Thursday 3-29-18 Free Plays / Trends / Betting Info / Etc

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[Can'tPickAWinner]

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Bar

Fair Grounds - Race #9 - Post: 5:03pm - Claiming - 7.5 furlongs on the Turf. Purse: $15,000 Class Rating: 86

Rating: Golden DollarGolden DollarGolden DollarGolden Dollar

#9 MIRACLE MOUNTAIN (ML=5/1)
#11 FINDLEY ISLE (ML=2/1)


MIRACLE MOUNTAIN - It looks like Graham had to know this colt on March 15th when riding him for the first time. Back on board again today. A winning percentage the likes of what Graham and Roussel have achieved together is good. I like the way this colt's finish positions have gotten better with each start recently. A sign of a racer coming into top form. FINDLEY ISLE - Owns the highest speed rating on the turf at this distance. Beschizza and Sharp have had fantastic success together over the last year. May be extremely hard to beat this steed on the turf today. In the last race scored a nice turf number, the highest of any of these animals. This gelding recorded a good speed fig of 92 in his last affair. That speed figure should be high enough to win this time around. This trainer brings horses to the grass fit and ready to go, winning over 20 percent of the time under similar conditions.

Vulnerable Contenders: #2 HALIFAX (ML=3/1), #14 MIDNIGHT CANDLE (ML=6/1), #4 CHUCK'S QUEST (ML=8/1),

HALIFAX - The lack of workouts has to make one concerned despite the nice performance in the last race. MIDNIGHT CANDLE - This vulnerable equine didn't do much last time out finishing sixth. Don't see any hint of any betterment in today's event. The Brain cautions me to stay away from horses in sprint contests that haven't hit the board in short distance affairs of late. CHUCK'S QUEST - It looks like too much speed is signed up in this contest. This speedy one will most likely get cooked on the front end.



STRAIGHT WAGERS:
Bet on #9 MIRACLE MOUNTAIN to win if we can get at least 8/5 odds

EXACTA WAGERS:
Box [9,11]

TRIFECTA WAGERS:
9 with 11 with [2,3,10] Total Cost: $3

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:
Skip

[Can'tPickAWinner]

F.A.S.T. Sheets Free Race for Golden Gate Fields

Golden Gate Fields - Race 6

$1 Exacta / $0.50 Trifecta $1 Superfecta (.10 min) / $2 Rolling Double $1 Rolling Super High Five


Claiming $6,250 • 1 Mile • All-Weather • Ages 3 and up • CR: 80 • Purse: $9,000 • Post: 2:58P
FOR FILLIES AND MARES THREE YEARS OLD AND UPWARD WHICH HAVE NEVER WON TWO RACES. THREE YEAR OLDS, 119 LBS.; OLDER, 125 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $6,250.
Contenders

Race Analysis
P#
Horse
Morn
Line

Accept
Odds


Race Type: Paceless Race. There is no true early speed in this race. * KEY ANGLES * NEAT N TEIDE: Horse ranks in the top three in TrackMaster Power Rating. Horse has the highest average Equibase Speed Figure at the distance/surface. IRISH STREET SINGER: Horse's win percentage at today's distance(sprint or route)/surface (dirt or turf) is at least 50. Horse ranks in the top three in average Equibase Speed Figure at the distance/surface. BONNIE'S RANSOM: Horse's win percentage at today's dis tance(sprint or route)/surface (dirt or turf) is at least 50. Horse has the highest TrackMaster Power Rating. OVATION: Horse has a TrackMaster "+" designation or an "L" designation. Horse ranks in the top three in TrackMaster Power Rating.
2
NEAT N TEIDE
2/1

5/1
7
IRISH STREETSINGER
4/1

6/1
3
BONNIE'S RANSOM
5/2

7/1
4
OVATION
9/2

8/1




P#

Horse (In Running Style Order)

Post

Morn
Line

Running Style

Good
Class

Good
Speed

Early Figure

Finish Figure

Platinum
Figure
4
OVATION
4

9/2
Alternator/Stalker
72

70

97.6

63.5

59.5
2
NEAT N TEIDE
2

2/1
Alternator/Stalker
82

83

92.9

77.7

71.2
3
BONNIE'S RANSOM
3

5/2
Alternator/Stalker
80

76

70.6

73.0

66.0
7
IRISH STREETSINGER
7

4/1
Trailer
78

78

95.1

75.9

69.4
5
GOLDEN BUBBLES
5

10/1
Trailer
81

77

56.0

66.4

57.9
1
LITTLE MISS HOTTIE
1

6/1
Alternator/Trailer
78

77

71.0

71.0

58.0
6
COLONEL PEGGY SUE
6

20/1
Alternator/Non-contender
70

60

71.4

52.0

42.0

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Gulfstream Park

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

Race 10 - Optional Claiming - 8.0f on the Turf. Purse: $48000 Class Rating: 98

FOR STATE BRED FILLIES AND MARES FOUR YEARS OLD AND UPWARD WHICH HAVE NEVER WON A RACE OTHER THAN MAIDEN, CLAIMING OR STARTER OR WHICH HAVE NEVER WON TWO RACES OR OPTIONAL CLAIMING PRICE OF $16,000. WEIGHT, 123 LBS. NON-WINNERS OF A RACE OVER A MILE ON THE TURF SINCE FEBRUARY 28 ALLOWED 2 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $16,000 (RACES WHERE ENTERED FOR $12,500 OR LESS


RECOMMENDED CHOICES
The Walker Group Picks

# 3 BIG DARLING 6/1

# 1 MI CUAIMA 10/1

# 5 BITACORA 9/5

BIG DARLING appears to be the wager in here. Bettors should take a good look at this one as this mare has one of the best win percentages at this distance in this group. Profitable rider and trainer team, with a +51 return on investment. MI CUAIMA - Will likely be one of the leaders of the pack going into the halfway point of the race. The winning percentage shown by horses entered by Gonzalez running at this distance are the strongest in this group of animals. BITACORA - Has to be given a chance here on the basis of the numbers in the speed department alone. Ran a strong last race.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Remington Park

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

Race 5 - Claiming - 330y on the Dirt. Purse: $17500 Class Rating: 88

QUARTER HORSE 330Y, FOR THREE YEAR OLDS AND UPWARD. THREE YEAR OLDS, 124 LBS.; OLDER, 126 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $15,000.


RECOMMENDED CHOICES
The Walker Group Picks

# 2 OLDE MONEE 10/1

# 6 POPING MONEY 3/1

# 3 HOME BOY JAMES 10/1

OLDE MONEE appears to be the bet in here and could score at a price in here. Gamblers should probably take a good look at this one as this gelding has one of the best win percentages at this distance in this group. POPING MONEY - Ran a strong last race. Might best this field here, showing strong figures of late. HOME BOY JAMES - Wainscott ought to be able to get this gelding to break out early in this contest. Ought to be given consideration in here if only for the respectable speed figure put up in the last race.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Bar

Santa Anita - Race #8 - Post: 3:47pm - Claiming - 8.0 furlongs on the Turf. Purse: $40,000 Class Rating: 114

Rating: Golden DollarGolden DollarGolden Dollar

#8 A RED TIE DAY (ML=5/1)
#2 DEFIANTLY (ML=6/1)
#1 SPANISH HOMBRE (ML=7/2)
#7 LUCKY BRYAN (ML=8/1)


A RED TIE DAY - Based on his last TrackMaster turf number alone, I'm going to play this horse. Solid average class rating on this horse. Should have the ability to run well on the turf. DEFIANTLY - You always have to be on the lookout for money generating jockey/conditioner combos; we have an instance right here. Look for this one to go all the way to the winner's circle at some decent odds today. Ran fourth in last race, but not more than 5 from the lead at the end. This gelding is the longer price of the 'split' entry from the barn of Baltas. The Baltas barn does well with horses off the claim. Just claimed this thoroughbred, expect an improvement 'Blinkers On' is a time-honored positive angle in handicapping the races. Came home fast last time out at Santa Anita. That type of move bodes well for his chances in today's race. SPANISH HOMBRE - In the last race, ran the last quarter in less than 25 ticks. To me, that's a good indication he can close well, and should be right there at the finish this race. 'Blinkers On' is a time-honored positive angle in handicapping the races. LUCKY BRYAN - Horse made up some ground down the stretch last time out on September 4th at Del Mar. That affair is better than it looked.

Vulnerable Contenders: #5 CONQUEST TYPHOON (ML=3/1), #9 ROYAL ALBERT HALL (GB) (ML=9/2), #10 RONALD R (IRE) (ML=5/1),

CONQUEST TYPHOON - This chalk horse probably needs at least one race to get back into shape. Pass on him today. Finished second in his most recent performance with a mediocre speed figure. When I look at today's class figure, it would take an improved performance to score after that in this bunch. ROYAL ALBERT HALL (GB) - Hasn't been coming close at all lately. Notched a mediocre speed rating last time around the track in a $62,500 Optional Claiming race on Mar 4th. Doubtful to see an improved performance off of that fig. RONALD R (IRE) - Could be tough for this entrant to beat this group off of that last speed figure. Not likely to improve enough to run a figure anywhere near today's class rating, so put him on the questionable contenders list.

Top HatGUEST COMMENTARY: Winston - A RED TIE DAY - I have this filed away under my pet angles. Ranks numero uno on the TrackMaster Power Rating and is going to go off at a nice price.





STRAIGHT WAGERS:
Go with #8 A RED TIE DAY on top if we're getting at least 9/2 odds

EXACTA WAGERS:
Box [2,8]

TRIFECTA WAGERS:
Pass

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:
Pass

SUPER HIGH 5 WAGERS:
Skip

[Can'tPickAWinner]

F.A.S.T. Sheets Free Race for Turfway Park

Turfway Park - Race 4

Exacta / 50 cent Trifecta / 10 cent Superfecta / Daily Double Pick 3 (Races 4-5-6)


Claiming $7,500 • 1 Mile • All-Weather • Ages 3 and up • CR: 81 • Purse: $7,100 • Post: 7:45P
FOR THREE YEAR OLDS AND UPWARD WHICH HAVE NEVER WON THREE RACES. THREE YEAR OLDS, 119 LBS.; OLDER, 124 LBS. NON-WINNERS OF A RACE AT A MILE OR OVER SINCE FEBRUARY 28 ALLOWED 3 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $7,500 (RACES WHERE ENTERED FOR $6,250 OR LESS NOT CONSIDERED IN ALLOWANCES) (IF THIS RACE IS CONTESTED WITH 10 OR MORE BETTING INTERESTS EACH OWNER / PARTNERSHIP SHALL RECEIVE A $200 TENACIOUS TURFWAY PARK STARTER BONUS.).
Contenders

Race Analysis
P#
Horse
Morn
Line

Accept
Odds


Race Type: Lone Front-runner. MALEFICENT QUEEN is the Lone Front-runner of the race. * KEY ANGLES * MALEFICENT QUEEN: Horse has run a Good Race within the last 30 days. JUST ANOTHER JOHN: Horse has a TrackMaster "+" designation or an "L" designat ion. SABBATARIAN: Horse ranks in the top three in TrackMaster Power Rating. NAN'S PIERCE ARROW: Horse ranks in the top three in average Equibase Speed Figure at the distance/surface. TAVERNONTHECROW: Horse has run a Good Race within the last 30 da ys.
1
MALEFICENT QUEEN
6/1

6/1
7
JUST ANOTHER JOHN
15/1

7/1
5
SABBATARIAN
3/1

7/1
3
NAN'S PIERCE ARROW
4/1

8/1
9
TAVERNONTHECROW
4/1

8/1




P#

Horse (In Running Style Order)

Post

Morn
Line

Running Style

Good
Class

Good
Speed

Early Figure

Finish Figure

Platinum
Figure
1
MALEFICENT QUEEN
1

6/1
Front-runner
76

69

70.2

69.0

58.5
4
CONVINCING
4

7/2
Stalker
70

65

62.0

26.9

9.4
7
JUST ANOTHER JOHN
7

15/1
Alternator/Stalker
82

76

73.4

69.6

60.1
9
TAVERNONTHECROW
9

4/1
Alternator/Stalker
80

76

59.4

65.3

61.3
5
SABBATARIAN
5

3/1
Trailer
85

74

64.0

76.2

71.7
3
NAN'S PIERCE ARROW
3

4/1
Trailer
76

83

58.8

71.6

64.6
6
INNOCUOUS
6

10/1
Trailer
75

75

44.4

57.6

45.1
8
REALITY
8

15/1
Alternator/Trailer
71

73

58.0

63.8

53.3
2
SIEGFREEDROESCH
2

15/1
Alternator/Non-contender
76

61

76.8

61.6

48.1

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Chicago Cubs vs. Miami Marlins Preview and Predictions 03-29-2018

28th March 2018 by Gracenote
The Chicago Cubs suffered from the dreaded World Series hangover last season, but they still managed to win 92 games and get back to the National League Championship Series. Their quest for a second world championship in three years begins Thursday with the opener of a four-game road series against the Miami Marlins.


The Cubs have some new faces on the roster, including closer Brandon Morrow and right-hander Yu Darvish, who is slated to start the third game of the series on Saturday. They also figure to have a new leadoff hitter in Ian Happ, who hit seven home runs this spring after belting 24 in 115 games as a rookie last season. The Marlins stayed in the playoff race longer than expected last year but finished with a 77-85 record for their eighth straight losing season. They've since parted ways with several star players - including Giancarlo Stanton, Dee Gordon, Marcell Ozuna and Christian Yelich, leaving third-year manager Don Mattingly with a young, inexperienced club.

TV: 12:40 p.m. ET, WGN (Chicago), FS Florida (Miami)


PITCHING MATCHUP: Cubs LH Jon Lester (2017: 13-8, 4.33 ERA) vs. Marlins RH Jose Urena (14-7, 3.82)

Lester's ERA last season was his highest since 2012, but he had a solid spring, posting a 2.81 ERA over four starts. The 34-year-old is making his seventh career Opening Day start and his third straight with the Cubs. Lester is 1-2 with a 4.66 ERA in five turns against the Marlins and has allowed five runs over 14 innings in the last two meetings.

Urena had a breakout season in 2017, his first full campaign as a starter in the major leagues. The 26-year-old Dominican went 5-5 with a 3.21 ERA at home last year. Urena is 2-1 with a 3.18 ERA in three career starts against Chicago and won both meetings last season, allowing a total of three runs over 11 innings.


WALK-OFFS

1. Happ went 10-for-21 with two doubles and a home run against Miami last season, including 3-for-5 with a double and a blast versus Urena.

2. Marlins C J.T. Realmuto is expected to open the season on the disabled list with a bruised lower back, which he suffered on March 11.

3. Miami 3B Martin Prado also will start the campaign on the DL, meaning Brian Anderson is slated to begin the year as the starter at third base.


PREDICTION: Cubs 7, Marlins 3

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Pittsburgh Pirates vs. Detroit Tigers Preview and Predictions 03-29-2018

27th March 2018 by Gracenote
The Pittsburgh Pirates begin a new era without their MVP center fielder and No. 1 starting pitcher when they open a three-game interleague series Thursday at the Detroit Tigers, who are also in rebuilding mode. Perennial All-Star center fielder Andrew McCutchen was dealt to San Francisco while fire-balling right-hander Gerrit Cole was sent to Houston in the offseason as Pittsburgh hopes to retool quickly after two seasons without a playoff game.

"We've got young guys that are scratching, knocking on the door of their primes," Pirates 25-year-old first baseman Josh Bell, who belted 26 homers last season, told the Pittsburgh Gazette. "We've got to come up and capitalize on these opportunities, not let them pass by, because then we'll end up in the same as last year - trudging forward a bit and fizzling out." Ivan Nova gets the start in the opener for the Pirates and Detroit counters with fellow right-hander Jordan Zimmermann as both hurlers look to rebound from disappointing seasons. Ron Gardenhire takes over as manager for the Tigers, who have been picked to finish last in the American League Central Division by many experts but still have former MVP first baseman Miguel Cabrera and are expecting another big season from right fielder Nicholas Castellanos (career-high 26 homers and 101 RBIs in 2017). Rookie third baseman Jeimer Candelario is also a key for Detroit after a strong spring training as he registered seven doubles and a pair of homers.

TV: 1:10 p.m. ET, AT&T SportsNet Pittsburgh, FS Detroit

PITCHING MATCHUP: Pirates RH Ivan Nova (2017: 11-14, 4.14 ERA) vs. Tigers RH Jordan Zimmermann (2017: 8-13, 6.08)

Nova came to camp 10 pounds lighter and determined to improve on an up and down season that ended with a combined record of 1-6 over 10 starts in August and September. The 31-year-old Dominican Republic native gave up a career-most 29 homers over a career-high 187 innings in 2017 and had a tough time on the road (3-12, 5.02 ERA) while going 8-2 with a 2.80 ERA at home. Cabrera is 5-for-15 with a homer against Nova, who is 0-3 with a 7.04 ERA in six games (five starts) lifetime versus the Tigers.

Zimmermann won his fewest games since 2011 last season and posted the worst ERA of his career while allowing 29 homers in 29 starts, but he told reporters he is feeling strong. "He's our go-to guy," Gardenhire told reporters. "I don't worry about (Zimmermann) because we know who he is. He's an established major league pitcher when healthy, and that's our goal, to keep him healthy." Newcomer Corey Dickerson is 6-for-10 with a homer versus Zimmermann, who is 1-3 with a 3.96 ERA in four career starts against the Pirates.

WALK-OFFS

1. Detroit DH Victor Martinez, who was limited to 107 games by cardiac issues last season, belted five homers in Grapefruit League action.

2. Pittsburgh CF Starling Marte moves to McCutchen's spot after playing just 77 games last season due to a PED suspension.

3. The Pirates won three of the four meetings in 2017 after the Tigers took the series 3-1 in 2016.

PREDICTION: Pirates 4, Tigers 3

[Can'tPickAWinner]

St. Louis Cardinals vs. New York Mets Preview and Predictions 03-29-2018

27th March 2018 by Gracenote
The New York Mets are bidding that a return to health, wise offseason investments and a different managerial voice will translate into better fortune this season. With new manager Mickey Callaway calling the shots, right-hander Noah Syndergaard hopes to have turned the corner on an injury-riddled 2017 as the Mets begin the season on Thursday afternoon with the opener of a three-game series against the St. Louis Cardinals at Citi Field.

While New York failed to live up to expectations and limped to a 70-92 mark in 2017, the offseason brought about a loosening of the purse strings as outfielder Jay Bruce (three years, $39 million), third baseman Todd Frazier (two years, $17 million), left-hander Jason Vargas (two years, $16 million) and right-hander Anthony Swarzak (two years, $14 million) signed contracts. The 30-year-old Bruce belted team-best totals in homers (29) and RBIs (75) despite splitting the season with Cleveland while former Indian Asdrubal Cabrera batted .280 in 2017 for the Mets, who finished tied for 18th in runs (735), 19th in batting average (.250) and 21st in hits (1,379). New York was taken to task last season by Marcell Ozuna, who went 30-for-68 (.441) with five homers and 19 RBIs against the Mets before Miami's offseason fire sale landed the promising 27-year-old in the Gateway City. Ozuna joins an outfield that rivals the best in the majors, with Tommy Pham (.306, 23 homers, 73 RBIs, 95 runs scored, 25 stolen bases) and Dexter Fowler (.264, 18 homers, 64 RBIs) looking to help the Cardinals improve upon their 83-79 campaign in 2017.

TV: 1:10 p.m. ET, FS Midwest (St. Louis), SNY (New York)

PITCHING MATCHUP: Cardinals RH Carlos Martinez (2017: 12-11, 3.64 ERA) vs. Mets RH Noah Syndergaard (2017: 1-2, 2.97)

Martinez receives his second consecutive Opening Day nod after leading the team in quality starts (20), innings (205.0) and strikeouts (217) last season. The 26-year-old hard-throwing right-hander was victimized by the home-run ball, however, as he tied now former teammate Lance Lynn after being taken deep a club-high 27 times in 2017. Martinez has limited the Mets to a .220 batting average, although Bruce has two homers among his four hits off the two-time All-Star.

Syndergaard missed approximately five months of last season with a partial tear in his right lat but showed no ill effects this spring, posting a 1.35 ERA while striking out 23 against just six walks in five Grapefruit League starts. The 25-year-old is anxious to make his second consecutive Opening Day start and first outing in general at Citi Field since April 20. "I think I forgot what it feels like to pitch at Citi Field and feel the electricity that the Mets faithful bring every game. I'm looking forward to it," Syndergaard told Newsday.

WALK-OFFS

1. St. Louis IF Matt Carpenter batted a career-worst .241 last season, a full 30 points worse than his previous low and 77 points shy of his personal-best campaign in 2013.

2. New York OF Michael Conforto, who enjoyed a breakout season with 27 homers and 68 RBIs in 109 games, will begin the 2018 campaign on the disabled list as he continues to recover from shoulder surgery.

3. Cardinals IF Paul DeJong batted 11-for-30 with nine extra-base hits -- including four homers -- against the Mets last season.

PREDICTION: Mets 2, Cardinals 1

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Minnesota Twins vs. Baltimore Orioles Preview and Predictions 03-29-2018

27th March 2018 by Gracenote
The Minnesota Twins made a surprising run to a wild-card spot in the American League last season and are looking for more with a maturing young roster. The Twins will try to get off to a strong start when they open 2018 by visiting the Baltimore Orioles on Thursday.

Minnesota added some thump to the lineup with slugger Logan Morrison, who hit 38 home runs for Tampa Bay in 2017, and bolstered the rotation with the additions of Jake Odorizzi and Lance Lynn. "We're going to bust our tail to win a championship this year. This year. We're all in," Twins second baseman Brian Dozier told the Minneapolis Star-Tribune. "My whole career here, people kept saying we need to rebuild, and then we shocked people with the fast-forward rebuild. To me, we showed that we're pretty dang good right now, and we've added from there. We've got the pieces in place to win this year." The Orioles would like to win this year as well with the future uncertain for franchise player Manny Machado, who will become a free agent at the end of the season. Machado is moving over to shortstop from third base with the departure of J.J. Hardy while Tim Beckham, who hit .306 with 10 homers in 50 games after being acquired from Tampa Bay last season, slides over to third.

TV: 3:05 p.m. ET, FSN North (Minnesota), MASN (Baltimore)

PITCHING MATCHUP: Twins RH Jake Odorizzi (2017: 10-8, 4.14 ERA) vs. Orioles RH Dylan Bundy (2017: 13-9, 4.24)

Minnesota acquired Odorizzi from the Tampa Bay Rays at the beginning of spring training and took the Opening Day honor over Kyle Gibson and Jose Berrios. "I'm not going to view myself as a different pitcher now that I'm an Opening Day starter," Odorizzi told reporters. "(I'm) just ready to do my job and do it for the other 24 guys on the team." The 28-year-old went 2-0 with a 3.10 ERA in four starts against Baltimore last season, striking out 21 in 20 1/3 total innings.

Bundy will be making his first Opening Day start as well after making it through his first full season as a starter in 2017. "Obviously, I'm honored and humbled by it," Bundy told reporters. "Very excited. Going to have to control the emotions a little bit and just pitch my game." The 25-year-old lost both of his starts against the Twins last season, serving up a total of eight runs on 11 hits and five walks in 12 innings.

WALK-OFFS

1. Twins RHPs Phil Hughes (oblique) and Ervin Santana (finger) will both start the season on the disabled list.

2. Orioles RHP Alex Cobb, who did not sign with the team until earlier this month, will not break camp with the team and will slot into the rotation sometime in the second week of April.

3. Minnesota won five of the seven meetings last season.

PREDICTION: Orioles 6, Twins 4

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Houston Astros vs. Texas Rangers Preview and Predictions 03-29-2018

28th March 2018 by Gracenote
The Houston Astros begin the defense of the first world championship in franchise history when they visit the American League West-rival Texas Rangers on Thursday afternoon for the first contest of a season-opening four-game series. Making their second World Series appearance in October - and first as an AL team, the Astros outlasted the Los Angeles Dodgers in seven games, winning the decisive contest on the road for the organization's first crown since joining the majors in 1962 as the Colt .45s.

Reigning AL MVP Jose Altuve is primed to provide Houston with another strong season as he looks to win the batting title for the third straight year and fourth time in five campaigns. The club also expects big things from Carlos Correa, who belted a career-high 24 home runs in 2017 for his third 20-homer effort in as many major-league seasons despite missing a chunk of time with a thumb injury. Texas went just 2-7 against Houston at home last year en route to a fourth-place finish in the AL West after winning back-to-back division titles. The Rangers are hoping a pair of former Cy Young Award winners can recapture their past magic and help strengthen the team's pitching staff, as the 44-year-old Bartolo Colon will start against Oakland on Monday while Tim Lincecum is being considered to fill the closer's role, although he will begin the year on the disabled list due to a blister on his right middle finger.

TV: 3:35 p.m. ET, ESPN, AT&T SportsNet Southwest (Houston), FS Southwest (Texas)

PITCHING MATCHUP: Astros RH Justin Verlander (2017: 15-8, 3.36 ERA) vs. Rangers LH Cole Hamels (2017: 11-6, 4.20)

Verlander was sensational after being acquired from Detroit on Aug. 31, going 5-0 with a 1.06 ERA in five regular-season starts before posting a 4-1 record with one complete game and a 2.21 ERA in six postseason appearances (five starts). The 35-year-old former AL MVP and Cy Young Award winner is excited to be making his 10th Opening Day start in 11 years, telling the team's website, "It's something you always cherish. ... Everybody is so high on expectations and so excited about the upcoming season, the unknown, what's going to happen with their team. It's a unique atmosphere." Verlander is 11-6 with a 3.02 ERA and one complete game in 20 career turns against Texas.

Hamels will get the ball in a season opener for the fourth time in his career and second as a member of the Rangers. The 34-year-old former World Series MVP has excelled at Globe Life Park during his career, going 17-4 with one complete game in 35 starts after winning seven of nine decisions in 12 turns last season. Hamels owns a 7-4 record and 4.19 ERA in 16 career starts versus the Astros.

WALK-OFFS

1. Astros OF prospect Kyle Tucker will begin the season in the minors despite hitting .409 with five homers and 21 RBIs this spring.

2. Texas LHP Martin Perez starts the year on the DL with lower back stiffness.

3. Houston will begin the season without 1B Yuli Gurriel, who is recovering from left hand surgery and may avoid a stint on the DL but will have to serve a five-game suspension regardless for making an offensive gesture toward former Los Angeles Dodgers RHP Yu Darvish in the World Series.

PREDICTION: Astros 4, Rangers 1

[Can'tPickAWinner]

New York Yankees vs. Toronto Blue Jays Preview and Predictions 03-29-2018

27th March 2018 by Gracenote
In any other year, a new manager -- particularly one with no experience -- would be storyline No. 1 in the Bronx. Yet the hire of Aaron Boone has been overshadowed in the whirling vortex surrounding the New York Yankees, who unveil big-ticket offseason acquisition Giancarlo Stanton in Thursday's season opener at the Toronto Blue Jays.

Coming within one game of reaching the World Series a year ago is reason enough for supreme optimism, but forgive New York fans if they are almost giddy for having visions of Ruth-Gehrig and Mantle-Maris dancing in their heads with the pairing of Stanton and Aaron Judge, who slammed a combined 111 home runs in 2017. Yankees general manager Brian Cashman has no qualms about turning the keys to a top contender over to Boone, drawing a similarity to "NASA and a space shuttle. ... The manager isn't the whole space program. I think that's the difference now," Cashman said. After making the playoffs in back-to-back years, the Blue Jays finished 10 games below .500 last season and enter 2018 with concerns over the left side of their infield -- oft-injured third baseman Josh Donaldson is dealing with general body soreness and shortstop Troy Tulowitzki is scheduled to see a specialist for a bone spur that sidelined him in spring training. Health is always a concern for second baseman Devon Travis, who missed the final 100 games last season, while the outfield will have a new look with National League imports Curtis Granderson and Randal Grichuk.

TV: 3:37 p.m. ET, YES (New York)

PITCHING MATCHUP: Yankees RH Luis Severino (2017: 14-6, 2.98 ERA) vs. Blue Jays LH J.A. Happ (2017: 10-11, 3.53)

Severino blossomed into the staff ace in his third year, finishing third in the American League Cy Young voting while nearly doubling his win total from his previous two seasons combined. The 24-year-old Dominican did not fare well against the Blue Jays, going 0-1 in two starts and allowing seven runs and 14 hits over 12 2/3 innings. Justin Smoak is 5-for-12 with a pair of homers and five RBIs against Severino.

Happ won 20 games in 2016 but he needed a strong finish last season, going 4-1 and allowing seven earned runs over his last five starts to reach double digits in wins for the fourth consecutive season. The 35-year-old won both his starts against the Yankees last season, limiting them to two runs and eight hits over 11 1/3 innings. Stanton and Judge each homered off Happ in nine and seven career at-bats, respectively.

WALK-OFFS

1. Yankees 1B Greg Bird is expected to miss six to eight weeks after undergoing ankle surgery Tuesday.

2. Blue Jays DH Kendrys Morales has 11 homers in 51 games against the Yankees.

3. Stanton is 6-for-11 with three home runs in three games at Rogers Centre.

PREDICTION: Yankees 6, Blue Jays 2

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Boston Red Sox vs. Tampa Bay Rays Preview and Predictions 03-29-2018

27th March 2018 by Gracenote
The Boston Red Sox won the American League East last season but suffered a disappointing exit in the first round of the playoffs as their starting pitching let them down and a season-long lack of power was exposed. The Red Sox tried to address both of those issues in the offseason and will get started on another division title run when they open the 2018 campaign by visiting the Tampa Bay Rays on Thursday.

Boston brought in the biggest slugger available on the free-agent market by signing J.D. Martinez to a five-year, $110 million deal after the start of spring training and made a greater effort to manage the workload of lefty ace Chris Sale in the offseason and spring training after he tired down the stretch. The biggest boost to the rotation could be a full season of former Cy Young Award winner David Price, who made only 11 starts last year but came through spring training strong. The Rays went through a bit of a rebuild in the offseason, trading away franchise icon Evan Longoria and trading or letting go of the top three home-run producers on the team in Logan Morrison (38 homers in 2017), Steven Souza Jr. (30) and Corey Dickerson (27). Tampa Bay, which also lost two of its top three starting pitchers in Alex Cobb and Jake Odorizzi, brought in veterans Carlos Gomez, Denard Span and C.J. Cron to supplement the offense and will use a four-man rotation.

TV: 4 p.m. ET, NESN (Boston), FSN Sun (Tampa Bay)

PITCHING MATCHUP: Red Sox LH Chris Sale (2017: 17-8, 2.90 ERA) vs. Rays RH Chris Archer (2017: 10-12, 4.07)

Sale led the majors with 308 strikeouts but finished second in the AL Cy Young voting after going 4-4 with a 4.09 ERA in August and September. The Florida native, who went 4-1 with a 2.66 ERA in six starts against Tampa Bay last season, was knocked from his final spring training outing after being hit in the hip by a line drive. "I don't see anything lingering from this," Sale told reporters. "Looked a lot worse than it really is."

Archer finished third in the AL in strikeouts behind Sale and Cleveland's Corey Kluber with 249 and struck out 13 in 16 innings this spring before leaving his final start after getting hit in the right forearm with a comebacker. The 29-year-old was able to go through his normal routine over the weekend and is expected to start Thursday with no restrictions. Archer struck out 18 in 15 1/3 innings against Boston last season but went 1-1 with a 5.87 ERA in those three starts.

WALK-OFFS

1. Red Sox LHPs Drew Pomeranz (forearm) and Eduardo Rodriguez (knee) will open the season on the disabled list.

2. Rays RHP prospects Jose De Leon and Brett Honeywell will both miss the season after undergoing Tommy John surgery.

3. Boston closer Craig Kimbrel (personal) made his spring training debut on Sunday and is expected to be ready for Opening Day.

PREDICTION: Red Sox 5, Rays 3

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Los Angeles Angels vs. Oakland Athletics Preview and Predictions 03-29-2018

28th March 2018 by Gracenote
The Los Angeles Angels have added several pieces to their lineup in order help superstar Mike Trout, and one of those is hoping to make an impact as a two-way player. Japanese star Shohei Ohtani is expected to make his major-league debut on Thursday afternoon as the Angels visit the Oakland Athletics for the first contest of their season-opening four-game series.

The 23-year-old Ohtani is slated to be in Los Angeles' lineup as either the designated hitter or an outfielder several times a week while also filling a slot in the team's six-man starting rotation. Ohtani struggled in both roles during the spring, however, hitting .125 with one RBI and 10 strikeouts in 32 at-bats while allowing nine runs and nine hits - three homers - over 2 2/3 innings in two starts. The Angels also have added Ian Kinsler and Zack Cozart and will get a full season from Justin Upton when they begin the season against Oakland, which once again will be led by the powerful bat of Khris Davis. The 30-year-old slugger is coming off back-to-back 40-homer, 100-RBI seasons but entered the Athletics' final Cactus League contest with only six hits in 53 at-bats this spring.

TV: 4:05 p.m. ET, FS West (Los Angeles), NBCS California (Oakland)

PITCHING MATCHUP: Angels RH Garrett Richards (2017: 0-2, 2.28 ERA) vs. Athletics RH Kendall Graveman (2017: 6-4, 4.19)

After recording a career-high 15 victories in 2015, Richards has notched a total of one while make only six starts each of the last two seasons due to arm injuries. The 29-year-old Californian had a solid spring, allowing four runs and eight hits while registering 14 strikeouts over 12 2/3 innings in four starts. Richards, who is making his second career Opening Day start, is 2-4 with a 4.12 ERA in 16 career appearances (12 starts) against Oakland.

Graveman makes his second career Opening Day start after also getting the call against Los Angeles last season. The 27-year-old native of Alabama struggled this spring, surrendering 12 runs and 18 hits over 14 1/3 innings after being limited to 19 turns last season due to injuries. Graveman has made 11 career starts versus the Angels, going 2-2 with one complete game and a 3.96 ERA.

WALK-OFFS

1. Trout drove in only 72 runs last year, marking the first time he finished with fewer than 83 RBIs in six seasons.

2. Oakland LHP prospect A.J. Puk likely needs Tommy John surgery after being shut down last week due to biceps soreness.

3. Los Angeles 1B/DH Albert Pujols owns a .433 lifetime average against Graveman with three homers and 10 RBIs.

PREDICTION: Angels 7, Athletics 3

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Milwaukee Brewers vs. San Diego Padres Preview and Predictions 03-29-2018

27th March 2018 by Gracenote
The Milwaukee Brewers are aiming to end a six-year playoff drought as they visit the San Diego Padres in Thursday's season opener. While the Brewers are looking to build on last year's 86-win season, San Diego is striving for respectability after signing free-agent first baseman Eric Hosmer.

Hosmer received a franchise-record eight-year, $144 million contract from the Padres, who went 71-91 in 2017 and have suffered through seven consecutive losing seasons. San Diego is expecting the former Kansas City Royals star to provide clubhouse leadership to a young team as well as team with 2016 All-Star Wil Myers to perk up the offense. The Brewers vastly improved their outfield by adding Lorenzo Cain (Hosmer's former Kansas City teammate) and Christian Yelich (from Miami). Former National League MVP Ryan Braun will play first base against left-handed pitchers despite publicly declaring two weeks ago that he is uncomfortable playing the position.

TV: 4:10 p.m. ET, FS Wisconsin (Milwaukee), FS San Diego

PITCHING MATCHUP: Brewers RH Chase Anderson (2017: 12-4, 2.74 ERA) vs. Padres LH Clayton Richard (8-15, 4.79)

Anderson is coming off a career best for victories and had a solid .220 batting average against in 25 starts last season and manager Craig Counsell said he will be even better this season. "He's worked hard on developing his curveball and delivery, and added velocity in his delivery," Counsell told reporters. "He's a player that's worked hard to get better." Anderson is 3-1 with a 3.99 ERA in eight career starts versus the Padres and is 1-0 with a 4.91 ERA in three outings at Petco Park.

Richard is making his first Opening Day start at age 34 only 19-plus months after the Padres re-signed him at a time when he was throwing baseballs to a 15-and-16 year-old team in Lafayette, Ind., to keep his arm loose. "(This) was definitely out of my scope at the time," Richard told reporters about drawing the Opening Day assignment. "But I know it wouldn't have been a surprise. I've worked my whole career to be in this position. It hasn't taken me by surprise." Richard was shelled for six runs and 10 hits in six innings while taking the loss in his lone 2017 outing against the Brewers.

WALK-OFFS

1. The Padres haven't made the postseason since winning the NL West in 2006.

2. Milwaukee is opening on the road for the first time since 2011, when it began the season in Cincinnati.

3. San Diego RHP Dinelson Lamet, who was originally scheduled to start the second game of the season, was placed on the disabled list after suffering a flexor strain in his right elbow in his final spring start and the Padres haven't yet tabbed a replacement.

PREDICTION: Brewers 6, Padres 4

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Washington Nationals vs. Cincinnati Reds Preview and Predictions 03-29-2018

27th March 2018 by Gracenote
The Washington Nationals parted ways with manager Dusty Baker in the offseason for his lack of playoff success despite the fact he guided the club to back-to-back National League East titles and two of the four most successful seasons in club history. Dave Martinez will take his first step toward achieving what his predecessor was unable to do Thursday when the Nationals begin their season with the first of three games against the host Cincinnati Reds.

Baker led his club to a 192-132 regular-season record during his two-year stint with Washington, but the Nationals fell in five games during the NL Division Series to Los Angeles Dodgers in 2016 and to the Chicago Cubs in 2017. Rather than opt for another experienced hand to take the club to the next level, Washington turned to Martinez, who will run a team for the first time after serving as a bench coach the last 10 seasons - all under Joe Maddon, including the last three with the Cubs. The Reds have posted consecutive 68-win campaigns and are coming off their third straight last-place finish in the NL Central, thanks largely to a pitching staff that has ranked 26th or worse in ERA each time over that span. Those woes were really magnified last season against Washington, which outscored Cincinnati 61-26 while winning six of the seven meetings.

TV: 4:10 p.m. ET, MASN 2 (Washington), FS Ohio (Cincinnati)

PITCHING MATCHUP: Nationals RH Max Scherzer (2017: 16-6, 2.51 ERA) vs. Reds RH Homer Bailey (6-9, 6.43)

Scherzer posted a sub-3.00 ERA, sub-1.00 WHIP and at least 250 strikeouts for the third time in as many seasons since signing with Washington in 2015. The back-to-back NL Cy Young Award winner is coming off an uneven spring, allowing 12 runs - including six homers - in 26 innings despite holding hitters to a .183 average and finishing with a 0.77 WHIP. Scherzer fanned 10 over six scoreless innings to get the win in his only start versus the Reds last season, improving to 2-1 with a 2.55 ERA in four starts against them.

Bailey will make his first Opening Day start at home and appears to be healthy after battling forearm and elbow injuries over the last three seasons, limiting him to 26 starts over that span. The 31-year-old didn't inspire a great deal of confidence during the exhibition season, however, going 0-2 with a 7.50 ERA in five turns while allowing seven homers in 18 frames. Bailey coughed up 16 runs in 5 2/3 innings while losing both his starts to the Nationals last season.

WALK-OFFS

1. Washington OF Bryce Harper went 12-for-29 with three home runs against Cincinnati last season.

2. Reds 1B Joey Votto, the 2017 NL MVP runner-up, managed only three singles in 22 at-bats against the Nationals in 2017.

3. Washington three-time All-Star 2B Daniel Murphy is expected to be out until at least mid-April as he continues his recovery from October microfracture knee surgery.

PREDICTION: Nationals 6, Reds 2

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Philadelphia Phillies vs. Atlanta Braves Preview and Predictions 03-29-2018

27th March 2018 by Gracenote
Two teams looking to take a step forward in their rebuilds and begin climbing in the National League East open the 2018 season Thursday when the Philadelphia Phillies visit the Atlanta Braves to start a three-game series. The Phillies were active in the offseason, bringing in pitcher Jake Arrieta and first baseman Carlos Santana to bolster an emerging young core, and made news Sunday by locking up rookie Scott Kingery to a six-year deal before his major-league debut.

The 23-year-old Kingery, who slugged 26 homers with 29 stolen bases in 132 minor-league games a season ago, hit .418 in spring training. Atlanta also has a marquee prospect in Ronald Acuna Jr., who will begin the season in the minor leagues but is expected to reach the majors quickly after hitting .432 with four homers and four stolen bases in just 44 spring-training at-bats. The Braves, who have lost 90 games or more each of the past three seasons, seem content to let their young players prove themselves this season as new general manager Alex Anthopoulos enters his first season at the helm. First baseman Freddie Freeman, who missed significant time with a wrist injury last season and actually played 16 games at third base upon his return, hit .319 in spring training and could emerge as a darkhorse MVP candidate.

TV: 4:10 p.m. ET, NBCS Philadelphia, FSN Southeast (Atlanta)

PITCHING MATCHUP: Phillies RH Aaron Nola (2017: 12-11, 3.54 ERA) vs. Braves RH Julio Teheran (2017: 11-13, 4.49)

The 24-year-old Nola took a step forward in his second full season in the Phillies rotation in 2017, doubling his win total while lowering his ERA in 27 starts and posting a 1.21 WHIP. Nola pitched well in spring training, finishing with a 3.50 ERA in five starts with a 6:1 strikeouts-to-walks ratio (18 strikeouts, three walks in 18 innings). Nola beat Atlanta in both of his starts last season, posting a 1.20 ERA with one walk and 12 strikeouts in 15 innings.

Teheran struggled mightily in his first season in Atlanta's new SunTrust Park in 2017, going 3-10 with a 5.86 ERA with 17 homers allowed in 93 2/3 innings. The 27-year-old was much better on the road (8-3, 3.14 ERA in 15 starts) and showed a new-found confidence in his slider in spring training, posting a 1.40 ERA in six starts with 19 hits allowed in 25 2/3 innings. Teheran went 1-2 with a 5.79 ERA in four starts against Philadelphia a season ago, striking out 24 in 23 1/3 innings.

WALK-OFFS

1. The Phillies won just 66 games a season ago but dominated the series against Atlanta, beating the Braves 13 times in 19 matchups.

2. Atlanta faces a daunting early-season schedule, as the Braves will play four consecutive series against 2017 playoff teams following the series with Philadelphia.

3. New Phillies manager Gabe Kapler is expected to hit Santana - who posted an OPS of .752 or higher in each of his first eight seasons - second in the lineup.

PREDICTION: Phillies 5, Braves 2

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Chicago White Sox vs. Kansas City Royals Preview and Predictions 03-29-2018

28th March 2018 by Gracenote
As the Kansas City Royals begin what appears to be a rebuilding process, the Chicago White Sox hope this is the year their rebuild moves into the next phase. The AL Central rivals start the season in Kansas City on Thursday with the opener of their three-game series.


The White Sox have a roster loaded with talented, young players they hope will be ready to compete for a playoff spot ahead of schedule. Young infielders Yoan Moncada, Tim Anderson and Yolmer Sanchez hope to take the next step in their development and complement star first baseman Jose Abreu and All-Star right fielder Avisail Garcia. The Royals' lineup features some new faces after Eric Hosmer and Lorenzo Cain - cornerstones of the 2015 world championship team - moved on via free agency. Lucas Duda slots in at first base with Jon Jay in center field, joining a lineup anchored by veterans Mike Moustakas and Salvador Perez and 2017 breakout Whit Merrifield.

TV: 4:15 p.m. ET, NBCS Chicago, FS Kansas City


PITCHING MATCHUP: White Sox RH James Shields (2017: 5-7, 5.23 ERA) vs. Royals LH Danny Duffy (2017: 9-10, 3.81)

Shields is making his eighth Opening Day start for his fourth different team, which includes the Royals in 2013. The 36-year-old is coming off a tough campaign during which he finished strong, winning three of his last four turns. Shields struggled at Kauffman Stadium, even when he was with the Royals, as he is 9-13 with a 4.35 ERA in 36 career starts there.

Duffy takes the ball on Opening Day for the second straight year after striking out eight and allowing one run over six innings at Minnesota last season. The 29-year-old left his last spring start with shoulder tightness but threw on Sunday and reported he was ready for the opener. Duffy is 7-5 with a 4.20 ERA in 20 career games (18 starts) against the White Sox, who tagged him for 19 runs over 22 innings in four meetings last year.


WALK-OFFS

1. Moustakas has hit more home runs against the White Sox (19) than any other team, including six last season.

2. Abreu has recorded at least 25 homers, 32 doubles, 100 RBIs and a .290 batting average in each of his last four campaigns.

3. Royals SS Alcides Escobar is 6-for-14 with three extra-base hits against Shields.


PREDICTION: Royals 5, White Sox 4

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Penn St. Nittany Lions vs. Utah Utes Preview and Predictions 03-29-2018

28th March 2018 by Gracenote
When it last played at Madison Square Garden in New York four weeks ago, Penn State wasn't able to reach its goal, losing in the semifinals of the Big Ten Tournament and missing out on the Big Dance. Now, the Nittany Lions have a second chance to close a deal in the Big Apple when they face Utah on Thursday night in the NIT championship game.


Penn State, which entered the NIT as the fourth seed in its quadrant, beat Temple (63-57), top-seeded Notre Dame (73-63) and second-seeded Marquette (85-80) to get to New York before routing Mississippi State 75-60 in Tuesday's night's semifinals. "Of course we were a little disappointed not to make the (NCAA) Tournament, but we made another goal," Nittany Lions senior guard Shep Garner said in the postgame news conference Tuesday. "We saw we were in the NIT, and our goal was to get to New York and win it. That's what everyone wants to do, and we've put ourselves in a good position to do." So has second-seeded Utah, which prevailed 69-64 in a see-saw tussle with Western Kentucky on Tuesday after beating UC Davis (69-59), LSU (95-71) and top-seeded Saint Mary's (67-58 in OT) to punch its ticket to the Big Apple. "There's a sense of urgency with the game Thursday to try to finish things on a high note," Utes coach Larry Krystkowiak said Tuesday in his postgame news conference. "In my mind, there are really only two teams that end their season on a high note that they are really happy about ... and to be able to go on a little streak at the end of the season would be special for us."

TV: 7 p.m. ET, ESPN2


ABOUT PENN STATE (25-13): Garner and fellow starting guard Tony Carr have fueled the charge to the championship game, averaging a combined 40.7 points over the last three contests, including 39 in the win over Mississippi State. Overall, the sophomore Carr is averaging a team-best 19.7 points and 4.8 assists on the season and is joined in double figures by forward Lamar Stevens (15.2 points), Garner (11.5) and guard Josh Reaves (10.3). The NIT's experiment with a deeper 3-point distance (22 feet, 1.75 inches) hasn't slowed Garner, who connected on 6-of-9 long-range attempts against the Bulldogs to give him a school-record 334 for his career and upping his season 3-point success rate to 43.5 percent, which ranks 19th nationally.

ABOUT UTAH (23-11): After entering the fourth quarter of their semifinal tied with the Hilltoppers at 51, the Utes proceeded to miss seven of their nine field-goal attempts over the final 10 minutes but more than made up for it by draining 12 of 14 free throws in the period to advance. Senior guard and leading scorer Justin Bibbins (14.8 points) led the way once again with 19 points and four assists, including a 12-for-12 showing at the free-throw stripe. Forward David Collette (12.5 points), guard Sedrick Barefield (11.7) and forward Tyler Rawson (10.9) also average double figures while Rawson (6.9 boards) and 7-foot reserve Jayce Johnson (5.5) are the Utes' top rebounders.


TIP-INS

1. Penn State, which will be playing Utah for only the second time (the first was a regular-season meeting in 1971), is making its third NIT championship appearance and first since 2009, when it beat Baylor to cap a school-record 27-win season.

2. Utah also will be playing in its third NIT title game and is seeking the program's second NIT title after beating Kentucky to win the tourney championship in 1947.

3. Defense is a hallmark for both teams with each allowing fewer than 68.2 points per outing. The Nittany Lions are 19-1 when holding an opponent to fewer than 70 points this season while the Utes are 18-2 in such contests.


PREDICTION: Penn State 71, Utah 66

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Washington Wizards vs. Detroit Pistons Preview and Predictions 03-29-2018

28th March 2018 by Gracenote
The Washington Wizards will learn prior to Thursday's game whether All-Star point guard John Wall be back on the floor. Wall missed the past two months after undergoing surgery on his left knee and he is listed as questionable for the contest against the host Detroit Pistons.

Wall participated in a 5-on-5 practice earlier this week and is moving closer to a return but a decision won't likely be made prior to Thursday's mid-day shootaround. "He's getting close," Wizards coach Scott Brooks told reporters on Wednesday. "The next thing is game (action). I know everybody's excited. He's definitely excited. He wants to get out there. He knows he has to continue to put the work in and we will all make the final decision." Washington is looking forward to getting Wall back as it sits in sixth place in the Eastern Conference race with eight games remaining. The Pistons are still mathematically alive for a postseason spot but their chances aren't good as they trail the eighth-place Milwaukee Bucks by five games with eight left.

TV: 7 p.m. ET, NBCS Washington, FS Detroit

ABOUT THE WIZARDS (41-33): Washington has relied more on its bench during Wall's absence and the reserves put up 61 points in Tuesday's 116-106 win over the San Antonio Spurs. "They trusted each other on offense to make the right simple plays, right reason, (unselfish) plays and it's always better when everyone is making some shots," shooting guard Bradley Beal said of the bench. "It just made it that much better." Veteran shooting guard Jodie Meeks recorded 13 points in 20 minutes off the bench for just his third double-digit outing in his past 15 appearances.

ABOUT THE PISTONS (34-40): Point guard Reggie Jackson stood out in his fourth game back from an ankle injury by scoring 20 points in 28 minutes during Monday's 112-106 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers. Jackson joked afterward that he could barely breathe in the second half as he deals with improving his conditioning but he felt he was finally able to play without limitations. "I feel like my ankle's opened up a little more and gaining more explosion in trying to attack and take what the defense gives me," Jackson said afterward. "Trying to get downhill and find ways for my teammates to get open shots and, if they leave me open, continue attacking and try to get shots for myself as well."

BUZZER BEATERS

1. The Wizards are 3-0 against the Pistons this season and won the past four meetings.

2. Starting Washington Fs Markieff Morris (15 points, 7-of-7 shooting) and Otto Porter Jr. (14 points, 6-of-7) were a combined 13-of-14 shooting against the Spurs.

3. Detroit SF Stanley Johnson is averaging 3.5 points on 6-of-27 shooting over the past four games.

PREDICTION: Pistons 106, Wizards 103

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Chicago Bulls vs. Miami Heat Preview and Predictions 03-29-2018

28th March 2018 by Gracenote
The Miami Heat expect to have center Hassan Whiteside back in the lineup when they host the struggling Chicago Bulls on Thursday. Whiteside missed the past nine games due to a hip flexor and he is expected to be cleared in the hours prior to tip-off.

Whiteside put in the practice time on Wednesday but admitted he has some concerns after missing the past three weeks. "It's not pain. It just makes it tough to lift your leg up, but it's no pain," Whiteside told reporters. "I'm hoping for the best. It might be some limitations once I come back regardless, just to get me into the flow of things." Chicago is fading the wrong directions with six straight losses by an average of 20.5 points. "You can see who's going to try to compete through it and fight through tough times," Bulls coach Fred Hoiberg told reporters. "... I have to get us better and get us to continue to play through the tough times more than we're doing right now."

TV: 7:30 p.m. ET, WGN (Chicago), FS Sun (Miami)

ABOUT THE BULLS (24-50): Rookie power forward Lauri Markkanen displayed he is moving forward after his recent back issues and he tallied 22 points in 28 minutes during Tuesday's 118-86 loss to the Houston Rockets. But Chicago didn't have many other bright spots to boast about as it committed 19 turnovers and went 8-of-37 from 3-point range while being no match for the powerful Rockets. "It teaches you lessons for the long haul," forward Bobby Portis said afterward. "Obviously we got beat bad, but you can look back on this in a couple of years when we're the team that does it. We're taking our whooping and hopefully we'll learn from it."

ABOUT THE HEAT (40-35): Whiteside's interior presence has been missed but Miami went 5-4 without him, topped by Tuesday's 98-79 rout of the Cleveland Cavaliers. Miami stands seventh in the Eastern Conference and is 5 1/2 games clear of the ninth-place Detroit Pistons, and the schedule is favorable with the Bulls, Brooklyn Nets, back-to-back with the Atlanta Hawks and New York Knicks lined up for the next five games. Kelly Olynyk played well during Whitehead's absence and is averaging 17.4 points over the past seven games after scoring a team-best 19 against the Cavaliers.

BUZZER BEATERS

1. The Heat are 2-1 against the Bulls this season and won seven of the past 10 meetings.

2. Chicago SG Justin Holiday is averaging 4.8 points on 11-of-46 shooting over the last six contests.

3. Miami is 24-6 this season when holding opponents under 100 points.

PREDICTION: Heat 114, Bulls 90

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Oklahoma City Thunder vs. San Antonio Spurs Preview and Predictions 03-29-2018

28th March 2018 by Gracenote
The San Antonio Spurs might be without All-Star power forward LaMarcus Aldridge when they host the Oklahoma City Thunder on Thursday. Aldridge is listed as questionable after suffering a bruised left knee during Tuesday's 116-106 loss to the Washington Wizards.

Aldridge underwent an MRI exam Wednesday and appears to have avoided a serious injury, which should soothe veteran guard Manu Ginobili, who was highly concerned after Tuesday's setback. "Considering the way he's been playing and our recent success in those games, we are at the point where if LaMarcus gets a cough, a cold, we are in deep trouble," Ginobili told reporters. "Hopefully, it's not serious because it's going to be really tough to score without him and we have tough games against teams that need to win. We really need him." Oklahoma City has its own issues to worry about as its odds of finishing third in the Western Conference diminished greatly with Sunday's 108-105 loss to the Portland Trail Blazers. "Yeah, of course we wanted to have a better record at this point in the season with the team that we have," power forward Carmelo Anthony told reporters on Wednesday, "but our expectation was to be the best team we could be with the understanding we have the opportunity to do something great. And we have an opportunity to make a run in these playoffs and potentially play for a championship."

TV: 8 p.m. ET, TNT

ABOUT THE THUNDER (43-32): Oklahoma City is at the front of the list of seven teams fighting for the final five playoff spots in the West and Anthony is counting on being part of the playoffs for the first time since 2013. "We'll be there. We'll be there," Anthony said. "I think we're confident enough to know that we'll be there. Where? We'll see when that time comes, but I believe we'll be there. It's something we planned on doing when we put this team together." Anthony will look to emerge from a shooting slump that has seen him average six points on 5-of-21 shooting over the past two games while scoring in single digits in three of the past five contests.

ABOUT THE SPURS (44-31): San Antonio is just 2-5 this season without Aldridge, who averaged 32.4 points with four 30-point outings during a spectacular seven-game run before being injured during Tuesday's contest. The Spurs retooled their offensive around Aldridge with star small forward Kawhi Leonard sidelined due to his quadriceps injury, and Aldridge delivered with a 23.1 average that is just shy of his career-best 23.4 with Portland in 2014-15. Forward Rudy Gay (11.1 average) could be in line for a bigger role against the Thunder but he has reached the 20-point mark just four times all season.

BUZZER BEATERS

1. The Thunder have dropped five straight regular-season visits to San Antonio.

2. Oklahoma City C Steven Adams is averaging 19.8 points and 10.2 rebounds over the past five games.

3. San Antonio PG Tony Parker is averaging just 2.4 points on 4-of-17 shooting over the last five contests.

PREDICTION: Spurs 97, Thunder 96

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Indiana Pacers vs. Sacramento Kings Preview and Predictions 03-29-2018

28th March 2018 by Gracenote
The Indiana Pacers took advantage of the injury-depleted Golden State Warriors to win the opener of their West Coast trip 92-81 on Tuesday, keeping them neck-and-neck in the race for homecourt advantage on the Eastern Conference. The Pacers will try to earn their fourth straight victory when they continue the trip by visiting the lowly Sacramento Kings on Thursday.

Tuesday's win marked the beginning of an eight-game stretch to close the regular season in which Indiana will play six on the road, with visits to playoff hopefuls Denver and the Los Angeles Clippers rounding out the current trip. The Warriors were playing without all four of their All-Stars but still held a nine-point lead over the Pacers at the half on Tuesday before Indiana clamped down on the defensive end. "We just stayed with it," Pacers head coach Nate McMillan told reporters. "They were doing some good things the first half, our defense picked up and we tried to keep them in front. We started to rebound the basketball and get out and execute on the offensive end of the floor. It's a 48-minute game and we just stayed with it and found a way to get this game." The Kings dropped three of the first four on their six-game homestand and are coming off a 103-97 loss to the Dallas Mavericks on Tuesday.

TV: 10 p.m. ET, FS Indiana, NBCS California (Sacramento)

ABOUT THE PACERS (44-31): Indiana's offensive struggles at Golden State did not extend to All-Star guard Victor Oladipo, who scored 24 points on 9-of-12 shooting and added six rebounds and six assists. Oladipo scored 20 or more points in four of the last five games and recorded a pair of steals on Tuesday to run his streak of games with at least one theft to 58. Oladipo is getting some help during the current winning streak from small forward Bojan Bagdanovic, who is averaging 21 points on 58.1 percent shooting over the last three contests.

ABOUT THE KINGS (24-51): Sacramento is 29th in the NBA in scoring at an average of 99.4 points and failed to reach 100 in five of the last six contests. The Kings, who have been strategically resting veterans in the second half to get younger players more time, went with one of their young lineups on Tuesday and watched power forward Skal Labissiere lead the team with 19 points on 8-of-15 shooting. Fellow Kentucky product Willie Cauley-Stein added 13 points on 5-of-5 shooting in the loss after going 5-of-19 from the floor over the previous two contests.

BUZZER BEATERS

1. Pacers PF/C Domantas Sabonis (ankle) returned from a six-game absence on Tuesday and scored seven points on 3-of-3 shooting in 24 minutes off the bench.

2. Sacramento PF Zach Randolph (illness) missed the last three games but could return Thursday.

3. Indiana took each of the last three meetings, including a 101-83 home win on Oct. 31.

PREDICTION: Pacers 109, Kings 96

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Milwaukee Bucks vs. Golden State Warriors Preview and Predictions 03-29-2018

28th March 2018 by Gracenote
The Golden State Warriors plan to have at least one of their All-Stars back in the lineup when they host the Milwaukee Bucks on Thursday. The Warriors were without Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant, Klay Thompson and Draymond Green in each of the last two games and suffered rare back-to-back losses.

While Curry (knee) is expected to be out through the first round of the playoffs and Thompson is still making his way back from a broken hand, Durant, who sat out the last six games, lobbied to return to the lineup on Tuesday and is expected to play on Thursday. "We're just trying to be smart," Golden State coach Steve Kerr told reporters. "When (Durant) feels like he's ready to go, we're going to give him two extra days until the next game just to be really safe. I mean, the last thing we want is for anybody to reinjure something or have something linger, so we're going to be extra cautious with everybody." The Bucks would probably prefer to give Durant and the others an extra day of rest as they try to crawl out of the No. 8 spot in the Eastern Conference. Milwaukee dropped three of its last five games, including a 105-98 loss to the Los Angeles Clippers in the opener of the four-game road trip on Tuesday, and sits a half-game behind the seventh-place Miami Heat.

TV: 10:30 p.m. ET, TNT, NBCS Bay Area (Golden State)

ABOUT THE BUCKS (39-35): Milwaukee is five games ahead of the ninth-place Detroit Pistons in the East, but coach Joe Prunty isn't taking anything for granted. "We're not in the playoffs," Prunty told reporters after the loss to the Clippers. "We have to play better and we have to win games and then we'll get into the playoffs. I looked at the standings a day or two ago -- we weren't in. We're not in right now, right? So, we're not in. I'm worried about how we're playing. ... We've got to play better and the rest of it takes care of itself." The Bucks committed 17 turnovers at Los Angeles, with Giannis Antetokounmpo and Eric Bledsoe combining for 10.

ABOUT THE WARRIORS (54-20): Golden State still leads the NBA in scoring at an average of 114 points but failed to reach even 95 points in four of the six games Durant missed, including a 92-81 loss to the Indiana Pacers on Tuesday. Green sat out the last three games with a pelvic contusion and an illness, but he is back at practice and also could return on Thursday. The Warriors placed just three scorers in double figures during Tuesday's loss, led by shooting guard Nick Young's 12 points on 4-of-11 shooting.

BUZZER BEATERS

1. Bucks C Thon Maker (groin) sat out Tuesday and is day-to-day.

2. Warriors PG Quinn Cook scored in double figures in each of the last seven games.

3. Golden State took the last four in the series, including a 108-94 win at Milwaukee on Jan. 12.

PREDICTION: Warriors 109, Bucks 103

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Tampa Bay Lightning vs. Boston Bruins Preview and Predictions 03-29-2018

28th March 2018 by Gracenote
The Boston Bruins attempt to complete their surge to the top of the Atlantic Division when they host the first-place Tampa Bay Lightning on Thursday night in a battle of the top two teams in the Eastern Conference. The Bruins are 3-0-3 in their last six games after a 5-4 shootout loss at Winnipeg on Tuesday to pull within one point and have won seven of the last eight meetings against the Lightning, including the first two matchups this season.

"I don't think we should overthink that," Boston forward David Pastrnak told reporters after scoring for the third straight game Tuesday. "It's another game and we just have to play our game. We've been playing good lately, so just keep playing that way and we'll see what happens." The Bruins play seven times in the last 11 days of the regular season, including a trip to Tampa Bay on Tuesday, and the Lightning have six games left after going 3-4-0 in the last seven. Tampa Bay leads the league in scoring at 3.51 goals per game, but has scored only once each in the last two contests after a 4-1 loss to Arizona on Monday night while getting outshot 35-20. "It's a stretch where it's not going so good," Lightning center Brayden Point told the Tampa Bay Times. "It's bound to happen at one point. You can't play 82 perfect games. I think we're not in the same groove that we were, but we've got time to get it back."

TV: 7 p.m. ET, Sportsnet, TVA; FS Sun (Tampa Bay), NESN (Boston)

ABOUT THE LIGHTNING (51-21-4): Captain Steven Stamkos (27 goals, 86 points) is expected back in the lineup after missing Monday's contest with a lower-body injury and looks to snap a nine-game goal drought. Right wing Nikita Kucherov has fallen six points behind Edmonton's Connor McDavid (102) in the race for the Art Ross Trophy, but scored four times in the last five contests. Goalie Andrei Vasilevskiy, who has a league-leading 42 wins, is expected back in net after being rested Monday but owns an 0-3-1 record lifetime against the Bruins while allowing at least three goals in seven of his last eight games overall.

ABOUT THE BRUINS (47-17-11): Left wing Brad Marchand continues to produce with two goals and five assists over the last three games and sits three points away from his career high of 85 points last season. Ryan Donato, afforded an opportunity with fellow forwards David Backes, Rick Nash and Jake DeBrusk out with injuries, has three goals along with two assists in his first five NHL contests. Zdeno Chara, who signed a one-year contract extension Wednesday, and fellow defenseman Charlie McAvoy have been out injured as well, and blue liner Matt Grzelcyk left Tuesday's game with an upper-body ailment.

OVERTIME

1. The 21-year-old Pastrnak is three points away from 200 in the NHL and three goals shy of his career high of 34.

2. Tampa Bay F J.T. Miller boasts seven goals and six assists with a plus-2 rating in 13 games since being acquired from the New York Rangers.

3. Boston D Torey Krug, who has seven points in the last four games, needs one to top his career high of 14 goals set in 2013-14.

PREDICTION: Bruins 3, Lightning 2

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Detroit Red Wings vs. Buffalo Sabres Preview and Predictions 03-29-2018

28th March 2018 by Gracenote
Not much has gone right this season for both the Detroit Red Wings and Buffalo Sabres, who have been out of the playoff picture and playing out the string for weeks. However, each team will be looking to post consecutive victories for the first time in over a month when they square off in Buffalo on Thursday night.

The Sabres had scored only two goals during a four-game slide before snapping Toronto's 13-game home winning streak with a 3-2 victory on Monday. They were shut out twice at home as part of that skid, but have won five of the last six meetings versus Detroit -- with each victory coming by one goal. The Red Wings had dropped 13 of 14 (1-12-1) before knocking off two-time reigning Stanley Cup champion Pittsburgh on Tuesday. It marked Detroit's first regulation win since Feb. 24, which was followed up with a victory 24 hours later -- the last time the team won back-to-back games.

TV: 7 p.m. ET; FS Detroit Plus, MSG-Buffalo

ABOUT THE RED WINGS (28-38-11): Veteran defenseman Niklas Kronwall scored a goal Tuesday for his 400th career point, but rookie blue-liner Joe Hicketts had a noteworthy night in his own right. Appearing in his second NHL game, Hicketts collected his first career points with a pair of assists. "He doesn't look like a normal NHL defenseman with his size, skating combo," coach Jeff Blashill said of the 5-foot-8 Hicketts. "He's been able to defy odds. Can he keep defying odds? We'll see."

ABOUT THE SABRES (24-40-12): Jack Eichel had one assist in his first five games since returning from a five-week absence due to an ankle injury, but he broke through with a pair of goals against Toronto, including the deciding tally. Buffalo will get a glimpse at another elite young talent when 2017 first-round pick Casey Mittelstadt makes his NHL debut Thursday. Mittelstadt, who finished his season at Minnesota earlier this month, will center a line with Sam Reinhart and Evan Rodrigues.

OVERTIME

1. Eichel has four goals and seven points in 10 games versus Detroit.

2. Red Wings C Luke Glendening scored twice Tuesday to move within one of matching his career-best 12 goals in 2014-15.

3. Buffalo has allowed five power-play goals in the past four games.

PREDICTION: Sabres 4, Red Wings 2

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Pittsburgh Penguins vs. New Jersey Devils Preview and Predictions 03-29-2018

28th March 2018 by Gracenote
The New Jersey Devils vie for their fourth straight victory overall and fourth in as many meetings with the Pittsburgh Penguins this season when the Metropolitan Division rivals meet at the Prudential Center on Thursday. The Devils began their current win streak on Friday as Taylor Hall capped a three-point performance by scoring 27 seconds into overtime in a 4-3 victory over the Penguins.

Hall set up three goals to increase his point streak to five games (two goals, seven assists) in Tuesday's 4-3 triumph over Carolina, moving New Jersey three points clear of red-hot Florida for the final wild-card spot in the Eastern Conference. Kyle Palmieri also recorded a three-point performance with two goals and an assist against the Hurricanes to give him nine points (six goals, three assists) in the last 10 games. While the Devils are bidding for their first playoff berth since the 2011-12 season, two-time reigning Stanley Cup-champion Pittsburgh is clinging to second place in the Metropolitan after losing for the fifth time in nine outings with a 5-2 setback at Detroit on Tuesday. "We need to start playing like every game is the most important game of the season," defenseman Kris Letang said. "Right now, we're not playing with the same urgency against teams below us in the standings as we are with the teams around us.

TV: 7 p.m. ET, AT&T Sportsnet-Pittsburgh, MSG-Plus (New Jersey)

ABOUT THE PENGUINS (43-28-6): Superstar captain Sidney Crosby has scored in four straight outings and added three assists during his point streak. Jake Guentzel set up Crosby's early tally on a 2-on-1 rush Tuesday to boost his point streak to four games (one goal, five assists) entering Thursday's tilt versus New Jersey, against which he has three assists this season. Evgeni Malkin leads Pittsburgh in goals (42) and points (93), but has just one of each during three encounters with the Devils.

ABOUT THE DEVILS (40-28-8): Coach John Hynes is asking his relatively young team to be accepting of the moment as it enters the postseason stretch. "It's important for our group to go through it because you can't replicate it in Game 20 or Game 30," Hynes told reporters on Wednesday after an optional practice. "In the situation that we're in, if you happen to get in (to the playoffs), it's a big part of the game. The games are so emotional and so intense and you're always playing teams where everyone is all in and everyone is a strong team." Goaltender Keith Kinkaid, who owns a 12-3-0 mark in his past 15 decisions, is 3-0-0 with a 2.00 goals-against average and .938 save percentage versus the Penguins this season.

OVERTIME

1. Pittsburgh has yielded 10 power-play goals in its last nine games.

2. New Jersey rookie D Will Butcher has collected nine points (one goal, eight assists) in the past 10 contests.

3. Penguins G Matt Murray has permitted four goals in each of his last three outings and 15 total since returning from a nine-game absence due to a concussion.

PREDICTION: Penguins 4, Devils 2

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Florida Panthers vs. Ottawa Senators Preview and Predictions 03-29-2018

28th March 2018 by Gracenote
The Florida Panthers failed to take advantage of their chance to gain ground in the Eastern Conference playoff race last time out, making their quest for a postseason berth more difficult. The Panthers give it another try when they continue their four-game road trip Thursday against the Ottawa Senators.

Florida fell into an early three-goal hole at Toronto on Wednesday and was unable to recover, dropping a 4-3 decision to remain three points behind New Jersey for the second wild-card spot with seven games remaining. Jonathan Huberdeau scored twice to end his seven-game drought for the Panthers, who rolled to a 7-2 victory in Ottawa on March 20. The Senators' losing streak reached six games with Tuesday's 4-3 home setback against the New York Islanders, which marked the fifth straight contest in which they allowed at least four goals. Bobby Ryan and Matt Duchene each recorded a goal and two assists for Ottawa, which is just three points ahead of last-place Buffalo in the East with six contests left.

TV: 7:30 p.m. ET, FS Florida, TSN5, RDS (Ottawa)

ABOUT THE PANTHERS (39-29-7): Henrik Borgstrom was a healthy scratch against Toronto but could make his NHL debut versus the Senators. The 20-year-old Finnish center, who was the 23rd overall pick in the 2016 draft and is a Top-10 finalist for the 2018 Hobey Baker Award after completing his sophomore season at the University of Denver, was signed to a three-year, entry-level contract on Monday. Aleksander Barkov remains one goal away from 100 for his career after his drought reached five games on Wednesday.

ABOUT THE SENATORS (26-39-11): Duchene's goal against the Islanders drew him within two of 200 in the NHL. The 27-year-old's three-point performance was his fourth of the season and fourth multi-point effort in his last nine games. Captain Erik Karlsson has collected four goals and 20 assists in 22 contests since last being kept off the scoresheet in consecutive games (Feb. 3 and 4).

OVERTIME

1. Senators LW Tom Pyatt has gone four games without a point, keeping him two shy of 100 for his career.

2. Florida D Keith Yandle, who has recorded 15 points in his last 14 contests, looks to extend the longest active consecutive games streak to 709 on Thursday.

3. Ottawa signed RW Andrew Sturtz, the all-time goals leader (54) in Penn State history, to a two-year, entry-level contract.

PREDICTION: Panthers 4, Senators 2

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Dallas Stars vs. Minnesota Wild Preview and Predictions 03-29-2018

28th March 2018 by Gracenote
The Dallas Stars likely will have to win out to have a chance to squeeze into the playoffs and the schedule certainly does not favor them the rest of the way. After finally ending an eight-game winless drought (0-6-2), the Stars will visit the Minnesota Wild on Thursday night in the front end of a home-and-home series.

Dallas kept its fading postseason hopes alive by pulling out a dramatic 3-2 overtime win over Philadelphia on Tuesday, but it sits five points out of a playoff slot and plays four of its last five away from home. "We live to fight another day," coach Ken Hitchcock said after his team ended its longest winless streak since moving to Dallas in 1993. "We've got to go win a road game. That's the player's attitude; one game at a time." Minnesota, which finishes the season with three road games against Pacific Division foes, extended its point streak to six games (3-0-3) as it attempts to lock down third place in the Central Division. "You don't want to wait going through the gauntlet in California needing all three wins or something like that," Wild goaltender Devan Dubnyk said after Tuesday's 2-1 shootout loss at NHL-best Nashville. "We've been playing some good hockey and some good playoff-like hockey. So it's nice for us. We have to keep going."

TV: 8 p.m. ET, NBC Sports Network

ABOUT THE STARS (39-30-8): Tyler Seguin eschewed an opportunity to reach 40 goals for the first time when, on a 2-on-0 breakaway in overtime, he opted to pass to Alexander Radulov for the game-winning tally against Philadelphia. "I knew he wasn't going to miss that," Seguin said of Radulov, and his second assist did provide another milestone in the form of his 500th career point. Seguin notched a goal and two assists in the last meeting with the Wild and has 22 points in the last 17 games.

ABOUT THE WILD (42-24-10): Eric Staal scored Minnesota's lone goal Tuesday and in the process etched his name in the history books. It was the team-leading 40th goal for Staal, enabling him to join the legendary Gordie Howe as the only players to go nine seasons between 40-goal campaigns. "Year-to-year, I don't think about specific numbers," Staal said. "This year, it's just been a year where it's kind of snowballed goal-scoring wise. I've been on the right end of some pretty good plays."

OVERTIME

1. Staal needs two goals to match the franchise record of 42, set by Marian Gaborik.

2. Dallas had lost four in a row in the series before a 6-1 romp at home on Feb. 3.

3. Minnesota is 1-for-24 on the power play over the past nine games.

PREDICTION: Wild 4, Stars 3

[Can'tPickAWinner]

San Jose Sharks vs. Nashville Predators Preview and Predictions 03-29-2018

28th March 2018 by Gracenote
Already assured of home-ice advantage in the opening round of the playoffs, the Nashville Predators are trying to wrap up the top overall seed as they inch closer to capturing the Presidents' Trophy. Holding a three-point edge over Tampa Bay for the league's best record, Nashville resumes a three-game homestand against the San Jose Sharks on Thursday night.

The Predators had dropped three in a row following a franchise-best 15-game point streak (14-0-1) but halted the slide with a 2-1 shootout victory over Minnesota on Tuesday night to maintain a five-point lead over Winnipeg atop the Central Division. "We took another step closer tonight to achieving that goal and keep on getting wins, and finish as high as we can," Predators forward Scott Hartnell said. The red-hot Sharks finally had their eight-game winning streak halted in Tuesday's 3-2 overtime loss at St. Louis to slow their momentum in their bid to narrow the gap on first-place Vegas. San Jose has turned in a pair of forgettable performances in its last two visits to Music City, getting outscored by a combined 14-3, including a 7-1 drubbing on Feb. 22.

TV: 8 p.m. ET; NBCS California (San Jose), FS Tennessee (Nashville)

ABOUT THE SHARKS (44-23-10): San Jose received great production from its fourth line, which scored eight goals during the eight-game winning streak, but injuries are derailing the unit. Eric Fehr (lower body) missed the past two games and Barclay Goodrow exited Tuesday's contest in the first period with an upper-body injury and did not return. "Just bad, bad luck in a season where he was playing some really, really good hockey and really breaking out as an NHL player," forward Logan Couture said.

ABOUT THE PREDATORS (49-16-11): Nashville lost to Chicago in its first game coming out of the All-Star break, but then went 9-1-1 against Central Division foes to surge into first place. "In order to try and secure that home ice for the playoffs for a round or hopefully two rounds, we knew we were going to have to take care of the division games," coach Peter Laviolette said. Kyle Turris had an assist for his 11th point in 12 games before improving to 6-for-13 in the shootout this season with the decisive tally.

OVERTIME

1. Nashville needs one point to tie the franchise record (110) set in 2006-07.

2. San Jose's Brent Burns collected two assists to lift his season total to 51, the first defenseman in team history to reach 50.

3. The Predators are 3-for-44 on the power play in March.

PREDICTION: Predators 3, Sharks 2

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Winnipeg Jets vs. Chicago Blackhawks Preview and Predictions 03-29-2018

28th March 2018 by Gracenote
The Winnipeg Jets put the wheels in motion on what became a perfect six-game homestand with a resounding 6-2 rout of the Chicago Blackhawks on March 15. The playoff-bound Jets look to turn their season-best win streak into a franchise high-tying one on Thursday as they open a four-game road trip against the Blackhawks.

Winnipeg matched a franchise record for wins in a calendar month with 10 in March courtesy of Brandon Tanev recording his first career hat trick and Patrik Laine scoring the decisive goal in the shootout in Tuesday's 5-4 victory over Boston. Going the extra mile is nothing new for the Jets, who have ventured past regulation in four straight outings to move within five points of first-place Nashville. While Winnipeg owns a stellar 32-16-4 mark versus Central Division representatives since the start of 2016-17, Chicago has won two of the three meetings between the clubs this season. Unfortunately, that's where the good news ends for the cellar-dwelling Blackhawks, who will miss the playoffs for the first time since 2007-08 and carry a 1-5-1 mark into the finale of their two-game homestand.

TV: 8:30 p.m. ET, TSN3 (Winnipeg), NBCS Chicago

ABOUT THE JETS (47-19-10): Captain Blake Wheeler has flourished versus Central foes, recording 34 (10 goals, 24 assists) of his career-high 86 points against division rivals. The 31-year-old is surging down the stretch as he pushed his personal-best assist total to 66 and point streak to seven games (two goals, eight assists) by setting up Joe Morrow's second-period goal versus the Bruins. "We're trying to get ready for the playoffs, trying to get our game so we're playing our best hockey at the end of the year," Wheeler said.

ABOUT THE BLACKHAWKS (31-36-10): Rookie Alex DeBrincat matched former Hart Trophy winner Patrick Kane with a club high-tying 26 goals and added an assist in Monday's 4-3 shootout loss versus San Jose to boost his point total to six (four goals, two assists) in his last six games. While DeBrincat has passed with flying colors, forward Dylan Sikura and defenseman Blake Hillman likely will take their first NHL tests on Thursday. Sikura recently concluded his collegiate career at Northeastern while Hillman signed with the Blackhawks after finishing up at the University of Denver.

OVERTIME

1. Laine, who will play in his 150th career game on Thursday, has been held off the scoresheet in three straight contests after erupting for 18 goals and eight assists during his 15-game point streak.

2. The Blackhawks' 28th-ranked power play is 0-for-9 versus the Jets this season.

3. Winnipeg last won seven games in a row from March 26-April 8, 2017.

PREDICTION: Jets 6, Blackhawks 2

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Columbus Blue Jackets vs. Calgary Flames Preview and Predictions 03-29-2018

28th March 2018 by Gracenote
The Columbus Blue Jackets have won 11 of their last 12 games to improve their standing in the postseason race while the Calgary Flames bowed out of contention for the playoffs following their sixth loss in a row. The Blue Jackets bid to emerge victorious in their sixth consecutive road contest overall and eighth straight encounter in Calgary on Thursday when they make the second stop on their three-game trek.

"I don't know exactly when it changed or what we did to change it, but right now every point is important and we're fighting for our lives here," said forward Alexander Wennberg, who posted a franchise-record plus-6 rating on Tuesday as Columbus scored seven unanswered goals in a 7-3 win over Edmonton. The Blue Jackets' offense has been in high gear with four or more goals in nine of their last 12 games to move within one point of second place in the Metropolitan Division. The fire has gone out in the Flames' offense, as the club was shut out for the third time during its current losing skid with a 3-0 decision at Los Angeles. Johnny Gaudreau, who has career-high totals in assists (59) and points (82), missed the contest versus the Kings and is away from the team indefinitely after his father suffered a cardiac event over the weekend.

TV: 9 p.m. ET, FS Ohio (Columbus), Sportsnet West (Calgary)

ABOUT THE BLUE JACKETS (43-29-5): Artemi Panarin is enjoying a March to remember with a franchise-record 19 points (eight goals, 11 assists) this month, including a goal and an assist against the Oilers. The former Calder Trophy recipient became the fifth player in club history to reach the 70-point plateau in a single season while Thomas Vanek is making his mark with his new team after his 11th career hat trick against Edmonton boosted his total to 13 points (seven goals, six assists) in 14 games since being acquired from Vancouver. Fellow forward Boone Jenner has done quite all right for himself with 11 points (six goals, five assists) in his past 10 games.

ABOUT THE FLAMES (35-32-10): Mike Smith has conceded at least three goals for the sixth time in seven outings since returning from a lower-body injury and saw his 40-save performance go by the boards in a 1-0 overtime loss in Columbus on Nov. 22. "I've been in this situation before," the 36-year-old said. "It's about playing to the end. You're paid real good money to be in this league. I think even when you're not in a playoff spot, you don't take it for granted." A primary reason Calgary will be sitting out the NHL's second season could be its dismal home record, as it owns just a 15-18-4 mark at Scotiabank Saddledome.

OVERTIME

1. Columbus has collected at least a point in 13 of its last 16 meetings (11-3-2) versus Calgary.

2. The Flames' 27th-ranked power play is mired in a 1-for-42 rut over the last 14 games.

3. With his next win, John Tortorella will supplant Todd Richards (127) as the all-time winningest coach in Blue Jackets history.

PREDICTION: Blue Jackets 4, Flames 1

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Edmonton Oilers vs. Vancouver Canucks Preview and Predictions 03-29-2018

28th March 2018 by Gracenote
The Vancouver Canucks have played the spoiler role well the last two games and look to continue their strong play when the Edmonton Oilers pay a visit Thursday for the first of two meetings between the non-playoff teams before the season ends. The Canucks are 3-1-0 in their last four games, including a pair of 4-1 victories against playoff hopefuls Dallas and Anaheim in the past two outings.

"It's tough when you're not playing meaningful games, but at the same time for us they are meaningful in a way," Vancouver center Brandon Sutter told reporters after notching two goals and an assist against Anaheim on Tuesday. "We didn't like the way we finished last season. ... and this has a completely different feel. It's something to get excited about." The Canucks expect to have recently signed forward Adam Gaudette in the lineup for his NHL debut against Edmonton, which has dropped two straight while allowing 12 total goals. The Oilers jumped out to a 3-0 lead in the first period Tuesday before suffering a 7-3 loss to Columbus at home despite three more points from red-hot captain Connor McDavid. "We had the good start and then the game just went right back to where we were at during the start of the year," McDavid told reporters. "It's disappointing."

TV: 10 p.m. ET, Sportsnet One, Sportsnet East, Sportsnet Ontario, Sportsnet Pacific

ABOUT THE OILERS (34-37-6): McDavid is starting to pull away in his quest for a second straight Art Ross Trophy, reaching a career-high 102 points after posting six goals and seven assists during a five-game point streak. Center Leon Draisaitl is two from his second straight 70-point season and McDavid's new linemate Ryan Nugent-Hopkins boasts two goals and five assists in the past five contests. Edmonton has given up the third-most goals in the league this season (249) after allowing 207 in 2016-17 - the eighth least in the NHL.

ABOUT THE CANUCKS (28-40-9): Gaudette, a forward who led the NCAA in goals (30) and points (60) while being named Hockey East Player of the Year for Northeastern, adds another young player with offensive talent to the mix for Vancouver. Gaudette was picked in the fifth round in 2015 and has scored 56 times in the last two seasons, taking the Huskies to the NCAA Tournament last weekend before signing Monday. Goalie Jacob Markstrom has allowed only four goals in winning his last three starts to reach 20 victories (21) for the first time in his career.

OVERTIME

1. McDavid joined a group including Wayne Gretzky, Dale Hawerchuk, Mario Lemieux, Sidney Crosby, Joe Sakic and Jimmy Carson with multiple 100-point seasons before their 22nd birthday.

2. Vancouver captain C Henrik Sedin has a goal and three assists over the last four games and sits three points from his 12th straight full season with at least 50.

3. The Oilers are 7-1-2 in the last 10 meetings, but the Canucks won 3-2 in Vancouver on Oct. 7 with two goals from F Bo Horvat.

PREDICTION: Canucks 4, Oilers 3

[Can'tPickAWinner]

MLB
Dunkel

Thursday, March 29

Chicago Cubs @ Miami

Game 901-902
March 29, 2018 @ 12:40 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Chicago Cubs
(Lester) 15.268
Miami
(Urena) 13.677
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Chicago Cubs
by 1 1/2
7
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Chicago Cubs
-200
8 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Chicago Cubs
(-200); Under

St. Louis @ NY Mets

Game 903-904
March 29, 2018 @ 1:10 pm

Dunkel Rating:
St. Louis
(Mrtinez) 13.693
NY Mets
(Syndrgrd) 11.974
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
St. Louis
by 1 1/2
5
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
NY Mets
-140
7
Dunkel Pick:
St. Louis
(+120); Under

Washington @ Cincinnati

Game 905-906
March 29, 2018 @ 4:10 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Washington
(Scherzer) 14.604
Cincinnati
(Bailey) 16.225
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Cincinnati
by 1 1/2
7
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Washington
-175
8 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Cincinnati
(+155); Under

Philadelphia @ Atlanta

Game 907-908
March 29, 2018 @ 4:10 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Philadelphia
(Nola) 15.624
Atlanta
(Teheran) 13.546
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Philadelphia
by 2
8
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Philadelphia
-120
8 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Philadelphia
(-120); Under

Milwaukee @ San Diego

Game 909-910
March 29, 2018 @ 4:10 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Milwaukee
(Andrson) 15.311
San Diego
(Richard) 12.697
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Milwaukee
by 2 1/2
10
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Milwaukee
-115
8 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Milwaukee
(-115); Over

San Francisco @ LA Dodgers

Game 911-912
March 29, 2018 @ 7:08 pm

Dunkel Rating:
San Francisco
(Blach) 13.519
LA Dodgers
(Kershaw) 18.689
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
LA Dodgers
by 5
9
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
LA Dodgers
-280
7
Dunkel Pick:
LA Dodgers
(-280); Over

Colorado @ Arizona

Game 913-914
March 29, 2018 @ 10:10 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Colorado
(Gray) 15.072
Arizona
(Corbin) 16.574
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Arizona
by 1 1/2
11
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Arizona
-110
9 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Arizona
(-110); Over

Minnesota @ Baltimore

Game 915-916
March 29, 2018 @ 3:05 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Minnesota
(Odorizzi) 16.254
Baltimore
(Bundy) 14.710
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Minnesota
by 2
10
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Baltimore
-120
9 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Minnesota
(+100); Over

Pittsburgh @ Detroit

Game 929-930
March 29, 2018 @ 1:10 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Pittsburgh
(Nova) 14.494
Detroit
(Zmmrmnn) 15.820
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Detroit
by 1 1/2
9
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Pittsburgh
-115
10
Dunkel Pick:
Detroit
(-105); Under

Houston @ Texas

Game 917-918
March 29, 2018 @ 3:35 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Houston
(Verlnder) 18.529
Texas
(Hamels) 14.419
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Houston
by 4
8
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Houston
-160
10
Dunkel Pick:
Houston
(-160); Under

NY Yankees @ Toronto

Game 919-920
March 29, 2018 @ 3:37 pm

Dunkel Rating:
NY Yankees
(Severino) 16.446
Toronto
(Happ) 17.854
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Toronto
by 1 1/2
7
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
NY Yankees
-145
8 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Toronto
(+125); Under

Boston @ Tampa Bay

Game 921-922
March 29, 2018 @ 4:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Boston
(Sale) 17.216
Tampa Bay
(Archer) 15.850
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Boston
by 1 1/2
9
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Boston
-160
7
Dunkel Pick:
Boston
(-160); Over

LA Angels @ Oakland

Game 923-924
March 29, 2018 @ 4:05 pm

Dunkel Rating:
LA Angels
(Richards) 16.059
Oakland
(Grveman) 14.514
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
LA Angels
by 1 1/2
11
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
LA Angels
-125
9
Dunkel Pick:
LA Angels
(-125); Over

Chicago White Sox @ Kansas City

Game 925-926
March 29, 2018 @ 4:15 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Chicago White Sox
(Shields) 15.773
Kansas City
(DuffY) 13.547
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Chicago White Sox
by 2
8
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Kansas City
-160
9 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Chicago White Sox
(+140); Under

Cleveland @ Seattle

Game 927-928
March 29, 2018 @ 10:10 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Cleveland
(Kluber) 16.970
Seattle
(Hernandez) 15.392
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Cleveland
by 1 1/2
5
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Cleveland
-155
7 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Cleveland
(-155); Under

[Can'tPickAWinner]

MLB
Long Sheet

Thursday, March 29

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CHICAGO CUBS (96 - 76) at MIAMI (77 - 85) - 12:40 PM
JON LESTER (L) vs. JOSE URENA (R)
Top Trends for this game.
CHICAGO CUBS are 1695-1762 (-267.3 Units) against the money line in all games since 1997.
CHICAGO CUBS are 38-38 (-21.8 Units) against the money line in day games over the last 2 seasons.
CHICAGO CUBS are 1250-1309 (-204.7 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters since 1997.

Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.

JON LESTER vs. MIAMI since 1997
LESTER is 1-2 when starting against MIAMI with an ERA of 4.66 and a WHIP of 1.414.
His team's record is 2-3 (-2.9 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 4-1. (+2.7 units)

JOSE URENA vs. CHICAGO CUBS since 1997
URENA is 2-1 when starting against CHICAGO CUBS with an ERA of 3.18 and a WHIP of 1.235.
His team's record is 2-1 (+2.0 units) in these starts. The OVER is 1-2. (-1.3 units)

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ST LOUIS (83 - 79) at NY METS (70 - 92) - 1:10 PM
CARLOS MARTINEZ (R) vs. NOAH SYNDERGAARD (R)
Top Trends for this game.
NY METS are 70-92 (-30.2 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
NY METS are 37-44 (-17.6 Units) against the money line in home games over the last 2 seasons.
NY METS are 14-33 (-22.4 Units) against the money line in day games over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.

CARLOS MARTINEZ vs. NY METS since 1997
MARTINEZ is 3-1 when starting against NY METS with an ERA of 2.54 and a WHIP of 1.341.
His team's record is 4-1 (+3.3 units) in these starts. The OVER is 3-1. (+2.0 units)

NOAH SYNDERGAARD vs. ST LOUIS since 1997
SYNDERGAARD is 0-2 when starting against ST LOUIS with an ERA of 2.77 and a WHIP of 1.231.
His team's record is 0-2 (-2.6 units) in these starts. The OVER is 0-2. (-2.4 units)

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

WASHINGTON (99 - 68) at CINCINNATI (68 - 94) - 4:10 PM
MAX SCHERZER (R) vs. HOMER BAILEY (R)
Top Trends for this game.
WASHINGTON is 27-30 (-16.6 Units) against the money line in day games over the last 2 seasons.
WASHINGTON is 51-32 (+14.7 Units) against the money line in road games over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.

MAX SCHERZER vs. CINCINNATI since 1997
SCHERZER is 2-1 when starting against CINCINNATI with an ERA of 2.55 and a WHIP of 0.973.
His team's record is 2-2 (-0.9 units) in these starts. The OVER is 1-3. (-2.4 units)

HOMER BAILEY vs. WASHINGTON since 1997
BAILEY is 1-5 when starting against WASHINGTON with an ERA of 8.44 and a WHIP of 1.800.
His team's record is 1-5 (-4.3 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 3-3. (-0.4 units)

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

PHILADELPHIA (66 - 96) at ATLANTA (72 - 90) - 4:10 PM
AARON NOLA (R) vs. JULIO TEHERAN (R)
Top Trends for this game.
PHILADELPHIA is 7-19 (-11.7 Units) against the money line on the road when the money line is +125 to -125 over the last 2 seasons.
PHILADELPHIA is 42-75 (-25.5 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
TEHERAN is 10-25 (-18.5 Units) against the money line in home games over the last 3 seasons. (Team's Record)
TEHERAN is 3-12 (-11.6 Units) against the money line in home games against division opponents over the last 3 seasons. (Team's Record)

Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.

AARON NOLA vs. ATLANTA since 1997
NOLA is 5-1 when starting against ATLANTA with an ERA of 1.96 and a WHIP of 1.109.
His team's record is 5-2 (+2.4 units) in these starts. The OVER is 3-4. (-1.4 units)

JULIO TEHERAN vs. PHILADELPHIA since 1997
TEHERAN is 8-6 when starting against PHILADELPHIA with an ERA of 3.39 and a WHIP of 1.131.
His team's record is 11-7 (+1.8 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 10-6. (+3.2 units)

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

MILWAUKEE (86 - 76) at SAN DIEGO (71 - 91) - 4:10 PM
CHASE ANDERSON (R) vs. CLAYTON RICHARD (L)
Top Trends for this game.
SAN DIEGO is 43-38 (+12.1 Units) against the money line in home games over the last 2 seasons.
SAN DIEGO is 51-36 (+25.8 Units) against the money line at home when the total is 8 to 8.5 over the last 3 seasons.
MILWAUKEE is 86-76 (+17.9 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
MILWAUKEE is 42-39 (+13.5 Units) against the money line in road games over the last 2 seasons.
MILWAUKEE is 47-36 (+20.7 Units) against the money line against left-handed starters over the last 3 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.

CHASE ANDERSON vs. SAN DIEGO since 1997
ANDERSON is 3-1 when starting against SAN DIEGO with an ERA of 3.99 and a WHIP of 1.310.
His team's record is 3-5 (-2.7 units) in these starts. The OVER is 7-1. (+6.2 units)

CLAYTON RICHARD vs. MILWAUKEE since 1997
RICHARD is 3-4 when starting against MILWAUKEE with an ERA of 5.79 and a WHIP of 1.521.
His team's record is 4-5 (-0.8 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 4-4. (-0.7 units)

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

SAN FRANCISCO (64 - 98) at LA DODGERS (114 - 63) - 7:05 PM
TY BLACH (L) vs. CLAYTON KERSHAW (L)
Top Trends for this game.
SAN FRANCISCO is 64-98 (-37.2 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
SAN FRANCISCO is 26-55 (-27.7 Units) against the money line in road games over the last 2 seasons.
SAN FRANCISCO is 9-29 (-19.8 Units) against the money line in road games against division opponents over the last 2 seasons.
SAN FRANCISCO is 6-20 (-15.2 Units) against the money line in road games in day games over the last 2 seasons.
KERSHAW is 47-10 (+24.5 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 3 seasons. (Team's Record)
KERSHAW is 67-22 (+35.3 Units) against the money line in day games since 1997. (Team's Record)
LA DODGERS are 44-35 (-15.7 Units) against the money line against division opponents over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.

TY BLACH vs. LA DODGERS since 1997
BLACH is 2-2 when starting against LA DODGERS with an ERA of 1.67 and a WHIP of 0.963.
His team's record is 2-2 (+1.3 units) in these starts. The OVER is 0-4. (-4.5 units)

CLAYTON KERSHAW vs. SAN FRANCISCO since 1997
KERSHAW is 22-9 when starting against SAN FRANCISCO with an ERA of 1.58 and a WHIP of 0.823.
His team's record is 26-14 (+4.6 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 27-11. (+14.8 units)

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

COLORADO (87 - 76) at ARIZONA (94 - 72) - 10:10 PM
JON GRAY (R) vs. PAT CORBIN (L)
Top Trends for this game.
COLORADO is 316-436 (-109.8 Units) against the money line on the road when the money line is +125 to -125 since 1997.
COLORADO is 447-709 (-139.1 Units) against the money line in road games in night games since 1997.
ARIZONA is 94-72 (+14.8 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
ARIZONA is 14-5 (+9.8 Units) against the money line when playing on Thursday over the last 2 seasons.
COLORADO is 28-20 (+14.1 Units) against the money line against left-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
ARIZONA is 866-772 (-94.3 Units) against the money line in home games since 1997.
ARIZONA is 612-560 (-75.8 Units) against the money line in home games against right-handed starters since 1997.

Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.

JON GRAY vs. ARIZONA since 1997
GRAY is 2-3 when starting against ARIZONA with an ERA of 5.69 and a WHIP of 1.579.
His team's record is 3-3 (-0.6 units) in these starts. The OVER is 3-2. (+0.7 units)

PAT CORBIN vs. COLORADO since 1997
CORBIN is 7-3 when starting against COLORADO with an ERA of 4.68 and a WHIP of 1.346.
His team's record is 12-4 (+7.7 units) in these starts. The OVER is 6-10. (-4.8 units)

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

MINNESOTA (85 - 78) at BALTIMORE (75 - 87) - 3:05 PM
JAKE ODORIZZI (R) vs. DYLAN BUNDY (R)
Top Trends for this game.
MINNESOTA is 85-78 (+10.6 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
MINNESOTA is 44-38 (+14.3 Units) against the money line in road games over the last 2 seasons.
MINNESOTA is 34-24 (+17.0 Units) against the money line in road games against right-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.

JAKE ODORIZZI vs. BALTIMORE since 1997
ODORIZZI is 5-4 when starting against BALTIMORE with an ERA of 4.90 and a WHIP of 1.411.
His team's record is 9-8 (+0.1 units) in these starts. The OVER is 9-7. (+2.0 units)

DYLAN BUNDY vs. MINNESOTA since 1997
BUNDY is 0-2 when starting against MINNESOTA with an ERA of 6.00 and a WHIP of 1.333.
His team's record is 0-2 (-2.4 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 1-1. (+0.0 units)

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

HOUSTON (112 - 68) at TEXAS (78 - 84) - 3:35 PM
JUSTIN VERLANDER (R) vs. COLE HAMELS (L)
Top Trends for this game.
HOUSTON is 13-22 (-16.7 Units) against the money line when playing on Thursday over the last 3 seasons.
TEXAS is 173-154 (+24.5 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 3 seasons.
TEXAS is 78-56 (+28.9 Units) against the money line when the total is 9 to 9.5 over the last 3 seasons.
HAMELS is 37-20 (+16.2 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 3 seasons. (Team's Record)
HOUSTON is 112-68 (+16.2 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
HOUSTON is 56-34 (+13.5 Units) against the money line in road games over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.

JUSTIN VERLANDER vs. TEXAS since 1997
VERLANDER is 12-7 when starting against TEXAS with an ERA of 3.23 and a WHIP of 1.149.
His team's record is 13-9 (+2.4 units) in these starts. The OVER is 11-10. (+0.1 units)

COLE HAMELS vs. HOUSTON since 1997
HAMELS is 7-4 when starting against HOUSTON with an ERA of 4.19 and a WHIP of 1.223.
His team's record is 11-5 (+0.6 units) in these starts. The OVER is 7-7. (-0.5 units)

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

NY YANKEES (98 - 77) at TORONTO (76 - 86) - 3:35 PM
LUIS SEVERINO (R) vs. J.A. HAPP (L)
Top Trends for this game.
NY YANKEES are 11-25 (-16.0 Units) against the money line on the road when the total is 8 to 8.5 over the last 2 seasons.
HAPP is 20-7 (+12.4 Units) against the money line in day games over the last 3 seasons. (Team's Record)

Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.

LUIS SEVERINO vs. TORONTO since 1997
SEVERINO is 0-3 when starting against TORONTO with an ERA of 6.11 and a WHIP of 1.536.
His team's record is 2-4 (-1.9 units) in these starts. The OVER is 4-2. (+1.8 units)

J.A. HAPP vs. NY YANKEES since 1997
HAPP is 8-2 when starting against NY YANKEES with an ERA of 3.61 and a WHIP of 1.223.
His team's record is 10-6 (+5.0 units) in these starts. The OVER is 6-9. (-4.0 units)

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

BOSTON (94 - 72) at TAMPA BAY (80 - 82) - 4:00 PM
CHRIS SALE (L) vs. CHRIS ARCHER (R)
Top Trends for this game.
BOSTON is 14-23 (-17.2 Units) against the money line when playing on Thursday over the last 3 seasons.
TAMPA BAY is 118-135 (-44.7 Units) against the money line when the total is 7 or less since 1997.
TAMPA BAY is 81-90 (-36.6 Units) against the money line at home when the total is 7 or less since 1997.
ARCHER is 27-40 (-21.0 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 3 seasons. (Team's Record)
ARCHER is 10-22 (-14.8 Units) against the money line against division opponents over the last 3 seasons. (Team's Record)

Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.

CHRIS SALE vs. TAMPA BAY since 1997
SALE is 8-5 when starting against TAMPA BAY with an ERA of 3.28 and a WHIP of 0.975.
His team's record is 9-5 (+2.4 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 7-6. (+0.2 units)

CHRIS ARCHER vs. BOSTON since 1997
ARCHER is 2-12 when starting against BOSTON with an ERA of 5.45 and a WHIP of 1.677.
His team's record is 6-13 (-9.9 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 7-12. (-7.1 units)

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

LA ANGELS (80 - 82) at OAKLAND (75 - 87) - 4:05 PM
GARRETT RICHARDS (R) vs. KENDALL GRAVEMAN (R)
Top Trends for this game.
OAKLAND is 46-35 (+13.3 Units) against the money line in home games over the last 2 seasons.
OAKLAND is 35-27 (+11.0 Units) against the money line in day games over the last 2 seasons.
LA ANGELS are 545-521 (+45.1 Units) against the money line in road games since 1997.
LA ANGELS are 189-154 (+49.0 Units) against the money line in road games in day games since 1997.

Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.

GARRETT RICHARDS vs. OAKLAND since 1997
RICHARDS is 2-4 when starting against OAKLAND with an ERA of 4.43 and a WHIP of 1.397.
His team's record is 4-8 (-5.7 units) in these starts. The OVER is 7-5. (+2.0 units)

KENDALL GRAVEMAN vs. LA ANGELS since 1997
GRAVEMAN is 2-2 when starting against LA ANGELS with an ERA of 3.96 and a WHIP of 1.288.
His team's record is 5-6 (-0.0 units) in these starts. The OVER is 6-5. (+0.6 units)

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

CHI WHITE SOX (67 - 95) at KANSAS CITY (80 - 82) - 4:15 PM
JAMES SHIELDS (R) vs. DANNY DUFFY (L)
Top Trends for this game.
KANSAS CITY is 36-24 (+12.6 Units) against the money line in home games against right-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
KANSAS CITY is 284-399 (-106.7 Units) against the money line at home when the total is 9 to 9.5 since 1997.

Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.

JAMES SHIELDS vs. KANSAS CITY since 1997
SHIELDS is 7-2 when starting against KANSAS CITY with an ERA of 4.05 and a WHIP of 1.223.
His team's record is 8-5 (+0.9 units) in these starts. The OVER is 6-6. (-0.2 units)

DANNY DUFFY vs. CHI WHITE SOX since 1997
DUFFY is 7-5 when starting against CHI WHITE SOX with an ERA of 4.27 and a WHIP of 1.293.
His team's record is 12-6 (+5.7 units) in these starts. The OVER is 9-8. (+1.1 units)

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

CLEVELAND (104 - 63) at SEATTLE (78 - 84) - 10:10 PM
COREY KLUBER (R) vs. FELIX HERNANDEZ (R)
Top Trends for this game.
CLEVELAND is 28-7 (+20.1 Units) against the money line when playing on Thursday over the last 3 seasons.
SEATTLE is 898-815 (-115.4 Units) against the money line in home games since 1997.
SEATTLE is 163-205 (-58.6 Units) against the money line when playing on Thursday since 1997.
SEATTLE is 626-580 (-103.2 Units) against the money line in home games in night games since 1997.
SEATTLE is 630-568 (-90.6 Units) against the money line in home games against right-handed starters since 1997.

Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.

COREY KLUBER vs. SEATTLE since 1997
KLUBER is 3-1 when starting against SEATTLE with an ERA of 1.50 and a WHIP of 0.967.
His team's record is 3-1 (+1.1 units) in these starts. The OVER is 1-3. (-2.0 units)

FELIX HERNANDEZ vs. CLEVELAND since 1997
HERNANDEZ is 7-6 when starting against CLEVELAND with an ERA of 2.95 and a WHIP of 1.264.
His team's record is 8-8 (-2.1 units) in these starts. The OVER is 5-11. (-7.0 units)

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PITTSBURGH (75 - 87) at DETROIT (64 - 98) - 1:10 PM
IVAN NOVA (R) vs. JORDAN ZIMMERMANN (R)
Top Trends for this game.
PITTSBURGH is 15-29 (-13.6 Units) against the money line on the road when the money line is +125 to -125 over the last 2 seasons.
NOVA is 2-11 (-9.0 Units) against the money line on the road when the money line is +125 to -125 over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
DETROIT is 64-98 (-31.9 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
DETROIT is 43-76 (-30.6 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.

IVAN NOVA vs. DETROIT since 1997
NOVA is 0-4 when starting against DETROIT with an ERA of 7.63 and a WHIP of 1.859.
His team's record is 2-4 (-2.6 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 2-4. (-2.5 units)

JORDAN ZIMMERMANN vs. PITTSBURGH since 1997
ZIMMERMANN is 1-3 when starting against PITTSBURGH with an ERA of 3.96 and a WHIP of 1.320.
His team's record is 1-3 (-2.2 units) in these starts. The OVER is 2-1. (+1.2 units)

[Can'tPickAWinner]

MLB

Thursday, March 29

National League
Cubs (0-0) @ Marlins (0-0)
Lester is 2-0, 1.25 in his last four starts; over is 9-2-1 in his last 12 starts. Lester is 1-2, 4.66 in five career starts vs Miami.

Urena is 2-1, 3.75 in his last six starts; three of his last four starts went over. Urena is 2-1, 3.18 in three starts against the Cubs.

Cardinals (0-0) @ Mets (0-0)
Martinez is 1-1, 6.55 in his last four starts; over is 12-5 in his last 17 starts. Martinez is 3-2, 2.41 in 8 games (5 starts) against the Mets.

Syndegaard was 1-2, 4.15 in seven starts LY; three of his last four starts went over. Syndegaard is 0-2, 2.77 in two starts against the Cardinals.

Nationals (0-0) @ Reds (0-0)
Scherzer is 2-0, 1.59 in his last four starts; under is 7-3 in his last 10 starts. Scherzer is 2-1, 2.55 in four starts against the Reds.

Bailey is 2-1, 2.70 in his last three starts; under is 4-1-1 in his last six. Bailey is 1-5, 8.44 in six starts against Washington.

Phillies (0-0) @ Braves (0-0)
Nola is 2-1, 2.25 in his last three starts; under is 10-5-1 in his last 16 starts. Nola is 5-1, 1.96 in seven career starts vs Atlanta.

Teheran is 4-2, 2.60 in his last seven starts; under is 4-0-2 in his last six. Teheran is 8-6, 3.38 in 18 starts vs Philly.

Brewers (0-0) @ Padres (0-0)
Anderson is 5-1, 2.85 in his last seven starts; under is 7-3-1 in his last 11 starts. Anderson is 3-1, 3.99 in eight starts vs San Diego.

Richard is 2-2, 5.06 in his last four starts; under is 7-3-1 in his last 11. Richard is 3-4, 5.51 in 15 games (9 starts) vs Milwaukee.

Giants (0-0) @ Dodgers (0-0)
Blach is 0-5, 7.90 in his last five starts; over is 5-2 in his last seven starts. Blach is 2-2, 2.23 in seven games (4 starts) against the Dodgers.

Kershaw is 4-0, 3.45 in his last seven starts; over is 4-1-1 in his last six. Kershaw is 22-9, 1.60 in 40 starts against the Giants.

Rockies (0-0) @ Diamondbacks (0-0)
Gray is 4-1, 3.16 in his last six starts; under is 6-3 in his last nine starts. Gray is 2-2, 4.75 in five starts vs Arizona.

Corbin is 1-2, 5.96 in his last four starts; over is 9-5 in his last 14. Corbin is 7-3, 4.76 in 16 starts against the Rockies.

American League
Twins (0-0) @ Orioles (0-0)
Odorizzi is 4-1, 3.16 in his last six starts; under was 5-1 in those six games. Odorizzi is 5-4, 4.71 in 17 starts vs Baltimore.

Bundy is 0-1, 7.54 in his last three starts; over is 12-4 in his last 16 starts. Bundy is 0-2, 5.54 in three games (2 starts) vs Minnesota.

Astros (0-0) @ Rangers (0-0)
Verlander was 8-1, 1.59 in 10 starts for Houston LY; under was 6-3-1 in those games. Verlander is 11-6, 3.02 in 20 starts vs Texas.

Hamels is 1-3, 5.06 in his last four starts; under is 4-1 in his last five starts. Hamels is 7-4, 4.19 in 16 starts vs Houston.

New York (0-0) @ Blue Jays (0-0)
Severino is 1-1, 5.63 in his last four starts; four of his last six starts stayed under. Severino is 0-3, 5.52 in six starts vs Toronto.

Happ is 4-1, 2.81 in his last five starts; under is 8-4 in his last 12 starts. Happ is 8-2, 3.51 in 16 starts vs New York.

Red Sox (0-0) @ Rays (0-0)
Sale is 1-2, 6.08 in his last four starts; his last six starts all went over total. Sale is 8-5, 3.29 in 14 starts vs Tampa Bay.

Archer was 1-4, 7.89 in his last five starts LY; under is 7-4 in his last 11 starts. Archer is 2-12, 5.45 in 19 starts vs Boston.

Angels (0-0) @ A’s (0-0)
Richards was 0-2, 2.60 in six starts LY; four of those six games stayed under. Richards is 2-4, 4.12 in 16 games (12 starts) vs Oakland.

Graveman is 2-0, 2.14 in his last four starts; four of his last six starts went over. Graveman is 2-2, 3.96 in 11 starts against the Angels.

White Sox (0-0) @ Royals (0-0)
Shields is 3-1, 3.51 in his last four starts; under is 7-3 in his last ten starts. Shields is 7-2, 4.05 in 13 starts against the Royals.

Duffy is 2-4, 6.10 in his last ten starts; under is 8-4 in his last dozen starts. Duffy is 7-5, 4.20 in 18 starts against the Pale Hose.

Indians (0-0) @ Mariners (0-0)
Kluber is 6-1, 2.67 in his last nine starts; under is 5-1 in his last six starts. Kluber is 3-1, 1.50 in four starts vs Seattle.

Hernandez is 1-2, 4.94 in his last six starts; under is 5-3 in his last eight. Hernandez is 7-6, 2.95 in 16 starts vs Cleveland.

Interleague
Pirates (0-0) @ Tigers (0-0)
Nova is 0-4, 7.52 in his last six starts; under is 3-0-1 in his last four outings. Nova is 0-3, 7.04 in six games (5 starts) vs Detroit.

Zimmerman is 1-4, 8.01 in his last six starts; over is 5-2 in his last seven. Zimmerman is 1-3, 3.96 in four starts against Pittsburgh.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

MLB

Thursday, March 29

Trend Report

CHI CUBS @ MIAMI
Chi Cubs is 7-3 SU in its last 10 games when playing Miami
Chi Cubs is 3-7 SU in its last 10 games when playing on the road against Miami
Miami is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 9 of Miami's last 11 games at home

PITTSBURGH @ DETROIT
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Pittsburgh's last 5 games when playing on the road against Detroit
The total has gone OVER in 10 of Pittsburgh's last 11 games when playing Detroit
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Detroit's last 5 games when playing at home against Pittsburgh
The total has gone OVER in 10 of Detroit's last 11 games when playing Pittsburgh

ST. LOUIS @ NY METS
St. Louis is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games when playing NY Mets
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of St. Louis's last 5 games
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of NY Mets's last 6 games at home
NY Mets is 9-3 ATS in its last 12 games at home

MINNESOTA @ BALTIMORE
The total has gone UNDER in 8 of Minnesota's last 9 games when playing on the road against Baltimore
Minnesota is 6-2 ATS in its last 8 games when playing Baltimore
The total has gone UNDER in 8 of Baltimore's last 9 games when playing at home against Minnesota
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Baltimore's last 5 games

HOUSTON @ TEXAS
Houston is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games when playing Texas
Houston is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing Texas
The total has gone UNDER in 10 of Texas's last 15 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Texas's last 6 games when playing Houston

NY YANKEES @ TORONTO
NY Yankees is 9-2 ATS in its last 11 games
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of NY Yankees's last 5 games when playing Toronto
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Toronto's last 5 games when playing NY Yankees
Toronto is 14-5 SU in its last 19 games when playing at home against NY Yankees

LA ANGELS @ OAKLAND
LA Angels is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games when playing Oakland
The total has gone OVER in 4 of LA Angels's last 5 games when playing Oakland
Oakland is 9-2 SU in its last 11 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Oakland's last 5 games when playing LA Angels

PHILADELPHIA @ ATLANTA
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Philadelphia's last 5 games when playing on the road against Atlanta
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Philadelphia's last 5 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Atlanta's last 5 games when playing at home against Philadelphia
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Atlanta's last 7 games at home

BOSTON @ TAMPA BAY
Boston is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Tampa Bay
Boston is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Tampa Bay
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Tampa Bay's last 7 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Tampa Bay's last 6 games

WASHINGTON @ CINCINNATI
Washington is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Cincinnati
Washington is 7-1 SU in its last 8 games when playing Cincinnati
Cincinnati is 6-1 ATS in its last 7 games
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Cincinnati's last 10 games at home

MILWAUKEE @ SAN DIEGO
Milwaukee is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games when playing San Diego
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Milwaukee's last 5 games
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of San Diego's last 9 games at home
San Diego is 10-4 ATS in its last 14 games when playing Milwaukee

CHI WHITE SOX @ KANSAS CITY
Chi White Sox is 6-1 ATS in its last 7 games when playing on the road against Kansas City
Chi White Sox is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Kansas City
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Kansas City's last 5 games when playing at home against Chi White Sox
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Kansas City's last 8 games at home

SAN FRANCISCO @ LA DODGERS
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of San Francisco's last 5 games when playing on the road against LA Dodgers
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of San Francisco's last 5 games when playing LA Dodgers
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of LA Dodgers's last 5 games when playing at home against San Francisco
LA Dodgers is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games when playing at home against San Francisco

COLORADO @ ARIZONA
The total has gone UNDER in 11 of Colorado's last 14 games
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Colorado's last 8 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Arizona's last 5 games
Arizona is 8-2 SU in its last 10 games when playing Colorado

CLEVELAND @ SEATTLE
Cleveland is 16-3 SU in its last 19 games on the road
Cleveland is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing Seattle
Seattle is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games
The total has gone UNDER in 9 of Seattle's last 12 games at home

[Can'tPickAWinner]

NCAAB
Dunkel

Thursday, March 29


Penn State @ Utah

Game 711-712
March 29, 2018 @ 7:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Penn State
71.209
Utah
70.138
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Penn State
by 1
139
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Penn State
by 4 1/2
134 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Utah
(+4 1/2); Over

[Can'tPickAWinner]

NCAAB
Long Sheet

Thursday, March 29

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

PENN ST (25 - 13) at UTAH (23 - 11) - 3/29/2018, 7:00 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

NCAAB

Thursday, March 29

NIT Championship, NYC
Penn State figures to have large crowd edge playing in NYC; Nittany Lions won six of last seven games- they’re 3-1 on this floor this season, between NIT and Big 14 tourney. PSU had fairly easy win Tuesday but their guards still played 37-40 minutes. Lions are 14-3 outside Big 14 this year- they’re #244 experience team that plays pace #211; Utah is #33 experience team that plays pace #299. Utes won 10 of its last 12 games; they’re 12-3 outside the Pac-12. Utah played four starters 33:00+ in 69-64 win over WKU Tuesday, surviving a -7 (13-6) turnover ratio in their win.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

NCAAB

Thursday, March 29

Trend Report

PENN STATE @ UTAH
Penn State is 6-1 ATS in its last 7 games
Penn State is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Utah's last 7 games
Utah is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Mike Wynn

Free Play: Free Pick Miami -13 Over Chicago

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Free Selection from Jim Feist

Jim Feist's Comp Pick, Thursday, March 29, 2018

3/29 07:10 PM PT / 10:10 PM ET

MLB (913) COLORADO ROCKIES VS (914) ARIZONA DIAMONDBACKS

Take: (913) COLORADO ROCKIES

Reason: Your free play for Thursday, March 29, 2018 is in the MLB Scheduled contest between the Colorado Rockies and the Arizona Diamondbacks. Your free play is on the Rockies.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Jeff Allen Sports

Thursday's Free Selection is on the Minnesota Wild

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Razor Sharp

YOUR RAZOR SHARP FREE PICK FOR THURSDAY: Take DETROIT (Zimmermann) +105 over Pittsburgh

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Monster Sports Picks

MLB ST. LOUIS CARDINALS +120

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Team Underground

MLB MINNESOTA TWINS +105

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Baseball Bullies

MLB HOUSTON ASTROS ‑165

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Mikey Money

MLB NEW YORK METS ‑130

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Ace / V.I.P.

MLB KANSAS CITY ROYALS ‑150

[Can'tPickAWinner]

MVP Lock Club

MLB KANSAS CITY ROYALS ‑135

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Picks 2 Play

MLB CLEVELAND INDIANS ‑170

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Tys Terrific Tips

NCAA Basketball PENN STATE NITTANY LIONS ‑4.5

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Pinnacle Sports Picks

MLB PITTSBURGH PIRATES ‑115

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Mikey Sports

NBA OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER +1

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Vegas Investment Picks

NCAA Basketball PENN STATE NITTANY LIONS ‑4

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Top Dog LB

MLB SEATTLE MARINERS +160

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Lasvegasmoneymachine

MLB ST. LOUIS CARDINALS +120

[Can'tPickAWinner]

AASI Wins

NCAA Basketball PENN STATE NITTANY LIONS ‑4

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Wise Guy Insider

NBA SACRAMENTO KINGS +8.5

[Can'tPickAWinner]

DONNY ACTION

MLB CHICAGO CUBS/MIAMI MARLINS ‑105 u8

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Best Sports Capper

NHL NASHVILLE PREDATORS ‑160

[Can'tPickAWinner]

VIP Sports Picks Las Vegas

NBA DETROIT PISTONS +1.5

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Pure Lock

NBA WASHINGTON WIZARDS +1

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Top Shelf Sports Pick

NCAA Basketball PENN STATE NITTANY LIONS ‑180

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Totals4U

Thursday's Free Selection: Colorado Rockies/Arizona Diamondbacks over 9

[Can'tPickAWinner]

John Anthony Sports

Thursday's Free Selection: Kansas City Royals - 150

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Atlantic Sports

Thursday's Free Selection from Atlantic Sports: LA Dodgers - 265

[Can'tPickAWinner]

#1 Sports

Thursday's Free Selection: Colorado Rockies - 110

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Easy Money Sports

Lee's Free Thursday Selection Is

Chicago +13

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Nevada Sharpshooter

Your free winner for Thursday: Take PHILADELPHIA (Nola) -125 over Atlanta

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Huddle Up Sports

Free Play: Miami -13

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Hawkeye Sports

Thursday's Free Pick: Pittsburgh Penguins - 125

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Golden Dragon Sports

Free Pick Milwaukee Anderson -119

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Teyas Sports

FREE PICK 3/29 MLB BREWERS -117

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Platinum Plays

Free Pick the Indiana Pacers -7½ over Sacramento

[Can'tPickAWinner]

The Vegas Steam Line

Your free winner for Thursday: Take LA ANGELS (Richards) -130 over Oakland

[Can'tPickAWinner]

High Stakes Syndicate

Free Selection for Thursday: Seattle Mariners + 150

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Free Selection from Kenny Towers

Bos - 130 - NHL

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Sharp Bettor

Sharp Bettor FREE Play for Thursday, March 29, 2018

3/29 05:05 PM NBA (705) OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER VS (706) SAN ANTONIO SPURS

Take : Spurs

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Roz Wins

Roz's Thursday March 29, 2018, Free Pick


3/29 04:05 PM NBA (701) WASHINGTON WIZARDS VS (702) DETROIT PISTONS

Take : Pistons

[Can'tPickAWinner]

The Last Call

Thursday's Free Play: Colorado Rockies even

[Can'tPickAWinner]

NCAAB
Dunkel

Thursday, March 29


Penn State @ Utah

Game 711-712
March 29, 2018 @ 7:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Penn State
71.209
Utah
70.138
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Penn State
by 1
139
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Penn State
by 4 1/2
134 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Utah
(+4 1/2); Over

[Can'tPickAWinner]

NBA
Long Sheet

Thursday, March 29

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

WASHINGTON (41 - 33) at DETROIT (34 - 40) - 3/29/2018, 7:05 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
WASHINGTON is 8-2 against the spread versus DETROIT over the last 3 seasons
WASHINGTON is 8-2 straight up against DETROIT over the last 3 seasons
5 of 10 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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

CHICAGO (24 - 50) at MIAMI (40 - 35) - 3/29/2018, 7:35 PM
Top Trends for this game.
CHICAGO is 11-23 ATS (-14.3 Units) in road games after a loss by 10 points or more over the last 3 seasons.
MIAMI is 88-65 ATS (+16.5 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
MIAMI is 36-19 ATS (+15.1 Units) in the second half of the season over the last 2 seasons.
MIAMI is 19-9 ATS (+9.1 Units) in March games over the last 2 seasons.
MIAMI is 46-29 ATS (+14.1 Units) revenging a loss vs opponent over the last 2 seasons.
MIAMI is 31-17 ATS (+12.3 Units) off an upset win as an underdog over the last 3 seasons.
MIAMI is 42-27 ATS (+12.3 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons.
MIAMI is 25-14 ATS (+9.6 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record - 2nd half of the season over the last 2 seasons.
CHICAGO is 11-3 ATS (+7.7 Units) against Southeast division opponents this season.
MIAMI is 93-124 ATS (-43.4 Units) in home games after allowing 85 points or less since 1996.

Head-to-Head Series History
MIAMI is 6-4 against the spread versus CHICAGO over the last 3 seasons
MIAMI is 7-3 straight up against CHICAGO over the last 3 seasons
6 of 10 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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

OKLAHOMA CITY (44 - 31) at SAN ANTONIO (43 - 32) - 3/29/2018, 8:05 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
OKLAHOMA CITY is 10-6 against the spread versus SAN ANTONIO over the last 3 seasons
OKLAHOMA CITY is 9-7 straight up against SAN ANTONIO over the last 3 seasons
11 of 16 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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

INDIANA (44 - 31) at SACRAMENTO (24 - 51) - 3/29/2018, 10:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
INDIANA is 43-32 ATS (+7.8 Units) in all games this season.
INDIANA is 24-11 ATS (+11.9 Units) as a favorite this season.
INDIANA is 19-10 ATS (+8.0 Units) versus poor defensive teams - allowing 106+ points/game this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
SACRAMENTO is 2-2 against the spread versus INDIANA over the last 3 seasons
INDIANA is 3-2 straight up against SACRAMENTO over the last 3 seasons
3 of 4 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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

MILWAUKEE (39 - 35) at GOLDEN STATE (54 - 20) - 3/29/2018, 10:35 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
MILWAUKEE is 3-2 against the spread versus GOLDEN STATE over the last 3 seasons
GOLDEN STATE is 4-1 straight up against MILWAUKEE over the last 3 seasons
3 of 5 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

[Can'tPickAWinner]

NBA

Thursday, March 29

Wizards won eight of last ten games with Detroit; over is 5-2 in last seven series games. Washington is 4-1 vs spread in its last five visits to the Motor City. Wizards lost three of their last four games; they’re 2-6 vs spread in last eight games, 1-3 in last four on road. Three of their last four games stayed under. Pistons won four of last five games; they covered last four games as a home favorite. Under is 6-3 in their last nine games.

Miami won three of last four games with Chicago; under is 5-2 in last seven series games. Bulls are 2-2 vs spread in last four visits to South Beach. Chicago lost its last six games (1-5 vs spread); they’re 2-11 in last 13 games as road underdogs. Over is 5-2 in their last seven games. Miami won four of its last six games; they’re 7-1 in last eight games as home favorites. Over is 5-3-1 in their last nine games.

Thunder won six of last nine games with the Spurs; OKC is 1-2 vs spread in last three visits to the Alamo. Five of last six series games stayed under. Oklahoma City won seven of its last nine games; they’re 0-2-1 vs spread in their last three games, all of which stayed under total. Spurs won their last six home games, covering last six games as home favorites. San Antonio’s last three games all went over.

Pacers won their last three games with the Kings; they’re 3-2 vs spread in last five visits here. Five of last six series games stayed under. Indiana won four of its last five games; they’re 7-4 as road favorites this season. Under is 8-2 in their last ten games. Sacramento lost four of its last five games; they’re 4-11 vs spread in last 15 games as home underdogs. Kings’ last four games stayed under the total.

Golden State won eight of last nine games with Milwaukee; Bucks are 5-3 vs spread in last eight. Under is 7-3 in last ten series games. Milwaukee is 3-4 in its last seven games; they’re 7-2 as a road favorite this season. Eight of their last nine games went over total. Warriors lost six of their last nine games- they have big injury issues, are 0-2 as home underdogs. Six of their last eight games stayed under total.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

NBA

Thursday, March 29

Trend Report

WASHINGTON @ DETROIT
Washington is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Detroit
Washington is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games when playing Detroit
Detroit is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games at home
Detroit is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games

CHICAGO @ MIAMI
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Chicago's last 7 games when playing on the road against Miami
The total has gone UNDER in 11 of Chicago's last 15 games when playing Miami
Miami is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games at home
Miami is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games at home

OKLAHOMA CITY @ SAN ANTONIO
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Oklahoma City's last 6 games when playing San Antonio
Oklahoma City is 7-2 SU in its last 9 games
San Antonio is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games at home
San Antonio is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games at home

INDIANA @ SACRAMENTO
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Indiana's last 8 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 13 of Indiana's last 15 games
The total has gone UNDER in 8 of Sacramento's last 9 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Sacramento's last 6 games when playing Indiana

MILWAUKEE @ GOLDEN STATE
The total has gone OVER in 8 of Milwaukee's last 9 games
Milwaukee is 7-1 ATS in its last 8 games when playing on the road against Golden State
Golden State is 8-1 SU in its last 9 games when playing Milwaukee
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Golden State's last 8 games at home

[Can'tPickAWinner]

NBA
Dunkel

Thursday, March 29


Washington @ Detroit

Game 701-702
March 29, 2018 @ 7:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Washington
119.083
Detroit
122.545
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Detroit
by 3 1/2
205
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Detroit
by 1
210
Dunkel Pick:
Detroit
(-1); Under

Chicago @ Miami

Game 703-704
March 29, 2018 @ 7:30 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Chicago
103.988
Miami
122.635
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Miami
by 18 1/2
215
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Miami
by 13
209 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Miami
(-13); Over

Oklahoma City @ San Antonio

Game 705-706
March 29, 2018 @ 8:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Oklahoma City
120.894
San Antonio
121.774
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
San Antonio
by 1
202
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Oklahoma City
by 2
207 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
San Antonio
(+2); Under

Indiana @ Sacramento

Game 707-708
March 29, 2018 @ 10:00 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Indiana
119.540
Sacramento
115.573
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Indiana
by 4
209
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Indiana
by 8
203
Dunkel Pick:
Sacramento
(+8); Over

Milwaukee @ Golden State

Game 709-710
March 29, 2018 @ 10:30 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Milwaukee
115.304
Golden State
122.785
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Golden State
by 7 1/2
219
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Golden State
by 4 1/2
215 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Golden State
(-4 1/2); Over