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NY Yankees Close Campaign At Tampa Bay Rays

The regular season is scheduled to come to a close on Wednesday night, but the race for the Wild Cards in both the American League and the National League might extend things to a 163rd game. The Tampa Bay Rays will hope to nail down a spot in the postseason for the third time in franchise history in game No. 162 against the AL East champion New York Yankees on Wednesday.

The first pitch is slated for 7:10 p.m. (ET) from Tropicana Field, and television coverage is tentatively scheduled for the YES Network, Sun Sports and the MLB Network. The ESPN family of networks could pick up coverage of the game as well depending on how the rest of the schedule plays out on Tuesday.

The Yankees know they aren't going to be using anyone in their rotation that will be around for the playoffs in this game. Manager Joe Girardi hasn't announced a starting pitcher as of Tuesday morning. Odds are that many of the regulars in the lineup are going to get the day off as well.

New York has earned that right, knowing that it has already locked up the best record in the American League, and will be hosting either the Detroit Tigers or Texas Rangers on Friday in the Bronx for Game 1 of the ALDS.

Tampa Bay is in a significantly different spot, though. Coming into play on Tuesday night, the Rays were at 89-71, an identical record shared with the Boston Red Sox. We know that regardless of what happens on Tuesday, manager Joe Maddon and company will neither have wrapped up a playoff bid, nor will have been eliminated from the postseason, so this game could be for all of the marbles.

Boston is going against the Baltimore Orioles in the final two games of the season and, for the time being, is scheduled to throw Jon Lester against Alfredo Simon on Wednesday.

Barring a change in heart, Maddon is going to be going with David Price in the biggest game of the season. Yes, Price has a losing record at 12-13, but he has numbers this year that suggest he could have been a Cy Young Award contender.

The southpaw is no stranger to big games, having pitched as a rookie out of the bullpen in the run to the World Series in 2008, but this is as big of a start as he has ever made in his career.

Price is holding batters to a .228 batting average this year and has a fantastic 3.35 ERA. His walks are down from a year ago with just 60 free passes, and for the first time in his career, Price has reached the 200+ strikeout barrier with 215 K's.

The issue of fatigue is there for Price, though. He has already thrown 220 1/3-innings in 2011, and this is going to be the first time that he is asked to make a 34th start in a regular season in his career. He hasn't pitched more than 6 2/3-innings in four straight starts as well, another issue that has to be a concern.

New York owns a 9-7 lead in the season series with Tuesday's action still pending, though the Rays did take the first game of this series on Monday night 5-2 thanks to a great pitching effort by James Shields.

Tampa Bay has gone 4-3 in the seven meetings thus far at Tropicana Field.

Veteran umpire Joe West is scheduled to have the plate for this one, and he brings a very strong 21-11-3 season trend to the 'over' into the game. However, the 'under' has cashed in two of three plate assignments at The Trop, with the third a 'push.' Two of those three contests were starts by Rays southpaw Price.

Should the Red Sox and Rays have a matching record, a one-game playoff will be held on Thursday for the right to take on either the Rangers or the Tigers in the ALDS on Friday. Tampa Bay will host the game by virtue of its 12-6 record against Boston in the regular season.
 

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Texas Rangers Close Regular Season At Angels

Angels righty Jered Weaver will be looking for win No. 19 on Wednesday.
With Monday’s 4-3 loss to the Texas Rangers, the Los Angeles Angels were officially eliminated from postseason contention and will have to wait until next year to try to get back to the playoffs.

The Angels were given a very small opportunity to win the American League wild card when the Boston Red Sox lost earlier in the evening to the Baltimore Orioles, but they failed to take advantage of it. Los Angeles would have needed both the Red Sox and Tampa Bay Rays to each lose their last two games while sweeping the Rangers in three games, which obviously is no longer possible.

Game time for Wednesday’s series and season finale is scheduled for 8:05 p.m. (ET).

Umpire Paul Emmel will be behind home plate, and he has seen a slight edge for the home teams in his games at 12-11. The ‘under’ is 13-10 when he calls balls and strikes.

Texas had won 10 of the 17 meetings with the Angels this season heading into Tuesday after knocking them out in the series opener, while the ‘over’ had gone 3-0-1 in the previous four games between the teams. Los Angeles fell below the .500 mark against AL West opponents with the setback at 27-28 compared to a stellar mark of 38-17 vs. divisional foes for the Rangers.

Shortstop Elvis Andrus paced Texas with four hits on Monday while third baseman Adrian Beltre hit a two-run homer and second baseman Michael Young drove in Andrus with what turned out to be the game-winning run in the eighth inning. Center fielder Peter Bourjos had an RBI single in the bottom of the ninth for the Angels, who fell short for the seventh time in 11 games.

Los Angeles was without rookie first baseman Mark Trumbo due a stress fracture in his right foot that will keep him sidelined for this game as well. Trumbo led the team with 29 homers and 87 RBI despite playing in just 149 games.

The Angels will send ace Jered Weaver (18-8, 2.41 ERA) to the mound one last time after already setting a career high for wins. He got the decision in a 3-1 loss to Oakland at home last time out on Friday as a heavy 185 favorite, giving up all three runs and six hits in 8 1/3 innings of work.

The Halos have won Weaver’s previous four starts, all as a favorite of 130 or higher. He is 9-6 lifetime against the Rangers in 25 starts with a 3.41 ERA and 8-2 at home this season with a 1.94 ERA. The ‘under’ is 3-1 in his last four outings.

Texas will counter with lefty Matt Harrison (14-9, 3.46), who has won each of his last four starts. Harrison has struggled against the Angels with a career mark of 2-2 against them and an ERA of 5.04. He has pitched well on the road though with a 6-4 record and a 3.09 ERA.

The weather forecast for Anaheim on Wednesday calls for a high temperature of 81 degrees under mostly sunny skies, cooling off to the mid-70s for first pitch.
 

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Early Games:

Wednesday, September 28

Game Score Status Pick Amount

Cincinnati - 1:10 PM ET Cincinnati -117 500
NY Mets - Over 9 500

Toronto - 2:10 PM ET Toronto -113 500
Chi. White Sox - Over 8.5 500

Colorado - 3:45 PM ET San Francisco -175 500
San Francisco - Under 7 500

Washington - 4:10 PM ET Washington -143 500
Florida - Over 7 500
 

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Diamond Trends - Wednesday

September 28, 2011


SU TREND OF THE DAY:


The Orioles are 7-0 since August 05, 2010 as a home 140+ dog when they blew a lead in their starter’s last start and lost for a net profit of $1150.




OU TREND OF THE DAY:


The Red Sox are 0-12-1 OU since June 16, 2006 when Jon Lester starts after he went less than 5 innings in his previous start for a net profit of $1200 when playing the under.



STARTER TREND OF THE DAY:


The Astros are 8-0 since April 20, 2010 when Brett Myers starts at home after more strike outs than hits allowed for a net profit of $935.



MLB BIBLE TREND OF THE DAY:


The Mariners are 10-0 (+2.6 rpg) since September 2004 as a home dog of more than 140 when they are off a loss in which they scored fewer than four runs and never led, as long as they are not on a three-plus game losing streak.



TODAY’S TRENDS:


The Giants are 5-0-1 OU since May 26, 2010 as a 140+ favorite after a win in which they allowed 1 or fewer walks and it is not the first game of a series for a net profit of $500 when playing the over.

The Phillies are 6-0 since July 26, 2010 when Joe Blanton starts after the team won their last three games for a net profit of $600.

The Blue Jays are 7-0 OU since May 10, 2010 when Brandon Morrow starts on the road after the team won his last two starts for a net profit of $700 when playing the over.
 

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MLB Future Results

September 28, 2011

Division Odds and Winners (Sportsbook.com)

Winners listed in Bold

National League East

Team ODDS
PHILADELPHIA -300
ATLANTA +400
FLORIDA +550
N.Y. METS +2500
WASHINGTON +3000



National League Central
Team ODDS
ST. LOUIS +100
CINCINNATI +300
MILWAUKEE +350
CHICAGO +500
HOUSTON +3500
PITTSBURGH +10000



National League West

Team ODDS
SAN FRANCISCO +160
COLORADO +190
LOS ANGELES +250
SAN DIEGO +1200
ARIZONA +1200


American League East
Team ODDS
BOSTON -150
NEW YORK +190
TAMPA BAY +800
TORONTO +1500
BALTIMORE +1800




American League Central
Team ODDS
MINNESOTA +150
DETROIT +160
CHICAGO +200
CLEVELAND +2000
KANSAS CITY +10000




American League West
Team ODDS
TEXAS +120
LOS ANGELES +160
OAKLAND +300
SEATTLE +1200




Over-Under Win Totals (Sportsbook.com)


National League Win Totals
Team Win Total Final Record Final Result
Arizona 72 ½ 94-67
Atlanta 88 89-72
Chicago Cubs 81 ½ 66
Cincinnati 85 ½ 79-82
Colorado 86 ½ 72-89
Florida 82 72-89
Houston 71 ½ 56-105
L.A. Dodgers 84 81-79
Milwaukee 85 ½ 95-66
N.Y. Mets 76 ½ 76-85
Philadelphia 96 ½ 101-60
Pittsburgh 67 ½ 72-89
San Diego 75 ½ 70-91
San Francisco 88 86
St. Louis 84 ½ 89-72
Washington 72 79-81
Projected Result Key: Over Under Even




American League Win Totals
Team Win Total Final Record Final Result
Baltimore 76 ½ 68-93
Boston 95 ½ 90-71
Chicago White Sox 85 ½ 79-82
Cleveland 71 ½ 80-81
Detroit 84 94-67
Kansas City 68 ½ 71-90
LA Angels 83 86-75
Minnesota 85 ½ 62-99
NY Yankees 91 ½ 97-64
Oakland 83 ½ 73-88
Seattle 69 ½ 67-94
Tampa Bay 84 ½ 90-71
Texas 86 ½ 95-66
Toronto 76 ½ 80-81
Projected Result Key: Over Under
 

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Rays try to win Wild Card at home vs. Yankees

NEW YORK YANKEES (97-64)

at TAMPA BAY RAYS (90-71)


First pitch: Wednesday, 7:10 p.m. EDT
Line: Tampa Bay -250, New York +225, Total: 8.5

The Rays enter the final day of the regular season tied for the Wild Card lead, while the Yankees finish up with a meaningless game when the teams meet in Tampa on Wednesday.

The Yankees seemed to use Tuesday’s game as their final tune up for the playoffs, starting all of their regulars except for Derek Jeter, and using their top three relievers in a 5-3 loss. Expect them to treat Wednesday like a late Spring Training game with a normal regular lineup, but the starters leaving midway through the game. This is great news for Tampa starter David Price. While the lefty has been up-and-down all year, he threw eight innings of one-run ball at Yankee Stadium in August, and he should have no trouble finishing his night with a bunch of reserves. With the Yankees giving rookie Dellin Betances his first career start, the Rays should cruise in this one. TAMPA BAY is the pick. This FoxSheets trend also backs the Rays:

TAMPA BAY is 59-35 (62.8%, +18.3 Units) against the money line after batting .250 or worse over a 20 game span this season. The average score was TAMPA BAY 5.0, OPPONENT 3.7 - (Rating = 2*).

Tampa has won four straight, and the Rays have won 18 of their past 24 at home. Price (12-13, 3.35 ERA) has been decent of late, allowing two earned runs or less in each of his past four starts. He’s just 4-6 since the All-Star break, but has a 2.86 ERA and has struck out 90 in 91.1 innings over his 14 post-break starts. Along with the strong start at Yankee Stadium in August, he held New York to two runs over 7.1 innings in a tough-luck loss at home on July 20. He is 6-3 with a 2.78 ERA and 1.08 WHIP in his career pitching in September.

The 23-year-old Betances (0-0, 27.00 ERA) was wild in his only Major League appearance, walking four and hitting a batter en route to allowing two runs in two-thirds of an inning against the Rays last Thursday. The 6-foot-8 righty is considered one of baseball’s best pitching prospects, but after walking 70 in 126.1 innings between Double- and Triple-A this year (15 BB in 21 IP at Triple-A), it’s clear he’s not ready for the big leagues.
 

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Hudson looks to pitch Braves into playoffs Wednesday

PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES (101-60)

at ATLANTA BRAVES (89-72)


First pitch: Wednesday, 7:10 p.m. EDT
Line: Atlanta -190, Philadelphia +180, Total: 8

A four-game skid has left Atlanta tied for the NL Wild Card lead, but it’s hard to see them dropping a fifth straight when they host Philadelphia on Wednesday.

The Braves will be treating this like a playoff game, throwing ace Tim Hudson, while the Phillies will give rehabbing righty Joe Blanton the start and figure to make Wednesday a bullpen day for their young arms (similar to Blanton’s 24-pitch “start” on Saturday). With the Phillies likely to field a lineup that reinforces the fact that they have nothing to play for, ATLANTA is the pick.

The FoxSheets have a trend suggesting the Braves are ready for a win despite their struggling bats:

ATLANTA is 14-2 (87.5%, +11.6 Units) against the money line after batting .225 or worse over a 15-game span this season. The average score was ATLANTA 4.8, OPPONENT 2.2 - (Rating = 2*).

Atlanta’s biggest problem has been that its offense has disappeared. The Braves have scored four runs in their past four games. Hudson (16-10, 3.23 ERA) has held his own late in the year, going 6-3 with a 3.07 ERA over 10 starts since August 1. The Braves went 7-3 in those outings. He looked a little shaky in Washington on Friday (5.2 innings, 9 hits, 3 runs) but Hudson has been lights out at home all season. He’s 10-4 with a 2.29 ERA at Turner Field, and the Braves have won his past five and nine of his past 10 starts in Atlanta, while Hudson posted a 1.77 ERA. The Braves won both his home starts against the Phillies early in the year.

Blanton (1-2, 5.03 ERA) has suffered through another injury-plagued season and is now just auditioning for a bullpen spot on Philly’s postseason roster. Since returning from an elbow injury on September 12, he’s yet to throw more than 24 pitches in an outing. He has pitched well though, allowing one run (an Allen Craig home run) over five innings, striking out seven without a walk. Lefty Cole Hamels (14-9, 2.75 ERA) is expected to pitch a couple innings in relief. He has a 2.57 ERA in four starts against Atlanta this season.
 

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Cards try to keep playoff hopes alive in Houston

ST. LOUIS CARDINALS (89-72)

at HOUSTON ASTROS (56-105)


First pitch: Wednesday, 8:05 p.m. EDT
Line: St. Louis -200, Houston +185

The Cardinals have come all the way back to tie the NL Wild Card race with just one game remaining, and that contest will be at Houston, the worst team in baseball.

St. Louis is 22-9 (.710) in its past 31 games, and has erased what was once a 10½-game deficit to Atlanta. The Cardinals lost the series opener, 5-4 in 10 innings, but flexed their muscles with 13 runs on 17 hits Tuesday night, erasing a 5-0 deficit and winning 13-6. Chris Carpenter takes the mound for the finale. Although he’s pitched very well in his past four starts (1.45 ERA), he is 0-3 with a 4.62 ERA in his past five starts in Houston. Astros starter Brett Myers has been throwing even better than Carpenter, going 4-0 with a 1.23 ERA this month. He’s also compiled quality starts in five of his past six starts versus St. Louis. This pitching matchup is much more even than the lopsided money line, making HOUSTON the pick as the huge underdog.

The FoxSheets also love the Astros pick, evidenced by this extremely rare eight-star trend.

CARPENTER is 0-8 (-15.9 Units) against the money line as a favorite of -175 to -250 this season. (Team's Record). The average score was CARPENTER 1.9, OPPONENT 5.1 - (Rating = 8*).

The Cardinals are 9-5 versus Houston this year, but are 9-11 at Minute Maid Park in the past three seasons. Carpenter (10-9, 3.59 ERA) has been the biggest losing bet of any starting pitcher in the majors this year at -13.0 Units. He has also been mediocre on the road this season with a 4.16 ERA and 1.35 WHIP. Only two current Astros have more than eight lifetime at-bats against Carpenter. Carlos Lee is a pathetic 7-for-46 (.152 BA) with 14 K, and Clint Barmes is 3-for-17 (.176 BA) against the Cards’ right-hander.

Myers (7-13, 4.31 ERA) has been dialed in this month with a 0.82 WHIP, 21 K and just three walks in 29.1 innings. And in his past six starts against St. Louis, he has posted a 3.07 ERA and 1.12 WHIP. He’s had mixed results against current Cardinals hitters though. Lance Berkman (4-for-23, 5 K), Ryan Theriot (4-for-18) and Yadier Molina (7-for-31, 5 K) have done very little when facing Myers. However, Albert Pujols (17-for-48, 4 HR, 8 RBI) and Skip Schumaker (11-for-30, 2 HR) have thoroughly enjoyed facing the Astros right-hander. Matt Holliday is 7-for-20 (.350 BA) with 2 HR and 6 RBI against Myers, but he is not expected to start after leaving Tuesday’s game with a hand injury.
 

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Red Sox wrap up season with must-win game

BOSTON RED SOX (90-71)

at BALTIMORE ORIOLES (68-93)


First pitch: Wednesday, 7:05 p.m. EDT
Line: Boston -210, Baltimore +190, Total: 9

It’s another must-win in Baltimore for the stumbling Red Sox, as they enter the final game of the regular season tied for the AL Wild Card lead.

Boston will pitch Jon Lester on three-days rest, only the second time he’s done so in his career. In April 2008, Lester filled in for an ill Daisuke Matsuzaka and allowed four runs and 11 base runners, striking out one, over five innings against the Angels. With the bullpen throwing a lot of pitches Tuesday night, the Red Sox are asking a lot of Lester, who has been awful in his past three outings (10.54 ERA over 13.2 innings), and that overshadows his career dominance against Baltimore. Alfredo Simon doesn’t inspire a lot of confidence in the Orioles’ chances, but considering the payout and the fact that Boston has dropped 15 of 20 while the O’s have gone 12-8 during the same span, BALTIMORE is the pick.

The FoxSheets have a pair of three-star trends backing the Orioles on Wednesday night:

Play Against - Road favorites with a money line of -110 or higher (BOSTON) - off a one run win over a division rival, with a cold starting pitcher- ERA >= 7.00 over his last 3 starts. (31-12 since 1997, 72.1%, +23.4 units. Rating = 3*).

Play On - Any team (BALTIMORE) - poor AL hitting team (AVG <=.260) against a team with a good bullpen (ERA <=3.75), with a starting pitcher whose ERA is 4.70 to 5.20 on the season (AL). (89-58 over the last 5 seasons.) (60.5%, +50.7 units. Rating = 3*).

The main reason Lester (15-9, 3.49 ERA) is getting the ball on Wednesday is his track record against Baltimore. In 17 career starts against the O’s, Lester is 14-0 with a 2.33 ERA and the Sox are 16-1 in those outings. He faced Baltimore once this year, holding them to two runs over eight innings in a victory at Camden Yards in April.

But Lester has been brutal in losing his past three starts. The Rays knocked him around twice (8 ER in 11 IP), and the Yankees chased him after just eight outs on Saturday, scoring eight runs on eight hits.

A converted reliever, Simon (4-9, 4.85 ERA) has been subpar since moving into the rotation (3-8, 4.90 ERA in 15 starts). He was solid in Detroit on Friday, holding the Tigers to three runs over eight innings in a no-decision. He’s been bad more often than good in September though, posting a 6.52 ERA over 29 innings. He was beaten by Boston in July, allowing three runs and 11 base runners in 4.2 innings.
 

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Wednesday’s betting tips: MLB wild cards all even

Who’s hot

MLB: Washington is 13-3 in its last 16 overall.

MLB: Cincinnati is 15-6 in its last 21 games as a favorite.

Who’s not

MLB: Seattle has won 24 of its last 74 overall.

MLB: Only two of Arizona’s last 11 games have played over the total.

Key stat

3 – Barcelona sharpshooter Lionel Messi has a pair of hat tricks in his last three games heading into the club’s Champions League match against BATE Borisov on Wednesday. Messi is also just three goals away from overtaking Ladislau Kubala as Barcelona’s second-leading scorer of all time. Barcelona is set as a big -715 favorite with the draw at +620 and a BATE victory at +1350.

Injury that shouldn’t be overlooked

Chipper Jones, Atlanta Braves - Jones is dealing with a bone bruise on his right knee. An MRI confirmed that the injury was not more serious and Jones will continue to play through the discomfort.

Game of the day

Philadelphia Phillies at Atlanta Braves (N/A)

Notable quotable

''It's like you sit down to a great dinner and you eat your dinner. You feel great but you still want that dessert, and you want it to be the best dessert ever and that's how I feel. I'm satisfied because I am full from that main meal but I'm waiting on that fabulous dessert. The finals is going to be that dessert for me.” – Minnesota Lynx 41-year-old center Taj McWilliams-Franklin about advancing to the WNBA finals. The Indiana Fever and Atlanta Dream square off Tuesday night for a chance to battle the Lynx in the finals.

Notes and tips

The Boston Red Sox and the Tampa Bay Rays both won on Tuesday, so they'll head into Wednesday's action tied for the AL wild card. Boston is set as a -230 favorite at Baltimore with Jon Lester facing Alfredo Simon, while Tampa Bay sends David Price to the mound against the Yankees, who have yet to name their starter. Same story in the National League where the Atlanta Braves and St. Louis Cardinals are tied for the final playoff spot. The Cardinals are expected to have Chris Carpenter on the hill against Houston's Brett Myers. Meanwhile, Tim Hudson will start for Atlanta against Philadelphia's Joe Blanton.

Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Michael Vick likely will play Sunday vs. San Francisco despite a badly bruised hand, Philly.com reported Tuesday. The lefthanded Vick was thought to have suffered a broken right hand in Sunday's loss to the New York Giants. But a second examination Monday revealed that what was thought to be a break was a blood vessel, and Vick has a deep bone bruise near his wrist. The report said Vick will play if the swelling in his hand decreases and he is cleared by a doctor for contact. He is wearing a large wrap over the hand.

Chelsea’s starting lineup will garner a lot of attention ahead of Wednesday’s Champions League match with Valencia. Frank Lampard has been a staple in center midfield for Chelsea for years, but 33-year-old manager Andre Villas-Boas has stuck the veteran on the bench in three of the club’s last four games, which is causing a major uproar among some team supporters. Meanwhile, Fernando Torres will likely start as he will have to serve an EPL suspension following Saturday’s red car against Swansea. Chelsea is pegged at +140 with the draw at +215 and a Valencia win at +180.
 

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Armadillo: Wednesday's six-pack

-- Red Sox starting pitchers have a 7.28 ERA in September.

-- Derek Lowe is 4-11, 6.19 in his last 15 starts; Braves owe him $15M next season. Yikes.

-- Attendance at the Trop for very important Bronx-Rays games so far this week: Monday, 18,772...Tuesday, xx,***. Hello, Nashville.

-- Jacoby Ellsbury has a 35-game hitting streak against the Orioles.

-- Florida Gators are a home underdog this week for the first time since the Florida State game in 2003.

-- If there are play-in baseball games Thursday, the AL game would be at 4:00, the NL game at 8:00, with both games on WTBS.


*******************


Armadillo: Wednesday's List of 13: Tell your statistics to shut up.......

NFL stats; most of these are measured in points per possession.

13) Best red zone offenses: Raiders 6.20, Bills 6.14, Lions 6.00, Giants 5.83

12) Worst red zone offenses: Jaguars 3.00, Buccaneers 3.27, Steelers 3.38, Cardinals 3.50, Cowboys 3.60.

11) Best red zone defense: Panthers 3.29, Packers 3.54, Lions 3.60, Cardinals 3.64.

10) Worst red zone defense: Chiefs 6.64, Eagles 6.43, Jaguars 5.50, Saints 5.40, Bills 5.36.

9) Jacksonville has had 34 drives in three games, with two TDs; the only drive they had a snap inside the opponents’ 20-yard line, they kicked a FG. Their second TD was a fluke, going 75 yards in 0:17 in two plays in a monsoon in Charlotte, when they weren’t even trying to score.

This team is going to have trouble selling tickets the rest of the year, which could wind up paving the way for a move to Los Angeles.

8) Teams whose offense have done the best starting drives 80+ yards from the goal line: Seahawks 4.00, Patriots 2.53, Saints/Lions 2.31, Texans 2.07.

7) 49ers have started 16 of their 36 drives 80+ yards from the goal line, and didn’t score a point on any of them.

6) Best defenses against teams starting 80+ yards from goal line: Seahawks 0.30, Lions 0.41, Jets 0.68, Broncos 0.85, Steelers 0.94.

5) Teams that forced opponents to go 3/out the most times: Bengals, 15, Ravens-Bears-49ers, all with 14. Teams that forced the least 3/outs: Raiders-Rams-Chargers, all with 5.

4) Teams that scored the most touchdowns: Patriots 13 (on 33 drives), Bills 13 (on 35 drives), Lions-Packers-Saints-Raiders, all with 11. Least amount of offensive TDs scored: Jaguars, with only 2.

3) Teams who have gone 3/out the most on offense: Bears 19 (on 38 drives), Seahawks 16 (34), Colts-Jags-Chiefs-Rams-49ers, all with 13.

2) These last two category pertain to drives that start 50-79 yards from the goal line. Teams are usually more aggressive when starting in this area: Raiders 3.78, Patriots 3.73, Saints 3.00, Bills 2.97, Ravens 2.70.

Worst is the Chiefs with three points on 11 such drives (0.27).

1) Best mid-field defenses: Packers 0.71, Ravens 1.08, Bears/Colts 1.18, Panthers 1.21…….worst are the Broncos, who’ve allowed two TD’s, five FG’s on eight such drives (3.63). That ain’t good.
 

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MLB


Wednesday, September 28


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Wednesday's streaking and slumping starting pitchers
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Streaking

Brett Myers, Houston Astros (7-13, 4.31 ERA)


Myers’ numbers still don’t look great, but he has been a force on the mound lately for Houston. He is 4-0 with a 1.24 ERA in his last five starts and has allowed just one home run over the hot streak. Last week he held the Rockies to one earned run on four hits over six innings. He has a tough assignment against Chris Carpenter and the St. Louis Cardinals to cap off the year.

Brandon Morrow, Toronto Blue Jays (11-11, 4.78 ERA)

Morrow hasn’t allowed a run in 15 consecutive innings and baffled the Tampa Bay Rays last week, shutting them out over seven innings with nine strikeouts.

"His conviction to each pitch, his aggressiveness was outstanding," Toronto manager John Farrell told reporters of Morrow’s outing. "He was powerful. For the most part he pitched ahead in the count, and when he does that with that type of stuff, he can be dominant."


Slumping

Anthony Vasquez, Seattle Mariners (1-5, 8.89 ERA)


The rookie isn’t exactly making a good impression for a roster spot next season. He has lost five consecutive starts and has now served up 12 dingers in his six total outings. Vasquez got the hook after just 3 1/3 innings in a 5-3 loss to Texas last week that saw him allow all five runs and three homers. In 27 1/3 innings, he has just 12 strikeouts against 10 walks.

Alfredo Simon, Baltimore Orioles (4-9, 4.85 ERA)

Simon hasn’t picked up a win since Aug. 23 and the Orioles are only 2-4 in his last six starts, but he has had some bright spots. He gave up just three runs in eight innings of work in a 4-3 loss to Detroit last week. That was a nice bounce-back start after he allowed six runs in five innings against the Angels. The long ball continues to be a problem for him as he’s allowed five homers in his last three starts.


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MLB


Wednesday, September 28


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Hot lines: Wednesday's best MLB bets
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Toronto Blue Jays at Chicago White Sox (105, 8.5)

To say it has been a weird few days for the Chicago White Sox would be a major understatement.

We all knew that Ozzie Guillen’s relationship with the front office has been in the toilet for a while, but you had to figure they’d keep it together until the season ended. Maybe we should have known better.

Now, Ozzie has been traded to the Marlins for a couple of prospects and reportedly signed a four-year deal with the Fish to was supposed to pay him double the $2 million yearly contract he had with Chicago. Judging from his recent comments to the media, he couldn’t be happier.

“With the rings, I can’t do [anything] with that,’’ he told the Chicago Sun-Times recently. “But with money, I can go buy me a new boat, I can go buy me a new car, I can dress my wife the way I want to dress her, I can go to Spain. With the ring, I can go to United Airlines and say, ‘Hello, I won the 2005 championship. Can you fly me to Spain?’ Hell, no.”

So that’s why he jumped ship to Florida, which leaves the White Sox in a weird spot as pitching coach Don Cooper takes over as interim manager. Especially after bench coach Joey Cora was told to hit the road along with his buddy Ozzie.

Pick: Blue Jays


Chicago Cubs at San Diego Padres (-170, 6.5)


Meanwhile on the North Side, Cubs supporters are again waiting for next year – a concept manager Mike Quade seems to have a strong handle on considering the lineup card he submitted Monday night.

Starlin Castro, Darwin Barney and Carlos Pena were the only guys on the field who started Opening Day and the result was predictable – a 2-0 loss to San Diego in which the club managed only two hits.

"People can disagree with me -- that's fine," Quade said. "As far as us evaluating people and what they're best suited to do at this point in their career, so much of that plays into [the lineup decision], and also the performance and effort we've gotten from guys who have been here all year. There's a lot that goes into it.”

There’s still no word about what Wednesday’s lineup card might look like, but then again, how much does that really matter with this disappointing Cubs club?

Pick: San Diego
 

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Dunkel



Boston at Baltimore
The Orioles look to bounce back from last night's 8-7 loss and take advantage of a Boston team that is 0-8 in its last 8 games following a win. Baltimore is the pick (+190) according to Dunkel, which has the Red Sox favored by 1/2 a run. Dunkel Pick: Baltimore (+190). Here are all of today's picks.

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 28

Game 901-902: Cincinnati at NY Mets (1:10 p.m. EST)

Dunkel Ratings: Cincinnati (Volquez) 13.536; NY Mets (Batista) 15.120
Dunkel Line: NY Mets by 1 1/2; 8
Vegas Line: Cincinnati (-120); 9
Dunkel Pick: NY Mets (+100); Under

Game 903-904: Colorado at San Francisco (3:45 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Colorado (Pomeranz) 14.719; San Francisco (Surkamp) 14.549
Dunkel Line: Colorado by 1/2; 8
Vegas Line: San Francisco (-175); 7
Dunkel Pick: Colorado (+155); Over

Game 905-906: Washington at Florida (4:10 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Washington (Strasburg) 15.582; Florida (Volstad) 14.617
Dunkel Line: Washington by 1; 7 1/2
Vegas Line: Washington (-145); 7
Dunkel Pick: Washington (-145); Over

Game 907-908: Philadelphia at Atlanta (7:10 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Philadelphia (Blanton) 14.416; Atlanta (Hudson) 14.888
Dunkel Line: Atlanta by 1/2; 7 1/2
Vegas Line: No Line
Dunkel Pick: N/A

Game 909-910: St. Louis at Houston (8:05 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: St. Louis (Carpenter) 14.415; Houston (Myers) 14.573
Dunkel Line: Houston by 1/2; 7
Vegas Line: No Line
Dunkel Pick: N/A

Game 911-912: Pittsburgh at Milwaukee (8:10 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Pittsburgh (Locke) 15.441; Milwaukee (Greinke) 14.451
Dunkel Line: Pittsburgh by 1; 9
Vegas Line: No Line
Dunkel Pick: N/A

Game 913-914: Chicago Cubs at San Diego (8:35 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Cubs (Dempster) 15.061; San Diego (LeBlanc) 16.069
Dunkel Line: San Diego by 1; 6
Vegas Line: Chicago Cubs (-115); 6 1/2
Dunkel Pick: San Diego (-105); Under

Game 915-916: LA Dodgers at Arizona (9:40 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: LA Dodgers (Lilly) 17.518; Arizona (Saunders) 16.418
Dunkel Line: LA Dodgers by 1; 9
Vegas Line: Arizona (-120); 8 1/2
Dunkel Pick: LA Dodgers (+100); Over

Game 917-918: Toronto at Chicago White Sox (2:10 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Toronto (Morrow) 15.761; White Sox (Humber) 14.724
Dunkel Line: Toronto by 1; 9
Vegas Line: Toronto (-115); 8 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Toronto (-115); Over

Game 919-920: Cleveland at Detroit (7:05 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Cleveland (McAllister) 14.108; Detroit (Porcello) 16.780
Dunkel Line: Detroit by 2 1/2; 9
Vegas Line: Detroit (-165); 9 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Detroit (-165); Under

Game 921-922: Boston at Baltimore (7:05 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Boston (Lester) 14.853; Baltimore (Simon) 15.381
Dunkel Line: Baltimore by 1/2; 10
Vegas Line: Boston (-220); 9
Dunkel Pick: Baltimore (+190); Over

Game 923-924: NY Yankees at Tampa Bay (7:10 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: NY Yankees (Undecided); Tampa Bay (Price)
Dunkel Line: N/A
Vegas Line: No Line
Dunkel Pick: N/A

Game 925-926: Kansas City at Minnesota (8:10 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Kansas City (Chen) 14.697; Minnesota (Pavano) 14.153
Dunkel Line: Kansas City by 1/2; 7 1/2
Vegas Line: Kansas City (-120); 8
Dunkel Pick: Kansas City (-120);

Game 927-928: Texas at LA Angels (8:05 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Texas (Harrison) 16.385; LA Angels (Richards) 16.580
Dunkel Line: LA Angels by 1/2; 9 1/2
Vegas Line: No Line
Dunkel Pick: N/A

Game 929-930: Oakland at Seattle (10:10 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Oakland (Gonzalez) 15.033; Seattle (Vasquez) 15.461
Dunkel Line: Seattle by 1/2; 6 1/2
Vegas Line: Oakland (-150); 7 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Seattle (+130); Under
 

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Armadillo's Write-up


Wednesday, September 28


Hot pitchers
-- Batista is 1-0, 3.71 in three starts for the Mets.
-- Strasburg has a 2.50 RA in four starts this year. Volstad is 0-0, 2.16 in his last four starts.
-- Hudson is 2-0, 1.98 in his last couple starts. Blanton is 1-1, 3.12 in his last five starts.
-- Carpenter is 2-0, 1.45 in his last four starts. Myers is 4-0, 1.53 in his last four starts.
-- Greinke is 3-1, 1.80 in his last six starts.
-- Dempster has a 2.70 RA in his last three starts. Leblanc is 1-1, 2.08 in his last couple starts.
-- Saunders is 3-0, 2.49 in his last three starts. Lilly is 4-1, 2.48 in his last six starts.

-- Morrow is 2-0, 0.00 in his last two starts (15 IP).
-- Porcello is 2-1, 3.33 in his last four starts.
-- Chen is 2-1, 2.11 in his last three starts.
-- Weaver is 2-1, 2.15 in his last four starts. Harrison is 4-0, 2.92 in his last four starts.
-- Gonzalez is 3-0, 1.71 in his last three starts.

Cold pitchers
-- Volquez is 0-3, 6.95 in his last four starts.
-- Locke is 0-2, 4.97 in three starts for Pittsburgh.
-- Surkamp has a 7.31 RA in his last four starts. Pomeramz is 0-1, 9.39 in his last couple starts.

-- McAlister is 0-1, 10.38 in three starts this season.
-- Lester, who is pitching on three days' rest, is 0-3, 10.54 in his last three starts. Simon is 0-3, 6.00 in his last six starts.
-- Price is 0-2, 4.25 in his last five starts. No idea who is pitching for Bronx; they could go bullpen/committee.
-- Humber is 0-1, 7.50 in his last three starts.
-- Pavano is 0-2, 5.85 in his last three starts.
-- Vasquez is 0-5, 11.05 in his last five starts.

Totals
-- Six of last eight Volquez starts stayed under the total.
-- Last four Surkamp starts went over the total.
-- Under is 5-2-1 in last eight Volstad starts.
-- Three of last four Hudson starts went over the total.
-- Four of last five Myers starts stayed under the total.
-- Under is 4-1-1 in Greinke's last six starts.
-- Four of last five Dempster starts stayed under the total.
-- Five of last seven Saunders starts stayed under the total.

-- Over is 5-2-1 in last eight Humber starts.
-- Over is 7-2-2 in last eleven Porcello starts.
-- Under is 4-1-1 in last six Simon starts.
-- Six of last nine Price starts stayed under the total.
-- Five of last six Pavano starts went over the total.
-- Six of last eight Harrison starts went over the total.
-- Over is 11-3-1 in last fifteen Gonzalez starts.

Hot Teams
-- Reds won five of their last seven games.
-- Phillies won their last three games, scoring 20 runs.
-- Washington won 12 of its last 16 games.
-- Cardinals won 12 of their last 17 games.
-- Brewers won 10 of their last 14 games.
-- Arizona won seven of its last nine games. Dodgers won nine of their last thirteen games.
-- San Diego won seven of its last eleven games.

-- Detroit won 19 of its last 24 games. .
-- Rays won their last four games, outscoring foes 21-9.
-- Orioles won 10 of their last 15 games.
-- White Sox won three of their last four games.
-- Royals won 11 of their last 15 games.
-- Rangers won 13 of their last 15 games.

Cold Teams
-- Mets lost 12 of their last 17 games.
-- Atlanta lost 12 of its last 17 games.
-- Marlins lost four of their last six games.
-- Pirates lost six of their last eight road games.
-- Astros lost three of their last four games.
-- Cubs lost six of their last eight road games.
-- San Francisco lost four of its last six games. Rockies lost 11 of their last 14 games.

-- Indians lost their last three games, allowing 29 runs.
-- Red Sox are 7-19 so far this month.
-- Bronx lost its last three games, allowing 17 runs.
-- Toronto lost eight of its last ten road games.
-- Minnesota lost 15 of its last 18 games.
-- Angels lost five of their last six games.
-- Oakland is 9-12 in its last 21 games. Mariners lost five of their last six games.

Umpires
-- Phil-Atl-- Under is 9-4 in last thirteen Scott games.
-- Wsh-Fla-- Under is 7-3 in last ten Everitt games.
-- Cin-NY-- Road team won 11 of last 13 Runge games, with dogs 5-1 in his last six games behind dish.
-- StL-Hst-- Four of last five Danley games went over the total.
-- Pitt-Mil-- Five of last six BWelke games stayed under total.
-- LA-Az-- Over is 9-2 in last eleven Miller games.
-- Chi-SD-- Home side won four of last five Ripperger games.
-- Col-SF-- Under is 5-2-2 in last nine Tumpane games.

-- Cle-Det-- Six of last seven Bellino games stayed under the total.
-- Bos-Balt-- Under is 6-1-1 in last eight Hirschbeck games.
-- NY-TB-- Over is 11-5-1 in last seventeen West games.
-- KC-Min-- Six of last seven Kellogg games went over total.
-- Tor-Chi-- Lollo is a rookie ump; might be first game behind plate.
-- Tex-LA-- Five of last seven Emmel games went over total.
-- A's-Sea-- Under is 4-1-1 in Knight's last six games.
 

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Wednesday, September 28


------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Trend Report
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

1:10 PM
CINCINNATI vs. NY METS
Cincinnati is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games when playing NY Mets
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Cincinnati's last 5 games when playing NY Mets
NY Mets are 4-2 SU in its last 6 games when playing Cincinnati
NY Mets are 5-12 SU in its last 17 games

2:10 PM
TORONTO vs. CHI WHITE SOX
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Toronto's last 6 games when playing Chi White Sox
The total has gone OVER in 8 of Toronto's last 12 games when playing on the road against Chi White Sox
Chi White Sox are 6-13 SU in their last 19 games when playing Toronto
The total has gone OVER in 15 of Chi White Sox's last 21 games

3:45 PM
COLORADO vs. SAN FRANCISCO
Colorado is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games when playing San Francisco
The total has gone UNDER in 16 of Colorado's last 18 games when playing on the road against San Francisco
San Francisco is 9-1 SU in its last 10 games when playing at home against Colorado
The total has gone UNDER in 16 of San Francisco's last 18 games when playing at home against Colorado

4:10 PM
WASHINGTON vs. FLORIDA
The total has gone UNDER in 9 of Washington's last 12 games on the road
Washington is 2-6 SU in its last 8 games when playing Florida
Florida is 8-16 SU in its last 24 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Florida's last 6 games when playing Washington

7:05 PM
BOSTON vs. BALTIMORE
Boston is 5-15 SU in its last 20 games
The total has gone OVER in 8 of Boston's last 10 games
Baltimore is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games when playing Boston
Baltimore is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games when playing at home against Boston

7:05 PM
CLEVELAND vs. DETROIT
Cleveland is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Detroit
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Cleveland's last 7 games when playing Detroit
The total has gone OVER in 7 of Detroit's last 8 games
Detroit is 10-2 SU in its last 12 games at home

7:10 PM
PHILADELPHIA vs. ATLANTA
Philadelphia is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games when playing on the road against Atlanta
The total has gone UNDER in 15 of Philadelphia's last 20 games
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Atlanta's last 7 games
Atlanta is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games at home

7:10 PM
NY YANKEES vs. TAMPA BAY
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of NY Yankees's last 6 games when playing Tampa Bay
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of NY Yankees's last 7 games on the road
Tampa Bay is 8-1 SU in its last 9 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Tampa Bay's last 5 games

8:05 PM
TEXAS vs. LA ANGELS
Texas is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Texas's last 5 games when playing LA Angels
LA Angels are 1-5 SU in their last 6 games
LA Angels are 1-4 SU in their last 5 games when playing Texas

8:05 PM
ST. LOUIS vs. HOUSTON
St. Louis is 15-5 SU in its last 20 games
The total has gone OVER in 5 of St. Louis's last 7 games when playing Houston
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Houston's last 6 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 7 of Houston's last 8 games when playing at home against St. Louis

8:10 PM
KANSAS CITY vs. MINNESOTA
The total has gone OVER in 11 of Kansas City's last 12 games
Kansas City is 4-8 SU in its last 12 games when playing Minnesota
The total has gone OVER in 8 of Minnesota's last 9 games at home
Minnesota is 4-16 SU in its last 20 games at home

8:10 PM
PITTSBURGH vs. MILWAUKEE
Pittsburgh is 6-12 SU in its last 18 games
Pittsburgh is 1-13 SU in its last 14 games when playing on the road against Milwaukee
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Milwaukee's last 6 games when playing Pittsburgh
Milwaukee is 15-3 SU in its last 18 games when playing Pittsburgh

8:35 PM
CHI CUBS vs. SAN DIEGO
Chi Cubs are 2-6 SU in their last 8 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Chi Cubs's last 5 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of San Diego's last 7 games when playing Chi Cubs
San Diego is 2-4 SU in their last 6 games when playing Chi Cubs

9:40 PM
LA DODGERS vs. ARIZONA
LA Dodgers are 8-3 SU in their last 11 games
LA Dodgers are 2-4 SU in their last 6 games when playing Arizona
The total has gone UNDER in 13 of Arizona's last 19 games at home
Arizona is 21-3 SU in its last 24 games at home

10:10 PM
OAKLAND vs. SEATTLE
Oakland is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing Seattle
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Oakland's last 6 games on the road
Seattle is 3-7 SU in its last 10 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Seattle's last 7 games at home
 

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Short Sheet


Wednesday, September 28


National League

CINCINNATI at NY METS, 1:10 PM ET
VOLQUEZ: CINCINNATI 12-18 as a road favorite
BATISTA: 40-25 TSR in home games after a loss

COLORADO at SAN FRANCISCO, 3:45 PM ET
POMERANZ: COLORADO 17-37 as a road underdog
CAIN: SAN FRANCISCO 43-29 against division opponents

WASHINGTON at FLORIDA, 4:10 PM ET
STRASBURG: WASHINGTON 9-2 in road games in September games
VOLSTAD: FLORIDA 6-13 in home games after allowing 2 runs or less

PHILADELPHIA at ATLANTA, 7:10 PM ET
BLANTON: 12-3 TSR after 3 or more consecutive wins
HUDSON: ATLANTA 4-9 off 3 straight losses against division rivals

ST LOUIS at HOUSTON, 8:05 PM ET
CARPENTER: 0-8 TSR as a favorite of -175 to -250
MYERS: 20-14 TSR against division opponent

PITTSBURGH at MILWAUKEE, 8:10 PM ET
LOCKE: PITTSBURGH 47-71 after 2 or more consecutive overs
GREINKE: 14-0 TSR in home games

CHICAGO CUBS at SAN DIEGO, 8:35 PM ET
DEMPSTER: 75-56 TSR when the money line is +125 to -125
LEBLANC: SAN DIEGO 9-20 as a home underdog of +100 to +125

LA DODGERS at ARIZONA, 9:40 PM ET
LILLY: LA DODGERS 19-30 when playing on Wednesday
SAUNDERS: ARIZONA 52-30 in home games

American League

TORONTO at CHI WHITE SOX, 2:10 PM ET

MORROW: TORONTO 13-23 after allowing 2 runs or less
HUMBER: CHI WHITE SOX 31-14 after a game with a combined score of 4 runs or less

CLEVELAND at DETROIT, 7:05 PM ET
MCALLISTER: CLEVELAND 14-34 in road games after 3 consecutive game versus a division rival
PORCELLO: DETROIT 40-17 as a favorite of -125 to -175

BOSTON at BALTIMORE, 7:05 PM ET
LESTER: BOSTON 24-4 off a one run win over a division rival
SIMON: BALTIMORE is 51-110 off a one run loss versus a division riva

NY YANKEES at TAMPA BAY, 7:10 PM ET
GARCIA: 9-1 TSR when playing on Wednesday
PRICE: 4-8 TSR after a win

KANSAS CITY at MINNESOTA, 8:10 PM ET
CHEN: KANSAS CITY 35-49 as a road favorite
PAVANO: 5-0 TSR when playing on Wednesday

TEXAS at LA ANGELS, TBA ET
HARRISON: TEXAS 40-16 against division opponents
WEAVER: LA ANGELS 14-18 at home when the money line is +125 to -125

OAKLAND at SEATTLE, 10:10 PM ET
GONZALEZ: 27-9 TSR as a favorite
VASQUEZ: SEATTLE 18-58 as an underdog of +150 or more

** (TC) Denotes Time Change
 

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Long Sheet


PHILADELPHIA (101 - 60) at ATLANTA (89 - 72) - 7:10 PM
JOE BLANTON (R) vs. TIM HUDSON (R)
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
PHILADELPHIA is 11-6 (+3.5 Units) against ATLANTA this season
8 of 14 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL this season . (Under=+1.0 Units)

JOE BLANTON vs. ATLANTA since 1997
BLANTON is 1-4 when starting against ATLANTA with an ERA of 5.22 and a WHIP of 1.440.
His team's record is 4-5 (-1.5 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 4-3. (+0.4 units)

TIM HUDSON vs. PHILADELPHIA since 1997
HUDSON is 7-8 when starting against PHILADELPHIA with an ERA of 3.75 and a WHIP of 1.328.
His team's record is 11-10 (-0.6 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 10-11. (-2.6 units)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

ST LOUIS (89 - 72) at HOUSTON (56 - 105) - 8:05 PM
CHRIS CARPENTER (R) vs. BRETT MYERS (R)
Top Trends for this game.
ST LOUIS is 175-149 (-23.4 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
ST LOUIS is 10-15 (-9.7 Units) against the money line when playing on Wednesday this season.
ST LOUIS is 82-75 (-29.7 Units) against the money line against division opponents over the last 2 seasons.
ST LOUIS is 90-83 (-22.3 Units) against the money line after a win over the last 2 seasons.
ST LOUIS is 95-90 (-36.7 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons.
ST LOUIS is 23-23 (-12.8 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record in the second half of the season this season.
CARPENTER is 16-19 (-14.3 Units) against the money line in all games this season. (Team's Record)
CARPENTER is 16-19 (-14.3 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season. (Team's Record)
CARPENTER is 8-12 (-12.5 Units) against the money line after a win this season. (Team's Record)
CARPENTER is 7-12 (-13.3 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record this season. (Team's Record)
CARPENTER is 3-7 (-10.5 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record in the second half of the season this season. (Team's Record)
HOUSTON is 29-20 (+16.3 Units) against the money line when playing on Wednesday over the last 2 seasons.
MYERS is 20-14 (+10.5 Units) against the money line against division opponents over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
ST LOUIS is 45-36 (+8.5 Units) against the money line in road games this season.
ST LOUIS is 44-34 (+9.3 Units) against the money line in road games in games played on a grass field this season.
ST LOUIS is 65-46 (+9.0 Units) against the money line in night games this season.
HOUSTON is 38-68 (-18.3 Units) against the money line after a loss this season.
HOUSTON is 24-54 (-19.9 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
HOUSTON is 57-106 (-33.0 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
HOUSTON is 32-49 (-13.1 Units) against the money line in home games this season.
HOUSTON is 55-105 (-34.9 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
HOUSTON is 35-79 (-33.9 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
ST LOUIS is 9-5 (+1.0 Units) against HOUSTON this season
9 of 14 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=+3.7 Units)

CHRIS CARPENTER vs. HOUSTON since 1997
CARPENTER is 8-5 when starting against HOUSTON with an ERA of 2.81 and a WHIP of 1.078.
His team's record is 11-9 (-4.2 units) in these starts. The OVER is 8-12. (-4.8 units)

BRETT MYERS vs. ST LOUIS since 1997
MYERS is 6-4 when starting against ST LOUIS with an ERA of 4.49 and a WHIP of 1.399.
His team's record is 11-6 (+6.9 units) in these starts. The OVER is 9-6. (+2.3 units)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

PITTSBURGH (72 - 89) at MILWAUKEE (95 - 66) - 8:10 PM
JEFF LOCKE (L) vs. ZACK GREINKE (R)
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
MILWAUKEE is 11-3 (+5.7 Units) against PITTSBURGH this season
8 of 14 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=+1.8 Units)

JEFF LOCKE vs. MILWAUKEE since 1997
No recent starts.

ZACK GREINKE vs. PITTSBURGH since 1997
GREINKE is 3-1 when starting against PITTSBURGH with an ERA of 5.68 and a WHIP of 1.145.
His team's record is 3-1 (+1.2 units) in these starts. The OVER is 3-1. (+2.0 units)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

CHICAGO CUBS (71 - 90) at SAN DIEGO (70 - 91) - 8:35 PM
RYAN DEMPSTER (R) vs. WADE LEBLANC (L)
Top Trends for this game.
CHICAGO CUBS are 27-44 (-15.6 Units) against the money line after a win this season.
CHICAGO CUBS are 69-79 (-27.1 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons.
CHICAGO CUBS are 71-91 (-15.3 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
CHICAGO CUBS are 71-91 (-15.3 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
DEMPSTER is 19-28 (-14.4 Units) against the money line after a win over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
LEBLANC is 9-0 (+9.3 Units) against the money line in home games when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
CHICAGO CUBS are 29-21 (+12.4 Units) against the money line in September games over the last 2 seasons.
DEMPSTER is 23-15 (+9.6 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
SAN DIEGO is 70-92 (-14.2 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
SAN DIEGO is 46-65 (-18.1 Units) against the money line when the total is 7 or less this season.
SAN DIEGO is 9-20 (-10.5 Units) against the money line as a home underdog of +100 to +125 this season.
SAN DIEGO is 34-46 (-15.1 Units) against the money line in home games this season.
SAN DIEGO is 34-44 (-13.1 Units) against the money line at home when the total is 7 or less this season.
SAN DIEGO is 70-92 (-14.2 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
SAN DIEGO is 38-68 (-29.5 Units) against the money line in night games this season.
SAN DIEGO is 23-34 (-13.6 Units) against the money line in home games against right-handed starters this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
CHICAGO CUBS is 3-2 (+1.0 Units) against SAN DIEGO this season
3 of 5 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL this season . (Under=+0.8 Units)

RYAN DEMPSTER vs. SAN DIEGO since 1997
DEMPSTER is 8-2 when starting against SAN DIEGO with an ERA of 3.60 and a WHIP of 1.338.
His team's record is 9-3 (+6.4 units) in these starts. The OVER is 7-5. (+1.6 units)

WADE LEBLANC vs. CHICAGO CUBS since 1997
No recent starts.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

LA DODGERS (81 - 79) at ARIZONA (94 - 67) - 9:40 PM
TED LILLY (L) vs. JOE SAUNDERS (L)
Top Trends for this game.
LA DODGERS are 72-75 (-24.9 Units) against the money line when the total is 8 to 8.5 over the last 3 seasons.
LA DODGERS are 19-30 (-14.0 Units) against the money line when playing on Wednesday over the last 2 seasons.
LILLY is 1-8 (-9.0 Units) against the money line when playing on Wednesday over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
ARIZONA is 95-68 (+28.0 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
ARIZONA is 52-30 (+15.1 Units) against the money line in home games this season.
ARIZONA is 44-28 (+17.0 Units) against the money line against division opponents this season.
ARIZONA is 95-68 (+28.0 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
ARIZONA is 72-49 (+23.5 Units) against the money line in night games this season.
ARIZONA is 59-36 (+22.9 Units) against the money line after a win this season.
ARIZONA is 36-29 (+10.9 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
SAUNDERS is 96-68 (+22.7 Units) against the money line in all games since 1997. (Team's Record)
SAUNDERS is 92-65 (+21.3 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field since 1997. (Team's Record)
LA DODGERS are 83-79 (+1.9 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
LA DODGERS are 17-9 (+9.3 Units) against the money line in September games this season.
LA DODGERS are 81-65 (+15.7 Units) against the money line against division opponents over the last 2 seasons.
LA DODGERS are 83-79 (+1.9 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
ARIZONA is 22-34 (-16.5 Units) against the money line at home with a money line of -100 to -125 over the last 3 seasons.
ARIZONA is 60-85 (-29.1 Units) against the money line against left-handed starters over the last 3 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
ARIZONA is 10-7 (+2.2 Units) against LA DODGERS this season
9 of 16 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=+1.6 Units)

TED LILLY vs. ARIZONA since 1997
LILLY is 4-8 when starting against ARIZONA with an ERA of 5.09 and a WHIP of 1.246.
His team's record is 4-8 (-5.1 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 5-7. (-2.7 units)

JOE SAUNDERS vs. LA DODGERS since 1997
SAUNDERS is 3-5 when starting against LA DODGERS with an ERA of 3.69 and a WHIP of 1.279.
His team's record is 5-5 (-0.4 units) in these starts. The OVER is 5-4. (+0.8 units)
 

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CLEVELAND (80 - 81) at DETROIT (94 - 67) - 7:05 PM
ZACH MCALLISTER (R) vs. RICK PORCELLO (R)
Top Trends for this game.
DETROIT is 95-68 (+17.0 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
DETROIT is 101-62 (+21.0 Units) against the money line in home games over the last 2 seasons.
DETROIT is 50-22 (+23.3 Units) against the money line against division opponents this season.
DETROIT is 89-66 (+11.6 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
DETROIT is 64-47 (+11.2 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters this season.
PORCELLO is 20-10 (+9.1 Units) against the money line in all games this season. (Team's Record)
PORCELLO is 20-10 (+9.1 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season. (Team's Record)
PORCELLO is 13-3 (+9.9 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record this season. (Team's Record)
CLEVELAND is 43-41 (+7.0 Units) against the money line after a loss this season.
CLEVELAND is 83-81 (+5.8 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
CLEVELAND is 80-78 (+4.6 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
CLEVELAND is 63-52 (+14.4 Units) against the money line in night games this season.
CLEVELAND is 59-55 (+7.2 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
DETROIT is 11-6 (+4.8 Units) against CLEVELAND this season
10 of 17 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=+2.7 Units)

ZACH MCALLISTER vs. DETROIT since 1997
No recent starts.

RICK PORCELLO vs. CLEVELAND since 1997
PORCELLO is 5-1 when starting against CLEVELAND with an ERA of 3.80 and a WHIP of 1.219.
His team's record is 8-3 (+4.9 units) in these starts. The OVER is 5-6. (-1.2 units)

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BOSTON (90 - 71) at BALTIMORE (68 - 93) - 7:05 PM
JON LESTER (L) vs. ALFREDO SIMON (R)
Top Trends for this game.
BOSTON is 44-34 (-11.8 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record this season.
BOSTON is 92-71 (-9.9 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
BOSTON is 34-34 (-16.7 Units) against the money line when the total is 9 to 9.5 this season.
BOSTON is 7-19 (-20.3 Units) against the money line in September games this season.
BOSTON is 162-128 (-17.3 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
BOSTON is 62-51 (-11.2 Units) against the money line in night games this season.
BOSTON is 60-49 (-14.4 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters this season.
BALTIMORE is 15-13 (+13.0 Units) against the money line in September games this season.
BALTIMORE is 53-64 (+19.6 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record in the second half of the season over the last 2 seasons.
BOSTON is 28-14 (+12.9 Units) against the money line in road games after a win this season.
BALTIMORE is 210-291 (-82.0 Units) against the money line in home games against division opponents since 1997.
BALTIMORE is 33-57 (-15.0 Units) against the money line after a loss this season.
BALTIMORE is 33-62 (-15.2 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
BALTIMORE is 7-10 (+1.2 Units) against BOSTON this season
11 of 16 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=+5.7 Units)

JON LESTER vs. BALTIMORE since 1997
LESTER is 14-0 when starting against BALTIMORE with an ERA of 2.33 and a WHIP of 1.255.
His team's record is 16-1 (+14.8 units) in these starts. The OVER is 7-6. (+0.7 units)

ALFREDO SIMON vs. BOSTON since 1997
SIMON is 0-1 when starting against BOSTON with an ERA of 5.78 and a WHIP of 2.141.
His team's record is 0-1 (-1.0 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 1-0. (+1.0 units)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

NY YANKEES (97 - 64) at TAMPA BAY (90 - 71) - 7:10 PM
FREDDY GARCIA (R) vs. DAVID PRICE (L)
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
NY YANKEES is 9-8 (+0.2 Units) against TAMPA BAY this season
12 of 17 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL this season . (Under=+6.3 Units)

FREDDY GARCIA vs. TAMPA BAY since 1997
GARCIA is 9-2 when starting against TAMPA BAY with an ERA of 3.33 and a WHIP of 1.187.
His team's record is 11-5 (+2.8 units) in these starts. The OVER is 5-11. (-6.7 units)

DAVID PRICE vs. NY YANKEES since 1997
PRICE is 4-2 when starting against NY YANKEES with an ERA of 3.69 and a WHIP of 1.231.
His team's record is 7-4 (+4.6 units) in these starts. The OVER is 7-4. (+2.8 units)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

KANSAS CITY (71 - 90) at MINNESOTA (62 - 99) - 8:10 PM
BRUCE CHEN (L) vs. CARL PAVANO (R)
Top Trends for this game.
KANSAS CITY is 33-50 (-22.7 Units) against the money line on the road with a money line of -100 to -125 since 1997.
KANSAS CITY is 37-75 (-18.9 Units) against the money line in road games in night games over the last 2 seasons.
PAVANO is 148-129 (+23.2 Units) against the money line in all games since 1997. (Team's Record)
PAVANO is 5-0 (+6.9 Units) against the money line when playing on Wednesday this season. (Team's Record)
PAVANO is 75-51 (+25.6 Units) against the money line against division opponents since 1997. (Team's Record)
CHEN is 15-9 (+8.4 Units) against the money line in all games this season. (Team's Record)
CHEN is 10-3 (+8.7 Units) against the money line against division opponents this season. (Team's Record)
CHEN is 25-21 (+9.1 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
CHEN is 10-5 (+7.6 Units) against the money line after a loss this season. (Team's Record)
MINNESOTA is 62-100 (-26.9 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
MINNESOTA is 27-52 (-21.9 Units) against the money line when the total is 8 to 8.5 this season.
MINNESOTA is 32-49 (-18.8 Units) against the money line in home games this season.
MINNESOTA is 16-25 (-10.2 Units) against the money line at home when the total is 8 to 8.5 this season.
MINNESOTA is 5-20 (-13.4 Units) against the money line in September games this season.
MINNESOTA is 60-95 (-24.2 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
MINNESOTA is 39-63 (-15.0 Units) against the money line in night games this season.
MINNESOTA is 14-23 (-11.6 Units) against the money line in home games when playing against a team with a losing record this season.
MINNESOTA is 9-21 (-12.6 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record in the second half of the season this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
MINNESOTA is 9-8 (+1.3 Units) against KANSAS CITY this season
8 of 16 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=-0.8 Units, Under=-1.1 Units)

BRUCE CHEN vs. MINNESOTA since 1997
CHEN is 2-3 when starting against MINNESOTA with an ERA of 5.35 and a WHIP of 1.541.
His team's record is 3-3 (+0.8 units) in these starts. The OVER is 3-3. (-0.4 units)

CARL PAVANO vs. KANSAS CITY since 1997
PAVANO is 8-7 when starting against KANSAS CITY with an ERA of 5.62 and a WHIP of 1.430.
His team's record is 9-7 (-0.2 units) in these starts. The OVER is 10-5. (+4.4 units)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

TEXAS (95 - 66) at LA ANGELS (86 - 75) - 8:05 PM
MATT HARRISON (L) vs. GARRETT RICHARDS (R)
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
TEXAS is 11-7 (+2.7 Units) against LA ANGELS this season
9 of 17 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=+0.6 Units)

MATT HARRISON vs. LA ANGELS since 1997
HARRISON is 1-1 when starting against LA ANGELS with an ERA of 6.48 and a WHIP of 1.440.
His team's record is 1-2 (-1.1 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 2-1. (+0.9 units)

GARRETT RICHARDS vs. TEXAS since 1997
RICHARDS is 0-0 when starting against TEXAS with an ERA of 0.00 and a WHIP of 2.985.
His team's record is 0-1 (-1.0 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 0-1. (-1.1 units)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

OAKLAND (73 - 88) at SEATTLE (67 - 94) - 10:10 PM
GIO GONZALEZ (L) vs. ANTHONY VASQUEZ (L)
Top Trends for this game.
OAKLAND is 30-45 (-17.0 Units) against the money line after a win this season.
OAKLAND is 23-31 (-15.7 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record this season.
OAKLAND is 73-90 (-19.3 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
OAKLAND is 30-52 (-15.4 Units) against the money line in road games this season.
OAKLAND is 68-86 (-21.4 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
OAKLAND is 42-58 (-17.0 Units) against the money line in night games this season.
GONZALEZ is 3-11 (-9.1 Units) against the money line when playing on Wednesday over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
GONZALEZ is 3-9 (-9.3 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record this season. (Team's Record)
SEATTLE is 36-57 (-18.4 Units) against the money line after a loss this season.
SEATTLE is 51-74 (-27.1 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons.
SEATTLE is 282-274 (-83.1 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record in the second half of the season since 1997.
SEATTLE is 67-95 (-22.9 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
SEATTLE is 72-89 (-20.2 Units) against the money line in home games over the last 2 seasons.
SEATTLE is 38-75 (-32.9 Units) against the money line against division opponents over the last 2 seasons.
SEATTLE is 67-89 (-16.9 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
SEATTLE is 95-131 (-27.4 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons.
SEATTLE is 11-28 (-15.3 Units) against the money line against left-handed starters this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
SEATTLE is 10-8 (+3.5 Units) against OAKLAND this season
8 of 16 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=-0.3 Units, Under=-1.1 Units)

GIO GONZALEZ vs. SEATTLE since 1997
GONZALEZ is 5-2 when starting against SEATTLE with an ERA of 3.72 and a WHIP of 1.527.
His team's record is 5-4 (+0.5 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 3-5. (-2.8 units)

ANTHONY VASQUEZ vs. OAKLAND since 1997
No recent starts.
 

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Fight to the finish: Betting the MLB Wildcard race

The Wildcard races in the American and National League have come down to the final day of the schedule. Here’s a look at the four games that will dictate which teams are moving into October and which ones will come up short:

American League

New York Yankees at Tampa Bay Rays (N/A)

THE STORY: The Tampa Bay Rays could have only dreamed they’d be in this spot around Labor Day. With a victory in the finale of the regular season, they are assured at least a one-game playoff for the wild card Thursday at home. The Rays are in good shape, sending David Price to the mound with everything on the line against the visiting New York Yankees on Wednesday night. Tampa Bay has won five of its last six games to tie the Boston Red Sox in the American League wild-card race. The Yankees, who have clinched home field throughout the playoffs, have lost three in a row.

TV: 7:10 p.m. EST; YES (New York), SunSports (Tampa Bay).

PITCHING MATCHUP: Yankees TBA vs. Rays LH David Price (12-13, 3.35 ERA).

Yankees manager Joe Girardi is uncertain about who would start the season finale. He will likely use a host of pitchers, including Phil Hughes. Who will actually pitch the first inning is up in the air.

Price is just 1-3 since Aug. 17, but he has not pitched poorly. He has allowed 12 earned runs in 44 2/3 innings (2.42 ERA) in that stretch. Price’s two throwing errors were damaging in the loss last Friday against Toronto. He is 1-1 vs. the Yankees with a 4.26 ERA in 2011, but 4-2 in his career against them with a 3.67 ERA in 76 innings. Nick Swisher is 9-for-21 with a home run against Price.

ABOUT THE YANKEES (97-64): Despite only one day off until the first game of the playoffs, Girardi said he will play all his normal starters in the regular-season finale. Derek Jeter was the one regular who got the day off Tuesday. Mark Teixeira, who sat out Monday, had two hits Tuesday. Curtis Granderson may need a night off, with just one hit in 22 at bats over the last six games. Russell Martin hit into a triple play and belted his 18th home run Tuesday, one short of his career high with the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2007. Eduardo Nunez played right field Monday and shortstop Tuesday and is 11-for-29 his last 10 games.

ABOUT THE RAYS (90-71): Matt Joyce continues to finish the season strong. His game-breaking, three-run homer Tuesday gave him nine RBIs in his last 10 games. He’s 11-for-32 in that stretch. Evan Longoria only has a pair of hits in the series, but the third baseman has been on base all eight times, including five walks. Ben Zobrist had two RBIs to equal his career high with 91. Shortstop Reid Brignac has given the Rays a boost, going 4-for-13 with an RBI the last three games to raise his average to .194. Leadoff batter Desmond Jennings has struggled, going 3-for-34 with nine strikeouts the last nine games.

FINAL PITCH: The Rays are 16-10 in September, the best record in the American League East. They are 11-3 at home.

Boston Red Sox at Baltimore Orioles (+192, 9)

THE STORY: Jon Lester started the season opener for the Boston Red Sox. Now the team can only hope he doesn’t start the season-ender. The visiting Red Sox square off with the Baltimore Orioles in Wednesday’s regular-season finale knowing they have zero margin of error if they want to prolong their year. Boston is tied with Tampa Bay for the wild card, and it’s hard to imagine the Rays losing with the opposing New York Yankees having yet to name a starter. Lester has history on his side: He’s 14-0 in 17 starts against the Orioles – the most wins by any active pitcher vs. one team. Yet he’s lost three straight starts and will be part of history if Boston becomes the first team to fail to make the postseason after leading by nine games in September.

TV: 7:05 p.m. ET, ESPN, MASN (Baltimore)

PITCHING MATCHUP: Red Sox LH Jon Lester (15-9, 3.49 ERA) vs. Orioles RH Alfredo Simon (4-9, 4.85 ERA).

Lester was shellacked in his last outing, getting pelted by the New York Yankees for eight runs on eight hits in a season-low 2 2/3 innings. Unfortunately for Boston, it wasn't an aberration from his recent performances. Lester has been roughed up for 16 runs in 13 2/3 innings during his three-game skid and continues to struggled with his control, walking eight batters in that span. Although he's pitching on three days' rest for the second time in his career, he threw only 55 pitchers in Saturday’s horror show at Yankee Stadium.

Simon enters the season finale winless since August 23. He's 0-3 in his last six starts, although each outing has come against a playoff contender. A converted reliever after notching 17 saves last year, Simon pitched well last time out, allowing three runs on six hits in a season high-tying eight innings against Detroit. He has made one start in seven career appearances against Boston, going 0-1 with a 5.59 ERA. Jacoby Ellsbury is 3-for-3 with a double and triple against him.

ABOUT THE RED SOX (90-71): In his first major league game behind the plate, rookie catcher Ryan Lavarnway clubbed two home runs to stake Boston to a pair of four-run leads in Tuesday’s 8-7, teeth-gnashing victory. Middle reliever Alfredo Aceves has been a savior. Pitching for the third straight day, he turned in 3 2/3 innings of stellar relief to improve to 10-2 this season and 24-3 in his career. Jacoby Ellsbury extended his hitting streak to 12 games with a two-run homer. He has hit safely in 30 of his last 31 games overall and has a 35-game streak against the Orioles. Marco Scutaro also homered and has 21 RBIs this month.

ABOUT THE ORIOLES (68-93): Baltimore continued to abuse Boston’s pitching staff Tuesday. The Orioles have scored 41 runs in six meetings between the teams in the last nine days. Matt Wieters homered for the second straight night and had three RBIs and Adam Jones also had a pair of hits and went deep. Vlad Guerrero continued his late-season surge with three hits, including an RBI double. He is batting .353 (49-for-139) in his last 35 games. Right fielder Nick Markakis made a spectacular diving catch with the bases loaded to save at least two runs. He also doubled to extend his hitting streak to eight games.

FINAL PITCH: Boston’s starting pitching has been beyond brutal, pitching to a 7.28 ERA in the last 23 games. If the Red Sox and Rays wind up tied, they will play a one-game playoff Thursday in Tampa Bay at 4:07 p.m. ET.


National League

St. Louis Cardinals at Houston Astros (+187, 7.5)


THE STORY: It all comes down to one final game for the St. Louis Cardinals. The Cardinals came from behind to win on Tuesday night, lifting themselves into a tie with the Atlanta Braves atop the National League wild card standings with one game left. The Houston Astros are not rolling over for St. Louis and will be trotting out their hottest starting pitcher on Wednesday when Brett Myers takes his turn. Chris Carpenter will counter for the Cardinals in the regular season finale at Minute Maid Park on Wednesday night.

TV: 8:05 p.m. ET, FSMW (St. Louis), FSH (Houston)

PITCHING MATCHUP: Cardinals RH Chris Carpenter (10-9, 3.59 ERA) vs. Astros RH Brett Myers (7-13, 4.31 ERA).

Carpenter has allowed one or no runs in three of his last four starts and is coming off a seven-inning, one-run effort against the Chicago Cubs last Friday. Carpenter did not get much support in that game and did not factor in the decision as the Cardinals fell, 5-1. The New Hampshire native has fared well against the Astros in his career, going 7-5 with a 2.79 ERA in 18 career starts, including a no decision earlier this season.

Myers is ending a disappointing year strong with a 4-0 record and 1.24 ERA over his last five starts. The veteran righthander has been able to limit his mistakes in that span, surrendering only one home run and issuing a total of six walks in 36 1/3 innings. Myers went eight innings against St. Louis on July 26, scattering three runs and 11 hits in a loss. He is 6-5 with a 4.54 ERA in his career against the Cardinals.

ABOUT THE CARDINALS (89-72): St. Louis has made a habit of falling behind early and then battling back over the last few days. That system worked in wins over the Chicago Cubs on Saturday and Sunday but the Cardinals did not quite have enough left to overcome Houston on Monday. Tuesday was different, as St. Louis fell behind 5-0 early only to battle for a 13-6 triumph. Allen Craig took over for an injured Matt Holliday and drove in four runs in the win. Holliday, who sat out nine days with an injured right middle finger, was bothered by the right hand again on Tuesday. Should a one-game playoff be necessary, it would take place in St. Louis on Thursday night at 8:07 p.m. ET. Meanwhile, Albert Pujols, who could be playing in his final game for the Cardinals on Wednesday, is in danger of finishing the season below .300 and with less than 100 RBIs for the first time in his career. After going 1-for-6 on Tuesday, Pujols sits at exactly .300 with 98 RBIs.

ABOUT THE ASTROS (56-105): Houston has to be pleased with the way their younger players have stepped up in meaningful games this week. Jimmy Paredes and Brett Wallace each drove in a pair of runs on Tuesday while Brian Bogusevic and Jose Altuve combined for five hits. The pitching has struggled a bit more, as rookie Henry Sosa squandered a 5-0 lead on Tuesday and lasted just 3 1/3 innings.

FINAL PITCH: St. Louis will likely not have shortstop Rafael Furcal available on Wednesday. Furcal came out of Monday’s game with tightness in his left hamstring and did not play Tuesday. Should the Cardinals force a one-game playoff, Furcal could be ready to go by Thursday. He has hit .255 with seven homers in 50 games since joining St. Louis.

Philadelphia Phillies at Atlanta Braves (-190, 8)

THE STORY: The Atlanta Braves will send their best pitcher to the mound in the season finale as they try to grab a piece of the National League wild-card spot against visiting Philadelphia, a team that’s beaten them six straight times. The Braves have lost four straight, eight of 11 and 17 of their last 26, and enter the last game of the season tied with St. Louis for the final playoff spot. The Cardinals play at Houston in its season finale. If Atlanta and St. Louis end up tied, a one-game playoff will be played Thursday in St. Louis at 8:07 p.m. ET.

TV: 7:10 p.m. ET, CSN (Philadelphia), SPSO (Atlanta)

PITCHING MATCHUP: Phillies RH Joe Blanton (1-2, 5.03 ERA) vs. Braves RH Tim Hudson (16-10, 3.23 ERA)

Blanton gets the start in the final game, but will likely empty the bullpen and spot numerous relievers an inning or two at a time. Even Cole Hamels is expected to pitch a couple of innings. Blanton is 0-1 against the Braves this season, but pitched well in that lone appearance, allowing two runs over five hits. Blanton is 1-4 with a 5.47 ERA in 10 career appearances against the Braves.

Hudson had great stuff in his last outing against the Washington Nationals when he suddenly began to cramp up because of dehydration, quickly lost his velocity and had to leave the game. He’s allowed only three runs over 13 2/3 innings of his last two starts, both wins. Hudson is 1-1 with a 3.48 ERA in three starts against the Phillies this season. The Braves had hoped to be able to save Hudson to start the first game of the playoffs, but now need him simply to have a chance to reach the playoffs.

ABOUT THE PHILLIES (101-60): Shane Victorino is batting .384 this season (20-for-52) against the Braves and is 14-for-28 in games at Turner Field. Jimmy Rollins has improved his average at Turner Field to .277 (10-for-36). Chase Utley now has 19 career homers against Atlanta. GM Ruben Amaro said OF Domonic Brown and relievers Joe Savery and Justin DeFratus would report to the Florida Instructional League to stay sharp in case they are needed for later in the postseason.

ABOUT THE BRAVES (89-71): Chipper Jones was in the lineup on Tuesday despite an ailing right knee. He had an MRI exam on Tuesday and it revealed a bone bruise. It will be interesting to see how Atlanta handles Derek Lowe, who has one year remaining on his contract. Lowe was 0-5 with an 8.75 ERA in five starts in September and has become the face of frustration for the fans. With an abundance of good young pitchers in the organization, the club will likely move Lowe, even if it means eating much of his salary. The Braves have forgotten how to hit, but their fielding hasn’t dropped off at all. The last Atlanta error by a non-pitcher was against the Mets on Sept. 8.

FINAL PITCH: Atlanta reliever Peter Moylan said his shoulder surgery would require a six-month rehab. He will have arthroscopic surgery on Monday to repair his rotator cuff and labrum. He missed four months this season with back surgery.
 

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