MLB Game Picks - Tuesday: April 29, 2014

<div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Mediocrity is my name. Monday again included a Game of the Day that turned out wrong. What's up with you, <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/b/bumgama01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" target="_blank">Madison Bumgarner</a></strong>? The Cardinals had a 3-0 lead that disappeared while they left thirteen men on base and lost. Oakland blanked the Rangers and I did not see that happening at all. This has been discouraging. Very, very discouraging.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">But today is another day and it has to get better. A month from now, the Games of the Day will have a nice and healthy record and things will feel better. And heck, it might even be warm here in Maine by then.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Tuesday's picks: </span></div><ul><li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">The Mets over the <strong>Phillies</strong></span>: <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/player_search.cgi?results=,niesejo01&utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" target="_blank">Jon Niese</a></strong> has pitched two straight good games against two tough teams. So I am going with him over the Phillies and <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/hamelco01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" target="_blank">Cole Hamels</a></strong> who never seems to get helped out by his team.</span></li><li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">The <strong>Orioles</strong> over the Pirates</span>: The Pirates are off to a really disappointing start this season. Last season seems like a long time ago. I'm going with <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/t/tillmch01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" target="_blank">Chris Tillman</a></strong> over <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/player_search.cgi?results=mortoch02,mortoch01&utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" target="_blank">Charlie Morton</a></strong> (who is 0-3).</span></li><li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">The <strong>Yankees</strong> over the Mariners</span>: <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/c/canoro01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" target="_blank">Robinson Cano</a></strong> returns to New York and will probably hit well in his old haunt. But the Yankees will run <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/player_search.cgi?results=youngch03,youngch04&utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" target="_blank">Chris Young</a></strong>'s pitch count up and get him to leave the game early and then the Mariners have a problem. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/s/sabatc.01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" target="_blank">CC Sabathia</a></strong> has to pitch well though. Seager is really hot for the M's.</span></li><li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">The <strong>Marlins</strong> over the Braves</span>: I have to go with <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/player_search.cgi?results=fernajo01,fernajo02,fernan015jos,fernan014jos,fernan008jos,fernan018jos&utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" target="_blank">Jose Fernandez</a></strong> at home against the Braves. He should strike out like 14 tonight with that Atlanta lineup. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/w/woodal02.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" target="_blank">Alex Wood</a></strong> has been good though and the Marlins have to score a few.</span></li><li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">The Cubs over the <strong>Reds</strong></span>: I still think <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/s/samarje01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" target="_blank">Jeff Samardzija</a></strong> will out pitch <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/s/simonal01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" target="_blank">Alfredo Simon</a></strong>. Their game was rained out yesterday.</span></li><li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">The <strong>Rangers</strong> over the Athletics</span>: <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/k/kazmisc01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" target="_blank">Scott Kazmir</a></strong> and <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/p/perezma02.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" target="_blank">Martin Perez</a></strong> are a combined 7-0. One of them has to lose. I'll stubbornly keep picking the Rangers and my man, Perez.</span></li><li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">The Tigers over the <strong>White Sox</strong></span>: <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/v/verlaju01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" target="_blank">Justin Verlander</a></strong> is not the lock he used to be. But he should be better than Jose Quintanta. Verlander better be careful to Abreu though.</span></li><li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">The Dodgers over the <strong>Twins</strong></span>: Some of the bloom has come off of <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/g/gibsoky01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" target="_blank">Kyle Gibson</a></strong>'s rose recently and the Dodgers get an extra bat in the lineup, which helps them more than it helps the Twins. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/g/greinza01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" target="_blank">Zack Greinke</a></strong> comes back to the AL Central.</span></li><li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">The <strong>Royals</strong> over the Blue Jays</span>: I never know what either of these teams are going to do. So that makes picking their games together a nightmare. I will go with <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/v/vargaja01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" target="_blank">Jason Vargas</a></strong> over <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/m/mcgowdu01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" target="_blank">Dustin McGowan</a></strong> and cross my fingers I guessed right.</span></li><li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">The Nationals over the <strong>Astros</strong></span>: Jerred Cozart has been pretty solid except for one of his starts. But I think <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/g/gonzagi01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" target="_blank">Gio Gonzalez</a></strong> will have a good game with a ten-spot at least for strikeouts. The Nats losing <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/harpebr03.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" target="_blank">Bryce Harper</a></strong> for three months does not help though.</span></li><li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">The <strong>Cardinals</strong> over the Brewers</span>: The good news for the Cardinals is that <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/c/craigal01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" target="_blank">Allen Craig</a></strong> is coming around. The good news is that <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/l/lynnla01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" target="_blank">Lance Lynn</a></strong> is 4-1. The bad news for the Cardinals is that <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/l/lohseky01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" target="_blank">Kyle Lohse</a></strong> is coming home and knows how to pitch in St. Louis.</span></li><li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">The Rockies over the <strong>Diamondbacks</strong></span>. Mike Bolsinger had his first good outing of the season his last time out. But it was against the Cubs. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/c/chatwty01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" target="_blank">Tyler Chatwood</a></strong> has shown signs of figuring life out.</span></li><li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">The <strong>Angels</strong> over the Indians</span>: A lot will depend in this game on how sharp <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/w/weaveje02.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" target="_blank">Jered Weaver</a></strong> is. With his 87 MPH fastball, he has to be pinpoint. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/k/klubeco01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" target="_blank">Corey Kluber</a></strong> is one of the best of the Indians' pitchers, but Trout and Pujols are tough to beat.</span></li><li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">The <strong>Giants</strong> over the Padres</span>: This pick did not turn out so well yesterday. And <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/c/cainma01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" target="_blank">Matt Cain</a></strong> is not nearly as good (on paper) as Bumgarner. So why pick them? I still think they are a better team than the Padres, that's why. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/s/stulter01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" target="_blank">Eric Stults</a></strong> goes for the Friars.</span></li></ul><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">And the Game of the Day: </span></div><ul><li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><u>The <strong>Red Sox</strong> over the Rays</u>: If <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/l/lackejo01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" target="_blank">John Lackey</a></strong> pitches like he did against the Yankees, this should be a walk for the Red Sox, especially with <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/b/bedarer01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" target="_blank">Erik Bedard</a></strong> pitching for the Rays.</span></li></ul><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Yesterday: 3-3, Games of the Day: 11-14, Season: 215-168 </span></div>

MLB Game Picks - Tuesday: April 29, 2014

Mediocrity is my name. Monday again included a Game of the Day that turned out wrong. What's up with you, Madison Bumgarner ? The Cardi...

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MLB Game Picks - Tuesday: April 8, 2014

<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;">Only seven games ended up being played yesterday. The schedule was already short and then two postponements added to the lightness of the day. That was sort of good news for the Game Picks as they went 6-1 for the day. The only errant pick was the Royals beating the Rays, which was doubly bad news for the Rays as <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/m/moorema02.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/m/moorema02.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Matt Moore</a></strong>'s elbow popped during the game. That's terrible news for them and for Rays fans.</div><div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;">Barring weather, we should be back to a full schedule today minus one. The picks:</div><div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;"><span data-mce-style="text-decoration: underline;" style="line-height: 1.5; text-decoration: underline;"></span></div><ul style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; list-style: square; margin: 0px 0px 24px 1.5em; padding: 0px;"><li style="line-height: 1.5;"><span data-mce-style="text-decoration: underline;" style="line-height: 1.5;">The <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;">Yankees</strong> over the Orioles</span>: <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/c/chenwe02.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/c/chenwe02.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Wei-Yin Chen</a></strong> has had some good games against the Yankees, but their full compliment of switch hitters keeps them in there today. <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/n/novaiv01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/n/novaiv01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Ivan Nova</a></strong> will have to navigate a tough Orioles' lineup, but if he is on, he has the talent to do that.</li><li style="line-height: 1.5;"><span data-mce-style="text-decoration: underline;" style="line-height: 1.5;">The <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;">Phillies</strong> over the Brewers</span>: The Brewers just swept the Red Sox at Fenway. So they are rolling right? That always seems to be the case and then they get to the next series and poof. <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/k/kendrky01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/k/kendrky01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Kyle Kendrick</a></strong> over <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" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Kyle Lohse</a></strong> in the battle of the wily Kyles.</li><li style="line-height: 1.5;">The <span data-mce-style="text-decoration: underline;" style="line-height: 1.5;"><strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;">Giants</strong> over the Diamondbacks</span>: It's nice to see <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/hudsoti01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/hudsoti01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Tim Hudson</a></strong> back on the West Coast where it all began. He had a good first start. I think he will win today over <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/c/cahiltr01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/c/cahiltr01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Trevor Cahill</a></strong>.</li><li style="line-height: 1.5;"><span data-mce-style="text-decoration: underline;" style="line-height: 1.5;">The Rangers over the <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;">Red Sox</strong></span>: You just never know with <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/d/doubrfe01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/d/doubrfe01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Felix Doubront</a></strong>. I actually like <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/p/perezma02.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/p/perezma02.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Martin Perez</a></strong> in this match-up better. But it is a tough pick as the Rangers are not playing well.</li><li style="line-height: 1.5;"><span data-mce-style="text-decoration: underline;" style="line-height: 1.5;">The <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;">Indians</strong> over the Padres</span><span style="line-height: 1.5;">: The opening schedule has the Padres playing all over the place. They are the vagabond team thus far. The Indians are hard to figure out and don't always win when you expect them to. </span><strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/k/klubeco01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/k/klubeco01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Corey Kluber</a></strong><span style="line-height: 1.5;"> is my pick here over </span><strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/r/rossty01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/r/rossty01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Tyson Ross</a></strong><span style="line-height: 1.5;"> who needs to suck up his command.</span></li><li style="line-height: 1.5;"><span data-mce-style="text-decoration: underline;" style="line-height: 1.5;">The <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;">Blue Jays</strong> over the Astros</span>: <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/b/buehrma01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/b/buehrma01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Mark Buehrle</a></strong> just rolls along and does his thing. A guy like <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" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Brett Oberholtzer</a></strong> could learn a lot from watching Buehrle.</li><li style="line-height: 1.5;"><span data-mce-style="font-size: 16px; text-decoration: underline;" style="line-height: 1.5;">The Pirates over the <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;">Cubs</strong></span><span data-mce-style="font-size: 16px;" style="line-height: 1.5;">: Isn't this the second match-up of the year already between <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/j/jacksed01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/j/jacksed01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Edwin Jackson</a></strong> and <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/player_search.cgi?results=mortoch02,mortoch01&utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/player_search.cgi?results=mortoch02,mortoch01&utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Charlie Morton</a></strong>? That's not fair. Who knows which of these two will sink to his usual low?</span></li><li style="line-height: 1.5;"><span data-mce-style="text-decoration: underline;" style="line-height: 1.5;">The Rays over the <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;">Royals</strong></span>: This is a big treat tonight because of the debut for the season of <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" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Yordano Ventura</a></strong>. I'd like to say, "Book him, Yordano," but I want to see how he does first. <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/a/archech01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/a/archech01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Chris Archer</a></strong> is a much more known quantity...and quality.</li><li style="line-height: 1.5;"><span data-mce-style="text-decoration: underline;" style="line-height: 1.5;">The <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;">Cardinals</strong> over the Reds</span>: The Reds are not going to be very good this season, are they? They just don't seem to have a gel to them. I'm going with <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/l/lynnla01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/l/lynnla01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Lance Lynn</a></strong> over <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/b/baileho02.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/b/baileho02.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Homer Bailey</a></strong>.</li><li style="line-height: 1.5;"><span data-mce-style="text-decoration: underline;" style="line-height: 1.5;">The <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;">Rockies</strong> over the White Sox</span>: Don't look now, but the Rockies are on fire. They hardly seem like the last place team I predicted they would be. They are getting some pitching! Tonight, it will be <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/m/moralfr01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/m/moralfr01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Franklin Morales</a></strong> versus <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/q/quintca01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/q/quintca01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Carlos Quintana</a></strong>. They are pretty much the same pitcher.</li><li style="line-height: 1.5;"><span data-mce-style="text-decoration: underline;" style="line-height: 1.5;">The <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;">Mariners</strong> over the Angels</span>: The Angels will be a good test for <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" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">James Paxton</a></strong>, who has the advantage of pitching at home in Seattle. <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/s/santihe01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/s/santihe01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Hector Santiago</a></strong> will probably be solid, so this game could go either way.</li><li style="line-height: 1.5;">The <span data-mce-style="text-decoration: underline;" style="line-height: 1.5;">Tigers over the <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;">Dodgers</strong></span>: This should be a fascinating series. Tonight I have to go with <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/s/scherma01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/s/scherma01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Max Scherzer</a></strong> over <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/harenda01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/harenda01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Dan Haren</a></strong>.</li><li style="line-height: 1.5;"><span style="line-height: 1.5;">The </span><strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;">Braves</strong><span style="line-height: 1.5;"> over the Mets: Okay, I am not going to pick on </span><strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/haranaa01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/haranaa01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Aaron Harang</a></strong><span style="line-height: 1.5;"> anymore. Every time I do, he pitches out of his...well....you know...and makes me look stupid. So there you go, big boy, there's the pick. Now what are you going to do? Shrek </span><strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/c/colonba01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/c/colonba01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Bartolo Colon</a></strong><span style="line-height: 1.5;"> goes for the Mets.</span></li></ul><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Charter', Times, serif; font-size: 11.818181991577148px; line-height: 18px;">And the Game of the Day!</span><br /><ul style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; list-style: square; margin: 0px 0px 24px 1.5em; padding: 0px;"><li style="line-height: 1.5;">The <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;">Nationals</strong> over the Marlins: You have to like <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" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Gio Gonzalez</a></strong> in this start much better than <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" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Henderson Alvarez</a></strong>. I think the Marlins will struggle on the road this season.</li></ul><div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;"></div><div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px;">Yesterday: 6-1, Games of the Day: 3-3, Season: 60-41</div>

MLB Game Picks - Tuesday: April 8, 2014

Only seven games ended up being played yesterday. The schedule was already short and then two postponements added to the lightness of the da...

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MLB Game Picks - Tuesday: April 1, 2014

<div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px; text-align: justify;">The first semi-full day of Game Picks went very well. I was 11-0 until the Mariners beat the Angels and after a great pitching duel, the Indians scored two runs off of <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/player_search.cgi?results=johnsji04,johnsji03&utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/player_search.cgi?results=johnsji04,johnsji03&utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Jim Johnson</a></strong> to win that game, 2-0. But 11-2 on the first day of the season is quite nice. Let's see if I can keep it going.</div><div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px; text-align: justify;">There are nine games on the schedule. Only one is not a night game where the Padres will host the Dodgers for a 3:40 start in Pacific Time. Here are the picks:</div><ul style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; list-style: square; margin: 0px 0px 24px 1.5em; padding: 0px;"><li style="line-height: 1.5; text-align: justify;"><span data-mce-style="text-decoration: underline;" style="line-height: 1.5; text-decoration: underline;">The Dodgers over the <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;">Padres</strong></span>: <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/g/greinza01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/g/greinza01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Zack Greinke</a></strong> has pitched really well (SSS) against the Padres in the past and the Dodgers hammered <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/k/kenneia01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/k/kenneia01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Ian Kennedy</a></strong> pretty hard last year. So the pick has to go with the Dodgers. I'm not sure how long Greinke will pitch in this game though.</li><li style="line-height: 1.5; text-align: justify;"><span data-mce-style="text-decoration: underline;" style="line-height: 1.5; text-decoration: underline;">The Rockies over the <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;">Marlins</strong></span>: <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/e/eovalna01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/e/eovalna01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Nathan Eovaldi</a></strong> had a decent spring and looks more solid than in years past and how well <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/player_search.cgi?results=anderbr04,anders002bre&utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/player_search.cgi?results=anderbr04,anders002bre&utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Brett Anderson</a></strong> holds up will be a question all year for the Rockies. But I'm going with the Rockies in this one.</li><li style="line-height: 1.5; text-align: justify;"><span data-mce-style="font-size: 16px; text-decoration: underline;" style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; text-decoration: underline;">The Bay <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;">Rays</strong> over the Blue Jays</span><span data-mce-style="font-size: 16px;" style="font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5;">: <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/player_search.cgi?results=reyesjo01,reyesjo02,reyes-004jos,reyes-016jos&utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/player_search.cgi?results=reyesjo01,reyesjo02,reyes-004jos,reyes-016jos&utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Jose Reyes</a></strong> hurt already. So sad. And no surprise. Hey, a question. If the Rays sign <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" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Alex Cobb</a></strong> to a nice extension, could it be said that they will tie Cobb up? <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/hutchdr01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/hutchdr01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Drew Hutchison</a></strong> is an exciting young pitcher. But the Rays are the pick.</span></li><li style="line-height: 1.5; text-align: justify;"><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 Phillies</span>: Wow! Did these two teams look awful yesterday. I like <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/p/perezma02.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/p/perezma02.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Martin Perez</a></strong>'s left arm against the Phillies, though the young mad had a tough spring. <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/b/burnea.01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/b/burnea.01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">A.J. Burnett</a></strong> makes his debut for the Phillies.</li><li style="line-height: 1.5; text-align: justify;"><span data-mce-style="text-decoration: underline;" style="line-height: 1.5; text-decoration: underline;">The Braves over the <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;">Brewers</strong></span>: <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" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Alex Wood</a></strong> has looked terrific this spring. Will it transfer to the season? I am saying so. Besides, I have no real confidence in <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" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Kyle Lohse</a></strong> stopping the Braves for long.</li><li style="line-height: 1.5; text-align: justify;"><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>: Uh oh, the Dbacks are already 0-3. <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/c/cainma01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/c/cainma01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Matt Cain</a></strong> has gotten lost a bit for the Giants and he must rebound to give the Giants a chance. Cain has been pretty effective over the years at Chase Field. <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/m/mileywa01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/m/mileywa01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Wade Miley</a></strong> is hard to rely on for the Diamondbacks.</li><li style="line-height: 1.5; text-align: justify;"><span data-mce-style="text-decoration: underline;" style="line-height: 1.5; text-decoration: underline;">The <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;">Athletics</strong> over the Indians</span>: <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/k/kazmisc01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/k/kazmisc01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Scott Kazmir</a></strong> haunts his old team and <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/k/klubeco01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/k/klubeco01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Corey Kluber</a></strong> gets off to a rough start.</li><li style="line-height: 1.5; text-align: justify;"><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>: Maybe my trumpeting for the Angels was misplaced. Which is a nice way of saying dumb. The Angels again cannot seem to pitch. <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/player_search.cgi?results=ramirer01,ramirer02&utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/player_search.cgi?results=ramirer01,ramirer02&utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Erasmo Ramirez</a></strong> had a terrific spring but faces a tough lineup. <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" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">C.J. Wilson</a></strong> goes for the Angels. To be honest, I have no idea who will win this game.</li></ul><div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px; text-align: justify;">And the Game of the Day:</div><ul style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; list-style: square; margin: 0px 0px 24px 1.5em; padding: 0px;"><li style="line-height: 1.5; text-align: justify;">The Yankees over the <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;">Astros</strong>: <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/s/sabatc.01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/s/sabatc.01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">CC Sabathia</a></strong> has a lot to prove this year with diminished velocity on if he can still be an effective pitcher. He had a very good spring, so maybe he can. The Astros are better this year than last and <strong style="color: black; line-height: 1.5;"><a data-mce-href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/f/feldmsc01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/f/feldmsc01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.flagrantfan.com" style="color: #743399; line-height: 1.5;" target="_blank">Scott Feldman</a></strong> is not a bad starter. But the Yanks are the picks here.</li></ul><div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px; text-align: justify;">Yesterday: 11-2</div><div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px; text-align: justify;">Games of the Day: 0-1</div><div style="color: #444444; font-family: Georgia, 'Bitstream Charter', serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 24px; text-align: justify;">Season: 13-3</div>

MLB Game Picks - Tuesday: April 1, 2014

The first semi-full day of Game Picks went very well. I was 11-0 until the Mariners beat the Angels and after a great pitching duel, the Ind...

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MLB Game Picks - Monday: September 30, 2013

<div style="text-align: justify;">A little sadness. Such feelings always occur at the end of every regular season. Each season is different and each comes with its own surprises and inspirations. Having it end is like finishing the end of a long novel that left you satisfied, but sad that the story is over and you have to leave the characters behind.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">My picking season was better than last season. A great month of September helped make that possible. The Game of the Day picks ended up with the exact same amount of 105 correct picks for the season. At least you could say I am consistent.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The picks will continue throughout the playoffs and World Series. But the grueling job of picking fifteen games each day is over. Onward with the playoffs! Well, today is not a playoff. Today is a Game 163 as the Rangers and Rays have to figure out which team is going to be the second Wild Card.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The Pick:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><ul><li><u>The Bay Rays over the <b>Rangers</b></u>: There are a lot of factors going on here. First, the Rangers get the home game. I am not sure why. But anyway, that gives them an advantage. But the Rays get to start <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> who is one of the best pitchers in baseball. Except he does not pitch well against the Rangers. But then again, that was in the past when they had more offense than they have now. The Rangers start <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/p/perezma02.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Martin Perez</a></strong>. Perez is only 22 years old. That is a lot riding on a young guy. He had a decent season, but a lot of his success was compiled against sub-.500 teams. When pitching against teams over .500, he is just mediocre with a 4.34 ERA and a 4-4 record. The starters would seem to favor Price. Then there is <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/player_search.cgi?results=cruzne01,cruzne02&utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Nelson Cruz</a></strong>. This is a tough time to be bringing him back to face Major League hitters. I think he hurts continuity a bit here. He should DH and leave the Rangers with a terrific outfield of defenders. But will <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/w/washiro01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Ron Washington</a></strong> do that? I love what <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/m/martile01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Leonys Martin</a></strong> and <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/g/gentrcr01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Craig Gentry</a></strong> bring to the table, especially Gentry. If one of them has to sit because of Cruz, it's just the wrong call. I like the Rays for this game. But anything can happen.</li></ul><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">Yesterday: 10-5</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Week: 10-5</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Month: 232-172</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Season: 1374-1068</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Final Games of the Day tally: 105-71 </div>

MLB Game Picks - Monday: September 30, 2013

A little sadness. Such feelings always occur at the end of every regular season. Each season is different and each comes with its own surpri...

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MLB Game Picks - Wednesday: September 25, 2013

<div style="text-align: justify;">Tuesday was a struggle, but it turned out okay in the end. The trouble with picking teams that have already clinched surfaced with the A's and Red Sox losing to help illustrate the point. I was worried about <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> and I was right to be as he knocked the Reds off. The Orioles were eliminated with ease. I did not see that coming but I should have. But all in all, I finished up at 9-6 and have a decent week going on this last full week of the regular season.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">It has not been lost on me how many ex-Yankees delivered this week for their contending teams. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/g/giambja01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Jason Giambi</a></strong> last night. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/m/martiru01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Russell Martin</a></strong> and <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>. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/m/maxweju01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Justin Maxwell</a></strong>. Many of these guys are going to the playoffs and the Yankees are going home.</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 <b>Reds </b>over the Mets</u>: Matt Latos has lost a bit since August when he was unstoppable. Diasuke Matsuzaka has been a surprise for the Mets. But let's be real here. The Reds should win this game. If they don't, they are really sliding into the play-in game.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Cardinals </b>over the Nationals</u>: I would really love to pick <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>. I really want him to win his 20th game...badly. But he has pitched against the Cardinals five times in his career and his ERA is 9.12. How can I pick that? <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> is the pick then.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Pirates over the <b>Cubs</b></u>: If the Cardinals keep winning, there is now way for the Pirates to catch them. But it's not like the Pirates are not trying. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/l/liriafr01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Francisco Liriano</a></strong> should pitch a good five or six innings and the Pirates should score on <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>.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Angels </b>over the Athletics</u>: <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/w/weaveje02.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Jered Weaver</a></strong> is the pick in this game. Didn't <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> finish poorly in the last three weeks of last season too? He sure has gone cold. But maybe he can wake up against <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>.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Indians </b>over the White Sox</u>: I wish I could have heard <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/harreke01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Ken Harrelson</a></strong>'s call last night of Jason Giambi's homer. That would have been fun. I love <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> because he has not given up a homer in nine starts and has a ton of strikeouts. But he does not go deep enough into games and has five no decisions and only one win. But the Indians should take out <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>.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Rays over the <b>Yankees</b></u>: What sad sacks the Yankees have been with only the Orioles losing more. <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> officially boots the Yanks from the race tonight over (hopefully) the last <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> outing ever at Yankee Stadium.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Orioles </b>over the Blue Jays</u>: Now out of the race, the Orioles will win a game. <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> will get a win 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> or someone will hit a homer off of <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>.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Braves </b>over the Brewers</u>: I cannot believe that <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> wins as many games as he does. But somehow, it happens. <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> knows how to pitch with what he has, making him pretty even with Maholm. But I will go with the home team here.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Phillies over the <b>Marlins</b></u>: Ugh. Two teams finishing out awful seasons. <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> was my <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/y/youngcy01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Cy Young</a></strong> Award choice before the season. Pretty funny, eh? He should still be good enough to win and <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/handbr01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Brad Hand</a></strong> is much better as a reliever than as a starter.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Rangers over the <b>Astros</b></u>: You have to give the Astros something. Their pitching rotation has gone out there game after game without missing turns. It has to be demoralizing to keep losing though. Tonight's version, <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/k/keuchda01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Dallas Keuchel</a></strong> will do that tonight too as <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/p/perezma02.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Martin Perez</a></strong> gets the win and keeps the Rangers alive.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Rockies </b>over the Red Sox</u>: It is hard to believe that <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> shut down the Red Sox. But he did. And <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/c/chacijh01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Jhoulys Chacin</a></strong> is a better pitcher than him and is having a good season and pitches well at home. <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> will not like Coors Field.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Padres </b>over the Diamondbacks</u>: <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> will enjoy pitching against his old team and at home in Petco. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/d/delgara01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Randall Delgado</a></strong> hasn't had a bad season, but I expect Kennedy to be better tonight.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Mariners </b>over the Royals</u>: It was a fun season for the Royals, but their troubles in the early part of the season put them too far behind to make it to the end. Still, it was a season that gives hope. Tonight, they run into <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> who has been outstanding at times this season. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/s/santaer01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Ervin Santana</a></strong> could match him and make it a bullpen game. If that happens, this pick is toast.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Giants </b>over the Dodgers</u>: <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 a farewell start tonight and I hope he wins it. That's just me and this pick is swayed by it. The Dodgers start <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/n/nolasri01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Ricky Nolasco</a></strong> so that could knock some of the wind out of the pick. But go, Barry Zito, finish it with a flair.</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 Tigers over the <b>Twins</b></u>: It is only fitting for <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> to be on the mound when the Tigers clinch the division tonight. He has been their horse all season. <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> goes for the Twins who just need to get this season over.</li></ul><br /><div><div style="text-align: justify;">Yesterday: 9-6</div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">Week: 26-17</div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">Month: 191-145</div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">Season: 1333-1040</div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">Games of the Day: 101-70</div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></div>

MLB Game Picks - Wednesday: September 25, 2013

Tuesday was a struggle, but it turned out okay in the end. The trouble with picking teams that have already clinched surfaced with the A...

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MLB Game Picks - Friday: September 20, 2013

<div style="text-align: justify;">The great start to this picking week has stumbled in the last two days and I just broke even yesterday in the twelve games that were played. Congrats go to the Dodgers and <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/m/mattido01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Don Mattingly</a></strong> for clinching their division yesterday (even though I did not pick them to win) and no, I did not think it was classless to go for a dip in that pool. I think some panties are worn too tightly. And congrats to the Boston Red Sox for clinching the playoffs. They will clinch the division in short order. Going from 93 losses a season ago to 93 wins this season is quite the accomplishment.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">This coming week is going to be even more difficult to pick games as clinched division winners will rest people and who knows what will happen then. Let's see if it affects today's Dodgers pick as we take a look at Friday:</div><br /><ul><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Braves over the <b>Cubs</b></u>: The Braves want to get their own clinching done and will push forward until that happens. Then they won't have to hear about last year's collapse any more. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/player_search.cgi?results=bakersc02,bakersc01&utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Scott Baker</a></strong> continues his comeback attempt with the Cubs and <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> goes for the Braves (which is my only concern for this pick.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Pirates </b>over the Reds</u>: This game features a great, on-paper, pitching match-up 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> and <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/l/liriafr01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Francisco Liriano</a></strong> go for their respective teams. Latos has seen his strikeout totals go down in his last four starts and his hits against go up. He may be tired. Liriano has been terrific.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Indians </b>over the Astros</u>: Would it not be something if <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/f/francte01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Terry Francona</a></strong> got his guys the wildcard and had to face the Red Sox in the playoffs? I really like <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> but the Indians like lefties and should win behind <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>.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Nationals </b>over the Marlins</u>: If <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> wins this start and his last one next week, he could reach twenty wins for the season. I would like that. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/t/turneja01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Jacob Turner</a></strong> has had a tough time of it for the last month for the Marlins.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Phillies </b>over the Mets</u>: <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> actually pitched really well his last time out, but it was against the Marlins. Philadelphia doesn't have a much better offense than Miami's but enough to make a difference. Besides, <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 pitching.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Yankees </b>over the Giants</u>: What a weird series to be taking place this late in the season. And the pitching match-up is full of angst as <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/s/sabatc.01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">CC Sabathia</a></strong> goes against <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/l/linceti01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Tim Lincecum</a></strong>. This game could go either way. If Girardi starts <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/w/wellsve01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Vernon Wells</a></strong> again against a right-handed pitcher, forget it.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Bay <b>Rays </b>over the Orioles</u>: The Orioles go into a must game 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>. If he beats <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>, I will be one surprised game picker. But surprise seems to be my middle name. Have you noticed Price's walk rate? 1.4 per nine, which is really impressive!</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Red Sox</b> over the Blue Jays</u>: The Red Sox are not going to rest until they clinch the division. That means that <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> and his offense behind him should pound <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> into submission.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Rockies </b>over the Diamondbacks</u>: What is it about the D-backs and their fans that get some upset about any perceived slight by the other team? Gosh, is it why Barry Goldwater came from that state? It makes it really hard to like them and pick them. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/c/chacijh01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Jhoulys Chacin</a></strong> over <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/d/delgara01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Randall Delgado</a></strong>.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Cardinals over the <b>Brewers</b></u>: Did you know that <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/hellwjo01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Johnny Hellweg</a></strong>'s full name is Johnny Hellweg? Why would parents give a guy a name that means he never grows up? He is right-handed so that means the Cardinals pound him. <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> with the win.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Rangers over the <b>Royals</b></u>: This is a game that could go either way. Both are playing for a wild card. The Rangers have a better chance at it. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/p/perezma02.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Martin Perez</a></strong> over <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/s/santaer01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Ervin Santana</a></strong>.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Athletics </b>over the Twins</u>: <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> wins another one. Why the heck not. The A's need to clinch so they will keep playing hard. <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> is trying to hang on to the big league dream.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Angels over the Mariners</u>: <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/minors/player.cgi?id=shoema002mat&utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Matt Shoemaker</a></strong> makes his Major League debut for the Angels after toiling six yeas in the minors. His Triple-A numbers are skewed by playing in the PCL. But it appears he has excellent control. I will pick him over the Mariners and <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/player_search.cgi?results=ramirer01,ramirer02&utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Erasmo Ramirez</a></strong>.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Padres </b>over the Dodgers</u>: I would imgaine that the Dodgers will be hung over after their little pool party. Expect a lot of fillers to play. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/v/volqued01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Edinson Volquez</a></strong> will not be on the playoff roster I hope. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/e/erlinro01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Robbie Erlin</a></strong> goes for the Padres.</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>Tigers </b>over the White Sox</u>: The Tigers want to clinch and <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> needs to get to twenty wins. That would make it a win/win. The White Sox are just playing out the string and cannot even play spoilers here with <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> starting.</li></ul><br /><div><div style="text-align: justify;">Yesterday: 6-6</div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">Week: 40-29</div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">Month: 143-121</div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">Season: 1285-1016</div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">Games of the Day: 97-69</div></div>

MLB Game Picks - Friday: September 20, 2013

The great start to this picking week has stumbled in the last two days and I just broke even yesterday in the twelve games that were played....

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MLB Game Picks - Tuesday: September 3, 2013

<div style="text-align: justify;">September is killing me so far. The first two days of the month have been a disaster. The only saving grace has been two straight Game of the Day picks coming in. But otherwise, it has been really bad. And it was bad even considering I correctly predicted <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> would lose, the Yankees would win a game that <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> started and that <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> would pitch better than <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>. How can some picks be that smart and twice as many be so dumb?</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Ah well, this is baseball. Today is a new day. Tuesday's picks:</div><br /><ul><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Yankees </b>over the White Sox</u>: A month ago, a <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> - <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/k/kurodhi01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Hiroki Kuroda</a></strong> match-up would have been the bomb. But both pitchers have struggled lately. I give the edge to Kuroda to figure it out in his home ballpark.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Nationals over the <b>Phillies</b></u>: Of course they Nats could not score for Strasburg yesterday. What else is new. But they will score today as <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> has been anything but airtight with his pitching. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/g/gonzagi01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Gio Gonzalez</a></strong> should benefit from the support.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Tigers over the <b>Red Sox</b></u>: A lot in this game will depend on which ace is on his game as <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> goes against <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>. Both will be tested with good lineups. I am leaning towards Scherzer at this point.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Braves </b>over the Mets</u>: <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/player_search.cgi?results=torreca01,torres008car&utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Carlos Torres</a></strong> was really good for the Mets in his last start. He will probably be good today. But the Mets' lineup is decimated and <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> should have no trouble getting this win.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Reds </b>over the Cardinals</u>: This series and the NL Central sure is a screwy place. You just cannot predict how it will all play out. The Cards' offense either goes crazy or goes silent. Which will today bring? <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> seems a better pick than <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/w/wachami01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Michael Wacha</a></strong>.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Cubs </b>over the Marlins</u>: The two starts in this game, <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/k/koehlto01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Tom Koehler</a></strong> and <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> are a combined 10-23. So you tell me who will win this game. Because I have no clue. I am going with the home team.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Astros </b>over the Twins</u>: <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/player_search.cgi?results=hernape02,hernape01&utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Pedro Hernandez</a></strong> has a 3-1 record despite a 1.69 WHIP and an astronomical ERA. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/c/cosarja01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Jarred Cosart</a></strong> has been pitching very well for the Astros and has little to show for it. The last two picks have featured four really bad teams, no?</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Brewers </b>over the Pirates</u>: I am aware that this pick did not work out yesterday. But <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/g/gallayo01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Yovani Gallardo</a></strong> has been nearly flawless since coming off the DL. Meanwhile, <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 lost his last two starts and has allowed twenty hits in his last 13.1 innings.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Royals </b>over the Mariners</u>: This is the pick even though <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/player_search.cgi?results=ramirer01,ramirer02&utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Erasmo Ramirez</a></strong> has been pitching well for the Mariners. <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> is at home where he has won over 60% of his starts for his career. I have to go with Chen with that figure.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Dodgers over the <b>Rockies</b></u>: <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/n/nolasri01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Ricky Nolasco</a></strong> has a 5.45 career ERA at Coors Field but has won three of his five starts there. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/c/chacijh01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Jhoulys Chacin</a></strong> seems like the better pick. But I am going with Nolasco and the Dodgers.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Blue Jays over the <b>Diamondbacks</b></u>: This pick just feels right. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/r/redmoto01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Todd Redmond</a></strong> looked tough against the Yankees and has pitched well overall. <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> has been up and down all season. Both teams are going nowhere.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Bay Rays over the <b>Angels</b></u>: Wow, are the Rays ever slumping. They have to break out sooner or later and today could be the day. However, the last time I picked against <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>, he schooled me. But, <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> is back for the Rays. That puts the pick over the top for me.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Rangers over the <b>Athletics</b></u>: <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> has seemingly hit the wall after being so good most of the season. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/p/perezma02.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Martin Perez</a></strong> just seems to go out there each start and win. I do not exactly know how he does it. These games mean a lot for both teams.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Giants over the Padres:</u> I have not had much success this season when picking <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> to win. Why is that? Is he not as good as I think he is? I don't know. But if I consider him and <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/e/erlinro01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Robbie Erlin</a></strong> of the Padres, you have to go with Bumgarner, right?</li></ul><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">And the Game of the Day:</div><br /><ul><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Orioles over the <b>Indians</b></u>: The Indians are more of a pretender than a contender at this point. And the Orioles do look like that come from behind win on Sunday has propelled them. <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> over <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/j/jimenub01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Ubaldo Jimenez</a></strong>.</li></ul><br /><div><div style="text-align: justify;">Yesterday: 5-10</div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">Week: 11-19  ouch</div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">Month:  11-19</div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">Season: 1153-914</div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">Games of the Day: 88-61   +3</div></div>

MLB Game Picks - Tuesday: September 3, 2013

September is killing me so far. The first two days of the month have been a disaster. The only saving grace has been two straight Game of th...

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MLB Game Picks - Saturday: August 17, 2013

<div style="text-align: justify;">Yesterday was bad. Which makes this a very up and down week. I have had two bad days now and three really good days. And last night, when <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/c/chapmar01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Aroldis Chapman</a></strong> blew the save for the Reds, the Game of the Day was sunk right along with his team. I do not get him. He should be untouchable, but it is like he is not in the game half the time.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I did not expect <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> to pitch as well as he did nor for the Yankees to hit like they did against <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> and company. I need to start believing more in the Mets. I need to stop believing as much in the Rangers and Orioles. I need to finish off this week with a good Saturday.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Saturday's picks:</div><br /><ul><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Pirates </b>over the Diamondbacks</u>: <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> has not pitched since the end of June and is in his first start back from the disabled list. He does not get an easy assignment as he has to go against <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/l/lockeje01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Jeff Locke</a></strong> who has been solid all season for the Pirates.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Yankees over the <b>Red Sox</b></u>: Okay, I might as well get all giddy with it. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/k/kurodhi01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Hiroki Kuroda</a></strong> has been fantastic and is even better in day games (this is a four o'clock start for Fox). The split finger pitch has been <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/o/ortizda01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">David Ortiz</a></strong>'s bugaboo for his career. The Yankees should hit <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> for a few runs.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Cardinals over the <b>Cubs</b></u>: The Cardinals are really confusing right now. They either score ten or more runs and win or nothing and lose. The latter happened yesterday. So what will it be today? <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/player_search.cgi?results=kellyjo05,kellyjo03,kellyjo04&utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Joe Kelly</a></strong> versus <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>.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Orioles </b>over the Rockies</u>: <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> is making his fourth MLB start and he has not been bad. His ERA is inflated over his peripherals. <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> was forced to pitch in relief the other day and took a loss. How will he do in his start? I keep waiting for the Orioles to explode.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Tigers </b>over the Royals</u>: The Royals swept that double-header yesterday. Amazing. I am glad I at least predicted a split. And I do not feel great about this pick today either. It all depends on <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> and how tight his game 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> has been much better of late too.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The White Sox over the <b>Twins</b></u>: A very tough pick here. <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 been great in his young career and is 2-0. <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>, of course, is one of the best pitchers in the American League. If they match zeroes, who has the better bullpen? Or will it just be Sale with a score of like, 2-0?</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Reds over the <b>Brewers</b></u>: That certainly was a shocking end to the Reds' winning streak last night. I cannot see it carrying over until today. <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> has been terrific and wins just about every start. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/g/gallayo01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Yovani Gallardo</a></strong> is usually tough at home, but this is his first game back from the DL.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Giants over the <b>Marlins</b></u>: I called the high scoring game yesterday. I just didn't get the right team as the winner. This pick should be safe though. <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> has not been a world beater this season, but he should succeed in Miami's big park. And I know <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> has been pitching well, but come on now.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Bay Rays</b> over the Blue Jays</u>: Poor Loup. How many extra inning games has he lost now? The Blue Jays fold so many times late in the day that it is impossible to pick them. <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> goes for them while I am not happy to have to pick <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> to win a game. Joy.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Braves </b>over the Nationals</u>: If memory serves me correctly, <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> never seems to do well against the Braves. I should look it up, but I have not had enough coffee yet. What I do know for sure is that most of the time, his team does not score for him and won't against <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> and that the Braves have no chance of folding this season.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Rangers </b>over the Mariners:</u> The Rangers could do nothing with Iwakuma last night. Today they get <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>. So why am I picking them to win? First, <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/p/perezma02.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Martin Perez</a></strong> has been good lately, and second, just call it a hunch.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Mets over the <b>Padres</b></u>: I just said that I have to believe more in the Mets, right? Besides, <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/m/mejiaje01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Jenrry Mejia</a></strong> has been pitching well and should like Petco Park and add to that the fact that <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/v/volqued01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Edinson Volquez</a></strong> has not had a good start since early July and has the numbers as the worst starter in baseball.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Athletics </b>over the Indians</u>: When was the last time this year that <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/j/jimenub01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Ubaldo Jimenez</a></strong> had a good game? I cannot remember either. I would much rather pick <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> at home. That AL West thing is one of the best battles left in baseball.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Angels </b>over the Astros</u>: The Astros have kicked Angel booty all season, but I go on blithely picking the Angels. Don't ask me why. Perhaps it is because I like <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>. Perhaps it is because of disbelief that a team with <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> could lose so many games. I also cannot believe that <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> got fired before Scioscia.  Oh yeah, <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/k/keuchda01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Dallas Keuchel</a></strong> goes for the Astros.</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 Dodgers over the <b>Phillies</b></u>: Ryne Sandburg did not win his first game as an MLB manager. I doubt he wins his second either as the one-two punch of Greinke 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> delivers the second hammer. <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 Kendrick</a></strong> will try to keep it close.</li></ul><br /><div><div style="text-align: justify;">Yesterday: 6-10</div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">Week: 47-35</div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">Month: 128-87</div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">Season: 1031-800</div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">Games of the Day: 78-54   -1</div></div>

MLB Game Picks - Saturday: August 17, 2013

Yesterday was bad. Which makes this a very up and down week. I have had two bad days now and three really good days. And last night, when Ar...

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