Ticket Runner

Two early games

2010-09-19T08:41:00.000-07:00

LB Ray Lewis can still get it done

Last night was a 2-1 day as Iowa really gave that game away with their special teams. Two morning games will try to get my NFL record off the ground. I can't seem to pick a winner in the NFL.

Baltimore @ Cincinnati
The Bengals are the most over ratted team in the NFL. The Ravens defense will hold the Bengals offense down and Flacco will get up and down the field their defense.

PICK BALTIMORE -2.5

Tampa Bay @ Carolina
TB just plain stinks. Carolina can play a little. Carolina must be licking their chops to see Tampa coming in as they were destroyed by the Giants lat week.

PICK CAROLINA -3

Three teams for Saturday

2010-09-18T08:17:00.000-07:00

Gonna keep it simple as I have three teams for today.

Jake Locker

Maryland @ West Virginia
Maryland is struggling on offense. W. Virginia can score the ball and escaped Marshall with an overtime victory last week. They come home and lay the wood to a young Maryland team.

PICK WEST VIRGINIA -10

Nebraska @ Washington
The Cornhuskers are making a move on the national scene here as they travel to Seattle to face the Huskies. A tale of two QB's here as Nebraska sends out a young Martinez and the Huskies counter with maybe the number one pick in next years NFL draft in Jake Locker.

PICK NEBRASKA -3

Jewel Hampton

Iowa @ Arizona
Big Ten vs Pac 10 as Iowa travels to Tucson to take on the Wildcats. Iowa is coming off a total domination of Iowa State. The Wildcats are looking for a national following as they strive for some national respectability.

PICK IOWA +2

Monday Night Football double dip

2010-09-13T11:58:00.000-07:00

Rivers will not have McNeil protecting the left side

Yesterday was another juice out as the Colts have no idea how to stop the run. Green Bay is the real deal and will favorites in a lot of their games. I have one game tonight.

San Diego Chargers @ Kansas City Chiefs
San Diego is playing without three offensive starters from last season 13-3 AFC West Championship team. Two are holdouts and Tomlinson has taken his services to the Jets. Kansas City has a new offensive coordinator in Charlie Weiss. Chiefs QB Cassel is not one of the NFL's best at his position and that will be the downfall tonight for Kansas City.

PICK CHARGERS -5

First full Sunday of NFL action

2010-09-12T08:36:00.000-07:00

Defending AFC Champions

Yesterdays college was a juice out as I go 1-1 with the Cardinal winning easy and losing with Miami OH. I think I'm done betting against Eastern Michigan because that is two weeks in a row they cash and lose outright. On to Sunday as I have three bets.

Indianapolis Colts @ Houston Texans
Those are still the Colts that got embarrassed by the Saints in the second half of last years Super Bowl. That's sill Peyton Manning under center and that's still 15 losses out of 16 chances for the team from Houston. Houston is a lot of peoples darling little sleeper team. The number is very small and attractive.

PICK COLTS -1

Green Bay Packers @ Philadelphia Eagles

Life without McNabb starts today

Quarterback is such an important position in the NFL, every team is willing to spend as much as it takes to get a good one. Offensive problems stem from bad QB play and when you are breaking in a new one it takes time. When that new QB is facing a good team like Green Bay then it becomes a no brainer. Kevin Kolb is not Kurt Warner or Tom Brady, two guys who came out of no where to suceed in the league. Philadelphia wakes up to reality today and finds out life without Donavon will be a disaster.

PICK PACKERS -3

Pacific Ten Conference opens league play

2010-09-10T16:45:00.000-07:00

Thursday was a disaster as I made two bets and didn't really have a chance in either game. I'll take Friday off and have two plays ready for Saturday. One Pac 10 game and a MAC Conference game.

Eastern Michigan's last win was in 2008

Eastern Michigan @ Miami OH
I will be going back to this team as I do believe in finding bad teams and bet against them. Eastern Michigan lost every game last year and their first game this year. They lost at home to Army last week but covered the number. Miami of Ohio played stayed with Florida last week but ended up losing. The Red Hawks have Colorado State then Missouri after this game, so this may be their only win within the first four games. The number is fourteen and opened at 16.5, look for the Red Hawks to open a big lead and run away with this home game.

PICK MIAMI OH -14

Stanford @ UCLA

QB Andrew Luck will lead the Cardinal against UCLA

I'm not buying into this Bruin team just yet. Stanford may have the best quarterback in the Pac-10. UCLA still can't play any defense when the game is on the line as they had the lead late last week against a weak Kansas State team. Stanford may be in the conference title run as QB Andrew Luck will be too much for UCLA.

PICK STANFORD -6

The National Football League

2010-09-09T11:38:00.000-07:00

Last seasons winning FG

Thursday night football for last years Super Bowl champ has been a nice move for the NFL. Years ago they used to be on Monday Night Football but this seems to be a good fit.

Minnesota Vikings @ New Orleans Saints
It's hard to not see the first game of the new season being a stinker like last years Steelers / Titans game. The whole world loves Drew Brees and the happy go lucky Saints. They will score their points and they like to bring pressure. The Minnesota Vikings have the best running back in the league with Adrian Peterson and a QB who has seen everything a defense can throw at a quarterback. New Orleans will get their 28-35 points. The million dollar question is can the Vikings keep pace. I think they can as New Orleans is an aggressive attacking defense and Farve and company know this to be true. Their last game was a 31-28 loss to New Orleans in last seasons NFC Championship game.

Looking for revenge from last season OT loss

PICK OVER 48.5

A very big sporting Thursday

2010-09-09T08:20:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was another easy winner as the NYM / WAS game stays under eight. Today is a very unusual Thursday as USA basketball, MLB, WNBA, pro and college football. Just a sports bettors nightmare with all these games spaced out evenly all day.

Cincinnati Reds @ Colorado Rockies

Travis Wood looks to keep the white hot Rockies down

The Rockies are red hot as they try to climb back into the NL West race and Cincinnati tries to close the door on the NL Central crown. Colorado has won seven in a row and 30 of it's last 40 at home as they send Jason Hammel (10-7, 4.25 era) to the hill. The Reds will counter with Travis Wood (5-2, 3.19 era). I love these day games following a night game situations. I usually bet the under and today is another good one. The number is low at eight and the two starting pitchers are coming of victories while giving up two or less runs.

PICK UNDER 8.5(+107)

Early morning action

2010-09-08T07:11:00.000-07:00

Last night was an easy winner with the ATL/PIT game staying under the number as the Buckos won 5-0. Looking at a few games today and the football for tomorrow.

New York Mets @ Washington Nationals

Livan Hernandez takes the hill for the Nationals

R.A. Dickey (9-6, 2.91 era) faces Livan Hernandez (9-10, 3.81 era) today at Nationals Park in Washington D.C. Hernandez has 1-0 record with a 1.33 era in his only meeting against the Mets while Dickey is coming off a shelling vs the Cubs last week. Early morning start following a night game could lead to some bench players getting a start. New York won last nights game 4-1 and are looking to end a ten game road trip. The Mets just might want to get this game out of the way and head home.

PICK UNDER 8(-105)

Strikeouts and ground balls on tap

2010-09-07T12:14:00.000-07:00

Tim Hudson

Well back to the MLB grind here. NCAA Football started last week and I went 2-2-1 for the week and will play a total for tonights MLB.

Atlanta Braves @ Pittsburgh Pirates
The Atlanta Braves send Tim Hudson (15-6, 2.30 era) to the hill to face James McDonald (2-5, 5.62 era). The Braves are struggling to score runs and Hudson owns the Pirates. Last nights game was a 3-1 win for Atlanta. Lots of ground balls and strikeouts tonight in Pittsburgh.

PICK UNDER 7.5(-105)

Fireworks planned for tonight

2010-09-06T11:42:00.000-07:00

Boise State vs Virginia Tech @ Landover, MD

QB Kellen Moore leads the high scoring Broncos

Two ranked teams. The whole world is watching BSU and wants to see if they are for real. Va Tech knows this and will come out fighting at home on a national stage. This has scoring written all over it. I can easily see BSU getting 35 points and Va Tech right there with them at 28. Playing a side is to risky here as the spread is near a pick. I'm looking for points and more points. All of college football wants to see if BSU is for real.

PICK OVER 51.5

Midshipmen playing on Labor Day

2010-09-06T09:30:00.000-07:00

Ken Niumatalolo has Navy headed in the right direction

Taking yesterday off was a nice refreshing change to sports watching. Wisconsin took the life out of me with their push, but life goes on weather I win or lose. Two college football games to end the opening week. MLB will be on the back burner for a while, I may play a total here and there but that's it until the playoffs.

Navy vs Maryland @ Baltimore, MD.
This is a very good Navy team as the Midshipmen look for another 10 win season as they open their season against a young Maryland team. The line is less than a touchdown and very attractive. The young Maryland team will have a tough challenge staying with their assignments on defense against the triple attack Navy will throw at them. Playing at a neutral site will be in favor of the Middies as they always draw well. Two teams going in different directions as Maryland is coming off a two win season and Navy was a ten win bowl team last season.
Navy write up link.....
Maryland link.....

PICK NAVY -6

Cadets travel to Eastern Michigan for opener

2010-09-04T14:25:00.000-07:00

Army QB Trent Steelman

Army @ Eastern Michigan
The Cadets travel to Ysplanti, MI to take on Eastern Michigan. This one sticks out like a sore thumb for me and heres why. The Cadets return their starting QB for an offense that runs the triple option. They played each other last year and Army won 27-14. Eastern Michigan went winless last year posting an 0-12 record. The Eagles start a sophomore at QB who had to fill in for an injured senior last season. This game will come in under the radar as the Cadets run wild against the Eagles. Read the game matchup here from Rivals.com.

PICK ARMY-9.5

What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas

2010-09-03T19:42:00.000-07:00

Laid off the Friday night action as nothing really jumped out at me. One thing to keep in mind is that Toledo is terrible. WHen they play a quality team, they will fold like a chair.

The Badgers will be solid on the offensive line

Wisconsin @ University of Nevada Las Vegas

The Badgers open their 2010/11 season on the road at Sam Boyd Stadium in Las Vegas, NV. Wisconsin is ranked 12th nationally and will be returning their starting QB from last season. The Rebels were ranked 112th in defense last season and have a new head coach coming in from Montana. This is a mis match and Wisconsin will roll over, through and around UNLV on Saturday night.

PICK - Wisconsin -20

MLB, WNBA and NCAA Football.....OMG

2010-09-02T14:05:00.000-07:00

Justin Morneau will watch this one from the bench

Lots and lots of action to throw your hard earned money away on this evening. I am already dialed in on the Golden Gophers and will be looking at one MLB total and a WNBA side. Here we go.

Detroit Tigers @ Minnesota Twins
Detroit sends out their ace Justin Verlander (14-8, 3.58 era) to the hill tonight at Target Field in Minneapolis while the Twins counter with red hot Scott Baker (12-9, 4.55 era). Minnesota's pitching staff has held teams to four or less runs in their last ten games. Baker has a 5-0 record with a 3.02 earned run average since the All Star break. The Twins are hitters are having a tough time at the plate as Justin Morneau, Jim Thome and Orlando Hudson are all out. Verlander has a 1.64 earned run average in two starts against Minnesota this season tallying a 1-1 record. The last two games have gone under the number and look for this one to do the same.

PICK - UNDER 7.5(-120)

Phoenix Mercury @ Seattle Storm

Diana Taurasi and Lauren Jackson will battle tonight in Game One.

Phoenix is the highest scoring team in the WNBA at 93 points a game. They finished second to Seattle in the Western Conference. They open a best of three game series tonight in the Emerald City. Two very high scoring teams and a short series with the best scoring team in the league being a seven point dog. That is to good to pass up.

PICK - PHOENIX +7

Thursday afternoon MLB

2010-09-02T09:32:00.000-07:00

Dallas Braden

I already have one bet for tonight with Minnesota in NCAA Football. I'm also thinking about playing the WNBA game also, but let's see how this MLB game goes.

Oakland Athletics @ New York Yankees
Dallas Braden (9-9, 3.28 era) vs C.C. Sabathia (18-5, 3.14 era). Two very low earned run averages in a Thursday afternoon tilt. Oakland looking to play out the string and the Yankees are headed to the playoffs. Both were winners in their last starts. This may be one of those ho-hum nothing special 3-1 home team wins. Too much going on today with college football starting and a very light MLB schedule. Take the UNDER 8.5(-120) runs.

College Football Thursday

2010-09-01T20:39:00.000-07:00

FS Kyle Theret will miss the MTSU game

College football will kickoff Thursday night when a handful of teams step on to the gridiron. I will be making one selection for tonight and one pick for Saturday. Let's start with the Thursday night game.

Minnesota @ Middle Tennessee State University
Big Ten vs Sun Belt. Power running game vs finesse running quarterback / wildcat. Starting QB benched vs 10 new starters on defense. All of this wrapped into the first game of the 2010 season.

Minnesota graduated 9 starters form it's defense and of the two returning starters, FS Kyle Theret will not be playing due to violating team rules. Starting left OT Dom Alford is also suspended. The Gophers are returning to a power running game this season. The offensive line is big and experienced. Minnesota's O-line averages 6-foot-4, 321 pounds they out weigh the MTSU D-line by 70 pounds.

QB Dwight Dasher

Middle Tennessee State University(MTSU) is without their all everything superstar QB Dwight Dasher, in his place will be sophomore junior college transfer Logan Kilgore from Bakersfield College. Dasher was their leading passer as well as the leading rusher, so his loss can't be taken lightly by the MTSU coaching staff.

I believe Big Ten football will prevail here as the line is very small here with the Gophers being a slight favorite at -1.5. Take Minnesota(-1.5) to win as MTSU will have trouble with Minnesota's running game. I would buy it as soon as possible as this line may go up.

PICK Minnesota(-1.5)

Women's National Basketball Association

2010-09-01T14:15:00.000-07:00

Leilani Mitchell of the New York Liberty

After receiving a gift in the Sox/Indians game this afternoon I think I will try my luck with a WNBA game.

Indianapolis Fever @ New York Liberty
Game two was a home win for the Fever. They were up against the wall and they delivered. They came out and played a hard nosed defense and shut down the Liberty, in doing so they exposed them offensively. New York relied too much on the outside shot and they came up cold. I'll take the better defensive team and that is the Fever. Take the Indianapolis Fever (+4) to win.

September call ups

2010-09-01T07:15:00.000-07:00

A.J. Pierzynski hits a 3 run homer in the 9th to send the Sox to victory

Last night was a perfect 3-0. I am officially on fire and will be playing a few games today. I believe in striking when the iron is hot.

Chicago White Sox @ Cleveland Indians
One of my favorite situations will be happening in this game. A September call up making his season debut for a non contending team against a team fighting for a playoff spot. The hometown Indians will hand the ball to Carlos Carrasco (0-0, 0.00 era). He went 0-4 with an 8.87 era last season. The White Sox are looking to send Cleveland to it's fourth straight defeat as they send Freddy Garcia (11-5, 4.89 era) to the hill this afternoon at Progressive Field in Cleveland. Take the clutch hitting White Sox (-135) to win.

Two totals and a side for Tuesday

2010-08-31T08:30:00.000-07:00

Josh Beckett

Last night was a nail bitter as the Sox give up three runs in the bottom of the ninth and then win by four in the 11th. Today is a huge card as I will be placing three bets for tonights action.

Boston Red Sox @ Baltimore Orioles
Josh Beckett (4-3, 6.50 era) will be on the hill for the Red Sox. Boston has to make their move now as they open a three game set with Baltimore at Camden Yards this evening. He will be facing Brian Matusz ( 6-12, 4.79 era). Beckett owns a career 5-1 record with a 2.98 era against the Orioles while Matusz has a 3-1 record with a 2.32 era in his last five starts. Play the UNDER 8.5(-105) runs.

Detroit Tigers @ Minnesota Twins
Two very hot pitchers going at it tonight at Target Field in Minneapolis. Both starters have a sub 2.00 era in their last three starts. Play the UNDER 8.5(-115) runs. This should be a pitchers duel with not many runs being scored.

Detroit opens a three game series against Minnesota

Colorado Rockies @ San Francisco Giants
The Giants lost a heart breaking last night in the ninth as Colorado scored two runs in the top of the inning to take the victory away from the jaws of defeat. Two rookies take the hill tonight as Esmil Rogers ( 2-2, 5.66 era) face off against Madison Bumgarner (5-4, 3.95 era). Look for the Giants to bounce back and win this game as the taste of last nights game remains fresh in their mouths. Take the Giants (-140) to win.

Giants skipper Bruce Bochy tries to forget last nights ninth inning collapse

Monday, Monday

2010-08-30T10:00:00.000-07:00

Paul Konerko leads the team in batting average, runs scored, HR's and RBI's

Going 1-1 yesterday with the only loser being the over in the WNBA game. Today I have a playoff contending team looking to make a move to get back into the playoff race.

Chicago White Sox @ Cleveland Indians
This one is all about starting pitching for me. Mark Buehrle (12-10, 3.93 era) tries to turn around the Sox as they are the losers of two in a row. They travel to Cleveland to face Mitch Talbot (8-11, 4.44 era) who has complied an 0-2 record in 14.2 innings pitched with a 7.36 era in his last three starts. Buehrle in that same time frame is 2-1 in 20.1 innings with a 3.10 era. Chicago opens play tonight 4.5 games behind AL Central leading Minnesota and Cleveland leads the season series 8-4. It has to start now for the Sox as they will travel to Boston after they finish this three game series with the Tribe. Take the Chicago White Sox(-130) to win.

Ladies hoops to finish a very profitable weekend

2010-08-29T16:13:00.000-07:00

Katie Douglas looking forward to Game Two

New York Liberty @ Indianapolis Fever
In the pervious four meetings three out of four have gone over 145. The total for tonights game is 146. New York leads the best of three series 1-0 and will be looking to knock out the Fever tonight in Indianapolis. The two teams split the season series at two apiece as the home team won each of their games by double digits. Game one was a 13 point Liberty victory last Thursday night. I can easily see both teams lighting up the scoreboard as New York would like to end it and the Fever want to extend the series to three games. Take OVER 146.5

A lazy Sunday afternoon

2010-08-29T09:19:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was a 3-0 day as I collected on every wager I made. Let's see if I can continue the streak with one play for this lazy late summer Sunday afternoon.

R.A. Dickey looks to shut down the Astros

Houston Astros @ New York Mets
Houston sends out 25 year old right hander Bud Norris ( 6-7, 5.03 era) this afternoon at Citi Field in New York. The Astros pitching staff has allowed three runs or less in their last seven games as Norris will look to continue the Astros stellar starting pitching. R.A. Dickey ( 8-5, 2.64 era) last faced Houston on August 18 and went 8 1/3 innings while giving up two runs in a 3-2 14 inning Mets victory. The hot Astro pitching along with Dickey for the Mets should keep this game under 7 runs. Take the UNDER 7(+105) runs.

Three selections to get Saturday moving

2010-08-28T11:05:00.000-07:00

Joe Mauer is hitting .330 for 2010

Last night was an easy winner with the Astros / Mets under 7.5 runs. That game never have a chance to hit the over. Today I will be playing two MLB games and one WNBA game, so buckle up and enjoy this holiday weekend.

Minnesota Twins @ Seattle Mariners
The AL Central leading Minnesota Twins play game two of their weekend series against the lowly Seattle Mariners. The Twins are on a two game winning streak and have a 3.5 game lead over the Chicago White Sox. Nick Blackburn of the Twins will face off against Doug Fister in this afternoon affair at Safeco Field in Seattle. Blackburn was sent down to triple A on July 30 and was recalled last week as he took the loss while giving up three earned runs in seven innings pitched. Seattle's Fister has struggled this season also with a 4-9 record. Minnestoa has beaten the Mariner right hander twice this season. I'm looking for Minnesota to keep it rolling, take the Twins(-110) to win.

Kansas City Royals @ Cleveland Indians

Grienke is 1-0 with a 1.64 is his last three starts

Two teams just trying to finish the season send out their young guns as Zach Grienke (8-11, 3.83 era) of Kansas City faces Jeanmar Gomez (3-4, 3.62 era) at Progressive Field in Cleveland. The 26 year old Grienke is 1-0 with a 1.64 in his last three starts. Gomez will be making his eighth start in his rookie campaign as he tries to recover from a eight run eleven hit shelling he took in his last start. Gomez and Grienke squared off last week in Kansas City as the Royals won 2-1 on August 17. Take the UNDER 7.5(even) runs.

Seattle Storm @ Los Angeles Sparks

Swin Cash

Seattle is the class of the Western Conference as they are the number one seed and look to knock the Sparks out of the playoffs on their home court. The Storm are looking for another solid performance from Swin Cash as she scored 20 points in game one. Los Angeles is just looking to hang on as Seattle is on a mission to end the series today especially if Phoenix wins their game that will be played just before their tipoff time. Seattle -6.5 is the pick.

Friday Night Lights

2010-08-27T12:20:00.000-07:00

Yesterday is the reason I gamble. I started out with two horrible loser in the Phillies over and the Padres money line. I needed a winner and came thru with the Phoenix Mercury destroying San Antonio. Finished yesterday with a 1-2 record. Tonight I have one total for all my readers.

The Astros are coming off a four game sweep of Philadelphia

Houston Astros @ New York Mets
Nelson Figueroa (3-1, 2.98 era) takes the hill for the Astros and he will be countered by New York Met Mike Pelfrey (12-7, 3.80 era).

Houston is coming off a surprising four game sweep of the Phillies in Philadelphia. Figueroa's August 17 no decision against the Mets was 4-3 win for the Astros as he gave up two runs in five innings pitched. Houston was the benefactor of a lack of run scoring by the Phillies in Philadelphia. They did just enough to win. Pelfrey has a 1.64 era in his last three starts.

These two teams have played four games against each other this season and have failed to reach a total of eight runs in any game. My bet will be UNDER 7.5(-125) runs.

WNBA Playoffs

2010-08-26T16:58:00.000-07:00

Diana Taurasi

The Phoenix Mercury open their 2010 playoff run against the San Antonio Silver Stars tonight in Phoenix. Phoenix is rested and the class of the league. San Antonio barley got in and is playing without their best player in Chamique Holesclaw who is out for the rest of the season. The highest scoring team playing a team without their best player is too good to pass up. Phoenix Mercury -8 is the play.

Friars are looking for more respect

2010-08-26T13:33:00.000-07:00

Padres (76-49) are looking for more

I am officially on the chase. I will no longer wager on slumping teams to do anything, weather it be scoring runs or God forbid win the game. I will not be a slump breaking bettor any longer. Now on to my late action.

Arizona Diamondbacks @ San Diego Padres

The San Diego Padres are 8-2 in their last 10 games while the snakes are 3-7 in that time frame. The Friars have won the last nine home meetings against Arizona dating back to 9/19/2009. Petco Park is a pitchers park and you must excel at the fundamentals if you plan to win there. San Diego is leading the NL West and Arizona is bringing up the rear. Padres are heavy chalk the afternoon, therefore I will be laying the big number. Take the San Diego Padres (-160) to win.

All Star first basemen Adrian Gonzalez

Philadelphia embarrassed once again

2010-08-26T09:14:00.000-07:00

Last night was a roller coaster of emotion as the Braves lose a 9 run lead and my under play cashes after giving up 5 runs in the top of the first. Other than that it was business as usual with a 1-1 record for yesterday. I have one play for the Astros / Phillies game.

Houston Astros @ Philadelphia Phillies

Wandy Rodriguez (9-12, 4.00 era)

The Astros send out 33 year old right hander Wandy Rodriguez (9-12, 4.00 era) who will try to accomplish something that is very difficult to do, that is to sweep a four game series from the Phillies at Philadelphia. Kyle Kendrick (8-6, 4.58 era) will assume the role of slump buster as the Phils try to avoid the embarrassment of four straight losses to the cellar dwelling team from Houston.

Ryan Howard looking for offense

Philadelphia has scored exactly six runs in the last three games. That is exactly two runs per game. The Astros pitching staff is not over powering as this lack of run scoring is more of a Phillies internal problem. This is not the Houston Astros of the mid 1980's when they could throw Phil Niekro, J.R. Richards and Nolan Ryan out there against their rivals. Citizens Bank Park is a hitters friendly setting as it was built to give up runs and the long ball as it has proven to be a pinball machine when it comes to scoring. Look for a high scoring affair with Philadelphia doing most of the damage here and play the over 8.5(-105) runs. Hot afternoon baseball games seem to usually bring out the hitting shoes. I look for that to happen today in Philadelphia.

Playing a total to send us to a happy ending

2010-08-25T14:59:00.000-07:00

Cahill's era is 0.90 in his last 5 starts

Day baseball always makes for a very long day. It's very much like a NFL Sunday afternoon here on the west coast of the United States as games begin at 10AM pacific standard time and go all day long. Anyways, enough of that as I will move on the second and last selection of todays card.

DH Travis Halfner

Oakland Athletics @ Cleveland
Indians
Trevor Cahill (13-5, 2.54 era) of Oakland will face off against Mitch Talbot (8-10 4.23 era) tonight in Cleveland. Cahill is the ace of the staff for the A's as has won four of his last last five starts with a microscopic 0.90 era. Hitters have been mystified by this 22 year old right hander lately.
He is opposed by Mitch Talbot who is facing the Athletics for the second time this season. He was the losing pitcher in a 3-0 loss to Oakland back in early July. Both pitchers have the capability of keeping batters at bay tonight while both teams are struggling to score runs of late. I really don't trust any teams offense to score a lot tonight, so therefore I will be playing under 7.5(-115) runs.

Colorado looking for a sweep

2010-08-25T07:09:00.000-07:00

One bad pitch by Wil Ohman of the Marlins turned a profitable evening into a ho hum grinder of a night as the Marlins lose in the bottom of the ninth to the New York Mets. The Cubs send the Nationals to their third straight loss as Carlos Zambrano gets the win by going seven and one third innings and striking out 8. One play for the early action this afternoon. There may be one more play coming for the night games.

Four in a row?

Atlanta Braves @ Colorado Rockies
Colorado seems to have Atlanta figured out with the Rockies winning seven of the last 10 against the Braves. Manager Bobby Cox of the Braves hopes Jaris Jurrjens (5-4, 3.91 era) can end their road trip on a high note with a victory this afternoon at Coors Field in Denver. Jurrjens in his last 3 starts brings an impressive 1-0 record with a 2.11 era. Atlanta's bats seem to have gone cold while in Denver and that will need to change if the Braves want to avoid a sweep this afternoon.

The Rockies have won three in a row by scoring only five runs each of the last two nights. They send Esmil Rogers ( 2-2, 4.53 era) out to the hill. He will be making his first career start against Atlanta and will be hard pressed to keep the Braves down this afternoon. Colorado starts the day 10.5 games behind the San Diego Padres in the NL West race and will be looking to the future as they, "play out the string."

Jaris Jurrjens looks to end a losing streak

Atlanta should get the job done here as they look to avoid the sweep at the hands of the Rockies. Their bats will wake up at the hitters friendly ballpark known as Coors Field. The oddsmakers have the Braves as a slight favorite at -120. Playing a day game after a night game, Colorado might rest a few starters and get some young kids in there. The Braves at -120 will be my first play.

Two road teams with excellent starting pitchers

2010-08-24T08:53:00.000-07:00

Last night was another sweep of the board with Detroit and Boston both winning easily. Tonight I will be going with two road teams with excellent starting pitchers.

Chicago Cubs (+120) @ Washington Nationals
The Cubs are 1-0 playing for their new skipper. Carlos Zambrano (4-6, 4.97 era) takes the hill tonight for Chicago. He looks to continue his great performance as he has posted a 1-0 record with a 2.70 era in his last three starts. Teams seem to play well right after a manager change and I'm betting on that theory. The Cubs are coming off a terrible home series and are hitting the road at the right time. They took the Nationals to the wood shed last night in a 9-1 victory, earning interim manager Mike Quada his first victory.

Carlos Zambrano looks for a fresh start

The Nationals seem to be more worried about whats going on with Strasburg rather than their play on the diamond. He will be headed for a second MRI today. Washington sends John Lanna ( 5-5, 5.13 era) out to face the Cubs. In Lanna's last three games he has posted a perfect 3-0 record with a 2.95 era, that is why the Nationals are favored tonight.

I'm looking for Zambrano to return to his form of a few years back when he was considered one of the leagues best pitchers. Along with playing for a new manager and at an underdog price the Cubs will be the play for tonight.

Florida Marlins (-115) @ New York Mets
The Marlins send one of the best young pitchers out to face the New York Mets tonight at Citi Field. Josh Johnson (11-5, 2.27 era) may be considered the best young arm in the game but the Marlins are only looking for a series opening victory. Johnson is very good at keeping light hitting teams down and the Mets do qualify as light hitting.

Florida faces R. A. Dickey (8-5, 2.41 era) who is putting together a nice season. He is a victim of low run support by his bat wielding teammates. Dickey does his best work at home, he has a jaw dropping 5-1 record with a 1.22 era in six starts at Citi Field.

The Marlins are the hotter team as Florida had their five game winning streak snapped with their loss on Sunday. That along with starting their ACE and the light hitting Mets make this my second pick of the night.

Florida is 5-1 in their last six games

Don't choke on all that chalk

2010-08-23T08:55:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was a sweep of the board as both the Padres and Braves both win on the road. Tonight the match ups look very difficult. Lots of fourth and fifth starters of teams rotation going at it tonight. On nights like these, I like to play the home "CHALK." Chalk is a gambling term for favorite. I will be talking two heavy favorites, playing at home against teams with very bad records.

Kansas City Royals @ Detroit Tigers(-160)

Miguel Cabrera, 5 for 8 (.378, 2HR's and 2B) vs Chen

Detroit is very hot. The are coming off a three game sweep of the Indians. They try to continue that streak tonight against a very bad Kansas City team. Detroit starts the day 11 games behind the AL Central leading Minnesota Twins. Beating the two teams below you in the standings is a good strategy to get back into the race.

Tonight the starter for Kansas City is Bruce Chen (8-6, 4.61 era) and the Tigers send Jeremy Bonderman (6-9, 5.37 era) to the hill. Bonderman has been shelled in his last 3 starts going 0-3 with a 9.39 era but the Royals might be what the doctor ordered. Chen is a veteran left hander who will struggle against the hot hitting Tiger lineup.
With Minnesota starting a tough series in Arlington with the AL West leading Texas Rangers. The Tigers need to sweep the Royals at home to have any chance of getting back into the AL Central race. It is time to put up or shut up for the 2010 Detroit Tigers.

Seattle Mariners @ Boston Red Sox(-200)

Lackey (7-1, 1.89 era) in last 9 vs Mariners

It's all about the starting pitchers in this game. I usually don't play this type of heavy chalk but the starting pitcher for Boston OWNS the Mariners. This is a rare -200 favorite for me.

A pair of right handers hit the mound as Seattle sends Doug Fister (4-8, 3.92 era) to battle against John Lackey (11-7, 4.62 era). In Lackey's last 9 starts against Seattle he is an incredible 7-1 with a 1.89 era. Boston is sitting at third, 6.5 behind the AL East leading New York Yankees and 5.5 behind Tampa Bay in the AL Wildcard race. The Sox need to get moving now while the AL West cellar dwelling Mariners are in town.

Padres looking to avoid the sweep

2010-08-22T10:33:00.000-07:00

Last night was a money making night at 2-1. Today two bets will be placed.

Jon Garland (12-5, 3.25 ERA)

San Diego Padres(-130) @ Milwaukee Brewers
Padres look to end their road trip with a win and avoid a weekend series sweep at the hands of the Brewers. Jon Garland will take the mound and try to hold down the hot hitting Brew Crew. This is what number one starters get paid to do, end losing streaks.

Atlanta Braves(-125) @ Chicago Cubs

Bobby Cox has been ejected more times than anyone else

The Braves look to increase their lead and win the series this weekend. Chicago is playing out the string.

Three games to get back above .500

2010-08-21T09:43:00.000-07:00

Last night was an complete disaster. Both under were dead after the first 3 innings. Lost of runs early killed both games. Three bets for today to get back above the .500 mark.

Hanley Ramirez

Houston Astros @ Florida Marlins(-130)
The Marlins are hot and the Astros are not. Plain and simple. The better team is at home with a good price and playing better. Not to much thinking here.

Kevin Correia (10-7, 4.63 ERA)

San Diego Padres(-115) @ Milwaukee Brewers
The Padres will bounce back from a horrible pitching performance. Corriea will take the mound and hold the Brewers down tonight.

Toronto Blue Jays @ Boston Red Sox(-135)
Another team that got blown out last night. I love rebound games. Dice K on toeing the rubber and an embarrassed team from last night is to good to pass up.

Red Sox look to rebound tonight

Two totals for a Friday night

2010-08-20T12:10:00.000-07:00

The beat goes on. Last night was another profitable night at 2-1. My biggest chalk bet was Philadelphia and they were smoked by the Giants. The Marlins and Reds cash to make a nice profit. Two plays for tonight.

Madison Bumgarner (4-4, 3.27 ERA)

San Francisco Giants @ St. Louis Cardinals UNDER 8(-120)
Madison Bumgarner vs Jake Westbrook. Two guys who gave up 2 runs in their last starts. Two teams fighting for their playoff lives. This will be a tight pitchers duel in St. Louis.

Jeremy Hellickson (3-0, 1.35 ERA)

Tampa Bay Devil Rays @ Oakland Athletics UNDER 7(EVEN)
Jeremy Hellickson vs Vin Mazzaro. Another two guys who have given up one run in their last start. The rookie Hellickson is on fire. He will shut down the A's and Tampa should struggle in a pitchers park.

Two teams looking for the sweep and a hot hitting team in Pittsburg

2010-08-19T09:27:00.000-07:00

Coming off a 2-1 night, I will be playing 3 games today.

Hanley Rameriz

Florida Marlins(-105) @ Pittsburgh Pirates
The Marlins are looking to end their road trip with a win. Pirates have mailed it in for the season. Florida at a very attractive price today vs a left handed starter.

Dog days of August

San Francisco Giants @ Philadelphia Phillies(-170)
The Giants are pretty much finished in the NL West race. They are focusing on the wild card. Hamels on the mound at home is too much for the Giants. Phillies sweep San Francisco out of town.

Cincinnati Reds(-135) @ Arizona Diamondbacks
The Reds are finding their stride in Phoenix. The need to put some distance between them and the Cardinals and the D-backs are just what the doctor ordered. The highest scoring team will continue to roll in the Arizona heat.

San Diego, Florida and Los Angeles are all slight favorites

2010-08-18T10:07:00.000-07:00

Big day of betting today. Gotta love day baseball. Action all day long. Three plays today.

Skipper Buddy Black looks on

San Diego Padres(-140) @ Chicago Cubs
Padres are white hot. The are doing everything right. Pitching, fielding and hitting. Staying with them again.

Josh Johnson (10-5, 2.27 era)

Florida Marlins(-165) @ Pittsburgh Pirates
Josh Johnson is flat out NASTY. He will mow down the light hitting Pirates. They destroyed the Buckos last night after losing the opener on Monday. Look for a strong pitching performance from Johnson. Marlins win this one easily.

Colorado Rockies @ Los Angeles Dodgers(-135)
Late game tonight finds two teams trying to climb back into the NL West race. The Rockies are a completely different team away from Denver. Dodgers are still a tough beat at home.

Furcal leads the Dodgers to a 6-0 win

Hot Padres with Cincinnati Reds in Phoenix.

2010-08-17T13:41:00.000-07:00

Garland will try to keep the Cubs down

Two bets for this evenings action.

San Diego Padres (-115) @ Chicago Cubs
Friars are very HOT. Swept Pit at home and lost one to the Giants in SF and started out the series in Chicago with a win. Staying with the hot team.

Cincinnati Reds (-110) @ Arizona Diamondbacks
The Snakes are very bad. The Reds can get right back into the NL Central race with some good wins in Phoenix.

Arrayo will be on the hill tonight

8-16-10

2010-08-16T15:43:00.000-07:00

We are trying to make a move here tonight. I have 3 plays in MLB.

San Diego Padres(-120) @ Chicago Cubs
The Pads seem to always get the first game of the series. I look for that to happen again tonight.

Los Angeles Dodgers @ Atlanta Braves UNDER 7 (-120)
Chad Billingsly vs Tommy Hanson. First two games went under and yesterdays hit the over. Another low scoring game tonight. Low number in a pitchers park.

Florida Marlins(-120) @ Pittsburgh Pirates
Buckos are just bad. Coming off a horrible road trip now they face a tough Marlins team.

8-15-10

2010-08-15T09:04:00.000-07:00

I can't seem to pick a correct side. Yesterday I had two sides that both lost 2-1 and one total that won easily. Today I have one side.

Arizona Diamondbacks @ Washington Nationals UNDER 7.5 (-120)
Enright vs Strasburg. Two very low ERA's going at it today. The light hitting Nats will struggle against the 2.64 era of Enright. Strasburg can keep teams under 3.

Stephen Strasburg (5-3, 3.07 ERA)

Barry Enright (3-2, 2.64 ERA)

8-14-10

2010-08-14T15:23:00.000-07:00

First two games are looking good. I'll be making one more bet for today.

Los Angeles Dodgers @ Atlanta Braves (-140)

The Dodgers are officially in a free fall. That UGLY loss thursday night in Philadelphia is putting this team of non hustlers into a losing streak. Ted Lilly is a journey man pitcher and the Bravos will look to score tonight.

8-14-10

2010-08-14T11:40:00.000-07:00

Two plays for the 1pm PST starts in MLB. Depending on how these go, there will be more bets to follow. Looking at 1 WNBA and maybe 2 NFL Preseason games. Stay tuned.

San Diego Padres (-120) @ San Francisco Giants

The Friars own the G-men this season. Latos is San Diego's young gun and will deliver this afternoon in San Francisco. The Giants are fighting for their playoff lives. San Diego shuts the door and drops the Giants to 4.5 back in the NL West race.

Chicago Cubs @ St. Louis Cardinals UNDER 7.5 (EVEN)
Zambrano vs Carpenter. Two good pitcher in a day game following a night game. Pitchers duel in St. Louis this afternoon.

In Sports, Left-Handers Exploit Edge Every Day

2010-08-14T08:11:00.000-07:00

EnlargeKevin C. Cox/Getty Images

In his 15th season, Atlanta Braves left-hander Billy Wagner is one of baseball's top closers, with an ERA under 2.00. A natural right-hander, Wagner taught himself to throw with his left hand after breaking his right arm.

August 11, 2010

For the 90 percent of us who do things the right way, it has probably escaped our attention that, for the past 34 years, Aug. 13 has been designated International Left-Handers Day. As a minority that has been historically put upon, you southpaws certainly deserve your own holiday this Friday.

However, and not to be gauche about it — in sports, every day is left-handers' day.

Trust me, if you are a young parent and you want to give your son every advantage — spending a fortune sending him to all the right schools, and teaching him all sorts of cultural skills — just save your money.

Instead, tie his right arm behind his back as soon as he gets out of the crib and teach him to be a left-handed relief pitcher, and that kid of yours will still be making a good living pitching when you're in assisted living — him paying your way. A left-handed reliever can go on forever.

Well, so can some southpaw starters. I spoke to Billy Beane, the vice president/general manager of the Oakland A's, renowned for his command of statistics, and he told me it was absolutely true: The Athletics' figures showed that left-handed pitchers as a group don't throw as fast as right-handers. But they don't have to be as good; they're needed. Why? Duh. Left-handed pitchers are needed to get left-handed batters out.

Now [Rafael] Nadal is No. 1, like Laver and Connors and McEnroe and Navratilova and Seles — all who beat right-handers with that confounding different spin.

It's those sports like baseball, that feature the mano a mano component, where portsiders have the edge. The left-handers' propaganda — I was going to say propaganda arm, but let's say propaganda lobby — argue that southpaws succeed in sports because they're more influenced by the right side of the brain, which encourages creativity.

Right-handers, being left-brained and allegedly duller, maintain that left-handers do well simply because they're rare. Whether it's boxing or wrestling or fencing or tennis, all of a sudden you're facing a strange creature coming at you differently.

Rafael Nadal, a natural right-hander, was taught to play left-handed — which was why he was just about the only player in the world who could beat Roger Federer, when Federer was the best tennis player in all history. Now Nadal is No. 1, like Laver and Connors and McEnroe and Navratilova and Seles — all who beat right-handers with that confounding different spin.

Bill Russell, the great Celtics center, told me that the main reason he was the greatest shot-blocker in basketball history was simply that his dominant left arm perfectly countered a right-hander's natural shot.

Left-handers aren't so valuable in sports like football, where one-on-one isn't so pronounced. And soccer? Who ever heard of a southhoof?

So why have left-handers managed to survive evolution, in a right-handed world? Well, it's probably because of athletics that left-handed human beings survived. Being different, they won more duels, and passed their genes down to southpaw relief pitchers — who thrive to this day because they're needed against left-handed hitters.

What bettors need to know: Saturday's NFL preseason action By SCOTT COOLEY

2010-08-14T08:07:00.000-07:00

Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Miami Dolphins (-3, 33.5)

Sharp money has moved the spread for this game to as high as 3.5 after opening at 1.5. There are a lot of factors swinging the line but perhaps none more important than the ultimate preseason element—quarterback rotation.

Chad Henne is entering his first season as a starting quarterback and will be followed by Tyler Thigpen, Chad Pennington and Pat White. White is the only quarterback without an NFL start while the other three combine for 104. Tampa Bay will trot out Josh Freeman (9 starts), Josh Johnson (4 starts) and Rudy Carpenter (0 starts).

Bucs head coach Raheem Morris said that his starters will get “about 12 snaps apiece” or a “series or so.” Morris went 1-3 SU and ATS last preseason while Tony Sparano has a 7-1 career record.

Detroit Lions at Pittsburgh Steelers (-3, 33.5)

Ben Roethlisberger is eligible to play in this game but Mike Tomlin is trying to sell tickets and won’t say if he will.

"We're going to make you come to the stadium to check that out," Tomlin said.

Some are speculating that Big Ben won’t appear because Tomlin has said that the starters will only play eight to 12 snaps. Byron Leftwich will be the starter in Week 1 so he could eat up all of that time with the first team. Dennis Dixon, who nearly beat the Ravens in his lone career start last year, is expected to play most of the game. Charlie Batch will see some time in the fourth.

Safety Louis Delmas will not play for Detroit as well as linebacker DeAndre Levy, defensive end Jared DeVries and kicker Jason Hanson. Matthew Stafford, Shaun Hill and Drew Stanton will be the quarterback rotation.

In his first preseason as a head coach, Jim Schwartz led the Lions to a 3-1 record in 2009. Tomlin is 10-3 in the preseason since he took over in 2007.

Houston Texans at Arizona Cardinals (+1, 33)

As injury prone as Matt Schaub is, don’t expect him to be on the field long in this game. Gary Kubiak has said that backup Dan Orlovsky will see the majority of snaps in the preseason opener.

"He needs to play a bunch," Kubiak told reporters. "For backup quarterbacks, preseason is their season. I want to take a look at J.D. (John David Booty); he will play. But obviously, Dan is going to play a great deal."

Houston’s running back spot is up for grabs so Steve Slaton, Arian Foster and rookie Ben Tate should all see significant reps. The Texans could be more apt to kick lengthy field goals with Kris Brown and Neil Rackers battling for the starting job.

After sustaining a rib injury it’s unclear whether or not Beanie Wells will run for Arizona. Ken Whisenhunt said that even if he’s the least bit sore there would be no reason to play him.

Matt Leinart and Derek Anderson should see more than just a few series each as neither has run away with the quarterback job during training camp. The Cardinals went 0-4 in the preseason last year and Whisenhunt holds a 2-10 career record.

Minnesota Vikings at St. Louis Rams (-1.5, 31.5)

This preseason line has remained steady despite news about Percy Harvin’s recurring migraines. He will likely be on the sidelines for this contest and Sidney Rice is still injured, or holding out, or both. Cedric Griffin and E.J. Henderson are also unlikely to play.

With Brett Favre still wavering about his retirement decision, Tarvaris Jackson and Sage Rosenfels will see most of the first-half action. The two have 21 career starts between them and know the offensive system well. Rookie Joe Webb will be the third quarterback in the rotation.

Albert Young is listed as the No. 2 back on the official depth chart behind Adrian Peterson but he, Toby Gerhart and Ryan Moats are all vying for that spot so motivation levels should be high throughout the game.

While Rams fans will be eager to see their franchise quarterback, A.J. Feeley will get the starting nod under center before Sam Bradford enters the game, but Steve Spagnuolo said both will work with the first team offense. Keith Null, who posted a 49.9 rating in four starts last year, will be the third quarterback while rookie Thaddeus Lewis will handle mop-up duty.

Cleveland Browns at Green Bay Packers (-2.5, 34)

Browns coach Eric Mangini has stated that all four of his quarterbacks are likely to play one quarter each. Jake Delhomme will start with Seneca Wallace relieving him. The second half will feature Colt McCoy and Brett Ratliff, but which will appear first is still up in the air.

Rookie running back Montario Hardesty will miss the game as well as Cleveland starting linebacker D'Qwell Jackson, who has a strained pectoral muscle.

Mike McCarthy isn’t expected to play his starters more than a few series. The quarterback rotation will be Aaron Rodgers, Matt Flynn (who many are high on this training camp), Noah Shephard and Graham Harrell.

Linebacker Clay Matthews will not play in the game as well as cornerback Al Harris, safety Atari Bigby and rookie running back James Starks.

There is a 40 percent chance of rain with morning thunderstorms expected in the area Saturday.

Chicago Bears at San Diego Chargers (-3, 33.5)

The Chargers do not have a left tackle right now. Marcus McNeill is the incumbent starter but he’s holding out, backup Brandon Dombrowski has a groin injury, Tra Thomas is recovering from knee surgery and fourth-stringer Nick Richmond will go under the knife soon.

That leaves second-string right tackle Tyronne Green to man the position until someone returns. San Diego may not be looking to drop back Philip Rivers too often in this contest. Shawne Merriman and Vincent Jackson will also miss the game due to holdouts.

Mike Martz could be looking to do some damage in the opener with his new offense in hopes of getting fans excited. He has said that with his complex system he “would imagine that they may do a little bit more than one series” with the starters.

Martz added that he is anxious to see how his second and third-string quarterbacks, Caleb Hanie and Dan LeFevour, handle the pressure since neither has much experience.

Tennessee Titans at Seattle Seahawks (-3, 33.5)

Possibly bucking his normal preseason routine, a few local media outlets are reporting that Jeff Fisher is toying with the idea of playing his starters (except Chris Johnson) a full quarter because he hasn’t been pleased with training camp performance.

The Titans starting defense is going to take a hit with Cortland Finnegan, Vince Fuller and rookie Derrick Morgan expected to miss the game. The quarterback rotation will be Vince Young, Kerry Collins, Chris Simms and Rusty Smith. Collins will get the least amount of work.

Plenty of preseason bettors like to back head coaches in their first year with a team because they have something to prove. Pete Carroll has announced that Matt Hasselbeck is the starter and will be quickly relieved by Charlie Whitehurst, then J.P. Losman and Mike Reilly.

The running back job is wide open at Camp Carroll (like many other positions) so Justin Forsett, Julius Jones and Quinton Ganther will be going all out. Leon Washington is also in the mix but is not expected to play as he continues to recover from a leg injury.

Mets season goes from bad to worse after K-Rod arrest

2010-08-13T15:19:00.000-07:00


Enlarge	By Jason DeCrow, AP

Mets closer Francisco Rodriguez, who was suspended for two days by the team, is led into Queens Criminal Court Thursday in New York a day after he was charged with assaulting his father-in-law at Citi Field.

MINNEAPOLIS — The grim look on the faces of New York Mets owner Fred Wilpon and general manager Omar Minaya on Thursday revealed the distress of a tumultuous season.By Bob Nightengale, USA TODAY

Their closer, Francisco Rodriguez, was released without bail and told to stay away from his father-in-law after being arrested Wednesday night on charges he assaulted the man. Their ace, Johan Santana, had a lawsuit filed against him by a woman accusing him of wrongful imprisonment and rape in southwest Florida in October. And their playoff hopes are barely alive in the wake of a horrid second half, having lost 17 of 26 games since the All-Star break. The Mets beat Colorado on Thursday 4-0 but are 57-57, 9 games behind the Atlanta Braves in the NL East.

THURSDAY: Santana throws masterpiece

ARRESTED: K-Rod charged with assaulting father-in-law

DISCIPLINED: Mets suspend K-Rod for two days

LAWSUIT: Woman sues Santana for rape

"It's been a tough year," Minaya said at the owners' meetings. "It's been disappointing. We thought we were better than a .500 team. We certainly feel we are better than this."

Minaya declined comment on the charges against Rodriguez, saying he didn't have enough information. Yet the Mets suspended Rodriguez for two days and placed him on their restricted list, costing him about $125,000 in salary.

"Ownership and the organization are very disappointed in Francisco's inappropriate behavior," Mets chief operating officerJeff Wilpon announced, "and we take this matter very seriously."

Rodriguez was charged with assaulting his father-in-law,Carlos Pena, outside the family lounge at Citi Field after Wednesday's game. Rodriguez, 28, repeatedly hit Pena, 53, in the face and banged his head against the wall, according to New York Police Department spokesman Paul Browne. Pena was hospitalized with the facial injuries.

The Mets, who have won only two of their past 12 series, are also contending with the lawsuit against Santana, who has said he had consensual sex with the woman on a golf course in Fort Myers, Fla.. No charges were filed because of lack of evidence, Lee County authorities said.

"That hasn't been a distraction," Minaya said. "We just haven't played well, particularly offensively. The pitching has been great. The young guys have stepped up. But the hitting has been very disappointing."

The Mets have batted just .225 since July 1, with a .288 on-base percentage, ranking 29th in the major leagues. They are averaging three runs a game since the All-Star break.

"There's still a lot of baseball left," Minaya said, "so we still have hope. We just need to turn this around."

Mets outfielder Jeff Francoeur told the Associated Press: "Maybe it's a distraction we need. Not to say it's a good thing. But maybe at the end of the day we can turn it into a positive. I know for him, it's between him and his family."

8-13-10

2010-08-13T14:17:00.000-07:00

I'm going with 2 bets for this evenings MLB action.

Los Angeles Dodgers @ Atlanta Braves UNDER 7 (EVEN)
The Blue Crew coming off a horrible loss last night against the Phillies. Now they come to Atlanta and face Hudson. A very tough game for the beat up Dodgers. Atlanta just placed Chipper Jones on the DL and is also struggling to score runs themselves. A very low number at 7. I'm looking for a 3-2 game here.

Milwaukee Brewers @ Colorado Rockies OVER 9 (EVEN)
Two very high scoring teams in a hitters friendly park. Starting pitchers are nothing to drool over. This could easily get to 12 runs tonight in Denver.

Holdout ends, Shawne Merriman signs with Chargers

2010-08-13T14:01:00.000-07:00

BY KEVIN ACEE, UNION-TRIBUNE STAFF WRITER

ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED AUGUST 13, 2010 AT 9:10 A.M., UPDATED AUGUST 13, 2010 AT 9:35 A.M.

K.C. ALFRED / UNION-TRIBUNE

As Shawne Merriman weighs his future, he says, "What people think doesn't really affect me. They never had to walk in my shoes. But on the flip side, don't label me. Be open-minded."

Linebacker Shawne Merriman signed his one-year, $3.269 million tender this morning and is back with the Chargers.

Having held out most of the offseason and the first two weeks of training camp dissatisfied with his status on the team, Merriman had nonetheless acknowledged he needs to be on the field to prove he is still a dominant player and to do what is best for the team.

"I have a lot to prove," Merriman said as he headed to the Chargers weight room after watching a walk through and then addressing the media. "I'm willing to do the work."

Merriman led the NFL with 39.5 sacks from 2005-07 but missed the final 15 games of 2008 following reconstructive knee surgery. He had just four sacks in 2009 while battling a foot injury and other ailments and playing about one-third of his normal snaps.

Merriman's message yesterday was one of moving forward.

He had said he wanted the team to tell him he wouldn't be traded, which did not happen.

"I know I was wanted here," he said. "... I'm happy to be back here for another year. Everything I wanted to express has been said. I'm happy to put that in the past and get ready to play football.