Sunday Night Baseball: Yankees at Red Sox
By Marc Lawrence
New York Yankees at Boston Red Sox (-138, 10)
Big swingers
The Yankees and Red Sox have combined for 36 runs in the first two games of this series with the majority of those coming in Boston's 16-11 Game 2 win Saturday. The Red Sox tallied those 16 runs between the four and eighth innings of the game after being held scoreless through three. The slug fest forced New York to dig six pitchers deep into its bullpen while Boston burned through just three relievers.
Mashed potatoes
MLB’s most anticipated series showdown comes dressed with a sling when the Yankees battle the Red Sox at Fenway Park this weekend with both rosters resembling a MASH unit.
Boston lists no less than eight players on the DL, including the likes of Mark Kotsay, Rocco Baldelli, Julio Lugo and Daisuke Matsuzaka.
Meanwhile, the Yankees are without the services of Alex Rodriguez and Xavier Nady. Rodriguez, out after undergoing arthroscopic right hip surgery, resumed baseball activities April 13 and could be back as soon as May 8.
Also missing is DH Hideki Matsui, who had knee surgery last September and won't play in the field before June.
Spring fever
Sunday’s starting pitchers compiled outstanding efforts in spring training and the work has paid dividends.
Yankees southpaw Andy Pettite was 3-0 with a 1.17 ERA in camp. That translated into a 2-0 start with a 2.53 ERA to begin the 2009 campaign.
In his most recent appearance, the veteran gave up just two runs on nine hits through seven innings in a 5-3 win over Oakland. Pettite has gone at least seven innings in his past three starts. He is 6-2 with a 3.53 ERA in 15 career starts at Fenway Park.
After a sterling effort in Fort Meyers this spring (2-0 2.30 ERA), Boston’s Justin Masterson appeared to have earned a spot on the Red Sox deep pitching staff. But with as many as eight starters dotting the roster, Masterson was instead sent to Pawtuckett before receiving a call up to the parent club.
He has responded with aplomb, going 1-0 with a 3.18 ERA in over 11 innings of work. In his first start of the season, Masterson gave up just one earned run on four hits in just over five innings for a 12-1 win over Baltimore. The 6-foot-6 right hander made five appearances against New York last season, posting a 0-2 record and 4.82 ERA.
By the book
This bitter rivalry had seen the Yankees win seven of the previous 11 games prior to this three-game set. They were also victors in four of their previous six games at Fenway before losing 5-4 in extra innings Friday night.
Boston took Game 1 when Jason Bay tied the score in the ninth inning with a two-run bomb over the Green Monster in left field off Yankees closer Mariano Rivera, setting up the 11th-inning theatrics from Kevin Youkilis. The Red Sox first baseman launched a solo shot in extra innings to draw first blood in this year’s AL East rivalry.
Life on the road on Sundays has been a house of horrors for the Pinstripes. They are just 2-7 in the past nine Sunday affairs. The BoSox are 13-3 in their home digs the past 16 Sundays.
PHILADELPHIA (7 - 8) at FLORIDA (11 - 5)
JAMIE MOYER (L) vs. BURKE BADENHOP (R)
Top Trends for this game.
FLORIDA is 95-82 (+25.7 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
FLORIDA is 26-16 (+13.5 Units) against the money line in April games over the last 2 seasons.
FLORIDA is 25-14 (+13.3 Units) against the money line when playing with a day off over the last 3 seasons.
FLORIDA is 11-2 (+9.9 Units) against the money line against division opponents this season.
FLORIDA is 30-20 (+15.9 Units) against the money line in day games over the last 2 seasons.
FLORIDA is 94-80 (+26.3 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
PHILADELPHIA is 17-9 (+10.2 Units) against the money line as a road underdog of +100 to +125 over the last 2 seasons.
PHILADELPHIA is 46-29 (+17.2 Units) against the money line in road games against division opponents over the last 3 seasons.
MOYER is 236-161 (+43.6 Units) against the money line in all games since 1997. (Team's Record)
MOYER is 14-6 (+9.4 Units) against the money line in road games over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
MOYER is 18-9 (+11.7 Units) against the money line in road games in April games since 1997. (Team's Record)
MOYER is 10-1 (+9.7 Units) against the money line in road games against division opponents over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
MOYER is 14-6 (+9.4 Units) against the money line in road games in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
MOYER is 51-40 (+17.9 Units) against the money line in road games when playing against a team with a winning record since 1997. (Team's Record)
Head-to-Head Series History
PHILADELPHIA is 1-0 (+1.3 Units) against FLORIDA this season
1 of 1 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=+1.0 Units)
JAMIE MOYER vs. FLORIDA since 1997
MOYER is 11-1 when starting against FLORIDA with an ERA of 2.95 and a WHIP of 1.048.
His team's record is 11-1 (+9.8 units) in these starts. The OVER is 7-5. (+2.0 units)
BURKE BADENHOP vs. PHILADELPHIA since 1997
No recent starts.
WASHINGTON (3 - 12) at NY METS (7 - 9)
JORDAN ZIMMERMANN (R) vs. OLIVER PEREZ (L)
Top Trends for this game.
WASHINGTON is 25-63 (-22.5 Units) against the money line in road games over the last 2 seasons.
WASHINGTON is 62-111 (-29.8 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
WASHINGTON is 62-114 (-32.8 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
WASHINGTON is 70-71 (+19.7 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 3 seasons.
WASHINGTON is 92-85 (+36.3 Units) against the money line when the total is 9 to 9.5 over the last 3 seasons.
NY METS are 32-43 (-26.1 Units) against the money line when the total is 9 to 9.5 over the last 2 seasons.
NY METS are 18-27 (-25.1 Units) against the money line as a home favorite of -150 to -175 over the last 3 seasons.
NY METS are 16-21 (-17.0 Units) against the money line at home when the total is 9 to 9.5 over the last 2 seasons.
NY METS are 35-38 (-26.6 Units) against the money line in home games against division opponents over the last 3 seasons.
NY METS are 61-62 (-16.6 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
NY METS is 1-0 (+1.0 Units) against WASHINGTON this season
1 of 1 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL this season . (Under=+1.0 Units)
JORDAN ZIMMERMANN vs. NY METS since 1997
No recent starts.
OLIVER PEREZ vs. WASHINGTON since 1997
PEREZ is 3-3 when starting against WASHINGTON with an ERA of 6.53 and a WHIP of 1.645.
His team's record is 5-3 (+1.1 units) in these starts. The OVER is 5-3. (+2.0 units)
ATLANTA (8 - 8) at CINCINNATI (9 - 7)
KENSHIN KAWAKAMI (R) vs. MICAH OWINGS (R)
Top Trends for this game.
ATLANTA is 34-57 (-19.7 Units) against the money line in road games over the last 2 seasons.
ATLANTA is 79-96 (-25.1 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
ATLANTA is 80-98 (-26.0 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
ATLANTA is 31-14 (+18.4 Units) against the money line when playing with a day off over the last 3 seasons.
CINCINNATI is 66-88 (-34.3 Units) against the money line in home games when playing on Sunday since 1997.
Head-to-Head Series History
ATLANTA is 1-0 (+1.1 Units) against CINCINNATI this season
1 of 1 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL this season . (Under=+1.0 Units)
KENSHIN KAWAKAMI vs. CINCINNATI since 1997
No recent starts.
MICAH OWINGS vs. ATLANTA since 1997
OWINGS is 2-0 when starting against ATLANTA with an ERA of 3.46 and a WHIP of 0.846.
His team's record is 2-0 (+2.3 units) in these starts. The OVER is 2-0. (+2.0 units)
MILWAUKEE (7 - 9) at HOUSTON (6 - 11)
MANNY PARRA (L) vs. RUSS ORTIZ (R)
Top Trends for this game.
HOUSTON is 90-85 (+14.5 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
HOUSTON is 92-86 (+16.7 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
MILWAUKEE is 1-0 (+1.0 Units) against HOUSTON this season
1 of 1 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL this season . (Under=+1.0 Units)
MANNY PARRA vs. HOUSTON since 1997
PARRA is 3-2 when starting against HOUSTON with an ERA of 5.47 and a WHIP of 1.937.
His team's record is 3-2 (+0.3 units) in these starts. The OVER is 1-4. (-3.2 units)
RUSS ORTIZ vs. MILWAUKEE since 1997
ORTIZ is 4-3 when starting against MILWAUKEE with an ERA of 5.23 and a WHIP of 1.355.
His team's record is 5-4 (-1.1 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 5-4. (+0.3 units)
CHICAGO CUBS (8 - 7) at ST LOUIS (12 - 5)
RICH HARDEN (R) vs. TODD WELLEMEYER (R)
Top Trends for this game.
CHICAGO CUBS are 965-1016 (-187.3 Units) against the money line in all games since 1997.
CHICAGO CUBS are 908-932 (-165.1 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field since 1997.
ST LOUIS is 20-7 (+12.3 Units) against the money line in home games when playing on Sunday over the last 3 seasons.
ST LOUIS is 37-18 (+15.1 Units) against the money line in home games in day games over the last 3 seasons.
ST LOUIS is 98-81 (+15.2 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
ST LOUIS is 66-50 (+16.5 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
ST LOUIS is 98-81 (+15.2 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
ST LOUIS is 40-25 (+13.7 Units) against the money line when the total is 8 to 8.5 over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
ST LOUIS is 2-2 (+0.0 Units) against CHICAGO CUBS this season
3 of 4 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=+2.0 Units)
RICH HARDEN vs. ST LOUIS since 1997
HARDEN is 1-1 when starting against ST LOUIS with an ERA of 3.65 and a WHIP of 1.135.
His team's record is 1-1 (+0.0 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 2-0. (+2.0 units)
TODD WELLEMEYER vs. CHICAGO CUBS since 1997
WELLEMEYER is 2-2 when starting against CHICAGO CUBS with an ERA of 3.32 and a WHIP of 1.384.
His team's record is 2-2 (+0.6 units) in these starts. The OVER is 1-3. (-2.2 units)
LA DODGERS (12 - 5) at COLORADO (5 - 10)
CLAYTON KERSHAW (L) vs. JASON MARQUIS (R)
Top Trends for this game.
COLORADO is 87-81 (+20.1 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 3 seasons.
MARQUIS is 25-9 (+13.9 Units) against the money line in day games over the last 3 seasons. (Team's Record)
COLORADO is 78-99 (-27.5 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
COLORADO is 20-35 (-20.9 Units) against the money line in day games over the last 2 seasons.
COLORADO is 78-99 (-27.5 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
LA DODGERS is 4-0 (+4.1 Units) against COLORADO this season
2 of 3 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=+0.9 Units)
CLAYTON KERSHAW vs. COLORADO since 1997
KERSHAW is 1-2 when starting against COLORADO with an ERA of 5.14 and a WHIP of 2.000.
His team's record is 1-2 (-1.4 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 2-1. (+0.8 units)
JASON MARQUIS vs. LA DODGERS since 1997
MARQUIS is 3-1 when starting against LA DODGERS with an ERA of 2.43 and a WHIP of 1.042.
His team's record is 5-4 (+0.4 units) in these starts. The OVER is 3-6. (-3.4 units)
PITTSBURGH (9 - 7) at SAN DIEGO (10 - 6)
ROSS OHLENDORF (R) vs. JAKE PEAVY (R)
Top Trends for this game.
SAN DIEGO is 73-104 (-29.3 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
SAN DIEGO is 62-88 (-31.4 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 3 seasons.
SAN DIEGO is 73-104 (-29.3 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
SAN DIEGO is 1-0 (+1.0 Units) against PITTSBURGH this season
1 of 1 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL this season . (Under=+1.0 Units)
ROSS OHLENDORF vs. SAN DIEGO since 1997
OHLENDORF is 0-0 when starting against SAN DIEGO with an ERA of 1.93 and a WHIP of 1.927.
His team's record is 1-0 (+1.4 units) in these starts. The OVER is 0-1. (-1.3 units)
JAKE PEAVY vs. PITTSBURGH since 1997
PEAVY is 5-1 when starting against PITTSBURGH with an ERA of 1.85 and a WHIP of 0.945.
His team's record is 6-1 (+4.9 units) in these starts. The OVER is 3-3. (+0.0 units)
SAN FRANCISCO (7 - 8) at ARIZONA (6 - 10)
MATT CAIN (R) vs. JON GARLAND (R)
Top Trends for this game.
CAIN is 25-44 (-21.9 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
CAIN is 9-22 (-14.8 Units) against the money line against division opponents over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
CAIN is 25-44 (-21.9 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
SAN FRANCISCO is 366-355 (+43.8 Units) against the money line in road games against right-handed starters since 1997.
ARIZONA is 89-90 (-20.1 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
ARIZONA is 10-18 (-11.2 Units) against the money line when playing on Sunday over the last 2 seasons.
ARIZONA is 89-87 (-16.5 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
ARIZONA is 60-65 (-19.5 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
SAN FRANCISCO is 3-1 (+1.8 Units) against ARIZONA this season
4 of 4 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL this season . (Under=+4.0 Units)
MATT CAIN vs. ARIZONA since 1997
CAIN is 3-3 when starting against ARIZONA with an ERA of 3.39 and a WHIP of 1.178.
His team's record is 4-6 (-2.9 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 4-6. (-2.6 units)
JON GARLAND vs. SAN FRANCISCO since 1997
GARLAND is 1-0 when starting against SAN FRANCISCO with an ERA of 2.57 and a WHIP of 0.857.
His team's record is 1-0 (+1.0 units) in these starts. The OVER is 0-1. (-1.0 units)
MINNESOTA (8 - 9) at CLEVELAND (6 - 11)
GLEN PERKINS (L) vs. AARON LAFFEY (L)
Top Trends for this game.
MINNESOTA is 16-4 (+13.8 Units) against the money line when playing with a day off over the last 2 seasons.
CLEVELAND is 23-36 (-18.3 Units) against the money line when the total is 9 to 9.5 over the last 2 seasons.
CLEVELAND is 23-34 (-15.0 Units) against the money line in day games over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
MINNESOTA is 1-0 (+1.3 Units) against CLEVELAND this season
1 of 1 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL this season . (Under=+1.0 Units)
GLEN PERKINS vs. CLEVELAND since 1997
PERKINS is 1-0 when starting against CLEVELAND with an ERA of 3.86 and a WHIP of 1.143.
His team's record is 1-0 (+1.2 units) in these starts. The OVER is 0-1. (-1.1 units)
AARON LAFFEY vs. MINNESOTA since 1997
LAFFEY is 1-1 when starting against MINNESOTA with an ERA of 5.76 and a WHIP of 1.426.
His team's record is 2-2 (+0.0 units) in these starts. The OVER is 3-1. (+2.0 units)
TEXAS (7 - 9) at BALTIMORE (8 - 9)
BRANDON MCCARTHY (R) vs. BRADLEY BERGESEN (R)
Top Trends for this game.
BALTIMORE is 16-8 (+9.8 Units) against the money line in home games in April games over the last 2 seasons.
TEXAS is 63-60 (+12.5 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
BALTIMORE is 472-514 (-107.8 Units) against the money line in home games since 1997.
BALTIMORE is 4-23 (-19.6 Units) against the money line when playing on Sunday over the last 2 seasons.
BALTIMORE is 13-38 (-23.5 Units) against the money line in day games over the last 2 seasons.
BALTIMORE is 472-514 (-107.8 Units) against the money line in home games in games played on a grass field since 1997.
Head-to-Head Series History
BALTIMORE is 2-2 (+0.2 Units) against TEXAS this season
3 of 4 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=+2.1 Units)
BRANDON MCCARTHY vs. BALTIMORE since 1997
MCCARTHY is 0-1 when starting against BALTIMORE with an ERA of 2.25 and a WHIP of 1.313.
His team's record is 0-3 (-4.0 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 2-1. (+0.9 units)
BRADLEY BERGESEN vs. TEXAS since 1997
No recent starts.
TORONTO (13 - 5) at CHI WHITE SOX (8 - 8)
ROY HALLADAY (R) vs. JOSE CONTRERAS (R)
Top Trends for this game.
CHI WHITE SOX are 58-32 (+16.2 Units) against the money line in home games over the last 2 seasons.
CHI WHITE SOX are 37-23 (+13.6 Units) against the money line in day games over the last 2 seasons.
CHI WHITE SOX are 91-65 (+17.3 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
TORONTO is 37-22 (+15.5 Units) against the money line in day games over the last 2 seasons.
TORONTO is 74-56 (+13.2 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
TORONTO is 1-0 (+1.2 Units) against CHI WHITE SOX this season
1 of 1 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=+1.0 Units)
ROY HALLADAY vs. CHI WHITE SOX since 1997
HALLADAY is 3-4 when starting against CHI WHITE SOX with an ERA of 3.17 and a WHIP of 1.225.
His team's record is 3-7 (-6.3 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 6-4. (+1.7 units)
JOSE CONTRERAS vs. TORONTO since 1997
CONTRERAS is 1-2 when starting against TORONTO with an ERA of 3.15 and a WHIP of 1.175.
His team's record is 2-4 (-2.6 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 4-2. (+1.8 units)
DETROIT (8 - 8) at KANSAS CITY (9 - 7)
ARMANDO GALARRAGA (R) vs. SIDNEY PONSON (R)
Top Trends for this game.
DETROIT is 38-48 (-19.2 Units) against the money line when the total is 9 to 9.5 over the last 2 seasons.
DETROIT is 14-26 (-13.0 Units) against the money line on the road when the total is 9 to 9.5 over the last 2 seasons.
DETROIT is 28-47 (-30.2 Units) against the money line against division opponents over the last 2 seasons.
DETROIT is 76-82 (-23.6 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
DETROIT is 53-72 (-31.0 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
DETROIT is 29-42 (-15.8 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 2 seasons.
DETROIT is 82-96 (-30.9 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
KANSAS CITY is 53-54 (+16.5 Units) against the money line in day games over the last 3 seasons.
KANSAS CITY is 79-82 (+9.4 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
KANSAS CITY is 27-53 (-26.3 Units) against the money line at home when the total is 9 to 9.5 over the last 3 seasons.
PONSON is 18-37 (-21.9 Units) against the money line in home games against division opponents since 1997. (Team's Record)
Head-to-Head Series History
KANSAS CITY is 1-0 (+1.0 Units) against DETROIT this season
1 of 1 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL this season . (Under=+1.0 Units)
ARMANDO GALARRAGA vs. KANSAS CITY since 1997
GALARRAGA is 1-0 when starting against KANSAS CITY with an ERA of 1.93 and a WHIP of 0.929.
His team's record is 2-0 (+2.0 units) in these starts. The OVER is 0-2. (-2.1 units)
SIDNEY PONSON vs. DETROIT since 1997
PONSON is 4-4 when starting against DETROIT with an ERA of 6.62 and a WHIP of 1.645.
His team's record is 5-4 (+0.7 units) in these starts. The UNDER is 4-5. (-1.4 units)
SEATTLE (11 - 6) at LA ANGELS (6 - 10)
JARROD WASHBURN (L) vs. JERED WEAVER (R)
Top Trends for this game.
SEATTLE is 72-107 (-31.5 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
SEATTLE is 30-47 (-20.4 Units) against the money line when the total is 8 to 8.5 over the last 2 seasons.
SEATTLE is 65-98 (-31.4 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
SEATTLE is 47-75 (-27.2 Units) against the money line against right-handed starters over the last 2 seasons.
WASHBURN is 6-19 (-13.3 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons. (Team's Record)
LA ANGELS are 107-75 (+16.6 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
LA ANGELS are 32-15 (+16.1 Units) against the money line in day games over the last 2 seasons.
LA ANGELS are 101-65 (+20.9 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
LA ANGELS are 88-62 (+21.6 Units) against the money line when playing against a team with a winning record over the last 3 seasons.
SEATTLE is 85-63 (+30.0 Units) against the money line in road games in April games since 1997.
WASHBURN is 80-66 (+18.4 Units) against the money line in road games since 1997. (Team's Record)
Head-to-Head Series History
SEATTLE is 3-1 (+2.3 Units) against LA ANGELS this season
2 of 4 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=-0.1 Units, Under=-0.4 Units)
JARROD WASHBURN vs. LA ANGELS since 1997
WASHBURN is 5-5 when starting against LA ANGELS with an ERA of 4.19 and a WHIP of 1.281.
His team's record is 6-5 (+2.6 units) in these starts. The OVER is 7-4. (+2.8 units)
JERED WEAVER vs. SEATTLE since 1997
WEAVER is 6-3 when starting against SEATTLE with an ERA of 5.22 and a WHIP of 1.528.
His team's record is 7-5 (+1.2 units) in these starts. The OVER is 10-1. (+9.0 units)
TAMPA BAY (7 - 10) at OAKLAND (5 - 10)
ANDY SONNANSTINE (R) vs. DANA EVELAND (L)
Top Trends for this game.
TAMPA BAY is 112-83 (+23.6 Units) against the money line in all games over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
TAMPA BAY is 1-0 (+1.0 Units) against OAKLAND this season
1 of 1 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL this season . (Over=+1.0 Units)
ANDY SONNANSTINE vs. OAKLAND since 1997
SONNANSTINE is 2-2 when starting against OAKLAND with an ERA of 5.25 and a WHIP of 1.250.
His team's record is 2-2 (+0.3 units) in these starts. The OVER is 3-1. (+2.0 units)
DANA EVELAND vs. TAMPA BAY since 1997
EVELAND is 1-1 when starting against TAMPA BAY with an ERA of 3.21 and a WHIP of 1.071.
His team's record is 1-1 (+0.0 units) in these starts. The OVER is 1-1. (-0.2 units)
NY YANKEES (9 - 7) at BOSTON (10 - 6)
ANDY PETTITTE (L) vs. JUSTIN MASTERSON (R)
Top Trends for this game.
NY YANKEES are 3-12 (-10.9 Units) against the money line on the road when the total is 10 to 10.5 over the last 2 seasons.
NY YANKEES are 32-36 (-19.3 Units) against the money line in April games over the last 3 seasons.
BOSTON is 66-30 (+19.5 Units) against the money line in home games over the last 2 seasons.
BOSTON is 103-60 (+23.9 Units) against the money line in games played on a grass field over the last 2 seasons.
Head-to-Head Series History
BOSTON is 1-0 (+1.0 Units) against NY YANKEES this season
1 of 1 games in this series have gone UNDER THE TOTAL this season . (Under=+1.0 Units)
ANDY PETTITTE vs. BOSTON since 1997
PETTITTE is 17-8 when starting against BOSTON with an ERA of 4.09 and a WHIP of 1.453.
His team's record is 19-10 (+8.8 units) in these starts. The OVER is 15-13. (+1.7 units)
JUSTIN MASTERSON vs. NY YANKEES since 1997
MASTERSON is 0-1 when starting against NY YANKEES with an ERA of 3.00 and a WHIP of 1.333.
His team's record is 0-1 (-1.0 units) in these starts. The OVER is 0-1. (-1.1 units)
PHILADELPHIA vs. FLORIDA
Philadelphia is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Florida
Philadelphia is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing Florida
Florida is 12-6 SU in its last 18 games
Florida is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games
ATLANTA vs. CINCINNATI
Atlanta is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games
Atlanta is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games on the road
Cincinnati is 6-2 SU in its last 8 games when playing at home against Atlanta
Cincinnati is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games at home
WASHINGTON vs. NY METS
Washington is 3-17 SU in its last 20 games
Washington is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games on the road
NY Mets are 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Washington
NY Mets are 9-2 SU in its last 11 games when playing Washington
TEXAS vs. BALTIMORE
Texas is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games when playing Baltimore
Texas is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games when playing on the road against Baltimore
Baltimore is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games at home
Baltimore is 2-8 SU in its last 10 games
MILWAUKEE vs. HOUSTON
Milwaukee is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Houston
Milwaukee is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing Houston
Houston is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games
Houston is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games at home
MINNESOTA vs. CLEVELAND
Minnesota is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games
Minnesota is 5-11 SU in its last 16 games on the road
Cleveland is 6-13 SU in its last 19 games
TORONTO vs. CHI WHITE SOX
Toronto is 9-2 SU in their last 11 games when playing Chi White Sox
Toronto is 5-2 SU in their last 7 games when playing on the road against Chi White Sox
Chi White Sox are 2-9 SU in their last 11 games when playing Toronto
Chi White Sox are 2-5 SU in their last 7 games when playing at home against Toronto
DETROIT vs. KANSAS CITY
Detroit is 6-15 SU in its last 21 games on the road
Detroit is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games when playing Kansas City
Kansas City is 2-6 SU in its last 8 games when playing at home against Detroit
Kansas City is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing Detroit
CHI CUBS vs. ST. LOUIS
Chi Cubs are 1-4 SU in their last 5 games
St. Louis is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games
St. Louis is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games at home
LA DODGERS vs. COLORADO
LA Dodgers are 4-0-1 SU in their last 5 games when playing Colorado
LA Dodgers are 10-2-1 SU in their last 13 games
Colorado is 1-5-1 SU in its last 7 games at home
Colorado is 1-6-1 SU in its last 8 games
SEATTLE vs. LA ANGELS
Seattle is 6-15-1 SU in their last 22 games when playing LA Angels
Seattle is 1-4-1 SU in their last 6 games when playing on the road against LA Angels
LA Angels are 2-5-1 SU in their last 8 games
LA Angels are 15-6-1 SU in their last 22 games when playing Seattle
PITTSBURGH vs. SAN DIEGO
Pittsburgh is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games
Pittsburgh is 5-15 SU in its last 20 games when playing San Diego
San Diego is 9-3 SU in its last 12 games when playing at home against Pittsburgh
San Diego is 15-5 SU in its last 20 games when playing Pittsburgh
TAMPA BAY vs. OAKLAND
Tampa Bay is 10-4 SU in its last 14 games when playing Oakland
Tampa Bay is 6-3 SU in its last 9 games when playing on the road against Oakland
Oakland is 1-5 SU in its last 6 games
Oakland is 3-6 SU in its last 9 games when playing at home against Tampa Bay
SAN FRANCISCO vs. ARIZONA
San Francisco is 7-15 SU in its last 22 games when playing on the road against Arizona
San Francisco is 2-6 SU in its last 8 games on the road
Arizona is 4-9 SU in its last 13 games
Arizona is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games when playing San Francisco
NY YANKEES vs. BOSTON
NY Yankees are 3-6 SU in their last 9 games when playing Boston
NY Yankees are 2-4 SU in their last 6 games when playing on the road against Boston
Boston is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games
Boston is 6-3 SU in their last 9 games when playing NY Yankees
Baseball Today
SCOREBOARD
Sunday, April 26
Seattle at Los Angeles Angels (3:35 p.m. EDT) Jarrod Washburn tries to improve to 4-0 when the surprising Mariners take on Jered Weaver and the Angels.
STARS
Saturday
— Albert Pujols, Cardinals, hit his second grand slam of the season and surpassed 1,000 career RBIs in St. Louis’ 8-2 victory over the Chicago Cubs.
— Jason Varitek and Mike Lowell, Red Sox. Varitek hit a grand slam and Lowell drove in six runs as Boston earned its biggest comeback victory against the Yankees since 1968, beating New York 16-11 for its ninth straight win.
— Ian Kinsler, Rangers, homered twice in Texas’ 6-5 victory over Baltimore.
— Chipper Jones and Yunel Escobar, Braves, each drove in four runs to lead Atlanta to a 10-2 victory at the Cincinnati Reds.
— Russell Martin, Dodgers, matched a career high with four RBIs to help Los Angeles beat the Colorado Rockies 6-5.
— Prince Fielder, Brewers, homered twice and drove in three runs to lift Milwaukee to a 9-8 victory over the Houston Astros in 11 innings.
— Zach Duke, Pirates, allowed one run and six hits over 8 1-3 innings, leading Pittsburgh to a 10-1 win against the San Diego Padres.
— Alexei Ramirez, White Sox, hit his fifth grand slam and drove in a career-high five RBIs for Chicago in a 10-2 victory over the Blue Jays.
— Russell Branyan, Mariners, hit a three-run homer to lead Seattle to a 9-8 victory over the Los Angeles Angels.
— Jason Kubel, Twins, hit two solo homers in Minnesota’s 7-1 win over the Cleveland Indians.
— Curtis Granderson and Gerald Laird, Tigers, hit two-run homers to lift Detroit to a 9-1 victory at the Kansas City Royals.
— Ryan Church, Mets, drove in three runs in New York’s 8-2 victory over the Washington Nationals.
WELCOME BACK
Randy Johnson lasted just 3 1-3 innings in his first appearance in Arizona with a visiting team but the San Francisco Giants beat the Diamondbacks 5-3. As Johnson warmed up in the bullpen before the game, fans leaned over and snapped pictures. Bruce Springsteen’s “Glory Days” played as Johnson took the mound to warm up in the first, and he drew a mix of cheers and boos from the Chase Field crowd of 37,253. Johnson won four of his five Cy Young Awards with Arizona.
STREAKING
Ryan Braun delivered a tiebreaking RBI single in the 11th for his fourth hit, leading the Milwaukee Brewers to a 9-8 victory over the Houston Astros. Braun is batting .474 with four homers and 11 RBIs in his last 10 games.
ANOTHER RALLY
Chase Utley hit a go-ahead RBI single in the 10th inning and the Phillies beat Florida 6-4, handing the Marlins their fifth straight loss. Philadelphia trailed 3-0 before it scored seven times in the ninth inning to beat Florida 7-3 on Friday night. Florida led 4-3 on Saturday night before Philadelphia tied it in the ninth on pinch-hitter Eric Bruntlett’s run-scoring groundout. All eight of the Phillies’ wins have been come-from-behind victories.
WELCOME HOME GIAMBI
Jason Giambi hit the first homer of his second stint with Oakland in the Athletics’ 5-2 win over Tampa Bay. He hit 187 home runs in seven seasons with the A’s before leaving for the Yankees for seven more. He returned on a $5.25 million, one-year deal after hitting 32 homers last season for New York.
I REMEMBER WHEN
The Red Sox now have “Big Pappy” to go along with Big Papi. Arthur Giddon, who once shagged bats and balls for the Boston Braves, was the honorary batboy for the Red Sox—the day before his 100th birthday. Wearing a Red Sox jersey with No. 100 and “Big Pappy” written on the back, he sat with Boston slugger David Ortiz, who’s known as Big Papi.
COMFORT STADIUM
Magglio Ordonez homered in the Tigers’ 9-1 win at Kansas City and now has 14 home runs and 62 RBIs in 78 games at Kauffman Stadium. Zach Miner picked up the victory, going five-plus innings and allowing one run on three hits for Detroit. Miner is 3-0 with a 0.39 ERA in six games, including three starts, at the ballpark known for its fountains beyond the outfield walls. … Minnesota’s Justin Morneau continued his strong run at Progressive Field with two hits, including an RBI single in the first inning of the Twins’ 7-1 victory over the Indians. The first baseman is batting .364 (16-for-44) with two homers and 13 RBIs in his last 11 games at Cleveland’s home.
FREE PASS
New York’s Mark Teixeira walked five times, once intentionally, in the Yankees’ 16-11 loss to Boston.
SPEAKING
“Getting hit by a pitch motivated me somewhat, but not necessarily. I thought (Edinson Volquez) threw at me yesterday, but that was yesterday. I just happened to have a good day today.”—Atlanta shortstop Yunel Escobar through an interpreter after driving in four runs in the Braves’ 10-2 victory at Cincinnati.
American League Research
By Indiancowboy
Minnesota vs. Cleveland
Minnesota comes off a win yesterday over the Indians as they defeat Pavano, who is pitching better, but still not enough to help his team win. Of course, the Indians did not provide much of an offense for him yesterday. Perkins has been great this year. The young man has produced 3 straight quality starts, and has given up 4 runs in 24 innings. He has a 1-1 record with a 1.5era consequently. Minnesota has cashed as +130 and +134 dogs the last 2 days. Cleveland looks to avoid another loss and eventually a sweep. Laffey has been solid in his return this year as he is 1-0 with a 2.19era. Laffey is in the lineup due to the injury to Scott Lewis and is making the most of it, he has not had much luck with the Twins though as he is 1-1 with a 5.75era against them.
Texas vs. Baltimore
The Rangers cashed once again as a dog yesterday as they have taken 2 from the Os in this series. They have beaten Baltimore 5-4 and 6-5 which is solid for the Over 73.5 backers as they are 8-9 and under 50% in wins cashes that total. McCarthy in his starts has gone roughly 6 inns and been giving up 3 runs a peice in that process. Bergesen is in a honeymoon period with the AL as he had a great start against the Wsox in his first go around. Another high total here, a small lean on the Os to get back on track at home after losing 2 in a row and they have a pitcher Texas has not seen yet. But, Texas will continue to surprise as you as they did not have the better pitcher on the mound the last 2 days and still came out on top as their offense was able to get enough rough support both times out.
Toronto vs. Chicago Whitesox
Toronto took it up the chops yesterday 2-10 against the Sox. They are still 13-6 and look to bounce-back. The overs are still hitting with consistency for the Jays on the road currently as my recent article in the blog had noted. Halladay lost to the Rangers on the road in his last start so he looks to bounce-back today. He did go 8 strong innings though. Contreras has struggled this year and has given up 4 to 5 runs on average. The juice is a bit high on Halladay, but given the Jays loss yesterday, Halladay on the bounce-back and Contreras struggling a lean on the Jays -1.5 (I do wonder if Contreras will try to bounce-back today as if he does not he might be given the hook from the rotation).
Detroit vs. KC
Galarraga continues to be solid for the Tigers. These two teams split the first 2 games. Gallaraga picked up a ND against the Angels so he might be in for a "bounce-back" in relation to Galarraga standards. He gave up 7 hits in 5 inns; after a quality start against Cleveland, Ponson struggled at Cleveland. I expect both pitchers to likely pitch well in this rubber game. I'm a bit weary on trusting Ponson, but with a total of 9, it likely dips under today. Ponson is 4-4 with a 4.92era against the Tigers.
Seattle vs. LA Angels
Seattle has beat the Angels 9-8 and 8-3 as they look to sweep the Angels today. This team put up 3 runs early on Ortega yesterday and held on for the 1 run win despite an Angels comeback. Washburn in his 3 starts this year has been rock solid. He is 3-0 with a 1.71era. Weaver had a rough go when he faced Seattle in his last start giving up 10 hits in 5 innings in a game his team lost 3-10. He helped his team beat Detroit in the last game 4-3 although he picked up a no-decision. Washburn defeated the Angels by giving up 2 runs in 6 inns so the Angels and Weaver looked to get a bit of revenge here and avoid the sweep as well. Although the Angels aren't playing well right now, the situation points to a lean here given their revenge, and avoiding the sweep. Weaver has consistently struggled against the Mariners era wise, but in wins is decent; he is 6-3 with a 5.22era against the Ms in 12 starts lifetime.
Tampa Bay vs. Oakland
TB comes off a surprising 2-5 loss yesterday as the game still dipped under. The newbie for Oakland got the better of the more seasoned TB pitcher. Sonnanstine pitched well in his last start and his last 2 starts have been better. He is still 0-2 but has lowered his era to 5.74. Eveland has faced the Redsox and Yankees in back to back starts and his era has taken a hit. He is 0-1 with a 7.36era. Sonnanstine is 2-2 witha 5.25era against the As and 1-1 with a 6.75era in Oakland. I can see this game either way as it is a tossup.
Tips and Trends
New York Yankees at Boston Red Sox
Yankees: Andy Pettitte has plenty of experience against Boston in his career, going 16-8 with a 3.74 ERA in 32 appearances. He's 6-2 with a 3.53 ERA in 15 games at Fenway. Despite his strong numbers against the Red Sox, Pettitte has had trouble getting numerous Boston players out. Bay, Lowell, Kevin Youkilis, David Ortiz, J.D. Drew and Jason Varitek - who hit a grand slam Saturday - are 68-for-182 (.374) with eight homers against the 15-year veteran.
New York has used 10 relievers in the series, with both games lasting 4 hours, 21 minutes.
The Under is 25-9 in Pettitte's last 34 road starts.
The Under is 16-5-1 in Pettitte's last 22 starts vs. AL East foes.
Key Injuries - 3B Alex Rodriguez (hip) is on the 15-day DL.
3B Cody Ransom (hamstring) is OUT.
OF Xavier Nady (elbow) is on the 15-day DL.
PROJECTED SCORE: 4
Red Sox (-145, O/U 10): Boston goes for their 10th straight win tonight. Justin Masterson is making his second start of the season after replacing the injured Daisuke Matsuzaka in the rotation. The 24-year-old right-hander held Baltimore to one run and four singles over 5 1-3 innings of a 12-1 win Monday. Masterson faced the Yankees five times last season, going 0-2 with a 4.82 ERA. He pitched well in his lone start against them in New York but suffered a 2-1 loss after giving up two runs and six hits over six innings. Boston has also used 10 relievers in the series.
The Over is 11-2 in the Red Sox's last 13 overall.
The Red Sox are 9-0 in their last 9 games as a favorite.
Key Injuries - SS Jed Lowrie (wrist) is on the 15-day DL.
SS Julio Lugo (knee) is on the 15-day DL.
PROJECTED SCORE: 6 (Side Play of the Day)
PHILADELPHIA at FLORIDA
MOYER: Philly 20-7 off underdog division win
BADENHOP: Fla 13-3 Over at home playing w/ double revenge
WASHINGTON at NY METS
ZIMMERMANN: Wash 48-33 Over vs. division
PEREZ: 9-14 TSR as a favorite of -150 or more
ATLANTA at CINCINNATI
KAWAKAMI: Atlanta 0-11 Away off win by 6+ Runs
OWINGS: Cincy 6-3 at home vs. Atlanta
MILWAUKEE at HOUSTON
PARRA: Milwaukee 24-11 Under as road favorite
ORTIZ: Houston 16-4 after scoring 8+ runs
CHICAGO CUBS at ST LOUIS
HARDEN: Cubs 14-3 Under at St. Louis
WELLEMEYER: StL 8-1 when the money line is +125 to -125
LA DODGERS at COLORADO
KERSHAW: Dodgers 12-3 vs. division
MARQUIS: Colorado 20-35 in day games
PITTSBURGH at SAN DIEGO
OHLENDORF: Pit 7-25 Away off win
PEAVY: 24-10 Under in home starts
SAN FRANCISCO at ARIZONA
CAIN: 9-22 TSR vs. division
GARLAND: 11-2 Under at home working on 5 or 6 days rest
American League
MINNESOTA at CLEVELAND
PERKINS: Minnesota 50-28 Away off Under
LAFFEY: Cleveland 62-35 Under in day games
TEXAS at BALTIMORE
MCCARTHY: Baltimore 4-23 on Sunday
BERGESEN: Texas 12-2 Over off 3+ Unders
TORONTO at CHI WHITE SOX
HALLADAY: Toronto 8-1 Over in road games
CONTRERAS: White Sox 12-3 as home underdog
DETROIT at KANSAS CITY
GALARRAGA: 13-3 TSR 1st half of season
PONSON: KC 2-14 off loss by 8+ runs
SEATTLE at LA ANGELS
WASHBURN: Seattle 10-3 when the money line is +125 to -125
WEAVER: 22-9 Under off team loss
TAMPA BAY at OAKLAND
SONNANSTINE: TB 1-8 when the money line is +125 to -125
EVELAND: Oakland 44-29 off BB Home games
NY YANKEES at BOSTON
PETTITTE: Yankees 3-12 Away when the total is 10 to 10.5
MASTERSON: Boston 24-5 at home if total is 10 or higher