Really interesting for Game 2 Illinois v. Vanderbilt, the Illini are starting closer Tyler Jay unless they change their minds overnight. Vandy with the luxury to counter with Pfeifer and hold Buehler for a Game 3 if needed.
Obviously Illinois in a win or go home is desperate, but likely burning your closer for Game 3 if you make it. They have a lot of depth. Seems more prudent to go with one of your regular guys and if you have to hit the panic button early because they get lit up, then go to Jay. Does not seem like the delay will change their minds. I thought they would play two on Monday, but if Illinois forces Game 3 then they play Tuesday. So I would doubt Illinois rethinks this. Jay is their guy in this spot.
Would lean to the Under 9.5, but again too juicy at -145. Jay has elite power stuff, so it might be intriguing to try Illinois at around +170. Obviously plenty of risk since Jay has started just one game. The big question will probably be how many pitches they let him toss because in the back of their minds if they have a decent lead, they may be thinking about getting him out so they would have him for an inning on Tuesday. If the game is close though and he is pitching well, you have to leave him in right?
Very interesting plot on Tuesday for that game.
Of the other two games, TCU of course interests me the most. Thinking TCU @ -140. Aggies probably would have gone to Vinson to start this 3rd game, but he got crushed in Game 1 in 2.1 IP. Aggies may go with Stubblefield again who pitched well against Cal in returning from a knee injury. TCU has options galore with Traver or Young or a combo of both ready to pitch + a deep, versatile bullpen available.fully available after a gem by Preston Morrison.
Will look for more info on the Aggies starter early tomorrow because I think TCU will get the money push in this one if there is one due to their pitching depth. Hopefully there's one more game of magic for the Frogs!