Service Plays Sunday 9/1/13

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GL!

[h=1]NCAA Football Game Picks[/h] [h=2]Ohio at Louisville[/h] The Cardinals look to take advantage of an Ohio team that is 1-5 ATS in its last 6 road games. Louisville is the pick (-20 1/2) according to Dunkel, which has the Cardinals favored by 23. Dunkel Pick: Louisville (-20 1/2). Here are all of this week's games.

CFL

Week 10

Winnipeg (1-7) @ Saskatchewan (7-1)—Mismatch here, as Bombers are in disarray while Riders having dream season so far; Winnipeg lost last six games (1-4 vs spread last five) getting housed by Hamilton 37-28/37-14 last two weeks. Bombers are 3-1 as road dogs, though, losing away games by 5-7-23 points—road team covered seven of their eight games this year. Saskatchewan won nine of last ten series games, streak that started with ’07 Grey Cup; Bombers lost last eight visits here by average score of 33-13 (lost 27-7/52-0 here last two years). Riders are 0-3 vs spread since their bye; they’re 2-1 as home favorites, winning on Taylor Field by 15-37-3 points. Over is 3-1-1 in last five Winnipeg games, 5-3 in Saskatchewan games, but 3-5 in last eight series games. Underdogs covered five of last six series games.

DCI College Football

The Daniel Curry Index
Week 1 Scores/Predictions

Sunday, September 1, 2013
FBS Non-Conference
Ohio at LOUISVILLE, 3:30 pm ET LOUISVILLE 35.7, Ohio 17.6
Colorado at COLORADO STATE, 6:00 pm ET Colorado State 32.0, Colorado 29.7

FCS Non-Conference
Mississippi Valley State at FLORIDA A&M, 11:45 am ET Florida A&M 13.4, Mississippi Valley State 9.6
Bethune-Cookman at TENNESSEE STATE, 8:00 pm ET Bethune-Cookman 24.8, TENNESSEE STATE 23.2

[h=1]Today's CFL Picks[/h]SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 1
Time Posted: 8:00 a.m. EST (8/27) Game 233-234: Winnipeg at Saskatchewan (4:00 p.m. EST)
Dunkel Ratings: Winnipeg 106.192; Saskatchewan 118.035
Dunkel Line: Saskatchewan by 12; 49
Vegas Line: Saskatchewan by 14 1/2; 53 1/2
Dunkel Pick: Winnipeg (+14 1/2); Under

Stephen Nover | CFB Total - Sunday, Sep 1 2013 6:00PM
217 Colorado / 218 Colorado St. OVER 49.0 Bookmaker.com double-dime bet

Spurs have more in their arsenal

• By: Ben Coley
• Last Updated: August 30 2013, 13:14 BST

Ben Coley previews Sunday's three games in the Barclays Premier League and he's anticipating a thriller at the Emirates.


Aaron Ramsey: A tempting price to score against Spurs

Manchester United visit Anfield and Arsenal host local rivals Tottenham Hostpur in a Super Sunday of Premier League action while not forgetting the clash as the Hawthorns between West Bromwich Albion and Swansea.
The latter game could be too close to call according to Ben but he does fancy United to bring a temporary halt to the Rodgers' revolution while it could be goals, goals, goals in North London!

• 
  2pts Man Utd to beat Liverpool at 19/10 - United have a good recent record in this fixture and surely don't deserve to be underdogs
• 
  1pt Aaron Ramsey to score at any time v Spurs at 7/1 - Arsenal midfielder is in red-hot form and has previous against Spurs

Liverpool v Manchester United (1300 BST)
David Moyes knows all about big games with Liverpool and leads United into this one on the back of what's been a more than satisfactory start to life in charge at Old Trafford. It's somewhat possible to pick holes in United's 4-1 win at Swansea on the opening day of the season, but the fact that it owed much to the brilliance of their strikers is nothing new and what's certain is that it wasn't the first time they've won thanks to Robin van Persie. He scored in both meetings of these sides last year, including the winner from the spot in this fixture, and it's hard to see Liverpool keeping him as quiet as Chelsea managed to on Monday night. Indeed, therein lies the problem for Brendan Rodgers, whose side have won both Premier League games 1-0 having been somewhat profligate while at times relying on fortune to keep the opposition out. Certainly, their weakness from set-pieces was exposed by Notts County in the Capital One Cup as it was by Stoke on the opening weekend of the season. Of course, it wasn't their strongest defence we saw on Tuesday night but Simon Mignolet, Glen Johnson and Kolo Toure were all involved and I'm not convinced that the return of Martin Skrtel is enough to shore them up sufficiently for this test. Indeed, Kolo is a serious doubt for the game and if you're looking to get with a goal scorer here, it may pay to think outside the box, as it were, and chance the likes of Phil Jones and Rio Ferdinand. However, as is so often the case in this particular fixture the bet has been made easy by the bookmakers as, astonishingly, United are underdogs. We could debate the respective qualities of both managers long and hard. We could argue that this isn't the United of old and that Liverpool, even without Luis Suarez, are improving. We could even question Moyes' record against Liverpool when in charge of Everton. But the key facts are these: United are a better side, they've got comfortably the game's best player and one most likely to decide the outcome, and they've won each of the last three meetings. Those who like to play the trends might back 2-1, the score by which United have won each of those three games, but I'd rather keep things simple. Although there's clearly much to do before we can consider Moyes' United as good as Sir Alex Ferguson's, early indications are that they'll prove equally as effective at least until the pressure is truly applied. Having registered a solid point on Monday and rested up since, United must be backed at close to 2/1 on value grounds.
Verdict: Liverpool 1 Manchester United 2


Opta stats:
Robin van Persie has scored four times in his last three Premier League appearances against Liverpool (twice for Arsenal and twice in two games for Manchester United).
Manchester United have been given eight red cards versus Liverpool in the Barclays Premier League; more than against any other team.
Manchester United have not lost any of their last 13 Premier League away games - the longest current run in the competition.

---

West Brom v Swansea (1330)
With no disrespect whatsoever to either club, particularly given their commendable exploits last season, this game rather drops into the background on Super Sunday. Ordinarily, that means better betting opportunities but I happen to find this game extremely difficult to assess. I do fear for West Brom this season and zero goals in 180 minutes of Premier League play confirms that the absence of Romelu Lukaku is having a huge impact on their attacking effectiveness. But Swansea have lost both Premier League games and while defeats at home to United and away at Spurs are excusable, they don't give us much of a platform from which to recommend a bet at under 2/1. The other issue we must consider here is how Swansea will cope with their midweek European adventure, one which saw them lose in Romania. Michael Laudrup did make changes but Michu was required to start after Wilfried Bony was injured, a fact which again provides some cause for concern. The fact that there have been three or more goals in every Premier League meeting of these sides isn't enough to convince me there will be this time and with both sides likely to see this as a fine opportunity to get a first win on the board but surely desperate not to lose, we could be set for a tight game devoid of goalmouth action. With that and both sides' attacking issues in mind, evens about under 2.5 goals looks reasonable. If forced to take a view on the match I'd lean towards Swansea, who do have superior attacking quality when at their best and have won twice at The Hawthorns in recent years. However, nothing stands out in truth so we'll focus on the televised action.
Verdict: West Brom 0 Swansea 1


Opta stats:
West Brom have failed to score in four of their last five Barclays Premier League matches.

Only five teams have had more shots on target than Swansea City (11) so far this season. However, the Swans have only scored once.
Swansea have won three of their four Premier League clashes with West Brom (L1).

---

Arsenal v Tottenham (1600)
Arsenal go into this game as favourites having secured a trio of straightforward wins since losing against Aston Villa on the first day of the season. As is so often the case, the reality of each game is less entertaining than the extremes used to describe it. They weren't that bad against Villa, even if clearly they weren't very good. But nor were they flawless against Fulham and Fenerbahce, and my instinct is that 11/10 is too short. Yes, they've won each of the last two renewals of this fixture and have a good record in it generally, but Arsene Wenger's threadbare squad has taken another hit with the injury to Lukas Podolski and if either Jack Wilshere or Aaron Ramsey were to miss this game - both suffered knocks on Tuesday night - they'd be in a spot of bother. Tottenham have started the season quietly and efficiently, a complete contrast to the rumbling saga around Gareth Bale's move to Real Madrid. To his credit, Andre Villas-Boas has handled the whole situation impeccably and continues to suggest that, in contrast to what some Chelsea fans may have you believe, he's a manager with a very bright future and he's at the right club, too. Spurs have expanded their horizons this summer and while the money they've spent brings with it added pressures, I'd expect them to cope under the guidance of their unflappable leader. What he needs to do, though, is transfer that calmness and security into this fixture, one which they've lost 5-2 in each of the last two years having taken the lead on both occasions. It's unreasonable to think they won't have learned lessons from each defeat and some of the key protagonists are no longer in and around the starting line-up. What I'm trying to say is that Spurs are as big a threat to Arsenal now as they've been for many years, whether that belief reveals itself in this game or not. I find it a match which is very hard to predict. So much depends on who starts for Arsenal, because if their midfield is at full-strength I do feel their dynamism would cause Spurs - whose weakness remains in defence despite their start to the season - serious problems. With that in mind Ramsey is particularly tempting to find the net at 7/1 with William Hill and a small bet there is the way to go, with stakes refunded if he isn't passed fit. Ramsey is at his absolute best right now, his second goal against Fenerbahce showed how composed and clinical he's become when presented with a chance, and he's scored against Spurs before. It's a value play in a game where the 90-minute markets and appealing side-bets (both teams to score, over 2.5 goals) have been priced accurately, although trends buffs may want to take twice the price about Per Mertesacker given that he scored in both meetings last term.
Verdict: Arsenal 2 Tottenham 2




Opta stats:
Arsenal have failed to score in just one of their last 29 Barclays Premier League meetings with Tottenham.

There has been a Tottenham player sent off on each of their last two Premier League visits to The Emirates.
13 of the last 14 league matches between Tottenham and Arsenal have gone over 2.5 goals.

---

Andy Iskoe CFB Side Sun, 09/01/13 - 3:30 PM

double-dime bet - 215 Ohio 20.5 (-110) vs 216 Louisville

Analysis:
Louisville is a fashionable choice to be this season's BCS Buster with a talented roster and favorable schedule. They are the clear favorite to win the watered down American Athletic Conference (formerly the Big East) and may well not face a ranked team until they travel to Cincinnati to end the regular season. They are well coached with coach Strong producing winning seasons in each of his three seasons at the helm, including 11-2 last season. They have an experienced QB with Bridgewater mentioned as a possible Heisman Trophy candidate. But unlike past seasons when Louisville was the hunter the Cardinals are now the hunted, burdened by the weight of those lofty expectations. Ohio U also has a talented QB (Tettleton) and a coach (Solich) who won a National Title back in the day (Nebraska). Ohio was on the verge of an outstanding season in 2012 before numerous injuries took a great toll. Still, the Bobcats went 9-4 which followed up their 10-4 2011 campaign. They've been to 4 straight Bowls, winning the last 2 and are projected to again be a contender in the MAC. Louisville deserves to be solid favorites in this game but Ohio will compete with a well balanced offense and competent defense.

Sunday English Breakfast: EPL betting cheat sheet

Sunday's Premier League fixture list features a pair of the most hotly-contested rivalries in all of English football as Man United travels to Anfield and a new chapter will be written in the North London Derby.

We talk to Aron Black at Bet365 to find where action is on some of the hotter fixtures.

Liverpool v Manchester United (+160, +240, +188)

Why bet Liverpool: The Reds have nabbed a full six points from their first two matches to open the season and the victories have been spearheaded by new keeper Simon Mignolet. The Belgian has not allowed a goal and has made some spectacular saves to begin live between the posts with Liverpool. Striker Luis Suraez is still out due to suspension, but the their attacking trio of of Daniel Sturridge, Iago Aspas and Philippe Coutinho always look threatening with the ball.

Key players out/doubtful: Luis Suárez, Kolo Touré, Sebastián Coates, Aly Cissokho, Joe Allen

Why bet Manchester United: Amid a flurry of transfer rumors, Wayne Rooney made his debut for the Red Devils versus Chelsea in the 0-0 draw Monday. He should figure in David Moyes' starting XI in the hole behind scoring-machine Robin van Persie Sunday. United have not lost any of their previous 13 away matches and will look to keep that streak alive versus their bitter rival.

Key players out/doubtful: Rafael, Javier Hernández, Nani, Darren Fletcher

2012-13 fixture result: Liverpool 1, Man United 2

Key betting note: The 2-1 victory at Anfield last season was the first game that United won away to Liverpool in five seasons.

Where the action is: "Nothing would suit the Anfield faithful more than taking three points from their bitter rivals, but the draw looks the bet here. United looked like they were afraid to lose against Chelsea at home, and it would appear that they may use the same tact Sunday. The action is siding with the bigger priced visitors, although Liverpool is seeing some support."


West Brom v Swansea (+170, +240, +180)

Why bet West Brom: The Baggies have mustered one point from their first two matches, but news has gotten worse. The club could be without keeper Ben Foster for up to three months so Luke Daniels could be making his debut here. On the plus side, new arrival Scott Sinclair could figure in this game to face his old club. Sinclair should provide a much-needed threat going forward for West Brom.

Key players out/doubtful: Zoltán Gera, George Thorne, Ben Foster

Why bet Swansea: The Swans currently rank dead last in the table after a pair of losses to United and Tottenham. The Welsh outfit were better against Spurs one week ago and will look to bank three points against the Baggies. The Swans are a much better side than their record would indicate and boast more firepower than their opponents.

Key players out/doubtful: Nathan Dyer, Neil Taylor

2012-13 fixture result: West Brom 2, Swansea 1

Key betting note: Dating back to last season, West Brom haven't scored a goal in their last five Premier League games.


Arsenal v Tottenham (+120, +250, +250)

Why bet Arsenal: The Gunners have won the last two home meetings with their North London rivals 5-2 each time. Despite a lengthy injury list, Arsenal are still capable of scoring with anyone. Striker Olivier Giroud has a pair of goals through the first two matches and is hitting his stride early.

Key players out/doubtful: Thomas Vermaelen, Vassiriki Abou Diaby, Lukas Podolski, Mikel Arteta, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain

Why bet Tottenham: With last year's hero Gareth Bale gone (though an announcement won't be made until closer to the close of the window), Spurs have a basically revamped squad. The club has done a shrewd bit of business using money to ensure depth all over the pitch. Spurs are off to a great start to the campaign with six points from their first two matches, but have yet to score from open play. The new signings need time to gel but Andre Villas-Boas will look at the NLD for pieces to click.

Key players out/doubtful: Benoit Assou-Ekotto, Aaron Lennon

2012-13 fixture result: Arsenal 5, Spurs 2

Key betting note: 13 of the previous 14 matches between these two clubs have gone over the 2.5 goal total.

Where the action is: "All in all, the price about Arsenal in such a big derby looks too short, so I expect Spurs to come down towards that +225 range by kickoff. One thing is for sure – the punters love the over 2.5 goals at -143 in this game as they have for every game that both Arsenal and Tottenham have played so far."

60 Percent Guaranteed

CFB

Colorado St. -3

Norm Hitzges

Single Play --- Ohio +20 1/2 Louisville

Chicago Syndicate Top Plays

MLB Game of the Year - Detroit Tigers -155

Cardinals/Pirates Over 8
Reds -117
Orioles +105

LA Syndicate Top Plays

CFB - Colorado/Colorado State Over 48.5

MLB
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Bombers at Roughriders: What bettors need to know

Winnipeg Blue Bombers at Saskatchewan Roughriders (-14.5, 53.5)

The Saskatchewan Roughriders are off to their best start since 1970, when they won a franchise-record 14 regular-season games. On Sunday, Saskatchewan hosts the first game of a home-and-home series against the lowly Winnipeg Blue Bombers, who are mired in a six-game losing skid. Roughriders running back Kory Sheets surpassed 1,000 rushing yards faster than any player in CFL history last week and remained on pace to shatter the single-season rushing record with 139 yards and two touchdowns in a 30-27 victory over the Edmonton Eskimos.

Winnipeg is hoping a roster overhaul can salvage its season, which has already seen the dismissal of general manager Joe Mack. The Blue Bombers added former Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Mike Sims-Walker and released slotback Isaac Anderson and kicker Justin Palardy as coach Tim Burke vowed more changes could be on the way if play does not improve. New offensive coordinator Marcel Bellefeuille has his hands full fixing an offense that has produced a league-low 167 points and lacks a suitable starting quarterback - and the league-best Roughriders defense will not make things any easier for him.

TV: 4 p.m. ET, TSN

ABOUT THE BLUE BOMBERS (1-7): Quarterbacks Max Hall, Buck Pierce and Justin Goltz all took snaps during Winnipeg’s 37-14 loss to the Hamilton Tiger-Cats last week. Hall started but left in the first quarter with an injury to his passing hand, while Pierce is also listed as day-to-day with an undisclosed ailment. Goltz is 50-for-88 passing with two touchdown passes and three interceptions this season. Defensive end Alex Hall has 11 sacks - four more than anyone else in the league.

ABOUT THE ROUGHRIDERS (7-1): Quarterback Darian Durant is having a career year with 17 touchdowns, no interceptions and a 67.7 completion percentage. Durant’s favorite target remains slotback Weston Dressler, who has 527 receiving yards. Slotback Chris Getzlaf is on pace to match his production from 2011, when he set career-highs in receiving yards (1,071) and touchdowns (10). Linebacker Renauld Williams leads the team in tackles (36) and sacks (six), while safety Tyron Brackenridge and defensive back Dwight Anderson have two interceptions apiece.

TRENDS:

* The Blue Bombers are 1-4 ATS in their last five games overall.
* The Roughriders are 8-2 ATS in their last 10 games in September.
* The under is 5-1 in the last six meetings in Saskatchewan.
* The Blue Bombers are 1-4 ATS in their last five meetings in Saskatchewan.

EXTRA POINTS:

1. The Roughriders are 4-0 against East Division opponents.

2. Saskatchewan LB Weldon Brown was fined an undisclosed amount for an illegal hit to the head of Edmonton QB Mike Reilly in last week’s game.

3. Winnipeg RB Chad Simpson has 552 rushing yards - 506 fewer than Sheets.

Sunday's NCAAF betting cheat sheet

Ohio Bobcats at Louisville Cardinals (-20.5, 58)

With Heisman Trophy hopeful Teddy Bridgewater under center and a schedule that bodes well for the potential for an undefeated campaign, No. 9 Louisville begins the season with national championship aspirations when the Cardinals host Ohio in Sunday's season opener. The Cardinals enter the season with their highest preseason ranking ever, looking to build off a Sugar Bowl victory over Florida last January. The Bobcats, who are picked to win the Mid-American Conference East Division, might be Louisville's toughest non-conference test.

The Bobcats have opened the season with victories the past three years, including an upset of Penn State last year, but they haven't played a top-10 team since taking on then-No. 2 Ohio State in 2010. "This may be the most complete football team (we've played) since I've been here," Ohio coach Frank Solich told reporters. "They have a combination of things that I think we have not faced before in our time here at Ohio." The teams have split four all-time meetings but haven't clashed since Ohio's 22-15 victory in 1959.

Key betting stat: The Bobcats are 1-5 ATS in their last six road games.

Weather watch: The forecast is calling for temperatures in the low-90s with a 45 percent chance of thunderstorms in Louisville.


Colorado Buffaloes at Colorado State Rams (-3, 48.5)

Mike MacIntyre, who led San Jose State to a 11-2 record and a Military Bowl victory over Bowling Green, makes his Colorado head coaching debut against Colorado State on Sunday in what is called “The Rocky Mountain Showdown.” MacIntyre, who replaced Jon Embree, takes over a Buffaloes’ team that finished just 1-11 a year ago with the only victory by one point - 35-34, at Washington State. The Buffaloes bring an eight-game losing streak into the contest, the fourth longest in the FBS.

Colorado State begins its second season under Jim McElwain, who was the offensive coordinator for Alabama’s 2011 national championship team before leaving to take over in Fort Collins. The Rams won last year’s meeting, 22-17, and are attempting to record back-to-back wins over their in-state rivals for the first time since 1999-2000. The Sunday afternoon contest is played at a neutral site, Sports Authority Park at Mile High in Denver, home stadium for the NFL's Denver Broncos.

Key betting stat: The under is 5-0 in the last five meetings.

Weather watch: Temperatures in Arvada will be in the high-80s with a 21 percent chance of showers.

Sunday's MLB American League betting cheat sheet

Check out our quick-hitting betting notes on Sunday's American League games:

Baltimore Orioles at New York Yankees (-112, 9)

Hot pitching stat: Yankees left-hander Andy Pettitte has won three consecutive starts while surrendering just one earned run over 19 2/3 innings in that span.

Cold batting stat: New York OF Curtis Granderson is just 1-for-8 with four strikeouts lifetime against Orioles left-hander Wei-Yin Chen.

Weather: Temperatures will be in the low-80s with a 50 percent chance of showers or thunderstorms. Wind will blow from right to left field at 7 mph.

Key betting note: The Yankees are 10-1 in Pettitte's last 11 home starts against Baltimore.


Kansas City Royals at Toronto Blue Jays (+128, 8.5)

Hot pitching stat: Royals right-hander James Shields leads the American League with 22 quality starts, including one in each of his previous four starts.

Hot batting stat: Blue Jays DH Adam Lind has belted five home runs in 49 career at-bats against Shields, the most of any Toronto player.

Weather: Temperatures will be in the mid-70s under partly cloudy skies. Wind will blow from right to left field at 8 mph.

Key betting note: The under is 6-0 in Toronto starter J.A. Happ's last six home starts against a team with a winning record.


Cleveland Indians at Detroit Tigers (-152, 8.5)

Cold pitching stat: Tigers right-hander Justin Verlander is 0-2 with a 5.00 ERA and five home runs allowed over his last four starts.

Cold batting stat: Cleveland OF Nick Swisher and SS Asdrubal Cabrera have combined to strike out 42 times in 114 at-bats against Verlander.

Weather: Temperatures will be in the low-80s with partly cloudy skies. Wind will blow in from left field at 6 mph.

Key betting note: The Indians have won eight of their last nine Sunday games.


Chicago White Sox at Boston Red Sox (-225, 9.5)

Hot pitching stat: Red Sox left-hander Felix Doubront has posted back-to-back quality starts, surrendering just three runs in 14 2/3 combined innings against San Francisco and Baltimore.

Hot batting stat: White Sox 2B Jeff Keppinger is 4-for-10 with a homer against Doubront.

Weather: Temperatures will be in the low-80s with a 70 percent chance of showers or thunderstorms. Wind will blow out to center field at 9 mph.

Key betting note: The road team is 8-1 in umpire Angel Hernandez's last nine games behind home plate.


Seattle Mariners at Houston Astros (+132, 8)

Hot pitching stat: Mariners right-hander Hisashi Iwakuma is 2-1 with a 1.89 ERA and 26 strikeouts in 19 innings against Houston this season.

Cold batting stat: Astros OF Chris Carter is 2-for-10 with five strikeouts against Iwakuma.

Weather: Temperatures will be in the mid-90s with a 20 percent chance of showers or thunderstorms. Wind will blow out to right field at 6 mph.

Key betting note: The under is 6-1-1 in Iwakuma's last eight Sunday starts.


Minnesota Twins at Texas Rangers (-200, 9.5)

Cold pitching stat: Twins right-hander Kevin Correia is 1-3 with a 4.25 ERA over his last six starts, all coming against American League Central opponents.

Cold batting stat: Rangers OF Alex Rios has just one hit in eight career at-bats against Correia, while OF Jeff Baker is 2-for-9 with five strikeouts.

Weather: Temperatures will be in the high-90s under partly cloudy skies. Wind will blow in from right field at 6 mph.

Key betting note: Minnesota is 0-8 in Correia's last eight starts on four days' rest.


Tampa Bay Rays at Oakland A's (OFF, OFF)

Hot pitching stat: Rays right-hander Roberto Hernandez was solid in his previous outing against Oakland back on April 21, limiting the Athletics to a run on three hits over six innings of an 8-1 win.

Hot batting stat: Oakland OF Yoenis Cespedes has doubled in his only two at-bats against Hernandez.

Weather: Temperatures will be in the low-70s with partly cloudy skies. Wind will blow out to right field at 8 mph.

Key betting note: The under is 10-1 in Oakland starter A.J. Griffin's last 11 starts against a team with a winning record.


** Odds courtesy Betonline.com

** Odds, probable starters, stats and weather forecast as of 8:29 p.m. ET Saturday.

Sunday's MLB National League betting cheat sheet

Check out our quick-hitting betting notes on Sunday's National League games:

St. Louis Cardinals at Pittsburgh Pirates (+104, 8)

Hot pitching stat: Cardinals right-hander Joe Kelly has won six consecutive decisions and has allowed two runs or fewer eight times over that stretch.

Cold batting stat: Pirates OF Andrew McCutchen is 1-for-8 lifetime against Kelly, while OF Travis Snider is 1-for-6 with two strikeouts.

Weather: Temperatures will be in the low-80s with a 50 percent chance of showers or thunderstorms. Wind will blow from right to left field at 7 mph.

Key betting note: The under is 9-0 in Pittsburgh's last nine Sunday games.


Philadelphia Phillies at Chicago Cubs (+100, OFF)

Hot pitching stat: Cubs right-hander Jake Arrieta is 1-0 with a 3.71 ERA and .158 opposition batting average in two starts at Wrigley Field.

Cold batting stat: Chicago 3B Ian Stewart is just 3-for-15 in his career against Philadelphia starter Kyle Kendrick.

Weather: Temperatures will be in the mid-80s with a 60 percent chance of showers or thunderstorms. Wind will blow from left to right field at 4 mph.

Key betting note: The home team is 5-1 in umpire Bob Davidson's last six games behind home plate.


San Diego Padres at Los Angeles Dodgers (-225, 7)

Hot pitching stat: Dodgers right-hander Zack Greinke is 5-0 with a 1.44 ERA and just two home runs allowed over his last six starts.

Cold batting stat: Padres OF Will Venable is 1-for-9 with six strikeouts in his career against Greinke.

Weather: Temperatures will be in the mid-80s under clear skies. Wind will blow out to center field at 6 mph.

Key betting note: The Dodgers have won 18 of Greinke's last 22 starts.


Cincinnati Reds at Colorado Rockies (+105, 10)

Cold pitching stat: Rockies right-hander Tyler Chatwood was torched in his final start before going on the disabled list July 31, allowing eight runs - seven earned - on 10 hits over 2 1/3 innings of a 9-0 loss to Atlanta.

Hot batting stat: Rockies SS Troy Tulowitzki has three hits, including a homer, in six at-bats against Reds starter Mike Leake.

Weather: Temperatures will be in the mid-80s under cloudy skies. Wind will blow from right to left field at 6 mph.

Key betting note: The over is 4-1 in Leake's last five starts.


San Francisco Giants at Arizona Diamondbacks (-160, 8)

Cold pitching stat: Diamondbacks left-hander Patrick Corbin had his worst outing of the season last time out, surrendering nine runs over 5 1/3 innings in a 9-5 defeat at the hands of the Philadelphia Phillies.

Cold batting stat: Giants SS Brandon Crawford is just 2-for-9 with six strikeouts lifetime against Corbin.

Weather: Temperatures will exceed triple digits under partly cloudy skies. Wind will blow out to right field at 6 mph.

Key betting note: The under is 8-2 in San Francisco's last 10 road games against a left-handed starter.


Miami Marlins at Atlanta Braves (-220, 7.5)

Hot pitching stat: Marlins right-hander Nate Eovaldi mystified the Braves in their last encounter Aug. 10, holding the National League East leaders to one hit while whiffing eight over seven shutout innings.

Hot batting stat: Braves 2B Dan Uggla is 3-for-10 with a homer and three walks against Eovaldi.

Weather: Temperatures will be in the mid-80s with a 50 percent chance of showers or thunderstorms. Wind will blow out to right field at 5 mph.

Key betting note: The under is 7-1 in Eovaldi's last eight starts.


New York Mets at Washington Nationals (-140, 7.5)

Hot pitching stat: Nationals righty Ross Ohlendorf limited the Mets to a run on six hits over seven innings en route to a 2-1 win in their previous meeting July 26.

Hot batting stat: Nationals 1B Adam LaRoche has a pair of homers and six RBIs in 15 career at-bats against Mets starter Jonathon Niese.

Weather: Temperatures will be in the high-70s with a 55 percent of showers or thunderstorms. Wind will blow out to left field at 5 mph.

Key betting note: The over is 7-1 in umpire Gerry Davis' last eight Sunday games behind home plate.


Interleague

Los Angeles Angels at Milwaukee Brewers (-120, 8)

Hot pitching stat: Angels left-hander C.J. Wilson went 2-0 with a 2.84 ERA and 26 strikeouts in five August starts.

Hot batting stat: Los Angeles C Chris Iannetta is 3-for-8 with four walks against Milwaukee starter Kyle Lohse.

Weather: Temperatures will be in the high-70s with a 50 percent chance of showers or thunderstorms. Wind will blow from right to left field at 6 mph.

Key betting note: The Angels are 7-1 in Wilson's last eight road starts.


** Odds courtesy Betonline.com

** Odds, probable starters, stats and weather forecast as of 8:35 p.m. ET Saturday.

Joe Wiz

Bonus Play Sunday Mets/Washington Over 7

MLB betting: September good/bad month pitchers
By MARC LAWRENCE

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

On the flip side, we’ve also listed pitchers that struggle in September team starts, winning 33 percent or less of their efforts.

To qualify pitchers must have made a minimum of 10 starts, with at least one start each September over the last three years.

GOOD MONTH PITCHERS:

Homer Bailey (11-5)

If Cincinnati is going to catch Pittsburgh or St. Louis in the NL Central or host the Wild Card game, they will need Bailey to close strong like he has in other September’s in the past. Bailey is at his best when he is focused and gets his arm in the right slot, which adds speed to his fastball and improves his cutter.

Joe Blanton (11-2)

Has been taken out of the starting rotation after compiling a 2-14 record and 6.12 ERA.

Trevor Cahill (12-3)

The right-hander has largely been ineffective all year (5-10, 4.39 ERA) and it is difficult to imagine he will make many positive contributions to Arizona in the final month of the season in spite of his past.

Doug Fister (10-5)

Except for a rough period in early July, Fister has been consistent, giving the Detroit offense a chance by keeping his team in games. When he’s on, Fister’s two-seam sinks, the big curveball breaks downward and the change-up fades from right-hand hitters.

Yovanni Gallardo (12-4)

Having the worst year of his career due to losing 2-3 MPH on his fastball. After four straight years of 200+ strikeouts, sitting at 114 entering this month playing on a mediocre club.

Freddy Garcia (7-3)

On August 23 was traded from Baltimore to Atlanta. Most likely mop-up duty for the Braves, if and when he sees the mound.

Gio Gonzalez (12-4)

After a 21-win season a year ago, Gonzalez has come back to career norms. If the left-hander is to finish with a flourish, he will have to do better than have a 1.94 difference in road/home ERA like he has this year.

Mark Guthrie (10-4)

Since his complete game back on August 5, Guthrie has allowed 38 hits over 24 innings and has not fooled many batters. Needs to get back on track where his pitchers were sinking consistently in the strike zone in the first part of the season.

Roy Halladay (11-4)

After missing three and half months, Halladay has started twice and seen his ERA sink to a still unsavory 7.94. At 36 with continued shoulder and arm miseries the past few years, hard to imagine he turns into the pitcher of the past, nonetheless, he knows how to throw, which gives Harry (real first name) Halladay a chance.

Jason Hammel (7-3)

Pitched August 29 in minor stint and is hoping for comeback for the DL to help Baltimore in a return to the postseason.

Derek Holland (11-5)

A dependable starter who has a 2.78 ERA in his past 10 outings and is a true four-pitch starter. Besides a low to mid 90’s fastball, Holland ruins foes' bat speed with a quality curve and changeup. Also does one of the better Harry Carry impersonations.

Phillip Hughes (8-4)

Having a miserable campaign at 4-13 and body language suggests he lacks confidence. Nothing more than a two-pitch starter and opposing hitters sit on one pitch or the other. Might need a change of scenery unless he finds magic late.

Ian Kennedy (11-4)

After a 21-4 campaign in 2011, Kennedy is under .500 since and was dealt from Arizona while they were still in the wild card race. Has been permitting about a hit an inning the past two years after being in the 0.835 range of base knocks per three outs the previous two years. He is tough to hit when commanding both sides of the plate.

Cliff Lee (11-4)

Lack of run support has caused this veteran lefty about four wins in 2013. Lee turned 35 in late August and can still dominate on occasion, just not quite as often. Could have helped a playoff contender, instead, stuck in Philly, though he likes it there.

Rick Porcello (9-4)

Porcello lacks a real “out” pitch and has to rely on his fielders to help him. Playing in Detroit assures him of run support, but for the most part, he keeps the Tigers in games and provides them an opportunity to win.

David Price (14-3)

Price has been right since coming off the DL and has a 2.45 ERA in his past 10 starts. He owns batters in the left side of the box, who are hitting .190 against his tosses. Oddly, has an ERA almost one run lower on the road than at home which explains his bulldog intensity.

Justin Verlander (12-4)

Not having a typical year, with punch-outs down and opponents hitting a slightly slower fastball with less movement. If the Tigers are near or clinch the AL Central in the latter stages of September, might not be a bad idea for manager Jim Leyland to have Verlander miss a start.

Jered Weaver (11-4)

The Angels might be playing golf in early October; nonetheless, every five days until the end of the season, they will have a chance to win with Weaver climbing the hill. Incredibly reliable.

BAD MONTH PITCHERS:

Bruce Chen (5-11)

After being very effective out of the bullpen, manager Ned Yost needed a fifth starter and returned the veteran Chen to the rotation. He pitched well for several starts, yet recently has been batted around of late and might be tiring and have similar late season results.

Jeff Francis (2-10)

Doing one-inning stints every five to seven days since being called up by Colorado at the end of July.

Luke Hochevar (4-9)

Has worked out of the Kansas City pen almost all year and might have found a niche with a 1.86 ERA for the year.

Travis Wood (3-10)

Has pitched better than 8-10 record indicates and has 3.09 ERA, which is certainly respectable. The opposition is hitting only .214 against him; however, playing on another bad Chicago Cubs squad will not help Wood’s record no matter how well he throws.

Sunday Night Baseball: Mets at Nationals
By STEVE MERRIL

Two teams that are outside of the playoff race meet on Sunday Night Baseball when the Nationals host the Mets.

New York Mets at Washington Nationals

NIESE HAS BEEN NICE FOR THE METS

Jon Niese is 6-6 with a 3.69 ERA for New York this season. Since coming off the disabled list, he is 3-0 with a 1.93 ERA in four starts. The southpaw has found his strikeout groove; he has fanned five or more batters in six straight starts, including a pair of nine strikeout games against the Braves and Padres. He has not lost a road start in his last four outings. Niese has not seen the Nationals since August 18 of last year when he beat them after giving up only five hits in 7 1/3 innings of work. His other start against Washington in 2012 also came on the road; that was a no-decision despite giving up just one run and three hits in seven innings.

UH OH OHLENDORF

Ross Ohlendorf is 3-0 with a 2.49 ERA and 1.08 WHIP for the Nationals. Ohlendorf has been on the disabled list already this season, and his fastball velocity dropped 10 mph in his last outing on Tuesday. The righty is making his fifth start of the season for Washington. As a starter, he has given up one earned run in three of those games. Ohlendorf faced the Mets back on July 26 and gave up one run and six hits in seven innings, striking out eight while walking only two. Ohlendorf also saw New York during a brief relief appearance on June 28 and he gave up 1 run and three hits in just two innings.

INJURY REPORT

The Nationals have a short injury list with only three players out. Taylor Jordan is dealing with a lower back strain, but he was expected to be shut down soon anyway due to an innings limit. Ross Detwiler has a lower back strain as well and he has no timetable for a return. Christian Garcia is out with a right forearm injury.

The Mets' injury list is longer featuring several important players. Matt Harvey is done for the season with a partially torn UCL, while David Wright is dealing with a hamstring strain. Johan Santana has been out for the whole season with a shoulder injury. Bobby Parnell, Jenrry Mejia, Jeremy Hefner, and Lucas Duda are also dealing with various ailments.

TRENDS

Mets are 2-6 in Niese’s last 8 Sunday starts
Mets are 5-0 Over in their last 5 Sunday games

Nationals are 4-0 in Ohlendorf’s last 4 starts
Nationals are 7-3 Over in their last 10 Sunday games

HITTERS TO WATCH

Ian Desmond 2-for-14 vs. Niese
Jayson Werth 4-for-17 vs. Niese

Daniel Murphy 4-for-7 vs. Ohlendorf
Juan Lagares 2-for-5 vs. Ohlendorf