in MLB Free Picks

The Cincinnati Reds look to avoid their fifth straight loss when they continue a three-game series tonight with the Dodgers in Los Angeles. Just a few days ago, the Reds owned a share of the NL Central lead with the Cardinal. Now, they're just trying to stay atop the wild card standings, as their struggles continue out west.

Tonight, Eric Milton (8-7, 5.22 ERA) will look to stop the bleeding for the Reds allowed three runs, a season-high ten hits and two dingers in Thursday's win over the Giants, but failed to record a decision for the third straight start. The Reds have won in each of his last four starts.

Lifetime, Milton is 1-3 with a 5.40 ERA in four starts against the Dodgers. He has lost his last three against them, including a 3-0 loss on August 3rd in which he allowed just 2 runs in seven innings but was beaten by Greg Maddux.

Mark Hendrickson (1-6, 4.79 ERA) takes the ball for and will try to avoid his third loss in as many starts. On August 16th, the left-hander was banged around and lasted a season-low 2 1-3 innings in the loss Florida.

Hendrickson has received an average of just 3.36 runs of support in his 10 starts with the Dodgers. Hendrickson made his only career start against the Reds on June 7th, '05, allowing six runs in 2 2/3 innings without receiving a decision.

Selection Los Angeles Dodgers (-132)

Trends supporting the Los Angeles Dodgers:
- Reds are 0-4 in the last 4 meetings.
- Reds are 0-3 in their last 3 road games vs. a left-handed starter.
- Reds are 1-4 in their last 5 vs. a team with a winning record.
- Dodgers are 4-0 in their last 4 vs. National League Central.
- Dodgers are 5-1 in their last 6 games as a home favorite of -110 to -150.
- Dodgers are 22-7 in their last 29 overall.
- Dodgers are 20-7 in their last 27 games following a win.