MLB Game Picks - Saturday: June 15, 2013

<div style="text-align: justify;">My horrible week of picking continues with another terrible night. When I went to bed, the Rockies were leading the Phillies, 7-2, as <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> got bombed as predicted. What I did not see coming was the Phillies scoring six runs in the last four innings to win the game despite the fact that their pitching staff did not record a strikeout until <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/p/papeljo01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Jonathan Papelbon</a></strong> recorded one in the ninth.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The day started off well. The Orioles beat the Red Sox, the Indians beat the Nats and the Pirates beat the Dodgers all as predicted and I was 3-0. But then the Cardinals lost, the Rays lost (the Game of the Day), and the Mets lost and the slide had started. Only three more picks were correct the rest of the evening.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I do not know what I am going to do if this does not turn around soon. Saturday's picks:</div><br /><ul><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Cubs over the <b>Mets</b>:</u> And of course, the day starts out with a puzzler. <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> is supposed to be a pretty good pitcher. But he has games where he gets bombed, including his last one. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/f/feldmsc01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Scott Feldman</a></strong> has had a good year for the Cubs, but again, his last start was not so good. Ugh.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Dodgers over the <b>Pirates</b>:</u> MLB.com has the Pirates' pitcher as TBO. That is not good. Yahoo lists <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/minors/player.cgi?id=cumpto001bra&utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Brandon Cumpton</a></strong> as making his Major League debut. So we will go with that. Cumpton's numbers in the minors are ordinary and he does not make any prospect list. So maybe <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> can actually get a win to go with his 1.88 ERA. Just maybe.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Red Sox over the <b>Orioles</b>:</u> The Orioles have the Red Sox' number. It has not been pretty. But <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> seems like a better pick than <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/player_search.cgi?results=garcifr03,garcifr01&utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Freddy Garcia</a></strong>. Then again, I have picked against Garcia twice in a row and he has won. So there you go.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Braves </b>over the Giants:</u> Okay, I get that I should have picked Bumgarner last night. But both starters had been hot and it was a flip of the coin of which would have a good day. I flipped poorly. But in this one? Come on, <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> has to be better than <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/g/gaudich01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Chad Gaudin</a></strong>. He just has to be. If he is not, then I give up.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Blue Jays over the <b>Rangers</b>:</u> Let's face it, <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/d/dicker.01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">R.A. Dickey</a></strong> has not been good. But at least he is capable of a good game if his knuckler works. But <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/l/lindbjo01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Josh Lindblom</a></strong>? He is not exactly Lindblooming in his early time with the Rangers. This could be a wild one.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Bay <b>Rays </b>over the Royals:</u> Yeah, this pick did not work out yesterday or the day before. But I am stubborn that way. For one, I like <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/c/cobbal01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Alex Cobb</a></strong>...a lot. For another, the Royals are hot, but the Rays are not this bad. Lastly, I do not know what the heck I am doing anymore. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/g/guthrje01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Jeremy Guthrie</a></strong> goes for the Royals.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Reds </b>over the Brewers:</u> <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> has a horrible lifetime record against the Brewers but beat them his last time out quite impressively. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/player_search.cgi?results=braunry02,braunry01&utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Ryan Braun</a></strong>'s status remains day to day. <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 certainly capable of a shut down day if he is on. Never an easy pick these days.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Rockies </b>over the Phillies:</u> I have no idea which team is going to win this game. I will be honest. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/p/pettijo02.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Jonathan Pettibone</a></strong> and <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> both pitching at Coors Field sounds like a nightmare. This could be like a 13-12 score. Or one of the pitchers can be unexpectedly sharp today. Either way, I have no idea.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The White Sox over the <b>Astros</b></u>: The Astros won yesterday. The Astros have been a thorn in my side because they are bad enough to lose every game, but will win at least fifty games this year because that is how it works. You never know when a win will happen. The White Sox are terrible. They are probably one of the worst constructed teams in baseball. But I like <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/d/danksjo01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">John Danks</a></strong> over <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/harrelu01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Lucas Harrell</a></strong>.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Cardinals over the <b>Marlins</b>:</u> I had a dream that <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> won his first game ever the other night. Seriously, I dreamed that. But since these picks have been my nightmare, I have to pick the Cardinals behind <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/l/lynnla01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Lance Lynn</a></strong>. The Marlins are a different team with <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/s/stantmi03.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Giancarlo Stanton</a></strong> in there. But still.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Tigers over the <b>Twins</b>:</u> <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/s/sanchan01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Anibal Sanchez</a></strong> does this every year. He shows brilliance. But then he gets nagging injuries and misses a start or two and is mediocre in between. But then he shows brilliance again. One never knows. And of course, that Tigers' bullpen. Ouch. The Twins are starting Samuel Deduno, which rhymes with I dunno.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Angels</b> over the Yankees:</u> Let's be real here. Whenever I pick the Yankees, it is an emotional pick. For years, the emotions matched the team's skill level. This year, they do not. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/hansoto01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Tommy Hanson</a></strong> over <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/p/phelpda01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">David Phelps</a></strong>.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Mariners over the <b>Athletics</b>:</u> As good as <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/hernafe02.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Felix Hernandez</a></strong> is, we have all seen how his start does not guarantee a win. But you still have to respect that he gives his team a chance to win. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/g/griffaj01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">A.J. Griffin</a></strong> is hot and cold. But the Mariners' offense is stinky. Gosh, this is hard.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Diamondbacks over the <b>Padres</b>:</u> How silly is it that <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/m/marquja01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Jason Marquis</a></strong> is 8-2? I know because I have picked against him all year and he has made me look stupid...which at this point, after this week, I can do pretty much well by myself. But I am going with <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> and thinking Goldschmidt does something good.</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 Nationals over the <b>Indians</b>:</u> My champion, <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> goes tonight. He is my man and I have been going with him for three years. If I was playing Strat-O-Matic baseball, I would pitch him every night. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/k/kazmisc01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Scott Kazmir</a></strong> pitches for the Indians.</li></ul><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">Yesterday: 6-9</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Week: 31-48  Worst. Week. Ever.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Month: 89-98</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Season: 552-448</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Games of the Day: 43-30 </div>

MLB Game Picks - Saturday: June 15, 2013

My horrible week of picking continues with another terrible night. When I went to bed, the Rockies were leading the Phillies, 7-2, as Kyle ...

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MLB Game Picks - Saturday: May 4, 2013

<div style="text-align: justify;">The month of May has not been kind to this old game picker. For every brilliant pick like <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> shutting down the Nationals, there is the Mets beating the Braves because all-world closer, <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/k/kimbrcr01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Craig Kimbrel</a></strong> could not save a game. And who would ever expect that the Red Sox, Yankees and Orioles would all be shut out?</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The weather has really been frustrating too. The Royals were washed out again and they were the Game of the Day and they could have been the tie breaker for the day too. Ah well. That is the way it goes.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Here are Saturday's picks:</div><br /><ul><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Reds over the <b>Cubs</b></u>: As much as I love <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/s/samarje01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Jeff Samardzija</a></strong>, he is up against <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/c/cingrto01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Tony Cingrani</a></strong>, who is making the Major Leagues look easy so far. And even if these two hot pitchers cancel each other out, the advantage goes to the Reds because of their bullpen, which is so much better than the Cubs' bullpen.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Twins over the <b>Indians</b></u>: I keep picking against <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> but "Chick" keeps winning. I would not expect him to beat the Indians except that <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/k/kazmisc01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Scott Kazmir</a></strong> is pitching is pitching for the Indians. And in this case, jazz is better than Led Zeppelin.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Yankees </b>over the Athletics</u>: Yes, Shrek (<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>) is back in Yankee Stadium and yes, Yankee Stadium means a homer or two off of <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>. But if Hughes can keep those to being solo homers, the Yankees win this one at home.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Mariners over the <b>Blue Jays</b></u>: I am really feeling for the Blue Jays fans. This was going to be the year. I predicted it. You predicted it. Instead, ennui. And they face a weak team like Seattle and face the two hottest pitchers right now in Hernandez and today, <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>. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/d/dicker.01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">R.A. Dickey</a></strong> is not feeling good and his velocity is down.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Angels </b>over the Orioles</u>: So I look at the pitching line on this one and see the name, "Garcia," listed for the Orioles. So I thing, "Who is that?" So I click on the name and it says, "<strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/player_search.cgi?results=garcifr03,garcifr01&utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Freddy Garcia</a></strong>." Freddy! The Chief is back! Oh. But the Chief is back. The Angels win behind <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/hansoto01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Tommy Hanson</a></strong>.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Cardinals over the <b>Brewers</b></u>: I was thinking about picking <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> in this one, especially since he is home and has his home run stroke back. But then I looked at some statistics (you thought I just winged this, didn't you). And Gallardo has faced the Cardinals fifteen times in his career. He has won one of those games. His has lost ten of them. His ERA in those games is close to seven. Yes, this pick is for <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>.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Nationals over the <b>Pirates</b></u>: I am very worried about <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>. I do not want him to be hurt. But neither do I want to see him keep losing either. <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> has won a surprising number of his starts so far, which is a concern.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Phillies </b>over the Marlins</u>: <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/player_search.cgi?results=fernajo01,fernajo02,fernan015jos,fernan008jos,fernan014jos&utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Jose Fernandez</a></strong>'s starts are beginning to have diminishing returns. His outings are getting shorter and his success less. It was fun for one start though. Meanwhile, <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 starting to pitch like Cole Hamels.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Royals </b>over the White Sox</u>: It is surprising that the teams would not play a double-header today to try to make up some of these games. But why do something today that you could put off until later, right? The pitching line is the same with <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/g/guthrje01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Jeremy Guthrie</a></strong> versus <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>. You would have thought the White Sox would skip Axelrod.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Braves </b>over the Mets</u>: The Braves have now lost two in a row and they are too good of a team to make it three even if <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/t/teherju01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Julio Teheran</a></strong> is pitching. <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> always seems better than his results and when he does pitch well, the Mets do not score. And let's face it, Craig Kimbrel is too good to keep blowing saves.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The <b>Rangers </b>over the Red Sox</u>: The Red Sox got a nice outing out of <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> last time and that was encouraging for them. But my feeling here is that <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/o/ogandal01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Alexi Ogando</a></strong> shuts them down today at home. The Rangers will score three or more against Lackey.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Rays over the <b>Rockies</b></u>: As thought, <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> was not as effective in the thin Denver air yesterday and the Rays still won the game. <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> will have the same kind of day and still win. Power pitching is the ticket at Coors. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/g/garlajo01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Jon Garland</a></strong> has been a nice story for the Rockies this year though.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Diamondbacks over the <b>Padres</b></u>: The D-Backs have lost three straight and have not look good doing so. I guess they need to scrap a little harder. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/c/corbipa01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Patrick Corbin</a></strong> is a nice looking young pitcher but I still think the D-Backs need to separate him from Miley in the rotation since they are so similar. Anyway, going with Corbin over <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/r/richacl01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Clayton Richard</a></strong> who is pretty decent at his home park.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Dodgers over the <b>Giants</b></u>: <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/m/magilma01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Matt Magill</a></strong> had a nice first start for the Dodgers last time. If he can repeat it, the Dodgers should score a few off of <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/v/vogelry01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Ryan Vogelsong</a></strong>. The only problem is that the Giants always seem to win these games somehow. They really are a remarkable team.</li></ul><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">And the Game of the Day!</div><br /><ul><li style="text-align: justify;"><u>The Tigers over the <b>Astros</b></u>: The Astros have their best pitcher, <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/harrelu01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Lucas Harrell</a></strong>, going in this one, but there is no way the Astros hit <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>. Heck, do not be surprised if Scherzer ties the record with 20 strikeouts in this one.</li></ul><br /><div><div style="text-align: justify;">Yesterday: 7-7</div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">Week: 43-37</div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">Month: 16-21</div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">Season: 246-185</div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">Games of the Day: 23-9</div></div>

MLB Game Picks - Saturday: May 4, 2013

The month of May has not been kind to this old game picker. For every brilliant pick like A.J. Burnett shutting down the Nationals, there ...

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MLB Game Picks - Wednesday: April 17, 2013

<div style="text-align: justify;">Yesterday featured some brilliant picks. The Twins over the Angels? I had it. The Padres over the Dodgers? Yep. Got that one. Unfortunately, there were some really stupid picks that canceled out the smart ones. Picks like the Indians over the Red Sox. Did I really pick <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>. Oh Ubaldo. Ubaldo. What the heck was I thinking? And I picked the Cubs over the Rangers!?</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">There were other surprises. The double-header between the Rockies and Mets was going perfectly until the Mets' bullpen blew the second game late. The magic bubble of <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> burst on me and he was hammered.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">And weather continued to play havoc in baseball. The Phillies and Reds played nine scoreless innings and then decided to call it a night. And the rains came to the Pirates - Cardinals game and wiped that out after the second inning. Baseball has seen five straight nights with at least one postponement.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">So all in all, the picks ended up in the positive. But not by much. The suspended game will count on yesterday if it is finished up today. It looks like from MLB.com's schedule, that they will finish up the game today at some point.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Wednesday's picks:</div><br /><ul><li style="text-align: justify;">The <b>Braves </b>over the Royals: There is no stopping this Braves team right now. They are pitching, hitting and playing defense. And of course, once they get the lead, that bullpen is amazing. <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> pitches for the Royals and he has been good. But the Braves will hit at least a couple of homers to take the game behind <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/m/minormi01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Mike Minor</a></strong>.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">The <b>Athletics </b>over the Astros: While it is always an adventure to pick <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> to win a game, the A's have to be the pick here. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/n/norribu01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Bud Norris</a></strong> has won two of the Astros' games, but again, the pick has to go to the A's.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">The Phillies over the <b>Reds</b>: I am simply not buying <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/l/leakemi01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Mike Leake</a></strong> here. The Phillies' offense is weak, but Leake has not been able to stop anyone. John Lannon has a chance to stop the Reds, however.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">The <b>Yankees </b>over the Diamondbacks: <strong><a href="http://www.blogger.com/players/s/sabatc.01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">C.C. Sabathia</a></strong> has won his last two starts in impressive fashion and should be able to tame the Diamondbacks in his home yard. <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>, however, is also a lefty and has been really impressive. The Yankees' lineup against lefties has been weak. This may up a bullpen game, and if so, advantage: Yankees.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">The <b>Indians </b>over the Red Sox: No, I did not learn my lesson, so what of it? <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/m/masteju01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Justin Masterson</a></strong> is 3-0 with an ERA under one. I wrote this week that I do not think that is a fluke. Obviously, his ERA will regress, but he is facing <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/a/aceveal01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Alfredo Aceves</a></strong>. Aceves was not bad in his last start, but he is a tantrum waiting to happen.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">The Cardinals over the <b>Pirates</b>: <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> has pitched well for the Pirates but is still 0-2. That is because of the Pirates' offense which faces the seemingly incredible <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>. Miller has been lights out thus far. The only scary part in this game is the Cardinals' bullpen.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">The Bay Rays over the <b>Orioles</b>: <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> at least gives the Rays' offense a chance to score two or three runs. If he does, then <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> should hold down the Orioles enough for the guy with the crooked cap to end the game with a save.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">The <b>Blue Jays</b> over the White Sox: <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> has been very good for the Blue Jays. Who would have guessed that? He is 2-0 so far. My only worry is that Konerko might get to him. Otherwise, he should be better than <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/q/quintjo01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Jose Quintana</a></strong>.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">The Nationals over the <b>Marlins</b>: The Marlins pulled two surprises yesterday. First, they won. Second, they scored a lot of runs. Neither will happen two days in a row. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/d/detwiro01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Ross Detwiler</a></strong> over <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>.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">The Rangers over the <b>Cubs</b>: <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/v/villaca01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Carlos Villanueva</a></strong> has been very stingy for the Cubs and has an ERA under one. But he has nothing to show for it. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/g/grimmju01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Justin Grimm</a></strong> makes his second major league start. The first one was only so-so. So this pick looks wrong. But it will be right.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">The Angels over the <b>Twins</b>: The Angels have looked awful. Just awful. But should win today because <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/w/worleva01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Vance Worley</a></strong> has looked abominable thus far. He used to be much better than this, so I do not really get what is going on with him. While <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/hansoto01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Tommy Hanson</a></strong> does not thrill me either, he should be better than Worley.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">The <b>Brewers </b>over the Giants: Maybe the Brewers are ready to go on a hot streak. <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> has pitched well but has not been fortunate. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/v/vogelry01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Ryan Vogelsong</a></strong> has been inconsistent. The Brewers steal a win here after beating the Giants last night.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">The <b>Rockies </b>over the Mets: I hate picking games that originate in Coors Field. Anything can happen there. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/hefneje01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Jeremy Hefner</a></strong> is not having a fun time thus far and goes against a tough offense in a tough place for pitchers. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/g/garlajo01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Jon Garland</a></strong> is at least crafty enough to survive, if by his fingernails.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">The Tigers over the <b>Mariners</b>: If there is one thing we have learned over the years is that just because <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/hernafe02.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Felix Hernandez</a></strong> is pitching, it does not mean the Mariners will win the game. <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> certainly has the ability to shadow Hernandez until the Tigers can scratch out a few runs.</li></ul><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">And the Game of the Day!</div><br /><ul><li style="text-align: justify;">The Dodgers over the <b>Padres</b>: <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> lose two games in a row? As if. He should mow through the Padres without a problem and the Dodgers will get to <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/r/rossty01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Tyson Ross</a></strong>. This should be a no-brainer. But saying so has always haunted me.</li></ul><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">Yesterday: 8-6  and pending on the completion of the suspended game</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Week: 20-16</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Month: 124-78</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Games of the Day: 12-4 </div>

MLB Game Picks - Wednesday: April 17, 2013

Yesterday featured some brilliant picks. The Twins over the Angels? I had it. The Padres over the Dodgers? Yep. Got that one. Unfortunately,...

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MLB Game Picks - Friday: April 12, 2013

<div style="text-align: justify;">The final results of yesterday's short list of picks ended at 5-2 with yet another postponement of the Indians and Yankees. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/g/girarjo01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Joe Girardi</a></strong> hit the problem right on the nose by stating that scheduling a series in early April against a team that you only visit once a season is stupid. But then again, when did sanity ever rule MLB scheduling? The scheduling problem probably cost the Yankees more than the Indians as the latter team will most likely sort out its pitching problems later in the season. As it stood, the Yankees were facing a rotation in deep trouble and available for easy pickings.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">But regardless of that little bit of a snafu, the only incorrect picks were the Blue Jays (who got crushed by the Tigers) and the Mariners who lost despite a <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> start. All that hype here about <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/player_search.cgi?results=johnsjo09,johnso012jos,johnso011jos&utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Josh Johnson</a></strong> is looking a bit foolish now that he has had two really bad starts in a row. To put a little more of a positive spin on his results thus far, his velocity is where it should be and his BABIP against is .484 while his strand rate is only 56.1%. Those numbers will certainly get better.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Oh, and did you see that incident with the Dodgers and Padres? <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/q/quentca01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Carlos Quentin</a></strong> charged the mound and now the Dodgers have lost <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/g/greinza01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Zack Greinke</a></strong> to a collarbone fracture. Nice. Quentin should be suspended for a week for that bit of thug thinking. Trot to first like a man, for pete's sake.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Unless the weather fouls things up, a full schedule of baseball rules the day. Here are Friday's picks:</div><br /><ul><li style="text-align: justify;"><i>The Giants over the <b>Cubs</b></i>: <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> is a bit of a concern as he has not looked very ace-like thus far. But the Cubs offer him an ability to get right a bit. The Cubs start <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/v/villaca01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Carlos Villanueva</a></strong>, who can be decent enough at times.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><i>The <b>Nationals </b>over the Braves</i>: I really like that the Upton brothers really balance out the lineup of the Braves when in past seasons they were a bit vulnerable to left-handed pitching. However, <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/t/teherju01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Julio Teheran</a></strong> is going to have to prove to me that he really has turned around after last season. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/d/detwiro01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Ross Detwiler</a></strong> is a pretty good fifth starter. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/harpebr03.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Bryce Harper</a></strong> remains hot.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><i>The <b>Yankees </b>over the Orioles</i>: The Yankees are back home and have <strong><a href="http://www.blogger.com/players/s/sabatc.01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">C.C. Sabathia</a></strong> on the mound. That should be enough for a win despite the fact that as a team, they have struggled in the past against Baltimore's <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/player_search.cgi?results=gonzami03,gonzal009mig,gonzal006mig,gonzal010mig,gonzal003mig&utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Miguel Gonzalez</a></strong>.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><i>The <b>Indians </b>over the White Sox</i>: <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/m/masteju01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Justin Masterson</a></strong> has won both of his starts and they remain the Indians' only victories. So why not stick with that trend. The White Sox just got drubbed by the Nationals but get the DH back. I cannot wait to see <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/d/dunnad01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Adam Dunn</a></strong>'s defensive metrics for his week in left field. Ugh. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/q/quintjo01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Jose Quintana</a></strong> goes for the White Sox and was roughed up a bit in his first start.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><i>The <b>Pirates </b>over the Reds</i>: <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> has pitched two very good starts and is 0-2. So he is due a bit of offense by the Pirates are close to the bottom in all offensive categories right now. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/l/leakemi01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Mike Leake</a></strong> is this weekend's best chance for the Pirates to score some runs.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><i>The Nationals over the <b>Marlins</b></i>: I would feel better about picking the Nats if John Lannon was not starting for the Nationals against probably the Marlins' best pitcher in <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>. As bad as the Marlins are, they are going to win fifty games this season. It is simply a matter of picking them judiciously.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><i>The Bay Rays over the <b>Red Sox</b></i>: The Red Sox have not won in the <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/d/drewst01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Stephen Drew</a></strong> era. And of course that is just a coincidence. <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> is decent enough for the Red Sox but can be had at times. But this pick is really all about <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/c/cobbal01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Alex Cobb</a></strong>, the ground ball machine that wins and wins for the Rays.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><i>The Mets over the <b>Twins</b></i>: I like here that the Mets get an extra bat in the lineup against the Twins. Jonathon Niese is the one guy that baseball-reference.com's linking tool never picks up. If I say, "Jon," or "Jonathon," it never matters. It is little things like that in life that drive one crazy.  I would bet you that his name will not be bold here and there will not be a link to his B-R page. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/w/worleva01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Vance Worley</a></strong> is not having fun as a member of the Twins thus far.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><i>The Blue Jays over the <b>Royals</b></i>: <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> looked amazing in his first start. Is it not weird that the Blue Jays hire all these guns for the rotation and it is Happ who gets one of their two wins? <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/m/mendolu01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Luis Mendoza</a></strong> will never scare anyone. Sometimes, he gets people to hit the ball at people.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><i>The <b>Cardinals </b>over the Brewers</i>: I picked against <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> in his first start and it made me look pretty stupid. Making his first start at home is a bit scary though against a lineup that can hit a little bit. The Cardinals will get to face their old friend, <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>, who should feel right at home in St. Louis. I still think the Cardinals should have signed him.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><i>The Dodgers over the <b>Diamondbacks</b></i>: At this point, can you pick against <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/k/kershcl01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Clayton Kershaw</a></strong>? I think not. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/c/corbipa01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Patrick Corbin</a></strong> should make it a close game. But the Dodgers should win with Kershaw.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><i>The Tigers over the <b>Athletics</b></i>: There is still something about the Tigers that bothers me as they keep getting called the best team in the American League. They are stodgy as hell with a bunch of big guys who cannot run or field very well. But they keep winning, so what do I know? <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> should get his share of strikeouts here and <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> gets punked by the Tigers' Venezuelan collection.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><i>The <b>Angels </b>over the Astros</i>: Don't look now but the Astros have as many wins as the Angels. Who saw that coming? However, let's not get carried away. <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> continues to flirt with greatness without ever reaching it consistently. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/hansoto01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Tommy Hanson</a></strong> was one of the few starters for the Angels that has walked away with a win.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><i>The Rockies over the <b>Padres</b></i>: Picking <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/g/garlajo01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Jon Garland</a></strong> to win is like going to sleep and waking up back in 2005. Well...maybe I did. But I have to pick Garland or the alternative is picking <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/r/rossty01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Tyson Ross</a></strong> who has proven for most of his career that he knows how to lose ballgames.</li></ul><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">And the Game of the Day!</div><br /><ul><li style="text-align: justify;"><i>The Rangers over the <b>Mariners</b></i>: Interesting match up of Japanese pitchers here with <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/d/darviyu01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Yu Darvish</a></strong> versus <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>. Iwakuma is a very good and smart pitcher. The trouble is that the Mariners are not going to hit Darvish or anyone else with any kind of consistency.</li></ul><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">Yesterday: 5-2</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Week: 39-21</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Month: 86-51</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Games of the Day: 9-2 </div>

MLB Game Picks - Friday: April 12, 2013

The final results of yesterday's short list of picks ended at 5-2 with yet another postponement of the Indians and Yankees. Joe Girardi...

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Hanson just adds to the Angels' rotation question marks

<div style="text-align: justify;">The Angels of a year ago went into the season with their rotation feted as the strength of the team. Yes, they went out and got Pujols, and no one knew Trout was going to explode the way he did. The rotation was what impressed everyone. <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>, <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/harenda01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Dan Haren</a></strong>, <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/w/wilsocj01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">C.J. Wilson</a></strong> and <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> were considered a formidable top four and <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/w/willije01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Jerome Williams</a></strong> was a cut above for a fifth starter. But the rotation did not work out as most expected.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Weaver was as good as ever, but Haren had health problems and was not as effective after the early part of the season. Wilson seemed rather ordinary for most of the season and Santana struggled early and often in the season. Jerome Williams could not stay healthy. And even <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/g/greinza01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Zack Greinke</a></strong> picked up late in the season could not help the team reach the playoffs in what has become a very tough division.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">With Haren, Santana and Greinke all gone this off season, the Angels needed to rebuild a bit and <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/hansoto01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Tommy Hanson</a></strong> ended up being their target. Knowing the Angels, they might not be done working to improve themselves, but Hanson was a pretty bold statement. After all, Hanson is only 25 years old and started his career with three straight seasons with a WHIP of under 1.2.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">But Hanson adds another layer of question marks. He did not have the same sort of season for the Braves last season. His WHIP ballooned to 1.454 and for the first time in his career, he gave up more hits than innings pitched. He also gave up home runs at an alarming rate.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The Angels really did not give up much to get Hanson. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/w/waldejo01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Jordan Walden</a></strong> will cross the river to get baptized in someone else's pond. He joins an already deep bullpen for the Braves. But he had lost his closer role to <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/f/frierer01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Ernesto Frieri</a></strong> and it was apparent that the Angels did not trust him on the mound.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Knowing the little return the Braves allowed themselves to unload Hanson, you have to wonder about the pitcher the Angels are now counting on as the third guy in their rotation. The real big deal you notice right off the bat with Hanson is that he has lost three miles per hour on his fastball since 2010. The loss of velocity was shown across all of his pitches. Combine those facts with one strikeout per nine less in 2012 compared to 2011 and you see a few flags fly up.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">From this perspective, the Angels have too many question marks in the rotation behind Weaver. Wilson just doesn't often seem that impressive and his numbers for the Angels were just a tick above ordinary. There are red flags with Hanson. <strong><a href="http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/r/richaga01.shtml?utm_campaign=Linker&utm_source=direct&utm_medium=linker-www.blogger.com" target="_blank">Garrett Richards</a></strong> is pegged as number four and has not blown anyone away in either the high minors or in his two cups of coffee. Round out the thing with Jerome Williams and his hard sinker.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The good news is that the Angels have not given up much to get Hanson. But the not so good news is that Hanson is not someone to be overly excited about either. There are only three possibilities here. Either Hanson was not healthy and can get his velocity back. Or he is still not healthy. Or, finally, that at twenty-five, we've already seen the best of what Hanson has had to offer. The Angels are hoping that the first possibility is the one that they get. </div>

Hanson just adds to the Angels' rotation question marks

The Angels of a year ago went into the season with their rotation feted as the strength of the team. Yes, they went out and got Pujols, and ...

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