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T.M. Selection: ARI - ML 

Zac Gallen (4-1, 2.15 ERA) vs. Jon Gray (1-1, 3.91 ERA) 

I like the Arizona Diamondbacks to win this game against the Texas Rangers on Tuesday. After he started the season off on the poor side, Gallen has turned it up a notch over his past four starts. In those starts, he's pitched 27 innings, given up just 10 base runners, struck out 41, and allowed no runs. On the other hand, Gray has looked a bit shaky at times this year. In the past, he's struggled against the DBacks. His ERA is 5.60 and he owns a 5-7 lifetime record against them in 18 appearances. Expect another lights out performance from Gallen, en route to a Diamondbacks win. 

T.M. Prediction: 5-1 DBacks. 

Line: -155 

Line Parameter: play until -180.. 

T.M. Selection: Baltimore Orioles - ML 

Kyle Bradish (1-1, 6.30 ERA) vs. Spencer Turnbull (1-3, 7.25 ERA) 

I like the Baltimore Orioles to win this game against the Detroit Tigers on Sunday. After splitting the two games in the double header yesterday, I've got the Orioles here in the series finale. Baltimore has looked very sharp to open the season up, and I am not a believer in the Tigers. Neither one of these two pitchers have been very good to start this season, but Bradish should be able to settle in nicely against a weak Tigers lineup here today. 

T.M. Prediction: 6-3 Orioles. 

Line: -148 

Line Parameter: play until -180.. 

T.M. Selection: San Diego Padres - ML 

Blake Snell (0-3, 6.00 ERA) vs. Justin Steele (3-0, 1.44 ERA) 

I like the San Diego Padres to win this game against the Chicago Cubs on Tuesday. I know that the Padres have struggled a bit with their bats to start the season, but I think the return of Tatis is really going to get them going. He's finally hit his first HR back, and it's time for a huge Padres run. Snell hasn't been good either, but he is more than capable of throwing a gem and I think it's the perfect opportunity right here. The Cubs have been slightly better than I though they would be. I will admit, Steele has looked great. But, I do expect him to cool off a bit as he's never been amazing throughout his career. Give me the Padres here in a much needed win situation. 

T.M. Prediction: 6-2 Padres. 

Line: -110 

Line Parameter: play until -170.. 

T.M. Selection: St. Louis Cardinals - ML 

Jordan Montgomery (2-2. 4.84 ERA) vs. Alex Cobb (0-1, 2.79 ERA) 

I like the St Louis Cardinals to win this game against the San Francisco Giants on Monday. Off yesterday's dramatic win against the Mets, I expect the Giants to go back to themselves here today. St. Louis hasn't been all that impressive to start the year, considering the talent that they possess. However, I believe that it's just a matter of when things just all start clicking. A win here to start the new week would really get them going in the right direction. I expect them to take advantage of this opportunity. 

T.M. Prediction: 8-4 Cards. 

Line: -119 

Line Parameter: play until -160.. 

T.M. Selection: Milwaukee Brewers - ML 

Brayan Bello (0-1 16.88 ERA) vs. Corbin Burnes (2-1, 4.76 ERA) 

I like the Milwaukee Brewers to win this game against the Boston Red Sox on Sunday. I know that the Brewers lineup still isn't as strong as they would like it to be, but it's working right now and I expect them to win this one as well. Burnes hasn't been amazing to start the season, but he's gotten the job done recently. In Bello's only start this year, the Angels lit him up. In my opinion, Boston is the worst team in the AL East once again this year. Expect the Brewers to win this finale of this series in this one on Sunday. 

T.M. Prediction: 6-2 Brewers. 

Line: -165 

Line Parameter: play until -210.. 

T.M. Selection: San Diego Padres - ML 

Joe Musgrove (0-0, 0.00 ERA) vs. Merrill Kelly (1-2, 3.38 ERA) 

I like the San Diego Padres to win this game against the Arizona Diamondbacks on Saturday. With the Padres struggling to win games in bunches, the return of their co-ace Joe Musgrove is huge. Musgrove was a massive part in their success last season, and I expect him to be amazing once again this season. Tatis now has had a few games under his belt, since returning to the lineup as well, and should be able to get a couple of bases here today. Kelly hasn't been terrible to start the season, but he hasn't been great either. In his last start against the Padres, he wasn't all that impressive either giving up four runs in seven innings. Expect the Padres to win this game and start a little bit of a run here. 

T.M. Prediction: 5-2 Padres. 

Line: -144 

Line Parameter: play until -180.. 

T.M. Selection: Baltimore Orioles - ML 

Michael Lorenzen (0-0, 13.50 ERA) vs. Tyler Wells (0-1, 3.86 ERA) 

I like the Baltimore Orioles to win this game against the Detroit Tigers on Friday. Before the Tigers finally lost on Wednesday, they had won five straight games. However, I expect them to start losing again after that big run. Baltimore has been very solid to start this season and should be able to hit Lorenzen. Wells hasn't been amazing in his first two starts, but he hasn't been bad either. If he's able to have another solid performance, the Orioles should be able to win this game quite easily. 

T.M. Prediction: 9-3 Orioles. 

Line: -166 

Line Parameter: play until -200.. 

T.M. Selection: NYM - ML 

Kodai Senga (2-0, 3.38 ERA) vs. Sean Manaea (0-0, 4.76 ERA) 

I like the New York Mets to win this game against the San Francisco Giants on Thursday. The Mets lineup is feeling it right now and show no signs of slowing down. They've now won six of their last seven games (three straight series wins.) Senga has shown what he can do, and I don't expect the Giants to be able to hit him. This one should be a lopsided game here today. 

T.M. Prediction: 9-3 Mets. 

Line: -130 

Line Parameter: play until -170.. 

T.M. Selection: Cleveland Guardians - ML 

Cal Quantrill (0-1, 5.74 ERA) vs. Spencer Turnbull (1-2, 9.00 ERA)

I like the Cleveland Guardians to win this game against the Detroit Tigers on Wednesday. This one's a play that I really liked even before both of Tuesday's results. But, now that the Guardians have lost both games to the Tigers in this series, I love this play. Quantrill was dominant last season, and I expect him to pick it up once again this season. Turnbull hasn't been very good to start this season either, and I don't expect him to do very well in this one either. Give me the Guardians here by a lot. 

T.M. Prediction: 5-1 Guardians. 

Line: -142 

Line Parameter: play until -175 (can play -1.5 at anything + money).. 

T.M. Selection: Miami Marlins - ML 

Alex Wood (0-0, 1.17 ERA) vs. Edward Cabrera (0-1, 4.63 ERA) 

I like the Miami Marlins to win this game against the San Francisco Giants on Tuesday. Although Wood has been great at times in his career, last season showed that he was maybe fading away slightly. I will admit, he was nasty, but I believe that the time has come for the new guns to take over the big leagues. Cabrera, one of the younger pitchers himself, is actually very talented. His record and ERA might not show that, but if you watch him pitch, he's very capable. I don't believe that this weak Giants lineup will be able to hit him today. Expect an easy win for the home team in the second game of this series. 

T.M. Prediction: 5-2 Marlins. 

Line: -101 

Line Parameter: play until -145.. 

T.M. Selection: Los Angeles Angels - ML 

Shohei Ohtani (2-0, 0.47 ERA) vs. Brayan Bello (0-0, 0.00 ERA) 

I like the Los Angeles Angels to win this game against the Boston Red Sox on Monday. As the Red Sox won yesterday's game in a close low scoring game, I'm expecting the Angels' ace to take control once again. He's the best player in baseball for a reason. The two-way king will both pitch and hit today in what should be his third win of the season. He's look phenomenal so far, and he's got all the confidence in the world after the WBC victory. Expect an Angels win here today. 

T.M. Prediction: 8-2 Angels. 

Line: -156 

Line Parameter: play until -200.. 

T.M. Selection: Atlanta Braves - ML 

Bryce Elder (1-0, 0.00 ERA) vs. Kris Bubic (0-1, 1.64 ERA) 

I like the Atlanta Braves to win this game against the Kansas City Royals on Saturday. Although I don't think he'll be as bad as last season, I'm still not expecting a very good season from Bubic. He was one of the worst pitchers in the league last year and he's already got a losing record this year. The Braves have been very good to start this season and should win their forth series out of five on the year. Elder is still very young, but he's proven that he is more than capable so far this year. Give me ATL here in a blowout. 

T.M. Prediction: 8-2 Braves. 

Line: -151 

Line Parameter: play until -190.. 

T.M. Selection: New York Mets - ML 

Kodai Senga (2-0, 1.59 ERA) vs. James Kaprielian (0-1, 11.17 ERA) 

I like the New York Mets to win this game against the Oakland A's on Friday. Nobody new how Senga would pitch out of the gate. He was dominant in Japan, so many thought he would be good. But, there was some doubt with some of his Spring Training play. However, his first two starts have proven that he is here to stay and he's got another easy opponent in front of him today. Kaprielian has not been very good, allowing many runs and a 3.7 HR/9 ratio. Expect the Mets to tear him apart once again here to start the weekend series. 

T.M. Prediction: 7-2 Mets. 

Line: -172 

Line Parameter: play until -220.. 

T.M. Selection: Houston Astros - ML 

Christian Javier (1-0, 3.27 ERA) vs. Mitch Keller (1-0, 3.86 ERA) 

I like the Houston Astros to win this game against the Pittsburgh Pirates on Tuesday. Yesterday, the Astros took care of business in a much needed win (I had them) for their ball club. Today, they've got another favorable pitching matchup and I'm jumping all over it. Javier is a beast. He was dominant last season and I expect him to be just as good, if not better this year. Keller has had two solid starts to begin this season, but I haven't really been impressed another than his K/9. He's been rattled a bit in both games and I think that the defending champs could rattle him some more here today. Oneil Cruz' injury is going to hurt this Pirates team and kill their momentum. Grab the Astros here again today. 

T.M. Prediction: 6-3 Astros. 

Line: -170 

Line Parameter: play until -210.. 

T.M. Selection: Houston Astros - ML 

Framber Valdez (0-1, 1.50 ERA) vs. Roansy Contreras (1-0, 1.59 ERA) 

I like the Houston Astros to win this game against the Pittsburgh Pirates on Monday. It's finally time for the Astros to start winning ball games. Yesterday's win against the Twins has given them the confidence that they need, as they are about to sweep the Pirates in this three game series. Valdez was amazing last season. His record so far this season doesn't show it, but he's actually pitched very well in his first two starts. He's just got to limit the base hits he's been giving up and he'll be able to dominate once again. Contreras is very young still and has got a lot to learn. Expect the Astros to explode here to open the new week & series. 

T.M. Prediction: 8-0 Astros. 

Line: -173 

Line Parameter: play until -220.. 

T.M. Selection: New York Yankees - ML 

Nestor Cortes (1-0, 1.80 ERA) vs. Tyler Wells (0-0, 0.00 ERA) 

I like the New York Yankees to win this game against the Baltimore Orioles on Sunday. Both starters have already had one game under their belt and should be coming into this one a lot more settled. Wells looked good, but I believe that the Yankees will own the advantage on the mound with how good Cortes has been with them. In his career with the Yankees, he owns a 20-6 record. The Orioles also stole the first meeting in this series. It should be another good one, but the Yanks should pull away late. 

T.M. Prediction: 6-2 Yankees. 

Line: -147 

Line Parameter: play until -175.. 

T.M. Selection: St. Louis Cardinals - ML 

Jordan Montgomery (1-0, 5.40 ERA) vs. Eric Lauer (1-0, 3.38 ERA) 

I like the St. Louis Cardinals to win this game against the Milwaukee Brewers on Saturday. St. Louis needs to win this series to gain their confidence back. In the second game of this series, I fully believe that they will dominate throughout. Montgomery is a very solid starter. With a career ERA under four, I expect him to go deep in this game. Although the brewers have been hitting well, I don't think that it will last long as their lineup isn't all that great. Lauer hasn't been good against the Cards either in his career. In seven appearances (six starts,) Lauer is just 2-3 with a whopping ERA of 6.46. Those include his last two starts, which were definitely not strong. Give me the Cardinals in this one. 

T.M. Prediction: 7-3 Cards. 

Line: -134 

Line Parameter: play until -166.. 

T.M. Selection: Houston Astros - ML 

Luis Garcia (0-1, 5.40 ERA) vs. Joe Ryan (1-0, 1.50 ERA) 

I like the Houston Astros to win this game against the Minnesota Twins on Saturday. The defending champs are not getting the respect they deserve with these lines in this series. I know that the Twins are a solid baseball team, but the Astros lineup is just as good, if not better than last year. As an underdog for the second consecutive game, I believe that Houston will be able to make us more $$. Luis Garcia didn't have the greatest opening game, but he's dominated the Twins in the past. In four starts, he owns a 3-1 record with a 2.66 ERA and two shutout performances. On the other hand, Joe Ryan is 0-1 against the Astros, giving up four runs in four innings in his only start. I expect a bounce back game from Garcia here as he should be more settled than he was in his opening game. 

T.M. Prediction: 4-2 Astros. 

Line: +100 

Line Parameter: play until -140.. 

T.M. Selection: CWS - ML 

Lucas Giolito (0-0, 3.60 ERA) vs. Rich Hill (0-1, 5.40 ERA) 

I like the Chicago White Sox to win this game against the Pittsburgh Pirates on Friday. The Pirates just shocked Red Sox fans by sweeping them at Fenway. However, I'm still not buying it. The Pirates are projected to have a bad year by most people and I am one of them. I know that the White Sox have some injuries that they are dealing with right now, but they still on the superior lineup. I expect a big game from Luis Robert, who absolutely destroys left handed pitchers. Give me the White Sox at the low price. 

T.M. Prediction: 8-3 White Sox. 

Line: -115 

Line Parameter: play until -150.. 

T.M. Selection: Boston Red Sox - ML 

Chris Sale (0-0, 21.00 ERA) vs. Spencer Turnbull (0-1, 27.00 ERA) 

I like the Boston Red Sox to win this game against the Detroit Tigers on Thursday. After getting swept at home against the Pirates, I believe that Alex Cora will get his team ready for this series against the Tigers. Detroit actually played well in their last series against the Astros as they won two games to one. However, I don't believe that they have it in them to keep this up all season long. Sale used to be one of the best and I know that he is capable. Turnbull has never really shown greatness. I've backing the lefty here today. 

T.M. Prediction: 7-3 Red Sox. 

Line: -144 

Line Parameter: play until -180.. 

T.M. Selection: Chicago White Sox - ML 

Logan Webb (0-1, 6.00 ERA) vs. Dylan Cease (0-0, 1.42 ERA) 

I like the Chicago White Sox to win this game against the San Fransisco Giants on Wednesday. Neither one of these teams have started great, but there is still lots of season left. I believe that the White Sox could possibly be a sleeper team with some of this talent. I love watching them, especially the likes of Eloy Jimenez, Luis Robert Jr, Yoan Moncada and Tim Anderson. Dylan Cease is one of, if not the best pitcher in baseball right now too. He's dominant and there's no team that can really hit him. Against this weaker than previous years' lineup of the Giants, I've got the White Sox winning this game quite easily. 

T.M. Prediction: 5-1 White Sox. 

Line: -129 

Line Parameter: play until -150.. 

T.M. Selection: New York Mets - ML 

Carlos Carrasco (0-0, 0.00 ERA) vs. Freddy Peralta (0-0, 0.00 ERA) 

I like the New York Mets to win this game against the Milwaukee Brewers on Monday. You may think that Carrasco is getting old and won't be as capable. But, last year, he was actually very strong. With his 15-7 record, he owned an ERA under four. He's 2-1 in his career against the Brewers and should have no problem here. In fact, this is the perfect opening matchup for him. The Milwaukee lineup is poor and they are coming off a big game. On the other hand, Peralta is just decent. He went 4-4 last season and wasn't really that strong. In his one start against the Mets, he may have won, but he gave up 4 ERs in just 5.1 innings pitched. The Mets are definitely the better team in this matchup and I believe they own the better pitcher. At plus money, this was an easy selection. 

T.M. Prediction: 6-2 Mets. 

Line: +106 

Line Parameter: play until -140.. 

T.M. Selection: Houston Astros 

I like the Houston Astros to win this game against the Philadelphia Phillies on Friday. With a long break in between games, both teams will come into this game well rested. Houston has not lost a game this playoffs so far after sweeping both the Mariners and the Yankees in the ALDS and ALCS. Now, they'll face a Philadelphia team that has been red hot at the plate. Justin Verlander will get the start for Houston this Friday. He will join superstar Roger Clemens as one of two pitchers to ever start a World Series game in three separate decades. In his last meeting against the Phillies, Verlander was nearly perfect. He went 5 innings, gave up no hits, walked just one, while striking out 10 in a win. Now, he'll face them again in the biggest series of baseball. The Phillies will lean to Aaron Nola, a 29 year old who's been lights out all season long. Even though his postseason numbers still look sharp, the righty was picked apart by the Braves in his last start. He went just 4.2 innings, while giving up six earned runs in a loss. I expect Verlander to dominate and for the Astros to win the first game of the World Series of 2022.

T.M. Prediction: 6-1 Astros.

T.M. Selection: LA Dodgers

I like the Los Angeles Dodgers to win this game against the San Diego Padres on Friday. Off the Game 2 loss, the team with the best record in baseball will look to bounce back on Friday. Tony Gonsolin (16-1, 2.14 ERA) was one of the best pitchers in the majors this season and he'll get the nod here. His record and ERA speak for themselves. But, he might not go too far into this game as he's only pitched twice since August 23rd. If he doesn't go too far, I expect them to lean to Tyler Anderson or another starter to get them deep into this game. Anderson was also incredible this year. The Dodgers are 54-27 on the road this season, while the Padres are only 44-37 at home. After a loss this season, the Dodgers are 33-18. For the Padres, they'll have Blake Snell (8-10, 3.38 ERA) on the mound on Friday. He's already pitched this postseason, when he gave up 2 earned runs in just 3.1 innings against the Mets in a 7-3 loss. Expect the Dodgers to light him up here in Game 3 to get home field advantage back in the favor of LA. 

T.M. Prediction: 7-4 Dodgers.

T.M. Selection: Atlanta Braves

I like the Atlanta Braves to win this game against the Philadelphia Phillies on Wednesday. Off a huge Game 1 loss to open up the series, the Braves will need to bounce back with a win here in Game 2. They have got to treat this like an elimination game, because if they don't they'll have to win both games in Philly to survive. Kyle Wright (21-5, 3.19 ERA) has been dominant this season for Atlanta. He hasn't lost a game since July, and his record is one of the best in the majors. The last time he faced this Phillies team, he went 7 innings while giving up just 1 earned run on 3 hits in a 4-1 win. On the other hand, the Phillies will have Zack Wheeler (12-7, 2.82 ERA) pitching for them. Wheeler has also been very reliable as of late, but I expect the Braves to crack him open here in this one. Expect the Braves fans to help them in this crucial Game 2.

T.M. Prediction: 7-2 Braves.

T.M. Selection: Toronto Blue Jays

I like the Toronto Blue Jays to win this game against the Seattle Mariners on Friday. It's playoff time, and Toronto fans are hoping for another great playoff story. With this "first to win two games" series being played all in Canada, the Jays should have a real good shot here in this round. Alek Manoah (16-7, 2.24 ERA,) has been their ace all season long and his numbers show it. He's now had back to back shutout starts (13 total innings pitched,) while giving up just 6 hits and striking out 12 in that span. Manoah has never had a postseason start in the Majors, but it feels like this is the right time for him. He'll be up against Luis Castillo (8-6, 2.99 ERA,) on of the Mariners better pitchers himself. He's allowed 10 earned runs in his last 3 starts though and he's now going to go up against a very high-powered Blue Jays lineup filled with stars. Castillo hasn't been in a playoff situation either, but the 29 year old just got traded this trade deadline, so now he'll finally get the opportunity on a better team. I think the Jays will just be too much to handle, especially in game 1 with Manoah on the mound. 

T.M. Prediction: 4-2 Blue Jays

T.M. Selection: Seattle Mariners 

I like the Seattle Mariners to win this game against the Kansas City Royals on Saturday. On the cusp of a playoff berth for the first time 2001, the Seattle Mariners have been struggling a bit lately. Coming into this series against the Royals, Seattle had lost 3 times in four against the Angels, and 2 times in 3 against the A's. Although they have one of the easiest schedules to end off the year with, they still need to be careful in order to keep their wild card position. Today, Logan Gilbert (13-6, 3.13 ERA) will get the start. He's been terrific all year and might be their "go-to" in the playoffs if it comes down to it. In his last four outings, he's only given up two earned runs, while striking out 34 in 23 innings. That's ridiculous. He'll face one of the worst pitchers in the entire league on Saturday. Kris Bubic (2-13, 5.81 ERA) has been dreadful for the Royals all year. The 25 year old southpaw just can't seem to string some wins together. In back-to-back outings, he's given up 5 earned runs. He hasn't "won" a game since mid July. You have got to feel for the guy. His last meeting with the Mariners, he went just 2 innings, while giving up 7 hits and 5 earned runs. With the Seattle Mariners needing to keep winning, and the matchup here, I fully expect them to handle this game with no problem on Saturday. M's in a BLOWOUT!

T.M. Prediction: 8-2 Mariners.

T.M. Selection: Houston Astros

I like the Houston Astros to win this game against the Tampa Bay Rays on Wednesday. Off yesterday's 5-0 win, the Astros look like they are one of the best teams in baseball, and have a real chance in making it back to the World Series. Today, they'll have Lance McCullers Jr (3-1, 2.34 ERA) on the mound in a big spot. He's been great since returning from injury and has only given up 6 earned runs in his last 4 starts (23.2 IP.) In his last meeting against the Rays, which was last season, he gave up 2 earned runs in a 3-2 win. I expect another good performance from the righty here on Wednesday. Now for the Rays, they are in a tough spot. Trying to grab the best wildcard spot they possibly can, they can't really afford to be losing too many games. Especially with the schedule that the Mariners have remaining. Corey Kluber (10-9, 4.44 ERA) will get the start for Tampa here in this one. He's given up 10 earned runs in his last two starts, and is showing signs of slowing down. Ever since leaving Cleveland, he just hasn't been the same. Give me the Astros again on Wednesday, as they inch closer to that 100 win mark.  

T.M. Prediction: 7-3 Astros

T.M. Selection: Toronto Blue Jays

I like the Toronto Blue Jays to win this game against the Texans Rangers on Friday. Off another series win against the Orioles, the Blue Jays are red hot again. They are now 8-2 their last 10. Toronto has one of the best lineups in the entire Major Leagues, and they have been showing that as of late. With the bats finally starting to wake up again, the Jays are looking to be a real threat come playoff time. It's going to be very exciting to watch this team, and they vary well might make a run. Looking at this series, Toronto really needs to keep winning. They still sit in the final Wildcard spot, but another sweep would really benefit them in a big way. Ross Stripling (7-4, 3.03 ERA) will start for them here today against Texas. He's been very consistent all season and with a few more solid outings, he may very well see himself as one of the starters in October. For the Rangers, they haven't had the season they were hoping for after the big offseason. With the signings of both Seager and Semien, they still see themselves in fourth in the AL West (17 GB of a playoff spot.) Dane Dunning (3-8, 4.37 ERA) will step out on the mound for them in this one. He's now allowed 16ERs in his last five outings. In his last meeting with the Jays, he gave up 3ERs in what ended up a 4-3 win for Toronto. Expect the Blue Jays bats to be flying here today.

T.M. Prediction: 8-4 Blue Jays

T.M. Selection: Miami Marlins

I like the Miami Marlins to win this game against the Philadelphia Phillies on Thursday. Off back to back one run losses to the Phillies, the Marlins look to avoid the sweep in this one. They've now lost 9 games in a row and they are due for a win. Although the Phillies may have the better team, I believe that the Marlins have the better pitcher here today. Sandy Alcantara (12-7, 2.36 ERA) has been dominant all season and has proven that he is one of the best pitchers in the MLB. Although he also got rocked last time out, he still provides a nasty ERA that nobody can take away from him. Now, looking at Philly, their pitcher also struggled badly last time out. Kyle Gibson (9-6, 4.48 ERA) allowed 7 earned runs in just 1.2 innings pitched against the Giants in his last start. The last time he played the Marlins, he allowed 3 runs, 2 earned, in a 3-0 win for Miami. Given the circumstances and the pitchers on the mound today, expect the Marlins to pull out on top. 

T.M. Prediction: 5-2 Marlins 

T.M. Selection: Arizona Diamondbacks

I like the Arizona Diamondbacks to win this game against the Milwaukee Brewers on Sunday. The Brewers might be the better team on paper, but the man on the mound for the Diamondbacks will most definitely be named NL Cy Young if he keeps what he's been doing up. Zac Gallen (10-2, 2.53 ERA) is that guy. Off yet another gem last time out, the 6'2'' righty hasn't given up a single run in 34.1 innings (39 strikeouts.) That is absolutely ridiculous. At home this season, he is a perfect 5-0 with a 2.65 ERA. Now, he faces a Milwaukee Brewers team that is not known for their hitting, that's for sure (.233 avg on the road this season.) Looking at Milwaukee, they have been really inconsistent as of late. They really need to smarten up if they want to have a chance at making a playoff push. The Brewers will start Jason Anderson (2-1, 4.97 ERA,) who has allowed 4 ERs in his last 2 games. On the road this season, he's got a 5.29 ERA. Therefore, I fully expect this Diamondback team to finish this series off with a win. 

T.M. Prediction: 4-1 DBacks

T.M. Selection: Chicago White Sox

I like the Chicago White Sox to win this game against the Minnesota Twins on Saturday. Dylan Cease (12-6, 2.26 ERA) will be the starting pitcher for the home White Sox here today. Although he hasn't looked his greatest his past few starts, his numbers don't lie and he's still one of the best starters in the entire league. In his last start against Minnesota, he pitched 7 stellar innings, only giving up 1 hit and striking out 8 in a 11-0 win. Off a few wins now, the White Sox see themselves back ever so slightly in the playoff race. Looking at the Twins, they are one of the streakiest teams in baseball. Before their loss to end the month of August against Boston as well as yesterday's, they had won 4 straight, lost 6 straight and then won 5 straight again. Today, Tyler Mahle (6-7, 4.17 ERA) will get the start for them. He's been out since mid august with a shoulder injury, but he's back. His August was decent, in three starts. But looking at his July starts he wasn't all that good at all. This will be the second game of the series, and if the White Sox steal a few games in this series, they'll definitely boost their odds of making a playoff push to end the season. Give me the White Sox here. 

T.M. Prediction: 5-3 White Sox

T.M. Selection: New York Yankees.

I like the New York Yankees to win this game against the St Louis Cardinals on Saturday. The Yankees haven't looked good in their games lately, losing 3 games in a row now, but I expect them to bounce back in this game and I think this is a great spot for them. They just lost to the Cardinals last night by blowing a late lead in the 8th inning but I see the Yankees offense putting up some runs in this game. They still racked up a ton of hits in that game they lost but I expect them to convert those into runs here. Jordan Montgomery (3-3, 3.69 ERA) is up for the Cardinals here and this will be a very emotional start for him pitching against the team he was on less than a week ago. He didn't look very good near the end of his time with the Yankees though and I don't think he has fixed any of those issues for this game. He has given up 4+ runs in 2 starts in a row now and was becoming a problem in the rotation for the Yankees. He is gone now and their rotation is better off, but now that he is starting in this game I expect the Yankees to put up a ton of runs on him here. Domingo German (1-1, 6.39 ERA) is up for the Yankees here and he has only made 3 starts this year since he has been out a majority of the year with an injury. He didn't look good in his 1st start back from injury, giving up 5 runs in 3 innings of that game, but he has only given up 2 runs in both of his 2 most recent starts and has pitched more innings in each one. I think he is starting to round into that great form he was in before leaving with injury a year ago and I expect him to shut down the Cardinals in this game. The Yankees have been in terrible shape lately but they need to start winning games and I think this game offers them a great bounce back spot. I like the Yankees to win this game.

T.M. Prediction: 7-3 Yankees.

T.M. Selection: Houston Astros.

I like the Houston Astros to win this game against the LA Angels on Saturday. The Astros just beat the Angels in their most recent game and they have won 4 games in a row now. They are 1 of the best teams in the league and have been winning a lot of their games with a great pitching effort. Their bullpen is 1 of the best in the league and they also have a really good starting rotation too. I think they are going to cause the Angels to have another dry night on offense and I expect the Astros to start getting into gear now that they have been rolling over teams. The Angels have been having a really bad season, they had a lot of issues which led to Joe Maddon being fired but the team has not really done much since then and continues to lose games with bad pitching and a poor offense which should be better than how it is playing. Jose Urquidy (6-3, 4.36 ERA) is up for the Astros here and he has been pitching really well this season. He hasn't been the best starter on their staff but he is getting the job done in their games with 6 wins awarded to him this season and he has been pitching really well lately. He hasn't looked shaky in his previous few starts and he has also been pitching long outings, taking stress off of their bullpen too. Patrick Sandoval (3-2, 2.63 ERA) is up for the Angels here and he has been really good this year but I don't expect him to keep that up since he really hasn't been this good in previous years. I think there is room for him to regress soon and with the Astros being as hot as they are at the moment, this is a great spot for him to do so. I like the Astros to win this game.

T.M. Prediction: 7-2 Astros.

T.M. Selection: Toronto Blue Jays.

I like the Toronto Blue Jays to win this game against the New York Yankees on Saturday. The Blue Jays have lost 2 games in a row now but both losses were really bad for the Blue Jays. They had a 10-2 loss to the Orioles and then had a 12-3 loss to the Yankees yesterday, both games in their own ballpark. I think they are going to be better in this game though and I expect them to bounce back here. They are playing the beat team in the league at the moment and that should be enough to put some fire in the Blue Jays here and bring in some runs in this game. The Yankees have won 8 games in a row now but I expect that run to end here. The Yankees offense exploded on the Blue Jays yesterday but they just played a series against the Rays where they struggled to score runs because of the Rays pitching and I think they are going to have a similar issue here with the Blue Jays pitching. Alek Manoah (8-1, 1.67 ERA) is up for the Blue Jays here and he has been great all year for them. He hasn't given up a run in his 2 most recent starts and he has only had 1 start this year where he gave up more than 2 runs. He always pitches late into their games since he is just that good and he also strikes a lot of batters out in his starts. I expect to see the Yankees struggle here with him pitching and I think the Blue Jays can take advantage. Jameson Taillon (7-1, 2.93 ERA) is up for the Yankees here and he has also been great this year but he has also looked shaky in his 2 most recent starts and I expect the Blue Jays lineup to bring in some runs on him here. He has given up 7 runs total in his previous 2 starts which isn't that good but he hasn't been striking a lot of batters out either and has been giving up a ton of hits in his starts too. I think the Blue Jays are going to make good of their opportunity here and I expect them to pounce on Taillon here since he hasn't been his best lately. I like the Blue Jays to win this game.

T.M. Prediction: 4-1 Blue Jays.

T.M. Selection: Seattle Mariners.

I like the Seattle Mariners to win this game against the Boston Red Sox on Saturday. The Mariners lost a really close game to the Red Sox last night 4-3 but the Mariners have looked really good in their games lately and I think they are going to bounce back at home here. The Red Sox have also been really hot lately but they just struggled to beat the Angels in their previous series, winning 3 games by 1 run and losing the last which ended a long drought for the Angels, and now they just won another game over the Mariners but by 1 run again. I think the Red Sox are cooling off now and I expect them to lose another game here in Seattle. George Kirby (1-1, 3.38 ERA) is up for the Mariners here and he has looked good in his starts this year. He has had 2 bad starts this year but overall, he has looked pretty good and I think he will keep the Red Sox from putting up a lot of runs here in their home ballpark. Michael Wacha (4-1, 1.99 ERA) is up for the Red Sox here and he has been having a great year but I also think he has been pitching too well and is overachieving a bit for this year. I expect some regression on his end and I think this is the perfect spot for him to regress on the road in Seattle after pitching a great game on the road in his previous start. He gave up no runs and only 3 hits after pitching a full game against the struggling Angels and I don't see him repeating that performance again here, especially since that previous start was him coming back from an injury that kept him out a few weeks. I think this is a good spot for the Mariners to get to him since they have been hitting really well lately. I like the Mariners to win this game.

T.M. Prediction: 5-2 Mariners.

T.M. Selection: LA Dodgers.

I like the LA Dodgers to win this game against the New York Mets on Friday. The Dodgers won the 1st game of this series yesterday 2-0 over the Mets after losing 3 games in a row before that. They didn't just lose 3 games in a row though, they lost an entire 3 game series in their own ballpark to the Pirates who have been terrible this year. I think that sweeping really lit a fire under them and I expect them to come out angry here, putting up some runs on the Mets to get a series win here and bounce back. The Mets just won 6 games in a row before losing yesterday and I think they are going to slip into a bit of a slump here. They were putting up a lot of runs in their ballpark but ended off their previous series with a win where they put up 5 runs, and then they failed to score at all in their 1st game against the Dodgers yesterday. Chris Bassitt (4-2, 3.66 ERA) is up for the Mets here and he has had some really good starts this year, but he has also had some really bad starts and when he does he tends to give up a ton of runs in those games. He just had a really good start where he only gave up 1 run in his most recent start but right before that, he had a start where he gave up 8 runs in less than 5 innings and even gave up 4 runs in his start before that really bad game. Bassitt can unravel in his starts at any moment and I think the Dodgers starter here has been more consistent in his starts this year. Tyler Andersen (6-0, 2.90 ERA) is up for the Dodgers here and he has been great this year. He had 1 bad start this year where he gave up 7 runs in 6 innings and hasn't had a start where he gave up more than 2 runs in the game other than that 1. Bassitt has been a lot more up and down than Andersen has been and I think this is a good bounce back for the Dodgers after a bad series. I like the Dodgers to win this game.

T.M. Prediction: 6-1 Dodgers.

T.M. Selection: Milwaukee Brewers.

I like the Milwaukee Brewers to win this game against the St Louis Cardinals on Sunday. The Brewers were looking really good in their games before coming into this series, they have lost 2/3 games of this series so far but there is still 1 more game here and I don't expect this to be a series that the Brewers are going to lose. The Brewers are the better team here and have looked a lot better than the Cardinals all year. The Brewers also have Corbin Burnes (2-2, 2.18 ERA) up in this game and he is their ace pitcher on the staff this year. He looked a bit shaky in his start against the Braves over a week ago, giving up 4 runs in that game, but other than that 1 bad start he has been really good all year. He has only given up 3+ runs in 2/9 starts this year and I think he is going to continue to pitch well in this game too. Miles Mikolas (3-2, 1.96 ERA) is up for the Cardinals here and he has also been pitching great all year but he hasn't really had a bad start at all this year. The only time he gave up 3+ runs in a start was in his most recent start but he has been starting to look shaky in his starts lately and I think he is due for a bit of regression here. I think he is due to give up some runs here and the Brewers have a really good batting lineup that will make him pay for any mistakes he makes on the bump. I expect the Brewers to come with a great effort here and get this win so they don't lose this series to a division rival. I like the Brewers to win this game.

T.M. Prediction: 5-3 Brewers.

T.M. Selection: Toronto Blue Jays.

I like the Toronto Blue Jays to win this game against the Los Angeles Angels on Friday. The Blue Jays have won 2 games in a row including the 1st game of this series yesterday and I think they can win this game too. Their offense is starting to get hot again with 14 runs scored in their 2 most recent games and I think they can continue that good run of scoring here. The Angels have lost 2 games in a row now and their offense has really died down in those games. They have only put up 5 runs in their 2 most recent games while giving up 13 runs. I think the Blue Jays offense is going to have another big game here and I expect them to put up the runs again. Chase Silseth (1-1, 2.61 ERA) is up for the Angels here and he hasn't been bad this year but he has also pitched in 2 games only. He is also a rookie so those 2 starts are the only 2 MLB games he has ever pitched in in his career and both starts were against the A's too who don't have a very good lineup. I think the Blue Jays are going to get to him here for some runs and I expect Silseth to look shaky again after giving up 3 runs in his most recent start. Alek Manoah (5-1, 1.62 ERA) is up for the Blue Jays here and he has been having a great year, I expect that to continue here. He hasn't given up more than 2 earned runs in a start this year and he just pitched through 8 innings in his most recent start while only giving up 1 run in that game. He has been a great pitcher all year and I think he will have another great game here to help put the Blue Jays on top in this game. I like the Blue Jays to win this game.

T.M. Prediction: 7-3 Blue Jays.

T.M. Selection: Atlanta Braves. 

I like the Atlanta Braves to win this game against the Miami Marlins on Saturday. The Braves took the 1st game of this series and I think they are going to take another game here since they have looked really good lately and have been putting up a lot of runs in their games. The Marlins haven't looked good lately losing 2 games in a row but they just came out of a little slump and have been winning more games lately but they still haven't looked great in those games. Kyle Wright (3-2, 2.79 ERA) is up for the Braves here and he has been having a great year. He had 1 bad start this year but he bounced back in his previous start and he has looked great in every other game he has pitched in. Elieser Hernandez (2-3, 6.15 ERA) is up for the Marlins here and he hasn't looked great in their games lately. He hasn't pitched well in a lot of games this year and he has been consistently bad in his starts, with not a single start this year where he didn't give up a run at all. He has given up 3+ runs in a majority of his starts this year and in a lot of those games he has been giving up 4+ runs. I think he is going to pitch another bad game here and he has already had 1 against the Braves earlier this year. He gave up 5 runs in his start against the Braves earlier this year and that was also the game that he gave up the most hits in this year. He has also had an issue with striking batters out in his most recent starts and I think he is going to struggle to get out of innings in this game since the Braves have been hitting and scoring a lot more lately. I think this is going to be another win for the Braves here, I like the Braves to win this game.

T.M. Prediction: 7-3 Braves.

T.M. Selection: Milwaukee Brewers.

I like the Milwaukee Brewers to win this game against the Miami Marlins on Saturday. The Brewers have looked good in their games lately and they have been going on big runs, piling up the wins. They just lost their most recent series to the Reds but the Reds have been losing so many games that it was only a matter of time until they got hot, and the Brewers didn't even look bad in that series either since they still put up 5+ runs in all of those games. They just won their most recent game in a more tame 2-1 win over the Marlins but I think they can repeat that here with another great pitching performance and I expect their bats to wake up again since they have been hot lately. The Marlins have lost 4/5 of their previous 5 games and they have been piling up a lot of losses lately. Trevor Rogers (1-4, 5.00 ERA) is up for the Marlins here and the team hasn't really had much success with him starting this year. He had a good start in his previous game where he didn't give up any runs but he also gave up 5 runs in his start before that previous start and he has had a few of those bad starts this year already. Eric Lauer (3-0, 1.82 ERA) is up for the Brewers here and he has looked great in his starts this year, being 1 of the best starting pitchers in the Brewers rotation for them this year. He has made 5 starts this year and only gave up 3 runs in his 1st start of the year, with every other start seeing him give up no more than 1 run. I expect him to shut down the Marlins here with a great pitching performance and I think the Brewers' bats will take care of the rest for them. I like the Brewers to win this game.

T.M. Prediction: 5-1 Brewers.

T.M. Selection: San Diego Padres.

I like the San Diego Padres to win this game against the Miami Marlins on sunday. The Padres have looked really good in their games lately and they even took the 1st 2 games of this series with the Marlins but lost their most recent game. It was a really bad loss too, losing 8-0 but I think they are going to bounce back here. The Marlins have looked terrible lately and that was their 1st win in 7 games since they were on a 6 game losing skid before yesterday's game. The Padres didn't score at all in that game either which makes me think they will play harder today and try to get that win to bounce back after a terrible performance. The Padres have been playing really well lately to the point where they have moved up to 2nd place in the division and are starting to close in on the Dodgers with the same number of wins but more losses still since they've played more games. Joe Musgrove (4-0, 1.97 ERA) is up for the Padres here and he has looked great all year, clearly leading this starting rotation with his great pitching this year. He hasn't pitched in a game this year yet where he gave up 3+ earned runs and I think he is going to continue pitching well in this game, keeping the Marlins off the board for a while. Trevor Rogers (1-4, 6.14 ERA) is up for the Marlins here and he has been having a terrible year already with an ERA over 6 through 5 starts and he has even been credited with 4 losses already too. He just gave up 5 runs in his previous start to the D-Backs and the Padres have a much stronger lineup than the D-Backs. I think the Padres are going to jump out in this game early and I think Musgrove will make it too hard for the Marlins to mount a comeback. I like the Padres to win this game.

T.M. Prediction: 5-1 Padres.

T.M. Selection: Toronto Blue Jays.

I like the Toronto Blue Jays to win this game against the Houston Astros on Saturday. The Blue Jays have looked great in their games lately but they have already dropped the 1st game of this series to Houston. They lost the game 11-7 in what was an all around terrible performance from the pitching staffs of both teams. That game turned into whoever could drown the other out in runs but I think the pitching will be a lot better for the Blue Jays here and I expect them to bounce back with a win. The Astros haven't looked great lately and they haven't really won a series in a while either. They barely squeaked by in 2 games against the Rangers, taking 2/4 in that series and then they lost 3 series in a row before that series against Texas. Luis Garcia (1-0, 4.60 ERA) is up for the Astros here and he hasn't pitched that well in his 2 most recent starts. He gave up 5 runs in 6 innings in the last game he started and that was a game against the Blue Jays that they won 8-7 but that was the only game of the series they took and he had to get bailed out by their offense. I think he is going to pitch another bad game against the Blue Jays here but I think they get the win this time by keeping their lead with good pitching on their side today. Jose Berrios (1-0, 4.91 ERA) is up for the Blue Jays here and he didn't look great at the beginning of the year but he has been getting better with each start and I think he is going to have a great game here as he is starting to find his way. I think this is a great game for the Blue Jays to bounce back in. I like the Blue jays to win this game.

T.M. Prediction: 6-2 Blue Jays.

T.M. Selection: Atlanta Braves. 

I like the Atlanta Braves to win this game against the Miami Marlins on Sunday. The Braves haven't looked great in their games lately but they have still been winning games and they have been getting a lot of hits in the games they lose too. They just lost their most recent game to the Marlins and there was a few lead changes in that game but in the end, the Braves blew their lead and lost that game. I think the Braves have been starting to look a lot better compared to how they were at the beginning of the year and I think they are going to get hot soon once they get into their groove again. The Marlins haven't been great lately either and they have been getting a lot of their wins in home games this year. I think the Braves are going to bounce back in this home game and I expect them to take the series with a win here. Bryce Elder (1-1, 4.50 ERA) is up for the Braves here and he has had 2 decent starts where he wasn't great but he wasn't bad either and I think he will do enough here to keep the marlins from bringing in the runs. The Marlins have Jesus Luzardo (0-1, 4.82 ERA) going in this game and he has had a rough start to his year. He looked alright in his 1st start but he was really bad in his previous outing, giving up 5 runs and 7 hits in just a bit over 4 innings in that game. The Braves have been hitting the ball well lately and even though they lost to the Marlins yesterday, they still scored 7 runs in that game. I think the Braves will be able to put up the runs on Luzardo here and I'm expecting a bounce back win from them here. I like the Braves to win this game.

T.M. Prediction: 6-3 Braves.

T.M. Selection: Philadelphia Phillies.

I like the Philadelphia Phillies to win this game against the Colorado Rockies on Monday. The Phillies just had a bad series where they dropped 2 games in Miami to the Marlins and they lost their most recent game 11-3 but I think they can bounce back in this game. Aaron Nola (1-1, 6.75 ERA) is up for the Phillies in this game and he has struggled in his 1st 2 starts but I think he is going to get better and I like him to bounce back with a much better start in this game. Nola has been giving up runs in his 2 starts but this is a big ballpark in Colorado and there are going to be runs here regardless. Despite the runs he's been giving up, he has also been getting strikeouts in his starts and I think that is going to be key for him here. The Phillies also have a good lineup that can hit the ball and I think playing in this ballpark will help spark their bats and get them hot. I see the Phillies putting up a ton of runs in this game and I don't think Chad Kuhl (0-0, 2.08 ERA) is going to have as good a start as he did in his 1st game. Kuhl only gave up 1 run in his 4 innings against Texas but that was also a road game for them and this will be his 1st start at Coors Field this year. Kuhl also came from the Pirates in the offseason so he hasn't pitched in this ballpark often and I don't think he is going to have a good game since he wasn't that great last year either. He pitched at Coors Field 1 time last year and gave up 3 runs in the 4 innings he played. I think the Phillies are going to score runs against him here and win this game. I like the Phillies here.

T.M. Prediction: 7-4 Phillies.

T.M. Selection: San Francisco Giants.

I like the San Francisco Giants to win this game against the Miami Marlins on Sunday. The Giants have already split their 1st 2 games of the year with the Marlins, winning their home opener but losing in their most recent game. They only lost to the Marlins 2-1 in a close game that was dominated by pitching by the hits were still even at 5 a piece. I think the bats for the Giants are going to have a better day here though. Trevor Rogers (0-0, 0.00 ERA) is the starting pitcher for the Marlins here and he had a great season last year, finishing the 2021 season 7-8 with a 2.64 ERA. He did pitch really well in a lot of his games last year but his team didn't really benefit from it a majority of the time since he still finished 7-8 and his team was 11-14 in the games he started in. He has also pitched a few innings in Spring training this year and he looked terrible giving up 5 runs and 10 hits in the 11 innings he pitched in. I think the Giants are going to get some hits on him here and put themselves into scoring positions early in this game. The Giants have Anthony DeSclafani (0-0, 0.00 ERA) pitching for them in this game and he looked really good for them last year. He finished the 2021 season 13-7 with a 3.17 ERA and not only did he pitch really well and not give up a lot of runs all year, but his team did benefit from his performances as he had a winning record himself but the team was also 21-10 in the games he started. I think the Giants have the advantage here with their starter and their bullpen. I also think they are going to get some hits in this game and put up the runs on the Marlins here. I like the Giants to win this game.

T.M. Prediction: 5-2 Giants.

T.M. Selection: Boston Red Sox.

I like the Boston Red Sox to beat the Houston Astros on Friday and tie up the series 3-3. The Red Sox have been backed into a corner, after getting a 2-1 lead in the series they now find themselves down 3-2 and on the road for their next 2 games where if they lose 1 then they are out. I think they are going to stop the bleeding in this game. The Astros have now won 2 in a row against them and it is very hard to win 3 in a row against the same team in the MLB. The Red Sox were unable to do so when they had the 2-1 lead in the series and I think the Astros won't be able to do so either. Even in the ALDS the Astros were unable to win 3 straight against the White Sox and couldn't sweep them after going up 2-0 in that series. Nathan Eovaldi (11-9, 3.75 ERA) is starting in this game he was the reason for their destruction in the 9th inning when Houston scored 7 runs to tie the series 2-2. That was just 1 bad inning though and he was just a reliever then too. He has started in 3 games this postseason and has pitched well in his starts not giving up more than 3 runs in any of those games and his team went on to win all 3 of his starts including game 2 of this series against the Astros. Luis Garcia (11-8, 3.30 ERA) is up for the Astros and unlike Eovaldi, Garcia has only been a starter this postseason pitching in 2 games and pitching very bad in both. He allowed 5 runs in each of those starts and his team went on to lose both games, including game 2 of this ALCS. I think the Red Sox are going to take advantage of him on the mound here so I like the Red Sox to win this 1 and force a game 7.

T.M. Prediction: 7-3 Red Sox.

T.M. Selection: Houston Astros.

I like the Houston Astros to beat the Boston Red Sox in Game 3 on Monday. The Astros lost in Game 2 of this series letting the Red Sox tie it up going back to Boston but I think the Astros are going to get that game back here. They have put up 5 runs in each game of this series and is the highest scoring team in this postseason so far. Jose Urquidy (8-3, 3.62 ERA) is starting and he has pitched well for them all year. He has been pitching well lately with just 2/9 games in his last few starts where he gave up more than 2 runs. He has not pitched since October 3 so he will be very fresh for this game. Eduardo Rodriguez (13-8, 4.74 ERA) is starting for the Red Sox and he has already pitched in 2 games of this postseason. He gave up 2 runs in each of those but the 1 game he did not make it to the 3rd inning in and was credited with the loss and the other was a no-decision. He does not have a good track record against the Astros this year either. He has given up a total of 12 runs in 2 games he pitched against them, 6 in each game. The Astros are going to come to take the lead in the series here and I think their batters are going to be hitting Rodriguez no problem. I like the Astros to win this game.

T.M. Prediction: 7-2 Astros.

T.M. Selection: Oakland Athletics.

I like the Oakland Athletics to beat the Kansas City Royals on Wednesday. The A's have now lost 3 games straight and they desperately need a win here as they find themselves 3.5 games out of a wildcard spot. Sean Manaea (9-9, 3.79 ERA) is starting for them and he has been solid lately. He has not allowed more than 2 runs in his last 2 starts and was awarded with a win in his last time out. The Royals have lost just 1 game in their last 5 but I think it's time for the spoiling to stop here. They are way out of playoff contention and will have Mike Minor (8-12, 5.05 ERA) starting in this game. He has not allowed more than 2 runs in his last 2 starts but he allowed 3+ in each of his 5 straight starts before that and that has been a common theme for him all year. The Royals have actually lost the last 7 straight games that Minor has pitched in. This is a must win for the A's as they cannot afford to fall any further behind in this wildcard race. I like them to win this game and defeat the Royals on Wednesday.

T.M. Prediction: 6-3 Athletics.

T.M. Selection: Blue Jays (10* TRADE-MARK).

Do or die. Now or never. Use whatever cliche phrase you want, but this is a truly massive series for the Toronto Blue Jays. The two teams ahead of them in the standings for the Wildcard spot are the A's and the Yanks, and Toronto just swept Oakland at home over the weekend. New York has been trending in the other direction of late, as it's lost seven of its last ten, including two in a row. Both Jays' starter Hyun-Jin Ryu and Yanks' starter Jameson Taillon have struggled in August. Let's call these starters a "wash." But at this point of the season, I think that momentum is a very real, almost tangible factor and I expect it to be the difference-maker in the opener of this series. The value may swing the other way if Toronto wins tonight, but that's the way I see the opener of this one breaking down. A really strong situational play here, one worthy of my top 10* signature TRADE-MARK designation!

T.M. Prediction: 6-3 Jays.

I am on the over in the Chicago Cubs vs Pittsburgh Pirates game on Thursday. The Pirates had 9 total runs scored in their last game. Mitch Keller (4-10, 6.75 ERA) is starting for the Pirates and he has been awful this season. His last start saw 18 total runs in that game. He allowed 7 runs in his last start and just 2 of his last 5 starts he has allowed less than 4 runs scored against in a game. The Cubs have gone under in 2 straight games now but before that they had 3/4 games have 10+ runs scored by a single team. Keegan Thompson (3-3, 3.09 ERA) is starting and he has seen some high scoring ones lately. His last start ended in a 17-13 loss for his team. He has had 3/4 starts have 10+ runs in his last 4. Both pitchers have been struggling lately and the bullpens for these teams are not very good. There should be lots of runs scored in this one to shoot it over the posted total.

T.M. Prediction: 8-6 Cubs.

I like the Los Angeles Dodgers to beat the San Diego Padres on Wednesday. The Dodgers are hot losing just once in their last 11. They are on the hunt for 1st place in their division just 3 games back from the Giants. Walker Buehler (13-2, 2.11 ERA) is starting on the mound for the Dodgers and he has been fantastic this season. His team has won the last 3 games he started for them and they have also won 17 of the 25 games he has played in this season. He has been averaging less than 2 runs allowed per game as teams can't seem to find an answer for him. The Padres have not been playing well lately with just 1 win in their last 7. Blake Snell (6-5, 4.82 ERA) has been decent lately, his team losing the last 2 games he started in. He allowed 5 runs total in his last 2 starts. The Dodgers are trending in the opposite direction from the Padres and I have to ride them while they are hot. Dodgers win this one.

T.M. Prediction: 3-1 Dodgers.

I like the Seattle Mariners to beat the Texas Rangers on Thursday. The Mariners have been red hot in their last few games losing just 1 time in 7 games. They have won the last 4 straight that they have played Texas in. Chris Flexen (10-5, 3.78 ERA) will be starting on the mound for the Mariners and he has played well this season. The team has lost just 1 game in his last 3 starts and he has only allowed 7 earned runs total in that span. The Rangers have not looked good lately as they have won just 1 game in their last 4. They will be starting Spencer Howard (0-3, 5.61 ERA) and he has not pitched well as his team lost 4 of the last 5 games he played for the Phillies in. His team has already lost both games he appeared in as a Mariner too. These teams are going in opposite directions so I like the Mariners to keep rolling here. 

T.M. Prediction: 6-2 Mariners.

I am on the Los Angeles Dodgers to beat the New York Mets on Friday evening. The Dodgers had a 4 game win streak snapped on Thursday and i expect them to get back on track here. Julio Urias (13-3, 3.41 ERA) will be starting for them and he has been great this season. He has only allowed 3 earned runs in his last 4 and has been credited with 4 straight wins. The team has been very successful this year with him pitching losing just 6 of the 23 games he has started in. The Mets have been a little hot lately, currently on a 3 game win streak, but 2 of those wins came by just 1 run. The Mets will be starting Tylor Megill (1-2, 3.20 ERA) and he does not have too much experience playing in the big leagues. He has lost his last 2 starts allowing 4 earned runs in each of those games. The Dodgers lineup has a lot of talent and depth and will beat up on this rookie pitcher. The Mets have played some close games lately, but that win streak will end here as the Dodgers will be looking to get a win after losing the previous night. I expect the Dodgers to take this one.

T.M. Prediction: 7-2 Dodgers.

I like the Houston Astros to beat the San Francisco Giants. Luis Garcia (7-5, 3.19 ERA) allowed 6 runs in the last game he played in, but the team has won 4 of their last 6 when he has started on the mound and I think he will be looking to bounce back here with a good performance. Logan Webb (4-3, 3.36 ERA) has pitched extremly well with the team winning their last 7 straight with him starting on the mound. I think that good fortune comes to an end here as the Astros' bats are hot currently scoring 6+ runs in each of their last 5 games. The Astros win this one.

T.M. Prediction: 6-2 Astros.

T.M. Selection: Twins (10* TRADE-MARK).

I like Jose Berrios (7-5, 3.48 ERA) in this matchup over his counterpart Wade LeBlanc (0-2, 4.31). LeBlanc is coming off another shaky start for the Cards, most recently allowing three runs off eight hits over four innings in a fortunate no-decision to the Reds. He's only pitched 22 innings and his decent ERA is not supported at all by his pedestrian/poor 1.55 WHIP and 15/9 K:BB. Berrios gave up two runs over seven innings and still took a loss to the Angels in his last outing. Off that hard-luck setback, I look for Berrios to be pivotal in his team posting a victory here; lay the short price!

T.M. Prediction: 6-3 Minnesota.

T.M. Selection: Blue Jays (10* TRADE-MARK).

Toronto needs to make up some ground on the Red Sox and maintain its lead on the Yanks. I like the Jays to build off their 4-1 win yesterday. They will feel great in handing the ball to Hyun-Jin Ryu (9-5, 3.44 ERA), who is coming off a mediocre no-decision to the Mets, allowing four runs over four innings. Ryu though has been super solid all year and there's no reason not to believe he can't return to form here. Eduardo Rodriguez (7-5, 5.23) has pitched much better of late after a shaky start, but he still owns a poor 5.36 ERA at home this season. I like Ryu in this one, great value on the hungry Jays!

T.M. Prediction: 6-3 Toronto.

T.M. Selection: Indians (10* TRADE-MARK).

I like the way this one sets up for Zach Plesac and the Indians. Cleveland is deperate for a win here, as it's lost seven of its last ten, including a 4-2 loss here yesterday to the Cards. St. Louis has a night off before another interleague series, but this time at home to the Twins, setting this up as a classic letdown/look-ahead spot for the visitors, who have won two in a row and seven of their last ten. Kwang-Hyun Kim has won five straight starts, but I say he finally stumbles here against the hungrier home side; great value here on Cleveland!

T.M. Prediction: 6-3 Indians.

T.M. Selection: Marlins (10* GAME OF THE WEEK).

I like the Marlins and Sandy Alcantara here. He's coming off a longer layoff because being on the bereavement list, but I think that'll help him here. Spencer Watkins has been great in his limited time for the Orioles, but I think he'll struggle here to keep pace with his superior opponent. The Orioles have won six in a row, but I say that streak ends here (nnote that Baltimore is still just 4-9 in its last 13 at home.) Look for Miami to move to 10-3 in its last 13 interleague road games against a team with a losing record; the play is the Marlins!

T.M. Prediction: 6-3 Miami.

T.M. Selection: Cubs (10* TRADE-MARK).

The Cubs are out of contention, but they haven't thrown in the towel and they won't be rolling over for their division rival here. Especially with their ace on the mound. Wade Miley (8-4, 2.72 ERA) and Kyle Henrdricks (12-4, 3.61) are evenly matched, but the Cubs are 7-1 in their last eight home games in the -115 to -135 range. In the opener of this four-game set, look for the home side to draw "first blood." The play is the Cubs!

T.M. Prediction: 6-3 Chicago.

T.M. Selection: Royals (10* TRADE-MARK).

The Royals are playing their best ball of the year right now and I look for that trend to continue here. After coming from behind and then holding on for the 9-8 victory over the Tigers yesterday, the Royals have now won four in a row. Detroit had won seven in a row and I think its now due for further regression after back-to-back road defeats here. Lynch and Skubal are the starting pitchers. Both have been bad. They're a "wash" for arguments sakes, but the momentum that KC has built up right now is real in my opinion. I'll also point out that the Royals are 7-2 in their last nine after scoring 8 or more runs in a home victory in their last outing. The price is right, the play is KC!

T.M. Prediction: 6-3 KC.

T.M. Selection: Royals (10* TRADE-MARK).

The Tigers seven-game winning run came to an end in yesterday's 5-3 defeat here. The Royals are hungry for more victories and they're arguably playing their best ball of the season right now, as they enter on a three-game win skein. Look for that momentum to get carried over here. Casey Mize (5-5, 3.44 ERA) of the Tigers and Carlos Hernandez (1-1, 4.91) of the Royals are a wash as far as these starting pitchers are concerned. Detroit had been playing over its head over the last two weeks and a crash was inevitable. Expect that slide to continue here and for the starving home side to take advantage!

T.M. Prediction: 6-3 KC.

T.M. Selection: Nationals (10* TRADE-MARK).

Washington's three-game win streak came to an end after a 3-1 loss at home to Miami two nights ago. I think the Nats bounce back here though in this favorable interleague matchup on Friday night. The visiting side hands the ball to Patrick Corbin (6-8, 5.66 ERA) and the home side sees Jorge Lopez(2-12, 6.04) take the hill. Clearly, these two guys have struggled this season. Washington though is 7-1 in its last eight after a home loss in which it was held to one or less runs in. I like the big bats of the Nationals to be the difference; lay the price!

T.M. Prediction: 6-3 Nationals.

T.M. Selection: Cardinals (10* TRADE-MARK).

St. Louis squeaked out a win yesterday, but I think it'll win much more handily in this favorable matchup on Thursday. The Cubs see Adbert Alzolay (4-9, 4.59 ERA) toe the rubber; he's 0-4 with a 5.84 ERA in five outing since coming off the injured list on June 21st. Kwang Hyun Kim (5-5, 2.87) enters playing his best ball of the year, as he hasn't given up a single run over his last 21 innings of work. Yes, regression is going to happen, and likely even going to happen here. But, I still say Kim can easily outduel his inconsistent counterpart at home. All things considered, I believe this to be the very definition of "great line value!" 

T.M. Prediction: 6-3 St. Louis.

T.M. Selection: Yankees (10* TRADE-MARK).

Aaron Nola (6-5, 4.53 ERA) and the Philadelphia Phillies both play much better at home. Nola is just 3-3 with a 5.42 ERA on the road this year. For arguments sakes, let's call him a "wash" here still with Domingo German (4-5, 4.72.) New York though is 8-3 in its last 11 interleague home games as an underdog in the +101 to +120 range. Look for the shift in venue to put a monkey-wrench into the Phillies recent momentum, while everything points to the Yanks building off their series win over the Red Sox this wekeend. Great value on the hungry home side!

T.M. Prediction: 6-3 New York.

T.M. Selection: Dodgers (10* GAME OF THE WEEK).

As good as Kevin Gausman (9-3, 1.73 ERA) has been for the Giants, I say that he and Tony Gonsolin (1-0, 2.13) are a "wash" here for all intents and purposes. And that means that the Giants, who enter having lost back-to-back games and scoring just one run in each, are getting too much respect. Note as well that LA is 7-2 in its last nine as a home favorite in the -120 to -135 range. Great value here on the Dodgers!

T.M. Prediction: 6-3 LA.

T.M. Selection: Atlanta (10* TRADE-MARK).

The Braves bounced back from a narrow 7-6 defeat in this series opener vs. the Rays to pound them 9-0 yesterday. Suffice it to say, I think the hungrier home side builds off that victory. Veteran starters Rich Hill of the Rays and Drew Smyly of the Braves here are a "wash" in my opinion. Note though that ATL is a sharp 7-1 in its last eight after a shutout home win over an opponent in which it scored seven or more runs in. All things considered, this is an unbelievable price; lay it, the play is the Braves!

T.M. Prediction: 6-3 Braves.

T.M. Selection: Chicago White Sox (10* TRADE-MARK).

Houston has the most prolific offense in the majors, but the White Sox aren't far behind sitting in fourth. Chicago lost 7-1 last night, which snapped a five-game win streak it was on heading into the break. The Astros have been amazing, but I think that Lucas Giolito is the correct call at home here over Jake Odorizzi. The Astros veteran has been superb over the last month, but the All Star break is going to throw a proverbial monkey-wrench into his rythym in my opinion. Look for the hungry home side to bounce back in this revenge spot!

T.M. Prediction: 6-3 White Sox.

T.M. Selection: Blue Jays (10* FIRST HALF BEST OF THE BEST).

I like Robbie Ray and the Blue Jays to bounce back here in this final contest before the All Star break. The Jays haven't been playing their best, but after dropping the first two games of this series, I expect them to get back on track here. The home side counters with Rich Hill. These starters have similar numbers. Ray is 6-4 with a 3.36 ERA and 1.11 WHIP, while Hill is 6-3 with a 3.65 ERA and 1.11 WHIP. They're a wash for all intents and purposes. Toronto though is a near-perfect 7-1 in its last eight in trying to avenge back-to-back road losses to an opponent; lay it!

T.M. Prediction: 6-3 Jays.

T.M. Selection: A's (10* TRADE-MARK).

The A's are off a 2-1 win at Houston last night and with what I believe to be the superior starter on the hill for them in the opener of this new series, I look for them to post another victory on the road here. Cole Irvin (6-7, 3.56 ERA) gave up four runs over seven innings while striking out five in a no-decision to the Red Sox in his last outing. Cole will be feeling confident here as he's been at his best on the road, going 4-2 with a 2.57 ERA away from friendly confines. Jordan Lyles (4-5, 4.98) looks poised for regression for sure after back-to-back victories (note that despite a 2-1 record at home, he still has a poor 5.14 ERA there.) Give me Irvin and the focussed visiting side in a rout!

T.M. Prediction: 6-3 Oakland.

T.M. Selection: Milwaukee Brewers (10* TRADE-MARK).

The Brewers snapped a three-game slide with a 5-0 win over the Mets on the road last night and I expect them to carry that momentum over here. The Reds have won seven of ten, including a 5-2 victory at KC yesterday afternoon, but I believe they're going to stumble in the opener of this series. Tyler Mahle (7-3, 3.63 ERA) of the Reds and Adrian Houser (5-5, 3.94) are a "wash" in my opinion. Either could easily win on "any given Sunday." The Brewers though are 7-1 in their last eight after a shutout road victory. I look for that strong trend to continue; lay it!

T.M. Prediction: 6-3 Milwaukee.

T.M. Selection: Angels (10* TRADE-MARK).

I like the Angels to build off their 5-3 win here yesterday. Great value here on the undervalued home dog, with the majority of the public money on the Red Sox today. Andrew Heaney of the Angels and Eduardo Rodriguez of the Red Sox have both struggled this year. For arguments sakes, let's call them a "wash." LA is 7-2 in its last nine though as a home dog in the +115 to +125 range. Look for LA to continue its hot hitting streak and for Heaney to outduel his inconsistent counterpart; the play is LA!

T.M. Prediction: 6-3 Angels.

T.M. Selection: White Sox (10* GAME OF WEEK).

No need to overthink this one. I think the talent discrepancy on the mound absolutely justifies in laying this price. Chicago's Dylan Cease (7-3, 3.75 ERA) just dominated the Twins last week, holding them to three runs over seven innings with eight K's. He'll be opposed by Bailey Ober (0-1, 5.84) who got crushed by the ChiSox opposite Cease, allowing five runs over three innings. He already has seven home runs over his short time in the majors and I expect him to struggle again here. This one has blowout written all over it; lay it!

T.M. Prediction: 6-3 Chicago.

T.M. Selection: Rockies (10* TRADE-MARK).

Carlos Martinez (4-9, 6.38 ERA) is coming off a strong outing, but he's been a disaster for the Cards this year, especially on the road where he's a poor 1-6 with a 7.61 ERA. German Marquez (7-6, 3.62) comes in off a complete-game one hitter against Pittsburgh on Tuesday and he's 6-1 with a 3.08 ERA here at Coors Field; this is a fantastic price on the red hot Marquez!

T.M. Prediction: 6-3 Rockies.

T.M. Selection: Blue Jays (10* MONEY-MAKER).

Toronto broke a two-game slide with a big 11-1 win in this series opener yesterday and I think it'll find a way to get the job done here as well. Tampa hands the ball to rookie Shane McClanahan (3-2, 4.09 ERA), who gave up three runs over six innings in a win over the Angels on Saturday. McClanahan has exceeded expectations this year, but I just think he's in the wrong place at the wrong time in this one. Toronto counters with Ross Stripling (3-4, 4.27), who has quietly been dominating of late, most recently allowing two runs over five innings in a win over the Orioles on Sunday. Over his last seven outings he's now posted a 2.45 ERA and 0.92 WHIP. Look for Toronto's bats to stay hot against Tampa's rookie; lay the short price, the play is the Jays!

T.M. Prediction: 6-3 Toronto.

T.M. Selection: Mets (10* TRADE-MARK).

After losing 20-2 here yesterday and with their hold on the NL East down to two games over the Nationals, I like the Mets to bounce-back here with their ace on the mound. Jacob deGrom is 7-2 with a 0.69 ERA and 0.53 WHIP. He's been basically unstoppable this year and after yesterday's humbling defeat, I think he'll come in focused here. The home side counters with Ian Anderson (5-4, 3.42), who has been decent of late, but who is still completely overmatched here. Also note that the Mets are 7-2 in their last nine after allowing ten or more runs in a loss in their previous outing. All things considered, a great price!

T.M. Prediction: 6-3 New York.

T.M. Selection: White Sox (10* PLAY-BOOK).

The White Sox held on for a 7-6 win last night. I think today's game will be a little "easier" for them. And mainly because this is a massive pitching mismatch. Dylan Cease (6-3, 3.81 ERA), is coming off a commanding win over the Pirates on Wednesday, allowing two runs and striking out seven over 5.2 innings. Cease hasn't been perfect this year, but he's been damn near perfect at home, going 3-0 with a 1.65 ERA. His counterpart Bailey Ober has a 4.64 ERA after 21.1 innings this season. That sample size is just too small for me. Give me Cease at home at this great price and let the chips fall where they may!

T.M. Prediction: 6-3 ChiSox.

T.M. Selection: Dodgers (10* MONEY-MAKER).

I don't think that the home field advantage can be overlooked as the deciding factor in this one. The Giants lost here 3-2 last night. They send Kevin Gausman (8-1, 1.49 ERA) to the hill to face Walker Buehler (7-1, 2.51). These guys are pretty much dead even. The Dodgers though are 7-2 in their last nine after a one run home victory in their last outing. I'm laying the reasonable price, but expecting a major blowout!

T.M. Prediction: 6-3 LA.

T.M. Selection: Brewers (10* BANKROLL BUILDER).

For arugments sake, let's call these starting pitchers a "wash." Kyle Hendricks is 10-4 with a 3.84 ERA for the Cubs, while Freddy Peralta is 7-2 with a 2.11 ERA for the Brewers. After a slow start though, the Brewers are playing their best ball of the season and I look for them to keep the foot on the gas here. Milwuakee has won five straight, and it's 7-2 in its last nine after winning five or more straight games in a row. I don't trust the Cubs' bullpen on the road. Advantage, Milwaukee!

T.M. Prediction: 6-3 Milwaukee.

T.M. Selection: Nationals (10* TRADE-MARK).

I like the Nats to bouce back after yesterday's slim 3-2 defeat. Max Scherzer (6-4, 2.19 ERA) is off a win over the Phillies on Tuesday, striking out eight and allowing one run over five innings. To go along with his crazy ERA, he also sports a minuscule 0.83 WHIP. The home side goes with Sandy Alcantara (4-6, 2.93), who comes in off a no-decision to theJays, allowing one run over eight innings. Hard to say anything negative about Alcantara, but I just think he's in the wrong place at the wrong time, as note that the Nats are 7-2 in their last nine in trying to revenge a one run road loss to an opponent. My money is on Scherzer!

T.M. Prediction: 5-2 Washington.

T.M. Selection: White Sox (10* TRADE-MARK).

Off yesterday's 6-3 loss, I like the White Sox here to bounce back here in what is a very favorable starting pitching matchup for it. Dylan Cease (5-3, 3.99 ERA) is out to atone for a poor outing himself for the White Sox, allowing seven runs over 3.1 innings in a loss to the Astros on Thursday. Those types of starts have been few and far between for Cease though, who is still an extremely sharp 2-1 with a 2.89 ERA in all day games this season. Chase De Jone (0-1, 4.26) is coming off a loss for the Pirates, allowing one run over four innings to the Nationals on Wednesday. The sample size is just too small here for De Jong, but note that the White Sox are 7-2 in their last nine IL games in trying to revenge a loss vs. an opponent in which they conceded five or more runs in. This one has blowout written all  over it!

T.M. Prediction: 6-3 Chicago.

T.M. Selection: Braves (10* TRADE-MARK).

I don't think the Mets have any advantage here. Not as far as the starting pitchers are concerned anyways. Marcus Stroman (6-5, 2.34 ERA) of the Mets and Charlie Morton (6-3, 4.03) of the Braves are a "wash" for me here. These teams split a low-scoring double-header yesterday, with ATL winning the night-cap 1-0. Note that ATL is 7-1 in its last eight coming off a shutout win. Look for the Braves' hitting depth to win out here; the play is ATL!

T.M. Prediction: 6-3 Atlanta.

T.M. Selection: Astros (10* GAME OF THE WEEK).

A lot of the public money is on the Astros in this game, but I feel its warranted. The public does win at times. But this is a matchup in which I believe Jake Odorizzi (1-3, 5.68 ERA), will make the most of. He most recently went four scoreless inning of relief vs. the Rangers on Tuesday. It was an encouraging start and I think he'll outduel his inconsistent rookie counterpart Keegan Akin. Akin (0-2, 5.76) has been pedestrian and seems to be regressing with the extra workload since being inserted into the rotation out of necessity. Over his last 19.1 innings of work he's now conceded 12 earned runs. Lay the price here and expect Odorizzi to make the most of it!

T.M. Prediction: 6-3 Houston.

T.M. Selection: Rockies (10* TRADE-MARK).

Colorado won here 6-5 last night and I expect the Rockies to build off that victory with another here on Saturday night. Austin Gomber (6-5, 3.54 ERA) has been solid for the Rockies with a 75/23 K/W. Gomber enters on top form, having won three straight and all signs point to that progression rolling here going up against Adrian House (4-5, 3.62), who gave up two runs over five innings in a win over the lowly Pirates on Sunday. Houser has been great in all day games, going 1-1 with a 2.15 ERA, but he's been poor in all night contests, going 3-4 with a 4.90 ERA. Look for another high-scoring affair here, but one which the Rockies come out on top of because of Gomber!

T.M. Prediction: 8-6 Rockies.

T.M. Selection: White Sox (10* MONEY MAKER).

Chicago has won seven of its last ten, but after yesterday's 10-2 defeat in the opener of this series, I think it'll bounce back in fine fashion here. Luis Garcia (5-4, 2.98 ERA) has been great for the Astros, but he's coming off a shaky start wher ehe allowed four runs over four innings in a loss to the Twins. Carlos Rodon (6-2, 1.89) is coming off a gem, allowing one run over seven innings with nine strikeouts. Rodon has been almost untouchable on the road, going 4-0 with a 1.80 ERA. Great value on the red hot Rodon here; lay it!

T.M. Prediction: 6-3 Chicago.

T.M. Selection: Mets (10* TRADE-MARK).

The Mets have a golden opportunity to sweep this series over the Cubs, and I believe they'll do that with Marcus Stroman on the mound. Stroman (6-4, 2.33 ERA) comes in off a dominant win over the Padres, striking out eight and allowing one run over 6.1 innings. So far he has a 67/18 K/W over 77.2 innings of work and a 1.49 ERA at home. Kyle Hendricks (8-4, 4.46) looks primed for a letdown after six straight wins in my opinion. He beat the soft-hitting Cardinals in his last outing, but I think he's overmatched here by the red hot Stroman. A great price on the superior home pitcher; lay it!

T.M. Prediction: 6-3 New York.

T.M. Selection: White Sox (10* BANKROLL BUILDER).

Tyler Glasnow (5-2, 2.57) has been superb for the Rays, but Lance Lynn (7-1, 1.23) has been otherwordly for the White Sox this season. Both teams have been playing well overall as well, but I think that Lynn is vastly undervalued in this spot. Chicago is also 7-2 in its last nine after holding its previous opponent to one or less runs in a victory (won 4-1 at Detroit yesterday.) At this price, I can't pass up Lynn and the home side!

T.M. Prediction: 6-3 Sox.

T.M. Selection: Yankees (10* GOING YARD BLOWOUT).

I think the Yanks offer great value here as an underdog to bounce back after yesterday's slim 8-7 defeat. Domingo German (3-0, 3.12 ERA) most recently allowed one run over six innings in a no-decision to Boston in his last outing. German has conceded no more than three runs in any of his ten starts this year and he's 4-1 with a 2.10 ERA on the road. Aaron Nola (4-4, 4.06), gave up four runs off seven hits over five innings in a no-decision to the Braves on Tuesday. Nola's better at home than on the road, but note that the Phillies are just 2-7 in their last nine after three or more straight victories in a row at home. I like German and the desperate Yanks to get the job done here!

T.M. Prediction: 6-3 New York.

T.M. Selection: Reds (10* BANKROLL BUILDER).

I like the Reds to build off their big win yesterday. Yes, German Marquez (4-5, 3.91 ERA) has looked a lot better over the last month, but I still give the nod to Wade Miley (5-4, 2.96) at home in this matchup. Miley is went five scoreless in his last outing and he owns a tiny 2.55 ERA at home. The Reds are also 8-3 in their last 11 after scoring ten or more runs in a home victory in their last outing. Overall a great price on this red hot home starter; lay the price!

T.M. Prediction: 6-3 Cincinnati.

T.M. Selection: Angels (10* BEST OF THE BEST).

The Angels have pounded out 40 runs over their last five games. THey're coming off a series sweep of the Royals and I think they're going to steamroll the Diamondbacks on the road in this favorable starting pitching matchup. Shohei Ohtani is 2-1 with a 2.76 ERA for the Angels, while Merrill Kelly is only 2-6 with a 5.12 ERA for the home side. Considering the talent discrepancy on the mound tonight, I think that this line is WAY off. The value swings to the undervalued favorite; the play is the Angels!

T.M. Prediction: 6-3 LA.

T.M. Selection: Blue Jays (10* MONEY-MAKER).

Toronto's got a dangerous line-up that can give even the best pitchers difficulties. That was evident in its slight upset win in yesterday's 6-2 victory. I think the Jays can keep the momentum roling here as well in the finale in Chicago. Hyun-Jin Ryu is coming off his worst start of the year, but I say he bounces back here on the road and at least matches White Sox starter Dallas Keuchel inning for inning. Toronto is also 7-2 in its last nine after a four runs or greater road victory in its last outing. I like Ryu to bounce back!

T.M. Prediction: 6-3 Toronto.

T.M. Selection: Padres (10* GAME OF THE WEEK).

The Padres come in off back-to-back losses to the Mets, but they have to be feeling confident they can bounce-back here, as they're 7-1 in their last eight home games after suffering back-to-back home losses. This is a tight starting pitching matchup, but it's also one which I believe favors the home side. Adbert Alzolay (4-4, 3.62 ERA), beat the Padres at home last Wednesday, while Padres starter Ryan Weathers (2-2, 2.06) fell to the Cubs last Tuesday. It was Weathers worst start of the year, but he owns a sub 2.00 ERA at home. I think Alzolay takes a step back here and I like the Padres to snap this small two-game skid; lay the price!

T.M. Prediction: 6-3 Padres.

T.M. Selection: Mets (10* GAME OF THE MONTH).

The Padres held on for a 2-0 win in a pitchers duel last night and everything points to a similar competitive and lower-scoring "duel." And that's because it's New York ace' Jacob DeGrom going against the Padres Joe Musgrove. Musgrove has been unbelievable this year, he's 4-4 with a 2.08 ERA. deGrom is 4-2 with a 0.71 ERA. Both are dominating across the board, but I still give the slight nod to deGrom over Musgrove, who has shown signs of volatility this year. The clincher for me though is that the Mets are 7-2 in their last nine in trying to revenge a shutout road loss to an opponent. I'm laying the very reasonable price on the best pitcher on the planet in this revenge-scenario; the play is New York!

T.M. Prediction: 4-2 New York.

T.M. Selection: Nationals (10* MONEY-MAKER).

This is a great pitching matchup, featuring two red hot hurlers. Zack Wheeler is 4-2 with a 2.52 ERA and 0.93 WHIP for the Phillies, while Max Scherzer is 4-2 with a 2.34 ERA and 0.82 WHIP. These starters are evenly matched. I don't trust the Phillies' bullpen whatsoever though. I'll also point out that Washington is 7-2 in Scherzer's last nine road starts when playing as the underdog. I love Scherzer in this spot, the play is Washington!

T.M. Prediction: 6-3 Nationals.

T.M. Selection: Blue Jays (10* MONEY-MAKER).

I'm travelling today gentlemen, so I'm going to have to keep my analysis much more "succinct" than I usually do. Robbie Ray is 2-2 with a 3.81 ERA for the Jays, while Sandy Alcantara is 2-4 with a 3.46 ERA for the Fish. Alcantara though has been terrible on the road this year with a ballooned 5.36 ERA. The play is Ray!

T.M. Prediction: 6-3 Jays.

T.M. Selection: Padres (10* BEST OF THE BEST).

Sometimes I completely analyze a pick and break it wide open, looking at every tiny detail. Other times I keep it simple and it give it the "eye test." That's the case here today, as I think Padres' ace Yu Darvish (5-1, 1.75 ERA) is definitely worth the price of admission here vs. Jake Odorizzi (0-2, 10.13), who returns after a long stay on the injured list. Odorizzi will likely only see a few innings, before making way for a battered bullpen; I'm laying the price on the red hot Padres!

T.M. Prediction: 6-3 Padres.

T.M. Selection: Angels (10* MONEY-MAKER).

Both teams enter off victories. I think the visiting side offers great value to pull off the minor upset in this one. The Angels go with ace Shohei Ohtani, who is 1-0 with a 2.73 ERA, and I'm giving him the big nod here over Chriss Bassitt (4-2, 3.69). Ohtani is on a completely different level right now and I expect him to outduel his counterpart. As stated off the top, great value on the visitors here!

T.M. Prediction: 6-3 Angels.

T.M. Selection: Cardinals (10* TRADE-MARK).

I like the Cardinals to bounce back from last night's 5-1 loss here in Chicago. St. Louis has lost three of four now, including two in a row. The White Sox had been in terrible form leading up to yesterday's victory, but their inconsistencies at the plate has still seen them lose six of their last ten. Lucas Giolito (3-4, 4.35 ERA) has not been sharp for Chicago this year. Jack Flaherty (8-0, 2.53), has been super sharp for the Cardinals. Look for St. Louis to get the job done here in this favorable starting pitching matchup!

T.M. Prediction: 6-3 Cards.

T.M. Selection: Dodgers (10* TRADE-MARK).

After a shaky stretch, the Dodgers have won eight of their last ten, including the first two in this series. The Giants had been rolling along until this series, and I think they'll struggle again here in the finale. We have a really good starting pitching matchup here between Anthony DeSclafani (4-1, 2.03 ERA) of San Francisco and Julio Urias (6-1, 3.04) of the Dodgers. Let's call these starters "even." LA is 7-2 in its last nine after back-to-back road victories and I expect the champs to keep that trend rolling strong here. All things considered, I believe this to be the very defintion of great line value; the play is the Dodgers!

T.M. Prediction: 6-3 Dodgers.

T.M. Selection: Blue Jays (10* ELITE OF THE ELITE).

I love the Jays here. They're coming off a 9-7 defeat here yesterday to Tampa, and they've now lost three in a row. They won't be lacking for motivation facing Rays' rookie starter Shane McClanahan (1-0, 4.67 ERA), who earned his first win over three appearances so far last time out, despite allowing four runs over five innings in a 12-5 victory over the Mets. New York is a terrible hitting team, so giving up four runs in a victory to it has to be taken with a grain of salt. Duplicating that performance on the road against the hard-hitting Jays is another thing entirely though. Robbie Ray (2-1, 3.79), allowed four runs over seven innings with nine K's in a victory over the Phillies in his last outing. What's up with this line? Unload with confidence, the play is Toronto!

T.M. Prediction: COMING SHORTLY.