MLB Game Picks - Wednesday: September 17, 2014

<div style="color: #444444; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Last night was fun to watch for a lot of Beltway fans as the Nationals and Orioles clinched their divisions. I feel happy for the fans of those teams as they get to celebrate (for now) the accomplishments of the teams. For others seeking the wild card, last night was a problem as several of them lost and that became a problem for me as I did not have a good night of picking at all.</span></div><div style="color: #444444; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I should have picked <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/a/arrieja01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/a/arrieja01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Jake Arrieta</a></strong>. Wow, what a game he had. I shouldn't have picked the Royals when the best they could do was start <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/hendrli01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/hendrli01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Liam Hendriks</a></strong>. But KC's vaunted bullpen let them down too. Speaking of bullpens, <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/r/rosentr01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/r/rosentr01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Trevor Rosenthal</a></strong> blew his sixth save and caused the Cards - Brewers game to go twelve innings and the Brewers won. And I lost. Heh.</span></div><div style="color: #444444; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Wednesday's picks:</span></div><ul style="color: #444444; line-height: 1.5; list-style: square; margin: 0px 0px 24px 1.5em; padding: 0px;"><li style="line-height: 1.5;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span data-mce-style="text-decoration: underline;" style="line-height: 1.5; text-decoration: underline;">The <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;">Rockies</strong> over the Dodgers</span>: <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/f/friasca01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/f/friasca01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Carlos Frias</a></strong>? Seriously, Dodgers? The poor guy hasn't started since the minors and has to pitch at Coors Field. Nice. <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/r/rosajo01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/r/rosajo01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Jorge De La Rosa</a></strong> is my pick by default.</span></li><li style="line-height: 1.5;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span data-mce-style="text-decoration: underline;" style="line-height: 1.5; text-decoration: underline;">The Giants over the <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;">Diamondbacks</strong></span>: While the Dodgers are frittering around, they have kept the hopes alive for the Giants. The D-backs start <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/c/chafian01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/c/chafian01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Andrew Chafin</a></strong>, their 2011 first round draft pick. He was pretty good in his first start. I worry about his control in the long run. <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/b/bumgama01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/b/bumgama01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Madison Bumgarner</a></strong> becomes the difference here.</span></li><li style="line-height: 1.5;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span data-mce-style="text-decoration: underline;" style="line-height: 1.5; text-decoration: underline;">The <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;">Pirates</strong> over the Red Sox</span>: Playing in an NL park hurts the Red Sox more than anyone else in the AL. Besides, the Pirates are playing for a goal and the Red Sox are just playing. <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/l/liriafr01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/l/liriafr01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Francisco Liriano</a></strong> over <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/b/buchhcl01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/b/buchhcl01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Clay Buchholz</a></strong>.</span></li><li style="line-height: 1.5;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span data-mce-style="text-decoration: underline;" style="line-height: 1.5; text-decoration: underline;">The <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;">Orioles</strong> over the Blue Jays</span>: This will be the norm for the Orioles for the rest of the way with starters going five innings or so and Spring Training like lineups. I still have them beating <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/happja01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/happja01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">J.A. Happ</a></strong> who has turned to mush. Bud Norris starts.</span></li><li style="line-height: 1.5;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span data-mce-style="text-decoration: underline;" style="line-height: 1.5; text-decoration: underline;">The <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;">Mets</strong> over the Marlins</span>: The Mets have pretty much owned <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/a/alvarhe01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/a/alvarhe01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Henderson Alvarez</a></strong> in his last two starts against them. Besides, <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/g/geedi01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/g/geedi01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Dillon Gee</a></strong> is a reliable starter for the Mets who are playing well despite their circumstances.</span></li><li style="line-height: 1.5;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span data-mce-style="text-decoration: underline;" style="line-height: 1.5; text-decoration: underline;">The <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;">Rays</strong> over the Yankees</span>: The Yankees cannot beat <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/c/cobbal01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/c/cobbal01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Alex Cobb</a></strong> and they cannot hit to save themselves. <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/m/mccarbr01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/m/mccarbr01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Brandon McCarthy</a></strong> has been a nice addition for the Yankees but like all Yankee pitchers this year, he'll have to be perfect. I hope there are no head huntings in this one.</span></li><li style="line-height: 1.5;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span data-mce-style="text-decoration: underline;" style="line-height: 1.5; text-decoration: underline;">The <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;">Braves</strong> over the Nationals</span>: The Braves cannot hit either but have a chance at least against <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/t/treinbl01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/t/treinbl01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Blake Treinen</a></strong>. <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/w/woodal02.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/w/woodal02.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Alex Wood</a></strong> is good, which rhymes, and the Nationals might be hung over.</span></li><li style="line-height: 1.5;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span data-mce-style="text-decoration: underline;" style="line-height: 1.5; text-decoration: underline;">The White Sox over the <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;">Royals</strong></span>: <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/player_search.cgi?results=eatonad01,eatonad02&utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/player_search.cgi?results=eatonad01,eatonad02&utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Adam Eaton</a></strong> can be a force when he is healthy. <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/player_search.cgi?results=abreujo02,abreu-007jos&utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/player_search.cgi?results=abreujo02,abreu-007jos&utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Jose Abreu</a></strong> has been too quiet. But most importantly, <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/s/salech01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/s/salech01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Chris Sale</a></strong> is pitching. <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/v/ventuyo01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/v/ventuyo01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Yordano Ventura</a></strong> will try to keep up.</span></li><li style="line-height: 1.5;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span data-mce-style="text-decoration: underline;" style="line-height: 1.5; text-decoration: underline;">The Indians over the <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;">Astros</strong></span>: <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/c/carraca01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/c/carraca01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Carlos Carrasco</a></strong> has had a really nice season that nobody knows about. <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/o/oberhbr01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/o/oberhbr01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Brett Oberholtzer</a></strong>, again, is a hero for taking the ball week after week and doing his best with little support.</span></li><li style="line-height: 1.5;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span data-mce-style="text-decoration: underline;" style="line-height: 1.5; text-decoration: underline;">The Tigers over the <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;">Twins</strong></span>: Weird game last night. <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/n/nathajo01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/n/nathajo01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Joe Nathan</a></strong> blew it again and then blamed it on his outfielder. Nice. Hopefully for the Tigers, <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/p/priceda01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/p/priceda01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">David Price</a></strong> will go deep and the Tigers will score often on <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/g/gibsoky01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/g/gibsoky01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Kyle Gibson</a></strong>.</span></li><li style="line-height: 1.5;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span data-mce-style="text-decoration: underline;" style="line-height: 1.5; text-decoration: underline;">The <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;">Cardinals</strong> over the Brewers</span>: These are games an ace is supposed to win. <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/w/wainwad01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/w/wainwad01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Adam Wainwright</a></strong> needs to win. I am worried about how <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/f/fiersmi01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/f/fiersmi01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Mike Fiers</a></strong> reacts in his first start since breaking <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/s/stantmi03.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/s/stantmi03.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Giancarlo Stanton</a></strong>'s face.</span></li><li style="line-height: 1.5;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span data-mce-style="text-decoration: underline;" style="line-height: 1.5; text-decoration: underline;">The Mariners over the <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;">Angels</strong></span>: I just love <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/p/paxtoja01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/p/paxtoja01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">James Paxton</a></strong>. The kid is amazing. Of course, sooner or later, picking him is not going to work out. This might be the night as the Angels are mighty good. <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/w/wilsocj01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/w/wilsocj01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">C.J. Wilson</a></strong> starts for the Angels.</span></li><li style="line-height: 1.5;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span data-mce-style="text-decoration: underline;" style="line-height: 1.5; text-decoration: underline;">The Rangers over the <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;">Athletics</strong></span>: <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/hollade01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/hollade01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Derek Holland</a></strong> has been amazing since returning to the Rangers. Three starts, seven innings in each start, 21 innings, two runs, no walks. Until he falters, I have to ride him. <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/s/samarje01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/s/samarje01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Jeff Samardzija</a></strong> goes for the A's.</span></li><li style="line-height: 1.5;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span data-mce-style="text-decoration: underline;" style="line-height: 1.5; text-decoration: underline;">The Phillies over the <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;">Padres</strong></span>: This pick is based solely on the fact <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/hamelco01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/hamelco01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Cole Hamels</a></strong> is pitching. It doesn't help that <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/s/stulter01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/s/stulter01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Eric Stults</a></strong> is going for his 17th loss.</span></li></ul><div style="color: #444444; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">And the Game of the Day:</span></div><ul style="color: #444444; line-height: 1.5; list-style: square; margin: 0px 0px 24px 1.5em; padding: 0px;"><li style="line-height: 1.5;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span data-mce-style="text-decoration: underline;" style="line-height: 1.5; text-decoration: underline;">The <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;">Cubs</strong> over the Reds</span>: I like <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/hendrky01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/hendrky01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Kyle Hendricks</a></strong> a lot better than I like <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/c/corcida01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/c/corcida01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Daniel Corcino</a></strong>. In this stage of their respective careers, Hendricks is much more polished and has better command.</span></li></ul><div style="color: #444444; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Yesterday: 6-9, Sept.: 127-94, Games of the Day: 96-63 (+4), Season: 1257-1028</span></div>

MLB Game Picks - Wednesday: September 17, 2014

Last night was fun to watch for a lot of Beltway fans as the Nationals and Orioles clinched their divisions. I feel happy for the fans of th...

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MLB Game Picks - Friday: September 12, 2014

<div style="color: #444444; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I was one blown save away from a perfect picking day. When <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/player_search.cgi?results=youngch03,youngch04&utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/player_search.cgi?results=youngch03,youngch04&utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Chris Young</a></strong><span style="font-size: small;"> hit his three-run blast in the bottom of the ninth off of </span><strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/m/mcgeeja01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/m/mcgeeja01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Jake McGee</a></strong><span style="font-size: small;"> to win the game for the New York Yankees, a dream 11-0 day went out the window. That was also the Game of the Day pick. And you know what? How can I be upset about that?</span></span></div><div style="color: #444444; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I had called the double-header sweep by Cleveland. I had called the Red Sox win. I had called Cueto's gem over the Cardinals. I had gotten it all. And then that homer. But I don't care. I'm happy.</span></div><div style="color: #444444; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The only thing I'm not happy about was what happened to <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/s/stantmi03.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/s/stantmi03.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Giancarlo Stanton</a></strong> and Chase Headley. Both got hit in the face by fastballs. I really hope that both will be okay. That was very, very scary.</span></div><div style="color: #444444; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Friday's picks:</span></div><ul style="color: #444444; line-height: 1.5; list-style: square; margin: 0px 0px 24px 1.5em; padding: 0px;"><li style="line-height: 1.5;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span data-mce-style="text-decoration: underline;" style="line-height: 1.5; text-decoration: underline;">The Yankees over the <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;">Orioles</strong></span>: These two teams play two games today and this will be a tough task for the Yankees. The Orioles are starting two of their regular rotation guys and the Yankees will have to use an untested rookie in the second game. Besides that, the Yankees are missing lots of players due to being banged up. The Yankees have their best chance in the first game as <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/m/mccarbr01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/m/mccarbr01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Brandon McCarthy</a></strong> faces <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/g/gausmke01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/g/gausmke01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Kevin Gausman</a></strong>.</span></li><li style="line-height: 1.5;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span data-mce-style="text-decoration: underline;" style="line-height: 1.5; text-decoration: underline;">The <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;">Orioles</strong> over the Yankees</span>: I really like <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/m/mitchbr01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/m/mitchbr01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Bryan Mitchell</a></strong> and I think he is going to be a good pitcher. But this is a lot to ask of a guy making his first MLB start. <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/n/norribu01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/n/norribu01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Bud Norris</a></strong> goes for the O's.</span></li><li style="line-height: 1.5;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span data-mce-style="text-decoration: underline;" style="line-height: 1.5; text-decoration: underline;">The <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;">Pirates</strong> over the Cubs</span>: <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/w/wadats01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/w/wadats01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Tsuyoshi Wada</a></strong> has been great for the Cubs and the 33-year-old Japanese star knows how to pitch. I just think that <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/c/colege01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/c/colege01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Gerrit Cole</a></strong> and the Pirates the way they are playing will be too much for the Cubs to overcome.</span></li><li style="line-height: 1.5;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span data-mce-style="text-decoration: underline;" style="line-height: 1.5; text-decoration: underline;">The <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;">Phillies</strong> over the Marlins</span>: Without Giancarlo Stanton in the lineup for the Marlins, they have little to work with. Plus, <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/hamelco01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/hamelco01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Cole Hamels</a></strong> is very, very good. <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/a/alvarhe01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/a/alvarhe01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Henderson Alvarez</a></strong> does have flashes of brilliance, but what support will he get?</span></li><li style="line-height: 1.5;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span data-mce-style="text-decoration: underline;" style="line-height: 1.5; text-decoration: underline;">The <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;">Tigers</strong> over the Indians</span>: <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/p/priceda01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/p/priceda01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">David Price</a></strong> is way due for a win and though <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/c/carraca01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/c/carraca01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Carlos Carrasco</a></strong> has pitched really well for the Indians, I can't see him matching Price if Price is on his game.</span></li><li style="line-height: 1.5;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span data-mce-style="text-decoration: underline;" style="line-height: 1.5; text-decoration: underline;">The Nationals over the <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;">Mets</strong></span>: There is some bad blood brewing in this series already. <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/g/geedi01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/g/geedi01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Dillon Gee</a></strong> looked good against the Reds, but the Reds are struggling. <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/g/gonzagi01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/g/gonzagi01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Gio Gonzalez</a></strong> had a good start his last time out too.</span></li><li style="line-height: 1.5;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span data-mce-style="text-decoration: underline;" style="line-height: 1.5; text-decoration: underline;">The <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;">Rangers</strong> over the Braves</span>: If <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/hollade01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/hollade01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Derek Holland</a></strong> pitches like he did his first two starts, then the Braves won't touch him. But that is the only way the Rangers win the game. Otherwise, this pick could go up in flames with <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/w/woodal02.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/w/woodal02.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Alex Wood</a></strong> going for the Braves.</span></li><li style="line-height: 1.5;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span data-mce-style="text-decoration: underline;" style="line-height: 1.5; text-decoration: underline;">The <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;">Royals</strong> over the Red Sox</span>: <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/v/ventuyo01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/v/ventuyo01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Yordano Ventura</a></strong> has to pitch well for this pick to come in. Otherwise, <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/w/webstal01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/w/webstal01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Allen Webster</a></strong> and the Red Sox could prevail for the second straight game.</span></li><li style="line-height: 1.5;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span data-mce-style="text-decoration: underline;" style="line-height: 1.5; text-decoration: underline;">The <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;">Brewers</strong> over the Reds</span>: I always like picking <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/l/lohseky01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/l/lohseky01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Kyle Lohse</a></strong> at home. He traditionally does better in those cases. <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/l/latosma01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/l/latosma01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Mat Latos</a></strong> can come up big, but I don't see it happening today.</span></li><li style="line-height: 1.5;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span data-mce-style="text-decoration: underline;" style="line-height: 1.5; text-decoration: underline;">The Twins over the <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;">White Sox</strong></span>: The one thing I can be sure about is that <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/hugheph01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/hugheph01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Phil Hughes</a></strong> will probably not walk anyone and <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/q/quintjo01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/q/quintjo01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Jose Quintana</a></strong> just never gets a break. Both of these pitchers have been really good all season.</span></li><li style="line-height: 1.5;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span data-mce-style="text-decoration: underline;" style="line-height: 1.5; text-decoration: underline;">The <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;">Cardinals</strong> over the Rockies</span>: The Cardinals have stumbled again and if ever they needed a stopping kind of win it is from <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/w/wainwad01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/w/wainwad01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Adam Wainwright</a></strong> today. <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/r/rosajo01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/r/rosajo01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Jorge De La Rosa</a></strong> is the Rockies' best starter.</span></li><li style="line-height: 1.5;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span data-mce-style="text-decoration: underline;" style="line-height: 1.5; text-decoration: underline;">The Padres over the <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;">Diamondbacks</strong></span>: Is it just me or do <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/n/nunovi01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/n/nunovi01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Vidal Nuno</a></strong> and <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/s/stulter01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/s/stulter01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Eric Stults</a></strong> always seem to face each other? How do you pick a winner out of those two guys? I'm going with the Padres, but I have no good reason.</span></li><li style="line-height: 1.5;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span data-mce-style="text-decoration: underline;" style="line-height: 1.5; text-decoration: underline;">The <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;">Angels</strong> over the Astros</span>: The Angels hardly ever lose these days and are clicking really well. <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/o/oberhbr01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/o/oberhbr01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Brett Oberholtzer</a></strong> should get some props for taking the ball every fifth day and giving it his best. I don't see him beating the Angels and <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/w/wilsocj01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/w/wilsocj01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">C.J. Wilson</a></strong> today.</span></li><li style="line-height: 1.5;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span data-mce-style="text-decoration: underline;" style="line-height: 1.5; text-decoration: underline;">The <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;">Mariners</strong> over the Athletics</span>: This is the Mariners' chance to knock off the A's while the A's are really vulnerable. <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/p/paxtoja01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/p/paxtoja01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">James Paxton</a></strong> has been terrific and <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/hammeja01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/hammeja01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Jason Hammel</a></strong> can be had.</span></li><li style="line-height: 1.5;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span data-mce-style="text-decoration: underline;" style="line-height: 1.5; text-decoration: underline;">The <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;">Giants</strong> over the Dodgers</span>: This is a tough one as two tough lefty pitchers square off. I am giving the edge to <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/b/bumgama01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/b/bumgama01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Madison Bumgarner</a></strong> over <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/r/ryuhy01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/r/ryuhy01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Hyun-jin Ryu</a></strong> because he has been at the top of his game in the last month.</span></li></ul><div style="color: #444444; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">And the Game of the Day:</span></div><ul style="color: #444444; line-height: 1.5; list-style: square; margin: 0px 0px 24px 1.5em; padding: 0px;"><li style="line-height: 1.5;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span data-mce-style="text-decoration: underline;" style="line-height: 1.5; text-decoration: underline;">The <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;">Blue Jays</strong> over the Rays</span>: The Rays will start <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/k/karnsna01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/k/karnsna01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Nate Karns</a></strong> who they got in the Loboton trade with the Nationals. Karns made three unimpressive starts last year for the Nats and has not had a good season in Triple-A. I'm going with <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/happja01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/happja01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" rel="nofollow" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">J.A. Happ</a></strong> even though he looks out of gas lately.</span></li></ul><div style="color: #444444; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Yesterday: 10-1, Sept: 87-61, Games of the Day: 92-62 (-2), Season: 1217-895</span></div>

MLB Game Picks - Friday: September 12, 2014

I was one blown save away from a perfect picking day. When  Chris Young  hit his three-run blast in the bottom of the ninth off of  Jake McG...

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MLB Game Picks - Saturday: September 28, 2013

<div style="text-align: justify;">The American League Wild Card race got much more interesting with the Rays loss to the Toronto Blue Jays last night. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/d/dicker.01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">R.A. Dickey</a></strong> got the job done much to the delight of the Indians who are now tied at the top with the Rays and it gave the Rangers that much more hope as they are not just one game back. In the NL Wild Card, the Pirates took care of the Reds and are two games clear of the latter team with two games to play. If they win today or tomorrow, they will host the play-in game. Meanwhile, the Cardinals clinched the NL Central with a win over the Cubs.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I got both the Rays and Reds wrong yesterday as well as four other picks. So the night was not as great at the rest of the week has been, but it was still in positive territory.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">It is the penultimate day of the regular season. Saturday's picks:</div><ul><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Rangers </b>over the Angels</u>: How could you pick it any other way? The Rangers have to win. Losing is not an option. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/r/richaga01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Garrett Richards</a></strong> got popped his last time out by the A's. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/hollade01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Derek Holland</a></strong> is the wildcard here. You just never know if he will be great or awful. There is a better chance of the latter at home.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Indians over the <b>Twins</b></u>: Can you ever remember a team just running the table for the last two weeks of a season? It is amazing. They just don't lose against these bad teams. They have two more to go and need them both. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/k/kazmisc01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Scott Kazmir</a></strong> (woh-oh, woh-oh) over Cole DeVries (rhymes with "he tries").</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Reds </b>over the Pirates</u>: And now we get to the meatball portion of these rotations. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/player_search.cgi?results=mortoch02,mortoch01&utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Charlie Morton</a></strong> and <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/a/arroybr01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Bronson Arroyo</a></strong> will not blow you away. But they will meatball you to death if they are on. I have more confidence in Arroyo.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Bay Rays over the <b>Blue Jays</b></u>: <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/a/archech01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Chris Archer</a></strong> is a bit up and down for my tastes and it is tough to put the season on the line with him. Fortunately for him and the Rays, <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/happja01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">J.A. Happ</a></strong> is only good against the Yankees. In fact, the Yankees single-handedly keep his career afloat.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Giants </b>over the Padres</u>: The Giants are finishing the season on a roll. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/p/petityu01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Yusmeiro Petit</a></strong> has provided a nice little lift too. He should handle the Padres' lineup and the Giants will score a few off of <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/s/stulter01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Eric Stults</a></strong>.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Brewers over the <b>Mets</b>:</u> <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/n/nelsoji02.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Jimmy Nelson</a></strong>, a 2010 second round pick by the Brewers, makes his first Major League start. He has relieved in three games. He has good strikeout numbers in the minors, but his control seems up and down. I still like him better than <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/haranaa01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Aaron Harang</a></strong>. Heh.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Athletics over the <b>Mariners</b></u>: I make this pick with some reservations. First, the A's have already clinched the second seed with little hope of catching the Red Sox for the first seed. There is a chance they stumble in this one if <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/m/maurebr01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Brandon Maurer</a></strong> pitches like he did his last time out. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/p/parkeja02.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Jarrod Parker</a></strong> will not go more than six innings I don't think. By the way, Maurer looks a bit like Jack Lord of the old Hawaii Five-0 series.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Cardinals </b>over the Cubs</u>: I usually pick against a team after they have clinched and that has worked for me. I call it the hangover effect. And will <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/w/wainwad01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Adam Wainwright</a></strong> really start this game? There is a chance he doesn't. On the other side, <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/j/jacksed01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Edwin Jackson</a></strong> tries to avoid his 18th loss.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Red Sox over the <b>Orioles</b></u>: There has been no letup for the Red Sox. Rest? Nah. They have four days to rest next week. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/l/lestejo01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Jon Lester</a></strong> has been hot. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/c/chenwe02.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Wei-Yin Chen</a></strong> cannot contain these Sox. I hope <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/player_search.cgi?results=davisch02,davis-008chr&utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Chris Davis</a></strong> hits another homer though.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Tigers over the <b>Marlins</b></u>: How come nobody hates on <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/p/peraljh01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Jhonny Peralta</a></strong>? It is weird how we choose who we are going to hate and who we don't. Anyway, the Tigers are not exactly playing sterling ball. And <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/l/leylaji99.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Jim Leyland</a></strong> is still pissed about ending the season in an NL park. But <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/s/sanchan01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Anibal Sanchez</a></strong> should beat his old mates and <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/e/eovalna01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Nathan Eovaldi</a></strong>.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Royals over the <b>White Sox</b></u>: There will be two guys named Ventura on the field today. Only one of them should have a job next season. That would be <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/v/ventuyo01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Yordano Ventura</a></strong>. He should handle the White Sox like he did the Mariners. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/player_search.cgi?results=johnser04,johnser03&utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Erik Johnson</a></strong> was pretty good his last start.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Braves </b>over the Phillies</u>: If <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/player_search.cgi?results=leecl02,leecl01&utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Cliff Lee</a></strong> can strike out 13 and give up less than four hits and still lose, what is <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/m/martiet01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Ethan Martin</a></strong> going to do? Martin has not been effective since his call up. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/m/minormi01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Mike Minor</a></strong> makes his last start of the regular season.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Diamondbacks </b>over the Nationals</u>: <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/m/mccarbr01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Brandon McCarthy</a></strong> has allowed only one walk in his last six starts and has not walked anyone in his last three starts. That's the good news. The bad news is that he has a 14.5 hits per nine innings pitched rate in those last three starts and a 1.33 homers per nine rate for the season. I still like him over <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/harenda01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Dan Haren</a></strong>. Plus, McCarthy gets bonus points for supporting the Dodgers jumping into their pool.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Dodgers </b>over the Rockies</u>: It would be easier for me to root for the Dodgers if they hadn't signed <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/w/wilsobr01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Brian Wilson</a></strong>. But anyway, <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/g/greinza01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Zack Greinke</a></strong> makes his final start of the regular season and if he wins, will finish 17-3. That's pretty impressive. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/n/nicasju01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Juan Nicasio</a></strong> goes for the Rockies.</li></ul><span style="text-align: justify;">And the Game of the Day:</span><br /><ul><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Yankees over the <b>Astros</b></u>: How remarkably ironic is it that <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/p/pettian01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Andy Pettitte</a></strong> will be making his last start in the majors against a guy named Clemens? <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/c/clemepa02.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Paul Clemens</a></strong> that is. I understand that the other Clemens might be making the presentation of the Astros' gift to <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/r/riverma01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Mariano Rivera</a></strong>. Awkward. Anyway, if there was a baseball god, Pettitte should win his last start and Rivera should save it.</li></ul><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">Yesterday: 9-6</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Week: 52-30</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Month: 217-158</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Season: 1359-1053</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Games of the Day: 104-70</div>

MLB Game Picks - Saturday: September 28, 2013

The American League Wild Card race got much more interesting with the Rays loss to the Toronto Blue Jays last night. R.A. Dickey got the j...

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MLB Game Picks - Monday: September 23, 2014

<div style="text-align: justify;">After a very good week last week, the new week started with a rather uninspired .500 record on Sunday. The Yankees' offense finally killed their chances and let down impressive efforts of the retiring <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/p/pettian01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Andy Pettitte</a></strong> and <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/r/riverma01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Mariano Rivera</a></strong>. The Orioles lost their third straight to the Rays so the Orioles and Yankees are all but officially done. The Cardinals lost due to sloppy fielding and once again, I came up wrong on the Pirates - Reds game. The season is down to six days.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">There are twelve games on the Monday schedule. The picks:</div><br /><ul><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Rays </b>over the Orioles</u>: The Rays might as well stick a fork in the Orioles for the last time. They so dominated this series that it was rather sad to see. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/a/archech01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Chris Archer</a></strong> has been reliable and should be better than <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/c/chenwe02.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Wei-Yin Chen</a></strong>.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Braves </b>over the Brewers</u>: This is the week that is tough picking teams that have already clinched their divisions. How inspiring will their play be? How long with their starting pitchers pitch? How many scrubs will they play? It is awful. I am still picking the Braves at home behind <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/m/minormi01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Mike Minor</a></strong>. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/e/estrama01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Marco Estrada</a></strong> goes for the Brewers.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Phillies over the <b>Marlins</b></u>: Nate Eovaldi has pitched much worse at home than on the road. That is weird considering how big his home park is. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/hallaro01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Roy Halladay</a></strong> might give up a bomb to <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/s/stantmi03.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Giancarlo Stanton</a></strong> as Halladay has become homer prone. But the Phillies should win.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Rangers</b> over the Astros</u>: The Rangers get a breather with a series against the Astros. They will need some help though as they are now a game and a half out of the wild card race. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/hollade01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Derek Holland</a></strong> over <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/l/lylesjo01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Jordan Lyles</a></strong> and the Wagoners.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Pirates over the <b>Cubs</b></u>: <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/s/samarje01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Jeff Samardzija</a></strong> has not pitched well at home and has not pitched well in September. That said, he is capable of a shut down game at any time. The Pirates need to get going as they are now two back of the Cardinals. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/player_search.cgi?results=mortoch02,mortoch01&utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Charlie Morton</a></strong> does not provide comfort to this picker.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Tigers over the <b>Twins</b></u>: <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/v/verlaju01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Justin Verlander</a></strong> could use this game to figure out a few things. He probably will not pitch deep into the game though. Even as a team that is going to ease into the division win, the Tigers should still slide past <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/p/pelfrmi01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Mike Pelfrey</a></strong> easy enough.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>White Sox</b> over the Blue Jays</u>: Two of the biggest busts of the 2013 season meet in the last week of the season. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/happja01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">J.A. Happ</a></strong> only pitches good against the Yankees. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/q/quintjo01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Jose Quintana</a></strong> is the no-decision king who has pitched quite well.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Cardinals </b>over the Nationals</u>: This pick concerns me. First of all, <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/r/roarkta01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Tanner Roark</a></strong> has been fabulous and has not lost this season in seven decisions. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/w/wainwad01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Adam Wainwright</a></strong> is the leader of this Cardinals' staff, but he is not invulnerable. Yeah, this one could go either way. I have only picked the Cardinals for the Game of the Day four times. I did again yesterday. They have lost all four times.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Athletics over the <b>Angels</b></u>: <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/t/troutmi01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Mike Trout</a></strong> has been sort of slumping. The rest of his offensive mates are deadsville. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/r/richaga01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Garrett Richards</a></strong> is decent, but not a lock. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/g/griffaj01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">A.J. Griffin</a></strong> seems a better pick though he might not go deep into the game.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Padres </b>over the Diamondbacks</u>: <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/s/stulter01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Eric Stults</a></strong> finally got a win after a long, long drought. He has had a decent season. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/m/mccarbr01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Brandon McCarthy</a></strong> has given up 22 hits in his last 12 innings of work but has allowed only five of them to score. A pretty neat trick.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Royals over the <b>Mariners</b></u>: <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/v/ventuyo01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Yordano Ventura</a></strong> had a decent MLB debut his last time out and should like pitching in that Seattle park. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/m/maurebr01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Brandon Maurer</a></strong> has not been good in any park. How soon until everyone starts calling the Royals' pitcher, Ace Ventura?</li></ul><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">And the Game of the Day:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><ul><li><u>The <b>Reds </b>over the Mets</u>: The Mets are not exactly a pushover of a team for the Reds, but they get to face <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/haranaa01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Aaron Harang</a></strong> in their small ballpark. That might not be pretty. Welcome back, <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/c/cuetojo01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Johnny Cueto</a></strong>.</li></ul><br /><div><div style="text-align: justify;">Yesterday: 8-8</div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">Week: 8-8</div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">Month: 173-136</div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">Season: 1315-1031</div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">Games of the Day: 99-70</div></div>

MLB Game Picks - Monday: September 23, 2014

After a very good week last week, the new week started with a rather uninspired .500 record on Sunday. The Yankees' offense finally kill...

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MLB Game Picks - Wednesday: September 18, 2013

<div style="text-align: justify;">Although I had a decent picking day and am having a good picking week, a failure milestone was reached yesterday. I went past a thousand incorrect picks for the season yesterday. While I know from four years of experience that such a failure rate will occur, it is one of those numbers that brings reality home. I have been wrong a thousand times this season. I am pretty sure that this is the earliest I have reached the mark as this has been a difficult season.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">It is hard to believe that there are only eleven days left in the season. Wednesday's picks:</div><br /><ul><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>White Sox</b> over the Twins</u>: The battle of bad teams continues and the White Sox have won the first two games of the series. A sweep is in sight in this getaway day game. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/d/danksjo01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">John Danks</a></strong> should finally get a win and <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/d/diamosc01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Scott Diamond</a></strong> has the bullpen lose it late.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Athletics </b>over the Angels</u>: <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/g/griffaj01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">A.J. Griffin</a></strong> at home is a really solid pick. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/v/vargaja01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Jason Vargas</a></strong> is capable of putting up a good game, especially in a big ballpark like the Coliseum. I expect low scoring and a tight game.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Braves over the <b>Nationals</b></u>: The Nats have won nine out of ten and are surging perhaps a bit too late to reach the Reds. They are still four and a half games out. While <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/o/ohlenro01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Ross Ohlendorf</a></strong> has been amazing, I think <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/w/woodal02.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Alex Wood</a></strong> will be better.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Phillies </b>over the Marlins</u>: This is a battle of fringe Major League pitchers. Zach Minor has had several turns in the Majors but has never been able to stick. He has pitched thirteen times in relief for Philly, but this is his first start. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/e/eovalna01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Nathan Eovaldi</a></strong> has had a good game here and there with a bunch of mediocrity thrown in.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Pirates </b>over the Padres</u>: The Padres have beaten the Pirates two days in a row with some nice pitching. Either that or the Pirates bats have gone in a slump. The good news for the Pirates is that <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/r/rossty01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Tyson Ross</a></strong> is not nearly as good as the first two pitchers they faced in this series. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/player_search.cgi?results=mortoch02,mortoch01&utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Charlie Morton</a></strong> with the win.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Blue Jays</b> over the Yankees</u>: Have you ever watched Survivor and one of the challenges is trying to stack these wooden card pieces to a certain height? That reminds me of the Yankees season. The Yankees come to the next to last week with their cards stacked wobbly near the top only to all come crashing down before reaching the end.  <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/happja01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">J.A. Happ</a></strong> over <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/hugheph01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Phil Hughes</a></strong>.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Tigers </b>over the Mariners</u>: <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/i/iwakuhi01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Hisashi Iwakuma</a></strong> has had a very nice season. And he should do well in the Tigers' big ballpark. So the question remains of what <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/v/verlaju01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Justin Verlander</a></strong> shows up. He looked much more dominant his last outing. I have to go with Verlander at the end of the season and the Tigers' lineup.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Red Sox</b> over the Orioles</u>: I was wrong here yesterday and this pick is no guaranteed one either. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/c/chenwe02.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Wei-Yin Chen</a></strong> has faltered this season after a strong debut season a year ago. I have to believe that he is not really healthy. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/p/peavyja01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Jake Peavy</a></strong> needs to prove his case for the post season. In my mind, he has not done that yet. I am still rooting for <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/player_search.cgi?results=davisch02,davis-008chr&utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Chris Davis</a></strong> though.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Rangers over the <b>Rays</b></u>: This is one of those reverse logic picks. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/hollade01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Derek Holland</a></strong> has not pitched well this season and even worse of late. So naturally, he is screaming for me to pick against him. But then he shuts down the Rays and the Rangers score a few off of <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/a/archech01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Chris Archer</a></strong> and foul it all up. I got you.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Brewers </b>over the Cubs</u>: This is a battle for youngsters trying to make a mark in the Big Leagues. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/t/thornty01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Tyler Thornburg</a></strong> has made a better impression so far than <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/r/rusinch01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Chris Rusin</a></strong> has. So that is my pick.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Astros </b>over the Athletics</u>: This is my upset special of the day. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/p/peacobr01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Brad Peacock</a></strong> has won his last two starts and four of his last six decisions. He has elevated his K-rate while lowering his walk rate. Combine those facts with the A's starting journeyman, <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/r/reynogr01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Greg Reynolds</a></strong>, and you have a recipe for an upset.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Royals </b>over the Indians</u>: These two teams beating each other up what I see. They have taken turns winning this series. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/c/chenbr01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Bruce Chen</a></strong> has a winning percentage at home over the years over .600 and that is too convincing for me to not pick him over <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/s/salazda01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Danny Salazar</a></strong>.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Cardinals over the <b>Rockies</b></u>: <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/w/wainwad01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Adam Wainwright</a></strong> did not pitch well the last time he was at Coors Field. He lives on the curveball and it will not curve as much in that park at that altitude. But the Cardinals are good enough to win a slugfest and I am still not convinced by <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/c/chatwty01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Tyler Chatwood</a></strong>.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Diamondbacks </b>over the Dodgers</u>: A win here would clinch the division for the Dodgers. But that day will be postponed a day as <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/m/mccarbr01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Brandon McCarthy</a></strong> has a good game and the random sighting of <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/f/fifest01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Stephen Fife</a></strong> doesn't work this time.</li></ul><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">And the Game of the Day:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><ul><li><u>The Giants over the <b>Mets</b></u>: The Giants have had their way this series and I expect it to continue tonight. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/haranaa01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Aaron Harang</a></strong> has Citi Field to help him with dinger-control. But the Giants have <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/c/cainma01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Matt Cain</a></strong> on the mound and I think that trumps it.</li></ul><br /><div><div style="text-align: justify;">Yesterday: 10-6</div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">Week: 28-14</div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">Month: 131-106</div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">Season: 1273-1001</div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">Games of the Day: 97-67</div></div>

MLB Game Picks - Wednesday: September 18, 2013

Although I had a decent picking day and am having a good picking week, a failure milestone was reached yesterday. I went past a thousand inc...

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MLB Game Pick - Monday: September 2, 2013

<div style="text-align: justify;">September started off on a really bad foot yesterday as only six out of fifteen picks were correct. Miami blanked the Braves. The Yankees' bullpen, long their strength this season, punted against the Orioles. The Diamondbacks got another bad performance from <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/c/corbipa01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Patrick Corbin</a></strong> and lost. The Indians hit a grand slam in the ninth to break a nothing, nothing game. I should have gone with <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/o/oberhbr01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Brett Oberholtzer</a></strong>. It was just a bad day all around.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">After laboring so badly yesterday, perhaps the Labor Day picks will be better. And here they are:</div><br /><ul><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Yankees </b>over the White Sox</u>: I am probably out of my mind for picking a game where <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/hugheph01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Phil Hughes</a></strong> is starting. I am probably not sane to think he can win. But the White Sox are a bad club and the kind of club the Yankees have to beat to keep their slimmest of hopes alive. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/q/quintjo01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Jose Quintana</a></strong> goes for the White Sox.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Reds </b>over the Cardinals</u>: This is a good one. The battle of two aces as <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/l/latosma01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Mat Latos</a></strong> goes against <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/w/wainwad01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Adam Wainwright</a></strong>. I like Latos' chances of holding the Cards down better at home. But this game could go either way depending on which pitcher is the hottest.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Red Sox</b> over the Tigers</u>: In what could be a playoff preview, <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/l/lackejo01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">John Lackey</a></strong> takes on the Tigers with an injured <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/c/cabremi01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Miguel Cabrera</a></strong>. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/f/fistedo01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Doug Fister</a></strong> could throw a good game against the Red Sox, but it is not likely. My guess is that the Red Sox jump on him early.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Astros </b>over the Twins</u>: I have to admit to not having any idea what to do with this game. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/a/alberan01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Andrew Albers</a></strong> has shown some good games, but some really bad ones too. The same can be said for <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/c/clemepa02.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Paul Clemens</a></strong>. Neither blows people away and thus, anything can happen. Ugh.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Brewers </b>over the Pirates</u>: <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/t/thornty01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Tyler Thornburg</a></strong> has pitched well in each of this three starts. I think he can shut down the Pirates. They also have the kind of punch and Judy hitters than can be patient with <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/player_search.cgi?results=mortoch02,mortoch01&utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Charlie Morton</a></strong>. Hey, it is possible.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Royals </b>over the Mariners</u>: <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/hernafe02.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Felix Hernandez</a></strong> is not a pitcher to pick against very often. And yet, his games are not often a lock for his team to win. He could be matched today by <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/d/duffyda01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Danny Duffy</a></strong>, who has been pitching extremely well. And then after the two starters cancel each other out, the Royals win late in the game.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Cubs </b>over the Marlins</u>: For the last month and a half, all of <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/w/woodtr01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Travis Wood</a></strong>'s starts have come against the aces of his opponent team. Today, he gets a break and squares up against <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/a/alvarhe01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Henderson Alvarez</a></strong>. I think he wins this one.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Giants over the <b>Padres</b></u>: This is another game I do not know what to do with. On the Giants' side is <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/z/zitoba01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Barry Zito</a></strong>, who has been sort of awful all season and he faces <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/k/kenneia01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Ian Kennedy</a></strong> who has been similarly awful. When two starters are that awful, then go with the better team. Giants.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Indians </b>over the Orioles</u>: The seven-run outburst against the Yankees' bullpen in that come from behind victory could propel the Orioles. Or it could just mask what has been a mediocre team since the All Star Break. The Indians need a big day from <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/m/masteju01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Justin Masterson</a></strong> and they need to get to <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/n/norribu01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Bud Norris</a></strong> early to get to the Orioles' bullpen.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Rangers over the <b>Athletics</b></u>: <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/hollade01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Derek Holland</a></strong> has had pretty good success in the Oakland <strike>Mausoleum</strike> Coliseum. He has a 2.87 ERA in nine appearances there. He will need a good one today for the Rangers to put away the A's. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/s/straida01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Dan Straily</a></strong> could throw a wrench into the pick with a great outing.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Dodgers over the <b>Rockies</b></u>: <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/k/kershcl01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Clayton Kershaw</a></strong> has an ERA of 4.98 for his career in Coors Field and has given up eleven homers there, by far the most of any road ballpark. So the Dodgers need to score six runs to win. Against <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/b/bettich01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Chad Bettis</a></strong>, that is very possible.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Diamondbacks </b>over the Blue Jays</u>: There are far too many letters in this team match-up. I cannot pick the Blue Jays in a game where <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/r/rogeres01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Esmil Rogers</a></strong> is the starter. He has served up homer after homer this season. At the same time, <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/m/mccarbr01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Brandon McCarthy</a></strong> has not been very good either. A toss up.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Nationals over the <b>Phillies</b></u>: Another confession. This pick has nothing to do with who should or will win but for my overwhelming desire to see <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/s/strasst01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Stephen Strasburg</a></strong> pitch well. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/hamelco01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Cole Hamels</a></strong> is a worthy opponent though.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Bay Rays over the <b>Angels</b></u>: <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/a/archech01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Chris Archer</a></strong> is a better pitcher to me than <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/r/richaga01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Garrett Richards</a></strong>. But this pick can go either way. The Rays have really been struggling while the Angels have had a lost season. Another toss up.</li></ul><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">And the Game of the Day:</div><br /><ul><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Braves </b>over the Mets</u>: The Mets continue their <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/m/matsuda01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Daisuke Matsuzaka</a></strong> experiment as the slowest of all slow pitchers tries to lull the Braves to sleep with the length of time it takes him to deliver a pitch. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/m/maholpa01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Paul Maholm</a></strong> will try to get the Braves the win.</li></ul><br /><div><div style="text-align: justify;">Yesterday: 6-9</div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">Week: 6-9</div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">Month: 6-9</div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">Season: 1148-904</div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">Games of the Day: 87-61</div></div>

MLB Game Pick - Monday: September 2, 2013

September started off on a really bad foot yesterday as only six out of fifteen picks were correct. Miami blanked the Braves. The Yankees...

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MLB Game Picks - Wednesday: August 21, 2013

<div style="text-align: justify;">Ah, baseball. Anything can happen. How can some picks be so good like <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/l/lohseky01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Kyle Lohse</a></strong> beating the Cardinals and <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/l/lynnla01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Lance Lynn</a></strong> giving up a big inning in the fourth or fifth inning (I called it perfectly), or <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/c/corbipa01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Patrick Corbin</a></strong> beating the mighty Reds and yet turn into such a bad night of picking? That's baseball. A nice commenter yesterday gave a long dissertation on why the Phillies would win yesterday. But on any given game, that does not work. I picked the Rockies and was correct. Every game on every night is a crap shoot.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">For example, I picked the A's. I was all excited about <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/g/grayso01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Sonny Gray</a></strong> pitching and he did indeed pitch brilliantly and left with a 4-2 lead. But then <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/d/doolise01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Sean Doolittle</a></strong> did little to help the cause and coughed up the game. The Red Sox were picked and <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/p/peavyja01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Jake Peavy</a></strong> was terrific. But then, manager, <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/player_search.cgi?results=farrejo03,farrejo02,farrel010joh&utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">John Farrell</a></strong>, fell into the National League trap of doing a double-switch in the sixth inning with Peavy only at 89 pitches and the bullpen coughed up the game. Heck, even <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/hugheph01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Phil Hughes</a></strong> pitched well at a Yankee Stadium game. Anything can happen.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Wednesday's picks:</div><br /><ul><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Braves over the <b>Mets</b></u>: I mulled this one around quite a bit. One of four afternoon starts today, <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/n/niesejo01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Jonathon Niese</a></strong> has pitched well since coming off the DL. But <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/w/woodal02.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Alex Wood</a></strong> has pitched really well for the Braves too. My sort of rule has always been that if the pitchers cancel each other out, take the better team.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Cardinals over the <b>Brewers</b></u>: The Cardinals really need wins. As such, it is hard to figure why they continue to start <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/w/westbja01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Jake Westbrook</a></strong>. Perhaps they feel they have no other options. The Brewers start <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/g/gorzeto01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Tom Gorzelanny</a></strong>, who really is not more reliable than Westbrook. High scoring game?</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Athletics </b>over the Mariners</u>: Another really tough pick. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/g/griffaj01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">A.J. Griffin</a></strong> is a better pick at home and that is where he is. But <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/i/iwakuhi01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Hisashi Iwakuma</a></strong> is back on his stingy ways. The A's win this late.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Red Sox over the <b>Giants</b></u>: <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/d/doubrfe01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Felix Doubront</a></strong> had a rough outing against the Yankees, but you kind of saw that coming. But overall, Doubront has pitched well. The trouble with this pick is that <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/z/zitoba01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Barry Zito</a></strong> gets the start for the Giants and you never know what to expect.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Pirates over the <b>Padres</b>:</u> I picked <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/k/kenneia01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Ian Kennedy</a></strong> to pitch well in his new and big ballpark his last time out and he did not. I am kind of gun shy now. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/c/colege01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Gerrit Cole</a></strong> has held his own and his good stuff should hold the Padres at bay and allow the Pirates to win.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Indians over the <b>Angels</b></u>: Again, a Trout-less Angels are wingless Angels. And <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/m/masteju01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Justin Masterson</a></strong> should have no trouble with them. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/w/willije01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Jerome Williams</a></strong> could have a good game to match him. But that is a pretty good stretch to think so. Wow. I am picking way too many visiting teams. I hate that.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Phillies </b>over the Rockies</u>: I do not really think the Phillies are a lock here or that they even might win. They are just spinning helplessly and <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/m/manuech01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Charlie Manuel</a></strong> was not the problem. But I need a home team to win and <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/player_search.cgi?results=leecl02,leecl01&utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Cliff Lee</a></strong> gives them a chance. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/n/nicasju01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Juan Nicasio</a></strong> goes for the Rockies.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Orioles </b>over the Rays</u>: Again, I am not sure this is the correct pick. I have been wrong in this series every day. But I feel stronger in this one. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/c/chenwe02.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Wei-Yin Chen</a></strong> can hold down the Rays. And <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/player_search.cgi?results=davisch02,davis-008chr&utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Chris Davis</a></strong> and company could do damage to <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/hellije01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Jeremy Hellickson</a></strong>. Wieters is hot too.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Yankees </b>over the Blue Jays:</u> There is no way the Yankees should win this game. They are starting <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/w/warread01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Adam Warren</a></strong>. The Blue Jays are starting <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/d/dicker.01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">R.A. Dickey</a></strong>. But the Yankees are so hot and the Blue Jays so bad and the pick cannot be anything else. Besides, <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/player_search.cgi?results=bautijo02,bautijo01,bautis005jos&utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Jose Bautista</a></strong> went on the DL.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Tigers </b>over the Twins:</u> The Tigers lost to Pelfrey? Oh well. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/s/sanchan01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Anibal Sanchez</a></strong> is definitely not Porcello and <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/c/correke01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Kevin Correia</a></strong> is still Kevin Correia.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Reds </b>over the Diamondbacks:</u> This has been a good series. But the D-backs come up on the short end. As much as I root for <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/m/mccarbr01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Brandon McCarthy</a></strong>, I cannot pick him until he pitches well consistently. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/l/leakemi01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Mike Leake</a></strong> is a much better pick.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Dodgers over the <b>Marlins</b></u>: <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/g/greinza01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Zack Greinke</a></strong> has been pitching so well that I would be a fool to pick against him. Plus, he can hit. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/p/puigya01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Yasiel Puig</a></strong> came out of Purgatory last night to hit a big homer. The only wild card in this game is if <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/e/eovalna01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Nathan Eovaldi</a></strong> will be more "up" for this game against his old team and if there really is such an effect.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Cubs </b>over the Nationals:</u> <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/a/arrieja01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Jake Arrieta</a></strong> was terrific his last time out. He has always had that kind of talent. But <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/o/ohlenro01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Ross Ohlendorf</a></strong> always seems to come out of the woodwork and win. Will he today? That would not be good for the pick.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Royals </b>over the White Sox</u>: <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/r/rienzan01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Andre Rienzo</a></strong> was really good in his last start. And the White Sox have been winning more of late. But the Royals are at home. Their fans have been good as always and <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/g/guthrje01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Jeremy Guthrie</a></strong> can have really good games.</li></ul><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">And the Game of the Day:</div><br /><ul><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Rangers </b>over the Astros:</u> <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/hollade01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Derek Holland</a></strong> should not lose to <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/b/bedarer01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Erik Bedard</a></strong>. That is all.</li></ul><br /><div><div style="text-align: justify;">Yesterday: 7-9</div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">Week: 22-21</div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">Month: 158-115</div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">Season: 1061-828</div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">Games of the Day: 80-56   -1</div></div>

MLB Game Picks - Wednesday: August 21, 2013

Ah, baseball. Anything can happen. How can some picks be so good like Kyle Lohse beating the Cardinals and Lance Lynn giving up a big in...

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