The Pirates put their two-game lead in the NL Central to the test as they send Francisco Liriano against Jeff Samardzija if Chicago in a late afternoon game. Lirano only averaged six innings in his ten starts, but they are effective innings as his high strikeout rate leads to a low 2.23 ERA. Maybe the innings limit will keep him healthy for the rest of the season. Samardzija has problems at home this season, where the opposition his .273 against him versus .197 on the road.

Detroit opens a four-game series in Cleveland as the Tigers lead the Indians by 1 1/2 games in the AL Central. Jim Leyland gave Miguel Cabrera his first day off this season on Thursday. He was in a tiny slump, and the Tigers no doubt want him fresh for these games. Meanwhile, Jason Kipnis continued his hot June into July.

Finally, the Rockies go into Phoenix to take on the Diamondbacks, Colorado trailing Arizona by 2 1/2 games in the NL West. The three game series starts with Jorge de al Rosa taking on Tyler Skaggs. Jorge pitched well against Arizona this year, 2-1 with a 1.56 ERA in three starts. He only struck out 10 in 17 1/3 innings, but held Arizona to 15 hits. Skaggs struck out 17 in 16 2/3 innings this year, but allowed four home runs for a 5.40 ERA.

Enjoy!