Another day and another free play!! To continue my streak tonight we have...
Cincinnati Reds vs Pittsburgh Pirates over 8.5 @ -110 (1.90)
The Reds are on a season high five game losing streak, but what better place to take that streak then to Pittsburgh. The Pirates are on the verge of another 100 game losing season and are sending Paul Maholm to the mound tonight who has been on a brutal run of late going 0-5 with a 9.20 ERA in his last 6 games. Malholm's troubles date further back as he has allowed 7 or more hits in 9 straight starts.
Countering for the Reds is Homer Bailey. Bailey has had an up and down injury plagued season and is looking to get back on track against a team he enjoys success against. Even with Baileys good pedigree against the Pirates, look for hitters to be making some contact tonight as Bailey is coming off a couple shaky starts where tweaks and adjustments to his mechanics are being made as a tune up for the playoffs.
Even with Bailey having a quality start expect the Reds offence to break out of this losing streak and carry the over practically single handedly. Take the over 8.5
Friday, September 10, 2010
Thursday, September 9, 2010
Today's Free Pick - Simon
Let's keep this mini streak going, and now Mike has jumped into the mix picking a winner again! Let's keep this up! Today's Free Pick is Atlanta Braves and St Louis Cardinals under 7.5 runs @ -125 (1.80).
This will be an unbelievably good pitching match between the Cardinals Adam Wainwright and the Braves Jair Jurrjens. Both have fantastic records with low ERA's, but unfortunately for the Cardinals, Adam has struggled on the road going 6-8, which isn't bad. However, Jair Jurrjens is hitting his stride after being sidelined at the beginning of the year with a hamstring injury. Jair has only lost once in 10 trips to the mound, which is an unbelievable streak of hotness for him. Where Jair is excelling, Adam has slowed down significantly going 4-5 in his last 10 starts after holding a record of 13-5 to start the season. One is hot, the other is cooling significantly. BUT, (a huge BUT), it's not really Wainwright that's struggling because even though he's 6-8 on the road and 4-5 recently, he holds a ridiculous 2.81 ERA since the all star break and a 2.24 ERA before the intermission. So perhaps it's the Cardinals hitters that have been struggling. Good for this pick, because St Louis has really been cool lately and with Jair on the mound on the other side, I don't see that button changing to hot. Take the under in this low scoring pitchers dual.
This will be an unbelievably good pitching match between the Cardinals Adam Wainwright and the Braves Jair Jurrjens. Both have fantastic records with low ERA's, but unfortunately for the Cardinals, Adam has struggled on the road going 6-8, which isn't bad. However, Jair Jurrjens is hitting his stride after being sidelined at the beginning of the year with a hamstring injury. Jair has only lost once in 10 trips to the mound, which is an unbelievable streak of hotness for him. Where Jair is excelling, Adam has slowed down significantly going 4-5 in his last 10 starts after holding a record of 13-5 to start the season. One is hot, the other is cooling significantly. BUT, (a huge BUT), it's not really Wainwright that's struggling because even though he's 6-8 on the road and 4-5 recently, he holds a ridiculous 2.81 ERA since the all star break and a 2.24 ERA before the intermission. So perhaps it's the Cardinals hitters that have been struggling. Good for this pick, because St Louis has really been cool lately and with Jair on the mound on the other side, I don't see that button changing to hot. Take the under in this low scoring pitchers dual.
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
Today's Free Play - Mike
Simon is on a roll!! Lets keep the hot streak alive with tonights free play of the night!!
San Francisco Giants vs Arizona Diamondbacks under 9.5 @ -105 (1.95)
In this matchup we have a team fighting for a playoff spot in the final month of the season vs a team thats been out of the playoff race since about the second month of the season. San Fran has been picking up steam lately and at the perfect time, in the midst of a massive losing streak. On the mound for the Giants is Barry Zito who hasn't been able to win at all as of late. San Fran has lost the last 5 times Zito has hit the mound, but tonight against Arizona who hasnt played meaningful baseball in months, the positive atmosphere surrounding the Giants locker room is gonna help break this slump in what we think is gonna be a solid outing for Zito.
Pitching for Arizona we have Daniel Hudson. This kid has been on fire of late pitching to at least the 6th inning in his last 7 games which was coincidentally when he got picked up by Arizona from the White Sox. Hudson already has a start against San Fran this season in which he only allowed 4 hits and 2 runs in 7 innings. Hudson is on a roll and look for him to continue that tonight at home.
Take the under 8.5 runs.
San Francisco Giants vs Arizona Diamondbacks under 9.5 @ -105 (1.95)
In this matchup we have a team fighting for a playoff spot in the final month of the season vs a team thats been out of the playoff race since about the second month of the season. San Fran has been picking up steam lately and at the perfect time, in the midst of a massive losing streak. On the mound for the Giants is Barry Zito who hasn't been able to win at all as of late. San Fran has lost the last 5 times Zito has hit the mound, but tonight against Arizona who hasnt played meaningful baseball in months, the positive atmosphere surrounding the Giants locker room is gonna help break this slump in what we think is gonna be a solid outing for Zito.
Pitching for Arizona we have Daniel Hudson. This kid has been on fire of late pitching to at least the 6th inning in his last 7 games which was coincidentally when he got picked up by Arizona from the White Sox. Hudson already has a start against San Fran this season in which he only allowed 4 hits and 2 runs in 7 innings. Hudson is on a roll and look for him to continue that tonight at home.
Take the under 8.5 runs.
Today's Free Pick - Simon
BOOM! Another victory pushes my record to 6-1 in my last 7 pick and 10-4 overall. I missed several picks after my internet wasn't working for a week, but ready to get back into it and started with a win last night. Let's keep it up team! Today we're going to go with Kansas City Royals vs Minnesota Twins over 7.5 runs @ +100 (2.00).
The Twins are continuing their race for the pennant, and feel the need to regularly beat up on Kansas City every time they face them. Zach Greinke is on the mound for KC and after his CY Young award last year, has struggled with a mediocre 8-11 record and a 3.87 ERA. However amazing or poor Zach has done, Minnesota has hit him up as if a 12 year old was lobbing balls to Barry Bonds. Joe Mauer and Jim Thome intend to continue their historic assault on Kansas City. Mauer is a mind boggling 31 for 56 (.554 average!!) Good lord... and is an amazing 4-for-8 against Greinke this year. Minny hasn't seen much of Brian Duensing, but the few that have, hold records of .333 or so. Also, Duensing holds a record of 3-0 against the KC but has a large 4.26 ERA and like I said before, Greinke get's beat up against the Twins and holds a 3-7 record with a 4.94 ERA. I see batters going up to bat twice in the same inning tonight, and look for the total score to be over 7.5 runs.
The Twins are continuing their race for the pennant, and feel the need to regularly beat up on Kansas City every time they face them. Zach Greinke is on the mound for KC and after his CY Young award last year, has struggled with a mediocre 8-11 record and a 3.87 ERA. However amazing or poor Zach has done, Minnesota has hit him up as if a 12 year old was lobbing balls to Barry Bonds. Joe Mauer and Jim Thome intend to continue their historic assault on Kansas City. Mauer is a mind boggling 31 for 56 (.554 average!!) Good lord... and is an amazing 4-for-8 against Greinke this year. Minny hasn't seen much of Brian Duensing, but the few that have, hold records of .333 or so. Also, Duensing holds a record of 3-0 against the KC but has a large 4.26 ERA and like I said before, Greinke get's beat up against the Twins and holds a 3-7 record with a 4.94 ERA. I see batters going up to bat twice in the same inning tonight, and look for the total score to be over 7.5 runs.
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
Today's Free Pick - Simon
Well, after a long absent, we are ready to get back into business! The internet is back in motion and the picks are ready to follow in a winning way. I left last week with a 9-4 record getting unlucky in a UFC pick and not giving the NY Yankees enough credit but still going 5-1 in my last 6 picks. Why not continue this mini streak with a win tonight?
Florida Marlins vs Philadelphia Phillies over 9.5 @ -120 (1.83).
In tonight's game, we have two mediocre pitchers heading to the mound. Florida's Chris Volstad with a shaddy 8-8 record 4.82 ERA and Phillies Joe Blanton with a 6-6 record 5.25 ERA both hurl tonight. Most of Florida hasn't seen much of Blanton but the few that have, have numbers with averages of .300 and even an average of .800. The Phillies batters have hit Volstad around like a ball wrapped around a tether pole. They have a collection of .300 batting averages against Volstad and in the past few games, the Phillies have begun hitting 10x better then they once were. In 5 of their last 6 games, the Phillies have hit the over in their game and I see them continuing the hitting trend. The Phillies are also in the middle of the NL East title hunt and will need a great performance from all their hitters as the pitchers may fold under the pressure. It doesn't matter who wins, but I see the Phillies smoking a lot of balls and see Florida doing the same for an over of 9.5.
Florida Marlins vs Philadelphia Phillies over 9.5 @ -120 (1.83).
In tonight's game, we have two mediocre pitchers heading to the mound. Florida's Chris Volstad with a shaddy 8-8 record 4.82 ERA and Phillies Joe Blanton with a 6-6 record 5.25 ERA both hurl tonight. Most of Florida hasn't seen much of Blanton but the few that have, have numbers with averages of .300 and even an average of .800. The Phillies batters have hit Volstad around like a ball wrapped around a tether pole. They have a collection of .300 batting averages against Volstad and in the past few games, the Phillies have begun hitting 10x better then they once were. In 5 of their last 6 games, the Phillies have hit the over in their game and I see them continuing the hitting trend. The Phillies are also in the middle of the NL East title hunt and will need a great performance from all their hitters as the pitchers may fold under the pressure. It doesn't matter who wins, but I see the Phillies smoking a lot of balls and see Florida doing the same for an over of 9.5.
Monday, September 6, 2010
Back in Business
ALRIGHT! Sorry team, but after a week of no internet, I haven't been able to make any sort of picks! Now, the internet is finally up and running, and Mike and I are ready to start again and continue our winning ways! We are back in business!
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Today's Free Play - Mike
Looking to improve on 1-1 for the week, we're heading over to the Big Apple with our free play of the day...
New York Yankees vs Oakland Athletics over 9 @ -125 (1.8)
So far this series the New York Yankees have crushed Athletics pitchers for a total of 20 runs in the first two games of the series. Previous to this series the Yankees offence had slowed down a bit, but its impossible to keep the pinstripes down forever, and now they are making up for lost time. The Yankees potent lineup faces Brett Anderson tonight. In limited action the Yankees have some decent numbers against Anderson with Jeter hitting .500 over 10 AB's, as well as Teixeira and Posada hitting .333 in 9AB's.
Pitching for the Yankees is the struggling A.J. Burnett who absolutely cannot find any consistency this season. His last 3 appearances have been awful going 0-3 with a 7.36 ERA. Even one of Burnett's strengths, the strikeout, has been struggling as hes only thrown 13 in the last 18 innings. Burnett has shown no signs of getting out of his slump, and this combined with the Yankees stellar offence makes the 9 total in this game a solid pick.
Take the Athletics vs Yankees game over 9.
New York Yankees vs Oakland Athletics over 9 @ -125 (1.8)
So far this series the New York Yankees have crushed Athletics pitchers for a total of 20 runs in the first two games of the series. Previous to this series the Yankees offence had slowed down a bit, but its impossible to keep the pinstripes down forever, and now they are making up for lost time. The Yankees potent lineup faces Brett Anderson tonight. In limited action the Yankees have some decent numbers against Anderson with Jeter hitting .500 over 10 AB's, as well as Teixeira and Posada hitting .333 in 9AB's.
Pitching for the Yankees is the struggling A.J. Burnett who absolutely cannot find any consistency this season. His last 3 appearances have been awful going 0-3 with a 7.36 ERA. Even one of Burnett's strengths, the strikeout, has been struggling as hes only thrown 13 in the last 18 innings. Burnett has shown no signs of getting out of his slump, and this combined with the Yankees stellar offence makes the 9 total in this game a solid pick.
Take the Athletics vs Yankees game over 9.
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Today's Free Pick - Simon
It's only Tuesday! There's plenty more time in the week to rack up some winners, so let's jump right in.
Todays Free Pick is the Chicago White Sox over the Cleveland Indians @ -115 (1.86).
There is one or two stats that needed no explaining. Since being sent to the Chicago White Sox from Arizona in a mid season trade, Chicago's hurler Edwin Jackson has a 2-0 record with a tiny 0.96 ERA, while Cleveland's Justin Masterson is 2-2 in his last 5 games with a moderate ERA of 3.68. The stat that really did it for me (besides Jacksons 8-10 record 4.44 ERA and Mastersons 5-12 record 5.23 ERA) was that in his lifetime, Edwin Jackson is 5-1 with a minuscule 2.56 ERA while Masterson is at 1-2. Jackson seems to really have Cleveland's number and has dominated them for 5 wins and Cleveland has been held to a batting average of just over .200.
Putting the pitchers aside for a second, is the simple fact that Manny Ramirez is available for the White Sox tonight. He is assumed to be put in the DH spot, so you don't have to worry about his laughable fielding abilities. However, Ozzie Guillen also made is clear that Manny may not start in tonight's game, but he will be available to call on as a designated hitter in any tight situation. Manny being Manny, he excels at these tight, game altering situations. Look for the Chicago White Sox who are clawing for that playoff spot to sneak a win out of the basement dwelling Cleveland Indians.
Todays Free Pick is the Chicago White Sox over the Cleveland Indians @ -115 (1.86).
There is one or two stats that needed no explaining. Since being sent to the Chicago White Sox from Arizona in a mid season trade, Chicago's hurler Edwin Jackson has a 2-0 record with a tiny 0.96 ERA, while Cleveland's Justin Masterson is 2-2 in his last 5 games with a moderate ERA of 3.68. The stat that really did it for me (besides Jacksons 8-10 record 4.44 ERA and Mastersons 5-12 record 5.23 ERA) was that in his lifetime, Edwin Jackson is 5-1 with a minuscule 2.56 ERA while Masterson is at 1-2. Jackson seems to really have Cleveland's number and has dominated them for 5 wins and Cleveland has been held to a batting average of just over .200.
Putting the pitchers aside for a second, is the simple fact that Manny Ramirez is available for the White Sox tonight. He is assumed to be put in the DH spot, so you don't have to worry about his laughable fielding abilities. However, Ozzie Guillen also made is clear that Manny may not start in tonight's game, but he will be available to call on as a designated hitter in any tight situation. Manny being Manny, he excels at these tight, game altering situations. Look for the Chicago White Sox who are clawing for that playoff spot to sneak a win out of the basement dwelling Cleveland Indians.
Today's Free Play - Mike
I'm off to another solid start this week winning last night with the Chicago White Sox. Tonight we look to remain perfect as we head to the west coast for todays free play with...
Colorado Rockies vs San Francisco Giants over 8.0 @ -115 (1.86)
In this game the odds makers are putting a ton of faith in rookie pitcher Madison Bumgarner of the Giants. Bumgarner is a great up and coming pitcher but the problem for him this season is the pressure of the home crowd. Rather then using the crowd to pitch better its been negative results for him thus far. In 5 home starts he is 0-2 with a 6.04 ERA, yet on the road he sports an impressive 2.62 ERA with a 5-2 record. With the pressure building for the Giants in the division and wild card race expect Bumgarner to have another tough time at home.
For the Rockies we have Esmil Rogers who hasn't really shown any signs of being a solid major league pitcher. In his last three starts Rogers is 0-0 with a 7.90 ERA. Rogers would have an abysmal record but he gets a ton of run support from the Rockies offense thus keeping his record at 2-2 even at a 5.66 ERA.
There should be a ton of runs in this one. Take the over.
Colorado Rockies vs San Francisco Giants over 8.0 @ -115 (1.86)
In this game the odds makers are putting a ton of faith in rookie pitcher Madison Bumgarner of the Giants. Bumgarner is a great up and coming pitcher but the problem for him this season is the pressure of the home crowd. Rather then using the crowd to pitch better its been negative results for him thus far. In 5 home starts he is 0-2 with a 6.04 ERA, yet on the road he sports an impressive 2.62 ERA with a 5-2 record. With the pressure building for the Giants in the division and wild card race expect Bumgarner to have another tough time at home.
For the Rockies we have Esmil Rogers who hasn't really shown any signs of being a solid major league pitcher. In his last three starts Rogers is 0-0 with a 7.90 ERA. Rogers would have an abysmal record but he gets a ton of run support from the Rockies offense thus keeping his record at 2-2 even at a 5.66 ERA.
There should be a ton of runs in this one. Take the over.
Monday, August 30, 2010
Today's Free Pick - Simon
A new week has started, which means a new round of betting madness begins. Let's be ambitious and go undefeated this week! After taking a glance at the lines for tonight, there was one that simply blew my mind!
Oakland Athletics and New York Yankees under 9.5 @ -105 (1.95).
It's always tough to pick the under with the Yankees as they have such dominating power. However tonight, Oakland puts Trevor Cahill at 14-5 with a 2.43 ERA and the Yankees counter with Dustin Moseley at 4-2 with a 4.53 ERA. Even with Cahill on the mound, it's still going to be a tough, hard working start, but Cahill has a couple bonuses his way. A-Rod is still on the disabled list for this game, as well as Teixeira! As much talent and power as the Yankees have, these are two of the Yankees most accomplished power hitters. Cahill has been rather untouchable lately, and has recently added in a very solid curve ball to his plethora of pitches. He's a very dangerous guy who holds batters to a minuscule .202 batting average which leads the league. The Yankees have also not been their usual dangerous selves only scoring more then 4 runs in two of their last 6 games. Oakland is not a huge threat of hitting up bombs, as they literally have the worst home run total in the entire MLB. Look for the game to be a low scoring affair.
Oakland Athletics and New York Yankees under 9.5 @ -105 (1.95).
It's always tough to pick the under with the Yankees as they have such dominating power. However tonight, Oakland puts Trevor Cahill at 14-5 with a 2.43 ERA and the Yankees counter with Dustin Moseley at 4-2 with a 4.53 ERA. Even with Cahill on the mound, it's still going to be a tough, hard working start, but Cahill has a couple bonuses his way. A-Rod is still on the disabled list for this game, as well as Teixeira! As much talent and power as the Yankees have, these are two of the Yankees most accomplished power hitters. Cahill has been rather untouchable lately, and has recently added in a very solid curve ball to his plethora of pitches. He's a very dangerous guy who holds batters to a minuscule .202 batting average which leads the league. The Yankees have also not been their usual dangerous selves only scoring more then 4 runs in two of their last 6 games. Oakland is not a huge threat of hitting up bombs, as they literally have the worst home run total in the entire MLB. Look for the game to be a low scoring affair.
Today's Free Play - Mike
A new week is upon us and we kick things off with a solid free play on a tight board tonight. There isn't too much out there too nibble at, but its worth laying the juice tonight on...
Chicago White Sox over Cleveland Indians @ -135 (1.74)
With Manny Ramirez now on the horizon expect the borderline Chicago players to be digging deep in hopes of maintaining playing time. If Chicago is gonna make a run for the division which they are now poised to do with the Manny acquisition, it needs to start now. Mark Beuhrle is having a decent season with the Sox going 12-10 with a 3.93 ERA but in the midst of a playoff race his veteran presence will prove valuable on the mound tonight.
For the Indians, Mitch Talbot is battling to get back on track this season. He has not gone past the 6th inning of a game since June 26th which also happened to be his last victory. Thats a stretch of 8 games. Too add to the struggles he is 0-2 with a 7.36 ERA in August. Talbot cant wait for September to turn a new page, but unfortunately for him August isn`t quite over and Talbot will struggle as he has.
Take the White Sox on the money line.
Chicago White Sox over Cleveland Indians @ -135 (1.74)
With Manny Ramirez now on the horizon expect the borderline Chicago players to be digging deep in hopes of maintaining playing time. If Chicago is gonna make a run for the division which they are now poised to do with the Manny acquisition, it needs to start now. Mark Beuhrle is having a decent season with the Sox going 12-10 with a 3.93 ERA but in the midst of a playoff race his veteran presence will prove valuable on the mound tonight.
For the Indians, Mitch Talbot is battling to get back on track this season. He has not gone past the 6th inning of a game since June 26th which also happened to be his last victory. Thats a stretch of 8 games. Too add to the struggles he is 0-2 with a 7.36 ERA in August. Talbot cant wait for September to turn a new page, but unfortunately for him August isn`t quite over and Talbot will struggle as he has.
Take the White Sox on the money line.
Sunday, August 29, 2010
Today's Free Play - Mike
Looking at the board tonight, a juicy dog has caught my eye. This is going to be a great game to watch in the 3 team race in the AL East, between the Red Sox, Rays and Yankees.
Todays free play is...
Boston Red Sox over the Tampa Bay Rays @ +129 (2.29)
The Red Sox are 5.5 games back of both the Rays and the Yankees for both the wild card and the division. Coming off a loss last night expect the Red Sox bounce back and not lose 2 games to the Rays in a row at such a key point in the season. John Lackey, pitching for the Sox, is coming off one of his best performances of the season against Seattle.
Shields is the Rays starter in the contest tonight and he's one win away from being the franchise leader in wins. This combined with the intensity and importance of the upcoming game is going to be overwhelming for the pitcher who's going to be a little more nervous then usual. Shields has struggled against the Red Sox over the years with a 4-9 record and a 5.25 ERA. This a great spot for the Red Sox who need to find a way to get a win in what may be the difference maker for them this season.
The Red Sox will come through, take them on the money line.
Todays free play is...
Boston Red Sox over the Tampa Bay Rays @ +129 (2.29)
The Red Sox are 5.5 games back of both the Rays and the Yankees for both the wild card and the division. Coming off a loss last night expect the Red Sox bounce back and not lose 2 games to the Rays in a row at such a key point in the season. John Lackey, pitching for the Sox, is coming off one of his best performances of the season against Seattle.
Shields is the Rays starter in the contest tonight and he's one win away from being the franchise leader in wins. This combined with the intensity and importance of the upcoming game is going to be overwhelming for the pitcher who's going to be a little more nervous then usual. Shields has struggled against the Red Sox over the years with a 4-9 record and a 5.25 ERA. This a great spot for the Red Sox who need to find a way to get a win in what may be the difference maker for them this season.
The Red Sox will come through, take them on the money line.
Saturday, August 28, 2010
Today's Free Play - Simon
After I took a thumping yesterday, I'm still sitting pretty at 3-1 and looking to rebound on tonight's UFC fights. I took a decent underdog in Kansas City last night, but in tonight's UFC match ups, I'm taking an even bigger underdog. We're taking Amilcar Alves over Mike Pierce @ +240 (3.4).
The odds makers continuously undervalue debut fighters to the UFC. I guess they don't understand that there are plenty of other Associations around the world that also have legit, world class fighters. Mike Pierce is a very good fighter, but at a record of 10-3, every SINGLE fighter Pierce has fought has been an American specialising in wrestling. Pierce, also specialising in wrestling, has often matched up well and used his ability to win by waiting for the judges decision. Too bad he has to face up against a hardcore Brazilian excelling in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Judo and Muay Thai in Amilcar Alves. Even if Pierce uses his wrestling to get Alves on the ground, he will never be safe as Alves is just as dangerous on his back as he is on his feet. Pierce was recently dominated by Jon Fitch who excels in Jiu-Jitsu, and look for Amilcar Alves to use his Jiu-Jitsu and striking to overwhelm Pierce to win the fight and advance to 12-1 in his career.
The odds makers continuously undervalue debut fighters to the UFC. I guess they don't understand that there are plenty of other Associations around the world that also have legit, world class fighters. Mike Pierce is a very good fighter, but at a record of 10-3, every SINGLE fighter Pierce has fought has been an American specialising in wrestling. Pierce, also specialising in wrestling, has often matched up well and used his ability to win by waiting for the judges decision. Too bad he has to face up against a hardcore Brazilian excelling in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Judo and Muay Thai in Amilcar Alves. Even if Pierce uses his wrestling to get Alves on the ground, he will never be safe as Alves is just as dangerous on his back as he is on his feet. Pierce was recently dominated by Jon Fitch who excels in Jiu-Jitsu, and look for Amilcar Alves to use his Jiu-Jitsu and striking to overwhelm Pierce to win the fight and advance to 12-1 in his career.
Today's Free Play - Mike
There is no dwelling on losses here at Handicapping Vegas and after a dissapointing loss two nights ago, I rebounded yesterday and delivered with the Stampeders, improving my free play record to 3-1 on the week. Tonight we look to start a new streak with...
The Saskatchewan Roughriders over Edmonton Eskimos by -6.5 @ -110 (1.90)
The CFL was good to us last night so were gonna roll with it again tonight. The Roughriders have been in the same breath as Calgary so far this season as the best teams in the league. Coming into the game today Edmonton has scored the least points in the CFL after being overtaken by BC last night. Simply, the Eskimos offence has been inept. Ray is doing everything he can but his receiving core have hands slabbed with butter. Nobody can step up and make that big catch. Sitting at 1-6 lots of changes have come over the last two weeks for Edmonton and they are not ready to start winning games quite yet.
The Roughriders are a contender for the Grey Cup. They boast the 3rd best offence and defense in the league and can match-up to any team on any given down. They have a strong running game to drive into the weaknesses of the Edmonton defense, and can also bomb it down field at a whim. Edmonton is going to have to be on there toes all game long.
With the number being under a touchdown its hard to ignore the Roughriders plus the 6.5 points.
Friday, August 27, 2010
Today's Free Play - Mike
Even after a tough loss last night Handicapping Vegas is sitting on a very solid 5-1 record so far this week. Tonight were gonna venture away from baseball for the first time and head to the football field for some CFL action.
Calgary Stampeders over the BC Lions covering the -6.0 spread @ -105 (1.95)
This game has one extremely convincing stat behind it that makes me wonder how in the world Calgary is only favoured by 6 points. The Lions through 7 games this season are 1-6 and have scored a pathetic 135 points. To put that in perspective the league leading Allouettes have scored more than double! The Stamps on the other hand have the best defense in the league at 142 points against.
Just by looking at the numbers its tough not to go with Stamps covering 6 points. On top of all this Casey Printers is making his return at quarterback for the Lions after a knee injury sidelined him for 4 weeks. Expect some chemistry issues in his first game back with the offensive line and wide receivers. It will take at the very least a half for the offence to get going and by then it will be too late.
Take Calgary covering 6 points as tonights free play.
Calgary Stampeders over the BC Lions covering the -6.0 spread @ -105 (1.95)
This game has one extremely convincing stat behind it that makes me wonder how in the world Calgary is only favoured by 6 points. The Lions through 7 games this season are 1-6 and have scored a pathetic 135 points. To put that in perspective the league leading Allouettes have scored more than double! The Stamps on the other hand have the best defense in the league at 142 points against.
Just by looking at the numbers its tough not to go with Stamps covering 6 points. On top of all this Casey Printers is making his return at quarterback for the Lions after a knee injury sidelined him for 4 weeks. Expect some chemistry issues in his first game back with the offensive line and wide receivers. It will take at the very least a half for the offence to get going and by then it will be too late.
Take Calgary covering 6 points as tonights free play.
Today's Free Play - Simon
The streak is continuing as I remain perfect at 3-0 and Handicapping Vegas is a shattering 5-1 this week. Let's ride this streak! Today we're going with a decent underdog:
Kansas City Royals over Cleveland Indians @ +128 (2.28)
I'm taking a pretty big underdog today but have a good feeling about this one. After an entertaining 12 inning come from behind win against Detroit on Wednesday, it's a good thing Kansas City had the day off yesterday. On the other hand, the Indians finished their tough series against Oakland with a win yesterday to avoid the sweep but have to jump right back into it with KC. KC has had an unreal bullpen as of late, not allowing a single run in 5 innings of work against a tough apponent in Detroit. Kansas City rarely gives up and as of late, look like they are actually having fun. KC's Bullington is on the mound today and after a short stint with Cleveland in 2008, looks to smash his old team that really never gave him a fair chance. Tomlin, another rookie for Cleveland, will be tossing tonight and has been shellshocked in his last 3 games with a whopping 5.50 ERA. In his last start, Tomlin made countless mistakes leaving balls high in the strike zone and is dearly struggling with his usually trusty cutter. KC won their last series with Cleveland only a week ago, and look for them to start this series off with a win tonight.
Kansas City Royals over Cleveland Indians @ +128 (2.28)
I'm taking a pretty big underdog today but have a good feeling about this one. After an entertaining 12 inning come from behind win against Detroit on Wednesday, it's a good thing Kansas City had the day off yesterday. On the other hand, the Indians finished their tough series against Oakland with a win yesterday to avoid the sweep but have to jump right back into it with KC. KC has had an unreal bullpen as of late, not allowing a single run in 5 innings of work against a tough apponent in Detroit. Kansas City rarely gives up and as of late, look like they are actually having fun. KC's Bullington is on the mound today and after a short stint with Cleveland in 2008, looks to smash his old team that really never gave him a fair chance. Tomlin, another rookie for Cleveland, will be tossing tonight and has been shellshocked in his last 3 games with a whopping 5.50 ERA. In his last start, Tomlin made countless mistakes leaving balls high in the strike zone and is dearly struggling with his usually trusty cutter. KC won their last series with Cleveland only a week ago, and look for them to start this series off with a win tonight.
Thursday, August 26, 2010
Today's Free Play - Mike
Handicapping Vegas has debuted at 4-0 in the last two days. Today I look to continue the trend and start a personal 3-0 streak. Today we are going with...
Oakland Athletics over Cleveland Indians @ -119 (1.84)
The Oakland Athletics pitching staff has been on an amazing run over the month of August. Starting pitchers have produced 17 straight games without allowing more than 3 runs in a game. Thats a nasty streak and I think it will hit 18 tonight against the lowly Indians. This will be the last time this season these two teams meet and thus far Oakland leads the series 6-2. This all couple with the fact the Indians have the coldest offense in all of baseball, bodes well for an Athletics sweep.
Tossing for the Indians is Justin Masterson. He has shown, at times, the potential to be a quality starter, but is nearing the end of his innings count for the season and has looked sluggish of late. Masterson also has a horrendous track record against teams from the AL West going 0-3 with a 6.75 ERA in 4 starts, including an 11-0 loss to the Athletics.
Take the Athletics on the money line.
Today's Free Play - Simon
Well, Handicapping Vegas has gone 4-0 with Mike and I correctly choosing our first two respected winners. Let's start some ridiculous streak of winning!
Today I'm choosing the Arizona Diamondback vs San Diego Padres in the over at 7.5 runs @ -120 (1.83).
Chicks dig the long ball. As bad as Arizona has been, there are only 4 teams in the MLB who have hit more homeruns then the Diamondbacks this season (shocking, I know). Arizona has an obvious problem of hitting homeruns with no one on base, but tonight two young pitchers face off on the mound in Arizona's Ian Kennedy and SD's Kevin Correia. Arizona batters have hit Correia for a .300 average and expect a lot of batters on base this game. Arizona's Ian Kennedy appeared seemingly tired in only the 5th inning in his last start and is still struggling in his first season to find the fitness it takes to be a MLB starter. Additionally, San Diego has had the 4th highest run support in it's last 7 games in the entire MLB. Look for San Diego to simply be San Diego against Kennedy and hit up a storm. Look for the game to be a high scoring one and take the over at 7.5 runs.
Today I'm choosing the Arizona Diamondback vs San Diego Padres in the over at 7.5 runs @ -120 (1.83).
Chicks dig the long ball. As bad as Arizona has been, there are only 4 teams in the MLB who have hit more homeruns then the Diamondbacks this season (shocking, I know). Arizona has an obvious problem of hitting homeruns with no one on base, but tonight two young pitchers face off on the mound in Arizona's Ian Kennedy and SD's Kevin Correia. Arizona batters have hit Correia for a .300 average and expect a lot of batters on base this game. Arizona's Ian Kennedy appeared seemingly tired in only the 5th inning in his last start and is still struggling in his first season to find the fitness it takes to be a MLB starter. Additionally, San Diego has had the 4th highest run support in it's last 7 games in the entire MLB. Look for San Diego to simply be San Diego against Kennedy and hit up a storm. Look for the game to be a high scoring one and take the over at 7.5 runs.
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Today's Free Play - Simon
A great way to start Handicapping Vegas! Both Mike and I succeeded our first night, and plan to continue the same way we started!
Today we have the Chicago Cubs over the Washington Nationals @ -112 (1.89)
This Chicago Cubs have not done nearly as well as hoped this year (sorry Cubs fans) and Washinton is, well, Washington. Ryan Dempster is on the mound for the Cubs and has been one of the sole bright spots on this roster of let downs. Dempster is 11-8 with a 3.56 ERA and has been consistant of late and last game went a strong 8 innings for the 4th time while Jason Marquis on Washington has only surpassed the 5th inning once this year. Marquis has been struggling with a 0-6 record and a bloated 11.39 ERA. Marquis consistantly loses control of counts and is in a constant uphill battle that he rarely (if ever) recovers from. Chicagos Fukudome (almost sounds like a swear word...) has hit 20 of his last 55 this month and looks to continue his hot streak. Under interim manager Mike Quade, look for the Cubs to impress and sweep the series in an attempt to save their jobs for next season.
Today we have the Chicago Cubs over the Washington Nationals @ -112 (1.89)
This Chicago Cubs have not done nearly as well as hoped this year (sorry Cubs fans) and Washinton is, well, Washington. Ryan Dempster is on the mound for the Cubs and has been one of the sole bright spots on this roster of let downs. Dempster is 11-8 with a 3.56 ERA and has been consistant of late and last game went a strong 8 innings for the 4th time while Jason Marquis on Washington has only surpassed the 5th inning once this year. Marquis has been struggling with a 0-6 record and a bloated 11.39 ERA. Marquis consistantly loses control of counts and is in a constant uphill battle that he rarely (if ever) recovers from. Chicagos Fukudome (almost sounds like a swear word...) has hit 20 of his last 55 this month and looks to continue his hot streak. Under interim manager Mike Quade, look for the Cubs to impress and sweep the series in an attempt to save their jobs for next season.
Today's Free Play - Mike
We got off to a good start last night with the Dodgers edging the Brewers and today we're gonna start the first Handicapping Vegas streak.
Todays free play is gonna be...
Minnesota Twins vs Texas Rangers under 8.5 runs @ -105 (1.95)
The under is the way to go in this contest between Minny and Texas. For the Twins we have Brian Duensing throwing against C.J. Wilson of the Rangers. Both these pitchers are having great seasons. Duensing in particular who is sporting a 7-1 record with a miniscule 1.92 ERA. Duensing has been even better of late with a 1.48 ERA in his last 3 games. Duensing is also getting comfortable pitching late into games as his pitch count has topped 100 his last 3 starts. The transition from bullpen to starter may finally be complete for Duensing.
C.J. Wilson is another pitcher who has made the transition from bullpen to starter this season and its proved to be one of Texas' greatest decisions to date for the season. Wilson is 12-5 on the year with a very dependable 3.02 ERA. Wilson is pitching his best baseball right now going 2-0 with a 1.25 ERA in his last 3.
There is nothing more reliable in baseball then a pitcher who is hitting his stride and this a match-up of two pitchers who have never been better. Both teams hitters are gonna have lots of trouble in this one. Expect a 3-1 type of final score.
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
Today's Free Play - Simon
Alright, it all begins today. Handicapping Vegas is off and running.
Oakland Athletics over Cleveland Indians @ -112 (1.89)
After winning the first two games and starting the series strong against the Rays, Oakland was unable to clinch the series settling for a split. Now Oakland is looking to rebound and continue their very slim chances of making the playoffs with a series sweep of Cleveland starting tonight. With Oakland's Gio Gonzalez on the mound, I do believe Oakland will start the series off with a win. Gonzalez has a mind numbing 3-0, 1.16 ERA vs. Cleveland and has looked strong recently losing only once in his last 6 starts. With a 10-8 3.39 ERA, Gonzalez has surrendered only 10 hits with no HR's over 13 2/3 innings pitched against the Tribe this year. On the other end of the spectrum, Fausto Carmona tosses for Cleveland and at 11-11 has cooled off significantly with a 7.07 ERA in his last 5 outings. While the Tribes hitters haven't been able to touch Gonzalez, The A's hitters have lit up Carmona giving him a 5.56 ERA vs Oakland in his career. Take the Athletics over the struggling Indians on the money line.
Today's Free Play - Mike
Handicapping Vegas' first free play. The grand opening...lets get started off on the right foot!
LA Dodgers over Milwaukee Brewers @ -124 (1.8)
This game really stands out for me for a couple big reasons. Ted Lilly....simply has been amazing since being traded to the Dodgers. He's gone 3-0 with a 1.29 ERA in his last three starts and has shown no signs of slowing down. Tonight he faces off against David Bush. Bush has an inflated W/L in his career thanks to a blistering Brewer offense in recent years. In the midst of rumors suggesting Manny Ramirez will be placed on waivers expect him to play his best when under the limelight as the over the top Manny always does. Bush is in for a tough night. Take the Dodgers on the money line.
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