MLB Picks, August 1st

One game on the agenda today that's worth a look.

$20 on NY Yankees (Sabathia) over ChiSox (Peavy), -1.5 @ +$100

Sabathia is 15-5, 2.56 ERA on the year. Peavy is 0-2, 6.61 in his last three starts. The Yankees have won 7 of 10.

Starting Bankroll               $1,500.00
Profit/Loss                         <$76.40>
Current Bankroll                $1,423.60

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, July 31st

(For Neo- You're Welcome!)

Four games on the docket today that look good.

$10 on NY Yankees (Garcia) over Baltimore (Arrieta), -1.5 @ +$105

Garcia is 2-1, 3.72 ERA in his last three starts. Arrieta is 1-1, 6.35 in his last three. The Yankees have won 32 of the last 39 games against the O's. Baltimore has lost 11 of their last 13 on the highway.

$10 on Milwaukee (Narveson) over Houston (Myers), -1.5 @ +$110

Narveson is 6-2, 3.79 ERA at home this season. Myers is 3-11, 4.66 this year. The Brewers have won 5 straight. The Astros have lost 7 of 10. 

$10 on Tampa Bay (Hellickson) over Seattle (Vargas), -1.5 @ +$140

Hellickson is 2-0, 3.72 ERA in his last three trips to the hill. Vargas is 0-3, 9.69 in his last three. The Rays are 17-12 against southpaws this year. Seattle has lost 18 of 20. 

$10 on St. Louis (Westbrook) over ChiCubs (Dempster), -1.5 @ +$145

Westbrook is 2-0, 2.37 ERA in his last three starts. Dempster has a hefty 6.45 ERA on the road this season. The Cards have won 7 of 10 and the Cubs have dropped 5 straight.

Starting Bankroll              $1,500.00
Profit/Loss                         <$80.90>
Current Bankroll               $1,419.10

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!

One Of Those Nites

But in a good way! We only had seven runners show for Tin Man's $5 NLHE Tourney (+$1 bounty) Friday night. Lil' Annie Okie was still in the hospital in San Antonio following her surgery early last week, but was scheduled to get out Saturday and make the trek back to Waco.

From left to right on your radio dial were Ollie the Accountant, Tin Man, Bluffin' Bev, Big Daddy, Philly Phanatic, Ms. Lucki Duck and moi.

Ollie was the first casualty of the evening, and Big Daddy wasn't far behind when Ms. Duck busted him with her top two pair. I felted Tin Man and Bev, with Bev turning over the bounty card and I collected the $7 bounty. Nice start!

Now down to three players, I got the best of Ms. Duck and knocked her out of the tourney on the bubble. The collateral damage from the episode is yet to be determined :)

It took four hands to knock out Philly. I pushed my K-6 for 7BB and he called with Q-J soooted. There was a king in the window and Philly was unable to catch up, giving me the $20 first prize. Sah-weet!

I started fast in the $2 buy-in NLHE cash game, winning two of the first three hands after I sat down. It was a good omen and continued throughout the evening. I hit an extraordinary amount of my draws and was reading the other players well, buying a few pots along the way. When all was said and done, I cashed out for $22, giving me a $40+ profit for the night.

Ollie the Accountant won the High Hand Jackpot with jacks full of nines and cashed out with a $15 profit. Ms. Duck, Tin Man, Philly Phanatic and Bluffin' Bev, all lost a little, but Big Daddy took it on the chin, losing north of $30.

A fun and profitable night of poker. I'm looking forward to seeing Lil' Annie Okie back at the table next week.

MLB Picks, July 30th

Several interesting games on tap today.

$40 on Tampa Bay (Cobb) over Seattle (Pineda), @ +$105

Cobb is 2-0, 1.40 ERA in his last three starts, including 7 innings of shutout ball in his last outing against the Royals. Pineda is 0-1, 9.26 in his last three and was rocked for 7 runs in 4+ innings by the Red Sox in his last start. Seattle is 1-18 in their last nineteen games.

$20 on NY Yankees (Nova) over Baltimore (Britton), -1.5 @ +$105

Nova is 2-0, 2.84 ERA in his last three trips to the bump. Britton is 0-2, 11.12 in his last three and is returning from AA ball after getting pounded for 7 runs in less than 1 inning against Boston in his last ML start. The O's have lost 9 of their last 11 on the highway and are 7-30 against the Yankees in their last 37 meetings. 

$20 on Milwaukee (Gallardo) over Houston (Happ), -1.5 @ -$115

Gallardo is 7-1, 3.23 ERA at home this season. Happ is 1-7, 8.02 on the road for the year, and is 1-4. 9.79 in his last 6 starts. The Brewers have won 7 of 8 at home. The Astros have dropped 15 of their last 19 on the highway. 

Starting Bankroll           $1,500.00
Profit/Loss                     <$77.90>
Current Bankroll            $1,422.10

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, July 29th

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

$40 on San Francisco (Vogelsong) over Cincinnati (Willis), @ +$100

Vogelsong is having a great year, posting an 8-1 record with a 2.10 ERA. Willis is 0-1, 3.71 in his last three starts. he Giants have won 7 of 10.

$20 on Arizona (Collmenter) over LA Dodgers (Lilly), -1.5 @ +$150

Collmenter is 2-0, 1.29 ERA in his last three trips to the hill. Lill is 6-10, 5.08 on the season and gave up 6 runs in 5 innings in his last outing against the Nats.

Starting Bankroll           $1,500.00
Profit/Loss                      <$17.90>
Current Bankroll            $1,482.10

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, July 28

Only one game on the agenda today that's worth an investment.

$20 on St. Louis (Garcia) over Houston (Rodriguez), -1.5 @ +$115

Garcia is 10-4, 3.01 ERA this year. Rodriguez is 0-2, 5.50 in his last three starts. The Astros have lost 7 of 10.

Starting Bankroll         $1,500.00
Profit/Loss                       $2.10
Current Bankroll          $1,502.10

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, July 27th

One game on the docket today as the Brew Crew hosts the Cubbies.

$20 on Milwaukee (Greinke) over ChiCubs (Zambrano), -1.5 @ +$140

Greinke has a 1.89 ERA in his last three starts. Zambrano is 1-1, 7.71 in his last three. The Brewers have won 6 of 10.

Starting Bankroll         $1,500.00
Profit/Loss                   <$25.90>
Current Bankroll          $1,474.10

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!

Full Tilt Hearing Delayed Until September

Full Tilt's hearing before the Alderney Gambling Control Commission has been postponed until September. Looks like we'll have to wait a while longer for any information on our funds.

Of course Full Tilt could make an announcement to update their creditors (us) on what is going on.

HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!! Sometimes I kill myself.

From the Pokernews website;

After an entire day of deliberation, the AGCC finally recommenced the hearing at 17:45 GMT. It was announced that in the interests of justice and the best interest of Full Tilt customers, the hearing will be adjourned. This is so Full Tilt can pursue advanced investment negotiations, which could result in a better outcome for the players.
The AGCC stated they did not enter into this decision lightly, and will reconvene no later than September 15, 2011.

Pokernews.com has the story. Click here for the details.

MLB Picks, July 26th.

Three games worth putting a few dollars on today.

$10 on Toronto (Morrow) over Baltimore (Arrieta), -1.5 @ +$115

Morrow is 2-0, 2.91 ERA in his last three trips to the bump. Arrieta is 0-2, 6.61 in his last three.

$10 on Pittsburgh (Karstens) over Atlanta (Hanson), @ +$170

Karstens is 2-1, 0.78 ERA in his last three starts. Hanson is 1-1, 5.89 in his last three, including surrendering 6 runs in 6 innings against the Rockies in his last start.

$10 on Texas (Wilson) over Minnesota (Pavano), -1.5 @ +$100

Wilson is 5-1, 3.68 ERA at home this season. Pavano is 3-5, 5.07 on the highway on the year. The Rangers have won 7 of 10, including a  20-6 pasting of the Twins Monday night. 

Starting Bankroll     $1,500.00
Profit/Loss                  $4.10
Current Bankroll      $1,504.10

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, July 25th

Only one game on the docket today that's worth a peek.

$20 on NY Yankees (Garcia) over Seattle (Vargas), -1.5 @ +$100

Garcia is 1-1, 2.89 ERA in his last three trips to hill, including 6+ innings of shutout ball against the Rays in his last outing. Vargas' last start did not go as well, giving up 5 runs in 3 innings against Toronto. He is 0-3, 6.35 in his last three starts. The Mariners have dropped an incredible 15 straight games.

Starting Bankroll         $1,500.00
Profit/Loss                   <$15.90>
Current Bankroll          $1,484.10

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!

Hot, Hot, Hot!



3-Day Forecast

We're having a heat wave,
A tropical heat wave,
The temperature's rising,
It isn't surprising.- Irving Berlin

Twenty-four days into July and we have had 24 days of 100 degree + weather. The forecast for the next seven days calls for highs between 102-105. If it's correct it will be only the second time in history that the high temperature in the Waco area was above 100 degrees every day in the month of July.

It's 104 as I type this and supposed to hit 105 tomorrow.

I guess we're lucky, it's forecast to hit 109 in Dallas tomorrow.

A day hot enough to make the devil sigh.

Sheesh.

MLB Picks, July 24th

Only one game on the docket today that's worth putting a few bucks on.

$10 on Texas (Ogando) over Toronto (Cecil), -1.5 @ +$100

Ogando is 7-1, 2.84 ERA at home this season and is coming off 8 innings of shutout ball against the Angels in his last outing. Cecil is 2-4, 5.77 ERA this season and gave up 5 runs in 7 innings against a light hitting Seattle team in his last start. The Rangers have won 8 of 10 and the first two games of the series.

Starting Bankroll          $1,500.00
Profit/Loss                      <$5.90>
Current Bankroll           $1,494.10

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, July 23rd

I like a couple of NL match ups today.

$20 on Philadelphia (Kendrick) over San Diego (Latos), -1.5 @ +$150

Kendrick is 1-0,1.38 ERA in his last three trips to the bump. Latos is 5-10, 4.02 ERA on the season. The Phillies have won 7 of 10 and have owned the Padres this season.

$10 on San Francisco (Vogelsong) over Milwaukee (Wolf), -1.5 @ +$170

Vogelsong is 7-1, 2.02 ERA this year. Wolf is 0-2, 4.87 ERA in his last three starts. The Giants have won 7 of 10.

Starting Bankroll                 $1,500.00
Profit/Loss                            <$52.90>
Current Bankroll                  $1,447.10

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!

Straight Flush For "Big Casino"

We had 10 runners sit down to pitch a few cards last night at J-Dawgs Poker Extravaganza. After chowing down on some chopped brisket sandwiches that Stamps whipped up, we got down to business.

From left to right on your radio dial we had J-Dawg, Dealer Larry, Glass Man, Big Casino, Ray-Ray, Farmer Harry, Bobby Dee, Ollie the Accountant, Stamps, and yours truly.

Big Casino wrapped up the High Hand Jackpot early in the evening in this $20 dealer's choice limit game, when he rivered a popcorn straight flush to the jack. Stamps hit quad kings later in the evening, but it wasn't good enough on this night.

Farmer Harry got off to a slow start, but ended up the big winner on the evening, cashing out for a $15 profit. Big Casino won $11, as did Ollie. Stamps came out ahead by $6, with J-Dawg breaking even. Dealer Larry lost a little, but Glass Man got hit hard, dropping $30. Ouch.

I walked away with a big $1 win. HEE-HAW!

Ms. Duck and I are heading over to Tin Man's tonight for another evening of live poker. His wife, Lil' Annie Okie came thru her surgery okay last Tuesday and should get out of the hospital in another 7-10 days. We'll miss her tonight and look forward to having her back at the table in a week or so.

Till next time, win the flips.

MLB Picks, July 22nd

I don't see any match ups on today's schedule that excite me, so I'm going to set out today and wait to see what tomorrow brings.
  
Starting Bankroll           $1,500.00
Profit/Loss                      <$52.90>
Current Bankroll            $1,447.10

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!

Full Tilt Set To Show Their Cards?

Full Tilt has an appointment with the Alderney Gambling Control Commission next week in an effort to have their suspended gaming license reinstated. Also, the three week exclusive negotiating period with the group of European investors will come to an end shortly thereafter.

 

I believe the two are intertwined. If the investor group doesn't have the assurance of a gaming license, why would they invest in a company incapable of producing income?

 

I know there is some value to the intellectual property in the Full Tilt software (particularly the "Rush" programing), but let's be honest here, we're only interested in a deal that will get the players paid. An intellectual property deal won't get that done.

 

I would think the US Department of Justice would also have a say in this. What exactly will it take from the new owners to square things with Big Brother? Will Full Tilt be in the mix when poker is legalized in the states?

 

Lots of questions still to be answered. Full Tilt has maintained radio silence for a month and a half, but they'll probably have to table their hole cards in the next couple of weeks as the licensing hearing and negotiations come to a head. I don't know if we'll like the outcome, but at least we won't be sitting here in the dark much longer.

 

Hopefully, we'll all cash in this one!

 

 

 

MLB Picks, July 21st

I think I'll ride CC today against the Rays.

$10 on NY Yankees (Sabathia) over Tampa Bay (Shields), -1.5 @ +$120

Sabathia is having a great year and is pitching his best ball right now, going 3-0, 0.38 ERA in his last three starts. Shields is 0-3 in his last three, including surrendering 6 runs in 6 innings against the BoSox in his last outing.

Starting Bankroll              $1,500.00
Profit/Loss                         <$42.90>
Current Bankroll               $1,457.10

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!

WSOP "November Nine" Is Set

2011 November Nine

And then there were nine.

Late last night John Hewitt pushed with pocket threes and was called by Eoghan O'Dea's K-J. The flop was Q-10-7, giving O'Dea two over cards and an up and down straight draw. The turn was the ace of hearts, spelling doom for Hewitt and breaking his heart. Bubbling the final table of the Main Event has to be an awful feeling. I'm sure the $600k+ payout will help, but he's got to be crushed.

Here are the chip counts for the November Nine.

Martin Staszko         $40 million
Eoghan O'Dea            34 M
Matt Giannetti            25 M
Phil Collins                24 M
Ben Lamb                  21 M
Badih Bounahra         20 M
Pius Heinz                 16 M
Anton Makievsky      14 M
Sam Holden               12 M

And so we wait.

MLB Picks, July 20th

I don't see anything that excites me too much on today's schedule. If I was forced to make a bet, I would probably take the "over" (10.5) in the Boston/Baltimore match-up. But I don't, so I'll take a day off.

Starting Bankroll            $1,500.00
Profit/Loss                       <$42.90>
Current Bankroll            $1,457.10

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!

22 and Counting, WSOP Day 8

Anton "I Must Crush You" Makievsky of the Ukraine begins day 8 of the WSOP Main Event as the chip leader with $21 million, followed by Eoghan O'Dea with $19 million. Twenty-two players will sit down at three tables later today to take a shot at the fame and fortune a Main Event final table will surely bring. There's probably not a lot of sleep going on in Vegas right now. But is there ever?

Known pro Steve Brecher busted in 31st late last night. David Sands followed shortly with a 30th place finish. In true Romeo and Juliet fashion, girlfriend Erika Moutinho fell on her sword in 29th. The couple took home almost half a million dollars between them. Not bad!

Blind levels beginning day 8 are $80k- $160k- $20k ante. Christopher Moore is the short stack with $3 million, but there are seven players with less than $5 million, so there should be a lot of action early as the shorties try to chip up and survive to play in November.

It should be an interesting day of poker.

Till next time, win the flips.

WSOP Main Event Down To Four Tables

Erika Moutinbo
Last Woman Standing

Only 31 players left in the 2011 WSOP Main Event.

American Ryan Lenaghan leads the tourney with $16.2 million.

Steve Brecher felted Eric Lindgren when he called E-Dogs push. Lindgren tabled 4-4 and Brecher J-J. The fish hooks held and Lindgren went home in 43rd place.

Erika Moutinbo is the last remaining female and just doubled up to $3.8 million. With blinds at $60k- $120k- $15k ante, she'll be pushing a wide range. Hopefully, she can get another double-up and climb back into serious contention.

She was seated at the same table as her boyfriend David Sands when there were around 40 players left. When she was seated, she gave her main squeeze a kiss, probably a first between two players this late in the Main Event. Fun times!

The November Nine is just around the corner.

Till next time, win the flips.

MLB Picks, July 19th

One game on the docket today.

$40 on Washington (Zimmermann) over Houston (Happ), -1.5 @ +$115

Zimmermann is 1-1, 1.77 ERA in his last three starts, including 6+ innings of shutout ball against Colorado in his last outing. Happ is 0-2, 7.79 in his last three trips to the bump. His last start ended with 5 runs allowed in 5+ innings against the Marlins. The Astros have dropped 8 of 10.

Starting Bankroll                $1,500.00
Profit/Loss                           <$2.90>
Current Bankroll                 $1,497.10

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!

57 Left Standing At WSOP Main Event

Day 6 Chip Leader 
Ryan Lenaghan

Day 6 of the WSOP Main Event ended late in the night with 57 players surviving.

Ryan Lenaghan leads the pack with $12.9 million, followed by Ben Lamb with $10.0 million. Erick Lindgren is still hanging around with a stack of $2.2 million. Steve Brecker is sitting on $1.8 million.

Both Allen Cunningham and Jean-Robert Bellande have been eliminated.

We.re getting close to learning who the November Nine will be. Stay tuned!

Till next time, win the flips.

WSOP Main Event Down To 69 Players

As of 11:30 CDT on Day 6 of the WSOP Main Event, there are only 69 players remaining. Over half of the runners are from the US.

Phil Collins leads the tourney with $8.2 million. Known players left include Erick (E-Dog) Lindgren ($2.2 million), Allen Cunningham ($1.2 million), and Jean-Robert Bellande ($1.2 million). With blind levels at $25K-$50K-$5K ante, both Cunningham and Bellande will be looking to re-raise all-in to either double-up or steal a pot.

Of the three, who do you think is the most likely to make the November Nine? I hope at least one of them will, just for the star power. Of course E-Dog and Cunningham are both associated with Full Tilt, so that should make an interesting storyline should either of them survive long enough to make the Final Table.

Till next time, win the flips.

MLB Picks, July 18th

Only one game worth a look on the abbreviated schedule today.

$10 on ChiSox (Buehrle) over Kansas City (Davies), -1.5 @ +$135

Buehrle is coming off 8 innings of shutout ball in his last outing and sports a nifty 2.05 ERA in his last three starts. Davies has struggled all year, winning only 1 time in 8 decisions with a 7.74 ERA. He hasn't fared any better lately, 0-3, 10.51 ERA in his last three starts.

 Starting Bankroll               $1,500.00
Profit/Loss                           <$16.40>
Current Bankroll                 $1,483.60

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, July 17th

One game in each league on the docket that are worth a peek.

$40 on Atlanta (Jurrjens) over Washington (Gorzelanny), -1.5 @ +$115

Jurrjens is having a Cy Young caliber year, posting a 12-3 record, and a 1.87 ERA. Gorzelanny has struggled on the highway, sporting a 1-5, 4.89 resume in visitor's ballparks this season.

$20 on Minnesota (Duensing) over Kansas City (Paulino), -1.5 @ +$155

The Twins have played well over the last month, and are crawling back into the race in the AL Central. Duensing is 2-0, 2.57 ERA in his last three starts. Paulino is 1-2, 4.71 in his last three. Minnesota has won 7 of 10. 

Starting Bankroll           $1,500.00
Profit/Loss                        $43.60
Current Bankroll            $1,543.60

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, July 16th

A couple of games on the agenda today worth putting a buck or two on.

$20 on Philadelphia (Hamels) over NY Mets (Niese), -1.5 @ +$115

Hamels is 11-4, 2.32 ERA this season and gave up only 1 run in 8 innings against the Braves in his last start. Niese is 1-1, 5.40 ERA in his last three trips to the bump. The Phillies have won 7 of 10 and the Mets have dropped 3 straight.

$10 on Atlanta (Hanson) over Washington (Lannan), -1.5 @ +$125

Hanson is 10-4, 2.44 ERA this year. He surrendered only 1 run in 7 innings his last outing. Lannan is 2-3, 5.18 on the highway this season and gave up 3 runs in 3+ innings against the Rockies the last time he toed the rubber. The Braves have won 7 of 10.

Starting Bankroll        $1,500.00
Profit/Loss                     $73.60
Current Bankroll         $1,573.60

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!

Phillie Phanatic Ships Tourney

We only had six runners show for Tin Man's $5 NLHE Tourney Friday night. From left to right on your radio dial were Ms. Duck, Philly Phanatic, Lil' Okie Annie, Tin Man, Big Daddy, and your humble scribe.

Tin Man and Lil' Okie Annie were in high spirits, as they learned that a friend that they had bought a piece of for the WSOP Main Event had cashed. So I guess you could say that they were the big winners on the night.

Philly Phanatic was a wrecking crew in the tournament, knocking out every other player at the table on his way to victory. It seems like you should get a bonus for that! Tin Man was the first to go when his two pair ran into Philly's straight. Ms. Duck was next, followed by Big Daddy and Lil' Okie Annie. I got all my chips in the middle when I flopped top pair. Philly called with bottom pair, but hit trips on the turn and that was all she rote.

Ms. Duck had doubled up her original $2 buy in at the cash game by the time I sat down at the table. She continues to play tight/passive poker, and ended up blinding down and then losing one pot to go busto. She sat out a few minutes, then rejoined the game and caught fire, cashing out for $10 at the end of the evening. I like to mix it up a little, and my stack had some wide variance. I ended up re-buying three times ($6 total), but cashed out for $16 by he time the last card hit the felt.

I was able to win a big pot against Tin Man when I rivered a straight. Tin Man had two pair and had bet it on the flop and turn. I figured he'd bet the river also and was able to check-raise him for a nice score. I also ran well against Big Daddy, although he took a pot away from me with the worst hand. I rivered a straight, but the river also put four hearts on the board. Add that to the hearts in my hand and there's still just four. I checked the river and Big Daddy shoved. I hem-hawed for a minute or two before folding my straight, face up.

"You're not gonna like this," Big Daddy said as he tabled pocket aces, neither a heart.

"Nice bet," I said. And it was.

It had been a couple weeks since I had played at Tin Man's and it was good to see everyone again. Leaving with a few extra sawbucks didn't hurt either!

Till next time, win the flips.

                                        *******

Lil' Okie Annie is scheduled for major surgery this Tuesday in San Antonio. She has had hernia issues for a while, with three previous operations to try to correct the problem. This time, the surgeons are removing muscle from her back and sides, and transplanting them to her abdomen in order to form an abdominal lining that will not tear. They will cover the whole thing with a mesh for added stability.

It's a complicated and dangerous procedure and I would like to ask everyone to remember Annie this Tuesday by sending your prayers, positive thoughts, good vibes, etc, to both Annie and her husband Tin Man. Trust me, she's one of the good'uns!

She has a good attitude going in. She said, "the best part of the operation is that I get a 'tummy tuck'!"

Thanks!

LD

Congrats To The Pittsburgh Pirates!

Our country awoke this Saturday morning to find the perennial doormat of the league, the Pittsburgh Pirates perched atop the NL Central Division!

Let me be the first to congratulate the Buccos on their accomplishment. I know it's mid July and they haven't really won anything yet, but I don't think they'll be there long and I want to put in a good word for them while I can.

Why won't they stay in first place? Well, they won't be playing my Astros all year. The victories will get tougher.

For now at least, the Pirates are looking down on the rest of the division. Somewhere, Stargell and Clemente are smiling.

MLB Picks, July 15th

No less than eight games on the schedule that were worth a look, but I narrowed it down to the three best bets.

$10 on Florida (Nolasco) over ChiCubs (Dempster), @ +$105

Nolasco has been throwing the pill well lately, posting a 2-1 record with a 0.72 ERA in his last three starts, including surrendering only 1 run in a complete game victory over Houston in his last outing. Dempster is 6-6, 5.01 ERA this season and gave up 3 runs in 5 innings against the Pirates the last time he toed the slab. The Fish have won 5 straight and the Cubs have dropped 7 of 10.

$10 on Cleveland (Tomlin) over Baltimore (Arrieta), @ +$100

Tomlin is 10-4 this season, with a 3.81 ERA. Arrieta has won only one of his last three starts, and sports a 7.53 ERA. He gave up 4 runs in 4+ innings against the BoSox in his last outing. The Orioles have dropped 8 straight.

$10 on Pittsburgh (Karstens) over Houston (Myers), @ -$105

Karstens has won his last three starts and beat the Astros in his last outing, surrendering only 1 run in 7 innings of work. Myers has lost his last three and has a 6.23 ERA. He is also 1-5, 5.33 ERA at Minute Maid. the Astros have lost 9 of 10 as they head toward their first 100 loss season in franchise history.

Starting Bankroll             $1,500.00
Profit/Loss                          $64.10
Current Bankroll              $1,564.10

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, July 14th

One game on the docket that's worth a look as the second half of the season cranks up.

$20 on Cleveland (Masterson) over Baltimore (Guthrie), -1.5 @ +$145

Masterson is 2-0, 0.53 ERA in his last three starts, including 8 innings of shutout ball against the Yankees in his last outing. Guthrie has continued to struggle this year, going 0-3, 5.87 ERA in his last three trips to the hill. He surrendered 6 runs in 5 innings his last outing against Texas. The Orioles have dropped 7 straight games.

 Starting Bankroll         $1,500.00
Profit/Loss                      $35.10
Current Bankroll           $1,535.10

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!

WSOP Visit

After an early lunch at PF Changs inside the Planet Hollywood casino, Ms. Duck and I made the short drive over to the Rio to catch a few minutes of the WSOP Main Event, day 1A action.

Doyle Brunson was at the feature table inside the "mothership" set. It was nice to see him without the annoying Doyle's Room logo on his Stetson. We also ran into Sammy Farha in the hallway and saw Greg Raymer sitting at a table wearing a bright orange shirt. He looked like a big pumpkin with a Poker Stars patch. Also ran into Evelyn Ng.

We then headed over to the Orleans, where I was hoping to play a little poker. When we got there, the poker room was humming and the waiting list for $1-2 NLHE was 16 deep. We were there a couple hours and ate at TGIFridays before driving to the Fashion Square Mall for a few last minute souvenirs.

As always in Vegas, the week went by too fast. We had a 4:50 CDT flight on Continental to Houston. After a one hour layover, we were on our way to the Heart of Texas in a puddle jumper and pulled in our driveway a little after 11.

Ms. Duck started looking into airfare for our next trip earlier today. We can't wait to get back!

Till next time, win the flips.

Full Tilt One Step Closer To Sale

Full Tilt has entered into an agreement to negotiate exclusively with a prospective European investor. This is just one of the necessary steps to complete a deal between the two groups.

From the Subject: Poker website:

A reliable source who spoke on the condition of strict anonymity said that Full Tilt’s primary request is enough money to repay players and to cover a potential settlement of the United States Department of Justice’s civil complaint against the poker site. Since Full Tilt agreed to this exclusive agreement in spite of the presence of other suitors, the poker site’s executives presumably believe that the primary investor is likely to meet these terms.

Click here for the full story.

MLB Picks, July 10th

Betting just one game on the final day before the All-Star break.

$10 on Detroit (Verlander) over Kansas City (Francis), -1.5 @ -$110

Verlander is 2-1, 0.79 ERA in his last three trips to the bump. Francis is 3-9, 4.69 on the season.

Starting Bankroll       $1,500.00
Profit/Loss                    $45.10
Current Bankroll        $1,545.10

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, July 9th

Only one game worth putting a few sawbucks on.

$10 on Florida (Nolasco) over Houston (Myers), -1.5 @ +$140

Nolasco has a 1.57 ERA in his last three starts. Myers is 3-8, 4.67 ERA on the season and gave up 13 hits in 6 innings in his last outing. The Fish have won 3 straight and 7 of 10. The Astros have dropped 8 of 10.

 Starting Bankroll       $1,500.00
Profit/Loss                   $31.10
Current Bankroll         $1,531.10

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, July 8th

Only one game on the docket today that is worth a look.

$20 on Boston (Beckett) over Baltimore (Britton), -1.5 @ -$110

Beckett is 7-3, 2.12 ERA this season. Britton is 1-4, 6.98 in his last 7 starts. The Sox have won 7 of 8 and the O's have lost 9 of 10. Boston has won 20 of the last 25 games against Baltimore at Fenway.

Starting Bankroll         $1,500.00
Profit/Loss                     $13.10
Current Bankroll          $1,513.10

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!

Vegas Funkadelic Sounds

We decided to stay close to our hotel (Palazzo) and play in the casinos nearby. Beginning at the Wynn, we also played at Treasure Island, Mirage, Harrahs, Imperial Palace, Casino Royale, Venetian and the Palazzo.

Ms.Duck continued to abuse the Dueces Wild video poker machines. The only poker I played yesterday was at Harrahs, where I was reminded of a lesson in good table selection.

When I arrived, there was only one seat available at the $1-2 NLHE table and I didn't want to wait, so I took it. The problem is that there was a kid with a stack north of $1,100, plenty to play the role of table captain. He was 2 seats to my left.

I learned quickly that he was a wild one, once raising 10X BB, blind, then blindly calling a $45 flop bet. His opponent pushed the turn for $98, causing the captain to finally look at his hole cards. He called with fourth pair... and won! His opponent was bluffing, but I just can't see him making that call. I had several "okay" hands, getting A-J three times and medium pocket pairs a couple times, but never connected on the flop. The table captain always raised when entering a pot, usually 5- 10X the big blind, so I was down $100 pretty quickly and decided to cut my losses and look for a better situation.

I wasn't upset with my play, but I made a poor decision by taking a seat at the table. I knew the big stack would be to my left and was aggresive, but I sat down anyway. I wish I had gotten a big hand or two, Maybe the result would have been different.

Ms. Duck and I met at Ghirardelli Chocolate to share a sundae, and oh my was it good! There was a pretty good band playing in the Harrahs Court, covering both funk and disco songs which we enjoyed hearing. The best part was watching the old white people trying to jam to those '70's Funkadelic sounds!

We're heading to Planet Hollywood this morning to eat at PF Changs, then driving over to the Rio to check out the WSOP.

Heading back to Texas tomorrow.

Till next time,win the flips.

MLB Picks, July 7th

I'm gonna saddle up and ride two hot pitchers today.

$40 on Atlanta (Hudson) over Colorado (Nicasio), -1.5 @ +$125

Hudson is 2-0, 1.35 ERA in his last three trips to the bump. Nicasio is 3-9 in his last 12 and has dropped 6 straight road starts. The Braves have won 13 of 16 and the Rockies have dropped 4 in a row and have been outscored 18-5 by Atlanta in the series.

$10 on NY Yankees (Colon) over Tampa Bay (Niemann), -1.5 @ +$110

Colon is 4-0, 1.00 ERA in his last 4 starts. including a 6 inning shutout his last time out. Niemann is 3-4, 5.05 on the season. The Yanks have won 7 of 10.

Starting Bankroll         $1,500.00
Profit/Loss                     <26.90>
Current Bankroll          $1,473.10

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!

"Pinks" and Poker

Ms. Lucki Duck has wanted to eat at Pinks, the world famous hot dog joint for quite a while, so we had a couple of dogs for lunch there while visiting Planet Hollywood. She had a chili dog and I opted for the chili-cheese dog (living on the edge), plus an order of fries.

We Texans like our chili SPICY. If your tongue doesn't have second degree burns when you're finished eating, why bother. Pinks chili was very tame and really didn't have any kick to it at all. But the fries were good!

I headed for the Planet Ho poker room and bought in for $200 at the $1-2 NLHE cash game. I played solid poker, picking up a couple of nice pots when my A-K flopped top two pair, and my pocket tens flopped a set and turned a boat. I cashed out a couple hours later a little north of $300.

Ms Duck and I then walked across the street to check out the Cosmopolitan, a fairly new casino that we hadn't visited. Very nice place. We played a little video Bonus Poker when Ms Duck hit 4 dueces for a 50-1 payoff. I high-fived her and noticed that I had a pair of dueces on my machine, with a draw coming. "Wouldn't it be something if I hit 4 dueces too?" I said. Well, guess what? Yep, back-to-back quad twos!

SAH-WEET!

I think we'll head over to the Rio today and watch some WSOP action.

Till next time, win the flips.

MLB Picks, July 6th

I didn't see any games worth betting today, so I'll spend it at the poker tables in Vegas. Hopefully, there will be a +EV game or two tomorrow.

Starting Bankroll         $1,500.00
Profit/Loss                     <26.90>
Current Bankroll          $1,473.10

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!

Vegas Fireworks Spectacular

M Resort

Ms. Duck and I headed over to Ellis Island Casino for an early lunch and some video poker. We left with full bellies and broke even on the VP, with Ms. Duck winning about $20, and me losing the same. I did hit one big hand with four Aces on a Bonus Poker machine. It had a 2X multiplier when I hit it, giving me a 320-1 payoff if you're scoring at home. But, as is custom for we sheeple in Vegas, I gave it all back, plus a little. However, I had an afternoon of fun for 20 bucks. Not bad.

After finishing up at Ellis, we drove out to the M-Resort. What a nice place. It's got a very contemporary design, with a large poker room. I didn't play there yesterday, but if we go back I will. As a bonus, I got a free tee shirt for signing up for their player's card. It only cost me $30 in casino losses before the day was done :)

After a quick bite, we headed back to the strip for the firework shows. From our 45th floor room at the Palazzo, we could see no fewer than eight different shows lighting up the skies over Las Vegas. All I can say is "WOW!"

Till next time, win the flips.

MLB Picks, July 5th

Two games on the schedule today worth laying down a few rubles on.

$20 on Milwaukee (Wolf) over Arizona (Duke), -1.5 @ +$130

Wolf is 3-1, 2.89 ERA at home this season. Duke is 0-2, 8.16 in his last three starts.

$10 on Texas (Harrison) over Baltimore (Atkins), -1.5 @ -$110

Harrison is 1-1. 3.26 in his last three trips to the hill. Atkins is making his first start. Baltimore has lost 7 of 10.

Starting Bankroll         $1,500.00
Profit/Loss                     <15.40>
Current Bankroll          $1,484.60

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!

Rain In Vegas

Palazzo

We arrived in Vegas Saturday afternoon and checked in at Sam's Town. After one night there we moved to the Palazzo for the rest of the week.

Music Man and his brother Ranger Rick from Tin Man's $5 NLHE Tourneys that I play in were in Vegas for a wedding, so we met at the Monte Carlo for a little poker. They wanted to play in the $2-6 spread limit game and fortunately, we were able to play at the same table. Ranger Rick did well, but Music Man just couldn't get anything going and had to re-buy twice. I broke even on the night.

While we were playing, two interesting things happened. A royal flush was hit at another table, paying almost $1,300. Not bad for a $1-2 NLHE game. Also, it began raining and it amused me how excited the locals became with the liquid sunshine. It reminded me of my fellow citizens in Waco when it snows. The rainfall was even the lead story on the local news!

Ms. Lucki Duck is tearing up the "Dueces Wild" video poker machines, hitting four dueces three different times for a 200-1 payoff.

Nice! The casinos can't stop her, they can only hope to contain her!

Looking forward to some fantastic Vegas style fireworks tonight.

Happy Birthday America!

Till next time, win the flips.

MLB Picks, July 4th

In Vegas this week, so the picks may be spotty as I'm getting in late and am not "early to rise!"

Three games on the docket today that I'm willing to put a little scratch on.

$40 on Texas (Lewis) over Baltimore (Jakubauskas), -1.5 @ +$105

Lewis is 2-0, 1.77 ERA in his last three starts. Jaku is 1-1,6.60 in his last three. The O's have lost 7 of 10.

$10 on ChiSox (Buehrle) over Kansas City (Francis), -1.5 @ +$140

Buehrle is 0-1 in his last three starts, but has a tidy 2.33 ERA. Francis is 0-3, 7.04 in his last three, and is 1-5, 7.04 on the highway this season.

Starting Bankroll         $1,500.00
Profit/Loss                     <47.40>
Current Bankroll          $1,452.60

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, July 3rd

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

$40 on San Francisco (Vogelsong) over Detroit (Porcello), @ +$120

Vogelsong is 6-1 on the season, while Porcello has struggled of late, going 0-2, 14.29 ERA in his last three starts, including getting lit up for 7 runs in 3+ innings his last time out. The Giants have won 8 of 10.

$40 on Philadelphia (Lee) over Toronto (Reyes), -1.5 @ -$115

I don't really like the price on this game, but Lee has been amazing lately. Three straight complete game wins, all shutouts. It doesn't get any better than that! Reyes has lost 2 of his last three starts and gave up 5 runs in 6 innings of work his last time out. The Phillies have won 7 of 10.

$20 on NY Yankees (Garcia) over NY Mets (Dickey), -1.5 @ +$125

Garcia is 2-1. 2.25 ERA in his last three trips to the bump. Dickey is 4-7, 3.77 ERA on the season. The Yankees have won 7 straight.

Starting Bankroll         $1,500.00
Profit/Loss                      $52.60
Current Bankroll          $1,552.60

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, July 2nd

One game on the docket today, involving the two teams from the Windy City.
$20 on ChiSox (Humber) over ChiCubs (Garza), -1.5 @ +$145

Humber is 7-4, 2.89 ERA on the season. Garza sports a 4-6 record on the year, with a 4.07 ERA. The Palehose have won three straight.

 Starting Bankroll         $1,500.00
Profit/Loss                       $72.60
Current Bankroll           $1,572.60

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, July 1st

A new month and for the first time in a while I don't see any games that are worthy of a wager. Guess I'll see what tomorrow's schedule brings.

Starting Bankroll         $1,500.00
Profit/Loss                      $72.60
Current Bankroll          $1,572.60

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!