defeated MINISTER' in the Fort Lauderdale at GP, but MINISTER' seems a much different horse at the moment. SHAKIS is enetered with top pick in a DEL Park race tomorrow (7th). Hard to ignore getting the substantial weight break, 1st Lasix and a hefty 117 Timeform Rating in Feb. Turf defeat.
Fourth Race
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. Aunt Teree 2. Prom Dance 3. Lady Alice
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AUNT TEREE hopes to light up the tote board for this stretchout attempt. She passed tired rivals late sprinting and should love the added distance. Dam was a stakes-placed turfer (3-for-13, 24K) and produced 2-time turf winner Super Nationals (68K grass). PROM DANCE figures tough off recent 3rd when dueled hard for the lead in turf debut. The Mile distance can help her hang on. 1ster LADY ALICE is working well and is sired by a 1.2M turf runner (14% 1st-turf winners). 1st Lasix and gets a patient rider on a 'late runner's' turf course. Freshened PAPA'S KARA is clearly the top Main Track Only entrant.
Fifth Race
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. Ruban Bleu 2. Mama Theresa 3. Drama Lady
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
It's been 40 days since the eye-catching unveiling of RUBAN BLEU at Gulfstream Park. She swooped past the field and opened up daylight in a blink of an eye. Attempts to stretch her speed an extra two and a half furlongs in this 1-turn test. Rarely do you see a Mott-trained debut winner romp like that, so looking forward to seeing race number 2. MAMA THERESA has some proving to do at Belmont, but is as sharp as ever and figures to be a major early presence from the rail. DRAMA LADY disappointed late in latest vs. Delta Breeze and sibling to 1.9M Champion Round Pond seeks to make amends. Seems to have a bright upside and could improve here, making just 4th career start.
Sixth Race
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. Straight Blush 2. Pro Talent 3. Song Senor
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STRAIGHT BLUSH is the logical pick off recent near-miss over the track. Runnerup to a 73 Beyer repeater 3-back, he's never been better. PRO TALENT is a 1st-time starter in a racing lacking superstars. Dam banked 229K and is by a 13-percent debut sire, who was a Grade3 sprinter; 1st Lasix for this. SONG SENOR has been overmatched and been on the wrong surface since near miss for this price in March.
Seventh Race
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. Skip Dattt 2. Concert Line 3. Solewisher
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SKIP DATTT hasn't gotten a good trip yet in 5-race career, but still has a win and has fired well in 3 of 5 very solid grass efforts, including career debut at Saratoga. This turf plays well to deep closers like him and he's bred for better, by a G1 lawn sire (1.3M) and a sibling to 476K grass veteran In Frank's Honor. Improving CONCERT LINE would have to be scratched for sod debut, a sibling to 112K grasser Inside Affair. Four consecutive beaten favorite performances for SOLEWISHER. Can he possibly be the chalk again? Faced a tough group in last (place horse won back with an 80 Beyer) and Prado is a major improvement.
Eighth Race
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. Lemon Drop Gal 2. Latitude Forty 3. Homerette
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
LEMON DROP GAL has been dangerous in these 'fresh' situations and while this is a lengthy layoff, the recent work and her love of the Belmont Inner turf makes her tough to go past in the feature. Neck Sept. loss was to a runner, who captured a Grade 3 event at Santa Anita three starts later (100 Beyer). LATITUDE FORTY was superb racing long on the turf last summer and toss latest when 5-wide in Maryland; should be flying late. HOMERETTE is working well for this and was game in defeat in similar BEL Inner Turf sprints last spring.
Ninth Race
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. Innovator 2. Connie the Queen 3. Make It Come True
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
INNOVATOR needed her last start off an 11-week break and daughter of a 214K turf earner (5-for-14 sod) gets the call to avenge loss 29 days ago to MAKE IT COME TRUE, who should get 1st run on the closers, but might get caught up in what should be a legitimate early pace. CONNIE THE QUEEN is working well and improved dramatically on grass despite a rough gate break; scary late spark.
__________________
Churchill Downs
Analysis:: by Jill Byrne
Race 1 -
COWGIRL AFFAIR (3) looked poised for the victory in her last start at this level before she faded late. Today’s turn back in distance and second time blinkers should have her set for the score. LD’S HONEY (4) was a good second in the split division of the top pick's race, which was the faster of those races. She is clearly the one to beat if she can duplicate that effort. ALITTLE SWEETHEART (8) has run well in all of her starts this year and will run late
3-4-8
Race 2 -
HE’S MINE (4) just missed after a very wide trip last out at this level. He has dropped steadily down the claiming ladder, but gets some speed in this spot to help his closing kick. E AND DE’S DREAMS (2) ships in from Mountaineer for the Amoss stable off two close defeats against conditioned claimers and picks up the riding services of Borel. COLLATERAL DAMAGE (1) could not make up ground late against a tougher group, but figures as a strong player with today’s class drop.
4-2-1
Race 3 -
BOAZ (7) showed good speed but stopped against maiden allowance company at Hawthorne. He shortens up slightly, drops into a maiden claimer and gets the hot riding Albarado for today's event. CAPOTE’S FLAME (4) makes his first start since November and showed early speed in his previous races. He has a bullet workout in preparation for his return to racing. GREASE MONKEY (8) chased the speed early in a very strong maiden allowance race and figures to improve with both the experience of that start and today’s drop in class.
7-4-8
Race 4 -
PATRICIA’S CAT (2) ran evenly in her first start since September and looks set to score today with that race under her belt. ORIENTAL PUNCH (1) faces bottom level maiden claimers for the first time after unsuccessful attempts at Sunland and Houston against maiden allowance company. She did show some early foot in a couple of those efforts and figures to come out quickly from her rail post. SISTER PEGLEEN (3) just failed to get up in time at decent odds after a troubled trip. She is a factor here from off the pace with a repeat of that performance
2-1-3
Race 5 -
DUNMORE (2) ships in from Lone Star Park off a fourth place finish on the turf. He has good speed and a win at the distance, and looks well spotted here. WILD PASS (4) was steadied sharply on the inside when he tried to make a run at this level last out. He draws a better post for today and will likely be much closer early on. BAWDENS (5) was a distant second against allowance company at Mountaineer after he briefly made the lead. Expect him to be stalking the top two today under Borel.
2-4-5
Race 6 -
MS. SABBATICAL (1) was on her way to victory in her last start when the rider misjudged the finish line. She is well suited to the local surface with her good speed and looks like a strong contender in here. SLAMMINGPARTYGIRL (7) adds to what appears to be an abundance of speed in this race as she stretches out to a mile. Bejarano will need to harness that speed if she is to have anything left at the finish today. MISSAMERICA BERTIE (3) may not have cared for the sloppy going in her first local start and can rebound today. She would be a factor if she can rate off of the expected contested early pace. BEPPIN (8) is not out of the picture if she can transfer her recent Polytrack efforts here.
1-7-3
Race 7 -
EUPHORIC (2) made up ground late while running wide last out against a stronger field of conditioned claimers. He drops a peg today and gets a race with some early speed to set up for his closing kick. STARRY KNIGHT (5) comes out of the same race as the top pick where he set the pace before faltering late. He figures to get some pressure early on, but has shown that he fits well with this company level. DELTA SLAM (4) ran evenly in his first try against winners and this reliable runner yet to finish off the board this year
2-5-4
Race 8 -
KILN CREEK (3) broke poorly and was steadied on a sloppy track last out, but can rebound here with a better start. NO LAC O ZIP (5) is speedy, has a good local record and comes in off a sharp win. There appears to be a lot of pace in here, which could hurt his chances if he is pressured early. CAPTATION (2) has shown he can run well from on or off the pace and that versatility may help him today with all the early runners in this group.
3-5-2
Race 9 -
ALMONSOON (7) steps out of the Grade III Orchid Handicap, where she ran second to stable mate and next out stakes winner Safari Queen. She turns back in distance and seems capable of being in a perfect stalking position from the start under Bejarano. PRAIA DA PIPA (6) set very slow fractions on a yielding turf course before she faded late in a stronger version of this allowance race. She seems to prefer a firmer course. LEMONS FOREVER (3), winner of the 2006 Kentucky Oaks (GI), makes her turf debut and first start against allowance rivals since the winter of 2006. She has a bullet work over the turf course and is by Lemon Drop Kid, who has done very well with turf runners.
7-6-3
Race 10 -
EARLY VINTAGE (8) was eliminated at the start of her last race when she broke in the air and was unable to recover on a sloppy track. She has worked well since that start, draws nicely on the outside and gets another chance today to show the form she displayed when she broke her maiden here. GEM SLEUTH (6) comes out of the same race as the top pick and overcame traffic trouble to close well and only lose by a head. MEREDITH BEE (5) was fourth in the same race after she dropped back early on. That was her first start since November, and she will benefit from that race and could prefer a dry track
8-6-5
Race 11 -
BLOCK (6) returns to the turf today off an even effort as the favorite on Polytrack last out. She has been a bit of a money burner at the windows, but usually runs well enough to be tough to go against in this group. GDANSKA (10) is a first time starter from the Romans barn with a beautiful turf pedigree and some solid morning drills in preparation for her debut. NORMANDY QUEEN (3) showed nothing on a muddy track in her first start but can be a strong factor on the turf today for top connections.
6-10-3
__________________
Handicapped by Ellis Starr at Churchill Downs
Race #7
#6 Trickeration - (10-1) Fair odds 7/2
#9 Gambler's Honour - (6-1) Fair odds 7/2
#5 Starry Knight - (9/2) Fair odds 7/2
Exacta: Box 5,6,9
With FIVE of these being need-the-lead types, the early pace should be hot, and when the smoke clears one of the above, or hopefully two (for the exacta) of the 3 above should get the major awards. Trickeration won at the 15K maiden claiming level one before last with Borel up and although he lost at this 15K non-winners of 2 lifetime level last out over the track the change to Borel could signal a return to the winners' circle. Gambler's Honor closed fast for 2nd at this level three back then faced allowance foes twice since, not disgraced when 2nd in each race but perhaps a bit overmatched. Now with 4 second place finishes to go along with his one career win, the label of "non-win" type might be appropriate, but in this field with a return to the fast finish shown three back he can get up to win or at least to complete the exacta. Starry Knight rallied from 3rd to lead in the stretch one before last versus tougher 30K non-winners of 2 lifetime claimers, then moved too soon to get to 2nd before the turn last out and tired to 4th. Racing at this 15K nw2l level for the first time he has every right to turn either of those last two efforts into a winning result here.
Michael Cannon Wins 20 Dimer on the Cavs!
Michael Cannon Money Train
Friday's Plays..
15 Dime –
ANGELS (With Weaver and Clippard as listed pitchers)
Take the Angels for the win tonight in the Bronx over the Yankees.
I’m still not sold on the Yankees pitching staff right now and I think the Angels are going to spoil Tyler Clippard’s Yankee Stadium debut.
Jered Weaver gets the start for the Angels tonight and he’s looked more like the rookie that dominated the American League last year. The right-hander will be trying for his third straight win and is 2-0 with a 1.83 ERA in his last three starts after starting the year 1-3 with a 5.12 ERA.
The Angels have given the Yankees a tough time over the years, going 6-4 against New York last season. They are the only team with a winning record against the Yankees during Joe Torre’s tenure as manager, going 55-52 overall and 28-24 in the Bronx since Torre took over in 1996.
The Angels offense will be spurred on by Orlando Cabrera, who is hitting .431 (25-for-58) during his 14-game hitting streak, and of course Vladimir Guerrero, who is a career .309 hitter against New York and has hit .455 (10-for-22) in his last five games against the Yankees.
The pressure of pitching in Yankee Stadium may get to Clippard tonight, so take the Angels behind Weaver for the road win.
5 Dime –
INDIANS (With Byrd and Robertson as listed pitchers)
Take the Indians as the road dog for the win tonight over the Tigers.
Paul Byrd is scheduled to start for the Tribe and he’s been solid this year, going 4-1 with a 3.55 ERA in seven starts. His command has been unbelievable this year, as he’s walked only three batters over 45 2-3 innings, and he hasn’t issued a walk over his last 30 2-3 innings.
He should turn in a quality start tonight against the free-swinging Tigers.
Over his career, Byrd is 6-2 with a 3.04 ERA in 12 games against Detroit.
Tigers’ starter Nate Robertson has been shaky over his last three starts, going 1-2 with a 6.75 ERA in only 14 2-3 innings. The left-hander is 2-3 with a 5.00 ERA in 11 lifetime appearances against the Tribe.
Take the Indians as the road dog for the win.
WHITE SOX (With Buerhle as listed pitcher)
Take the White Sox as the home chalk for the win tonight over the Devil Rays.
Mark Buerhle gets the nod for the ChiSox and I expect him to out duel Tampa’s James Shields.
Buerhle is 5-1 lifetime against the Devil Rays with a 4.22 ERA.
Shields has been great this year for Tampa Bay, but they just can’t seem to get this guy any runs, as he’s just 3-0 in nine games despite a 2.94 ERA.
Take the White Sox as the Devil Rays offense fails to come through again tonight for Shields.
Bonus Play: RED SOX -1 1/2 RUN LINE
This is Jim Feist.
My free pick of the day is the game between (925) SEA Mariners and (926) KC Royals. Take "(925) SEA Mariners". Seattle's offense is clicking, striking for 12 runs yesterday. And they catch a break with their new ace going in hard-throwing Felix Hernandez. The team struggled when he was out, but he is back and looked sharp fanning 9 in 5 innings in his last start. He will have little trouble with this free swinging Kansas City lineup, too. He's already faced them once this season, fanning 11 and allowing 3 hits and one run. Play the Mariners!
paws
Survivor Pick Record: 32-18-2 (going for #11 in a row)
Fri pick: Det Tigers
!!!Do not play this guy's NBA picks!!! His MLB are money but NBA looks bad.
hunter49
Survivor Pick Record: 26-12-1 (going for #9)
Fri pick: Utah/SA Under 190
!!!Plays a lot of totals!!! Worst losing streak was 4 in a row.
__________________
yourwinnersonly
3* Mets
2* Padres
1* Nats
Rocketman
FREE MLB PLAY FRIDAY (108-75 59% run with freebies)
Philadelphia @ Atlanta 7:35 PM EST
Play On: 1* Atlanta -160 (Moyer/Hudson) Listed
Atlanta bullpen has a 2.70 ERA at home this year. Moyer has an 8.10 ERA his last 3 starts. Hudson is 5-2 with a 2.42 ERA overall this year and 3-1 with a 2.00 ERA at home this season. Atlanta has won 5 of 6 against Philadelphia this year. Moyer is 0-2 with a 4.36 ERA overall vs Atlanta since 1997. We're simply playing the better team with the better pitcher in this one. We'll recommend a small play on Atlanta tonight! Thanks and good luck, Rocky
__________________
Friday Comps
Sebastian-White Sox
Winner Line-San Francisco
OTM-OVER Seattle
Computer Boys-Atlanta
Kevin Kennedy-Detroit
Feiner-OVER Houston
Gator’s Friday E-Report:
Gator Report for Friday:
NBA (Friday): no scheduled game
MLB (Friday): Play On MLB (NL) teams when the money line is +125 to -125 with a team batting average of .275 or better on the season facing a starting pitcher whose ERA is less than 2.00 over his last 3 starts.
(37-15 last 5 seasons.) (71.2%) PLAY: New York Mets -115
MLB (Friday): Play Against MLB (AL) home underdogs with a money line of +100 or higher who average <=4.5 runs per game versus a team with a bullpen ERA <=3.33 with a starting pitcher whose ERA is 4.20 or better this year.
(32-7 since 1997.) (82.1%) PLAY: Seattle -105
Gator's MLB "Tech" Totals
Each week Gator releases his Top "Technical" Game of the Week in football, basketball and baseball. Gator also releases his MLB "Tech" Total Selections each day if we have qualifying plays.
MLB "Tech" Totals for Friday:
Game 1: (929) Toronto vs. (930) Minnesota (listed pitchers)
Selection: UNDER 9.5 (-120)
Guaranteed Pick: Tom Freese
Game: Cleveland Indians at Detroit Tigers May 25 2007 7:05PM
Prediction: Cleveland Indians
Reason: Cleveland starter Paul Byrd is in awesome KW form with 13 strikeouts and 0 walks in his last 3 starts. Byrd is 8-4 with a 2.74 ERA in 12 career team starts vs. the Tigers. Detroit starter Nate Robertson is off a phony win in his last start where he allowed twice as many baserunners as innings pitched. The Indians are swinging hot bats scoring 5 or more runs in 8 of their last 10 games and the Detroit bullpen has been getting hit hard of late. 10* MLB Game of the Month Play On Cleveland + (Byrd vs. Robertson)
ffice:smarttags" /><st1:City w:st="on">KANSAS CITY</st1:City> ROYALS
lace w:st="on"><st1
laceName w:st="on">TAMPA</st1
