Brandon Lang
SATURDAY
15 Dime
Mets
Tigers
10 Dime
Yankees
76ers
5 Dime
Jazz
Hawks
FREE
Pirates
Kings
SATURDAY
15 Dime
Mets
Tigers
10 Dime
Yankees
76ers
5 Dime
Jazz
Hawks
FREE
Pirates
Kings
Saturday Service Plays 4/12/08
- Thread starter the duke
- Start date
Comps
Philadelphia (+4) at WASHINGTON Drew Gordon
Split my Freebies Friday, as the Pirates get the 1-0 win over the Reds, while the Lakers can't cover the number in beating the Hornets 107-104 last night. That brings me to 322-317-7 over my L646 Free Play releases!
Several things to like about the 76ers in this spot, but let's start with Friday's disappointing home loss to the Pacers, where Indiana won outright 85-76, and thoroughly embarassed Philly at the Wachovia Center. Needless to say, I expect a much better effort from this 76ers team tonight.
Worried about Philadelphia being fatigued? Don't be, as the 76ers are excellent in the tail end of back-to-back games, going 14-7 ATS in that spot this season! Besides the fatigue factor, there's also the chance for Philadelphia to improve their playoff seeding, sitting 1 game back from the Wizards and the 5th spot in the East. That could be the difference between a tough match up in Detroit (if they're the # 7 seed) and a much easier match up at Cleveland possibly (if they're the # 5 seed).
Now, if you're talking about the Wizards being fatigued, there maybe some reason for concern, as the Wiz are just 8-11 ATS with no rest. They got manhandled by the Pistons in Detroit last night, losing 102-74, and now have to face-off with a highly motivated 76ers squad in this one. The Washington offense had a hell of a time against the Pistons D, and make no mistake, it won't get much easier against the 76ers, who are allowing 94 ppg over their last 5 games.
Finally, let's not forget the 76ers have been a solid bet on the road this season, going 23-15-1 ATS away. Their brand of team basketball translates well on the road, and if Young and Dalmebert can continue to complement Iguodala and Miller, the 76ers have more than enough firepower to hang with the Wizards in this one, especially considering Arenas is still nowhere near 100% (averaging 19 ppg on 38% shooting thus far this season).
Take Philadelphia plus the points over Washington in this NBA match up.
2♦ PHILADELPHIA
Milwaukee at NY METS (-145)Sports Gambling Hotline
Winner on Friday as the Hornets came back to get inside of the number. Now 130-110-4 with our comp plays.
We don't think you are going to find Johan Santana at this cheap of a price too many more times this season, so we say to jump all over the Mets at this reasonable rate today at Shea Satdium.
Santana is 1-1 for the year, but has only allowed 3 earned runs in 14 innings of work. It is worth noting that both starts came on the road. This is Santana's Shea debut, and you can expect the crowd to be extra-amped for the southpaws first start in Queens.
Ben Sheets hasn't allowed an earned run through his first 2 starts this spring, but his team is just 2-5 their last 7 games played at New York, and 2-5 overall their last 7 games played against the Metropolitans.
Last night's win made it 3 in a row for New York, while Milwaukee has now lost their last 3.
Play on the Mets in this matinee special.
2♦ NY METS
Milwaukee at NEW YORK Under Total Joel Tyson
Should be a great battle here as the Brewers and the Mets get together, and both will have their aces on the mound. Could not ask for a better pitching match up as Johan Santana will take the mound for the Mets, and will be challenged by the Brewers Ben Sheets
Santana climbs the hill with a 1-1 season mark, and a low 1.93 ERA. Santana has allowed just three runs in 14 innings pitched over his first two Met appearances. Sheets on the other hand has been even better as he has thrown 15 1-3 innings on the year, and is yet to surrender a run. Over his two starts this year he has recorded 15 strikeouts and allowed just seven base hits.
With two pitchers performing the way these two are right now, I see no way this one gets close to the posted total.
Play the under as the score stays low.
3♦ UNDER
Florida (+125) at HOUSTON Karl Garrett
The G-Man brings a 15-5 free play run into Saturday's card.
I am not sure if you are aware of it, but at 7-3, the Florida Marlins are your leaders in the NL East Division. The Marlins took it to Houston's best hurler last night, and I see no reason to believe they can't get the sticks cranking against Brandon Backe again tonight.
Florida's offense has been on fire, and with Houston struggling at 3-8, can't lay the wood with the host in this spot.
Andrew Miller is a work in progress, and while he has been hit hard his first two starts, I can see this kid having success against Houston's pop-gun offense tonight at Minute Maid Park.
Even if Miller gives up a few, I expect the Marlins to bail him out with a few runs of their own against Houston pitching.
Take Florida in the underdog role as your Saturday comp play.
1♦ FLORIDA
San Diego (+110) at L.A. DODGERS Bobby Maxwell
Today's FREE winner on the diamond comes from the NL West as we go with the Padres to get the job done in Los Angeles against the Dodgers.
Another pitching performance rematch with these two teams as the Padres' Chris Young (1-0, 2.13 ERA) goes to the mound at Dodger Stadium against Los Angeles' Derek Lowe (0-0, 2.25).
These two met Sunday in San Diego with neither pitcher around for the decision when the Dodgers got a ninth-inning run to beat the Padres 3-2.
Today we're banking on Young to have another stellar performance and the San Diego bats to give him a little more support than last time.
The Padres got seven runs in their 7-5 win Friday, beating Brad Penny.
Young gave up two runs and five hits over seven inning on Sunday and struck out eight in the no-decision. In his opening start of the year he held the Astros to one run on five hits in 5.2 innings of a 2-1 victory. So you see he hasn't gotten much support from the offense but will in this one.
In nine starts against Los Angeles, he's held the Dodgers to three earned runs or less in nine of them and the Padres are 5-4 in those nine. Last time he was in Dodgers' stadium he held them to two runs on seven hits in six innings of a 7-6 victory.
Lowe gave up two runs (one earned) on Sunday on five hits in six innings of work. In his last three outings against San Diego he's allowed 13 runs on 19 hits.
Let's play the Padres to get this one as Young continues to deliver solid performances and the bats get going.
4♦ SAN DIEGO
Philadelphia (+4) at WASHINGTON Drew Gordon
Split my Freebies Friday, as the Pirates get the 1-0 win over the Reds, while the Lakers can't cover the number in beating the Hornets 107-104 last night. That brings me to 322-317-7 over my L646 Free Play releases!
Several things to like about the 76ers in this spot, but let's start with Friday's disappointing home loss to the Pacers, where Indiana won outright 85-76, and thoroughly embarassed Philly at the Wachovia Center. Needless to say, I expect a much better effort from this 76ers team tonight.
Worried about Philadelphia being fatigued? Don't be, as the 76ers are excellent in the tail end of back-to-back games, going 14-7 ATS in that spot this season! Besides the fatigue factor, there's also the chance for Philadelphia to improve their playoff seeding, sitting 1 game back from the Wizards and the 5th spot in the East. That could be the difference between a tough match up in Detroit (if they're the # 7 seed) and a much easier match up at Cleveland possibly (if they're the # 5 seed).
Now, if you're talking about the Wizards being fatigued, there maybe some reason for concern, as the Wiz are just 8-11 ATS with no rest. They got manhandled by the Pistons in Detroit last night, losing 102-74, and now have to face-off with a highly motivated 76ers squad in this one. The Washington offense had a hell of a time against the Pistons D, and make no mistake, it won't get much easier against the 76ers, who are allowing 94 ppg over their last 5 games.
Finally, let's not forget the 76ers have been a solid bet on the road this season, going 23-15-1 ATS away. Their brand of team basketball translates well on the road, and if Young and Dalmebert can continue to complement Iguodala and Miller, the 76ers have more than enough firepower to hang with the Wizards in this one, especially considering Arenas is still nowhere near 100% (averaging 19 ppg on 38% shooting thus far this season).
Take Philadelphia plus the points over Washington in this NBA match up.
2♦ PHILADELPHIA
Milwaukee at NY METS (-145)Sports Gambling Hotline
Winner on Friday as the Hornets came back to get inside of the number. Now 130-110-4 with our comp plays.
We don't think you are going to find Johan Santana at this cheap of a price too many more times this season, so we say to jump all over the Mets at this reasonable rate today at Shea Satdium.
Santana is 1-1 for the year, but has only allowed 3 earned runs in 14 innings of work. It is worth noting that both starts came on the road. This is Santana's Shea debut, and you can expect the crowd to be extra-amped for the southpaws first start in Queens.
Ben Sheets hasn't allowed an earned run through his first 2 starts this spring, but his team is just 2-5 their last 7 games played at New York, and 2-5 overall their last 7 games played against the Metropolitans.
Last night's win made it 3 in a row for New York, while Milwaukee has now lost their last 3.
Play on the Mets in this matinee special.
2♦ NY METS
Milwaukee at NEW YORK Under Total Joel Tyson
Should be a great battle here as the Brewers and the Mets get together, and both will have their aces on the mound. Could not ask for a better pitching match up as Johan Santana will take the mound for the Mets, and will be challenged by the Brewers Ben Sheets
Santana climbs the hill with a 1-1 season mark, and a low 1.93 ERA. Santana has allowed just three runs in 14 innings pitched over his first two Met appearances. Sheets on the other hand has been even better as he has thrown 15 1-3 innings on the year, and is yet to surrender a run. Over his two starts this year he has recorded 15 strikeouts and allowed just seven base hits.
With two pitchers performing the way these two are right now, I see no way this one gets close to the posted total.
Play the under as the score stays low.
3♦ UNDER
Florida (+125) at HOUSTON Karl Garrett
The G-Man brings a 15-5 free play run into Saturday's card.
I am not sure if you are aware of it, but at 7-3, the Florida Marlins are your leaders in the NL East Division. The Marlins took it to Houston's best hurler last night, and I see no reason to believe they can't get the sticks cranking against Brandon Backe again tonight.
Florida's offense has been on fire, and with Houston struggling at 3-8, can't lay the wood with the host in this spot.
Andrew Miller is a work in progress, and while he has been hit hard his first two starts, I can see this kid having success against Houston's pop-gun offense tonight at Minute Maid Park.
Even if Miller gives up a few, I expect the Marlins to bail him out with a few runs of their own against Houston pitching.
Take Florida in the underdog role as your Saturday comp play.
1♦ FLORIDA
San Diego (+110) at L.A. DODGERS Bobby Maxwell
Today's FREE winner on the diamond comes from the NL West as we go with the Padres to get the job done in Los Angeles against the Dodgers.
Another pitching performance rematch with these two teams as the Padres' Chris Young (1-0, 2.13 ERA) goes to the mound at Dodger Stadium against Los Angeles' Derek Lowe (0-0, 2.25).
These two met Sunday in San Diego with neither pitcher around for the decision when the Dodgers got a ninth-inning run to beat the Padres 3-2.
Today we're banking on Young to have another stellar performance and the San Diego bats to give him a little more support than last time.
The Padres got seven runs in their 7-5 win Friday, beating Brad Penny.
Young gave up two runs and five hits over seven inning on Sunday and struck out eight in the no-decision. In his opening start of the year he held the Astros to one run on five hits in 5.2 innings of a 2-1 victory. So you see he hasn't gotten much support from the offense but will in this one.
In nine starts against Los Angeles, he's held the Dodgers to three earned runs or less in nine of them and the Padres are 5-4 in those nine. Last time he was in Dodgers' stadium he held them to two runs on seven hits in six innings of a 7-6 victory.
Lowe gave up two runs (one earned) on Sunday on five hits in six innings of work. In his last three outings against San Diego he's allowed 13 runs on 19 hits.
Let's play the Padres to get this one as Young continues to deliver solid performances and the bats get going.
4♦ SAN DIEGO
comps
Nelly
Chicago (Lilly) + over Philadelphia (Hamels)
The Cubs are hitting .314 against left-handed pitchers and although Cole Hamels has established himself as a top flight pitcher, the Phillies have not established themselves as an elite team. Philadelphia is just 4-6 in the first ten games of the season and the Phillies are struggling in several areas. Offensively Philadelphia is hitting just .243 as a team and the bullpen has been problematic. Hamels has pitched well in his first two starts of the season but his strikeout numbers have been down and his walk numbers have been up from last season. Ted Lilly has been the weak link in the Cubs rotation but he was exceptionally solid last season and he is capable of rebounding very quickly. Lilly and Hamels had nearly identical numbers this spring and Lilly did have to face two top offenses in his two starts so far this season while Hamels played two less threatening offenses. The Cubs have had a slow start offensively as well but Chicago is 6-3 and the team has found ways to win. Look for another close game and with great dog value the Cubs can be victorious.
Marc Lawrence
Play On: Minnesota w/Bonser vs Tomko
Note: The Twins take on the Royals in Game Two of their weekend series in Kansas City when Boof Bonser takes on Brett Tomko in a rematch from last Sunday when KC prevailed, 3-1 in Minnesota. Considering at Tomko's 5.16 career ERA against the Twins prior to this season, we'll look for Bonser to get his revenge here tonight.
Greg Daraban
913 San Diego at 914 LA Dodgers
Young vs Lowe
Late Night Game out West. The Padres have had the Blue Crews number the last few seasons. The Friars won last night at Dodger Stadium 7-5. Expect the very same scenario with 7 foot giant
Chris Young on the bump.
Take 915 San Diego
Dave Cokin
Twins @ 924 Royals 7:10PM ET
Play: Twins +115
Boof Bonser is never going to much more than a mid-rotation innings eater in my opinion, but he's sure making the effort. Bonser came to camp in much improved physical condition this year and I really like his approach as he's pitching to contact and not issuing walks. I don't mind backing Bonser and the Twins here as he's getting a price against Brett Tomko, one of those back end guys who should almost never be favored. Free play for Saturday is on the Twins.
Jim Feist
My free pick of the day is the game between (507) MIN T'wolves and (508) MEM Grizzlies. Take "(508) MEM Grizzlies". You don.5?t see the Grizzlies as a favorite often, but Memphis is 2-0 SU/ATS its last 2 as chalk. They.5?ve also been playing hard, 2-2 the last four games, even winning at Minnesota by double digits as a dog. The Timberwolves will be tired out for this game, playing their 4th game in 5 nights. Memphis is 2-1 SU/ATS against Minnesota this season and catches the T-Wolves in a bad situational spot. Play the Grizzlies!
BRAD DIAMOND SPORTS
Chicago Cubs (Lilly) @ Philadelphia (Hamels)
Hard pressed to go against the hot Cubbies, but they face the master of the Phillies staff here in lefty Cole Hamels. With Hamels, Philadelphia is 14-2 versus the National League Central Division and 7-1 on Saturday. In fact, struggling Philly possesses a huge edge with the Cubbies a horrid 8-20 versus LHP on the road. Philadelphia has won 11 of 16 in the series and 4 of the last 5 in Philadelphia. Lefty Hamels has been solid this season in 15 innings of work accruing a strong 1.20 ERA (1.00 WHIP), while opposing LHP Ted Lilly of Chicago files in with a 9.72 ERA in only 8 innings of work. With, hopefully, MVP Jimmy Rollins back in the lineup, the home standing Phillies gain a huge emotional edge.
Play on: Philadelphia w/Hamels only!
Alex Smart
Game: New York Yankees vs. Boston Red Sox
Game Time: 4/12/2008 3:55:00 PM
Prediction: under
The Boston Red Sox and the NY Yankess resume their rivalry here this afternoon, under the shade of the Green Monster in Fenway Park. Veteran Mike Mussina who owns a 3.66 ERA in this series will go to the hill for the Yankees, and has pitched well in two straight outings, while the BoSox will send , their ace Josh Beckett out to fire beebees at the opposition. He has looked a little tired early in the season, after being on the DL, but I expect he will be primed and much more prepared to compete today. With that said, look for both these capable pitchers, to help keep this game on the low side of the number. Final notes & Key Trends: The Yankees have gone under , in 10 of their first 11 games this season. Under is 4-0 in Red Sox last 4 home games with the total set at 9-10.5 . Under is 5-0 in Yankees last 5 games with the total set at 9-10.5. Play Under
Great Lakes Sports
Major League Baseball Selection:
Florida at Houston 7:05PM EST
Play on: Houston with Backe
The Astros are 4-2 at home vs the Florida Marlins the last three years, and are 30-28 when playing in April the last three years. The Florida Marlins are 74-92 when playing on the road the last three years, and 23-27 when playing on Saturday's the last three years. We look for the Houston Astros to grab the home win tonight.
Jimmy The Moose
Game: Minnesota Timberwolves at Memphis Grizzlies Apr 12 2008 8:05PM
Prediction: Memphis Grizzlies
Reason: Both team's have had disappointing season's and will be happy when the year is over with. The Timberwolves and Memphis both played road games last night and both won. The T'Wolves are 2-8 SU and 4-6 ATS in their last 10 games. The Grizzlies are 3-2 SU and ATS in their last 5 games. Minnesota is 1-6 ATS in their last 7 trips to Memphis. The Grizzlies are 4-1 SU and 5-0 ATS in the last 5 meetings between the clubs. Play on the Grizzlies -.
Vegas Experts Tip of The Day
Milwaukee Brewers at New York Mets
Saturday, April 12th, 1:10 PM ET
You have to grab Santana at this price whenever possible. The left-hander owns a remarkable 24-4 team start record if he did not walk a batter in his previous outing, not to mention a 54-16 TSR if he allowed two runs or less in the previous outing. Brewers bats have gone silent during this three-game losing skid scoring just seven runs total. Milwaukee is just 18-44 away from home if the total is between 7 and 8.5. We can't see them solving Santana on this day.
Play on: NY Mets
Platinum Plays
Boston at Atlanta
This Saturday's game between Boston and Atlanta will more than likely be a preview of the Eastern Conference playoffs between these two teams. However, what you observe in this game will in no way be the same version of this matchup once the playoffs begin. The #1 seeded Boston Celtics (62-15) have already clinched the NBA Eastern Conference's top spot and will enjoy homecourt throughout the Eastern Conference playoffs. The Atlanta Hawks (36-42) still have some work to do as of this writing. They still haven't clinched the final playoff spot in the East and lead the Indiana Pacers by two games with four remaining.
The 2008 Boston Celtics have already broken the record for biggest improvement by an NBA team in one season and are still adding on to their 38 game improvement over 2007. General Manager, Danny Ainge, completely overhauled the roster and direction of this Celtic team by trading away young and potentially great talent to aquire established veterans Ray Allen and Kevin Garnett. Under the direction of head coach Doc Rivers, Allen and Garnett have merged their game with holdover Paul Pierce to make the Celtics once again a contender for an NBA Championship.
Make no mistake, the Hawks are an improving team and have done so mostly through the draft. When a team is in the lottery year after year, it really should start improving with the infusion of highly rated young talent. However, using the Celtics as an example, you can have all the young talent in the world, but if they don't learn to sacrifice parts of their game for the good of the team, they'll never seriously contend for a title. Veteran G Joe Johnson (21.9 ppg) leads this young Hawks team in scoring, and rookie Al Horford leads the team in rebounding with 9.6 boards per game. The Hawks made a deadline deal to bring in veteran point guard Mike Bibby, however, the results of that trade are negligible. Atlanta should qualify for the playoffs, something this team hasn't done in this century, and that's the first step towards building for the future. We'll see how far these young guys can take this franchise.
The Celtics have had the luxury of resting their veterans and getting playing time for the bench, which will play dividends down the road. The Hawks can't afford to take a night off if they hope to clinch the final playoff spot in the East. While letting Garnett, Allen and Pierce recharge their batteries for the playoffs, the Celtics just can't help but winning.
Free winner from Platinum Plays: The advanced line for this game is Boston by 7 points. The Hawks are inconsistent and will have to lay it on the line, while Doc Rivers won't want to show any secrets for the playoffs, and his team probably prefers to play the Hawks over the Pacers when the playoffs start. Platinum prediction for this game is take the Atlanta Hawks plus the 7 points and then watch the Celtics sweep them mercifully in the 1st round of the NBA Eastern Conferernce playoffs.
Mike Rose
San Jose SaberCats +5.5 (-110)
Sat Apr 12 '08 10:30p
For the Sabercats to try and repeat its body of work from a year ago, they?ll have to be highly efficient on both sides of the ball since Philadelphia boasts the advantage in just about every statistical category. Philadelphia owns the #1 scoring offense in the league averaging a shade under 66 PPG, while San Jose counters with its 10th ranked defense that?s limited opponents to 56.3 PPG through its first six games. The Soul?s averaged 303 passing YPG on the road this season (#3), while San Jose limited both of its opponents at home to just 272.5 YPG (#8). San Jose will battle back with its 9th rated home offense that?s averaged 53.2 PPG in its only two outings, but Philly counters with the leagues 4th ranked road defense allowing opponents a measly 48 PPG. When the Sabercats look to the air with its 2nd ranked home passing attack at 310 YPG, it will be throwing into the teeth of the leagues 2nd ranked road defense allowing opponents just 234 YPG.
It?s not often that San Jose has been installed an underdog at home. It didn?t happen last year in their Championship season, and they were the decided favorite in their Week 4 match-up with the Dallas Desperados. In their last 13 games within the confines of the HP Pavilion, San Jose is 12-1 SU and 10-3 ATS. As for Philadelphia, they?re 4-2 ATS their L/6 on the road.
Nelly
Chicago (Lilly) + over Philadelphia (Hamels)
The Cubs are hitting .314 against left-handed pitchers and although Cole Hamels has established himself as a top flight pitcher, the Phillies have not established themselves as an elite team. Philadelphia is just 4-6 in the first ten games of the season and the Phillies are struggling in several areas. Offensively Philadelphia is hitting just .243 as a team and the bullpen has been problematic. Hamels has pitched well in his first two starts of the season but his strikeout numbers have been down and his walk numbers have been up from last season. Ted Lilly has been the weak link in the Cubs rotation but he was exceptionally solid last season and he is capable of rebounding very quickly. Lilly and Hamels had nearly identical numbers this spring and Lilly did have to face two top offenses in his two starts so far this season while Hamels played two less threatening offenses. The Cubs have had a slow start offensively as well but Chicago is 6-3 and the team has found ways to win. Look for another close game and with great dog value the Cubs can be victorious.
Marc Lawrence
Play On: Minnesota w/Bonser vs Tomko
Note: The Twins take on the Royals in Game Two of their weekend series in Kansas City when Boof Bonser takes on Brett Tomko in a rematch from last Sunday when KC prevailed, 3-1 in Minnesota. Considering at Tomko's 5.16 career ERA against the Twins prior to this season, we'll look for Bonser to get his revenge here tonight.
Greg Daraban
913 San Diego at 914 LA Dodgers
Young vs Lowe
Late Night Game out West. The Padres have had the Blue Crews number the last few seasons. The Friars won last night at Dodger Stadium 7-5. Expect the very same scenario with 7 foot giant
Chris Young on the bump.
Take 915 San Diego
Dave Cokin
Twins @ 924 Royals 7:10PM ET
Play: Twins +115
Boof Bonser is never going to much more than a mid-rotation innings eater in my opinion, but he's sure making the effort. Bonser came to camp in much improved physical condition this year and I really like his approach as he's pitching to contact and not issuing walks. I don't mind backing Bonser and the Twins here as he's getting a price against Brett Tomko, one of those back end guys who should almost never be favored. Free play for Saturday is on the Twins.
Jim Feist
My free pick of the day is the game between (507) MIN T'wolves and (508) MEM Grizzlies. Take "(508) MEM Grizzlies". You don.5?t see the Grizzlies as a favorite often, but Memphis is 2-0 SU/ATS its last 2 as chalk. They.5?ve also been playing hard, 2-2 the last four games, even winning at Minnesota by double digits as a dog. The Timberwolves will be tired out for this game, playing their 4th game in 5 nights. Memphis is 2-1 SU/ATS against Minnesota this season and catches the T-Wolves in a bad situational spot. Play the Grizzlies!
BRAD DIAMOND SPORTS
Chicago Cubs (Lilly) @ Philadelphia (Hamels)
Hard pressed to go against the hot Cubbies, but they face the master of the Phillies staff here in lefty Cole Hamels. With Hamels, Philadelphia is 14-2 versus the National League Central Division and 7-1 on Saturday. In fact, struggling Philly possesses a huge edge with the Cubbies a horrid 8-20 versus LHP on the road. Philadelphia has won 11 of 16 in the series and 4 of the last 5 in Philadelphia. Lefty Hamels has been solid this season in 15 innings of work accruing a strong 1.20 ERA (1.00 WHIP), while opposing LHP Ted Lilly of Chicago files in with a 9.72 ERA in only 8 innings of work. With, hopefully, MVP Jimmy Rollins back in the lineup, the home standing Phillies gain a huge emotional edge.
Play on: Philadelphia w/Hamels only!
Alex Smart
Game: New York Yankees vs. Boston Red Sox
Game Time: 4/12/2008 3:55:00 PM
Prediction: under
The Boston Red Sox and the NY Yankess resume their rivalry here this afternoon, under the shade of the Green Monster in Fenway Park. Veteran Mike Mussina who owns a 3.66 ERA in this series will go to the hill for the Yankees, and has pitched well in two straight outings, while the BoSox will send , their ace Josh Beckett out to fire beebees at the opposition. He has looked a little tired early in the season, after being on the DL, but I expect he will be primed and much more prepared to compete today. With that said, look for both these capable pitchers, to help keep this game on the low side of the number. Final notes & Key Trends: The Yankees have gone under , in 10 of their first 11 games this season. Under is 4-0 in Red Sox last 4 home games with the total set at 9-10.5 . Under is 5-0 in Yankees last 5 games with the total set at 9-10.5. Play Under
Great Lakes Sports
Major League Baseball Selection:
Florida at Houston 7:05PM EST
Play on: Houston with Backe
The Astros are 4-2 at home vs the Florida Marlins the last three years, and are 30-28 when playing in April the last three years. The Florida Marlins are 74-92 when playing on the road the last three years, and 23-27 when playing on Saturday's the last three years. We look for the Houston Astros to grab the home win tonight.
Jimmy The Moose
Game: Minnesota Timberwolves at Memphis Grizzlies Apr 12 2008 8:05PM
Prediction: Memphis Grizzlies
Reason: Both team's have had disappointing season's and will be happy when the year is over with. The Timberwolves and Memphis both played road games last night and both won. The T'Wolves are 2-8 SU and 4-6 ATS in their last 10 games. The Grizzlies are 3-2 SU and ATS in their last 5 games. Minnesota is 1-6 ATS in their last 7 trips to Memphis. The Grizzlies are 4-1 SU and 5-0 ATS in the last 5 meetings between the clubs. Play on the Grizzlies -.
Vegas Experts Tip of The Day
Milwaukee Brewers at New York Mets
Saturday, April 12th, 1:10 PM ET
You have to grab Santana at this price whenever possible. The left-hander owns a remarkable 24-4 team start record if he did not walk a batter in his previous outing, not to mention a 54-16 TSR if he allowed two runs or less in the previous outing. Brewers bats have gone silent during this three-game losing skid scoring just seven runs total. Milwaukee is just 18-44 away from home if the total is between 7 and 8.5. We can't see them solving Santana on this day.
Play on: NY Mets
Platinum Plays
Boston at Atlanta
This Saturday's game between Boston and Atlanta will more than likely be a preview of the Eastern Conference playoffs between these two teams. However, what you observe in this game will in no way be the same version of this matchup once the playoffs begin. The #1 seeded Boston Celtics (62-15) have already clinched the NBA Eastern Conference's top spot and will enjoy homecourt throughout the Eastern Conference playoffs. The Atlanta Hawks (36-42) still have some work to do as of this writing. They still haven't clinched the final playoff spot in the East and lead the Indiana Pacers by two games with four remaining.
The 2008 Boston Celtics have already broken the record for biggest improvement by an NBA team in one season and are still adding on to their 38 game improvement over 2007. General Manager, Danny Ainge, completely overhauled the roster and direction of this Celtic team by trading away young and potentially great talent to aquire established veterans Ray Allen and Kevin Garnett. Under the direction of head coach Doc Rivers, Allen and Garnett have merged their game with holdover Paul Pierce to make the Celtics once again a contender for an NBA Championship.
Make no mistake, the Hawks are an improving team and have done so mostly through the draft. When a team is in the lottery year after year, it really should start improving with the infusion of highly rated young talent. However, using the Celtics as an example, you can have all the young talent in the world, but if they don't learn to sacrifice parts of their game for the good of the team, they'll never seriously contend for a title. Veteran G Joe Johnson (21.9 ppg) leads this young Hawks team in scoring, and rookie Al Horford leads the team in rebounding with 9.6 boards per game. The Hawks made a deadline deal to bring in veteran point guard Mike Bibby, however, the results of that trade are negligible. Atlanta should qualify for the playoffs, something this team hasn't done in this century, and that's the first step towards building for the future. We'll see how far these young guys can take this franchise.
The Celtics have had the luxury of resting their veterans and getting playing time for the bench, which will play dividends down the road. The Hawks can't afford to take a night off if they hope to clinch the final playoff spot in the East. While letting Garnett, Allen and Pierce recharge their batteries for the playoffs, the Celtics just can't help but winning.
Free winner from Platinum Plays: The advanced line for this game is Boston by 7 points. The Hawks are inconsistent and will have to lay it on the line, while Doc Rivers won't want to show any secrets for the playoffs, and his team probably prefers to play the Hawks over the Pacers when the playoffs start. Platinum prediction for this game is take the Atlanta Hawks plus the 7 points and then watch the Celtics sweep them mercifully in the 1st round of the NBA Eastern Conferernce playoffs.
Mike Rose
San Jose SaberCats +5.5 (-110)
Sat Apr 12 '08 10:30p
For the Sabercats to try and repeat its body of work from a year ago, they?ll have to be highly efficient on both sides of the ball since Philadelphia boasts the advantage in just about every statistical category. Philadelphia owns the #1 scoring offense in the league averaging a shade under 66 PPG, while San Jose counters with its 10th ranked defense that?s limited opponents to 56.3 PPG through its first six games. The Soul?s averaged 303 passing YPG on the road this season (#3), while San Jose limited both of its opponents at home to just 272.5 YPG (#8). San Jose will battle back with its 9th rated home offense that?s averaged 53.2 PPG in its only two outings, but Philly counters with the leagues 4th ranked road defense allowing opponents a measly 48 PPG. When the Sabercats look to the air with its 2nd ranked home passing attack at 310 YPG, it will be throwing into the teeth of the leagues 2nd ranked road defense allowing opponents just 234 YPG.
It?s not often that San Jose has been installed an underdog at home. It didn?t happen last year in their Championship season, and they were the decided favorite in their Week 4 match-up with the Dallas Desperados. In their last 13 games within the confines of the HP Pavilion, San Jose is 12-1 SU and 10-3 ATS. As for Philadelphia, they?re 4-2 ATS their L/6 on the road.
Arthur Ralph's
Arthur Ralph's
3-0 last night :00hour 10-5 wk
SuPk NY METS w/santana
900 Silver Bullet Toronto w/holladay
Free play Arizona D Back's
my last day of monthly plan
Arthur Ralph's
3-0 last night :00hour 10-5 wk
SuPk NY METS w/santana
900 Silver Bullet Toronto w/holladay
Free play Arizona D Back's
my last day of monthly plan
VEGAS SPORTS PICS
Arizona (Haren) - 140** over Colorado (Morales)
Arizona enters on a seven game win streak including a 9-3 Haren home win over the Dodgers on 04/07, Haren allowing one earned run over six innings.
Cincinnati (Arroyo) + 105* over (at) Pittsburgh (Snell)
Pittsburgh went 1-2 in two Snell home starts vs. Cincinnati last season, by a combined 21-4 in the two losses. The Reds are 6-3 last nine games at Pittsburgh.
Kansas City (Tomko) - 115* over Minnesota (Bonser)
KC is 2-2 on the current home stand, the two wins coming over the Yankees. This pitching matchup faced off in Minnesota last week, Royals winning 3-1.
Arizona (Haren) - 140** over Colorado (Morales)
Arizona enters on a seven game win streak including a 9-3 Haren home win over the Dodgers on 04/07, Haren allowing one earned run over six innings.
Cincinnati (Arroyo) + 105* over (at) Pittsburgh (Snell)
Pittsburgh went 1-2 in two Snell home starts vs. Cincinnati last season, by a combined 21-4 in the two losses. The Reds are 6-3 last nine games at Pittsburgh.
Kansas City (Tomko) - 115* over Minnesota (Bonser)
KC is 2-2 on the current home stand, the two wins coming over the Yankees. This pitching matchup faced off in Minnesota last week, Royals winning 3-1.
DCI
NHL
Eastern Conference Quarterfinals
Game 2, best-of-7
MONTREAL 3, Boston 2
Western Conference Quarterfinals
Game 2, best-of-7
ANAHEIM 3, Dallas 2
DETROIT 3, Nashville 2
NHL
Eastern Conference Quarterfinals
Game 2, best-of-7
MONTREAL 3, Boston 2
Western Conference Quarterfinals
Game 2, best-of-7
ANAHEIM 3, Dallas 2
DETROIT 3, Nashville 2
Alex Smart
New York Yankees @ Boston Red Sox u9.5
Sat Apr 12 '08 3:55p
The Boston Red Sox and the NY Yankess resume their rivalry here this afternoon, under the shade of the Green Monster in Fenway Park. Veteran Mike Mussina who owns a 3.66 ERA in this series will go to the hill for the Yankees, and has pitched well in two straight outings, while the BoSox will send , their ace Josh Beckett out to fire beebees at the opposition. He has looked a little tired early in the season, after being on the DL, but I expect he will be primed and much more prepared to compete today. With that said, look for both these capable pitchers, to help keep this game on the low side of the number. Final notes & Key Trends: The Yankees have gone under , in 10 of their first 11 games this season. Under is 4-0 in Red Sox last 4 home games with the total set at 9-10.5 . Under is 5-0 in Yankees last 5 games with the total set at 9-10.5. Play Under
New York Yankees @ Boston Red Sox u9.5
Sat Apr 12 '08 3:55p
The Boston Red Sox and the NY Yankess resume their rivalry here this afternoon, under the shade of the Green Monster in Fenway Park. Veteran Mike Mussina who owns a 3.66 ERA in this series will go to the hill for the Yankees, and has pitched well in two straight outings, while the BoSox will send , their ace Josh Beckett out to fire beebees at the opposition. He has looked a little tired early in the season, after being on the DL, but I expect he will be primed and much more prepared to compete today. With that said, look for both these capable pitchers, to help keep this game on the low side of the number. Final notes & Key Trends: The Yankees have gone under , in 10 of their first 11 games this season. Under is 4-0 in Red Sox last 4 home games with the total set at 9-10.5 . Under is 5-0 in Yankees last 5 games with the total set at 9-10.5. Play Under
THE SPORTS ADVISORS
NBA
Boston (62-16, 48-28-2 ATS) at Atlanta (36-42, 36-41-1)
The Hawks continue their postseason push when they host the mighty Celtics, needing a victory to stay two games ahead of the Pacers for the eighth and final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. Atlanta bounced back from Tuesday?s costly 112-98 loss at Indiana with last night?s 116-104 rout at New York, easily covering as a 6?-point road chalk. The Hawks, who haven?t reached the playoffs since 1999, are 11-4 in their last 15 games (9-6 ATS), including 6-1 at home (4-3 ATS). Both Atlanta and Indiana have three games to play, but the Pacers hold the tiebreaker edge. Boston, which long ago clinched the Atlantic Division and the top seed in the Eastern Conference, blasted the Bucks 102-86 last night, barely covering as a 15-point home chalk. The Celtics are 8-1 in their last nine games (7-2 ATS), with the only loss being Wednesday?s 109-95 defeat at Washington. The Celtics have handled the Hawks twice this season, both times in Boston, winning 106-83 as a 9?-point favorite and 98-88, falling just shy as an 11?-point chalk. The home team is 4-0 in the last four meetings (3-1 ATS). Also, the underdog has cashed in six of the past nine clashes. Boston sports a bunch of positive ATS trends, including 15-5 overall, 46-19-1 on the road, 20-7 on Saturdays, 8-3 against the Eastern Conference and 27-10-1 when playing on back-to-back nights (12-5-1 ATS on back-to-backs this year). The lone negative: The C?s are 3-7 ATS in their last 10 against the Southeast Division Atlanta is 4-0 ATS in its last four on back-to-back nights, but just 3-6 ATS in its last nine as an underdog. The over is 4-1 in the last five series meetings in Atlanta, 11-4 in the Hawks? last 15 overall, 5-0 in the Hawks? last five at home and 7-3 in the Hawks? last 10 when playing on no rest. However, the under is 2-0 in the two head-to-head battles this season and 5-2 in Boston?s last seven overall.
ATS ADVANTAGE: BOSTON
Denver (48-31, 43-36 ATS) at Utah (52-27, 44-35 ATS)
The Nuggets try to inch closer to a playoff berth when they invade EnergySolutions Arena, where the Jazz have lost just four times in 39 games all season. Denver scored a huge 114-105 win at Golden State as a four-point road underdog on Thursday, pulling a game ahead of the Warriors for the eighth and final Western Conference playoff spot. Both teams have three games to play. The Nuggets have followed up a 1-3 SU and a 1-4 ATS slump by winning and cashing in each of the last two contests. Going back to March 12, Denver is 11-5 SU and ATS, but just 5-4 (6-3 ATS) on the road during this stretch. Utah saw its four-game winning streak go by the wayside with Thursday?s 97-94 loss at Dallas. However, the playoff-bound Jazz cashed as a six-point underdog, improving to 7-1 ATS in their last eight, including five consecutive spread- covers. Denver won the first meeting between these teams this year 120-109 as a three-point home chalk, but Utah has come back to take the last two, prevailing 118-115 in overtime as a two-point road underdog and 132-105 as a six-point home favorite. The Jazz are 8-2 SU and ATS in the last 10 head-to-head tussles (4-1 SU and ATS at home), with the winner cashing in each of those contests. Finally, the favorite has gotten the money in 10 of the last 14 meetings. Not only are the Jazz 35-4 at home, they?re 27-12 ATS, including 5-0 ATS In the last five. Going back to last season, Jerry Sloan?s squad is 35-16-1 ATS on its home floor (all as a favorite). On the downside, Utah is 3-8 ATS in its last 11 on Saturday. The Nuggets are on ATS streaks of 6-2 on the road, 8-3 after a spread-cover and 9-3 when playing on one day of rest. However, they?ve failed to cash in four straight Saturday outings and they?re 16-35-1 ATS in their last 52 as an underdog of five to 10? points (4-10 ATS in that role this season). Denver has followed up a 24-8 ?over? streak by staying under the number in its last two, both on the road. In fact, the under is 4-2 in its last six on the highway. Also, Utah has stayed under the total in three straight games after going over in the previous five. However, the over is still 38-15 in Denver?s last 53 divisional battles, 6-0 overall in the last six clashes between these rivals and 6-1 in the last seven meetings in Salt Lake City.
ATS ADVANTAGE: UTAH and OVER
MLB
NATIONAL LEAGUE
San Diego (6-5) at L.A. Dodgers (4-6)
The Padres? Chris Young (1-0, 2.13 ERA) squares off against Derek Lowe (0-0, 2.25) for the second time in a week, this time at Dodger Stadium as these N.L. West rivals continue their three-game weekend series. San Diego outlasted Los Angeles 7-5 on Friday night, snapping a modest two-game losing skid. Meanwhile, the Dodgers, who got swept at Arizona earlier in the week, have now lost four straight games since starting the season 4-2. The Dodgers, who took two of three in San Diego last weekend, are still on a 4-2 run against the Padres dating to last year. Also, they?re 7-3 in Lowe?s last 10 outings, including 4-1 in his last five at home. On the downside, Joe Torre?s club is 5-16 in its last 21 games on Saturdays. Both Young and Lowe were outstanding in Sunday?s matchup in San Diego, with Lowe giving up two runs (one earned) on five hits with a walk and six strikeouts in six innings, while Young went seven innings, surrendering two runs on five hits with three walks and eight strikeouts. However, neither was around for the decision, as the Dodgers prevailed 3-2 in 10 innings. The Padres are 3-9 in Young?s last 12 starts overall, 0-6 in his last six on the road and 1-6 in his last seven against N.L. West foes. However, they?re 8-3 in his last 11 as an underdog. Young, who gave up one run on five hits in 5 2/3 innings of a 2-1 home win over the Astros in his debut, was a much different pitcher on the road last year (5-6, 4.52 ERA) than he was at home (4-2, 1.69). Not surprisingly, then, he was dominant in his one home start against the Dodgers in 2007 (seven scoreless innings, three hits allowed in a 1-0 win), and not as strong in two starts in L.A. (1-1, 6.75 ERA). For his career, Young is 1-2 despite a sterling 2.92 ERA in nine starts against the Dodgers (1-1, 4.05 ERA in L.A.). However, San Diego is 4-1 in Young?s five starts at Dodger Stadium. Lowe has given up just three earned runs on 14 hits and one walk with 10 strikeouts in his first two starts of 2008, going six innings in each outing. Last year, he went 6-6 with 3.51 ERA at home. Including Sunday?s outing, Lowe is 3-3 with a 2.98 ERA in 13 career starts against the Padres, giving up two earned runs or fewer in seven of his last 10 outings versus his rivals from the south. The last four times Lowe has faced San Diego at home, he?s posted a 1.84 ERA, but Los Angeles went just 2-2 in those contests. The under is 5-1 in Lowe?s last six starts overall and 8-0-1 in Young?s last nine on Saturdays. However, the over is 22-7-1 in San Diego?s last 30 road games (2-2 this year), and the over is 8-3 in the last 11 series meetings at Dodger Stadium.
ATS ADVANTAGE: OVER
AMERICAN LEAGUE
N.Y. Yankees (6-5) at Boston (5-6)
Josh Beckett (0-1, 9.64) makes his second start of the season, and his first at Fenway Park, when he leads the Red Sox against Mike Mussina (1-1, 3.09) and the Yankees in the middle game of this weekend set between hated rivals. Behind a masterful complete-game, two-hit performance from Chien-Ming Wang, New York took Friday?s series-opener 4-1 for its second straight win after going 1-4 in its last five. Also, the Yankees are now on a 7-1 in this rivalry, winning five of the last seven at Boston. Going back to 2006, New York is 12-5 in the last 17 clashes at Fenway. Boston has dropped five of its last seven overall and is 0-5 in its last five against the American League East and 0-5 in its last five against right-handed starters. Both teams have excelled on Saturdays recently, with the Yankees going 8-2 in the last 10 and Boston posting a 19-7 mark in its last 26. However, the Red Sox are on streaks of 20-9 at home (2-2 this year) and 36-17 as a favorite (4-5 this year), while New York is still only 6-11 in its last 17 as a ?dog. Beckett, who started the season on the disabled list because of back stiffness, got rocked for five runs on just three hits in 4 2/3 innings in his debut Sunday in Toronto, losing 7-4. Last year, Beckett went 9-5 with a 4.17 ERA in 17 starts at Fenway Park (not including playoffs), compared with 11-2, 2.18 ERA in 13 road outings. Beckett is 4-3 with a 6.56 ERA in his eight career starts against the Yankees, going 2-1 with a 4.39 ERA in four starts last year.
After getting hit hard in his debut against the Blue Jays (four runs, eight hits in 5 2/3 innings of a 5-2 home loss), Mussina looked like his old self in Sunday?s 6-1 home win over the Rays, allowing just a run on two hits and one walk in six innings. Last year, Mussina went 4-5 with a 5.48 ERA in 14 starts on the highway. Mussina got pummeled in two starts against the Red Sox last year, allowing 12 runs on 19 hits in 11 2/3 innings, with the Yanks losing 7-3 at home and 11-6 at Fenway. For his career, the veteran right-hander is 19-15 with a 3.66 ERA in 52 starts versus Boston, including 10-7 with a 3.73 ERA at Fenway Park. Although last night?s contest stayed well under the total, the over is still 21-6 in the last 27 series meetings between these rivals, 6-2 in Beckett?s last eight starts versus New York (4-0 at home) and 5-2 in Mussina?s last seven outings against the Sox. Furthermore, the over is on streaks of 24-9-3 for the Yankees as an underdog, 9-3 for Mussina overall, 5-0 for Mussina as a road underdog, 13-3 for Boston on Saturday and 6-3 for Boston as a home favorite. Conversely, the Yankees have stayed under the total in seven straight overall.
ATS ADVANTAGE: NONE
NBA
Boston (62-16, 48-28-2 ATS) at Atlanta (36-42, 36-41-1)
The Hawks continue their postseason push when they host the mighty Celtics, needing a victory to stay two games ahead of the Pacers for the eighth and final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. Atlanta bounced back from Tuesday?s costly 112-98 loss at Indiana with last night?s 116-104 rout at New York, easily covering as a 6?-point road chalk. The Hawks, who haven?t reached the playoffs since 1999, are 11-4 in their last 15 games (9-6 ATS), including 6-1 at home (4-3 ATS). Both Atlanta and Indiana have three games to play, but the Pacers hold the tiebreaker edge. Boston, which long ago clinched the Atlantic Division and the top seed in the Eastern Conference, blasted the Bucks 102-86 last night, barely covering as a 15-point home chalk. The Celtics are 8-1 in their last nine games (7-2 ATS), with the only loss being Wednesday?s 109-95 defeat at Washington. The Celtics have handled the Hawks twice this season, both times in Boston, winning 106-83 as a 9?-point favorite and 98-88, falling just shy as an 11?-point chalk. The home team is 4-0 in the last four meetings (3-1 ATS). Also, the underdog has cashed in six of the past nine clashes. Boston sports a bunch of positive ATS trends, including 15-5 overall, 46-19-1 on the road, 20-7 on Saturdays, 8-3 against the Eastern Conference and 27-10-1 when playing on back-to-back nights (12-5-1 ATS on back-to-backs this year). The lone negative: The C?s are 3-7 ATS in their last 10 against the Southeast Division Atlanta is 4-0 ATS in its last four on back-to-back nights, but just 3-6 ATS in its last nine as an underdog. The over is 4-1 in the last five series meetings in Atlanta, 11-4 in the Hawks? last 15 overall, 5-0 in the Hawks? last five at home and 7-3 in the Hawks? last 10 when playing on no rest. However, the under is 2-0 in the two head-to-head battles this season and 5-2 in Boston?s last seven overall.
ATS ADVANTAGE: BOSTON
Denver (48-31, 43-36 ATS) at Utah (52-27, 44-35 ATS)
The Nuggets try to inch closer to a playoff berth when they invade EnergySolutions Arena, where the Jazz have lost just four times in 39 games all season. Denver scored a huge 114-105 win at Golden State as a four-point road underdog on Thursday, pulling a game ahead of the Warriors for the eighth and final Western Conference playoff spot. Both teams have three games to play. The Nuggets have followed up a 1-3 SU and a 1-4 ATS slump by winning and cashing in each of the last two contests. Going back to March 12, Denver is 11-5 SU and ATS, but just 5-4 (6-3 ATS) on the road during this stretch. Utah saw its four-game winning streak go by the wayside with Thursday?s 97-94 loss at Dallas. However, the playoff-bound Jazz cashed as a six-point underdog, improving to 7-1 ATS in their last eight, including five consecutive spread- covers. Denver won the first meeting between these teams this year 120-109 as a three-point home chalk, but Utah has come back to take the last two, prevailing 118-115 in overtime as a two-point road underdog and 132-105 as a six-point home favorite. The Jazz are 8-2 SU and ATS in the last 10 head-to-head tussles (4-1 SU and ATS at home), with the winner cashing in each of those contests. Finally, the favorite has gotten the money in 10 of the last 14 meetings. Not only are the Jazz 35-4 at home, they?re 27-12 ATS, including 5-0 ATS In the last five. Going back to last season, Jerry Sloan?s squad is 35-16-1 ATS on its home floor (all as a favorite). On the downside, Utah is 3-8 ATS in its last 11 on Saturday. The Nuggets are on ATS streaks of 6-2 on the road, 8-3 after a spread-cover and 9-3 when playing on one day of rest. However, they?ve failed to cash in four straight Saturday outings and they?re 16-35-1 ATS in their last 52 as an underdog of five to 10? points (4-10 ATS in that role this season). Denver has followed up a 24-8 ?over? streak by staying under the number in its last two, both on the road. In fact, the under is 4-2 in its last six on the highway. Also, Utah has stayed under the total in three straight games after going over in the previous five. However, the over is still 38-15 in Denver?s last 53 divisional battles, 6-0 overall in the last six clashes between these rivals and 6-1 in the last seven meetings in Salt Lake City.
ATS ADVANTAGE: UTAH and OVER
MLB
NATIONAL LEAGUE
San Diego (6-5) at L.A. Dodgers (4-6)
The Padres? Chris Young (1-0, 2.13 ERA) squares off against Derek Lowe (0-0, 2.25) for the second time in a week, this time at Dodger Stadium as these N.L. West rivals continue their three-game weekend series. San Diego outlasted Los Angeles 7-5 on Friday night, snapping a modest two-game losing skid. Meanwhile, the Dodgers, who got swept at Arizona earlier in the week, have now lost four straight games since starting the season 4-2. The Dodgers, who took two of three in San Diego last weekend, are still on a 4-2 run against the Padres dating to last year. Also, they?re 7-3 in Lowe?s last 10 outings, including 4-1 in his last five at home. On the downside, Joe Torre?s club is 5-16 in its last 21 games on Saturdays. Both Young and Lowe were outstanding in Sunday?s matchup in San Diego, with Lowe giving up two runs (one earned) on five hits with a walk and six strikeouts in six innings, while Young went seven innings, surrendering two runs on five hits with three walks and eight strikeouts. However, neither was around for the decision, as the Dodgers prevailed 3-2 in 10 innings. The Padres are 3-9 in Young?s last 12 starts overall, 0-6 in his last six on the road and 1-6 in his last seven against N.L. West foes. However, they?re 8-3 in his last 11 as an underdog. Young, who gave up one run on five hits in 5 2/3 innings of a 2-1 home win over the Astros in his debut, was a much different pitcher on the road last year (5-6, 4.52 ERA) than he was at home (4-2, 1.69). Not surprisingly, then, he was dominant in his one home start against the Dodgers in 2007 (seven scoreless innings, three hits allowed in a 1-0 win), and not as strong in two starts in L.A. (1-1, 6.75 ERA). For his career, Young is 1-2 despite a sterling 2.92 ERA in nine starts against the Dodgers (1-1, 4.05 ERA in L.A.). However, San Diego is 4-1 in Young?s five starts at Dodger Stadium. Lowe has given up just three earned runs on 14 hits and one walk with 10 strikeouts in his first two starts of 2008, going six innings in each outing. Last year, he went 6-6 with 3.51 ERA at home. Including Sunday?s outing, Lowe is 3-3 with a 2.98 ERA in 13 career starts against the Padres, giving up two earned runs or fewer in seven of his last 10 outings versus his rivals from the south. The last four times Lowe has faced San Diego at home, he?s posted a 1.84 ERA, but Los Angeles went just 2-2 in those contests. The under is 5-1 in Lowe?s last six starts overall and 8-0-1 in Young?s last nine on Saturdays. However, the over is 22-7-1 in San Diego?s last 30 road games (2-2 this year), and the over is 8-3 in the last 11 series meetings at Dodger Stadium.
ATS ADVANTAGE: OVER
AMERICAN LEAGUE
N.Y. Yankees (6-5) at Boston (5-6)
Josh Beckett (0-1, 9.64) makes his second start of the season, and his first at Fenway Park, when he leads the Red Sox against Mike Mussina (1-1, 3.09) and the Yankees in the middle game of this weekend set between hated rivals. Behind a masterful complete-game, two-hit performance from Chien-Ming Wang, New York took Friday?s series-opener 4-1 for its second straight win after going 1-4 in its last five. Also, the Yankees are now on a 7-1 in this rivalry, winning five of the last seven at Boston. Going back to 2006, New York is 12-5 in the last 17 clashes at Fenway. Boston has dropped five of its last seven overall and is 0-5 in its last five against the American League East and 0-5 in its last five against right-handed starters. Both teams have excelled on Saturdays recently, with the Yankees going 8-2 in the last 10 and Boston posting a 19-7 mark in its last 26. However, the Red Sox are on streaks of 20-9 at home (2-2 this year) and 36-17 as a favorite (4-5 this year), while New York is still only 6-11 in its last 17 as a ?dog. Beckett, who started the season on the disabled list because of back stiffness, got rocked for five runs on just three hits in 4 2/3 innings in his debut Sunday in Toronto, losing 7-4. Last year, Beckett went 9-5 with a 4.17 ERA in 17 starts at Fenway Park (not including playoffs), compared with 11-2, 2.18 ERA in 13 road outings. Beckett is 4-3 with a 6.56 ERA in his eight career starts against the Yankees, going 2-1 with a 4.39 ERA in four starts last year.
After getting hit hard in his debut against the Blue Jays (four runs, eight hits in 5 2/3 innings of a 5-2 home loss), Mussina looked like his old self in Sunday?s 6-1 home win over the Rays, allowing just a run on two hits and one walk in six innings. Last year, Mussina went 4-5 with a 5.48 ERA in 14 starts on the highway. Mussina got pummeled in two starts against the Red Sox last year, allowing 12 runs on 19 hits in 11 2/3 innings, with the Yanks losing 7-3 at home and 11-6 at Fenway. For his career, the veteran right-hander is 19-15 with a 3.66 ERA in 52 starts versus Boston, including 10-7 with a 3.73 ERA at Fenway Park. Although last night?s contest stayed well under the total, the over is still 21-6 in the last 27 series meetings between these rivals, 6-2 in Beckett?s last eight starts versus New York (4-0 at home) and 5-2 in Mussina?s last seven outings against the Sox. Furthermore, the over is on streaks of 24-9-3 for the Yankees as an underdog, 9-3 for Mussina overall, 5-0 for Mussina as a road underdog, 13-3 for Boston on Saturday and 6-3 for Boston as a home favorite. Conversely, the Yankees have stayed under the total in seven straight overall.
ATS ADVANTAGE: NONE
DCI
NBA
WASHINGTON 98, Philadelphia 95
Boston 99, ATLANTA 93
INDIANA 108, Charlotte 101
MEMPHIS 105, Minnesota 102
MILWAUKEE 100, New Jersey 98
UTAH 116, Denver 109
New Orleans 105, SACRAMENTO 101
Dallas 97, PORTLAND 93
GOLDEN STATE 115, L.A. Clippers 101
NBA
WASHINGTON 98, Philadelphia 95
Boston 99, ATLANTA 93
INDIANA 108, Charlotte 101
MEMPHIS 105, Minnesota 102
MILWAUKEE 100, New Jersey 98
UTAH 116, Denver 109
New Orleans 105, SACRAMENTO 101
Dallas 97, PORTLAND 93
GOLDEN STATE 115, L.A. Clippers 101
Platinum Plays
Boston at Atlanta
This Saturday's game between Boston and Atlanta will more than likely be a preview of the Eastern Conference playoffs between these two teams. However, what you observe in this game will in no way be the same version of this matchup once the playoffs begin. The #1 seeded Boston Celtics (62-15) have already clinched the NBA Eastern Conference's top spot and will enjoy homecourt throughout the Eastern Conference playoffs. The Atlanta Hawks (36-42) still have some work to do as of this writing. They still haven't clinched the final playoff spot in the East and lead the Indiana Pacers by two games with four remaining.
The 2008 Boston Celtics have already broken the record for biggest improvement by an NBA team in one season and are still adding on to their 38 game improvement over 2007. General Manager, Danny Ainge, completely overhauled the roster and direction of this Celtic team by trading away young and potentially great talent to aquire established veterans Ray Allen and Kevin Garnett. Under the direction of head coach Doc Rivers, Allen and Garnett have merged their game with holdover Paul Pierce to make the Celtics once again a contender for an NBA Championship.
Make no mistake, the Hawks are an improving team and have done so mostly through the draft. When a team is in the lottery year after year, it really should start improving with the infusion of highly rated young talent. However, using the Celtics as an example, you can have all the young talent in the world, but if they don't learn to sacrifice parts of their game for the good of the team, they'll never seriously contend for a title. Veteran G Joe Johnson (21.9 ppg) leads this young Hawks team in scoring, and rookie Al Horford leads the team in rebounding with 9.6 boards per game. The Hawks made a deadline deal to bring in veteran point guard Mike Bibby, however, the results of that trade are negligible. Atlanta should qualify for the playoffs, something this team hasn't done in this century, and that's the first step towards building for the future. We'll see how far these young guys can take this franchise.
The Celtics have had the luxury of resting their veterans and getting playing time for the bench, which will play dividends down the road. The Hawks can't afford to take a night off if they hope to clinch the final playoff spot in the East. While letting Garnett, Allen and Pierce recharge their batteries for the playoffs, the Celtics just can't help but winning.
The advanced line for this game is Boston by 7 points. The Hawks are inconsistent and will have to lay it on the line, while Doc Rivers won't want to show any secrets for the playoffs, and his team probably prefers to play the Hawks over the Pacers when the playoffs start. Platinum prediction for this game is take the Atlanta Hawks plus the 7 points and then watch the Celtics sweep them mercifully in the 1st round of the NBA Eastern Conferernce playoffs.
Boston at Atlanta
This Saturday's game between Boston and Atlanta will more than likely be a preview of the Eastern Conference playoffs between these two teams. However, what you observe in this game will in no way be the same version of this matchup once the playoffs begin. The #1 seeded Boston Celtics (62-15) have already clinched the NBA Eastern Conference's top spot and will enjoy homecourt throughout the Eastern Conference playoffs. The Atlanta Hawks (36-42) still have some work to do as of this writing. They still haven't clinched the final playoff spot in the East and lead the Indiana Pacers by two games with four remaining.
The 2008 Boston Celtics have already broken the record for biggest improvement by an NBA team in one season and are still adding on to their 38 game improvement over 2007. General Manager, Danny Ainge, completely overhauled the roster and direction of this Celtic team by trading away young and potentially great talent to aquire established veterans Ray Allen and Kevin Garnett. Under the direction of head coach Doc Rivers, Allen and Garnett have merged their game with holdover Paul Pierce to make the Celtics once again a contender for an NBA Championship.
Make no mistake, the Hawks are an improving team and have done so mostly through the draft. When a team is in the lottery year after year, it really should start improving with the infusion of highly rated young talent. However, using the Celtics as an example, you can have all the young talent in the world, but if they don't learn to sacrifice parts of their game for the good of the team, they'll never seriously contend for a title. Veteran G Joe Johnson (21.9 ppg) leads this young Hawks team in scoring, and rookie Al Horford leads the team in rebounding with 9.6 boards per game. The Hawks made a deadline deal to bring in veteran point guard Mike Bibby, however, the results of that trade are negligible. Atlanta should qualify for the playoffs, something this team hasn't done in this century, and that's the first step towards building for the future. We'll see how far these young guys can take this franchise.
The Celtics have had the luxury of resting their veterans and getting playing time for the bench, which will play dividends down the road. The Hawks can't afford to take a night off if they hope to clinch the final playoff spot in the East. While letting Garnett, Allen and Pierce recharge their batteries for the playoffs, the Celtics just can't help but winning.
The advanced line for this game is Boston by 7 points. The Hawks are inconsistent and will have to lay it on the line, while Doc Rivers won't want to show any secrets for the playoffs, and his team probably prefers to play the Hawks over the Pacers when the playoffs start. Platinum prediction for this game is take the Atlanta Hawks plus the 7 points and then watch the Celtics sweep them mercifully in the 1st round of the NBA Eastern Conferernce playoffs.
Karl Garrett
I am not sure if you are aware of it, but at 7-3, the Florida Marlins are your leaders in the NL East Division. The Marlins took it to Houston's best hurler last night, and I see no reason to believe they can't get the sticks cranking against Brandon Backe again tonight.
Florida's offense has been on fire, and with Houston struggling at 3-8, can't lay the wood with the host in this spot.
Andrew Miller is a work in progress, and while he has been hit hard his first two starts, I can see this kid having success against Houston's pop-gun offense tonight at Minute Maid Park.
Even if Miller gives up a few, I expect the Marlins to bail him out with a few runs of their own against Houston pitching.
Take Florida in the underdog role as your Saturday comp play.
1♦ FLORIDA
I am not sure if you are aware of it, but at 7-3, the Florida Marlins are your leaders in the NL East Division. The Marlins took it to Houston's best hurler last night, and I see no reason to believe they can't get the sticks cranking against Brandon Backe again tonight.
Florida's offense has been on fire, and with Houston struggling at 3-8, can't lay the wood with the host in this spot.
Andrew Miller is a work in progress, and while he has been hit hard his first two starts, I can see this kid having success against Houston's pop-gun offense tonight at Minute Maid Park.
Even if Miller gives up a few, I expect the Marlins to bail him out with a few runs of their own against Houston pitching.
Take Florida in the underdog role as your Saturday comp play.
1♦ FLORIDA
Cajun-Sports
NBA Super Situation Winner for Saturday
Game: Philadelphia 76ers vs. Washington Wizards 7:05 EST
Prediction: Washington Wizards -4
Grade: THREE-Star (rated 1 to 6 units)
Reason: Washington is in a battle with Toronto and the 76ers for playoff positioning and they have both been playing well of late. With the return of Antawn Jamison who torched the Celtics on Wednesday for 27 points and the play of DeShawn Stevenson, Brendon Haywood and of course Caron Butler who is averaging 20.6 points per game we feel they have more than enough offense even if Arenas is unable to play to take down the 76ers here. They are coming off a game last night in Detroit but the Wizards have been somewhat successful playing in back-to-backs in the second game as long as they are at home. Washington also has an underrated bench which will benefit them here as they get the win and cover. Technical situations signal a formula for wagering success with Washington as well. The first says to Play On NBA favorites of 3.5 to 9.5 points revenging a straight up loss vs an opponent as a road favorite, with a team playing only their 2nd game in 5 days, 62-30 ATS since 2002. The second situation says to Play On NBA home favorites of 3.5 to 9.5 points after covering the spread by thirty or more points total in their last three games, during the second half of the season, 50-22 ATS since 2002. Combine our technical with our situational support and it points to a Wizards win and cover so lay the short price here.
NBA Super Situation Winner for Saturday
Game: Philadelphia 76ers vs. Washington Wizards 7:05 EST
Prediction: Washington Wizards -4
Grade: THREE-Star (rated 1 to 6 units)
Reason: Washington is in a battle with Toronto and the 76ers for playoff positioning and they have both been playing well of late. With the return of Antawn Jamison who torched the Celtics on Wednesday for 27 points and the play of DeShawn Stevenson, Brendon Haywood and of course Caron Butler who is averaging 20.6 points per game we feel they have more than enough offense even if Arenas is unable to play to take down the 76ers here. They are coming off a game last night in Detroit but the Wizards have been somewhat successful playing in back-to-backs in the second game as long as they are at home. Washington also has an underrated bench which will benefit them here as they get the win and cover. Technical situations signal a formula for wagering success with Washington as well. The first says to Play On NBA favorites of 3.5 to 9.5 points revenging a straight up loss vs an opponent as a road favorite, with a team playing only their 2nd game in 5 days, 62-30 ATS since 2002. The second situation says to Play On NBA home favorites of 3.5 to 9.5 points after covering the spread by thirty or more points total in their last three games, during the second half of the season, 50-22 ATS since 2002. Combine our technical with our situational support and it points to a Wizards win and cover so lay the short price here.
Ethan Law
FLA: LHP Andrew Miller (0-1, 12.91)
at
HOU: RHP Brandon Backe (0-1, 3.27)
Verdict: Florida 4, Houston 8
PLAY 1/2* UNIT (1%) ON HOUSTON -$130;
PLAY 1/2* UNIT (1%) ON HOUSTON (-1.5) +$155
FLA: LHP Andrew Miller (0-1, 12.91)
at
HOU: RHP Brandon Backe (0-1, 3.27)
Verdict: Florida 4, Houston 8
PLAY 1/2* UNIT (1%) ON HOUSTON -$130;
PLAY 1/2* UNIT (1%) ON HOUSTON (-1.5) +$155
John Ryan
St Louis Cardinals vs. San Francisco Giants
Play: San Francisco Giants -104
Ai Simulator 3* graded play on SF - SF is certainly one of the worst teams ? if not the worst team ? in MLB, but they have a great opportunity for a win with Cain on the hill. SF is is 57-24 (+28.3 Units) against the money line in home games versus a NL team with an on base percentage of .350 or better since 1997. Skipper Bochy is 25-18 +16.9 units when facing a NL team allowing 3.3 RPG on the season. Although 4-7 on the season, the Giants are 3-2 in home games. Let?s remember though that the reason we are making any play I release is directly connected to the Ai Simulator grading. The host of systems and angles serve to reinforce the grading and are NOT the dominant reason for the play. Take the Giants.
St Louis Cardinals vs. San Francisco Giants
Play: San Francisco Giants -104
Ai Simulator 3* graded play on SF - SF is certainly one of the worst teams ? if not the worst team ? in MLB, but they have a great opportunity for a win with Cain on the hill. SF is is 57-24 (+28.3 Units) against the money line in home games versus a NL team with an on base percentage of .350 or better since 1997. Skipper Bochy is 25-18 +16.9 units when facing a NL team allowing 3.3 RPG on the season. Although 4-7 on the season, the Giants are 3-2 in home games. Let?s remember though that the reason we are making any play I release is directly connected to the Ai Simulator grading. The host of systems and angles serve to reinforce the grading and are NOT the dominant reason for the play. Take the Giants.