This is an 8* TOTAL on the OVER Yankees/Orioles.

The Yanks have seen the total go UNDER in three straight. That includes both games in Baltimore. We believe the finale finally sets up as a bit of a slug-fest though.

New York has seen the total go OVER in seven of its last ten after playing to three or more straight UNDERS in a row.

Both teams have struggled with runners in scoring position, but that trend ends here and now.

Nestor Cortes (0-0, 0.00 ERA) gets the call for the Yanks. He took a no-decision on Tuesday vs. the Jays despite allowing just three hits over 4 1/3's scoreless innings. I say regression is in order here though.

The home side counters with Bruce Zimmerman, who also was great in his first start, giving up three hits over four scoreless innings vs. the Brewers, also unfortunate to receive a no-decision.

But again, regression is in order here after that gem.

With both teams desperate for a "big hit," look for that to finally happen here vs. these mediocre starting pitchers.

The play is the OVER.

Good luck, NP