Betting Corner
63-41, +919
Better night last night going 5-1.
Col -214
Fla -140
Min +101
Tor -143
LAA -110
Sports opinion, gambling picks,
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
July 21
Betting Corner
58-40, +560
NYY -173 , More a play against Hill
LAA GM 2 -135 Same as above only insert Chen
Mil -123
Hou -147 Wandy at home
Col -141 Rox 31-10 over last 41
TB -119
58-40, +560
NYY -173 , More a play against Hill
LAA GM 2 -135 Same as above only insert Chen
Mil -123
Hou -147 Wandy at home
Col -141 Rox 31-10 over last 41
TB -119
Monday, July 20, 2009
Monday, July 13, 2009
Friday, July 10, 2009
July 10
Betting Corner
53-37, +427
3-1 yesterday.
Today
TB -158, Min -122, Col -144, Tex -111.
Raptors
Hedo now a Raptor. Got to hand it to Colangelo, he at least is making the effort to change the fortunes of the club. After making the mistake of pumping up last years team as the best yet, he set out to change what were obvious shortcomings. They still don't have the prototypical wingman, but at 6-9 or 6-10 Hedo can pose all kinds of different problems. Reggie Evans is a decent pickup and somebody who I think will capture the fans attention. Tough and aggressive, he will not allow the Rapts to be pushed around like they were last year. Speed may not be their forte but their first pick may help in that area. They are not going to be the Celts or Cavs, but they may be what they thought they were going to be a year ago, the best Raptor team since Colangelo arrived.
Leafs
Rickard Walin. Big deal? Just another warm body? Don't think he amounts to much but if he helps make the goalie a little more comfortable in his transition to the NHL, then that may be his biggest contribution.
Canucks
Cody Hodgson has been raised to be a pro hockey player. Everything he does is polished, and he has excelled at every level. Born leader, great work ethic, high hockey IQ etc. Now is he another Sakic or Alyn MacCauley?
Jays
Coming apart and not much going right. Just about the right time to pile on and we will in the coming weeks as they inevitable decline continues. I can be the biggest homer and go on about all the good things and try to build a case of how they could go on another run like the beginning of the season, but honestly the starting pitching is way too thin and Wells and Rios just don't look like two guys who are going to suddenly take hold of this club and carry it forward. I would love to be wrong but I think there is as much of a chance of passing any of the three teams above them in the standings as there is falling to 5th.
Starting staff of Halladay, Romero, MacGowan, Marcum and any of Richmond, Tallet, Rcepczynski or Litsch next year doesn't seem so bad. If Halladay were to be traded, one must assume that there would be a name to add to the list above. Even without Doc it could be a useful rotation if M & M come back to last years versions and Romero continues to pan out.
I realize the dollars and age of Scott Rolen, but isn't that the kind of guy you want on your team. Good D, try's hard, professional and prepared. Maybe across the diamond at first is where we should be looking to cut bait.
Was not a fan of Marco Scutaro, but the guy has won me over. With Hill those two must be the most underrated middle infield combo in the AL.
Really like Rod Barajas. Love the big smile at the end of the game when they win. Seems to have a good attitude.
UFC 100
One day away. Won't go off earlier predictions but I saw other fighters get interviewed and while they were learning towards GSP they didn't sound to convinced. That said they were overwhelmingly backing Frank Mir's chances. A large majority picked him over Lesnar, convinced he will get the submission again.
53-37, +427
3-1 yesterday.
Today
TB -158, Min -122, Col -144, Tex -111.
Raptors
Hedo now a Raptor. Got to hand it to Colangelo, he at least is making the effort to change the fortunes of the club. After making the mistake of pumping up last years team as the best yet, he set out to change what were obvious shortcomings. They still don't have the prototypical wingman, but at 6-9 or 6-10 Hedo can pose all kinds of different problems. Reggie Evans is a decent pickup and somebody who I think will capture the fans attention. Tough and aggressive, he will not allow the Rapts to be pushed around like they were last year. Speed may not be their forte but their first pick may help in that area. They are not going to be the Celts or Cavs, but they may be what they thought they were going to be a year ago, the best Raptor team since Colangelo arrived.
Leafs
Rickard Walin. Big deal? Just another warm body? Don't think he amounts to much but if he helps make the goalie a little more comfortable in his transition to the NHL, then that may be his biggest contribution.
Canucks
Cody Hodgson has been raised to be a pro hockey player. Everything he does is polished, and he has excelled at every level. Born leader, great work ethic, high hockey IQ etc. Now is he another Sakic or Alyn MacCauley?
Jays
Coming apart and not much going right. Just about the right time to pile on and we will in the coming weeks as they inevitable decline continues. I can be the biggest homer and go on about all the good things and try to build a case of how they could go on another run like the beginning of the season, but honestly the starting pitching is way too thin and Wells and Rios just don't look like two guys who are going to suddenly take hold of this club and carry it forward. I would love to be wrong but I think there is as much of a chance of passing any of the three teams above them in the standings as there is falling to 5th.
Starting staff of Halladay, Romero, MacGowan, Marcum and any of Richmond, Tallet, Rcepczynski or Litsch next year doesn't seem so bad. If Halladay were to be traded, one must assume that there would be a name to add to the list above. Even without Doc it could be a useful rotation if M & M come back to last years versions and Romero continues to pan out.
I realize the dollars and age of Scott Rolen, but isn't that the kind of guy you want on your team. Good D, try's hard, professional and prepared. Maybe across the diamond at first is where we should be looking to cut bait.
Was not a fan of Marco Scutaro, but the guy has won me over. With Hill those two must be the most underrated middle infield combo in the AL.
Really like Rod Barajas. Love the big smile at the end of the game when they win. Seems to have a good attitude.
UFC 100
One day away. Won't go off earlier predictions but I saw other fighters get interviewed and while they were learning towards GSP they didn't sound to convinced. That said they were overwhelmingly backing Frank Mir's chances. A large majority picked him over Lesnar, convinced he will get the submission again.
Thursday, July 9, 2009
July 9
Betting Corner
50-36
Stumbling into the all star break. Usually would slow down and regroup but will go the other way and look for something to turn us around.
CWS -128. LAD -148, Hou -118, Fla -114.
Hockey
Leafs looking at Blair Betts of Travis Moen to bolster penalty killing. Kinda hoping it is Betts, not because of any real bias to either player, it just would show a little more creativity than signing guys who played with you before. I realize you have special insight in these situations but there are journeymen all over the league. Lets see if we can't uncover something a little bit more.?!
Jays
No long diatribe here, just fire JP already. His poor signings and now musings about trading Doc, this guy has got to go. I don't know how this guy gets this job in the first place.
Raptors
The three players most likely to be the nucleus of this club after Bosh leaves are a Spaniard, an Italian and a Turk. I have no problem with that, it suits Toronto. It may become the place to play for international players. It would fit that the NBA's only city outside the US could be home to a de facto international all star squad. We wouldn't dunk a lot. but we would pass the rock and everyone would shoot the three.
50-36
Stumbling into the all star break. Usually would slow down and regroup but will go the other way and look for something to turn us around.
CWS -128. LAD -148, Hou -118, Fla -114.
Hockey
Leafs looking at Blair Betts of Travis Moen to bolster penalty killing. Kinda hoping it is Betts, not because of any real bias to either player, it just would show a little more creativity than signing guys who played with you before. I realize you have special insight in these situations but there are journeymen all over the league. Lets see if we can't uncover something a little bit more.?!
Jays
No long diatribe here, just fire JP already. His poor signings and now musings about trading Doc, this guy has got to go. I don't know how this guy gets this job in the first place.
Raptors
The three players most likely to be the nucleus of this club after Bosh leaves are a Spaniard, an Italian and a Turk. I have no problem with that, it suits Toronto. It may become the place to play for international players. It would fit that the NBA's only city outside the US could be home to a de facto international all star squad. We wouldn't dunk a lot. but we would pass the rock and everyone would shoot the three.
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
July 8
Betting Corner
1-3, 46-30 overall +461
Tough night but it is turnaround day in a big way. I realize the need for value in selections as it is tough to have to win two to cover one loss just to break even. That said I also have subscribed to the theory that there is no value in betting dogs that have little chance to be successful. Sometimes you have to pay for quality in this life and as always that is the real question. Yesterday the Yanks, Sox, and Tigers all won their games without to much issue having multiple run leads by the fifth. All were favourites including a couple of big ones, but at the end of the day they came through and put money in the pockets of their backers. So as we press on I will go back to looking at these situations more, like I was doing in the beginning.
Todays games...
Changing it up I will start in the NL
Hou over Pit -159 : like the Astros to get it done. Although they lost last night they out hit the Bucs and I like Wandy Rodriguez at home in a day start a situation that is supported by his splits. The only negative is the lack of consistency he has shown, alternating good and bad starts recently.
Cubs over Braves -110 : Not a lot to love here except that Chipper will probably not go today and the Cubs have unknown quantity in Hart starting. Usually like to stay away from the first time starter, but often they perform well and with the edge in hitting for the Cubs I think they get it done.
Col -Was : Couple of close games so far in this series and don't think either team has a huge edge in form. Clearly the Rockies are the better squad and probably have the edge in the starters here but their none of this is decisive enough to get on their side after the two 1 run wins.
Arz over SD -158 : D-backs have won 4 in a row but have hardly been blowing teams out. The Pad's are brutal on the road and I just can't get on Chad Gaudin. I know he has had 3 real nice starts but his last one was more what I expect. Scherezer has been pretty good and while I still have little faith in Arz. scoring things seem to stack up well enough to back the backs.
SF over Fla -113 : Rookie Sadowski has been outstanding so far and Volstad has been coming apart lately. The Giants keep finding ways and at a short price and no Hanley Ramirez for the Marlins I will try the Giants.
Phi - Cin : Don't like the pitching matchup and although the Phils were going a bit better at home I still don't have the confidence to make it to the window.
LAD over NYM -135: It would seem to be an easy bet against here as the Mets have been absolutely brutal of late. Really the only X factor is the return of Oliver Perez who generally has trouble finding the plate as he showed in his minor league conditioning. Still outside of the law of averages helping them out the Mets 2-8 in last ten probably go down again.
Stl - Mil : Pass
Sea over Bal -118 : Tentatively will endorse Vargas at home here. The Mariners are decent at home and I see them bouncing back after yesterday.
KC over Det -130 : The Royals are 6-1 in the 7 starts Greinke has made against the Tigers over the last two years. While they still struggle on offence I will hope they don't need a lot tonight and get by the Tigers.
Tor over TB +145 : The Rays have had the Jays number this year but Tampa face Tallet for the first time as starter and he has generally provided the Jays with quality starts. Tor get Kazmir but he generally doesn't go to long in games and the Jays have a number of righty bats to fill the lineup.
Bos - Oak : Always have difficulty backing the knuckleballer especially when the Red Sox have been scuffling a bit. Cahill has been hit hard in last two but a steep price on Wakefield makes this a pass.
NYY over Min -130 : The Yanks have been hot and so has AJ Burnett lately. Perkins comes off a pair of good road starts but the Yanks hit lefties pretty well.
CWS over Cle -140 : The Chisox are the hotter club and get the second consecutive Cleveland lefty. Laffey has had past success against Chi, but Contreras has had similar success against Cle. A half hearted endorsement of the hotter club here.
Tex - LAA : Pass.
10 pack of selections. We will see if we can get going in a big way.
Hou -159, Cubs -110, Arz -158, SF -113, LAD -135, Sea -118, KC -130, Tor +145, NYY -130 CWS -140.
1-3, 46-30 overall +461
Tough night but it is turnaround day in a big way. I realize the need for value in selections as it is tough to have to win two to cover one loss just to break even. That said I also have subscribed to the theory that there is no value in betting dogs that have little chance to be successful. Sometimes you have to pay for quality in this life and as always that is the real question. Yesterday the Yanks, Sox, and Tigers all won their games without to much issue having multiple run leads by the fifth. All were favourites including a couple of big ones, but at the end of the day they came through and put money in the pockets of their backers. So as we press on I will go back to looking at these situations more, like I was doing in the beginning.
Todays games...
Changing it up I will start in the NL
Hou over Pit -159 : like the Astros to get it done. Although they lost last night they out hit the Bucs and I like Wandy Rodriguez at home in a day start a situation that is supported by his splits. The only negative is the lack of consistency he has shown, alternating good and bad starts recently.
Cubs over Braves -110 : Not a lot to love here except that Chipper will probably not go today and the Cubs have unknown quantity in Hart starting. Usually like to stay away from the first time starter, but often they perform well and with the edge in hitting for the Cubs I think they get it done.
Col -Was : Couple of close games so far in this series and don't think either team has a huge edge in form. Clearly the Rockies are the better squad and probably have the edge in the starters here but their none of this is decisive enough to get on their side after the two 1 run wins.
Arz over SD -158 : D-backs have won 4 in a row but have hardly been blowing teams out. The Pad's are brutal on the road and I just can't get on Chad Gaudin. I know he has had 3 real nice starts but his last one was more what I expect. Scherezer has been pretty good and while I still have little faith in Arz. scoring things seem to stack up well enough to back the backs.
SF over Fla -113 : Rookie Sadowski has been outstanding so far and Volstad has been coming apart lately. The Giants keep finding ways and at a short price and no Hanley Ramirez for the Marlins I will try the Giants.
Phi - Cin : Don't like the pitching matchup and although the Phils were going a bit better at home I still don't have the confidence to make it to the window.
LAD over NYM -135: It would seem to be an easy bet against here as the Mets have been absolutely brutal of late. Really the only X factor is the return of Oliver Perez who generally has trouble finding the plate as he showed in his minor league conditioning. Still outside of the law of averages helping them out the Mets 2-8 in last ten probably go down again.
Stl - Mil : Pass
Sea over Bal -118 : Tentatively will endorse Vargas at home here. The Mariners are decent at home and I see them bouncing back after yesterday.
KC over Det -130 : The Royals are 6-1 in the 7 starts Greinke has made against the Tigers over the last two years. While they still struggle on offence I will hope they don't need a lot tonight and get by the Tigers.
Tor over TB +145 : The Rays have had the Jays number this year but Tampa face Tallet for the first time as starter and he has generally provided the Jays with quality starts. Tor get Kazmir but he generally doesn't go to long in games and the Jays have a number of righty bats to fill the lineup.
Bos - Oak : Always have difficulty backing the knuckleballer especially when the Red Sox have been scuffling a bit. Cahill has been hit hard in last two but a steep price on Wakefield makes this a pass.
NYY over Min -130 : The Yanks have been hot and so has AJ Burnett lately. Perkins comes off a pair of good road starts but the Yanks hit lefties pretty well.
CWS over Cle -140 : The Chisox are the hotter club and get the second consecutive Cleveland lefty. Laffey has had past success against Chi, but Contreras has had similar success against Cle. A half hearted endorsement of the hotter club here.
Tex - LAA : Pass.
10 pack of selections. We will see if we can get going in a big way.
Hou -159, Cubs -110, Arz -158, SF -113, LAD -135, Sea -118, KC -130, Tor +145, NYY -130 CWS -140.
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
July 7
Betting Corner
3-1 yesterday, 45-27 for +786
Home team has won 6 of 7 between Tex and LAA why not 7 of 8. Lackey has struggled with Tex in the past but has been looking sharper lately.
Don't like to play on a team one night, lose then back the other side the next. Bedard coming back, a few too many questions here.
Phillies with Happ tonight over the Reds. Harang has not been as good on the road and the Phils are hot.
Moehler has settled down a bit lately and Maholm has been shaky the Astros are not a team I love to back but I think they may be heating up. At least a low simmer which should be good enough to handle the Pirates.
Jason Hammel has improved each month this year but his Rockies have cooled at the plate avg just 3 runs a game over the last 8 . Zimmerman has been sharp through June and so we stay away.
Doug Davis has had success against the Padres in the past a could be worth a look.
If I had to pick I would rather ride the consistent Josh Johnson over Zito.
Picks : LAA -166, Phil -139, Hou -122, Arz -147
3-1 yesterday, 45-27 for +786
Can't take them but Bos and Det should rebound tonight.
Usually would be attracted to CC at a short price but the Yanks and Twins have played a number of close ones and don't want to be beat by something silly late.
The tribe have never beaten the Chisox with Sowers starting. Price is a bit steep though with Buehrle who has been adequate.Home team has won 6 of 7 between Tex and LAA why not 7 of 8. Lackey has struggled with Tex in the past but has been looking sharper lately.
Don't like to play on a team one night, lose then back the other side the next. Bedard coming back, a few too many questions here.
Phillies with Happ tonight over the Reds. Harang has not been as good on the road and the Phils are hot.
Moehler has settled down a bit lately and Maholm has been shaky the Astros are not a team I love to back but I think they may be heating up. At least a low simmer which should be good enough to handle the Pirates.
Jason Hammel has improved each month this year but his Rockies have cooled at the plate avg just 3 runs a game over the last 8 . Zimmerman has been sharp through June and so we stay away.
Doug Davis has had success against the Padres in the past a could be worth a look.
If I had to pick I would rather ride the consistent Josh Johnson over Zito.
Picks : LAA -166, Phil -139, Hou -122, Arz -147
Monday, July 6, 2009
July 6
Betting Corner (4-5 for 42-26 overall +565)
Took a couple of days off to recharge after a little stumble.
Bal +105, LAA -148, CHC -109 and Tor +131
Sports
Tennis
Not an epic because of the shot making as it was more of a serving contest, but will be remembered for its length and the perseverance of its competitors.
Roddick will most likely feel like he should have gotten it done but he had the chance and didn't which is why he is now 2-19 vs. Federer.
Can't seem to pull for Roddick, every time I think he is alright or growing up he acts like a child about something and ruins it. You are not that hard done by get over yourself.
Like to see the Williams sisters have a 3 set classic, never seems to happen. By the way they won doubles ho-hum. Credit for at least playing doubles though.
Federer lost the Aussie final or would be going for the slam, as it is he is halfway to holding all four titles at once with what would be the hardest one for him already dealt with.
What is the number to make Federer the unquestioned all-time best 20? 22? whatever it is he will have to take down Rafa in a couple just to remove that nagging asterisk on his record.
Golf
Another one bites the dust. Tiger wins and Anthony Kim struggles playing with him. I have trouble thinking of another great athlete in any sport who has had a weaker group of pursuers than Tiger. It is not a knock on him, he can only control what he does. Maybe golf has bred the mediocrity of the mass. There is no doubt that fields are deeper than ever but I would definitely argue about the strength at the top. Golf has always had a few players at the top in every generation until now. It is not a question of how good Tiger is, but more that the rest seem to be cheque cashers. It is not a bad job if you can get it. A couple of top 10's and another handful of cuts and you have yourself a decent wage. You can play well into your 50's and make a lot of money, so really how important is winning to these guys? All of them can give you the soundbite about what it would mean to win and how they will try to play their game and one shot at a time, blah blah. It will most likely happen that Tiger will pass Jack and in todays media with the need for superlatives that he will no doubt be crowned the greatest. I don't know if Jones, Woods, Hogan, Nicklaus, Palmer, Snead, Hagen and Nelson all with the same conditions would yield Tiger and the field like it is now. I somehow doubt it.
Hunter Mahan has the look of one of todays better players. Great final round of 62 to come up just short. Another good result for a guy that looks like a real good player. Maybe a major winner someday? Oh yeah and all the good results have yielded one victory so far!?
NFL
As my brother reminded me, the NFL is not far off.
Brutal news about Steve McNair. Tough SOB and while not putting up the big numbers, could win football games.
Hockey
I have a feeling that Vancouver signing Samuelsson might be a sneaky good one. Comes from Detroit, excellent coaching, some size and quiet good numbers.
UFC 100
The 3 Big fights....
Don't know about mouthy bugger Bisping or cocky bugger Henderson. Experience or youth?
Think Henderson might be able to get it done if he can get him off his feet.
Being Canadian I will be pulling for GSP. But you ever have that bad feeling about something. Well as good as GSP is, this seems to be setting up poorly. I admit I don't know enough about Alves but the size and strength edge for a change will go to the challenger and I think GSP will need to stretch this one out to the 4th and 5th rounds to win.
Lesnar is huge, Mir is a big guy as well. Mir was close to being beat in seconds of the first one and grabbed a ankle to end it and I don't think Lesnar will make the same mistake again. The champ wins in the first unless he gets cautious, which isn't really his style.
Took a couple of days off to recharge after a little stumble.
Bal +105, LAA -148, CHC -109 and Tor +131
Sports
Tennis
Not an epic because of the shot making as it was more of a serving contest, but will be remembered for its length and the perseverance of its competitors.
Roddick will most likely feel like he should have gotten it done but he had the chance and didn't which is why he is now 2-19 vs. Federer.
Can't seem to pull for Roddick, every time I think he is alright or growing up he acts like a child about something and ruins it. You are not that hard done by get over yourself.
Like to see the Williams sisters have a 3 set classic, never seems to happen. By the way they won doubles ho-hum. Credit for at least playing doubles though.
Federer lost the Aussie final or would be going for the slam, as it is he is halfway to holding all four titles at once with what would be the hardest one for him already dealt with.
What is the number to make Federer the unquestioned all-time best 20? 22? whatever it is he will have to take down Rafa in a couple just to remove that nagging asterisk on his record.
Golf
Another one bites the dust. Tiger wins and Anthony Kim struggles playing with him. I have trouble thinking of another great athlete in any sport who has had a weaker group of pursuers than Tiger. It is not a knock on him, he can only control what he does. Maybe golf has bred the mediocrity of the mass. There is no doubt that fields are deeper than ever but I would definitely argue about the strength at the top. Golf has always had a few players at the top in every generation until now. It is not a question of how good Tiger is, but more that the rest seem to be cheque cashers. It is not a bad job if you can get it. A couple of top 10's and another handful of cuts and you have yourself a decent wage. You can play well into your 50's and make a lot of money, so really how important is winning to these guys? All of them can give you the soundbite about what it would mean to win and how they will try to play their game and one shot at a time, blah blah. It will most likely happen that Tiger will pass Jack and in todays media with the need for superlatives that he will no doubt be crowned the greatest. I don't know if Jones, Woods, Hogan, Nicklaus, Palmer, Snead, Hagen and Nelson all with the same conditions would yield Tiger and the field like it is now. I somehow doubt it.
Hunter Mahan has the look of one of todays better players. Great final round of 62 to come up just short. Another good result for a guy that looks like a real good player. Maybe a major winner someday? Oh yeah and all the good results have yielded one victory so far!?
NFL
As my brother reminded me, the NFL is not far off.
Brutal news about Steve McNair. Tough SOB and while not putting up the big numbers, could win football games.
Hockey
I have a feeling that Vancouver signing Samuelsson might be a sneaky good one. Comes from Detroit, excellent coaching, some size and quiet good numbers.
UFC 100
The 3 Big fights....
Don't know about mouthy bugger Bisping or cocky bugger Henderson. Experience or youth?
Think Henderson might be able to get it done if he can get him off his feet.
Being Canadian I will be pulling for GSP. But you ever have that bad feeling about something. Well as good as GSP is, this seems to be setting up poorly. I admit I don't know enough about Alves but the size and strength edge for a change will go to the challenger and I think GSP will need to stretch this one out to the 4th and 5th rounds to win.
Lesnar is huge, Mir is a big guy as well. Mir was close to being beat in seconds of the first one and grabbed a ankle to end it and I don't think Lesnar will make the same mistake again. The champ wins in the first unless he gets cautious, which isn't really his style.
Friday, July 3, 2009
July 3
Betting Corner (3-4 yesterday, 38-21 overall, +893)
Today 9 picks....
Fla over Pit -153 : Volstad seemingly over a couple of tough starts and the pirates coming off a tough loss. Florida coming off sweep.
Sea over Bos +108 : Take a shot with King Felix who is rolling. Bosox have lost the other 2 times they have come off an extended road trip with no days off.
Atl over Was -127 : Pitching edge slightly to Bravos along with being the hotter team and it the Nats.
TB over Tex -137 : Tex coming off two huge divisional wins and now get the Rays. Rays have been going well and Kazmir makes 2nd start off DL. First turn was decent and he has had past success against the Rangers with Rays being 7-0 in Kazmir's 7 career starts.
KC over CWS -138 : Greinke had a couple of indifferent turns but has come back well in last two and is coming off a very economical start. Danks has been real good lately but I think he will be on teh wrong side of a tough pitchers duel.
Min over Det -164 : I think Slowey gets number 11 tonight against rookie starter French. Tigers not having the best road trip and Twins have had success against the Tigers this year.
Col over Arz -128 : Scherzer goes for the d backs and while I would give him the edge and usually don't like betting on teams first one off the road, I think the Rockies have to big of an edge with the bats and De La Rosa has had good moments.
LAA over Bal - 144 : Like the Angels to keep it going as the hotter team. Santana had a good turn in his last minor league warmup and has historically been better at home.
LAD over SD -134 : The return of Manny. Gaudin has been sharp of late but it is still Chad Gaudin and the superior bats and Kuroda get the money.
Today 9 picks....
Fla over Pit -153 : Volstad seemingly over a couple of tough starts and the pirates coming off a tough loss. Florida coming off sweep.
Sea over Bos +108 : Take a shot with King Felix who is rolling. Bosox have lost the other 2 times they have come off an extended road trip with no days off.
Atl over Was -127 : Pitching edge slightly to Bravos along with being the hotter team and it the Nats.
TB over Tex -137 : Tex coming off two huge divisional wins and now get the Rays. Rays have been going well and Kazmir makes 2nd start off DL. First turn was decent and he has had past success against the Rangers with Rays being 7-0 in Kazmir's 7 career starts.
KC over CWS -138 : Greinke had a couple of indifferent turns but has come back well in last two and is coming off a very economical start. Danks has been real good lately but I think he will be on teh wrong side of a tough pitchers duel.
Min over Det -164 : I think Slowey gets number 11 tonight against rookie starter French. Tigers not having the best road trip and Twins have had success against the Tigers this year.
Col over Arz -128 : Scherzer goes for the d backs and while I would give him the edge and usually don't like betting on teams first one off the road, I think the Rockies have to big of an edge with the bats and De La Rosa has had good moments.
LAA over Bal - 144 : Like the Angels to keep it going as the hotter team. Santana had a good turn in his last minor league warmup and has historically been better at home.
LAD over SD -134 : The return of Manny. Gaudin has been sharp of late but it is still Chad Gaudin and the superior bats and Kuroda get the money.
Thursday, July 2, 2009
July 2
Betting Corner (7-3 yesterday, 35-17 overall , +1228)
Sea v NYY : CC Sabathia historically good against Mariners and the Yanks rolling. Vargas' first start against NY and I think the Yanks will get to him. Pick NYY
CWS v KC : Pitching matchup favors the hotter team as the Sox have pounding lefties lately. Pick CWS
Bal v LAA : Lackey coming off good start and Guthrie has been going a little better lately. Both teams coming off losses with Baltimore coughing up 4 in the ninth and then losing in extras. Like the Angels here as I just don't see them losing 3 in a row.
Arz v Cin : Both starters have good day splits and both have had success against their opponents today. The reds have managed just 3 runs in the first two games and the d-backs are far from consistent at the plate. Would lean towards the home squad but not with enough confidence to actually buy the ticket.
NYM v Pit : The mets may rest Sheff and or Wright today as they continue their road trip. Does not matter. Maholm has been good at home and has had success at home against NY. The mets were pounding lefties earlier this year but with the injuries right now, the mets seem like a tired squad doing little at the plate. They have scored 3 or less in 7 of last 10. I think they need the all star break. Pick Pit
Hou v SD : THe padres new ace takes the hill looking for a split in the series. Correia has been solid for SD of late winning 4 of his last 5. Wandy has been better on the road this year but still has a tends to be better at home. SD inspire little confidence with the bats but I am hoping it won't take many today to get it done. Pick SD
Phi v Atl : Shapes up as a potential pitching duel between Happ who has been real good since entering the rotation especially on the road against Vasquez who has been equally good at home. Don't love the game but in an effort to take sides in as many as possible I will side with the hotter club. Pick Atl
SF v Stl : The cards tried to waste a great start yesterday but pulled it out in extras. Stl has scored just 22 runs in the pat 10 games. They really have no offence right now so it comes down to whether or not Zito can miss Pujols bat. He has not pitched to deep into games lately but that might not be terrible given the solid job the giants pen has done. Wellemeyer could be trying to save his spot in the rotation but really has done nothing to give us confidence to back him. I think the giants get it done.
Mil v CHC : Dempster usually good at home save for the start against the bucs last month. The cubbie have not been good lately going just 3-7 but with McClung on the bump I can't back Mil either. No pick
Picks
Big Favs: NYY -290, LAA -148
Mid: CWS -135, Pit -141, Atl -133
Dogs: SD -104, SF +119
Sports
NHL
Sea v NYY : CC Sabathia historically good against Mariners and the Yanks rolling. Vargas' first start against NY and I think the Yanks will get to him. Pick NYY
CWS v KC : Pitching matchup favors the hotter team as the Sox have pounding lefties lately. Pick CWS
Bal v LAA : Lackey coming off good start and Guthrie has been going a little better lately. Both teams coming off losses with Baltimore coughing up 4 in the ninth and then losing in extras. Like the Angels here as I just don't see them losing 3 in a row.
Arz v Cin : Both starters have good day splits and both have had success against their opponents today. The reds have managed just 3 runs in the first two games and the d-backs are far from consistent at the plate. Would lean towards the home squad but not with enough confidence to actually buy the ticket.
NYM v Pit : The mets may rest Sheff and or Wright today as they continue their road trip. Does not matter. Maholm has been good at home and has had success at home against NY. The mets were pounding lefties earlier this year but with the injuries right now, the mets seem like a tired squad doing little at the plate. They have scored 3 or less in 7 of last 10. I think they need the all star break. Pick Pit
Hou v SD : THe padres new ace takes the hill looking for a split in the series. Correia has been solid for SD of late winning 4 of his last 5. Wandy has been better on the road this year but still has a tends to be better at home. SD inspire little confidence with the bats but I am hoping it won't take many today to get it done. Pick SD
Phi v Atl : Shapes up as a potential pitching duel between Happ who has been real good since entering the rotation especially on the road against Vasquez who has been equally good at home. Don't love the game but in an effort to take sides in as many as possible I will side with the hotter club. Pick Atl
SF v Stl : The cards tried to waste a great start yesterday but pulled it out in extras. Stl has scored just 22 runs in the pat 10 games. They really have no offence right now so it comes down to whether or not Zito can miss Pujols bat. He has not pitched to deep into games lately but that might not be terrible given the solid job the giants pen has done. Wellemeyer could be trying to save his spot in the rotation but really has done nothing to give us confidence to back him. I think the giants get it done.
Mil v CHC : Dempster usually good at home save for the start against the bucs last month. The cubbie have not been good lately going just 3-7 but with McClung on the bump I can't back Mil either. No pick
Picks
Big Favs: NYY -290, LAA -148
Mid: CWS -135, Pit -141, Atl -133
Dogs: SD -104, SF +119
Sports
NHL
Free agency started yesterday with the a couple of the biggest names staying put.
- Sedins back in Vancity for 5 more. Strange with these two because it seemed like it would have been bad news for Vancouver to see them go and I know the numbers are there but really couldn't see them doing same in another city. I think they are only worth the money in Van
- Bouwmeester signed with Calgary as they had hoped when they traded for his rights. Will they really keep all 3 of JB, Phaneuf and Regher.
- Gaborik a Ranger would seem about right. Lots of Broadway flash, big numbers until he is injured. Havlat to the Wild and he will fill Gaboriks shoes and could put up big numbers until he is injured.
- Cammalieri a Hab. I know this guy gets his goals but I am not convinced. He is good, but 6 million good? A day after they pick up Gomez in a trade they get another small fast US forward in Gionta. Again money aside the 48 goals a couple of years ago were an aberration however he will get his 20 and comes from a place that teaches you how to play in both ends.
- As Oralndo Hudson once referred to him, Ka-bib-bu-lin gets 15 over 4. Seems like a reasonable signing.
- 7 yr at 3.5m per for Ohlund in Tampa. Really?? Always liked him but there is a lot of mileage under the hood. Seems like a mistake here.
- Hossa to Chicago. Good player but this guy seems to be a dark cloud. Never had the success in Ottawas good numbers though. Good numbers in Atl nothing from the team. The well documented miss in Pittsburgh 2 yrs ago only to snub them in favor of Det, how did that work out this year?? Oh yeah no cup in motown.
- The Toronto Maple Chiefs signed Colton "oglethorpe" Orr, Mike "Killer" Komisarek and traded Kubina to Atlanta for Garnet "dr Hook" Exelby. Well you get the idea no screaming buffalo swamptown but Brian Burke said he would make them tougher to play against, and that they would not get pushed around etc etc. We shall see if they can manage to put the puck in the net. Missing out on the Sedins or Cammalieri is not the end of the world. A skilled forward for Kaberle, and getting Gustavsson would make it a decent start to changing the direction of this club. Keeping drafting skilled kids and have a little patience
As a player I like Dany Heatley. I will pull hard for him if he is on the 2010 team. He shows up in the spring for Canada at the worlds when many guys turn them down. I have never heard that he is a bad guy. But I find it difficult to come to terms with him asking for a trade then not waving the no trade clause. I realize he gave the Sens a list of teams he would like to go to. But ultimately how bad do you really want out when you announce your trade demands and then veto a move. I know there are two sides but he has a big contract that makes it difficult enough to move without further restrictions. I could understand a small list of teams I wouldn't want to go to, but if I were looking to acquire this guy I would have to wonder how long until he decides the next place isn't good enough, or if I change coaches will it be ok with him. I know first times a fluke, I would hate to be the coincidence.
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
July 1
Canada day for us north of the border.
Betting Corner (28-14) after an unacceptable 4-5 night yesterday. We'll blame the rain and the bosox for tipping the scale to the losing side.
Todays Games
Need to be careful with the day games and players being rested.
TB vs Tor : Although James Shields is going for the Rays, Romero has been good for the Jays and a case can be made that the home starter has the edge. The Rays however have been playing to well to go against without a more definitive edge. Pick Tor
Was vs Fla : Don't need much to go against the Nats and although Zimmerman has been pitching well, Johnson has been solid for the Marlins as well. Johnson is 1-1 v the Nats this year but the win came at home where we are today. He is not as good during the day as at night but the team is 12-4 in his starts and should improve on that today. Pick Fla
Bos vs Balt : Aside from his outing against the Phillies Beckett didn't although an earned run in June. After last nights fiasco and with the pitching edge (Bergensen has been OK) I'll side with the Sox. Pick Bos
NYM vs Mil : Gallardo better at home and in day games, Pelfry worse on the road and in day games, Mets have lost 5 straight and are resting Wright. Mil
Min vs KC : Perkins has had a couple of good turns around a bad one in his last 3 and pitches bette in day games. Not much to grab onto with Meche who had a nice run of starts until two starts ago where he was rocked. Just think Minny can get it done. Pick Min
Col vs LAD : Good pitching matchups as both guys go under favorable conditions. Hammel better in day games and on the road, Kershaw better pitcher at Dodger stadium. Kershaw has had mixed results vs the Rockies. The hotter team in Colorado gets the bias here. Pick Col
Det vs Oak : Although Verlander goes for Det, I don't think it is quite as big of a pitching edge as it sometimes is. Braden has been solid with quality starts in 8 of 10. One rough outing however was against the Tigers. Not a huge backer here.
Phi vs Atl : Sometimes you look at the game and pitching matchup and just don't feel anything. This is one of those games for me. Two good starters and two teams not playing great.
Sea vs NYY : Both teams going well and a decent case could be made for Washburn in this spot but I hae been on the Yanks lately and while I won't pick them today I also won't go against them.
CHC vs Pit : Wells has been a nice surprise for the cubbies and has been good on the road. Cubs not playing great of late. But I like the pitching matchup favoring Chicago. Pick Cubs
CWS vs Cle : CWS are 8-2 in last 10 and the tribe are 2-8 over the same time. As I have mentioned I think the tribe are looking towards next year already. If Lee couldn't get it done yesterday I don't think Sowers will duplicate his last start vs the sox today. I am not a huge supporter of Contreras but the disparity in recent form for these teams makes me go back to the chisox.
Arz vs Cin : Cueto got roughed up in last two interleague starts but I like him and the Reds to turn it around tonight. Garland is a better proposition for the Reds than Haren was last night
and got hit hard by the Reds last time he faced them. Pick Reds
LAA vs Tex : Rubber match sees a good matchup with Weaver going for the halos and unlike Saunders last night Weaver has pitched well in Arlington. He faces Millwood who just keeps rolling along. He has effectively kept his team in games, that said the rangers are only 9-7 in his starts this year. In another step towards really grabbing hold of this division I see the Angels picking up the series win. Pick LAA
SF vs STL : Cain against Wainwright in a game that should be tight. Giants look for the sweep but Cains last two road starts not great. Wainwright has been better at home than on the road but the Giants are playing the better ball sitting second in the NL. No Bias in this one.
Hou vs SD : Two gas cans on the hill. I will find out about this one tomorrow. Pass here.
Picks
Big Favs Mil, Bos, Fla
Moderate price Min, Reds, Cubs, Tor
Dogs CWS, LAA, Col
Sports
Hockey
Free agency today so will do a roundup tomorrow.
Tennis
Federer plays 6-10 giant Karlovic who is a huge server. Not broken in the tourney until today when Federer does it on his second service game and any point that goes beyond a couple of shots is all Fed. Straight sets win. Tommy Haas tried hard to give away the 2nd set but pulled it out in a tiebreak and went on to win in 4.
CFL
Starts today, and have to admit not the biggest follower. Sure when I am being pro Canada I can get on board but may follow it a bit more this year for wagering possibilities.
Betting Corner (28-14) after an unacceptable 4-5 night yesterday. We'll blame the rain and the bosox for tipping the scale to the losing side.
Todays Games
Need to be careful with the day games and players being rested.
TB vs Tor : Although James Shields is going for the Rays, Romero has been good for the Jays and a case can be made that the home starter has the edge. The Rays however have been playing to well to go against without a more definitive edge. Pick Tor
Was vs Fla : Don't need much to go against the Nats and although Zimmerman has been pitching well, Johnson has been solid for the Marlins as well. Johnson is 1-1 v the Nats this year but the win came at home where we are today. He is not as good during the day as at night but the team is 12-4 in his starts and should improve on that today. Pick Fla
Bos vs Balt : Aside from his outing against the Phillies Beckett didn't although an earned run in June. After last nights fiasco and with the pitching edge (Bergensen has been OK) I'll side with the Sox. Pick Bos
NYM vs Mil : Gallardo better at home and in day games, Pelfry worse on the road and in day games, Mets have lost 5 straight and are resting Wright. Mil
Min vs KC : Perkins has had a couple of good turns around a bad one in his last 3 and pitches bette in day games. Not much to grab onto with Meche who had a nice run of starts until two starts ago where he was rocked. Just think Minny can get it done. Pick Min
Col vs LAD : Good pitching matchups as both guys go under favorable conditions. Hammel better in day games and on the road, Kershaw better pitcher at Dodger stadium. Kershaw has had mixed results vs the Rockies. The hotter team in Colorado gets the bias here. Pick Col
Det vs Oak : Although Verlander goes for Det, I don't think it is quite as big of a pitching edge as it sometimes is. Braden has been solid with quality starts in 8 of 10. One rough outing however was against the Tigers. Not a huge backer here.
Phi vs Atl : Sometimes you look at the game and pitching matchup and just don't feel anything. This is one of those games for me. Two good starters and two teams not playing great.
Sea vs NYY : Both teams going well and a decent case could be made for Washburn in this spot but I hae been on the Yanks lately and while I won't pick them today I also won't go against them.
CHC vs Pit : Wells has been a nice surprise for the cubbies and has been good on the road. Cubs not playing great of late. But I like the pitching matchup favoring Chicago. Pick Cubs
CWS vs Cle : CWS are 8-2 in last 10 and the tribe are 2-8 over the same time. As I have mentioned I think the tribe are looking towards next year already. If Lee couldn't get it done yesterday I don't think Sowers will duplicate his last start vs the sox today. I am not a huge supporter of Contreras but the disparity in recent form for these teams makes me go back to the chisox.
Arz vs Cin : Cueto got roughed up in last two interleague starts but I like him and the Reds to turn it around tonight. Garland is a better proposition for the Reds than Haren was last night
and got hit hard by the Reds last time he faced them. Pick Reds
LAA vs Tex : Rubber match sees a good matchup with Weaver going for the halos and unlike Saunders last night Weaver has pitched well in Arlington. He faces Millwood who just keeps rolling along. He has effectively kept his team in games, that said the rangers are only 9-7 in his starts this year. In another step towards really grabbing hold of this division I see the Angels picking up the series win. Pick LAA
SF vs STL : Cain against Wainwright in a game that should be tight. Giants look for the sweep but Cains last two road starts not great. Wainwright has been better at home than on the road but the Giants are playing the better ball sitting second in the NL. No Bias in this one.
Hou vs SD : Two gas cans on the hill. I will find out about this one tomorrow. Pass here.
Picks
Big Favs Mil, Bos, Fla
Moderate price Min, Reds, Cubs, Tor
Dogs CWS, LAA, Col
Sports
Hockey
Free agency today so will do a roundup tomorrow.
Tennis
Federer plays 6-10 giant Karlovic who is a huge server. Not broken in the tourney until today when Federer does it on his second service game and any point that goes beyond a couple of shots is all Fed. Straight sets win. Tommy Haas tried hard to give away the 2nd set but pulled it out in a tiebreak and went on to win in 4.
CFL
Starts today, and have to admit not the biggest follower. Sure when I am being pro Canada I can get on board but may follow it a bit more this year for wagering possibilities.
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
June 30
Betting Corner (5-2 last night to go to 24-9 overall)
Will continue with comments on all games with picks on as many as possible....
Phi vs Atl : Road team is 15-5 in last 20 in this series. Blanton has 5 qs in last 6 turns but has been hammered twice by Atl this year already. Lowe generally has been able to keep his team in most games but has been roughed up in 2 of last 3. Philly with modest two game win streak.
No bias here.
Sea vs NYY : Home team won 8 of 9 last year and although yanks in new stadium it might have a little to do with east and west coast. Both teams going well with M's winning 7 of 10 and NY 5 in a row. Brandon Morrow continues to up his pitch count and innings after moving to the starting rotation. Joba has generally keeps the yanks in the games he pitches (9-5) although he still needs to be more economical with his pitch count. Don't usually like teams off extended road trips but NY has won 4 straight in their first game home. Pick NYY
Bos vs Balt : Bos have now won all 5 this year and 16 of last 20 against Balt. I look for Smoltz to start a little better than last outing his first of the year. Boston are a patient team at the plate and that is not a good matchup for the control challenged Rich Hill. Pick Bos
CHC vs Pit : Lilly has had a couple of rough road starts this year but has pitched well and the cubbies are 10-5 in games he has started. Ohlendorf has a number of good turns but also a number of bad ones. He has been better at home and the Bucs are 6-2 in his starts there. Neither team going great. No Bias
CWS vs Cle : Really don't like the tribe and honestly not the biggest Cliff Lee fan. That said it is hard to argue with what he has done ( 9 of 10 quality starts). Lee has also allowed only 1 run in last 24 innings vs the White Sox. Richard has not been good. The price is steep for a team that might be starting to look to the years ahead, but they will still win some games and I think this will be one. Terrible price could scare me off , but do think they will win the game. Pick Cle.
Arz vs Cin : Watched Arroyo pitch in his last game in Toronto, and he was absolutely brutal. Clearly the pitching matchup favors Arizona but the d-backs can't hit. Cincy won last two but I can't get beyond Arroyo's last start. No Bias
TB vs Tor : Garza started 5 times v the Jays last year and over 38 innings and gave up just 2 earned runs. That said the Rays were just 3-2 in those games. Garza has also been on the wrong side of four-one run games this season. Richmond has been a surprise but I watched a bit of game one in this series and the Rays were trying to run all night and they are the hotter team. Hate to do it but have to like the Rays tonight.
Was vs Fla : Fla got it done last night behind a solid start from Nolasco but I don't have the same confidence in Shane West. Actually on a hunch I like the Nats. Their starter just faced TB, NYY, and Bos so the Marlins should feel like a bit of a break. His 3 road starts have been alright.
Pick Nats ???
LAA vs Tex : LAA winners of 6 in a row. Tex have lost last 3. Saunders has not fared well in Tex giving up 7 earned runs 3 different times. Back to same story of the hotter team, hitting better without the edge in the pitching matchup. Don't have much feel for Feldman but Saunders has been brutal too many times to trust him in Arlington. If this game were anywhere in America I would side with the Angels. It is in Arlington so I am not on board.
NYM vs Mil : Santana has followed two bad starts with two good ones. Like Lincecum last night I am happy to give him support tonight at not an outrageous price. Pick NYM
Min vs KC : Baker vs Bannister ?? Have no edge in this one. Maybe Minny bouncing back???
SF vs Stl : Like Carpenter tonight. Even though SF is going better of late, I don't think the Cards will need much on the board in this one. I think Carp will have a good effort vs the free swinging Giants. Steep price but I am just trying to pick the winning side. Pick STL
Det vs Oak : Which gas can blows up bigger? Galarrago just brutal in night games and not particularly good on the road either against Gio Gonzalez he of the 9 runs in 1 2/3 the last time he faced the Tigers. If it were in any other park than Oakland it would look like a screaming over. I am guessing that although the Tigers are not playing great their pitcher burns a little less brightly and they pull this one out. Pick Det
Hou vs SD : Hampton back off groin strain, Banks pitching alright for Pads, learning SD's way here. Pick SD
Col vs LAD : Couple of nine game winners going here. The easy side is with Billingsley but this might be tight and come down to a big hit either way. Colorado have enough bats and have been hot enough lately to keep me off the better pitcher and team. No Bias
Picks : Big favs at bad money NYY, Cle , Stl.
Better price Bos, TB, NYM, Det, SD
Longshot Was
Sports
Pretty quiet, NHL free agency tomorrow will provide some interest. Won't get into a rundown of yesterdays ballgames. England got hammered in the U21 soccer final by Germany 4-0. England were missing a few guys but that is no excuse for that kind of thumping in a final.
Will continue with comments on all games with picks on as many as possible....
Phi vs Atl : Road team is 15-5 in last 20 in this series. Blanton has 5 qs in last 6 turns but has been hammered twice by Atl this year already. Lowe generally has been able to keep his team in most games but has been roughed up in 2 of last 3. Philly with modest two game win streak.
No bias here.
Sea vs NYY : Home team won 8 of 9 last year and although yanks in new stadium it might have a little to do with east and west coast. Both teams going well with M's winning 7 of 10 and NY 5 in a row. Brandon Morrow continues to up his pitch count and innings after moving to the starting rotation. Joba has generally keeps the yanks in the games he pitches (9-5) although he still needs to be more economical with his pitch count. Don't usually like teams off extended road trips but NY has won 4 straight in their first game home. Pick NYY
Bos vs Balt : Bos have now won all 5 this year and 16 of last 20 against Balt. I look for Smoltz to start a little better than last outing his first of the year. Boston are a patient team at the plate and that is not a good matchup for the control challenged Rich Hill. Pick Bos
CHC vs Pit : Lilly has had a couple of rough road starts this year but has pitched well and the cubbies are 10-5 in games he has started. Ohlendorf has a number of good turns but also a number of bad ones. He has been better at home and the Bucs are 6-2 in his starts there. Neither team going great. No Bias
CWS vs Cle : Really don't like the tribe and honestly not the biggest Cliff Lee fan. That said it is hard to argue with what he has done ( 9 of 10 quality starts). Lee has also allowed only 1 run in last 24 innings vs the White Sox. Richard has not been good. The price is steep for a team that might be starting to look to the years ahead, but they will still win some games and I think this will be one. Terrible price could scare me off , but do think they will win the game. Pick Cle.
Arz vs Cin : Watched Arroyo pitch in his last game in Toronto, and he was absolutely brutal. Clearly the pitching matchup favors Arizona but the d-backs can't hit. Cincy won last two but I can't get beyond Arroyo's last start. No Bias
TB vs Tor : Garza started 5 times v the Jays last year and over 38 innings and gave up just 2 earned runs. That said the Rays were just 3-2 in those games. Garza has also been on the wrong side of four-one run games this season. Richmond has been a surprise but I watched a bit of game one in this series and the Rays were trying to run all night and they are the hotter team. Hate to do it but have to like the Rays tonight.
Was vs Fla : Fla got it done last night behind a solid start from Nolasco but I don't have the same confidence in Shane West. Actually on a hunch I like the Nats. Their starter just faced TB, NYY, and Bos so the Marlins should feel like a bit of a break. His 3 road starts have been alright.
Pick Nats ???
LAA vs Tex : LAA winners of 6 in a row. Tex have lost last 3. Saunders has not fared well in Tex giving up 7 earned runs 3 different times. Back to same story of the hotter team, hitting better without the edge in the pitching matchup. Don't have much feel for Feldman but Saunders has been brutal too many times to trust him in Arlington. If this game were anywhere in America I would side with the Angels. It is in Arlington so I am not on board.
NYM vs Mil : Santana has followed two bad starts with two good ones. Like Lincecum last night I am happy to give him support tonight at not an outrageous price. Pick NYM
Min vs KC : Baker vs Bannister ?? Have no edge in this one. Maybe Minny bouncing back???
SF vs Stl : Like Carpenter tonight. Even though SF is going better of late, I don't think the Cards will need much on the board in this one. I think Carp will have a good effort vs the free swinging Giants. Steep price but I am just trying to pick the winning side. Pick STL
Det vs Oak : Which gas can blows up bigger? Galarrago just brutal in night games and not particularly good on the road either against Gio Gonzalez he of the 9 runs in 1 2/3 the last time he faced the Tigers. If it were in any other park than Oakland it would look like a screaming over. I am guessing that although the Tigers are not playing great their pitcher burns a little less brightly and they pull this one out. Pick Det
Hou vs SD : Hampton back off groin strain, Banks pitching alright for Pads, learning SD's way here. Pick SD
Col vs LAD : Couple of nine game winners going here. The easy side is with Billingsley but this might be tight and come down to a big hit either way. Colorado have enough bats and have been hot enough lately to keep me off the better pitcher and team. No Bias
Picks : Big favs at bad money NYY, Cle , Stl.
Better price Bos, TB, NYM, Det, SD
Longshot Was
Sports
Pretty quiet, NHL free agency tomorrow will provide some interest. Won't get into a rundown of yesterdays ballgames. England got hammered in the U21 soccer final by Germany 4-0. England were missing a few guys but that is no excuse for that kind of thumping in a final.
Monday, June 29, 2009
June 29
Betting Corner (19-7 overall)
Tough day yesterday 1-3, as has been the case with Sunday's this year even prior to published picks.
In an effort to provide thoughts on the entire card and see how the overall record goes, I will cover all games and pick sides in as many as possible.
CWS over Cle- Gavin Floyd has really pitched well lately and Pavano has been bad his last few. Cleveland has lost 8 of 10 and after trading DeRosa may be looking to the future already.
Bos over Bal - Boston have won 16 of last 20 against Baltimore. Lester goes today and the Sox are 8-1 in Lester's 9 career starts against the O's
Min over KC. The Twins have been starting series well winning game one in the last 5. Blackburn was Ok in last at Mil. Hochevar has been decent in 3 of last 4 but it is their first game back and I tend to fade if their is not some strong evidence to the contrary. Slight bias to Min.
Fla over Was- Florida have Nolasco going against former Marlin Olsen and although the price is terrible I look for a comfortable victory.
LAD over red hot Col. Don't see the dodgers losing 3 in a row at home and if they were looking ahead to this series with the red hot Rockies well here it is. Jimenez has been good this year but not against the Dodgers. Veteran Wolf has been around and I think can come up with a good one today.
SD-Hou no bias. The Padres first game coming home off short road trip that had a lot of travel,
but Hou are not doing anything special either. This is a rematch of May 10th game when the stros lit up Greer. However he has been going a little better in last two and Oswalt has been alternating good and bad if that continues tonight it is time for a bad one.
DET over OAK. When streaks start getting up to 5 or more I tend to shy away. Although in baseball you don't mind riding hot teams or going against cold as the streak increases you know it has to end at some point. Just not tonight. Porcello has been going good and Anderson is starting after dealing with some bicep soreness. While Oakland has the revenge factor working for them, they don't have the players actually playing for them to do anything about it at least for tonight.
SF over Stl. Tim Lincecum has never lost to Stl and at a shortish price I will back one of the games best.
LAA at Tex. Big one in the AL west. Don't see a big edge in the pitching matchup. Angels lost all 3 last time here but are playing considerably better now. Like to just watch game one before looking to choose sides for the rest of the series.
Tor at home to TB. Roy Halladay returns and gets to face one of the hotter teams in Tampa, winners of 7 of 8. Clearly the pitching matchup favors the Jays, but in his first game back against a team going well there are too many croos currents in this one to be comfy with either side. Jays off a tough loss. Halladay rusty or brilliant tonight? Jays have scored 4 or more runs in 7 of 10. That would usually be enough for Roy, but Jays bullpen has been suspect?????
Mil vs NYM- Neither team great of late. Both are 4-6 in last 10. Nieve has been pleasant surprise for NYM with 3 good starts in a row. But the lineup is depleted so no bias.
Cubs vs Pit- Chi have lost 6 of 7 and Rich Harden has not pitched well of late. Alnost get the sense he doesn't want to go on the DL for the hundredth time so isn't full letting go. Velocity seems good but something has been missing. Zach Duke has pitched real well for most of the year but falls victim to lack of offense. No bias here.
Picks: Bos, CWS, Fla, LAD, SF, Min, Det.
Sports Shorts
Baseball
The Jays coughed one up yesterday. Off to a lead Brian Tallet couldn't hold that and then with 2 on and none out in the ninth, the follies began. I am a big fan of Cito Gaston and remember fondly him guiding us to back to back World Series, but not having Aaron Hill move those runners in the ninth was a mistake especially when the reason was that Hill had already hit 2 homers in the game. Fair enough to play a hunch but then John MacDonald getting caught taking too big of a lead at 2nd and being tagged out in a rundown is unacceptable. That lead by the way was part of a double steal the Jays were going to attempt so we could have runners on 2nd and 3rd with one out. Wait couldn't we have done that with Hill bunting?? Then Vernon tapped out weakly to SS to end the game, that's why we pay him the big bucks. The April surprise is now in 4th in the AL East.
Tommy Hanson pitched out of trouble in the 4th inning to pick up another win. Bobby Cox compared him to John Smoltz.... Anybody else watch him throw, he may be good but I don't think he looks like Smoltz when he throws and I think it may be prudent to wait on those kind of comparisons.
Mark DeRosa to the Cards. Plays lots of positions, can hit in different lineup spots, veteran, Still its Mark DeRosa, maybe I missed something but before last year he would be described as a journeyman or utility player. I would be surprised if he happened to being the missing piece in St Louis. I think they still need a big bat in that lineup besides Albert.
Angels are in first again in the west. Anyone shocked
Tennis
Some people refer to today as the best day of tennis of the year, with all round of 16 matches on both the mens and womens sides of the draws. Ultimately whatever happens today will more than likely lead to the Williams sisters playing in the final against each other. Venus may have a test in the semis with Safina or Mauresmo (former champ) but most likely just a speed bump til she meets her sister.
The UK press could not be pulling any harder for a Murray-Federer final. On paper it looks to be likely however Federer has potentially the six foot 10 inch huge serving Karlovic in the quarters then would have to get by Djokovic. No more tennis until the finals unless something gets in the way of the expected results.
NASCAR
There won't be a lot of car racing remarks but congratulations to Joey Logano on his win and in the process becoming the youngest driver to win a cup race.
MMA
Former wrestler Bobby Lashley won his 4th straight. He keeps winning and Lesnar keeps winning and you may get to see what would happen when two pro wrestlers fight for real.
Golf
Just need to mention Kenny Perry winning again with the age, swing, putting stance, and mental baggage of Augusta he is the proof of "its not how but how many" way of golf. David Toms seems to have found a bit of a game lately and might be someone to watch this summer.
Soccer
Huge props to the U.S. mens team for a great Confed cup. Getting to final was one thing, but leading 2-0 at the half was almost too much to hope for. Unfortunately the Brazilians showed up to play in the second half and roared back to score 3 and snatch victory from the jaws of defeat. In the end there was little doubt of who deserved this one, as the Americans barely touched the ball in the second half.
Tough day yesterday 1-3, as has been the case with Sunday's this year even prior to published picks.
In an effort to provide thoughts on the entire card and see how the overall record goes, I will cover all games and pick sides in as many as possible.
CWS over Cle- Gavin Floyd has really pitched well lately and Pavano has been bad his last few. Cleveland has lost 8 of 10 and after trading DeRosa may be looking to the future already.
Bos over Bal - Boston have won 16 of last 20 against Baltimore. Lester goes today and the Sox are 8-1 in Lester's 9 career starts against the O's
Min over KC. The Twins have been starting series well winning game one in the last 5. Blackburn was Ok in last at Mil. Hochevar has been decent in 3 of last 4 but it is their first game back and I tend to fade if their is not some strong evidence to the contrary. Slight bias to Min.
Fla over Was- Florida have Nolasco going against former Marlin Olsen and although the price is terrible I look for a comfortable victory.
LAD over red hot Col. Don't see the dodgers losing 3 in a row at home and if they were looking ahead to this series with the red hot Rockies well here it is. Jimenez has been good this year but not against the Dodgers. Veteran Wolf has been around and I think can come up with a good one today.
SD-Hou no bias. The Padres first game coming home off short road trip that had a lot of travel,
but Hou are not doing anything special either. This is a rematch of May 10th game when the stros lit up Greer. However he has been going a little better in last two and Oswalt has been alternating good and bad if that continues tonight it is time for a bad one.
DET over OAK. When streaks start getting up to 5 or more I tend to shy away. Although in baseball you don't mind riding hot teams or going against cold as the streak increases you know it has to end at some point. Just not tonight. Porcello has been going good and Anderson is starting after dealing with some bicep soreness. While Oakland has the revenge factor working for them, they don't have the players actually playing for them to do anything about it at least for tonight.
SF over Stl. Tim Lincecum has never lost to Stl and at a shortish price I will back one of the games best.
LAA at Tex. Big one in the AL west. Don't see a big edge in the pitching matchup. Angels lost all 3 last time here but are playing considerably better now. Like to just watch game one before looking to choose sides for the rest of the series.
Tor at home to TB. Roy Halladay returns and gets to face one of the hotter teams in Tampa, winners of 7 of 8. Clearly the pitching matchup favors the Jays, but in his first game back against a team going well there are too many croos currents in this one to be comfy with either side. Jays off a tough loss. Halladay rusty or brilliant tonight? Jays have scored 4 or more runs in 7 of 10. That would usually be enough for Roy, but Jays bullpen has been suspect?????
Mil vs NYM- Neither team great of late. Both are 4-6 in last 10. Nieve has been pleasant surprise for NYM with 3 good starts in a row. But the lineup is depleted so no bias.
Cubs vs Pit- Chi have lost 6 of 7 and Rich Harden has not pitched well of late. Alnost get the sense he doesn't want to go on the DL for the hundredth time so isn't full letting go. Velocity seems good but something has been missing. Zach Duke has pitched real well for most of the year but falls victim to lack of offense. No bias here.
Picks: Bos, CWS, Fla, LAD, SF, Min, Det.
Sports Shorts
Baseball
The Jays coughed one up yesterday. Off to a lead Brian Tallet couldn't hold that and then with 2 on and none out in the ninth, the follies began. I am a big fan of Cito Gaston and remember fondly him guiding us to back to back World Series, but not having Aaron Hill move those runners in the ninth was a mistake especially when the reason was that Hill had already hit 2 homers in the game. Fair enough to play a hunch but then John MacDonald getting caught taking too big of a lead at 2nd and being tagged out in a rundown is unacceptable. That lead by the way was part of a double steal the Jays were going to attempt so we could have runners on 2nd and 3rd with one out. Wait couldn't we have done that with Hill bunting?? Then Vernon tapped out weakly to SS to end the game, that's why we pay him the big bucks. The April surprise is now in 4th in the AL East.
Tommy Hanson pitched out of trouble in the 4th inning to pick up another win. Bobby Cox compared him to John Smoltz.... Anybody else watch him throw, he may be good but I don't think he looks like Smoltz when he throws and I think it may be prudent to wait on those kind of comparisons.
Mark DeRosa to the Cards. Plays lots of positions, can hit in different lineup spots, veteran, Still its Mark DeRosa, maybe I missed something but before last year he would be described as a journeyman or utility player. I would be surprised if he happened to being the missing piece in St Louis. I think they still need a big bat in that lineup besides Albert.
Angels are in first again in the west. Anyone shocked
Tennis
Some people refer to today as the best day of tennis of the year, with all round of 16 matches on both the mens and womens sides of the draws. Ultimately whatever happens today will more than likely lead to the Williams sisters playing in the final against each other. Venus may have a test in the semis with Safina or Mauresmo (former champ) but most likely just a speed bump til she meets her sister.
The UK press could not be pulling any harder for a Murray-Federer final. On paper it looks to be likely however Federer has potentially the six foot 10 inch huge serving Karlovic in the quarters then would have to get by Djokovic. No more tennis until the finals unless something gets in the way of the expected results.
NASCAR
There won't be a lot of car racing remarks but congratulations to Joey Logano on his win and in the process becoming the youngest driver to win a cup race.
MMA
Former wrestler Bobby Lashley won his 4th straight. He keeps winning and Lesnar keeps winning and you may get to see what would happen when two pro wrestlers fight for real.
Golf
Just need to mention Kenny Perry winning again with the age, swing, putting stance, and mental baggage of Augusta he is the proof of "its not how but how many" way of golf. David Toms seems to have found a bit of a game lately and might be someone to watch this summer.
Soccer
Huge props to the U.S. mens team for a great Confed cup. Getting to final was one thing, but leading 2-0 at the half was almost too much to hope for. Unfortunately the Brazilians showed up to play in the second half and roared back to score 3 and snatch victory from the jaws of defeat. In the end there was little doubt of who deserved this one, as the Americans barely touched the ball in the second half.
Sunday, June 28, 2009
June 28
Nothing great in the world of sports Saturday to cover. So speaking of covering we will just go straight to Sunday's selections.
Betting Corner (18-4 mlb)
4-0 yesterday with Milwaukee coming through in extras.
NYY, Balt and Pittsburgh also win and should have gotten on Kevin Correia as an upset special. Nice price
Today quickly..
Mil- don't love going against new starters but think Mil is hitting enough to get past SF
Tor- Tallet has been pretty solid keeping TO in most games and I think the Jays will hit Moyer. Don't think it helps Moyer that the Jays saw a lefty yesterday and were shut down. They have plenty of right handed hitting and should get it done if Tallet is just decent today.
LAD- Kuroda good at home and in day games, just don't see Seattle picking this one up with Olsen starting.
Col-Cook goes for Rockies and has been good lately although I am not a fan he has been getting results. Mazarro has pitched well for the A's but I think the Rockies are hitting to well.
USA pays Brazil today in confederation cup soocer final. The dream most likely dies today but kudos on knocking off Spain.
Betting Corner (18-4 mlb)
4-0 yesterday with Milwaukee coming through in extras.
NYY, Balt and Pittsburgh also win and should have gotten on Kevin Correia as an upset special. Nice price
Today quickly..
Mil- don't love going against new starters but think Mil is hitting enough to get past SF
Tor- Tallet has been pretty solid keeping TO in most games and I think the Jays will hit Moyer. Don't think it helps Moyer that the Jays saw a lefty yesterday and were shut down. They have plenty of right handed hitting and should get it done if Tallet is just decent today.
LAD- Kuroda good at home and in day games, just don't see Seattle picking this one up with Olsen starting.
Col-Cook goes for Rockies and has been good lately although I am not a fan he has been getting results. Mazarro has pitched well for the A's but I think the Rockies are hitting to well.
USA pays Brazil today in confederation cup soocer final. The dream most likely dies today but kudos on knocking off Spain.
Saturday, June 27, 2009
June 27
NHL Draft
NYI did the right thing and drafted Tavares no.1, it is the right pick and fit for them. Same goes for Tampa getting a defenceman to go with Stamkos. Matt Duchene seemed like a good pick at 3, liked the kids interview just after he was drafted. Next two picks Kane and Schenn, both get talked up big by all the "experts" but there was mention of Schenn being like Mike Richards, but in the midst of all good it was quietly mentioned that his skating might not be that great. That sounds more like his brother than Richards. In watching Luke play last year it would be the one glaring weakness in his game, but as a "shutdown" defenceman he can make up for it with positioning. That is not as easy to do as a forward. Seems like Evander Kane may take a while to develop into the type of player that he is projected to be. Tough to physically dominate against NHLers after playing in the WHL. He going to need to fill out and learn how to adapt to the pros.
Gotta give Brian Burke lots of credit for knowing how to make doing nothing into looking like he is doing tons. Last I checked he makes a boatload of cash to manage a hockey team. A job millions of Canadians would die for by the way. But for two months he talked a big game about how he would do this and that to go after the number one pick. In the days leading up to the draft there started to become talk of maybe moving down if he couldn't go up. To be clear you can eitherkeep your pick or trade it. If you make a trade, you can go up or down or swap it for a player. That's it!!! Nothing more, it is not brain surgery. There are obviously different scenarios involving number of picks etc. but again it is just managing a hockey team. 29 other GM's were doing the same things, looking to make a good trade, get the best possible player at their position its just that they don't work for the Leafs and get the same coverage (nor do many crave it the same way) as Burke. Before we go off about what a great GM he is lets grade him on the things he does not so much on what he says. The two college free agents help the depth and maybe one will pan out. If he gets the big Swedish goalie then it has to be a seen as a plus for him. Nobody has a clue if Gustavson will be good in the NHL, but he looks like one of, if not, the top goalies outside the league so beating out a few other teams to get him is good work. Kaberle trade and free agency still to come so we can revisit that if and when. But as far as the draft went the Leafs had the 7th overall pick when the draft lottery was done and last night in Montreal they picked 7th and took the guy they thought was the best player at that point which is what anybody else would have done. Much ado about nothing.
Chris Pronger would seem like he was born to play for Philly. Just another reason to dislike the Flyers.
MLB
How bout them Blue Jays. Ricky Romero pitches a gem over series mvp Hamels. I think Cito has gone beyond the traditional smoke and mirrors and is on to some other sorcery.
Halladay looks to be good for Monday.
Bettors Corner
4-3 last night to drop me to 14-4 . Two of the losses come in games that I was a little iffy on. Serves me right. NYY. BOS LAA and TEX all win. Det losses by 1 and Stl also goes down in a tight one. Cin was a complete miss.
Mil Mclung starts. Good numbers at home ffor Seth and Zito is all or nothing. My guess is nothing tonight.
Bal over Was, nuf said.
Pitt, Maholm been real good at home.
NYY for same reason as yesterday, Yanks are hitting and the Mets are hurting.
NYI did the right thing and drafted Tavares no.1, it is the right pick and fit for them. Same goes for Tampa getting a defenceman to go with Stamkos. Matt Duchene seemed like a good pick at 3, liked the kids interview just after he was drafted. Next two picks Kane and Schenn, both get talked up big by all the "experts" but there was mention of Schenn being like Mike Richards, but in the midst of all good it was quietly mentioned that his skating might not be that great. That sounds more like his brother than Richards. In watching Luke play last year it would be the one glaring weakness in his game, but as a "shutdown" defenceman he can make up for it with positioning. That is not as easy to do as a forward. Seems like Evander Kane may take a while to develop into the type of player that he is projected to be. Tough to physically dominate against NHLers after playing in the WHL. He going to need to fill out and learn how to adapt to the pros.
Gotta give Brian Burke lots of credit for knowing how to make doing nothing into looking like he is doing tons. Last I checked he makes a boatload of cash to manage a hockey team. A job millions of Canadians would die for by the way. But for two months he talked a big game about how he would do this and that to go after the number one pick. In the days leading up to the draft there started to become talk of maybe moving down if he couldn't go up. To be clear you can eitherkeep your pick or trade it. If you make a trade, you can go up or down or swap it for a player. That's it!!! Nothing more, it is not brain surgery. There are obviously different scenarios involving number of picks etc. but again it is just managing a hockey team. 29 other GM's were doing the same things, looking to make a good trade, get the best possible player at their position its just that they don't work for the Leafs and get the same coverage (nor do many crave it the same way) as Burke. Before we go off about what a great GM he is lets grade him on the things he does not so much on what he says. The two college free agents help the depth and maybe one will pan out. If he gets the big Swedish goalie then it has to be a seen as a plus for him. Nobody has a clue if Gustavson will be good in the NHL, but he looks like one of, if not, the top goalies outside the league so beating out a few other teams to get him is good work. Kaberle trade and free agency still to come so we can revisit that if and when. But as far as the draft went the Leafs had the 7th overall pick when the draft lottery was done and last night in Montreal they picked 7th and took the guy they thought was the best player at that point which is what anybody else would have done. Much ado about nothing.
Chris Pronger would seem like he was born to play for Philly. Just another reason to dislike the Flyers.
MLB
How bout them Blue Jays. Ricky Romero pitches a gem over series mvp Hamels. I think Cito has gone beyond the traditional smoke and mirrors and is on to some other sorcery.
Halladay looks to be good for Monday.
Bettors Corner
4-3 last night to drop me to 14-4 . Two of the losses come in games that I was a little iffy on. Serves me right. NYY. BOS LAA and TEX all win. Det losses by 1 and Stl also goes down in a tight one. Cin was a complete miss.
Mil Mclung starts. Good numbers at home ffor Seth and Zito is all or nothing. My guess is nothing tonight.
Bal over Was, nuf said.
Pitt, Maholm been real good at home.
NYY for same reason as yesterday, Yanks are hitting and the Mets are hurting.
Friday, June 26, 2009
June 26
NHL Draft day
Leafland: On a team that has no talent and little grit, the best they had to offer was hard work which on some nights was enough to pick up points. Unfortunately for them they picked up a few too many and are now drafting 7th. Really would like to see a top 5 pick and if it could be done while also getting something useful for Kaberle then all the better. So long Tomas its been nice.
Like Babcock being named Canada's head coach for 2010.
Anyone else think the price tag is too high on Dany Heatley.
Don't think the Sedin's are the type of players you sign to 12 yr contracts.
With a big draft party at the Nassau Coliseum how can the Ilses not take Tavares? If you take someone else, even if your choice turns out to be good it still has to outperform Tavares or you are always the ones who passed him up.
As for the other top picks....Salming, Lidstrom, Hedman???? Don't think so.
Duchene looks good but wasn't necessarily the best player on his junior team last year.
Kane and Schenn seem like good prospects. Schenn being described as a Mike Richards type. Whoever gets him can only hope that is what they get. As far as Evander Kane goes can only say that, talking to someone who saw him in the playoffs for the Giants that he was clearly the best player on the ice.
NBA
Raptors draft DeRozan, not unexpected. NIce finish to last year but raw. Here's hoping Colangelo has found another Marion or Stoudemire with a ninth selection.
How many times will we have to hear how Shaq is trying to help a 3rd star win his first NBA crown?
Don't like the chemistry swap in Orlando Hedo for Vinsanity.
Do really like the Spurs picking up Richard Jefferson.
Tennis
Federer loses 3rd set in a tiebreak, his opponents reward a 6-1 drubbing in the fourth.
Betting corner.
4-0 yesterday with Seattle and Florida winning comfortably. Texas needed extras after trying to cough up a lead both in the eighth and twelth and Pittsburgh came through with a run in the ninth to top Cliff Lee and the tribe.
Full slate for today with interleague taking center stage.
- Cin, Harang has nice run of 3 good starts, Reds coming off win in T.O. and Cleveland in first game home off road trip. Slight edge to Cincy.
- NYY with CC on the hill. Yanks scored 19 runs in last two in Atl. Mets finding ways to stay in the hunt but not today.
- Stl. like Wainwright at home with 2.55 era. Min still rough on the road at 13-22
- LAA with Weaver bouncing back over Arz. Halos winners of 9 of last 12
- Bos. with Beckett shut down Braves in last start and although he faces Jurrjens, Beckett goes on one extra days rest than the Braves starter.
- Det are hot although not overly convincing in a couple of 1 run games but I will keep drinking the Verlander Kool aid and look for him to outduel Wandy who has alternated good and bad starts in his last 4.
- Tex should pick up a W at home vs SD. Millwood going for Rangers, the price is terrible.
Thursday, June 25, 2009
June 25
NHL Draft day tomorrow.
NBA Draft Today.... Being north of the 49th means checking in on the Raptors. Not much in the way of trade news, but it would seem the draft choices are narrowing from any 1 of 5 different players down to 3 (Johnson, DeRozan and Holiday).
MLB Picks: Huge day yesterday at 6-1. Hopefully some recent struggles are behind us.
Not really loving much, and with the early games underway we look to this evening....
Seattle with Washburn , Texas over Arizona can't trust Garland at home. Pittsburgh over Cleveland, Lee has been pitching well but tribe are still losing with him on the mound. Florida over Baltimore.
NBA Draft Today.... Being north of the 49th means checking in on the Raptors. Not much in the way of trade news, but it would seem the draft choices are narrowing from any 1 of 5 different players down to 3 (Johnson, DeRozan and Holiday).
MLB Picks: Huge day yesterday at 6-1. Hopefully some recent struggles are behind us.
Not really loving much, and with the early games underway we look to this evening....
Seattle with Washburn , Texas over Arizona can't trust Garland at home. Pittsburgh over Cleveland, Lee has been pitching well but tribe are still losing with him on the mound. Florida over Baltimore.
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