Bleacher Report - Articles by ctsports picks

North Carolina-Virginia Tech: The Must-Know Facts and Trends

ctsports picks — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 08:00:19 -0400

The ACC conference is once again in the spotlight on a Thursday night ESPN game.

This week we see two teams that both have been disappointed so far with their records and are hoping that a late season push will put them back in the ACC title hunt.

Virginia Tech was off last week after a disappointing road loss to Georgia Tech. On the other hand, UNC is coming off a loss last Thursday at home after leading in the third quarter by 18 points.

The winner of this game must forget the recent loss and instead focus on what both teams are saying is a must win.

Oddsmakers have not made this a close line as Virginia Tech is a 15.5-point home favorite. Don't go at it on your own—check out the must know facts and trends from CT Sports Picks lead Handicapper Craig Trapp.

North Carolina comes into this matchup needing a signature win, as to this point they only have one good win against an average UConn team.

Butch Davis thought that his very good defense would be able to hold the huge lead last week against a reeling FSU team. The questionable conservative offensive play-calling in the second half has many Tar Heel fans very upset and questioning why.

A win against a very good Hokie team could halt all the critics, but the Tar Heels have to try to beat their first ranked team on the road since 2001.

The defense of the Tar Heels is ranked No. 7 in the country, but even this high ranking has not been enough to produce wins lately, as they have lost three of their last four.

Offensively the Tar Heels have been very inconsistent and really need to run the ball and play conservatively to win. Playing close to the vest on offense will not be enough to win tonight in Blacksburg, so Coach Davis will have to try some trick plays to stay in this one.

UNC betting trends are interesting going into this big game:

Tar Heels are 4-1-1 ATS in their last six games as an underdog of 10.5 or greater.

Tar Heels are 4-1 ATS in their last five games as an underdog.

Tar Heels are 3-1-1 ATS in their last five games as a road underdog of 10.5 or greater.

Tar Heels are 5-2-1 ATS in their last eight games following a bye week.

Tar Heels are 1-4 ATS in their last five Thursday games.

Tar Heels are 1-4 ATS in their last five road games.

Tar Heels are 1-5 ATS in their last six conference games.

Virginia Tech has had to redirect goals, as they now have been eliminated from a National Championship game but still hold a goal of winning the ACC and going to another BCS bowl. Coach Frank Beamer has had a week off to try to fix the mistakes that cost them in a loss to Georgia Tech.

Offensively the Hokies need to cut down on the turnovers and maybe even be a little boring. The offense, led by Tyrod Taylor, just needs to run the ball and throw safe passes and let the Hokie defense and special teams dominate the opponent.

Beamer ball is great at home, and at night it's even better, but covering the spread is a whole different animal. Check out the betting trends for the Hokies:

Hokies are 4-0 ATS in their last four games following a ATS loss.

Hokies are 4-1 ATS in their last five Thursday games.

Hokies are 4-1 ATS in their last five home games.

Hokies are 7-2 ATS vs. a team with a winning record.

Hokies are 29-13 ATS in their last 42 conference games.

Hokies are 4-9 ATS in their last 13 games as a favorite.

Hokies are 2-5 ATS in their last seven home games vs. a team with a winning road record.

Hokies are 1-6 ATS in their last seven games in October.

Still not sure which game team to wager on? Check out our 20 EXPERT HANDICAPPERS GUARANTEED Winners!

The Five Most Shocking College Football Teams For 2009

ctsports picks — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 10:11:48 -0400

Can you believe it that CFB is almost here already?? Can't wait to see all the teams, bands, fans, and crazy happenings. Craig has already looked at the NFL top five surprises and now he is looking at College Football 2009.

Very interesting year as some of the teams that have been struggling recently will really improve this year. Craig even has two prominent programs taking a huge downturn this year as part of his surprises.

1. Oregon Ducks: USC has owned the PAC 10 for years but this year Oregon will take over. Quarterback Jeremiah Masoli and tailback LeGarrette Blount will both be the key to getting this team into national championship contention.

This team will put up ridiculous points and with a favorable schedule make them a PAC 10 winner, and if all shakes out well, a National Championship contender.

2. Michigan Wolverines: No, I did not fall and hit my head. I do believe that the maize and blue will be so much better and really have a chance to finish in the top three of the big ten. The Big Ten is just not very good this year and Coach Rod's system has always won in his second year at a school. This team will be bowling with at a minimum eight wins and really could see up to 10 wins for them.

3. Georgia Bulldogs: Success has spoiled the Bulldog fans but don't be surprised when this team finishes with less than nine wins this season. As always, the SEC will be the best top-to-bottom football conference, and Georgia will be in the pack but not at the top!

4.Oklahoma State: This is the season that OSU goes from being pretty good Big XII team to national powerhouse. The best trio of offensive players in the country with Quarterback Zac Robinson, tailback Kendall Hunter, and receiver Dez Bryant.

Defense is usually the question with this team but if they improve just a little bit this team will win the Big XII. Dez Bryant has a real chance to walk away with the Heisman Trophy if he stays healthy this season.

5. Alabama Crimson Tide: This team will struggle this year. Don't be surprised if this team really comes out slow with a rebuilt offensive line and new QB. This team was manhandled in the Sugar Bowl really exposing the lack of team speed.

The SEC is so good and see this team as fourth or fifth best team in league at best. Coach Saban should be happy if he gets to nine wins this year. Fans will be disappointed and really surprised when this team finishes several games back in the SEC!

College football will be here before we know it and there will be teams that over and under achieve that is the fun of each college football season.

Enjoy the season and make sure you check out all of Craig's Free Sports Picks daily at CT Sports Picks!

NFL 2009—Top Five Teams That Will Shock and Surprise

ctsports picks — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 07:38:32 -0400

Don't look now but its almost July and before you know it the NFL season will be under way. Craig from CT Sports Picks has five teams that can shock the world with a huge turnaround. The shock won't just be teams winning extra instead he has two power teams that are going to really have a bad season.

Make sure you also check out Craig's new Sports Handicapping Weekly Radio show PICKS & PARLAYS. The show is on Tuesday's at 7PM EST or you can get the podcast anytime.

1. San Fransisco 49ers—Coach Mike Singletary has this team believing that they can make a huge turnaround and even win the division. Arizona won this division last year but will take a step back so this division could be won with 8-9 wins. Frank Gore staying healthy is a must, but if he has a bounce back season, watch out, they can shock the world.

2. Baltimore Ravens—Last year this veteran team made their last great run at winning another championship. Key defensive losses in the offseason have this aging team very thin at most spots on defense. A very tough division and an extremely tough schedule will have this team at fewer than six wins for sure. Don't be shocked if key injuries to veteran defenders put this defense in the bottom 10 of the league. Ray Lewis is not the player he once was and his age will be exposed this year.

3. Dallas Cowboys—Not a good year for the Cowboys to be opening their new Dallas Stadium. This will be a season that they will want to forget. The Cowboys will be lucky to get to .500 this year. Everyone in there division has improved except them. Yes they have rid themselves of several questionable character stars but they have not added any talent in return. Tony Romo has been reported as being out of shape, and with less talent around him this could really spell trouble.

4. Houston Texans—Could this finally be the year that this team shocks the world. YES YES YES!! This team is loaded and might be the best offensive team in football this year. A healthy Matt Schaub will spell trouble for both TEN and IND as Houston wins the division this year. The defense is hungry, young, and so fast. A favorable schedule and armed with the confidence that they can compete with the big boys make this team a huge threat.

5. Green Bay Packers—A year removed from the Brett Farve fiasco will have this team focused and very dangerous. Health was a problem for almost every player on the offensive side last year, but added depth and experience makes this team very dangerous. Everyone is talking about CHI and MIN but forgetting that this same GB team two years ago won this division. Don't sleep on the Packers as they will win double digits for sure!

Every year the NFL have teams that come from nowhere to win there division. Last year we had TEN and MIA both make the playoffs after very poor 2007!! Craig has given you some really underrated teams today that all will shock the NFL this year!!

Get all of Craig's free and premium sports handicapping picks and articles daily at CT SPORTS PICKS .com!!

NBA Mock Draft 2009

ctsports picks — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 11:45:58 -0400

The NBA season is finally over. Now teams are jockeying for free agents and trying to rank the NBA draft class. More than ever this economy has NBA teams looking to fill needs from the draft instead of free agency. Sports Handicapper Craig Trapp of CT SPORTS PICKS is going to give his NBA Mock Draft No. One-10!!

1. LA Clippers- Blake Griffin: This team needs depth at almost every position so makes total sense to take best player on board. Griffin is going to be a 15 year pro his game will be a better version of Carlos Boozer. Pencil him in for rookie of year as he will average a double double for sure this season.

2. Memphis Grizzlies- Hasheem Thabeet:The Grizzlies are trying to trade this pick but have not been able to find a suitor. If they can't trade the pick they will be forced to take Thabeet as he is the best big guy in the draft. Rubio is best available player but they already have two young guards and don't need another one. Thabeet is not good offensively but Memphis hopes he will be a poor mans Dikembe Mutumbo.

3. Oklahoma City Thunder- James Harden:This might be the most up in the air pick of the top five teams. They love Thabeet but as it stands now it does not look like he will be there. Harden would be a great fit between Westbrook and Durant. Not a great shooter but can get to the basket on anyone. Will be a very solid pro and might not be a superstar but would be good fit for the Thunder.

4. Sacramento Kings- Ricky Rubio:This would be the dream come true for Sacramento. They are so worried that Rubio won't be there at this point of the draft. But if he is there they definitely will take him. Rubio is a super star in the making. His passing skills combined with his height make him a very similar player to Jason Kidd early in his career. Outside shooting is not great for Rubio but he will improve with age.

5. Minnesota Timberwolves- Tyreke Evans:A great combo guard that still has raw athletic ability. Prototypical NBA 2 guard body that will grow into a very solid pro. The only question for Evans is can he play some point guard in the league. Upside on Evans might be one of the highest in the draft and development might make him the steal of the draft!

Craig will be back with a continuation mock draft with picks 6-10 later so make sure you check back.

Get all of Craig's free sports handicapping picks daily at http://www.CTSportsPicks.com!!

Kobe Bryant: Is He The Best Ever?

ctsports picks — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 10:25:30 -0400

I never thought I would be saying that Kobe Bryant might be the best ever. But you have to put Bryant in the conversation with the greats. What has Bryant not done that Magic Johnson or Michael Jordan did?? Has he not overcame every challenge and defense that anyone has placed upon him??

The Kobe haters had always said he could not win without Shaq. Well now he has won one in convincing fashion. If that is not enough, don't worry this Lakers team is very young and might win a few more. The great players don't settle for a championship, instead they strive to be the best ever.

When you compare Kobe's game to the best ever in Jordan, he stacks up very favorably. Let's look at the key parts of game and see:

Passing: Michael Jordan was one of the best set-up men of all time, but I would have to say Kobe is better. Lamar Odom said in a recent interview that Kobe could lead the league in assists if he played point guard as a pass-first option. That is pretty big praise coming from another peer.

Rebounding: Kobe has improved a ton in the rebounding category but is still not near the rebounder MJ was. Michael was a little better athlete and much stronger, which enabled him to dominate the glass at times.

Shooting: Kobe is a very clear-cut winner over MJ in the shooting category. Michael improved as his career went along but really never was a consistent three-point shooter. Kobe is one of the best shooters in the league, and his three-point shot is dangerous as well.

Defense: Kobe's defense has been much better in the last few years but still is nowhere near MJ's. Michael's was one of the best shut-down defenders of all times. Kobe does not have the lateral quickness of MJ nor the passion to shut people down.

Leadership: Clearly, MJ wins this one. Kobe has recently learned how to become a leader but will have to continue to grow to be in MJ's company.

Game-winners: No one would have imagined that there would be another player that has the motivation or will to win games in the clutch. Kobe has become the "Best Closer in Basketball" but still is not in the conversation with MJ.

As you can see, Michael Jordan is still the best ever, but Kobe Bryant is closing in on him. If Kobe can lead the L.A. Lakers to two more championships, he could definitely pull closer to the best-ever player tag. But in the meantime, MJ is still safe at the top of the mountain.

Get all of your sports handicapping information and free sports picks daily at http://www.CTSportsPicks.com !!

NBA Finals Game Five: Keys To Victory

ctsports picks — Sun, 14 Jun 2009 01:13:47 -0400

Every NBA series comes down to one deciding moment. Well this series moment was the Derek Fisher three point shot with five seconds left in regulation. The game tying shot most likely sunk any hopes the underdog Orlando Magic had in upsetting the LA Lakers. Now Orlando is down three to one and the question is will Orlando roll over and hide or come out swinging in game five. Handicapper Craig Trapp of CT SPORTS PICKS looks at game five and the keys for each team.

Orlando's will to win? -No team has come back from a three to one deficit in an NBA finals series. Will Orlando come out and play for pride or are they looking forward to a vacation on Monday. The Lakers are sure to be super confident considering they have not played good in Orlando and still have split the two games. The Magic have not been one to quit or give excuses all year but this is a big test.

Kobe the best finisher in sports? - Not since the likes of Michael Jordan have we seen a player turn it on when it comes to winning time. Kobe is great at putting his foot on the throat of his opponent when he smells blood in the water. Bryant and the Lakers have had a long two years and now with one game left to reach there goal don't look for them to let up.

Foul Shooting - So far in this series the team that shot better at the line have won the game. Game four saw Orlando miss several key FT attempts in the last six minutes of the game which for sure cost them a win. Bad foul shooting by Howard makes the Lakers defense much easier. If he gets in to deep they will wrap him up and make him go to the line to earn his points. The Lakers are the much better FT shooting team and might just be difference in game five.

Double Teams of Kobe - The last two games Orlando has doubled Kobe at almost every opportunity. This has held Kobe in check but also has given Fisher and Arriza wide open easy three point shots. Will Orlando change tactics and make Kobe get 50 to beat them or will they continue to give wide open threes to other Lakers.

Would be very surprised if you see Orlando come out and quit but not sure if it matters. Kobe and the Lakers smell blood in the water and want to end this as soon as possible. The Magic are desperate and would not be surprised if Coach VanGundy does not try something desperate like maybe a zone at times. No matter who wins it has been a great NBA season and the Lakers are a well deserving champion.

Don't miss out on Craig's 5 star NBA Game 5 TOTALS PLAY OF THE FINALS!!! Get all your free and premium sports handicapping picks daily at http://www.CTSportsPicks.com !!

Game Three Win By Orlando Means What For Rest of Series?

ctsports picks — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 13:09:28 -0400

A very nice performance by the Orlando Magic in game three has this series at two to one. Now as a sports handicapper we need to analyze what does it mean for the upcoming games?? Can the Orlando Magic shoot over 60 percent for three more games?

Oddsmakers have reduced the line for game four to Orlando -2.5, that is a 1.5 point drop from game three. The best sports handicappers predict game plan changes before the game even happens. Craig from CT SPORTS PICKS take a swing at predicting game four changes and predict the outcome of this series!

ORLANDO:Stan Van Gundy has done a great coaching job all season and game three was nearly a perfect game for the Magic. Although the Magic won game three they had to shoot an NBA finals record 67 percent from the field.

Coach Van Gundy will have to continue to make improvements because the Magic will not shoot this percentage again and the Lakers still were within two points with 45 seconds left. The Magic in game four will go into Howard even more and hope that he can get both Bynum and Gasol in foul trouble. Defensively the Magic will double Kobe off every ball screen and hope to make someone else beat them.

LAKERS:Coach Phil Jackson has to be smiling from ear to ear. The perfect game by Orlando and your team only loses by four!! The Lakers have the perfect game plan for guarding Orlando but no one could have imagined that the Magic would shoot over 67 percent.

LA will not change the defense scheme and will dare the Magic to repeat the game three performance. Offensively the Lakers will stay with the triangle offense but at key times will go to the pick and roll with Kobe and Gasol.

Oddsmakers reduced the line by 1.5 since game three recognizing that the Magic played perfect and the Lakers still almost beat them. Coach Phil Jackson is a genius and he will not over react to game three outcome.

Would be very surprised if the Lakers don't come out and sweep both game four and five. The Magic had a great game three but no way they can repeat the performance! Start planning for the parade LA!!

Get all of CT Sports Picks 20 handicappers free and premium sports picks daily!!

Belmont Stakes 2009 Winning Trifecta Box

ctsports picks — Fri, 05 Jun 2009 14:58:15 -0400

Wow it's the Belmont Stakes already. Seems like just yesterday some of these same horses were lining up to run for roses in Louisville, Kent. Since the first Saturday in May, the horse-racing world has been turned upside down. We have seen a 50-1 Kentucky Derby winner, and a filly won the Preakness for the first time in nearly 50 years. Today Sports Handicapper Craig Trapp gives his free trifecta box winning play.

This years Preakness sees Mine that Bird as the heavy favorite. Although this gelding has not done anything wrong in the last two races, I think you must play against this horse at this price. The style of a deep closer has not won the Belmont Stakes in forever, so let's throw him out and off the board and see if we can hit a big trifecta winning ticket.

Dunkirk was seen as the best colt until just a month before the Kentucky Derby. Now with a much-needed layoff, I think you will see this colt fresh and ready to run a great race. Hitting the board is a lock and the oddsmakers have made him 5-1, showing a ton of respect for a horse that is coming off a layoff.

Summer Bird is a very interesting super longshot. This horse has been working and loving the Belmont racecourse the past few weeks. An official five-furlong, 1:01 workout had hall-of-fame jockey Kent Desormeaux smiling from ear to ear. Looks like this colt is going to go out to the lead and might just be able to run away with this year's Belmont Stakes. At 15-1, he is definitely the best win wager of any horse in this year's race.

Charitable Man is the early-wagering second choice at 3-1. Without a doubt, this is the best horse in this race, but back class might be a problem. This is really the first race where he has faced the top three-year-olds, and it will be interesting to see where this colt will do his running. Sounds like the connections want him laying directly behind the front runner. This colt will get a huge head start over Mine that Bird and will have every shot to win this race.

The Belmont Stakes over the last 10 years has been the death of favorites, and this year we are making a stand against Mine that Bird. If this gelding runs off the board, the trifecta will pay big.

Enjoy the free Sports Handicapping Trifecta Box Winner and count your money all the way to the bank!! Get all your free sports handicapping picks daily at http://www.CTSportsPicks.com !!

NBA Championship Series Betting Trends: Orlando and Los Angeles

ctsports picks — Mon, 01 Jun 2009 00:49:34 -0400

The NBA brass wanted the dream matchup of Kobe vs. Lebron, but Orlando would have no part of it upsetting Cleveland in the Eastern Conference Finals.

The Lakers will have the home court advantage, but Orlando has overcame the advantage in its last two series.

In the regular season Orlando swept the L.A. Lakers and also covered the spread in both games. Series prices have L.A. as a favorite at -260 and Orlando as underdog at +210. Game One line opens with L.A. as a six-point favorite and the total of 206. Today Sports Handicapper Craig Trapp from CT SPORTS PICKS is going to breakdown the recent betting trends for the Magic and Lakers.

The Magic have been great against the spread going 7-1 the last eight games. Not only were they covering the spread, but they were killing the spread covering by an average of seven points.

The over total has also been hot for Orlando as they have gone over five of its last six games. Orlando was almost as big as underdog against Cleveland as they are against L.A., but obviously that won't discourage the Magic. For Orlando backers if you like there series price of +210 or +240 for Game One there is great value in this super-hot, underdog team.

The Lakers have been the odds on favorite to win the NBA Championship since week one of the regular season. L.A. has not played consistently well throughout the playoffs which is definitely shown in Lakers spread record of 5-5 the last 10 games. But the Lakers have played much better the last four winning three of four games both straight up and against the line.

The high-powered Lakers have surprisingly been a great under play the last 10 games going 8-2. Not great betting value if you are an a L.A. backer, but to be fair they have been about this price for a month. The value is definitely in the total if you think L.A. can continue to play shut-down defense.

This series has two teams with opposite betting trends, so the real question starts for all handicappers.

Can Orlando keep the hot three point shooting and force over totals and against the spread covers?

Can L.A. continue there defensive improvement and shut down Orlando's outside shooting?

Can't wait for Game One, but no matter who you are backing make sure you don't miss these games! Make sure you don't miss Craig's picks which are 4-1 the last seven days in the NBA! Get all your free and premium sports handicapping picks at http://www.CTSportsPicks.com!

Lamar Odom: The Key To The Lakers Championship

ctsports picks — Thu, 28 May 2009 02:40:06 -0400

The real Lamar Odom showed up in Game Five of the Western Conference Championship after being a no show in the first four games of this series. In the first four games of the series the Lakers looked like a one man show with only Kobe Bryant showing up with consistent performances. Fortunately for the Lakers in Game Five Lamar Odom showed up with his best performance of the playoffs scoring 19 points and 16 rebounds. But Odom did not stop his great play on the offensive end, instead he was great on the defensive end changing or blocking several shots.

Now the series shifts back to Denver for Game Six and the Lakers try to close out the very dangerous Denver team. The Nuggets might have better overall talent that LA but at times they blow up emotionally costing themselves. Such outbursts have cost Denver at least five points in every game this series. Should be interesting to see if this high pressure game will make this team lose or gain focus.

The Lakers do not want to risk a Game Seven as the Nuggets have the offensive firepower to score 120 when they are on there game. The Lakers smell blood in the water and must close out Denver or risk being sent home before the NBA Championship. LA has been very good in Denver this year going three-to-two so far this year so do not expect the Lakers to let down in Game Six.

Without a doubt the swing player in Game Six will be Lamar Odom. Everybody knows what you get from Kobe Bryant and Paul Gasol but the Lakers need Odom to step up and take some of the big shots. Odom has a huge mismatch as the Nuggets do not have anyone that can guard the very athletic Odom. Watch out for a huge game from Odom as he now has confidence!!

Make sure you check out Craig's free sports pick daily. Also check out Craig's hot MLB five star picks of the day which are 12-4 the last two weeks!! Get all your sports handicapping needs and free sports picks daily at http://www.CTSportsPicks.com !!

Orlando Magic: Can They Finish Off the Cavs?

ctsports picks — Wed, 27 May 2009 13:08:13 -0400

It's pretty unbelievable that less than two weeks ago Cleveland was odds on favorite to win the Eastern Conference Championship. Since then they have been dominated in every aspect and now are down 3-1 to the Orlando Magic.

Sports Handicapper Craig Trapp from CT Sports Picks had given a free sports pick in Game One that Orlando might not lose against the spread in this series, and so far his prediction has come true. Only one miracle shot in Game Two from LeBron James has kept Orlando Magic from sweeping the heavily favored Cavaliers.

Oddsmakers have made the adjustment in this series and now game five in Cleveland sees the Cavs as a minus-four point favorite. That is a huge adjustment from Games One and Two when the Cavs were favored by minus-10 in Game One and minus-eight in Game Two.

The sharp sports handicappers and public have been all over Orlando Magic in this series, but the majority of the public has been placing heavy money ATS on Cleveland. Sportsbooks have really cleaned up in this series, with over 60 percent of the public betting on the Cavs ATS in this series.

The Orlando Magic has made Cleveland's league-leading defense look very poor so far in this series. Most predicted that this series would be a ton of under totals, but thus far the over is 3-1 and the only loss was under by one point.

Now the series is going back to Cleveland where they usually play much better defense. It will be interesting to see how high the listed total will be. If Orlando wins you have to love the over as every game they have one the over has won easily.

Cleveland will win Game Five to keep this series interesting, but it would be surprising if they win against the spread. This year Orlando is five to two straight up against Cleveland but an even better 7-0 ATS.

It's pretty hard to go against the hot trend, but either way I can't wait to see if Orlando can finish off one of the bigger upsets in recent NBA Playoff history

Make sure you catch Craig's five-star MLB and NBA plays daily! Also check out his free sports picks daily http://www.CTSportsPicks.com !!

Memorial Day Free Sports Wagering Winner: TB @ CLE

ctsports picks — Mon, 25 May 2009 03:44:43 -0400

Craig continued his hot winning ways yesterday with his five star under as the Reds and Indians went under for all of his players. That puts Craig Trapp from CT SPORTS PICKS at 14-4 the last two weeks in his top five star PLAYS in MLB!! Today Craig has a great value free play in the American League, lets look at the records, trends and winning breakdown!!

Records

Tampa Bay Rays 23-23, 12-13 away (Price 0-0, 0.00 ERA)

Cleveland Indians 17-28, 7-11 home (Carmona 2-4, 5.74 ERA)

Betting Trends

-Rays are 4-0 in their last four games vs. a right-handed starter.

-Rays are 7-2 in their last nine overall.

-Indians are 1-4 in Carmonas last five home starts.

-Indians are 0-4 in their last four home games vs. a team with a winning record.

Price was a savior for this team at the end of last season for TB and well into the playoffs. Today he will try and end a losing streak of 13 games in Cleveland.

TB won three of four early this year at home and now try and this losing streak going back to September 2005. TB bats have been hot lately and CLE has really struggled with the pitching staff.

Today pitching for CLE is Carmona who has been very disappointing. He has allowed four earned runs the last two games in six innings in both starts. Carmona is 2-1 with a 5.51 ERA in his career against Tampa Bay in four appearances, including three starts.

Price will be lights out as he has nasty stuff and since CLE has not seen him it will make it even tougher to catch up with. TB will get into the very poor CLE bullpen and score often. SCORE TB 8—CLE 1

Don't miss out on Craig's very hot MLB streak of 14-4 in his five star top plays the last two weeks. Today's top play even has great value: Craig's MLB five star UNDERDOG PLAY OF THE WEEK!!!!! Get in early as this game starts early, get all your sports needs at http://www.CTSportsPicks.com !!

Craig's Top 5 MLB Power Rankings 5/21

ctsports picks — Thu, 21 May 2009 13:15:40 -0400

This is Craig's from CT SPORTS PICKS third edition of his power rankings, its been over two weeks since Craig's last power rankings. As a sports handicapper you are always looking for value and a handicapping tool that will help in picking consistent winners for profit. Since the last power rankings we have not see many changes with four of the same five top teams. Several of the teams have switched positions but with almost two-thirds of the season left there is still plenty of games remaining to improve your ranking.

1. Toronto Blue Jays: The Blue Jays have been solid all year and have moved up from No. 4 in Craig's rankings. The best starting pitching staff thus far in MLB and third best ERA in all of baseball at 3.82. Surprisingly the bats have been very good for Toronto with the second best batting average at .287. Many expect the pitching to fall back as the young starters hit a wall but I am not so sure that they will falter as much as everybody thinks. Value has been great money line all year with a profit of +1130 which is third best in all of MLB thus far!

2. Los Angeles Dodgers: This team has the best record in all of baseball and even losing Manny Ramirez to suspension, they have continued to win. At home they are almost unbeatable going 16-3. Power pitching and power hitting are a great combination in a week division in the NL West. Pitching has been great and currently they have the second best ERA at 3.70. This team has led the money line profits for the MLB season at +1359. This team would have to have serious injuries not to win their division and most likely have the best record in the National League.

3. Boston Red Sox: With several key injuries early in this season, it's very surprising that they have the second best record behind Toronto. Now that they are getting Kevin Youkilis back, this team should really start to dominate the toughest division in all of baseball. Their pitching has been up and down but Josh Beckett and Jon Lester have started to figure it out. This team is always a big favorite so profits have are hard to come by in the money line, thus far only +229. If you are going to play this team you must play run line to create value with the Red Sox.

4. St Louis Cardinals: Even though they are not leading their division, Craig has placed them above Milwaukee. Lately the Cardinals have had a tough road stretch but they have dominated the Cubs which will be there biggest threat to win the division. Hitting will not be a huge problem as they have the best offensive threat in baseball in Albert Pujols. Now that their ace Chris Carpenter is back, watch out as this team is going to put a string of wins together.

5. New York Yankees: With eight wins a row you have to give this team respect. The pitching staff has been up and down but we know that Sabathia, Petitte, and Burnett will begin to put up quality starts. Now with A-Rod back, this teams' bats have been unbelievable. Watch out this team because they are getting hot as the weather is heating up.

Only one team fell out of the top five with Kansas City faltering this past two weeks going 4-8 in that stretch. On the other hand, as bad as the Yankees started they are on fire now.

Check out all of Craig's Daily MLB plays, Craig has been hot going 9-4 in his 5 star MLB plays!! Check it all out at http://www.CTSportsPicks.com!!

Baltimore @ New York Yankees: Try To Avoid Sweep

ctsports picks — Thu, 21 May 2009 01:34:41 -0400

Rough week for the Free Plays in MLB for Craig. But the good news is the five-star plays have been on fire, going 9-2 in his MLB top play of each day!! Today Sports Handicapper Craig from CT Sports Picks has two strong plays, and to break the losing streak, he is going to give one of his top plays as his free pick play. Let's look at the records, trends, and breakdown.

Records

Baltimore Orioles: 16-24, 5-13 away (Eaton 2-4, 7.93 ERA)

New York Yankees: 23-17, 12-7 home (Chamberlain 2-1, 3.76 ERA)

Betting Trends

-Orioles are 7-20 in their last 27 road games vs. a right-handed starter.

-Orioles are 1-4 in the last 5 meetings.

-Yankees are 5-1 in Chamberlains last 6 home starts.

-Yankees are 43-18 in their last 61 during game 3 of a series.

The New York Yankees have been on fire, winning nine in a row and since A-Rod came back, they have outscored opponents 52-25. The new Yankee Stadium plays well for NY, as they lead the majors in homers and every player can hit it out at any time. After struggling early in the season, the starting pitchers in the last nine wins have been great with a sub 3.00 ERA.

Chamberlin will have extra motivation on the mound today, as HUFF mocked his fist pump after hitting HR in Baltimore a few weeks ago. Chamberlin will be lights out tonight and shut down BALT, who has been struggling to score. NY is 5-3 this year verse BALT, and in each of the wins they won by two or more runs, so don't fear giving up the run... EASY WINNER!! SCORE: NYY 7, BALT 3

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Colorado Rockies @ Atlanta Braves Free Total Winners 5/20/9

ctsports picks — Wed, 20 May 2009 02:24:31 -0400

Rough day yesterday as Craig's Premium MLB picks split one and one but Craig's top NBA five star Selection won easy with the Under Total. Today Craig from CT SPORTS PICKS free play will be a MLB Total. Lets look at the trends, records, and breakdown!!

Records

Colorado Rockies 15-23, eight-13 away (De La Rosa 0-3, 3.16 ERA)

Atlanta Braves 19-19, seven-11 home (Vazquez (3-3, 3.71 ERA)

Betting Trends

-Under is 8-0 in Rockies last eight games as an underdog.

-Under is 5-1 in De La Rosa last six starts overall.

-Under is 7-3-1 in Braves last 11 games as a favorite of -110 to -150.

-Under is 5-2-1 in Braves last eight games as a home favorite of -110 to -150.

Atlanta broke out of there home offensive slump yesterday scoring eight runs but before yesterdays game at home there previous 14 games they only had averaged 2.8 runs at home. They may have trouble putting together another big game offensively Tuesday as they face Jorge De La Rosa (0-3, 3.16 ERA). In his last two starts, De La Rosa has given up three runs in 15 innings with one walk and 22 strikeouts, but he remains win less mainly because his average of 2.74 runs of support is among the lowest in the majors. Think both teams will struggle to score and both pitching staffs will dominate the average batters on these two lineups. SCORE COL 2 - ATL 1

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NBA Western Conference Series Breakdown and Prediction

ctsports picks — Tue, 19 May 2009 10:32:29 -0400

The NBA Western Conference crown will be given to one of the top two teams from the regular season.

These two teams look to be headed in different directions entering this series.

Denver has been dominant, and since the playoffs started really they have not had one disappointing performance.

On the other hand, the Lakers are coming off a very disappointing series that saw their defensive effort come and go.

Sports Handicapper Craig Trapp of CT SPORTS PICKS is going to give a quick breakdown, keys to winning, and prediction in this Western Conference Championship Series.

The LA Lakers have been the public's and oddsmakers' favorite all season long—but the last series has shown a chink in their armor.

Lucky for LA, Denver is not a lock-down defensive team and will play an up-and-down game that the Lakers love playing. Kobe will love to get away from Houston and their physical defensive pressure.

The key for the Lakers in this series is simple—consistent defensive effort and defensive rebounding. This team at times tries to outscore teams and does not come with the effort needed to win in the playoffs.

Denver could not possibly be playing any better than they have thus far in the playoffs. Defensive intensity had been a problem for this team in years past. But after the trade acquiring Billups, this team changed and started to become a very good defensively. Most teams struggle to match the score this high-powered offensive powerhouse—but in the regular season LA dominated the Nuggets, winning three of four games.

The keys for Denver in this Western Conference Championship series is to wear the Lakers out with their depth. The Lakers' starters match up very well with Denver, but the Nuggets have a better bench. This really becomes an advantage in the thin, mile-high air of Denver.

This series will be very hard-fought, and most likely will go seven games. Even though the Lakers are coming off a disappointing series with Houston, Craig is taking the Lakers in seven games.

The tough series strengthened the resolve of this LA team and they now realize that no one will give them a win—or a series.

Make sure you get all of Craig's NBA and MLB free and premiums sports plays daily at http://www.CTSportsPicks.com!!

NY Mets Will Sweep SF Giants!! Craig's Game Breakdown 5/17/9

ctsports picks — Sun, 17 May 2009 02:10:33 -0400

Rough loss on free play yesterday with Tampa Bay and Cleavland leaving way too many runners in scoring position to get over 10 runs. But the good news is Craig from CT Sports Picks hit his five star NL Total of the Month. The five star strongest plays of the day are 5-1 in Craig's last seven days!! As always on Sundays Craig's free play is in the ESPN Night MLB Game of the day!!

Records

New York Mets 21-15, 9-7 away (Pelfrey 4-0, 4.89 ERA)
San Francisco Giants 18-18, 12-8 home (Cain 3-1, 3.00 ERA)

Betting Trends

Mets are 10-2 in their last 12 overall.
Mets are 4-0 in Pelfreys last 4 starts.
Giants are 0-5 in their last 5 games after losing the first 3 games of a series.
Mets are 7-0 in the last 7 meetings.

The Mets have dominated the San Francisco Giants the last two years and they are going for the sweep of this early season four games series in San Fran tonight. The Mets have been tearing the cover off the ball lately scoring over six runs per game in the last seven games.

Pitching for the Giants today is Cain who has been good overall this year, but the last three games he has given up over three runs per game on average and only got into the sixth inning in those appearances. He will have to pitch very well or he will be shelled for multiple runs early. Pelfrey is not near as dangerous as his counterpart but he just wins going 4-0 so far this year. He will scatter his hits today and go deep in this game. Mets stay hot and pull off easy win. SCORE NYM 6 - SF 2

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Preakness 2009 Prediction: Craig's Exacta Winning Play

ctsports picks — Thu, 14 May 2009 20:28:41 -0400

The 134th running of the Preakness Stakes at Pimlico Race Course should be one for the ages. With no filly winning this race in over 20 years and zero even running in almost 10 years, it would be a huge story for Rachel Alexandra to run away with an easy win.

Handicapper Craig Trapp of CT Sports Picks is not going to overanalyze this race. Rachel Alexandra is a super horse and will win easily. Instead, let’s try to find some value underneath her to play a nice winning exacta.

Rachel Alexandra is a front-running horse but can rate just off the lead, and it sounds like jockey Calvin Borel would love to sit just off the early leaders. But he will not be afraid, if it’s a really slow pace early, to put her on the lead and run away and hide at the end. Either way, she will beat this average group of three-year-old colts easily.

The bigger question is which horse can pick up the pieces after the front-runners falter, trying to keep up with the swift-of-foot filly. Craig is going to play two large exactas, keying Rachel Alexandra on top with the two below.

Papa Clem

Assuming they go very fast early, trying to run Rachel Alexandra off her feet, let’s take a closer with great odds. Papa Clem was closing down the stretch of the Kentucky Derby and will be coming late again. His camp thought that he did not love the slop but ran well anyway, so if the track is fast, Papa Clem should be even better in the Preakness. Winning exacta would pay well over 25-1 if these two go 1-2!

Mine That Bird

What a story it would be if the long shot Derby winner could get up and run second. I actually think if Rachel Alexandra has to take the lead that Mine That Bird has a slim chance of running her down at the wire. But more likely is that Mine That Bird picks off the tiring front-runners and finishes back five lengths of the super horse, Rachel Alexandra. Exacta will not be life-changing but will get at least 15-1!

We can't take the odds on a winning bet on Rachel Alexandra, but playing her on top with a few horses underneath in an exacta or trifecta wheel could be very profitable.

Make sure you check back daily to get all of Craig's free and premium sports picks! Get all of your sports handicapping needs at http://www.CTSportsPicks.com!

Preakness Stakes 2009: Can Anyone Beat Rachel Alexander?

ctsports picks — Thu, 14 May 2009 01:55:57 -0400

This super filly is seen as the best horse since Man o' War, and the hype for this horse in the Preakness is unheard of. A filly has not won the Preakness since 1924. In fact, no filly has run in the race since 1999.

Make sure you check back with Craig from CT Sports Picks, as tomorrow he will have the winning Exacta play!

If that story is not good enough, jockey Calvin Borrell of the Kentucky Derby winner Mine That Bird will jump to Rachel Alexander. In fairness to Borrell, he had ridden Rachel Alexander in all of her recent wins. Borrell has said that Rachel Alexander is the best horse he has ever ridden, which is big, since he has ridden two Kentucky Derby Winners.

The future is bright for this filly, and if she is as good as we all think she is, who knows what she will do for an encore? Owners have spread the rumors that if she runs well in the Preakness, she will start aiming for the Breeders' Cup. Can you imagine Curlin vs. Rachel Alexander?

Can't wait to see how this unfolds!

Come check out all of Craig's Sports Handicapping, free, and premium sports picks daily! Get it all at http://www.CTSportsPicks.com!

Craig's Top 5 MLB Power Rankings 5/6/9

ctsports picks — Thu, 07 May 2009 02:31:06 -0400

Wow how time has flown by, its been two weeks since Craig Trapp from CT Sports Picks released his MLB top 5 power rankings. Craig's uses his Power Rankings as one of many tools to help establish weak lines and also to pick winners.

Not much has changed in his top 5 with only one new team but several have moved within the top 5. Also make sure you check out Craig's other recent MLB article—Craig's Top 3 2009 WORLD SERIES UNDERDOG WINNERS!! Craig's last list was in order of rankings: LA Dodgers, Toronto Blue Jays, Boston Red Sox, Florida Marlins, and St Louis Cardinals. Below is Craig's new updated rankings and breakdown!

1. LA Dodgers: 12-0 at home thus far and the weakest division in all of baseball will have this team flirting with 98-100 wins this year. Best power pitching staff in baseball led by Billingsley who at times is unhittable. Oh by the way they have the best group of power hitters in the National League led by stud Manny Ramariez. No one is close to them at this point of the season.

2. Boston Red Sox: 5-0 vs the Yankees already has this team cruising in first place in the division. Pitching has been very shaky at best. Pretty scary to think how good this team will be when Lester and Beckett start performing to there career numbers. Toughest division in baseball will keep there win total down this season but in the end will win the division!!

3. St Louis Cardinals: Anyone still think Tony LaRussa is not the best manager in baseball?? Look at his starting rotation, only two dependable starters yet they still are winning!! King Albert is up to his old tricks early this season and has been carrying his team. STL and CHC will be in dog fight this season all the way down to the end!

4. Toronto Blue Jays: Craig dropped the Blue Jays down two spots not because they are playing poorly but more because the other two are playing slightly better. Huge surprise that Toronto is playing so well this year after losing their second best pitcher in the offseason. Handicapping this team is easy, they play small ball. They pitch to contact, play great defense, and limit mistakes. Huge turnaround and feel good story but in the end will be up against it in the toughest division in baseball.

5. Kansas City Royals: Craig's only new team in the top 5 is a shocker for all of us. One of worst teams last year is greatly improved in 2009. Best young pitching staff in all of baseball led by Grienke who is 6-0 with ERA below 1.00!! Hitting has really picked it up for this team and if it continues will win a very average American League Central.

Craig fully rates all of the MLB each week with his Power Rankings but only lists his top 5 for free. If you are interested in getting all of his picks make sure you check in with his MLB Premium Picks daily. Also you can check out his free MLB picks daily with full write ups for all you to enjoy.!!

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Tampa Bay Rays-New York Yankees Breakdown and Free Total Winner 5/6/9

ctsports picks — Wed, 06 May 2009 01:21:38 -0400

Craig's Totals have been hot the last 10 days going 3-0!! Yesterday Craig's Total of the week won with the Reds shutting out the Florida Marlins!! Lets look at Craig Trapp from CT Sports Picks Wed Total of the day as he tries to keep his hot totals streak alive!! Today's total is in the TAM and NYY game in the new Yankee stadium!!

Total Betting Trends

Over is 35-16 in Rays last 51 games vs. a right handed starter.
Under is 5-2 in Sonnanstines last seven starts as an underdog.
Over is 4-0-1 in Yankees last five home games.
Over is 4-1 in Burnetts last five starts overall.
Over is 20-8-1 in Yankees last 29 home games vs. a right handed starter.
Over is 4-1 in the last five meetings.

These two pitchers both have been very average this year (Burnett 5.40 ERA, Sonnanstine 6.75 ERA). Sonnanstine has a very poor start and even worse now he faces the NYY that beat him up in his career for more than one run per inning pitched.

Burnett on the other hand is coming off two starts where he did not go past the 7th inning and has given up more than four runs in both games. New Yankee Stadium is averaging well over 11 runs per game with only one game under double digits this year. Yankee Stadium over is 7-2 thus far this year. All trends and breakdown points to an easy over total today.

SCORE NYY 9 - TB 4

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Hawks-Cavaliers: Game One Breakdown and Betting Predictions

ctsports picks — Tue, 05 May 2009 01:59:23 -0400

Okay, we learned our lesson well from the NBA yesterday.

Today, handicapper Craig Trapp from CT Sports Picks will give you the free winner, breakdown, records, and trends for Game One in the Hawks/Cavs series.

Records

Cleveland Cavaliers 70-16 overall 54-32 ATS 41-2 home 29-14 away
Atlanta Hawks 51-38 overall 47-41-1 ATS 34-11 home 17-27 away

Betting Trends

ATL is 3-1 in last four plays vs CLE.
Hawks are 12-2 ATS in their last 14 vs. NBA Central.
Hawks are 0-5 ATS in their last five games as an underdog of 11.0 or greater.
Cavaliers are 5-0 ATS in their last five Conference Semifinals games.
Hawks are 5-2 ATS in their last seven meetings.
Underdog is 4-1 ATS in the last five meetings.

If you watched the NBA on Monday, you saw that the road teams are here to play this year. Also, you witnessed what happens when a team sits for a week plus as the Lakers did.

The Cavs will struggle knocking down open jump shots early and fall behind early. They will pull even late in third as LeBron gets to the hoop at will on this ATL team.

Cavs shooters will make just enough late to get a win, but the rust early will cost them ATS cover here.

Also, don't sleep on Joe Johnson, as he is the one Atlanta player with an advantage over his defender on the Cavs.

SCORE CLE 89 - ATL 85

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Craig's Monday Free Winner and Breakdown: Reds at Marlins

ctsports picks — Mon, 04 May 2009 00:36:49 -0400

Rough day yesterday as Craig's NBA top 2 plays split 1-1.

Don't miss out today as Sports Handicapper Craig Trapp of CT SPORTS PICKS has a big day today with two five-star plays today, with one NBA Slam Dunk Winner and one MLB Grand Slam Play! Get in now as Craig has them both for one low price!

Craig's free play is in the National League today between the Cincinnati Reds and Florida Marlins.

Records

Cincinnati Reds: 13-11 (9-4 Away); Aaron Harang 2-3 (3.09 ERA)
Florida Marlins: 14-11 (5-4 Home); Josh Johnson 2-0 (2.60 ERA)

Betting Trends

Reds are 9-2 in the last 11 meetings.
Reds are 4-1 in their last five road games.
Marlins are 3-10 in their last 13 games overall.
Marlins are 1-7 in their last eight games vs. right-handed starters.

Harang and the Reds are great on the road and Florida is average at home at best. With the exception of two starts, Harang has been very good and has a ton of experience.

If you take away the hot start by Florida, where they beat up on the bottom-feeders of the league, they are way overbet so far. I love this play, especially with the value in this game.

The Reds keep up the hot streak on the road and Florida stays cold as of late.

SCORE: CIN 6, FLA 0

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Sunday ESPN MLB: White Sox at Rangers Winning Breakdown

ctsports picks — Sun, 03 May 2009 12:05:34 -0400

Craig has his free play on Sunday in the ESPN MLB game of the night. The last three weeks Sports Handicapper Craig Trapp has picked the ESPN Sunday game of the week in his free play going 2-1 in that time period. Craig has good trends on his side for today's free play. Check out the records, trends, free breakdown, and winner!

Records

Chicago White Sox 12-11, 6-5 away Danks (2-1, 2.74 ERA)

Texas Rangers 11-12, 7-6 home Harrison (1-2, 7.89 ERA)

Betting Trends

White Sox are 5-2 in their last seven games as a road favorite.

Sox are 7-3 in their last 10 road games vs. a left-handed starter.

Rangers are 2-7 in their last nine home games vs. a team with a winning road record.

White Sox are 2-5 in the last seven meetings in Texas.

CWS have not been good in TEX over the last two years, but have split the first two games and really need a win on Sunday. CHW look to the ace of their staff, with Danks going for them Sunday.

Danks is coming off a rough start in SEA giving up five runs in four innings. But he rarely has two games in a row that are poor.

TEX has to score big to win as their starting pitching is horrible! Today CHW holds them under five and wins going away.

Score: CHW 8-TEX 4

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Kentucky Derby 2009 Trifecta Box Winning Play

ctsports picks — Fri, 01 May 2009 01:10:19 -0400

Every year on the first Saturday in May, the sports world sits on the edge of its seat waiting to see who will wear the bed of roses. With a rough economy, this year's Kentucky Derby has not been hyped as much as recent races.

But Craig is very excited as he thinks he has nailed the top three finishers in this year's Kentucky Derby. The 2009 Derby trifecta play from sports handicapper Craig Trapp of CT Sports Picks is below for all of you sports gamblers to enjoy.

Pioneer of the Nile: Trainer Bob Baffert is no stranger to winning the Kentucky Derby and he seems to think NILE is up to give him another win. Another positive is that jockey Garrett Gomez had his choice to ride one of two favorites and chose NILE over DUNKIRK. NILE is currently listed as second favorite at 4-1.

After a very nice Santa Anita Derby win, Baffert is trying to keep this colt improving going into the biggest race. NILE will most likely sit just off the pace and take over down the stretch. Will be a very good WIN wager if you get in at post time at 4-1 or higher odds.

Dunkirk: The odd horse out of the Garrett Gomez sweepstakes is looking to prove him wrong. Lucky for trainer Todd Pletcher he was able to recruit other top jockey Edgar Prado to pilot Dunkirk in the Kentucky Derby. Pletcher has not had good success in the Derby but he has been the hottest trainer the last four years otherwise.

Not a large colt but very tenacious and a late-charging kick always gives him a chance. Currently 4-1 co-second favorite will most likely go off at around 6-1 or so. Not sure this colt can win but definitely a second or third place is attainable.

General Quarters: To get value into any trifecta box you have to find the value in one or two longshots. Craig has found the diamond in the rough and this longshot can not only hit the board, but if things go right, could definitely win.

Trainer Tom MCarthy is 75 years old and is making his first—and he says only—Kentucky Derby starter. Also the best jockey in the Kentucky circuits the last few years is Julian Leparoux.

General Quarters most recently won the Blue Grass Stakes at Keenland and is definitely heading in the right direction. If this horse is over 20-1, definitely need to place a small wager on him to win also. Would be surprised if he runs poorly; hitting the board is a definite possibility.

Hope everybody enjoys the 2009 Kentucky Derby and if you decide to go along with sports handicapper Craig Trapp, good luck. First Saturdays in May never get boring with those horses thundering down to the finish line.

Make sure you check out all of Craig's free sports picks daily!! Also Craig's Premium NBA plays have been hot and with the second round of the playoffs starting Saturday you must get his five-star Premium Plays!! Get all of your sports handicapping plays at http://www.CTSportsPicks.com!!

MLB Underdog Teams To Win The 2009 World Series

ctsports picks — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 00:18:04 -0400

The baseball season is now three weeks old and several longshot underdogs have put themselves in the talk for World Series champions. Sports Handicapper Craig Trapp from CT Sports Picks today is going to give you his three longshots that can win the 2009 World Series.

Last year we had both of the World Series teams come from no where and end up in the promise land. Lets try and find this years diamond in the rough and see if we can make some money picking a longshot that can win it all.

Toronto Blue Jays (30-1):Tied for the most wins in MLB with a very impressive record of 14-7. No one could have predicted this hot start for what most people picked to be a sub five hundred team. Playing in the toughest division in baseball, they will have to beat the Yankees, Boston, and last year's division winner Tampa Bay.

Pitching for Toronto will carry them all year and if they can stay healthy this team can definitely make a run at the playoffs. Betting value of 30-1 with great pitching and timely hitters makes this the best longshot to win the World Series in 2009.

Kansas City Royals (25-1): Experts all thought this might be the year that KC could win the Central Division. The most wide open divisions in all of MLB makes it the easiest division to win this year.

The best young pitching staff in all of baseball led by Meche could make this team the favorite to win the division. Not the best hitting lineup, so they will definitely have play small ball to win it all. This pitching staff is very similar to last year's Tampa Bay staff and if they continue to improve who knows.

Seattle Mariners (15-1): The Los Angeles Angels have won this division for so many years its definitely a surprise to see the Mariners at the top with a record of 13-7. Early pitching success has been a welcome surprise for a team that lost over 100 games last season. Bedard and Hernandez both are solid pitchers and can both win 17 plus games. Might be the best hitting team in the AL with both power and contact hitters. If this team stays healthy they will definitely win this division.

Anyone can take the favorites to win future wagers but you must find teams that have good betting value. Over 15-1 is Craig's cutoff for playing any future wager. Craig will be updating his future winning longshots as the season progresses so make sure you check back.

Don't miss out on Craig's winning plays in both MLB regular season and NBA Playoffs!! Get all your sports handicapping free and premium picks at http://www.CTSportsPicks.com !!

Craig's Top 10 Offensive Lineman For 2009 NFL DRAFT

ctsports picks — Fri, 24 Apr 2009 01:05:09 -0400

The draft is only a few days away and Sports Handicapper Craig Trapp from CT Sports Picks has been busy with Mock NFL Drafts and position breakdowns. Yesterday we looked at the very deep wide receiver position in this years draft. The next deepest position in this years draft is definitely offensive tackles.

But instead of just looking at the tackles, we are going to break down the top 10 overall offensive lineman. This years draft looks like we will have at least five and as many as seven offensive lineman taken in the first round.

1. Jason Smith (Baylor): A lock for a top 5 overall draft pick is a very athletic gifted 6'5" tackle. Without a doubt the No. 1 best pass blocking OT in the draft. The only slight knock on him is he is not a mauler when it comes to run blocking!!

2. Eugene Monroe (Virginia): OT with all the tools and skills. Can run or pass block and really has no weakness. Only reason he is not No. 1 is Monroe has had a knee problem that has bothered him in recent years.

3. Michael Oher (Mississippi): Had fallen a little bit in the last few months due to some average workouts for NFL coaches. The best run blocker in all of the draft he is just down right nasty and mean when it comes to run blocking. Could be the best player of any of the OT's once NFL coaches work with him.

4. Andre Smith (Alabama): Once considered the top player in this years draft his status has fallen to maybe even a mid round first round pick. Questionable work ethic and some average workouts make him very risky pick for any team in the top 10. If he can get back to his last season in college, he could dominate at RT in the NFL for many years to come.

5. Eben Britten (Arizona): Has steadily moved up draft boards and looks like a mid 20's first round pick. Very solid pass blocker that would be a great fit for any west coast offense. Huge man at 6'6" 310 pounds makes the scouts and coaches really excited for a mid first round pick.

6. William Beatty (Connecticut): A very good OT that has exceptional quickness for such a big tackle. Sounds like Detroit really would love for him to be available in the 20's.

7. Alex Mack (California): The only true center in the draft that has potential to be pro bowler every year. Looks like top of second round he will come off the board.

8. Max Unger (Oregon): The most versatile offensive lineman in all the draft. Most likely will be center, but also would be very solid guard and can play tackle if really were thin at that position. Looks like the Bengals are really hoping he is there in the second round for them.

9. Phil Loadholt (Oklahoma): The biggest tackle in all the draft at 350 pounds. Many teams love his run blocking, but will most likely have him lose some weight to become a better pass blocker. Huge upside a middle of the second round pick for sure.

10. Eric Wood (Louisville): Four year starter at center in college and an book worm when it comes to film study. Without a doubt will be a 10 year plus center in the NFL. Not the most impressive center but definitely the most dependable!

NFL teams have done all of the player breakdowns and now are lining up their draft boards. Don't be surprised as early in the NFL Draft 2009 to see a ton of OT's taken. NFL executives and coaches see OT's as the safest position at the top end of the draft.

Make sure you check back the next few days as Craig will have his final NFL Draft 2009 article with his top 10 late round sleeper picks!

Check out Craig's NBA Playoff hot streaks and also his MLB 5 star plays! Get all of Craig's picks and his other 20 sports handicappers free picks at http://www.CTSportsPicks.com!!

Craig's MLB Power-Ranking Top Five: Apr. 23

ctsports picks — Thu, 23 Apr 2009 15:53:59 -0400

They say you can't win or lose the World Series in the first few weeks of the season, but it must feel good to be hot right out of the box. All of these top five teams have just been playing great baseball.

Hot offense, good pitching, and great defense are common threads from these teams. A few surprises in early season results have definitely provided an opportunity for sharp sports handicappers to produce profits for themselves and their players.

Let's check out Craig Trapp from CT Sports Picks' week-two power rankings and see if we can help produce some profits for the upcoming week!

1. LA Dodgers

Not a hotter team in baseball, with a sizzling record of 10-5. Power pitching and hitting is how this team has been getting it done. They have played very easy schedule early on, so would be good team to play against at huge money-line odds.

2. Toronto Blue Jays

Tied for the most wins in baseball at 11-5 currently. Romero and Halladay might be one of the best top ends of any pitching rotation, but the bullpen and rest of the starters will be the key for this team to keep winning. Timely hitting so far has kept them winning, but we'll see how they fare against top-end pitchers like Boston and New York!

3. Boston Red Sox

"Winning ugly" should be this team's motto. Early-season pitcher issues had this team struggling but somehow they have continued to win. This team will be scary when their top-end pitchers get it right. Good value on run lines recently has provided some nice profits to the Red Sox backers.

4. Florida Marlins

Even a sweep by the lowly Pirates can't stop the excitement in South Florida. With an 11-4 start and a very average division, this team has shown why many experts thought they would win the NL East. Young pitching is the key for this team, and if they can keep this pace up, watch out, World Series!

5. St Louis Cardinals

Tony LaRussa is and always will be a Hall of Famer, but if he wins with this team he will earn even more respect. This team can struggle at times hitting and also with consistent starting pitching. Recently, though, both have been extraordinary, and only the Cubs stand in their way for another divisional title.

Make sure you check back weekly as Craig updates his power rankings and gives his breakdown on each of his top five MLB teams. Sports handicappers all have their key tools to picking winners, and Craig's power rankings have always been one of his top tools to finding winners with value. Of course, Craig has all teams ranked from top to bottom and this is just his weekly top five!

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Craig's MLB Breakdown and Winner: LAD @ HOU 4/23/09

ctsports picks — Thu, 23 Apr 2009 00:08:35 -0400

Enough is enough two free play losses in a row have made Craig from CT Sports Picks break out and give his PREMIUM PLAY for FREE TODAY! Take advantage of this, yesterday Craig's MLB Premium Plays were undefeated. Today we go to Houston where the Dodgers are trying to avoid the sweep!! Lets look at records and trends on this game:

Records

LA Dodgers 10-5 Billingsley 3-0 (2.84 ERA)
Houston Astros 6-9 Rodriguez 1-1 (1.89 ERA)

Betting Trends

Dodgers are 5-2 in their last 7 road games vs. a left-handed starter.
Dodgers are 4-2 in their last 5 vs. National League Central.
Astros are 4-11 in their last 15 games as an underdog.
Astros are 5-1 in Rodriguezs last 6 home starts vs. a team with a winning record.

The Astros were really playing poorly before the LAD came into town but in the first two games they have looked like the favorite. Astros pitchers have allowed less than 5 runs in both games and Houston hitters have been tearing up a very good LAD pitching staff.

Today that will all change as Billingsley is undefeated (3-0) and has been averaging over one strikeout per inning and is the best power pitcher in the National League. Rodriguez has been good for HOUSTON but for some reason when he pitches his team does not score much for him. EASY ROAD WIN FOR LAD TODAY!! SCORE LAD 5 - HOU 1

Don't miss out today's 5 Star NBA SLAM DUNK PLAYOFF PLAY!! Craig's Slam dunk plays are 2-0 thus far in the NBA playoffs! Get all of your sports handicapping needs at http://www.CTSportsPicks.com !!

Craig's Top 10 Wide Receivers NFL Draft 2009

ctsports picks — Wed, 22 Apr 2009 10:00:10 -0400

Craig's NFL Mock Draft 2009 is finally done and now we are starting to look at some of the deeper positions in this years draft. If you missed Craig's 2009 Mock Draft check it out: Picks 1-10, 11-20, 21-32!

Today Craig from CT Sports Picks is going to break down the deepest position in the draft: Wide Receivers. In fact many experts have as many as seven players being taken in the first round. Craig has only five receivers going in first round but four more going in 2nd round of the 2009 NFL Draft. Today Craig will rank the top 10 Wide Receivers in the 2009 Draft and also give quick breakdown of their talent!

1. Michael Crabtree: Top rated impact player on Craig's board even with a hair line fracture in foot. Looks like he will be a lock to be taken in top five of this years draft. Pro speed and size and playmaking ability that rivals any top WR in the NFL today.

2. Jeremy Maclin: Wish he was a little taller but either way his elusiveness will make him very versatile for whatever team takes him. Looks like he will be a top 10 pick. Questionable durability might be the one negative about Maclin's NFL future.

3. Hakeem Nicks: Has improved his draft status as we have neared the draft. Top end speed with the best hands in the draft. If he was from one of the big Football schools you would most likely have seen him picked in top 10. First Round pick for sure but might be bottom half of first round.

4. Percy Harvin: Recently released that he failed a drug test at the draft might cause him to slide down to the bottom of first round. Not a polished receiver spent most of time in college coming out of the backfield. Top flight hands and speed will make him a star once he learns how to run routes.

5. Kenny Brit: Pro Body with questionable character. That is what pro scouts are saying. Might be the best talent and size of any of the top receivers but his character is definitely going to be an issue with teams. Very close talent wise to a young Terrell Owens.

6. Darrius Heyward-Bey: Looks like the typical speed receiver that has not yet developed his route running skills. Raw talent at WR in the right coaching hands could be a superstar.

7. Brian Robiskie: Did not get to show his talent in a run heavy offense last year but has all the skills and is ready to play right now. Not the fastest or strongest but the most ready to step in and contribute as any receiver in this draft class.

8. Ramses Barden: General Public might say who is he and where did he play but not the pro scouts. Playing at a small school Cal Poly did not keep his talent from shining. At 6'6" and very good speed he can go get the ball when it is in the air better than anyone in this draft. A late second round pick will be a steal for whatever team drafts him!

9. Derrick Williams: Similar skill-set as Jeremy Maclin but not quite as good receiver. In an offense that did not throw the ball much could have huge upside in late 2nd round. One of best return men in all of football last year.

10. Brandon Tate: Only a season ending knee injury keeps him from being a top end receiver in this years draft. If he can get the speed back would be a valuable asset in the late second or early third round. A failed drug test at the combine might scare some teams away from this UNC star.

Hope everybody is as excited as Craig is about the 2009 NFL Draft. Make sure you check back in the next few days Craig will be breaking down the top 10 offensive lineman!!

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