This is a 4* play on Over.

After scoring a combined 21 runs in Game 1, the Red Sox and the A's fell short of the total in Game 2. We expect another slugfest in Game 2.

Luis Medina will toe the slab for Oakland, and he's 1-2 with a 5.93 ERA in his last three starts.

The Red Sox hand the ball to Tanner Houck, who is 1-1 with a 5.19 ERA in his last five starts.

Oakland has scored 55 runs in eight games in the month of July, only Arizona has scored more.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Over.

The A's and the Red Sox scored a combined 21 runs in Game 1, and we are expecting another slugfest on Wednesday night.

Nick Pivetta will toe the slab for the Sox, and he's 1-3 with a 5.52 ERA in six home starts. He's also 1-1 with a 5.13 ERA in his last five starts overall.

The A's hand the ball to JP Sears, who is 1-2 with a 7.48 ERA in his last five starts. He's also 1-4 with a 4.82 ERA in 10 starts on the road this season.

Only two teams in the majors (Minnesota and Arizona) have scored more runs so far in July than Oakland, and Arizona played one more game.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Over.

Montreal is without a doubt the best team in the CFL right now. The defending champs have won their first four games and have averaged 32 points per game. Their most recent home game was a 47-21 win over Ottawa. They face a Calgary team tonight that is more of a threat offensively that the Red Blacks. Jake Maier has thrown four 830 yards, 5 TDs and 2 INTs on 74 percent passing in three games so far. He's likely going to have a rough night on the road at Montreal, but he's the type of QB that's capable of padding his stats in garbage time.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on Over.

The Rockies host the Brewers in Game 2 at Coors Field Tuesday, and we are expecting another slugfest.

Dallas Keuchel will toe the slab for the Brew Crew, and he is a long way removed from his Cy Young form back in 2015. He has struggled to stay in a major league rotation over the past five seasons, and this will be just his second start for the Brewers. He got torched for five runs on eight hits in just four innings in a no decision at Texas in his Milwaukee debut. His last start of last season came at Coors Field, and he allowed four runs on six hits in just 2 1/3 innings.

The Rockies hand the ball to Ryan Feltner, who is 0-2 with a 7.43 ERA in seven starts at home this season.

I am going to make this an "action" play, after the Brewers used an opener in Game 1. Regardless of starting pitching, both these teams appear to be thin with injuries to the staff.

The Rockies rank dead last in the majors in ERA by reliever (5.71).

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Under.

England came into this tournament as the favorite, but they have not looked worthy of that designation so far. They have failed to reach the total in all three matches so far, and they came into the tournament off a 1-0 loss to Iceland. That being said, it's interesting to note that they made the Final in the last Euro, and they scored just twice in the Group Stages in 2021. They have now gone under in eight of their last 10 at the European Championships. The last time these two countries met at the European Championships they played to a 0-0 draw back in 2016. They have scored a combined four goals in the last three meetings.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Over.

The Jays have scored 14 runs in the first two games of this series, and the Bronx bombers have scored 18 runs. We expect another slugfest in Game 3 on Saturday.

Nestor Cortes will will toe the slab for New York, and his split stats are like night and day. He has a 1.84 ERA at home, but he's 0-3 with a 5.57 ERA on the road.

The Jays hand the ball to Chris Bassitt, who has been solid overall. Backing him up is one of the worst bullpens in the major leagues.

The Blue Jays are batting a combined .290 against Cortes, and Bo Bichette has totally owned him. Bichette is 8-for-13 (.615) with a pair of home runs lifetime versus Nasty Nestor.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on Over. 

This game features two QBs that rank #1 and #2 in the CFL in passing. Vernon Adams Jr. leads the CFL with over 1000 passing yards, six TDs and just one INT. McLeod Bethel Thompson ranks second in the league with 978 yards and six TDs. BC has the edge on defense, only allowing 25 points per game. Edmonton has allowed a West Division worst 91 points in three games. Edmonton has gone over the total in seven of their last 10 overall, and they lost by a score of 37-29 in the most recent meeting last September. The Lions have also gone over in seven of their last 10 overall, and they scored an average of 28 points per game during that span. I expect the Lions to score 30+ here at home, and Edmonton should be good for 24+. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is a 3* play on Over.

The Jays have lost seven straight, and four of those losses came against Boston. We saw Boston win 7-3 at Toronto last week, and the same starting pitchers are facing the same team in a hitter's park tonight.

Kevin Gausman will toe the slab for Toronto, and he gave up five runs on six hits over 5 2/3 innings against Boston last week. He's 7-10 with a 4.52 ERA in his career versus the Red Sox.

Boston will hand the ball to Brayan Bello, who is 2-2 with a 6.08 ERA in his last five starts.

The weather conditions at Fenway tonight may lead to several home runs.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on Under.

I had the over in Game 6, and I was very lucky that Edmonton scored a pair of empty net goals seven seconds apart at the end of the game to push the total over. The series goes back to Florida for a 7th and deciding game, and we can expect both teams to be tighter than a nun's (see you next Tuesday). We can't ignore the history when it comes to Game 7s. All three Game 7s went under in these playoffs. Three of four went under last year, four of six went under in 2022 and two of three went under in 2021. That's 12 of the last 16 failing to go over a total of 5. Since 2005 more than 61 percent of Game 7s have gone under the total. That stat however includes nine games with a total set at 5 that were pushes. The number of games that have failed to hit 5.5 is closer to 70 percent. I fully expect this game to end with exactly five goals scored.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Over.

The Royals are batting a major league best .271 at home, and only the Phillies have scored more runs at home than the Royals. With a favorable matchup against the Marlins tonight, we should expect another slugfest.

Roddery Munoz will toe the slab for the Fish, and he's 0-1 with a 6.43 ERA in three starts over the last 30 days.

Neither of these teams have a reliable bullpen, and on a hot day in Kansas City with the wind blowing out we should see plenty of scoring.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 3* play on Over.

We saw the Ticats blow a big lead at home versus Saskatchewan last week, and we expect another shootout in Saskatchewan tonight. Both these teams have veteran QBs that are more than capable of slinging the ball around the yard, and neither teams has a defense that inspires much confidence. Last week's game saw a combined 63 points and both teams had 400+ yards of total offense. Trevor Harris and Bo Levi Mitchell both come in with 600+ passing yards, and a 71.1 percent completions percentage.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 3* play on Over.

The over is 6-3 in the Rockies current home stand, and with temperatures over 90 degrees forecast for Sunday, the trend of high scores could continue.

Kyle Freeland will toe the rubber for the Rockies, making his return after several months on the DL. He struggled earlier this season, and after only pitching 10 innings at Triple A, he should be on a pitch count here on Sunday. The worst bullpen in the majors will back him up.

The over is 8-2 in Washington's last 10 versus Colorado, and the Nats have scored six or more in eight of those 10 games.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 3* play on Over.

So I had the over in Scotland versus Switzerland, and I was quite please to see both teams score early in the first half. I was not expecting to see a scoreless game from then on out. I don't expect to see that here with the Scots playing Hungary. Neither of these teams have the luxury of playing for a draw. Even a win will likely only get them in by virtue of being one of the best third place teams. A draw almost certainly means elimination for both these teams as they are both sitting with a -4 goal differential. Scotland showed some scoring prowess, scoring 17 goals in eight matches in qualifying, and Hungary scored 16. Expect both teams to be aggressive here.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 3* play on Over.

The Edmonton Elks pass happy offense comes into Toronto off back to back losses in the first two weeks of the season. Veteran QB McLeod Bethel-Thompson has averaged 42 pass attempts per game, leading the league. He's thrown for 636 yards and two TDs on 72.6 percent passing in losses to Saskatchewan and Montreal. The Argos beat the Elks 43-31 in Edmonton last June, and another barn burner seems probable here. Cameron Dukes threw for three TDs in his CFL debut in a 35-27 win over BC in Week 1.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 3* play on Over.

Both Belgium and Romania finished first in their group in the qualifying stages. Romania won 3-0 in their first match of the Group Stages against Ukraine, while Belgium is coming off a 1-0 loss to Slovakia. That match was a little misleading though, as Belgium had a pair of goals called off by VAR. Belgium is a huge favorite here in this match, but Romania isn't going to be an easy out. I expect both teams to score here, and we should see the total go over.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on Over.

The Oilers can force a Game 7 in Florida with a win tonight, and they have seized all the momentum in this series. I had the over in Game 5, and here is what I said prior to the game: "I expect the Oilers to be loose, as if they are playing with house money. They have finally solved Sergei Bobrovsky. chasing him from the net early in Game 4. I had mentioned that momentum might carry over after they scored three late goals in Game 3. The Panthers have to be concerned that the floodgates have opened. Bobrobsky fell apart in last year's Finals, conceding eight goals on 31 shots in Game 5 in Vegas. With this being an elimination game, there is also potential for the late empty net goals that could push us over the number." Another shootout is expected in Edmonton tonight.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Under.

Montreal is off to an impressive 2-0 start, winning back to back road games and allowing just 16 points per game. They host the Redblacks on Thursday night, and Ottawa won their home opener 23-19 versus Winnipeg. Montreal has won five straight in this series, and three of the last four meetings went under. The Als won 19-12 at home last June. History tells us another low score is likely in this one.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Over.

The Oilers fave elimination in Game 5 in Florida, coming off an 8-1 win at home in Game 4. I expect the Oilers to be loose, as if they are playing with house money. They have finally solved Sergei Bobrovsky. chasing him from the net early in Game 4. I had mentioned that momentum might carry over after they scored three late goals in Game 3. The Panthers have to be concerned that the floodgates have opened. Bobrobsky fell apart in last year's Finals, conceding eight goals on 31 shots in Game 5 in Vegas. With this being an elimination game, there is also potential for the late empty net goals that could push us over the number.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Over.

The Phillies rank 4th in the majors in runs scored (355). They are at home today versus the Padres, and San Diego is turning to the back end of the rotation.

Randy Vasquez will toe the slab for San Diego, making his ninth start of the season. He's 1-1 with a 5.50 ERA in four starts on the road.

The Phillies hand the ball to Chris Sanchez, who has been solid at home. He got tagged for four runs on seven hits and two walks in just four innings in a loss at Fenway his last time out.

These teams have gone over in seven of the last 10 head to head meetings.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Under.

Both the Riders and the Ticats went over the total in Week 1, which is outside the norm for early season CFL games. The two face off in Hamilton tonight, and history tells us that these teams have failed to reach the total in eight of 10 meetings. Saskatchewan scored 21 points in the fourth quarter to come back an win at Edmonton last week. They scored just eight points in the first three quarters. Hamilton scored just seven points in the first three quarters at Calgary, and it took 27 combined points to push that total over the number. The total for this game appears to be a bit inflated.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Over.

We saw the Rockies win 16-4 in Game 2 versus Pittsburgh, and with temps above 90 degrees and a slight breeze blowing out at Coors today it might be another slugfest.

Dakota Hudson will toe the rubber for the Rockies, and he's 0-3 with a 7.57 ERA in six starts at Coors Field this season.

It might be a bullpen day for Pittsburgh, and their relievers rank 26th in MLB with a team ERA of 4.65.

The Rockies rank dead last in the majors with an ERA by reliever of 5.60.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Over.

The Nats won by a score of 8-1 on Friday, and they should look for a similar result in Game 2 on Saturday.

Trevor Rogers will toe the slab for The Fish, and he's 1-7 with a 5.37 ERA and a 1.71 WHIP. He is backed up by the Marlins 21st ranked bullpen with a team ERA of 4.23.

The Nats hand the ball to DJ Herz, who has not impressed in two previous starts. His 1.92 WHIP gives reason for concern.

Washington's ballpark ranks 6th according to Baseball Savant as far as favorable to hitters.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Over.

Spain finished first in Group A, scoring 25 goals in eight qualifying matches. They come into their opening match at the Euros on top form, scoring a whopping 13 goals in their last three international friendlies. They face a Croatia team that has won five straight matches, most recently defeating Portugal by a score of 2-1. History tells us to expect goals when these teams meet, as four of the last five meetings have gone over the number. That includes a 5-3 win for Spain in Euro 2021, and a 2-1 win for Croatia in Euro 2016.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 3* play on Under. 

The Als defense dominated on the road in Winnipeg in Week 1, holding the Bombers to just a dozen points. Edmonton was looking good through three quarters at home versus Saskatchewan in Week 1, but they gave up 21 points in the fourth quarter and lost 29-21 to the Riders. Montreal had the #1 defense in the East last year, and Edmonton had the worst offense in the CFL. The Als have won nine of their last 10 games, and they have failed to reach the total in seven of their last 10. That says a lot about their style of play. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is a 3* play on Under.

The Mystics 0-12 run came to an end, winning 87-68 at Atlanta in their last game. The Mystics still rank dead last in the WNBA in scoring averaging just 75.6 points per game. They host a Chicago Sky team that is also among the worst in the league offensively, averaging 78.5 points per game. Both these teams are better on defense than they are on offense, and seven of the last 10 head to head meetings have gone under the number.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Under.

The under was 6-2 in the first two weeks of last season, but three of four games went over in Week 1 of 2024. The one exception was the Bombers 27-12 home loss to Montreal. They should get back on track here on the road at Ottawa, with the advantage of having a game under their belt. The Redblacks were the worst team in the CFL last year, and they make their season debut. These teams have failed to reach the total in four of the last five head to head meetings, and all five of those games were played in June and July.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Under.

The Astros and the Giants have split the first two games of this series, and both games went under the total. With the aces on the mound Wednesday, another pitcher's duel is expected.

Logan Webb will toe the slab for San Fran, and he's 3-2 with a 1.71 ERA in six home starts.

The Astros hand the ball to Framber Valdez, who is 3-1 with a 2.67 ERA in four starts on the road.

The under is 10-1 in Houston's last 11 road games, and they have failed to reach the total in 10 of their last 12 at San Francisco.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 3* play on Over. 

The Reds are hot, winners of 12 of their last 16 overall. They host Cleveland on Wednesday and the Tribe have a 4.5 game lead in the AL Central. 

Triston McKenzie will toe the slab for Cleveland, and he's given up eight home runs in his last three starts. He's given up 22 hits and walked a dozen batters over 22 innings in his last four starts. 

The Reds hand the ball to Brent Suter, who comes out of the bullpen. The Reds are likely to use several pitchers here in this game. 

The over is 5-1 in Cleveland's last six road games. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Under.

The take away from Game 1 is that the Oilers dominated the play, outshooting Florida 32-17 but lost 3-0. I was skeptical that Stuart Skinner could continue his stellar play from the Conference Finals, but he was certainly good enough to give his team a chance to win. The defense in front of him was stellar, allowing just 17 shots. The Panthers are likely to come out and try to win ugly again here in Game 2, but the Oilers will eventually get to Bobrovsky. If I had to predict the final score I would say Edmonton wins 3-2 in overtime.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Under.

I must be a glutton for punishment, after betting the under in yesterday's game in Kansas City and losing in extras after the Royals scored twice in the bottom of the ninth to force the farce that is MLB extra innings. I am coming back with the under here in Game 1 versus the Yankees, as it has the look of a pitcher's duel.

Seth Lugo will toe the rubber for the Royals, and he's 9-1 with a 2.13 ERA and a 1.02 WHIP. The Yankees counter with Carlos Rodon who is 5-0 with a 2.40 ERA in his last five starts.

The Yanks are without their biggest bat in Juan Soto, and the weather in Kansas City could keep the ball in the park.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Under.

The WNBA is doing everything it can to hype up Caitlyn Clark, and the latest quote "They woke up the Monster". Clark looked like a monster scoring 30 points and hitting 7-of-8 from beyond the arc in a win over Washington on Friday. I don't wanna get anyone's panties in a knot, but I gotta point out that the Mystics are 0-12, by far the worst team in the WNBA. The Connecticut Sun are at the top of the league standings, and they rank 1st in opponent scoring average allowing just 70 points per game. The Sun are below average offensively, scoring less than 80 points per game. They are the double digit home favorite here, so expect them to control the pace and shut down an inferior opponent.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 3* play on Under

So we saw the season opener fall way short of the total, and then the Ticats and the Stamps went over on Friday. Normally scoring is down in the first month of the regular season, and last year six of the first eight games went under. There is plenty of turnover on a year to year basis with players and coaches coming and going in a league that runs on a shoestring budget. Starters don't get a lot of reps in the pre-season, and it is not uncommon for the offenses to take a few games to get up to speed. The Lions defense allowed just 15 points combined in their first two games last season.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Under.

We are expecting a pitcher's duel here in Kansas City on Sunday.

Cole Ragans will toe the rubber for the Royals, and he's 2-2 with a 2.27 ERA in his last five starts.

The Mariners hand the ball to George Kirby, who one journalist recently compared (not so accurately) to Greg Maddux.

The Mariners rank 28th in the majors in team batting average (.221) and they lead the majors in strikeouts.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Under.

The Brewers have won the first two games of this series in Detroit, but it's going to be tough to complete the sweep as they get set to face the Tigers ace on Sunday.

Tarik Skubal will toe the slab for the Tigers, and he's 7-1 with a 1.97 ERA and a 0.88 WHIP. He's 4-0 with a 2.13 ERA in six home starts.

The Brewers hand the ball to Bryse Wilson, who is 1-1 with a 4.56 in his last five appearances.

The Tigers are 5-1 in Skubal's six home starts.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Over.

While rust might be a factor with both these teams sidelined for an extended period following the Conference Finals, I worry about the goaltending. Stuart Skinner was average at best during the regular season, ranking near the bottom of the league with a save percentage of .905. Neither one of these goaltenders rank in the Top 10 in the playoffs in save percentage, with Skinner posting an .897 and Bobrovsky .908. If you go back to last year's Finals, Bobrovsky allowed four goals on 33 shots in a 5-2 loss in Game 1, and he was 1-4 with a 5.19 GAA in the series. Both goaltenders played well in the previous serious, but given the layoff it is uncertain if that carries over into Game 1. Edmonton ranks 1st on the power play this post-season, while Florida's 14 power play goals rank second.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Over.

The Orioles scored six runs in Game 1, and we expect another high score here in Game 2.

Kyle Bradish will toe the slab for Baltimore, and he's facing Tampa for the second time in a week. He allowed five runs on seven hits over just 2 2/3 innings in a no decision on June 1st.

The Rays hand the ball to Taj Bradley, who has not missed many bats this season. He was torched for nine runs on nine hits over 3 1/3 innings at Baltimore on June 1st.

Bradley is 1-3 with a 5.81 ERA in his last five starts.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Under.

So we saw the season opener fall way short of the total, and then the Ticats and the Stamps went over on Friday. Normally scoring is down in the first month of the regular season, and last year six of the first eight games went under. There is plenty of turnover on a year to year basis with players and coaches coming and going in a league that runs on a shoestring budget. Starters don't get a lot of reps in the pre-season, and it is not uncommon for the offenses to take a few games to get up to speed. When these teams played last June, the Riders won 17-13. They played again in July and the Riders won by a score of 12-11.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Over.

Both the first two games of this series went under, but we expect a slugfest on Wednesday.

Jose Urena will toe the rubber for the Rangers, and he's still got decent overall numbers. He's 1-5 with a 3.74 ERA, but he's allowed seven runs on 13 hits and three walks over seven innings in his last two appearances. Even the Tigers should rake against this guy.

Detroit will hand the ball to Kenta Maeda, who is 2-2 with a 6.25 ERA. He's 0-1 with a 10.80 ERA in four starts on the road.

Texas is batting a combined .323 over 65 at bats in previous meetings with Maeda.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Over.

The Rockies have won eight of their last 10 at home, and they have been scoring their share of runs during that span. The weather is expected to be favorable to hitters at Coors Field tonight, and warm air at this altitude could lead to a slugfest. Andrew Abbott will toe the rubber for the Reds, and he got torched for six runs on seven hits over six innings in a home loss to St. Louis his last time out. Feltner will go for Colorado, and he's 0-2 with a 5.88 ERA in his last five starts.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 3* play on Over.

The total has gone over in both the previous two meetings in Edmonton, and the under is 3-0 in the games in Dallas. The Oilers have gone over in seven of their last nine home games, and the over is 6-1 in their last seven home games against Dallas. Being that this is an elimination game, we could see the goalie get pulled a lot earlier than we would normally. I think the bookmakers should have put the total at 6 rather than 5.5.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Over.

Only the Las Vegas Aces have scored more points per game in the WNBA this season than Minnesota, and by only fractions of a point. Minnesota comes in averaging over 86 points per game, and they host a Dallas Wings team that averages almost 84 points per game. The problem for the Wings is they give up almost as much as they score. These teams have gone over in seven of the last 10 meetings, and the total here is lower than it was in any of the previous five meetings.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Over.

The Giants host the Yankees in a matinee on Sunday, and we might expect fireworks by The Bay.

Blake Snell will toe the slab for the Giants, and he's 0-3 with a 10.42 ERA. He looked great in a couple of rehab starts in Triple A, but has since been rocked in back to back games in the majors. He gave up eight runs on nine hits and six walks in 7 1/3 innings in losses to Pittsburgh and Philly.

The Yankees hand the ball to Nestor Cortes, who has been great at home, but not so much on the road. He's 0-3 with a 6.16 ERA in six road starts.

The weather conditions are expected to be favorable to hitters in San Francisco today.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Under.

I had the under in Game 4, and here is what I said before the puck dropped: "Both the first two games of this series have gone under, and the way these two goaltenders are playing there is every reason to expect that trend to continue. Florida has gone under in five straight games, and Sergei Bobrovsky has allowed just two goals in his last seven periods. Florida has won nine of their last 11 at home, and Bobrovsky has a 2.00 GAA at home in the playoffs" Four of five games in this series have gone under, and the Panthers have failed to reach the total in seven of their last eight overall.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Under.

The last time the Minnesota Timberwolves faced elimination at home, they beat Denver 115-70 in Game 6 of the Western Conference Semi Final. They shot 52.7 percent from the field and 45.8 percent from beyond the arc in Game 4, and only scored 105 total points. As much as I might like Minnesota's chances in this game, I think it's going to have to be their defense and not their offense that keeps them alive. The Timberwolves are only averaging 107.8 points per game in these playoffs, and Dallas is averaging just 106.9 points per game. Minnesota has held opponents to just 101.9 points per game. Expect both teams to bring it on defense in this elimination game.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Under.

I had the under in Game 3, and here is what I said before the puck dropped: "Both the first two games of this series have gone under, and the way these two goaltenders are playing there is every reason to expect that trend to continue. Florida has gone under in five straight games, and Sergei Bobrovsky has allowed just two goals in his last seven periods. Florida has won nine of their last 11 at home, and Bobrovsky has a 2.00 GAA at home in the playoffs"

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Over.

The Giants will host the Phillies in a matinee at The Bay on Monday, and reigning Cy Young winner Blake Snell will make his return from paternity leave.

Snell (0-3, 11.40 ERA) allowed four runs on four hit and four walks over 3 1/3 innings in a no decision at Pittsburgh his last time out. After missing over a month, he looked sharp in a couple rehab starts at Triple A, but that didn't translate in his return to the majors. Now he has the added distraction of his personal life, so less than 100 percent focus would be completely understandable.

The Phillies hand the ball to Taijuan Walker, who is 3-0 with a 5.06 ERA. He's 4-3 with a 4.39 ERA in 10 career appearances versus the Giants.

Walker has started five games for the Phillies, all five went over. The Giants have gone over in all four of Snell's starts.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Under.

Both the first two games of this series have gone under, and the way these two goaltenders are playing there is every reason to expect that trend to continue. Florida has gone under in five straight games, and Sergei Bobrovsky has allowed just two goals in his last seven periods. Florida has won nine of their last 11 at home, and Bobrovsky has a 2.00 GAA at home in the playoffs.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Under.

After the Rockies won Game 1 by a score of 2-1, we saw Colorado give up six runs in the top of the ninth in an 8-4 loss on Saturday. We are expecting a matinee at Coors to be a pitcher's duel on Sunday.

Ranger Suarez will toe the slab for Philly, and he's looking to become the first 10 game winner of the season. Suarez is 9-0 with a 1.36 ERA and an MLB best 0.79 WHIP.

The Rockies hand the ball to Cal Quantrill, who is 3-1 with a 2.93 ERA in his last five starts.

The under is 9-3 in the last 12 head to head meetings.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Over.

So the Celtics lost Game 2 to a Miami team without Jimmy Butler, and they lost Game 2 in the second round to a Cavaliers team without their starting center. Now they face the Pacers who might be without leading scorer Tyrese Haliburton in Game 3. Could Boston suffer a let down? Can the Pacers rally without their best player? I would like to remind everyone that Haliburton missed several games during the regular season, and the Pacers were 4-1 at home without him in the lineup. He was not healthy in the first round against Milwaukee, and in Game 3 of that series he scored just 18 points, and shot 1-of-12 from beyond the arc. Despite the poor performance from Haliburton, the Pacers won Game 3 and went on to win the series. In Game 6 of that series, the Pacers won 120-98, and Haliburton had just 17 points and shot 2-of-10 from beyond the arc. I am not gonna tell you the Pacers are coming back to win the series as they did against the Knicks, but don't be surprised if they avoid a sweep by winning Game 3.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Under.

These teams averaged 1 goal per period in Game 1, as the Oilers won in double overtime. The Oilers held a 2-1 lead late in the third, but Dallas tied the game to force overtime. After a scoreless overtime period, Connor McDavid ended the game early in the second overtime. Stuart Skinner stopped 31 of 33 shots, and Jake Oettinger stopped 35 of 38 shots. Oettinger robbed McDavid with a highlight reel save in overtime. We can expect another low scoring battle here in Game 2.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Over.

The Pirates scored 11 runs in a win over Atlanta in Game 1, and we are expecting another slugfest on Saturday.

Mitch Keller will toe the slab for the Pirates, and he's been pretty good this season. He's 3-1 with a 2.90 ERA in his last five starts. He hasn't fooled Atlanta though, the Braves have hit a combined .378 over 82 at bats against him.

The Braves hand the ball to Reynaldo Lopez, who is 1-1 with a 4.98 ERA in five appearances versus Pittsburgh.

The Pittsburgh bullpen ranks 26th in the major leages with an ERA of 4.72.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Over.

The Rockies return home off a 10-9 loss at Oakland, and the wind is blowing out at Coors Field.

Ty Blach will toe the rubber for the Rockies in Game 1 versus Philly, and he's allowed seven runs on 14 hits in eight innings in his last two starts.

The Phillies hand the ball to Chris Sanchez who is 2-3 with a 3.31 ERA in nine starts. His WHIP of 1.45 suggests that his ERA might be misleading.

The Rockies pitching staff ranks dead last in ERA (5.27), opponent batting average (.281) and WHIP (1.55). The Phillies lead the major in scoring (277 runs).

GL,

Jesse Schule.

This is a 4* play on Over.

Game 1 of this series was one of the highest scoring playoff games in recent memory. If you are expecting regression, I will have to point out that Boston shot below their playoff average from the field (47.5%), and well below with three point attempts (33%). While the Pacers shot below their playoff average from beyond the arc, their field goal percentage was just a bit higher than their average. The Celtics held a 30-10 edge at the free throw line, which is expected to continue throughout the series. The bookmakers have adjusted with a slightly higher total for Game 2, but I don't think it's high enough.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Under.

The total has gone over in all three games in this series so far, but we might see a pitcher's duel in a matinee on Thursday.

Luis Gil will toe the slab for New York, and he's 4-0 with a 0.74 ERA in his last four starts.

The Mariners hand the ball to their ace Luis Castillo, who has allowed 2 earned runs or less in each of his last five starts.

The Mariners rank 24th in MLB in scoring (191 runs).

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Under.

The first two games of this series went over the total, but I expect a pitcher's duel in Game 3.

Paul Skenes will toe the slab for Pittsburgh, and he's coming off six scoreless innings and 11 strikeouts versus the Cubs.

The Giants hand the ball to Mason Black, who is 0-1 with a 7.71 ERA. Those numbers are a bit skewed by the fact that he got roughed up in his debut at Philly. He was 2-1 with a 1.01 ERA and a 0.70 WHIP in six starts at Triple A.

The Pirates offense ranks among the worst in the major leagues.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Under.

While the Eastern Conference Final looks like it's going to be all offense, we may expect the polar opposite here in the Western Conference Final. Minnesota ranked 1st in scoring defense during the regular season, and they are allowing opponents to average less than 100 points per game in the playoffs. Dallas has really cranked up their defense in the post-season, allowing opponents to average just 103 points per game. Luka was the NBA's leading scorer this season averaging 34 points per game, but he's battled injuries and has averaged just over 27 points per game in the post-season.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Over.

The Celtics deserve to be the favorite in this series, but I still think the Pacers deserve a bit of credit. Coming off a record 67.1 percent from the field in Game 7 at New York, it's easy to say they will suffer some regression. That said they did rank 1st in the playoffs in FG percentage heading into that game, and they lead the league in scoring during the regular season. Boston is without their starting center for at least the first few games of this series, and their backup Al Horford is 37 years old and clearly on the downside of his career. Indiana rolls with seven players averaging in double figures, and nobody needs to play more than 30 minutes per game. The Pacers played twice at Boston during the regular season, and both games went over 250 combined points.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Under.

The Jays host the White Sox in a battle of the two lowest scoring teams in the majors, and we are expecting a pitcher's duel.

Jose Berrios will toe the slab for the Jays, and he's 2-1 with a 0.87 ERA in three starts in Toronto this season.

The White Sox hand the ball to Erick Fedde, who is 4-0 with a 2.60 ERA in nine starts this season.

The under is 5-1 in Toronto's last six overall.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on Under.

The historical trends are clear, we see low scores in NBA Game 7s. The Knicks are banged up, with only two healthy starters remaining. This game should get ugly, very ugly. Expect a slow pace, with both teams struggling offensively and battling for every possession.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Under.

The Oilers face elimination in Game 6, and Connor McDavid might not be 100 percent. He was held off the scoresheet in Game 5, and he has just one point over the last three games. The first three games of this series all went over the total, but the last two games have gone under. Edmonton made a change between the pipes, with Calvin Pickard coming in to replace Stuart Skinner. Pickard has been solid, but Artus Silovs has been even better. We saw two elimination games in the NHL last night, and it was no surprise they both went under the total. Both teams should be ultra cautious here in Game 6 in Edmonton.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Under.

I had the under in Game 5, and here is what I said before the game: "Three of the four games in this series have gone under the total, way under. The only exception was the last game in Oklahoma City. Luka scored 29 points in that game, but has averaged less than 20 in the other three. He's clearly still battling the knee injury, and PJ Washington has become the Mavs go to guy on offense. I don't necessarily expect the shooting woes of Game 4 to carry over in to Game 5, but I don't expect either team to let up on defense either. "

GL,

Jesse Schul

This is a 4* play on Under.

We have seen the Nuggets win the last three games. They have shot 54 percent, 57 percent and 55 percent from the field in those games. All three games went over the total after the first two games both went under. We can expect some regression when it comes to how well Denver has been shooting, as we haven't seen a team hit 50 percent or better through an entire playoff in any of the last 20 seasons. Indiana leads this season's playoffs with a 49 percent field goal percentage, and the 2017 Golden State Warriors have the highest percentage in the last 20 years at 49.4. Hitting 55 percent plus simply isn't sustainable. This is also an elimination game, and historically these games trend under in the neighborhood of 60 percent.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Under. 

Three of the four games in this series have gone under the total, way under. The only exception was the last game in Oklahoma City. Luka scored 29 points in that game, but has averaged less than 20 in the other three. He's clearly still battling the knee injury, and PJ Washington has become the Mavs go to guy on offense. I don't necessarily expect the shooting woes of Game 4 to carry over in to Game 5, but I don't expect either team to let up on defense either. 

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Under.

The first two games of this series went over the total, and the last two games have gone under the number. With the Avs facing elimination on the road in Game 5, we expect scoring chances to be few and far between. The Stars have gone under in nine of their last 12 home games, and the under is 15-5 in their last 20 overall. Jake Oettinger has allowed just two goals on 54 shots in his last two starts.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Over.

The status of Lionel Messi is in doubt heading into this match in Orlando. It's Luis Suarez though that leads the MLS in scoring with 11 goals. Miami leads the MLS with 35 goals scored in 13 matches. Both these teams have conceded 20 goals, and they have a history of playing high scoring games. Four of the last five meetings have gone over the total.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Under.

The Mavs won Game 3 by a score of 105-101, falling well short of the total of 216. Luka Doncic only scored 22 points, and he remains on the injury report with not only a knee injury but an ankle issue as well. Both these teams have played well defensively in the post-season, Oklahoma City allowing just 96.7 points per game and Dallas allowing 103.3. With Luka less than 100 percent, and Oklahoma City in a must win situation, we should expect another low score in Game 4.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Under.

The Braves have gone under the total in 12 of their last 13 overall, and Game 1 of this home series versus Chicago looks like a potential pitcher's duel.

Shota Imanaga will toe the slab for Chicago, and he's been dominant so far this season. The 30 year old rookie is 5-0 with a 1.08 ERA. Even more impressive is his 0.82 WHIP.

The Braves hand the ball to Reynaldo Lopez, who is 2-1 with a 1.53 ERA.

Lopez is 3-1 with a 3.86 ERA in his career versus the Cubs.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Over.

The Twins blew a 7-1 lead yesterday, losing 10-8. We expect another high score here today given the pitching matchup.

Alek Manoah will toe the slab for Toronto, and his return to the major leagues was nothing short of a disaster. He was torched for seven runs on six hits and four walks in just four innings in a loss to Washington.

The Twins hand the ball to Bailey Ober, who has an ERA over 6.00 on the road.

While Manoah could be on a short leash, keep in mind Toronto has one of the worst bullpens in the major leagues.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on Under.

It was Deja Vu all over again when the Celtics came out flat, losing Game 2 at home to the Cavs. Cleveland shot 55 percent from the field and 46 percent from beyond the arc in a 118-94 win. It was shockingly similar to the first round loss in Game 2 versus the Heat when Miami shot 54 percent from beyond the arc. The Heat went on to score just 84 points in Game 3. The last meeting in the regular season saw Cleveland win 105-104 at home. The Celtics have failed to reach the total in four of their last five road games. I expect a low score here in Cleveland in Game 3.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on Over.

The Canucks won all four meetings in this series during the regular season, and three of the four games saw 7 or more goals. The Canucks are down to their 3rd string goaltender, 23 year old Latvian Aturs Silovs. The Oilers went over in four of five games in the first round, and I expect Edmonton to come out hot here in Vancouver. Edmonton scored two first period goals in Game 1 versus LA, one in Game 2 and three in Game 3. The Oilers power play was one of the best in the league in the regular season, and they are converting on an incredible 45 percent of their chances in the playoffs.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Under.

I had the under in Game 1, and it sailed over the total of 217. I had noted that it should be a pace war between a Knicks team that ranked dead last in the NBA in pace of play, and first in the Eastern Conference in opponent's scoring average versus the highest scoring team in the NBA. The Pacers shot over 52 percent from the field and the Knicks shot over 53 percent in Game 1. Expect some regression to the mean here, and I think the value is on the under with tonight's total six points higher than it was in the previous game.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Over.

The Blue Jays lost Game 1 at Philly by a score of 10-1, and more pain could be in the cards in Game 2.

Aaron Nola will toe the slab for Philly, and he's with a 5.29 ERA in six career starts against the Blue Jays.

The Jays hand the ball to Chris Bassitt, and the Bassitt Hound is 0-3 with a 6.14 ERA in three starts on the road.

The Blue Jays bullpen ranks dead last in the majors with a team ERA of 5.27.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Under.

Cleveland took 2-of-3 in a home series versus LA over the weekend, failing to reach the total in all three games. We should see another pitcher's duel in Game 1 versus Detroit.

Triston McKenzie will toe the slab for the Tribe, and he's allowed two runs or less in each of his last three starts. He's 3-2 with a 1.05 ERA in seven career starts versus the Tigers.

Detroit will hand the ball to Jack Flaherty, who will luckily not have to face the AL batting leader who has been sent to the DL.

The wind is blowing in, and these teams each have Top 5 bullpens.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 3* play on Under.

The Rangers are coming off a four game sweep of the Capitals, and they went under the total in three of those four games. Dating back to the regular season they have failed to reach the total in six of their last seven. Goaltender Igor Shesterkin is 4-0 with a 1.75 GAA in the playoffs, and Carolina has Frederick Anderson is 4-1 with a 2.25 GAA in the post-season. Carolina has gone under in 10 of their last 14 versus the Eastern Conference, and they have failed to reach the total in four of their last five versus New York.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on Over.

Jose Aldo has gone the distance in each of his last four fights, and he faces an opponent who has gone the distance in four of his last six fights. The bookmakers have this projected to be a close fight, and it would be no surprise if this fight goes the distance.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Under.

We might see a pitcher's duel in Houston in Game 1.

Ronel Blanco will toe the slab for Houston, and he's already tossed a no-no this season. Blanco is 1-0 with a 1.20 ERA in two starts at Minutemaid Park.

The Mariners hand the ball to George Kirby, who is 1-0 with a 1.62 ERA in three starts versus the Astros. That includes tossing seven scoreless innings in a no decision in a 1-0 loss in the playoffs.

The Mariners rank 27th in the major leagues with 111 runs scored, and their team batting average of .219 also ranks 27th.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Over.

I had the over in Game 2, and here is what I said before the game: 

“Game 1 went way under the total of 231.5, and the opening number for Game 2 was 225.5. That has been bet down even further to 220.5. I think this is an over-correction. While we know scoring is down in the playoffs, and unders have cashed at a phenomenal rate so far, let's not forget who the Pacers are. They led the league in scoring, averaging 123.3 points per game, almost three points per game more than #2 Boston. The ranked second in the league in possessions per game behind the Washington Wizards. Prior to Game 1, the Pacers last game at Milwaukee had a total of 262. Four of five regular season meetings saw totals of 250 or higher. The Pacers had scored 119 or more points in nine straight versus Milwaukee before Game 1.”

I think Game 1 was an anomaly, and we should see high scores in this series moving forward. After another low score in Game 5, I think the books are overreacting here with a really low number in Game 6.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Over.

The Red Sox have won four straight, and they send a relief pitcher to the mound to start Game 3 of this home series versus San Francisco.

Josh Winckowski will toe the slab for the Sox, and he's allowed 14 runs on 22 hits over 18 innings in nine appearances. This will be his third start, and he has an opponent batting average of .301.

The Giants hand the ball to Kyle Harrison, who has struggled on the road. He's allowed nine runs on 20 hits and four walks in 17 innings in three starts away from San Francisco. He has an opponent's batting average of .299 in those games.

The Giants bullpen is about as bad as it get in the major leagues, with a team ERA well over 5.00. The wind is blowing out at Fenway, this could be a slugfest.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on OVER.

I had the over in Game 2, and here is what I said before the game: 

“Game 1 went way under the total of 231.5, and the opening number for Game 2 was 225.5. That has been bet down even further to 220.5. I think this is an over-correction. While we know scoring is down in the playoffs, and unders have cashed at a phenomenal rate so far, let's not forget who the Pacers are. They led the league in scoring, averaging 123.3 points per game, almost three points per game more than #2 Boston. The ranked second in the league in possessions per game behind the Washington Wizards. Prior to Game 1, the Pacers last game at Milwaukee had a total of 262. Four of five regular season meetings saw totals of 250 or higher. The Pacers had scored 119 or more points in nine straight versus Milwaukee before Game 1.”

I think Game 1 was an anomaly, and we should see high scores in this series moving forward. The Pacers ranked 27th in the NBA in the regular season allowing over 120 points per game. Milwaukee ranked 21st in the NBA allowing over 216 points per game.

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Over.

The Yankees won Game 1 in Baltimore by a score of 2-0, but we expect to see more of slugfest here in Game 2.

Nestor Cortes will toe the slab for the Bronx Bombers, and he's struggled on the road. He's 0-1 with a 7.07 ERA in three starts on the road.

The Orioles hand the ball to Dean Kemer, who has been better on the road than at home. He's 0-1 with an 8.68 ERA in two home starts.

Kremer is 2-3 with a 5.04 ERA in nine career starts versus the Yankees. The wind is blowing out, and the over is 7-3 in the last 10 head to head meetings.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on Over.

I had the over in Game 2, and here is what I said before the game: 

“Game 1 went way under the total of 231.5, and the opening number for Game 2 was 225.5. That has been bet down even further to 220.5. I think this is an over-correction. While we know scoring is down in the playoffs, and unders have cashed at a phenomenal rate so far, let's not forget who the Pacers are. They led the league in scoring, averaging 123.3 points per game, almost three points per game more than #2 Boston. The ranked second in the league in possessions per game behind the Washington Wizards. Prior to Game 1, the Pacers last game at Milwaukee had a total of 262. Four of five regular season meetings saw totals of 250 or higher. The Pacers had scored 119 or more points in nine straight versus Milwaukee before Game 1.”

I think Game 1 was an anomaly, and we should see high scores in this series moving forward. The Pacers scored 67 points in the first half of Game 3, and the injury to Damian Lillard should not slow them down here in Game 4. Keep in mind that while 222 points were scored in regulation in Game 3, Siakam, Haliburton and Nesmith all struggled shooting the ball. Perhaps some positive regression here.

GL, 

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on OVER.

The weather conditions will be favorable to hitters in San Francisco tonight. Game 1 will see both teams turning to the back end of the rotation, with young starters who have struggled so far. Neither of these guys will be expected to go deep into the game, which may result in more innings for the bullpens. San Francisco has the worst bullpen in the majors, and the Pirates bullpen is below average.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on Over. 

I had the over in Game 2, and here is what I said before the game: 

“Game 1 went way under the total of 231.5, and the opening number for Game 2 was 225.5. That has been bet down even further to 220.5. I think this is an over-correction. While we know scoring is down in the playoffs, and unders have cashed at a phenomenal rate so far, let's not forget who the Pacers are. They led the league in scoring, averaging 123.3 points per game, almost three points per game more than #2 Boston. The ranked second in the league in possessions per game behind the Washington Wizards. Prior to Game 1, the Pacers last game at Milwaukee had a total of 262. Four of five regular season meetings saw totals of 250 or higher. The Pacers had scored 119 or more points in nine straight versus Milwaukee before Game 1.”

I think Game 1 was an anomaly, and we should see high scores in this series moving forward. 

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Over.

The Giants have won the first two games of this home series versus the Mets, and both games went under the total. I think that both those trends are in danger here this afternoon.

Blake Snell will toe the slab for San Francisco, and he's off to another terrible start. He has been plagued by slow starts over the last few years, so no surprise to see him struggle in his first few starts with San Francisco.

Snell finished last season with an NL best 2.25 ERA and won the Cy Young, but he started the season going 0-4 with a 5.48 ERA in his first five starts. He started the 2022 season going 0-5 with 5.60 ERA in his first seven starts.

Sean Manaea will get the nod for the Mets, and he's allowed 10 runs on 13 hits over 8 2/3 innings in his last two starts.

Pete Alonso is 4-for-8 (.500) with a home run in this series so far, and he's batting .313 with a pair of home runs in 16 career at bats versus Snell.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on Over.

Game 1 went way under the total of 231.5, and the opening number for Game 2 was 225.5. That has been bet down even further to 220.5. I think this is an over-correction. While we know scoring is down in the playoffs, and unders have cashed at a phenomenal rate so far, let's not forget who the Pacers are. They led the league in scoring, averaging 123.3 points per game, almost three points per game more than #2 Boston. The ranked second in the league in possessions per game behind the Washington Wizards. Prior to Game 1, the Pacers last game at Milwaukee had a total of 262. Four of five regular season meetings saw totals of 250 or higher. The Pacers had scored 119 or more points in nine straight versus Milwaukee before Game 1.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on Over. 

The Cubs swept yesterday's double header, and both games went under the total. We expect that in a day game following a double header both these bullpens will be taxed. That means a struggling starter could get a longer leash. Speaking of struggling starters, Kyle Hendricks has been tagged for five or more runs in five or fewer innings in each of four starts this season. He got rocked for seven runs in 4 1/3 innings in a loss at Arizona his last time out. 
 

GL, 
 

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on OVER.

The Giants signed Blake Snell in late March, which didn't allow him to get into any games during Spring Training.

Snell (0-2, 12.86 ERA) has been plagued by slow starts over the last few years, so no surprise to see him struggle in his first two starts with San Francisco. Snell finished last season with an NL best 2.25 ERA and won the Cy Young, but he started the season going 0-4 with a 5.48 ERA in his first five starts. He started the 2022 season going 0-5 with 5.60 ERA in his first seven starts.

The D'Backs hand the ball to Jordan Montgomery, who was also acquired in late March, and has not faced major league hitters since the end of last year.

We have two big name pitchers, but neither is in a good position to be at their best at this point in the season. The wind is blowing out in San Francisco, and expect to see some runs.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Over.

The Rays rocked Blake Snell and the Giants on Sunday, and we expect more high scoring in Game 2 versus the LA Angels tonight.

Aaron Civale will toe the slab for Tampa, and he allowed three runs on four hits in five innings in 6-4 win at LA last week.

The Halos hand the ball to Jose Soriano, who allowed four runs on six hit in four innings in a home loss to Tampa last week.

These two teams own two of the worst bullpens in the major leagues. Tampa ranks dead last in ERA by reliever (6.23) while LA is 22nd (5.02).

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Over.

The Rays rocked Blake Snell and the Giants on Sunday, and we expect more high scoring in Game 1 versus the LA Angels tonight.

Zach Eflin will toe the rubber for the Rays, and he's facing the Angels for the second time in a week. He was torched for five runs on nine hits in five innings in a loss at LA last week.

The Halos hand the ball to Patrick Sandoval, who allowed four runs on six hits and three walks in five innings in a loss to Tampa last week.

These two teams own two of the worst bullpens in the major leagues. Tampa ranks dead last in ERA by reliever (6.23) while LA is 22nd (5.02).

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on Over.

The Giants are coming off an 11-2 win at Tampa in Game 2, and I expect another slugfest in Game 3 at The Trop.

Blake Snell will toe the slab for San Francisco, and while he finished last season with an NL best 2.25 ERA and won the Cy Young, he started the season going 0-4 with a 5.48 ERA in his first five starts. He started the 2022 season going 0-5 with 5.60 ERA in his first seven starts. He missed spring training, and he allowed three runs on three hits and two walks in three innings in his season debut against Washington.

The Rays are using Shawn Armstrong as an opener, and then turning the ball over to the worst bullpen in baseball.

Tampa has a team ERA of 6.52 among relievers, while the Giants rank 26th with a team ERA of 5.29. 

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 2* play on Over.

Sporting KC blew a 3-0 lead last weekend, allowing Portland to score three times in 17 minutes to earn a draw. They host Miami FC, who lead MLS in scoring. This match will not be played in their home stadium, but has been moved to the home of the Kansas City Chiefs to accommodate all the fans looking to catch a glimpse of Lionel Messi. Miami won by a score of 3-2 over Sporting KC last year, and I expect to see another high score here in Kansas City.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 3* play on Under.

While many teams are just going through the motions with only a couple games left in the regular season, these two teams still have plenty to play for. The Cavs are only one game up on the Magic and the Pacers, who could bump them out of the 4th seed. Despite the massive playoff implications, the total for tonight's game is higher than it has been in any of the previous 10 meetings. The Cavs are one of the best defensive teams in the NBA, and they won the last meeting by a score of 108-103 at Indiana last month. While the over is 7-3 in the Cavs last 10 overall, only one of those games saw more than 233 total points.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on Under.

I had the under in the Huskies win over Illinois, and they didn't even come close to the total of 155.5. Here is what I said before tip off: "I had to rub my eyes when I saw that the total for this game opened at 155.5. I think the bookmakers came up with this number based on offensive efficiency numbers, while ignoring pace of play. Illinois may be the most efficient offense in the country, but they scored just 72 points in a low scoring battle versus Iowa State. It won't get any easier against a UCONN team that ranks 307th in pace of play averaging 68 possessions per game. UCONN hasn't seen a combined 155 points in any NCAA Tournament game in 10 years. We saw six of eight games fail to reach the total in the Sweet 16, and there is every reason to expect these teams to tighten up even more as we get closer to the Final." The Crimson Tide scored 89 points and did go over the total in their game against Clemson. That game was on pace to go under with Alabama leading 58-53 with just 8 minutes remaining, but there were 60 points scored in the final eight minutes. These teams played last Novermber, and the total for that game was 148. The Huskies won 82-67 falling well short of 161.5.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Under.

We have seen nine of the last 12 NCAA Tournament games go under the number, and another low score might be expected in a football stadium when such venues have been known to cause problems for long range shooters. Some would say that the Wolfpack have been lucky that Texas Tech, Marquette and Duke shot poorly from beyond the arc. I think it's naive not to give credit to NC State for their defense. Purdue was just 3-of-15 from beyond the arc in the Elite Eight, but with Zack Edey scoring 40 it didn't matter. The Boilermakers won 72-66 versus Tennessee, and I expect a similar score here in the Final Four.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Under.

If the playoffs started today, the Lakers would face the Warriors in the play-in. If that is the matchup you would like to see .... "Houston, we've got a problem!" The Rockets have won 11 straight, and they are just a game back of Golden State. Houston is coming off a 101-100 win at Utah, a dominant effort defensively. They held the Mavs under 100 points the last time these teams met, and the total has gone under in seven of the last 10 meetings. The Mavs have failed to reach the total in eight of their last 10 overall. The stakes are high, so expect defense to be intense in Houston tonight.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Under.

The overs might have hit in the first round of the tournament, but seven of the last 10 NCAA Tournament games have gone under the total. Both these teams have a checkered past in the NCAA Tournament, and past failures haunt the likes of Matt Painter and Rick Barnes. The Vols will need to slow Purdue down if they want to advance, and they have been dominant defensively in this tournament. The Vols ranked #1 in the SEC allowing just 67 points per game this season, and they have failed to reach the total in eight of their last 11.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 10* play on Under.

I had to rub my eyes when I saw that the total for this game opened at 155.5. I think the bookmakers came up with this number based on offensive efficiency numbers, while ignoring pace of play. Illinois may be the most efficient offense in the country, but they scored just 72 points in a low scoring battle versus Iowa State. It won't get any easier against a UCONN team that ranks 307th in pace of play averaging 68 possessions per game. UCONN hasn't seen a combined 155 points in any NCAA Tournament game in 10 years. We saw six of eight games fail to reach the total in the Sweet 16, and there is every reason to expect these teams to tighten up even more as we get closer to the Final.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 5* play on Under.

This is a rematch of last year's Natty, and UCONN won that game by a score of 76-59. The Huskies have won nine straight, and five of their last six opponents have scored 60 points or fewer. UCONN prefers to play at a slow pace, ranking 302nd nationally averaging 68 possessions per game. San Diego State averages just 69.6 possessions per game. They have played strong defense in the tournament so far, allowing an average of 61.5 points per game. We should expect a low score here, and I think the Aztecs will be held to 60 or less.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Under.

The NBA would love to see LeBron James and Steph Curry face off in the play-in, but not everything is going according to script. Houston... we've got a problem! The Rockets have won nine straight and 11 of their last 12. They are now just a game back of the Warriors for the final playoff spot in the Western Conference. The Rockets catch the Thunder playing the second game of a back to back, and with a playoff berth on the line we should see some lock down defense. Houston will try to avenge a 112-95 loss to the Thunder in the last meeting. These teams have failed to reach the total in eight of the last 10 meetings.

GL,

Jesse Schule

This is a 4* play on Under.

Northwestern scored just 19 points in the first half of their first round game against FAU, and it was a late collapse by the Owls that saw them advance. Northwestern ranks 334th in pace of play averaging 67 possessions per game. They rank 4th in the BIG10 in opponent's scoring average allowing 69 points per game. They are missing their best shooter Ty Berry, who hasn't played since early February. The Huskies should completely shut them down, but given the pace of play I expect an overall low score.

GL,

Jesse Schule