Friday's Streaking and Slumping Starting Pitchers
By Covers.com
Streaking
Scott Diamond, Minnesota Twins (2-0, 0.00 ERA)
Diamond has yet to allow a run in his first two starts of the season. He kept the Blue Jays off the board through seven innings last weekend, striking out four without walking a batter. The Canadian lefty has a decent fastball and slider, but it’s his new curveball that is keeping hitters off balance now.
Jeff Samardzija, Chicago Cubs (4-1, 2.89 ERA)
Samardzija hasn’t allowed more than a single run in any of his last four starts and has struck out 45 batters in 43 2/3 innings this season. The Cubs are still trying to manage his pitch count and pulled him after he threw 91 pitches over five innings in an 8-2 win over the Milwaukee Brewers. The Cubs have kept him under 100 pitches in four of his seven starts.
Slumping
Joe Saunders, Arizona Diamondbacks (2-3, 3.43 ERA)
Saunders has allowed six runs in each of his last two trips to the hill. He served up four home runs over that span and continues to struggle to batters away. The lefty has just three strikeouts over those two starts. He retired the first seven batters he faced in the 7-3 loss to the Giants before getting swatted around.
Jake Arrieta, Baltimore Orioles (2-4, 5.21 ERA)
After puzzling the Yankees over eight shutout innings, striking out nine batters along the way, everything has fallen apart for Arrieta. He has allowed 19 hits and 13 earned runs over his last 10 innings. Arrieta lasted just 3 2/3 innings in his last start, giving up seven earned runs while striking out seven and walking two.
Lone Star Series!
Sportspic.com
The Lone Star Series is a 6-game series between the Houston Astros and Texas Rangers with the winner awarded a 30-inch Silver Boot Trophy. If the series is split (3-3), the winner is the club which scored the most runs over the course of the series. This years version starts Friday with three games at Minute Maid Park in Houston and three more at Rangers Ballpark in Arlington June 15-17. The Rangers have won the Silver Boot in five consecutive years and eight of eleven since it's inception in 2001.
If probable starters hold up the first installment of this three-game series pits Stros starter Wandy Rodriguez (3-3, 1.99 ERA) against Rangers starter Neftali Felix (3-1, 3.32 ERA). Wandy Rodriguez off a smart 8 innings of 3 hit, 1 run ball provides Stros their best chance over the weekend as Rangers are on a 2-6 skid vs a left-handed starter and the hurler sports a 4-2 TSR vs Texas. Neftali Felix is 2-0 with a 2.25 ERA and 13 strikeouts in his last two starts but enters just 1-1 on the road this season with a 4.12 ERA. Felix has never face Astros as a starter and is 0-1 in six career relief appearances vs Houston.
In Saturday's game, Lucas Harrell (2-3, 4.40 ERA) of the Astros will face Rangers Derek Holland (3-2, 3.78). Harrell has yet to face Rangers in his career but it is well to note Stros are on a 1-6 slide with Harrell and are 2-14 whenever the righty touches toe to rubber as a starter or out of the pen since his arrival last September. Holland skipping his last start after a doubleheader in Baltimore will be well rested and primed to improve his 2-0 mark vs Astros.
The finale will feature either Jordan Lyles or Aneury Rodriguez against Rangers Colby Lewis (3-3, 3.63 ERA). Lewis has lost each of his last three starts, allowing 8 long-ball, 19 runs. However, if there is a glimmer of hope, the hurler is 2-1, with a 1.97 ERA in 4 career starts against the Astros (2-2 TSR). Rangers overpowering bats will be the difference in the finale.
Final tid-bit - Rangers have won 9-of-12 meetings vs Astros L2Y's including 5-1 in Houston. Inter-league wise, Houston was 4-11 last year vs the A.L. including 1-8 at Minute Maid which brings the mark to 7-23 the past two years split between 2-13 at home, 5-10 on the road. Texas ended 2011 at 9-9 moving it's record to 23-13 L2Y's with a 10-8 mark at home, 13-5 record on the road.
MLB Weekend Interleague Cheat Sheet
By Marc Lawrence
Playbook.com
The interleague portion of the 2012 MLB schedule starts this weekend and we’re here to give you a quick review of what has happened along and what we can expect in the immediate future.
For openers, the American League looks to maintain its domination over the National League. The Junior Circuit holds an all-time 1937-1773 advantage over the Senior Circuit, while having won the overall head-to-head matchups each of the last eight years.
In this weekend’s edition of the Cheat Sheet we first focus on two rivalry series. In addition, we’ve updated the records of the best and worst performers in the history of interleague play. Keep in mind that all pitcher records are team start results and MRT (Most Recent Trends) unless noted otherwise.
Chicago White Sox at Chicago Cubs
Most recent series result: White Sox 14-6 last 20 games vs. Cubs.
Most recent series result at the site: Cubs 9-6 last 15 games home vs. White Sox.
Best arm in the series: Jake Peavy 8-3, 2.62 ERA career vs. Cubs.
Worst arm in the series: Matt Garza 1-6, 5.17 ERA career vs. White Sox.
Best May pitcher in the series: Peavy 6-1, 3.60 ERA.
Worst May pitcher in the series: Chris Volstad 0-5, 5.25 ERA.
Boston Red Sox at Philadelphia Phillies
Most recent series result: Red Sox 13-7 last 20 games vs. Phillies.
Most recent series result at the site: Red Sox 13-6 last 19 away vs. Phillies.
Best arm in the series: Jon Lester 3-0, 0.43 ERA vs. Phillies.
Worst arm in the series: Joe Blanton 1-6, 5.49 vs. Red Sox.
Best May pitcher in the series: Cole Hamels 15-2, 3.06 ERA.
Worst May pitcher in the series: Vance Worley 1-3, 7.20 ERA.
Best all-time interleague teams
1. New York Yankees 157-107 .595
2. Chicago White Sox 153-11 .580
3. Los Angeles Angels 152-114 .571
4. Boston Red Sox 150-115 .566
5. Minnesota Twins 148-116 .561
Worst all-time interleague teams
1. Pittsburgh Pirates 81-130 .384
2. Baltimore Orioles 115-150 .434
3. San Diego Padres 105-134 .439
4. Kansas City Royals 120-153 .440
5. Cincinnati Reds 97-123 .441
Active interleague career wins
1. Mark Buehrle, Marlins 23-6
2. Jamie Moyer, Rockies 23-15
3. Freddy Garcia, Yankees 21-8
4. Johan Santana, Mets 20-11
5. Livan Hernandez, Braves 20-18
Active Interleague career ERA
1. David Wells, Cubs 2.74
2. Freddy Garcia, Yankees 2.92
3. Johan Santana, Mets 3.02
4. Roy Halladay, Phillies 3.24
5. Mark Buehrle, Marlins 3.34
Active Interleague batting average
1. Albert Pujols, Angels .347
2. Ichiro Suzuki, Mariners .338
3. Derek Jeter, Yankees .332
4. Nick Markakis, Orioles .328
Hot pitchers
-- Lynn is 6-1, 1.81 in seven starts this season. Lilly is 5-0, 2.58 in six starts this season.
-- Samardzija is 2-0, 1.03 in his last four starts.
-- Hamels is 5-0, 1.93 in his last six starts.
-- Jackson is 0-0, 3.28 in his last four starts.
-- Niese is 0-0, 1.64 in his last couple starts.
-- Arroyo is 2-1, 3.09 in his last six starts.
-- Zambrano is 1-2, 1.50 in his last six starts.
-- Verlander is 2-0, 2.57 in his last three starts.
-- Hanson is 3-1, 3.25 in his last five starts.
-- Feliz is 2-0, 2.25 in his last couple starts. WRodriguez is 3-2, 1.88 in his last six starts.
-- Diamond hasn't allowed a run (14 IP) in his first two starts.
-- Mendoza is 2-0, 2.93 in his last three appearances.
-- Weaver is 4-1, 2.70 in his last six starts. Suppan is 2-1, 2.25 in his first three starts for San Diego.
-- Parker has a 2.10 RA in his first four starts for Oakland.
Cold pitchers
-- Humber is 0-2, 9.45 in four starts since his perfect game.
-- Bard is 1-2, 6.16 in his three road starts.
-- Arrieta is 1-4, 7.33 in his last five starts.
-- Romero is 1-1, 4.85 in his last four starts.
-- Pettitte lost his first '12 start, allowing four runs in 6.1 IP.
-- Masterson is 1-3, 6.69 in his last seven starts.
-- Morton is 1-2, 7.16 in his last three starts.
-- Shields has a 6.29 RA in his last four starts.
-- Estrada is 0-2, 5.68 in his last three starts.
-- Saunders is 0-2, 9.82 in his last three starts.
-- Millwood is 1-4, 5.28 in his last five starts. White is 0-2, 6.75 in his two starts this season.
-- Zito is 1-1, 4.60 in his last three starts.
Hot teams
-- Dodgers won nine of last 11 home games.
-- Red Sox won six of their last seven games. Phillies won last five.
-- Orioles won five of their last seven games. Washington is 13-7 in its first 20 home games.
-- Mets are 8-4 in their last dozen games. Toronto won six of its last nine at home.
-- Reds won first game in their last five road series.
-- Cleveland won its last four games, scoring 25 runs. Marlins won nine of last eleven road games.
-- Tampa Bay won four of its last five games. Braves won nine of their last eleven road games.
-- Astros won nine of their last twelve home games.
-- Twins are 4-3 in their last seven games.
-- Oakland won six of its last nine road games. Giants won four of their last six games.
Cold teams
-- Cardinals lost five of last seven games, but won five of six on road.
-- Cubs lost their last three games, allowing 24 runs. White Sox are 4-7 in last eleven road games (3-1 in last four).
-- Bronx Bombers lost four of their last five games.
-- Detroit lost five of its last seven games. Pirates are 1-6 in road series openers.
-- Rangers lost three of their last four games.
-- Brewers lost four of their last five games.
-- Royals are 4-15 at home this season. Arizona lost six of its last nine road games.
-- Colorado lost 10 of its last 13 games. Mariners lost six of their last seven games.
-- San Diego is 3-5 in its last eight home games. Angels lost 12 of their last 17 road games.
Totals
-- Six of last seven St Louis games went over the total.
-- Over is 4-0-1 in White Sox last five games.
-- Last four Boston games stayed under the total.
-- Last seven Washington home games went over total.
-- Mets' last eight road games went over the total.
-- Four of last five Cincinnati games went over the total.
-- Over is 4-1-1 in last six Cleveland home games.
-- Seven of last eight Pirate road games went over the total.
-- Five of last seven Atlanta games went over the total.
-- Last four Texas road games went over the total.
-- Under is 7-2-1 in Minnesota's last ten road games.
-- Five of last six Arizona road games stayed under total.
-- Under is 9-4-1 in last fourteen Seattle games.
-- Under is 11-4 in Angels' last fifteen road games.
-- Under is 3-0-1 in last four Oakland road games.
Armadillosports.com
ST LOUIS (22 - 16) at LA DODGERS (25 - 13) - 10:10 PM
LANCE LYNN (R) vs. TED LILLY (L)
Top Trends for this game.
LA DODGERS are 67-43 (+20.2 Units) against the money line when the total is 7 or less over the last 2 seasons.
LA DODGERS are 16-4 (+10.9 Units) against the money line in home games this season.
LA DODGERS are 46-25 (+17.2 Units) against the money line at home when the total is 7 or less over the last 2 seasons.
LA DODGERS are 24-8 (+16.4 Units) against the money line when playing on Friday over the last 2 seasons.
LA DODGERS are 16-4 (+10.9 Units) against the money line in home games in games played on a grass field this season.
LA DODGERS are 18-7 (+10.1 Units) against the money line in night games this season.
LA DODGERS are 16-5 (+10.2 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters this season.
ST LOUIS is 64-48 (+17.4 Units) against the money line in road games over the last 2 seasons.
ST LOUIS is 63-46 (+18.1 Units) against the money line in road games in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
ST LOUIS is 90-58 (+22.0 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons.
ST LOUIS is 19-9 (+11.4 Units) against the money line in road games against left-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
LANCE LYNN vs. LA DODGERS since 1997
No recent starts.
TED LILLY vs. ST LOUIS since 1997
LILLY is 7-3 when starting against ST LOUIS with an ERA of 2.85 and a WHIP of 0.990.
His team's record is 9-5 (+3.3 units) in these starts. The OVER is 4-10. (-6.7 units)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CHI WHITE SOX (18 - 21) at CHICAGO CUBS (15 - 23) - 2:20 PM
PHILIP HUMBER (R) vs. JEFF SAMARDZIJA (R)
Top Trends for this game.
SAMARDZIJA is 8-2 (+9.0 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 3 seasons.
SAMARDZIJA is 8-2 (+9.0 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 3 seasons.
CHI WHITE SOX are 55-48 (+12.7 Units) against the money line in road games over the last 2 seasons.
CHI WHITE SOX are 26-10 (+15.4 Units) against the money line in an inter-league game over the last 3 seasons.
CHI WHITE SOX are 37-27 (+14.3 Units) against the money line in road games in day games over the last 3 seasons.
CHI WHITE SOX are 53-42 (+16.4 Units) against the money line in road games in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
CHI WHITE SOX are 79-65 (+22.5 Units) against the money line in road games against right-handed starters over the last 3 seasons.
CHI WHITE SOX are 319-314 (+28.8 Units) against the money line in road games after a win since 1997.
CHICAGO CUBS are 1202-1289 (-239.6 Units) against the money line in all games since 1997.
CHICAGO CUBS are 84-100 (-30.6 Units) against the money line in home games over the last 3 seasons.
CHICAGO CUBS are 654-662 (-125.5 Units) against the money line in day games since 1997.
CHICAGO CUBS are 84-100 (-30.6 Units) against the money line in home games in games played on a grass field over the last 3 seasons.
CHICAGO CUBS are 57-72 (-22.6 Units) against the money line in home games against right-handed starters over the last 3 seasons.
CHICAGO CUBS are 73-91 (-34.4 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 3 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
PHILIP HUMBER vs. CHICAGO CUBS since 1997
HUMBER is 1-0 when starting against CHICAGO CUBS with an ERA of 0.00 and a WHIP of 1.143.
His team's record is 1-0 (+1.1 units) in these starts. The OVER is 0-1. (-1.1 units)
JEFF SAMARDZIJA vs. CHI WHITE SOX since 1997
No recent starts.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
BOSTON (18 - 20) at PHILADELPHIA (20 - 19) - 7:05 PM
DANIEL BARD (R) vs. COLE HAMELS (L)
Top Trends for this game.
BOSTON is 110-92 (-18.2 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
HAMELS is 27-6 (+18.5 Units) against the money line in May games since 1997.
BOSTON is 30-15 (+15.2 Units) against the money line in road games when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
HAMELS is 2-7 (-9.6 Units) against the money line in home games after a win over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
DANIEL BARD vs. PHILADELPHIA since 1997
No recent starts.
COLE HAMELS vs. BOSTON since 1997
HAMELS is 3-0 when starting against BOSTON with an ERA of 1.44 and a WHIP of 0.880.
His team's record is 3-1 (+1.8 units) in these starts. The OVER is 1-2. (-1.2 units)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
BALTIMORE (25 - 14) at WASHINGTON (23 - 15) - 7:05 PM
JAKE ARRIETA (R) vs. EDWIN JACKSON (R)
Top Trends for this game.
WASHINGTON is 103-97 (+14.6 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
WASHINGTON is 19-10 (+12.3 Units) against the money line when playing on Friday over the last 2 seasons.
WASHINGTON is 77-51 (+27.8 Units) against the money line in home games in an inter-league game since 1997.
WASHINGTON is 103-97 (+14.6 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
WASHINGTON is 68-64 (+11.6 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons.
WASHINGTON is 45-37 (+19.1 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
BALTIMORE is 25-14 (+16.8 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
BALTIMORE is 6-0 (+6.8 Units) against the money line as a road underdog of +100 to +125 this season.
BALTIMORE is 13-5 (+12.6 Units) against the money line in road games this season.
BALTIMORE is 11-5 (+9.5 Units) against the money line in May games this season.
BALTIMORE is 23-13 (+14.7 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
BALTIMORE is 20-11 (+13.3 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters this season.
BALTIMORE is 16-8 (+11.0 Units) against the money line after a win this season.
BALTIMORE is 15-6 (+12.9 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
JAKE ARRIETA vs. WASHINGTON since 1997
ARRIETA is 0-1 when starting against WASHINGTON with an ERA of 12.38 and a WHIP of 2.500.
His team's record is 1-1 (-0.4 units) in these starts. The OVER is 2-0. (+2.0 units)
EDWIN JACKSON vs. BALTIMORE since 1997
JACKSON is 5-1 when starting against BALTIMORE with an ERA of 3.71 and a WHIP of 1.168.
His team's record is 5-2 (+2.7 units) in these starts. The OVER is 3-4. (-1.4 units)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NY METS (21 - 17) at TORONTO (21 - 18) - 7:05 PM
JON NIESE (L) vs. RICKY ROMERO (L)
Top Trends for this game.
TORONTO is 37-19 (+21.5 Units) against the money line when playing on Friday over the last 3 seasons.
NY METS are 98-102 (+7.5 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
NY METS are 52-47 (+21.3 Units) against the money line in road games over the last 2 seasons.
NY METS are 22-14 (+11.2 Units) against the money line in an inter-league game over the last 3 seasons.
NY METS are 36-32 (+14.2 Units) against the money line in road games in night games over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
JON NIESE vs. TORONTO since 1997
No recent starts.
RICKY ROMERO vs. NY METS since 1997
No recent starts.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CINCINNATI (19 - 18) at NY YANKEES (20 - 18) - 7:05 PM
BRONSON ARROYO (R) vs. ANDY PETTITTE (L)
Top Trends for this game.
CINCINNATI is 97-100 (-16.8 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
CINCINNATI is 576-661 (+47.8 Units) against the money line in road games since 1997.
CINCINNATI is 379-425 (+38.4 Units) against the money line in road games in night games since 1997.
CINCINNATI is 33-18 (+18.7 Units) against the money line in road games after a loss over the last 2 seasons.
ARROYO is 23-14 (+10.9 Units) against the money line in road games over the last 2 seasons.
ARROYO is 23-14 (+10.9 Units) against the money line in road games in games played on a grass field over the last 3 seasons.
NY YANKEES are 111-98 (-59.8 Units) against the money line in home games in May games since 1997.
NY YANKEES are 219-181 (-49.0 Units) against the money line when playing on Friday since 1997.
NY YANKEES are 69-68 (-23.6 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
BRONSON ARROYO vs. NY YANKEES since 1997
ARROYO is 0-0 when starting against NY YANKEES with an ERA of 6.99 and a WHIP of 1.660.
His team's record is 5-2 (+4.7 units) in these starts. The OVER is 4-3. (+0.6 units)
ANDY PETTITTE vs. CINCINNATI since 1997
PETTITTE is 4-3 when starting against CINCINNATI with an ERA of 3.64 and a WHIP of 1.601.
His team's record is 4-6 (-3.6 units) in these starts. The OVER is 6-4. (+2.0 units)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MIAMI (20 - 18) at CLEVELAND (22 - 16) - 7:05 PM
CARLOS ZAMBRANO (R) vs. JUSTIN MASTERSON (R)
Top Trends for this game.
MIAMI is 61-79 (-18.2 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
CLEVELAND is 105-98 (+11.7 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
CLEVELAND is 13-4 (+9.4 Units) against the money line when the total is 8 to 8.5 this season.
CLEVELAND is 38-23 (+12.9 Units) against the money line at home when the total is 8 to 8.5 over the last 2 seasons.
CLEVELAND is 102-95 (+10.5 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
CLEVELAND is 77-62 (+19.5 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons.
CLEVELAND is 18-8 (+11.3 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters this season.
CLEVELAND is 50-34 (+16.6 Units) against the money line in home games after a win over the last 3 seasons.
MASTERSON is 15-4 (+10.2 Units) against the money line when the total is 8 to 8.5 over the last 2 seasons.
MIAMI is 20-8 (+13.5 Units) against the money line in road games in May games over the last 2 seasons.
MIAMI is 143-122 (+32.2 Units) against the money line in an inter-league game since 1997.
MIAMI is 52-51 (+9.9 Units) against the money line in road games in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
MIAMI is 40-33 (+14.9 Units) against the money line in road games in night games over the last 2 seasons.
ZAMBRANO is 90-60 (+32.0 Units) against the money line in road games since 1997.
ZAMBRANO is 90-58 (+34.2 Units) against the money line in road games in games played on a grass field since 1997.
ZAMBRANO is 64-42 (+23.4 Units) against the money line in road games in night games since 1997.
ZAMBRANO is 46-30 (+18.7 Units) against the money line in road games after a loss since 1997.
ZAMBRANO is 41-28 (+20.8 Units) against the money line in road games when playing against a team with a winning record since 1997.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
CARLOS ZAMBRANO vs. CLEVELAND since 1997
ZAMBRANO is 1-0 when starting against CLEVELAND with an ERA of 3.00 and a WHIP of 1.500.
His team's record is 1-0 (+1.4 units) in these starts. The OVER is 1-0. (+1.0 units)
JUSTIN MASTERSON vs. MIAMI since 1997
No recent starts.
PITTSBURGH (18 - 20) at DETROIT (18 - 20) - 7:05 PM
CHARLIE MORTON (R) vs. JUSTIN VERLANDER (R)
Top Trends for this game.
PITTSBURGH is 25-76 (-44.5 Units) against the money line in road games in an inter-league game since 1997.
PITTSBURGH is 36-86 (-28.8 Units) against the money line in road games in night games over the last 3 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
CHARLIE MORTON vs. DETROIT since 1997
No recent starts.
JUSTIN VERLANDER vs. PITTSBURGH since 1997
VERLANDER is 1-0 when starting against PITTSBURGH with an ERA of 2.57 and a WHIP of 1.143.
His team's record is 1-0 (+1.0 units) in these starts. The OVER is 0-0. (+0.0 units)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ATLANTA (24 - 15) at TAMPA BAY (24 - 15) - 7:10 PM
TOMMY HANSON (R) vs. JAMES SHIELDS (R)
Top Trends for this game.
TAMPA BAY is 116-89 (+14.2 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
TAMPA BAY is 18-5 (+11.5 Units) against the money line in games played on artificial turf this season.
TAMPA BAY is 19-7 (+12.2 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters this season.
TAMPA BAY is 279-296 (+21.0 Units) against the money line in home games when playing against a team with a winning record since 1997.
SHIELDS is 28-14 (+12.2 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
ATLANTA is 12-3 (+8.8 Units) against the money line in road games in night games this season.
ATLANTA is 14-5 (+8.3 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record this season.
HANSON is 17-5 (+11.6 Units) against the money line when the total is 7 or less over the last 2 seasons.
HANSON is 11-2 (+9.8 Units) against the money line in road games when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 3 seasons.
TAMPA BAY is 24-33 (-24.5 Units) against the money line when playing on Friday over the last 3 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
TOMMY HANSON vs. TAMPA BAY since 1997
HANSON is 1-0 when starting against TAMPA BAY with an ERA of 0.00 and a WHIP of 0.571.
His team's record is 1-0 (+1.0 units) in these starts. The OVER is 0-1. (-1.2 units)
JAMES SHIELDS vs. ATLANTA since 1997
SHIELDS is 0-1 when starting against ATLANTA with an ERA of 4.50 and a WHIP of 1.000.
His team's record is 0-1 (-1.0 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 1-0. (+1.0 units)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TEXAS (24 - 15) at HOUSTON (17 - 21) - 8:05 PM
NEFTALI FELIZ (R) vs. WANDY RODRIGUEZ (L)
Top Trends for this game.
HOUSTON is 10-4 (+8.8 Units) against the money line when the total is 8 to 8.5 this season.
HOUSTON is 8-2 (+7.7 Units) against the money line at home when the total is 8 to 8.5 this season.
RODRIGUEZ is 35-21 (+16.0 Units) against the money line in home games when playing against a team with a winning record since 1997.
TEXAS is 131-87 (+16.9 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
TEXAS is 47-23 (+19.5 Units) against the money line when the total is 8 to 8.5 over the last 2 seasons.
TEXAS is 17-2 (+13.7 Units) against the money line as a road favorite of -150 to -175 over the last 3 seasons.
TEXAS is 124-80 (+17.5 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
TEXAS is 97-57 (+18.6 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons.
TEXAS is 55-29 (+20.7 Units) against the money line after a loss over the last 2 seasons.
HOUSTON is 74-128 (-32.8 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
HOUSTON is 201-238 (-56.7 Units) against the money line in May games since 1997.
HOUSTON is 17-41 (-19.9 Units) against the money line when playing on Friday over the last 3 seasons.
HOUSTON is 72-127 (-34.7 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
HOUSTON is 48-96 (-33.4 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
NEFTALI FELIZ vs. HOUSTON since 1997
No recent starts.
WANDY RODRIGUEZ vs. TEXAS since 1997
RODRIGUEZ is 4-2 when starting against TEXAS with an ERA of 5.13 and a WHIP of 1.380.
His team's record is 4-2 (+2.8 units) in these starts. The OVER is 2-3. (-1.2 units)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MINNESOTA (12 - 26) at MILWAUKEE (16 - 22) - 8:10 PM
SCOTT DIAMOND (L) vs. MARCO ESTRADA (R)
Top Trends for this game.
MINNESOTA is 75-126 (-34.2 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
MINNESOTA is 32-62 (-25.2 Units) against the money line when the total is 8 to 8.5 over the last 2 seasons.
MINNESOTA is 72-119 (-31.1 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
MINNESOTA is 50-95 (-33.4 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
MILWAUKEE is 71-35 (+25.8 Units) against the money line in home games over the last 2 seasons.
MILWAUKEE is 29-12 (+14.3 Units) against the money line in home games after a loss over the last 2 seasons.
MILWAUKEE is 70-37 (+22.8 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 2 seasons.
MILWAUKEE is 16-22 (-10.4 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
MILWAUKEE is 4-11 (-9.8 Units) against the money line when the total is 8 to 8.5 this season.
MILWAUKEE is 16-22 (-10.4 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field this season.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
SCOTT DIAMOND vs. MILWAUKEE since 1997
No recent starts.
MARCO ESTRADA vs. MINNESOTA since 1997
ESTRADA is 0-0 when starting against MINNESOTA with an ERA of 6.00 and a WHIP of 1.667.
His team's record is 1-0 (+1.7 units) in these starts. The OVER is 0-1. (-1.0 units)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ARIZONA (17 - 22) at KANSAS CITY (15 - 22) - 8:10 PM
JOE SAUNDERS (L) vs. LUIS MENDOZA (R)
Top Trends for this game.
ARIZONA is 114-94 (+20.2 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
ARIZONA is 53-51 (+11.6 Units) against the money line in road games over the last 2 seasons.
ARIZONA is 114-94 (+20.2 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
ARIZONA is 83-66 (+16.4 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons.
ARIZONA is 84-62 (+24.7 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
ARIZONA is 67-47 (+19.8 Units) against the money line after a win over the last 2 seasons.
KANSAS CITY is 4-15 (-11.3 Units) against the money line in home games this season.
KANSAS CITY is 4-15 (-11.3 Units) against the money line in home games in games played on a grass field this season.
KANSAS CITY is 2-12 (-10.6 Units) against the money line in home games after a loss this season.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
JOE SAUNDERS vs. KANSAS CITY since 1997
SAUNDERS is 4-0 when starting against KANSAS CITY with an ERA of 2.57 and a WHIP of 1.310.
His team's record is 5-1 (+3.7 units) in these starts. The OVER is 1-4. (-3.3 units)
LUIS MENDOZA vs. ARIZONA since 1997
No recent starts.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SEATTLE (16 - 24) at COLORADO (15 - 22) - 8:40 PM
KEVIN MILLWOOD (R) vs. ALEX WHITE (R)
Top Trends for this game.
SEATTLE is 83-120 (-28.1 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
SEATTLE is 63-120 (-41.6 Units) against the money line in road games over the last 3 seasons.
SEATTLE is 141-202 (-52.1 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 3 seasons.
SEATTLE is 44-73 (-24.1 Units) against the money line after a loss over the last 2 seasons.
SEATTLE is 14-34 (-18.2 Units) against the money line after 3 or more consecutive losses over the last 2 seasons.
SEATTLE is 55-79 (-28.9 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 3 seasons.
COLORADO is 88-113 (-39.3 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
COLORADO is 47-54 (-22.9 Units) against the money line in home games over the last 2 seasons.
COLORADO is 12-32 (-26.0 Units) against the money line in May games over the last 2 seasons.
COLORADO is 88-113 (-39.3 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
COLORADO is 113-131 (-39.0 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 3 seasons.
COLORADO is 59-82 (-34.0 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
COLORADO is 80-88 (-32.0 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 3 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
KEVIN MILLWOOD vs. COLORADO since 1997
MILLWOOD is 8-3 when starting against COLORADO with an ERA of 3.39 and a WHIP of 1.306.
His team's record is 9-5 (+1.7 units) in these starts. The OVER is 2-11. (-10.0 units)
ALEX WHITE vs. SEATTLE since 1997
No recent starts.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
LA ANGELS (17 - 22) at SAN DIEGO (14 - 25) - 10:05 PM
JERED WEAVER (R) vs. JEFF SUPPAN (R)
Top Trends for this game.
LA ANGELS are 17-22 (-13.6 Units) against the money line in all games this season.
LA ANGELS are 68-71 (-17.5 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons.
LA ANGELS are 628-624 (+57.7 Units) against the money line in road games since 1997.
LA ANGELS are 108-92 (+26.9 Units) against the money line in road games when playing on Friday since 1997.
LA ANGELS are 77-59 (+26.7 Units) against the money line in road games in an inter-league game since 1997.
LA ANGELS are 519-513 (+59.3 Units) against the money line in road games in games played on a grass field since 1997.
LA ANGELS are 626-540 (+65.4 Units) against the money line after a loss since 1997.
SAN DIEGO is 85-117 (-22.5 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
SAN DIEGO is 60-86 (-23.4 Units) against the money line when the total is 7 or less over the last 2 seasons.
SAN DIEGO is 45-61 (-19.0 Units) against the money line in home games over the last 2 seasons.
SAN DIEGO is 45-59 (-16.9 Units) against the money line at home when the total is 7 or less over the last 2 seasons.
SAN DIEGO is 8-23 (-16.2 Units) against the money line when playing on Friday over the last 2 seasons.
SAN DIEGO is 85-117 (-22.5 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
SAN DIEGO is 47-86 (-37.9 Units) against the money line in night games over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
JERED WEAVER vs. SAN DIEGO since 1997
WEAVER is 1-0 when starting against SAN DIEGO with an ERA of 0.00 and a WHIP of 0.667.
His team's record is 1-0 (+1.0 units) in these starts. The OVER is 0-1. (-1.1 units)
JEFF SUPPAN vs. LA ANGELS since 1997
SUPPAN is 5-3 when starting against LA ANGELS with an ERA of 4.42 and a WHIP of 1.112.
His team's record is 8-3 (+5.8 units) in these starts. The OVER is 4-6. (-2.4 units)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
OAKLAND (20 - 19) at SAN FRANCISCO (19 - 19) - 10:15 PM
JARROD PARKER (R) vs. BARRY ZITO (L)
Top Trends for this game.
SAN FRANCISCO is 858-716 (+102.9 Units) against the money line in night games since 1997.
SAN FRANCISCO is 72-74 (-17.6 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
There were no past matchups in this series during this time period.
JARROD PARKER vs. SAN FRANCISCO since 1997
No recent starts.
BARRY ZITO vs. OAKLAND since 1997
ZITO is 1-4 when starting against OAKLAND with an ERA of 7.24 and a WHIP of 1.865.
His team's record is 1-4 (-3.0 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 3-2. (+0.8 units)
CHI WHITE SOX vs. CHI CUBS
Chi White Sox are 2-4 SU in their last 6 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Chi White Sox's last 5 games
The total has gone UNDER in 8 of Chi Cubs's last 11 games at home
Chi Cubs are 2-5 SU in their last 7 games
BOSTON vs. PHILADELPHIA
Boston is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Boston's last 7 games on the road
Philadelphia is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games at home
Philadelphia is 6-13 SU in its last 19 games when playing at home against Boston
MIAMI vs. CLEVELAND
The total has gone UNDER in 14 of Miami's last 17 games on the road
Miami is 6-3 SU in its last 9 games when playing Cleveland
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Cleveland's last 9 games when playing Miami
Cleveland is 3-6 SU in its last 9 games when playing Miami
BALTIMORE vs. WASHINGTON
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Baltimore's last 7 games
Baltimore is 6-3 SU in its last 9 games when playing Washington
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Washington's last 6 games when playing Baltimore
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Washington's last 5 games at home
PITTSBURGH vs. DETROIT
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Pittsburgh's last 6 games when playing on the road against Detroit
The total has gone OVER in 7 of Pittsburgh's last 8 games on the road
Detroit is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games
Detroit is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games when playing Pittsburgh
CINCINNATI vs. NY YANKEES
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Cincinnati's last 5 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Cincinnati's last 6 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 8 of NY Yankees's last 10 games at home
NY Yankees are 4-2 SU in their last 6 games at home
NY METS vs. TORONTO
The total has gone OVER in 9 of NY Mets's last 10 games
NY Mets are 8-4 SU in its last 12 games
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Toronto's last 5 games when playing at home against NY Mets
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Toronto's last 6 games
ATLANTA vs. TAMPA BAY
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Atlanta's last 5 games when playing on the road against Tampa Bay
Atlanta is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games
Tampa Bay is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games when playing Atlanta
The total has gone UNDER in 10 of Tampa Bay's last 14 games at home
TEXAS vs. HOUSTON
Texas is 8-1 SU in its last 9 games when playing on the road against Houston
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Texas's last 5 games on the road
Houston is 4-14 SU in its last 18 games when playing Texas
Houston is 9-3 SU in its last 12 games at home
ARIZONA vs. KANSAS CITY
Arizona is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games on the road
Arizona is 3-9 SU in its last 12 games
Kansas City is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Arizona
Kansas City is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games when playing Arizona
MINNESOTA vs. MILWAUKEE
Minnesota is 7-17 SU in its last 24 games
The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Minnesota's last 10 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Milwaukee's last 5 games when playing Minnesota
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Milwaukee's last 5 games at home
SEATTLE vs. COLORADO
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Seattle's last 5 games when playing on the road against Colorado
Seattle is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Colorado
Colorado is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games at home
Colorado is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games when playing Seattle
LA ANGELS vs. SAN DIEGO
LA Angels are 5-12 SU in their last 17 games on the road
LA Angels are 4-1 SU in their last 5 games when playing San Diego
San Diego is 1-4 SU in their last 5 games when playing LA Angels
ST. LOUIS vs. LA DODGERS
St. Louis is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games on the road
The total has gone UNDER in 12 of St. Louis's last 17 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 5 of LA Dodgers's last 7 games when playing St. Louis
LA Dodgers are 6-3 SU in their last 9 games when playing at home against St. Louis
OAKLAND vs. SAN FRANCISCO
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Oakland's last 6 games
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Oakland's last 6 games when playing San Francisco
San Francisco is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Oakland
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of San Francisco's last 6 games when playing Oakland
National League
St. Louis at LA Dodgers
Lynn: STL 19-9 Away vs. lefties
Lilly: 116-78 Under in night games
InterLeague
Chicago White Sox at Chicago Cubs
Humber: White Sox 5-1 Under at Cubs
Samardzija: 8-2 TSR in all starts
Boston at Philadelphia
Bard: BOS 7-3 Over vs. lefties
Hamels: PHI 8-0 Under in home interleague games
Baltimore at Washington,
Arrieta: 16-5 Over in night games
Jackson: WASH 51-32 at home vs. AL East
NY Mets at Toronto
Niese: 10-1 Over in May
Romero: TOR 13-3 Over at home w/ total of 7.5 or less
Cincinnati at NY Yankees
Arroyo: 9-1 TSR Away if total is 8.5 or 10
Pettitte: 3-0 Under after allowing 2+ HR last outing
Miami at Cleveland
Zambrano: 90-60 TSR in road games
Masterson: 15-4 TSR Away if total is 8 to 8.5
Pittsburgh at Detroit
Morton: PIT 25-76 in interleague road games
Verlander: 34-6 TSR as favorite of -150 or more
Atlanta at Tampa Bay
Hanson: 17-5 TSR when the total is 7 or less
Shields: 20-8 TSR at home when the money line is +125 to -125
Texas at Houston
Feliz: TEX 17-2 as a road favorite of -150 to -175
W Rodriguez: HOU 3-9 vs. Texas
Minnesota at Milwaukee
Diamond: MIN 38-73 as an underdog of +100 to +150
Estrada: MIL 14-6 Over in night games
Arizona at Kansas City
Saunders: 26-12 Under when the money line is +125 to -125
Mendoza: KC 4-15 in home games
Seattle at Colorado
Millwood: SEA 14-4 in interleague play
White: COL 12-32 in May games
LA Angels at San Diego
Weaver: 8-0 Under on Friday
Suppan: 19-8 TSR at home vs. AL West
Oakland at San Francisco
Parker: OAK 19-9 Under in night games
Zito: 14-4 Under when the money line is -100 to -150
Diamond Trends - Friday
By Vince Akins
VegasInsider.com
SU TREND OF THE DAY:
The Pirates are 0-16 since June 17, 2011 as a road dog when they are off a win in which they never trailed for a net profit of $1600 when playing against.
OU TREND OF THE DAY:
The Rockies are 12-0 OU since April 17, 2011 at home after a loss in which they left 18+ men on base for a net profit of $1200 when playing the over.
STARTER TREND OF THE DAY:
The Rays are 10-0 since July 21, 2011 when James Shields starts at home for a net profit of $1050.
MLB BIBLE TREND OF THE DAY:
Jered Weaver has produced a team record of 17-0 (3.4 rpg) in his career when he is off a start in which he had a WHIP of at least two.
TODAY’S TRENDS:
The White Sox are 0-8 since July 17, 2011 when Phillip Humber starts as a dog for a net profit of $800 when playing against.
The Marlins are 0-8 OU since April 30, 2011 when playing a night game within 20 cents of pickem after allowing 6+ runs in a night game for a net profit of $800 when playing the under.
Interleague Action
By David Schwab
VegasInsider.com
This weekend marks the start of the first round of MLB Interleague Play for the 2012 regular season, continuing a tradition that began in 1997. The schedule includes a total of 252 games with 14 three-game series set to start this Friday and an extended round of Interleague Play that will run from June 8 to June 24.
The following is a look at some overall pertinent facts and figures as well as a closer look at some of the most intriguing matchups to get you ready for all the action.
MLB Interleague Overview
This will be the 16th season that Major League Baseball has scheduled games between the National and American League which has come to be known as Interleague Play. The popularity among baseball fans continues to remain strong. In 2011, the average Interleague game drew over 12 percent more fans to the ball parks than the average attendance figures for traditional intraleague games.
Over the years, certain teams have made the most of the opportunity to square-off against ball clubs from the other league. The New York Yankees have the best overall record in Interleague Play at 157-107. The next best team has been the Chicago White Sox with an overall record of 153-111. As a whole, the AL has gotten the best of it with a 52.3 winning percentage.
The Miami Marlins have the best record in the National League at 135-117 but there are only four other NL teams with an overall winning record. The Pittsburgh Pirates have the dubious distinction of having the worst Interleague record in the majors at 81-130.
The AL won the 2011 series with a record of 131-121 marking the eighth consecutive season that they posted a better record than their NL counterparts. The Yankees along with the Los Angeles Angels had the best record in the American League at 13-5, while the Kansas Royals had the worst at 5-13. Six of the 14 teams in the AL ended Interleague play with a winning record.
The teams with the best Interleague record in the NL were the Atlanta Braves and San Francisco Giants at 10-5. The team with the worst record was the Houston Astros at 4-11. Overall, there were nine NL teams that ended up above .500 in Interleague action for the year.
May 18 to May 20 Schedule
The battle for bragging rights in “The Windy City” official kicks off this weekend’s Interleague action with the White Sox and Cubs squaring-off this Friday afternoon at Wrigley Field in a 2:20 p.m. (ET) start.
The rest of the matchups are as follows:
Baltimore Orioles vs. Washington Nationals
Boston Red Sox vs. Philadelphia Phillies
Cincinnati Reds vs. New York Yankees
Miami Marlins vs. Cleveland Indians
Pittsburgh Pirates vs. Detroit Tigers
New York Mets vs. Toronto Blue Jays
Atlanta Braves vs. Tampa Bay Rays
Texas Rangers vs. Houston Astros
Arizona Diamondbacks vs. Kansas City Royals
Minnesota Twins vs. Milwaukee Brewers
Seattle Mariners vs. Colorado Rockies
Los Angeles Angels vs. San Diego Padres
Oakland Athletics vs. San Francisco Giants
St. Louis Cardinals vs. Los Angeles Dodgers (NL Matchup)
Series in the Spotlight
While all 14 of this weekend’s Interleague series offer some interesting matchups both on the mound and in the field, there are a couple that have the potential to be the most entertaining given the natural geographic rivalry they create.
Crosstown Classic - White Sox vs. Cubs
Team Overviews
The White Sox come into this weekend’s series with an overall record of 18-21 which has the team 4.5 games in back of Cleveland in the AL Central. They are 2-4 in their last six games but coming off a 6-1 victory over the Angels as road underdogs (+141) to raise their record on the road to 11-9. Chicago is currently ranked 10th in the AL in hitting with a .248 team batting average and ranked ninth in scoring with 158 runs. The pitching staff is ranked seventh in the AL with a team ERA of 3.89.
The Cubs bring a three-game losing streak into Friday’s contest. They are also bringing up the rear in the NL Central with an overall record of 15-23 and are seven games out of first. Their back-to-back losses to Philadelphia at home have dropped the Cubs to 9-12 at Wrigley this season. This Chicago team is ranked 10th in the NL in hitting with a team batting average of .245 and averaging 3.76 runs per game, which is ranked 12th. The Cubs have a team ERA of 4.10, which is also ranked 12th in the NL.
Top Matchup on the Mound
Jake Peavy vs. Paul Maholm
Peavy is set to get the start in Sunday’s series finale. The right-hander is 4-1 on the year with a 2.65 ERA, but coming off a rough outing against Detroit this past Tuesday. He allowed six earned runs on nine hits including two home runs to end his streak of eight consecutive quality starts dating back to the end of last season.
Maholm will be making his eighth start of the season. He comes in with a 4-2 record and 4.35 ERA. The left-hander gave-up four earned runs on seven hits in six innings of work this past Wednesday against St. Louis. Maholm had only yielded a total of three earned runs in his four previous outings.
Betting Trends
The White Sox are 20-6 in their last 26 Interleague games on the road and 42-16 in their last 58 Interleague games overall. The total has stayed ‘under’ in 10 of their last 12 Interleague road games.
The Cubs are 1-4 in their last five games against the AL Central and 1-4 in their last five Interleague home games. The total has stayed ‘under’ in five of the Cubs last six Interleague games at home.
Head-to-head, the White Sox are 4-1 in the last five meetings and 5-2 in their last seven trips to Wrigley Field. The total has stayed ‘under’ in the last five meetings.
Best of the Rest
Beltway Series - Orioles vs. Nationals
What makes this series so intriguing is that both teams are off to strong starts and are at or near the top of their respective divisions. The Orioles are 25-14 with a one game lead over Tampa Bay in the AL East and the Nationals are 23-15 and a half game in back of Atlanta in the NL East.
The key pitching duel in this series pits Baltimore’s rookie phenom Wei-Yin Chen against Nationals’ ace Stephen Strasburg in Sunday’s series finale. Chen is off to a perfect 4-0 start with a 2.45 ERA in his first seven MLB outings. The left-hander has yet to give-up more than three earned runs in any game this season.
Strasburg has shown no ill effects in his first full season back from Tommy John surgery. The right-hander is 3-1 with an ERA of 2.25 and a 1.02 WHIP. He gave-up four earned runs in his last outing after giving-up a total of seven in his first seven starts.
The Orioles are 6-4 in the last 10 meetings but just 1-4 in their last five games in Washington. The total has gone ‘over’ in four of the last six games between the two.