MLB Weekend Betting: Three tips for the upcoming action

MLB / Nick Shiambouros / 09 July 2010 / Leave a Comment

Boston's John Lackey is a pitcher in fine form

"I think Boston should be able to take care of Toronto. Lackey should have them in a position to win the game by the seventh inning at the very least."

There are some fascinating games taking place this weekend with all the top teams in action ahead of next week's All-Star break. Below is a preview of three games that will be shown live on ESPN America.

Saturday July 10
Boston Red Sox v Toronto Blue Jays
The Red Sox start the talented John Lackey who has a record of 9-4 and an ERA of 4.40 for the season. Lackey is one of the elite pitchers in the league, blessed with a great variety of pitches who works well under pressure.

Brandon Morrow is on the hill for the Blue Jays. This right-hander has a losing record of 5-6 and an ERA of 4.69. Morrow is a decent strikeout pitcher who has had a better season than his record suggests. A huge defensive error on a flyball almost certainly cost him two runs against New York on Sunday.

I think Boston should be able to take care of Toronto. Lackey should have them in a position to win the game by the seventh inning at the very least.

Minnesota Twins v Detroit Tigers
Nick Blackburn gets the call for the Twins. Blackburn has not pitched well recently and his record of 7-6 is a little misleading. Last month Blackburn really struggled, posting an ERA of 12.05 in his first five starts. He needs to find his early season form in a hurry otherwise he could lose his position on the rotation.

The Tigers start Jeremy Bonderman who has a record of 4-6 and an ERA of 4.81 for the year. Bonderman is another pitcher who is having problems. In his last three starts he has been smashed all over the park and has given up 15 runs. He needs to find his range with his trusty slider to win this game.
　
This is a crucial game for both teams. Only two games separate Detroit, Chicago and Minnesota at the top of the AL Central.
　
With both starting pitchers in poor form the over total runs appears to the safest option. It is conceivable they could both be dispatched early in this important game.

Sunday July 11
Chicago Cubs v Los Angeles Dodgers
The Cubs rely on the in-form Carlos Silva to start. Silva has had an outstanding season with a record of 9-2 and an ERA of just 2.96. He has overpowered the opposition with his fastball and pinpoint accuracy. There is no doubt he is one of the most improved pitchers in the game.
　
The Dodgers start Vincente Padilla who has a record of 3-2 for the year. Padilla has been pitching exceptionally well in his last three starts after returning from injury. He is a very good strikeout pitcher and has good range. This veteran may have lost a little power over the years but remains a quality performer.
　
This is a fascinating encounter between two high-class pitchers. The Dodgers will be without Manny Ramirez who is out with a hamstring injury.Ramiez had been on fire for Los Angeles and his presence will be sorely missed.
　
I just favour Chicago in this one. Carlos Silva is in great form and he can continue his winning ways against a weakened Dodger line-up.
　
Recommended wagers:
Saturday back Boston
Saturday back over total runs Minnesota v Detroit
Sunday back Chicago Cubs