2* Braves -130: Buddy Carlyle’s quietly putting together a very solid season. He’s gone 6+ innings in six of his last seven starts (not including the rain-delayed game @ FLA three weeks ago, in which he didn’t return after pitching 3 scoreless innings). Since being hit hard against Boston (3.2 IP, 9 H, 7 R) in mid-June, Carylye has allowed only 5 R and 18 H in 26 IP (1.73 ERA). Braden Looper, meanwhile, has fallen off considerably after a strong start to the season. Looper’s numbers for his last nine outings: 2-5, 6.93 ERA.
1* Twins +109: I’m surprised to see the Halos open as the favorite on the road with a very slight (if any) pitching advantage. Jered Weaver hasn’t been nearly as effective as he was during his outstanding rookie season (1.03 WHIP, .209 BAA in ’06; 1.42 WHIP, .266 BAA this year). I’m a big fan of Boof Bonser. He’s still inconsistent, but his potential is undeniable. The Angels are 7.5 games ahead of Minny (pending tonight’s game), but that’s a result of LAA playing in the weak AL West, while the Twins’ play in the best division in baseball. I think these team’s are evenly matched – both have decent lineups, solid starting pitching and very good bullpens.
1* Twins +109: I’m surprised to see the Halos open as the favorite on the road with a very slight (if any) pitching advantage. Jered Weaver hasn’t been nearly as effective as he was during his outstanding rookie season (1.03 WHIP, .209 BAA in ’06; 1.42 WHIP, .266 BAA this year). I’m a big fan of Boof Bonser. He’s still inconsistent, but his potential is undeniable. The Angels are 7.5 games ahead of Minny (pending tonight’s game), but that’s a result of LAA playing in the weak AL West, while the Twins’ play in the best division in baseball. I think these team’s are evenly matched – both have decent lineups, solid starting pitching and very good bullpens.
