UFC Betting – Florian challenges “The Prodigy” at UFC 101

The UFC 101 fight card is out, and is highlighted by what could be a classic tilt as B.J. “The Prodigy” Penn will set out to defend his lightweight title against Kenny Florian.

Penn (13-5-1) is coming off a loss to Georges St. Pierre in which he was dominated, and maybe that was enough to show him that he belongs in the lightweight division, not the welterweight. As a lightweight, Penn has enough size, and his technique is unrivalled. He can contort his limbs into seemingly impossible positions to get opponents into submissions, but with a background in boxing, he can also knock you out if need be. The only knocks on Penn are his stamina and motivation, but that shouldn’t be a problem on August 8th.

Florian (11-3) earned the No.1 contender by submitting Joe Stevenson with a rear-naked choke, which is like his specialty: five of “Ken-Flo’s” seven submissions have come via the rear-naked choke. But it’s standing up where he’ll have a slight advantage over Penn, as he has the sharpest elbows in the UFC, and he has devastating knees in the Muay Thai clinch. His last loss was six fights ago, when he lost to Sean Sherk for the vacant lightweight belt, so the nerves could be a factor that your handicapping software won’t pick up on.

Penn is the betting favorite with odds of -220, and he’ll be fired up to show he’s still the top dog after his embarrassing loss to GSP and the resulting controversy over Vaseline (Penn’s corner alleges that GSP’s corner greased him up so Penn couldn’t get a hold of him with his legs). Florian will give him a go, and as was said before, he’ll try to keep the fight on their feet. Florian is good enough on the ground, but he’s not on Penn’s level when it comes to submissions and technique. Both of these fighters can go the distance, and this is a fight that looks it could go the full 25 minutes. Penn’s conditioning is much better was a lightweight than a welterweight, and he’ll have enough in the tank to narrowly earn a decision over the gutsy Florian.

Daily sports pick: B.J. Penn.

Pocono Betting – Take the underdog at Pocono

Sports betting players could be treated to a show this Sunday at Pocono Raceway, which will hold its second race in just under two months, the Pennsylvania 500. Carl Edwards won last year’s race, and Tony Stewart will be going for the Pocono sweep, but he’ll have to fend off the team from which he is getting support, and a hungry underdog who missed a famous win last week.

Pocono Odds – Sunday, August 2, 2:00 PM ET

Jimmie Johnson won this race back in 2004, and since he has a series-best 8.1 average in seven Pennsylvania 500s, betting services have made him a +520 favorite for this race. Johnson moved into second in the points standings with a win at Indy, and he now has seven top-10s in his last eight races. Some people wonder if the No.48 team has peaked too early, but that’s not the case: this team has won three straight championships. They’re just that good.

Stewart is listed at +600, and he has seven top-10s in 10 Pennsylvania 500s. The No.14 driver who is leading the points came in third at Indy, and he’ll have good memories of the June Pocono race, when he stretched his fuel out to earn the win. Stewart hasn’t finished outside of the top 10 in over two months, and he’s probably one of the best bets of the race.

Two drivers who should be in the Chase, but need a win for momentum’s sake, are Edwards at +800 and Denny Hamlin at +850 in your offshore sportsbook. Edwards has just one top-10 in his last five races, although he did come from the back to finish 15th at Indy, and he came in second to Stewart in the June Pocono race, which wasn’t as kind to Hamlin. The No.11 driver had a fuel-pump problem, and just last weekend at Indy, the gear shift came off in his hand early in the race. He swept the 2006 Pocono races as a rookie, and he’s generally good here.

At +2500, Juan Pablo Montoya seems like a longshot, but he finished eighth in the June race, and he’s coming off a dominant performance at the Brickyard in which he led 116 laps, but committed a late pit-road penalty. Pocono has very tight turns, which is right up Montoya’s alley as he’s one of the top road-course racers in the world. If he gets a rocket like he did at Indy, he won’t make the same mistake. Go with Juan Pablo Montoya in your sports picks.

Golf Betting – It’s the Tiger Show at Warwick Hills

If Tiger Woods were a football betting option, he’d be New England: regardless of what else is going on, chances are they’re the best wagering choice. Woods headlines the Buick Open at Warwick Hills this weekend, and the two-time winner should be at the top of the list of favorites for this event.

Golf Betting – Thursday, August 30

Woods should be the favorite now that defending winner Kenny Perry isn’t in the field…oh wait, that wouldn’t have mattered. The world’s No.1 has won this event in 2002 and 2006, and he’ll be loaded with motivation after missing the cut in a major for only the second time in his professional career at the British Open. That was his first time outside the top 10 all year, and now that some are asking, “what’s wrong with Tiger?”, expect a big performance from Woods.

Jim Furyk was in the hunt at the British Open before a final-round 76, and he won this event in 2003. If one of your sports picks is who will break the top 10, then Furyk should be considered a lock as he has four straight in non-major events. But he’ll have his hands full with a course that favors long hitters.

Justin Leonard is coming off an eighth-place result at the British Open, and he’ll have a good chance to win in a relatively weak field. Leonard is a solid driver of the ball, and he also ranks well in greens-in-regulation and putting, and with those attributes, he could find himself in the mix on Sunday afternoon.

If you’re a betting management player and you’re looking for some value, Nick Watney would be a good choice. Warwick Hills favors big bombers, and Watney is fifth on the Tour in driving distance. He’s not that accurate with the driver, but if he can keep it in the fairway, that will boost his birdie chances, and he’s 14th on the Tour in that category. He’s missed the cut in three of his last six events since a 19th-place finish at The Masters, and he hasn’t finished higher than 14th, which happened at the Memorial. But he’s coming off a promising 27th-place finish at the British Open, which is more than the world’s No.1 can say. Watney would be a decent golf betting pick this weekend.

FIA Suspends Renault Team for the next F1 Race

The Renault team was suspended for the next F1 race, the European Grand Prix, for allowing Fernando Alonso to leave the track without taking the tire under the car properly.

The FIA, motorsport's world governing body said on Sunday after studying video and audio recordings of the Hungarian GP that the French team was suspended from the next event of Formula One

The right front tire came off when Alonso took the ninth curve and went to bounce the track.

The safety of the race was in doubt from the previous day, when the pilot Brazilian Felipe Massa had to be hospitalized to receive a blow to the head of a loose piece of metal. His condition was stable but still in danger of dying.

Phelps Wins first Gold in World Cup 2009 of Swimming

United States won the final of the 4x100 meters relay men free swimming World Cup 2009 with a time of 3:09.21, ahead of Russia (3:09.52) and France (3:09.89), this Sunday in Rome .

The U.S. current Olympic champions, gained his third consecutive victory in the World, led by its star Michael Phelps, who joined as its first gold in his first appearance in the Roman Pool.

France, the race favorite for its outstanding results in recent months, got her first lead in the World-2009, but did not break the 'curse' and still not win a relay in a big event.

Games in Beijing-2008, the French staged an pulse anthological with the Americans and finished second after a final release with Alain Bernard.

The surprise came from Russia, located in the hall number 8 and was less than, at the battle for victory in the final.

Representatives from Brazil, with Cesar Cielo in front, rozaron any medals, but were finally quarters.

Florida Marlins vs. L.A. Dodgers Betting Odds

A winning streak will be on the line for the Florida Marlins on Saturday when they battle the Los Angeles Dodgers at Dodger Stadium.

The Marlins will give the ball to starter Rick Vanden Hurk in this one. Righthander Vanden Hurk is 1-0 this season with a 3.00 ERA.

Vanden Hurk's opponent in this one will be Hiroki Kuroda. The Dodgers righthander has a 4.37 ERA to go along with a 3-5 record this season.

Oddsmakers at Bodog Sportsbook currently have the Dodgers listed as 175-moneyline favorites versus the Marlins, while the game's total is sitting at 9.

The Marlins pounded out 14 hits as they cruised past the Dodgers 6-3 on Friday, as +140 underdogs. That game's nine runs made it OVER the posted over/under (7).

Josh Johnson improved to 9-2 with the victory, and Leo Nunez allowed closed out the ninth with his seventh save.

Wes Helms had three hits and drove in one run for the Dodgers, who were -160 favorites. James McDonald gave up the winning run in relief to suffer the loss.

A few trends to consider:
Florida is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games on the road

Florida is 4-1 SU in their last 5 games when playing on the road against LA Dodgers

Florida is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games

LA Dodgers are 5-1 SU in their last 6 games at home

LA Dodgers are 5-1 SU in their last 6 games

LA Dodgers are 1-4 SU in their last 5 games when playing at home against Florida

Next up:
LA Dodgers home to Florida, Sunday, July 26

MLB Betting – White Sox, Tigers Square off for AL Central Supremacy

If the AL Central were a football betting division, they would be the NFC North, with three good teams vying for the top spot in the division. This weekend’s series at Comerica Park should be a good one between the Chicago White Sox and Detroit Tigers, as these games will follow a Friday doubleheader

White Sox vs Tigers Odds - Saturday, 4:05 PM ET

Gavin Floyd (8-6, 4.40) has never lost to the Tigers, going 5-0 in 11 starts with a 3.55 ERA, but he’s been taken deep five times in his last two outings, and he’s been shaky on the road with a 4-4 mark in 10 starts with a 6.03 ERA. Edwin Jackson (7-5, 2.52) has controlled the opposition at home, going 4-1 in eight starts with a 2.73 ERA, but hasn’t fared well against the White Sox, posting a 1-2 record in five starts with a 5.93 ERA . These two faced off in Chicago on June 11th, with both taking a no-decision in a 4-3 White Sox win, but Floyd outpitched Jackson badly. Look for your betting services to favor Detroit in this one.

Sports pick: Detroit Tigers

White Sox vs Tigers Odds – Sunday, 8:05 PM ET

These two also get the nationally-televised game on Sunday night, and Clayton Richard (3-3, 5.00) is coming off his best outing of the year, allowing a run on four hits over eight innings in a 3-2 loss against Tampa Bay. He’ll be taking on Rick Porcello (9-6, 4.40), who has given up five or more runs in his last three starts, and he’s allowed at least one homer in his last four outings. Richard has made two appearances (one start), and he still has a 0-0 record despite a 5.40 ERA. This will be Porcello’s introduction to this American League Central rivalry, and he’ll need to get back to his early-season form. MLB odds should be very close in this matchup given Porcello’s struggles, but the Tigers should be the favorite at home. In which case, take the White Sox in a slight MLB betting upset.

Sports pick: Chicago White Sox

Eto´o the New Player of Inter

The representative of Samuel Eto´o, José María Mesalles, revealed he has closed the agreement with Inter for the signing of Cameroon.

Mesalles was confirmed to the media upon leaving the meeting with the directors of the sports betting Inter Milan.

With this agreement opens the door for Ibrahimovic signed for Barcelona. The Swede has already abandoned the merger of Inter Milan.

Despite the fact that Inter has not yet issued any official statement regarding the end of the negotiations, said in Mesalles station 'Radio Radio' that the agreement has been reached is "five years" and that "the player is happy. "

There is a total agreement with Inter. The negotiation has ended, although it is not yet possible to say that Etoo is a player that interest has not been resolved the issue of settlement with soccer betting Barcelona, "said Mesalles. Questioned about whether Pep Guardiola has underestimated Etoo, the representative of Cameroonian replied that "it is true that with the coaching change was difficult for the player well. The player showed great performance, I do not know what he thought Guardiola. "

Hours later, on his arrival in the city, said that Mesalles Etoo is one hundred percent interest, pending the medical examination. " The representative of Cameroon estimated that their presentation could be in Milan on Monday or Tuesday of next week.

NASCAR Betting: All-State 400 Preview

NASCAR betting fans are licking their chops as we inch closer to the chase. Every race matters and the All-State 400 in Indiana has a special connection to several drivers’ hearts this week. Let’s explore some potential betting choices.

TOP CONTENDERS: Jimmie Johnson (+500), Tony Stewart (+600), Jeff Gordon (+750)

It’s a no-brainer for this trio to top the betting favorites list this week, as they’ve combined for 15 All-State 400s, including the last five checkered flags at the race.

Jimmie Johnson has had some great showings at the Brickyard and led for a race-high 71 laps last season, but he’s inconsistent, as he has three DNFs in seven tries there. Usually, betting favorites should be safer than that.

Indiana’s Tony Stewart, the 2005 and 2007 champ, should bounce back after finishing 23rd last season. The points leader has a finishing average of 9.1 at the Brickyard and is a safer bet than Johnson to contend, so he makes an excellent sports pick.

What about Jeff Gordon? He has four All-State 400 victories and his 8.6 finishing average at the Brickyard over 15 races leads all active drivers. He’s a very tempting pick since he offers better value than Stewart and Johnson.

SOLID PICKS: Kyle Busch (+850), Denny Hamlin (+1200)

If you’re looking for a bit more value while still playing it safe with your betting management, try Kyle Busch. His average finish is ninth and he has three top-10s at the Brickyard. However, he’s out of sorts lately. He starts at 5.1 on average yet finishes 17.5 over his last eight races. What about Denny Hamlin? He has two top-10s in three tries at this race and he’s been very reliable this season, cracking the top five in five straight races.

THE SLEEPER: Ryan Newman (+2000)

Is it worth taking a flier on another hometown hero? Ryan Newman obviously doesn’t have Stewart’s pedigree, but he’ll be hungry to win and he always starts strong, leading active drivers with a 4.9 starting average at the Brickyard. His equipment gives him a better chance to hold that position than ever before, and you have to like his underdog value. Consider taking the plunge on him.

Betting pick: Ryan Newman +2000

Tampa Bay Rays vs. Chicago White Sox Betting Odds & Stats

The Tampa Bay Rays and the Chicago White Sox will both be trying to pick up a win on Wednesday when they battle at U.S. Cellular Field.

Team records:
Tampa Bay: 52-42 SU

Chicago: 48-45 SU

James Shields will be the starting pitcher for the Rays on this day. Righthander Shields is 6-6 this season with a 3.75 ERA.

It'll be Carlos Torres toeing the rubber for the White Sox in this contest. Righthander Torres will be making his season debut.

Oddsmakers currently have the Rays listed as 135-moneyline favorites versus the White Sox, while the game's total is sitting at 9.

Carlos Pena's sacrifice fly in the top of the ninth inning lifted the Rays over the White Sox 3-2 on Tuesday night.

Tampa Bay won as -140 road favorites as the teams played UNDER the 10-run total listed by oddsmakers.

Evan Longoria and Pat Burrell also drove in runs for the Rays, while Jeff Niemann allowed two runs over eight innings to earn the win for Tampa Bay.

Gordon Beckham was 3-for-4 with a run batted in for Chicago, as Bobby Jenks took the loss after surrendering the go-ahead run in the top of the ninth inning.

A few trends to consider:
Tampa Bay is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games on the road

Tampa Bay is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games

Tampa Bay is 8-16 SU in their last 24 games when playing on the road against Chi White Sox

Tampa Bay is 2-4 SU in their last 6 games when playing Chi White Sox

Chi White Sox are 7-3 SU in their last 10 games at home

Chi White Sox are 16-8 SU in their last 24 games when playing at home against Tampa Bay

Chi White Sox are 4-2 SU in their last 6 games when playing Tampa Bay

Chi White Sox are 15-8 SU in their last 23 games

Next up:
Chi White Sox home to Tampa Bay, Thursday, July 23

Ibrahimovic's Move from Inter to Barça

Barcelona reached an agreement in principle with Inter for Zlatan Ibrahimovic to sign and send to the Italian club Eto'oy Samuel Aleksandr Hleb.

Barca president Joan Laporta, said that there is an agreement with Inter. But it has to assess the technical secretariat.

According to the press in Spain, Laporta has sealed the deal Thursday night with the president of Inter, Massimo Moratti. The Spanish team would pay 40 million euros ($ 56 million) in addition to yielding to Hleb Eto'oy the Swedish striker.

However, the Catalan team said yesterday that negotiations with the continuing interest.

Laporta said the agreement depends on approval from Ibrahimovic and Eto'o, so the team remains open other possibilities such as the Valencia striker David Villa.

"It depends on all of Eto'o and Ibrahimovic. Also that permanently written into the contract we all agree. When it comes to selling a player relies on them, and more with current contract, "said Laporta during the presentation of Maxwell, the Brazilian side that Barca to Inter bought by 4.5 million euros ($ 6.4 million) .

Eto'o turned down a lucrative offer from Manchester City in England this summer, it chose to stay with the Spanish team.

Golf Betting – No Furyk means Canadian event is wide Open

Jim Furyk would be the golf odds favorite for this week’s Canadian Open at Glen Abbey Golf Course, but the two-time defending champion is taking some time off after finishing T-34 at the British Open. Here’s a look at the top players who you should consider in your offshore sportsbook.

Golf Betting – Thursday, July 23, 6:00 AM ET

Camilo Villegas is the highest-ranked golfer competing in the 100th edition of the Canadian Open, and he was T-53 here in 2008. However, he’s coming off a solid T-13 at the British Open, and the Abbey is a golf course which rewards good iron play, which is right up Villegas’ alley: he’s 17th in greens-in-regulation this season.

Sean O’Hair will also challenge for the lead, as he finished T-3 here and he’ll be looking to recover from a terrible 65th-place result at the British Open. O’Hair is fifth on the Tour in greens-in-regulation and seventh in birdies, and Chaz Reavie’s -17 was good enough to win last year, so if the course is going low, look for O’Hair to be a handicapping software favorite

Anthony Kim is another player who pounces when a course is set up for birdies, as he is ranked eighth in the Tour in that category. Kim will be aiming to bounce back from a missed cut at the British Open, and this type of golf course suits his game just fine as proven by his T-8 at the Abbey in 2008. He would do well to improve on his driving accuracy, where he is 187th on the Tour.

Retief Goosen was T-5 at the British Open, and he now has five straight top-30 finishes, including three in the top 15. Goosen has already won once this year at the Transitions Championship, and after his great play in Scotland, he could be worth a shot.

Finally, you can’t talk about the Canadian Open without Mike Weir, who finished T-5 here last year and is looking to become the first Canadian since Pat Fletcher in 2004 to keep the trophy in the north. Weir had a great chance to do this in 2004, but a late collapse cost him the title, which went to Vijay Singh. He missed the cut at Turnberry, but given that he’ll be the crowd favorite (and we saw what happened in the Presidents Cup when he beat Tiger Woods), he’s definitely one of the top sports picks of the weekend.

MLB Betting – Brewers/Reds Weekend Picks

British Open betting is great but, for the Western Hemisphere at least, the action ends in the early afternoon. After that, we may as well bet on some baseball to keep ourselves busy. Let’s look at the Brewers/Reds series for Saturday and Sunday.

Saturday, July 18, 7:10 p.m. ET

Manny Parra (3-8, 6.78) vs Aaron Harang (5-9, 4.18)

If you like your underdog baseball odds, keep reading. Manny Parra’s stat line is undoubtedly ugly, and it’s a product of his horrendous first half. He walked batters left and right and was simply very hittable. However, as we see with pitchers every year, he may be a new man after spending a month in the minors to work on his mechanics. He returned from his Class-AAA banishment last week and shut out the division-leading St. Louis Cardinals for seven innings, striking out seven and walking one. Since his numbers still look gross, the Brewers will be underdogs on the road, but they could surprise.

Aaron Harang pitches well at home but several of the key Brewer hitters have his number; Prince Fielder, Ryan Braun, J.J. Hardy and Bill Hall all have a career OPS over 1.000 against Harang, so they could take him deep one or more times.

Baseball pick: Brewers

Sunday, July 19, 1:10 p.m. ET

Yovani Gallardo (8-7, 3.22) vs Johnny Cueto (8-6, 3.62)

Flamethrowers Yovani Gallardo and Johnny Cueto have followed strikingly similar paths this season. Both have dominate for the better part of 2009 thus far with their electric stuff, but both stumbled badly entering the All-Star break – especially Cueto, who has a 10.03 ERA this month. In each pitcher’s case, the slump is likely a product of increased workload. Gallardo missed most of last season after tearing his ACL, while Cueto is a sophomore in the bigs.

Sportsbook software projects a rebound for both pitchers since they’ve had about a week to rest, but Gallardo is a stronger bet on Sunday. He has the superior offense backing him, so it’s best to bet on the guy getting better run support when the pitchers are so evenly matched.

Baseball pick: Brewers

Michael Phelps the Great Attraction at the World Swimming

The world of swimming begins on Friday and the workers employed at the Foro Italico in a hurry to leave the facility ready to jump into the water when stars like Michael Phelps and Chinese diver Guo Jingjing.

You have to know the country you're getting into. This is Italy, said Cornel Marculescu, executive director of the International Swimming Federation (FINA). But in the end everything will be okay.

The first medals of the championship, which will be held from July 17 to August 2, will be shared on Friday in the men's one meter springboard. The inauguration ceremony will be held on Saturday, and the most traditional of the swimming start July 26.

The synchronized swimming and water polo also be held at the Foro Italico, a multi-complex built in the decade of the 1930s.

Swimming and diving will be conducted in permanent pools were also used for the 1960 Olympics and the World 1994. Two temporary pools were installed for the water polo and synchronized swimming, while the open water swimming to be held in the resort of Ostia.

It will be a fantastic tournament. We have the largest participation ever, with 2600 athletes from 184 countries, more than 2,000 coaches, officials and delegates, Marculescu said.

In the last world in Melbourne two years ago, United States topped the medals table with 21 gold and 40 overall.

It will be a challenging approach to total medals, 2007, said Mark Schubert, head coach of the U.S. team. This year is more than prepared.

The swimsuits Ultramodern undoubtedly be a topic of debate.

FINA has been criticized for failing to regulate the rapid advances in technology swimsuits that produced 108 world records last year and nearly 30 this year.

It is suspected that some suits increase the speed of the swimmers. Last month, 202 FINA approved suits and rejected 10 others.

We will have 11 manufacturers supplying costumes for free, Marculescu said the AP. Depends on the swimmers choose the dress they want. The important thing is that there are equal conditions and availability. All swimsuits are the mark of the FINA to prove that they were approved.

Another problem in Rome could be the heat, with temperatures reaching 35 degrees Celsius this week and the pool of unprotected sun.

The Italians have told us that next week will be the warmest year, but the temperature drop for the second week when you start swimming, Marculescu said. However, our sport is in the water, so no problem.

Still, extreme heat could scare off viewers, but organizers are betting that Phelps and Italian swimmer Federica Pellegrini attract large crowds.

Phelps won a record eight gold medals at the Beijing Olympics, but probably only compete in six events in Rome: the 200 free, 100 butterfly, 200 butterfly and three relays.

I hope that Michael Phelps is, and if Michael Phelps is going to be breaking world records and winning gold medals, Marculescu anticipated. You just have to be himself and I think it will be.

NFL Divisional Preview: NFC East

While some fans focus on Tour de France betting and other summer sports, the rough and tumble sports fans are already thinking about the upcoming NFL season. Let’s break down each division, starting with what may be football’s best: the NFC East.

NEW YORK GIANTS (+180 to win)

BOOM: The defending division champs are among the deepest teams in the NFL. The Giants led the NFL in rushing last year and, while they lost Derrick Ward to the Bucs, Ahmad Bradshaw still forms a lethal thunder/lightning tandem with Brandon Jacobs. Eli Manning showed he could excel without Plaxico Burress last season, throwing more than twice as many touchdowns as picks.

The defense is deep and strong everywhere and we can expect the pass rush to improve assuming Osi Umenyiora stays healthy all year.

BUST: New York doesn’t have any true weakness but teams will throw plenty of eight-man fronts at Jacobs and Bradshaw if Eli can’t find a reliable target downfield.

PHILADELPHIA EAGLES (+190 to win)

BOOM: Few offenses excite NFL betting fans like Philly’s. Andy Reid loves to throw and he has Donovan McNabb doing it all day long. What the Eagles lack in size, they make up in speed, as Brian Westbrook, DeSean Jackson and Kevin Curtis can fly once the ball touches their hands.

Defensively, the Eagles were quietly among the very best in the NFL against the run and pass last season. The D-line, led by Trent Cole, racks up sacks, while Asante Samuel and the secondary rack up interceptions.

BUST: The key playmakers on Philly’s offense are seriously brittle and don’t have reliable replacements. Also, the defense lost Brian Dawkins, who may have been the glue holding everything together.

DALLAS COWBOYS (+200 to win)

BOOM: Off-field issues or not, there’s no shortage of talent on this team. Tony Romo, Jason Witten and Marion Barber are cornerstones of an offense that can still put serious points on the board when it wants to. DaMarcus Ware made a major run at the sack record last season and leads a defense that is beatable but still strong and good at pressuring the quarterback.

BUST: Can Roy Williams fill Terrell Owens’ shoes? He seemed on the verge of stardom for a year or two in Detroit but can’t seem to find a groove now. Romo needs a go-to deep man to flourish. Also, the secondary has holes with the loss of the other Roy Williams and Adam “Pacman” Jones.

WASHINGTON REDSKINS (+570 to win)

BOOM: The Redskins have a chance to be the NFL’s top defense this season. They already ranked fourth overall in that regard last season; now they’ve added all-world defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth to the mix and locked up DeAngelo Hall long-term. Offensively, say what you want about Clinton Portis, but he gets it done, churning out one 1,200-yard, 300-carry season after another.

BUST: The passing attack continues to be an Achilles heel and never meets sports betting software projections. Jason Campbell is an adequate passer but he’s not a true gunslinger and lacks a big red zone target outside Chris Cooley. Most of the Washington’s problems stem from not scoring enough.

OUTLOOK

The Redskins are tempting as NFL picks since they offer good value but the Giants are just a bit too deep to be dethroned. Bet on the Giants to ride their dominant running game to another NFC East title.

Mason Decided to Retired

Mason, of 35 years and considered one of the best receivers this decade, had declared in March, the official website of the NFL league slatted considered leaving, but would also like to play two or three years more.

He had one more year of contract.

However, this made the announcement Monday of his farewell.

"After 12 years, I have seen everything and done everything," Mason said at a sports Internet portal. "Now, I'm happy with the decision that I am taking. All good things come to an end and I'm ready to see that is what gives life. "

After playing his first eight seasons with the Tennessee Titans to the Super Bowl XXXIV dispute in January 2000, Mason came to Baltimore in 2005 and amassed 790 receptions in his career, with 10.061 yards and 52 touchdowns.

In 2008, he became the 31st player in league history to exceed 10,000 yards in receptions to lead the campaign caught 80 passes for 1.037 yards and a major factor for the Baltimore contest the Championship Game AFC. In three playoff games, added 12 receptions for 190 yards and a touchdown.

However, until this Tuesday, Mason had not made his official announcement to his team or the league. Any player wishing to withdraw must send a letter to the NFL to inform its decision.

"I've earned enough money, more than enough money," said Mason, who was entering the final year of his contract.

Stallworth Was Released from Prison

After completing 24 of 30 days in jail for his initial ruling, the receiver open the Cleveland Browns, Donte Stallworth left the prison in Miami.

After roll your car to a man named Mario Reyes, 59 years old, last March 14 and checked after driving under the influence of alcohol, Stallworth opened the first part of his sentence which was 30 days of prison, but he was released six days before the end of the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center on Friday afternoon.

The recipient of 28 years old, who remains suspended indefinitely by the NFL has yet to meet with eight years of probation, two years of house arrest and 1,000 hours of community service.

The former player of the New England Patriots, Philadelphia Eagles and New Orleans Saints appeared to have secured the future after he signed before the 2008 season, a contract for seven years and $ 35 million with Cleveland, but injuries limited to only 17 receptions, 170 yards and a touchdown.

British Open Betting – Foreign players aim to keep Claret Jug overseas

British Open odds are out for the 138th Open, which tees off Thursday at Turnberry, and it’s no surprise that Tiger Woods is the one to watch. However, Irishman Padraig Harrington has won the last two years, and there’ll be a number of European golfers looking to keep the Claret Jug off of American soil. Here are the five to watch.

British Open odds – Thursday, 2:30 PM ET

1) Padraig Harrington – This is more of a courtesy to the champion, who has British Open odds of +2200 to defend his title. However, Harrington is having an awful season despite his win at the Irish PGA Championship (which isn’t as prestigious as it sounds), as swing changes have turned his game around, and not for the better. Stay away from him when making your sports picks this week.

2) Rory McIlroy – The 20-year-old from Northern Ireland finished T-42 as an amateur at Carnoustie in 2007, and he is coming off a solid 10th-place finish at the US Open. Links golf is right up McIlroy’s alley, and the phenom has golf betting odds of +2200, alongside the champ.

3) Ian Poulter – The Englishman was second in last year’s Open, and he’s finished in the top 20 at The Masters and the US Open this season. The 33-year-old has been having a very consistent season, which is why betting services have rated him at +2800 this weekend.

4) Lee Westwood – The 36-year-old Ryder Cup veteran is coming off a 23rd-place result at the US Open and he’s struggled with the Claret Jug on the line recently with one missed cut and three finishes outside the top 30 since coming in fourth in 2004. Still, he’s been playing well overseas and with British Open odds of +2800, he could be worth a shot.

5) Martin Kaymer – Who? The 24-year-old German has won his last two tournaments, including a playoff win over Westwood two weeks ago. Kaymer finished 80th in his lone British Open appearance in 2008 and missed the cut in both The Masters and the US Open, but momentum is a crazy thing in sports, so you may want to take a chance on him in your offshore sportsbook.

Real Madrid - Not all Dutch Players of the Team Will Leave

The new coach of Real Madrid, Manuel Pellegrini said on Sunday that not all Dutch players of the team will leave, contradicting the press reports in recent days.

"Do not leave all the Dutch, is not true. Try to make the template without mistakes," said Pellegrini in his first press conference after the Real Madrid training.

As stated repeatedly in the press, the white club wants to reduce its contingent of six Dutch: Royston Drenthe, Klaas-Jan Huntelaar, Arjen Robben, Wesley Sneijder, Rafael Van der Vaart and Ruud van Nistelrooy.

But people do not seem to want to leave the club, which currently has a large staff of 32 players.

When preguntraron if you had already decided I wanted to stay, Pellegrini said: "I have spoken to all players defining the status of each is a thankless position."

"Everyone wants to stay at Real Madrid but in the end come to an understanding between players, coaches and management because we are all involved with the project," added the coach of Chile.

Sneijder seems to be one of the Dutch Pellegrini welcomed. "It's very good player and comes in handy for the staff," he said.

In any case, Pellegrini wants to stay with 25 men. "I think the 25 players who will form the final template will be fully trained. We can not have in the past five years has not been able to pass in the second round of Champions," he said.

He also referred to the veteran captain Raul Gonzalez, suggesting that it will have to compete for his place with all the other forwards.

"Raúl has demonstrated the quality he is, but we also have a significant offensive potential (Gonzalo) Higuaín, Raúl, (Karim) Benzema, Cristiano Ronaldo and Van Nistelrooy, who will point a few days. The players are better playing more parties and will be major players, "he said.

Pellegrini also had good words for the conduct of the Portuguese star striker Cristiano Ronaldo, the most expensive signing in the history of football, Real Madrid has just hired more than 93 million euros and that is causing sensanción between the Madrid fans.

"This is the first to arrive at the training, is fully integrated with their peers, pose no star is a normal player of great ability and is delivered to a great club like Real Madrid. One thing is the image given externally and how the other player, "he said.

Aikman Congratulated Adrián González

The former quarterback of the Dallas Cowboys and Hall of Famers Troy Aikman was pleased by the inclusion of the Mexican baseball Adrián González-Star Game Major League Baseball.

Vacations in San Diego.

The three-times Super Bowl champion with the team at Lone Star made his comments in his Twitter site, after spending a family holiday in the southern California city where, incidentally, was the launch of the first ball in the match the San Diego Padres on Thursday, July 2.

When it unveiled the Rosters of teams for the "classic half season, Gonzalez was included as an alternate to the National League, where he and reliever Heath Bell the sole representatives of the Fathers.

Aikman released the following message on the subject: "Congratulations to Adrian Gonzalez and Heath Bell for his team selection to the National League for Game Stars ... Well deserved."

González will participate in his first game of baseball stars in the best of the world. Until July 8 march with batting average of .256 with 24 home runs and 56 runs produced. In season, he became leader jonronero and had a string of five matches at least one connecting vuelacercas.

Aikman, who is the NFL analyst for FOX, reported that their family vacation in California came to an end and he was ready to return to the heat of Texas and his home in Dallas.

San Diego Padres vs. San Francisco Giants Betting Odds

The San Diego Padres will be fighting to snap a losing streak on Saturday when they take on the San Francisco Giants at AT&T Park.

The Padres will give the ball to starter Luis Perdomo in this one. Righthander Perdomo is 0-0 this season with a 0.00 ERA.

Starting this game for the Giants will be Matt Cain. The righthander has a 2.42 ERA to go along with a 10-2 record this season.

Oddsmakers currently have the Giants listed as 260-moneyline favorites versus the Padres, while the game's total is sitting at 8.

Jonathan Sanchez tossed a no-hitter as the Giants shut down the Padres 7-0 Friday. The Giants won the game as -155 favorites, while the team's played UNDER the posted over/under (9).

Pablo Sandoval hit a three-run homer, while Aaron Rowand went 2-for-4 at the plate with two RBIs for the Giants.

Josh Banks gave up seven runs off eight hits over four innings in the loss for the Padres, who were +135 underdogs.

A few trends to consider:
San Diego is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against San Francisco

San Diego is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games on the road

San Diego is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games

San Francisco is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against San Diego

San Francisco is 9-2 SU in its last 11 games at home

San Francisco is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games

Next up:
San Francisco home to San Diego, Sunday, July 12

UFC 100 Betting – St-Pierre vs. Alves Odds and Pick

If you haven’t heard about UFC 100 odds in the last 24 hours, you must be living under a large rock. The massive event is the talk of the betting community this weekend, particularly because of the two title fights on this MMA fight card. Who will win the welterweight title bout? Let’s break down St-Pierre vs Alves.

THE CHALLENGER: Thiago “Pit Bull” Alves

Record: 22-4

Notable victories: Matt Hughes, Josh Koscheck, Karo Parisyan

Odds to win: +240

STRENGTHS: Alves literally has a puncher’s chance against Georges St-Pierre, as he’s the hardest hitter the champ has ever faced. Armed with Muay Thai knees, powerful punches and the best leg kicks in the business, Alves is an aggressive fighter who can seriously hurt opponents in a hurry. He’s a true finisher; just ask Matt Hughes, whom he brutally knocked out with a flying knee at UFC 85.

WEAKNESSES: While Thiago Alves’ takedown defense is outstanding, there’s a reason for that; he’s not comfortable on the ground and thus does everything in his power to keep fights standing. When he’s taken down, his “defense” is to try and stand up. Against a ground monster like George St-Pierre, Alves could be done like dinner if he gets taken down.

THE CHAMPION: Georges “Rush” St-Pierre

Record: 18-2

Notable victories; BJ Penn, Matt Hughes, Sean Sherk

Odds to win: -300

STRENGTHS: Is there a word limit on this article? There are many, many strengths to list for GSP, as he’s among MMA’s most versatile and athletic fighters. He made a name for himself with his Karate-based striking and still has deadly knockout ability, but he really became an elite fighter when he matured into what his peers say is the best wrestler in all of mixed martial arts. He’s a scientist on the ground, knowing exactly where to position his limbs to limit his opponents’ mobility. He’s successful on 77 per cent of his takedown attempts, a number bettered only by lightweight Gray Maynard. That makes GSP a bad matchup for Alves.

WEAKNESSES: GSP has one possible weakness, and it does give Alves an opening. When St-Pierre first fought Matt Serra, sports predictions had him dominating the fight, but no one expected him to get wobbled with a relatively weak punch and eventually get TKO’d by Serra. Though St-Pierre hasn’t lost since then, his chin is a bit of question mark. Few fighters hit harder than Alves, so you never know what could happen if he catches the champ with even one clean shot.

OUTLOOK

As scary as Alves is, he’s not a complete fighter. Georges St-Pierre can beat people in so many ways, and that allows him to change his strategy based on his opponent. He’ll have a set game plan in place to minimize Alves ‘ strengths. While GSP will certainly have to be careful, he’ll outclass the Pit Bull.

Best betting management pick: St-Pierre -300

Freddy Adu Leaves U.S. team to go to Benfica

Freddy Adu did not play for the U.S. selection in the rest of the Gold Cup and will go to Portugal to join Benfica's the preseason, the coach Bob Bradley said after the 2-0 victory over Honduras.

Adu scored a goal Saturday in the victory of United States 4-0 in his debut against Granada. Wednesday was a shot on goal and was replaced for 64 minutes.

This will be the last match of Freddy in the Gold Cup, said Bradley. That was the arrangement from the beginning.

Adu to Benfica will leave, which he signed with the team in 2007. Last season, the club gave to the Portuguese Monaco, where he played just 169 minutes in 10 games.

It is important to have your preseason team, Adu said. It gives you the best opportunity to be part of the team in the season.

New York Yankees will no Longer Control their Fans

The New York Yankees will no longer control their fans while sounding patriotic anthem God bless America to end the demand for an amateur who was expelled from the premises for wanting to use the bathroom at that time.

The Civil Liberties Union of New York announced yesterday that the team reached an agreement with the cease exercising strict control over the fans during the intonation of this anthem, played since the terrorist attacks of 2001 before every game.

"This agreement ensures that the new stadium the Yankees will be a place for baseball and not to impose a patriotism," said the driver of demand.

The New Yorker Bradford Campeau-Laurion, 30, sued the mules after two police officers drove him from the field while trying to go to the bathroom at the moment when the anthem was sung patriotic on August 26, 2008.

Apparently, both the New York Police and security hired by the Yankees had orders to prevent at all costs to move the fans from their seats during the performance.

In addition, Campeau-Laurion also charged against the city of New York, to be compensated with $ 10,000.

Golf Betting – Perry aims to go Back-to-Back at Deere Run

Kenny Perry missed his chance for a British Open betting upset last year at Royal Birkdale, choosing instead to stay home after winning the John Deere Classic. Perry is back as the sportsbook favorite in his quest to repeat at the TPC at Deere Run, and he’ll be challenged by a couple of other 40-somethings who are having great seasons.

John Deere Odds – Thursday, July 9

48-year-old Perry is favored at +850 after winning his second tournament of the year, shooting -22 at the Travelers Championship. He shot a -16 to win in the playoff last year over Jay Williamson and Brad Adomonis, and he looks to have shaken off his late collapse at The Masters, so he’ll be a threat. On a course that yields birdies, Perry should thrive: he’s 14th on the PGA Tour in birdies, which is a stat that your gambling software should like.

42-year-old David Toms is next with golf odds of +1400, and he finished second to Perry at the Travelers Championship for his second runner-up result in three starts. Accuracy is the name of Toms’ game, as he leads the Tour in driving accuracy and he’s sixth in greens-in-regulation. If you put yourself in that many positions to score, eventually it’ll come around, and it should this week with Toms, who is 10th in putting.

Steve Stricker, another golfer at 42 years young, is also a great putter who should earn some consideration for your sports picks, as he has John Deere odds of +1400 as well. Stricker is third on the Tour in putting and 10th in birdies, and this course should be right up his alley (or fairway). There hasn’t been many times that Stricker has been out of contention this year, as he’s made 12 of 14 cuts, and his lowest finish in those 12 events is a 27th-place result at the Memorial.

Don’t forget about the US Open champion, Lucas Glover, who is rated at +1800 this week. Since Bethpage Black, Glover hasn’t exactly taken any time off, coming in 11th at the Travelers Championship followed by a fifth-place result at the AT&T National. Glover is trying to keep his good run going, and with the momentum he has going, he’s definitely worth a look in your offshore sportsbook.

Real Madrid Sold Fifteen T-shirts per Minute of Cristiano Ronaldo

Real Madrid began to pay astronomical pass Portuguese Cristiano Ronaldo, whose shirt was sold at a rate of fifteen units per minute in the club shop on Monday night, after his presentation at the Santiago Bernabéu, before 75,000 spectators.

In two hours, the Real Madrid stadium store's sold 2000 T-shirts with the number 9 of the Portuguese striker, 85 euros each, ie 15 per minute for a total of 170,000 euros, reported sports daily Marca and As.

But some three hundred shirts to the Portuguese star, bought by more than 93 million euros to Manchester United, were stolen. The 'Cristianomanía' continued Tuesday: Adult sizes are sold out.

Cristiano Ronaldo gave better results than the Brazilian midfielder Kaká, bought at 65 million euros to Milan, whose shirts' only 'sold 600 units in two hours, five minutes in its official presentation of June 30.

One commentator estimated the Cadena Ser radio on Wednesday morning that if sales continue at this pace, the show's most expensive player in the world could be profitable in a few months.

A theoretical calculation, the reporter acknowledged, because it is likely that after the madness of the early days, sales down, but also because its calculation takes into account only to sales in the shop Madrid, the club intends to flood the planet with Portuguese star of his shirts.

The club also seeks a return on their stars in another way. The newspaper El Pais said recently that he had asked the house of Adidas sports clothing to double, from 30 to 60 million euros, the annual amount you pay.

Asked about his record move, Cristiano Ronaldo said on Wednesday in an interview with the daily As: "Of course you can pay ninety-four million for me. Or more. I think that over. Everyone says no, then I say yes. What you need to recover ...".

Florida Marlins vs. San Francisco Giants Betting Odds

The Florida Marlins and the San Francisco Giants will both be gunning for a victory on Tuesday when they meet at AT&T Park.

The Marlins will give the ball to starter Josh Johnson in this one. Righthander Johnson is 7-1 this season with a 2.76 ERA.

The Giants will counter Johnson with Barry Zito. Lefthander Zito has a 4.82 ERA to go along with a 4-8 record this season.

Oddsmakers currently have the Marlins listed as 135-moneyline favorites versus the Giants, while the game's total is sitting at 8.

Pablo Sandoval hit a grand slam to lead the Giants over the Marlins 5-4 on Monday night.

San Francisco won as -175 home favorites as the game played OVER the 7.5-run total posted by sportsbooks.

Nate Schierholtz drove in a run for the Giants, while Matt Cain picked up the win after allowing one earned run over 6 2-3 innings for San Francisco.

Cody Ross went 3-for-4 for Florida, as Sean West gave up five runs over six innings to take the loss for the Marlins.

A few trends to consider:
Florida is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games

Florida is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games when playing on the road against San Francisco

Florida is 2-5 SU in its last 7 games when playing San Francisco

Florida is 1-6 SU in its last 7 games on the road

San Francisco is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games at home

San Francisco is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games when playing at home against Florida

San Francisco is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games when playing Florida

San Francisco is 6-3 SU in its last 9 games

Next up:
San Francisco home to Florida, Wednesday, July 8

Messi Dismisses the Reinforcements of the Famous Real Madrid

The gunner's Lionel Messi Barcelona confirmed they have no care in the reinforcements Real Madrid the same day that the eyes of the footballing world were focused on the presentation of the new star of Team Galactic.

I'm in Barcelona and I worry about my team, which last year was spectacular and we hope that this year will do the same or a little of what we did (then), said the Argentine star in reference to the introduction of Cristiano Ronaldo in Madrid as the new Real Player.

Apart from Cristiano Ronaldo, the Brazilian Real has signed Kaká Karim Benzema and the French. The team galactic has invested 300 million U.S. dollars for the next season after the club had a season without a trophy and his arch Barcelona won three unusual cluster of titles.

Meanwhile, Messi added that the recruitment of reinforcements for the Catalan team would be important.

With what we have won last year ... We are surprised that we did for years, but the players as if they are talking to, to strengthen the campus would be very important to be stronger than we are, the striker said in a press conference at Memorial Coliseum in Los Angeles.

Messi said last week that Barcelona want the piece to his compatriot Javier Mascherano of Liverpool.

On the way to the South American World eliminatory South Africa 2010, the Barcelona star said that Argentina hopes to rebound to classify.

Fifth, the important thing is being in the world ... classify Messi added. We know we have two matches, but is a local, against Brazil, and we must try to win, but quiet ... I think Argentina is going to classify.

The Albiceleste, who lost 2-0 to Ecuador in early June, they need to add points that are near repechaje in fourth place with 22 points. The team led by Diego Maradona will face Brazil on September 5, the leader of the playoffs, and October 10 to receive colista Peru.

Fall directly to the world the first four South American and the fifth one repechaje dispute before the fourth in the CONCACAF.

Messi is in Los Angeles after the cancellation of a friendly between stars of the Conmebol versus Rest of the World, which did not materialize last weekend due to differences between the organizers, FIFA and CONCACAF.

The Argentinian star will return to Barcelona on August 1 for an exhibition game against the Los Angeles Galaxy in the American League.

(Football in United States) has grown considerably in recent times, especially the selection of United States, he said. Today is very uneven and there is not much difference ... and when he came (David) Beckham made stronger or more well-known football and United States is growing.

MLB Betting – Rays look to Feast on Decimated Toronto Pitching

Even UFC betting players would have a hard time swallowing the beating that Toronto’s pitching staff has taken this year, as it seems every pitcher on the Blue Jays’ staff, even Roy Halladay, has spent time on the disabled list. It doesn’t look good for the Blue Jays when they head to Tampa Bay to kick off a three-game series against the Rays, as they’ll be sending out a rookie who was rocked in his last start.

Blue Jays vs Rays odds – Tuesday, July 7, 7:08 PM ET

Brad Mills (0-1. 14.09) has allowed 12 earned runs in his first 7.2 innings of major-league work, eight of which came in a 10-0 loss to Philadelphia at home. The 24-yearold southpaw lasted four innings, and gave up eight hits, including a pair of homers for the second straight outing. The one positive that Mills can take from getting bombed by Philly is that he struck out seven and walked only two, but with these types of performances, Toronto fans won’t pay a big price per head to get out there and see him.

James Shields (6-6, 3.50) threw a season-high 108 pitches, but took the loss as the Rays were blanked 5-0 in Toronto by allowing five runs (four earned) on seven hits in 7.1 innings, and the Jays went deep three times off of him. In nine career outings against Toronto, the 27-year-old righthander is 4-3 against Tampa’s AL East rival with a 3.29 ERA, and he’s given up 10 homers to the Blue Jays.

MLB odds should back the Rays at home, and they’ve already taken two of three in Toronto. Shields couldn’t finish the sweep, and you can bet that he’ll have his best stuff ready to go on Tuesday. Mills has been thrown into the fire due to all the injuries on the Blue Jays’ staff, and this will be crucial to him staying with the big team for the rest of the year. All three games that these two played in Toronto went under the posted total, but the Rays could have a field day against the young Mills. Go with the Rays’ MLB odds on Tuesday in your baseball picks.

MLB odds pick: Tampa Bay Rays

Federer Reached his Seventh Final

Switzerland's Roger Federer defeated German Tommy Haas yesterday and was classified to its seventh consecutive final at Wimbledon.

Tomorrow will be measured to U.S. Andy Roddick, the only obstacle that separated him from recovering his crown in the Cathedral and the world number one.

Federer won by 7-6 (7-3), 7-5 and 6-3. The Swiss five-time champion at the All England Club, had no mercy with his rival for 31 years and closed the match with a great shot, crowning a brilliant display to a packed stadium and wonderful plant.

"It's incredible to be back in another final of Wimbledon," said Federer, who could beat the record of 14 Grand Slams titles he shared with American Pete Sampras.

The Swiss rejected it could be pressed to get this achievement. Federer is not worried about his next opponent.

"I've had some great matches against Roddick in recent years, twice in the final here, which I think were fantastic," said Federer, who has the mark of 18-2 in the U.S..

In 27 years, Federer reached another milestone yesterday: the first man to reach the end of 20 Grand Slams.

Yesterday Haas did not give the possibility of any break point, so there are many indications that no one can stop him in this tournament.

Meanwhile, Roddick ended the British hopes that a local tennis player will stay with the title Andy Murray beat third Pre, by 6-4, 4-6, 7-6 (9-7) and 7-6 (7-5).

Roddick, sixth head series, showed a high level of service and got the first part after breaking the serve of his opponent in the final game.

Insufficient. Murray responded to the service of the U.S. at the start of the second part, which was imposed by 6-4.

Since then, the shares were couples and the U.S. exfinalista on the lawn of the All England Club and a exnúmero the world, stayed with the other two sets after winning the tie-breaks.

Roddick won the tournament's fastest serve of 230 miles per hour in the first set, and added a 75 per cent of his first serves against 52 percent for Murray, candidate for being the first British win at Wimbledon since Fred Perry 1936.

"I had to show my best tennis today (yesterday). Most people gave me no chance, but to be honest, it took all the pressure, "said Roddick.

The U.S. already reached the final in London in 2004 and 2005, when he lost exactly who is facing his next opponent, which will have its revenge.

MLB Betting – With Ramirez Back In Lineup, Dodgers Head To San Diego

The Bay Area typically presents some great matchups on the NFL odds but this year, there won’t be any California teams factoring too much on the Super Bowl odds. Instead, we’ll get the baseball version of the Bay Area matchup as the Los Angeles Dodgers – with Manny Ramirez back in the lineup – will head to San Diego for a weekend series.

San Diego Padres @ Los Angeles Dodgers

Saturday, 4:10 PM ET

Randy Wolf vs Josh Geer

Randy Wolf will take the mound for the Dodgers on Saturday and sports betting sharps should take note that he has actually pitched better on the road this season than away. At home, Wolf is 0-1 with a 4.04 ERA but on the road, he’s 3-2 with a 3.09 ERA. Wolf has a sparkling WHIP of 1.18, which shows that he’s really keeping runners off the base paths, but that low number drops even further, to 1.12 when he’s on the road.

He’ll take on Josh Geer, who has been up and down this year.

Geer has yet to post an ERA lower than 5.10 in anything month and finished June with an ERA of 6.46.

The good news is that he’s been semi-reliable over his last three starts (4.26 ERA over that span).

Baseball pick: Dodgers

San Diego Padres @ Los Angeles Dodgers

Sunday, 4:05 PM ET

Chad Billingsley vs Josh Banks

The Dodgers will send their ace, Chad Billingsley to the mound on Sunday as he aims for his 10th win of the season. He’ll take on Josh Banks, who will be making just his second start of the season.

The 26-year-old Banks did last seven innings in his first start on Tuesday and gave up just three earned runs. On the season, though, there is too little of a sample to gauge just how effective he really is.

Billingsley, on the other hand, is the Dodgers unquestioned ace. So far this season, he is 3-1 on the road with a 2.85 ERA. Opposing batters are hitting just .217 against him when he’s away from home.

Billingsley has three starts against the Padres this year and all three have resulted in wins. He’s allowed just 14 hits in 18.2 innings pitched while allowing seven runs in that time (3.38 ERA).

Sports pick: Dodgers