Sports Picks & Predictions

4* MLB Over/Under Total NO-BRAINER on Phillies UNDER

The books have set the total way too high for Saturday's matchup between the Blue Jays and Phillies. Philadelphia will have Nick Pivetta on the mound and while he was roughed up in his last outing, he had pitched at least 6 innings and allowed 2 or fewer runs in each of his previous 3 starts. He's also got a solid 3.41 ERA in 6 day starts and a 2.55 ERA and 0.770 WHIP in 4 interleague starts this season. 

Toronto will send out Aaron Sanchez, who is returning from the DL. I look for Sanchez to come right out and throw well here, as he's facing a struggling Phillies offense that is only averaging 3.1 runs/game and hitting a mere .237 as a team over their last 7 games. 

UNDER is 16-4 in the Phillies last 20 when playing with double-revenge, 21-9 in their last 30 after scoring 2 runs or less in 2 straight games and 35-18 in Sanchez's last 53 starts over the last 3 seasons. Take the UNDER! 

4* NFLX Over/Under PLAY OF THE WEEK on Giants/Jets UNDER

I just don't see these two teams being able to eclipse this total. While there's a ton of excitement around the two teams first round picks, both of these teams are built around their defense. I also think that while this is may be just another exhibition game, these two teams don't like each other and neither wants to lose this game. 

Giants rookie running back Saquon Barkley isn't expected to play and it's still up in the air if Odell Beckham Jr. will suit up. Even if Beckham does play, I don't see him being in there for long, as he's just too valuable to lose to an injury in the preseason. That should lead to a conservative game plan for Eli Manning when he's on the field and the Giants are up against a Jets' defense that has shutout the Falcons and held the Redskins to 15 points. 

While rookie Sam Darnold has shown some flashes and Teddy Bridgewater has impressed, the Jets offense has only scored 30 points over their first two preseason games. The Giants defense has looked good in each of their first two games and with the starters likely playing at least a half, I expect another strong effort here. Take the UNDER! 

5* NL East TOTAL OF THE MONTH on Mets/Nationals OVER

These two teams should have no problem eclipsing the total here. Both starters here come into this matchup in poor form. Washington's Gio Gonzalez has a 8.04 ERA and 1.851 WHIP over his last 3 starts. New York will sent out Jason Vargas, who has 7.67 ERA and 1.722 WHIP in 14 starts overall this season and is 1-4 with a 6.75 ERA and 1.700 WHIP in 5 home starts. 

OVER is also 7-1 in the Nationals last 8 during Game 1 of a series, 4-0-1 in their last 5 after a game where they scored 2 runs or less and 6-1-1 in their last 8 vs the NL East. OVER is also 10-4 in the Mets last 14 against a team that scored 2 runs or less in their last game and 11-5-1 in their last 17 vs a starter with a WHIP greater than 1.30. Take the OVER! 

3* MLB Total PLAY OF THE DAY on Indians/Red Sox UNDER

The books have set the total way too high for Thursday's series finale between the Red Sox and Indians. I just don't see either offense getting much going with today's pitching matchup. 

Boston will send out David Price, who has a 1.89 ERA and 1.000 WHIP over his last 3 starts and is 10-3 with a 2.63 ERA in 15 career starts against the Indians. Cleveland will counter with Adam Plutko, who has a solid 3.86 ERA and sensational 0.857 WHIP over his last 3 starts. I think the fact that this will be Plutko's first start against the Red Sox will benefit him, as Boston's hitters won't know what to expect. 

UNDER is 4-0-1 in the Red Sox's last 5 games after scoring 5 or more runs the previous time out and 5-0-2 in Price's last 7 home starts against a team with a winning record. UNDER is also 5-0 in in the Indians last 5 games following a loss. Take the UNDER! 

5* AL Central TOTAL OF THE MONTH on Twins/White Sox OVER

I think the total here has been set too low for this contest. Both the Twins and White Sox are coming into this series swinging a hot bat. Chicago has scored 5 or more runs in 6 of their last 7 games, while Minnesota has scored 5 runs or more in each of their last 7 games. 

With the White Sox going up against a struggling Jose Berrios, who has a 5.52 ERA and 1.840 WHIP in his last 3 starts, and the Twins will be taking on Michael Kopech in his first career start. Kopech is a big time prospect and figures to do really well at the big league level, but there's a decent chance he struggles in his first outing. 

OVER is 8-1 in the Twins last 9 games after scoring 5 or more runs and 8-2-1 in Berrios last 11 starts against a team that is coming off a game where they scored 5 or more runs. OVER is also 8-2 in their last 10 home games vs a team with a losing record and 6-1-1 in their last 8 vs a division opponent. Take the OVER! 

4* NL East TOTAL OF THE WEEK on Mets/Phillies UNDER 9 

The books have set the total too high for tonight's 2nd installment of he MLB Little League Classic. The Phillies and Mets will square off at BB&T Ballpark at Historic Bowman Field in Williamsport, Pennsylvania.

Philadelphia will send out the red-hot Nick Pivetta, who enters this contest with a  1.50 ERA and 0.778 WHIP over his last 3 starts. New York will counter with Jason Vargas, who is coming off a strong outing at Baltimore, where he allowed just 2 runs on 5 hits in 6 innings. Vargas also owns a strong 2.45 ERA and 1.182 WHIP in 2 career starts against the Phillies. 

Low-scoring games have been very common when these two teams go to battle. In the last 12 meetings, 9 have finished UNDER the total set by the books. UNDER is 30-19 in the Mets last 49 division games overall and 22-11 in Vargas' last 33 starts in a night game. UNDER is also 17-7 in Pivetta's last 24 starts off a loss and 16-4 in the Phillies last 20 after a game where they scored 1 or fewer runs. Take the UNDER! 

5* NFLX Vegas Insider PLAY OF THE MONTH on Seahawks UNDER 

The books have set the total way too high for Saturday's Week 2 preseason action between the Chargers and Seahawks. Neither team was able to get much going offensively last week. In fact, both teams managed to score just 17 points and each needed a 4th quarter TD to get to 17.

I just don't think either of these teams have a lot to prove offensively, as they have two of the elite QB's in the game. Look for a very vanilla attack from both offenses with the starters and I don't see the backups doing near enough to push this over the mark. 

Adding to this is a great system that's hit at a very high rate over the last 5 years. UNDER is 71-37 (66%) when you have a total of 35.5 to 42 points where the home team is playing with 6 or less days of rest. 

5* NFLX TOTAL OF THE YEAR  on Cardinals UNDER

Log of public money on the OVER in this one, as they just can't help themselves betting the OVER in a Saints home game. I just don't think we are going to see a ton offense here from either side. Drew Brees is going to play, but I don't expect him on the field for long. 

New Orleans put up 24 in their preseason opener, but almost all the damage came on the ground, as they rushed for 135 yards and 3 scores and threw for 130 and 0 scores. Arizona's run defense was outstanding in their preseason opener, holding the Chargers to 56 yards on 21 attempts (2.7 yards/carry). 

Arizona also put up 24 in their opener, but a lot of that came late and I don't think they will have near the success against the New Orleans stop unit. 

There's also a huge system in play here that's hit 82% over the last 5 years. Under is 22-5 with a total of 35.5 to 42 where you have a home team off an upset win as an underdog and they have a winning record overall in the preseason. 

4* NFLX Over/Under Total NO-BRAINER on Bills OVER 38.5

I'm not sure what the books are thinking with the total in this one, but we are getting exceptional value here with the OVER in Friday's NFLX action between the Browns and Bills. 

I think a lot of this has to do with how low-scoring the Browns/Giants game was in Week 1 of the preseason. The two teams only combined for 30 points and Cleveland was responsible for just 10 of those. 

I know it's preseason, but Browns new QB, Tyrod Taylor, is going to be pumped up for this one against the team that didn't believe in his ability long-term. You also have Baker Mayfield waiting to come in and he looked really good against the Giants. 

Buffalo scored 23 and allowed 28 against the Panthers in Week 1. They got off hot with 17 first half points and the backups and defense let the offense down by allowing 21 in the 2nd half. I expect more of the same from the Bills on both sides of the ball. Take the OVER! 

3* NFLX Over/Under Total ANNIHILATOR on Chiefs UNDER

Neither the Chiefs or Falcons were able to get much of anything going offensively in their respective preseason openers. Kansas City scored just 10-points at home against the Texans and Atlanta was shutout in New York by the Jets. 

Ryan didn't play for the Falcons against the Jets, but I also don't expect him to play much in this one. Look for another struggle offensively for Atlanta here, as the Chiefs defense only gave up 17 to Houston. 

Under is 68-37 (65%) over the last 5 seasons when you have total of 35.5 to 42 where one of the teams is playing on 6 or less days of rest. Take the UNDER! 

4* AL East TOTAL OF THE WEEK on Blue Jays/Rays Over

The Blue Jays and Rays should have no problem here eclipsing the total. Toronto will send out Marcus Stroman, who is coming off a great outing at home against the Red Sox, but also came away with a blister on the middle finger of his throwing hand. I'm surprised the Blue Jays are even sending him out, as it's extremely difficult to pitch effectively with a blister. I look for Tampa Bay to put up a big number here offensively. 

Tyler Glasnow will get the rock for the Rays and he's been effective in his 2 starts since being traded to Tampa. However, he's not pitching deep into the game. Glasnow has only thrown 7 innings in his 2 starts combined, failing to go past the 4th innings in either outing. 

OVER is 12-5 in Tampa's last 17 vs a starter that has a WHIP greater than 1.30. OVER is also 12-4 in the Blue Jays last 16 overall, 5-1 in their last 6 off a loss and 4-1-1 in Stroman's last 6 home starts vs a team with a winning record. Take the OVER! 

5* MLB Over/Under TOTAL OF THE MONTH on Brewers/Braves OVER

The Brewers and Braves should easily eclipse the total here, as I think they have no problem combining for at least 10 runs. The two combined for 11 in the series opener on Friday, continuing a streak of high-scoring games for both sides. Atlanta has seen a combined score of at least 9 runs in 5 of their last 6 games. Milwaukee has seen at least 8 combined runs in 8 straight with each of the last 4 going for 12 or more. 

I look for both teams to stay hot at the plate in this one. Milwaukee will send out Wade Miley, who has an impressive 2.10 ERA in 7 starts, but wasn't sharp at all in his last outing at home against the Rockies, giving up 3 runs on 5 hits and 3 walks in 5 innings. Atlanta will counter with Julio Teheran, who has a 7.80 ERA and 1.733 WHIP in his last 3 starts and a mere 4.23 ERA in 11 starts at home. Take the OVER! 

4* National League TOTAL OF THE WEEK on Rockies/Pirates OVER 10.5

After an extremely low-scoring game at Coors Field in the opener, I look for both offenses to come alive in game 2. A big reason for the lack of runs in Colorado's 2-0 win on Monday was the talent on the mound for both teams. I just don't see either starter having much luck in this one. 

Pittsburgh will give the rock to Jameson Taillon, who will be getting his first taste of Coors Field, which is one of the toughest places in the majors to start. He'll be facing a Rockies lineup that is averaging 5.2 runs/game and hitting .281 as a team at home this season. Colorado will turn to Chad Bettis, who will be making his first start at the big league level since July 1st. Bettis went to the DL with a blister after posting a 7.71 ERA and 2.00 WHIP in his last 3 starts. Bettis has made 7 starts at Coors Field this season and owns a miserable 8.75 ERA and 1.777 WHIP in those outings. 

OVER is 29-18 in the Pirates last 47 games when listed as a favorite of -150 or less, 8-3 in their last 11 road games vs a right-handed starter and 8-1-2 in Taillon's last 11 starts vs the NL West. OVER is 5-0-1 in Bettis' last 6 home starts and 7-3-1 in the Rockies last 11 vs the NL Central. Take the OVER! 

4* Yankees/Red Sox AL East Total of the Week on Yankees UNDER

After last night's series opener saw a combined 22 runs in Boston's 15-7 win, a lot of people are going to expect another high-scoring game and jump on the OVER tonight. I think that's a huge mistake, as both teams should have a difficult time scoring with the two starters we have going in this one. 

The Yankees will send out their ace in Luis Severino, who is a legit Cy Young candidate with a 14-4 record and 2.94 ERA and 1.082 WHIP in 22 starts. Severino last faced the Red Sox a little more than a month ago (7/1) and was outstanding, limiting Boston to just 2 hits over 6 2/3 innings. 

The Red Sox will counter with former Cy Young winner Rick Porcello, who has really enjoyed facing New York at home. Porcello has made 7 starts at Fenway since coming to Boston back in 2015. He's allowed fewer than 2 earned runs in each of those 7 starts at home. That includes an earlier start against the Yankees this season, where he allowed just 2 hits in 7 shutout innings. 

UNDER is 11-3 in Porcello's last 14 home starts vs a team with w inning record, 13-3 in Boston's last 16 home games vs a right-handed starter and 6-1 in their last 7 after scoring 5+ runs in their previous game. UNDER is also 14-4 in the Yankees last 18 as a road favorite of -150 or less. Take the UNDER! 

4* NFLX 'Hall of Fame Game' Total No-Brainer on Bears/Ravens OVER

While neither team figures to play many of their starters, these two teams should have no problem eclipsing the low total set by the books. The biggest key here is the talent that both teams have at the quarterback position.

Baltimore figures to give a heavy workload to both RGIII and rookie Lamar Jackson, two guys I think that can have a lot of success against the second and third string defenses of the Bears.

As for Chicago, they don't have the big names at quarterback like the Ravens, but Chase Daniel and Tyler Bray are two guys that should play well, as both know the offense. Both were recently backups in KC, where new head coach Matt Nagy came from (QB coach 2013-15 & OC 2016-17).  These two should help the Bears keep pace with Baltimore and push this way over the mark. Take the OVER! 

5* Interleague Total of the Week on Rangers/Diamondbacks OVER

The Diamondbacks and Rangers will easily eclipse the total on Monday. Both teams enter the series opener swinging a hot bat. Texas is averaging 6.6 runs/game over their last 7 and Arizona isn't far behind at 5.6 runs/game in their last 7. The Rangers have combined for a minimum of 10 runs in 6 of their last 7 games.

Both teams should stay hot at the plate in this one, as we have two struggling starters on the mound with Robbie Ray going for Arizona and Martin Perez on the rubber for Texas. Ray owns a 4.90 ERA in 12 starts and a 8.07 ERA and 1.754 WHIP in 5 home starts. Perez has a 7.08 ERA in 8 starts and a 6.64 ERA and 1.918 WHIP in 4 road outings. 

OVER is 7-2 in the Rangers last 9 interleague road games vs a left-handed starter and 8-2-1 in Perez's last 11 interleague starts. OVER is also 13-4-1 in Arizona's last 18 during game 1 of a series and 24-7-1 in Ray's last 32 home starts. Take the OVER! 

No analysis on late info insiders due to time restrictions, but they factor in announced lineups and weather conditions. These profitable situations are only available to long term subscribers.

5* AL Central TOTAL OF THE MONTH on Tigers OVER

I love the value here with the OVER in Monday's MLB action that has the Royals hosting the Tigers. Kansas City returned from the All-Star break and registered their first series sweep of the season, taking all 3 against the Twins at home. The Royals were swinging a hot bat going into the break and stayed hot at the plate with 15 runs in their 3 games against Minnesota. KC has now scored at least 4 runs in 7 of their last 8 games. 

Hard to not like their chances of putting up another big number here, as the Tigers send out the struggling Francisco Liriano, who has a 4.67 ERA in 15 starts overall and a 8.74 ERA and 2.030 WHIP in his last 3 starts. Detroit also figures to score early and often in this one. The Royals will send out Heath Fillmyer for his second career start. Fillmyer allowed 4 runs on 8 hits and 3 walks in just 4 1/3 innings in his big league debut. Take the OVER! 

4* MLB Over/Under Total NO-BRAINER on Rangers UNDER

I like the value here with the UNDER in Monday's MLB action that has the Rangers hosting the A's. I know the pitching matchup isn't anything to get excited about with Cole Hamels facing off against Brett Anderson, but I just don't see these two teams combining for 12+ runs in this one. Neither team is hitting all that great of late. Oakland has a .222 team average over their last 7 games and the Rangers aren't much better at .256. 

Hamels is just 5-8 with a 4.36 ERA in 19 starts, but does have a strong 3.12 ERA and 1.154 WHIP in 7 starts against division opponents and a 2.93 ERA in 13 night starts this season. Anderson on the other hand has been a different pitcher since returning from the DL. He has a 3.24 ERA in 2 starts since coming back and I look for him to stay hot here. 

Anderson is well rested and the UNDER is 7-0-2 in his last 9 starts when throwing on 8 or more days of rest. UNDER is also 5-0 in his last 5 road starts. UNDER is 17-7-3 in Texas' last 27 games following a win and 9-3-1 in Hamels last 13 starts during game 1 of a series. Take the UNDER! 

5* MLB Vegas Insider TOP PLAY on Red Sox OVER

I like the value here with the OVER in Friday's MLB action that has the Red Sox visiting the Tigers. Boston is capable of scoring 9+ runs every time they take the field and I expect a big day at the plate for the Red Sox in this one. Detroit will start Matt Boyd, who is just 4-8 with a 4.76 ERA in 18 starts and posted an ugly 7.87 ERA in his final 3 starts before the All-Star break. Boyd also owns a 7.30 ERA and 1.784 WHIP in 3 career starts against Boston. 

The key here is that we should also get some decent run production from the Tigers, as the Red Sox send out the struggling David Price. In his final 3 starts before the break, Price posted an awful 9.20 ERA and 1.500 WHIP. He's now got a 4.42 ERA in 19 starts overall and a 4.96 ERA in 11 starts away from home. 

OVER is 22-8 in Price's last 30 road starts against a AL team with a batting average of .255 or worse in the 2nd half of the season. Take the OVER! 

No analysis on late info insiders due to time restrictions, but they factor in announced lineups and weather conditions. These profitable situations are only available to long term subscribers.

4* MLB Over/Under Total NO-BRAINER on Phillies UNDER

I like the value here with the UNDER in Wednesday's MLB action that has the Mets hosting the Phillies. These two teams combined for 10 runs on Tuesday, but that was with a couple of guys making their first ever big league starts. Prior to that both teams had been struggling at the plate. The Phillies had scored 3 or fewer in each of their previous 4 and the Mets have scored a whopping 8 runs in their last 5 games combined. 

I look for both offense to struggle to score in this one. The Mets will send out Jacob deGrom, who has been one of the best pitchers in the game with a 1.79 ERA and 0.988 WHIP in 18 starts. Phillies will counter with Vincent Velasquez, who has been outstanding away from home. Velasquez has a 2.79 ERA and 1.215 WHIP in 7 road starts. 

UNDER is 12-3 in the Philadelphia's last 15 overall and 8-2 in their last 10 road games vs a team with a losing record. UNDER is also 14-5 in the Mets last 19 vs a right-handed starter and 6-0-1 in deGrom's last 7 starts vs a division opponent. Take the UNDER! 

3* MLB Over/Under Total DESTROYER on Reds OVER

I like the value here with the OVER in Monday's MLB action that has the Indians hosting the Reds. Cincinnati dropped the final 2 games against the Cubs over the weekend, but overall it was another strong series at the plate for the Reds, who finished up with 13 runs on 28 hits. Cincinnati has now scored 5 or more in 6 of their last 7 games and I look for the offense to stay hot against Mike Clevinger and the Indians staff. 

I also think Cleveland is in store for a big day at the plate, as the Indians come in averaging 5.9 runs/game at home this season and will be up against the struggling Anthony Desclafani, who has a 5.08 ERA in 6 starts overall in 2018 and a 5.50 ERA in his last 3 outings. 

OVER is 12-3-3 in the Reds last 18 after allowing 5 or more runs and 9-2-1 in their last 12 after scoring 5 or more in their previous game. OVER is also 14-4-3 in the Reds last 21 games vs a team with a winning record and 5-1-1 in Clevinger's last 7 home starts. Take the OVER! 

5* National League TOTAL OF THE MONTH on Pirates OVER

I love the value here with the OVER in Monday's MLB action that has the Nationals visiting the Pirates. Washington will be sending out Jefry Rodriguez, who is making his 3rd career start at the big league level. Each of the first two starts for Rodriguez have not been good. He allowed 5 runs in 5 innings at home against the Orioles on 6/19 and 4 runs in 4 innings at home against the Phillies on 6/24. Both of those games saw a combined score of at least 14 runs. 

Needless to say Pittsburgh is in a good spot here to put up some runs early and I think we get more than enough offense from Washington to push this OVER the mark set by the books. The Nationals come in averaging 6.3 runs and are hitting .285 as a team over their last 7 games. Washington will be up against Ivan Nova, who is coming off an ugly start at LA, where he gave up 7 runs on 9 hits (5 home runs) in just 5 innings. Nova also has a 4.91 ERA and 1.854 WHIP in 4 career starts against the Nationals. Take the OVER! 

3* MLB Over/Under Total ANNIHILATOR on Padres UNDER

I like the value here with the UNDER in Sunday's MLB action that has the Diamondbacks hosting the Padres. These two teams combined for 25 runs in Arizona's 20-5 win on Saturday and I think that has this number a little higher than it should be.  

San Diego figures to have a really tough time scoring in this one, as the Diamondbacks will send out their ace Zack Greinke, who has a 2.44 ERA and 0.994 WHIP in 9 home starts this season and a 0.92 ERA and 0.864 WHIP over his last 3 starts overall. UNDER is 7-3 in Greinke's last 10 home starts. UNDER is also 9-3-3 in Arizona's last 15 home games against a left-handed starter and 7-1-1 in their last 9 during game 4 of a series. Take the UNDER! 

4* MLB Over/Under Total NO-BRAINER on Padres OVER

I like the value here with the OVER in Saturday's MLB action that has the Padres visiting the Diamondbacks. Both teams figure to be scoring early and often in this one. San Diego will send out Tyson Ross, who has a 5.00 ERA and 1.389 WHIP in his last 3 starts. Arizona will counter with Robbie Ray, who has a 4.38 ERA in his last 3 starts and a 7.87 ERA and 1.750 WHIP in 3 home starts. 

OVER is 16-4 in Ray's last 20 starts at home against a team that strands 6.9 or less runners/game, 8-2 in his last 10 starts at home against a team with a losing record and 6-0 in his last 6 starts after Arizona lost in his previous start. Take the OVER! 

4* MLB Over/Under Total NO-BRAINER on Giants OVER 

I like the value here with the OVER in Thursday's MLB action that has the Cardinals visiting the Giants. I'm well aware that San Francisco just scored a mere 3 runs in a 3-game series at Coors Field, but they come in averaging just under 5 runs/game (4.8) at home this season. 

The even bigger key is who they will be facing. St Louis will send out Luke Weaver, who has been a major disappointment. Weaver is 4-7 with a 5.36 ERA and 1.461 WHIP in 17 starts. He was just rocked for 8 runs on 10 hits and 2 walks in 4 2/3 innings in his last start at home against the Braves. 

Not only should the Giants offense be able to get something going, but I like the Cardinals to score early and often in this one as well. San Francisco is sending out Johnny Cueto, who will be making his first start in more than 2 months (last pitched April 28th). He figures to be a little rusty and is facing a St Louis offense that just scored 16 runs in their 3-game series at Arizona. Take the OVER! 

3* MLB Over/Under Total DESTROYER on Royals UNDER

I like the value here with the UNDER in Sunday's MLB action that has the Mariners hosting the Royals. Runs figure to be hard to come by in this one, as we have two strong starters taking the mound. 

KC will send out Brad Keller, who has posted a strong 2.46 ERA in 5 starts in 2018. Seattle will turn to ace James Paxton, who is 7-2 with a 3.56 ERA and 1.100 WHIP in 17 starts. Paxton is also coming off a great outing at Baltimore, where he allowed just 2 run with 10 strikeouts in 7 innings. Paxton owns a 2.54 ERA in 5 career starts against the Royals and should have no problem shutting down their poor excuse for an offense. Take the UNDER! 

5* MLB AL East TOTAL OF THE MONTH on Yankees Over

I love the value with the OVER in Saturday's highly anticipated showdown between AL East rivals Boston and New York. With the offensive fire-power that both of these teams posses and the way the ball flies out of Yankee Stadium, both teams have a shot here of eclipsing this total on their own. 

In the series opener on Friday the Yankees put up 8 runs and it could be Boston who does the heavy lifting in this one. New York starter Sonny Gray simply hasn't been very good. He's just 5-5 with a 4.93 ERA and 1.444 WHIP in 15 starts. He's got a 5.40 ERA in his last 3 starts and an awful 7.22 ERA and 1.871 WHIP in 7 home starts. Boston will send out their ace Chris Sale, but even he's prone to giving up a few runs, especially in this park. Take the OVER! 

3* MLB Over/Under Total DESTROYER on Nationals Over

I like the value here with the OVER in Saturday's MLB action that has the Nationals visiting the Phillies. Washington exploded offensively on Friday and won 17-7 as the two teams combined for 24 runs on 28 hits. I expect another offensive onslaught from both sides in this one. 

The Nationals will send out Jeremy Hellickson, who has solid numbers, but is making his first start off the DL (last start 6/3). Good chance he struggles here in his first start back. Even if Hellickson pitches well, there's a shot the Nationals could eclipse this total on their own given what they did yesterday and the fact that Phillies starter Vincent Velasquez owns a 6.23 ERA and 1.322 WHIP in 9 home starts this season. Take the OVER! 

3* MLB Over/Under Total ANNIHILATOR on Reds OVER

I like the value here with the OVER in Saturday's MLB action that has the Reds hosting the Brewers. There's always a better than average shot you get a high-scoring game at Great American Ball Park and with temps pushing 100 degrees, the ball should be flying out of the park this afternoon. 

These kind of conditions it really doesn't matter what form the starters are in, but this is also not a great pitching matchup with Cincinnati's Tyler Mahle facing off against the Brewers Jhoulys Chacin. Mahle has pitched better of late, but owns a 4.24 ERA in 7 home starts. Chacin has been trending in the wrong direction and is coming off a start at home against the Cardinals where he gave up 8 runs in 4 1/3. Chacin also has a 4.22 ERA in 7 career starts against the Reds. Take the OVER! 

3* MLB Over/Under Total DESTROYER  on Yankees OVER

I like the value here with the OVER in Friday's MLB action that has the Yankees hosting the Red Sox. There's simply too much offensive fire-power here to pass up on this number, especially with a  lackluster starting pitching matchup of Eduardo Rodirguez against C.C. Sabathia. 

Rodriguez is 9-2 with a solid 3.86 ERA in 15 starts this season, but is trending in the wrong direction with a 4.59 ERA and 1.659 WHIP in his last 3 starts. Sabathia has been pitching well, but I don't see him being able to contain this Red Sox lineup. He couldn't in his earlier start against Boston this season, giving up 4 runs on 9 hits in just 4 innings of work. Take the OVER! 

5* AL Over/Under TOTAL OF THE MONTH on Mariners OVER

I like the value here with the OVER in Thursday's MLB action that has the Orioles hosting the Mariners. These two teams exploded for 15 runs in Seattle's 8-7 win in extra-innings on Wednesday  and I look for those offensive fire-works to carry over into this contest. 

Seattle will send out Mike Leake, who has a 4.11 ERA in 16 starts and the OVER is 11-5 for the Mariners when he takes the mound. Baltimore on the other hand has been forced to call up Jimmy Yacabonis to take the place of the injured Dylan Bunny. Yacabonis will be making his first ever big league start. He's made two relief appearances for the Orioles this season and has given up 4 runs with 5 walks and just 1 strikeout in a mere 2 1/3 innings of work.

OVER is 22-10-1 in the Mariners last 33 games vs a team that's won fewer than 40% of their games and 10-3 in the Orioles last 13 during Game 3 of a series. Take the OVER! 

3* MLB Over/Under Total ANNIHILATOR on Twins OVER

I like the value here with the OVER in Thursday's MLB action that has the White Sox hosting the Twins. These two teams should have no problem reaching double-digits in this one, as we have two starters on the mound that are really struggling. 

Minnesota will send out Jake Odorizzi, who has a 9.25 ERA and 2.142 WHIP in his last 3 starts. Chicago will turn to Lucas Giolito, who has a 6.75 ERA in his last 3 starts and is 2-4 with a 9.91 ERA and 1.872 WHIP in 8 home starts. Take the OVER! 

5* NL Central TOTAL OF THE MONTH on Cubs/Dodgers OVER

Most are going to look at the starting pitching matchup for Tuesday game between the Cubs and Dodgers and want to back the UNDER at 7.5. I actually think the value is with the OVER, given the low number and how much fire-power these two teams have on the offensive side of the ball. 

The Cubs have lost 5 straight and the offense is due for an explosion. As good as Ross Stripling has been for LA, I like Chicago's chances of scoring early in this one. They hit Stripling pretty hard back on 6/20 with 3 runs on 8 hits. 

Lester has been lights out for the Cubs, but he's not pitched great in his last 2 starts at Dodgers Stadium, giving up 7 runs on 10 hits and 7 walks in just 8 innings of work. He's also facing an LA offense that has scored an impressive 23 runs over their last 4 games. Take the OVER! 

3* MLB Over/Under Total ANNIHILATOR on Giants OVER

I like the value here with the OVER in Sunday's MLB action that has the Giants hosting the Padres. This will be one of the few times were AT&T Park favors the hitters, as the win will be blowing out to left center at close to 20 mph. 

We also have a sub-par pitching matchup with San Francisco sending out Dereck Rodriguez and the Padres countering with Eric Lauer.  Rodriguez has a 6.28 ERA and 1.604 WHIP in his last 3 starts and Lauer owns an ugly 5.83 ERA and 1.943 WHIP in 6 road starts this season. Take the OVER!

3* MLB Over/Under Total DESTROYER on Cardinals UNDER

I like the value here with the UNDER in Wednesday's MLB action that has the Phillies hosting the Cardinals. This is simply too good of a number to pass up with the talent both teams have on the mound. 

Philadelphia will send out Jake Arrieta, who has a 3.33 ERA in 13 starts, but more importantly is 3-1 with a 1.69 ERA and 0.964 WHIP in 6 home starts. St Louis will counter with Michael Wacha, who is 8-2 with a 3.24 ERA and 1.190 WHIP in 14 starts. Wacha has made 3 starts against the Phillies over the last 2 years and has allowed exactly 2 earned runs in all 3 starts. Take the UNDER! 

3* MLB Over/Under Total ANNIHILATOR on Yankees OVER

I like the value here with the OVER in Tuesday's MLB action that has the Yankees hosting the Mariners. New York is averaging 5.5 runs/game at home and Seattle is putting up 4.9 runs/game on the road. With the way the ball flies out of Yankee Stadium, these two should have no problem reaching double-digits. 

The Yankees have got great pitching of late, as they haven't allowed more than 3 runs in 5 straight games, but there's a good chance that streak comes to an end in this one. NY will send out Domingo German, who has a 5.77 ERA in 7 starts. Seattle starter Marco Gonzales has pitched well so far this season, but has not faced this potent Yankees lineup and I look for New York to put up a big number here. Take the OVER! 

4* MLB Over/Under Total NO-BRAINER on Brewers UNDER

I like the value here with the UNDER in Tuesday's MLB action that has the Pirates hosting the Brewers. These two teams combined for just 1 run in the series opener on Monday, as Pittsburgh won 1-0.

Milwaukee has now scored 1 or fewer runs in 3 of their last 5 games and will be up against the red-hot Jameson Taillon, who owns a 2.25 ERA and 1.050 WHIP in his last 3 starts. Pittsburgh will counter with Freddy Peralta, who has allowed just 4 hits and racked up 18 strikeouts in his first two big league starts, which has spanned 9 2/3 innings. 

UNDER is 46-15-1 in Milwaukee's last 62 road games vs a right-handed and 53-18-1 in their last 72 following a loss. UNDER is also 33-15-3 in Pittsburgh's last 51 vs division opponents and 7-1 in Taillon's last 8 starts against a team that scored 2 runs or less last time out. Take the UNDER! 

3* MLB Over/Under TOTAL DESTROYER on White Sox UNDER

I like the value with the UNDER in Sunday's MLB action that has the White Sox hosting the Tigers. While these two went over the total in Saturday's contest, the UNDER is still a ridiculous 13-1-1 over Chicago's last 15 games. UNDER is also 9-3 in Detroit's last 12. A big reason for both these teams consistently finishing UNDER the total is they don't have a lot of offensive fire-power.

I look for both offenses to struggle in this one. Chicago's James Shields has a 3.90 ERA and 1.214 WHIP in 9 home starts and has pitched well in each of his 2 starts this season against Detroit. The Tigers will turn to Blaine Hardy, who has a solid 3.67 ERA and 1.136 WHIP in 6 starts. That includes an outing against the White Sox, where he allowed just 1 run on 3 hits. Take the UNDER! 

3* WNBA Over/Under Total ANNIHILATOR on Wings OVER

I like the value here with the OVER in Tuesday's WNBA action that has the Dallas Wings hosting the Phoenix Mercury. Dallas has gone OVER the total in each of their last 3 games and 5 of 7 overall. A big reason for that is the Wings are lighting it up offensively (85.3 ppg), but not exactly playing great defense (82.4 ppg). 

Phoenix only managed 72 points in their most recent contest against Las Vegas, but that was simply a bad night at the office. The Mercury shot just 34.7% from the field. In their previous 5 games, Phoenix scored 80 or more and shot 50% or better from the field in 4 games. I think both teams hit 90 in this one. Take the OVER! 

3* MLB Over/Under Total ANNIHILATOR on Rockies OVER

I like the value here with the OVER in Sunday's NL West action that has the Rockies hosting the Diamondbacks. These two teams have combined for at least 13 runs in each of the first 2 games of the series and I expect another 12+ effort between the two in this one. 

Colorado will be up against Zack Godley, who has a 7.08 ERA and 1.923 WHIP in 7 road starts and comes in with a 10.66 ERA and 2.212 WHIP in his last 3 starts. Arizona, which scored 12 runs on Saturday, will face Kyle Freeland, who has a 4.42 ERA and 1.473 WHIP in his last 3 starts. Freeland also owns an ugly 4.15 ERA and 1.769 WHIP in 3 career starts against the Diamondbacks. Take the OVER! 

4* MLB Over/Under Total NO-BRAINER on Astros/Rangers OVER

Most will look at the starting pitching matchup and expect a low-scoring game when the Astros visit the Rangers for Game 1 of their 4-game series. My focus is more on the two offenses that will take the field in this one. 

Everyone knows how potent the Astros' lineup is. Houston is averaging 5.7 runs/game on the road and are hitting a respectable .266 vs left-handed starters this season. It wouldn't come as a surprise at all if they put up a big number here against Texas starter Cole Hamels. 

Houston will have Gerrit Cole on the mound, who is 6-1 with a 2.20 ERA in 12 starts, but he's come back down to earth here of late. His ERA is just 3.60 over his last 3 starts and he's facing a confident Rangers lineup that just scored 15 runs in their quick 2-game sweep of the A's at home. I think Texas keeps the offense rolling. Take the OVER! 

3* WNBA Over/Under Total ANNIHILATOR on Sun/Liberty UNDER

I like the value with the UNDER in Thursday's WNBA action that has the Liberty hosting the Sun. Connecticut had their perfect start to the season come to an end, as they lost 77-82 at Atlanta after starting 5-0. The Sun shot just 36.6% from the field and could struggle to find their shot in the 4th and final game of a 4-game road trip that has only spanned 7 days. 

New York is just 2-3, but could just as easily be 5-0. All 3 losses have come by 6 points or less, the most recent a 74-80 setback at home against Phoenix. This is a big game for the Liberty, who have to feel like they can play with anyone and I expect a big effort defensively on their home floor in this one. Take the UNDER! 

5* MLB Vegas Sharp Money Top Play on UNDER 9

I'll take my chances here with the Royals and Angels staying UNDER the mark of 9 set by the books. I think we are seeing a high total here because of the overall numbers of KC starter Danny Duffy, who is just 2-6 with a 5.71 ERA in 12 starts.

However, we know Duffy is much better than what he's shown early on in 2018 and he's coming off two great starts, where he's allowed just 2 runs on 8 in 13 2/3 innings of work.

Angels will counter with Nick Tropeano, who is sitting at 3-3 with a 3.80 ERA in 8 starts and has also pitched well in his last two outings, giving up just 3 runs on 11 hits in 12 2/3 innings. I just don't see either team going off offensively in this one. Take the UNDER 9! 

3* MLB Over/Under Total ANNIHILATOR on Giants UNDER

I like the value here with the UNDER in Saturday's MLB action that has the Giants hosting the Phillies. Philadelphia will send out Vincent Velasquez here and he's been in prime form of late. Velasquez has a 1.65 ERA in his last 3 starts. I look for him to stay hot here and keep the Giants in check. 

San Francisco will counter with Andrew Suarez, who hasn't been great, but has pitched well at home and is facing a Phillies lineup that is in a funk. Philadelphia has scored 2 runs or less in each of their last 3 games and are averaging just 2.7 runs/game and hitting a mere .222 as a team in their last 7 games. Take the UNDER! 

3* WNBA Over/Under Total ANNIHILATOR Mystics/Mercury UNDER

I like the value here with the UNDER in Wednesday's WNBA action that has Phoenix Mercury hosting the Washington Mystics. Washington managed just 77 points on 43% shooting at Seattle last night and I just don't see the offense producing at the level expected here with the Mystics playing in the 2nd game of a back-to-back and 3rd in the last 4 nights. 

I also don't see the Mercury going off in this one. Phoenix scored 85+ in each of their first two games, but came back to reality in their last 2, scoring just 71 and 72 points. Washington's defense has been solid all season, as the Mystics are giving up just 77.6 ppg. Take the UNDER! 

3* WNBA Over/Under Total DESTROYER on Mystics/Storm OVER

I like the value here with the OVER in Tuesday's WNBA action that has the Seattle Storm hosting the Washington Mystics. Both of these teams have been lighting it up on the offensive side of the ball. The Mystics come in averaging 85 ppg and have scored 90+ in each of their last 2 contests. The Storm are even better at 92.2 ppg, with 95+ in each of their last 2. 

I look for both teams to continue to light it up, as this should fly over the total. Washington is giving up 84 ppg on the road and the Storm are giving up 86.7 and allowing teams to shoot 48% on the season. Over is 6-1 in Washington's last 7 vs a team with a winning record and 7-1 in Seattle's last 8 vs a team with a winning record. Take the OVER! 

4* MLB Over/Under Total NO-BRAINER on White Sox/Indians OVER

I like the value here with the OVER in Tuesday's AL Central action that has the White Sox hosting the Indians. Both of these teams come in hot at the plate. Cleveland has scored at least 8 runs in each of their last 3 games, while the White Sox are averaging 5 runs/game over their last 4. 

I look for both sides to stay hot against today's starters. The Indians will send out Mike Clevinger, who despite a solid 3.32 ERA overall, is just 1-1 with a 4.62 ERA and 1.405 WHIP in 6 home starts. White Sox will counter with Lucas Giolito, who is 3-5 with a 7.53 ERA in 10 starts and comes in with a 8.31 ERA and 1.846 WHIP in his last 3 outings. 

OVER is 12-1 in Cleveland's last 13 home games vs a right-handed starter and 6-1 in their last 7 vs a team that's won fewer than 40% of their games. Take the OVER! 

3* NBA Over/Under TOTAL ANNIHILATOR on Warriors OVER

I like the value here with the OVER in Game 6 of the Western Conference Finals between the Warriors and Rockets. The last two games in this series have been extremely low-scoring given the offensive fire-power both of these teams possess. As a result we have seen the total go from 227.5 in Game 4 to 219.5 in Game 5 and now it's sitting at 212. 

I just don't think we are going to see the same intensity defensively from the Rockets in this one. Houston really suffered a big blow with the injury to Chris Paul, who we know for sure won't play in this one. I think his absence will really be felt on the defensive side of the ball. At the same time, the Warriors can't continue to play this poorly offensively. If Houston doesn't show up, they could put up a big number here. Take the OVER! 

4* WNBA Over/Under Total NO-BRAINER on Sky/Storm UNDER

I like the value here with the UNDER in Friday's WNBA action that has the Chicago Sky visiting the Seattle Storm. The OVER hit in both of Seattle's first two games, but each of those came against Phoenix, who doesn't play the best defense.

The Sky gave up 81 in their last game against Atlanta, but were really good on the defensive side in their first two games. They went on the road and held Indiana to just 64 points on 37% shooting and followed that up at home by holding New York to 76 on 36% shooting. I just think this total is way too high, as this line/total combo is calling for a final around 87-77. Take the UNDER! 

3* Celtics/Cavs Total DESTROYER on Celtics/Cavs OVER

I like the value here with the OVER in Game 6 of the Eastern Conference Finals, which has the Cavs hosting the Celtics. I think we are getting a favorable price here after an extremely low-scoring Game 5 in Boston, where the two teams combined for just 179 points with a total of 204.5. 

These two teams have really fed off their home crowd. Boston's energy and defense at home has made life miserable for Cleveland. In the 3 games played at the Celtics arena, the Cavs have scored 83, 94 and 83 points. It was a completely different story at home, where the scored 116 in Game 3 and 111 in Game 4, both times shooting at least 49% from the field. 

I look for the Cavs to be able to get that offense going once again at home in Game 6. I also think that Cleveland is starting to wear down and don't think the defensive intensity will be quite what it was in their previous 2 homes games. Keep in mind Boston scored 96 in Game 5, despite shooting a mere 36.5% from the field, so 100+ from them is well within reach. Take the OVER! 

4* MLB Late Night Total NO-BRAINER on Rockies/Dodgers UNDER

I like the value here with the UNDER in Tuesday's NL West action that has the Dodges hosting the Rockies. We know the ball doesn't carry well late at night in LA and on top of that I think we have an underrated pitching matchup here. 

Colorado will send out Chad Bettis, who is 4-1 with a 3.27 ERA and 1.200 WHIP in 9 starts. As is the case for a lot of pitchers, Bettis is much better when he's not starting at Coors Field. He's got a 1.83 ERA and 1.017 WHIP in 6 road starts this season. I think he keeps it going against a Dodgers' offense that has scored 3 or fewer runs in 5 straight homes games. 

Brock Stewart is getting the call up to start this one for LA. Stewart will be making his first start of 2018, but has started 9 over the previous 2 seasons. Considering the Rockies are hitting just .218 away from home and just .227 over their last 7, I think Stewart can give them 4-5 solid innings here and let the bullpen do the rest. Take the UNDER 8! 

3* Rockets/Warriors Over/Under Total ANNIHILATOR on Rockets/Warriors UNDER

I like the value here with the UNDER in Game 4 of the Western Conference Finals between the Rockets and Warriors. Golden State's 41-point blowout win in Game 3 saw a combined score of just 211 points. Two of the three games in the series have now finished UNDER the total. The only exception coming in Game 2, where it barely went over with a combined score of 232 and a total of 225. 

I just think the perception here is the Warriors will continue to light it up offensively and the Rockets can't be any worse than they were in Game 3. Houston will be better, but they are also going to bring a lot more intensity on defense. This a huge game for both sides. The Warriors want to take a 3-1 lead and the Rockets want to take back home court and go back to Houston tied 2-2. Expect max effort defensively from both teams, which should keep us below the mark. Take the UNDER!

5* NBA Conference Finals TOTAL OF THE YEAR on Cavs UNDER 

I love the value here with the UNDER on the total for Game 4 between the Celtics and Cavs. Each of the first 3 games in the series have all finished UNDER the mark set by the books and I think this has the potential to be the lowest scoring of them all. 

Cleveland's blowout win in Game 3 wasn't a huge shocker. Boston hasn't been great on the road this postseason and the Cavs were basically in a do-or-die situation already down 0-2 in the series. I really like the adjustments Cleveland made on the defensive side of the ball, as well as the all-out effort from James. They have no choice but to come out with that same intensity, as this one is just as important as the last. 

The key here is that we should get a much more focused and energized Boston team. They are going to make their adjustments and while the shots might not fall like they do at home, they can still make a game of this with their defensive effort and I expect them to do just that. I wouldn't be surprised if both teams failed to reach 95 in this one. Take the UNDER! 

4* MLB Over/Under Total NO-BRAINER on Yankees/Rangers OVER

I like the value here with the OVER in Monday's AL action that has Rangers hosting the Yankees. New York has scored 6 or more runs in 4 of their last 5 games and figure to have a great shot of another big day at the plate against veteran Bartolo Colon. While Colon comes in with a  strong 2.93 ERA and 0.869 WHIP in 7 starts, he's got a mere 5.09 ERA in 3 starts at home. He's also got an ugly 6.11 career ERA against the Yankees. He faced them twice last year and gave up 10 runs on 15 hits in just 7 1/3 innings of work. 

New York will counter with Masahiro Tanaka, who hasn't suffered a loss in his last 5 starts. That's not to say Tanaka has been throwing it great. He's got a mere 4.86 ERA overall in 8 starts and a 4.15 ERA in his last 3 outings. While the Rangers were shutout yesterday, I think they can contribute 4+ runs here to push this thing well over the mark set by the books. Take the OVER! 

3* WNBA Over/Under Total ANNIHILATOR on Storm/Mercury UNDER

I like the value here with the UNDER in Sunday's WNBA total that has the Seattle Storm hosting the Phoenix Mercury. Both of these teams have their goals set extremely high, as each feels they have the pieces in place to win a title. 

Phoenix got things started off with a 86-78 win over Dallas on Friday and it was a great defensive effort for the Mercury, who held Dallas to just 36.2% from the field. I expect that intensity on defense to carry over here.

As for the Storm, this is both their season and home opener. new head coach Dan Hughes has made it clear he wants the defense to be better in Seattle this year and I think he'll have them playing better on that side. The total is simply too high here. Take the UNDER!

4* NBA Playoffs Total NO-BRAINER on Celtics/Cavs UNDER 

I like the value here with UNDER in Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Finals. Each of the first two games finished below the total set by the books. I'm expecting another low-scoring contest with Cleveland's backs against the wall. 

The Cavs are down 0-2 and are in a do-or-die scenario. That means we are going to get the very best Cleveland has to offer on the defensive side of the ball. At the same time, Boston's offense hasn't been nearly as efficient on the road as it has at home in the postseason. 

I also don't see Cleveland going off here. The Celtics have put together a great game-plan on how to defend the Cavs. They held them to 83 in Game 1 with a sub-par game from James and still held them to 94 in Game 2 with LeBron going off for 42 points and recording a triple-double. I wouldn't be shocked if both teams failed to reach 100 points in this one. Take the UNDER! 

3* WNBA Over/Under Total ANNIHILATOR on Sky/Fever UNDER

I like the value here with the UNDER in Saturday's WNBA action that has the Fever hosting the Sky. Season opener for both sides and I just feel the number here has been set way too high. These two combined for just 151 points in their final meeting last year and that was with a total at 165. I have this one finishing much closer to 145 than 155. Take the UNDER! 

4* NBA Playoffs 'Rockets/Warriors' Total NO-BRAINER on Warriors UNDER

You can check my free pick for who I would lean towards for the spread, but I believe the real value in Game 1 of the Western Conference Finals is with the total. I think the books have set the bar way too high for this one. 

All the media talks about is the star power both of these teams have and how great both sides are on the offensive end of the floor. What people don't realize is just how good these two teams are defensively. These two are ranked 1-2 in defensive efficiency in the postseason and there's no question that both are going to be locked in on that side of the ball. 

UNDER is 12-1 this season in Rockets' games when they are listed anywhere from +3 to -3 on the spread. UNDER is also 5-1 in Houston's last 6 when playing on 3 or more days of rest. UNDER is 21-8-1 in the Warriors last 30 after giving up 100 or more in their previous game and 5-1 in their last 6 on the road. Take the UNDER!

3* MLB Early Bird Total DESTROYER on Braves/Cubs UNDER

I like the value here with the UNDER in Monday's early MLB action that has the Cubs hosting the Braves. The most important thing when betting the total in games played at Wrigley Field is the direction the wind is blowing. It's expected to be blowing in from right field, so that's definitely a plus for the pitchers. 

The other big key here is the starting pitching matchup, which features the Cubs Jose Quintana against the Braves Julio Teheran. Both have been on top of their game of late. Quintana has allowed just 1 earned run in his last 3 starts, giving him an ERA of just 0.53 during this stretch. Teheran isn't too far behind with a 1.69 ERA and 0.750 WHIP in his last 3 starts. 

UNDER is 18-7-1 in Teheran's last 26 starts overall and 7-1-1 in his last 9 outings following a Quality Start in his last appearance. UNDER is also 15-5-1 in the Cubs last 21 games vs a team with a winning percentage of 60% or better and 12-4-1 in their last 17 home games vs a right-handed starter. Take the UNDER! 

3* LATE INFO INSIDER

No Analysis on late releases

3* NBA Over/Under Total ANNIHILATOR on Raptors/Cavs UNDER

I like the value here with the UNDER in Game 4 between the Raptors and Cavs on Monday. After flying over the total in the first two games in Toronto, the two teams combined for just 208 points and finished well below the mark of 214 in Game 3. The deeper the series goes the better the defense gets for both sides, as they know what the other team is trying to do offensively. 

Throw in this being a big letdown spot for Cleveland with a commanding 3-0 lead and how big this game is for the Raptors, I think we are going to see the lowest-scoring game of the series so far. UNDER is now 5-1 in the Cavs last 6 at home and 5-2 in the Raptors last 7 away from home. Take the UNDER! 

5* MLB Vegas NO LIMIT Top Play on Astros/Diamondbacks UNDER

I love the value here with Sunday's interleague showdown between the Astros/Diamondbacks going UNDER the mark set by the books. Both of these offenses have been struggling of late and I just don't see either team getting going here with this pitching matchup. 

Houston is going to send out veteran Justin Verlander, who is putting up Cy Young type numbers. Verlander is 4-0 with a 1.13 ERA and 0.671 WHIP in 7 starts. He's yet to give up an earned run on the road this year, which covers 19 innings over 3 starts. Arizona will send out Matt Kock, who has posted a 2.65 ERA and 1.118 WHIP over his first 3 starts. Take the UNDER! 

5* NBA Playoffs Vegas NO LIMIT Top Play on Celtics UNDER

I love the value here with the UNDER in Game 3 between the 76ers and Celtics. While the first two games of the series have went OVER, the scoring did drop off quite a bit from Game 1 to Game 2. After combining for 118 in Game 1, the two combined for just 111 in Game 2. I look for another drop in scoring here in Game 3. Boston hasn't been nearly as efficient offensively on the road. They scored just 92, 102 and 86 in their 3 games at Milwaukee in the first round. 

The other big key here is we are going to get everything the 76ers have on the defensive end with the series on the line down 0-2. They also aren't going to take their foot off the gas after blowing that 22 points lead in Game 2. I wouldn't be shocked if both teams failed to reach 100 points in this one. Take the UNDER! 

4* NBA Playoffs Situational VEGAS INSIDER on Jazz/Rockets UNDER

I like the value here with the UNDER in Game 2 between the Rockets and Jazz. Game 1 ended up just finishing below the total at 206 points and that was with the Jazz shooting 50% from the field and the Rockets connecting on 17 3-pointers. Houston ended up winning the game by 14 points (110-96). 

I think we are going to see a much lower-scoring Game 2. Utah is going to lay it all on the line here to try and salvage a split before returning home for Game 3 and simply didn't play up their standards defensively in Game 1. As for the Rockets, everyone pays close attention to their offense, but this is a really good defensive team and I expect them to be a lot better here in Game 2. Take the UNDER! 

5* NBA Playoffs TOTAL OF THE YEAR on Cavs/Raptors UNDER

I love the value here with the UNDER in Game 1 between the Raptors and Cavs. I know these two teams have a lot of offensive fire-power, but this total is way too high for these two teams. Cleveland simply doesn't have the offensive fire-power it's had in the past and really have to rely on their defense to win. I also think we are seeing an inflated total here, as a lot of people think the Cavs won't show up after playing a Game 7 just 2 days ago, but I expect this team to come out ready to play. 

I actually think Cleveland matches up a lot better with Toronto than they did the Pacers. With that said the Raptors are a strong team and really turned up the defensive intensity over the final 3 games of their series with Washington. I expect an all-out effort defensively from Toronto in this one, as they are well aware of how critical these first two games at home are. 

UNDER is 22-10 in the Cavs last 32 games as a dog of 3.5 to 9.5 points and UNDER is 21-8 in the last 29 meetings between these two teams in Toronto. Take the UNDER! 

3* NBA Over/Under Total ANNIHILATOR on Sixers/Celtics OVER

I like the value here with the OVER in Monday's Game 1 action between the 76ers and Celtics. Boston's defense was the difference down the stretch of their first round series against the Bucks, but this 76ers offensive attack is a whole different beast. On top of that, it's only human nature for the Celtics to suffer a bit of a letdown here after playing in a win-or-go-home Game 7 just two days ago. That should show up a lot more on the defensive side of the ball. 

Keep in mind that Philadelphia went up against a pretty strong Heat defense in their first round series and Miami couldn't keep them in check. The 76ers eclipsed 100 points in all 5 games, despite shooting under 43% in 3 of the 5 games. Philadelphia's tempo and ability to hit from long-range will be really hard for the Celtics to contain, especially with the 76ers being extremely well rested, as they last played almost a week ago (4/24). I look for both teams to eclipse the 100-point mark, making this an easy play for me. Take the OVER! 

3* MLB Over/Under Total ANNIHILATOR on Padres UNDER

I like the value here with the UNDER in Sunday's MLB action that has the Padres hosting the Mets. A lot of people will focus on the pitching matchup and the poor numbers for today's starters, but this is a huge number for a game at Petco Park. 

Keep in mind that while the Padres put up 12 runs yesterday, they has scored 2 or fewer in 5 of their previous 6 games and New York's Zack Wheeler is more than capable of shutting this offense down. As for the Mets' offense, they have scored 3 or fewer in 3 of their last 4 and have recorded single-digit hits in 9 straight as they are hitting a mere .203 over their last 7 games. Take the UNDER! 

4* NBA Over/Under Total NO-BRAINER on Jazz/Rockets OVER

I like the value here with the OVER in Sunday's NBA action that has the Rockets hosting the Jazz in Game 1 of the Western Conference semifinals. I just think the total here has been set way too low given how explosive the Rockets are on offense. Houston wasn't on their game early in their series against the Timberwolves, but they finished off Minnesota by scoring 119 and 124 in the final 2 games. Note they had 119 on the road in Game 4 despite shooting 43.5% from the field. 

I think a lot of their struggles early had to do with them coasting down the stretch run of the regular-season. The Rockets are locked in and are going to be fresh off a full 3 days of rest. I just don't see the Jazz putting up much of a fight defensively in Game 1, as they just laid it all on the line in their series against OKC, which just ended on Friday. At the same time Utah's offense doesn't get near the respect it deserves. I see this one finishing a lot close to 220 than 200. Take the OVER! 

4* MLB Over/Under Total NO-BRAINER on Braves/Phillies UNDER

I like the value here with the UNDER in Saturday's AL East action that has the Phillies hosting the Braves. If you haven't been following the MLB closely these two starters might not scream pitchers duel when you see them, but that's exactly what I'm expecting. 

Atlanta will send out Mike Foltynewicz, who has a strong 2.77ERA in 5 starts and has already faced these Phillies twice. In those 2 starts, Foltynewicz has allowed just 3 earned runs on 9 hits with 15 strikeouts in 11 innings of work. Philadelphia will counter with Nick Pivetta, who has a 2.57 ERA in 5 starts overall, 1.89 ERA in 3 home outings and a 2.77 ERA in 5 career starts against the Braves. Take the UNDER! 

4* MLB Over/Under Total NO-BRAINER on Ranges/Blue Jays UNDER

I like the value here with the UNDER in Friday's AL showdown that has the Blue Jays hosting the Rangers. I know it's been a struggle so far for Toronto starter Marcus Stroman, but he got a late start to spring training and is still working out the kinks. This now his fifth start and I'm expecting to start seeing some real improvement here against a struggling Texas lineup that is averaging just 3.6 runs/game and hitting .231 as a team. 

The Rangers should be able to keep it close behind another strong outing from starter Mike Minor, who has a solid 3.86 ERA and 1.048 WHIP in his 4 starts to open the season. Minor is also a perfect 3-0 with a 1.80 ERA and 0.800 WHIP in 3 career starts against the Blue Jays, which includes a start against them earlier this season, where he allowed just 1 run on 2 hits in 6 innings. 

UNDER is 8-2-1 in Rangers last 11 road games vs a right-handed starter and 4-1 in Stroman's last 5 home starts vs a team with a losing record. Take the uNDER! 

3* NBA Over/Under Total ANNIHILATOR on Jazz/Thunder OVER

I like the value here with the OVER in Game 5 between the Thunder and Jazz. Most times the deeper a series gets the more likely I'm to lean to the UNDER, but this is an exception. These two teams have went OVER the mark in 3 of the 4 games so far this series with the lowest combined total being 197. Each of the other 3 games all seen at least 209 points and I think we easily get to 210 in this one. 

The reason we are find value is the Jazz are viewed as a great defensive team, but they have went OVER in 11 of their last 15 games, as they are a much better offensive team than they get credit for. Take the OVER! 

4* MLB Over/Under Total NO-BRAINER on Twins/Yankees UNDER

I like the value here with the UNDER in Wednesday's MLB action that has the Yankees hosting the Twins. The books have set a big number here in large part to New York's recent surge at the plate, but with the wind blowing end, I like our chances of staying below the mark in this one. 

Minnesota will send out Lance Lynn, who has struggled with his command in his first 3 starts. Lynn has walked 15 batters in 14 innings of work. That kind of inability to find the strikeout zone won't continue and Lynn should have a fresh arm, as he's thrown just 3 1/3 innings since April 12th. Yankees will send out Sonny Gray, who is another starter that hasn't pitched up to his potential early on in 2018. I like Gray's chances of breaking out of his slump against a struggling Twins offense that has scored 3 or fewer runs in 5 of their last 7 games. Take the UNDER!  

4* NBA Over/Under TOTAL ANNIHILATOR on Celtics UNDER

I like the value here with the UNDER in Tuesday's matchup between the Celtics and Bucks. The series is tied up at 2-2, as each team held serve on their home court. This is a massive game for both sides, as it's now a best of 3 series and whoever takes Game 5 has a huge edge. Needless to say the defensive intensity will be taken up another notch tonight.

You also have to factor in that this is now the 5th game between these two teams in the last 10 days. Both teams are extremely familiar with each other's gamelans and the deeper we get into a series the more of an edge it is for the defenses. Look for both teams to struggle to get going offensively in this one. Take the UNDER! 

4* MLB Over/Under Total DOMINATOR on Royals UNDER

I like the value here with the UNDER in Game 2 of Friday's double-header between the Tigers and Royals. The fact that these two teams combined for 20 runs in the opener last night is definitely playing into this number. I just don't see the production being there on Friday, especially in the night cap. 

Kansas City will send out one of their top performers, Jake Junis, on either side of the ball in 2018. Junis has posted a 1.93 ERA and 0.803 WHIP in 3 starts, accounting for two of the Royals 3 wins this season. One of those starts came against these Tigers, which he absolutely dominated Detroit, allowing just 3 hits over 7 shutout innings. 

The Tigers are going to counter with Daniel Norris, who doesn't exactly have the best numbers. However, this is more about the offense Norris will be facing than anything. The Royals offense is atrocious. Their 51 runs scored on the season is the worst of any team in the league. Not to mention they are averaging a mere 2.2 runs/game on the road this season. Take the UNDER! 

3* NBA Over/Under Total ANNIHILATOR on Cavs OVER

I like the value here with the OVER in Game 3 of the Cavs/Pacers series. The first two games of the series have been extremely low-scoring. The two combined for just 178 points in Game 1 with a total of 212.5 and 197 in Game 2 with a total of 213. The books have made quite the adjustment for Game 3 with a total almost 5-points lower. 

I just think tonight will be the night that these two light it up. The Pacers have really had their way with Cleveland's defense. The shot 46% from the field in Game 1 and 53% in Game 2. The Cavs defense doesn't figure to be as good on the road, while Indiana should be expected to shoot better at home. As for the Cavs offense, the role players simply can't play as poorly as they have in the first two games. Take the OVER! 

4* MLB Over/Under TOTAL ANNIHILATOR on Orioles/Tigers OVER

I like the value here with the OVER in Thursday early MLB action that has the Tigers hosting the Orioles. It's been a struggle to start the season for both teams, as neither offense has produced at the level expected. With that said, both teams are coming off a strong showing at the plate, as the two combined for 11 runs in yesterday's meeting. 

I think we could see even more runs scored in today's contest. For starters, we have two starters taking the mound that have struggled. Baltimore's Alex Cobb has made just one start, but in that outing he allowed 8 runs on 10 hits with 0 strikeouts in 3 2/3 innings of work. Detroit will counter with Matt Boyd, who has a 8.18 ERA and 1.545 WHIP in his 3 starts so far in 2018. Making matters even worse for today's starters is the wind will be blowing straight out to center at 15 mph. Take the OVER! 

3* MLB Over/Under Total ANNIHILATOR on Rangers/Rays UNDER

I like the value here with the UNDER in Wednesday's MLB action that has the Rays hosting the Rangers. Both of these teams are struggling to push across runs on a consistent basis. Texas comes in averaging just 3.5 runs/game and Tampa is even worse at 3.4 runs/game. 

Rangers will send out Cole Hamels who despite a 4.50 ERA overall has been really good on the road. Hamels owns a 2.45 ERA in his 2 road starts and last time out limited the Astros to just 2 runs in 6 innings at Houston. Rays counter with Jacob Faria who has a 8.18 ERA overall, but that's all because of one bad road start. Faria is has a 1.93 ERA and 1.179 WHIP in 2 home starts. 

It's also worth nothing that the home plate umpire for this game will be Bruce Dreckman. The UNDER has cashed in 13 of his last 16 appearances behind the plate. UNDER is also 25-12-5 in Texas' last 42 after scoring 5 or more and 20-7-1 in Tampa's last 28 during Game 3 of a series. Take the UNDER! 

3* MLB Over/Under TOTAL BLOWOUT on Twins OVER

I like the value here with the OVER in Tuesday's showdown between the Twins and Indians in Puerto Rico, as the two teams play a 2-game set at Hiram Bithorn Stadium in San Juan. A lot of people are going to just look at the starting pitching matchup here with Corey Kluber going for the Indians and Jake Odorizzi starting for Minnesota. 

I think there's a decent chance at least one of these two struggle and maybe both. There's no familiarity with playing in San Juan and we are going to see much closer to summer weather in the states with temps approaching 80 with good humidity. The ball should carry well here and there's enough power bats on both sides to push this over the low number. Take the OVER! 

5* NBA Playoffs Vegas NO LIMIT Top Play on Bucks/Celtics UNDER

I love the value here with the UNDER in Sunday's early NBA playoff action that has the Celtics hosting the Bucks. A lot of people are writing off Boston after the injury to Kyrie Irving. While that almost certainly put an end to any hopes they had of making the NBA Finals, they still have more than enough talent to win a series or two. 

One thing that Boston will have to do without Irving is rely even more on their defense, as they aren't going to get as many easy looks offensively. I think it's going to be difficult for both teams to score here and don't see either side getting to 100 points. That makes this a pretty easy call with the total north of 200. 

UNDER is 7-2-1 in the Bucks last 10 conference quarterfinal matchups and 24-9 in the Celtics last 33 when playing in the first round of the postseason. Take the UNDER! 

4* MLB Over/Under Total NO-BRAINER on Angels/Royals UNDER

I'm recommending a play on the UNDER here in Saturday's MLB matchup that has the Angles visiting the Royals. Kansas City's offense is about as bad as it gets and their inability to score has played a huge part in the UNDER cashing in 9 of their 11 games this season. The 4 runs they scored last night was their second highest output of the season. I don't see them getting to that mark against Angels starter Garrett Richards, who is poised for a breakout performance in 2018. 

The even bigger key here is that while it won't be easy keeping this LA offense in check, the Royals will send out one of the hottest starters so far this season. Jake Junis is 2-0 with a 0.00 ERA and 0.500 WHIP in 2 starts. He's pitched 7 shutout innings in each of his first two starts and allowed just 4 hits and 3 walks. Look for another strong showing here at home. Take the UNDER! 

5* NBA Playoffs VEGAS INSIDER Top Play on Spurs/Warriors UNDER

I love the value here with the UNDER in Saturday's Western Conference series opener between the Spurs and Warriors. While Golden State is the heavy favorite in the series despite Steph Curry being sidelined, there's no question that they aren't the same offensive juggernaut without him. 

San Antonio knows they have no chance of beating the Warriors in a shootout, even without Curry, and I look for Popovich and the Spurs to try and slow down the tempo as much as possible to keep Golden State out of a rhythm. I wouldn't be shocked at all if both teams failed to reach 100 points and this thing finished somewhere in the low 190s. Take the UNDER! 

5* MLB Vegas Insider GAME OF THE MONTH on Blue Jays/Indians UNDER 

I love the value here with the UNDER in Friday's series opener that has the Indians hosting the Blue Jays. Cleveland has scored 14 runs in their last 2 games, but that came against the Tigers. This is still an offense that is averaging just 3.5 runs/game and hitting a mere .189 as a team. 

I just think we are seeing a bit of an overreaction here with this total. I know it's been a rough start for Toronto's starter Marcus Stroman, but it's really just been his command that's hurt him. The big thing for me is just how good Stroman has been against Cleveland. He's got a 1.91 ERA and 1.152 WHIP in 5 career starts against them. All 5 of which have finished UNDER the total. 

Indians will send out Mike Clevinger, who often gets overlooked in Cleveland's elite starting rotation. Clevinger has been lights out in his 2 starts, posting a 0.71 ERA, as he's allowed a mere 1 run in 12 2/3 innings of work. Take the UNDER! 

4* MLB Over/Under Total NO-BRAINER on Cardinals/Reds OVER

I like the value here here with the OVER in Friday's NL Central action that has the Reds hosting the Cardinals. I cashed the OVER in last night's series opener between these two teams, as they combined for 17 runs, combining for 9 runs in the first 6 innings. That was with St Louis doing all the heavy lifting, as they put up a season-high 13 runs. 

I expect another big offensive night for the Cardinals in this one. The Reds pitching staff is taxed right now. The bullpen had to throw another 4 2/3 innings last night and figure to be asked to shoulder another heavy workload with Tyler Mahle starting. Mahle pitched well in his first outing against the Cubs, but was rocked for 5 runs on 9 hits in just 4 2/3 innings at Pittsburgh in his most recent start. 

St Louis does have one of their top starters in talented youngster Luke Weaver going, but chances are he gives up at least a few runs here. This is already a big time hitters park. Any mistake tonight  figures to leave in a hurry to left field, as the wind is blowing out that way at close to 15 mph. Take the OVER! 

4* NBA Over/Under Total NO-BRAINER on Jazz UNDER

I like the value here with the UNDER in Wednesday's huge showdown between the Jazz and Blazers. While both teams have already secured a spot in the playoffs, the No. 3 seed and home court in the first round will be on the line in this game. I expect a playoff-like atmosphere and as a result a much lower-scoring game than the books are expecting with this total. 

Utah has really been locked in defensively down the stretch. The Jazz just held the Warriors to 79 points in their last game and have held 7 of their last 8 opponents under the century mark. They figure to have a good shot at keeping the Blazers under that mark, as Portland's offense has been out of sync here of late. While the offense might not be there, the Blazers should bring their 'A' game defensively at home. Take the UNDER! 

4* NBA Over/Under Total NO-BRAINER on Warriors/Jazz UNDER

I like the value here with the UNDER in Tuesday's NBA action that has the Jazz hosting the Warriors. Utah has clinched a playoff spot, but there's still a lot at stake. With a win over Golden State tonight, the Jazz will have a chance to overtake the Blazers for the No. 3 seed when they visit Portland tomorrow. Needless to say I think we get a great effort here from Utah, especially on the defensive side of the ball. 

As for the Warriors, they have nothing to play for and are just going through the motions right now. With Curry already out with an injury, Golden State isn't going to push any of their stars in these last couple meaningless regular season games. With that said, I do expect whoever plays for the Warriors to compete and that should be all we need here to keep this well below the mark set by the books. Take the UNDER! 

3* MLB Over/Under Total ANNIHILATOR on Pirates/Cubs UNDER

I like the value here with the UNDER in Tuesday's MLB action that has the Cubs taking on Pittsburgh in their home opener for 2018. Conditions here are going to favor a lower-scoring game. The temp will be around 40 with wind blowing in from left field. 

Chicago will send out Tyler Chatwood, who was able to overcome some command problems to limit the Reds to just 1 run on 4 hits in 6 innings. Chatwood is poised for a breakout year now that he's not pitching half his games at Coors Field. 

Pittsburgh will send out Ivan Nova. While he's not been on top of his game in his first 2 starts, I like his chances of slowing down the Cubs lineup that has been pretty hit or miss early on and is still playing without one of the top sluggers in Rizzo. Take the UNDER! 

3* NBA Over/Under Total ANNIHILATOR on Warriors/Suns OVER

I like the value here with the OVER in Sunday's NBA action that has the Warriors visiting the Suns. Golden State has nothing to play for down the stretch, as they are locked into the No. 2 seed in the west. It's really shown of late on the defensive side of the ball, as the Warriors have given up 126 in each of their last 2 games, allowing the Pacers to shoot 53.8% from the field on Thursday and the Pelicans to shoot 56.3% yesterday. 

The offense for the Warriors has been much better of late and they should have no problem putting up a big number here against a horrible Suns defense. Phoenix comes in giving up 113.4 ppg and I wouldn't be shocked if Golden State got to 130 in this one. OVER is 6-1 in the Warriors last 7 when playing in the 2nd game of a back-to-back and 5-1 in the Suns last 6 vs a team with a winning record. Take the OVER! 

3* MLB Over/Under Total ANNIHILATOR on Blue Jays/Rangers UNDER

I like the value here with the UNDER in Saturday's MLB action that has the Rangers hosting the Blue Jays. Texas' Globe Life Park is typically a hitters park, but not today, as the ball simply isn't going to carry with the temp expected to be in the low 40s. 

We also have a couple of strong starters on the mound in this one. Toronto will send out Marcus Stroman, who is one of their top arms in the rotation. Stroman didn't have his best stuff in his first outing, but he also faced a good Yankees offense. Texas will send out Mike Minor, who held a potent Houston offense to just 2 runs on 3 hits in 4 2/3 innings in his first start. 

UNDER is 15-5 in the Blue Jays last 20 road games against a left-handed starter and 29-12 in their last 41 after scoring 8 or more runs in their previous game. Take the UNDER! 

4* NBA Over/Under Total NO-BRAINER on Nets vs Bulls UNDER

I like the value here with the UNDER in Saturday's NBA action that has the Bulls hosting the Nets. These two bottom feeders have absolutely zero to play for and I think it will be hard for both sides to get up for this game, as these two teams will turn around and play each other again on Monday. 

Clearly these are two of the least talented teams in the league and both sides have key players out with injury. They last played in late February and the two teams combined for a mere 191 points. I would expect a little more offense this time around, but with the total where it's at, this is simply too good of a price to pass up. 

UNDER is 5-0 in the Bulls last 5 vs a team with a losing record and a perfect 5-0 in the last 5 meetings in the series. Take the UNDER! 

3* MLB Over/Under Total ANNIHILATOR on Blue Jays/Rangers OVER

I like the value here with the OVER in Friday's MLB action that has the Blue Jays visiting the Rangers. Toronto comes in averaging 5.1 runs/game, despite hitting a mere .237 as a team in their first 7 games. While Texas is averaging just 3.0 runs/game, they have been swinging the bats much better of late. The Rangers have scored 12 runs on 24 hits in their last 3 games after scoring just runs in their first 5. 

While I like Blue Jays starter Marco Estrada, he like a lot of starters, is not nearly as good on the road as he is at home. So while Estrada allowed just 3 runs in 7 innings of his first start at home, look for a little bit more of a struggle on the road against the Rangers. The good news is he should get plenty of run support, as Toronto's offense should be able to put up a big number here against Texas starter Matt Moore, who lasted just 4 innings after giving up 4 runs on 7 hits in a 3-9 loss to the Astros. Take the OVER! 

4* MLB Over/Under Total NO-BRAINER on Braves/Rockies UNDER 

I like the value here with the UNDER in Friday's MLB action that has the Rockies hosting the Braves. Typically you expect high-scoring games at hitter-friendly Coors Field, but I think this is one of the rare instances that we see more of a pitcher's duel. That's because the conditions for this game will negate the ball flying out of the park. The temp is expected to be in the mid 30's with wind blowing in at close to 15 mph from right field. 

We also have a couple of capable starters on the mound in this one. Colorado will send out German Marquez, who threw 5 shutout innings in his first start at Arizona. Atlanta will counter with Brandon McCarthy, who allowed just 2 runs in 5 1/3 in his first start at home against the Phillies. I'm not saying these two will completely shutdown the opposing offenses, but we should see strong enough outings to keep this well below the big total set here. Take the UNDER! 

3* MLB Over/Under Total ANNIHILATOR on DBacks/Cards UNDER

I like the value here with the UNDER in Thursday's MLB action that has the Cardinals hosting the Diamondbacks. Arizona has got off to an impressive 5-1 start behind an offense that is averaging 5.8 runs/game. While this should be one of the better offenses in the NL, the Diamondbacks definitely benefited from playing all of their games to this point at home at hitter-friendly Chase Field. Now they go to one of the more pitcher-friendly parks at Busch Stadium. 

One of the reasons I think we are getting such a favorable number here for the total is the struggles of Arizona starter Robbie Ray in his first start. While it's definitely concerning, Ray would be hard pressed to pitch as poorly as he did in his first outing. I look for a much better showing here and I'm also expecting a decent outing here from Cardinals starter Adam Wainwright to keep this well below the number posted by the books. Take the UNDER! 

5* NBA Non-Conf GAME OF THE MONTH on Warriors UNDER

I love the value here with the UNDER in Thursday's NBA action that has the Pacers hosting the Warriors. Golden State is locked into the No. 2 seed in the west, while Indiana is sitting 5th in the east, two games back of the Cavs and 76ers and 3.5 ahead of the Heat. There's just not a lot to play for here for either side, but I do think both teams are trying to stay in good form for the playoffs. 

Golden State's continues to play without Steph Curry and simply aren't as explosive offensively without him on on the court. Their highest point total in their last 8 games is 117 points and that was at home against the Suns. Indiana hasn't allowed more than 107 in their last 8. I think both teams are also going to limit their star players minutes, which will really make it tough for them to eclipse this number. 

UNDER is 20-9 in the Pacers last 29 non-conference games and 13-4 in their last 17 off a road loss. UNDER is also 21-7 in the Warriors last 28 after giving up 100+ points and 5-1 in their last 6 road games vs a good home team that's won 60% or more of their games at home. Take the UNDER! 

4* MLB Over/Under Total NO-BRAINER on Rockies/Padres UNDER

I like the value here with the UNDER in Thursday's MLB action that has the Padres hosting the Rockies. Today's pitching matchup features Tyler Anderson of Colorado against Joey Lucchesi of San Diego. Neither pitched well in their first start, but I think both are poised to pitch much better in their second outing. 

Anderson had the difficult task of making his first start at Arizona against a loaded Dbacks lineup and simply didn't have his best stuff. Lucchesi gave up just 3 runs in 4 2/3 innings. He really got in trouble early, giving up 2 runs in the first, which wasn't a big surprise given it was his first ever big league start. He really settled in nicely after the opening frame and I look for a better start in this one. Take the UNDER! 

3* NBA Over/Under TOTAL DESTROYER on Pistons/Sixers OVER

I like the value here with the OVER in Wednesday's NBA action that has the Pistons hosting the 76ers. Philadelphia is really clicking on the offensive side of the ball right now and haven't missed a beat since Embiid went down with an injury. The 76ers put up 121 points in yesterday's 26-point blowout win over the Nets. Philadelphia has now scored 118 or more points in 7 of their last 8 games. 

Detroit's playoff hopes are hanging on by a threat. While it's highly unlikely they can make up the ground to get into the postseason, I don't see this team throwing in the towel until they are officially eliminated. Look for the Pistons to continue their offensive surge, as they come in averaging 111 ppg over their last 5. 

These two last played in Philadelphia back on Jan. 5th, which the 76ers won 114-78. That's worth noting, as the OVER is 10-2 in the Pistons last 12 when revenging a road loss of 10 or more. Take the OVER! 

3* MLB Over/Under TOTAL ANNIHILATOR on Pirates/Twins UNDER

I like the value here with the UNDER in Wednesday's MLB action that has the Pirates hosting the Twins. I look for both offenses to struggle to get anything going in this one. Minnesota will send out Jake Odorizzi, who came out firing, allowing just 2 hits over 6 shutout innings at Baltimore on Opening Day.

Pittsburgh will counter with Ivan Nova, who allowed just 2 runs in 5 innings at Detroit in his first start. Key here with Nova is how dominant he was at home last year with the Pirates. He went 8-2 with a 2.80 ERA in 12 starts at PNC Park. 

UNDER is 43-19-2 in the Pirates last 64 games vs a right-handed starter and 11-2 in Nova's last 13 starts at home. UNDER is also 7-2 in the Twins last 9 vs a right-handed starter. Take the UNDER! 

3* NBA Over/Under Total ANNIHILATOR on Warriors/Thunder UNDER

I like the value here with the UNDER in Tuesday's NBA action that has the Thunder hosting the Warriors. These two teams don't like each other and most of it stems from Durant leaving OKC to team up with the Warriors. I'm expecting a big time effort from both sides, which in turn should keep this game well under the total set here by the books. 

While Golden State is locked into the No. 2 seed in the west, there's a sense of urgency with the Warrior to start playing better going into the playoffs. At the same time, they aren't as prolific offensively without Curry and could struggle to get the offense rolling against a good OKC defense. As for the Thunder, they really need a win here. While Oklahoma City currently sits 5th in the West, they are just 2.5-games ahead of 9th place Denver. Most importantly, they don't want to fall back into the 7th or 8th spots and have to face Golden State or Houston in the first round. 

UNDER is 11-5 in the Warriors last 16 games overall and 7-1 in their last 8 vs a team with a winning record. UNDER is 5-1 in the Thunder's last 6 overall and 13-3 in their last 16 vs a team that's won more than 60% of their games. Take the UNDER! 

5* NCAA Championship Game VEGAS INSIDER on Michigan/Villanova UNDER

I love the value here with the UNDER in Monday's National Championship Game between Villanova and Michigan. The Wildcats just put up 95 in a convincing win over Kansas that flew over the total of 155 and to no surprise the public is pounding the OVER in the title game tonight. 

Those who have watched Villanova, know this is a team that loves to shoot the 3-pointer and they couldn't have been hotter from deep to start their Final Four game against the Jayhawks. The Wildcats hit 13 of 26 3-pointers in the 1st half, as they exposed Kansas big man Azubuike and his inability to guard the 3-pointer. Michigan is a much better defense team than the Jayhawks and are much better equipped to defend the 3-pointer. 

I expect the Wolverines to try and slow down the game, as the last thing they want to do is get in a shootout with Villanova. The problem here for Michigan is they aren't a great offensive team and the Wildcats are a much better defensive team than people think. This matchup reminds me a lot of Villanova's Elite 8 matchup with Texas Tech, which finished with just 130 points. Take the UNDER!