Monday 4-9-18 Free Plays / Trends / Betting Info / Etc

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Handicapped by The Walker Group at Sam Houston
Always check program numbers.
Odds shown are morning line odds.

Race 3 - Maiden - 300y on the Dirt. Purse: $7600 Class Rating: 61

QUARTER HORSE 300Y, FOR MAIDENS, TWO YEARS OLD. WEIGHT, 122 LBS. PAINTS PREFERRED.


RECOMMENDED CHOICES
The Walker Group Picks

# 1 SIZZLIN BLUE CORONA 7/2

# 4 CATCHN ROYAL CORONA 8/1

# 5 VP AWESOME CORONA 12/1

SIZZLIN BLUE CORONA is my choice. Sire has produced competitive profits with his offspring in their first tries. Will most likely be one of the early speedsters of the pack going into the midpoint of the race. CATCHN ROYAL CORONA - Respectable gains have been scored by investors following this sire's offspring in their first starts. Ought to compete very well in the pace contest which bodes well with this group. Sire figs (21 percent win percentage) give this horse a very good shot. VP AWESOME CORONA - Special Royal Coro first time starters are typically ready to score first time out of the box.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Bar

Mahoning Valley Race Course - Race #7 - Post: 3:33pm - Claiming - 6.0 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $10,100 Class Rating: 83

Rating: Golden DollarGolden DollarGolden DollarGolden Dollar

#7 SANDCAT (ML=6/1)
#4 RAPID ROUGE (ML=8/1)
#9 FOREVER KRZ (ML=5/1)


SANDCAT - Ran last out against tougher competition at Mahoning Valley Race Cour. The move to a lower class rank should suit him well. Winless in his last three starts, this gelding did win on Dec 11th at Mahoning Valley Race Cour versus tougher competition. You should disregard that last race at Mahoning Valley Race Cour on the mud where he finished off the board. Should do well right here with the benefit of a fast track. RAPID ROUGE - Jockey hops up on board after getting to know the horse by riding last out. That's always a positive sign. I like to wager on this angle, a campaigner coming back off a sharp effort within the last month. I think that a sprinter coming off a layoff will usually run his best in the 3rd or 4th start back. FOREVER KRZ - Have to give this gelding a fair chance. Ran a strong contest last time out within the last month.

Vulnerable Contenders: #12 FIFTY SHADES (ML=5/2), #11 BRYNDIES JEWEL (ML=9/2),

FIFTY SHADES - Hasn't raced or had any works since March 7th. Not much value on this favorite. BRYNDIES JEWEL - Don't think this less than sharp equine will do much running in today's event. That last speed figure was pedestrian when compared with today's class figure.



STRAIGHT WAGERS:
Put your money on #7 SANDCAT on the nose if you can get odds of 3/1 or more

EXACTA WAGERS:
7 with [4,9]

TRIFECTA WAGERS:
Box [4,7,9] Total Cost: $6

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:
Skip

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Parx Racing
Always check program numbers.
Odds shown are morning line odds.

Race 1 - Claiming - 5.5f on the Dirt. Purse: $21500 Class Rating: 87

FOR FOUR YEAR OLDS AND UPWARD WHICH HAVE NEVER WON FOUR RACES. WEIGHT, 124 LBS. NON-WINNERS OF A RACE SINCE MARCH 9 ALLOWED 2 LBS. A RACE SINCE FEBRUARY 9 ALLOWED 4 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $7,500.


RECOMMENDED CHOICES
The Walker Group Picks

# 5 HE'S COTTON 8/5

# 4 TEXAS TWO STEP 3/1

# 1 TRUE TO HIS WORD 6/1

I have to consider HE'S COTTON here. Overall the Equibase Speed Figures of this equine look solid in this outing. Put up a strong Equibase Speed Figure in the most recent race. Can run another good one in this contest. Has very good Equibase Class Figures relative to this field - worth a look. TEXAS TWO STEP - Shows evidence of the look of a lucrative play, averaging a solid 81 speed figure which is one of the top in this group. Ought to be given a chance for this event if only for the very good Equibase Speed Figure earned in the last contest. TRUE TO HIS WORD - Taylor has this colt racing well and is a formidable choice based on the solid Equibase Speed Figs garnered in sprint races lately. Taylor and Sanchez have a very good win percent together.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

F.A.S.T. Sheets Free Race for Turf Paradise
Turf Paradise - Race 6

$1 Exacta / $1 Quinella / $.50 Trifecta / $.10 Superfecta $1 Double (Races 6-7) / $.50 Pick 3 (Races 6-7-8)


Allowance • 6 Furlongs • Dirt • Ages 3 and up • CR: 76 • Purse: $14,000 • Post: 3:45P
(PLUS UP TO 10% PLUS 10%) FOR FILLIES AND MARES THREE YEARS OLD AND UPWARD WHICH HAVE NEVER WON TWO RACES. THREE YEAR OLDS, 118 LBS.; OLDER, 124 LBS. NON-WINNERS OF A RACE SINCE FEBRUARY 9, 2018 ALLOWED 2 LBS. (CLAIMING RACES FOR $10,000 OR LESS NOT CONSIDERED IN ALLOWANCES).
Contenders

Race Analysis
P#
Horse
Morn
Line

Accept
Odds


Race Type: Fast-paced Race. There are many horses that could vie for the early lead. Check on scratches of any of the Front-runners. * KEY ANGLES * I DOUBLE DARE YOU: Horse ranks in the top three in TrackMaster Power Rating. Horse has the highes t average Equibase Speed Figure at the distance/surface. SWEETCHINAPRINCESS: Horse's win percentage at today's distance(sprint or route)/surface (dirt or turf) is at least 50. Horse has run a Good Race within the last 30 days. TIZ THE STORM: Horse ranks in the top three in average Equibase Class Rating at the distance/surface. Today is a sprint and the horse is carrying at least 120 lbs. ACHARNEMENT: Today is a sprint and this is the horse's third or fourth start after a layoff. Horse has run a Good Race within the last 30 days.
3
I DOUBLE DARE YOU
7/2

9/2
1
SWEETCHINAPRINCESS
5/2

5/1
4
TIZ THE STORM
8/1

7/1
5
ACHARNEMENT
9/5

10/1




P#

Horse (In Running Style Order)

Post

Morn
Line

Running Style

Good
Class

Good
Speed

Early Figure

Finish Figure

Platinum
Figure
4
TIZ THE STORM
4

8/1
Front-runner
79

72

82.6

61.8

55.3
8
SPECIAL PORTION
8

12/1
Front-runner
66

54

80.2

52.4

39.4
5
ACHARNEMENT
5

9/5
Front-runner
73

74

79.6

43.8

37.3
1
SWEETCHINAPRINCESS
1

5/2
Front-runner
65

73

65.4

69.2

64.2
6
VIDIRA
6

10/1
Front-runner
70

72

63.3

61.7

52.2
3
I DOUBLE DARE YOU
3

7/2
Stalker
76

74

82.5

73.9

67.9
7
GRAY BRIDE
7

10/1
Trailer
67

61

45.5

57.8

48.8
2
FIRST SUMMER
2

10/1
Alternator/Non-contender
55

55

72.1

49.4

34.9

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Bar

Turf Paradise - Race #8 - Post: 4:41pm - Claiming - 6.5 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $7,000 Class Rating: 75

Rating: Golden DollarGolden DollarGolden DollarGolden Dollar

#7 THESHEETSGUY (ML=7/2)
#1 OUTLAW BY NATURE (ML=5/1)


THESHEETSGUY - The most dangerous animal in racing is the lone speed horse. If they let him get away early they probably won't catch him. This gelding likes to be near the lead. Today's contest is a shorter trip and should enhance his likelihood of winning. I like that recent effort on March 24th at Turf Paradise where he ended up third. Earnings per start (EPS) is something that I feel can be a key factor. This entrant is ranked number one in this group. OUTLAW BY NATURE - This jockey/trainer duo has been producing a very profitable ROI, right at +33. I like to wager on this handicapping angle, a campaigner coming back off a nice contest within the last 30 days.

Vulnerable Contenders: #2 CROWN KING (ML=3/1), #3 ROB'S GOLDEN TOUCH (ML=9/2), #8 BRENDA'S BAR (ML=6/1),

CROWN KING - March 11th is the last time we've seen this gelding around. Have to be a little bit leery. ROB'S GOLDEN TOUCH - He showed not much at all in the last event. Finished seventh in his most recent race with a somewhat easily forgotten speed rating. When I look at today's Equibase class figure, it would take an improved performance to prove victorious after that in this bunch. BRENDA'S BAR - Tough to wager on any horse like this that didn't end up on the board after the very long layoff and comes right back. You always figure that this horse has a shot to cross the finish line in first, but he falls short regularly.



STRAIGHT WAGERS:
Play #7 THESHEETSGUY to win if you can get odds of 7/5 or more

EXACTA WAGERS:
Box [1,7]

TRIFECTA WAGERS:
None

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:
Pass

[Can'tPickAWinner]

F.A.S.T. Sheets Free Race for Will Rogers Downs
Will Rogers Downs - Race 3

Exacta / Quinella / Trifecta (.50) / Pick 3 (Races 3-4-5)


Allowance • 1 Mile • Dirt • Ages 3 and up • CR: 77 • Purse: $26,400 • Post: 2:01P
FOR ACCREDITED OKLAHOMA-BREDS THREE YEAR OLDS AND UPWARD WHICH HAVE NEVER WON A RACE OTHER THAN MAIDEN, CLAIMING, STARTER OR WHICH HAVE NEVER WON THREE RACES. THREE YEAR OLDS, 118 LBS.; OLDER, 124 LBS. (MULTIPLE WINNERS PREFERRED).
Contenders

Race Analysis
P#
Horse
Morn
Line

Accept
Odds


Race Type: Lone Front-runner. SEATTLE THUNDER is the Lone Front-runner of the race. * KEY ANGLES * SEATTLE THUNDER: Horse has run a Good Race within the last 30 days. Horse has the highest TrackMaster Power Rating. Horse ranks in the top three i n average Equibase Speed Figure at the distance/surface. KIRK OF DIAMONDS: Horse has run a Good Race within the last 30 days. Horse ranks in the top three in TrackMaster Power Rating. Horse has the highest average Equibase Speed Figure at the dist ance/surface.
4
SEATTLE THUNDER
8/5

7/5
5
KIRK OF DIAMONDS
7/5

6/1




P#

Horse (In Running Style Order)

Post

Morn
Line

Running Style

Good
Class

Good
Speed

Early Figure

Finish Figure

Platinum
Figure
4
SEATTLE THUNDER
4

8/5
Front-runner
85

82

71.8

71.0

66.5
5
KIRK OF DIAMONDS
5

7/5
Trailer
76

71

54.8

67.8

63.3
3
BAD BOY BROWN
3

6/1
Alternator/Non-contender
60

60

73.0

38.9

30.9
2
IMALITTLEHAZEY
2

9/2
Alternator/Non-contender
77

74

65.4

63.4

58.9
1
REDBANK ROAD
1

12/1
Alternator/Non-contender
66

56

50.0

31.2

22.7

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Tampa Bay Rays vs. Chicago White Sox Preview and Predictions 04-09-2018

8th April 2018 by Gracenote
Two teams coming off demoralizing series sweeps try to turn things in a positive direction when the Tampa Bay Rays visit the Chicago White Sox on Monday afternoon for the opener a three-game set. Tampa Bay coughed up a five-run lead in the eighth inning Sunday to lose its eighth straight game - 8-7 at Boston - while the White Sox were losing 1-0 against Detroit, their fifth setback in six contests.

The Rays, who also squandered a 2-0 lead in the ninth inning of the series opener on Thursday, had rolled to a 7-2 lead while collecting 11 hits in the finale - prompting center fielder Kevin Kiermaier to tell the Tampa Bay Times, "That's about as deflating of a loss as you can have right there." Chicago gave up 15 runs in the first two games of the series against the Tigers before managing just three hits against five Detroit pitchers in frigid conditions in the finale. Avisail Garcia went 5-for-13 in the series to push his season average to .343 for the White Sox while slugger Jose Abreu slumped to 1-for-13 in the last three contests. Veteran Miguel Gonzalez will try to end the slide for Chicago when he heads to the mound to face Chris Archer, a two-time All-Star who goes after his first victory in his third start of the season for the Rays.

TV: 2:10 p.m. ET, FS Sun (Tampa Bay), WGN (Chicago)

PITCHING MATCHUP: Rays RH Chris Archer (0-0, 6.55 ERA) vs. White Sox RH Miguel Gonzalez (0-1, 9.00)

Archer did not post a decision or a quality start in his first two outings of the season, allowing eight runs on 12 hits and four walks with 14 strikeouts over 11 innings. The 29-year-old North Carolina native registered a 4.97 ERA on the road as opposed to 3.26 at home in 2017 and lost both starts against Chicago. Yolmer Sanchez is 5-for-14 with three homers and Garcia 4-for-11 with a blast against Archer, who is 3-2 with a 4.29 ERA in eight career appearances (seven starts) versus the White Sox.

Gonzalez, who was re-signed after being traded to Texas late last season, struggled in his 2017 debut by yielding six runs - five earned - on eight hits and two walks over five innings in a loss to Toronto. The 33-year-old Mexican went 7-10 with a 4.31 ERA in 22 starts with the White Sox last year before finishing the season 1-3 in five turns with the Rangers. Carlos Gomez is 1-for-3 with a home run against Gonzalez, who is 7-4 with a 2.76 ERA in 16 career outings against the Rays - none last season.

WALK-OFFS

1. Chicago recalled RHP Bruce Rondon on Sunday, and he struck out all four batters he faced in his White Sox debut.

2. Tampa Bay 1B Brad Miller (groin) was placed on the 10-day disabled list Sunday and RHP Ryan Weber was recalled from Triple-A Durham.

3. The teams split six games last season, but the White Sox took two of three at home to open September.

PREDICTION: Rays 6, White Sox 3

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Pittsburgh Pirates vs. Chicago Cubs Preview and Predictions 04-09-2018

9th April 2018 by Gracenote
The Chicago Cubs' home opener is always a special occasion on the North Side, but this year's event might have even more buzz. The Cubs make their debut at Wrigley Field on Monday afternoon, when they open a three-game series against the red-hot Pittsburgh Pirates.


The Pirates are the early front-runners in the National League Central, having won seven of their first nine contests. Pittsburgh is benefiting from a balanced lineup - six everyday starters are batting over .300, and its bullpen is well-rested entering the series after James Taillon tossed a one-hit shutout against Cincinnati on Sunday. The Cubs also are coming off a shutout, having blanked Milwaukee 3-0 on Sunday to take three of four in the series. Chicago's offense has been spotty in the early going, but the team managed to get through a nine-game road trip to start the season with a winning record and its pitching has been excellent of late, allowing two or fewer runs in four of the last five games.

TV: 2:20 p.m. ET, MLB Network, AT&T SportsNet-Pittsburgh, ABC 7 (Chicago)


PITCHING MATCHUP: Pirates RH Ivan Nova (0-1, 6.10 ERA) vs. Cubs RH Tyler Chatwood (0-1, 1.50)

After a decent showing on Opening Day at Detroit, Nova had a tough second outing Wednesday against Minnesota. He allowed five runs and five hits over 5 1/3 innings, as things fell apart during a snowy sixth inning. The 31-year-old Dominican is 2-1 with a 4.09 ERA in four career starts against the Cubs.

Chatwood was excellent in his Cubs debut, holding Cincinnati to one run and four hits with six strikeouts over six innings. The only thing missing was run support, as the 28-year-old suffered a tough-luck loss in a 1-0 defeat. Chatwood has posted a 1.50 ERA without recording a decision in two career starts against the Pirates.


WALK-OFFS

1. The Cubs are the only team in the majors that has yet to play a home game.

2. The Pirates have scored 58 runs in nine contests - a total they didn't reach last season until their 17th game.

3. Chicago 1B Anthony Rizzo has missed three straight games with tightness in his lower back and is considered questionable for Monday.


PREDICTION: Pirates 5, Cubs 4

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Detroit Tigers vs. Cleveland Indians Preview and Predictions 04-09-2018

8th April 2018 by Gracenote
The Cleveland Indians hope to build off the emotion of a walk-off victory when they begin a four-game home set against the Central Division-rival Detroit Tigers on Monday. The Indians manufactured a run without a hit in the eighth inning to tie the game before Yan Gomes delivered a two-run homer in the ninth for a 3-1 victory over Kansas City on Sunday, earning their first series win of the season.

"We needed the win and we got a win," Cleveland manager Terry Francona told reporters after his team improved to 4-5 overall. "We obviously have some work to do offensively, and we will. But it's nice to win a game like that." Reigning American League Cy Young Award winner Corey Kluber will try to make it two in a row for the Indians and gain his first victory of the season Monday against Francisco Liriano, who is coming off a strong outing. The Tigers come in hot off a three-game sweep on the road against the Chicago White Sox, scoring 15 runs to win the first two games before recording a 1-0 triumph on Sunday to even their record at 4-4. Former AL MVP Miguel Cabrera knocked in the only run in the finale with a sacrifice fly and leads the way with nine RBIs for Detroit, which has managed just two home runs in the early going.

TV: 6:10 p.m. ET, FS Detroit Plus, SportsTime Ohio (Cleveland)

PITCHING MATCHUP: Tigers LH Francisco Liriano (1-0, 1.35 ERA) vs. Indians RH Corey Kluber (0-1, 2.40)

Liriano was outstanding in his Tigers debut, allowing just one run on four hits and two walks with three strikeouts over 6 2/3 innings in a 6-1 win over Kansas City last Monday. The 34-year-old Dominican was used as a reliever 20 times in 38 appearances with Houston and Toronto last season, finishing with a 6-7 record and 5.66 ERA. Rajai Davis is 12-for-34 with a homer versus Liriano, who gave up seven runs over two innings but escaped with a no-decision in his lone start against the Indians in 2017.

Kluber has yet to find the win column despite producing two quality starts, yielding four runs on nine hits and three walks in road games against Seattle and the Los Angeles Angels. The 31-year-old native of Alabama has struck out 14 over 15 innings thus far and was dominant at home last year with a 10-2 record and 1.81 ERA with 157 strikeouts over 114 2/3 frames. Cabrera (22-for-57, six homers, 12 RBIs) and Victor Martinez (14-for-43, three, seven) have hit well against Kluber, who was 3-1 versus Detroit last year.

WALK-OFFS

1. Detroit 2B Dixon Machado was 4-for-12 in the last series and has registered six doubles and seven RBIs overall.

2. Cleveland's Lonnie Chisenhall (calf strain) was placed on the 10-day disabled list and fellow OF Tyler Naquin was recalled from Triple-A Columbus.

3. The Indians have won 27 of their 37 meetings with the Tigers over the last two seasons, including each of the last seven.

PREDICTION: Indians 6, Tigers 2

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Cincinnati Reds vs. Philadelphia Phillies Preview and Predictions 04-09-2018

8th April 2018 by Gracenote
The Philadelphia Phillies surpassed their sum total over their first six games of the season with a 20-run output this weekend, only to struggle with their offense in their failed bid for the series sweep. The Phillies look to regain their mojo on Monday when they open a three-game set against the visiting Cincinnati Reds, who mustered just one hit on Sunday.

Rhys Hoskins hasn't lost a step as he is 11-for-25 with six extra-base hits and seven RBIs in eight games, highlighted by a double to left-center field in the third inning of Sunday's 6-3 setback to Miami. Odubel Herrera has done well in his own right, collecting two hits and two runs scored in the series finale to give him seven hits and five runs in his last three games. Troublesome pitching has plagued Cincinnati (MLB-worst 6.13 ERA), although the club won four of six versus the Phillies last season - including two of three to win a series in Philadelphia for the first time since August 2006. The Reds enter the set on a sour note as third baseman Eugenio Suarez (team-leading two homers, seven RBIs) sustained a fractured right thumb after he was hit by a pitch in Sunday's 5-0 setback to Pittsburgh.

TV: 7:05 p.m. ET, FS Ohio (Cincinnati), NBCS Philadelphia Plus

PITCHING MATCHUP: Reds LH Cody Reed (2017: 1-1, 5.09 ERA) vs. Phillies RH Ben Lively (0-1, 3.18)

Mother Nature brought an end to Reed's scheduled debut before it could begin on Tuesday, relegating him to tossing 89 pitches in a simulated-game performance with Triple-A Louisville. Speaking of Louisville, left-hander Brandon Finnegan is slated to make a rehab appearance with the Bats and soon could draw back in the rotation at the expense of the 24-year-old Reed. "I will just go out there and compete and hope for the best. I can only control what I can control. I can control the game (Monday). After that, it's not really in my hands."

Lively turned in a strong performance in his debut but saw his pitch count elevate before he departed after an RBI single by Travis d'Arnaud in the sixth inning, resulting in a 2-0 loss to the New York Mets on Tuesday. The performance was labeled as "exceptional" by manager Gabe Kapler, who also said the 26-year-old "showed that tremendous competitiveness." Lively will get his first look at the team that selected him in the fourth round of the 2013 draft.

WALK-OFFS

1. Philadelphia 3B Maikel Franco is 6-for-12 with two homers, 10 RBIs and four runs scored in his last three games after going 1-for-11 in his previous four.

2. Cincinnati 2B Scooter Gennett is 0-for-12 in his last three contests after hitting safely in his previous five.

3. Phillies SS J.P. Crawford is 0-for-16 with seven strikeouts in his last five games.

PREDICTION: Phillies 3, Reds 2

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Toronto Blue Jays vs. Baltimore Orioles Preview and Predictions 04-09-2018

8th April 2018 by Gracenote
While the Toronto Blue Jays have recorded a win in six of the last eight games, the Baltimore Orioles overcame an early five-run deficit Sunday to give them victories in three of their last four. The American League East rivals look to continue their good fortune at the other's expense on Monday when they open a three-game series at Camden Yards in Baltimore.

Steve Pearce, who played parts of five seasons in Baltimore, set the tone early for Toronto by depositing the first pitch he saw from Cole Hamels out of the park in Sunday's 7-4 triumph over Texas. "Just ready to hit, ready to attack him early," said Pearce, who has gone deep in back-to-back outings while extending his runs scored streak to six games. Baltimore's Manny Machado has collected 10 hits over his last six outings and five RBIs over his last three, highlighted by two solo homers in Friday's 7-3 win in 14 innings over the New York Yankees. The Orioles weren't shy about working overtime again on Sunday, posting an 8-7 triumph in 12 frames for their fourth victory - three of which required more than nine innings.

TV: 7:05 p.m. ET, TVA, Sportsnet (Toronto), MASN2 (Baltimore)

PITCHING MATCHUP: Blue Jays LH J.A. Happ (1-1, 5.40 ERA) vs. Orioles RH Dylan Bundy (0-0, 0.69 ERA)

Happ, who is Toronto's Opening Day starter, evened his record last Tuesday despite surrendering two solo homers and four runs total over 5 1/3 innings in a 14-5 victory over the Chicago White Sox. The 35-year-old helped himself by striking out nine in that contest, but his fortunes haven't been favorable versus Baltimore as he owns a 4-6 career mark - including 1-2 with a 4.05 ERA in six starts at Camden Yards. Pedro Alvarez (6-for-12) has flustered Happ while all four of Chris Davis' hits have been for extra bases despite going just 4-for-20 versus the hurler.

Bundy is off to a fast start despite failing to record a positive decision this season, yielding just one earned run and striking out 15 in 13 innings. "I feel good about where I'm at right now and my body and the way I'm recovering," the 25-year-old Bundy told reporters. "So, you just want to take the ball when you're told to and go out there and try to give your team a chance to win." Bundy certainly has done his best versus Toronto, posting a 3-0 mark with an 0.76 ERA in seven career appearances.

WALK-OFFS

1. Baltimore LF Trey Mancini has answered a slow start by going 6-for-19 in his last four games.

2. Blue Jays DH Kendrys Morales, who belted a three-run homer on Sunday, went deep four times versus the Orioles last season.

3. Baltimore has won 12 of the 19 meetings between the teams in 2017.

PREDICTION: Blue Jays 4, Orioles 2

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Milwaukee Brewers vs. St. Louis Cardinals Preview and Predictions 04-09-2018

8th April 2018 by Gracenote
Things have gone downhill in a hurry for the Milwaukee Brewers, but they look to begin a turnaround when they visit the St. Louis Cardinals on Monday for the opener of a three-game series. Milwaukee began the season by sweeping a three-game set in San Diego but went 2-5 on a homestand that concluded with Sunday's 3-0 setback against the Chicago Cubs.

It was the third shutout loss in five games for the Brewers, who managed only three hits - including a pair of singles by Lorenzo Cain. The 31-year-old center fielder matched his hit total from the previous six games after going 8-for-14 in the series against the Padres. St. Louis dropped two of three to Arizona in its first home series of 2018, including a 4-1 decision on Sunday in which Kolten Wong recorded two of the team's five hits and drove in the lone run. It was the first RBI of the season for the 27-year-old Hawaiian, who went 1-for-18 over his first seven games - with the only hit coming during the Cardinals' three-game set at Milwaukee last week in which they won twice.

TV: 7:05 p.m. ET, ESPN, FS Wisconsin (Milwaukee), FS Midwest (St. Louis)

PITCHING MATCHUP: Brewers RH Jhoulys Chacin (0-1, 7.00 ERA) vs. Cardinals RH Miles Mikolas (1-0, 6.35)

Chacin has struggled out of the gate, surrendering 10 runs and 14 hits in nine innings over his first two starts. The 30-year-old Venezuelan looks to avenge a home loss to St. Louis on Wednesday in which he was tagged for six runs - three earned - and seven hits in 5 2/3 frames. Chacin has yet to defeat the Cardinals in his career, going 0-6 with a 5.89 ERA in six starts and a relief appearance.

Mikolas, who went 2-5 with a 6.44 ERA in 10 starts for Texas in 2014, is back in the majors after spending the last three seasons in Japan as he signed a two-year contract with St. Louis in December. The 29-year-old Floridian yielded four runs and seven hits - three homers - in 5 2/3 innings at Milwaukee on April 2 in his Cardinals debut but picked up the win as he helped himself at the plate by belting a two-run shot. It was the second career appearance against the Brewers for Mikolas, who worked two scoreless frames of relief at Milwaukee on Oct. 2, 2012 while with San Diego.

WALK-OFFS

1. The Brewers have committed a major league-high 14 errors this season, including seven in the four-game set against Chicago.

2. Milwaukee placed OF Christian Yelich (oblique) on the 10-day disabled list Sunday and recalled RHP Taylor Williams from Triple-A Colorado Springs.

3. St. Louis placed LHP Ryan Sherriff (toe) on the 10-day disabled list and recalled RHP John Brebbia from Triple-A Memphis.

PREDICTION: Cardinals 6, Brewers 3

[Can'tPickAWinner]

New York Mets vs. Miami Marlins Preview and Predictions 04-09-2018

9th April 2018 by Gracenote
The New York Mets own the best record in the National League and look to extend their winning streak to six contests when they open a three-game series against the host Miami Marlins on Monday. The Mets improved to 7-1 when Yoenis Cespedes knocked in the go-ahead run in the 12th inning on Sunday to help the team complete a three-game sweep at Washington with a 6-5 victory.

Asdrubal Cabrera will take a seven-game hitting streak into the series while Jay Bruce has hit safely in his last six contests for New York, which started 7-3 last season before finishing fourth in the National League East. Noah Syndergaard takes the mound for the Mets on Monday to face Jose Urena in a battle of Opening Day starters taking their third turn of the campaign. The Marlins, who begin a six-game homestand on Monday, snapped a four-game losing streak and rebounded from an embarrassing 20-1 loss with Sunday's 6-3 triumph in which they scored three late runs to snap a tie. Rookie Brian Anderson delivered a go-ahead, two-run double in the victory and leads the team with eight RBIs while hitting safely in eight of nine games.

TV: 7:10 p.m. ET, SNY (New York), FS Florida

PITCHING MATCHUP: Mets RH Noah Syndergaard (1-0, 5.40 ERA) vs. Marlins RH Jose Urena (0-1, 4.91)

Syndergaard was limited to four innings due to a high pitch count (92) last time out against Philadelphia, allowing two runs on four hits and a pair of walks after winning his season debut. The 25-year-old Texan gave up four runs but struck out 10 in six frames to beat St. Louis on Opening Day. Miguel Rojas is 3-for-4 lifetime against Syndergaard, who made two of his seven starts last season versus Miami - going 1-0 while yielding two earned runs and recording 13 strikeouts over 13 innings.

Urena pitched much better in his second start of the season against Boston on Tuesday, giving up one run and four hits with seven strikeouts in seven innings of a no-decision. The 26-year-old Dominican struggled during his turn on March 29, when he surrendered five runs on six hits and four walks in four frames against the Chicago Cubs. Bruce is 4-for-13 with a pair of homers versus Urena, who went 2-1 with a 2.25 ERA in five games (three starts) against the Mets last year.

WALK-OFFS

1. New York RHP Jeurys Familia has allowed two hits while striking out six over six scoreless innings in his first five outings, notching three saves along the way.

2. Miami CF Lewis Brinson, the key acquisition from Milwaukee in the trade involving Christian Yelich, is 0-for-16 with eight strikeouts in his last four games.

3. The Marlins won 12 of their 19 meetings with the Mets last season, including each of the last four.

PREDICTION: Mets 5, Marlins 2

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Atlanta Braves vs. Washington Nationals Preview and Predictions 04-09-2018

9th April 2018 by Gracenote
A season-opening four-game winning streak has become a distant memory for the Washington Nationals, who are in the midst of a five-game slide as they enter the opener of their three-game set against the visiting Atlanta Braves on Monday. Washington rallied from a pair of two-run deficits on Sunday before falling to the New York Mets 6-5 in 12 innings.

Bryce Harper went 3-for-4 with two-run homer - his major league-leading sixth blast of the season - for the Nationals, who were swept by Mets to start their 10-game homestand with an 0-3 record. Atlanta has won three straight series to begin the season, taking two of three from each opponent after posting a 4-0 victory in Colorado on Sunday. Nick Markakis, Dansby Swanson and Ozzie Albies continued their strong starts to 2018 as each went 2-for-4 with a solo homer in the triumph. Markakis has hit safely in eight of his nine games, Swanson recorded five multi-hit performances over his first eight contests and Albies notched three over his last five outings.

TV: 7:05 p.m. ET, FS South (Atlanta), MASN (Washington)

PITCHING MATCHUP: Braves RH Julio Teheran (0-0, 10.13 ERA) vs. Nationals RH Max Scherzer (1-1, 1.64)

Teheran escaped with a no-decision against Washington on Tuesday after being tagged for five runs on six hits - three homers - and three walks in just 2 1/3 innings. The 27-year-old Colombian didn't fare any better in his season debut as he yielded four runs on four hits and three walks over 5 2/3 frames versus Philadelphia on March 29 but also avoided the loss. Teheran has made 19 career starts against the Nationals, going 6-4 with a 4.18 ERA.

After opening the season with six scoreless innings at Cincinnati, Scherzer had some issues in Atlanta on Wednesday. The 33-year-old two-time reigning Cy Young Award winner, who also claimed the prize in 2013, surrendered five runs - two earned - and six hits en route to a loss while needing 110 pitches to get through five frames. Scherzer is just 7-6 with one complete game and a 3.92 ERA in 18 career games (16 starts) against the Braves.

WALK-OFFS

1. The Braves won two of three against the Nationals at home last week, outscoring Washington 20-7 in the victories.

2. Harper has hit more home runs than five major-league teams and the same amount as one other club.

3. Atlanta 1B Freddie Freeman has hit safely in eight of his nine games this season and went 5-for-10 with a homer and five RBIs in the three contests against Washington last week.

PREDICTION: Nationals 7, Braves 1

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Los Angeles Angels vs. Texas Rangers Preview and Predictions 04-09-2018

8th April 2018 by Gracenote
Two-way star Shohei Ohtani isn't expected to see action Monday when the Los Angeles Angels begin a three-game series against the host Texas Rangers, but that's only because even rookie phenoms need a day of rest. Ohtani has already homered three times as a hitter and was even more impressive in Sunday's 6-1 win over Oakland, pitching 6 1/3 perfect innings with 12 strikeouts.

Mike Trout snapped an 0-for-15 skid with a solo homer Sunday while new arrival Ryan Schimpf started at third base and homered with two walks to help the Angels improve to 7-3. Of course, most of the buzz around the Angels is focused on Ohtani, who is typically given the day off before and after he pitches but will likely serve as the team's designated hitter on Tuesday. "I think he's mature beyond his years," manager Mike Scioscia told reporters. "Shohei, he's very confident, he works very, very hard at what he needs to do, and there's a lot on his plate. But he has the talent to do it." The Rangers dropped two of three against Toronto over the weekend despite another strong series from leadoff hitter Shin-Soo Choo, who has scored a run in five straight games and is batting .325 with three home runs.

TV: 8:05 p.m. ET, FS West (Los Angeles), FS Southwest (Texas)

PITCHING MATCHUP: Angels RH Garrett Richards (1-0, 5.06 ERA) vs. Rangers RH Doug Fister (1-1, 3.12)

After struggling in his Opening Day start against Oakland, Richards earned the victory last Tuesday against Cleveland by allowing two runs on one hit with four walks and nine strikeouts over 5 2/3 innings. The 29-year-old native of Oklahoma is hoping for a healthy campaign after being limited to a total of 12 starts over the last seasons due to various injuries. Rougned Odor is 2-for-25 with nine strikeouts against Richards, who is 9-4 with a 3.15 ERA in 21 career games (17 starts) against Texas.

After tossing five innings of one-run ball in his first start against Houston, Fister allowed two runs on seven hits over 3 2/3 frames in last Wednesday's 6-2 loss to Oakland. "I was putting them in good hitters' counts and not getting ahead of them," Fister told reporters. "I've got to be better, period." Andrelton Simmons is 4-for-26 against the 34-year-old native Californian, who has gone 3-4 with a 2.90 ERA in 13 career starts against the Angels.

WALK-OFFS

1. Texas was 11-8 against the Angels last season, including 5-4 at Globe Life Park.

2. The Angels placed JC Ramirez on the 10-day disabled list with a right elbow strain and recalled fellow RHPs Eduardo Paredes and Felix Pena from Triple-A Salt Lake.

3. Texas is 18-25 at home since last season's All-Star break.

PREDICTION: Angels 6, Rangers 4

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Houston Astros vs. Minnesota Twins Preview and Predictions 04-09-2018

8th April 2018 by Gracenote
The Houston Astros' calling card last season was their high-octane offense, which led the majors in runs, hits, batting average and slugging percentage among other categories. After erupting for 57 runs to win five of six meetings with Minnesota in 2017, the ascending Astros hope to keep flexing their muscles on Monday when they open a three-game series versus the host Twins.

Josh Reddick blasted his third homer in five games during Sunday's 4-1 triumph over San Diego, improving to 9-for-19 with seven RBIs in his last six outings heading into the expected cold temperatures of Minnesota. "The elements are going to be horrible," Houston manager A.J. Hinch told reporters. "It's just cold. There's no way around it. If they tell us to play, we're going to play." Unlike the weather, Brian Dozier is hot with four solo homers and eight runs scored to highlight his seven-game hitting streak, although he is batting just .185 with eight strikeouts in 27 career at-bats versus Monday starter Justin Verlander. Miguel Sano and Eduardo Escobar can tell similar tales as they are carry six- and five-game hitting streaks, respectively, into a matchup with Verlander - against whom they are batting .100 (with five strikeouts in 10 at-bats) and .167 (four strikeouts in 12 at-bats).

TV: 8:10 p.m. ET, AT&T SportsNet Southwest (Houston), FS North (Minnesota)

PITCHING MATCHUP: Astros RH Justin Verlander (1-0, 2.31 ERA) vs. Twins RH Lance Lynn (0-1, 11.25)

Verlander overcame a pair of homers in his last outing to carry an eight-game regular-season winning streak into Monday's tilt versus Minnesota, against which he owns a 17-9 mark with a 3.15 ERA. While those numbers are impressive, the 2011 AL MVP and Cy Young Award recipient is a sparkling 6-0 with a 1.38 ERA since being traded to the Astros - although he settled for a no-decision in his last trip to the mound. Verlander yielded four runs on six hits while striking out nine in 5 2/3 innings against Baltimore on Tuesday.

Sunday's inclement weather allowed Lynn an extra 24 hours to lament his first start with the Twins, as he struggled with control against Pittsburgh and allowed five runs in the first inning. The 30-year-old Ole Miss product, who matched a personal worst with six walks versus the Pirates, issued a career-high 78 in 186 1/3 innings with St. Louis last year when he went 11-8. Lynn has posted just one victory in his last 10 appearances despite five quality starts in that span.

WALK-OFFS

1. Houston 2B Jose Altuve ravaged Minnesota in 2017 to the tune of going 13-for-26 with four extra-base hits (three doubles, one homer), four RBIs and eight runs scored.

2. Twins 1B Joe Mauer has hit safely in six consecutive games and scored a run in four straight.

3. The Astros' 8-2 start to the season matches the club's franchise record, which was set in 1972.

PREDICTION: Astros 6, Twins 3

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Seattle Mariners vs. Kansas City Royals Preview and Predictions 04-09-2018

8th April 2018 by Gracenote
Just when the Seattle Mariners' bats were coming to life, Mother Nature slowed their momentum. The Mariners hope to pick up where they left off when they begin a three-game road series against the Kansas City Royals on Monday.


Seattle set a season high for runs in an 11-4 win at Minnesota on Saturday, but the hot bats were put on hold when the series finale was postponed due to inclement weather. The offensive outburst was encouraging for a Mariners team that had totaled three runs in losing its previous two contests and is light on power with slugger Nelson Cruz on the disabled list. The Royals have even less firepower, as they rank near the bottom of the American League in most offensive categories - including home runs as they have hit just two. Kansas City has scored two runs or fewer in five straight games but posted a pair of 1-0 victories in that span.

TV: 8:15 p.m. ET, ROOT Northwest (Seattle), FS Kansas City


PITCHING MATCHUP: Mariners LH Marco Gonzales (1-0, 4.26 ERA) vs. Royals RH Jakob Junis (1-0, 0.00)

Gonzales' second start of the season had to wait a day because of Sunday's postponement in Minnesota. The 26-year-old was solid in his debut, allowing three runs and six hits over 6 1/3 innings en route to a win at San Francisco. He did serve up a pair of home runs at spacious AT&T Park, however, which might warrant some concern.

Junis was dominant in his first outing of the season, striking out six over seven scoreless innings to win at Detroit. The 25-year-old allowed only three singles and a walk, carrying over from his impressive spring. Junis has been excellent at home in his young career, going 3-0 with a 3.43 ERA in nine games (seven starts) at Kauffman Stadium.


WALK-OFFS

1. Mariners CF Dee Gordon (11-for-30) and 2B Robinson Cano (11-for-25) both are riding seven-game hitting streaks.

2. Royals RF Jorge Soler recorded three hits on Sunday, snapping an 0-for-34 drought dating to July 2.

3. Seattle SS Jean Segura is 11-for-25 during his six-game hitting streak.


PREDICTION: Royals 4, Mariners 3

[Can'tPickAWinner]

San Diego Padres vs. Colorado Rockies Preview and Predictions 04-09-2018

8th April 2018 by Gracenote
The Colorado Rockies look to bounce back from a rare Coors Field shutout when they open a three-game series against the visiting San Diego Padres on Monday. The Rockies are an even 5-5 after dropping two of three against Atlanta over the weekend, including Sunday's 4-0 loss.

Colorado scored only six runs in the series and clearly missed Charlie Blackmon on Sunday, when the team's leadoff hitter and center fielder sat out due to a tight back. Blackmon hopes to return to the lineup Monday against San Diego, which fell to 2-8 after being held to four hits in Sunday's 4-1 loss at Houston. Center fielder Manuel Margot, who batted leadoff in seven of the team's first nine games, has five hits in his first 37 at-bats and was moved to the ninth spot for the last two games. The Padres are searching for answers at several positions, including third base, where Christian Villanueva, Cory Spangenberg and Chase Headley are sharing the job with mixed results through 10 games.

TV: 8:40 p.m. ET, FS San Diego, AT&T SportsNet-Rocky Mountain (Colorado)

PITCHING MATCHUP: Padres LH Clayton Richard (0-1, 4.50 ERA) vs. Rockies RH Jon Gray (1-1, 2.45)

Richard tossed seven innings of one-run ball on Opening Day against Milwaukee but struggled early versus Colorado last Wednesday, allowing five runs in the first two innings. The 34-year-old settled in and exited after five innings, permitting five runs on eight hits with six strikeouts. Chris Iannetta is 6-for-17 with two home runs against Richard, who has gone 5-7 with a 5.38 ERA in 20 career games (19 starts) against Colorado.

After lasting just four innings and taking the loss in his Opening Day start against Arizona, Gray bounced back with seven shutout frames versus San Diego last Wednesday. The 26-year-old native of Oklahoma struck out seven and issued no walks while throwing 93 pitches to record the victory at Petco Park. Gray is 5-2 with a 2.15 ERA in 11 career starts against the Padres and owns a 12-4 record in 27 career outings at Coors Field.

WALK-OFFS

1. Padres SS Freddy Galvis is batting .364 and has reached base safely in each of the team's first 10 games.

2. Colorado RHP Bryan Shaw is one strikeout shy of 400 for his career.

3. San Diego RHP Kirby Yates missed Sunday's game with a right ankle injury but is expected to avoid the disabled list.

PREDICTION: Rockies 7, Padres 4

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Toronto Raptors vs. Detroit Pistons Preview and Predictions 04-09-2018

8th April 2018 by Gracenote
The Toronto Raptors are gearing up for what they hope is a long playoff run by giving some of their key players a little rest down the stretch, but the wins keep coming. The Raptors aim for their fourth consecutive win when they open a regular season-ending two-game road trip against the Detroit Pistons on Monday.

With leading scorer DeMar DeRozan and starting center Jonas Valanciunas resting in the first half of a back-to-back, Toronto finished its home slate with a 112-101 win over Orlando on Sunday. "Just execution, attention to detail," coach Dwane Casey told reporters of what he's looking for in the final few games. "You've got examples all around the league where teams underestimate teams around the league that are so-called playing for the lottery, whatever they're playing for, a rebuild, playing young players, giving young players minutes. We want to work on some little things. We'll sprinkle some things that we want to use next week every now and then in." The Pistons had won eight of 10 games and had a chance to finish at .500 before falling 130-117 at Memphis on Sunday. Detroit allowed the Grizzlies to shoot 57.8 percent from the floor while giving up 130 points in a regulation game for the first time since March 12, 2011.

TV: 7 p.m. ET, Sportsnet One (Toronto), FS Detroit

ABOUT THE RAPTORS (58-22): Casey indicated he would give another starter the night off in Detroit but seems intent on playing everyone in the finale of the regular season at Miami on Wednesday. He was unable to dodge any bullets in Sunday's affair as three players - center Lucas Nogueira (hamstring), guard Fred VanVleet (back) and forward Norman Powell (ankle) - each suffered injuries, although Powell returned to the court following his. C.J. Miles led the way with 22 points and OG Anunoby added 21 points after posting 21 straight single-digit scoring efforts.

ABOUT THE PISTONS (38-42): Henry Ellenson provided one of the few positives in Sunday's loss with a career-high 17 points while making 4-of-6 from 3-point range. Luke Kennard was 4-for-4 from beyond the arc as Detroit hit a season-high 23 triples in 47 attempts, but it was all for naught in the face of a poor effort on the other end of the floor. "Our defense was horrendous," coach Stan Van Gundy told reporters. "They're the next to worst offense in the league and they scored at least 30 in each quarter. There's nothing to be happy about there."

BUZZER BEATERS

1. Pistons PF Blake Griffin (ankle) missed his sixth straight game Sunday and PG Reggie Jackson (illness) did not play in the fourth quarter.

2. The Raptors finished with a 34-7 home record, tied with Houston for the best mark in the NBA.

3. Toronto took the first three meetings this season and has won five in a row overall against Detroit.

PREDICTION: Raptors 109, Pistons 104

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Miami Heat Preview and Predictions 04-09-2018

8th April 2018 by Gracenote
The Oklahoma City Thunder earned a huge win in their bid for a spot in the Western Conference playoffs by knocking off the top-seeded Houston Rockets on Saturday, but there is still work to be done. The Thunder will try to get a step closer to the postseason and post back-to-back wins when they visit the Miami Heat on Monday.

Oklahoma City is in a three-way tie for the No. 5 spot in the West entering play on Sunday but is just one game ahead of the ninth-place Denver Nuggets with two games left in the regular season. "Just better not lose," All-Star forward Paul George told reporters. "That's what it comes down to. We better not lose. We control our destiny at this point, but we've got to have the mindset that we need these wins. We've got to come out and play our game, and that's always been good enough for us." The Thunder get lowly Memphis at home in the season finale on Wednesday but could get a challenge from the Heat, who are among three teams that seem to be fighting over the No. 7 spot in the East and the right to face the injury-depleted Boston Celtics in the first round. "You want to go into the playoffs on a high note, you don't want to be losing three in a row," Miami guard Dwyane Wade told reporters after a 122-98 loss to the lowly New York Knicks on Friday. "You want to definitely go in winning and feeling good about yourself. The seeds, whatever happens at the end of the day from seeds standpoint, is what it is. We're at the bottom we're going to play a Goliath team anyway. It really doesn't matter. We want to continue to play good basketball."

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

ABOUT THE THUNDER (46-34): Oklahoma City outscored Houston 28-19 in the fourth quarter on Saturday as Russell Westbrook led a strong defensive effort by locking down MVP candidate James Harden. "Our communication was at an all-time high tonight, throughout the whole game and especially throughout that fourth quarter when it was time to get stops and make plays," forward Carmelo Anthony told reporters. "We competed, we talked it out and we made plays when we had to." Anthony contributed 22 points on 7-of-14 shooting in the win after going 4-of-16 in a loss to the Golden State Warriors on Tuesday.

ABOUT THE HEAT (43-37): Miami coach Erik Spoelstra would like to see his team playing well as they head into the playoffs and was not pleased with the effort against the Knicks. "I don't want to take away from what they did. They played a great game," Spoelstra told reporters of New York. "But the best way to say it is all across the board we were a no-show. I hardly recognized our team tonight compared to who we've been and how we've been playing." The Heat, who allowed the Knicks to knock down 18 3-pointers on Friday, finish up the regular season by hosting the East-best Toronto Raptors on Wednesday.

BUZZER BEATERS

1. Thunder PF Jerami Grant is 15-of-21 from the floor over the last four contests.

2. Heat PG Goran Dragic is shooting 53.3 percent from the field over his last five games.

3. Oklahoma City took the last four in the series, including a 105-99 home win on March 23.

PREDICTION: Thunder 120, Heat 109

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Chicago Bulls vs. Brooklyn Nets Preview and Predictions 04-09-2018

8th April 2018 by Gracenote
When the Brooklyn Nets visited the Chicago Bulls on Saturday, it was clear which of the two teams playing out the string was more interested in performing well. The Nets will try to follow up a record-setting performance in a rout of the Bulls when the teams meet again Monday in Brooklyn in the second-to-last game of the regular season for both squads.

Quincy Acy had six of the Nets' franchise-record 24 made 3-pointers en route to a career-high 21 points in the 124-96 victory in the Windy City, Brooklyn's fourth win in the last six games. "When we're hot, I feel like we can run with anybody in the gym," Acy told reporters. "And tonight, we got hot." Allen Crabbe hit 5-of-13 3s and Joe Harris was 4-of-5 from long range for the Nets, who bring a 14-26 home record into their finale at the Barclays Center. The Bulls had won three straight before their current two-game slide and will be playing their last road game before hosting Detroit on Wednesday to finish the season.

TV: 7:30 p.m. ET, NBCS Chicago, YES (Brooklyn)

ABOUT THE BULLS (27-53): Chicago could use another loss or two in order to improve its draft lottery odds but it was not prepared for the embarrassment of Saturday's result. "Tonight was obviously a debacle," coach Fred Hoiberg told reporters. "We were stuck in mud from the beginning of that game." Sean Kilpatrick, who was waived by the Nets in December, posted his third straight game of at least 20 points and is averaging 21.7 on 50 percent shooting in that span.

ABOUT THE NETS (27-53): Only Houston attempts more 3-pointers per game than Brooklyn (35.5) and Acy fits well in their long-range attack, having taken 285 of his 355 shots this season from beyond the arc. "He's our bench leader, a great guy," coach Kenny Atkinson told the media of Acy, who had offseason ankle surgery and has played through groin and finger injuries as well. "I think he hasn't been fully healthy and he's played through a lot." The Nets also did some nice things on the defensive end and recorded their first game all season in which they had double digits in both blocks and steals.

BUZZER BEATERS

1. Bulls PF Bobby Portis averages 14.5 points, 9.5 rebounds and 1.3 steals as a starter.

2. Crabbe needs 12 made 3-pointers in the final two games to become the first Net to hit 200 in a season.

3. Brooklyn's average margin of victory in the first two meetings is 22.5.

PREDICTION: Nets 112, Bulls 102

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Cleveland Cavaliers vs. New York Knicks Preview and Predictions 04-09-2018

8th April 2018 by Gracenote
The Cleveland Cavaliers get to finish out the regular season with a pair of games against the lowly New York Knicks, beginning with a matchup in Madison Square Garden on Monday. The Cavaliers are in fourth place in the Eastern Conference, a game behind the Philadelphia 76ers, who knocked off Cleveland 132-130 in a dramatic affair Friday night.

Despite the setback, the Cavaliers need just one win to clinch the Central Division, which would give them the edge in a potential tiebreaker with the Sixers, although finishing third or fourth may not matter much to the players. "I want to go into the postseason healthy," LeBron James told reporters after posting a triple-double of 44 points, 11 rebounds and 11 assists against Philadelphia. "Get our team healthy. That's the only thing that matters to me." The Knicks, who visit Cleveland on Wednesday, have not been healthy much of the season and were without their top three scorers in a 115-102 loss to Milwaukee on Saturday. New York enters its finale at Madison Square Garden with a 19-21 record at home.

TV: 7:30 p.m. ET, NBATV, FS Ohio (Cleveland), MSG (New York)

ABOUT THE CAVALIERS (49-31): James certainly seems to be in great health as he continues one of his finest seasons ever, but there are other physical concerns on the team and guard Rodney Hood was added to the list by leaving Friday's loss with a sore Achilles tendon. George Hill (ankle) has missed four straight games and fellow point guard Jose Calderon (hamstring) sat out the last two contests. Jeff Green stepped up with a season-high 33 points in the loss to the Sixers and is averaging 27 points on 18-of-22 shooting over the last two contests.

ABOUT THE KNICKS (28-52): Tim Hardaway Jr. (ankle), Enes Kanter (back, wrist) and Emmanuel Mudiay (concussion) missed the loss to Milwaukee, as veteran guard Jarrett Jack got a rare opportunity to carry the load. "The job is 82 games," Jack - who scored 18 points after seeing very limited action since the All-Star break - told the media. "If you're not in, you cheer for everybody else. But if he calls your number, be ready to come in there and contribute as best you can." Kyle O'Quinn collected 15 points and a career high-tying 16 rebounds for his third straight double-double.

BUZZER BEATERS

1. Green is 7-of-9 from 3-point range and 11-of-11 from the foul line in his last two games.

2. Cleveland needs one victory to record its fourth straight 50-win season.

3. The road team won the first two matchups.

PREDICTION: Cavaliers 110, Knicks 101

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Memphis Grizzlies vs. Minnesota Timberwolves Preview and Predictions 04-09-2018

8th April 2018 by Gracenote
The Minnesota Timberwolves can ill afford a letdown Monday against the visiting Memphis Grizzlies as they fight to end a lengthy playoff drought. The Timberwolves pulled into Sunday holding down the eighth and final postseason spot in the Western Conference with two games to play, including a finale at home against the ninth-place Denver Nuggets.

With Jimmy Butler back in the fold following a six-week layoff due to a knee injury, Minnesota snapped a two-game slide with a 113-96 win over the Los Angeles Lakers on Friday. "Probably the biggest thing is the toughness," coach Tom Thibodeau told reporters of Butler's presence. "When you look at plays at the end of games, those are his plays. He's the guy that is coming up with every big rebound, loose ball, whatever the game needs he provides." The Grizzlies ended their home schedule in impressive fashion with a 130-117 win over Detroit on Sunday. MarShon Brooks scored 25 points and has at least 21 in all five of his games since joining Memphis.

TV: 8 p.m. ET, FS Southeast (Memphis), FS North Plus (Minnesota)

ABOUT THE GRIZZLIES (22-58): Dillon Brooks chipped in 22 points and Memphis shot a season-high 57.8 percent from the floor in the win over Detroit, which came on the heels of a four-game slide in which the Grizzlies scored 98 points or fewer. "It feels good," interim coach J.B. Bickerstaff told reporters. "The guys are deserving but our fans are deserving too and I think our guys understood that from the beginning of the game. ... They deserved a performance like the one the guys gave tonight." Memphis plays its final two games on the road, where it is an NBA-worst 6-33.

ABOUT THE TIMBERWOLVES (45-35): Butler displayed no rust in scoring 18 points on 7-of-10 shooting and chipping in four steals in 23 minutes against the Lakers. "We need them all," Butler told reporters. "We need them all. We are not satisfied with just this one. We got a team that we haven't beaten this year on Monday in Memphis. They have been whupping our tail all year long." Butler's return also seemed to spark point guard Jeff Teague, who finished with 25 points and eight assists against the Lakers.

BUZZER BEATERS

1. Grizzlies PG Kobi Simmons produced career highs with 20 points and seven assists in Sunday's win.

2. Timberwolves C Karl-Anthony Towns averages 22.9 points and 12.7 rebounds at home.

3. Memphis has won the last four meetings, including the first two this season.

PREDICTION: Timberwolves 112, Grizzlies 100

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Orlando Magic vs. Milwaukee Bucks Preview and Predictions 04-09-2018

8th April 2018 by Gracenote
The Milwaukee Bucks continue to prepare themselves for the playoffs mentally and physically when they host the disappointing Orlando Magic on Monday night in their regular-season home finale. The Bucks are tied with Miami for sixth in the Eastern Conference and one ahead of Washington with two games to go after knocking off the New York Knicks 115-102 on Saturday.

Milwaukee's leading scorer Giannis Antetokounmpo (27.1) sat out Saturday's victory with right ankle soreness and could be rested again, but guard Malcolm Brogdon (quad) may return from a 30-game absence Monday or in Wednesday's contest at Philadelphia. Milwaukee has won six of its last nine contests and boasts 43 victories - its most since 2009-2010 when it won 46 - but coach Joe Prunty is looking for a consistent effort. "We know how good we can be and we've shown it," Prunty told reporters. "We've shown it in games and over stretches of games, but. ... we have lulls or games where we haven't played as well as we'd like to or need to, and that's what we're trying to build on every day." The Magic, who are 8-32 on the road, have been out of the playoff race for quite a while and come in off a 112-101 loss at Eastern Conference-leading Toronto on Sunday night when they allowed 17 makes from 3-point range.

TV: 8 p,m. ET, FS Florida (Orlando), FS Wisconsin (MIlwaukee)

ABOUT THE MAGIC (24-56): Leading scorer Aaron Gordon came back after a one-game absence due to a calf injury to score 16 on Sunday while center Nikola Vucevic scored 10 and grabbed nine rebounds after missing two contests with a sore back. Rookies Jamel Artis and Khem Birch have taken advantage of opportunities with playing time down the stretch and are averaging 13.3 and 11.3 points, respectively, the last four games. Swingman Mario Hezonja, a former fifth overall draft pick, is averaging 14 points over the last five contests - more than four above his season mark.

ABOUT THE BUCKS (43-37): Guard Eric Bledsoe registered his second double-double since being acquired by Milwaukee on Saturday as he recorded 22 points along with 10 assists and is scoring 25.6 per game over the last five. "He was huge (Saturday), he controlled the game, especially in that second half," forward Khris Middleton told reporters of Bledsoe. "He found guys, got guys in the right spots and also got himself going, which is what we needed." Middleton has also been more productive of late, averaging 23 points over the last seven contests - 2.6 above his season mark.

BUZZER BEATERS

1. Orlando G Terrence Ross (knee, leg) returned to the lineup for the first time since late November and scored three points in 10 minutes against Toronto.

2. Milwaukee SG Shabazz Muhammad and SG Tony Snell are also questionable with ankle injuries.

3. The Bucks lead the season series two games to one, but dropped a 126-117 decision at Orlando on March 14.

PREDICTION: Bucks 112, Magic 100

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Sacramento Kings vs. San Antonio Spurs Preview and Predictions 04-09-2018

8th April 2018 by Gracenote
The San Antonio Spurs are heading into the final three days of the regular season without a playoff berth sewn up but found some momentum with a win over the Portland Trail Blazers on Saturday. The Spurs will try not to overlook the visiting Sacramento Kings on Monday with a potentially key trip to New Orleans for the regular season finale looming on Wednesday.

San Antonio dropped back-to-back games in Los Angeles last week to fall back into the mess of six teams fighting for five playoffs spots but stayed a game ahead of ninth-place Denver by riding a throwback performance from Manu Ginobili to a 116-105 win over Portland. "Every win is huge and we have to fight really hard to get them," Ginobili told reporters. "It's fun, too. It's making us better. It's making us grow and stick together." The Spurs can clinch a postseason spot with a win over the Kings, who are giving young players as many minutes as possible while playing out the string. Sacramento has not beaten a team with a winning record since March 16 but is 2-1 on its four-game road trip after edging Memphis 94-93 on Friday.

TV: 8:30 p.m. ET, NBCS California (Sacramento), FS Southwest (San Antonio)

ABOUT THE KINGS (26-54): Rookie guard Bogdan Bogdanovic hit the go-ahead jumper with 1.1 seconds left and stole the ensuing inbounds pass to seal the win over the Grizzlies. The Serbia native went 0-of-5 from 3-point range in the win and is just trying to stay sharp at the end of a long season. "It's more mental because we're out of the playoffs and these games don't give you the same feedback at the end of the game," Bogdanovic told the Sacramento Bee. "But we're still trying to win and still trying to play the right way. It's tough but we'll figure it out, and as I said we want to finish the season strong."

ABOUT THE SPURS (46-34): Ginobili, 40, scored eight straight points during a decisive run in the fourth quarter on Saturday with a pair of 3-pointers and a finger roll. "I truly don't know. I was just feeling good," Ginobili told reporters. "A couple of shots went in. I was feeling that type of rush, and that type of excitement, flow. I was trying to use it. I'm very happy that happened in a game like today, in an important moment. Made me feel good. It helped the team get a lead." Ginobili finished with 17 points on 7-of-7 shooting after sitting out the second night of a back-to-back on Wednesday and going 0-of-6 from the field on Tuesday.

BUZZER BEATERS

1. Kings rookie SF Justin Jackson is 12-of-21 from the floor in the last two games after going 3-of-16 in the previous two contests.

2. Spurs PF LaMarcus Aldridge scored at least 28 points in each of the last three contests.

3. San Antonio won the last 13 meetings, including a 113-98 home victory in the most recent matchup on Jan. 28.

PREDICTION: Spurs 109, Kings 92

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Portland Trail Blazers vs. Denver Nuggets Preview and Predictions 04-09-2018

8th April 2018 by Gracenote
The Denver Nuggets are tied with the Minnesota Timberwolves for the eighth and final playoff spot in the Western Conference but would lose a tiebreaker and miss out on the postseason with the way things stand now. The Nuggets can make it easy on themselves by winning their final two regular season games, starting with the visiting Portland Trail Blazers on Monday.

Denver visits Minnesota in the regular season finale on Wednesday and is playing some of its best basketball after crushing the Los Angeles Clippers 134-115 on Saturday. "I think overall, offensively, defensively, controlling our turnovers, I think it's our best overall basketball," power forward Paul Millsap told reporters. "Not necessarily the best offense that we've played all year. Not necessarily the best defense. But to be a really good team you have to have good balance. And I think, especially coming down the stretch, we have good balance on offense and defense. And that's what we need." The Nuggets stretched their winning streak to five straight with the rout, and all five of those victories came against teams with winning records. The Trail Blazers are still in the driver's seat for the No. 3 spot in the West but dropped their last three while tuning up for the playoffs.

TV: 9 p.m. ET, NBCS Northwest (Portland), Altitude (Denver)

ABOUT THE TRAIL BLAZERS (48-32): Portland could not find a win in Texas over the first three games of its road trip but finishes out the trip in Denver before ending the regular season at home against fourth-place Utah. "We've got two games left, one on the road and one at home," All-Star point guard Damian Lillard told reporters after a 116-105 setback in San Antonio on Saturday. "One gives us home court for sure, and if you win these last two -- 50 wins and the three seed. It is getting tight because we have things we can still get done, but for us it's more about how we're playing." Lillard scored 33 points in the latest setback after sitting out at Houston on Thursday to rest an ankle injury.

ABOUT THE NUGGETS (45-35): Denver small forward Will Barton led the way with 31 points on 11-of-15 shooting in Saturday's win and is stepping up down the stretch. "I just wanted to be aggressive from the start and put pressure on their defense," Barton told reporters. "Once I did that, I figured out what I could get, whether I was getting to the rim, pull-up jumpers and pull-up threes. Once I got into a rhythm, I just figured out what they were trying to do and tried to exploit it." Barton is averaging 20 points on 51.4 percent shooting, seven rebounds and 4.6 assists during the five-game winning streak.

BUZZER BEATERS

1. Trail Blazers C Jusuf Nurkic recorded a double-double in each of the last three games.

2. Nuggets SG Gary Harris (knee) missed the last 11 games but is coming close to a return.

3. Denver took the last two meetings, edging Portland 104-101 at home in the most recent matchup on Jan. 22.

PREDICTION: Nuggets 113, Trail Blazers 106

[Can'tPickAWinner]

New Orleans Pelicans vs. Los Angeles Clippers Preview and Predictions 04-09-2018

8th April 2018 by Gracenote
The Los Angeles Clippers made a spirited run at a playoff spot in the Western Conference but were finally eliminated from the race on Saturday. The New Orleans Pelicans, who visit the Clippers on Monday, do not yet have their spot in the playoffs secured but are playing well with wins in three straight.

The Pelicans entered play on Sunday fifth in the West but just one game ahead of ninth-place Denver with two games remaining. New Orleans began its winning streak by picking off the lowly Memphis Grizzlies and Phoenix Suns but worked hard on Saturday and ended a 14-game losing streak to the defending champion Warriors with a 126-120 victory at Golden State. "It's a big win for us," All-Star forward Anthony Davis told reporters. "It's a tough place to play. They go on runs all the time. You just have to be able to withstand that run and make a run of your own. Kind of even it out. When we got out to that lead, instead of us making a run to catch back up we kind of made a run to separate. They're the defending champions. The position that we're in, we just wanted to come out and do anything to win." The Clippers did not put up much of a fight on the defensive end in a 134-115 loss to the Nuggets on Saturday and dropped four of their last five.

TV: 10:30 p.m. ET, ESPN, FS Prime Ticket (Los Angeles)

ABOUT THE PELICANS (46-34): New Orleans point guard Rajon Rondo handed out 17 assists in Saturday's win and is taking on a leadership role with the team. "We are hungry, and the guy who is really leading is (Rajon) Rondo," Davis told reporters. "He's telling us how good we are and how good we can be. Where we are and everything. He's coming in with a new stat about if we don't win tonight and somebody else win. Or if we win, and all this stuff. He's been through all this before and won a championship. He's kind of been the leader of the team as far as this playoff race has gone." Davis is leading on the court as well and posted his fourth straight double-double with 34 points, 12 rebounds and four blocks on Saturday.

ABOUT THE CLIPPERS (42-38): Los Angeles may have been eliminated from contention with Saturday's loss, but that doesn't mean it plans on laying down for the last two games. "I think I have to play the (starters) against New Orleans, honestly," Clippers coach Doc Rivers told reporters. "I think we have to really go after that game. I think it's the - I just believe in protecting the league. You know what I'm saying? I just think that's what we should do, and I hope we do that." Leading scorer Lou Williams seems like he could use a break after going a combined 9-of-27 from the floor over the last two games.

BUZZER BEATERS

1. Clippers C DeAndre Jordan ranks second in the NBA in rebounding (15.3), three spots ahead of Davis (11.1).

2. Pelicans SG Ian Clark (ankle) sat out the last two games and is doubtful for Monday.

3. New Orleans earned a 121-116 win at Los Angeles on March 6 behind 41 points from Davis.

PREDICTION: Pelicans 125, Clippers 113

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Mike Wynn

Free Play: Free Pick Minnesota w/Lynn +155 Over Houston

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Free Selection from Jim Feist

Jim Feist's Comp Pick, Monday, April 9, 2018



4/09 07:35 PM PT / 10:35 PM ET

NBA (717) NEW ORLEANS PELICANS VS (718) LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS

Take: (717) NEW ORLEANS PELICANS

Reason: Your free play for Monday, April 8, 2018 is in the NBA scheduled contest between the New Orleans Pelicans and the LA Clippers. Your free play is on the PELICANS.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Jeff Allen Sports

Monday's Free Selection is on the NY Mets

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Razor Sharp

YOUR RAZOR SHARP FREE PICK FOR MONDAY: Take PORTLAND/DENVER OVER the total of 218

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Totals4U

Monday's Free Selection: Toronto/Baltimore under 8 1/2

[Can'tPickAWinner]

John Anthony Sports

Monday's Free Selection: Orlando Magic + 13 1/2

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Atlantic Sports

Monday's Free Selection from Atlantic Sports: Milwaukee Brewers + 130

[Can'tPickAWinner]

#1 Sports

Monday's Free Selection: Colorado Rockies - 195

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Easy Money Sports

Lee's Free Monday Selection Is

Saint Louis w/Mikolas -139

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Nevada Sharpshooter

Your free winner for Monday: Take OKLAHOMA CITY/MIAMI OVER the total of 214½

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Huddle Up Sports

Free Play: Colorado Gray -190

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Hawkeye Sports

Monday's Free Pick: Houston Astros - 165

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Golden Dragon Sports

Free Pick Mets Syndergaard -208

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Arthur Ralph Sports

FREE play: MON Portland + 4

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Teyas Sports

FREE PICK 4/9 MLB BREWERS +129

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Platinum Plays

Free Pick the Houston/Minnesota Game UNDER 8½ Runs

[Can'tPickAWinner]

The Vegas Steam Line

Your free winner for Monday: Take ST LOUIS (Mikolas) -145 over Milwaukee

[Can'tPickAWinner]

High Stakes Syndicate

Free Selection for Monday: Washington Nationals - 240

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Free Selection from Kenny Towers

Ov 210 Orl/Mil - NBA

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Sharp Bettor

SharpBettor FREE Play for Monday, April 9, 2018

4/09 07:35 PM NBA (717) NEW ORLEANS PELICANS VS (718) LOS ANGELES CLIPPERS

Take : Pelicans

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Roz Wins

Roz's Monday April 9, 2018, Free Pick

4/09 04:35 PM NBA (703) CLEVELAND CAVALIERS VS (704) NEW YORK KNICKS

Take : Cavaliers

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Bird Dog Sport Picks

MLB KANSAS CITY ROYALS u8

[Can'tPickAWinner]

DONNY ACTION

NBA OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER ‑2.5 ‑105

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Mikey Money

NBA BROOKLYN NETS ‑7.5

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Mikey Sports

NBA ORLANDO MAGIC +12

[Can'tPickAWinner]

MVP Lock Club

MLB CLEVELAND INDIANS ‑240

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Picks 2 Play

MLB NEW YORK METS ‑185

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Pinnacle Sports Picks

MLB HOUSTON ASTROS ‑160

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Power Play Wins

MLB WASHINGTON NATIONALS ‑230

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Pure Lock

MLB ARIZONA DIAMONDBACKS ‑115

[Can'tPickAWinner]

R and R Totals

MLB SEATTLE MARINERS/KANSAS CITY ROYALS ‑105 u8

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Scottie Can Pick

MLB CINCINNATI REDS/PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES ‑130 o8.5

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Shadow Sports Syndicate

MLB HOUSTON ASTROS ‑160

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Team Underground

MLB PITTSBURGH PIRATES +135

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Top Dog LB

MLB SAN FRANCISCO GIANTS +110

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Top Shelf Sports Pick

MLB WASHINGTON NATIONALS ‑230

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Total Winner Sports

MLB SEATTLE MARINERS ‑105

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Tozh Parley

MLB PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES ‑120

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Tys Terrific Tips

MLB ST. LOUIS CARDINALS ‑140

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Vegas Investment Picks

NBA OKLAHOMA CITY THUNDER ‑3.5

[Can'tPickAWinner]

VIP Sports Picks Las Vegas

MLB CHICAGO CUBS ‑150

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Wise Guy Insider

MLB TAMPA BAY RAYS ‑125

[Can'tPickAWinner]

NBA

Monday, April 9

Toronto won its last five games with Detroit; they’re 3-2 vs spread in last five visits to the Motor City. Over is 3-1 in last four series games played here. Raptors won their last three games; they are 3-4 vs spread in last seven games as road favorites. Three of their last four games stayed under. Pistons won eight of their last 11 games; they’re 6-6 as home underdogs. Over is 6-2 in their last eight games.

Cavaliers won nine of last ten games with New York, are 5-2 vs spread in last seven; they’re 3-2 vs spread in last five visits to Manhattan. Under is 7-2-1 in last ten series games. Cleveland won eight of its last ten games; they’re 2-4 in last six games as road favorites. Five of their last seven games stayed under. Knicks lost five of their last six games; they’re 4-2 in last six games as home underdogs. Three of their last four games went over.

Nets won three of last four games with the Bulls; they just beat ‘em by 28 in Chicago Saturday. Bulls are 3-2 vs spread in last five visits to Brooklyn. Last six series games stayed under total. Chicago lost seven of its last ten games; they’re 4-12 in last 16 games as road underdogs. Under is 4-2-1 in their last seven games. Brooklyn won of its last six games; they’re 5-7 as home favorites this year. Three of their last four games stayed under.

Thunder won their last four games with Miami; they covered three of last four visits to South Beach. Last eight series games stayed under the total. Oklahoma City lost four of its last six games; they’re 4-2 in last six games as road favorites. Seven of their last eight games stayed under total. Heat won four of their last six games; they covered last three games as a home underdog. Four of their last six games stayed under.

Grizzlies won their last four games with Minnesota; they’re 3-2 vs spread in last five visits to Twin Cities. Four of last five series games stayed under the total. Memphis lost four of its last five games; they’re 3-5 in last eight games as road underdogs. Four of their last five games went over total. Timberwolves are 3-4 in their last seven games; they’re 6-3-1 in last 10 games as a home favorite. Three of their last four games stayed under.

Bucks won six of last nine games with Orlando; over is 6-4 in last ten series games. Magic is 2-2 vs spread in last four visits to Wisconsin. Orlando lost five of its last seven games; they’re 3-5-1 in last nine games as road underdogs. Last three Magic games went over total. Milwaukee won six of its last nine games; they’re 1-10 vs spread in last 11 games as home favorites. Over is 9-1 in their last ten games.

Spurs won their last 10 games with Sacramento, covered last four; Kings are 2-2 vs spread in last four visits to the Alamo. Last six series games went over the total. Sacramento lost five of its last seven games; they’re 3-5 in last eight games as road underdogs. Eight of their last nine games stayed under. San Antonio won/covered its last six home games. Six of their last eight games went over the total.

Trailblazers won seven of last ten games with the Nuggets; they’re 2-1-1 vs spread in last four visits to Denver. Last three series games stayed under. Portland lost its last three games; they covered their last six tries as road underdogs. Three of their last four games went over. Denver won its last five games; they’re 2-7 in last nine games as home favorites. Four of their last six games went over.

New Orleans won three of last four games with the Clippers; they’re 2-2 vs spread in last four series games played here. Three of last four series games stayed under. Pelicans won their last three games; they covered their last five games as road favorites. Last three New Orleans games went over total. Clippers lost four of their last five games; they’re 4-5 as home underdogs this season. LA’s last four games all went over.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

NBA

Monday, April 9

Trend Report

Toronto Raptors
Toronto is 2-9-1 ATS in its last 12 games
Toronto is 17-5 SU in its last 22 games
Toronto is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games on the road
Toronto is 9-3 SU in its last 12 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 16 of Toronto's last 24 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Toronto's last 6 games on the road
Toronto is 4-8-1 ATS in its last 13 games when playing Detroit
Toronto is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing Detroit
The total has gone OVER in 10 of Toronto's last 15 games when playing Detroit
Toronto is 2-3-1 ATS in its last 6 games when playing on the road against Detroit
Toronto is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Detroit
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Toronto's last 8 games when playing on the road against Detroit
Detroit Pistons
Detroit is 9-2 ATS in its last 11 games
Detroit is 6-2 SU in its last 8 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Detroit's last 5 games
Detroit is 7-1 ATS in its last 8 games at home
Detroit is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Detroit's last 5 games at home
Detroit is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games when playing Toronto
The total has gone OVER in 10 of Detroit's last 15 games when playing Toronto
Detroit is 3-7-1 ATS in its last 11 games when playing at home against Toronto
Detroit is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Toronto
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Detroit's last 8 games when playing at home against Toronto


Chicago Bulls
Chicago is 4-2 ATS in its last 6 games
Chicago is 3-9 SU in its last 12 games
Chicago is 4-12 ATS in its last 16 games on the road
Chicago is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Chicago's last 6 games on the road
Chicago is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games when playing Brooklyn
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Chicago's last 5 games when playing Brooklyn
Chicago is 11-5 ATS in its last 16 games when playing on the road against Brooklyn
Chicago is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games when playing on the road against Brooklyn
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Chicago's last 8 games when playing on the road against Brooklyn
Brooklyn Nets
Brooklyn is 4-2 ATS in its last 6 games
Brooklyn is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games
Brooklyn is 8-17 SU in its last 25 games
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Brooklyn's last 6 games
Brooklyn is 1-6 ATS in its last 7 games at home
Brooklyn is 3-11 SU in its last 14 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Brooklyn's last 10 games at home
Brooklyn is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games when playing Chicago
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Brooklyn's last 5 games when playing Chicago
Brooklyn is 5-11 ATS in its last 16 games when playing at home against Chicago
Brooklyn is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games when playing at home against Chicago
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Brooklyn's last 8 games when playing at home against Chicago


Cleveland Cavaliers
Cleveland is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games
Cleveland is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Cleveland's last 7 games
Cleveland is 5-2 ATS in its last 7 games when playing New York
Cleveland is 11-1 SU in its last 12 games when playing New York
The total has gone UNDER in 10 of Cleveland's last 13 games when playing New York
Cleveland is 4-2 ATS in its last 6 games when playing on the road against New York
Cleveland is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against New York
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Cleveland's last 7 games when playing on the road against New York
New York Knicks
New York is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games
New York is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of New York's last 6 games
New York is 6-14 ATS in its last 20 games at home
New York is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 9 of New York's last 13 games at home
New York is 2-5 ATS in its last 7 games when playing Cleveland
New York is 1-11 SU in its last 12 games when playing Cleveland
The total has gone UNDER in 10 of New York's last 13 games when playing Cleveland
New York is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games when playing at home against Cleveland
New York is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Cleveland
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of New York's last 7 games when playing at home against Cleveland


Oklahoma City Thunder
Oklahoma City is 2-5-1 ATS in its last 8 games
Oklahoma City is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Oklahoma City's last 8 games
Oklahoma City is 4-2 ATS in its last 6 games on the road
Oklahoma City is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Oklahoma City's last 5 games on the road
Oklahoma City is 5-1-1 ATS in its last 7 games when playing Miami
Oklahoma City is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games when playing Miami
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Oklahoma City's last 5 games when playing Miami
Oklahoma City is 3-6 ATS in its last 9 games when playing on the road against Miami
Oklahoma City is 3-6 SU in its last 9 games when playing on the road against Miami
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Oklahoma City's last 5 games when playing on the road against Miami
Miami Heat
Miami is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games
Miami is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Miami's last 6 games
Miami is 7-3 ATS in its last 10 games at home
Miami is 9-1 SU in its last 10 games at home
Miami is 1-5-1 ATS in its last 7 games when playing Oklahoma City
Miami is 1-6 SU in its last 7 games when playing Oklahoma City
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Miami's last 5 games when playing Oklahoma City
Miami is 6-3 ATS in its last 9 games when playing at home against Oklahoma City
Miami is 6-3 SU in its last 9 games when playing at home against Oklahoma City
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Miami's last 5 games when playing at home against Oklahoma City


Memphis Grizzlies
Memphis is 5-1-1 ATS in its last 7 games
Memphis is 4-21 SU in its last 25 games
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Memphis's last 6 games
Memphis is 5-10-1 ATS in its last 16 games on the road
Memphis is 1-20 SU in its last 21 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Memphis's last 7 games on the road
Memphis is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Minnesota
Memphis is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games when playing Minnesota
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Memphis's last 5 games when playing Minnesota
Memphis is 10-4 SU in its last 14 games when playing on the road against Minnesota
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Memphis's last 6 games when playing on the road against Minnesota
Minnesota Timberwolves
Minnesota is 2-5-1 ATS in its last 8 games
The total has gone OVER in 17 of Minnesota's last 25 games
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Minnesota's last 6 games
Minnesota is 1-3-1 ATS in its last 5 games at home
Minnesota is 18-5 SU in its last 23 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 10 of Minnesota's last 12 games at home
Minnesota is 1-5 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Memphis
Minnesota is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games when playing Memphis
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Minnesota's last 5 games when playing Memphis
Minnesota is 4-10 SU in its last 14 games when playing at home against Memphis
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Minnesota's last 6 games when playing at home against Memphis


Orlando Magic
Orlando is 2-6-1 ATS in its last 9 games
Orlando is 4-13 SU in its last 17 games
The total has gone UNDER in 12 of Orlando's last 18 games
Orlando is 12-5-1 ATS in its last 18 games on the road
Orlando is 2-3-1 ATS in its last 6 games on the road
Orlando is 1-10 SU in its last 11 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Orlando's last 9 games on the road
Orlando is 5-2 ATS in its last 7 games when playing Milwaukee
Orlando is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games when playing Milwaukee
Orlando is 4-2 ATS in its last 6 games when playing on the road against Milwaukee
Orlando is 1-9 SU in its last 10 games when playing on the road against Milwaukee
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Orlando's last 7 games when playing on the road against Milwaukee
Milwaukee Bucks
Milwaukee is 4-2 ATS in its last 6 games
Milwaukee is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Milwaukee's last 5 games
Milwaukee is 1-6 ATS in its last 7 games at home
Milwaukee is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Milwaukee's last 5 games at home
Milwaukee is 2-5 ATS in its last 7 games when playing Orlando
Milwaukee is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games when playing Orlando
Milwaukee is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games when playing at home against Orlando
Milwaukee is 9-1 SU in its last 10 games when playing at home against Orlando
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Milwaukee's last 7 games when playing at home against Orlando


Sacramento Kings
Sacramento is 2-5 ATS in its last 7 games
Sacramento is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games
The total has gone UNDER in 8 of Sacramento's last 9 games
Sacramento is 11-5 ATS in its last 16 games on the road
Sacramento is 3-6 SU in its last 9 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Sacramento's last 6 games on the road
Sacramento is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games when playing San Antonio
Sacramento is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games when playing San Antonio
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Sacramento's last 5 games when playing San Antonio
Sacramento is 6-3 ATS in its last 9 games when playing on the road against San Antonio
Sacramento is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against San Antonio
The total has gone OVER in 11 of Sacramento's last 15 games when playing on the road against San Antonio
San Antonio Spurs
San Antonio is 9-4 ATS in its last 13 games
San Antonio is 9-4 SU in its last 13 games
The total has gone OVER in 6 of San Antonio's last 8 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
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of San Antonio's last 10 games at home
San Antonio is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games when playing Sacramento
San Antonio is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing Sacramento
The total has gone OVER in 5 of San Antonio's last 5 games when playing Sacramento
San Antonio is 3-6 ATS in its last 9 games when playing at home against Sacramento
San Antonio is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Sacramento
The total has gone OVER in 11 of San Antonio's last 15 games when playing at home against Sacramento


Portland Trail Blazers
Portland is 14-4-2 ATS in its last 20 games
Portland is 2-3-1 ATS in its last 6 games
Portland is 17-6 SU in its last 23 games
Portland is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Portland's last 6 games
Portland is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games on the road
Portland is 2-3-1 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Denver
Portland is 15-4 SU in its last 19 games when playing Denver
The total has gone OVER in 8 of Portland's last 12 games when playing Denver
Portland is 2-3-1 ATS in its last 6 games when playing on the road against Denver
Portland is 6-3 SU in its last 9 games when playing on the road against Denver
Portland is 7-18 SU in its last 25 games when playing on the road against Denver
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Portland's last 5 games when playing on the road against Denver
Denver Nuggets
Denver is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games
Denver is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games at home
Denver is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 9 of Denver's last 12 games at home
Denver is 4-15 SU in its last 19 games when playing Portland
The total has gone OVER in 8 of Denver's last 12 games when playing Portland
Denver is 3-7-1 ATS in its last 11 games when playing at home against Portland
Denver is 18-7 SU in its last 25 games when playing at home against Portland
Denver is 3-6 SU in its last 9 games when playing at home against Portland
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Denver's last 5 games when playing at home against Portland


New Orleans Pelicans
New Orleans is 8-4 ATS in its last 12 games
New Orleans is 17-8 SU in its last 25 games
New Orleans is 9-3 ATS in its last 12 games on the road
New Orleans is 9-3 SU in its last 12 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of New Orleans's last 6 games on the road
New Orleans is 6-14 SU in its last 20 games when playing LA Clippers
New Orleans is 3-6 ATS in its last 9 games when playing on the road against LA Clippers
New Orleans is 1-8 SU in its last 9 games when playing on the road against LA Clippers
The total has gone OVER in 5 of New Orleans's last 6 games when playing on the road against LA Clippers
Los Angeles Clippers
LA Clippers is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games
LA Clippers is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of LA Clippers's last 5 games
LA Clippers is 5-11 ATS in its last 16 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 5 of LA Clippers's last 6 games at home
LA Clippers is 14-6 SU in its last 20 games when playing New Orleans
LA Clippers is 6-3 ATS in its last 9 games when playing at home against New Orleans
LA Clippers is 8-1 SU in its last 9 games when playing at home against New Orleans
The total has gone OVER in 5 of LA Clippers's last 6 games when playing at home against New Orleans

[Can'tPickAWinner]

NBA
Long Sheet

Monday, April 9

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

TORONTO (58 - 22) at DETROIT (38 - 42) - 4/9/2018, 7:05 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

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

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

CLEVELAND (49 - 31) at NEW YORK (28 - 52) - 4/9/2018, 7:35 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

Head-to-Head Series History
NEW YORK is 5-5 against the spread versus CLEVELAND over the last 3 seasons
CLEVELAND is 9-1 straight up against NEW YORK over the last 3 seasons
8 of 10 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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

CHICAGO (27 - 53) at BROOKLYN (27 - 53) - 4/9/2018, 7:35 PM
Top Trends for this game.
BROOKLYN is 45-34 ATS (+7.6 Units) in all games this season.
BROOKLYN is 3-11 ATS (-9.1 Units) in home games in the second half of the season this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
BROOKLYN is 5-4 against the spread versus CHICAGO over the last 3 seasons
CHICAGO is 5-4 straight up against BROOKLYN over the last 3 seasons
6 of 9 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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

OKLAHOMA CITY (46 - 34) at MIAMI (43 - 37) - 4/9/2018, 7:35 PM
Top Trends for this game.
OKLAHOMA CITY is 32-46 ATS (-18.6 Units) in all games this season.
OKLAHOMA CITY is 23-40 ATS (-21.0 Units) as a favorite this season.
OKLAHOMA CITY is 4-13 ATS (-10.3 Units) in road games after 3 or more consecutive unders over the last 2 seasons.
OKLAHOMA CITY is 15-25 ATS (-12.5 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
MIAMI is 89-69 ATS (+13.1 Units) in all games over the last 2 seasons.
MIAMI is 54-34 ATS (+16.6 Units) as an underdog over the last 2 seasons.
MIAMI is 37-23 ATS (+11.7 Units) in the second half of the season over the last 2 seasons.
MIAMI is 46-32 ATS (+10.8 Units) revenging a loss vs opponent over the last 2 seasons.
MIAMI is 27-12 ATS (+13.8 Units) off a upset loss as a favorite over the last 3 seasons.
MIAMI is 42-29 ATS (+10.1 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
MIAMI is 23-7 ATS (+15.3 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record - 2nd half of the season over the last 2 seasons.
MIAMI is 21-10 ATS (+10.0 Units) versus good offensive teams - scoring 106+ points/game - 2nd half of the season over the last 2 seasons.

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

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

MEMPHIS (22 - 58) at MINNESOTA (45 - 35) - 4/9/2018, 8:05 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

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

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

ORLANDO (24 - 56) at MILWAUKEE (43 - 37) - 4/9/2018, 8:05 PM
There are no Top Trends with records of significance that apply to this game.

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

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

SACRAMENTO (26 - 54) at SAN ANTONIO (46 - 34) - 4/9/2018, 8:35 PM
Top Trends for this game.
SACRAMENTO is 8-18 ATS (-11.8 Units) when playing with 2 days rest over the last 2 seasons.
SAN ANTONIO is 1045-914 ATS (+39.6 Units) in all games since 1996.
SAN ANTONIO is 835-710 ATS (+54.0 Units) as a favorite since 1996.
SAN ANTONIO is 26-13 ATS (+11.7 Units) in home games this season.
SAN ANTONIO is 214-163 ATS (+34.7 Units) in home games after a win by 10 points or more since 1996.
SAN ANTONIO is 422-340 ATS (+48.0 Units) when playing against a team with a losing record since 1996.

Head-to-Head Series History
SAN ANTONIO is 7-2 against the spread versus SACRAMENTO over the last 3 seasons
SAN ANTONIO is 10-0 straight up against SACRAMENTO over the last 3 seasons
6 of 10 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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

PORTLAND (48 - 32) at DENVER (45 - 35) - 4/9/2018, 9:05 PM
Top Trends for this game.
PORTLAND is 44-29 ATS (+12.1 Units) in all games this season.
PORTLAND is 19-8 ATS (+10.2 Units) in the second half of the season this season.
PORTLAND is 20-9 ATS (+10.1 Units) vs. division opponents over the last 2 seasons.
PORTLAND is 15-4 ATS (+10.6 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record - 2nd half of the season this season.
PORTLAND is 24-14 ATS (+8.6 Units) versus poor defensive teams - allowing 106+ points/game this season.
PORTLAND is 15-2 ATS (+12.8 Units) versus poor defensive teams - allowing 106+ points/game - 2nd half of the season this season.
PORTLAND is 24-13 ATS (+9.7 Units) versus good offensive teams - scoring 106+ points/game this season.
PORTLAND is 15-2 ATS (+12.8 Units) versus good offensive teams - scoring 106+ points/game - 2nd half of the season this season.

Head-to-Head Series History
DENVER is 5-5 against the spread versus PORTLAND over the last 3 seasons
PORTLAND is 7-4 straight up against DENVER over the last 3 seasons
7 of 11 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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

NEW ORLEANS (46 - 34) at LA CLIPPERS (42 - 38) - 4/9/2018, 10:35 PM
Top Trends for this game.
LA CLIPPERS are 24-12 ATS (+10.8 Units) versus poor defensive teams - allowing 106+ points/game this season.
NEW ORLEANS is 25-15 ATS (+8.5 Units) in road games this season.
LA CLIPPERS are 168-212 ATS (-65.2 Units) in home games in the second half of the season since 1996.
LA CLIPPERS are 226-276 ATS (-77.6 Units) after a loss by 10 points or more since 1996.
LA CLIPPERS are 221-278 ATS (-84.8 Units) when playing against a team with a winning record - 2nd half of the season since 1996.

Head-to-Head Series History
LA CLIPPERS is 5-5 against the spread versus NEW ORLEANS over the last 3 seasons
LA CLIPPERS is 6-4 straight up against NEW ORLEANS over the last 3 seasons
5 of 10 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Monday's Essentials
Tony Mejia

Game of the Night - Portland at Denver (-4, 218), Altitude, 9:05 ET

Games like these are what make the 82-game marathon worth it. It checks all boxes, featuring division rivals with plenty of history while carrying stakes that are through the roof. The course of the season for both teams is on the line.

The Nuggets just want to be playing when the playoffs begin this weekend. For the visitors, it's a bit more complicated.

After being soundly outplayed in the second half of a Saturday night loss in San Antonio, the Trail Blazers are suddenly in danger of losing a Northwest Division that they’ve been in control of since firing off 13 straight wins from Feb. 14-March 18. They’re in danger of losing four straight if they fail to win on the road in Denver, which would put them in jeopardy of collapsing down the stretch since the Jazz are scheduled to come into town on Wednesday to close out the regular season.

Portland would love nothing more than to treat its fans to a boring regular-season finale that night, complete with Damian Lillard, C.J. McCollum and Jusuf Nurkic suiting up for abbreviated stints if they’re in the mix at all. To get that accomplished, it will have to deal the Nuggets a serious blow to their postseason chances, which have improved thanks to a well-timed five-game winning streak.

If the Trail Blazers fail to end that tonight and Utah extends its own prosperous run to six games by defeating Golden State on Tuesday, the No. 3 seed could switch hands with a loss in Game No. 82, potentially resulting in the Blazers winding up on the road to open the playoffs. Given the strides they’ve made over the next two months, that would be a disaster.

The Nuggets eliminated the Clippers from playoff contention on Saturday afternoon with an impressive 134-115 win and hope to reach the final night of the regular-season with a chance at finishing top-eight by winning at Minnesota. Head coach Michael Malone told reporters his team is playing “get-it-done basketball” at the moment, having raised their level when it has mattered most. Following losses on consecutive nights in Philadelphia and Toronto, Denver closed out a season-long seven-game road trip with a resilient 126-125 victory in Oklahoma City and has yet to lose in April, claiming home wins over the Bucks, Pacers and Timberwolves prior to their rout in L.A.

Portland hasn’t been getting it done, but a part of that has had to do with injury concerns. Not only did they lose starting wing Moe Harkless to a knee surgery that he’s hoping to return from later this month, but Damian Lillard has been playing through significant ankle soreness that the team had hoped rest would alleviate, giving him a night off even after he returned from paternity leave. Now Lillard doesn’t feel he can rest, though it’s likely he’d be absent on Wednesday if his team leaves Pepsi Center victorious.

The Nuggets have been without one of their top two-way players, Gary Harris, for the last 11 games and have upgraded him to “doubtful” for this one. Jamal Murray has emerged in his absence and has scored in double-figures in 16 straight, averaging 18.9 points in that span. He’s at a 20-points-per-game clip in April and has become Denver’s most reliable shooter, regularly playing 35-plus minutes.

Guard Will Barton has also continued to thrive, excelling in his playmaker role on the wing and keying the Clippers blowout with a season-high 31 points on 11-for-15 shooting. He’s connected on five 3-pointers in three of his last eight games and opened the month with his first two 10-rebound nights of the season, so he’s clearly stepped things up. The former Blazers second-round find has really come into his own in his seventh year as a pro and is poised to make a large impact here.

Nurkic, who Denver acquired from the Bulls on a draft night deal back in 2014, is wrapping up his first full season with the Trail Blazers and probably has a little extra invested in this one too. The 7-foot center is also playing his best down the stretch and is poised to have a big influence on a playoff team for the first time. He was able to play in only one postseason game last year after suffering a non-displaced fracture of his right leg just before April. The 33 points he scored against his former team just days before that bad break remain his career-high, but he’s had success against Jokic, who essentially beat him out in Denver, rendering him a disposable backup ultimately dealt away because Mason Plumlee was deemed to be a better fit.

Nurkic has averaged 15.3 points in the three meetings with his former team this season, but Denver has emerged with victories twice. Since March 5, he’s come up with 11 double-doubles in 17 games, including three straight despite back issues.

Jokic has averaged 26 points, 12.7 rebounds and 7.6 assists over his last six games, shooting 50 percent or better five times. He’s averaged just 16.3 points and 9.3 rebounds while shooting just 40 percent, all figures below his usual production, in the three games against Portland. Paul Millsap looked like a shell of himself upon returning on Feb. 27, but has worked the rust off, making life easier on Jokic by commanding attention while working at least 30 minutes in each of the last seven games, averaging 19.9 points and 7.3 boards. He’s only faced the Blazers once with his new team, shooting just 6-for-16 in a 99-82 road loss back on Nov. 13.

Another of the x-factors here will be Blazers guard C.J. McCollum snapping out of a slump that has seen him shoot under 40 percent over his last five games, averaging just 16.4 points, including just 5-for-28 from 3-point range. Denver isn’t the ideal team to rebound against given that he’s averaged 14.7 points in three meetings against him, his lowest output against any NBA team this season. He’s shot 39.5 percent from the field. If that doesn’t change, Portland may be facing the daunting prospect of being involved in Wednesday’s most attractive clash as well. You’ll understand the Trail Blazers feeling that it’s a little too early for all that drama.

Portland will look to split its four meetings with Denver this season but are in danger of losing the season series for the first time since 2012-13. The Blazers have won 15 of the last 19 between the division rivals but haven't won in the Mile High City since Oct. 2016. The Nuggets have surrendered 100 or more points in 30 of their last 31 games but have scored at least 103 in 29 of those. The ‘over’ is 22-8-1 in Denver games since Jan. 29.

Game of the Night Too - Oklahoma City (-3, 214) at Miami, Fox Sports OK/FL, 9:05 ET

There’s only one other game on Monday’s schedule where both teams are invested in the result for playoff purposes. That statement wouldn’t be accurate if we were talking tanking, but we’ll keep it simple by telling you that Thunder-Heat is definitely the game most worth keeping an eye on in the early block.

The Heat own the No. 6 seed and would play Philadelphia if the current playoff standings hold. Like everyone else in the East, their preference would be to finish 7th in order to open the playoffs against depleted Boston, but both Washington and Milwaukee are better-positioned to make that happen. A Southeast Division title may wind up being their consolation prize, which can be secured by ruining Oklahoma City’s trip to South Florida.

The Thunder are still in danger of missing the playoffs altogether but would be in position to potentially finish top-four and secure homecourt advantage in the first round since Memphis comes to town on Wednesday. In order to make that happen, they’ll need to follow up an impressive upset of Houston with a big win in Miami.

Oklahoma City won at home 105-99 on March 23 in the only other meeting this season, rallying to win thanks to a 41-point fourth quarter. Russell Westbrook was dominant with 29 points, 13 rebounds and eight assists while Steven Adams added 24 points and 12 boards. The Thunder won despite Paul George and Carmelo Anthony combining to shoot 5-for-24, including 0-for-10 from 3-point range.

With center Hassan Whiteside back, the Heat should be better able to match up with Adams in the paint and will be looking to snap a four-game losing streak at the hands of OKC. Miami has won its last two games as a home underdog, impressively crushing Cleveland and Philadelphia.

Both teams are healthy enough that only shooting guards, Andre Roberson and Dion Waiters, each out for the season, are on the injury report. The under has prevailed in seven of the last eight Heat games.

Injury report

Guard DeMar DeRozan and center Jonas Valanciunas sat out Sunday’s home win over Toronto but should participate in Detroit. Serge Ibaka is likely to rest and it’s safe to assume conversations will be had over whether to keep Kyle Lowry out too. Of course, he may be forced to play a few minutes out of necessity with Fred Van Vleet banged up, having left the Magic game with lower back tightness. If were a DFS player, Delon Wright would be worth a long look. Backup shooting guard Norman Powell also departed last night’s win with an ankle sprain that apparently looked more serious than it ended up being.

With Toronto locked into the East’s No. 1 spot, the only thing it is playing for is homecourt advantage in a potential NBA Finals meeting with Golden State, who it was swept by during the regular season. A win here would keep the Raptors a game up on the defending champs with one to go. They’ve already set the franchise record for most single-season victories. Detroit may hold out Reggie Jackson, who is dealing with an illness. The Pistons lost in Memphis on Sunday afternoon despite connecting on 23 3-pointers.

The Cavs are still chasing the No. 3 seed, so LeBron James will definitely grace Madison S quare Garden by playing in Game No. 81. Rodney Hood has also been upgraded to probable despite his achilles issue, but point guards George Hill (ankle) and Jose Calderon (hamstring) remain questionable. Both missed a couple of games last week. The Knicks are unlikely to have Enes Kanter (back), Tim Hardaway, Jr. (ankle) or Emmanuel Mudiay (concussion) in the mix, which leaves Trey Burke and Michael Beasley as the primary offensive options.

The Cavs are still chasing the No. 3 seed, so LeBron James will definitely grace Madison S quare Garden by playing in Game No. 81. Rodney Hood has also been upgraded to probable despite his achilles issue, but point guards George Hill (ankle) and Jose Calderon (hamstring) remain questionable. Both missed a couple of games last week. The Knicks are unlikely to have Enes Kanter (back), Tim Hardaway, Jr. (ankle) or Emmanuel Mudiay (concussion) in the mix, which leaves Trey Burke and Michael Beasley as the primary offensive options.

The Grizzlies treated their home fans to a rare win yesterday as Marc Gasol participated and Marshon Brooks and Dillon Brooks each shined but are unlikely to provide as much resistance in Minnesota. It’s highly unlikely that their star center plays on the second night of a back-to-back, while the Timberwolves are in must-win mode and have Jimmy Butler back ready to play in his second straight contest.

Giannis Anteokounmpo sat out Saturday night’s win over New York with ankle soreness, so it remains to be seen if he makes it back tonight against Orlando. Malcolm Brogdon will make his highly anticipated return from a knee injury, while Tony Snell and John Henson should participate in what will be the final regular-season game at Bradley Center before the team moves into a new downtown arena to open next season. The Magic will be much easier to handle if Aaron Gordon, Nikola Vucevic and Terrence Ross are held out on the second night of a back-to-back after returning from injuries yesterday.

The Pelicans find themselves in a must-win situation against the Clippers, so it’s no surprise that they’re hoping to get Ian Clark back from an ankle injury and plan on playing Nikola Mirotic after rolling his ankle in a huge upset over Golden State. L.A. is likely to be without Lou Williams due to a sprain and may opt to sit center DeAndre Jordan due to ankle soreness that has been affecting him, according to Doc Rivers.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

NBA
Dunkel

Monday, April 9


Toronto @ Detroit

Game 701-702
April 9, 2018 @ 7:05 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Toronto
123.869
Detroit
117.901
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Toronto
by 6
203
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Toronto
by 3 1/2
209 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Toronto
(-3 1/2); Under

Cleveland @ New York

Game 703-704
April 9, 2018 @ 7:35 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Cleveland
125.617
New York
110.553
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Cleveland
by 15
229
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Cleveland
by 11 1/2
223 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Cleveland
(-11 1/2); Over

Chicago @ Brooklyn

Game 705-706
April 9, 2018 @ 7:35 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Chicago
111.561
Brooklyn
115.998
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Brooklyn
by 4 1/2
213
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Brooklyn
by 8 1/2
220 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Chicago
(+8 1/2); Under

Oklahoma City @ Miami

Game 707-708
April 9, 2018 @ 7:35 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Oklahoma City
119.241
Miami
119.005
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Miami
Even
210
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Oklahoma City
by 3 1/2
214
Dunkel Pick:
Miami
(+3 1/2); Under

Memphis @ Minnesota

Game 709-710
April 9, 2018 @ 8:05 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Memphis
107.856
Minnesota
124.904
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Minnesota
by 17
211
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Minnesota
by 15
213
Dunkel Pick:
Minnesota
(-15); Under

Orlando @ Milwaukee

Game 711-712
April 9, 2018 @ 8:05 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Orlando
106.712
Milwaukee
120.634
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Milwaukee
by 14
226
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Milwaukee
by 10
208 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Milwaukee
(-10); Over

Sacramento @ San Antonio

Game 713-714
April 9, 2018 @ 8:35 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Sacramento
114.501
San Antonio
124.672
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
San Antonio
by 10
195
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
San Antonio
by 13 1/2
200 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Sacramento
(+13 1/2); Under

Portland @ Denver

Game 715-716
April 9, 2018 @ 9:05 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Portland
121.304
Denver
122.875
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Denver
by 1 1/2
211
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Denver
by 4 1/2
218
Dunkel Pick:
Portland
(+4 1/2); Under

New Orleans @ LA Clippers

Game 717-718
April 9, 2018 @ 10:35 pm

Dunkel Rating:
New Orleans
123.881
LA Clippers
113.767
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
New Orleans
by 10
222
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
New Orleans
by 7 1/2
227 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
New Orleans
(-7 1/2); Under

[Can'tPickAWinner]

NBA

Monday, April 9


Total Streaks

*The Over is 4-1 in the Pistons’ last five games.
*The Under is 6-0 in the last six games between the Nets and Bulls.
*The Under is 7-1 in the Thunder’s last eight games.
*The Under is 10-2-1 in the last 13 games between the Cavs and Knicks.
*The Over is 6-0 in the Bucks’ last six home games.
*The Over is 10-2 in the Wolves’ last 12 home games.
*The Under is 4-0 in the Kings’ last four games.
*The Over is 4-0 in the Clippers’ last four games.

Injury of Note

The Toronto Raptors rested starters DeMar DeRozan and Jonas Valanciunas Sunday and Raptors reporters are suggesting its likely Serge Ibaka and Kyle Lowry will rest Monday against the Detroit Pistons. Lowry and Ibaka are the Raptors second and third leading scorers.

Ref to Watch

The best Over referee in the NBA is back at work on Monday night. The Over is 40-16 in the 56 games Eric Lewis has worked this season and he’s part of the three-man crew working tonight’s Pelicans-Clippers game. The total is set at 226.

Trends

*The Raptors are 0-4 ATS in their last four road games.
*The Pistons are 7-1 ATS in their last eight home games.
*The Bulls are 4-12 ATS in their last 16 road games.
*The Cavs are 5-1 ATS in their last six games.
*The Knicks are 6-14 ATS in their last 20 home games.
*The Grizzlies are 6-1 ATS in their last seven games.
*The Spurs are 9-0 ATS in their last nine home games.

[Can'tPickAWinner]

MLB
Dunkel

Monday, April 9


Pittsburgh @ Chicago Cubs

Game 951-952
April 9, 2018 @ 2:20 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Pittsburgh
(Nova) 14.617
Chicago Cubs
(Chtwood) 16.154
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Chicago Cubs
by 1 1/2
5
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Chicago Cubs
-155
No Total
Dunkel Pick:
Chicago Cubs
(-155); N/A

Cincinnati @ Philadelphia

Game 953-954
April 9, 2018 @ 7:05 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Cincinnati
(Reed) 14.134
Philadelphia
(Lively) 15.566
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Philadelphia
by 1 1/2
7
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Philadelphia
-130
9
Dunkel Pick:
Philadelphia
(-130); Under

Atlanta @ Washington

Game 955-956
April 9, 2018 @ 7:05 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Atlanta
(Teheran) 16.521
Washington
(Scherzer) 13.676
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Atlanta
by 3
9
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Washington
-240
7 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Atlanta
(+200); Over

Milwaukee @ St. Louis

Game 957-958
April 9, 2018 @ 7:05 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Milwaukee
(Chacin) 15.356
St. Louis
(Mikolas) 14.447
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Milwaukee
by 1
7
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
St. Louis
-150
8 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Milwaukee
(+130); Under

NY Mets @ Miami

Game 959-960
April 9, 2018 @ 7:10 pm

Dunkel Rating:
NY Mets
(Syndrgrd) 14.402
Miami
(Urena) 15.896
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Miami
by 1 1/2
9
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
NY Mets
-220
7 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Miami
(+190); Over

San Diego @ Colorado

Game 961-962
April 9, 2018 @ 8:40 pm

Dunkel Rating:
San Diego
(Richard) 14.969
Colorado
(Gray) 13.436
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
San Diego
by 1 1/2
7
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Colorado
-200
10 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
San Diego
(+170); Under

Arizona @ San Francisco

Game 963-964
April 9, 2018 @ 10:15 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Arizona
(Godley) 16.712
San Francisco
(Holland) 15.523
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Arizona
by 1
7
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Arizona
-125
8 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Arizona
(-125); Under

Detroit @ Cleveland

Game 965-966
April 9, 2018 @ 6:10 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Detroit
(Liriano) 14.797
Cleveland
(Kluber) 15.531
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Cleveland
by 1
5
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Cleveland
-180
8 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Cleveland
(-180); Under

Toronto @ Baltimore

Game 967-968
April 9, 2018 @ 7:05 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Toronto
(Happ) 16.708
Baltimore
(Bundy) 15.655
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Toronto
by 1
11
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Baltimore
-115
8 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Toronto
(-105); Over

LA Angels @ Texas

Game 969-970
April 9, 2018 @ 8:05 pm

Dunkel Rating:
LA Angels
(Rchards) 00.000
Texas
(Fister) 00.000
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
LA Angels

Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
LA Angels

Dunkel Pick:
LA Angels
( );

Tampa Bay @ Chicago White Sox

Game 971-972
April 9, 2018 @ 2:10 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Tampa Bay
(Archer) 15.468
Chicago White Sox
(Gonzalez) 14.253
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Tampa Bay
by 1
11
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Tampa Bay
-135
8
Dunkel Pick:
Tampa Bay
(-135); Over

Houston @ Minnesota

Game 973-974
April 9, 2018 @ 8:10 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Houston
(Verlnder) 16.135
Minnesota
(Lynn) 15.214
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Houston
by 1
5
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Houston
-165
8 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
Houston
(-165); Under

Seattle @ Kansas City

Game 975-976
April 9, 2018 @ 8:15 pm

Dunkel Rating:
Seattle
(Gonzales) 14.064
Kansas City
(Junis) 15.491
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Kansas City
by 1 1/2
5
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Kansas City
-110
8
Dunkel Pick:
Kansas City
(-110); Under

[Can'tPickAWinner]

MLB

Monday, April 9


National League
Pirates (7-2) @ Cubs (5-4)
Nova is 0-1, 6.10 in two starts this season (over 2-0).

Chatwood allowed one run in six IP (92 PT) in his first ’18 start; his last four starts stayed under the total.

Pirates won seven of their first nine games (over 6-3). This is Cubs’ home opener; they won three of last four games. Under is 5-0-1 in their last six games.

Reds (2-6) @ Phillies (3-5)
Reed is 0-8, 9.79 in 11 career starts, 10 of which were in 2016.

Lively allowed two runs in 5.2 IP (91 PT) in his first ’18 start; under is 8-1-2 in his last 11 starts.

Reds lost six of their first eight games (over 4-4). Philly is 3-5 in its first eight games (over 4-3-1).

Braves (6-3) @ Nationals (4-5)
Teheran is 0-0, 10.13 in two starts this year (over 2-0); Braves scored 21 runs in winning both of those games.

Scherzer is 1-1, 4.09 in two starts this year (under 1-0-1).

Braves won four of their last five games; over is 4-2-3 in their games this season. Washington lost its last five games; over is 5-1-2 in their last eight games.

Brewers (5-5) @ Cardinals (4-5)
Chacin 0-1, 10.00 in two starts this season (over 1-1).

Mikolas allowed four runs in 5.2 IP in his first ’18 start, an 8-4 win in Milwaukee.

Brewers lost four of their last five games (under 4-0-1). St Louis is 4-5 in its first nine games; three of their last four games stayed under.

Mets (7-1) @ Marlins (3-6)
Syndegaard is 1-0, 5.40 in two starts this season (over 1-1). Four of his last six starts went over.

Urena is 0-1, 4.91 in two starts this season (over 1-1). Over is 4-2 in his last six starts.

Mets won their last five games; under is 4-2 in their last six games. Miami lost four of its last five games; over is 5-4 in their games.

Padres (5-5) @ Rockies (2-8)
Richard 0-1, 4.50 in two starts this season (under 2-0). He has an 8.84 career ERA in Denver.

Gray is 1-1, 2.45 in two starts this year; he blanked San Diego for seven innings last week. Under is 7-4 in his last 11 starts.

Padres lost eight of their first ten games; their last five games stayed under. Colorado split its first ten games; four of its last five games stayed under.

Diamondbacks (7-2) @ Giants (4-4)
Godley allowed one run in seven IP (96 PT) in his first ’18 start; under is 7-4-1 in his last dozen starts.

Holland is 0-1, 7.20 in two starts this year (over 1-1).

Arizona won five of its last six games; under is 4-1 in their last five. Giants won three of their last four games; five of their last six games went over.

American League
Tigers (4-4) @ Indians (4-5)
Liriano allowed one run in 6.2 IP in his first ’18 start; over is 4-2 in his last six starts.

Kluber is 0-1, 2.40 in two starts this year (under 2-0); Indians scored three runs in the two games.

Tigers won four of its last five games (under 4-1). Cleveland is 4-5 in its last nine games; their last four games stayed under.

Blue Jays (6-4) @ Orioles (4-6)
Happ is 1-1, 6.30 in two starts this season (over 1-1).

Bundy is 0-0, 1.38 in two starts this season (under 2-0).

Toronto won six of its last eight games; under is 6-4 in their games. Baltimore won three of its last four games; their last three games went over.

Angels (7-3) @ Rangers (4-7)
Richards is 1-0, 5.06 in two starts this season (over 2-0).

Fister is 1-1, 6.23 in two starts this season (under 2-0).

Angels won seven of their last nine games; over is 6-4 in their games. Texas lost four of its last five home games; under is 5-2 in their last seven games.

Rays (1-8) @ White Sox (3-5)
Archer is 0-0, 6.55 in two starts this season (over 2-0).

Gonzalez allowed six runs in five IP in his first ’18 start (89 PT); under is 7-3 in his last 10 starts.

Tampa Bay lost its last eight games; over is 4-1 in their last five. White Sox lost five of its last six games; under is 5-2 in their last seven games.

Astros (8-2) @ Twins (4-3)
Verlander is 1-0, 3.09 in two starts this year (over 1-1). Under is 7-4-1 in his last 12 starts.

Lynn allowed five runs in four IP (95 PT) in his first ’18 start; under is 5-3 in his last eight starts.

Astros won seven of their last eight games; under is 5-1 in their last six. Minnesota won four of its last six games (under 4-3).

Mariners (4-3) @ Royals (2-5)
Gonzales allowed three runs in 6.1 IP in his first ’18 start; over is 7-1 in his last eight starts.

Junis blanked Detroit for seven innings (87 PT) in his first ’18 start; under is 6-3-1 in his last ten starts.

Mariners are 4-3 in their first seven games; five of their last six games went over. Royals lost five of their last seven games; their last six games stayed under.

Teams’ records in first five innings:
Team (road-home-total)- thru 4/8/18
Ariz 1-2……5-0-1……..6-2-1
Atl 2-1……3-2-1……..5-3-1
Cubs 3-4-2……0-0……..3-4-2
Reds 0-4………1-3……..1-7
Colo 3-3-1……1-2………4-5-1
LA 1-3-1…..2-1-1……..3-4-2
Miami 0-2-1…..1-2-3……..1-4-4
Milw 2-1…….2-5………..4-6
Mets 2-1……2-1-2………4-2-2
Philly 1-1-3…..2-0-1……..3-1-4
Pitt 2-0…….6-0……….8-0
St. Louis 4-2…….2-1……….6-3
SD 1-1-1…..1-5-1………2-6-2
SF 1-2-1…..2-2………..3-4-1
Wash 4-2……..1-2………5-4

Orioles 2-3-2……..0-2-1……2-5-3
Boston 3-0-3……..1-1-1……4-1-4
White Sox 3-2………1-2………4-4
Cleveland 2-2-2……1-1-1…….3-3-3
Detroit 2-1………1-4………3-5
Astros 3-1………3-2-1……6-3-1
KC 2-2-1…….1-1………3-3-1
Angels 3-0-1……2-3-1…….5-3-2
Twins 2-2-1……0-2……….2-4-1
NYY 3-0-1……3-1-2…….6-1-3
A’s 2-1………1-5-2……3-6-2
Seattle 3-1……..1-1-1…….4-2-1
TB 1-3-1…..0-2-2…….1-5-3
Texas 2-1-1……..2-5……..4-6-1
Toronto 2-1……..1-5-1……..3-6-1

Interleague play- 2018
NL @ AL– 4-2 NL, favorites +$9
AL @ NL– 1-1, favorites -$22
Total: 5-3 NL, favorites -$13

Totals in interleague games
NL @ AL: Under 4-2
AL @ NL: Over 1-1
Total: Under 5-3

[Can'tPickAWinner]

MLB

Monday, April 9

Trend Report

Tampa Bay Rays
Tampa Bay is 7-3 ATS in its last 10 games
Tampa Bay is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Tampa Bay's last 5 games
Tampa Bay is 3-6 ATS in its last 9 games on the road
Tampa Bay is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Tampa Bay's last 6 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Tampa Bay's last 6 games when playing Chi White Sox
Tampa Bay is 2-5 ATS in its last 7 games when playing on the road against Chi White Sox
Tampa Bay is 2-6 SU in its last 8 games when playing on the road against Chi White Sox
The total has gone OVER in 12 of Tampa Bay's last 17 games when playing on the road against Chi White Sox
Chicago White Sox
Chi White Sox is 1-5 ATS in its last 6 games
Chi White Sox is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Chi White Sox's last 7 games
Chi White Sox is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games at home
Chi White Sox is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Chi White Sox's last 6 games when playing Tampa Bay
Chi White Sox is 5-2 ATS in its last 7 games when playing at home against Tampa Bay
Chi White Sox is 6-2 SU in its last 8 games when playing at home against Tampa Bay
The total has gone OVER in 12 of Chi White Sox's last 17 games when playing at home against Tampa Bay


Pittsburgh Pirates
Pittsburgh is 16-4 ATS in its last 20 games
Pittsburgh is 9-2 SU in its last 11 games
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Pittsburgh's last 7 games
Pittsburgh is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games on the road
Pittsburgh is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games on the road
Pittsburgh is 6-13 SU in its last 19 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 15 of Pittsburgh's last 21 games on the road
Pittsburgh is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games when playing Chi Cubs
The total has gone UNDER in 8 of Pittsburgh's last 12 games when playing Chi Cubs
Pittsburgh is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games when playing on the road against Chi Cubs
Pittsburgh is 6-13 SU in its last 19 games when playing on the road against Chi Cubs
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Pittsburgh's last 7 games when playing on the road against Chi Cubs
Chicago Cubs
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Chi Cubs's last 6 games
Chi Cubs is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games at home
Chi Cubs is 10-4 SU in its last 14 games at home
Chi Cubs is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Chi Cubs's last 6 games at home
Chi Cubs is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games when playing Pittsburgh
The total has gone UNDER in 8 of Chi Cubs's last 12 games when playing Pittsburgh
Chi Cubs is 4-2 ATS in its last 6 games when playing at home against Pittsburgh
Chi Cubs is 13-6 SU in its last 19 games when playing at home against Pittsburgh
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Chi Cubs's last 7 games when playing at home against Pittsburgh


Detroit Tigers
Detroit is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games
Detroit is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games
Detroit is 6-15 SU in its last 21 games
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Detroit's last 5 games
Detroit is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games on the road
Detroit is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Detroit's last 5 games on the road
Detroit is 0-5 ATS in its last 5 games when playing Cleveland
Detroit is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games when playing Cleveland
Detroit is 1-5 ATS in its last 6 games when playing on the road against Cleveland
Detroit is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games when playing on the road against Cleveland
The total has gone OVER in 17 of Detroit's last 25 games when playing on the road against Cleveland
Cleveland Indians
Cleveland is 2-11 ATS in its last 13 games
Cleveland is 4-8 SU in its last 12 games
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Cleveland's last 6 games
Cleveland is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games at home
Cleveland is 20-5 SU in its last 25 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Cleveland's last 8 games at home
Cleveland is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games when playing Detroit
Cleveland is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing Detroit
Cleveland is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games when playing at home against Detroit
Cleveland is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games when playing at home against Detroit
The total has gone OVER in 17 of Cleveland's last 25 games when playing at home against Detroit


Toronto Blue Jays
Toronto is 6-2 ATS in its last 8 games
Toronto is 6-2 SU in its last 8 games
The total has gone UNDER in 9 of Toronto's last 13 games
Toronto is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Toronto's last 6 games on the road
Toronto is 6-1 ATS in its last 7 games when playing Baltimore
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Toronto's last 6 games when playing Baltimore
Toronto is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Baltimore
Toronto is 3-6 SU in its last 9 games when playing on the road against Baltimore
The total has gone UNDER in 9 of Toronto's last 12 games when playing on the road against Baltimore
Baltimore Orioles
Baltimore is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games
Baltimore is 7-15 ATS in its last 22 games
Baltimore is 4-11 SU in its last 15 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Baltimore's last 6 games
The total has gone UNDER in 10 of Baltimore's last 14 games
Baltimore is 1-5 ATS in its last 6 games at home
Baltimore is 3-8 SU in its last 11 games at home
Baltimore is 1-6 ATS in its last 7 games when playing Toronto
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Baltimore's last 6 games when playing Toronto
Baltimore is 0-5 ATS in its last 5 games when playing at home against Toronto
Baltimore is 6-3 SU in its last 9 games when playing at home against Toronto
The total has gone UNDER in 9 of Baltimore's last 12 games when playing at home against Toronto


Cincinnati Reds
Cincinnati is 4-16 SU in its last 20 games
Cincinnati is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games on the road
Cincinnati is 2-6 SU in its last 8 games on the road
Cincinnati is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games when playing Philadelphia
Cincinnati is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing Philadelphia
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Cincinnati's last 6 games when playing Philadelphia
Cincinnati is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Philadelphia
The total has gone OVER in 16 of Cincinnati's last 24 games when playing on the road against Philadelphia
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Cincinnati's last 6 games when playing on the road against Philadelphia
Philadelphia Phillies
Philadelphia is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games
Philadelphia is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games
Philadelphia is 10-3 ATS in its last 13 games at home
Philadelphia is 6-2 SU in its last 8 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Philadelphia's last 5 games at home
Philadelphia is 0-5 ATS in its last 5 games when playing Cincinnati
Philadelphia is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games when playing Cincinnati
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Philadelphia's last 6 games when playing Cincinnati
Philadelphia is 0-5 ATS in its last 5 games when playing at home against Cincinnati
The total has gone OVER in 16 of Philadelphia's last 24 games when playing at home against Cincinnati
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Philadelphia's last 6 games when playing at home against Cincinnati


Milwaukee Brewers
Milwaukee is 1-6 ATS in its last 7 games
Milwaukee is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Milwaukee's last 6 games
Milwaukee is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games on the road
Milwaukee is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Milwaukee's last 6 games when playing St. Louis
Milwaukee is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games when playing on the road against St. Louis
Milwaukee is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games when playing on the road against St. Louis
St. Louis Cardinals
St. Louis is 5-2 ATS in its last 7 games
St. Louis is 5-14 ATS in its last 19 games
St. Louis is 6-12 SU in its last 18 games
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of St. Louis's last 5 games
St. Louis is 1-9 ATS in its last 10 games at home
St. Louis is 2-6 SU in its last 8 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of St. Louis's last 8 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of St. Louis's last 6 games when playing Milwaukee
St. Louis is 0-5 ATS in its last 5 games when playing at home against Milwaukee
St. Louis is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games when playing at home against Milwaukee


Atlanta Braves
Atlanta is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games
Atlanta is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games
Atlanta is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games on the road
Atlanta is 3-7 SU in its last 10 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Atlanta's last 6 games on the road
Atlanta is 14-6 ATS in its last 20 games when playing Washington
Atlanta is 6-2 ATS in its last 8 games when playing on the road against Washington
Atlanta is 7-18 SU in its last 25 games when playing on the road against Washington
The total has gone OVER in 14 of Atlanta's last 17 games when playing on the road against Washington
Washington Nationals
Washington is 0-5 ATS in its last 5 games
Washington is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games
Washington is 2-6 ATS in its last 8 games at home
Washington is 1-7 SU in its last 8 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Washington's last 5 games at home
Washington is 6-14 ATS in its last 20 games when playing Atlanta
Washington is 2-6 ATS in its last 8 games when playing at home against Atlanta
Washington is 18-7 SU in its last 25 games when playing at home against Atlanta
The total has gone OVER in 14 of Washington's last 17 games when playing at home against Atlanta


New York Mets
NY Mets is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games
NY Mets is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of NY Mets's last 6 games
NY Mets is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games on the road
NY Mets is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games on the road
NY Mets is 6-13 SU in its last 19 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 4 of NY Mets's last 5 games on the road
NY Mets is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Miami
NY Mets is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games when playing Miami
NY Mets is 3-6 ATS in its last 9 games when playing on the road against Miami
NY Mets is 2-7 SU in its last 9 games when playing on the road against Miami
Miami Marlins
Miami is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games
Miami is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games
The total has gone OVER in 8 of Miami's last 12 games
Miami is 2-5 ATS in its last 7 games at home
Miami is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 12 of Miami's last 17 games at home
Miami is 4-2 ATS in its last 6 games when playing NY Mets
Miami is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games when playing NY Mets
Miami is 6-3 ATS in its last 9 games when playing at home against NY Mets
Miami is 7-2 SU in its last 9 games when playing at home against NY Mets


Los Angeles Angels
LA Angels is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games
LA Angels is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games
The total has gone OVER in 5 of LA Angels's last 7 games on the road
LA Angels is 2-6 ATS in its last 8 games when playing Texas
LA Angels is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games when playing on the road against Texas
LA Angels is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games when playing on the road against Texas
Texas Rangers
Texas is 6-13 ATS in its last 19 games
Texas is 6-15 SU in its last 21 games
Texas is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games at home
Texas is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Texas's last 5 games at home
Texas is 6-2 ATS in its last 8 games when playing LA Angels
Texas is 4-2 ATS in its last 6 games when playing at home against LA Angels
Texas is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games when playing at home against LA Angels


Houston Astros
Houston is 7-1 SU in its last 8 games
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Houston's last 6 games
Houston is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games on the road
Houston is 5-11 ATS in its last 16 games on the road
Houston is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Houston's last 6 games on the road
Houston is 8-1 ATS in its last 9 games when playing Minnesota
Houston is 8-1 SU in its last 9 games when playing Minnesota
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Houston's last 9 games when playing Minnesota
Houston is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Minnesota
Houston is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Minnesota
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Houston's last 6 games when playing on the road against Minnesota
Minnesota Twins
Minnesota is 6-1 ATS in its last 7 games
Minnesota is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games
Minnesota is 4-2 ATS in its last 6 games at home
Minnesota is 15-6 SU in its last 21 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Minnesota's last 10 games at home
Minnesota is 1-8 ATS in its last 9 games when playing Houston
Minnesota is 1-8 SU in its last 9 games when playing Houston
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Minnesota's last 9 games when playing Houston
Minnesota is 0-5 ATS in its last 5 games when playing at home against Houston
Minnesota is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Houston
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Minnesota's last 6 games when playing at home against Houston


Seattle Mariners
Seattle is 10-3 ATS in its last 13 games
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Seattle's last 6 games
Seattle is 7-3 ATS in its last 10 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Seattle's last 8 games on the road
Seattle is 2-5 ATS in its last 7 games when playing Kansas City
Seattle is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games when playing Kansas City
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Seattle's last 6 games when playing Kansas City
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Seattle's last 5 games when playing on the road against Kansas City
Kansas City Royals
Kansas City is 3-6 ATS in its last 9 games
Kansas City is 2-6 SU in its last 8 games
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Kansas City's last 5 games
Kansas City is 1-5 ATS in its last 6 games at home
Kansas City is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Kansas City's last 10 games at home
Kansas City is 5-2 ATS in its last 7 games when playing Seattle
Kansas City is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games when playing Seattle
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Kansas City's last 6 games when playing Seattle
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Kansas City's last 5 games when playing at home against Seattle


San Diego Padres
San Diego is 5-12 ATS in its last 17 games
San Diego is 3-14 SU in its last 17 games
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of San Diego's last 5 games
San Diego is 4-10 ATS in its last 14 games on the road
San Diego is 3-12 SU in its last 15 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of San Diego's last 6 games on the road
San Diego is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games when playing Colorado
San Diego is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games when playing Colorado
San Diego is 1-5 ATS in its last 6 games when playing on the road against Colorado
San Diego is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games when playing on the road against Colorado
The total has gone OVER in 4 of San Diego's last 6 games when playing on the road against Colorado
Colorado Rockies
Colorado is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games
Colorado is 0-5 ATS in its last 5 games at home
Colorado is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games at home
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Colorado's last 6 games at home
Colorado is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games when playing San Diego
Colorado is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing San Diego
Colorado is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games when playing at home against San Diego
Colorado is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games when playing at home against San Diego
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Colorado's last 6 games when playing at home against San Diego


Arizona Diamondbacks
Arizona is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games
Arizona is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Arizona's last 5 games
Arizona is 4-8 SU in its last 12 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Arizona's last 6 games on the road
Arizona is 3-8 ATS in its last 11 games when playing San Francisco
Arizona is 7-2 SU in its last 9 games when playing San Francisco
Arizona is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games when playing on the road against San Francisco
The total has gone UNDER in 18 of Arizona's last 25 games when playing on the road against San Francisco
San Francisco Giants
San Francisco is 8-4 ATS in its last 12 games
San Francisco is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of San Francisco's last 5 games
The total has gone UNDER in 15 of San Francisco's last 23 games
San Francisco is 8-2 ATS in its last 10 games at home
San Francisco is 7-3 SU in its last 10 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 4 of San Francisco's last 5 games at home
San Francisco is 8-3 ATS in its last 11 games when playing Arizona
San Francisco is 2-7 SU in its last 9 games when playing Arizona
San Francisco is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games when playing at home against Arizona
The total has gone UNDER in 18 of San Francisco's last 25 games when playing at home against Arizona

[Can'tPickAWinner]

MLB
Long Sheet

Monday, April 9

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PITTSBURGH (7 - 2) at CHICAGO CUBS (5 - 4) - 2:20 PM
IVAN NOVA (R) vs. TYLER CHATWOOD (R)
Top Trends for this game.
PITTSBURGH is 32-22 (+14.8 Units) against the money line in day games over the last 2 seasons.
CHICAGO CUBS are 1700-1766 (-269.0 Units) against the money line in all games since 1997.
CHICAGO CUBS are 362-303 (-82.7 Units) against the money line as a home favorite of -125 to -175 since 1997.
CHICAGO CUBS are 906-823 (-159.0 Units) against the money line in home games since 1997.
CHICAGO CUBS are 422-380 (-84.5 Units) against the money line in home games against division opponents since 1997.
CHICAGO CUBS are 41-40 (-22.2 Units) against the money line in day games over the last 2 seasons.
CHICAGO CUBS are 37-32 (-15.7 Units) against the money line in home games against right-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
CHICAGO CUBS are 52-63 (-35.4 Units) against the money line in home games after shutting out their opponent since 1997.
CHICAGO CUBS are 52-48 (-17.9 Units) against the money line after a win over the last 2 seasons.
CHICAGO CUBS are 16-20 (-12.7 Units) against the money line in home games when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
CHATWOOD is 24-35 (-19.9 Units) against the money line in home games since 1997. (Team's Record)
CHATWOOD is 6-13 (-12.4 Units) against the money line in home games after a win 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.

IVAN NOVA vs. CHICAGO CUBS since 1997
NOVA is 2-1 when starting against CHICAGO CUBS with an ERA of 4.09 and a WHIP of 1.000.
His team's record is 2-1 (+1.8 units) in these starts. The OVER is 1-3. (-2.3 units)

TYLER CHATWOOD vs. PITTSBURGH since 1997
CHATWOOD is 0-0 when starting against PITTSBURGH with an ERA of 1.50 and a WHIP of 1.250.
His team's record is 1-1 (+0.1 units) in these starts. The OVER is 0-2. (-2.1 units)

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CINCINNATI (2 - 6) at PHILADELPHIA (3 - 5) - 7:05 PM
CODY REED (L) vs. BEN LIVELY (R)
Top Trends for this game.
REED is 0-11 (-12.3 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
PHILADELPHIA is 26-21 (+16.5 Units) against the money line against left-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
CINCINNATI is 425-401 (+44.4 Units) against the money line in road games when playing against a team with a losing record since 1997.

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

CODY REED vs. PHILADELPHIA since 1997
No recent starts.

BEN LIVELY vs. CINCINNATI since 1997
No recent starts.

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ATLANTA (6 - 3) at WASHINGTON (4 - 5) - 7:05 PM
JULIO TEHERAN (R) vs. MAX SCHERZER (R)
Top Trends for this game.
TEHERAN is 15-30 (-16.4 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
WASHINGTON is 72-40 (+17.6 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons.
ATLANTA is 24-30 (+19.5 Units) against the money line as a road underdog of +175 to +250 over the last 3 seasons.
ATLANTA is 74-90 (+24.3 Units) against the money line in road games over the last 3 seasons.
ATLANTA is 58-66 (+20.6 Units) against the money line in road games against right-handed starters over the last 3 seasons.
TEHERAN is 24-13 (+14.3 Units) against the money line in road games against division opponents since 1997. (Team's Record)

Head-to-Head Series History
ATLANTA is 2-1 (+2.1 Units) against WASHINGTON this season
1 of 1 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=+1.0 Units)

JULIO TEHERAN vs. WASHINGTON since 1997
TEHERAN is 6-4 when starting against WASHINGTON with an ERA of 4.18 and a WHIP of 1.482.
His team's record is 10-9 (+4.1 units) in these starts. The OVER is 11-7. (+3.3 units)

MAX SCHERZER vs. ATLANTA since 1997
SCHERZER is 7-6 when starting against ATLANTA with an ERA of 4.06 and a WHIP of 1.264.
His team's record is 9-7 (-3.3 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 5-9. (-5.5 units)

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MILWAUKEE (5 - 5) at ST LOUIS (4 - 5) - 7:05 PM
JHOULYS CHACIN (R) vs. MILES MIKOLAS (R)
Top Trends for this game.
MILWAUKEE is 91-81 (+18.0 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
MILWAUKEE is 45-39 (+16.5 Units) against the money line in road games over the last 2 seasons.
MILWAUKEE is 17-10 (+11.9 Units) against the money line on the road when the total is 8 to 8.5 over the last 2 seasons.
MILWAUKEE is 59-50 (+13.7 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons.
MILWAUKEE is 72-62 (+16.2 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
CHACIN is 19-15 (+10.0 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
CHACIN is 13-7 (+9.3 Units) against the money line after a loss over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
ST LOUIS is 83-82 (-31.3 Units) against the money line in home games over the last 3 seasons.
ST LOUIS is 52-59 (-30.2 Units) against the money line in home games in night games over the last 3 seasons.
ST LOUIS is 65-61 (-20.3 Units) against the money line in home games against right-handed starters over the last 3 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
ST LOUIS is 2-1 (+1.0 Units) against MILWAUKEE this season
2 of 3 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL this season . (Under=+1.0 Units)

JHOULYS CHACIN vs. ST LOUIS since 1997
CHACIN is 0-6 when starting against ST LOUIS with an ERA of 5.35 and a WHIP of 1.515.
His team's record is 0-6 (-6.5 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 5-0. (+5.0 units)

MILES MIKOLAS vs. MILWAUKEE since 1997
MIKOLAS is 1-0 when starting against MILWAUKEE with an ERA of 6.35 and a WHIP of 1.235.
His team's record is 1-0 (+1.0 units) in these starts. The OVER is 1-0. (+1.0 units)

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NY METS (7 - 1) at MIAMI (3 - 6) - 7:10 PM
NOAH SYNDERGAARD (R) vs. JOSE URENA (R)
Top Trends for this game.
NY METS are 46-33 (+15.7 Units) against the money line in road games against division opponents over the last 3 seasons.
URENA is 1-9 (-11.0 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.

NOAH SYNDERGAARD vs. MIAMI since 1997
SYNDERGAARD is 3-0 when starting against MIAMI with an ERA of 1.64 and a WHIP of 0.939.
His team's record is 3-2 (+0.2 units) in these starts. The OVER is 2-2. (-0.3 units)

JOSE URENA vs. NY METS since 1997
URENA is 3-3 when starting against NY METS with an ERA of 2.92 and a WHIP of 0.946.
His team's record is 3-3 (+0.8 units) in these starts. The OVER is 2-4. (-2.3 units)

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SAN DIEGO (2 - 8) at COLORADO (5 - 5) - 8:40 PM
CLAYTON RICHARD (L) vs. JON GRAY (R)
Top Trends for this game.
SAN DIEGO is 108-124 (+21.8 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 3 seasons.
RICHARD is 47-40 (+16.8 Units) against the money line against division opponents since 1997. (Team's Record)
COLORADO is 76-60 (-42.1 Units) against the money line as a home favorite of -175 to -250 since 1997.

Head-to-Head Series History
COLORADO is 3-1 (+2.0 Units) against SAN DIEGO this season
2 of 3 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=+0.9 Units)

CLAYTON RICHARD vs. COLORADO since 1997
RICHARD is 5-7 when starting against COLORADO with an ERA of 5.40 and a WHIP of 1.655.
His team's record is 8-11 (-2.7 units) in these starts. The OVER is 10-8. (+1.6 units)

JON GRAY vs. SAN DIEGO since 1997
GRAY is 5-2 when starting against SAN DIEGO with an ERA of 2.15 and a WHIP of 0.896.
His team's record is 5-6 (-3.9 units) in these starts. The OVER is 4-5. (-1.2 units)

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ARIZONA (7 - 2) at SAN FRANCISCO (4 - 4) - 10:15 PM
ZACK GODLEY (R) vs. DEREK HOLLAND (L)
Top Trends for this game.
SAN FRANCISCO is 206-156 (+40.8 Units) against the money line when playing on Monday since 1997.
HOLLAND is 8-2 (+9.0 Units) against the money line in home games when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 3 seasons. (Team's Record)
ARIZONA is 101-74 (+20.5 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
ARIZONA is 21-12 (+11.7 Units) against the money line in April games over the last 2 seasons.
ARIZONA is 51-35 (+13.7 Units) against the money line against division opponents over the last 2 seasons.
ARIZONA is 61-39 (+17.9 Units) against the money line after a win over the last 2 seasons.
SAN FRANCISCO is 68-102 (-35.2 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
SAN FRANCISCO is 99-121 (-35.2 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 3 seasons.
SAN FRANCISCO is 47-69 (-27.8 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.

ZACK GODLEY vs. SAN FRANCISCO since 1997
GODLEY is 1-1 when starting against SAN FRANCISCO with an ERA of 5.79 and a WHIP of 1.608.
His team's record is 1-1 (-0.1 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 1-1. (-0.2 units)

DEREK HOLLAND vs. ARIZONA since 1997
No recent starts.

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DETROIT (4 - 4) at CLEVELAND (4 - 5) - 6:10 PM
FRANCISCO LIRIANO (L) vs. COREY KLUBER (R)
Top Trends for this game.
DETROIT is 68-102 (-31.3 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
DETROIT is 56-173 (-60.0 Units) against the money line as a road underdog of +175 to +250 since 1997.
DETROIT is 38-69 (-28.5 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons.
DETROIT is 47-80 (-29.9 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
DETROIT is 23-44 (-22.8 Units) against the money line after a win over the last 2 seasons.
DETROIT is 29-48 (-20.1 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons.
CLEVELAND is 97-49 (+28.2 Units) against the money line when the total is 8 to 8.5 over the last 3 seasons.

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

FRANCISCO LIRIANO vs. CLEVELAND since 1997
LIRIANO is 5-5 when starting against CLEVELAND with an ERA of 4.04 and a WHIP of 1.654.
His team's record is 7-8 (-4.0 units) in these starts. The OVER is 5-9. (-5.1 units)

COREY KLUBER vs. DETROIT since 1997
KLUBER is 8-7 when starting against DETROIT with an ERA of 3.76 and a WHIP of 1.230.
His team's record is 11-10 (-0.5 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 9-11. (-3.2 units)

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TORONTO (6 - 4) at BALTIMORE (4 - 6) - 7:05 PM
J.A. HAPP (L) vs. DYLAN BUNDY (R)
Top Trends for this game.
TORONTO is 61-72 (-25.9 Units) against the money line when the total is 8 to 8.5 over the last 3 seasons.
TORONTO is 48-60 (-20.4 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons.
TORONTO is 33-48 (-20.5 Units) against the money line after a win over the last 2 seasons.
BALTIMORE is 32-22 (+12.5 Units) against the money line in April games over the last 3 seasons.

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

J.A. HAPP vs. BALTIMORE since 1997
HAPP is 4-6 when starting against BALTIMORE with an ERA of 3.46 and a WHIP of 1.236.
His team's record is 4-10 (-7.9 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 9-5. (+3.5 units)

DYLAN BUNDY vs. TORONTO since 1997
BUNDY is 2-0 when starting against TORONTO with an ERA of 0.95 and a WHIP of 0.842.
His team's record is 2-1 (+0.6 units) in these starts. The OVER is 1-2. (-1.1 units)

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LA ANGELS (7 - 3) at TEXAS (4 - 7) - 8:05 PM
GARRETT RICHARDS (R) vs. DOUG FISTER (R)
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.

GARRETT RICHARDS vs. TEXAS since 1997
RICHARDS is 8-4 when starting against TEXAS with an ERA of 2.96 and a WHIP of 1.233.
His team's record is 9-8 (+0.3 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 7-9. (-3.3 units)

DOUG FISTER vs. LA ANGELS since 1997
FISTER is 3-4 when starting against LA ANGELS with an ERA of 2.90 and a WHIP of 1.184.
His team's record is 5-8 (-4.0 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 7-4. (+2.1 units)

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TAMPA BAY (1 - 8) at CHI WHITE SOX (3 - 5) - 2:10 PM
CHRIS ARCHER (R) vs. MIGUEL GONZALEZ (R)
Top Trends for this game.
TAMPA BAY is 149-183 (-41.0 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 3 seasons.
ARCHER is 28-41 (-20.5 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
ARCHER is 12-23 (-15.6 Units) against the money line after a loss over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
GONZALEZ is 7-1 (+10.7 Units) against the money line when playing on Monday 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 ARCHER vs. CHI WHITE SOX since 1997
ARCHER is 3-2 when starting against CHI WHITE SOX with an ERA of 3.60 and a WHIP of 1.075.
His team's record is 4-3 (-0.5 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 2-5. (-4.2 units)

MIGUEL GONZALEZ vs. TAMPA BAY since 1997
GONZALEZ is 7-4 when starting against TAMPA BAY with an ERA of 2.76 and a WHIP of 1.208.
His team's record is 11-5 (+8.1 units) in these starts. The OVER is 6-10. (-4.2 units)

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HOUSTON (8 - 2) at MINNESOTA (4 - 3) - 8:10 PM
JUSTIN VERLANDER (R) vs. LANCE LYNN (R)
Top Trends for this game.
VERLANDER is 64-78 (-26.1 Units) against the money line in road games in night games since 1997. (Team's Record)
MINNESOTA is 89-81 (+11.2 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
MINNESOTA is 60-45 (+17.2 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons.
MINNESOTA is 45-36 (+12.2 Units) against the money line after a loss over the last 2 seasons.
HOUSTON is 120-70 (+19.7 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
HOUSTON is 59-35 (+14.7 Units) against the money line in road games over the last 2 seasons.
HOUSTON is 91-42 (+29.2 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
MINNESOTA is 99-183 (-44.5 Units) against the money line as a home underdog of +125 to +175 since 1997.
MINNESOTA is 72-92 (-25.6 Units) against the money line in home games over the last 3 seasons.
MINNESOTA is 43-72 (-36.7 Units) against the money line in home games against right-handed starters over the last 3 seasons.
MINNESOTA is 53-77 (-28.6 Units) against the money line in home games after allowing 10 runs or more since 1997.

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

JUSTIN VERLANDER vs. MINNESOTA since 1997
VERLANDER is 17-9 when starting against MINNESOTA with an ERA of 3.15 and a WHIP of 1.241.
His team's record is 19-15 (-2.9 units) in these starts. The OVER is 18-13. (+4.5 units)

LANCE LYNN vs. HOUSTON since 1997
LYNN is 4-1 when starting against HOUSTON with an ERA of 2.25 and a WHIP of 1.188.
His team's record is 4-1 (+2.3 units) in these starts. The OVER is 2-3. (-1.2 units)

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SEATTLE (4 - 3) at KANSAS CITY (2 - 5) - 8:15 PM
MARCO GONZALES (L) vs. JAKE JUNIS (R)
Top Trends for this game.
KANSAS CITY is 40-37 (+10.8 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
JUNIS is 12-5 (+7.9 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)

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

MARCO GONZALES vs. KANSAS CITY since 1997
GONZALES is 0-0 when starting against KANSAS CITY with an ERA of 11.25 and a WHIP of 2.000.
His team's record is 1-0 (+1.3 units) in these starts. The OVER is 1-0. (+1.0 units)

JAKE JUNIS vs. SEATTLE since 1997
JUNIS is 1-0 when starting against SEATTLE with an ERA of 1.13 and a WHIP of 0.500.
His team's record is 1-0 (+1.0 units) in these starts. The OVER is 1-0. (+1.1 units)

[Can'tPickAWinner]

MLB
Dunkel

Monday, April 9


LA Angels @ Texas

Game 969-970
April 9, 2018 @ 8:05 pm

Dunkel Rating:
LA Angels
(Rchards) 15.161
Texas
(Fister) 16.401
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Texas
by 1
7
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
LA Angels
-135
9
Dunkel Pick:
Texas
(+115); Under

[Can'tPickAWinner]

MLB

Monday, April 9


Streaking and Slumping Starting Pitchers

Streaking: Jakob Junis, Kansas City Royals (1-0, 0.00 ERA, $100)

Nothing was supposed to go well for the Kansas City Royals this season. With a regular season win total at 67.5 the expectations couldn't really get any lower (unless you play in Miami).

Right-hander Jakob Junis is doing his best to change the narrative and in his first start of the season he totally shut down the Tigers over seven innings of work, allowing only three hits and no runs.

Junis looks to build on that first start this evening at home against lefty Marco Gonzales and the Seattle Mariners. This game is a Pick 'Em with a total set at 7.5.

Slumping: Julio Teheran, Atlanta Braves (0-0, 10.12 ERA, $228)

The Atlanta Braves are 2-0 in Julio Teheran's two starts this season, but it is certainly not because of his skills on the hill. Teheran has been very hittable early in 2018 with a 10.12 ERA and a bulbous WHIP of 2.0000. He has only recorded five strikeouts in his two starts and has surrendered four home runs.

Not a good look for a guy who is supposed to be the ace and leader of a young Braves staff.

Teheran and the Braves are big underdogs today at +205 in Washington against Max Scherzer and the Nats.

Monday's Top Trends

* Under is 22-4-1 in the last 27 meetings between the Jays and Orioles. TOR/BAL total: 8.5.
* Reds are 0-11 in Cody Reed's last 11 starts. +115 today @ Phillies.
* Mets are 5-0 in their last five overall. -190 today @ Marlins.
* Astros are 11-1 in Justin Verlander's last 12 starts. -165 today @ Twins.
* Under is 6-0 in Royals' last six overall. SEA/KC total: 7.5.
* Padres are 1-7 in their last eight games vs. a right-handed starter. +165 today @ Rockies (Gray).

Weather Watch

There is a slight chance of rain in Baltimore where the Orioles will be hosting the Blue Jays but cold weather will be the biggest storyline at MLB stadiums Monday.

Mid-30's at Guaranteed Rate Field in Chicago (TB/CHW total: 8), mid-30's at Wrigley Field in Chicago (PIT/CHC total: 7), mid-30's at Progressive Field in Cleveland (DET/CLE total: 7), mid-40's at Camden Yards in Baltimore (TOR/BAL total: 8.5), mid-40's at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia (CIN/PHI total: 9), mid-40's at Busch Stadium in St. Louis (MIL/STL total: 8), mid-30's at Target Field in Minneapolis (HOU/MIN total: 8.5), and mid-40's at Kauffman Stadium in Kansas City (SEA/KC total: 7.5).

[Can'tPickAWinner]

UNDER is 22-4-1 in the last 27 meetings between Blue Jays and Orioles & UNDER is 5-0 in J.A. Happ's last five starts at Camden Yards.
TOR +105 BAL -115
Total: 8


Lefty Cody Reed has made 11 career major league starts over the last two seasons and the Reds have lost all 11 of those games.
CIN +115 PHI -125
Total: 9

[Can'tPickAWinner]

The Sports Consensus

NBA Bulls +7.5

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Primetime Sports Picks

MLB Seattle +100

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Profit On Sports

NBA Thunder -3

[Can'tPickAWinner]

National Sports Service

NBA Pelicans -7.5

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Doc's Picks

MLB Orioles -110

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Top Rank Sports Picks

MLB Arizona -120

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Elite Sports Picks

MLB Rays -130

[Can'tPickAWinner]

Insider Sports Report

MLB Phillies -130