“That’s one small step for man … one giant leap for mankind.”
— Neil Armstrong, Hero

“I’ll take $20 on Germany to win the World Cup and $20 on my new Jersey Devils to win next year’s Stanley Cup.” N.J. Gov. Phil Murphy, Hero(?) Yes or no, with those words, and $40, the action commenced at Monmouth Park. From World Cup soccer to baseball to U.S. Open golf to Alec Baldwin winning the 2020 presidency, action was said to be brisk on opening day.

And they’re off. Stitches breaks sharply from the gate. Canadians picked the wrong day to boycott Stitches’ picks — 2-0 in our brave new betting world. Giants outlasted the Marlins 6-3 in a four-hour, 50-minute marathon. Scored thrice in the sweet 16th inning. Doubled our fun when the Tigers scored three times in the seventh to topple the Twins 3-1. Michael Fulmer was outstanding, picking up the W. Victories shave our losses to -975 christies.

Flying with Tigers to Chicago. Mike Fiers is unbeaten in his last four starts. Pitched a one-hitter for seven innings vs. the Indians last week. Expecting the trend to continue facing the Chisox. 10 units on the Tigers.