Can the Yankees sweep the Mariners in Seattle? I doubt it and here's why.




New York has lost 10 of its past 14 road games. The Yankees are 2-9 during their past 11 away contests when facing a right-handed starter.




Seattle is starting righty Taijuan Walker. OK, I know Walker could be the poster child for most erratic pitcher in baseball. But the kid is just 22 and still carries that huge, intriguing potential that surfaced in his last start. That came this past Friday against the Indians.




Walker held the Indians to no runs in eight innings limiting Cleveland to two hits while striking out eight. Walker has been at his best in pitcher-friendly Safeco Field posting a 2.28 ERA with 28 strikeouts in 24 2/3 innings at home this season.




Walker also has the advantage of never having pitched against the Yankees before so New York's batters have no book or experience against him.




New York opened the favorite because Masahiro Tanaka is going to start. But Tanaka has been on the disabled list since April 29 with a strained forearm and tendinitis in his right wrist. Tanaka's 2014 season was shut down prematurely when he suffered a tear in his right elbow.




So the Yankees are going to be particularly careful with Tanaka limiting him to around 80 pitches. Even if Tanaka's velocity is there, you have to wonder about his command being rusty.




The spot is right to back Walker and fade the Yankees especially at a plus price.

In addition to this selection, long-time pro Stephen Nover has found another underdog so strong that he's made it his Wednesday Wipeout Winner.