Category Archives: gambling 101

The Latest Odds To Win Each MLB Division In 2014

Baltimore_orioles_logo_2012_-_present

 

AMERICAN LEAGUE

Best Value Odd Highlighted in Red

AL EAST

Analysis: I fully expect the Baltimore Orioles to be involved in trade talks to land an ace pitcher, with using either Kevin Gausman or Dylan Bundy as bait. This year represents the teams best chance to win.

If the Yankees fall out of it, they will drop under the $189 MIL Luxury Tax Threshold, by jettisoning players, and will then sign everyone in the offseason with a fresh slate for a salary tax 1st time offense at only 17.5% – instead of a 50% clip now

The X factors are if Chris Davis can find his 2013 swing, and Ubaldo Jimenez remembers how to throw like his 2nd half 2013 self. Toronto has enough bashers to club their way to the Division Title, and their -133 is not a bad odd either to wager on.

1. TOR -133

2. NYY +320

3.  BOS +500

4.  BAL +650

5.  TB +5000

Read the rest of this entry

Houston Latest Team To Complete MLB Runs Survivor 2014: 6 Teams Left

The Astros lost the last 15 games to end the 2013 campaign, and put forth an 111 game loss season, and it looked bleak for the franchise in 2014 just 5 weeks ago.  Since then, Springer has smashed 12 HRs, added almost an RBI a game, and has lit a fire under the teams offense.  Oh Yeah.  Jose Altuve is also in the top 5 for AL Batting, Chris Carter has hit HRs of late, and Dallas Keuchel and Collin McHugh are both pitching fantastic for the squad that is now 29 - 36.

The Astros lost the last 15 games to end the 2013 campaign, and put forth an 111 game loss season, and it looked bleak for the franchise in 2014 just 5 weeks ago. Since then, Springer has smashed 12 HRs, added almost an RBI a game, and has lit a fire under the teams offense. Oh Yeah. Jose Altuve is also in the top 5 for AL Batting, Chris Carter has hit HRs of late, and Dallas Keuchel and Collin McHugh are both pitching fantastic for the squad that is now 29 – 36.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): 

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The Houston Astros are playing a great brand of ball over the last several weeks.  George Springer has ignited this offense to scoring more runs than have plated since the Killer B’s.

By virtue of them pasting the Twins with a 14 – 5 routing on Sunday, it nailed down their elusive 10 or 10+ Runs column for their 11th different run scenario.

No Longer is this team a laughing stock in the Majors.

The Astros have turned out a 10 – 5 record since May 24th, and are quietly inching towards the .500 mark,  Not bad for a club that lost 111 contests in 2013.

I even have to admit I love the move skipper Bo Porter did last night in bringing in Tony Sipp for a batter, then moving him to right field, enabling Jerome Williams to face the next batter, before bringing him back to the mound again.

Now that is thinking outside of the box.

The Astros have runs scored of 7, 8, 9 and 10 or 10+ in the last 2 weeks.  It looked like they were a shoe in to lose this entire competition back then.

Now there is only the Yankees (8 runs) and Red Sox (10 or 10+) left in the AL (who would have thought that with those perennial high octane offenses?),

The AL Central and West have all teams that have fulfilled their obligations on the MLB Runs Survivor.

The teams needing 1 more result in the NL are the Diamondbacks, Reds, Mets and Braves.  Arizona and Cincy need 9 runs in a game, and New York and Atlanta need games where 8 cross the plate. Read the rest of this entry

‘Rox, ‘Phils + ‘Halo’s Join The Party As Latest Teams To Complete MLB Runs Survivor 2014: 7 Teams Left

21st place

21st place.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): 

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Well we finally had some furious action to complete this mission in the last few days of the week.

The Rockies scored 7 runs in a loss, but finally completed their 11 scenarios to finish 21st.

The Angels and Phillies both plated 8 runs on Friday night wins to complete their tasks.

By way of one game less, Philadelphia wins 22nd place, with the Halo’s taking 23rd.

Left are the Yankees (needing 8), Red Sox (need 10 or more runs), Astros, (10 or 10+), Atlanta (8), New York Mets (8), and the the Reds and D’Backs are in need of a 9 run game, which has proved to be the hardest total to put forth. Read the rest of this entry

Current Odds To Win The 2014 MLB World Series + Best Value Bets

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): 

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An absolutely abysmal week for predicting which teams would jump on the leaderboard for odds.

Even though I did go 4 – 6 in the weeks prognostications, I pegged the massive loss for the Rockies.

This team plummeted from a +4000 to a +10000 odd to win the Fall Classic.  I had the Indians (who skyrocketed from +8000 – +5500 by virtue of a 6 game win streak.)

The Reds also have  a +5500 odd, as oppose to +6600.

The Jays are all the way up to tied for 5th on the favorite board, going from +1600 to +850.

Baltimore, Boston and New York all took drops in odds this week that were fairly minor. Read the rest of this entry

Dodgers 20th Team To Complete MLB Runs Survivor 2014

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Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): 

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This should turn out to be quite fun.  A lot of gambling establishments have this sort of deal, and it will be fun to see the results.

What Runs Survivor is, a MLB team scoring 0,1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9, 10 or (10+) in different games throughout the course of the season.

Once a club has one of these run totals once, you cross it off and keep going until they complete the 11 different variations.  We are going to keep tracking this category – until all 30 MLB clubs are finished this season!

The Dodgers completed their task of scoring 10 or more runs in a game Saturday, and are the 20th team to finish.

The Yankees, Red Sox, Angels and Astros have yet to fill out their 11 game scenarios in the AL, and the Rockies, DBacks, Cubs, Mets, Phillies and the Braves also need to end the games differential with just one specific run total.

All of the Central teams in both leagues have conquered the mission Read the rest of this entry

Current Odds To Win The 2014 MLB World Series – Updated For Week 10 + Best Value Bets

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Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): 

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In lieu of doing the Power rankings today, in which we just completed our Monthly rankings a few days ago, here are the current odds to win the World Series.

These kind of work as a defacto slotting of positions in their own right.

I had a full .500 of predicting last weeks totals in best bets.  Toronto’s big streak of 9 games were the big culprits of this affair to my demise.  They have jumped all the way to +1600, and are the top favorite out of the AL East.

If you are a New York Yankees fan or Boston Red Sox Nation subscriber, and think your squad could win the Fall Classic each, pounce on this weeks odds.  At +2000 and +2200 respectively, they are the highest they have been all year for the Eastern Seaboard clubs.

Boston has reeled of 6 wins in a row following their 10 game swan dive, and New York is only 2.5 Games Behind Toronto.

Honestly as the teams are constructed right now, I am all in favor of picking the Jays, but there is one problem.  If the ‘Pinstripers’ are in contention a month from now, Brian Cashman will be handed an influx of cash to dole out in forms of trades.

Toronto is over the payroll they want to be at for the campaign, although they might be able to add a Starter as said by the brass, “if the club is playing well.”.

Boston just inked Stephen Drew back, and they have some Benjamin Franklin’s in reserve somewhere if they want to throw some down, just not sure they will do so. Read the rest of this entry

2014 MLB Runs Survivor: 19 Teams Complete, 11 Left

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Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): 

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This should turn out to be quite fun.  A lot of gambling establishments have this sort of deal, and it will be fun to see the results.

What Runs Survivor is, a MLB team scoring 0,1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9, 10 or (10+) in different games throughout the course of the season.

Once a club has one of these run totals once, you cross it off and keep going until they complete the 11 different variations.  We are going to keep tracking this category – until all 30 MLB clubs are finished this season!

The MIlwaukee Brewers and the Texas Rangers are the latest two teams to complete the quest.  Read the rest of this entry

Run Survivor 2014 MLB: 18 Teams Complete With O’s + Bucs + Brew Crew Finishing Up – 12 Teams Left

The Orioles are kicking around the top of the AL East, and may have two players that crack 40+ HRs by years end with Cruz and Davis.  The team hasn't even had normal contributions from Hardy, Jones and Machado.

The Orioles are kicking around the top of the AL East, and may have two players that crack 40+ HRs by years end with Cruz and Davis. The team hasn’t even had normal contributions from Hardy, Jones and Machado.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): 

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This should turn out to be quite fun.  A lot of gambling establishments have this sort of deal, and it will be fun to see the results.

What Runs Survivor is, a MLB team scoring 0,1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9, 10 or (10+) in different games throughout the course of the season.

Once a club has one of these run totals once, you cross it off and keep going until they complete the 11 different variations.  We are going to keep tracking this category – until all 30 MLB clubs are finished this season!

The Orioles and Pirates both won the last two nights while scoring 9 runs as the victor in the Interleague Series between them.  Baltimore won 9 – 2 on Tuesday, and the Bucs won 9 – 8 over the O’s last night.

They became the 16th and 17th teams to complete the 11 totals.

Scoring 9 runs is the hardest total to come across for the clubs.

Milwaukee finally accomplished the 9 run game Friday night, to join the party as the 18 team to complete.

In a surprise, the Dodgers still haven’t scored 10 runs in a game yet.  They would still be the favorite to be the next club to finish this task. Read the rest of this entry

Odds To Win The 2014 MLB World Series – Updated For Week 8 + Best Value Bets

If Chris Davis is at his HR centric best, all of a sudden this team is lethal from Nelson Cruz, to Adam Jones, and hence should I say a healthy Matt Wieters crushing from the DH slot, or potentially this team could ink a Morales, or trade for another guy.  Pitching Staff is holding up, and now it is time for this team to roll.  Having New York, Toronto and Boston so heavily favored over them for this category is a farce.  Take the +3500 value.

If Chris Davis is at his HR centric best, all of a sudden this team is lethal from Nelson Cruz, to Adam Jones, and hence should I say a healthy Matt Wieters crushing from the DH slot, or potentially this team could ink a Morales, or trade for another guy. Pitching Staff is holding up, and now it is time for this team to roll. Having New York, Toronto and Boston so heavily favored over them for this category is a farce. Take the +3500 value.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): 

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I had my worst week for prognosticating the best odds, however I made up for it, with the worst odds of the week.  In all, I was 4 – 4 – 2 for the week.  I still have not had a losing record, and many winning ones.

The Rays and Royals have plummeted in their odds for the World Series.  I am not sure about either one of them getting back into the race, although that Tampa +5000 this week is very tempting.

The Kansas City offense is a joke.  They should sign Kendrys Morales after June, and then turn around and trade Billy Butler.  Morales won’t make much more than “Country Breakfast” and is a more consistent hitter all around.

You could also acquire some more depth somewhere else for Butler’s services.  Heck, Seattle needs a DH right now, and they aren’t even calling Morales for all we know, and are going with Nick Franklin until Corey Hart is back. Read the rest of this entry

San Diego Is the 15th Team To Finish The 2014 MLB Run Survivor Contest (11 Totals)

The A's were the 14th team to complete their mission of scoring all 11.  They are the only squad that used a 5 run effort to complete the task.

The A’s were the 14th team to complete their mission of scoring all 11. They are the only squad that used a 5 run effort to complete the task.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): 

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This should turn out to be quite fun.  A lot of gambling establishments have this sort of deal, and it will be fun to see the results.

What Runs Survivor is, a MLB team scoring 0,1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9, 10 or (10+) in different games throughout the course of the season.

Once a club has one of these run totals once, you cross it off and keep going until they complete the 11 different variations.  We are going to keep tracking this category – until all 30 MLB clubs are finished this season!

The Padres ran the gauntlet over the last few games, scoring 8, 9, 10 all to complete their mission of 11 totals.  It was a surprise these guys finished in the top half of the league considering they only had 7/11 10 days ago – holding down the 30th spot in the rankings. Read the rest of this entry

Odds To Win The 2014 MLB World Series – Updated For Week 7 + Best Value Bets

I sound like a broken record, but where is the love for this team.  Okay, they may not win this thing, but at +4500, and they have an easy AL Central schedule for the rest of the year, great pitching - and could trade for a batter.  Best Value on the Board - rated as the 19th longest shot.

I sound like a broken record, but where is the love for this team? Okay, they may not win this thing, but at +4500, and they have an easy AL Central schedule for the rest of the year, great pitching – and could trade for a batter. Best Value on the Board – rated as the 19th longest shot.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): 

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For my best bets last week – I was 4 – 0 – 1.  Cleveland has stayed at +8000, TB has risen from +3300 to this week +3000.  The Pirates went from +6600 to +5000 and the Orioles went from +4500 to +4000.  I was also right on the the Royals going from +5000 – +4500.

With the +4500:  This is pretty stupid considering KC is 20 – 19, and would be considered tied for the Wild Card Spot.  Clearly with the White Sox, Twins and Indians, they have one of the better strength of schedules favoring them.

Also, love Yordano Ventura becoming better as the year carries on, and have Danny Duffy pitching frames again as a starter.  The offense is starting to heat up a little bit.  They will be my best bet of this week.

I went 2 – 2 – 1 with my worst odds on the board, as the A’ stayed the same for yet another week.  The Angels proved me wrong by climbing from +1400 – +1200 and SF shot up from +1400 all the way to +1100.

I had the Marlins on the way down, and they plummeted from +6600 last week to +12500 this week,

Toronto also went from +2800 + 3000 In my favor.

Be sure to scroll down who I pick this week (Haven’t deviated much from last week.) Read the rest of this entry

Odds To Win The 2014 MLB World Series – Updated For Week 6

  Yes the Rays are playing terrible baseball at 15 - 21, but they are only 4 games behind the playoff bar.  They always start off the year slow - and the exponentially become better as the year wears on.  When Alex Cobb comes back - they have the best Starting Rotation in the AL East, and I think they are most capable of making a run at a playoff berth.  At +3300, Tied for 14th longest odd, I am placing them the best value on the board, given their pedigree for strong second half's.

Yes the Rays are playing terrible baseball at 15 – 21, but they are only 4 games behind the playoff bar. They always start off the year slow – and the exponentially become better as the year wears on. When Alex Cobb comes back – they have the best Starting Rotation in the AL East, and I think they are most capable of making a run at a playoff berth. At +3300, Tied for 14th longest odd, I am placing them the best value on the board, given their pedigree for strong second half’s.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): 

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My best value picks last week I was 3 – 2,  1. The Royals dropped from +3500 – +5000, 2. Reds went from +5000 – +4000, TB went from +2500 – +3300,  as the Orioles went from +5000 – 4500, and the Cards went from +1100 – +1000. 

I still believe the Royals will turn around their season – and may beat the AL teams cannibalizing each other for a Wild Card Stretch.  They went 47 – 34 down the pike, and may just be a better 2nd half club.

The Orioles at +700 for the AL East is a better wager than the +4500 right now, as i don’t believe they have the tools to win the World Series, but they could eek out the Division.

The Reds are hanging in despite injury, and I think the Brewers will fall back, so it is just the Cards to contend with in the long run, and Cincy is just 1 Game behind those guys.  +4000 is still a great value.

The Rays are totally struggling as we speak at 15 – 21, however they are just 4 games behind the playoff bar, and should be receiving Alex Cobb back shortly. 

Out of all of the AL East teams, they are probably best suited for a 20 – 5 stretch with their pitching.  They will be the best odd this week.

Worst Odds on the Board I was right in my assessment on 2, broke even on the other 2 – and neglected to think the Jays would move up, but they did from +3000 – +2800.  SF and Oak were the draws both keeping their previous odd.

The #1 worst odd pick of last week was Boston, and they dropped from +1200 +1400.

My 2nd worst odd was Cleveland at +5500 – and they skyrocketed down the road all the way to +8000.

So for the week, I fashioned a 5 – 3 – 2 overall record for value plays.  Keep reading at the end of this post too see my picks this week. Read the rest of this entry

2014 MLB Team Runs Survivor Through Games Played May.08: 14 Teams Complete Including ALL The AL Central

High praise to the Cubs (won't happen much this year) for at least scoring 10+ runs in a game yesterday.  When this was accomplished to avoid a 4 game sweep to city rivals the White Sox, they had their 11th run variation from 0 - 10.  They were the 5th NL squad to complete the mission.  I thought it would take them much longer to score enough runs in game - to punch out the 8, 9 and 10 run game totals respectively.

High praise to the Cubs (won’t happen much this year) for at least scoring 10+ runs in a game yesterday. When this was accomplished to avoid a 4 game sweep to city rivals the White Sox, they had their 11th run variation from 0 – 10. They were the 5th NL squad to complete the mission. I thought it would take them much longer to score enough runs in a game – to punch out the 8, 9 and 10 run game totals respectively.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): 

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This should turn out to be quite fun.  A lot of gambling establishments have this sort of deal, and it will be fun to see the results.

What Runs Survivor is, a MLB team scoring 0,1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9, 10 or (10+) in different games throughout the course of the season.

Once a club has one of these run totals once, you cross it off and keep going until they complete the 11 different variations.  We are going to keep tracking this category – until all 30 MLB clubs are finished this season!

In the last 5 days of play since our last post, 5 more teams have completed this mission.  What I can’t wait for is who will be the last team to finish out. 

It doesn’t look good for San Diego who hasn’t even scored 8 runs or above so far this campaign. Read the rest of this entry

Odds To Win The 2014 Divisions: Colorado Biggest Jump As A Favorite

Matt Wieters is off to an outstanding start to the 2014 season, and it would be a crying shame if the Catcher had to be shelved with a position player Tommy John Surgery.  The 27 Year Old Veteran has slashed .341/.374/.560 with 5 HRs and 18 RBI so far this campaign.  Wieters has one more year of Arbitration Eligibility before he hits the open market in 2016.  If Wieters is injured but could still play, he may be the Full Time DH for the rest of 2014.

Matt Wieters is off to an outstanding start to the 2014 season, and it would be a crying shame if the Catcher had to be shelved with a position player Tommy John Surgery. The 27 Year Old Veteran has slashed .341/.374/.560 with 5 HRs and 18 RBI so far this campaign. Wieters has one more year of Arbitration Eligibility before he hits the open market in 2016. If Wieters is injured but could still play, he may be the Full Time DH for the rest of 2014.  If he is cleared to play tonight, the O’s would be right up there with the Rays for value in terms of gambling who will win the AL East.  New York and Boston simply don’t pay enough.

 

Odds To Win The 2014 Divisions

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): 

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2 weeks ago I wrote my last Division Odds piece. You can read that article here. 

I jumped on board the odd for the Colorado Rockies at +1800 for the NL West.  Everyone was still buying into the San Diego Padres more.

 With the early season slumping for the Dodgers, and injury woes, I liked the Rox value at the clip it was at.

Fast forward to today, and the odd is now at +750.

In the AL East, I talked about the Orioles doing a good job weathering the storm before Manny Machado was back.

This club still hasn’t received steady contributions from an injured Chris Davis, or a slumping Adam Jones, but they sit tied for 1st place with New York.

I would have picked them to be the best bet again this week in the AL East, except for the Matt Wieters UCL deal has me worried.

When has a visit to Dr. Andrews translated well lately?

In my article here today, I have highlighted my pick from last post, and I how I fared.  The bold picks represent who I think is the best value play for the $ wagered. Read the rest of this entry

2014 MLB Team Runs Survivor Through Games Played May.04: DET/SEA Join The 11/11 Club ( 10 Teams Complete Now)

The Tigers are on fire right now, and showed who is boss in the AL Central by sweeping the Royals, running their record to 5 - 0 in the process. On Saturday, the new revamped offense notched their 11th total.

The Tigers are on fire right now, and showed who is boss in the AL Central by sweeping the Royals, running their record to 5 – 0 against KC  for 2014 in the process. On Saturday, the new revamped offense notched their 11th total.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): 

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This should turn out to be quite fun.  A lot of gambling establishments have this sort of deal, and it will be fun to see the results.

What Runs Survivor is, a MLB team scoring 0,1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9, 10 or (10+) in different games throughout the course of the season.

Once a club has one of these run totals once, you cross it off and keep going until they complete the 11 different variations.  We are going to keep tracking this category – until all 30 MLB clubs are finished this season!

Detroit has now won 5 games straight, and on Saturday night, they completed their 11th variation.  They beat Seattle by 3 games to the clip, even though the Mariners finally completed all 11 – finishing in 10th, even though they were the 1st club to 10. Read the rest of this entry

2014 MLB Team Runs Survivor Through Games Played May.02: MIA/STL Join The 11/11 Club ( 8 Teams Complete Now)

Charlie Blackmon and Troy Tulowitzi both have crossed home plate 26 times to start the 2014 season.  With AL's Brian Dozier, they are all in a tie for 1st place in Runs Scored in the MLB.

Charlie Blackmon and Troy Tulowitzki both have crossed home plate 26 times to start the 2014 season. With AL’s Brian Dozier, they are all in a tie for 1st place in Runs Scored in the MLB.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): 

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This should turn out to be quite fun.  A lot of gambling establishments have this sort of deal, and it will be fun to see the results.

What Runs Survivor is, a MLB team scoring 0,1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9, 10 or (10+) in different games throughout the course of the season.

Once a club has one of these run totals once, you cross it off and keep going until they complete the 11 different variations.  We are going to keep tracking this category – until all 30 MLB clubs are finished this season!

Last night, both of the Marlins and Cards finished the task.  As far as seeding goes – who goes 7th and 8th place in the finishing, I gave the nod to Miami because they accomplished the feat in 29 games – compared to 30 contests for the reigning NL Champs.

The Fish continue to play inspired baseball at New Marlins Ballpark, running their record to an impressive 13 – 4, while the record on the road remains a brutal 2 – 10.

The Cards on the other hand, nailed down their 11 different run variation amidst a 6 – 5 loss to the lowly Cubs.  Adam Wainwright actually was touched up in the game – after running an excellent string of 25 frames consecutive without allowing a run scored. Read the rest of this entry

Odds To Win The 2014 MLB World Series – Updated For Week 5

Kansas City is the latest best bet on the board.  I have fared well picking good weeks recently for the Reds and Rockies, so lets see if we can keep this up.  The Royals are 14 - 12 - and 1.5 GB the Tigers heading into play today.  At +3500, there is value.

Kansas City is the latest best bet on the board for bang for the buck. I have fared well picking good weeks recently for the Tigers, Reds and Rockies, so lets see if we can keep this up. The Royals are 14 – 12 – and 1.5 GB the Tigers heading into play today. At +3500 to win the Fall Classic, there is value there.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): 

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Last Weeks best bet on the board that we slated was the Colorado Rockies at +6600.  With a strong week, and 5 HRs in the last week plus, Troy Tulowitzki has elevated the Rox to near the top of the NL West.

This week, they jumped all the way to +3500, marking the second time in as many weeks, our best bet almost cut their odd in half. We also said the Yankees were a good play at +1600, and they vaulted up to +1200 again,

The Royals have gone 5 – 5 in their last 10 games, and have receded from +3300 – +3500, however this will be one of my top plays this week.  These guys are 14 – 12 now, and haven’t even played to potential.

My #4 and #5 picks for best bets had struggles this week.  Texas went from +1600 – +1800, which isn’t a massive fall, and the Reds went from +4000 – +5000.  Again, I question the logic of placing these guys so far back. Read the rest of this entry

MLB Team Runs Survivor Through Games Played Apr.29: KC Joins The 11/11 Club (6th Team To Complete)

Salvador Perez hit a 2 run HR to make it a 5 -4 game, then hit a 2 run Double to break it open for KC in the 8th inning, as part of a 6 run frame against the Blue Jays Bullpen.  The Royals pulled their record over .500 at 13 - 12 on a 10 - 7 win over the Canadian franchise.

Salvador Perez hit a 2 run HR to make it a 5 -4 game, then hit a 2 run Double to break it open for KC in the 8th inning, as part of a 6 run frame against the Blue Jays Bullpen. The Royals pulled their record over .500 at 13 – 12 on a 10 – 7 win over the Canadian franchise. The win also marked the 1st time the squad had scored 10 or more runs for the year.

By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner):

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This should turn out to be quite fun.  A lot of gambling establishments have this sort of deal, and it will be fun to see the results.

What Runs Survivor is, a MLB team scoring 0,1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9, 10 or (10+) in different games throughout the course of the season.

Once a club has one of these run totals once, you cross it off and keep going until they complete the 11 different variations.  We are going to keep tracking this category – until all 30 MLB clubs are finished this season!

The Kansas City Royals played their 25th game last night, and became the 6th fastest club to complete their 11 run totals.  The club is far from their offense peak, but last night was promising, dropping a 6 spot in the BOT of 8 to seal a victory against the Blue Jays. Read the rest of this entry

MLB Shutout Survivor 2014: Texas Were Shutout Last Night, Leaving COL + LAA Left

Tulowitzki nearly has an OPS of 1.200 - and has seen his club go 15 - 12 to start the 2014 season.  They along with the Angeles, are the only two teams remaining this year to be blanked.  Justin Morneau also clubbed a HR in yesterday's game - giving him 6 HRs (like Tulo) but the big 1B has a 1 RBI lead (21 - 20).  Tulowitzki had 2 Doubles and 2 Walks to add to his perfect evening Wed,

Tulowitzki nearly has an OPS of 1.200 – and has seen his club go 15 – 12 to start the 2014 season. They along with the Angeles, are the only two teams remaining this year to be blanked. Justin Morneau also clubbed a HR in yesterday’s game – giving him 6 HRs (like Tulo) but the big 1B has a 1 RBI lead (21 – 20). Tulowitzki had 2 Doubles and 2 Walks to add to his perfect evening Wed,

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): 

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It is quite surprising that the Rangers held out this long when you consider the power outage from Prince Fielder – couples with injuries to Adrian Beltre and Shin-Soo Choo, but they were blanked for the 1st time last night in the 2014 Season.

Sonny Gray of the Oakland A’s threw a Complete Game Shutout against them, and Yu Darvish so his lifetime record fall to 1 – 7, with a 5.23 ERA versus the Bay Area franchise.

The Rangers have scored 1 run on multiple occasions this year, but had yet to be bageled.

The Angels beat the Indians last evening, by scoring 8 runs.  They have not been blanked.  The Rockies also used a HR barrage to knock off the SF Giants, and run their streak of not having zero runs in the year yet. Read the rest of this entry

Runs Survivor Through Games Played Apr.26: MIN, TOR + TB Join The 11/11 Club (5 Overall Completed)

The Rays were the 1st AL club to finish all different run variations from 0 - 10 (or 10+) Runs.  They managed to do this in a loss on Friday, when Grant Balfour gave up their 6 - 4 lead, which resulted in a 9 - 6 loss to the White Sox.  Tampa Bay is currently tied for 4th place for the AL East, with Toronto, 3 games behind the New York Yankees.  Subsequently, the Canadian Franchise also totaled off their 6 run game total - to finish their 11 alternative game totals on Saturday.  That was also a loss, and the Jays have dropped 3 games in a row - including their 1st 2 games in a series to the Red Sox.

The Rays were the 1st AL club to finish all different run variations from 0 – 10 (or 10+) Runs. They managed to do this in a loss on Friday, when Grant Balfour gave up their 6 – 4 lead, which resulted in a 9 – 6 loss to the White Sox. Tampa Bay is currently tied for 4th place for the AL East, with Toronto, 3 games behind the New York Yankees. Subsequently, the Canadian Franchise also totaled off their 6 run game total – to finish their 11 alternative game totals on Saturday. That was also a loss, and the Jays have dropped 3 games in a row – including their 1st 2 games in a series to the Red Sox.

By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner):

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This should turn out to be quite fun.  A lot of gambling establishments have this sort of deal, and it will be fun to see the results.

What Runs Survivor is, a MLB team scoring 0,1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9, 10 or (10+) in different games throughout the course of the season.

Once a club has one of these run totals once, you cross it off and keep going until they complete the 11 different variations.  We are going to keep tracking this category – until all 30 MLB clubs are finished this season!

The Tampa Bay Rays were the 1st AL team (3rd overall squad)  to complete this mission on Friday, when they suffered a 9 – 6 Loss to the Chicago White Sox.  Minnesota and Toronto also completed their 11 variations.

Like Tampa, the Jays finished off their 11 variations, with 6 runs scored for a game.  Ironically enough, they lost the game as well.  The Twins beat the Detroit Tigers 5 – 3 Saturday, finishing off their 5 run scored game.  Read the rest of this entry

Odds To Win The 2014 MLB Divisions Currently: Cincinnati Is the Best Odd Value On The Board

This website told everyone a few weeks ago not to worry about the "Nati.  They were victims of some 1 run losses - and untimely slumps.  Heading into play today, the team has squared its record at 11 - 11, after starting the year 3 - 8.  Hamilton is hitting, Votto has thrived in the #2 slot, and Bruce and Phillips will break out eventually.  Cueto and Cingrani have looked great.  For this team, who trails the Cards by just 0.5 GB, to have a +750 odd to win the NL Central is a steal - and the best bet on the board this week.  The Reds do trail the Brewers by 5 games, however when you read the oddsmakers, they are still heavily favoring the Cards to win the division.

This website told everyone a few weeks ago not to worry about the “Nati. They were victims of some 1 run losses – and untimely slumps. Heading into play today, the team has squared its record at 11 – 11, after starting the year 3 – 8. Hamilton is hitting, Votto has thrived in the #2 slot, and Bruce and Phillips will break out eventually. Cueto and Cingrani have looked great. For this team, who trails the Cards by just 0.5 GB, to have a +750 odd to win the NL Central is a steal – and the best bet on the board this week. The Reds do trail the Brewers by 5 games, however when you read the oddsmakers, they are still heavily favoring the Cards to win the division.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): 

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After about 13% of the schedule now gone in the MLB, the parity in the AL is crazy.  Only the Mariners and Astros have failed to register 10 wins apiece yet.

Most of the teams in the NL are still alive for everything – all but they DBacks and Cubs.

I am not sure the Marlins will stick around for a long time either, but they have ridden a great home record to be right at near .500.

The Tigers have significant holes at SS, and the Bullpen has been shaky, opening up the door to the rest of the division so far.

The Dodgers have been stymied by lackluster play from their superstars – and are still awaiting Clayton Kershaw’s arrival.

For each division I have highlighted the best odd for the team out of the 5.  Again, this doesn’t mean I like them to win the division, it means I like the value. Read the rest of this entry

2014′s Top 5 HRs AL + NL, HR Streaks (4 Active) + Multi HR Games: Breakouts For Colabello + Abreu

Chris Colabello is the most unlikely early RBI leader in the AL, with 26 knocked in during his 1st 20 Games Played this year.  While he is leading the AL in Doubles with 9, he has now added HRs in back to back games.  The Team Italy player for the last WBC tournament has been hitting in the middle of the lineup for the 10 - 10 Minnesota Twins.  The RHB originally from Framington, MA came into the 2013 season with just 160 AB last year (his rookie campaign in the MLB).  So far in 2014, he has 3 Slashed .346/.386/.577 - and has played 1B/RF and DH.

Chris Colabello is the most unlikely early RBI leader in the AL, with 26 knocked in during his 1st 20 Games Played this year. While he is leading the AL in Doubles with 9, he has now added HRs in back to back games. The Team Italy player for the last WBC tournament has been hitting in the middle of the lineup for the 10 – 10 Minnesota Twins. The RHB originally from Framington, MA came into the 2013 season with just 160 AB last year (his rookie campaign in the MLB). So far in 2014, he has 3 Slashed .346/.386/.577 – and has played 1B/RF and DH.

By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner):

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It was a great night for Tater Trot’s yesterday.  The Giants had teammates crack 2 HRs each in Morse and Sanchez, while Blackmon extended his consecutive HR games streak to 3, and Tulowitzki clubbed a big fly for the 2nd straight contest.

2 men (McCutchen and Blackmon enter play today with 3 games straight with a HR.  The 2013 NL MVP will try to extend his mark versus Tony Cingrani of the Reds in a Thursday afternoon game at PNC Park – while Blackmon will travel to LA – trying to extend his streak versus Josh Beckett tomorrow night.

Kyle Seager, of the Mariners, and Hector Santiago of the Giants, hit their 1st 2 HRs of the year, in Multi HR efforts Wednesday.

Mike Morse and Nelson Cruz continued to pad their early starts towards 2015 Free Agency, also with 2 HR games yesterday. Read the rest of this entry

Odds To Win The 2014 MLB World Series – Updated For Week 4

Wrigley Field is about the best all natural ballpark experience out of all of the 30 teams in the MLB - however the attendance has started to sag with the recent play of the franchise.  Wrigley Field has seen a decline in fans attended every year since 2008, down from 3.3 Million fans in 2008, to 2.65 Million people in 2013 (only good for 7th out of 15 NL Teams).  Today's 100th birthday of the field should be the best game of the year at Addison and Clark.

Wrigley Field is about the best all natural ballpark experience out of all of the 30 teams in the MLB – however the attendance has started to sag with the recent play of the franchise. Wrigley Field has seen a decline in fans attended every year since 2008, down from 3.3 Million fans in 2008, to 2.65 Million people in 2013 (only good for 7th out of 15 NL Teams). Today’s 100th birthday of the field should be the best game of the year at Addison and Clark.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): 

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Odds To Win The 2014 World Series

1.  LA Dodgers +600

2.  Detroit Tigers +700

T3.  Washington Nationals +900 (Down from +700)

They have only really beat the Marlins all year, haven’t fared well against the great clubs,

T3. St. Louis Cardinals +900 (Down From +850)

Surprising a little they have come down a little, still will be able to catch Milwaukee.  Poor start for Allen Craig and Jhonny Peralta should correct itself.

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LA Dodgers Eliminated From Shutout Survivor – Leaving TEX/LAA + COL Left

Cliff Lee was downright filthy last in blanking the Dodgers.  It was the 1st 0 runs game for the NL Los Angeles team, thus eliminating them from this competition.  The only NL team left is the Colorado Rockies, who of course play in Coors Field.

Cliff Lee was downright filthy last in blanking the Dodgers. It was the 1st 0 runs game for the NL Los Angeles team, thus eliminating them from this competition. The only NL team left is the Colorado Rockies, who of course play in Coors Field as their home ballpark. The Phillies have received decent power from Chase Utley, Jimmy Rollins, and now Ryan Howard has hit homers in back to back games, pacing the Philly to a 9 – 10 start, with Cole Hamels coming back.

By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner):

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Eliminated Last Night are the Dodgers.

After the games on Apr.20th, there are 27 teams taken out of this competition.  The AL West still has 2 teams remaining in this and the NL has 1  All Divisions are eliminated except for those two.

Should be a great contest to see who can be the last team to score zero runs in a game. Read the rest of this entry

MLB Shutout Survivor: 22 Teams Eliminated + 8 Teams Remain Through Apr.17

Considering they lost the opener to the Phillies 14 - 10, the makeshift Pitching Staff has performed well in the last 15 games, authoring 4 Shutouts as a collective staff.  Texas is one of 8 teams also not be blanked on the offensive side of the table.  Not bad considering Prince Fielder just has 1 HR, J.P. Arencibia is hitting under .100 - and Adrian Beltre is still on the DL.  The Rangers are 9 - 7 - and now 2nd in the AL West.

Considering they lost the opener to the Phillies 14 – 10, the makeshift Pitching Staff has performed well in the last 15 games, authoring 4 Shutouts as a collective staff. Texas is one of 8 teams also not be blanked on the offensive side of the table. Not bad considering Prince Fielder just has 1 HR, J.P. Arencibia is hitting under .100 – and Adrian Beltre is still on the DL. The Rangers are 9 – 7 – and now 2nd in the AL West.

By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner):

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In this post, which we are also going to feature in a Subpage at the site called ‘Shutout Survivor’, we will document who wins this race for all 30 MLB Teams, meaning we will state the date a teams gets Shutout for the 1st time of the year.

After the games on Apr.17th, there are 12 teams taken out of this competition.  The AL still has 5 teams remaining in this and the NL has 3  The NL Central and AL East are completely eliminated as well.

Should be a great contest to see who can be the last team to score zero runs in a game, Read the rest of this entry

Odds To Win The 2014 MLB World Series – Updated For Week 3

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): 

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Odds To Win The 2014 World Series

1.  LA Dodgers +600 (Up from +650)

Dodgers are still a good pick, but with SF lurking and Clayton Kershaw not back yet, that +600 looks bad.  Plus SF beat them 5 out of 6 so far.

2.  Washington Nationals +800

I like this club – but Stephen Strasburg‘s slow start, and injuries are plaguing Ryan Zimmerman and even Bryce Harper to an extent.  Plus Atlanta is right there with them right now.   

3.  Detroit Tigers +700 (Up From +900)

Lets see. They can’t score that well yet, and have a horrid start with the Bullpen.  The odds has swung to far to the favorite side here.  Stay Away.

4. St. Louis Cardinals +850 (Up From +1000)

This has to do with ownership over the Reds and Pirates so far. Read the rest of this entry

MLB Odds To Win Both Of The AL And NL Pennants In 2014: 5 Best Value Plays

With injuries to the Pitching Staff mounting fast for the Rays, and now with them not paying out such a great odd, the value pendulum has swung back to pick either the Yankees at +900 or the Red Sox at +750 for the AL Pennant.  The Yankees just took 3 out of 4 from the Red Sox, have a better offense in this year's lineup, and have decent pitching.  Boston is the reigning champs - and will be part of the race before all is said and done.  Factor in major injuries to Texas, Oakland and the LA Angels early, and a horrid Tigers Bullpen so far, and these two rivals have the best value on the board.

With injuries to the Pitching Staff mounting fast for the Rays, and now with them not paying out such a great odd, the value pendulum has swung back to pick either the Yankees at +900 or the Red Sox at +750 for the AL Pennant. The Yankees just took 3 out of 4 from the Red Sox, have a better offense in this year’s lineup, and have decent pitching. Boston is the reigning champs – and will be part of the race before all is said and done. Factor in major injuries to Texas, Oakland and the LA Angels early, and a horrid Tigers Bullpen so far, and these two rivals have the best value on the board.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): 

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The Rays are finally listed where they should be on the betting board.

3 teams start play today tied in the AL East in the Rays, Yankees and Jays.  Baltimore has struggled along with Boston.

I think it is way too early to shovel dirt on the Red Sox season.  While I think they may not take down another pennant, they are my 2nd favorite play in the AL Pennant Odd list for return.

The Yankees are my favorite odds pick right now with a +900 mark.

Yes they have injuries to old guys are their team, but the guys in the lineup can mash right now, and particularly at Yankee Stadium. Read the rest of this entry

Odds To Win The 2014 World Series – Updated For Week 2

Milwaukee just pulverized the Red Sox and Phillies in a 6 - 0 road trip - that featured a great offensive output from the lineup.  Braun is hitting, Gomez is looking to back up his 2013 campaign.  Jean Segura has not slowed down.  Mark Reynolds looks decent for some power at 1B, and Jonathan Lucroy and Aramis Ramirez have added torque as well.  The Pitching is performing well.  The Brew Crew hosts a pivotal weekend series against Division Rival Pittsburgh starting tonight in Miller Park.  They moved the most up the charts this week - but are still full value for a World Series odd this week nonetheless

Milwaukee just pulverized the Red Sox and Phillies in a 6 – 0 road trip – that featured a great offensive output from the lineup. Braun is hitting, Gomez is looking to back up his 2013 campaign. Jean Segura has not slowed down. Mark Reynolds looks decent for some power at 1B, and Jonathan Lucroy and Aramis Ramirez have added torque as well. The Pitching is performing well. The Brew Crew hosts a pivotal weekend series against Division Rival Pittsburgh starting tonight in Miller Park. They moved the most up the charts this week – but are still full value for a World Series odd this week nonetheless

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): 

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The have and the have not’ s have started to dictate their positions in the game of baseball.

The Milwaukee Brewers, Colorado Rockies, Atlanta Braves  and San Francisco Giants were the biggest movers and shakers up the leaderboard.

On the other side of the coin, bettors have lost faith in the Orioles, Reds, Angels, Phillies and Diamondbacks. 

At the end of the article, there will be the top 5 best and worst odds to wager on this week Read the rest of this entry

MLB Shutout Survivor 2014: 12 Teams Have Been Blanked, 18 Still Alive

The Pirates are the only NL Central team not to have been blanked yet in 2013,  Technically they scored 0 runs in the home opener through 9 Innings, but that was erased when Neil Walker hit a Walk off HR at PNC in extra innings,

The Pirates are the only NL Central team not to have been blanked yet in 2013, Technically they scored 0 runs in the home opener through 9 Innings, but that was erased when Neil Walker hit a Walk off HR at PNC in extra innings,

By Chuck Booth (Lead Baseball Analyst/Website Owner):

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In this post, which we are also going to feature in a Subpage at the site called ‘Shutout Survivor’, we will document who wins this race for all 30 MLB Teams, meaning we will state the date a teams gets Shutout for the 1st time of the year.

After the games on Apr.08, there are 12 teams taken out of this competition.  The AL still has 10 teams remaining in this and the NL has 8.  The NL Central only has Pittsburgh alive.

The AL Central only has seen Kansas City eliminated, while the AL West hasn’t lost a team since the A’s were blanked on Mar.31st.

Should be a great contest to see who can be the last team to score zero runs in a game,

BTW, Pittsburgh has gone though 9 innings in a game without scoring, but won the PNC opener Mar.31st vs the Cubs, essentially knocking them out with a walk off 1 – 0 victory via a HR.

Neil Walker WALK OFF HR – Opening Day PNC Park

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MLB Odds To Win The 2014 Divisions – With Full Breakdowns After 1 Week

The Yankees are leading the AL East, having won 4 of their last 5 games - after dropping 2 straight to begin the year.  As the listed #3 team in the division, their +275 odd is a nice bit of value, and it flies onto the radar of one the best bets of the week.

The Yankees are leading the AL East, having won 4 of their last 5 games – after dropping 2 straight to begin the year. As the listed #3 team in the division, their +275 odd is a nice bit of value, and it flies onto the radar of one the best bets of the week.  Of course they do have a tough schedule coming up in April – with 7 games versus Boston, 4 versus Tampa, and 3 game sets with the Angels and Mariners will not be a picnic either.  Still the team looks better than everyone thought with their pitching, and they can actually manufacture runs with new found team speed.  My gut would still be with Tampa or Boston to win out the AL East, but the value is just not there this week.

Hunter Stokes (Chief Writer): 

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We wake this morning to see the betting world has finally clued in the Tampa Bay Rays are a good team.  What is weird about this is that it comes off the heels of them losing their 2nd straight and falling to 4 – 4.

The Yankees are now favored 3rd in the AL East.  Even with Mark Teixeira going down to injury, I like this club.  For a change, they have finally been seeded 3rd in the Division – yet they are leading the AL Beast after week 1.

Boston showed many weaknesses versus the Milwaukee Brewers.  One of my things I also wrote about in their season preview is that they will miss Jacoby Ellsbury, and that no one in their OF will see 500+ AB.

Also worth mentioning is that the Jays are tied for the 13th best World Series odd at +2500, yet are listed as #4 in the AL East,  Stay away from this team in all directions for these odds.

Yankees Roll Call – Opening Day @ Yankee Stadium Apr.07, 2014

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