MLB Betting News and Trends For Monday, April 9, 2018

Monday’s games
National League
Pirates (7-2) @ Cubs (5-4)
Nova is 0-1, 6.10 in two starts this season (over 2-0).

Chatwood allowed one run in six IP (92 PT) in his first ’18 start; his last four starts stayed under the total.

Pirates won seven of their first nine games (over 6-3). This is Cubs’ home opener; they won three of last four games. Under is 5-0-1 in their last six games.

Reds (2-6) @ Phillies (3-5)
Reed is 0-8, 9.79 in 11 career starts, 10 of which were in 2016.

Lively allowed two runs in 5.2 IP (91 PT) in his first ’18 start; under is 8-1-2 in his last 11 starts.

Reds lost six of their first eight games (over 4-4). Philly is 3-5 in its first eight games (over 4-3-1).

Braves (6-3) @ Nationals (4-5)
Teheran is 0-0, 10.13 in two starts this year (over 2-0); Braves scored 21 runs in winning both of those games.

Scherzer is 1-1, 4.09 in two starts this year (under 1-0-1).

Braves won four of their last five games; over is 4-2-3 in their games this season. Washington lost its last five games; over is 5-1-2 in their last eight games.

Brewers (5-5) @ Cardinals (4-5)
Chacin 0-1, 10.00 in two starts this season (over 1-1).

Mikolas allowed four runs in 5.2 IP in his first ’18 start, an 8-4 win in Milwaukee.

Brewers lost four of their last five games (under 4-0-1). St Louis is 4-5 in its first nine games; three of their last four games stayed under.

Mets (7-1) @ Marlins (3-6)
Syndegaard is 1-0, 5.40 in two starts this season (over 1-1). Four of his last six starts went over.

Urena is 0-1, 4.91 in two starts this season (over 1-1). Over is 4-2 in his last six starts.

Mets won their last five games; under is 4-2 in their last six games. Miami lost four of its last five games; over is 5-4 in their games.

Padres (5-5) @ Rockies (2-8)
Richard 0-1, 4.50 in two starts this season (under 2-0). He has an 8.84 career ERA in Denver.

Gray is 1-1, 2.45 in two starts this year; he blanked San Diego for seven innings last week. Under is 7-4 in his last 11 starts.

Padres lost eight of their first ten games; their last five games stayed under. Colorado split its first ten games; four of its last five games stayed under.

Diamondbacks (7-2) @ Giants (4-4)
Godley allowed one run in seven IP (96 PT) in his first ’18 start; under is 7-4-1 in his last dozen starts.

Holland is 0-1, 7.20 in two starts this year (over 1-1).

Arizona won five of its last six games; under is 4-1 in their last five. Giants won three of their last four games; five of their last six games went over.

American League
Tigers (4-4) @ Indians (4-5)
Liriano allowed one run in 6.2 IP in his first ’18 start; over is 4-2 in his last six starts.

Kluber is 0-1, 2.40 in two starts this year (under 2-0); Indians scored three runs in the two games.

Tigers won four of its last five games (under 4-1). Cleveland is 4-5 in its last nine games; their last four games stayed under.

Blue Jays (6-4) @ Orioles (4-6)
Happ is 1-1, 6.30 in two starts this season (over 1-1).

Bundy is 0-0, 1.38 in two starts this season (under 2-0).

Toronto won six of its last eight games; under is 6-4 in their games. Baltimore won three of its last four games; their last three games went over.

Angels (7-3) @ Rangers (4-7)
Richards is 1-0, 5.06 in two starts this season (over 2-0).

Fister is 1-1, 6.23 in two starts this season (under 2-0).

Angels won seven of their last nine games; over is 6-4 in their games. Texas lost four of its last five home games; under is 5-2 in their last seven games.

Rays (1-8) @ White Sox (3-5)
Archer is 0-0, 6.55 in two starts this season (over 2-0).

Gonzalez allowed six runs in five IP in his first ’18 start (89 PT); under is 7-3 in his last 10 starts.

Tampa Bay lost its last eight games; over is 4-1 in their last five. White Sox lost five of its last six games; under is 5-2 in their last seven games.

Astros (8-2) @ Twins (4-3)
Verlander is 1-0, 3.09 in two starts this year (over 1-1). Under is 7-4-1 in his last 12 starts.

Lynn allowed five runs in four IP (95 PT) in his first ’18 start; under is 5-3 in his last eight starts.

Astros won seven of their last eight games; under is 5-1 in their last six. Minnesota won four of its last six games (under 4-3).

Mariners (4-3) @ Royals (2-5)
Gonzales allowed three runs in 6.1 IP in his first ’18 start; over is 7-1 in his last eight starts.

Junis blanked Detroit for seven innings (87 PT) in his first ’18 start; under is 6-3-1 in his last ten starts.

Mariners are 4-3 in their first seven games; five of their last six games went over. Royals lost five of their last seven games; their last six games stayed under.

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Tampa Bay Rays vs. Chicago White Sox Preview and Predictions 04-09-2018

8th April 2018 by Gracenote
Two teams coming off demoralizing series sweeps try to turn things in a positive direction when the Tampa Bay Rays visit the Chicago White Sox on Monday afternoon for the opener a three-game set. Tampa Bay coughed up a five-run lead in the eighth inning Sunday to lose its eighth straight game - 8-7 at Boston - while the White Sox were losing 1-0 against Detroit, their fifth setback in six contests.

The Rays, who also squandered a 2-0 lead in the ninth inning of the series opener on Thursday, had rolled to a 7-2 lead while collecting 11 hits in the finale - prompting center fielder Kevin Kiermaier to tell the Tampa Bay Times, "That's about as deflating of a loss as you can have right there." Chicago gave up 15 runs in the first two games of the series against the Tigers before managing just three hits against five Detroit pitchers in frigid conditions in the finale. Avisail Garcia went 5-for-13 in the series to push his season average to .343 for the White Sox while slugger Jose Abreu slumped to 1-for-13 in the last three contests. Veteran Miguel Gonzalez will try to end the slide for Chicago when he heads to the mound to face Chris Archer, a two-time All-Star who goes after his first victory in his third start of the season for the Rays.

TV: 2:10 p.m. ET, FS Sun (Tampa Bay), WGN (Chicago)

PITCHING MATCHUP: Rays RH Chris Archer (0-0, 6.55 ERA) vs. White Sox RH Miguel Gonzalez (0-1, 9.00)

Archer did not post a decision or a quality start in his first two outings of the season, allowing eight runs on 12 hits and four walks with 14 strikeouts over 11 innings. The 29-year-old North Carolina native registered a 4.97 ERA on the road as opposed to 3.26 at home in 2017 and lost both starts against Chicago. Yolmer Sanchez is 5-for-14 with three homers and Garcia 4-for-11 with a blast against Archer, who is 3-2 with a 4.29 ERA in eight career appearances (seven starts) versus the White Sox.

Gonzalez, who was re-signed after being traded to Texas late last season, struggled in his 2017 debut by yielding six runs - five earned - on eight hits and two walks over five innings in a loss to Toronto. The 33-year-old Mexican went 7-10 with a 4.31 ERA in 22 starts with the White Sox last year before finishing the season 1-3 in five turns with the Rangers. Carlos Gomez is 1-for-3 with a home run against Gonzalez, who is 7-4 with a 2.76 ERA in 16 career outings against the Rays - none last season.

WALK-OFFS

1. Chicago recalled RHP Bruce Rondon on Sunday, and he struck out all four batters he faced in his White Sox debut.

2. Tampa Bay 1B Brad Miller (groin) was placed on the 10-day disabled list Sunday and RHP Ryan Weber was recalled from Triple-A Durham.

3. The teams split six games last season, but the White Sox took two of three at home to open September.

PREDICTION: Rays 6, White Sox 3

Pittsburgh Pirates vs. Chicago Cubs Preview and Predictions 04-09-2018

9th April 2018 by Gracenote
The Chicago Cubs' home opener is always a special occasion on the North Side, but this year's event might have even more buzz. The Cubs make their debut at Wrigley Field on Monday afternoon, when they open a three-game series against the red-hot Pittsburgh Pirates.

The Pirates are the early front-runners in the National League Central, having won seven of their first nine contests. Pittsburgh is benefiting from a balanced lineup - six everyday starters are batting over .300, and its bullpen is well-rested entering the series after James Taillon tossed a one-hit shutout against Cincinnati on Sunday. The Cubs also are coming off a shutout, having blanked Milwaukee 3-0 on Sunday to take three of four in the series. Chicago's offense has been spotty in the early going, but the team managed to get through a nine-game road trip to start the season with a winning record and its pitching has been excellent of late, allowing two or fewer runs in four of the last five games.

TV: 2:20 p.m. ET, MLB Network, AT&T SportsNet-Pittsburgh, ABC 7 (Chicago)

PITCHING MATCHUP: Pirates RH Ivan Nova (0-1, 6.10 ERA) vs. Cubs RH Tyler Chatwood (0-1, 1.50)

After a decent showing on Opening Day at Detroit, Nova had a tough second outing Wednesday against Minnesota. He allowed five runs and five hits over 5 1/3 innings, as things fell apart during a snowy sixth inning. The 31-year-old Dominican is 2-1 with a 4.09 ERA in four career starts against the Cubs.

Chatwood was excellent in his Cubs debut, holding Cincinnati to one run and four hits with six strikeouts over six innings. The only thing missing was run support, as the 28-year-old suffered a tough-luck loss in a 1-0 defeat. Chatwood has posted a 1.50 ERA without recording a decision in two career starts against the Pirates.

WALK-OFFS

1. The Cubs are the only team in the majors that has yet to play a home game.

2. The Pirates have scored 58 runs in nine contests - a total they didn't reach last season until their 17th game.

3. Chicago 1B Anthony Rizzo has missed three straight games with tightness in his lower back and is considered questionable for Monday.

PREDICTION: Pirates 5, Cubs 4

Detroit Tigers vs. Cleveland Indians Preview and Predictions 04-09-2018

8th April 2018 by Gracenote
The Cleveland Indians hope to build off the emotion of a walk-off victory when they begin a four-game home set against the Central Division-rival Detroit Tigers on Monday. The Indians manufactured a run without a hit in the eighth inning to tie the game before Yan Gomes delivered a two-run homer in the ninth for a 3-1 victory over Kansas City on Sunday, earning their first series win of the season.

"We needed the win and we got a win," Cleveland manager Terry Francona told reporters after his team improved to 4-5 overall. "We obviously have some work to do offensively, and we will. But it's nice to win a game like that." Reigning American League Cy Young Award winner Corey Kluber will try to make it two in a row for the Indians and gain his first victory of the season Monday against Francisco Liriano, who is coming off a strong outing. The Tigers come in hot off a three-game sweep on the road against the Chicago White Sox, scoring 15 runs to win the first two games before recording a 1-0 triumph on Sunday to even their record at 4-4. Former AL MVP Miguel Cabrera knocked in the only run in the finale with a sacrifice fly and leads the way with nine RBIs for Detroit, which has managed just two home runs in the early going.

TV: 6:10 p.m. ET, FS Detroit Plus, SportsTime Ohio (Cleveland)

PITCHING MATCHUP: Tigers LH Francisco Liriano (1-0, 1.35 ERA) vs. Indians RH Corey Kluber (0-1, 2.40)

Liriano was outstanding in his Tigers debut, allowing just one run on four hits and two walks with three strikeouts over 6 2/3 innings in a 6-1 win over Kansas City last Monday. The 34-year-old Dominican was used as a reliever 20 times in 38 appearances with Houston and Toronto last season, finishing with a 6-7 record and 5.66 ERA. Rajai Davis is 12-for-34 with a homer versus Liriano, who gave up seven runs over two innings but escaped with a no-decision in his lone start against the Indians in 2017.

Kluber has yet to find the win column despite producing two quality starts, yielding four runs on nine hits and three walks in road games against Seattle and the Los Angeles Angels. The 31-year-old native of Alabama has struck out 14 over 15 innings thus far and was dominant at home last year with a 10-2 record and 1.81 ERA with 157 strikeouts over 114 2/3 frames. Cabrera (22-for-57, six homers, 12 RBIs) and Victor Martinez (14-for-43, three, seven) have hit well against Kluber, who was 3-1 versus Detroit last year.

WALK-OFFS

1. Detroit 2B Dixon Machado was 4-for-12 in the last series and has registered six doubles and seven RBIs overall.

2. Cleveland's Lonnie Chisenhall (calf strain) was placed on the 10-day disabled list and fellow OF Tyler Naquin was recalled from Triple-A Columbus.

3. The Indians have won 27 of their 37 meetings with the Tigers over the last two seasons, including each of the last seven.

PREDICTION: Indians 6, Tigers 2

Cincinnati Reds vs. Philadelphia Phillies Preview and Predictions 04-09-2018

8th April 2018 by Gracenote
The Philadelphia Phillies surpassed their sum total over their first six games of the season with a 20-run output this weekend, only to struggle with their offense in their failed bid for the series sweep. The Phillies look to regain their mojo on Monday when they open a three-game set against the visiting Cincinnati Reds, who mustered just one hit on Sunday.

Rhys Hoskins hasn't lost a step as he is 11-for-25 with six extra-base hits and seven RBIs in eight games, highlighted by a double to left-center field in the third inning of Sunday's 6-3 setback to Miami. Odubel Herrera has done well in his own right, collecting two hits and two runs scored in the series finale to give him seven hits and five runs in his last three games. Troublesome pitching has plagued Cincinnati (MLB-worst 6.13 ERA), although the club won four of six versus the Phillies last season - including two of three to win a series in Philadelphia for the first time since August 2006. The Reds enter the set on a sour note as third baseman Eugenio Suarez (team-leading two homers, seven RBIs) sustained a fractured right thumb after he was hit by a pitch in Sunday's 5-0 setback to Pittsburgh.

TV: 7:05 p.m. ET, FS Ohio (Cincinnati), NBCS Philadelphia Plus

PITCHING MATCHUP: Reds LH Cody Reed (2017: 1-1, 5.09 ERA) vs. Phillies RH Ben Lively (0-1, 3.18)

Mother Nature brought an end to Reed's scheduled debut before it could begin on Tuesday, relegating him to tossing 89 pitches in a simulated-game performance with Triple-A Louisville. Speaking of Louisville, left-hander Brandon Finnegan is slated to make a rehab appearance with the Bats and soon could draw back in the rotation at the expense of the 24-year-old Reed. "I will just go out there and compete and hope for the best. I can only control what I can control. I can control the game (Monday). After that, it's not really in my hands."

Lively turned in a strong performance in his debut but saw his pitch count elevate before he departed after an RBI single by Travis d'Arnaud in the sixth inning, resulting in a 2-0 loss to the New York Mets on Tuesday. The performance was labeled as "exceptional" by manager Gabe Kapler, who also said the 26-year-old "showed that tremendous competitiveness." Lively will get his first look at the team that selected him in the fourth round of the 2013 draft.

WALK-OFFS

1. Philadelphia 3B Maikel Franco is 6-for-12 with two homers, 10 RBIs and four runs scored in his last three games after going 1-for-11 in his previous four.

2. Cincinnati 2B Scooter Gennett is 0-for-12 in his last three contests after hitting safely in his previous five.

3. Phillies SS J.P. Crawford is 0-for-16 with seven strikeouts in his last five games.

PREDICTION: Phillies 3, Reds 2

Toronto Blue Jays vs. Baltimore Orioles Preview and Predictions 04-09-2018

8th April 2018 by Gracenote
While the Toronto Blue Jays have recorded a win in six of the last eight games, the Baltimore Orioles overcame an early five-run deficit Sunday to give them victories in three of their last four. The American League East rivals look to continue their good fortune at the other's expense on Monday when they open a three-game series at Camden Yards in Baltimore.

Steve Pearce, who played parts of five seasons in Baltimore, set the tone early for Toronto by depositing the first pitch he saw from Cole Hamels out of the park in Sunday's 7-4 triumph over Texas. "Just ready to hit, ready to attack him early," said Pearce, who has gone deep in back-to-back outings while extending his runs scored streak to six games. Baltimore's Manny Machado has collected 10 hits over his last six outings and five RBIs over his last three, highlighted by two solo homers in Friday's 7-3 win in 14 innings over the New York Yankees. The Orioles weren't shy about working overtime again on Sunday, posting an 8-7 triumph in 12 frames for their fourth victory - three of which required more than nine innings.

TV: 7:05 p.m. ET, TVA, Sportsnet (Toronto), MASN2 (Baltimore)

PITCHING MATCHUP: Blue Jays LH J.A. Happ (1-1, 5.40 ERA) vs. Orioles RH Dylan Bundy (0-0, 0.69 ERA)

Happ, who is Toronto's Opening Day starter, evened his record last Tuesday despite surrendering two solo homers and four runs total over 5 1/3 innings in a 14-5 victory over the Chicago White Sox. The 35-year-old helped himself by striking out nine in that contest, but his fortunes haven't been favorable versus Baltimore as he owns a 4-6 career mark - including 1-2 with a 4.05 ERA in six starts at Camden Yards. Pedro Alvarez (6-for-12) has flustered Happ while all four of Chris Davis' hits have been for extra bases despite going just 4-for-20 versus the hurler.

Bundy is off to a fast start despite failing to record a positive decision this season, yielding just one earned run and striking out 15 in 13 innings. "I feel good about where I'm at right now and my body and the way I'm recovering," the 25-year-old Bundy told reporters. "So, you just want to take the ball when you're told to and go out there and try to give your team a chance to win." Bundy certainly has done his best versus Toronto, posting a 3-0 mark with an 0.76 ERA in seven career appearances.

WALK-OFFS

1. Baltimore LF Trey Mancini has answered a slow start by going 6-for-19 in his last four games.

2. Blue Jays DH Kendrys Morales, who belted a three-run homer on Sunday, went deep four times versus the Orioles last season.

3. Baltimore has won 12 of the 19 meetings between the teams in 2017.

PREDICTION: Blue Jays 4, Orioles 2

Milwaukee Brewers vs. St. Louis Cardinals Preview and Predictions 04-09-2018

8th April 2018 by Gracenote
Things have gone downhill in a hurry for the Milwaukee Brewers, but they look to begin a turnaround when they visit the St. Louis Cardinals on Monday for the opener of a three-game series. Milwaukee began the season by sweeping a three-game set in San Diego but went 2-5 on a homestand that concluded with Sunday's 3-0 setback against the Chicago Cubs.

It was the third shutout loss in five games for the Brewers, who managed only three hits - including a pair of singles by Lorenzo Cain. The 31-year-old center fielder matched his hit total from the previous six games after going 8-for-14 in the series against the Padres. St. Louis dropped two of three to Arizona in its first home series of 2018, including a 4-1 decision on Sunday in which Kolten Wong recorded two of the team's five hits and drove in the lone run. It was the first RBI of the season for the 27-year-old Hawaiian, who went 1-for-18 over his first seven games - with the only hit coming during the Cardinals' three-game set at Milwaukee last week in which they won twice.

TV: 7:05 p.m. ET, ESPN, FS Wisconsin (Milwaukee), FS Midwest (St. Louis)

PITCHING MATCHUP: Brewers RH Jhoulys Chacin (0-1, 7.00 ERA) vs. Cardinals RH Miles Mikolas (1-0, 6.35)

Chacin has struggled out of the gate, surrendering 10 runs and 14 hits in nine innings over his first two starts. The 30-year-old Venezuelan looks to avenge a home loss to St. Louis on Wednesday in which he was tagged for six runs - three earned - and seven hits in 5 2/3 frames. Chacin has yet to defeat the Cardinals in his career, going 0-6 with a 5.89 ERA in six starts and a relief appearance.

Mikolas, who went 2-5 with a 6.44 ERA in 10 starts for Texas in 2014, is back in the majors after spending the last three seasons in Japan as he signed a two-year contract with St. Louis in December. The 29-year-old Floridian yielded four runs and seven hits - three homers - in 5 2/3 innings at Milwaukee on April 2 in his Cardinals debut but picked up the win as he helped himself at the plate by belting a two-run shot. It was the second career appearance against the Brewers for Mikolas, who worked two scoreless frames of relief at Milwaukee on Oct. 2, 2012 while with San Diego.

WALK-OFFS

1. The Brewers have committed a major league-high 14 errors this season, including seven in the four-game set against Chicago.

2. Milwaukee placed OF Christian Yelich (oblique) on the 10-day disabled list Sunday and recalled RHP Taylor Williams from Triple-A Colorado Springs.

3. St. Louis placed LHP Ryan Sherriff (toe) on the 10-day disabled list and recalled RHP John Brebbia from Triple-A Memphis.

PREDICTION: Cardinals 6, Brewers 3

New York Mets vs. Miami Marlins Preview and Predictions 04-09-2018

9th April 2018 by Gracenote
The New York Mets own the best record in the National League and look to extend their winning streak to six contests when they open a three-game series against the host Miami Marlins on Monday. The Mets improved to 7-1 when Yoenis Cespedes knocked in the go-ahead run in the 12th inning on Sunday to help the team complete a three-game sweep at Washington with a 6-5 victory.

Asdrubal Cabrera will take a seven-game hitting streak into the series while Jay Bruce has hit safely in his last six contests for New York, which started 7-3 last season before finishing fourth in the National League East. Noah Syndergaard takes the mound for the Mets on Monday to face Jose Urena in a battle of Opening Day starters taking their third turn of the campaign. The Marlins, who begin a six-game homestand on Monday, snapped a four-game losing streak and rebounded from an embarrassing 20-1 loss with Sunday's 6-3 triumph in which they scored three late runs to snap a tie. Rookie Brian Anderson delivered a go-ahead, two-run double in the victory and leads the team with eight RBIs while hitting safely in eight of nine games.

TV: 7:10 p.m. ET, SNY (New York), FS Florida

PITCHING MATCHUP: Mets RH Noah Syndergaard (1-0, 5.40 ERA) vs. Marlins RH Jose Urena (0-1, 4.91)

Syndergaard was limited to four innings due to a high pitch count (92) last time out against Philadelphia, allowing two runs on four hits and a pair of walks after winning his season debut. The 25-year-old Texan gave up four runs but struck out 10 in six frames to beat St. Louis on Opening Day. Miguel Rojas is 3-for-4 lifetime against Syndergaard, who made two of his seven starts last season versus Miami - going 1-0 while yielding two earned runs and recording 13 strikeouts over 13 innings.

Urena pitched much better in his second start of the season against Boston on Tuesday, giving up one run and four hits with seven strikeouts in seven innings of a no-decision. The 26-year-old Dominican struggled during his turn on March 29, when he surrendered five runs on six hits and four walks in four frames against the Chicago Cubs. Bruce is 4-for-13 with a pair of homers versus Urena, who went 2-1 with a 2.25 ERA in five games (three starts) against the Mets last year.

WALK-OFFS

1. New York RHP Jeurys Familia has allowed two hits while striking out six over six scoreless innings in his first five outings, notching three saves along the way.

2. Miami CF Lewis Brinson, the key acquisition from Milwaukee in the trade involving Christian Yelich, is 0-for-16 with eight strikeouts in his last four games.

3. The Marlins won 12 of their 19 meetings with the Mets last season, including each of the last four.

PREDICTION: Mets 5, Marlins 2

Atlanta Braves vs. Washington Nationals Preview and Predictions 04-09-2018

9th April 2018 by Gracenote
A season-opening four-game winning streak has become a distant memory for the Washington Nationals, who are in the midst of a five-game slide as they enter the opener of their three-game set against the visiting Atlanta Braves on Monday. Washington rallied from a pair of two-run deficits on Sunday before falling to the New York Mets 6-5 in 12 innings.

Bryce Harper went 3-for-4 with two-run homer - his major league-leading sixth blast of the season - for the Nationals, who were swept by Mets to start their 10-game homestand with an 0-3 record. Atlanta has won three straight series to begin the season, taking two of three from each opponent after posting a 4-0 victory in Colorado on Sunday. Nick Markakis, Dansby Swanson and Ozzie Albies continued their strong starts to 2018 as each went 2-for-4 with a solo homer in the triumph. Markakis has hit safely in eight of his nine games, Swanson recorded five multi-hit performances over his first eight contests and Albies notched three over his last five outings.

TV: 7:05 p.m. ET, FS South (Atlanta), MASN (Washington)

PITCHING MATCHUP: Braves RH Julio Teheran (0-0, 10.13 ERA) vs. Nationals RH Max Scherzer (1-1, 1.64)

Teheran escaped with a no-decision against Washington on Tuesday after being tagged for five runs on six hits - three homers - and three walks in just 2 1/3 innings. The 27-year-old Colombian didn't fare any better in his season debut as he yielded four runs on four hits and three walks over 5 2/3 frames versus Philadelphia on March 29 but also avoided the loss. Teheran has made 19 career starts against the Nationals, going 6-4 with a 4.18 ERA.

After opening the season with six scoreless innings at Cincinnati, Scherzer had some issues in Atlanta on Wednesday. The 33-year-old two-time reigning Cy Young Award winner, who also claimed the prize in 2013, surrendered five runs - two earned - and six hits en route to a loss while needing 110 pitches to get through five frames. Scherzer is just 7-6 with one complete game and a 3.92 ERA in 18 career games (16 starts) against the Braves.

WALK-OFFS

1. The Braves won two of three against the Nationals at home last week, outscoring Washington 20-7 in the victories.

2. Harper has hit more home runs than five major-league teams and the same amount as one other club.

3. Atlanta 1B Freddie Freeman has hit safely in eight of his nine games this season and went 5-for-10 with a homer and five RBIs in the three contests against Washington last week.

PREDICTION: Nationals 7, Braves 1

Los Angeles Angels vs. Texas Rangers Preview and Predictions 04-09-2018

8th April 2018 by Gracenote
Two-way star Shohei Ohtani isn't expected to see action Monday when the Los Angeles Angels begin a three-game series against the host Texas Rangers, but that's only because even rookie phenoms need a day of rest. Ohtani has already homered three times as a hitter and was even more impressive in Sunday's 6-1 win over Oakland, pitching 6 1/3 perfect innings with 12 strikeouts.

Mike Trout snapped an 0-for-15 skid with a solo homer Sunday while new arrival Ryan Schimpf started at third base and homered with two walks to help the Angels improve to 7-3. Of course, most of the buzz around the Angels is focused on Ohtani, who is typically given the day off before and after he pitches but will likely serve as the team's designated hitter on Tuesday. "I think he's mature beyond his years," manager Mike Scioscia told reporters. "Shohei, he's very confident, he works very, very hard at what he needs to do, and there's a lot on his plate. But he has the talent to do it." The Rangers dropped two of three against Toronto over the weekend despite another strong series from leadoff hitter Shin-Soo Choo, who has scored a run in five straight games and is batting .325 with three home runs.

TV: 8:05 p.m. ET, FS West (Los Angeles), FS Southwest (Texas)

PITCHING MATCHUP: Angels RH Garrett Richards (1-0, 5.06 ERA) vs. Rangers RH Doug Fister (1-1, 3.12)

After struggling in his Opening Day start against Oakland, Richards earned the victory last Tuesday against Cleveland by allowing two runs on one hit with four walks and nine strikeouts over 5 2/3 innings. The 29-year-old native of Oklahoma is hoping for a healthy campaign after being limited to a total of 12 starts over the last seasons due to various injuries. Rougned Odor is 2-for-25 with nine strikeouts against Richards, who is 9-4 with a 3.15 ERA in 21 career games (17 starts) against Texas.

After tossing five innings of one-run ball in his first start against Houston, Fister allowed two runs on seven hits over 3 2/3 frames in last Wednesday's 6-2 loss to Oakland. "I was putting them in good hitters' counts and not getting ahead of them," Fister told reporters. "I've got to be better, period." Andrelton Simmons is 4-for-26 against the 34-year-old native Californian, who has gone 3-4 with a 2.90 ERA in 13 career starts against the Angels.

WALK-OFFS

1. Texas was 11-8 against the Angels last season, including 5-4 at Globe Life Park.

2. The Angels placed JC Ramirez on the 10-day disabled list with a right elbow strain and recalled fellow RHPs Eduardo Paredes and Felix Pena from Triple-A Salt Lake.

3. Texas is 18-25 at home since last season's All-Star break.

PREDICTION: Angels 6, Rangers 4

Houston Astros vs. Minnesota Twins Preview and Predictions 04-09-2018

8th April 2018 by Gracenote
The Houston Astros' calling card last season was their high-octane offense, which led the majors in runs, hits, batting average and slugging percentage among other categories. After erupting for 57 runs to win five of six meetings with Minnesota in 2017, the ascending Astros hope to keep flexing their muscles on Monday when they open a three-game series versus the host Twins.

Josh Reddick blasted his third homer in five games during Sunday's 4-1 triumph over San Diego, improving to 9-for-19 with seven RBIs in his last six outings heading into the expected cold temperatures of Minnesota. "The elements are going to be horrible," Houston manager A.J. Hinch told reporters. "It's just cold. There's no way around it. If they tell us to play, we're going to play." Unlike the weather, Brian Dozier is hot with four solo homers and eight runs scored to highlight his seven-game hitting streak, although he is batting just .185 with eight strikeouts in 27 career at-bats versus Monday starter Justin Verlander. Miguel Sano and Eduardo Escobar can tell similar tales as they are carry six- and five-game hitting streaks, respectively, into a matchup with Verlander - against whom they are batting .100 (with five strikeouts in 10 at-bats) and .167 (four strikeouts in 12 at-bats).

TV: 8:10 p.m. ET, AT&T SportsNet Southwest (Houston), FS North (Minnesota)

PITCHING MATCHUP: Astros RH Justin Verlander (1-0, 2.31 ERA) vs. Twins RH Lance Lynn (0-1, 11.25)

Verlander overcame a pair of homers in his last outing to carry an eight-game regular-season winning streak into Monday's tilt versus Minnesota, against which he owns a 17-9 mark with a 3.15 ERA. While those numbers are impressive, the 2011 AL MVP and Cy Young Award recipient is a sparkling 6-0 with a 1.38 ERA since being traded to the Astros - although he settled for a no-decision in his last trip to the mound. Verlander yielded four runs on six hits while striking out nine in 5 2/3 innings against Baltimore on Tuesday.

Sunday's inclement weather allowed Lynn an extra 24 hours to lament his first start with the Twins, as he struggled with control against Pittsburgh and allowed five runs in the first inning. The 30-year-old Ole Miss product, who matched a personal worst with six walks versus the Pirates, issued a career-high 78 in 186 1/3 innings with St. Louis last year when he went 11-8. Lynn has posted just one victory in his last 10 appearances despite five quality starts in that span.

WALK-OFFS

1. Houston 2B Jose Altuve ravaged Minnesota in 2017 to the tune of going 13-for-26 with four extra-base hits (three doubles, one homer), four RBIs and eight runs scored.

2. Twins 1B Joe Mauer has hit safely in six consecutive games and scored a run in four straight.

3. The Astros' 8-2 start to the season matches the club's franchise record, which was set in 1972.

PREDICTION: Astros 6, Twins 3

Seattle Mariners vs. Kansas City Royals Preview and Predictions 04-09-2018

8th April 2018 by Gracenote
Just when the Seattle Mariners' bats were coming to life, Mother Nature slowed their momentum. The Mariners hope to pick up where they left off when they begin a three-game road series against the Kansas City Royals on Monday.

Seattle set a season high for runs in an 11-4 win at Minnesota on Saturday, but the hot bats were put on hold when the series finale was postponed due to inclement weather. The offensive outburst was encouraging for a Mariners team that had totaled three runs in losing its previous two contests and is light on power with slugger Nelson Cruz on the disabled list. The Royals have even less firepower, as they rank near the bottom of the American League in most offensive categories - including home runs as they have hit just two. Kansas City has scored two runs or fewer in five straight games but posted a pair of 1-0 victories in that span.

TV: 8:15 p.m. ET, ROOT Northwest (Seattle), FS Kansas City

PITCHING MATCHUP: Mariners LH Marco Gonzales (1-0, 4.26 ERA) vs. Royals RH Jakob Junis (1-0, 0.00)

Gonzales' second start of the season had to wait a day because of Sunday's postponement in Minnesota. The 26-year-old was solid in his debut, allowing three runs and six hits over 6 1/3 innings en route to a win at San Francisco. He did serve up a pair of home runs at spacious AT&T Park, however, which might warrant some concern.

Junis was dominant in his first outing of the season, striking out six over seven scoreless innings to win at Detroit. The 25-year-old allowed only three singles and a walk, carrying over from his impressive spring. Junis has been excellent at home in his young career, going 3-0 with a 3.43 ERA in nine games (seven starts) at Kauffman Stadium.

WALK-OFFS

1. Mariners CF Dee Gordon (11-for-30) and 2B Robinson Cano (11-for-25) both are riding seven-game hitting streaks.

2. Royals RF Jorge Soler recorded three hits on Sunday, snapping an 0-for-34 drought dating to July 2.

3. Seattle SS Jean Segura is 11-for-25 during his six-game hitting streak.

PREDICTION: Royals 4, Mariners 3

San Diego Padres vs. Colorado Rockies Preview and Predictions 04-09-2018

8th April 2018 by Gracenote
The Colorado Rockies look to bounce back from a rare Coors Field shutout when they open a three-game series against the visiting San Diego Padres on Monday. The Rockies are an even 5-5 after dropping two of three against Atlanta over the weekend, including Sunday's 4-0 loss.

Colorado scored only six runs in the series and clearly missed Charlie Blackmon on Sunday, when the team's leadoff hitter and center fielder sat out due to a tight back. Blackmon hopes to return to the lineup Monday against San Diego, which fell to 2-8 after being held to four hits in Sunday's 4-1 loss at Houston. Center fielder Manuel Margot, who batted leadoff in seven of the team's first nine games, has five hits in his first 37 at-bats and was moved to the ninth spot for the last two games. The Padres are searching for answers at several positions, including third base, where Christian Villanueva, Cory Spangenberg and Chase Headley are sharing the job with mixed results through 10 games.

TV: 8:40 p.m. ET, FS San Diego, AT&T SportsNet-Rocky Mountain (Colorado)

PITCHING MATCHUP: Padres LH Clayton Richard (0-1, 4.50 ERA) vs. Rockies RH Jon Gray (1-1, 2.45)

Richard tossed seven innings of one-run ball on Opening Day against Milwaukee but struggled early versus Colorado last Wednesday, allowing five runs in the first two innings. The 34-year-old settled in and exited after five innings, permitting five runs on eight hits with six strikeouts. Chris Iannetta is 6-for-17 with two home runs against Richard, who has gone 5-7 with a 5.38 ERA in 20 career games (19 starts) against Colorado.

After lasting just four innings and taking the loss in his Opening Day start against Arizona, Gray bounced back with seven shutout frames versus San Diego last Wednesday. The 26-year-old native of Oklahoma struck out seven and issued no walks while throwing 93 pitches to record the victory at Petco Park. Gray is 5-2 with a 2.15 ERA in 11 career starts against the Padres and owns a 12-4 record in 27 career outings at Coors Field.

WALK-OFFS

1. Padres SS Freddy Galvis is batting .364 and has reached base safely in each of the team's first 10 games.

2. Colorado RHP Bryan Shaw is one strikeout shy of 400 for his career.

3. San Diego RHP Kirby Yates missed Sunday's game with a right ankle injury but is expected to avoid the disabled list.

PREDICTION: Rockies 7, Padres 4