LA Times Reports That Full Tilt Has Been Sold

The Los Angeles Times is quoting lawyers from Full Tilt Poker, saying that European investors have agreed to purchase a majority share in the site. It is reported that the perspective buyers would invest enough money to pay back the American players.

Subject: Poker has the story here.

Full Tilt Shopping For Gaming Permit

Kahnawake Gaming Commission

Desperate times call for desperate measures.

The KGC is the bunch that "regulated" both Absolute Poker and Ultimate Poker during the "superusers" scandel. This story just keeps getting better and better.

An excerpt from the story at Subject: Poker,

Full Tilt may use a permit from the Kahnawake Gaming Commission to continue allowing non-US players to play and possibly to resume processing deposits and withdrawals. The KGC regulations require a permit holder to operate its business from the Kahnawake Mohawk Territory, so it would be expected to take hours for Full Tilt to accomplish the transfer of data to servers in the territory. In addition, the KGC website says that its application process typically takes between four and eight weeks. Some sources inside of Full Tilt have claimed that poker site either still has a permit with the KGC or could effectively skip this process.

Click here for the full story from Subject: Poker.

MLB Picks, June 30th

A couple games worth betting on today's schedule, both bay area teams.

$10 on San Francisco (Cain) over ChiCubs (Zambrano), -1.5 @ +$145

Cain is coming off a 7 inning shutout in his last start and is 2-0, 2.61 ERA in his last three trips to the bump. Zambrano is 1-1, 4.29 in his last three. The Giants have won 7 of 10.

$10 on Oakland (Cahill) over Florida (Volstad), -1.5 @ +$140

Cahill is 2-1, 2.70 ERA in his last three starts, including surrendering only 1 run in 7+ innings his last time out. Volstad is 3-7, 5.42 on the season, and is 1-3, 6.50 on the highway.

Starting Bankroll           $1,500.00
Profit/Loss                        $92.60
Current Bankroll            $1,592.60

Action is considered dead unless both listed pitchers start.

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at you own risk.

Good luck!

Full Tilt Loses Poker License!

In what could be a death blow to Full Tilt Poker, the Alderney Gaming Control Commission, which licenses Full Tilt to offer online poker, has suspended said license. This means the rest of the planet now joins the US players in waiting for a return of their money. I'm dropping the chance of a Full Tilt payout to 15% >>>>>>>>>>>>>

Subject: Poker has the story.

MLB Picks, June 29th

Three games on the agenda today that are worth a look.

$20 on Tampa Bay (Shields) over Cincinnati (Volquez), -1.5 @ +$135

Shields is throwing BBs right now, sporting a 3-0 record, with a microscopic 0.33 ERA in his last three starts. Volquez is 0-1, 5.87 in his last three, including giving up 4 runs in 4+ innings his last time out. The Rays have won 8 of 10.

$20 on NY Mets (Capuano) over Detroit (Coke), @ +$125

Capuano is 2-1, 0.95 ERA in his last three trips to the hill and threw 6 innings of shutout ball his last time out. Coke is 1-7, 4.32 on the season, and gave up 5 runs in 4+ innings in his last outing. The Mets have won 3 in a row.

$10 on Cleveland (Carrasco) over Arizona (Duke), -1.5 @ +$145

Carrasco is 2-1, 0.84 ERA in his last three trips to the bump and only surrendered 1 run in 8 innings in his last start. Duke is 0-1, 10.89 ERA in his last three and was lit up for 6 runs in 4 innings his last time out. The D-Backs have dropped 3 straight going into last nights game.

Starting Bankroll            $1,500.00
Profit/Loss                         $73.10
Current Bankroll             $1,573.10

Action is considered dead unless both listed pitchers start.

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at you own risk.

Good luck!

MLB Picks, June 28th

Only one game on the docket today that is worth investing in.

$20 on San Francisco (Vogelsong) over ChiCubs (Davis), -1.5 @ +$115

Vogelsong is 5-1, 1.86 ERA on the season, including surrendering 1 run in 7 innings in his latest outing. Davis is 1-6, 5.01 ERA on the year. The Giants have won 5 straight.

Starting Bankroll              $1,500.00
Profit/Loss                          $50.10
Current Bankroll               $1,550.10

Action is considered dead unless both listed pitchers start.

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at you own risk.

Good luck!

A Reason For Optimism At Full Tilt?

Subject:Poker is reporting that legendary casino operator Jack Binion is close to completing a deal to purchase a "significant portion of Full Tilt Poker." Apparently, Phil Ivey was present at the negotiations, which took place in Ireland, and left with a smile on his face.

Does all this mean that US players will get their money? It's too early to say, but it certainly won't hurt our chances. With that in mind I'm increasing the chances to 40% that Full Jilt will pay.

Click here for the full story.

MLB Picks, June 27th

Three games on the schedule today that are worth a look.

$10 on Colorado (Chacin) over ChiCubs (Garza), -1.5 @ +$135

Chacin is 2-0, 0.87 ERA in his last three starts, including giving up only 1 run in 6+ innings in his last outing. Garza is 3-6, 4.11 on the season. The Rockies have won 6 of 10.

$10 on Arizona (Kennedy) over Cleveland (Talbot), -1.5 @ +$115

Kennedy is putting together a nice season, posting an 8-2 record, with a 2.90 ERA. talbot has struggled in his last three trips to the hill, going 0-2, 6.19 ERA. The D-Backs have won 6 of 10.

$10 on Washington (Lannan) over LA Angels (Santana), @ +$125

Lannan is 2-0, 1.89 ERA in his last three starts. Santana is 0-3, 3.86 in his last three, and gave up 4 runs in 5+ innings his last time out.

Starting Bankroll         $1,500.00
Profit/Loss                      $80.10
Current Bankroll          $1,580.10

Action is considered dead unless both listed pitchers start.

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at you own risk.

Good luck!

MLB Picks, June 26th

Two games on the agenda today, both played in Texas.

$40 on Tampa Bay (Niemann) over Houston (Happ), -1.5 @ +$125

Niemann is 2-1, 2.12 ERA in his last three starts, including 6 innings of shutout ball in his last outing. Happ is 0-2, 9.00 in his last three. Thr Rays have won 3 straight and 7 of 10. The Astros havelost 7 of 10.

$10 on NY Mets (Gee) over Texas (Holland), @ +$130

Gee is 7-1, 3.21 ERA on the season. Holland is 1-1, 5.95 in his last three. I like the +$130 price with this pitching match-up.

Starting Bankroll         $1,500.00
Profit/Loss                      $17.10
Current Bankroll          $1,517.10

Action is considered dead unless both listed pitchers start.

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at you own risk.

Good luck!

MLB Picks, June 25th

Three games on today's inter-league schedule that are worth a look.

$20 on Philadelphia (Hamels) over Oakland (Cahill), -1.5 @ +$115

Hamels is 2-1, 1.27 ERA in his last three starts, while Cahill is 1-2, 6.60. The Phils have won 7 of 10 and the A's have dropped 3 straight.

$10 on Pittsburgh (Karstens) over Boston (Wakefield), @ +$130

Karstens is 1-0, with a tiny 0.44 ERA in his last three trips to the bump. Wakefield is 4-2, 4.26 ERA on the season. The Bucs have won 3 in a row and the Sox have dropped 3 straight. 

$10 on Cincinnati (Arroyo) over Baltimore (Matusz), -1.5 @ +$145

Arroyo is 2-1, 3.27 ERA in his last three starts, including only giving up 1 run in 8 innings in his last effort. Matusz has struggled lately, posting a 1-2 record, with a hefty 7.50 ERA the last three times he has toed the rubber, including surrendering 4 runs in 5+ innings his last time out. 

Starting Bankroll       $1,500.00
Profit/Loss                     $9.60
Current Bankroll        $1,509.60

Action is considered dead unless both listed pitchers start.

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at you own risk.

Good luck!

Bill To Legalize Online Poker Is Released

Rep. Joe Barton (R-Tx) has released his bill for the legalization and regulation of online poker in the United States.

Subject: Poker has the story. Keep your fingers crossed!

MLB Picks, June 24th

I see two games worth a small investment on the schedule today.

$10 on Washington (Zimmermann) over Chi Sox (Jackson), @ +$115

Zimmermann is 2-0, 1.33 ERA in his last three starts. Jackson is 4-6, 4.47 ERA on the year. The Nats have won 9 of 10.

$10 on Cleveland (Carrasco) over San Francisco (Sanchez), @ +$115

Carrasco has been throwing BBs lately, posting a 3-0 record, with a 0.42 ERA in his last three trips to the bump. Sanchez is 0-2, 4.60 ERA in his last three.

Starting Bankroll     $1,500.00
Profit/Loss                $8.10
Current Bankroll     $1,508.10

Action is considered dead unless both listed pitchers start.

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at you own risk.

Good luck!

Three Card Badugi

We had 10 runners show for J-Dawg's Poker Extravaganza last night. From left to right on your radio dial were Stamps, Glass Man, J-Dawg, Bobby Dee, Gentleman Jim, Ray-Ray, Ollie the Accountant, Dealer Larry, Cell, and yours truly, Lucki Duck.

Ollie rivered quad jacks while playing Omaha high, which gave him a strangle-hold on the High Hand Jackpot. He didn't seem too confident however, because he's the only one of us not to have won it. Unfortunately, his streak continued when Glass Man hit a straight flush later in the evening to take it down.

Bobby Dee was the big winner in this $20 buy-in, dealer's choice limit game, cashing out a little north of $50. Gentleman Jim profited a little shy of $20, with Ray-Ray getting beat up to the tune of $35. I finished with a small $7 win on the night.

Ray-Ray introduced a new twist to an old game a few weeks ago, and it looks like it's going to be a hit with the group. I started dealing Badugi a few months ago, mainly just to hear the bitchin' and moanin' from the old codgers! Ray-Ray's twist was eliminating one card and calling it "3 Card Badugi." It's a lot easier to complete a decent Badugi hand with one less card, which makes the pots bigger. I'm pretty sure it will continue to be part of the rotation. If it becomes a WSOP event you heard it here first!

Till next time, win the flips.

MLB Picks, June 23rd

Only one game worth investing a few sheckles on today.

$20 on Arizona (Hudson) over Kansas City (Paulino), -1.5 @ +$145

Hudson is 2-0, 1.23 ERA in his last 3 trips to the bump. Paulino doesn't have a decision in his last three, and sports a 3.57 ERA. He surrendered 4 runs in 6 innings in his last outing. The Royals have dropped 4 straight and 7 of 10.

Starting Bankroll     $1,500.00
Profit/Loss                <$20.90>
Current Bankroll     $1,479.10

Action is considered dead unless both listed pitchers start.

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at you own risk.

Good luck!

Another Satisfied Customer

I had the pleasure of witnessing a four year old little boy named Slayton, receive a set of new hearing aids courtesy of the Heart of Texas Sertoma Club, of which I am a member.

Slayton is unable to speak much at all due to the very limited hearing he has endured. His father is in the same boat as many Americans, unemployed. So we had an opportunity to step in and help.

The doctor gave Slayton an I-Pad to keep him occupied while she fitted the aids. She hooked them to her computer to calibrate them to his hearing loss and then turned them on.

The first thing Slayton heard was "Elmo" from Sesame Street singing to him from the I-Pad. Slayton just giggled and giggled! Mom and Dad both had tears of joy in their eyes, knowing that their son was hearing clearly for the first time in his young life.

The doctor showing Mom and Dad how to insert the aids.

I can't imagine a better way to spend an afternoon. Seeing these kiddos receive the gift of hearing never gets old. Very cool stuff.

One happy family!

                              
                                  ********************************

I noticed the hit counter topped 10,000 hits today. I know it's not much compared to some other blogs, but when I started this one 14 months ago I couldn't imagine this much interest.

All I can say is... thank you.

MLB Picks, June 22nd

Two games on the schedule today worth dropping a few bucks on.

$40 on Arizona (Kennedy) over Kansas City (Francis), -1.5 @ +$135

Kennedy sports a nifty 7-2, 2.98 ERA record on the season, includind 8 innings of shutout ball his last time out. Francis is 1-2, 6.48 ERA in his last three starts, and was lit up for 6 runs in 3+ innings his last start. The Royals have dropped 3 straight and 6 of 10.

$10 on Philadelphia (Lee) over St. Louis (Lohse), -1.5 @ +$110

Lee is 3-0, 0.38 ERA in his last three starts and threw a complete game shutout in his last start. Lohse has pitched well overall this season, but has hit a rough patch lately, going 0-1, 6.48 ERA in his last three outings.

Starting Bankroll     $1,500.00
Profit/Loss                 $8.10
Current Bankroll     $1,508.10

Action is considered dead unless both listed pitchers start.

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at you own risk.

Good luck!

MLB Picks, June 21st

Three games on the docket today that are worth a look.

$40 on Boston (Beckett) over San Diego (Latos), -1.5 @ -$105

Beckett is 6-2, 1.86 ERA on the season, including a complete game shutout in his last outing. Latos is 4-8, 4.06 ERA this year. The BoSox have won 8 of 10 and the Padres have lost 6 straight and 9 of 10.

$10 on Texas (Wilson) over Houston (Lyles), -1.5 @ +$100

Wilson is 2-0, 1.99 ERA in his last three trips to the bump. Lyles is 0-2, 5.06 in his last three. The Astros have dropped 7 of 10.

$10 on Philadelphia (Halladay) over St. Louis (McLellan), -1.5 @ +$105

Halladay is 9-3, 2.56 ERA for the year. McLellan is 0-2, 6.00 ERA in his last three starts. The Phils have won 8 of 10 and the Cards have dropped 7 of 10.

Starting Bankroll     $1,500.00
Profit/Loss                 $7.60
Current Bankroll     $1,507.60

Action is considered dead unless both listed pitchers start.

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at you own risk.

Good luck!

MLB Picks, June 20th

Only one game worth a look today.

$20 on Boston (Miller) over San Diego (LeBlanc), -1.5 @ +$105

Both pitchers are newbys, so this play is strictly because the BoSox are playing well (8-2 in their last 10) versus a struggling Padres team (2-8 in their last 10).

Starting Bankroll     $1,500.00
Profit/Loss               <$13.40>
Current Bankroll     $1,486.60

Action is considered dead unless both listed pitchers start.

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at you own risk.

Good luck!

MLB Picks, June 19th

A couple of interesting games on the docket this Father's Day.

$20 on San Francisco (Cain) over Oakland (Cahill), @ +$100

Cain is 3-0, 2.78 ERA in his last three starts. Cahill is 0-2, 9.64 in his last three.

$10 on Philadelphia (Hamels ) over Seattle (Vargas), -1.5@ +$110

Hamels has been almost unhittable lately, going 2-0, 0.78 ERA in his last three outings. Vargas is 4-4, 4.13 on the season, including surrendering 5 runs in 7 innings in his last trip to the bump. The Phils had won 8 of 10 going into Saturday night's game.

Starting Bankroll     $1,500.00
Profit/Loss                  $17.40
Current Bankroll     $1,517.40

Action is considered dead unless both listed pitchers start.

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at you own risk.

Good luck!

Happy Father's Day

Wishing a Happy Father's Day to all you Dads out there doing right by your children. It's a tough job, but a rewarding one.

I'll be spending the day with my son and daughter, both college students :)

Below is a picture of my Dad as a teenager on a Florida beach with his mother.

Thank God for kids. Enjoy your day!

MLB Picks, June 18th

A couple of games on the docket today that are worth a peek.

$40 on Washington (Zimmerman) over Baltimore (Matusz), -1.5 @ +$145

Zimmerman is 2-0, 0.86 ERA in his last three starts. Matusz is 1-1, 5.11 in three starts this season, including giving up 4 runs in 1+ innings in his last outing. The Nats are hot, winning 8 of 10 and 7 in a row.

$20 on Tampa Bay (Cobb) over Florida (Nolasco), -1.5 @ +$165

Cobb hasn't lost in his last three starts, posting a 2.45 ERA. Nolasco is winless in his last three, with a 6.06 ERA. The Marlins have lost 8 straight.

Starting Bankroll     $1,500.00
Profit/Loss              <$73.60>
Current Bankroll     $1,426.40

Action is considered dead unless both listed pitchers start.

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at you own risk.

Good luck!

MLB Picks, June 17th

Three inter-league games on the schedule today that I like. I can't remember the last time I bet on Pittsburgh, but it's been a while. Don't let me down Pirates!

$10 on Pittsburgh (Correia)  over Cleveland (Tomlin), @ +$130

Correia has been a warrior on the highway this season, posting a 7-1 record with a 2.42 ERA. Tomlin is 1-2, 9.53 ERA in his last 3 starts, including surrenduring 6 runs in 5 innings in his last trip to the bump. The Bucs have won 7 of 10 while the Indians have lost 7 of 10.

$20 on Cincinnati (Leake) over Toronto (Reyes), -1.5 @ +$135

Leake is 2-0, 2.08 ERA in his last 3 starts, including 8 innings of shutout ball in his last outing. Reyes is 2-5, 4.30 ERA this season. The Reds have won 7 of 10 and the Jays have lost 6 of 10.

$10 on NY Mets (Capuano) over LA Angels (Pineiro), -1.5 @ +$160

Capuano is 2-1, 2.84 ERA in his last 3 starts, including a 7 inning shutout in his last outing. Pineiro is winless in his last 3 with a 6.00 ERA. The Halos have lost 7 of 10.

Starting Bankroll     $1,500.00
Profit/Loss              <$33.60>
Current Bankroll     $1,466.40

Action is considered dead unless both listed pitchers start.

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at you own risk.

Good luck!

Full Tilt Downgraded

Downgraded to 33% >>>

It looks like Full Tilt's poor business practices may have cost them as much as $60 million. It seems that FT was accepting deposits from US players, yet didn't have a processor in place to collect the deposits from the player's bank accounts. Subject:Poker has the story.

Just another barrier between the US players and their Full Tilt bankrolls. I'm downgrading the chances of a Full Tilt payoff to the American players to 33%.

MLB Picks, June 16th

Only one game on today's schedule that's worth a look.

$40 on Philadelphia (Lee) over Florida (Vazquez), -1.5 @ +$100

Lee is 6-5, 3.41 ERA on the season and is coming off a nice outing where he only gave up 1 run in 8 innings. Vazquez is having a rough go of it this season, posting a 3-6 record witha 7.09 ERA, including getting blasted for 7 runs in 3+ innings in his last trip to the bump. The Phils have won 6 straight while the Fish have dropped 6 in a row and 9 of 10.

Starting Bankroll     $1,500.00
Profit/Loss              <$73.60>
Current Bankroll     $1,426.40

Action is considered dead unless both listed pitchers start.

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at you own risk.

Good luck!

MLB Picks, May 15th

One game in each league worth wagering a few bucks on today.

$20 on Detroit (Penny) over Cleveland (Carmon), -1.5 @ +$150

Neither pitcher is tearing it up right now, but the way Cleveland has been hitting lately, they make anyone look like Koufax. Penny is 5-5, 4.69 ERA this season. Carmona is winless in his last three starts with a hefty 10.67 ERA and gave up 6 runs in 4 innings his last time out. The Tigers have won 7 of 10 while the Tribe has lost 9 of 10.

$10 on Philadelphia (Halladay) over Florida (Sanchez), -1.5 @ +$125

Both starters have been pitching well this year. Halladay is 9-3, 2.39 ERA this season. Sanchez is 6-1, 3.06 on the year. The Phils have won 4 straight and 7 of 10. The Marlins have lost 4 in a row and 9 of 10.

Starting Bankroll     $1,500.00
Profit/Loss              <$43.60>
Current Bankroll     $1,456.40

Action is considered dead unless both listed pitchers start.

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at you own risk.

Good luck!

MLB Picks, June 14th

Three games on the docket today that are worth a look.

$40 on Philadelphia (Hamels) over Florida (Volstad), -1.5 @ +$105

Hamels is 2-0, 1.17 ERA in his last three starts. Volstad is 0-3, 5.82 in his last three. The Phillies have won three straight while the Fish have dropped 9 of 10.

$10 on Detroit (Verlander) over Cleveland (Masterson), -1.5 @ +$125

A tale of two teams headed in opposite directions. The Tigers have won 7 of 10 and the Tribe have lost 8 of 10 because they can't score. Verlander is 3-0, 1.14 ERA in his last three trips to the bump. Masterson is winless in his last three starts with a 5.59 ERA.

$10 on Milwaukee (Gallardo) over ChiCubs (Wells), -1.5 @ +$115

Gallardo is 2-1, 2.50 ERA in his last three trips to the hill. Wells is winless in his last three with a 9.00. The Brew Crew has won 7 of 10 and the Cubbies have dropped 7 of 10.

Starting Bankroll     $1,500.00
Profit/Loss              <$88.10>
Current Bankroll     $1,411.90

Action is considered dead unless both listed pitchers start.

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at you own risk.

Good luck!

Mavs Win Title!

Admittedly, I'm not a big basketball fan, but the Mavs are my favorite NBA team. I was glad to see Dirk and the two Jasons (Kidd and Terry) finally bring home the gold. Since the team's nucleus is old, it was probably their last chance to do it. Miami, on the other hand, will have several more opportunities before their window closes.

Congratulations to the Mavs on a great team victory! Enjoy it Dallas.

MLB Picks, June 13th

A couple of NL games look interesting today.

$20 on Milwaukee (Wolf) over ChiCubs (Dempster), @ -$105

Wolf has had 3 no-decisions in his last three starts, but has a tidy 2.84 ERA. Dempster is 5-5, 5.96 ERA this season. The Brewers have won 8 of 10 while the Cubs have dropped 8 of 10.

$10 on Arizona (Duke) over Florida (Nolasco), @ +$125

Duke is 1-1, 2.37 ERA in his only 2 starts this season. Nolasco is 0-1, 6.87 in his last three. The Marlins have lost 9 of 10.

Starting Bankroll     $1,500.00
Profit/Loss              <$79.60>
Current Bankroll     $1,420.40

Action is considered dead unless both listed pitchers start.

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at you own risk.

Good luck!

Ms. Lucki Duck Wins Her First Tourney!

We had eight runners show for Tin Man's $5 (+ $1 bounty) Tournament on Friday. From left to right on your radio dial were Music Man, Philly Phanatic, Lil' Annie Okie, Tin Man, Bluffin' Bev, Big Daddy, Ms Duck, and your humble scribe.

I won a nice pot early from Bev when my pocket jacks flopped a set and rivered a boat, taking 2/3 of her stack. I later felted Music Man, Philly Phanatic, and Bev, but none of them were the bounty. I also came close to knocking Big Daddy out, but he folded to my river bet, leaving him with half a BB.

The tourney paid three places and when Tin Man busted in fourth, it meant that Ms Duck had cashed in a tourney for the first time. A few hands later, Big Daddy was all-in with his 1/2 BB. Ms Duck was the BB and tabled Q-5, which was better than the 8-4 Big Daddy flipped over. The flop brought an eight for Big Daddy, but Ms Duck turned the queen and Big Daddy was toast. He was also the bounty, so Ms Duck took home the $8 bonus.

We were down to heads up play, Mr and Ms Lucki Duck. I don't claim to be a wise man, but 30+ years of marriage told me that a heads up match with the wife was a no win situation for me. Definitely not +EV! So we agreed to chop the top prize and I heard her whisper to Big Daddy, "He's afraid of me."

You got that right sweetie!

Till next time, win the flips.

MLB Picks, June 12th

Sticking with the National League today.

$10 on Philadelphia (Oswalt) over ChiCubs (Davis), -1.5 @ +$105

Oswalt is only 3-4 on the season, but has pitched well, sporting a 3.05 ERA. Davis is 0-5 this year, with a 6.38 ERA. The Cubbies have dropped 8 of 10.

Atlanta (Hanson) over Houston (Myers), -1.5 @ +$105

Hanson is 7-4, 2.59 ERA this season, including 6 innings of shutout ball in his last trip to the bump. Myers is 2-5, 5.02 this year. Myers surrendered 5 runs in 6 innings of work in his last outing. The Braves have won 5 straight and the Astros have dropped 3 in a row and 7 of 10.

Starting Bankroll     $1,500.00
Profit/Loss              <$80.10>
Current Bankroll     $1,419.90

Action is considered dead unless both listed pitchers start.

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at you own risk.

Good luck!

MLB Picks, June 11th

A couple of games on the docket today that are worth a look.

$20 on NY Yankees (Colon) over Cleveland (Talbot), -1.5 @ +$110

Colon is 2-1, 3.98 ERA in his last three starts. Talbot is 1-2, 6.32 in his last three. The Bronx Bombers have won 6 of 10 while the Tribe has won only 3 in 10.

$10 on Arizona (Kennedy) over Florida (Vazquez), -1.5 @ +$135

Kennedy is putting together a nice year (6-2, 3.01 ERA). Vazquez sports a 3-5 record, with a 6.50 ERA on the season, including a four inning performance in which he gave up 6 runs in his last start. The Marlins have dropped 8 of 10.

Starting Bankroll     $1,500.00
Profit/Loss            <$125.60>
Current Bankroll     $1,374.40

Action is considered dead unless both listed pitchers start.

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at you own risk.

Good luck!

MLB Picks, June 10th

(courtesy of NY Photographers)

Only one game of interest on the schedule today.

$10 on ChiSox (Jackson) over Oakland (Godfrey), -1.5 @ +$145

Jackson is 1-0, 4.42 ERA in his last three starts. Today will be Godfrey's first trip to the bump. The Palehose have won 7 of 10 while the A's have dropped 10 straight.

Starting Bankroll $1,500.00
Profit/Loss <$115.60>
Current Bankroll $1,384.40

Action is considered dead unless both listed pitchers start.

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at you own risk.

Good luck!

MLB Picks, June 9th

I see a couple of AL games and one NL game worth a peek today.

$40 on Toronto (Romero) over Kansas City (Hochevar), -1.5 @ +$130

Romero is an average 5-5 on the season, but sports a solid 3.16 ERA. Hochevar is winless in his last three starts with an 8.50 ERA, including surrendering 6 runs in 6 innings in his last start.

$40 on Atlanta (Jurrjens) over Florida (Volstad), -1.5 @ +$125

Jurrjens continues to be one of the top pitchers in the game, posting a 7-2 record and a 1.75 ERA on the season. Volstad is 2-5, 5.67 on the year. the Fish have dropped 7 straight games.

$10 on ChiSox (Buehrle) over Oakland (Cahill), -$105

Buehrle is 2-1, 3.60 ERA in his last three trips to the bump. Cahill is winless in his last three starts with a 5.49 ERA, including giving up 5 runs in 7 innings in his last outing. The A's have dropped 9 straight.

Starting Bankroll     $1,500.00
Profit/Loss               <$45.60>
Current Bankroll     $1,454.40

Action is considered dead unless both listed pitchers start.

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at you own risk.

Good luck!

Full Tilt Payout Chances Are Shrinking

Since I have (had?) a significant bankroll on Full Jilt, I've been trying my best to keep up with what's going on in the bizarro world of Howard Lederer and friends. Pauly linked a couple of articles worth reading, which I have done also. After reading both, I'm lowering my outlook on a Full Tilt payout to 35%.      >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

"Show me the money!"

F-Train in his missive titled "About That River in Egypt" writes,

I know that, for a lot of people, people with significantly more money tied up online than my paltry $1,142, the idea that Tilt is never coming back is a bitter pill to swallow. But if you ignore the elephant in the room, don't be surprised when he tramples you.

Kim at Infinite Edge adds in his article, "Full Tilt' Poker's Last Out,"

Full Tilt Poker’s problem is not paying the players they owe money. Their problem is doing so while also remaining competitive afterwards. If Bitar and Co give up on this pursuit and exercise their last out, players will get paid, and there will be enough left over for some lawyers and some “Russ Hamilton, no longer the most hated man in poker” t-shirts.

I'm just not feeling good about Full Jilt coming thru with the payola. Thirty-five percent chance and dropping in my opinion.  What do you think? Too high? Too low?

I guess we will find out over the next few weeks and months.

MLB Picks, June 8th

Only one game on the docket worth betting today.

$20 on San Diego (Moseley) over Colorado (Cook), @ +$100

Moseley is 1-0, 1.89 ERA in his last three starts. This is Cook's maiden voyage to the bump . The Padres have won 7 of 10.

Starting Bankroll     $1,500.00
Profit/Loss               <$25.60>
Current Bankroll     $1,474.40

Action is considered dead unless both listed pitchers start.

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at you own risk.

Good luck!

MLB Picks, June 7th

I'm staying in the NL today and playing the run line.

$40 on St Louis (Westbrook) over Houston (Myers), -1.5 @ +$125

Westbrook is undefeated in his last three starts with a 2.89 ERA. Myers is 2-4, 4.82 ERA on the season. The Redbirds have won three straight and the Astros have dropped their last three.

$20 on Milwaukee (Marcum) over NY Mets (Capuano), -1.5 @ +$110

Marcum is a sold 6-2 this season with a 2.78 ERA. Capuano is 0-2, 6.23 in his last three trips to the bump, including surrendering 5 runs in 6 innings in his last outing. The Brewers have won 7 of 10.

Starting Bankroll     $1,500.00
Profit/Loss               <$55.60>
Current Bankroll     $1,444.40

Action is considered dead unless both listed pitchers start.

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at you own risk.

Good luck!

MLB Picks, June 6th

A couple of games worth a look on the schedule today.

$10 on Seattle (Pineda) over Chi Sox (Danks), -1.5 @ +$145

Pineda is putting together a nice year, posting a 6-2, 2.30 ERA to date. Danks is having a nightmare season, with a 0-8 record and a 5.25 ERA. The Mariners have been hot, winning 8 of 10.

$10 on San Diego (Richard) over Colorado ( Mortensen), @ -$105

Both starters are winless in their last three starts. However, Richard has thrown a little better, posting a 3.78 ERA versus Mortensen's 5.94. The Padres have won 7 of 10 while the Rockies have lost 7 of 10.

Starting Bankroll     $1,500.00
Profit/Loss               <$35.60>
Current Bankroll     $1,464.40

Action is considered dead unless both listed pitchers start.

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at you own risk.

Good luck!

MLB Picks, June 5th

I look for a couple of road teams in the AL to do some damage on the diamond today.

$20 on Arizona (Kennedy) over Washington (Marquis), -1.5 @ +$125

Kennedy is having a solid year, posting a 6-2 record with a 3.16 ERA. Marquis is 1-1 in his last three trips to the mound, but has an ERA north of 6. The D-Backs have won 8 of 10.

$10 on Texas (Wilson) over Cleveland (Talbot), -1.5 @ +$120

Wilson has pitched well this season, going 5-3 with a 3.32 ERA, Talbot is 2-1, 4.58 in his last three starts. The Rangers are 8-2 in their last 10 games and have won the first three of the series. The Tribe has lost 7 of 10.

$10 on NY Yankees (Colon) over LA Angels (Pineiro), -1.5 +$130

Colon is 1-1, 2.35 in his last three starts, including a complete game shutout in his last outing. Pineiro is 0-2 in his last three trips to the bump, with a 5.79 ERA. The Bronx Bombers have won 7 of 10.

Starting Bankroll     $1,500.00
Profit/Loss               <$39.60>
Current Bankroll     $1,460.40

Action is considered dead unless both listed pitchers start.

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at you own risk.

Good luck!

MLB Picks, June 4th

There is one American League and a couple of National League match-ups that I like today.

$10 on Arizona (Saunders) over Washington (Hernandez), -1.5 @ +$155

Saunders is 2-0, 3.15 ERA in his last three outings. Hernandez is 0-4, 5.60 ERA on the highway this season. The D-Backs have won 8 of 10 and the Nats have lost 6 of 10.  

$10 on Texas (Holland) over Cleveland (Carmona), @ +$115

Holland is 2-1, 3.41 on the road this year. Carmona has struggled lately, losing his last three starts with a hefty 10.06 ERA. The Rangers have won 7 of 10 and the Tribe has dropped 7 of 10, including the first two games of the series.

$10 on Milwaukee (Gallardo) over Florida (Volstad), -1.5 @ +$125

I'd like to get a better price since I'm giving a run and a half, but Gallardo has hit his pitching stride, winning his last three starts and posting a 1.29 ERA, so it's hard not to ride this horse. Volstad is 0-2 in his last three with a 6.28 ERA. The Brew Crew is 7-3 in their last 10 games.

Starting Bankroll     $1,500.00
Profit/Loss               <$56.60>
Current Bankroll     $1,443.40

Action is considered dead unless both listed pitchers start.

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at you own risk.

Good luck!

MLB Picks, June 3rd

Three games on the docket today that look good.

$40 on Arizona (Collmenter) over Washington (Maya), -1.5 @ +$120

Collmenter is 3-1 on the season with a tiny 1.49 ERA. Maya brings a 7.71 ERA to the hill in his second start of the season for the Nats. The D-Backs have won 8 of 10 games.

$20 on San Francisco (Cain) over Colorado (Nicasio), -1.5 @ +$170

Cain is 3-4 this year, with a respectable 3.88 ERA. Nicasco was impressive in his first start, throwing 7 innings of shutout ball. The Rockies are struggling right now, losing 7 of 10 games.

$10 on St Louis (Garcia) over ChiCubs (Dempster), -1.5 @ +$125

Garcia got shelled in his last outing, surrendering 11 runs in 3 innings. On the season however, he is 5-1 with a 3.28 ERA. Look for him to bounce back against the Cubs. Dempster is 4-4 this season, with a 6.00 ERA. His ERA on the highway is 8.37. The Redbirds have won 7 of 10.

Starting Bankroll     $1,500.00
Profit/Loss               <$151.10>
Current Bankroll     $1,348.90

Action is considered dead unless both listed pitchers start.

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at you own risk.

Good luck!

Phil Ivey A No Show Again!

We had 10 runners show at J-Dawg's Poker Extravaganza Wednesday night. Burgers and chips were on the menu, plus a couple of desserts from which to choose and we were ready to pitch some cards.

From left to right on your radio dial in this $20 buy-in, dealer's choice limit game were Ray-Ray, Riverboat J, Dealer Larry, Gentleman Jim, Farmer Harry, Bobby Dee, Stamps, J-Dawg, Beer Bottle, and yours truly.

Phil Ivey didn't show. I have to assume it's in protest to the poor way Full Tilt is handling player refunds. I could be wrong.

Riverboat J had a tough go of it again this week. As I have written before, Riverboat is one of the top players at the table, so as bad as the suckouts against him were, he still walked away with only a $9 loss. Ray-Ray and Beer Bottle were hit the hardest, losing $30 and $28 respectively.

Stamps cashed out with a $32 profit, with Farmer Harry and Gentleman Jim both finished the evening with $20 profits. Dealer Larry and J-Dawg broke even and I came out ahead by $12.

I won the biggest pot of the evening playing Omaha High. We had been playing for over two hours, I hadn't pulled a pot all night and my stack was down to $6. I looked at a nice starting hand of A-K-K-4, with the ace being of the suited variety. I was UTG and raised to $1. Ray-Ray called and Riverboat J three-bet to $1.50. Gentleman Jim, Bobby Dee, J-Dawg and Beer Bottle all called before it got back to me and I four-bet to a bunch of moans and groans from the table. Only J-Dawg folded.

The flop was A-8-7 rainbow, and I bet after Beer Bottle's check. Riverboat J and Beer Bottle were the only ones who called. The turn was a useful 4, giving me two pair. When the hand began, I looked at my four as a throw-away card, but suddenly it had become very important. Riverboat J came along for the ride, but Beer Bottle finally waved the white flag and mucked. The river didn't complete any draws, so I felt pretty good about my hand and bet. Riverboat called and tabled A-K-Q-J for top pair. My two pair won a $14 pot for me and started me on a mini-rush, where I won three of four hands and allowed me to go home a winner.

J-Dawg won the High Hand Jackpot with aces full of threes, but was still an overall loser. He hit the hand early in the evening and surprisingly it held up.

I have a niece graduating high school tomorrow night, so I'll have to miss Tin Man's $5 NLHE Tourney and won't be able to defend my title. The things we do for love :)

Till next time, win the flips.

MLB Picks, June 2nd

Only one game of interest on a short schedule today.

$30 on Arizona (Duke) over Washington (Zimmerman), @ -$120

Duke had a nice outing in his first start for the D-Backs, not giving up any runs. Zimmerman is 2-6 with a respectable 3.88 ERA on the season. Arizona has won 8 of 10 while the Nats have dropped 7 of 10.

Starting Bankroll     $1,500.00
Profit/Loss               <$121.10>
Current Bankroll     $1,378.90

Action is considered dead unless both listed pitchers start.

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at you own risk.

Good luck!

MLB Picks, June 1st

Just one game worth putting a few sawbucks on to start June.

$30 on Seattle (Pineda) over Baltimore (Matusz), @ -$155

Pineda has thrown the pill well this year, racking up a 6-2 record and a tidy 2.42 ERA. Matusz is starting his first game for the O's who have lost five straight. Seattle continues to be hot, winning 11 of 13.

Starting Bankroll     $1,500.00
Profit/Loss               <$91.10>
Current Bankroll     $1,408.90

Action is considered dead unless both listed pitchers start.

All picks are for entertainment purposes only with no guarantees implied. Any money wagered is at you own risk.

Good luck!