MLB Game Picks - Saturday: April 6, 2013

<div style="text-align: justify;">Lessons learned over the past couple of days: Picking the Astros is problematic. Picking the Yankees has become problematic. Picking the Giants and the Diamondbacks has worked out really well. Friday was a decent day with the picks coming in at a 10-5 rate. The three day rally in picks has overcome a mediocre start. And above all else, it sure is good to have baseball back again.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I slept in this morning and am still a bit groggy, so let's get right to the picks:</div><br /><ul><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Blue Jays</b> over the Red Sox</u>: The Blue Jays are off to a tough start and their big pitching rotation has not been as sharp as hoped. The Red Sox, on the other hand, have gotten very good rotational pitching. All of that said, <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> did not look great this spring, is making his first start after missing a lot of time and <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> will be the improbably pitcher that gets the Blue Jays a win.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Mets </b>over the Marlins</u>: Rickey Nolasco is the Marlins' most effective pitcher. But it is hard to beat Mrs. Jonathan Niese and her blue panties. The Mets with the win.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Mariners over the <b>White Sox</b></u>: <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/a/axelrdy01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Dylan Axelrod</a></strong> had a good spring and seems to be a decent enough starter for the White Sox. Unfortunately for him, he pairs up against <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> today. The Mariners are hitting a little better than in the past. Going with the Mariners and King Felix.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Nationals over the <b>Reds</b></u>: The Reds jumped all over the Nationals yesterday, but those kinds of games are meaningless. <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> starts for the Reds and the Nats should hit him often. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/d/detwiro01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Ross Detwiler</a></strong> is there for the beating too, but should be somewhat better than Leake. Nationals.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Rangers </b>over the Angels</u>: <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/hamiljo03.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Josh Hamilton</a></strong> is striking out at a rate of 42.1% and has one hit this season. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/hansoto01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Tommy Hanson</a></strong> has become an enigmatic pitcher who the Angels are counting on. Good luck with that. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/harrima01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Matt Harrison</a></strong> is a solid starter despite getting cuffed around in his first start of the season.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Tigers </b>over the Yankees</u>: The Yankees rushing <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> back into the rotation seems a bit of a panic move from this desk. He won't be able to pitch very deep in the game and then <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/p/phelpda01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">David Phelps</a></strong>, who was supposed to get the start will have to finish it. Add to all of this the fact that <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/s/scherma01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Max Scherzer</a></strong> has this big arm and could strike out twelve Yankees.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Giants </b>over the Cardinals</u>: The Cardinals start one of their best young arms in <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/m/millesh01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Shelby Miller</a></strong>. So this is an exciting day for Cardinal fans. But picking young pitchers is always a problem and <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/v/vogelry01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Ryan Vogelsong</a></strong> is a proven big league starter. The Giants are not hitting much though.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Phillies </b>over the Royals</u>: How did you decide between <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/m/mendolu01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Luis Mendoza</a></strong> of the Royals against John Lannon of the Phillies? It's not that Lannon has been a bad pitcher for the past couple of seasons. He hasn't. But he is too much of an unknown factor here. But Luis Mendoza has had such and up and down career that picking him just doesn't feel good despite that he had a good spring.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Twins over the <b>Orioles</b></u>: There is no hotter entity right now than <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>. His current RBI total outpaces many team totals at this point. It's crazy. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/w/worleva01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Vance Worley</a></strong> did not have a good start in his debut for the Twins. He can't have fallen this far off of what was a promising start to his career, can he? <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/t/tillmch01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Chris Tillman</a></strong> is the dicey part of the Orioles' rotation. Going with the Twins, though it is probably nuts.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Diamondbacks over the <b>Brewers</b></u>: The D-backs have come out of the gate smoking. The Brewers? Not. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/f/fiersmi01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Mike Fiers</a></strong> is not the guy to improve things for the Brewers as pitching has again been a problem. Is <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> the next <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/m/mileywa01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Wade Miley</a></strong> for the Diamondbacks? Could be.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Braves </b>over the Cubs</u>: <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/t/teherju01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Julio Teheran</a></strong> had such a big spring, but it is so hard to forget what happened last year. The Braves look like one of the best teams in the early going despite <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/u/uptonbj01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">B.J. Upton</a></strong> being zero for the season with a 67% strikeout rate. The Cubs counter with <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/v/villaca01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Carlos Villanueva</a></strong> and that should not go well at all.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Astros </b>over the Athletics</u>: Yeah, I know. Revert back to the first paragraph, right? But <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/c/colonba01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Bartolo Colon</a></strong>? Come on. Seriously? <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> has the only Astros win this season. Why can't he get another. Even if the Astros lose a hundred games, they still have to win sixty of them. This will be one of them.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Padres over the <b>Rockies</b></u>: Yeah, this pick sounds stupid as the Rockies are off to a fast start. But the Rockies start <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/g/garlajo01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Jon Garland</a></strong>, who hasn't started in the majors in two years. How can you safely pick him to win? In Colorado no less? The Padres start <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>, which really isn't any better. Can you say, "Bullpen game?"</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Dodgers </b>over the Pirates</u>: I can't pick against <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>. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/b/burnea.01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">A.J. Burnett</a></strong> is capable of a big game. But Burnett over Kershaw? Nah. I can't do it.</li></ul><div style="text-align: justify;">And the Game of the Day!</div><ul><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Bay <b>Rays </b>over the Indians</u>: The Indians are a wildcard hopeful this season, but they have to figure out what they are going to do with their rotation. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/b/bauertr01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Trevor Bauer</a></strong> gets the start today and that simply does not feel good for a pick. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/c/cobbal01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Alex Cobb</a></strong> has been one big pleasant surprise since the Rays put him into the rotation last season. He'll have the Indians pounding the ball into the ground the entire game.</li></ul><br /><div><div style="text-align: justify;">Yesterday: 10-5</div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">Week: 37-24</div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">Month: 37-24</div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">Games of the Day: 4-1</div></div>

MLB Game Picks - Saturday: April 6, 2013

Lessons learned over the past couple of days: Picking the Astros is problematic. Picking the Yankees has become problematic. Picking the Gia...

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MLB Game Picks - Friday: April 5, 2013

<div style="text-align: justify;"><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>, I apologize. I said some disparaging remarks about him starting for the Padres yesterday and I was all wrong as Stultz was brilliant. His effort beat that pick and the ding was well deserved on this end. Then again, the disparaging remarks made about <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/m/myersbr01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Brett Myers</a></strong> starting for the Indians were right on point as he threw a nice game of batting practice for the Blue Jays who won their first game of the season. Overall the day ended up on the plus side but the Game of the Day feature took it's first beating of the season with <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> having a brilliant game against the Braves.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><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>, as predicted, gave the Yankees a chance to win and they did. <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> had his first save opportunity since his knee injury and was successful (if a bit shaky with a run allowed). And as predicted, <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> did not have a good debut and <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> was much better for the A's.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The first Friday of the season brings us back to a full slate of games. It's going to be a big and wonderful day of baseball. The picks:</div><br /><ul><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Yankees over the <b>Tigers</b></u>: The Yankees spoil the Tigers' home opener. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/n/novaiv01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Ivan Nova</a></strong> is a very important piece for the Yankees this season. If he pitches like last year, they are in bad shape. If he pitches like two years ago, then they will be better than anticipated. <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> depends on location and keeping the batters off balance. When he does well, he's really good. If he is off, he is very easy to hit.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Rangers </b>over the Angels</u>: <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/hamiljo03.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Josh Hamilton</a></strong> returns to Texas for the first time in an Angels' uniform. He's off to a slow start thus far and has to face a lefty in <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>. Holland gives much more comfort in this one than <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> does as the Angels' starter.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Orioles </b>over the Twins</u>: The Twins took two of three from the Tigers over the weekend in surprising fashion. But the Orioles will beat up on <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/hendrli01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Liam Hendriks</a></strong> and hope <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> gives them a good outing too.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Royals over the <b>Phillies</b></u>: Let me ask this to Royals fans. When you see the last name of, "Davis," as the starting pitcher, doesn't it give you the willies? But take comfort, it is not <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/d/davieky01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Kyle Davies</a></strong>, it is <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/d/daviswa01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Wade Davis</a></strong>. Davis seems better suited out of the bullpen, but he can be a decent starter for the Royals. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/k/kendrky01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Kyle Kendricks</a></strong> is generally as good as his BABIP allows.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Rockies </b>over the Padres</u>: The battle of the slop pitchers as <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/m/marquja01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Jason Marquis</a></strong> battles <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/f/francje01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Jeff Francis</a></strong>. This could be ugly.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Giants </b>over the Cardinals</u>: I cannot gauge the Cardinals yet. They have a very good lineup. But anyway, <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>'s playoff run in 2012 confused me about how good he is or isn't. I think he'll be better than <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>.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Blue Jays</b> over the the Red Sox</u>: I've been touting <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/player_search.cgi?results=johnsjo09,johnso012jos,johnso011jos&utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Josh Johnson</a></strong> all spring, so to pick against him would be pretty stupid, eh? Felix Doubrant can be tough, but his lefty offerings could be just what the Blue Jays are looking for too.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Bay <b>Rays </b>over the Indians</u>: The Indians are on the soft side of their rotation as <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/m/mcallza01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Zach McAllister</a></strong> does not scare anyone. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/m/moorema02.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Matt Moore</a></strong> has not come out gangbusters in his career as predicted. But he will be better than McAllister.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Mets </b>over the Marlins</u>: The Marlins may not win a game this season. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/hefneje01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Jeremy Hefner</a></strong> did not have a great spring, but he has a great arm and should be better than <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/s/sanabal01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Alex Sanabia</a></strong>, who has done little in his big league career.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Reds </b>over the Nationals</u>: This game will be fascinating to watch. What kind of pitcher will <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> be for the Nationals? If he can muster up some of his old dominance, there will be no stopping this Nationals team. I am not feeling it though. Going with <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/b/baileho02.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Homer Bailey</a></strong>.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Braves </b>over the Cubs</u>: I have been a big booster of <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/f/feldmsc01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Scott Feldman</a></strong> for a long time. But when he finally got his shot in the rotation for the Rangers last year, he fizzled. Plus, the Braves have too much firepower. <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> with the win for the Braves.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Diamondbacks over the <b>Brewers</b></u>: Nobody believes in the season <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/m/mileywa01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Wade Miley</a></strong> had last season. Projections all predict him to regress. But I still believe. We'll just have to see how it plays out. <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> gets the start for the Brewers and with his late signing, you wonder and the lack of real reps he had this spring.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Astros </b>over the Athletics</u>: What do you do with a <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> / <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> match up? I don't know what to do with it. Give the pick to the home team and hope.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>White Sox</b> over the Mariners</u>: <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/b/beavabl01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Blake Beavan</a></strong> got belted around in Arizona, but you cannot take that too much into consideration considering. <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> surprised a lot of people last season. I still don't know if I believe what he did. But he should beat Beavan who will take a few games to get over his shell shock.</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>Dodgers </b>over the Pirates</u>: <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/s/sanchjo01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Jonathan Sanchez</a></strong> had about as bad a 2012 as you can have and still stay in baseball. Which just goes to prove that if you throw from the left side, you will always get the benefit of the doubt. Speaking of doubt, I doubt he will beat <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> making his season debut.</li></ul><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">Yesterday: 7-4</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Week: 27-19</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Month: 27-19</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Games of the Day: 3-1 </div>

MLB Game Picks - Friday: April 5, 2013

Eric Stults , I apologize. I said some disparaging remarks about him starting for the Padres yesterday and I was all wrong as Stultz was br...

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MLB Game Picks - Thursday: April 4, 2013

<div style="text-align: justify;">Blown saves played a big part in action yesterday that affected at least three games. They cost the Tigers, Cardinals and Orioles wins. The latter two helped the picks out and the most former cost a pick. That two to one ratio held true for the day and ten out of the fifteen picks were correct. There were two other blown saves during the contests, but both of those teams that blew saves still won the game.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The Yankees suffered yet another injury and another loss to open the season, 0-2. They are in danger of getting swept in their first series just like last year. Last year, they were able to recover and win 95 games. That scenario really seems a remote possibility this year.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">It is "Getaway Day" in Major League Baseball. There are eleven games on the schedule today and eight of them are day games. Awesome. The picks:</div><br /><ul><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Reds</b> over the Angels</u>: This is not really a pick for <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> as he will either give up homers or have a decent game. This is an unsteady gaze at <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/b/blantjo01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Joe Blanton</a></strong> starting for the Angels. On the one hand, he, from the National League, will know the Reds. But they will know him too.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Pirates</b> over the Cubs</u>: <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/m/mcdonja03.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">James McDonald</a></strong> has a big league arm and high school command. If he ever figures out the latter, he'll be dangerous. He should be able to hold the Cubs down a bit and allow <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> to get the win.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Tigers over the <b>Twins</b></u>: <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/p/porceri01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Rick Porcello</a></strong> was dangled on the trade block all winter. The Tigers will be glad they kept him. Mike Pelfery had some nice moments for the Mets. But there weren't enough of them.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Mets </b>over the Padres</u>: The Mets are going to wish the Padres stuck around a little longer. Today they face Eric Stultz, who doesn't strike out a lot of batters, walks a few too many and is good for a WHIP of around 1.5. That sounds promising. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/g/geedi01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Dillon Gee</a></strong> goes for the Mets.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Royals over the <b>White Sox</b></u>: The Royals should get a win today behind Arlo...ahem..<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>. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/f/floydga01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Gavin Floyd</a></strong> goes for the White Sox and did not have a good year in 2012. The Royals better hope Floyd is not due for a rebound.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Orioles over the Bay <b>Rays</b></u>: This one could get to the bullpens early as <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/player_search.cgi?results=hernaro01,carmofa01&utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Roberto Hernandez</a></strong> goes for the Rays against <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/player_search.cgi?results=gonzami03,gonzal009mig,gonzal003mig,gonzal006mig,gonzal010mig&utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Miguel Gonzalez</a></strong>. Then again, Gonzalez was quite the surprise last season while the Rays seem quite capable of picking pitchers up and turning them around. So who knows.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Athletics </b>over the Mariners</u>: Brandon continues to be the most popular name in baseball as another one in <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/minors/player.cgi?id=maurer001bra&utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Brandon Maurer</a></strong> joins the ranks for the Mariners today. They are quite high on him, but frankly, I don't see why. The pick instead goes to <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>, who had a nice debut season last year.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Nationals </b>over the Marlins</u>: Another day for the Nats and another stud pitcher on the mound in <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/z/zimmejo02.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Jordan Zimmermann</a></strong>. Man, what a rotation. The Marlins, meanwhile, counter with <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/l/leblawa01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Wade LeBlanc</a></strong>, whose only shot is being a lefty and neutralizing lefties like Harper, Span and LaRoche. It still won't be enough.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Yankees </b>over the Red Sox</u>: Unless <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> gets hit with a baseball too, he has at least a chance to give the Yankees a win today over the Red Sox and newcomer, <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/d/dempsry01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Ryan Dempster</a></strong>. It's not like Dempster is a slouch. He is not. But at least there is a chance.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Blue Jays</b> over the Indians</u>: This is where the rotation gets sketchy for the Indians. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/m/myersbr01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Brett Myers</a></strong> just isn't a good starting pitcher and got belted all spring. Francona will give him a couple of starts before seeing that it is not going to work. The Blue Jays have <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/b/buehrma01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Mark Buehrle</a></strong> on the mound and his success will depend on where his ground balls end up going.</li></ul><div style="text-align: justify;">And the Game of the Day!</div><ul><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Braves </b>over the Phillies</u>: Obviously, there is no way that <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/m/medlekr01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Kris Medlen</a></strong> can top or even duplicate what he did last year for the Braves. And he looked vulnerable this spring despite still racking up strikeouts and a low walk total. But he will beat the Phillies 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> will give up a dinger or two to all those right-handed hitters on the Braves.</li></ul><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">Yesterday: 10-5</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Week: 20-15</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Month: 20-15</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Games of the Day: 3-0</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div>

MLB Game Picks - Thursday: April 4, 2013

Blown saves played a big part in action yesterday that affected at least three games. They cost the Tigers, Cardinals and Orioles wins. The ...

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Game Picks - Tuesday: April 2, 2013

<div style="text-align: justify;">Monday gave us our first semi-full day of Major League Baseball and it was delicious. Only having all thirty teams in action would have been better. But it was fun nonetheless. How did the Game Picks fare during this first big day of action? Well...it was a mixed bag. Half the picks were correct and half were incorrect. Not a great start, but it is a better start than the Yankees, Rangers and Cardinals have made.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Speaking of the Yankees, I knew they would lose. <a href="http://www.blogger.com/players/s/sabatc.01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">C.C. Sabathia</a> is never good against the Red Sox and has a history of being pretty terrible on Opening Day. And picking against old man-crush, <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>, was a mistake as he had a good day against the Cardinals.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">But <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> and <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/harpebr03.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Bryce Harper</a></strong> had big days and the Nationals began their season of high expectations on a bright note. The Cubs beat <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/b/burnea.01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">A.J. Burnett</a></strong> as <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> was untouchable. That pick went sour. <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> and <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> both threw nothing but zeroes to make those picks come out on top. But so did <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/s/salech01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Chris Sale</a></strong> who out-dueled <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/s/shielja02.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">James Shields</a></strong> for a 1-0 win. I had it in reverse. But I did predict a tough adjustment for the Royals, who hit so well in Arizona, which can be a <a href="http://passion4baseball.blogspot.com/2013/03/the-arizona-mirage.html" target="_blank">mirage</a>.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Opening Day, like any other day in baseball, is a day where anything can happen and did with wild games in Atlanta and Milwaukee. The former was an incorrect pick while the latter was correct. The Mets, which I picked, scored eleven runs. The Mets!?</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">There are seven games on today's schedule. The Orioles, Blue Jays, Indians and Rays will all play their first games today. Only one of the games is a day game. Here are Tuesday's picks:</div><br /><ul><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Rays</b> over the Orioles</u>: <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/p/priceda01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">David Price</a></strong> is one of the best and ace's dominated yesterday. The Orioles counter with <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/hammeja01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Jason Hammel</a></strong>, which shows you the one big difference of these two AL East competitors. Many experts are still picking the Rays to win the AL East. We'll see.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Blue Jays</b> over the Indians</u>: The Indians--or most of them anyway--have never seen <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> pitch. They are in for a tough day. <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>, a ground ball pitcher to the extreme, will need to have a good BABIP day. The Blue Jays should win.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Brewers </b>over the Rockies</u>: This is a game where anything can happen. You have a pitching match up of Jorge de la Rosa against <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>. Yeah, go ahead and pick that for me, will you? The pick goes to the home team, Brewers.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Cardinals over the <b>Diamondbacks</b></u>: This is another tough game to gauge. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/g/garcija02.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Jaime Garcia</a></strong> had a good spring after a tough season a year ago and goes for the Cardinals. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/c/cahiltr01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Trevor Cahill</a></strong> goes for the Diamondbacks.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Mariners over the <b>Athletics</b></u>: This should be another low scoring game. <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> was a big surprise last season and had a good spring considering it was pitched in Arizona. He should keep the A's quiet. <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> had a bad spring and got lit up in Arizona, but that should change in Oakland.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Dodgers</b> over the Giants</u>: Dodgers' starter, Hyun-Kin Ryu, is a total mystery to me. It looks like he was tough during the spring, but I have no idea about him at all. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/b/bumgama01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Madison Bumgarner</a></strong> is a great pitcher and had a great spring, but still going with the Dodgers in this one.</li></ul><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">And the Game of the Day!</div><br /><ul><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Rangers over the <b>Astros</b></u>: <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/d/darviyu01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Yu Darvish</a></strong> puts the Rangers back on track and the Rangers should hit <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/harrelu01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Lucas Harrell</a></strong> to the tune of three or four runs. That should be enough behind Darvish to win this one.</li></ul><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">Yesterday: 6-6</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Week:  7-6</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Month:  7-6</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Season: 7-6</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Games of the Day: 1-0</div>

Game Picks - Tuesday: April 2, 2013

Monday gave us our first semi-full day of Major League Baseball and it was delicious. Only having all thirty teams in action would have been...

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