Posts Tagged ‘handicapping’
A return visit to Aintree for the John Smith’s Grand National has been top of the agenda for Big Fella Thanks ever since his fine effort in finishing sixth in the race in 2009, writes Elliot Slater. Paul Nicholls’ progressive eight-year-old gelding made tremendous strides up the staying chasing ranks last term winning the Sky Bet Chase at Doncaster before a great run to be third to Nacarrat in the Racing Post Chase. He then put in a rock solid effort to come in behind Mon Mome at Aintree. Everything about the horse suggests he has what it takes to be a major force in the top long-distance events from now on. His first outing of the season, coming second to the smart Carruthers at Cheltenham in late December, showed that everything appears to be going to plan in his build up to April’s big race. Next stop for the horse, currently 20/1 second favourite in the Aintree Grand National betting, is another crack at the Racing Post Chase. After that he might not be seen again until Aintree. In last year’s race Christian Williams held Big Fella Thanks up at the rear of the 40-strong Grand National field and, although he blundered at Becher’s first time around, he managed to get back into contention turning for home, only to fade in the last quarter mile. A year older, and having proved his aptitude for the daunting Aintree obstacles, the gelded son of Primitive Rising must have a great chance of getting into the thick of things again if given a fair weight by the handicapper. Paul Nicholls has won every major prize in jump racing apart from the Grand National and now Big Fella Thanks looks one of a number of serious candidates to bring the prize for the 2010 renewal back to Ditcheat. Indeed, many will be betting Grand National success finally comes Nicholls’ way this year, an eventuality that can be backed at 7/1.
Tags: doncaster, grand national, handicapping, Horse Racing, skybet chase
If, as trainer Ferdy Murphy suggested, Kalahari King was not 100 per cent fit going into last Saturday’s big handicap chase at Doncaster, then his rivals for next month’s Queen Mother Champion Chase must be wondering if they can cope with this fast improving performer, writes Elliot Slater. Carrying top weight of 11st 12lbs and returning after an absence of more than nine months, Kalahari King toyed with a field of smart handicappers before quickening away after the last to win very impressively under Graham Lee. Understandably the nine-year-old gelding received rave reviews and now looks a very serious rival for Master Minded and Twist Magic for the Champion Chase, a race that is building up to be an absolute cracker. Proven around Cheltenham, having failed by the narrowest of margins to land last season’s Arkle Trophy, the Middleham-trained chaser must be expected to improve again after his seasonal pipe-opener, a prospect that won’t please his big race rivals. With Master Minded still to demonstrate that he has returned to his best after the rib injury that contributed to his defeat at the hands of Well Chief in the autumn, and Twist Magic having three times failed to figure in previous visits to Cheltenham, Kalahari King has plenty going for him and represents tremendous value at current odds of around 6/1. You won’t hear many better Cheltenham betting tips between now and the start of the Festival. However, the news is much worse for the winner of last year’s Arkle, Forpadydeplasterer. The horse has reportedly gone lane reportedly gone lame and will be confined to his box for no less than three weeks, leaving no time to have him ready for the Festival fixture. Trainer Tom Cooper now suggests that he will attempt to prepare his stable star for a tilt at the big two mile chase at the Punchestown Festival in April. The Arkle Chase betting odds for the 2010 renewal of the race make Captain Cee Bee favourite at 7/2, followed by Sizing Europe at 6/1.
Tags: Champion glory, handicapping, Horse Racing, Kalahari
Saratoga Springs attracted visitors before the American Revolution when wealthy pilgrims journeyed to the carbonated mineral springs running through the area. The two Battles of Saratoga, considered the first Colonial victory and a turning point in the Revolutionary War, ended with British Gen. John Burgoyne’s surrender on Oct. 16, 1777. During the Civil War, several men pursued an idea that would put Saratoga Springs on the map again – a racetrack. The principal players: William R. Travers, a lawyer that made a fortune on Wall Street, owned thoroughbreds and became ppresident of the Saratoga Racing Association. John “Old Smoke” Morrissey, former American bare-knuckle champ, gambler and a soon-to-be lawmaker on state and national levels. John “Dareveil Jack” Hunter, fearless horseman and reckless rider who owned horses that raced on both sides of the Atlantic. Leonard Walter Jerome, flamboyant entrepreneur, father of Winston Churchill’s mother and another successful stock speculator known as “the King of Wall Street.” . The inaugural meeting ran only four days in early August of 1863, but was successful beyond expectations. The next year the meeting was moved across the street to accommodate the large crowds and the facilty was enlarged. The track was called Saratoga Race Course, home of the oldest American stakes race for 3-year-olds named for Travers. A horse co-owned by Travers and Hunter won the inaugural when the purse was $2,940: Kentucky. The first Kentucky Derby champ to captures the Travers was Baden Baden in 1877. The first Preakness victor to score was Duke of Magenta in 1877. Ruthless, who won the inaugural Belmont Stakes in 1867, was the second filly to take the Travers. Individual winners of all three Triple Crown events met only once in 139 years. It was 1982 when the field included Derby champ Gato Del Sol, Preakness victor Aloma’s Ruler and Belmont winner Conquistador Cielo. However, longshot Runaway Groom triumphed. Winner of two Canadian Triple Crown contests, the son of Blushing Groom was awarded top 3-year-old honors in his country. Some pretty fair thoroughbreds over the decades have been victorious: Point Given, 2001 Preakness-Belmont winner; Thunder Gulch, 1995 Derby-Belmont victor; Holy Bull, 1994 Horse of the Year; Alydar, 1978 Triple Crown runner-up to Affirmed; Damascus, 1967 Preakness-Belmont winner; Native Dancer, 1953 Preakness-Belmont victor; Whirlaway; 1941 Triple Crown champ; and Man o’ War, 1930, who captured the Preakness and Belmont, but didn’t run in the Derby. Saratoga became known as the Graveyard of Champions as such great horses in addition to Big Red fell to unheralded opponents. Man o’ War’s only loss in 21 outings came in 1919 when he lost in a sprint over a muddy surface to Upset. Two Triple Crown winners were surprised 43 years apart at Saratoga. Secretariat lost to 4-year-old Onion by a length in his first try against older horses in the Whitney, but it was later found suffering from a viros. The biggest shocker came in the 1930 Travers when Triple Crown champ Gallant Fox, 1-2, was a distant eight lengths behind 100-1 Jim Dandy on a muddy track. Jim Dandy later was honored with a stakes race established in 1964, an appropriate prep for the Travers.
Tags: handicapping, Horse Racing, saratoga springs, sports, travers
Horses worth watching, a list of runners compiled by handicapper/turf writer Greg Melikov that should improve significantly or do well next time out, won four times, ran second three times and finished third four times since July 1. These thoroughbreds are worth considering when developing your betting strategy. ARLINGTON PARK Crater Maker: Raced six lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, swung widest on far turn, lost ground in stretch, closed with a rush to make up 3 ¾ lengths and gained second by a neck at a mile on a good turf course July 24. Bacetto: Raced eighth and last more than 10 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, closed with a rush in the stretch to make up 6 ½ lengths and finished third beaten a head and a length at seven furlongs on July 9. (Broke slowly, raced eight lengths behind in eight and last after a half-mile, advanced five wide into stretch, closed fast late from third and drew off to win by 2 ¾ lengths at a mile on July 23.) Link to My Heart: Raced 10 lengths behind in sixth after a half-mile, dropped to seventh after six furlongs, split horses in stretch, rallied late to make up more than seven lengths and gained second by a half-length at 1 1/16 miles on a yielding turf course July 9. (Raced 2 ½ lengths behind in third after a half-mile, lost ground to fourth entering stretch and ran third by a nose at a mile on the turf Aug. 1) Jilly From Philly: Raced fifth early, dropped to sixth more than 4 ½ lengths behind after a half mile, lost ground turning for home and rallied from fifth in stretch to gain third beaten less than three-quarters of a length at a mile June 7. (Raced 4 ½ lengths behind in third after a half-mile and finished in that position at 1 1/16 miles on July 5.) Pure Clan: Raced four lengths behind in fourth after a half-mile, dropped to fifth after six furlongs, steadily advanced to take lead by a head in stretch and drew off to win by 2 ½ lengths at 1 3/16 miles on the turf July 11. (Broke eighth and last, trailed by more than 6 ½ lengths after a half-mile, came five wide into stretch, rallied to make up more than 3 ¼ lengths and finished third beaten 1 ¼ lengths and a neck at 1 ¼ miles on a good turf course Aug. 8.) CALDER Midnight Scrimmage: Broke slowly, raced five lengths behind in sixth after a half-mile, came three wide into stretch, closed well to make up nearly 3 ½ lengths and finished second beaten a head at a mile on July 18. DELAWARE PARK Burrowing Owl: Raced 1 ½ lengths behind in third after a half-mile, lost ground going four wide in stretch, rallied to make up nearly three lengths and finished second beaten a nose at six furlongs on June 16. (Raced four lengths behind in third after three-eighths of a mile and gained second by a head at 5 ½ furlongs on July 25.) DEL MAR Seminole Native: Raced 10th and last more than 13 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, spilt rivals in stretch from sixth to make up more than 5 ½ lengths and finished second beaten a half-length at a mile on the turf; ran final quarter in 23 1/5. Tallahsocean: Broke a bit slowly, raced 11th early, advanced to ninth more than 6 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, moved up outside on turn, rallied from sixth in stretch to make up more than 4 ¼ lengths and finished second beaten three-quarters of a length at six furlongs on July 23; ran final quarter in 23 4/5. Itsnotjustagame: Stalked pace two lengths back in third after a half-mile, lost ground swinging wide on far turn, closed willingly from fifth to make up nearly three lengths and finished second beaten a nose at 1 3/8 miles on the turf July 23. ELLIS PARK My Rocket Man: Raced more than four lengths behind in sixth after three-eighths of a mile, lost ground moving five wide on turn, closed well late from fifth to make up nearly five lengths and finished second beaten a neck at 5 ½ furlongs on soft turf July 24. Ponticiello: Raced ninth early, dropped to 10th more than 8 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, launched six wide bid into stretch, closed fast from sixth to make up more than 5 ¾ lengths and finished third beaten a nose and a neck at a mile on soft turf July 24; ran final quarter in 24 ¾. EVANGELINE DOWNS Feelthelightening: Raced more than 7 ½ lengths behind in eighth after a half-mile, rallied wide from sixth in stretch to make up more than three lengths and finished second beaten a half-length at five furlongs on July 4. Fiber Core: Broke 14th and last, moved to 12th early, advanced to seventh more than 7 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, rallied from sixth in stretch and gained second by a neck at seven furlongs on June 19. LOUISIANA DOWNS Walkinpicture: Raced more than four lengths behind in eighth after a half-mile, came six wide out of turn, finished willingly to make up nearly 2 ½ lengths in stretch and finished second beaten a head at six furlongs on July 2. (Raced more than four lengths behind after a half-mile, challenged three wide into stretch to grab lead and increased winning margin to six lengths under steady urging at six furlongs on July 24.) MONMOUTH PARK Brotherly Love: Stalked pace three wide two lengths back in third after a half-mile, lost ground in stretch angling inward, made up nearly three lengths and finished second beaten a neck at six furlongs on July 19. (Bumped at break, tracked pace in second a length behind after a half-mile, angled inside for drive and finished second beaten 1 ¼ lengths at six furlongs on July 31.) Whats Up Cuge: Chased pace more than four lengths behind in third after three-eighths of a mile, angled out in upper stretch, made up 2 ¾ lengths and gained second by a head at five furlongs on July 5. (Broke alertly, went right to the front, led by two lengths after three-eighths of a mile, increased margin in stretch and drew off ridden out to win by 7 ¼ lengths at five furlongs on July 26.) PENN NATIONAL PHILADELPHIA PARK Prime Delivery: Raced ninth and last more than 7 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, lacked room on far turn, and eight wide into stretch and closed steadily from seventh to finish second beaten a neck at 1 1/16 miles on the turf July 18; ran final 2 ½ furlongs in 30 2/5. Minor Issues: Broke slowly, raced two lengths behind in fourth after a half-mile, came very wide into stretch and rallied from second to win by a neck at 6 ½ furlongs on July 21. (Raced 3 ½ lengths in fourth after a half-mile, lost ground near quarter pole and finished second by 2 ¼ lengths at 6 ½ furlongs on Aug. 1) PLEASANTON SARATOGA A. P. Light: Raced more than seventh lengths behind in ninth after a half-mile, circled rivals entering stretch and rallied from fourth to finish second beaten three-quarters of a length at 1 1/16 miles on the turf Aug. 7; ran final 2 ½ furlongs in 29 seconds. Diamond Song: Pinched back after breaking 11th and last, raced 5 ½ lengths behind in seventh after a half-mile, caught in traffic between rivals on turn, circled five wide entering stretch, made up two lengths and gained second by three-quarters of a length at six furlongs on a sloppy surface July 31. Try Your Best: Raced more than 5 ½ lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, saved ground on turn, rallied inside into stretch, took an awkward step in upper stretch, steadied sharply at eighth pole awaiting room in fifth, angled outward and rallied late to gain second by three-quarters of length at 1 1/16 miles on the turf July 16 at Belmont. Mustang Fever: Broke slowly 12th and last, steadied in traffic early, raced ninth more than 13 lengths behind after a half-mile, rallied inside while awaiting room nearing quarter pole and finished well to gain second by a nose at six furlongs on the turf July 8; ran final quarter in 23 1/5 at Belmont Park. Kutais: Steadied soon after start, raced six lengths back in seventh after a half-mile, waited behind wall of horses on far turn, altered course to outside in upper stretch, made up 2 ¾ lengths and finished second by 1 ¼ lengths at 1 1/8 miles on the turf July 8 at Belmont. Hurricane Heat: Gained lead soon after break, was two lengths in front after a half-mile, discouraged pair of pursuers increasing margin to six lengths in stretch and won by 8 ½ lengths ridden out at 7 ½ furlongs on June 19 at Belmont. (Dueled for lead shortly after break, pressed pace in second a head back after a half-mile, took lead on turn, kept to task in stretch and won by a half-length at a mile on July 1; returned $10.20 on front end at Belmont.) WOODBINE Lucky Lulu: Broke 11th, dropped to 12th and last 13 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, angled out in upper stretch, closed fast from 10th to make up more than 3 ¾ lengths and gained second by a half-length at seven furlongs on the turf July 15; ran final three quarters in 33 2/5.
Last Wompas: Raced more than 4 ½ lengths behind in seventh after a half-mile, rallied through traffic in stretch and gained second by 1 ½ lengths at six furlongs on Aug. 8
Chavelisa: Broke slowly, race 3 ½ lengths behind in fifth after three-eighths of a mile, lost a bit of ground entering stretch, angled out, rallied to make up more than 2 ¾ lengths and gained second by three-quarters of a length at five furlongs on Aug. 7.
Theda’s Smile: Raced 3 ½ lengths behind in sixth after a half-mile, worked way between rivals leaving far turn and closed gamely from fourth in stretch to finish second beaten a neck at 1 1/16 miles on the turf Aug. 5.
Stunningly: Raced more than 6 ½ lengths behind in seventh after a half-mile, came three deep into stretch, rallied from sixth to make up more than 2 ¾ lengths and finished second beaten 1 ¼ lengths at 6 ½ furlongs on Aug. 8.
Zipper Zapper: Raced more than two lengths behind in fifth after three-eighths of a mile, lost ground going four wide out of turn, made up 1 ¾ lengths in stretch and gained second by a nose at 5 ½ furlongs on the turf Aug. 8.
Money Haven: Broke 11th and last, advanced to seventh more than 8 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, rallied wide from fifth in stretch, made up fourth lengths and finished second beaten a length at a mile on Aug. 5.
Go Morgan Go: Raced two lengths back in fifth after a half-mile, bumped with rival, steadied late on the turn, lost ground, recovered, slipped through along rail in upper stretch, angled out late to make up 2 ¼ lengths and finished second beaten 1 ¼ lengths at six furlongs on a good surface Aug. 2.
Polished Princess: Pressed pace early, dropped from second to third 2 ½ lengths behind while losing ground after a half-mile, rallied outside in stretch, made up two lengths and closed well to finish second beaten three-quarters of a length at six furlongs on Aug. 5.
Cuvee Rouge: Bumped, bobbled soon after break in brutal trip, steadied again in tight quarters during opening quarter-mile, raced sixth more than two behind after a half-mile, blocked between rivals trying to find opening in upper stretch, steered out wider and closed well late to gain second by a neck at 6 ½ furlongs on July 18 at Philadelphia Park; ran final 2 ½ furlongs in 30 3/5.
Pinfree: Off slow, raced seventh and last more than eight lengths behind after three-eights of a mile, launched rally on turn going widest into stretch, closed fast from fourth to make up more than 3 ¼ lengths and finished second by 2 ¾ lengths at five furlongs on Aug. 1.
Welken: Tracked pace in fourth more than three lengths behind after a half-mile, moved up in tight quarters behind a wall of horses, gained command in stretch and won by a length at 1 1/16 miles on the turf June 14 at Golden Gate Fields. (Broke on top, led by a head after a half-mile, increased margin to 1 ½ lengths after six furlongs, weakened in stretch and finished third at 1 1/16 miles on July 12.)
Bella Attrice: Raced 17 lengths behind in eighth after a half-mile, closed game to 11 ½ lengths between rivals on far turn, steadied inside at three-sixteenths pole, angled out in mid-stretch, made up nearly 2 ½ lengths and finished second beaten a head at 1 1/16 miles on the turf Aug. 7; ran final 2 ½ furlongs in 28 3/5.
Social Worker: Raced five lengths behind in seventh after a half-mile, hustled between rivals on turn, rallied from fifth to make up more than 2 ½ lengths in stretch and finished second beaten a half-length at seven furlongs on Aug. 6.
Tags: betting, handicapping, Horse Racing
Greg Melikov’s Horses to Watch Horses worth watching, a list of runners compiled by handicapper/turf writer ARLINGTON PARK Iron Vow: Broke sixth and last, trailed by more than 3 ½ lengths after a Nan Ann Rocks: Broke slowly 10th and last, trailed by 10 ½ lengths after a The Foundry: Broke 12th and last, trailed by more than 11 lengths after a Jilly From Philly: Broke seventh and last, trailed by more than six lengths Opportune Moment: Raced nine lengths behind in fourth after a half-mile, BELMONT Hurricane Heat: Gained lead soon after break, was two lengths in front after Kitty Nip: Raced ninth in traffic early, advanced to eighth seven lengths Lisa B: Raced 10th and last more than seven lengths behind after a Half Metal Jacket: Raced 11 ½ lengths behind in seventh after a half-mile, CALDER Rock a Tong: Broke slowly, raced more than four lengths behind in fourth Straight Thunder: Raced 8 ½ lengths behind in sixth after a half-mile, swung Dancer by Night: Raced eighth and last more than 7 ½ furlongs after a Peruano Smoke: Raced 2 ½ lengths behind in third after a half-mile, rallied CANTERBURY PARK Justa Streak: Tracked pace in second 3 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, CHURCHILL DOWNS Zone Buster: Raced four lengths behind in seventh after a half-mile, waited Pure Clan: Raced sixth and last 3 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, angled DELAWARE PARK Burrowing Owl: Raced 1 ½ lengths behind in third after a half-mile, lost Evonne: Broke eighth and last, trailed by more than 9 ½ lengths after a Gray Might: Chased pace in second 2 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, EVANGELINE DOWNS Fiber Core: Broke 14th and last, moved to 12th early, advanced to seventh Bust a Groove: Raced more than 7 ½ lengths behind in ninth after Nine Free: Raced four lengths behind in fifth after three-eighths of a mile, GOLDEN GATE FIELDS Welken: Raced more than 9 ½ lengths behind in eighth after a half-mile, came HOLLYWOOD PARK Trevor’s Clever: Broke slowly ninth and last, trailed by more than 13 ½ Scofield Barracks: Broke 12th and last, squeezed at start, raced ninth more Warren’s Tony R.: Raced more than three lengths behind in seventh after a Reba Is Tops: Pressed pace less than a length behind in third after LONE STAR PARK Dance Till Six: Raced fourth early, dropped to sixth 3 ½ lengths behind Dakota Gypsy: Raced seventh and last more than 4 ½ lengths behind after a Our Story: Raced more than six lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, LOUISIANA DOWNS Dance Till Six: Raced fourth early, dropped to sixth 3 ½ lengths behind Belfast: Broke slowly 10th and last, trailed by more than 13 ½ lengths after MONMOUTH Celestial Flight: Raced more than 3 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, Ridin Shotgun: Bumped leaving gate, rider lost left rein briefly, raced nine MOUNTAINEER Farleyshelonwheels: Raced more than 3 ½ lengths behind in seventh after a PENN NATIONAL Stay Safe: Raced 1 ½ lengths behind on third after a half-mile, grabbed lead PHILADELPHIA PARK Minor Issues: Hesitated at start before breaking eighth and last, raced 4 ½ Jaunty Gale: Raced more than 6 ½ lengths behind in fifth after a half-mile, Mr. Congeniality: Grabbed lead early, led by a length after a half-mile,
Greg Melikov that should improve significantly or do well next time out, won
eight times, ran second four times and finished third five times since May
13. These thoroughbreds are worth considering when developing your betting
strategy.
half-mile, advanced along inside to fourth in stretch, rallied to make up
more than 2 ½ lengths and finished second beaten a head at 6 ½ furlongs June
19; ran final 2 ½ furlongs in 30 4/5.
half-mile, swung wide for the drive, rallied from sixth in stretch to make
up more than 2 ¼ lengths and finished third beaten three-quarters of a
length and a nose at a mile on the turf June 6; ran final half in 47 1/5,
half-mile, saved ground advancing to eighth in stretch, closed fast to make
up more than six lengths and finished third beaten a neck and a nose at a
mile on May 22; ran final quarter in 24 3/5. (Raced seventh and last more
than 10 lengths behind after a half-mile, angled out widest for drive,
rallied from fifth in stretch and gain third by 1 ¼ lengths at 1 1/16 miles
on June 14.)
after a half-mile, angled out for the drive, closed with a rush from fifth
in stretch, made up 2 ½ lengths and finished second beaten a head at six
furlongs on May 3; ran final quarter in 24 seconds. (Raced fifth early,
dropped to sixth more than 4 ½ lengths behind after a half mile, lost ground
turning for home and rallied from fifth in stretch to gain third beaten less
than three-quarters of a length at a mile on June 7.)
rallied wide to second in stretch, but couldn’t catch winner while securing
place by 8 ¼ lengths at 1 1/16 miles on May 22. (Raced fifth more than 2 ½
lengths behind after a half-mile, slipped through on the turn to take lead
in stretch and won by a length at a mile on June 13.)
a half-mile, discouraged pair of pursuers increasing margin to six lengths
in stretch and won by 8 ½ lengths ridden out at 7 ½ furlongs on June 19.
behind after a half-mile, angled four wide for the drive, closed from sixth
in stretch to make up more than 3 ½ lengths and finished third beaten a neck
and 1 ¼ lengths at six furlongs on the turf June 3; ran final quarter in 23
1/5.
half-mile, blocked behind a wall of rivals on far turn, angled out in
mid-stretch, rallied from seventh to make up more than 4 ½ lengths and
finished second beaten a head at 1 1/16 miles on May 21.
taken outside in stretch and closed fast to win by 2 ¾ lengths at seven
furlongs on April 18; returned $15.20 on front end. (Led by a half-length
after six furlongs, fought gamely through stretch and finished second beaten
a half-length at a mile on May 20.)
after a half-mile, angled outside leaders in stretch, steadied behind
winner, dropped to fifth, recovered and rallied to gain second by a neck at
5 ½ furlongs on June 18.
out for the drive, made up nearly 3 ¼ lengths in stretch and finished third
beaten a head and three-quarters of a length at 1 1/16 miles on a sealed
sloppy surface June 5.
half-mile, angled from three wide for drive, closed well in stretch to make
up more than 3 ¾ lengths and finished fourth beaten two necks and
three-quarters of a length at 1 1/16 miles on a sealed sloppy surface May
23. (Trailed in sixth more that 7 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile,
advanced to third in stretch and finished in that position by 3 ½ lengths a
mile on a sealed sloppy surface June 6.)
in stretch to make up 1 ½ lengths and finished second beaten a half-length
at a mile on May 8. (Chased pacesetter five lengths behind in second after a
half-mile, took command on far turn, led by seven lengths in stretch and won
easily by 14 ½ lengths at 1 1/16 miles taken of the turf June 12.)
angled three wide for the drive, couldn’t close gap, but held place by 1 ¾
lengths at six furlongs on May 29. (Raced third more than 5 ½ lengths after
a half-mile, shifted outside in stretch, closed gap and finished in same
position beaten a head and 1 ¼ lengths at 5 ½ furlongs on June 13.)
behind rivals on turn and rallied from fifth in stretch to finish third
beaten a nose for second at seven furlongs on June 19; ran final three
furlongs in 36 2/5.
out four wide on far turn, rallied between horses in stretch from fourth to
make up nearly two lengths and finished second beaten a neck at 1 1/16 miles
on the turf June 6.
ground going four wide in stretch, rallied to make up nearly three lengths
and finished second beaten a nose at six furlongs on June 16.
half-mile, rallied in stretch to make up more than 5 ¾ lengths and finished
second beaten three-quarters of a length at six furlongs on a wet fast
surface June 3.
failed to close gap in stretch and finished in that position at six furlongs
on a wet fast surface June 14. (Raced fourth more than six lengths behind
after a half-mile, advanced to second in stretch and drew off to win by 2 ¼
lengths at six furlongs on a sealed sloppy surface June 20.)
more than 7 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, rallied from sixth in
stretch and gained second by a neck at seven furlongs on June 19.
three-eighths of a mile, angled out in the lane, closed fast from fifth in
stretch to make up 4 ½ lengths and finished second by a neck at five
furlongs on the turf June 5.
steadied leaving the turn, recovered to rally from fourth making up nearly
four lengths and finished second beaten a neck at five furlongs on April 24.
(Raced fourth early, dropped to fifth more than 2 ½ lengths behind after a
half-mile, rallied three wide to gain a half-length advantage in stretch and
finished second edged by a neck at six furlongs on May 20.)
out three deep in stretch and closed willingly to finish second beaten a
neck at a mile on the turf May 21 at Hollywood Park. (Tracked pace in fourth
more than three lengths behind after a half-mile, moved up in tight quarters
behind a wall of horses, gained command in stretch and won by a length at 1
1/16 miles on the turf June 14.)
lengths after a half-mile, came out in stretch, closed fast to make up more
than five lengths and gained second by a neck at 1 1/16 miles on June 21.
than 8 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, came out in upper stretch,
rallied from fifth to make up more than five lengths and finished second by
1 ¼ lengths at six furlongs June 6; ran final quarter in 23 seconds.
half-mile, closed willingly from fourth in stretch to make up nearly 2 ½
lengths and finished second beaten a neck at seven furlongs on May 22.
(Stalked pace 2 ½ lengths behind in third after a half-mile, came out in
upper stretch, gained narrow lead in mid-stretch and won by three-quarters
of a length at mile on June 18.)
three-eighths of a mile, gained advantage in stretch by a half-length and
won by a length at five furlongs on the turf May 15. (Duel for lead a head
in front after a half-mile, edged away in mid-stretch to lead by 1 ½
lengths, but was nipped at the wire by a nose to finish dead-heated for
second at six furlongs on the turf June 19.)
after a half-mile, lost much ground after six furlongs, roused on far turn,
rallied in stretch to make up four lengths and finished third beaten a
half-length at 1 1/16 miles on the turf June 19.
half-mile, rallied from third between rivals in upper stretch to make up
nearly 2 ½ lengths and finished second beaten a nose at a mile on May 16;
ran final quarter in 24 2/5. (Raced seventh and last more than eight lengths
behind after a half-mile, rallied to second on far turn, grabbed lead in
stretch and drew off to win by six lengths under strong urging at 1 1/16
miles on the turf June 21.)
swung out in fourth at top of the stretch, closed fast to make up 4 ½
lengths and finished second beaten a half-length at seven furlongs on a
muddy surface May 3.
after a half-mile, lost much ground after six furlongs, roused on far turn,
rallied in stretch to make up four lengths and finished third beaten a
half-length at 1 1/16 miles on the turf June 19.
a half-mile, swung five wide into the stretch, rallied from fourth to make
up more than two lengths and finished second beaten a length at 1 1/16 miles
on the turf April 23 at Lone Star Park. (Broke slowly, steadied, raced more
than seven lengths behind in ninth after a half-mile, came five wide out of
far turn and rallied in stretch to gain third by 2 ¼ lengths at a mile on
the turf June 20.)
closed well outside in stretch from fifth to make up more than three lengths
and finished second beaten a length at a mile on June 19.
and last more than 10 lengths behind after a half-mile, rallied from sixth
in stretch to make up more than 2 ¾ lengths and gained second by 1 ½ lengths
at six furlongs on June 3; ran final quarter in 24 4/5.
half-mile, advanced very wide to sixth in stretch and finished strongly to
gain third by three-quarters of a length at seven furlongs on April 5 at
Charles Town. (Raced more than five lengths behind in eighth after a
half-mile, rallied to third in stretch and finished second by 2 ¼ lengths at
a mile on May 16.)
in mid-stretch and drew off to win by 2 ¼ lengths ridden out at a mile and
70 yards on March 16 at Philadelphia Park. (Stalked pace in second through
turn, grabbed lead by a head in upper stretch and drew clear to win by 5 ½
lengths at six furlongs on May 13.)
lengths behind in seventh after a half-mile, rallied in stretch to make up 2
½ lengths and gained second by three lengths at six furlongs on June 16.
closed strongly to make up nearly four lengths in stretch and finished
second beaten a neck at a mile on the turf June 2; ran final half in 47 1/5.
gradually edged clear in stretch and won by 1 ½ lengths at 6 ½ furlongs on
May 30. (Raced third more than 1 ½ lengths behind after a half-mile, rallied
to second in stretch and edged ahead to win by a half-length at seven
furlongs on June 7.)
Tags: betting, handicapping, horse, horse betting, racebook, Racing
A number of horses from the Kentucky Derby will be entered in the Preakness Stakes betting on Saturday but they will all be underdogs to the filly Rachel Alexandra. Kentucky Derby winner Mine That Bird and Kentucky Derby betting favorite Friesan Fire will be among the horses that look to challenge the talented filly. Friesan Fire’s trainer Larry Jones knows all about a filly going against the males in a big race. He trained Eight Belles last year when she finished second in the Derby before breaking her ankles and having to be put down. This year Jones is on the opposite end as he has Friesan Fire to challenge Rachel Alexandra. “Anytime the horse is as fast as her, you wish you didn’t have to run against them,” Jones said, “I’ve chased her twice with fillies. If I’ve got any shot of beating her, it’s going to have to be with a boy. I ain’t got a filly that can try her.” Rachel Alexandra will be the Preakness Stakes betting favorite in what could be full 14-horse field in the Preakness. The entries and post positions will be announced on Wednesday. “She may never know there’s any colts in here. She just may go in the front and think there’s a bunch of girls chasing her around there,” Jones said. A filly has not won the Preakness since 1924 when Nellie Morse hit the winner’s circle. Some of the other trainers are hoping that Rachel Alexandra will draw extra attention to the Preakness. Gary Stute, who trains Kentucky Derby fourth place finisher Papa Clem, said that the sport needs a good story. “Personally, it’s a little disappointing, but for racing I think it’s great,” he said. “I figure it should bring 20-30,000 extra fans here on Saturday. And when the husbands are watching the race at home, the wives will be watching, too. Racing is in kind of a downward spiral right now, and this can only help it in the long run.” Horse betting at SBG Global. Hall of Fame Trainer Bob Baffert will be sending Pioneerof the Nile against Rachel Alexandra. Baffert was the last trainer to send a filly in the Preakness as he had Excellent Meeting in 1999 but she was pulled up in that race and finished last. “There is going to be a lot of excitement with that filly in there,” Baffert said, “She’s an incredible athlete. She’s going to be forwardly placed, so she’ll be out of the way. She’s got a beautiful fluid stride and a great turn of foot. She’s dangerous.” The addition of Rachel Alexandra has stolen the spotlight from Kentucky Derby winner Mine That Bird although not many people believe the horse can win the Preakness anyway. “He has to do it twice in a row to make me a believer,” Jones said.
Tags: Derby, handicapping, Horses, Preakness, Rachel Alexandra, Racing
The superstar filly Rachel Alexandra is headed for the Preakness Stakes betting . After a weekend of confusion, Mine That Bird’s owner Mark Allen and Pioneerof The Nile’s Ahmed Zayat have said they will not enter additional horses to keep the filly out of the Preakness. Now, not only is Rachel Alexandra in the Preakness, she is favored in horse racing odds. On Monday, Pimlico vice president Mike Gathagan said there are 13 horses, including Rachel Alexandra in the Preakness field. The exact number and the post position draw will be finalized on Wednesday. The inclusion of Rachel Alexandra in the Preakness betting field gives horse racing some intrigue that they badly need and it avoided a public relations nightmare had she been left out. Normally in the Preakness it is not an issue of having too many horses in the field. Rarely do enough horses ever enter to get to the 14-horse maximum allowed in the Preakness. Preakness odds will have Rachel Alexandra favored over the rest of the Preakness Stakes betting field and by quite a bit. Most experts believe she is head and shoulders above anyone in the field. The early consensus has her going off at odds of less than 2-1, perhaps as low as even money. Jockey Calvin Borel, who is getting off Kentucky Derby winner Mine That Bird, has said Rachel Alexandra is a super horse. Mine That Bird is now expected to be ridden by Hall of Fame jockey Mike Smith. Rachel Alexandra is expected to ship to Pimlico on Wednesday. She would become the first filly in 10 years to be entered in the Preakness. The last filly to win the Preakness was Nellie Morse in 1924. The last filly to be favored in the Preakness was Winning Colors in 1988 but she did not win.
The rest of the Preakness field is expected to include Kentucky Derby second place finisher Pioneerof The Nile, third and fourth place finishers Musket Man and Papa Clem. 10th place finisher General Quarters and the last two finishers in the Derby, Flying Private and Friesan Fire are also expected to be in the field. Newcomers include Terrain, Big Drama, Tone It Down, Luv Guv and Take The Points. One of the newcomers that was expected to be in the race, Hull was withdrawn on Monday. Did you know that with every bet made through the Racebook at Bookmaker.com you get a 8% cash rebate win or lose? Signup now using BONUS CODE BM100 and get $100 cash bonus on a $250 deposit. Or use MLB20 and get 20% on any deposit made. Stop by today by clicking here!
Tags: handicapping, Horse Racing, kentucky derby, Preakness, Rachel Alexandra, triple crown
SBG Global Opening Line: Blue Jays - 170, Total 8.5 Under -120
The Toronto Blue Jays are coming off a sweep of the defending World Champion Boston Red Sox over the weekend. They will look to keep their hot streak going as they open up a series against Oakland on Tuesday. The Blue Jays will go with A.J. Burnett while the A’s will counter with Rich Harden. SBG Global reports that early MLB betting has the public taking Blue Jays at Home.
The Blue Jays did just about everything right against Boston in their sweep. “To start off that way, where we’re playing sound defensively, pitching well and to see the bats come in and take advantage of chances, it’s nice to see that early on,” said pitcher Roy Halladay. Jeremy Accardo earned his third save in the Sunday finale. The Blue Jays team ERA through their first six games is 2.94. Burnett had a nice opening game as he defeated the Yankees 5-2 last Wednesday, giving up two runs in six innings. “A.J. was dominating,” manager John Gibbons said, “He threw some good changeups, and he was locked in with some good breaking balls – that was great to see out of him. That’s what he can do, and I’m proud of the guy.” Burnett is 1-1 with a 2.18 ERA in three career starts against Oakland.
Rich Harden will get the start for the A’s. He has been excellent so far this season giving up only one earned run in 11 innings over two starts. He gave up only four hits in five scoreless innings last Wednesday but the A’s couldn’t score and lost the game after he left. Harden has not had much success against Toronto in his career going 0-3 with 5.59 ERA in five starts. The A’s took two of three from Cleveland over the weekend and nearly swept the Tribe but lost 2-1 on Sunday. Last season the A’s won the season series against the Blue Jays 5-4.
SBG Global Current Line: Blue Jays - 170, Total 8.5 Under -120
Here are the MLB betting stats for Tuesday’s game. The Athletics are 4-10 in their last 14 games following a loss. The Athletics are 5-14 in their last 19 overall. The Athletics are 2-6 in their last 8 games as an underdog. The Athletics are 7-22 in their last 29 games vs. a right-handed starter. The Athletics are 1-4 in their last 5 games as a road underdog. The Athletics are 2-10 in their last 12 vs. the American League East. The Athletics are 1-5 in their last 6 road games. The Athletics are 1-6 in their last 7 series opening games. The Athletics are 1-11 in their last 12 road games vs. a right-handed starter. The Athletics are 0-4 in their last 4 Tuesday games. The Athletics are 7-1 in Harden’s last 8 Tuesday starts. The Athletics are 5-1 in Harden’s last 6 road starts. The Athletics are 37-16 in Harden’s last 53 starts. The Athletics are 4-10 in Hardens last 14 starts as an underdog. The Athletics are 3-9 in Harden’s last 12 starts as a road underdog. The Athletics are 4-0 in the last 4 meetings in Toronto. The Athletics are 1-4 in Harden’s last 5 starts vs. Blue Jays.
The Blue Jays are 7-1 in their last 8 home games vs. a right-handed starter. The Blue Jays are 5-1 in their last 6 vs. American League West. The Blue Jays are 5-1 in their last 6 series opening games. The Blue Jays are 4-1 in their last 5 overall. The Blue Jays are 64-27 in their last 91 games as a home favorite. The Blue Jays are 4-1 in Burnett’s last 5 starts. The Blue Jays are 1-4 in Burnett’s last 5 home starts vs. a team with a losing record.
The Under is 5-1 in the Athletics last 6 vs. a team with a winning record.
The Under is 5-1 in the Athletics last 6 overall. The Under is 4-1 in the Athletics last 5 games as an underdog. The Over is 6-2-1 in the Athletics last 9 road games. The Over is 8-3-2 in the Athletics last 13 vs. the American League East. The Over is 5-2-1 in the Athletics last 8 games as a road underdog. The Over is 5-2-1 in the Athletics last 8 Tuesday games. The Under is 5-2-1 in the Athletics last 8 games vs. a right-handed starter. The
Over is 5-1 in Harden’s last 6 road starts. The Under is 4-1 in Harden’s last 5 starts overall. The Under is 4-1 in Harden’s last 5 starts vs. the American League East. The Under is 8-3 in Harden’s last 11 Tuesday starts.
The Over is 4-1 in the Blue Jays last 5 vs. the American League West. The Under is 8-2 in Burnett’s last 10 home starts. The Under is 12-3-1 in Burnett’s last 16 starts vs. a team with a losing record. The Under is 7-2 in Burnett’s last 9 starts as a home favorite. The Under is 14-5-1 in Burnett’s last 20 starts overall. The Under is 11-4-1 in Burnett’s last 16 starts as a favorite. The Over is 5-1-1 in the last 7 meetings between the two teams and the Over is 20-8-1 in the last 29 meetings in Toronto.
Pick Under 8.5 3units.
Tags: baseball, betting, gambling. free mlb pick, handicapping, mlb, Oakland Athletics, sports, Toronto Blue Jays
MLB Betting Preview SBG Global Opening Line: Blue Jays - 170, Total 8.5 Under -120 The Toronto Blue Jays are coming off a sweep of the defending World Champion Boston Red Sox over the weekend. They will look to keep their hot streak going as they open up a series against Oakland on Tuesday. The Blue Jays will go with A.J. Burnett while the A’s will counter with Rich Harden. SBG Global reports that early MLB betting has the public taking Blue Jays at Home. The Blue Jays did just about everything right against Boston in their sweep. “To start off that way, where we’re playing sound defensively, pitching well and to see the bats come in and take advantage of chances, it’s nice to see that early on,” said pitcher Roy Halladay. Jeremy Accardo earned his third save in the Sunday finale. The Blue Jays team ERA through their first six games is 2.94. Burnett had a nice opening game as he defeated the Yankees 5-2 last Wednesday, giving up two runs in six innings. “A.J. was dominating,” manager John Gibbons said, “He threw some good changeups, and he was locked in with some good breaking balls – that was great to see out of him. That’s what he can do, and I’m proud of the guy.” Burnett is 1-1 with a 2.18 ERA in three career starts against Oakland. Rich Harden will get the start for the A’s. He has been excellent so far this season giving up only one earned run in 11 innings over two starts. He gave up only four hits in five scoreless innings last Wednesday but the A’s couldn’t score and lost the game after he left. Harden has not had much success against Toronto in his career going 0-3 with 5.59 ERA in five starts. The A’s took two of three from Cleveland over the weekend and nearly swept the Tribe but lost 2-1 on Sunday. Last season the A’s won the season series against the Blue Jays 5-4. SBG Global Current Line: Blue Jays - 170, Total 8.5 Under -120 Here are the MLB betting stats for Tuesday’s game. The Athletics are 4-10 in their last 14 games following a loss. The Athletics are 5-14 in their last 19 overall. The Athletics are 2-6 in their last 8 games as an underdog. The Athletics are 7-22 in their last 29 games vs. a right-handed starter. The Athletics are 1-4 in their last 5 games as a road underdog. The Athletics are 2-10 in their last 12 vs. the American League East. The Athletics are 1-5 in their last 6 road games. The Athletics are 1-6 in their last 7 series opening games. The Athletics are 1-11 in their last 12 road games vs. a right-handed starter. The Athletics are 0-4 in their last 4 Tuesday games. The Athletics are 7-1 in Harden’s last 8 Tuesday starts. The Athletics are 5-1 in Harden’s last 6 road starts. The Athletics are 37-16 in Harden’s last 53 starts. The Athletics are 4-10 in Hardens last 14 starts as an underdog. The Athletics are 3-9 in Harden’s last 12 starts as a road underdog. The Athletics are 4-0 in the last 4 meetings in Toronto. The Athletics are 1-4 in Harden’s last 5 starts vs. Blue Jays. The Under is 5-1 in the Athletics last 6 vs. a team with a winning record. The Under is 5-1 in the Athletics last 6 overall. The Under is 4-1 in the Athletics last 5 games as an underdog. The Over is 6-2-1 in the Athletics last 9 road games. The Over is 8-3-2 in the Athletics last 13 vs. the American League East. The Over is 5-2-1 in the Athletics last 8 games as a road underdog. The Over is 5-2-1 in the Athletics last 8 Tuesday games. The Under is 5-2-1 in the Athletics last 8 games vs. a right-handed starter. The Over is 5-1 in Harden’s last 6 road starts. The Under is 4-1 in Harden’s last 5 starts overall. The Under is 4-1 in Harden’s last 5 starts vs. the American League East. The Under is 8-3 in Harden’s last 11 Tuesday starts. The Over is 4-1 in the Blue Jays last 5 vs. the American League West. The Under is 8-2 in Burnett’s last 10 home starts. The Under is 12-3-1 in Burnett’s last 16 starts vs. a team with a losing record. The Under is 7-2 in Burnett’s last 9 starts as a home favorite. The Under is 14-5-1 in Burnett’s last 20 starts overall. The Under is 11-4-1 in Burnett’s last 16 starts as a favorite. The Over is 5-1-1 in the last 7 meetings between the two teams and the Over is 20-8-1 in the last 29 meetings in Toronto. Pick Under 8.5 3units.
Oakland Athletics (3-4) at Toronto Blue Jays (4-2)
Tuesday, 7:05 pm Eastern – TSN
The Blue Jays are 7-1 in their last 8 home games vs. a right-handed starter. The Blue Jays are 5-1 in their last 6 vs. American League West. The Blue Jays are 5-1 in their last 6 series opening games. The Blue Jays are 4-1 in their last 5 overall. The Blue Jays are 64-27 in their last 91 games as a home favorite. The Blue Jays are 4-1 in Burnett’s last 5 starts. The Blue Jays are 1-4 in Burnett’s last 5 home starts vs. a team with a losing record.
Tags: baseball, betting, gambling. free mlb pick, handicapping, mlb, Oakland Athletics, sports, Toronto Blue Jays
Two of the best teams in the NBA meet on Tuesday in New Orleans as the Hornets host the Jazz. The Jazz lead the season series 2-1 with two blowout wins in Salt Lake and a 12-point loss in New Orleans. Both teams lead their respective divisions and are fighting for playoff positioning. SBG Global reports that early NBA betting has the public taking Hornets at Home.
Utah and New Orleans have two of the best point guards in the league. The Jazz have Deron Williams while the Hornets have Chris Paul. Last season it was Williams getting more of the press as the Jazz went to the Western Conference Finals while this season Paul is being mentioned as an MVP candidate. Both players are in the top three in assists in the league and both are among the top three scoring point guards. Both teams have excellent power forwards in Carlos Boozer and David West while the centers can also score in Mehmet Okur and Tyson Chandler. Both teams also have outside shooters in Kyle Korver and Peja Stojakovic. The two teams are very evenly matched and the home court has proven the difference this season.
SBG Global Current Line: Hornets - 4.5, Total 210
Here are the NBA betting stats for Tuesday’s game. The Jazz are 7-0 ATS in their last 7 games playing on 3 or more days of rest. The Jazz are 8-1 ATS in their last 9 vs. the Southwest. The Jazz are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games overall. The Jazz are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games as a road underdog. The Jazz are 8-3 ATS in their last 11 vs. the Western Conference.
The Hornets are 5-0-1 ATS in their last 6 Tuesday games. The Hornets are 6-1 ATS in their last 7 vs. the Northwest. The Hornets are 16-5 ATS in their last 21 games as a home favorite. The Hornets are 36-16-1 ATS in their last 53 games overall. The favorite is 4-0-1 ATS in the last 5 meetings between the two teams. The home team is 6-1-1 ATS in the last 8 meetings.
The Under is 7-1-1 in Utah’s last 9 vs. the Southwest. The Over is 5-1 in Utah’s last 6 overall. The Over is 13-6-1 in Utah’s last 20 games as a road underdog.
The Over is 9-3-2 in the Hornets last 14 Tuesday games. The Over is 14-5-2 in the Hornets last 21 games as a home favorite. The Under is 10-4-1 in the Hornets last 15 vs. the Northwest. The Under is 4-1-1 in the last 6 meetings between the two teams.
Pick Under 210 3units
Tags: basketball, free nba pick, handicapping, nba, New Orleans Hornets, sports, Utah Jazz
NBA Betting Preview SBG Global Opening Line: Hornets - 4, Total 212 Two of the best teams in the NBA meet on Tuesday in New Orleans as the Hornets host the Jazz. The Jazz lead the season series 2-1 with two blowout wins in Salt Lake and a 12-point loss in New Orleans. Both teams lead their respective divisions and are fighting for playoff positioning. SBG Global reports that early NBA betting has the public taking Hornets at Home. Utah and New Orleans have two of the best point guards in the league. The Jazz have Deron Williams while the Hornets have Chris Paul. Last season it was Williams getting more of the press as the Jazz went to the Western Conference Finals while this season Paul is being mentioned as an MVP candidate. Both players are in the top three in assists in the league and both are among the top three scoring point guards. Both teams have excellent power forwards in Carlos Boozer and David West while the centers can also score in Mehmet Okur and Tyson Chandler. Both teams also have outside shooters in Kyle Korver and Peja Stojakovic. The two teams are very evenly matched and the home court has proven the difference this season. Here are the NBA betting stats for Tuesday’s game. The Jazz are 7-0 ATS in their last 7 games playing on 3 or more days of rest. The Jazz are 8-1 ATS in their last 9 vs. the Southwest. The Jazz are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games overall. The Jazz are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games as a road underdog. The Jazz are 8-3 ATS in their last 11 vs. the Western Conference. The Hornets are 5-0-1 ATS in their last 6 Tuesday games. The Hornets are 6-1 ATS in their last 7 vs. the Northwest. The Hornets are 16-5 ATS in their last 21 games as a home favorite. The Hornets are 36-16-1 ATS in their last 53 games overall. The favorite is 4-0-1 ATS in the last 5 meetings between the two teams. The home team is 6-1-1 ATS in the last 8 meetings. The Under is 7-1-1 in Utah’s last 9 vs. the Southwest. The Over is 5-1 in Utah’s last 6 overall. The Over is 13-6-1 in Utah’s last 20 games as a road underdog. The Over is 9-3-2 in the Hornets last 14 Tuesday games. The Over is 14-5-2 in the Hornets last 21 games as a home favorite. The Under is 10-4-1 in the Hornets last 15 vs. the Northwest. The Under is 4-1-1 in the last 6 meetings between the two teams. Pick Under 210 3units
Utah Jazz (51-26) at New Orleans Hornets (54-22)
Tuesday, 8:05 pm Eastern – NBA-TV
SBG Global Current Line: Hornets - 4.5, Total 210
Tags: basketball, free nba pick, handicapping, nba, New Orleans Hornets, sports, Utah Jazz
Final Four Betting Preview SBG Global Opening Line: Memphis  - 1, Total 133.5  The high scoring Memphis Tigers will try and play a fast paced game on Saturday while the UCLA Bruins will try and slow things down. It should be an interesting contrast in the second game of the Final Four. The Tigers have the top scorer left in the tournament in Chris Douglas-Roberts (90 points) while UCLA has All-American Kevin Love who has scored 87 points. The Tigers also have Derrick Rose who is right behind those two with 82 points scored in the tournament. SBG Global reports that the public taking Memphis on the Road.  This will be the third straight Final Four for UCLA while it is the Tigers first Final Four appearance since 1985. The Tigers are taking this very seriously though as Joey Dorsey was seen practicing with former Memphis NBA star Penny Hardaway this week. The Tigers don’t seem worried about UCLA trying to slow the game down. “It doesn’t really matter. They can’t really dictate the tempo unless we allow them to,” Douglas-Roberts said. The Tigers and Bruins met two years ago when UCLA took Memphis out of their game and won 50-45 in the regional final. Chris Douglas-Roberts was just a freshman in that game and didn’t play that well. It is different now as Douglas-Roberts has more experience. “His ability to shoot balls. His ability to score in traffic. His physical play because he’s gained weight. You’re not going to throw him around and do stuff they did in that game,” Memphis head coach John Calipari said. The Bruins will try and contain Douglas-Roberts with Russell Westbrook who is an outstanding defender.  Here are the stats for Saturday’s game. The Tigers are 2-5 ATS in their last 7 vs. the Pacific-10.  The Bruins are 22-7-1 ATS in their last 30 games as an underdog. The Bruins are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 Saturday games.  The Over is 4-0 in the Tigers last 4 neutral site games. The Over is 4-0 in the Tigers last 4 non-conference games. The Over is 5-0 in the Tigers last 5 NCAA Tournament games. The Under is 4-0 in the Tigers last 4 vs. the Pacific-10.  The Over is 4-1 in the Bruins last 5 games as an underdog. The Over is 7-2 in the Bruins last 9 Saturday games. The Under is 6-2 in the Bruins last 8 NCAA Tournament games as an underdog. The Under is 16-6 in the Bruins last 22 NCAA Tournament games.  Pick: Take Memphis -2 5units! For more Final Four discussion visit the College Basketball Betting Forum.
Memphis (37-1) vs. UCLA (35-3)
Saturday, 8:45 pm Eastern – CBS
SBG Global Current Line: Memphis  - 2, Total 133.5
Tags: basketball, betting, college basketball, Final Four, gambling, handicapping, memphis, ncaa, sports, UCLA
