MLB Betting News and Trends For Wednesday 9/5/18

National League
Cardinals (77-62) @ Nationals (69-70)
Mikolas is 3-1, 3.80 in his last seven starts; over is 3-1 in his last four. Team in his starts: 19-8, 10-3 away
5-inning record: 14-10-3 Allowed run in 1st inning: 4-27

Roark is 0-2, 4.20 in his last three starts; over is 7-4 in his last 11 starts. Team in his starts: 11-16, 5-8 home
5-inning record: 10-14-3 Allowed run in 1st inning: 6-27

Cardinals split their last ten games; under is 8-5 in their last 13 games. Washington lost four of its last six games; over is 9-3-1 in their last 13 home games.

Phillies (73-65) @ Marlins (55-84)
Pivetta is 0-1, 5.49 in his last four starts; under is 4-2 in his last six. Team in his starts: 14-13, 6-7 away
5-inning record: 10-13-4 Allowed run in 1st inning: 8-27

Alcantara allowed one run in five IP (98 PT) in his only ’18 start, an 8-2 win. Team in his starts: 1-0, 1-0 home
5-inning record: 1-0 Allowed run in 1st inning: 0-1

Philly is 5-11 in its last 16 games; over is 6-4 in their last ten games. Marlins lost six of their last eight games; under is 6-3 in their last nine home games.

Reds (59-80) @ Pirates (68-71)
Bailey is 0-6, 7.49 in his last six starts; under is 7-3 in his road starts. Team in his starts: 1-18, 1-8 away
5-inning record: 2-15-2 Allowed run in 1st inning: 8-19

Taillon is 2-0, 1.89 in his last three starts; under is 3-1 in his last four. Team in his starts: 16-11, 7-3 home
5-inning record: 14-10-3 Allowed run in 1st inning: 6-27

Cincinnati is 3-10 in its last 13 games; over is 6-4 in their last ten games. Pirates lost nine of their last 14 games; under is 16-5-1 in their last 22 games.

Cubs (81-57) @ Brewers (79-61)
Quintana is 1-0, 2.25 in his last three starts; under is 3-1 in his last four. Team in his starts: 15-11, 7-8 away
5-inning record: 11-11-4 Allowed run in 1st inning: 6-26

Chacin is 4-1, 2.03 in his last five starts; under is 3-1 in his last four. Team in his starts: 20-9, 8-3 home
5-inning record: 16-8-5 Allowed run in 1st inning: 7-29

Cubs won 10 of their last 14 games; under is 9-5-1 in their last 15 road games. Milwaukee is 9-3 in its last 12 games; they’re 16-16 vs lefty starters- over is 8-3 in their last 11 games.

Giants (68-72) @ Rockies (76-62)
Suarez is 2-0, 0.00 (14 IP) in his last two starts; over is 4-2-1 in his last seven. Team in his starts: 11-13, 5-7 road
5-inning record: 7-9-8 Allowed run in 1st inning: 7-24

Senzatela is 2-0, 1.55 in his last four starts; his last seven starts stayed under. Team in his starts: 14-12, 6-7 home
5-inning record: 11-12-3 Allowed run in 1st inning: 16-26

Giants lost five of their last six games; nine of their last ten games stayed under the total. Colorado won eight of its last 11 home games; they’re 28-23 vs lefty starters- under is 8-3 in their last 11 home games.

Mets (62-76) @ Dodgers (76-63)
Wheeler is 7-1, 1.63 in his last nine starts; under is 4-2-1 in his last seven. Team in his starts: 12-14, 5-9 road
5-inning record: 12-9-5 Allowed run in 1st inning: 7-26

Ryu is 2-0, 2.84 in his last two starts (over 5-5). Team in his starts: 7-3, 5-1 home
5-inning record: 6-2-2 Allowed run in 1st inning: 2-10

Mets won four of their last six games; they’re 15-22 vs lefty starters- under is 5-2 in their last seven games. Dodgers won nine of their last 11 games; under is 6-1 in their last seven games.

American League
Tigers (56-83) @ White Sox (56-83)
Zimmerman is 1-2, 6.26 in his last four starts (over 3-1). Team in his starts: 10-10, 5-5 away
5-inning record: 11-8-1 Allowed run in 1st inning: 5-19

Kopech is 1-0, 0.82 in his first three starts (11 IP- two rain delayed games). Under is 2-1 in his starts. Team in his starts: 2-1, 1-0 home.
5-inning record: 2-1 Allowed run in 1st inning: 0-3

Tigers lost eight of their last 11 games; over is 5-2 in their last seven games. Chicago is 14-7 in its last 21 games; under is 7-2 in their last nine games.

Twins (63-75) @ Astros (86-53)
Odorizzi is 0-2, 4.58 in his last three starts; his last five starts stayed under. Team in his starts: 12-16, 4-10 away
5-inning record: 12-11-5 Allowed run in 1st inning: 6-28

Valdez is 1-1, 1.80 in his two starts (under 2-0). Team in his starts: 1-1, 0-1
5-inning record: 1-0-1 Allowed run in 1st inning: 0-2

Twins lost nine of their last 11 games; they’re 17-21 vs lefty starters- over is 5-4 in their last nine road games. Houston is 11-3 in its last 14 games; under is 10-4 in their last 14 home games.

New York (87-52) @ A’s (83-57)
Severino is 2-0, 4.15 in his last three starts; over is 9-2 in his last 11. Team in his starts: 22-6, 9-4 away
5-inning record: 18-7-3 Allowed run in 1st inning: 8-28

Fiers is 3-0, 2.93 in his five starts for the A’s (under 3-2). Team in his starts: 5-0, 4-0 home.
5-inning record: 5-0 Allowed run in 1st inning: 1-5

New York is 4-5 in its last nine games; over is 4-2 in their last six games. Oakland is 7-5 in its last 12 games; over is 7-2 in their last nine games.

Royals (46-92) @ Indians (78-60)
Keller is 3-0, 2.16 in his last four starts (over is 3-1 in his last four road starts). Team in his starts: 8-8, 2-5 away
5-inning record: 7-6-3 Allowed run in 1st inning: 5-16

Kluber is 5-1, 2.76 in his last seven starts; over is 18-5-1 in his last 24 starts. Team in his starts: 18-10, 10-5 home.
5-inning record: 17-7-4 Allowed run in 1st inning: 8-28

Royals won eight of their last ten games; over is 9-4-1 in their last 14 road games. Cleveland is 5-8 in its last 13 games; under is 4-2-1 in their last seven games.

Rays (75-63) @ Blue Jays (62-76)
Glasnow is 0-2, 4.34 in his last three starts (under 4-1-1). Team in his starts: 3-3, 0-3 away
5-inning record: 2-3-1 Allowed run in 1st inning: 3-6

Sanchez is 0-0, 7.48 in his last five starts; over is 8-1 in his last nine. Team in his starts: 8-9, 4-5 home.
5-inning record: 3-10-4 Allowed run in 1st inning: 6-17

Rays won 13 of their last 15 games; over is 4-3-1 in their last eight games. Toronto lost seven of its last nine games; five of their last seven games went over.

Angels (67-72) @ Rangers (61-78)
Barria is 3-1, 2.19 in his last five starts; under is 8-4 in his last 12. Team in his starts: 10-11, 7-4 away
5-inning record: 10-8-3 Allowed run in 1st inning: 6-21

Colon is 2-3, 7.76 in his last five starts; over is 4-2 in his last six. Team in his starts: 10-13, 6-4 home.
5-inning record: 8-12-3 Allowed run in 1st inning: 4-23

Angels lost 10 of their last 14 games; under is 6-1 in their last seven games. Texas lost six of its last nine games; four of their last seven games went over.

Orioles (40-98) @ Mariners (77-61)
Cashner is 0-3, 6.38 in his last three starts; under is 3-1 in his last four. Team in his starts: 8-18, 4-9 away
5-inning record: 7-15-4 Allowed run in 1st inning: 9-26

Leake is 0-2, 9.28 in his last two starts; under is 6-2 in his last eight. Team in his starts: 17-10, 8-5 home.
5-inning record: 10-9-8 Allowed run in 1st inning: 4-27

Baltimore lost its last eight road games; over is 4-2 in their last six road games. Mariners are 8-11 in their last 19 games; over is 9-3 in their last 12 home games.

Interleague
Red Sox (96-44) @ Braves (76-62)
Velazquez is 0-2, 8.76 in his last four starts (over 3-3). Team in his starts: 4-2, 2-1 away
5-inning record: 2-2-2 Allowed run in 1st inning: 0-6

Foltynewicz is 2-2, 2.76 in his last five starts; under is 5-2 in his last seven. Team in his starts: 12-14, 6-7 home.
5-inning record: 12-8-6 Allowed run in 1st inning: 4-26

Red Sox won three of their last four games; under is 9-5 in their last 14 road games. Atlanta is 3-9 in its last 12 games; under is 13-4-1 in their last 18 games.

Umpires
Stl-Wsh: Five of last six Bucknor games stayed under.
Cin-Pitt: Favorites won 10 of last 11 Barksdale games.
Phil-Mia: Favorites won 16 of last 18 Welke games.
Chi-Mil: Four of last five Meals games went over.
SF-Col: Five of last seven Vanover games went over.
NY-LA: Three of last four Wegner games went over.

TB-Tor: Under is 8-3-1 in last dozen DeJesus games.
KC-Clev: Underdogs won five of last seven Foster games.
LA-Tex: Four of last six Gibson games stayed under.
Det-Chi: Four of last five Marquez games stayed under.
Min-Hst: Under is 8-2-1 in last 11 Nelson games.
NY-A’s: Under is 14-3-2 in last 19 Bellino games.
Balt-Sea: Eight of last nine Fairchild games stayed under.

Bos-Atl: Three of last four Timmons games went over.

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Boston Red Sox vs. Atlanta Braves Preview and Predictions 09-05-2018 in MLB

MLB Previews 4th September 2018 by Gracenote
There are plenty of pitching stars in the National League East, and Mike Foltynewicz of the Atlanta Braves is establishing himself as another arm on the rise as he starts Wednesday at home against the Boston Red Sox. Foltynewicz made his first All-Star team this season and ranks in the top 10 in the NL in ERA and strikeouts after posting a 2.09 ERA and 0.983 WHIP in six August outings for division-leading Atlanta.

The Braves have dropped the first two games against the Red Sox, falling Tuesday 5-1 on a night when Atlanta pitchers walked nine, and have stranded 21 runners on base so far in the series. Boston first baseman Steve Pearce led the way with three hits and three RBIs, and since being acquired from Toronto is hitting .296 with six homers and 19 RBIs in 36 games. The Red Sox have won six of their past eight overall and continue to smash NL teams, improving to 13-3 in interleague play this season. Boston also received good news off the field, announcing David Price (bruised left wrist) will start Friday's series opener at home against Houston and Chris Sale (shoulder) threw a bullpen session Tuesday and is targeted to return to the rotation next week.

TV: 12:10 p.m. ET, MLB Network, NESN (Boston), FS Southeast (Atlanta)

PITCHING MATCHUP: Red Sox RH Hector Velazquez (7-2, 3.24 ERA) vs. Braves RH Mike Foltynewicz (10-9, 2.80)

Velazquez makes his seventh start of the season and 40th appearance overall, three days after allowing one run on two hits in one inning of relief against the Chicago White Sox. The 29-year-old lost his last two starts and was hit hard, giving up nine runs (four earned) with five walks and 11 hits allowed in 6 2/3 innings against Tampa Bay on Aug. 19 and Aug. 24. Velazquez, who is 2-2 with a 3.91 ERA as a starter, surrendered one run on five hits in 2 2/3 innings of relief May 26-27 against the Braves.

Foltynewicz entered Tuesday fourth in the NL in ERA, fifth in strikeouts per nine innings (10.371), sixth in strikeouts (174) and seventh in WHIP (1.139). The 26-year-old struggled a bit in his last start, allowing five runs (four earned) in six innings to lose to the Chicago Cubs on Thursday, but allowed only three earned runs in his previous 26 2/3 innings. Foltynewicz beat the Red Sox in Boston on May 27, allowing one run on three hits with seven strikeouts in seven innings.

WALK-OFFS

1. At 96-44 the Red Sox need to go 10-12 the rest of the way to surpass the franchise record of 105 victories, set in 1912.

2. Atlanta SS Dansby Swanson left Tuesday's game after being hit in the head with a pitch.

3. Red Sox 3B Rafael Devers (left hamstring injury) was activated from the disabled list Tuesday and drew a walk and scored as a pinch-hitter.

PREDICTION: Red Sox 6, Braves 3
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Kansas City Royals vs. Cleveland Indians Preview and Predictions 09-05-2018 in MLB

MLB Previews 4th September 2018 by Gracenote
Royals vs. Indians Preview and Predictions

by Gracenote on 09/04/2018

The Cleveland Indians have plenty of room for error this month, but showed a little extra urgency Tuesday night after losing their first three games of September by scoring six runs in the first two innings en route to a 9-3 win. The American League Central-leading Indians look to follow up that effort with a series victory Wednesday afternoon when they host the last-place Kansas City Royals in the rubber match of a three-game set.

Reds vs. Pirates Preview and Predictions

Yandy Diaz finished a double shy of the cycle while All-Star shortstop Francisco Lindor also went deep for the 31st time this year for Cleveland, which boasts a magic number of 10 to clinch the AL Central and is 43-28 at home. Two-time Cy Young Award winner Corey Kluber attempts to match his career-high with an 18th victory when he takes the mound for the Indians on Wednesday against rookie right-hander Brad Keller, who is coming off his best month as a starter. The Royals saw their season-best six-game winning streak end Tuesday, but can still win their second straight series against Cleveland. Hunter Dozier has led the offense of late for Kansas City, recording multiple hits six times during a seven-game hitting streak after registering two doubles and an RBI in Tuesday's setback.

TV: 1:10 p.m. ET, MLB Network, FS Kansas City, STO (Cleveland)

PITCHING MATCHUP: Royals RH Brad Keller (7-5, 3.26 ERA) vs. Indians RH Corey Kluber (17-7, 2.80)

Keller is unbeaten in his last four trips to the mound, allowing a total of six runs over 25 innings with 18 strikeouts and five walks. The 23-year-old Georgia native yielded two runs on four hits across eight innings in a 9-2 victory over Baltimore last Friday, throwing a career-high 114 pitches. Yonder Alonso has homered in three at-bats against Keller, who is 1-0 with a 1.93 ERA in three appearances (one start) against Cleveland this season.

Kluber earned his fourth victory in August and fifth in six decisions overall last Friday with seven scoreless innings during a 3-0 win against Tampa Bay. The 32-year-old Alabama native finished August with a 2.81 ERA in six starts - his best since May - striking out 41 over 41 2/3 innings. Jorge Bonifacio is 4-for-5 with an RBI versus Kluber, who is 11-7 with a 3.09 ERA in 23 career starts against Kansas City.

WALK-OFFS

1. Cleveland 3B Jose Ramirez needs one stolen base to become the third player in franchise history with 30 homers and 30 steals in a season, joining Joe Carter and Grady Sizemore.

2. Kansas City SS Alcides Escobar is 25-for-71 since Aug. 2 after posting two hits Tuesday, raising his batting average from .195 to .221.

3. The Indians recalled INF Adam Rosales and OF Brandon Barnes from Triple-A Columbus on Tuesday.

PREDICTION: Indians 5, Royals 1
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St. Louis Cardinals vs. Washington Nationals Preview and Predictions 09-05-2018 in MLB

MLB Previews 5th September 2018 by Gracenote
The St. Louis Cardinals turned up the power Tuesday to halt their three-game slide and hope to begin a winning streak when they visit the Washington Nationals one day later for the rubber match of their three-game set. Marcell Ozuna belted two of St. Louis' five homers as the club outlasted Washington 11-8 to even the series.

Yadier Molina provided some much-needed insurance with a grand slam in the ninth inning as the Cardinals remained 1 1/2 games behind National League Central rival Milwaukee for the first wild-card spot. Ozuna is two blasts away from reaching the 20-homer plateau for the third consecutive season and the fourth in his six-year career. Washington's slim postseason hopes took a hit with Tuesday's loss, as it remained 7 1/2 games behind first-place Atlanta in the NL East and fell eight in back of St. Louis for the second wild card. Wilmer Difo went 2-for-4 with a solo homer in the setback as the Nationals dropped to 2-3 on their 10-game homestand.

TV: 7:05 p.m. ET, FS Midwest (St. Louis), MASN (Washington)

PITCHING MATCHUP: Cardinals RH Miles Mikolas (13-4, 2.96 ERA) vs. Nationals RH Tanner Roark (8-14, 4.03)

Mikolas' unbeaten streak ended at 10 starts last Wednesday, when he lost to Pittsburgh despite giving up just two runs over five innings. The 30-year-old Floridian recorded five victories during his string of success, allowing fewer than three runs on seven occasions. Mikolas lost at Washington in a relief outing on May 14, 2012 while with San Diego and didn't face the club again until Aug. 13, when he yielded four runs and four hits - two homers - over seven innings in a no-decision.

After winning five straight decisions, Roark has lost back-to-back starts - including a setback against Milwaukee on Friday in which he surrendered four runs and six hits - three homers - over six innings. The 31-year-old native of Illinois has worked at least six frames in seven of his last eight turns, with the only exception coming on Aug. 21 versus Philadelphia due to a rain delay. Roark evened his record at 2-2 in six career appearances (four starts) against the Cardinals on Aug. 16, when he notched the win despite yielding four runs on five hits and three walks across six innings.

WALK-OFFS

1. Nationals OF Bryce Harper has reached base safely in eight of his 11 plate appearances over the first two games of the series, going 2-for-4 with six walks and five RBIs.

2. Washington activated RHPs Erick Fedde (shoulder) and Joe Ross (elbow) from the 60-day disabled list, recalled OF Victor Robles, INF Adrian Sanchez and RHP Austin Voth from Triple-A Syracuse and purchased the contract of RHP Kyle McGowin from the Chiefs.

3. St. Louis 2B Kolten Wong (hamstring) is expected to be activated from the DL on Wednesday but may not play until Friday in Detroit.

PREDICTION: Cardinals 5, Nationals 2
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Cincinnati Reds vs. Pittsburgh Pirates Preview and Predictions 09-05-2018 in MLB

The Pittsburgh Pirates have faded in the second half, but they're trying to give a core group of young players something to build on in the final month of the season. The Pirates will try to finish off a three-game sweep of the visiting Cincinnati Reds on Wednesday.

Pittsburgh leads the season series 11-4 after a 7-3 victory on Tuesday in which Starling Marte homered and Gregory Polanco had three hits and two RBIs. The Pirates have won back-to-back games for the first time since Aug. 18-19 and clinched their first series win since Aug. 6-8 at Colorado. Cincinnati won the final two games of its weekend series in St. Louis, but the offense has gone quiet in the first two games against Pittsburgh. Scooter Gennett's solo homer accounted for the only run in Monday's 5-1 loss, and he hit two solo shots Tuesday.

TV: 7:05 p.m. ET, FS Ohio (Cincinnati), AT&T SportsNet Pittsburgh

PITCHING MATCHUP: Reds RH Homer Bailey (1-13, 6.13 ERA) vs. Pirates RH Jameson Taillon (11-9, 3.45)

Bailey's only win - and the Reds' only victory in his 19 starts - came May 12 against the Los Angeles Dodgers. The 32-year-old has posted quality starts in three of his last eight outings, but he was roughed up for seven runs (only three earned) over five innings of a loss at St. Louis on Friday. Bailey is 10-7 with a 3.68 ERA in 23 starts against the Pirates, and he has allowed nine runs (eight earned) in 9 2/3 innings across two meetings this season.

Taillon has set a career-high for wins and has victories in his last two starts along with quality starts in seven consecutive outings. The 26-year-old held Atlanta to two runs over seven innings in a win Friday, finishing August with a 3-1 mark and a 2.38 ERA. Taillon is 3-3 with a 4.50 ERA in 10 starts against the Reds, including 2-1 with a 3.10 ERA in three meetings this season.

WALK-OFFS

1. Pirates 1B Josh Bell, who is hitless in his last four games, and LF Corey Dickerson, who is 3-for-34 over his past 10 contests, got the day off Tuesday.

2. Gennett is 10-for-27 with four doubles and a homer versus Taillon.

3. Polanco is batting .356 with 10 extra-base hits and 13 RBIs in his past 15 games.

PREDICTION: Pirates 7, Reds 4
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Tampa Bay Rays vs. Toronto Blue Jays Preview and Predictions 09-05-2018 in MLB

MLB Previews 5th September 2018 by Gracenote
The Tampa Bay Rays' pitching staff has stymied the Toronto Blue Jays all season, a trend they hope to continue when the American League East foes finish a three-game series north of the border Wednesday. Seven Rays combined on a three-hitter in a 4-0 win over the Blue Jays on Tuesday night, giving Tampa Bay a 9-2 record against Toronto this year.

The Rays have a stellar 1.47 ERA in the season series and their two victories to begin this set gives them 13 wins in the last 15 games overall. Tommy Pham had two hits and an RBI in Tuesday's win and is batting .419 with nine RBIs during a 10-game hitting streak. He will be getting his first look at Blue Jays right-hander Aaron Sanchez, who starts the series finale opposite Tyler Glasnow. Toronto has seven hits in 56 at-bats in the series and has been shut out twice during a 2-7 slide.

TV: 7:07 p.m. ET, FS Sun (Tampa Bay), Sportsnet, TVA (Toronto)

PITCHING MATCHUP: Rays RH Tyler Glasnow (1-4, 3.95 ERA) vs. Blue Jays RH Aaron Sanchez (3-5, 5.22)

Glasnow continued his solid run since joining the Rays near the trade deadline with seven innings of one-run ball at Cleveland on Friday, but he took the loss and remains winless with Tampa Bay. Opponents have just 16 hits in the last 34 2/3 innings against the 25-year-old dating back to his final two appearances with Pittsburgh. He limited the Blue Jays to one run and two hits while striking out six over five innings Aug. 12.

Sanchez gave up 11 runs and 18 hits with just four strikeouts across 8 1/3 frames through his first two starts since coming off the disabled list in August. He was roughed up for four runs over 3 2/3 innings at Tampa Bay earlier in the year but still has a 1.58 ERA in 14 career outings (six starts) against the Rays. Kevin Kiermaier is 3-for-11 with a double and Mallex Smith is 2-for-2 against Sanchez.

WALK-OFFS

1. Tampa Bay DH/1B Ji-Man Choi is 6-for-15 with one home run and three doubles during a four-game hitting streak.

2. The Rays recalled RHP Jake Faria from Triple-A Durham and reinstated C Adam Moore from the restricted list.

3. Blue Jays DH Kendrys Morales is homerless in six contests since going deep in a club-record seven straight games.

PREDICTION: Rays 6, Blue Jays 4
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Philadelphia Phillies vs. Miami Marlins Preview and Predictions 09-05-2018 in MLB

MLB Previews 5th September 2018 by Gracenote
Phillies vs. Marlins Preview and Predictions

by Gracenote on 09/05/2018

The Philadelphia Phillies responded to an offensive drought with six runs in the first two innings for a much-needed victory last time out and look to build off that effort when they visit the Miami Marlins on Wednesday for the rubber match of their three-game series. Carlos Santana launched his 21st homer in the opening frame to extend his hitting streak to seven games as Philadelphia posted a 9-4 victory on Tuesday.

Mets vs. Dodgers Preview and Predictions

The Phillies managed just one run in each of their previous three contests - all losses - but the victory pulled them within three games of first-place Atlanta in the National League East, with their next 13 encounters coming against teams under .500. Nick Pivetta, who has limited Miami to two runs with 16 strikeouts over 11 2/3 innings this season, gets the ball for Philadelphia in the series finale and the Marlins counter with prime prospect Sandy Alcantara. Miami, which sits last in the NL East, has dropped six of its last eight games after outhitting the Phillies 11-9 on Tuesday. J.T Realmuto is 12-for-30 with four homers and nine RBIs during his eight-game hitting streak after going deep twice on Tuesday to reach the 20-homer mark for the first time in his career.

TV: 7:10 p.m. ET, NBCS Philadelphia, FS Florida (Miami)

PITCHING MATCHUP: Phillies RH Nick Pivetta (7-10, 4.66 ERA) vs. Marlins RH Sandy Alcantara (1-0, 1.80)

Pivetta is winless in his last four trips to the mound but limited two of his opponents to one run without being involved in the decision in either contest. The 25-year-old Canadian recorded his last win at Arizona on Aug. 7 as he worked six scoreless innings five days after allowing two runs over six frames in a no-decision against Miami. Realmuto is 4-for-9 with two doubles versus Pivetta, who is 2-1 with a 5.83 ERA in six career starts against the Marlins.

Alcantara returns to the majors for his second start of the season after permitting one run on three hits and five walks over five innings in a win over the New York Mets on June 29. The 22-year-old Dominican, who was acquired from St. Louis in the trade involving Marcell Ozuna last winter, registered 10 strikeouts in eight relief appearances for the Cardinals last year. Alcantara went 6-3 with a 3.89 ERA in 19 starts at Triple-A New Orleans this year.

WALK-OFFS

1. Miami 2B Starlin Castro has recorded multiple hits in four of his last six games, going 10-for-24 with five RBIs during that stretch.

2. Philadelphia INF Asdrubal Cabrera has belted three homers in his last five games and is 13-for-38 over his past 10 contests.

3. The Marlins placed veteran 3B Martin Prado (abdomen) on the 60-day disabled list on Tuesday.

PREDICTION: Phillies 5, Marlins 2
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New York Mets vs. Los Angeles Dodgers Preview and Predictions 09-05-2018 in MLB

MLB Previews 5th September 2018 by Gracenote
The Los Angeles Dodgers broke out of their offensive slumber and look for another strong performance with the bats when they conclude their three-game series against the visiting New York Mets on Wednesday. Los Angeles scored three runs or fewer in six consecutive games before exploding for 13 hits in Tuesday's 11-4 trouncing of the Mets.

The Dodgers have won nine of their last 11 contests and sit one-half game behind first-place Colorado in the National League West with a crucial three-game set slated for this weekend in Denver. Los Angeles, which trails St. Louis by one game for the second wild-card spot, recorded six extra-base hits (two homers, four doubles) in Tuesday's victory - with newcomer David Freese contributing a homer and a double while Austin Barnes also went deep. Yasiel Puig will miss the final contest as he serves his two-game suspension - he lost his appeal on Tuesday - for his role in an altercation with San Francisco on Aug. 14. Jay Bruce and Michael Conforto each hit a two-run homer for the Mets, who fell for just the second time in six games.

TV: 7:35 p.m. ET, MLB Network, SNY (New York), SportsNet LA (Los Angeles)

PITCHING MATCHUP: Mets RH Zack Wheeler (9-7, 3.37 ERA) vs. Dodgers LH Hyun-Jin Ryu (4-1, 2.24)

Wheeler pitched well against the Giants in his last turn but suffered the loss despite allowing one run and four hits with nine strikeouts over seven innings. The 28-year-old won his previous seven decisions and was unbeaten in 11 turns dating back to a loss to the Dodgers on June 22. Wheeler gave up four runs and five hits over seven frames in that setback and is 0-2 with an 11.00 ERA in two career outings against Los Angeles.

Ryu settled for a no-decision against Arizona in his last turn after giving up two runs and four hits over seven innings. The 31-year-old has registered 23 strikeouts and issued two walks over 22 2/3 frames in four starts since returning from a groin injury. Ryu is 3-0 with a 1.69 ERA and 0.94 WHIP in five career outings against the Mets.

WALK-OFFS

1. Mets SS Amed Rosario has recorded five hits in the series and is 14-for-32 with three stolen bases during his seven-game hitting streak.

2. Los Angeles 3B Justin Turner was named National League Player of the Month after batting .402 with six homers and 20 RBIs over 25 games in August.

3. New York C Devin Mesoraco (neck/back) sat out Tuesday after getting injured while swinging the bat during the series opener.

PREDICTION: Dodgers 5, Mets 2
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Los Angeles Angels vs. Texas Rangers Preview and Predictions 09-05-2018 in MLB

MLB Previews 5th September 2018 by Gracenote
The Texas Rangers continue their four-game series against the visiting Los Angeles Angels on Wednesday with a classic matchup of youth versus experience. The Angels are sending 22-year-old rookie Jaime Barria to start against 45-year-old wonder Bartolo Colon, whose 246 career wins are the most by a native of Latin America in major-league history.

The Rangers evened the series at one win apiece with Tuesday's 4-2 victory behind solo homers by Elvis Andrus and Adrian Beltre, who has reached base safely in seven straight games. Jose Leclerc recorded his ninth save, but Joey Gallo went 0-for-4 with four strikeouts and has recorded one hit in his last 20 at-bats after hitting .294 in August. David Fletcher notched three hits and Shohei Ohtani belted his 16th homer for the Angels, who fell to 3-3 on their 10-game road trip. Andrelton Simmons celebrated his 29th birthday by going 1-for-4 with an RBI and is 9-for-29 with six RBIs over his last six contests.

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

PITCHING MATCHUP: Angels RH Jaime Barria (9-8, 3.46 ERA) vs. Rangers RH Bartolo Colon (7-11, 5.45)

Barria closed the month of August on a high note with six scoreless innings in a 3-0 win over Houston on Friday. The Panamanian has worked 35 2/3 innings in his last seven starts, going 4-1 with a 2.78 ERA during that stretch. Barria made his major-league debut on May 3 at Globe Life Park and owns a 2-0 record and 1.13 ERA in three starts versus Texas.

Colon is set to make his first appearance since Aug. 20, when he allowed seven runs over five innings against Oakland before landing on the disabled list due to a lower back strain. The Dominican has gone 12-9 with a 3.88 ERA in 27 career games (26 starts) against the Angels and is 0-1 with a 10.50 mark in two contests (one start) this season. Mike Trout is 11-for-20 with three homers against Colon, who has recorded victories with 11 different teams.

WALK-OFFS

1. Angels LF Justin Upton (concussion) has missed the last three games and is questionable for Wednesday.

2. The Rangers recalled OF Willie Calhoun and RHPs Austin Bibens-Dirkx and Adrian Sampson from Triple-A Round Rock, purchased the contract of LHP C.D. Pelham from Double-A Frisco and activated INF Hanser Alberto from the disabled list.

3. The Angels recalled OFs Jabari Blash and Michael Hermosillo and C Joe Hudson from Triple-A Salt Lake.

PREDICTION: Angels 8, Rangers 3
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Detroit Tigers vs. Chicago White Sox Preview and Predictions 09-05-2018 in MLB

MLB Previews 5th September 2018 by Gracenote
Tigers vs. White Sox Preview and Predictions

by Gracenote on 09/05/2018

Foul weather is about the only thing that has slowed down Michael Kopech at the major-league level. The dynamic right-hander for the Chicago White Sox may have an eye on the sky again when his team hosts the Detroit Tigers on Wednesday for the finale of their three-game series, as rain is in the forecast for the Windy City.

Two of Kopech's first three turns in the majors have been interrupted by rain, forcing him to make a pair of early exits despite dominant results. The 22-year-old's one full start was at Detroit on Aug. 26, when he held the Tigers to one run and seven hits with four strikeouts in six innings to pick up his first career victory. He hopes to give Chicago some length in this one after the bullpen was forced to eat up 7 2/3 frames in Wednesday's 8-3 loss. Mikie Mahtook belted a two-run homer to lead the way for Detroit, which seeks its first series win since Aug. 10-12.

TV: 8:10 p.m. ET, FS Detroit, NBCS Chicago

PITCHING MATCHUP: Tigers RH Jordan Zimmermann (6-6, 4.22 ERA) vs. White Sox RH Michael Kopech (1-0, 0.82)

Zimmermann worked at least six innings in five of his six starts last month, allowing fewer than three earned runs four times. He has registered 21 strikeouts against two walks over his last five outings, although the 32-year-old has served up seven home runs in that span. He took the loss opposite Kopech on Aug. 26 after giving up five runs in six innings, which left him with an 8.85 ERA in four matchups with the White Sox this year.

Kopech limited Boston's high-powered offense to one hit in three scoreless innings Friday before the rains came. He has issued one walk and has yet to allow a home run in the majors. Victor Martinez recorded a double and a single in three at-bats and Mahtook was 2-for-2 against Kopech when the teams met last week.

WALK-OFFS

1. Tigers 2B Dawel Lugo notched two hits in Tuesday's win and is 9-for-24 since being recalled from the minors.

2. White Sox 1B Jose Abreu (groin) is expected to resume on-field activities in the next week and could return to the lineup by mid-September.

3. Detroit is 7-1 at Chicago this year.

PREDICTION: White Sox 5, Tigers 3
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Minnesota Twins vs. Houston Astros Preview and Predictions 09-05-2018 in MLB

MLB Previews 5th September 2018 by Gracenote
Twins vs. Astros Preview and Predictions

by Gracenote on 09/05/2018

The Houston Astros look to record their fifth straight win and 12th in their last 15 contests when they conclude their three-game series Wednesday against the visiting Minnesota Twins. Yuli Gurriel hit a two-run homer while Alex Bregman recorded three doubles and two RBIs as Houston posted a 5-2 victory on Tuesday.

The red-hot Bregman has reached base in 32 consecutive games and has gone 27-for-62 with five homers and 16 RBIs over his last 16 contests. Bregman is 7-for-15 with three blasts during the four-game winning streak for the Astros, who own a 3 1/2-game lead over Oakland in the American League West. Minnesota's season continues to unravel as the club has dropped four straight games and nine of its last 11. The Twins might have averted bad news when Miguel Sano injured his surgically repaired left leg on a slide during Tuesday's contest as X-rays ruled out a break and determined he had a bruise.

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

PITCHING MATCHUP: Twins RH Jake Odorizzi (5-9, 4.41 ERA) vs. Astros LH Framber Valdez (2-1, 1.26)

Odorizzi has lost his last two starts and recorded just one victory in his last nine outings. The 28-year-old has gone five straight starts without serving up a homer and has surrendered just four blasts over his last 16 turns after being reached for 14 in his first 12 starts. Odorizzi defeated the Astros on April 10, when he allowed one run and five hits over six innings, and is 3-0 with a 0.72 ERA in four career starts versus the club.

Valdez is making his fourth major-league appearance and third start. He has allowed one run on two hits and three walks with three strikeouts over five innings in each of his two turns, splitting a pair of decisions against the Los Angeles Angels. Valdez has allowed just six hits in 14 1/3 frames while limiting opponents to a .125 batting average.

WALK-OFFS

1. Astros RHP Charlie Morton (shoulder) threw a bullpen session Tuesday and could be activated from the 10-day disabled list on Saturday.

2. Minnesota LF Eddie Rosario (quadriceps) has missed five straight games but is expected to resume taking batting practice on Wednesday or Thursday.

3. Houston recalled INF J.D. Davis and RHP Dean Deetz from Triple-A Fresno.

PREDICTION: Astros 6, Twins 4
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Chicago Cubs vs. Milwaukee Brewers Preview and Predictions 09-05-2018 in MLB

The Chicago Cubs went into their three-game road series against the Milwaukee Brewers with a big enough cushion in the National League Central that they could endure anything short of being swept. The Brewers have a chance to do exactly that in the series finale Wednesday.

Milwaukee routed the division-leading Cubs 11-1 on Tuesday to pull within three games. Chicago still leads the season series 9-6, but the Brewers have won five of the last six matchups. Milwaukee has won three straight and six of its last seven to take over the top spot in the NL wild-card standings. The Cubs have lost back-to-back games for the first time since dropping three straight from Aug. 18-21.

TV: 8:10 p.m. ET, WGN (Chicago), FS Wisconsin (Milwaukee)

PITCHING MATCHUP: Cubs LH Jose Quintana (11-9, 4.21 ERA) vs. Brewers RH Jhoulys Chacin (14-5, 3.53)

Quintana has been inconsistent all season, but he has been on an upswing recently, posting a 2.25 ERA over his last three starts. The 29-year-old limited Philadelphia to one run and three hits over six innings in a no-decision Friday, striking out seven and walking one. Quintana is 4-2 with a 1.67 ERA in eight career starts against Milwaukee.

Chacin won at Washington last time out to match his career-high for wins set in 2013 with Colorado. The 30-year-old has posted five straight quality starts, including one against the Cubs on Aug. 14 in which he had a season-high 10 strikeouts over seven scoreless frames. Chacin is 4-4 with a 2.84 ERA in nine games (eight starts) against Chicago.

WALK-OFFS

1. Chicago 3B/OF Kris Bryant is 4-for-14 and has hit safely in three of four games since returning from the disabled list.

2. Brewers LF Christian Yelich has reached base in 21 consecutive games - the longest active streak in the NL.

3. Cubs 1B Anthony Rizzo left Tuesday's game with a bruised foot, but X-rays were negative and he is day-to-day.

PREDICTION: Cubs 5, Brewers 4
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San Francisco Giants vs. Colorado Rockies Preview and Predictions 09-05-2018 in MLB

MLB Previews 5th September 2018 by Gracenote
Giants vs. Rockies Preview and Predictions

by Gracenote on 09/05/2018

San Francisco looks to avoid being swept in a three-game series by the Colorado Rockies on Wednesday when the teams meet at Coors Field, where the Giants are 2-16 since the start of last season. The Giants have lost six in a row to the Rockies, who remained one-half game ahead of the Los Angeles Dodgers for first place in the National League West with Tuesday's 6-2 victory.

David Dahl and Ryan McMahon each homered and Carlos Gonzalez tripled in three runs Tuesday as the Rockies won their fourth straight and moved a season-high 14 games above .500. Leadoff hitter Charlie Blackmon had three singles, but Nolan Arenado went 0-for-3 with two walks and has four hits in his last 32 at-bats. Gorkys Hernandez homered in his second straight game for San Francisco, which has lost four in a row and been held to three runs or fewer in seven of its last nine contests. The Giants are giving regular playing time to rookie outfielder Chris Shaw, who belted his first career home run on Sunday but was 0-for-3 with two strikeouts on Tuesday and is 1-for-10 with seven strikeouts over his first five games.

TV: 8:40 p.m. ET, NBCS Bay Area (San Francisco), AT&T SportsNet Rocky Mountain (Colorado)

PITCHING MATCHUP: Giants LH Andrew Suarez (6-9, 4.19 ERA) vs. Rockies RH Antonio Senzatela (4-5, 4.88)

Suarez ended August with a 4.41 ERA over six starts but closed the month on a high note with seven shutout innings against the New York Mets last Friday. The 25-year-old rookie has posted a 5.55 ERA in 12 road starts compared to a 3.07 mark in 12 outings at AT&T Park. Suarez is 0-1 with a 3.00 ERA in two career starts against Colorado - including seven innings of one-run ball in a 1-0 loss at Coors Field on July 4.

Senzatela was a hard-luck loser last Friday after allowing one run on four hits over six innings against San Diego. The 23-year-old native of Venezuela is 2-4 with a 4.37 ERA in eight starts since moving into the rotation at the beginning of July. Joe Panik is 4-for-12 with two home runs against Senzatela, who tossed seven shutout innings in an 8-1 victory over San Francisco on July 3 and owns a 4-0 record and 3.26 ERA in six career games (four starts) versus the Giants.

WALK-OFFS

1. The Rockies are leading the division in September or October for the first time since 1995.

2. The Giants recalled INF Ryder Jones and 2B Abiatal Avelino from Triple-A Sacramento.

3. Colorado recalled RHP D.J. Johnson, INF Garrett Hampson, LHP Sam Howard and OF Ramiel Tapia from Triple-A Albuquerque.

PREDICTION: Rockies 7, Giants 3
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New York Yankees vs. Oakland Athletics Preview and Predictions 09-05-2018 in MLB

MLB Previews 5th September 2018 by Gracenote
Yankees vs. Athletics Preview and Predictions

by Gracenote on 09/05/2018

The New York Yankees used a late charge to even the series and attempt to increase their lead for the top wild card in the American League when they visit the Oakland Athletics on Wednesday for the rubber match of their three-game set. The Yankees scored five runs over the final three innings in Tuesday's 5-1 triumph to move 4 1/2 games ahead of Oakland in the wild-card race.

Aaron Hicks drove in two runs while Luke Voit and Adeiny Hechavarria belted solo homers for the Yankees, who avoided their first three-game slide since beginning August with five consecutive setbacks. Voit has gone deep in each of his last three contests, giving him seven blasts over his last 12 games. The Athletics managed only two hits in Tuesday's defeat and fell 3 1/2 games behind first-place Houston in the AL West but remained 5 1/2 ahead of Seattle for the second wild-card spot. One of those hits was a solo homer by Stephen Piscotty, who matched the career high of 22 shots he recorded in 2016 with St. Lous.

TV: 10:05 p.m. ET, YES (New York), NBCS California (Oakland)

PITCHING MATCHUP: Yankees RH Luis Severino (17-6, 3.32 ERA) vs. Athletics RH Mike Fiers (10-6, 3.38)

Severino reached double digits in strikeouts (10) against Detroit on Friday for the first time since June 4 - also versus the Tigers - but did not factor in the decision after allowing three runs and six hits in six innings. The 24-year-old Dominican has won two straight decisions after a stretch during which he lost four of five. Severino is 1-0 with a 3.50 ERA in three career starts against Oakland - with the victory coming at home on May 13, when he gave up one run and five hits over six frames.

After allowing a total of four runs in his first four starts since being acquired from Detroit, Fiers was tagged for five on seven hits - three homers - over 3 2/3 innings against Seattle on Friday but escaped with a no-decision. The 33-year-old Floridian has not lost since July 13 at Houston, going 4-0 with a 2.57 ERA over his last eight turns. Fiers is 1-1 with a 5.54 ERA in five career starts against New York, with both decisions coming this season while with the Tigers.

WALK-OFFS

1. Piscotty is riding a seven-game hitting streak during which he has gone 10-for-25 with four homers and 11 RBIs.

2. New York has won only seven of its last 24 visits to Oakland.

3. Oakland 3B Matt Chapman is 4-for-11 over his last three contests.

PREDICTION: Yankees 3, Athletics 1
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