100* Sharp Money Syndicate Play on Nationals +125

After another come-from-behind win on the road, the Nationals (93-69) won Game 6 by a score of 7-2 to send the World Series to a deciding Game 7. It all boils down to this as the Nationals now go into Houston one last time for a showdown with the Astros (107-55).

Juan Soto and Anthony Rendon will be looking to stay hot after delivering a Game 6 win on the back of a masterful start from Stephen Strasburg. Soto hit the go-ahead home run, and Rendon did just about everything else by going 3-for-4 and earning five RBIs.

On the mound we’ll have Nationals right-hander Max Scherzer (11-7, 2.92 ERA) up against Astros right-hander Zack Greinke (18-5, 2.93 ERA).

It must feel like destiny for Scherzer, who was unable to pitch in a Game 5 he was scheduled to start after neck and back spasms rendered him unavailable. With 34 strikeouts in 25 October innings, Scherzer owns a 2.16 ERA in his five appearances this postseason.

Featuring a five-pitch arsenal, Greinke will hope for similar results from his Game 3 outing. In that contest, Greinke was able to put out fires throughout his 4 2/3 inning start in which 10 Nationals reached base but only one run was scored.

100* Sharp Money Syndicate Play on Nationals +165

If the Astros (107-55) can earn the first home victory of the series, they’ll become World Series Champions. We’ll find out if they can capitalize on their 3-2 lead tonight when they host the Nationals (93-69) in Houston.

Game 5 never felt like a fair contest once Washington pitcher Max Scherzer was unable to go. So, rather than a Game 1 rematch, Gerrit Cole was able to dominate the game while fill-in pitcher Joe Ross struggled against a strong Houston offense.

After three straight losses, the Nationals will now aim to get back on track by sending out right-hander Stephen Strasburg (18-6, 3.32). With an ERA of 1.93 this October and a career ERA of 1.34 in his postseason career, there aren’t many pitchers Washington would rather have on the mound.

Strasburg has already defeated the Astros once in this World Series by settling in after a first-inning home run to throw six innings of two-run ball in a Game 2 victory.

Opposite Strasburg will be Astros co-ace Justin Verlander (21-6, 2.58 ERA). With a loss in Game 2, the Houston right-hander became the first pitcher in MLB history to lose his first five decisions in the World Series. In six career World Series starts, Verlander is 0-5 with a 5.73 ERA.

100* Sharp Money Syndicate Play on Astros +106

It took three games, but the Astros (107-55) are finally on the board in the World Series. Tonight, Houston will attempt to tie the series as they get set for Game 4 in Washington.

With a 4-1 victory in Game three, the Astros ensured that both teams remain yet to win a game at home in this series.

In an effort to continue that streak this evening, Houston will send out right-hander Jose Urquidy (2-1, 3.95 ERA) to start. We last saw Urquidy on the mound in a relief appearance in the ALCS, pitching 2 2/3 innings and striking out five batters. Urquidy’s last start came in late September when he pitched six scoreless innings.

Opposite Urquidy will be Patrick Corbin (14-7, 3.25 ERA). The Nationals left-hander hasn’t had the smoothest of postseasons, posting an ERA of 6.91. In his last start, Corbin gave up four runs in five innings against the Cardinals in the NLCS.

In three career starts against the Astros, Corbin is 2-1 with a 5.21 ERA.

Houston will be hoping for another big performance out of Michael Brantley, who went 2-for-4 with a pair of RBIs in the Astros victory last night.

100* Sharp Money Syndicate Play on Astros -135

With an 0-2 series deficit and their backs against the wall, the Astros (107-55) are in desperate need of a win this evening against the Nationals (93-69) in Washington D.C.

After taking surprising losses in the first two contests despite sending out Gerrit Cole and Justin Verlander, Houston needs Zack Greinke (18-5, 2.93 ERA) now more than ever. When Greinke starts tonight, the Astros right-hander will get to show off his batting prowess. With three home runs and eight extra-base hits, Greinke led all pitchers from the plate this year.

Focusing on his arm, Greinke has been far from unhittable this postseason. In three starts, Greinke is 0-2 with a 6.43 ERA despite two solid performances his last two times out.

Right-hander Anibal Sanchez (11-8, 3.85 ERA) will start on the mound for the Nationals. In two October starts this year, Sanchez has posted an ERA of 0.71. Sanchez last appeared in the World Series in 2012, when he threw seven innings of two-run ball.

The Astros will be hoping for a good performance from Jose Altuve, who leads the team with 19 hits, a 3.58 average, and five home runs in addition to his eight RBIs in the postseason.

100* Sharp Money Syndicate Play on Nationals +170

Most expected the Astros (107-55) to start the World Series with a victory behind the nearly-unhittable arm of Gerrit Cole. Instead, the Nationals (93-69) stole Game 1 in Houston and now aim to make it two in a row.

Nationals outfielder Juan Soto was the difference maker on Tuesday, taking Cole deep to tie the game at 2-2 on his way to batting in three of Washington’s five runs. Soto, who turns 21 on Friday, leads the team with three home runs and 10 RBIs in the postseason.

After handing Cole his first loss in 26 starts, the Nationals will aim to steal another game in Houston by sending out right-hander Stephen Strasburg (18-6, 3.32 ERA). Among pitchers with at least five postseason starts, Strasburg’s 1.10 postseason ERA is the third-lowest in MLB history.

This postseason, Strasburg has allowed only one walk on his way to a 1.64 ERA.

Right-hander Justin Verlander (21-6, 2.58 ERA) gets the start for the Astros. Culminating in a 3.70 ERA, Verlander has a couple of losses in addition to a pair of strong outings so far this postseason. After yesterday’s loss, this suddenly feels like a must-win home game for Verlander and the Astros.

100* Sharp Money Syndicate Play on Astros -183

After sweeping St. Louis in the NLCS, the Nationals (93-69) are finally going on the road to take on the Astros (107-55) in Houston for Game 1 of the World Series.

On the mound, Washington will be sending out right-hander Max Scherzer (11-7, 2.92 ERA). The Nats starting pitching destroyed the Cardinals last series, and Scherzer played his part. Taking a no-hitter into the seventh, Scherzer ended the game with 11 strikeouts and just one hit allowed through seven innings.

After opting to save Gerrit Cole (20-5, 2.50 ERA) and not pitch him in Game 6 of the ALCS, the Astros right-hander gets the start in Game 1. In addition to not losing a game since May, Cole has been virtually unhittable throughout the postseason. Since beginning October baseball, Cole has notched 32 strikeouts and owns a 0.40 ERA in three starts.

The Nationals have counted on the offense of Howie Kendrick and Anthony Rendon throughout the postseason. While Kendrick has a team-high nine RBIs, Rendon is batting .375 with seven RBIs of his own.

For Houston, Jose Altuve is the main man. With a .349 average, Altuve has hit five homers and eight RBIs in the postseason.

100* Sharp Money Syndicate Play on Yankees +134

The Yankees (103-59) will have no time to lick their wounds after going to 3-1 in the ALCS. Instead, they’ll have to defeat the Astros (107-55) this evening to stay alive.

After Game 4’s 8-3 loss to Houston, the Yankees look like a shell of the team that scored a majors-best 943 runs in the regular season. After committing four errors and going 0-for-7 with runners in scoring position, the Yankees will have to be much better in Game 5 if they’ll stay alive.

The first order of business for New York will be getting to right-hander Justin Verlander (21-6, 2.58 ERA), who starts for the Astros tonight. Verlander pitched Game 2 of the series, allowing only two runs on an Aaron Judge homer in 6 2/3 innings.

As an Astro, Verlander has 28 strikeouts and a 1.19 ERA in three games against the Yankees.

New York will be sending out left-hander James Paxton (15-6, 3.82 ERA) to start. Although he’d given up just one run on four hits, Paxton was removed from Game 2 after just 2 1/3 innings. In 15 home games this year, Paxton went 7-3 with a 3.35 ERA.

100* Sharp Money Syndicate Play on Yankees -127

A Wednesday night rainout has pushed back Game 3 of the ALCS, with the winner of the series earning the right to play the Nationals in the World Series. Tonight, the Astros (107-55) and Yankees (103-59) will battle it out in New York.

Throughout the series, New York has used relievers for more than 15 of the 28 innings played thus far, so they’ll be looking for theirs starters to go deeper from this point on.

This evening, that job will fall to Masahiro Tanaka (11-9, 4.45 ERA), who starts again after a successful Game 1. In the series opener, Tanaka gave up only a single hit as he pitched six scoreless innings against the Astros. Over 41 postseason innings, Tanaka owns an ERA of 1.32.

The Astros will counter with right-hander Zack Greinke (18-5, 2.93 ERA). In his last regular season start against New York, Greinke allowed two runs over five innings. He lasted six innings in the ALCS opener, allowing three runs on seven hits.

The Yankees are 9-2 in their last 11 playoff games at home.

100* Sharp Money Syndicate Play on Cardinals +123

It’s time for a vital Game 3 of the NLCS as the Nationals (93-69) aim to extend their 2-0 series lead over the Cardinals (91-71) tonight in Washington D.C.

Through two games, St. Louis has managed to score just a single run. With 2-0 and 3-1 wins, the Nationals haven’t been much better offensively, but they’ve been able to overwhelm the Cardinals’ bats in the first two games in St. Louis.

Hoping to claim their first win of the series, the Cardinals will send out right-hander Jack Flaherty (11-8, 2.75 ERA) to start. Flaherty earned the win in Game 5 of the NLDS matchup against the Braves, but there was little pressure after his lineup racked up 10 runs in the top of the first inning. Still, Flaherty only allowed a single run in six innings.

The Nationals are seeking series dominance, and they’ll be confident with right-hander Stephen Strasburg (18-6, 3.32 ERA) on the mound. Strasburg now has a 1.32 ERA in six career postseason games, but he did give up a pair of home runs in Game 5 of the NLDS.

For the Cardinals, Paul Goldschmidt is the man to watch. In the postseason, Goldschmidt is batting .345 with four doubles and two homers.

100* Sharp Money Syndicate Play on Yankees +148

It was a dominant performance by the Yankees (103-59) in Game 1 of the ALCS, but the Astros (107-55) are sending out one of the game’s best pitchers when these two clubs match up for Game 2 this evening.

New York’s flawless postseason run extended into the second round when they erupted for seven runs while holding Houston scoreless. Gleybor Torres was the MVP of the game, batting in five runs on a 3-for-5 performance that included a solo shot.

Perhaps the most surprising part of the game was New York’s ability to hold a good Astros lineup to no runs.

Hoping to blank Houston again, the Yankees will send out left-hander James Paxton (15-6, 3.82 ERA) to start. In his first postseason outing, Paxton allowed three runs while striking out eight batters in 4 2/3 innings. In a June outing against the Astros, Paxton allowed just one run.

For Houston, ace Justin Verlander (21-6, 2.58 ERA) is scheduled to start. Verlander holds a 2.92 ERA in the playoffs while wearing an Astros jersey, but he only lasted 3 2/3 innings in his last outing against the Rays on short rest.

100* Sharp Money Syndicate Play on Yankees +145

In a classic matchup of power versus pitching, the Yankees (103-59) are set for Game 1 of the ALCS against the Astros (107-55) in Houston.

Offensively, New York was the best team in baseball throughout the season with 943 runs scored in the regular season. With 306 home runs, the Yankees trailed only Minnesota by one. But don’t forget about the well-balanced Astros lineup that scored 920 runs this year (3rd in MLB).

Houston entered the postseason with one of the most daunting playoff rotations in memory. In addition to Zack Greinke, who went 8-1 with a 3.02 ERA since being acquired at the trade deadline, the Astros can call on Justin Verlander (21-6, 2.58 ERA) and Gerrit Cole (20-5, 2.50 ERA).

For the Yankees, right-hander Masahiro Tanaka (11-9, 4.45 ERA) gets the start. With a bullpen full of big arms, Tanaka will be happy with a repeat of his ALDS performance against the Twins in which he pitched five innings with seven strikeouts and allowed one earned run on three hits.

Right-hander Zack Greinke (18-5, 2.93 ERA) is set to start for the Astros. Greinke started the Game 3 loss to the Rays, allowing three home runs and six total runs over just 3 2/3 innings.

100* Sharp Money Syndicate Play on Nationals +115

It took five games for both the Nationals (93-69) and Cardinals (91-71) to take care of business in their respective NLDS series. Tonight, these two clubs begin the NLCS in St. Louis.

A 10-inning thriller over the Dodgers earned Washington a spot in this NLCS. The Nationals have been led by Anthony Rendon and his 7-for-20 NLDS performance that included a home run and five RBIs. Ryan Zimmerman added another homer and three RBIs, and Juan Soto hit two homers with six RBIs.

St. Louis took down Atlanta with a record-setting first inning in Game 5. Both Marcell Ozuna and Paul Goldschmidt have launched two home runs for the Cardinals in the postseason.

The visiting Nationals will start right-hander Anibal Sanchez (11-8, 3.85 ERA). In Game 3 of the NLDS, Sanchez gave up one run while striking out nine in five innings against the Dodgers. In his lone start against St. Louis this season, Sanchez allowed three runs in five innings.

Right-hander Miles Mikolas (9-14, 4.16 ERA) takes the mound for the Cardinals. Mikolas started Game 1 of the NLDS, allowing one run over five innings against the Braves. In a mid-September start against the Nats, Mikolas gave up three runs over six innings.

100* Sharp Money Syndicate Play on Astros -260

The Astros (107-55) entered the postseason as the favorites to win the World Series. If they’re going to make it to the ALCS to face the Yankees, they’ll first need to win a Game 5 against the Rays (96-66) in Houston.

This ALDS matchup started according to plan for Houston, who jumped out to a 2-0 series lead after outscoring Tampa Bay 9-3 through the first two games. 10-3 and 4-1 losses in Tampa Bay forced a fifth and final game, but the Astros will be happy this one’s at home, where they’ve gone 60-21 on the season.

The away team in this matchup is likely to use multiple arms against the Astros, as the Rays have found success with that formula. However, right-hander Tyler Glasnow (6-1, 1.78 ERA) will get the start. Glasnow will be pitching on an extra day of rest, but he was beaten up in Game 1, allowing a two-run shot to Jose Altuve and allowing four hits over 4 1/3 innings of Game 1.

Right-hander Gerrit Cole (20-5, 2.50 ERA) gets the start for Houston. Cole was dominant in Game 2, striking out 15 batters over 7 2/3 innings. Cole entered the series with an 0-2 record and 3.51 ERA in four career starts against the Rays, but the star right-hander is now unbeaten over his last 23 starts.

100* Sharp Money Syndicate Play on Cardinals -110

There’s a winner-take-all affair taking place this late afternoon in Atlanta as the Braves (97-65) host the Cardinals (91-71) in Game 5 of this NLDS matchup.

After dropping Game 1 in a 13-run game after being outscored 4-3 in the ninth inning, the Braves responded by winning the next two games and allowing only a single total run. Game 4 was decided by just one run in extra innings as Cardinals catcher Yadier Molina tied the game on a clutch, eighth-inning hit before winning the game in the 10th with a sacrifice fly.

Throughout the series, Braves outfielder Ronald Acuna Jr. has been the best player in series. In four games, Acuna Jr. is 8-for-16 with three doubles, a triple, and a homer.

23-year-old Jack Flaherty (11-8, 2.75 ERA) is expected to start Game 5 for the Cardinals. The St. Louis right-hander pitched Game 2 of the series, holding the Braves to three runs over seven innings. In two regular season games against Atlanta this year, Flaherty allowed just three runs over 12 total innings.

The Braves are expected to send out Mike Foltynewicz (8-5, 4.54 ERA) for his second start of the series. In seven career starts against St. Louis, Foltynewicz is 3-4 with a 7.64 ERA, but he tossed that seven-inning, three-hit, scoreless gem earlier this series.

100* Sharp Money Syndicate Play on Yankees -140

If the Yankees (103-59) are going to sweep in the Twins (101-61) in the ALDS, they’ll have to do so in Minnesota as these teams get set for Game 3.

Through the first two games of the playoff series, New York has scored a combined 18 runs while giving up six. Thus far, the Yankees are displaying their offensive prowess after finishing the regular season with the most runs scored (943 runs), while suppressing the bats of the league’s second-best offense (939 runs).

Hoping to further limit the Twins lineup will be Luis Severino (1-1, 1.50 ERA). Since missing most of the season with injuries, the Yankees right-hander got off to a hot start with nine scoreless innings before a more colorful third outing. In his lone career start at Target Field, Severino allowed one run on four hits over 5 2/3 innings in 2018.

Right-hander Jake Odorizzi (15-7, 3.51 ERA) will start for the Twins with the season on the line. Over his last 10 starts, Odorizzi hasn’t allowed more than three earned runs. In 18 career appearances against New York, Odorizzi is 7-9 with a 4.71 ERA.

Minnesota lacks a home-field advantage, having lost 10 of their last 11 home games in the divisional round of the playoffs.

100* Sharp Money Syndicate Play on Rays +280

In this ALDS matchup, the Tampa Bay Rays (96-66) have a tough task ahead of them as they go into Houston once again for another go at the Astros (107-55). The Astros won Game 1 of the series by a score of 6-2.

For the third straight year, Jose Altuve homered in the first game of the ALDS. Altuve’s dinger came in a four-run inning for the Astros; an inning the Rays couldn’t recover from.

Tonight, the Rays will send out left-hander Blake Snell (6-8, 4.29 ERA) to start Game 2. The 2018 AL Cy Young Award winner pitched just 107 innings in 2019 after undergoing elbow surgery in the middle of the season. In six career starts against the Astros, Snell is 2-2 with an ERA of 4.73.

Right-hander Gerrit Cole (20-5, 2.50 ERA) will start on the mound for Houston. In addition to the Astros winning each of Cole’s last 13 starts of the season, Cole earned a record of 16-0 with a 1.78 ERA over his final 22 starts. In four career starts against Tampa Bay, Cole is 0-2 with a 3.51 ERA.

Tampa Bay’s offense is led by Austin Meadows, who is tops on the team with 33 homers, 89 RBIs, and a batting average of .291.

100* Sharp Money Syndicate Play on Yankees -178

Two of baseball’s most explosive teams are set to face off in an ALDS as the Yankees (103-59) host the Twins (101-61) in New York.

The Yankees finished seven games ahead of Tampa Bay to win the AL East. The Twins finished eight games above Cleveland to win the AL Central.

Throughout the regular season, New York and Minnesota were battling for the honor of having the best lineup in the MLB. With 943 runs scored, the Yankees finished as the top dog in the majors. The Twins finished second with 939 runs scored.

The home run title was an even closer race. In the end, the Twins hit one more homer than the Yankees with a record-breaking 307 dingers on the season.

All of that adds up to a tough task for this evening’s two starting pitchers, as Minnesota right-hander Jose Berrios (14-8, 3.68 ERA) and New York left-hander James Paxton (15-6, 3.82 ERA) face off.

While Berrios makes his first postseason start, he previously pitched against the Yankees in a Wild Card relief appearance. Berrios left with the loss after allowing and two-run dinger by Aaron Judge as part of three total runs.

In six career starts against Minnesota, Paxton owns a 2.27 ERA. The Yankees lefty will be happy to have home-field advantage after posting a 3.35 ERA at home versus a 4.33 ERA on the road.

100* Sharp Money Syndicate Play on Braves -134

The stage is set for an NLDS matchup between the NL Central-winning Cardinals (97-71) and NL East-winning Braves (97-65) in Atlanta.

While St. Louis is an average team on the road with a record of 41-40, the Braves are 50-31 at home. These two clubs met up for two three-game series during the regular season. With a record of 4-2, Atlanta won both series.

The Cardinals are going with right-hander Miles Mikolas (9-14, 4.16 ERA) to start the NLDS. Making his postseason debut, Mikolas had a strong end to the regular season. Over his last six starts, Mikolas struck out 35 in 35 2/3 innings while posting an ERA of 3.03.

Left-hander Dallas Keuchel (8-8, 3.75 ERA) will start for the Braves at home. Making his 10th postseason start, Keuchel is 4-2 with a 3.31 ERA in his playoff career. Over his final nine outings of the regular season, Keuchel posted a 2.55 ERA.

The Braves will be in great shape if center fielder Ronald Acuna Jr. and first baseman Freddie Freeman are at full health. While Acuna Jr. led the club with 41 home runs, Freeman was tops on the Braves with 121 RBIs.

100* Sharp Money Syndicate Play on A's -134

The stage is set for the American League Wild Card game as the Athletics (97-65) will play host to the Rays (96-66) in Oakland.

Both teams will feel as though they’ve been playing playoff baseball for a while now after having to stay ahead in a tight, three-team race for two Wild Card spots. Entering October, Tampa Bay won seven of its last 10. The Athletics won 13 of their last 18 in the regular season.

The visiting Rays will go with right-hander Charlie Morton (16-6, 3.05 ERA) to start. In two starts against the Athletics this season, Morton is 1-0 with a 0.68 ERA. In his seven postseason appearances, Morton is 2-2 with an ERA of 4.60.

Left-hander Sean Manaea (4-0, 1.21 ERA) gets the start for Houston. Manaea has been good enough since coming off the injured list on September 1 to keep Mike Fiers from starting. In three career starts against the Rays, Manaea is 1-1 with a 2.70 ERA.

Oakland will be happy to have this game at home, as Morton has never won there in three starts. In his last five road games, Morton posted an ERA of 7.52.

100* Sharp Money Syndicate Play on Brewers +170

Before getting swept by the Rockies to close out the regular season, the Brewers (89-73) closed the season as the hottest team in baseball by winning 18 of 20. Tonight, Milwaukee gets its shot against the Nationals (93-69) in Washington.

This Brewers club rallied around the loss of MVP Christian Yelich, who led the team with 44 homers, 97 RBIs, and a .329 average before going down. In the end, Milwaukee finished two games behind the Cardinals in the NL Central, but three games ahead of the Mets for the second Wild Card spot.

The visitors in this contest will start with right-hander Brandon Woodruff (11-3, 3.62 ERA). The Brewers are fortunate to have a deep bullpen, as Woodruff is likely to only go a few innings after recently coming back from an oblique injury. With that being said, the Brewers are 18-4 when Woodruff pitched in the regular season.

At home, Washington is going with veteran right-hander Max Scherzer (11-7, 2.92 ERA). Although Scherzer has been one of the game’s best pitchers over recent years, he’s struggled in for the Nats in October. In four postseason games for Washington, Scherzer is 0-2 with a 3.72 ERA.

50* Powerhouse Play on Twins -181

After an entire season of holding off the Indians in the AL Central, the Twins (101-60) head into the last game of the regular season against the Royals (58-103) with an eight-game lead in the division. Kansas City will play the part of the host in this contest.

Although they’re still overlooked when it comes to World Series projections, Minnesota has been neck-and-neck with the Yankees all season long when it comes to the league’s best offense. The Twins have scored 935 runs (2nd) and hit 304 home runs (2nd) on the year, both trailing only New York.

The Twins have a good shot at finishing the year first overall in the home run department if they can hit a few off Royals right-hander Jorge Lopez (4-9, 6.35 ERA). The Twins hit two dingers off Lopez on their way to seven runs on eight hits in his last start. That outing lasted just 2 1/3 innings for Lopez.

In five at-bats against Lopez, Nelson Cruz has hit two homers.

Left-hander Martin Perez (10-7, 5.13 ERA) gets the ball to start for the Twins as they rest Jake Odorizzi for the playoffs. In his last outing, Perez gave up five runs over 2 1/3 innings. In four starts in the month of September, Perez has posted an ERA of 7.00.

100* Sharp Money Syndicate Play on Tigers +131

The Tigers (47-113) have been the worst team in baseball, but they have a chance to close out the season with two straight wins as they take on the White Sox (71-89) in Chicago in the final contest of the season.

Right-hander Spencer Turnbull (3-16, 4.59 ERA) will start the final game of the season for Detroit. Turnbull hasn’t earned a win since the last day of May, but he’s been good as of late. Over his last two outings, Turnbull has given up a total of three runs over 11 innings while notching 13 strikeouts.

At home, the White Sox are scheduled to send out Ross Detwiler (3-5, 6.85 ERA) to start. The Chicago left-hander faced the Tigers in early July when he held the opposition to two earned runs over six innings, but didn’t figure into the decision.

The Tigers haven’t enjoyed a ton of success this year, but Miguel Cabrera is still getting it done for his club. With a .281 average and 58 RBIs, Cabrera leads Detroit. Brandon Dixon has been the next-best hitter for the Tigers, batting in 52 runs while racking up a team-best 15 homers on the season.

Center fielder Victor Reyes is batting .320 with a home run and three RBIs over the last seven days for Detroit.

50* Powerhouse Play on Braves +102

The Mets (85-76) gave it a good go in the second half of the season, but will fail to make the playoffs this year. As the season comes to a close, New York will host the Braves (97-64), who won the NL East and prepare to make a run at the World Series.

As Mets fans begin turning their attention to next year, they still have something to celebrate regarding this season, as Pete Alonso has set a new rookie record with 53 home runs. Alonso leads the club with those 53 dingers and his 120 RBIs.

Aiming to shut down Alonso and company will be rookie right-hander Mike Soroka (13-4, 2.60 ERA), who starts for Atlanta today. With a potential start in Game 3 of the NL Divisional Series, Soroka should be limited to 70 or so pitches in this one. In four starts against the Mets, Soroka is 4-0 with a 2.19 ERA.

Right-hander Noah Syndergaard (10-8, 4.30 ERA) will start for New York. Syndergaard has been poor lately, allowing a .348 average to opposing batters while posting a 6.97 ERA over his past four starts. In eight career starts against Atlanta, Syndergaard is 0-2 with a 3.65 ERA.

50* Powerhouse Play on Padres +149

The Padres (70-90) will be aiming to finish the season on a strong note after a run of four straight losses. San Diego will have a chance to take down the Diamondbacks (83-77) in Arizona this evening.

Right-hander Garrett Richards (0-1, 11.81 ERA) will start for the Padres tonight. It’s been a short, up-and-down season for Richards, who’s been poor in one outing and solid in another. Richards hasn’t made it through the fourth inning in either of his first two starts, so don’t expect a lengthy outing in this one.

The Diamondbacks will counter with left-hander Robbie Ray (12-8, 4.28 ERA). Ray’s last outing was against the Padres, in which he allowed four runs over 5 1/3 innings, although he did notch 10 Ks. Ray will be looking to add to his career-high 225 strikeouts in his final start of the season.

Over his last three starts, Ray is 0-1 with a 7.50 ERA. In 15 career starts versus San Diego, Ray is 5-5 with a 4.15 ERA.

Eric Hosmer, who leads the Padres with a .267 batting average, has hit two home runs in just 12 at-bats against Ray.

100* Sharp Money Syndicate Play on Cubs +178

The Cubs (83-77) picked a bad time to hit a rough patch. Before yesterday’s win over St. Louis, Chicago had lost nine straight. Meanwhile, the Cardinals (90-70) have watched their lead in the NL Central fade to just one game above the Brewers as St. Louis has dropped three straight. The Cardinals will host the Cubs this evening with just two games remaining on the season.

The visiting Cubs will send out Cole Hamels (7-7, 3.92 ERA) to start. The Chicago left-hander is making his final start of the season after skipping his last start with fatigue in his left shoulder. In 15 innings against the Cardinals this season, Hamels hasn’t allowed a single earned run.

Right-hander Adam Wainwright (14-9, 3.98 ERA) gets the start for St. Louis. Wainwright had a tough game his last time out. In five innings against the Diamondbacks, Wainwright allowed five runs and two walks. In four starts against the Cubs this year, Wainwright is 1-2 with a 3.91 ERA.

The Cubs will likely be without full services from Anthony Rizzo, Kris Bryant, and Javier Baez. While Baez has been pinch running, the other two are unlikely to see any game time.

50* Powerhouse Play on Braves +103

The Braves (97-73) have won the National League East and have their sights set on the postseason. However, they’ll head into New York to take on the Mets (84-76) first. The Mets won the first game of this series by a score of 4-2.

After this matchup, only one regular season game remains for both Atlanta and New York.

Mets rookie slugger Pete Alonso has now hit 52 home runs after knocking one out yesterday. If Alonso can hit another in one of the final two games, he’ll set the new record for homers by a rookie.

Hoping to avoid such a record setting game will be Mike Foltynewicz (8-5, 4.46 ERA), who starts for the Braves tonight. The Atlanta right-hander faced the Mets in late August when he allowed just one run on two hits over seven innings. Over his last six starts, Foltynewicz has put up an ERA of 1.19.

Left-hander Steven Matz (10-10, 4.37 ERA) is scheduled to start for New York. Matz will be pushing a couple of career highs this evening as he adds to his 154 1/3 innings pitched while making his 32ndappearance of the season. In 12 career starts against Atlanta, Matz is 5-2 with a 3.22 ERA.

100* Sharp Money Syndicate Play on Mariners +200

The Athletics (96-63) are on the verge of clinching an American League Wild Card spot, but they’ll likely need a win against the Mariners (66-93) in Seattle if they’re going to do so tonight.

Oakland is scheduled to send out right-hander Mike Fiers (15-4, 3.91 ERA) to start. In his last outing, Fiers held the Rangers scoreless over eight innings. After today’s outing, Fiers will be the likely starter for the AL Wild Card game on normal rest.

In three outings versus the Mariners this season, Fiers is 1-1 with a 5.79 ERA. In 11 career starts against Seattle, Fiers is 3-2 with a 6.15 ERA.

Left-hander Justus Sheffield (0-1, 6.10 ERA) will start for the Mariners at home. In his last outing, Sheffield allowed four runs on five hits in 4 1/3 innings against the Orioles in Baltimore. This will be Sheffield’s first game against the Athletics.

Over the last seven days, shortstop J.P. Crawford has been the Mariners’ best bat, hitting .250 with a homer and five RBIs. On the season, Crawford is batting .231 with seven home runs and 45 RBIs.

50* Powerhouse Play on Padres +120

Entering a new series on the back of three straight losses, the Padres (70-89) will be going into Arizona to take on the Diamondbacks (82-77).

Despite being outscored in head-to-head matchups against the Diamondbacks 80-57, the Padres are even on the year against Arizona with a record of 8-8.

Left-hander Eric Lauer (8-10, 4.53 ERA) will be on the mound to start for the visiting Padres. Just recently, Lauer’s been able to get his fastball up to 96 mph, which has earned him more swings and misses. Lauer has a record of 2-3 and an ERA of 2.88 in six career starts against Arizona.

Right-hander Taylor Clarke (5-5, 5.40 ERA) starts for the Diamondbacks at home tonight. Clarke hasn’t started a game since the middle of August. In that time, he’s made seven relief appearances, posting a 4.55 ERA in that role.

In one at-bat against Clarke, Hunter Renfroe blasted a solo shot earlier this year. Renfroe leads San Diego with 33 home runs on the season. First baseman Eric Hosmer is tops in the club in batting average (.268) and RBIs (97) among qualified batters.

50* Powerhouse Play on Rays -190

Although they’ll be on the road, the Rays (95-64) know they hold their playoff destiny in their own hands going into the final series of the season against the Blue Jays (65-94) in Toronto. Cleveland is two games back of Tampa Bay for the second Wild Card spot in the AL.

It’s largely been pitching that got the Rays into playoff contention, so they’ll hope for more of the same from right-hander Tyler Glasnow (6-1, 1.92 ERA). Glasnow has pitched eight innings in three starts since coming back from the injured list. In that time, he’s struck out 17 and allowed only two total runs.

Right-hander T.J. Zeuch (1-1, 4.58 ERA) will start on the mound for the Blue Jays. Against AL East competition, Zeuch has posted a 4.61 ERA. In his last outing, Zeuch allowed two runs over four innings to the Yankees. He’ll be facing Tampa Bay for the first time in his career.

The Rays enter this three-game series having beaten the Yankees and Red Sox in their last three games. Over that stretch, Tampa Bay held their opponents to just five total runs.

Watch for Austin Meadows, who’s batting .446 with seven homers and 16 RBIs in 65 at-bats against Toronto.

100* Sharp Money Syndicate Play on Mariners +225

The latest installment of Thursday’s games will pit the Athletics (95-63) against the Mariners (66-92) in Seattle. Oakland has lost two of its last three games, scoring no more than three runs in any one of them.

In all likelihood, this will be the final game in a Mariners uniform for the man the fans affectionately call “King Felix.”

Felix Hernandez (1-7, 6.51 ERA), the Seattle right-hander, is set to hit free agency after 15 years with the Mariners. Hernandez spent much of the year on the injured list, and is 0-3 with a 6.51 ERA since returning to the rotation. The former AL Cy Young winner is 169-135 with a 3.42 ERA in his 15 seasons in Seattle.

The crowd will be with Hernandez, and very much against Sean Manaea (3-0, 1.14 ERA), who starts for Oakland. This is the Athletics left-hander’s final start of the regular season, with his availability for the AL Wild Card game in focus for Oakland. In his four starts since returning from shoulder surgery, Manaea has allowed only three runs.

In 10 career starts against Seattle, Manaea is 5-4 with a 3.90 ERA.

50* Powerhouse Play on Rockies +113

Through two games of a three-game series, the Rockies (68-90) and Giants (76-82) have each won one. This afternoon in San Francisco, they’ll play one more time to see who wins the second-to-last series of the season.

While pitching has let the Rockies down, the lineup definitely hasn’t. With 814 runs scored on the year, Colorado ranks ninth in the majors. Meanwhile, San Francisco ranks 28thwith just 668 runs scored this season.

Kevin Pillar leads the Giants in most batting categories with his .262 average, 21 homers, and 85 RBIs. The Rockies are led by the duo of Charlie Blackmon, who owns a batting average of .316, and Nolan Arenado, who’s hit 41 home runs and batted in 118 runners.

Colorado will be sending out left-hander Kyle Freeland (3-11, 6.84 ERA) to start. Although Freeland didn’t go very long in his return from the injured list in his last outing, he was effective. Over two innings, Freeland held the Dodgers scoreless. Expect Freeland to be limited to 60 or fewer pitches today.

Right-hander Tyler Beede (5-10, 5.23 ERA) will start for the Giants. Beede last faced Colorado in August when he was dinged for five runs in just 3 2/3 innings.

50* Powerhouse Play on Red Sox -150

Including yesterday’s 12-10 win over the Rangers (75-82), the Red Sox (82-75) have won two of their last three games. Boston will be on the road to face off against the Rangers in Texas again tonight.

The Red Sox have only 22 more home runs than the Rangers on the season (238-216), but they’ve scored nearly 100 more total runs this year (876-778). Much of that Red Sox offensive production has come from Rafael Devers, who leads the club with 114 RBIs and his .309 batting average.

Starting on the mound for Boston will be Rick Porcello (13-12, 5.56 ERA). The Boston right-hander has made 158 starts for the Red Sox in five years, earning a record of 72-55 with an ERA of 4.43 in that time. As Porcello makes what could very well be his last start in a Boston uniform, he’ll try to replicate his last outing in which he held the Rays scoreless over six innings.

Left-hander Kolby Allard (4-1, 4.25 ERA) will start for the Rangers at home. After starting hot for Texas, Allard has been poor lately. Over his last two outings, Allard is 0-1 with a 6.00 ERA. In three starts at home, Allard has posted an ERA of 7.36.

100* Sharp Money Syndicate Play on Nationals -156

With yesterday’s doubleheader wins over the Phillies (79-78), the Nationals (88-69) booked their ticket to October baseball whilst simultaneously knocking Philly out of contention. Tonight, the Nats will aim for a victory lap win over the Phillies in Washington.

Philadelphia enters this contest as losers of their last four games, three of which have come against Washington. The Nationals enter on a three-game winnings streak.

The visiting Phillies will send out Drew Smyly (4-7, 6.44 ERA) to start. The Philadelphia left-hander has tallied a 5.82 ERA in his last nine starts. In his last outing, Smyly didn’t make it out of the third as he allowed the Indians to rack up four runs on five hits.

Right-hander Anibal Sanchez (10-8, 3.91 ERA) is scheduled to start for Washington. Sanchez is 0-2 against the Phillies this season, but he’s been very good as of late. Over his last three starts, Sanchez is holding opposing batters to a .188 average and posting a 2.37 ERA.

Although Phillies slugger Bryce Harper leads the club with 34 homers and 109 RBIs, he’s been poor against tonight’s starter for the Nats. In 12 at-bats against Sanchez, Harper is batting just .083 with zero home runs.

50* Powerhouse Play on Cubs -189

The Pirates (66-91) claimed the opening game of the series against the visiting Cubs (82-75) yesterday. Tonight, these two clubs face off once again in Pittsburgh.

Although Pittsburgh is 32-44 at home, Chicago is just 31-45 on the road.

Led by Kyle Schwarber’s 37 home runs and Anthony Rizzo’s .294 average and 94 RBIs, the Cubs have the edge offensively. With 791 runs scored and 249 home runs hit on the season, Chicago has been significantly better than the Pirates, who’ve scored 736 runs and hit just 161 homers.

On the mound to start for Chicago will be Jon Lester (13-10, 4.51 ERA), who’s been good against Pittsburgh this year. In four 2019 starts against the Pirates, Lester is 3-0 with a 3.20 ERA. In his last outing, Lester went five innings in which he struck out five and allowed a single run to the Reds.

Opposing Lester will be Pittsburgh right-hander Dario Agrazal (4-5, 4.08 ERA). Don’t expect Agrazal to make it through six innings, as the pitcher hasn’t managed to claim an out in the sixth frame since late July. Since rejoining the Pirates starting rotation last month, Agrazal is posting a 6.94 ERA.

100* Sharp Money Syndicate Play on Phillies +165

The Nationals (86-69) are set for a division clash at home as the Phillies (79-76) are in town for the third game of what will be five straight contests between the two. We’re focusing on the evening game of today’s day-night doubleheader.

For the visitors from Philadelphia, right-hander Aaron Nola (12-6, 3.75 ERA) will be on the mound to start. In eight career starts on the road against Washington, Nola is 2-1 with a 3.14 ERA and 45 Ks in 43 innings. In his last outing, Nola allowed five runs over five innings against the Braves.

Right-hander Max Scherzer (10-7, 2.81 ERA) is set to start for the Nationals. In six starts since coming off the injured list, Scherzer has posted a 4.50 ERA. In his two games against the Phillies this season, Scherzer is 1-1 with a 0.75 ERA, but he’s still working himself back into form.

In 20 at-bats against Scherzer, Jay Bruce is batting .300 with a home run.

Slugger Bryce Harper leads the Phillies with 33 homers and 108 RBIs, and he’s been very good lately. Over the past seven days, Harper is batting .348 with two homers and six RBIs.

50* Powerhouse Play on Brewers +115

Two National League Central teams will face off this evening as the Reds (73-83) host the Brewers (86-70) in Cincinnati. While the Reds have lost two of their last three, the Brewers are on a four-game winning streak.

Over the last four games, Milwaukee has scored 29 total runs, including two 10-run performances. Meanwhile, Cincinnati has failed to score more than three runs in any of its past four games.

On the season, the Reds have launched 221 home runs and scored 682 total runs. The Brewers have bested Cincinnati in both categories, hitting 242 homers and plating 739 total runs.

The visitors will be sending out Adrian Houser (6-7, 3.83 ERA) to start. In his last outing, the Brewers right-hander struck out five while allowing no walks, three hits, and two earned runs over five innings against the Padres. Since the All-Star break, Houser is 4-4 with a 3.71 ERA.

Right-hander Sonny Gray (11-7, 2.80 ERA) is scheduled to start for the Reds. In four starts against the Brewers this year, Gray is 2-0 with a 1.85 ERA. Gray set a record in his last start by notching his 32ndconsecutive start in which he gave up six or fewer hits.

50* Powerhouse Play on Tigers +220

As the Twins (96-60) keep a hold on their four-game lead in the AL Central and push closer to a playoff berth, they’ll begin a new series against the Tigers (46-109) in Detroit.

On the mound for Minnesota will be Jake Odorizzi (14-7, 3.59 ERA). The Minnesota right-hander has given up just two homers in his last nine starts, and is set to better that mark against a Tigers lineup that’s hit just 145 homers on the year.

Odorizzi has notched 26 strikeouts in 16 September innings of pitching, but he hasn’t completed six innings in any of those three starts. In his last start, Odorizzi allowed two runs over 5 2/3 innings. In an early September outing against Detroit, Odorizzi gave up three runs over five innings.

Right-hander Spencer Turnbull (3-15, 4.66 ERA) will get another start at home. So far, he’s winless in his 15 home starts with a 5.08 ERA. His 0-10 record at Comerica Park includes a six-run outing against the Twins to start September.

In his last outing, Turnbull was good against a strong Indians team. Over five innings, Turnbull allowed just one run.

50* Powerhouse Play on Diamondbacks +108

After dropping seven of their past eight games, the Padres (69-84) will play host to the Diamondbacks (78-75) in San Diego this evening.

Right-hander Merrill Kelly (11-14, 4.49 ERA) will start for Arizona. His last time out, Kelly pitched seven innings and gave up no runs on three hits against the Reds. Over his last three starts, Kelly is 2-1 with an ERA of 1.35. In his four starts against the Padres, Kelly is 2-1 with a 5.03 ERA.

Left-hander Eric Lauer (8-9, 4.60) is scheduled to start for the Padres. Thankfully for San Diego, this contest is at home, where Lauer has posted a 3.08 ERA. On the road, Lauer has an ERA of 6.27. Although Lauer is 2-2 against Arizona, D-Backs hitters are batting .307 against the Padres left-hander.

The Diamondbacks will be excited to play division rivals. In Kelly’s last four starts versus NL West competition, the D-Backs are unbeaten. Arizona is also 8-1 in its last nine games against teams within the division.

Meanwhile, the Padres haven’t won a series opening game in their last five tries. In its last eight games against right-handed starting pitchers, San Diego is just 1-7.

100* Sharp Money Syndicate Play on Red Sox +174

As the 2019 season nears its close, the Red Sox (80-72) are looking up at both the Rays (90-63) and Yankees in the AL East. Tonight, Boston aims to play spoiler as the team goes into Tampa Bay with the hope of dragging the Rays down in the Wild Card race.

This matchup features a hitting-versus-pitching dynamic. With 845 runs scored on the season, the Red Sox are more than 100 runs better than the Rays, who’ve scored 732. But when it comes to pitching, the 3.66 team ERA of Tampa Bay is far superior to Boston’s 4.63.

Right-hander Rick Porcello (13-12, 5.77 ERA) will be on the mound to start for the visiting Red Sox. In his last outing, Porcello held the Phillies to two runs over five innings in a win. In 167 starts at Tropicana Field in St. Pete, Porcello is 8-5 with an ERA of 2.87.

The Rays will be starting 35-year-old right-hander Charlie Morton (15-6, 3.16 ERA). In 15 home starts, Morton is 7-3 with a 2.74 ERA. In eight career starts against the Red Sox, Morton has posted a 4.26 ERA.

Mookie Betts, who’s been on the injured list, could return for this one. On the season, Betts is batting .293 with 28 homers and 78 RBIs.

50* Powerhouse Play on Reds +140

While the Mets (79-73) were closing out a series against the Rockies with two straight wins, the Reds (72-81) were doing the same thing to the Cubs. Tonight, the Mets and Reds will kick off a brand new series in Cincinnati.

A pair of All-Star right-handers will be on the mound tonight as Jacob DeGrom (9-8, 2.61 ERA) takes the mound for New York and Luis Castillo (15-6, 3.22 ERA) takes the mound for Cincinnati.

Continuing a wonderful second half in his last outing, DeGrom pitched seven innings of shutout baseball while allowing only three hits, but didn’t factor into the decision. Over his last 21 starts, DeGrom is posting a 2.09 ERA. Since the All-Star break, DeGrom ranks first in strikeouts and third in ERA in the National League.

Aiming to improve his career-best 15 wins, Castillo will be victorious in five of his last six starts if he gets the W tonight. Castillo pitched against the Mets in April, throwing 6 2/3 innings while allowing two runs. In two career starts against New York, Castillo is 1-0 with a 2.92 ERA.

Reds slugger Joey Votto has enjoyed a great September, batting .321 with two homers and seven RBIs.

100* Sharp Money Syndicate Play on Padres +147

Without Christian Yelich on the field, the Brewers (82-70) will host the Padres (69-83) for the fourth straight time this afternoon in Milwaukee. In each of the first three games of the series, the loser has scored just one run.

On the mound for the visitors will be left-hander Joey Lucchesi (10-8, 4.22 ERA). In over 153 innings pitched, Lucchesi has struck out 145 batters while allowing 52 walks and 22 homers. The second-year starter can boast a 5-1 record with a 4.33 ERA in 10 daytime games. In two career starts against the Brewers, Lucchesi is 1-0 with an ERA of 2.31.

Right-hander Jordan Lyles (11-8, 4.25 ERA) starts for the Brewers this afternoon. In his nine starts for the Brewers since coming over from Pittsburgh, Lyles is 6-1 with a 2.39 ERA. In 13 career appearances against the Padres, Lyles is 3-4 with an ERA of 5.02.

A Brewers offense that ranks 17thin the majors with 4.67 runs per game is now even worse without Yelich, who led the club with 44 home runs, 97 RBIs, and a .329 average.

For the Padres, Hunter Renfroe and Eric Hosmer lead the line. Renfroe has slugged 32 home runs while Hosmer leads the team with 95 RBIs.

100* Sharp Money Syndicate Play on Padres +132

Over their last 10 games, the Brewers (82-69) are 9-1 and are tied with the Chicago Cubs for the second National League Wild Card spot. Tonight, Milwaukee will host the Padres (68-83) at Miller Park.

In addition to their tight Wild Card race, the Brewers are also just two games back of the St. Louis Cardinals in the NL Central as the season draws to a close. With playoff baseball out of reach, the Padres will play the part of the spoiler tonight.

On the mound, San Diego will turn to right-hander Dinelson Lamet (2-5, 4.06 ERA). A long layoff from Tommy John surgery hasn’t seemed to affect Lamet, who looks like the same pitcher. In his last outing, Lamet took the loss as he allowed three runs over five innings against the Cubs.

The Brewers will be sending out Adrian Houser (6-6, 3.84 ERA). The Milwaukee right-hander had allowed three runs or fewer in six straight outings before facing the Diamondbacks his last time out. In that recent start, Houser was taken deep by Paul Goldschmidt in grand-slam fashion.

After fracturing his right kneecap, Christian Yelich will be missing for the Brewers. Yelich led the team in all major offensive categories, including his .329 average, 44 homers, and 97 RBIs.

50* Powerhouse Play on White Sox +255

With Cleveland five games back in the American League Central, the Twins (93-58) appear to have the division won. Tonight, they’ll host the White Sox (65-86) for the third straight time in Minnesota.

Chicago will be starting right-hander Ivan Nova (10-12, 4.86 ERA) in this one. Shoulder soreness has caused the White Sox to scratch Dylan Covey, so Nova will open the game with one inning rather than throwing his normal bullpen session. In his two starts in Minnesota, Nova is 2-0 with a 1.46 ERA.

Right-hander Jake Odorizzi (14-6, 3.60 ERA) gets the start for the Twins. The Minnesota right-hander was only able to pitch two innings in his last start, which was discarded in a postponed game due to lightning. In nine career starts against the White Sox, Odorizzi is 3-3 with a 3.20 ERA.

Odorizzi will need to use caution against the White Sox’ best hitter, Jose Abreu, who leads the club with 33 home runs and 119 RBIs. In 23 at-bats against Odorizzi, Abreu is batting .391 with three RBIs.

Coming off a home run in yesterday’s game, Tim Anderson is another dangerous Chicago hitter. Over the last seven days, Anderson is batting .414 with a homer.

50* Powerhouse Play on Rockies +145

Before yesterday’s loss, the Rockies (66-86) scored 40 runs in four straight victories. This afternoon, the Rockies will host the Mets (78-73) in Colorado for the final game of a three-game series.

Despite what the records say, the Rockies have been the better offensive team all season long. With 788 runs scored, Colorado ranks eighth in the majors. With 733 runs scored, the Mets rank 13th. Over the last seven days, the 46 runs of the Rockies (third in MLB) is better than the Mets’ 37 runs scored (seventh in MLB).

As New York’s starting pitcher today, it will be Noah Syndergaard’s (10-8, 4.15 ERA) job to slow down the Rockies lineup. For Syndergaard, the man behind the plate seems to make a big difference. Throwing to Wilson Ramos, the Mets right-hander holds a 5.20 ERA. With either Rene Rivera or Tomas Nido catching, Syndergaard is posting a 2.22 ERA.

Opposite Syndergaard will be Jeff Hoffman (2-6, 7.03 ERA). The Colorado right-hander allowed six walks and four runs over 5 1/3 innings against the Padres his last time out, but the Rockies won.

While the Mets are 35-42 on the road, the Rockies are 40-37 at home.

50* Powerhouse Play on Royals +235

The Royals (56-95) managed to take down the Athletics (90-61) by a score of 6-5 in the series opener on Monday. Tonight, Kansas City aim to play spoiler once again as they look for back-to-back victories in Oakland.

The A’s currently have ownership over the first Wild Card spot in the American League. Tampa Bay sits one-game back and in control of the second Wild Card position, while Cleveland is 1.5 games back of the Rays.

On the mound for the road-dog Royals will be right-hander Jorge Lopez (4-7, 6.09 ERA). In his last outing, Lopez allowed two earned runs (three total) on eight hits in 5 1/3 innings. Kansas City won the game while Lopez had a pair of strikeouts and walks.

Pitching for the home team will be Oakland left-hander Brett Anderson (12-9, 4.07 ERA). Over his last seven starts, Anderson has posted an ERA of 4.15 while earning a record of 3-2. In his last outing, Anderson gave up two runs over five innings.

The duo of Jorge Soler and Whit Merrifield leads the Royals lineup. Soler leads the club with 45 homers and 109 RBIs. Merrifield leads the team with his .307 batting average.

50* Powerhouse Play on Marlins +171

Diamondbacks – Young

With a record of 52-98, the Miami Marlins head into Arizona for another matchup with the 77-74 Diamondbacks.

Tonight’s pitching matchup features a pair of starters looking for consistency as Marlins left-hander Caleb Smith (8-10, 4.13 ERA) goes up against Diamondbacks left-hander Alex Young (7-4, 3.38 ERA).

Smith has been poor on the road, earning a record of 2-6 while posting a 4.77 ERA away from home. Although he’s struggled with allowing home runs, giving up 29 this season, Smith has lowered his walks per nine innings to a career-low 3.3.

In a July win over the Diamondbacks, Smith pitched seven innings and gave up four runs on four hits.

Young is coming off two very different starts. First, Young threw eight shutout innings against the Reds while striking out 12 batters. Young then followed up that impressive performance by giving up six runs in 2 2/3 innings to the Mets.

Young last pitched against Miami in late July when Arizona won a 9-2 contest.

Against Young, Miguel Rojas is 2-for-3 with a home run. Rojas also leads the Marlins with his .283 batting average.

100* Sharp Money Syndicate Play on Rockies +145

The Rockies (66-85) have won four straight games while the Mets (77-73) are watching their playoff hopes slip away as they’ve lost three of their last four. Tonight, Colorado will host the visiting Mets in the second game of their three-game set.

New York has struggled to score runs, earning just 11 over their past four contests. Meanwhile, the Rockies can’t seem to stop scoring. Over their four-game win streak, Colorado has scored 40 total runs.

Nolan Arenado has been a big part of the scoring spree of late. In addition to leading the club with 40 homers and 117 RBIs, Arenado is batting .476 with three home runs and nine RBIs over the last seven days.

Hoping to limit the hottest lineup in baseball at the moment will be Marcus Stroman (8-13, 3.35 ERA), who starts for the Mets. Since joining the Mets at the trade deadline, Stroman is 2-2 with a 4.50 ERA. In his last outing, Stroman last 6 1/3 innings in which he allowed one run on four hits.

The Rockies will be sending out right-hander Tim Melville (2-2, 5.16 ERA) to start. Melville is holding righties to a .211 average this season.

50* Powerhouse Play on Marlins +195

As the Marlins (52-97) get set for a three-game series against the Diamondbacks (76-74), Miami will be hoping to take advantage of a team that’s lost seven of its last eight contests. These two clubs open the series this evening in Arizona.

The visiting Marlins will give the ball to right-hander Pablo Lopez (5-8, 4.97 ERA), who starts tonight. Lopez allowed five runs over five innings to the Brewers in his last outing, but only gave up two runs over 6 1/3 innings in his previous start.

For the home team, left-hander Robbie Ray (12-8, 4.30 ERA) will start. Due in large part to a blister on his hand, Ray only lasted two-thirds of an inning in his last outing. Including two home runs, Ray allowed five runs on five hits in the shortest outing of his career.

In their last eight games, the Diamondbacks have scored a total of just 12 runs. Over the last seven days, Arizona ranks dead last in the majors with just nine runs scored. Although Miami ranks 28th, the Marlins have doubled that amount in the same period of time with 18.

100* Sharp Money Syndicate Play on Rockies +149

Coming off a three-game sweep of the Padres, the Rockies (65-85) have had no trouble scoring runs lately. Tonight, they’ll host the Mets (77-72) in Colorado.

Scoring a total of seven runs in a three-game set against the Dodgers, New York has lost two of its last three contests. Meanwhile, the Rockies were able to rack up 31 runs in their last three games. Those 31 runs would be good enough for 16thin the majors when taking into account everyone else’s run totals over the last seven days.

The visiting Mets will go with Steven Matz (10-8, 3.84 ERA) to start. The New York left-hander is 7-1 with a 1.94 ERA at home, but is just 3-7 with a 6.08 ERA when pitching on the road. With Colorado in fine form offensively, Matz could be in for another rough outing away from home.

Right-hander Antonio Senzatela (9-10, 6.87 ERA) will start for the Rockies at home. In his last outing, Senzatela allowed just one run on four hits over six innings against the Cardinals. Senzatela has faced the Mets twice, pitching a total of nine innings and going 1-0 with a 1.00 ERA.

100* Sharp Money Syndicate Play on White Sox +117

Before a 10-inning, one-run loss yesterday, the White Sox (65-83) started a series against the Mariners (61-88) with a 9-7 victory. A late afternoon game in Seattle will decide who wins this series.

Over the last seven days, both of these clubs have played six games. While the Mariners have scored just 24 runs over that span, the White Sox rank 11thin the majors with 31 runs scored.

Although the White Sox haven’t enjoyed a hugely successful season, the club features Tim Anderson’s MLB-leading .333 average and Jose Abreu’s American League-leading 116 RBIs.

On the mound, Chicago is set to start right-hander Ivan Nova (10-12, 4.69 ERA). After giving up three solo homers through the first two innings of his last outing, Nova settled in and threw 5 2/3 innings with no walks and gave up nothing else. Nova earned the win in that game.

The Mariners will be sending out rookie Justus Sheffield (0-1, 4.43 ERA). The Seattle left-hander only gave up a single run over six innings against the Reds in his last outing. In four outings in Seattle, Sheffield is 0-1 with a 5.71 ERA.

50* Powerhouse Play on Marlins +159

The Marlins (52-96) and Giants (71-78) split the first two games of their current series. This afternoon, they’ll play a third contest in San Francisco.

On the mound, Miami will send out right-hander Elieser Hernandez (3-5, 5.24 ERA). Hernandez has been decent recently. In his last seven outings, Hernandez has struck out 35 in 36 innings while earning a 2-1 record and posting an ERA of 4.75.

Opposite Hernandez will be Johnny Cueto (1-0, 0.00 ERA) for the Giants. The San Francisco right-hander made his return from Tommy John surgery in a start Tuesday. In five innings, Cueto held the Pirates scoreless. Don’t expect Cueto to throw many more than 70 pitches in this one.

In 10 starts against Miami, Cueto is 4-2 but has a 5.09 ERA. In his last two games against the Marlins, Cueto has posted a 9.00 ERA.

Over the last seven games, the Marlins have scored 26 runs. In the same span, the Giants have managed just 17 runs.

For the Marlins, Brian Anderson leads all batters with 20 homers, Miguel Rojas leads with a .286 average, and Starlin Castro leads with 78 RBIs.

50* Powerhouse Play on Nationals +103

The Braves (93-57) have now extended their lead in the NL East to 10.5 games after winning two straight against the Nationals (81-66). These clubs are set for another matchup early this afternoon in Washington D.C.

For the visitors, left-hander Max Fried (16-5, 4.02) looks for his 17thwin of the season. In his last outing, the Phillies roughed up Fried to the tune of four runs. Three runs came in the first inning before an inside-the-park home run pushed the total to four in five innings.

For the Nationals, right-hander Anibal Sanchez (8-8, 4.04 ERA) will start. Sanchez’ last outing was a strong one against a dangerous Twins lineup. After carrying a no-hitter into the fifth, Sanchez allowed two runs over seven innings. In four starts against Atlanta this year, Sanchez is 2-0 with a 4.50 ERA.

Washington has enjoyed playing on Sundays recently, going a perfect 5-0 in their last five contests on the final day of the week. They also tend to play well against lefties. Of their last 10 opportunities against left-handed starters, the Nationals have won eight.

Washington is currently ranked sixth in the majors on offensive with an average of 5.36 runs scored per game.

100* Sharp Money Syndicate Play on Diamondbacks -113

Following a tough series against the Mets and a loss in the current series opener, it’s fair to say the Diamondbacks (75-73) are due for a win. Tonight, Arizona will play host to the Reds (69-79).

For Cincinnati, right-hander Anthony DeSclafani (9-8, 4.06 ERA) gets the start. Over his last five starts, DeSclafani has struck out 27 in 31 innings while posting a 2.32 ERA. In his last outing, Arizona managed to score three runs, including a two-run blast, over six innings.

For Arizona, right-hander Merrill Kelly (10-14, 4.68 ERA) will start. In his last outing, Merrill gave up three runs on seven hits over six innings against the Mets. If not for Pete Alonso, who hit two solo shots, Merrill would have enjoyed a great start.

Kelly isn’t as poor as his record might let on. With a 3.17 run support average, which is the fifth-lowest in the majors, Kelly has done well to earn a 5-5 record and 3.50 ERA at home.

Eduardo Escobar leads the D-Backs with 34 home runs and 113 RBIs. Ketel Marte, who has a home run off DeSclafani, is batting a club-leading .327 on the year.

50* Powerhouse Play on Mets -130

Before yesterday’s loss to the Dodgers (96-53) in the series opener, the Mets (76-71) had won four straight. As they host Los Angeles again tonight, New York will be aiming to cut into the three-game gap between themselves and the Cubs for the second Wild Card.

Although the Dodgers were first to earn a playoff berth, they entered the series with only a single win out of their last five contests against a team with a winning record. Before yesterday’s game, the Mets were a perfect 5-0 in their last five against NL West competition.

Hyun-Jin Ryu (12-5, 2.45 ERA), who starts for the Dodgers tonight, spent the vast majority of 2019 as one of the premier pitchers in the majors. Yet over his past four starts, the Los Angeles left-hander has posted a 9.95 ERA. As the Dodgers near postseason baseball, they hope skipping over Ryu once in the rotation will help him return to form.

Right-hander Jacob deGrom (9-8, 2.70 ERA) starts for the Mets. Despite his near-even record, deGrom is in the middle of a tight race for the NL Cy Young award. Over his past 20 starts, deGrom has posted a 2.20 ERA. As Ryu has fallen back to the pack, deGrom has continued his surge forward with seven innings of one-run ball in his last outing.

50* Powerhouse Play on Orioles +115

While the Orioles (48-99) are winners of two of their last three, the Tigers (43-103) have lost three straight. Tonight in Detroit, Baltimore will aim to avoid joining their opponents in the triple-digit-loss club.

On the mound for the visitors will be Gabriel Ynoa (1-8, 5.79 ERA). The Orioles right-hander had a good outing against the Rays in his last start, which came in early September. In that matchup, Ynoa allowed only two runs over 6 1/3 innings.

For the Tigers, left-hander Daniel Norris (3-12, 4.72 ERA) will start. As Norris nears his innings limit for the season, he’s been pitching three innings at a time. Over his last fifteen innings (five outings), Norris has let up five runs on 10 hits and five walks while striking out 14.

The Orioles offer different club leaders for each major batting category. Hanser Alberto leads the team with a batting average of .318, Trey Mancini leads the team with 31 homers, and Renato Nunez leads the team with 82 RBIs.

While Baltimore isn’t the most prolific offensive roster in the majors, Detroit has been even worse. The Tigers have scored just 537 runs and have an on-base percentage of just .295, both of which are the worst in the MLB.

50* Powerhouse Play on White Sox +130

Together, the White Sox (64-82) and Mariners (60-87) have a combined record of 124-169. Tonight, these two struggling clubs will face off in Seattle.

At home, Yusei Kikuchi (6-9, 5.24 ERA) will start. The Mariners left-hander limited Houston to one run on five hits over five innings his last time out. Over his last four outings, Kikuchi is 2-1 with a 3.52 ERA. In his lone outing against Chicago, Kikuchi gave up six total runs in five innings.

Opposite Kikuchi will be White Sox right-hander Dylan Covey (1-8, 7.69 ERA). Covey’s struggles, including his 0-4 record in the second half, is a big reason why Chicago comes into this game as underdogs. However, Covey was good against the Mariners in his July start against the team. Covey lasted 8 1/3 innings and gave up just two runs.

For the White Sox, the duo of Tim Anderson and Jose Abreu are the most likely to offer run support. Anderson is batting .333 with 52 RBIs, and hitting .400 with five doubles and two homers thus far in September. Abreu leads the team with 32 home runs and 115 RBIs, and is batting .412 with four dingers over the last seven days.

100* Sharp Money Syndicate Play on Padres -114

Both the Padres (68-78) and Rockies (62-85) are coming off a loss after two straight wins. After tonight’s contest between the two in Colorado, one will be handed its second-straight loss.

The visiting Padres will send out Joey Lucchesi (10-7, 3.84 ERA) to start. The San Diego left-hander has been great over his last four starts, posting a 1.57 ERA. Lucchesi’s last outing came against the Rockies, in which he tossed six innings of shutout baseball.

While Charlie Blackmon is one of Colorado’s best bats, hitting .317 with 27 homers and 76 RBIs, he’s only batting .176 in 17 at-bats against Lucchesi.

Right-hander Jeff Hoffman (1-6, 7.06 ERA) will occupy the mound to start things off for the Rockies. Hoffman lasted 5 2/3 innings his last time out, holding the Dodgers to five hits and three runs while striking out eight batters and giving up two walks.

Padres slugger Manny Machado will be excited for a new series in Colorado. At Coors Field, Machado is batting .484 with three doubles and three dingers in seven games this season.

In their last eight games against Colorado, San Diego owns a record of 6-2.

50* Powerhouse Play on Nationals -119

While the Nationals (80-64) are winners of two of their last three, the Twins (89-56) have dropped three of their past five games. Tonight, both teams square off for the third straight game in Minnesota.

Anthony Rendon will hope to break this game open for Washington. Since the All-Star break, Rendon is batting .371 with 19 doubles, 12 home runs, and 52 RBIs.

Rendon and the rest of the Nats lineup will be trying to provide run support for left-hander Patrick Corbin (11-7, 3.16 ERA), who starts tonight. In his past 15 starts, Corbin has pitched 94 1/3 innings. In those innings, Corbin has struck out 116, walked 31, and posted an ERA of 2.29.

Opposite Corbin will be Twins right-hander Kyle Gibson (13-6, 4.58 ERA). This will be Gibson’s return to the starting lineup after taking time off for the birth of a child and to deal with ulcerative colitis. In his last outing, Gibson allowed 10 hits and four runs over five innings against Detroit.

Washington will be hoping for another strong performance from Ryan Zimmerman, who finished yesterday’s contest with three hits, one of which was a two-run homer, and three RBIs.

50* Powerhouse Play on Braves -121

After a run of nine straight wins, the Braves (91-56) have gone an even 2-2 over their last four games. If the Phillies (75-70) can get the better of Atlanta tonight, both teams will split the four-game series in Philadelphia.

Atlanta has been better than Philly in almost every category. The Braves hold the advantage in runs scored (786-706), home runs (231-191), and team ERA (.421-.456).

Much of their offensive prowess can be attributed to first baseman Freddie Freeman. On top of a .305 average, Freeman has belted 38 homers and batted in 117 RBIs.

Hoping to slow Freeman and the Atlanta offense will be Philadelphia left-hander Drew Smyly (4-6, 6.20 ERA). This will be Smyly’s second-ever start against the Braves, but he’s faced Josh Donaldson plenty. In 18 at-bats against Smyly, Donaldson is batting .444 with three home runs and four RBIs.

The Braves will be sending out right-hander Julio Teheran (10-8, 3.31 ERA) to start. Over his past 23 starts, Teheran can boast a 2.67 ERA. Teheran hasn’t faced Philadelphia since Opening Day, but he’s held opposing batters to a .167 average over his past four starts.

100* Sharp Money Syndicate Play on Rockies +165

The Rockies (62-84) have taken two straight games off the Cardinals (81-64), both by a score of 2-1. This afternoon, the Rockies will aim to make it three straight wins in Colorado.

The visiting Cardinals will send out right-hander Miles Mikolas (8-13, 4.25 ERA) to start. In his last outing, Mikolas allowed one run in five innings, but also gave up a season-high four walks. In five appearances against the Rockies, Mikolas has posted an ERA of 6.05.

In limited action, several Colorado hitters have gotten to Mikolas. In nine at-bats against St. Louis’ starter tonight, Nolan Arenado is batting .444 with two homers and four RBIs. Daniel Murphy is 4-for-10 against Mikolas.

In 68 plate appearances, current Rockies are batting .313 against Mikolas.

For the home team, Tim Melville (2-1, 3.66 ERA) starts on the mound. In his last time out, the Colorado right-hander held the Padres to two runs over 5 2/3 innings while striking out eight batters. On the road, Melville is 2-0 with a 2.13 ERA.

While Colorado is 31.5 games back of the Dodgers in the NL West, St. Louis is clinging to a four-game lead over Milwaukee and Chicago in the NL Central.

100* Sharp Money Syndicate Play on Rockies +151

The Rockies (61-84) managed to sneak by the Cardinals (81-63) with a 2-1 victory to open the series on Tuesday. Tonight, these two clubs face off once again in Colorado.

While the Cardinals are the better pitching team, boasting a fifth-best team ERA of 3.83, the Rockies have the advantage in the offensive side of the game. While St. Louis ranks 21stin the majors with 670 runs scored, the Rockies rank ninth with 742 runs scored on the season.

The visiting Cardinals will start right-hander Dakota Hudson (15-6, 3.40 ERA), who’s posted a 3.23 ERA over his 11 starts since the All-Star break. In his last outing, Hudson allowed one hit over six innings.

Colorado will be going with right-hander Antonio Senzatela (8-10, 7.19 ERA) to start. Senzatela will be aiming to regain the solid form he had during June, throughout which he posted a respectable 4.83 ERA. He’s had trouble with his fastball against left-handed hitters this year, which has inflated his ERA.

Against Senzatela, Yadier Molina is batting just .250 in 12 at-bats and Paul Goldschmidt is batting .267 in 15 at-bats.

Nolan Arenado leads the Rockies with 38 home runs and 110 RBIs on the season.

50* Powerhouse Play on Brewers -139

The Brewers (76-68) have lost their best weapon, Christian Yelich, in their battle to reach the playoffs. Now without Yelich’s .329 average, 44 home runs, and 97 RBIs, Milwaukee goes into Miami looking for its third straight win against the Marlins (51-93).

Although a fractured right kneecap leaves the Brewers without their best bat, the club can ride the momentum of its current five-game win streak. However, it will take a lot to make for the player who led the majors with an OPS of 1.100.

On the mound, Milwaukee is going with right-hander Zach Davies (9-7, 3.69 ERA) in this one. With Davies starting, the Brewers are 15-12. Davies has pitched 9 2/3 innings over his last two outings – both wins against the Cubs – in which he gave up seven hits and one run in total.

Miami will be sending out right-hander Pablo Lopez (5-8, 4.75 ERA) to start. In nine starts at home, Lopez has earned a record of 3-3 with a 2.86 ERA. The Marlins defeated Milwaukee the last time Lopez started against them, as the righty struck out seven in six innings.

Against the NL East, the Brewers have won seven of Davies’ last 10 starts.

50* Powerhouse Play on Orioles +172

With last night’s results, including a 7-3 win over the Orioles (46-98), the Dodgers (94-52) clinched the NL West title for the seventh consecutive season. Tonight, Los Angeles will continue its quest to earn the best record in baseball as the team prepares for another contest in Baltimore.

In his first game against the Orioles, Ross Stripling (4-4, 3.42 ERA) gets the start for the Dodgers. The Los Angeles right-hander has been relatively consistent through his 13 starts and 15 appearances as a reliever. As a starter, Stripling is posting a 3.38 ERA. As a reliever, he’s posting a 3.57 ERA. However, Stripling isn’t expected to go more than four innings, especially coming off three scoreless innings in his last start.

Left-hander John Means (10-10, 3.50 ERA) gets the start for Baltimore. With Means nearing a career high for innings pitched, the Orioles gave the lefty an extra day of rest. However, the rest appears to be unnecessary with Means posting a 2.45 ERA over his last four starts.

This year, lefties are batting just .169 against Means.

The Orioles may have a little extra motivation to beat the Dodgers this evening after watching the visitors celebrate on their field yesterday.

50* Powerhouse Play on Cubs -140

The Cubs (77-66) opened a new series against the Padres (66-77) with a 10-2 victory. Chicago is now set for the second game in San Diego this evening.

Getting the start for the Cubs will be left-hander Jose Quintana (13-8, 4.00 ERA). Although Quintana gave up four runs on five hits to the Brewers in his last outing, he earned the win. In four career starts against the Padres, Quintana is 2-0 with a 4.50 ERA.

In 53 at-bats against Quintana, Eric Hosmer is batting just .226 with a pair of home runs. Hosmer leads the Padres with his .280 average and 92 RBIs.

Right-hander Ronald Bolanos (0-1, 3.00 ERA) starts for the Padres. In his debut, Bolanos pitched six innings and gave up two runs on five hits. This is more or less a tryout for Bolanos as the Padres aim to figure out what the 2020 rotation will look like.

Against left-handed starters, the Padres are 21-46 in their last 67 games. Against the NL Central, the Padres have won two of their last seven contests.

The Cubs have won each of their last five games against teams with a losing record.

50* Powerhouse Play on Cardinals -138

Out of their last 12 games, the Rockies (60-84) have won just a single contest. Tonight, Colorado will host the Cardinals (81-62), who’ve won three of their last four.

The Rockies have actually been the better hitting team, scoring 740 runs to St. Louis’ 669. However, the Cards and their 3.84 ERA are significantly better than the 5.62 team ERA of Colorado.

For the visiting Cardinals, Michael Wacha (6-6, 4.98 ERA) gets the start. The St. Louis right-hander only went two innings his last time out due to short rest, but allowed zero runs. Tonight, Wacha will be pitching on normal rest against a team he’s posted a 5.28 ERA against in his career.

Right-hander Chi Chi Gonzalez (0-6, 7.29 ERA) starts for Colorado. Gonzalez has started nine times, all of which the Rockies have lost. In his last time out, Gonzalez held the Dodgers to two runs over 6 1/3 innings.

In a series against the Rockies earlier this season, Paul Goldschmidt went 7-for-16 with three RBIs. On the year, Goldschmidt is has launched 29 home runs and batted in 80 runs.

The Rockies are winless in their last six home games.

100* Sharp Money Syndicate Play on Phillies +151

Game 2 of a four-game series will take place tonight in Philadelphia when the Phillies (74-69) host the NL East-leading Braves (90-55). Although Atlanta took the series opener, Philly won the previous two games against the Mets in New York.

The visiting Braves will send out left-hander Max Fried (16-4, 3.86 ERA) to start. In his last outing, Fried held the Nationals to zero runs through his seven innings pitched. Fried has struck out eight batters or more in four of his last six starts.

J.T. Realmuto has been one the best Philly hitters against Fried. In this matchup, Realmuto is 4-for-10 with a home run and four RBIs. Jay Bruce is 2-for-5 and Sean Rodriguez is 3-for-5 with a homer and three RBIs.

On the mound for the Phillies will be Jason Vargas (6-7, 4.27 ERA). In his last outing, Vargas held the Reds to two hits while striking out six batters in 5 1/3 innings. In seven career outings against the Braves, Vargas is 2-2 with a 5.40 ERA.

In 136 plate appearances, this Braves lineup is hitting .234 against Vargas.

100* Sharp Money Syndicate Play on Cubs -144

The Cubs (76-66) kick off a four-game set against the Padres (66-76) in San Diego this evening. With injuries to Javier Baez, Addison Russel, and Kris Bryant, Chicago may have to mix and match on the left side of the infield.

Right-hander Kyle Hendricks (9-9, 3.39 ERA) will be on the mound to start for the Cubs. In his last outing, Hendricks notched seven strikeouts and held the Mariners to one run over six innings. In nine career starts against the Padres, Hendricks is 5-2 with a 2.98 ERA.

San Diego will counter with rookie right-hander Cal Quantrill (6-6, 4.57 ERA). Quantrill had made himself a reliable starter for the Padres, but he’s struggled lately. In each of his last two starts, Quantrill has allowed eight earned runs.

In nine starts at home, Quantrill is 3-2 with a 4.44 ERA.

Out of Hendricks’ last 10 games coming off six days of rest, the Cubs are 7-3. Of their last 19 games to open a new series, the Padres are 6-13. And of their last 15 games at home against a team with a winning record, San Diego is 4-11.

50* Powerhouse Play on A's +173

The Athletics (84-59) are just a one-run, 11-inning loss away from being winners of six straight. As they enter a four-game series against the Astros (94-50) in Houston, Oakland will try to keep up that good form against a team that scored 21 runs a day ago.

As the eighth-ranked team in runs scored (744) and seventh-ranked team in home runs (224), the Athletics are good enough to be in the race for a Wild Card spot. The Astros are even better. With 814 runs scored, Houston is third in the majors.

We’ll have a good pitching matchup this evening as Oakland right-hander Mike Fiers (14-3, 3.51 ERA) goes up against Houston right-hander Zack Greinke (14-5, 3.09 ERA).

Although Fiers wasn’t at his best in his last outing, he held the Angels to four runs in five innings. Over his last 21 starts, Fiers is 12-0 with a 2.59 ERA. During that run of games, the Athletics are 17-4.

In six starts since being acquired from Arizona, Greinke is 4-1 with a 3.86 ERA. That lone loss in a Houston uniform came against the Brewers in his last outing. In six innings, Greinke allowed eight hits and four runs.

50* Powerhouse Play on Rockies +148

A late afternoon game in San Diego pits the visiting Rockies (60-83) against the Padres (65-76). These clubs have split the opening two games of the series thus far.

For Colorado, the duo of Nolan Arenado and Charlie Blackmon have become a force in the National League. While Arenado is batting .311 and Blackmon leads the team with his .317 average, the two have combined for 64 home runs and 184 RBIs on the season.

Aiming to shut down that duo from the mound will be Eric Lauer (8-8, 4.55 ERA), who starts for the Padres. The San Diego left-hander is 3-0 in his seven appearances since late July, but he hasn’t had any success against Colorado. In three starts against the Rockies this season, Lauer is 0-2 with a 14.90 ERA.

In 13 at-bats versus Blackmon, Lauer has been shelled to the tune of a .615 batting average with a home run and three RBIs.

Right-hander Peter Lambert (2-6, 7.19 ERA) starts for Colorado. The 22-year-old is struggling to find good form in his rookie campaign after kicking off his season with two straight wins over the Cubs in June.

50* Powerhouse Play on Angels -116

The Angels (67-76) have scored a total of 13 runs in their two straight wins over the White Sox (62-80). Los Angeles will now aim to make it three straight in another game in Chicago.

Led by Mike Trout’s .291 average, 45 home runs, and 104 RBIs, the Angels hold a significant advantage over the White Sox offensively. Compared to the Angels’ 714 runs scored and 204 homers, Chicago has scored just 604 runs and hit only 150 homers.

Right-hander Jaime Barria (4-7, 6.27 ERA) will start for the Angels. Los Angeles will likely need to provide plenty of run support for Barria, who gave up four earned runs to the Athletics in his last outing.

For the White Sox, right-hander Dylan Cease (3-7, 6.75 ERA) gets the start. Cease notched 11 strikeouts in his last outing, but was dreadful in his start previous to that. Against Minnesota in late August, Cease allowed eight earned runs on 10 hits in just two innings.

On top of an 0-4 record in their last four games at home, the White Sox have just three wins over Cease’s last 10 starts.

Against the AL Central, the Angels are winners of four of their last five.

100* Sharp Money Syndicate Play on Braves +120

As winners of nine straight, the Braves (89-54) are the hottest team in baseball. If the Braves can push that streak to 10, they’ll complete a four-game sweep of the Nationals (78-63) in Atlanta.

Two of the National League’s best pitchers will face off in this one, as Washington right-hander Max Scherzer (9-5, 2.60 ERA) takes on Atlanta right-hander Mike Soroka (11-3, 2.53 ERA).

In a 90-pitch outing against the Mets, Scherzer struck out seven but allowed four runs and a walk. Scherzer holds an ERA of 4.40 with a 0-0 record over his last three starts. Looking towards the postseason, the Nationals didn’t pitch more than five innings of two of those three outings.

Soroka experienced a first for his career when he allowed two homers to the Blue Jays in his last outing. Soroka will now be aiming for another performance like he had against the Nats on the last day of July, allowing one run over seven innings.

In addition to a 10-2 record for the Braves when Soroka pitches on five days of rest, the club is 12-2 in Soroka’s last 14 outings against NL East competition.

50* Powerhouse Play on Giants +225

It feels like the Dodgers (92-51) have been coasting for months, yet they still own a 23-game advantage over the Giants (68-73). Tonight, San Francisco aims to make it two straight wins in Los Angeles.

To do so, the Giants will send out right-hander Tyler Beede (3-9, 5.61 ERA). In his 18 starts, Beede is giving up an average of one run in the first inning. If he can stay clean through the first three outs, Beede will give himself a good chance for a successful start.

In his June outing against the Dodgers, Beede lasted six innings and gave up only a single run.

Right-hander Tony Gonsolin (2-1, 2.89 ERA) will start for the Dodgers. Gonsolin has allowed four runs over his past four starts, and the rookie will continue his tryout tonight. Gonsolin gave up two earned runs and three walks in his last start, which came against Arizona.

The Giants will rely heavily on centerfielder Kevin Pillar, who leads the club with a .270 average, 21 home runs, and 78 RBIs. Over the last seven days, Pillar is batting .370 with a pair of homers and five RBIs in 27 at-bats.

100* Sharp Money Syndicate Play on Rockies +158

Before Colorado’s 3-2 win on Friday, the Rockies (60-82) had lost nine straight. With another win over the Padres (64-76) on the road, Colorado can start a winning streak this evening.

The Rockies will have a great chance if they can limit the longball. While the Padres have more home-run potential, with 200 homers on the season, the Rockies have been better offensively with a 739-610 advantage in runs scored this season.

Right-hander Jeff Hoffman (1-5, 7.35 ERA) will start for the Rockies. Despite allowing a homer on the first pitch of his last outing, Hoffman recovered well enough to hold Pittsburgh to two runs over five innings. Against the Padres, Hoffman is 1-1 with a 1.08 ERA.

Padres left-hander Joey Lucchesi (9-7, 4.00 ERA) will be opposite Hoffman. Although Hoffman allowed one run over six innings against the Giants in his last outing, he was one hit away from giving up plenty more after escaping a bases-loaded jam in the sixth.

San Diego is just 1-5 in their last six games at home against a righty. The Padres are also terrible in the second game of series, losing five straight.

50* Powerhouse Play on Indians +158

It took the Indians (82-60) 11 innings to get the 6-2 win in Minnesota last night. Tonight, Cleveland will try to cut into the Twins’ 5.5-game lead by beating them in regulation.

While the Indians have now won two of three, the Twins have dropped two of three.

Representing Cleveland from the mound will be 24-year-old Aaron Civale (3-3, 1.94 ERA). In his last outing, the Indians right-hander allowed just one earned run against the White Sox. The White Sox game was Civale’s seventh start, and it continued his streak of allowing no more than two earned runs in any outing.

Right-hander Jake Odorizzi (14-6, 3.61 ERA) gets the ball to start for Minnesota. Odorizzi has been good against Cleveland this year, holding batters to a .169 average over 17 total innings.

However, Indians shortstop Francisco Lindor has regularly gotten to Odorizzi. In 22 at-bats of the matchup, Lindor is hitting .364 with two homers and five RBIs. Lindor leads the club with his .297 average alongside 28 home runs and 66 RBIs.

In his 12 career meetings with Cleveland, Odorizzi is 3-4 with a 4.42 ERA.

100* Sharp Money Syndicate Play on Twins -167

As the Indians (81-60) open a three-game set against the Twins (87-53) in Minnesota, this feels like their big chance to cut the 6.5-game gap between themselves and the AL Central leaders. However, that prospect doesn’t look likely for a Cleveland team that’s won just two of its last seven.

The Twins, who’ve won 10 of 12, will be leaning on their MLB-best 272 home runs to get out ahead of Cleveland. With 824 runs scored (1stin MLB), the Minnesota offense has been significantly better than the Cleveland lineup, which has scored just 665 runs (18thin MLB).

Hoping to limit those home runs, right-hander Adam Plutko (6-4, 4.53 ERA) will start for the Indians. Plutko last faced the Twins just under a month ago. In that contest, Plutko allowed four runs on nine hits in six innings in a frustrating outing.

Opposite Plutko will be Michael Pineda (11-5, 4.11 ERA), who starts for Minnesota. The Twins right-hander hasn’t faced Cleveland since March, when he lasted four innings and allowed no runs. Pineda has won five straight decisions and four straight starts.

50* Powerhouse Play on Cubs -116

At 2.5 games back of St. Louis in the NL Central, the Cubs (76-63) are aiming to climb even closer on the road against the Brewers (71-68), who are 7.5 games back.

While Chicago has won three straight, Milwaukee has dropped two of their last three games, all at home.

Although Milwaukee has Christian Yelich, who leads the team with 43 homers, 93 RBIs, and a .323 average, the Cubs are better offensively. Chicago’s 685 runs scored and 219 home runs edge out Milwaukee’s 649 runs and 217 homers.

Left-hander Cole Hamels (7-5, 3.69 ERA) starts tonight for the Cubs. Despite taking the loss in his last outing, Hamels gave up just two runs over six innings while striking out seven. In four starts against the Brewers this season, Hamels has 23 Ks and a 1.88 ERA.

The Brewers will send out Zach Davies (8-7, 3.76 ERA) to start. In 18 career starts against the Cubs, Davies holds a 3.69 ERA. Chicago was Davies’ opponent in his last outing, against whom he threw 4 2/3 shutout innings.

In 49 at-bats against Davies, Kris Bryant is batting .347 with two homers and six RBIs.

50* Powerhouse Play on Mets -144

If either the Phillies (72-67) or Mets (71-68) will make a push for an NL Wild Card spot, it needs to start right now as these two teams face off in New York. The Phillies and Mets are four and five games back of the Cubs, respectively.

Philadelphia has an edge over New York on the season, going 10-6 so far. Including tonight’s game, these two clubs match up three more times in 2019.

Right-hander Zach Eflin (8-11, 4.33 ERA) starts on the mound for the Phillies. In his last 13 innings, Eflin has allowed three runs. Eflin hasn’t been great against the Mets. On the season, Eflin is 1-1 with a 5.63 ERA against New York. In his career against the Mets, Eflin is 3-4 with a 5.37 ERA.

Leading the club with 45 homers and 105 RBIs, Mets slugger Pete Alonso is having an incredible year, and that includes his plate appearances against Eflin. In those seven at-bats, Alonso is batting .429 with a home run.

Steven Matz (9-8, 4.04 ERA) is the starter this evening for New York. In nine second-half starts since returning to the rotation, Matz is 4-2 with a 2.73 ERA.

The Mets have won four of their last six, and are 25-12 in their last 37 games.

100* Sharp Money Syndicate Play on Rays -184

Coming off a run of three straight losses, the Blue Jays (55-85) have now lost 12 of their last 15 contests. Meanwhile, the Rays (82-59) have won six of their last seven and have the shortest of grips on an AL Wild Card spot with a 0.5-game advantage over Oakland and Cleveland.

Tampa Bay will look to stay in control of their playoff destiny with a win at home tonight.

In that effort, the Rays will start right-hander Austin Pruitt (2-0, 4.78 ERA), who makes just his second start of the season. In his first start, Pruitt was great. He pitched 5 1/3 innings against the Indians without allowing a run in a victorious outing.

For Toronto, Trent Thornton (4-9, 5.34 ERA) will begin the game on the mound. The Blue Jays right-hander has faced Tampa Bay three times this season, and he’d like to forget them all. In those 11 1/3 total innings, Thornton allowed 23 hits and 14 runs.

Those beatings at the hands of the Rays are a big part of why the Blue Jays are just 2-7 in Thornton’s last nine starts against AL East teams.

Tampa Bay is a perfect 6-for-6 in their most recent home games against right-handed starters.

50* Powerhouse Play on Pirates -134

The Pirates (61-78), winners of five of their last six, will host the Marlins (49-89), losers of four of their last five, this evening in Pittsburgh.

Miami has been one of the worst teams in baseball all year long, so it’s not surprising to see Pittsburgh’s advantage on offense. With 664 runs scored, the Pirates lineup dwarfs the 512 runs scored by the bats of the Marlins.

Right-hander Dario Agrazal (4-3, 4.50 ERA) will start for the Pirates at home. Against the Rockies in his last outing, Agrazal went five innings deep and allowed three runs. Agrazal has won each of his last two starts.

For Miami, Elieser Hernandez (3-5, 5.06 ERA) starts. Hindered by a 34-pitch first inning, Hernandez allowed four runs in six innings in his most recent start.

Hernandez will likely face difficult at-bats against Pittsburgh outfielder Bryan Reynolds, whose .332 batting average trails only the .338 average of Anthony Rendon. In his last 14 games, Reynolds is batting a whopping .381.

While the dreadful Marlins have lost 16 of their past 17 road games, the Pirates are 4-1 in their last five against right-handers.

100* Sharp Money Syndicate Play on Rockies +300

The Rockies (59-81) have a tough task in front of them when they take the field this evening in Los Angeles to go up against the National League-leading Dodgers (91-50), who’ve just beat them twice.

While this would normally feel like a formality with All-Star starting pitcher Hyun-Jin Ryu (12-5, 2.35 ERA) starting for the Dodgers, Ryu’s dip in form makes this an interesting affair, especially considering how big of a dog Colorado is. Just a few weeks ago, Ryu was the frontrunner for the NL Cy Young. Now, Los Angeles is worried about their ace heading into the playoffs.

In his last three starts, Ryu is 0-3 with an 11.05 ERA while giving up five of his 15 total home runs allowed. In his three starts against Colorado, Ryu is 0-1 with a 4.50 ERA.

For the Rockies, Antonio Senzatela (8-9, 6.95 ERA) gets the start. The Colorado right-hander hasn’t been great over his past five starts, but he’s only allowed two homers over that stretch.

In eight at-bats against Senzatela, MVP candidate Cody Bellinger has just one hit. In 11 at-bats, Joc Pederson is batting .182 against the Rockies right-hander.

50* Powerhouse Play on Red Sox -131

Despite a one-run loss at home yesterday, the Red Sox (74-64) have won four of their last six and six of their last nine. If they’ll stay on a winning course with a chance to reach the playoffs, Boston will need a good performance against the visiting Twins (86-52) tonight.

Good pitching should be on display in this contest with Red Sox lefty Eduardo Rodriguez (16-5, 3.97 ERA) going head to head with Minnesota right-hander Jose Berrios (11-7, 3.57 ERA).

Rodriguez pitched 37 innings across six August starts. In those outings, Rodriguez posted a 3.41 ERA. The Red Sox left-hander earned the win against Minnesota in a June start, tallying nine Ks in seven innings of play.

On the side of the Twins, Berrios is coming off a six-inning start in which he gave up three runs. Berrios had a rough August in which he went 1-2 with a 7.57 ERA. In four starts against the Red Sox, Berrios is 0-3 with a 3.20 ERA.

Mookie Betts, Andrew Benintendi, and J.D. Martinez have all had success against Berrios in at least 10 at-bats. Facing the Twins right-hander, Betts is batting .308, Benentendi is batting .400, and Martinez is batting .357 with four RBIs.

50* Powerhouse Play on Dodgers -250

The latest game to get started tonight will be in Los Angeles where the Dodgers (90-50) host the Rockies (59-80). Los Angeles is 30.5 games ahead of Colorado in the NL West.

Including a 16-9 win over the Rockies in the first game of the series yesterday, the Dodgers have won two straight. Meanwhile, the Rockies are losers of seven straight games.

Getting the start for Colorado will be right-hander Chi Chi Gonzalez (0-6, 8.07 ERA). To be frank, Gonzalez has been terrible lately. In his last two games, Gonzalez has lasted just five total innings while giving up 10 hits, seven walks, and 10 runs. Gonzalez tallied just two strikeouts in those two outings.

For the Dodgers, left-hander Julio Urias (4-3, 2.53 ERA) will start. Coming back from suspension, Urias hasn’t pitched since the end of July. While Urias isn’t expected to go deep into this contest, Los Angeles has the bullpen to pick up the slack.

Entering the series, Colorado is just 6-20 in their last 26 games on the road against teams with a winning percentage of .600 or better. Out of 54 home games versus a right-hander starter, the Dodgers are 44-10.

100* Sharp Money Syndicate Play on Brewers +150

It took 10 innings for the Astros (90-49) to take down the Brewers (70-67) in the series opener yesterday. Despite that loss, Milwaukee has won three of its last five and is ready to take on Houston once again.

Defending Milwaukee’s 39-30 home record will be right-hander Jordan Lyles (9-8, 4.55 ERA). After posting a 9.00+ ERA in his last nine starts with Pittsburgh, Lyles has been a different pitcher since putting on a Brewers uniform. In six starts since that time, Lyles is 4-1 with a much-improved 2.51 ERA.

Opposite Lyles will be right-hander Zack Greinke (14-4, 2.99 ERA). Without his best stuff against the Rays his last time out, Greinke gave up six hits, a walk, and five runs over five 2/3 innings.

A pair of Brewers have been good against Greinke. In 12 at-bats, Lorenzo Cain is batting .333 with a home run. In 20 at-bats against Greinke, Christian Yelich is batting .350.

Yelich is having an MVP year, and that didn’t stop in yesterday’s game. With a home run in the bottom of the ninth, Yelich tied the game before Houston responded with the game-winning homer an inning later.

50* Powerhouse Play on Phillies +115

Coming off back-to-back wins, the Phillies (71-65) will improve their playoff chances with another victory against the Reds (64-74) in Cincinnati. The Reds have lost five of their last six games.

With 664 runs scored on the season, Philadelphia ranks 15thin the MLB. Meanwhile, Cincinnati’s 619 runs is good enough for just 22ndin the majors. Over the last seven days, the Phillies have scored three more runs than the Reds in two fewer games.

The Phillies will send out Vince Velasquez (6-7, 4.86 ERA) to start. In his last seven starts, the right-hander is 4-2 with a 4.84 ERA. Although Velasquez isn’t likely to go deeper than five innings, the good run support he’s received lately could carry him to another win.

Right-hander Lucas Sims (2-1, 4.99 ERA) is scheduled to start for Cincinnati. Normally a relief pitcher, Sims allowed six runs in 12 1/3 total innings over 11 August appearances. This will be Sims’ third start of the season.

Phillies slugger Bryce Harper is on a run of 10 straight games with at least one hit and one run. Over his last seven games, Harper is batting .300 with three homers.

50* Powerhouse Play on White Sox +215

The Indians (79-58) have let their deficit in the AL Central grow to 5.5 games, but they’ll have an opportunity to move closer to Minnesota in a new set of games against the White Sox (60-76) in Cleveland. Coming into this evening’s contest, the Indians have dropped three straight.

The White Sox will hope to pounce on Cleveland’s vulnerability with starter Ross Detwiler (2-4, 6.45 ERA). In his 11-year career, the Chicago left-hander has faced 29 teams in the majors. After tonight’s outing, Detwiler will have faced all 30.

Aaron Civale (2-3, 1.96 ERA) will start for the Indians. The right-hander gave up two runs to the Tigers in a seven-inning outing on Wednesday.

Civale will need to be most careful against White Sox shortstop Tim Anderson, who’s batting .328 on the season. If he had enough plate appearances to qualify, Anderson’s average would be good enough for third-best in the American League. Over the last seven days, Anderson is batting .333 with three doubles and a home run.

The Indians are currently in possession of the second Wild Card spot in the AL, leading the Athletics by half a game.

100* Sharp Money Syndicate Play on Phillies +140

While the Phillies (70-65) were able to cap off a three-game series against the Mets with a 5-2 victory, the Reds (64-73) enter a new series as losers of four of their last five. This afternoon, Philadelphia will square off with the Reds in Cincinnati.

Despite a lower home run total than the Reds (196-170), the Phillies are the better offensive team with 657 runs scored on the season compared to Cincinnati’s 618.

On the mound, Philadelphia will be starting left-hander Drew Smyly (2-6, 6.95). Smyly will be hoping to regain his form from early on in a Phillies uniform. In his first two starts with the club, Smyly allowed one run through 13 innings in two starts.

Cincinnati is scheduled to start right-hander Anthony DeSclafani (9-7, 4.05 ERA). In 50 career appearances at the Great American Ballpark, DeSclafani is an even 19-19 with a 4.25 ERA.

Bryce Harper will hope to find continued success against DeSclafani. In 11 at-bats, the Phillies slugger is batting .364. In addition to leading the team in homers (29) and RBIs (97), Harper is batting .308 with a pair of home runs over the past seven days.

50* Powerhouse Play on Dodgers -138

As winners of six straight, the Diamondbacks (70-66) are a scary team right now. Yet coming into this afternoon’s game against the visiting Dodgers (88-50), Arizona is looking up at a 17-game gap between themselves and the NL West leaders.

Hoping to stop the bleeding against the hot D-Backs, right-hander Ross Stripling (4-4, 3.64 ERA) will start for Los Angeles. However, Stripling is only expected to throw two or three innings in his first start since coming off the injured list. Right-hander Dustin May is projected to follow Stripling.

Alex Young (6-3, 3.81 ERA) will take the mound for Arizona. The left-hander has been solid over his last 11 appearances, holding batters to a .217 average. In his last outing, Young allowed two total runs on four hits over 5 1/3 innings.

The fact that this contest is the fourth in a four-game series could prove critical. In Game 4s, the Diamondbacks have come out victorious in just one of their last seven. On the other hand, the Dodgers have won seven of their last nine final games of a four-game set.

Los Angeles is 39-16 playing on Sunday.

50* Powerhouse Play on Giants -105

The Giants (66-69) have a slight edge over the Padres (63-72) in the NL West, and they’ll attempt to extend that advantage over the visitors when they host San Diego this afternoon in San Francisco.

Offensively, these two clubs are nearly even. The Padres rely more on the longball, with 195 homers compared to San Francisco’s 148, but only four runs separate the two. San Diego has scored 591 while the Giants have scored 595.

The starting pitching matchup features left-hander Eric Lauer (7-8, 4.48 ERA) for the Padres against Giants right-hander Jeff Samardzija (9-10, 3.38 ERA).

Lauer has already thrown 12 more innings than in his rookie campaign, and will need to shut down a pair of Giants hitters if he’ll have a shot at bringing his record to even. Against Lauer, Evan Longoria is batting .364 in 11 at-bats while Buster Posey is batting .357 in 14 at-bats.

Against the Diamondbacks in his last start, Samardzija allowed a single run over five innings. Thus far, Samardzija’s biggest enemy is a lack of run support. Although his record doesn’t reflect it, the Giants righty has posted an ERA of 1.99 since the start of July.

100* Sharp Money Syndicate Play on Pirates -103

If the Pirates (59-77) get a win tonight, they’ll complete a four-game sweep of the Rockies (59-78) in Colorado. Both clubs have been poor all year, but they’re trending in different directions at the moment.

The Pirates have won three in a row (all against the Rockies), four of their last five, and seven of their last nine. Meanwhile, the Rockies are losers of five straight and have dropped nine of their last 10 contests.

Pittsburgh has scored a total of 31 runs in three victories over Colorado this week.

Left-hander Steven Brault (3-3, 4.06 ERA) will aim to keep the momentum going for the Pirates. Over his last 12 starts, Brault has posted an ERA of 2.84. In his last outing, Brault gave up three runs to the Phillies without his best.

The Rockies are expected to go with Jeff Hoffman (1-4, 7.81 ERA). In his last outing for Colorado, Hoffman allowed four home runs and seven runs in just two innings.

Pittsburgh has won each of its last six games versus NL West competition while Colorado is 0-9 in their last nine efforts against the NL Central. The Rockies are also 0-5 in their last five home games.

100* Sharp Money Syndicate Play on Royals +106

With just 47 wins on the season, the Royals (47-89) have been poor in 2019. The Orioles (45-89), who are 42 games back of the AL East-leading Yankees, have been worse. Both of these clubs will face off tonight in Kansas City.

After dropping the first game of this three-game set, the Royals will turn to Jorge Lopez (2-7, 6.56 ERA) on the mound. The Kansas City right-hander has been great against Baltimore, boasting a 2-0 record alongside a 1.50 ERA in his career. In his last start, which came against the Orioles, Lopez allowed just one run on two hits over five innings.

Lopez will be opposed by Dylan Bundy (6-13, 4.98 ERA) on the side of the Orioles. Bundy’s latest outing resulted in a win, although eight hits and three total runs were surrendered in five innings by the Baltimore right-hander.

Bundy will be hoping to avoid a repeat of a start against Baltimore last season in which he became the first ever pitcher to allow four homers without recording an out. In that horrid 2018 start, Bundy faced seven batters and allowed seven runs.

With a loss today, Bundy would join the 14-loss club occupied by just two others right now this season.

50* Powerhouse Play on Tigers +130

The Tigers (39-93) are looking to get back on track with a victory at home against the visiting Twins (83-51). If Detroit can hold Minnesota to nine innings without a home run, they’ll have a great chance against the team that’s just five homers shy of the 2018 Yankees’ single-season record of 267.

In that daunting effort, the Tigers will start left-hander Matthew Boyd (6-10, 4.47 ERA). In his second start since coming back from paternity leave, Boyd will aim to be more dialed in. Boyd has an even 6-6 career record in 18 starts against Minnesota.

Several Twins hitters have faced Boyd numerous times without much success. In at least 28 at-bats, Miguel Sano (.143), Eddie Rosario (.242), and Jorge Polanco (.250) have been unable to get a hit in more than a quarter of their chances.

The Twins will answer with left-hander Martin Perez (9-5, 4.53 ERA) on the road. Perez allowed two runs over six innings in his last outing, but hasn’t been great against the Tigers. In seven career outings against Detroit, Perez is 2-3 with a 5.50 ERA.

Miguel Cabrera is 3-for-6 with a pair of RBIs against Perez.

50* Powerhouse Play on Mets -110

The Mets (68-66) regained some confidence in an 11-5 beating of the Phillies (69-64) in Philadelphia yesterday. If the Mets can repeat that performance, they’ll improve their chances of claiming a Wild Card berth, of which they currently sit five games back.

This matchup figures to be a tight one. Offensively, the Mets and Phillies are separated by just four runs scored on the season, with Philadelphia holding the slight edge (649-645).

It’s also a level pitching matchup, with both starters having even records and being within 0.03 in ERA and WHIP of one another.

For New York, Steven Matz (8-8, 4.06 ERA) will go. In his last outing, the Mets left-hander held a good Braves club to one run over six innings whilst battling a blister on his throwing hand. Matz hasn’t missed a start with that blister.

For Philadelphia, Jason Vargas (6-6, 4.09 ERA) gets the start. The new Phillies lefty will be facing his former club for the first since coming to Philly at the trade deadline. Since the move, Vargas is just 0-1 with a 4.34 ERA in five starts.

Mets slugger Pete Alonso will look to cap off a strong August in which he’s batting .294 with eight homers and 24 RBIs.

50* Powerhouse Play on White Sox +195

The White Sox (60-73) may not be destined for postseason baseball, but they have a chance to drag down the likely playoff-bound Braves (81-54) as they open a series in Atlanta.

Although the Braves have a 5.5-game advantage over the Nationals in the NL East, they scored a total of six runs over their past three games, of which they won only one.

The White Sox will send out right-hander Ivan Nova (9-10, 4.37 ERA) to start. In short, Nova has been incredible in the month of August. Over five starts and 33 innings this month, Nova is 3-1 with a 1.09 ERA and has given up just four earned runs and six walks.

Nova also has the best ERA in the majors in his seven starts since July 22 with a 0.94. Nova is 5-1 over that period.

Scheduled to start for the Braves is Max Fried (14-4, 4.03 ERA). The left-hander started a 9-5 victory over the Mets in his last outing, but Fried allowed five runs over five innings.

Outfielder Jose Abreu is playing well for the White Sox, hitting a pair of doubles on Thursday and batting in a run in eight of his last 10 games.

100* Sharp Money Syndicate Play on Blue Jays +190

The Astros (87-48) are coming off a tough 9-8 loss to the Rays and now turn their attention to a series against the Blue Jays (54-81) in Toronto. The Blue Jays just split a two-game series with a good Braves team.

As heavy favorites on the road, Houston will go with Wade Miley (13-4, 3.13 ERA) to start. With opponents hitting .233 against him, Miley has been consistently strong for an Astros team that’s 19-8 in his starts this season. In 10 career starts against Toronto, Miley is 2-7 with a 4.47 ERA.

Although not many Blue Jays have faced Miley, Justin Smoak certainly has. In 13 at-bats against the Astros left-hander, Smoak is batting .385 with two homers and three RBIs.

Toronto is scheduled to go with right-hander Trent Thornton (4-8, 5.34 ERA) this evening at home. Although Thornton allowed three earned runs to the Mariners in his last outing, he pitched 6 2/3 innings of scoreless baseball against the Astros in a June start.

Keep an eye on rookie Cavan Biggio, who will be up against the team his father played 20 MLB seasons for. Biggio is 3-for-7 with a pair of walks in his most recent at-bats.

50* Powerhouse Play on Nationals -223

The Marlins (48-85) will travel to the nation’s capital to open a new series against the Nationals (74-58) in Washington. While the Marlins are 32 games back in the NL East, the Nats have a legitimate shot at doing damage in the playoffs.

Miami comes into this contest with just one win in their last four games, scoring a maximum of five runs in any of them. Washington enters the series as winners of six of their last seven and 13 of their last 16.

The Marlins will be starting right-hander Elieser Hernandez (3-5, 4.97 ERA) in this one. Dealing with a blister on his right hand, Hernandez managed six innings against the Phillies his last time out, allowing two runs.

Right-hander Anibal Sanchez (8-6, 3.81 ERA) will start for the Nationals. Sanchez’ last outing came against the Cubs. Although he allowed two runs over 8 1/3 innings, Sanchez carried a shutout into the ninth inning in one of his best starts in years.

Washington has a big advantage offensively. With 706 runs scored, 188 home runs, and a team average of .264, the Nationals are far batter at the plate than the Marlins, who’ve scored 493 runs, hit 115 homers, and are batting .241 as a team.

50* Powerhouse Play on Giants +125

When the Padres (61-71) go into San Francisco to take on the Giants (65-67), we’ll get a look at two very similar teams.

Apart from San Diego’s edge in the home run department (191-144), both clubs are virtually even offensively. The Giants have scored four more runs on the season (583-579) and both teams are hitting .242 as a team.

We’ll also be seeing the Padres’ 30-34 away record up against the Giants’ similar 29-35 home record.

As they enter this new series, the Giants and Padres have identical record patterns over the last 13 games. Each has experienced a run of W-L-WWW-LLLL-WW-LL. Of course, that coincidental streak will be broken tonight.

San Francisco will send out right-hander Dereck Rodriguez (5-6, 5.26 ERA) to start. In four starts against the Padres, Rodriguez is 1-1 with a 2.08 ERA. His last outing against San Diego lasted seven innings, in which he allowed two runs.

Right-hander Chris Paddack (7-7, 3.84 ERA) will be opposite Rodriguez. The Padres rookie is nearing an innings limit, and his last outing might be evidence of that. In just 2 1/3 innings, Paddack allowed six runs.

100* Sharp Money Syndicate Play on White Sox +180

The pressure is on the Twins (81-51), who are fighting to keep their 3.5-game lead over the Indians in the AL Central. Today, Minnesota will go into Chicago to take on the White Sox (60-72).

The White Sox have a couple of things going in their favor in this contest. First, they’ll be playing at home, where they could own a .500 record with a win this afternoon. Second, they’ll be facing one of Minnesota’s least-reliable pitchers at the moment, Jose Berrios (10-7, 3.53 ERA).

Despite a solid record for a starter, Berrios has lost his form in the month of August. The right-hander’s lack of command has delivered him an 8.44 ERA over his last four starts. Through 21 1/3 innings this month, Berrios has allowed a total of 20 earned runs. In his last outing, Berrios gave up five runs in 5 1/3 innings.

In 18 at-bats against Berrios, James McCann is batting .289 with three homers and nine RBIs.

Right-hander Dylan Cease (3-6, 5.76 ERA) will start for Chicago coming off his second home victory and recording nine strikeouts.

100* Sharp Money Syndicate Play on Royals +150

With one of the weaker remaining schedules in the majors, the Athletics (76-55) have a great shot at postseason baseball. With grip on the second AL Wild Card spot at the moment, Oakland is aiming for another win in Kansas City against the 46-87 Royals.

The biggest obstacle standing in Oakland’s way is right-hander Jacob Junis (8-12, 4.89 ERA), who starts for Kansas City this evening. Facing a minimum of 50 at-bats, Junis has the second-lowest average allowed with runners in scoring position in the AL since June 11. Under that criteria, Junis has held batters to 12-for-62 (.194).

On the mound for the Athletics will be Tanner Roark (8-8, 3.95 ERA). Roark was brought over from the Reds at the trade deadline, and he’s been solid since then. In his last outing, Roark held the Yankees to two runs in 6 1/3 innings.

Although Kansas City hasn’t been great this season, they’ve been able to count on second baseman Whit Merrifield consistently. In addition to his .299 average on the year, Merrifield is batting .293 with four doubles, three homers, and 11 RBIs in August.

50* Powerhouse Play on Rays +190

The Rays (76-57) are just one game back of the A’s for the second AL Wild Card spot. If they’ll be able to keep pace, Tampa Bay needs to find a way to get past a hot, AL West-leading Astros (86-47) team tonight.

Houston is the better hitting team, but the Rays have enjoyed more success from the mound this year. With a team ERA of 3.63, Tampa Bay ranks second in the majors. The Astros sit in fourth with an ERA of .367.

That pitching dominance figures to be on display this evening in a duel between Rays left-hander Ryan Yarbrough (11-3, 3.29 ERA) and Astros right-hander Gerrit Cole (15-5, 2.75).

Let’s begin with Yarbrough, who’s been disgusting for the Rays lately. In his last 12 appearances, Yarbrough has struck out 59, walked only four, and posted a 1.48 ERA on top of a 6-0 record in 61 innings. His past three starts have yielded a 1-0 record with a 0.47 ERA.

Cole has been great, as well. His last loss came against the White Sox on May 22nd. However, Cole has no wins and two losses in his three career starts against Tampa Bay.