Pick: New York Yankees
Oooo this one’s juicy! Minnesota came into the Bronx on Monday to begin a series with the Yankees in which the Twins were hoping to put some cushion behind their lead as the AL’s second Wildcard, but OH BOY WERE THEY SERVED A DISH OF REALITY! During the series’ first two games, the Yankees have slammed the door on the Twinkies, shoving them in the dog house to fight for their playoff lives. Minnesota is now only a game and a half ahead of the surging Angels and are desperate to avoid a sweep this afternoon; their hero of choice? None other than the ageless wonder himself, “The Big Sexy”, Bartolo Colon. God only knows how Colon has stayed employed in this league. At age 44, Colon has played for nearly every squad this nation has to offer becoming a fan favorite for every city he represents. But I’m sorry Minnesota, this ain’t no comic strip, the good guy can’t always win, this pig (literally) is up for the slaughter. That 300 Vegas put up as the ML isn’t just Bartolo’s weight, it’s an indicator as to the batting average New York will have this afternoon against this washed up veteran. I expect an onslaught of long balls this afternoon from the Yankees offense as Luis Severino defends the castle on the defensive side of the ball in the Bronx.
Pick: Oakland Athletics
Sheesh what a crap shoot, you two can’t even put out two legitimate starters to play this game?? Both Daniel Mengden of the Athletics, and Anibal Sanchez of the Tigers are both bullpen maestros who’ve probably never sniffed a first inning appearance in their careers. They’re both guys in the back, chilling on their bullpen stools, popping dingers, and discussing what club they’re going to hit up after the game before their services are called for late in the 6th or 7th innings. No inspiration for this game. Therefore, we’re going with offense. The Athletics are winners in 7 of their last 10, and have won both games so far in the series. They’re 4-1 against the Tigers this year with each win yielding at least 6 runs. I have the A’s here in a game that will probably be attended by no one. Probably not even business professionals. Shame!
Pick: Miami Marlins
Our brooms will be getting a lot of work today ladies and gentleman. In our third #BPS matchup I have yet another series sweep as the Marlins put New York to bed in today’s series finale. This one’s an easy one. Rafael Montero is no match for this Miami offense and the Mets have nothing to help him out with at the plate. Jose Urena’s ERA is a mere 1.33 over his last three games, and I only see that average getting better this afternoon. This game’s highlight will be Giancarlo Stanton’s continual pursuit to 60 homeruns for the season, a milestone that hasn’t been reached since 2001.
Pick: Colorado Rockies
Every game matters for the Rockies from here on out. They’re hanging onto the last NL Wildcard spot by their fingertips as the Milwaukee Brewers gnaw at their feet. THIS. IS. A. MUST. WIN. GAME. The Giants have come away winners in the series’ first two games and I know Bud Black will have something inspirational to say to his Colorado team before this afternoon’s bout. The Rockies are clearly the better squad and they’ll be given a chance today as they go up against Miserable Matt. Matt Moore is 5-14 on the season with a 5.39 ERA and has given up an astonishing !!.440!! batting average against the Rockies starting lineup this season. Desperation, determination, and a pitcher who the Rockies hold in their back pocket translate to a Colorado win.