3M Open Preview

3M Open

TPC Twin Cities

Blaine, Minnesota

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Odds OutlookDFS ReportHorses for Courses/Stats SuggestExpert Picks

Mike Glasscott: 3M Open Tips

Win: Cam Davis (33/1), Emiliano Grillo (50/1)

Top 10: Tom Hoge (19/5), Taylor Pendrith (19/5)

Top 20: JT Poston (8/5), Chan Kim (13/5), Rico Hoey (11/4)

Top 40: Henrik Norlander (2/1), Troy Merritt (23/10)

NOW PLAYING: 3M Open

Host CourseTPC Twin Cities
Yards (per official scorecard):7,431
Par:71 (35-36).
Greens:Bentgrass; 6,500 square feet.
Stimpmeter:12 feet plus.
Rough:Bluegrass and Fescue at 4 inches.
Bunkers/Water Hazards/In-Play75/27/15
Architect(s):Arnold Palmer (2000); Steve Wenzloff (2018).
Defending Champion:Lee Hodges (-24).
Multiple Champion(s) Entered:None.
Course Record (last set):62; Beau Hossler, Round 4, 2023.
72 Hole Tournament Record:260; Lee Hodges, 2023.
Facts of the Week:All winners are American.

TPC Twin Cities

The Arnold Palmer design from 2000 was brought up to PGA TOUR standards by Steve Wenzloff in 2018 before the inaugural event in 2019.

The former home of a PGA TOUR Champions event, the 2019 edition played Par-71 to 7,468 yards before changing to 7,431 yards for the subsequent four editions.

The 35-36 layout is a stock Par-71 with three Par-5 and four Par-3 holes. The Par-3 holes ranked under par (2.99) in 2023 and were one of the easiest quartets on TOUR. The Par-5 holes ranked T38, and the Par-4 holes came in at 4.01, T31 on TOUR.

The greenside bunkers and closely mown areas provide a worthy challenge for approach shots that miss the generous targets. TPC Twin Cities ranked 6th in Proximity From the Sand and 9th in Scrambling. Large Bentgrass greens averaging over 6,500 feet and running at 12 feet and beyond will test the matchup of line and speed with the flat stick.

Finding Fairways and GIR is the starting point to racking up circles on the card. The five winners have all posted four rounds in the 60s, and not many rounds above par end up in the top 10 after Sunday’s round is over. Warm and humid air makes the ball fly further and should put attacking clubs in the hands of the contenders.

2023 champion Lee Hodges set the tournament scoring record on 24-under 260. His seven-shot win produced the biggest margin of victory in history.

 Beau Hossler posted 62 in Round 4 in 2023 to become the latest player to match the course record. Scott Piercy, also in the field this week, posted 62 in the first round of the first event in 2019.

Recent Winners

2023 Season Winners

EventWinner
Sentry Tournament of ChampionsJon Rahm
Sony Open in HawaiiSi Woo Kim
The AMERICAN EXPRESSJon Rahm (2)
Farmers Insurance OpenMax Homa (2)
AT&T Pebble BeachJustin Rose
WM Phoenix OpenScottie Scheffler
The Genesis InvitationalJon Rahm (3)
The Honda ClassicChris Kirk
Arnold Palmer InvitationalKurt Kitayama (first TOUR win)
THE PLAYERS ChampionshipScottie Scheffler (2)
Valspar ChampionshipTaylor Moore (first TOUR win)
Corales PuntacanaMatt Wallace (first TOUR win)
WGC – Dell Technologies MPSam Burns
Valero Texas OpenCorey Conners
MastersJon Rahm (4)
RBC HeritageMatt Fitzpatrick
Zurich Classic of New OrleansDavis Riley & Nick Hardy (first TOUR win for each)
Mexico Open at VidantaTony Finau (2)
Wells Fargo ChampionshipWyndham Clark (first TOUR win)
AT&T Byron NelsonJason Day
PGA ChampionshipBrooks Koepka
Charles Schwab ChallengeEmiliano Grillo
MemorialViktor Hovland
RBC Canadian OpenNick Taylor
U.S. OpenWyndham Clark (2)
Travelers ChampionshipKeegan Bradley (2)
Rocket Mortgage ClassicRickie Fowler
John Deere ClassicSepp Straka
Genesis Scottish OpenRory McIlroy (2)
The Open ChampionshipBrian Harman
3M OpenLee Hodges (first TOUR win)
Wyndham ChampionshipLucas Glover
FedEx St. Jude ChampionshipLucas Glover (2)
BMW ChampionshipViktor Hovland (2)
TOUR ChampionshipViktor Hovland (3)
Fortinet ChampionshipSahith Theegala
Sanderson Farms ChampionshipLuke List
Shriners Children’s OpenTom Kim
ZOZO CHAMPIONSHIPCollin Morikawa
World Wide TechnologyErik van Rooyen
Butterfield BermudaCamilo Villegas
The RSM ClassicLudvig Aberg

2024 Season Winners

EventWinner
The SentryChris Kirk
Sony Open in HawaiiGrayson Murray
The American ExpressNick Dunlap (a)
Farmers Insurance OpenMatthieu Pavon (rookie)
AT&T Pebble BeachWyndham Clark (54 holes)
WM Phoenix OpenNick Taylor
The Genesis InvitationalHideki Matsuyama
Mexico Open at VidantaJake Knapp (rookie)
Cognizant ClassicAustin Eckroat (first time)
Arnold Palmer InvitationalScottie Scheffler
THE PLAYERS ChampionshipScottie Scheffler (2)
Valspar ChampionshipPeter Malnati
Texas Children’s Houston OpenStephan Jaeger (first time)
Valero Texas OpenAkshay Bhatia
88th Masters TournamentScottie Scheffler (3)
RBC HeritageScottie Scheffler (4)
Zurich ClassicRory McIlroy & Shane Lowry
THE CJ CUP Byron NelsonTaylor Pendrith (first time)
Wells Fargo ChampionshipRory McIlroy (2)
106th PGA ChampionshipXander Schauffele
Charles Schwab ChallengeDavis Riley
RBC Canadian OpenRobert MacIntyre (first time)
The 49th Memorial TournamentScottie Scheffler (5)
124th United States OpenBryson DeChambeau
Travelers ChampionshipScottie Scheffler (6)
Rocket Mortgage ClassicCam Davis
John Deere ClassicDavis Thompson (first time)
Genesis Scottish OpenRobert MacIntyre (2)
152nd Open ChampionshipXander Schauffele (2)

The 3M Open

Breaking on to the scene over the 4th of July weekend in 2019, this will be the sixth edition at TPC Twin Cities, the only host of the event.

The field of 156 players includes nine of the top 50 from the Official World Golf Rankings.  

Cutting the field to the top 65 and ties after 36 holes, the 2023 edition set the mark for the lowest cut at 4-under 138. The 2022 tournament is the only event with an over-par cut line(1-over).

Americans have won all five tournaments. The next international champion will be the first.

Hodges, Tony Finau, and Cameron Champ are the three previous winners in the field this week.

The previous five winners registered in the top 3 in Par-4 Scoring.

Three of the five winners led the event in SG: Tee to Green.

The winner will take home 500 FedExCup points plus $1.458 million from the $8.1 million purse.

The top 70 players at the end of play in two weeks (Wyndham Championship) will qualify for the 2024 FedExCup Playoffs.

Recent Winners – 3M Open

Italics – not entered this week.

YearWinnerNotes
2023Lee Hodges (-24)Set the tournament scoring record and margin of victory mark. First TOUR victory.
2022Tony Finau (-17)Won by two shots over Emiliano Grillo.
2021Cameron Champ    (-15)Posted the highest winning score in tournament history.
2020Michael Thompson  (-19)Won by two shots over Adam Long and three over Tony Finau and Emiliano Grillo.
2019Matthew Wolff (-21)At 20, he’s the youngest champion in history.

One and Done

I’ll be joining Spotter’s game again this season. Now, where did I put my checkbook…

35 events.

1 player per event (plus a backup pick if your guy gets kidnapped on Wednesday night and doesn’t make it to the first tee Thursday).

1 use per year.

Add up the total money and Spotter is yer uncle!

EventSelectionEarnings
The SentryCollin Morikawa690,500
Sony Open in HawaiiCorey Conners18,592
The American ExpressAdam Hadwin310,800
Farmers Insurance OpenJason Day0
AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-AmJordan Spieth70,125
WM Phoenix OpenMatt Fitzpatrick156,200
The Genesis InvitationalMax Homa329,000
Mexico Open at VidantaTony Finau145,125
Cognizant ClassicRussell Henley32,850
Arnold Palmer InvitationalScottie Scheffler4,000,000
THE PLAYERS ChampionshipWill Zalatoris0
Valspar ChampionshipSam Burns0
Texas Children’s Houston OpenWyndham Clark54,418
Valero Texas OpenC Bezuidenhout67,735
88th Masters TournamentRory McIlroy175,500
RBC HeritagePatrick Cantlay1,160,000
Zurich ClassicNick Taylor122,375
THE CJ CUP Byron NelsonStephan Jaeger112,100
Myrtle Beach ClassicDaniel Berger20,350
Wells Fargo ChampionshipSahith Theegala47,000
106th PGA ChampionshipBrooks Koepka113,962
Charles Schwab ChallengeTaylor Moore0
RBC Canadian OpenMackenzie Hughes295,316
49th Memorial TournamentBen An200,200
124th United States OpenXander Schauffele639,289
Travelers ChampionshipBrian Harman520,000
Rocket Mortgage ClassicAkshay Bhatia616,400
John Deere ClassicDenny McCarthy252,400
Genesis Scottish OpenLudvig Aberg330,750
   
Total Winnings: 10,480,987

His game has more fun stuff to it. Reach out @A340Spotter on Twitter or A340Spotter@frontier.com for more details and to join.

Recapping Last Week – Genesis Scottish Open

Another bad beat. Aberg was cruising along until the SUNDAY SCARIES knocked him back, again, this time to T4.

Guess I should have used MacIntyre!

Sad!

I have cashed $200k or more over the last *SEVEN WEEKS and have gone nowhere.

RBC Canadian OpenMackenzie Hughes295,316
49th Memorial TournamentBen An200,200
124th United States OpenXander Schauffele639,289
Travelers ChampionshipBrian Harman520,000
Rocket Mortgage ClassicAkshay Bhatia616,400
John Deere ClassicDenny McCarthy252,400
Genesis Scottish OpenLudvig Aberg330,750

What a format!

Last Week – The Open Championship

The weather, the links, the wind, the bad breaks, the pot bunkers, the draw, the haggis, what a show!

I have it down to Bryson DeChambeau, Tommy Fleetwood, and Tyrrell Hatton. I can make the case for all easily so this will come down to preference.

MY CHOICE: Tommy Fleetwood – MC

The pain. The suffering. The shouts of “C’mon Tommy lad”. I’m here for it.

Oh, and he’s on the wrong side of the draw as of this writing.

CAUTION IS THROWN TO THE WIND.

And the wind blew Tommy and my pick away.

Others to Consider (from who I have available):

Rose? After Rob Bolton telling me a top 5 here would not surprise him in the least bit… Nah

Horschel? Never fires in the majors. T2.

Rahm? Nah. Why do that! T7.

Lowry? Because I’m an absolute moron? T7.

Sungjae Im? Only his 403840834803rd top 12 finish in the last 3 months.

Adam Scott? Another oldie but goodie!

Thankfully I played Schauffele at the U.S. Open, the only major of the season’s final three HE DIDN’T WIN.

ARE YOU NOT ENTERTAINED???

This Week – 3M Open

Emiliano Grillo: Only Finau has more cache here. Vamos!

Others to consider:

Cam Davis, Taylor Pendrith, Luke Clanton (!), Tom Hoge, Mac Meissner.

Good luck and watch out for the mosquitos, the official state bird of Minnesota!

42nd Genesis Scottish Open

Genesis Scottish Open

The Renaissance Club

North Berwick, Scotland

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Quick Links:

Odds OutlookDFS ReportHorses for Courses/Stats SuggestExpert Picks

Mike Glasscott: Genesis Scottish Open Tips

Win: Aaron Rai (45/1), Ludvig Aberg (18/1)

Top 10: Tom Kim (3/1), Tommy Fleetwood (12/5)

Top 20: Jordan Smith (4/1), Tom McKibbin (3/1)

Top 40: Grant Forrest (33/10), Victor Perez (7/4)

NOW PLAYING: 42nd Genesis Scottish Open

Host CourseThe Renaissance Club
Yards (per official scorecard):7,237
Par:70 (35-35).
Greens:Fine Fescue
Stimpmeter:11 feet.
Rough:Tall Fescue.
Bunkers/Water Hazards/In-PlayLinks course.
Architect(s):Tom Doak (2008).
Defending Champion:Rory McIlroy (-15).
Multiple Champion(s) Entered:None at The Renaissance Club.
Course Record61; Byeong Hun An (Round 1, 2023; not entered 2024).
72 Hole Tournament Record:262; Bernd Wiesberger (2019, -22 as Par-71).
Facts of the Week:The Par-70 routing has five Par-3 holes and three Par-5 holes yet still plays 35-35.

The Renaissance Club

Built by Tom Doak in 2008, The Renaissance Club took over hosting duties for the 2019 tournament.

The links adjacent to the famous Muirfield on the Firth of Forth, originally played as a Par-71 at 7,138 yards. The 2024 tournament will play 7,237 yards for the third straight event.

The 35-35 layout features five Par-3 holes and three Par-5 holes. The inward nine contains three Par-3 holes and two Par-5 holes but still plays to 35 on the card.

With slightly over 61 feet of putts made per round, The Renaissance Club ranked No. 1 on TOUR in 2023.

Only Torrey Pines was stingier from inside 10 feet on the greens.

Large, fine fescue putting surfaces make it difficult to get approach shots close. Averaging just over 44 feet in regulation, The Renaissance Club ranked No. 1 on TOUR in 2023 in Proximity and was No. 2 in Proximity from the Fairway and Proximity from the rough.

The key to any links course is keeping the ball out of the tall fescue and bunkers. With large landing areas off the tee, and massive green complexes, errant shots will be punished, and bogeys will accumulate.

If the wind does not howl and the rain stays away, the Par-70 can be had. Last year, Byeong Hun An matched the course record of 61 in the first round. Bernd Wiesberger was the first to achieve 61 on his way to victory in the first edition at The Renaissance Club in 2019. The Austrian also holds the tournament scoring record (-22; 262).

Recent Winners

2023 Season Winners

EventWinner
Sentry Tournament of ChampionsJon Rahm
Sony Open in HawaiiSi Woo Kim
The AMERICAN EXPRESSJon Rahm (2)
Farmers Insurance OpenMax Homa (2)
AT&T Pebble BeachJustin Rose
WM Phoenix OpenScottie Scheffler
The Genesis InvitationalJon Rahm (3)
The Honda ClassicChris Kirk
Arnold Palmer InvitationalKurt Kitayama (first TOUR win)
THE PLAYERS ChampionshipScottie Scheffler (2)
Valspar ChampionshipTaylor Moore (first TOUR win)
Corales PuntacanaMatt Wallace (first TOUR win)
WGC – Dell Technologies MPSam Burns
Valero Texas OpenCorey Conners
MastersJon Rahm (4)
RBC HeritageMatt Fitzpatrick
Zurich Classic of New OrleansDavis Riley & Nick Hardy (first TOUR win for each)
Mexico Open at VidantaTony Finau (2)
Wells Fargo ChampionshipWyndham Clark (first TOUR win)
AT&T Byron NelsonJason Day
PGA ChampionshipBrooks Koepka
Charles Schwab ChallengeEmiliano Grillo
MemorialViktor Hovland
RBC Canadian OpenNick Taylor
U.S. OpenWyndham Clark (2)
Travelers ChampionshipKeegan Bradley (2)
Rocket Mortgage ClassicRickie Fowler
John Deere ClassicSepp Straka
Genesis Scottish OpenRory McIlroy (2)
The Open ChampionshipBrian Harman
3M OpenLee Hodges (first TOUR win)
Wyndham ChampionshipLucas Glover
FedEx St. Jude ChampionshipLucas Glover (2)
BMW ChampionshipViktor Hovland (2)
TOUR ChampionshipViktor Hovland (3)
Fortinet ChampionshipSahith Theegala
Sanderson Farms ChampionshipLuke List
Shriners Children’s OpenTom Kim
ZOZO CHAMPIONSHIPCollin Morikawa
World Wide TechnologyErik van Rooyen
Butterfield BermudaCamilo Villegas
The RSM ClassicLudvig Aberg

2024 Season Winners

EventWinner
The SentryChris Kirk
Sony Open in HawaiiGrayson Murray
The American ExpressNick Dunlap (a)
Farmers Insurance OpenMatthieu Pavon (rookie)
AT&T Pebble BeachWyndham Clark (54 holes)
WM Phoenix OpenNick Taylor
The Genesis InvitationalHideki Matsuyama
Mexico Open at VidantaJake Knapp (rookie)
Cognizant ClassicAustin Eckroat (first time)
Arnold Palmer InvitationalScottie Scheffler
THE PLAYERS ChampionshipScottie Scheffler (2)
Valspar ChampionshipPeter Malnati
Texas Children’s Houston OpenStephan Jaeger (first time)
Valero Texas OpenAkshay Bhatia
88th Masters TournamentScottie Scheffler (3)
RBC HeritageScottie Scheffler (4)
Zurich ClassicRory McIlroy & Shane Lowry
THE CJ CUP Byron NelsonTaylor Pendrith (first time)
Wells Fargo ChampionshipRory McIlroy (2)
106th PGA ChampionshipXander Schauffele
Charles Schwab ChallengeDavis Riley
RBC Canadian OpenRobert MacIntyre (first time)
The 49th Memorial TournamentScottie Scheffler (5)
124th United States OpenBryson DeChambeau
Travelers ChampionshipScottie Scheffler (6)
Rocket Mortgage ClassicCam Davis
John Deere ClassicDavis Thompson (first time)

The 42nd Genesis Scottish Open

The event, dating back to the early 1970s, has provided a tune-up before The Open Championship since 1997. Since 2022 the tournament has featured a partnership with the DP World Tour and PGA TOUR.

The field of 156 players included 75 from the DP World Tour, three players from the KPGA, and six sponsor’s exemptions. The rest of the places are filled by the PGA TOUR.

Entered this week from the Official World Golf Ranking are six of the top seven players and 13 of the top 20.

The field will be cut to the top 65 and ties after 36 holes. The highest cut in the previous five events was five-under-par 139 in the first playing at The Renaissance Club in 2019.

The five previous winners have represented five different countries. None of the champions are from Scotland and all have previously won a professional event.

There are eight past champions in the field, including all five from The Renaissance Club.

The previous five winners registered in the top four of SG: Tee to Green.

Phil Mickelson won the 2013 Scottish Open and is the last winner to be victorious the following week at The Open Championship.

The winner will take home 500 FedExCup points plus $1.62 million from the $9 million purse.

The top THREE players not already qualified will qualify for the 152nd Open Championship at Royal Troon.

Recent Winners – Genesis Scottish Open

Italics – not entered this week.

YearWinnerNotes
2023Rory McIlroy (-15)Led by two after 54 holes but needed a 2-iron to 11 feet, plus the birdie putt, to avoid a playoff with Scotsman Robert MacIntyre.
2022Xander Schauffele   (-7)Posting 65-66 in the middle two rounds, the Californian posted 70 in the final round to win by a shot over Kurt Kitayama.
2021Min Woo Lee (-18)Knocked out Thomas Detry and Matt Fitzpatrick in a playoff to win for the first time outside his native Australia.
2020Aaron Rai (-11)Defeated Tommy Fleetwood in a playoff in the only October event.
2019Bernd Wiesberger     (-22)Opening with 61, the Austrian set the tournament scoring record on 22-under and won by a shot.

One and Done

I’ll be joining Spotter’s game again this season. Now, where did I put my checkbook…

35 events.

1 player per event (plus a backup pick if your guy gets kidnapped on Wednesday night and doesn’t make it to the first tee Thursday).

1 use per year.

Add up the total money and Spotter is yer uncle!

EventSelectionEarnings
The SentryCollin Morikawa690,500
Sony Open in HawaiiCorey Conners18,592
The American ExpressAdam Hadwin310,800
Farmers Insurance OpenJason Day0
AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-AmJordan Spieth70,125
WM Phoenix OpenMatt Fitzpatrick156,200
The Genesis InvitationalMax Homa329,000
Mexico Open at VidantaTony Finau145,125
Cognizant ClassicRussell Henley32,850
Arnold Palmer InvitationalScottie Scheffler4,000,000
THE PLAYERS ChampionshipWill Zalatoris0
Valspar ChampionshipSam Burns0
Texas Children’s Houston OpenWyndham Clark54,418
Valero Texas OpenC Bezuidenhout67,735
88th Masters TournamentRory McIlroy175,500
RBC HeritagePatrick Cantlay1,160,000
Zurich ClassicNick Taylor122,375
THE CJ CUP Byron NelsonStephan Jaeger112,100
Myrtle Beach ClassicDaniel Berger20,350
Wells Fargo ChampionshipSahith Theegala47,000
106th PGA ChampionshipBrooks Koepka113,962
Charles Schwab ChallengeTaylor Moore0
RBC Canadian OpenMackenzie Hughes295,316
49th Memorial TournamentBen An200,200
124th United States OpenXander Schauffele639,289
Travelers ChampionshipBrian Harman520,000
Rocket Mortgage ClassicAkshay Bhatia616,400
John Deere ClassicDenny McCarthy252,400
   
Total Winnings: 9,897,837

His game has more fun stuff to it. Reach out @A340Spotter on Twitter or A340Spotter@frontier.com for more details and to join.

Recapping Last Week – John Deere Classic

Bit of a dog’s breakfast this week with only six players from the top 50 OWGR in the event.

If you’re taking a risk, you will have plenty of choices!

Eight of the last ten winners were 30 or younger, but veterans Lucas Glover and Ryan Moore also regained form.

MY CHOICE: Denny McCarthy – T7

For the first time in three years, he did not finish T6 on 16-under-par!

This time, he signed for 21-under and finished WORSE!

Oh John Deere Classic, you rascal, NEVER CHANGE!

Others to Consider (from who I have available):

Davis Thompson – If I had a dollar for every time I’ve guessed wrong, I’d have at least two dollars. Smoked the field by four and set a new tournament record (-28) after cashing T2 in Detroit. Nice fortnight!

Adam Schenk – Adds another “nothing” to his all-or-nothing at TPC Deere Run. MC

Aaron Rai – The former champion at The Renaissance Club comes in hot after T2 at Detroit was followed by T7 at JDC. CONVERGING TRENDS!

Eric Cole – I wrote two weeks ago I thought he was heating up. He followed T6 at Detroit with T7 at JDC.

Sam Stevens – Cashing in nine of his last 10, I couldn’t find another T10 to add (T34).

Patrick Rodgers – Another Midwesterner who didn’t fire in his own backyard. T34.

This Week – Genesis Scottish Open

The OWGR Top 50 has 33 players represented. This game only has six more weeks remaining. Time to start shooting off the big fireworks!

With two enormous names winning the previous two editions, I’ll remind you that The Open and the two FedExCup Playoff events provide the biggest three paydays.

Insightful, I know.

With no chance of winning or even hitting the money, I am throwing caution AND rationale to the wind.

Some might say, “what’s the difference from the last 28 weeks?”

I have cashed $200k or more over the last SIX WEEKS and have gone nowhere.

RBC Canadian OpenMackenzie Hughes295,316
49th Memorial TournamentBen An200,200
124th United States OpenXander Schauffele639,289
Travelers ChampionshipBrian Harman520,000
Rocket Mortgage ClassicAkshay Bhatia616,400
John Deere ClassicDenny McCarthy252,400

What a format!

MY CHOICE: Ludvig Aberg

Not many hit it better tee-to-green and not many are in the field. One of the few at the top of the tops who does not have anything to prove, I’m hoping his natural ability to knock the cover off the ball overwhelms this seaside track at only 7,237 yards.

Others to Consider (from who I have available):

Tommy Fleetwood: A nice record around here, he’s a tough laydown, but he is probably in the top spot next week. Maybe.

Viktor Hovland: Or maybe it will be him next week.

Tom Kim: In two trips to East Gullane, he’s played in the final group, cashed T6, and was solo third in 2022 on debut.

Hideki Matsuyama: I would be more inclined if he was not debuting this week. I hope he’s in the field on the way to the USA at 3M Open in Minneapolis.

Justin Thomas: He could be the TPC Southwind savior.

Aaron Rai: See above.

Robert MacIntyre: Maybe it will HIM next week!

Sungjae Im: No wonder why I suck! Oh, wait, my last six weeks have all hit the top 15. NOT. GOOD. ENOUGH.

Wyndham Clark: I should have struck while the iron was hotter earlier in the season. I’ll save the home game in Denver for him.

John Deere Classic Preview

John Deere Classic

TPC Deere Run

Silvis, Illinois

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Quick Links:

Odds OutlookDFS ReportHorses for Courses/Stats SuggestExpert Picks

Mike Glasscott: John Deere Classic Tips

Win: Denny McCarthy (20/1), Davis Thompson (25/1)

Top 10: Adam Schenk (25/4), Seamus Power (47/10), Maverick McNealy (3/1)

Top 20: Sam Stevens (9/4), Patton Kizzire (10/3)

Top 40: Zach Johnson (9/5)

NOW PLAYING: John Deere Classic

Host CourseTPC Deere Run
Yards (per official scorecard):7,289
Par:71 (35-36).
Greens:L93 Bentgrass; 5,500 square feet.
Stimpmeter:12 feet and up.
Rough:Kentucky Bluegrass and Fescue at four inches and growing.
Bunkers/Water Hazards/In-Play78/3/3
Architect(s):D.A. Weibring (1999).
Defending Champion:Sepp Straka.
Multiple Champion(s) Entered:Jordan Spieth (2013, 2015).
Course Record59; Paul Goydos (Round 1, 2010).
72 Hole Tournament Record:257; Michael Kim (27-under).
Facts of the Week:The winning score has been 16-under or lower in the previous 23 editions.

TPC Deere Run

TPC Deere Run assumed hosting duties for the 2000 edition of the John Deere Classic. Designed by three-time winner and Illinois native D.A. Weibring, the Par-71 will play 7,289 yards for the third consecutive season.

The 35-36 layout features two Par-5 holes on the inward nine.

The Par-3 holes, four in total, played under par (2.99) for the 2023 edition.

The Par-4 holes also played under par (3.99) last season.

The winning score over the last 14 editions has been 18-under-par or lower.

Defending the wide fairways are four inches of Kentucky Bluegrass and Fescue. The 5,500 square foot greens are L-93 Bentgrass and are some of the most receptive and true-rolling on TOUR. Plenty of birdie putts will be holed this week.

Avoiding the 78 bunkers, ravines, and three water penalty areas will make for a successful week if the putter is hot.

Paul Goydos set the course record with an opening round 59 in 2010. Plenty of low rounds, weather permitting, could be in play again this week. The last three winners have all shared or owned the lowest round of the week.

Recent Winners

2023 Season Winners

EventWinner
Sentry Tournament of ChampionsJon Rahm
Sony Open in HawaiiSi Woo Kim
The AMERICAN EXPRESSJon Rahm (2)
Farmers Insurance OpenMax Homa (2)
AT&T Pebble BeachJustin Rose
WM Phoenix OpenScottie Scheffler
The Genesis InvitationalJon Rahm (3)
The Honda ClassicChris Kirk
Arnold Palmer InvitationalKurt Kitayama (first TOUR win)
THE PLAYERS ChampionshipScottie Scheffler (2)
Valspar ChampionshipTaylor Moore (first TOUR win)
Corales PuntacanaMatt Wallace (first TOUR win)
WGC – Dell Technologies MPSam Burns
Valero Texas OpenCorey Conners
MastersJon Rahm (4)
RBC HeritageMatt Fitzpatrick
Zurich Classic of New OrleansDavis Riley & Nick Hardy (first TOUR win for each)
Mexico Open at VidantaTony Finau (2)
Wells Fargo ChampionshipWyndham Clark (first TOUR win)
AT&T Byron NelsonJason Day
PGA ChampionshipBrooks Koepka
Charles Schwab ChallengeEmiliano Grillo
MemorialViktor Hovland
RBC Canadian OpenNick Taylor
U.S. OpenWyndham Clark (2)
Travelers ChampionshipKeegan Bradley (2)
Rocket Mortgage ClassicRickie Fowler
John Deere ClassicSepp Straka
Genesis Scottish OpenRory McIlroy (2)
The Open ChampionshipBrian Harman
3M OpenLee Hodges (first TOUR win)
Wyndham ChampionshipLucas Glover
FedEx St. Jude ChampionshipLucas Glover (2)
BMW ChampionshipViktor Hovland (2)
TOUR ChampionshipViktor Hovland (3)
Fortinet ChampionshipSahith Theegala
Sanderson Farms ChampionshipLuke List
Shriners Children’s OpenTom Kim
ZOZO CHAMPIONSHIPCollin Morikawa
World Wide TechnologyErik van Rooyen
Butterfield BermudaCamilo Villegas
The RSM ClassicLudvig Aberg

2024 Season Winners

EventWinner
The SentryChris Kirk
Sony Open in HawaiiGrayson Murray
The American ExpressNick Dunlap (a)
Farmers Insurance OpenMatthieu Pavon (rookie)
AT&T Pebble BeachWyndham Clark (54 holes)
WM Phoenix OpenNick Taylor
The Genesis InvitationalHideki Matsuyama
Mexico Open at VidantaJake Knapp (rookie)
Cognizant ClassicAustin Eckroat (first time)
Arnold Palmer InvitationalScottie Scheffler
THE PLAYERS ChampionshipScottie Scheffler (2)
Valspar ChampionshipPeter Malnati
Texas Children’s Houston OpenStephan Jaeger (first time)
Valero Texas OpenAkshay Bhatia
88th Masters TournamentScottie Scheffler (3)
RBC HeritageScottie Scheffler (4)
Zurich ClassicRory McIlroy & Shane Lowry
THE CJ CUP Byron NelsonTaylor Pendrith (first time)
Wells Fargo ChampionshipRory McIlroy (2)
106th PGA ChampionshipXander Schauffele
Charles Schwab ChallengeDavis Riley
RBC Canadian OpenRobert MacIntyre (first time)
The 49th Memorial TournamentScottie Scheffler (5)
124th United States OpenBryson DeChambeau
Travelers ChampionshipScottie Scheffler (6)
Rocket Mortgage ClassicCam Davis

John Deere Classic

The PGA TOUR remains in the Midwest for the 53rd edition of the John Deere Classic.

Over the last decade, eight of the last ten winners have been 30 years old or younger, including five of the previous six.

After three consecutive weeks of Signature Event-Major Championship-Signature Event, the field of 156 players includes just six of the 50 in the Official World Golf rankings, led by No. 24 and defending champion Sepp Straka.

The field will be cut to the top 65 and ties after 36 holes. The highest cut in the previous five events is three-under par 139.

Sepp Straka was just the fifth international champion to be crowned in 23 previous events.

Frittelli and 2018 tournament record-setter Michael Kim are the last two players to break their maiden at this event on the PGA TOUR.

JT Poston, the champion in 2022, was the first player in 30 years to go wire-to-wire.

There are nine past champions in the field.

In the last decade, eight winners have ranked in the top six in Ball Striking, and seven have ranked in the top seven in Putting: Birdie or Better Conversion Percentage. The more fairways and greens, the more birdies or better!

Jordan Spieth (2015, 2013) joins Steve Stricker (not entered; 2009-2011) as the only multiple winners at TPC Deere Run. Playing this week, he has not entered since winning the 2015 event.

The winner will take home 500 FedExCup points plus $1.454 million from the $8 million purse.

The top two players not already qualified will qualify for the 152nd Open Championship at Royal Troon.

There are only five weeks left to qualify for the FedExCup Playoffs!

Recent Winners – John Deere Classic

Italics – not entered this week.

YearWinnerNotes
2023Sepp Straka (-21)Posted 62 in the final round with a double bogey on the final hole to win by two.
2022J.T. Poston (-21)Opened 62-65 and was never bothered.
2021Lucas Glover (-19)Began the final round T12 and four shots back. Posted 64 on Sunday and won by two.
2020No event 
2019Dylan Frittelli (-21)Signed for one bogey in his first TOUR victory.
2018Michael Kim (-27)Led the field in Ball Striking and SG: Putting to set the tournament scoring record in his first TOUR victory.

One and Done

I’ll be joining Spotter’s game again this season. Now, where did I put my checkbook…

35 events.

1 player per event (plus a backup pick if your guy gets kidnapped on Wednesday night and doesn’t make it to the first tee Thursday).

1 use per year.

Add up the total money and Spotter is yer uncle!

EventSelectionEarnings
The SentryCollin Morikawa690,500
Sony Open in HawaiiCorey Conners18,592
The American ExpressAdam Hadwin310,800
Farmers Insurance OpenJason Day0
AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-AmJordan Spieth70,125
WM Phoenix OpenMatt Fitzpatrick156,200
The Genesis InvitationalMax Homa329,000
Mexico Open at VidantaTony Finau145,125
Cognizant ClassicRussell Henley32,850
Arnold Palmer InvitationalScottie Scheffler4,000,000
THE PLAYERS ChampionshipWill Zalatoris0
Valspar ChampionshipSam Burns0
Texas Children’s Houston OpenWyndham Clark54,418
Valero Texas OpenC Bezuidenhout67,735
88th Masters TournamentRory McIlroy175,500
RBC HeritagePatrick Cantlay1,160,000
Zurich ClassicNick Taylor122,375
THE CJ CUP Byron NelsonStephan Jaeger112,100
Myrtle Beach ClassicDaniel Berger20,350
Wells Fargo ChampionshipSahith Theegala47,000
106th PGA ChampionshipBrooks Koepka113,962
Charles Schwab ChallengeTaylor Moore0
RBC Canadian OpenMackenzie Hughes295,316
49th Memorial TournamentBen An200,200
124th United States OpenXander Schauffele639,289
Travelers ChampionshipBrian Harman520,000
Rocket Mortgage ClassicAkshay Bhatia616,400
   
Total Winnings: 9,897,837

His game has more fun stuff to it. Reach out @A340Spotter on Twitter or A340Spotter@frontier.com for more details and to join.

Recapping Last Week – Rocket Mortgage Classic

MY CHOICE: Akshay Bhatia – T2

Trending perfectly upon arrival, the winner at Valero is probably playing his last event until The Open Championship. Posting three rounds or better of 65 at the Travelers, he’s ready for another shoot-out this week. Banging fairways and greens is his foundation and that always plays in a low-scoring affair. Circling 22 birdies and an eagle last week, that is the recipe again for the RMC.

The first-round leader had the best of it for most of the first 63 holes. Needing a birdie from less than 10 feet on the penultimate hole would have given him the lead. Needing a par from fewer than six feet on the final hole would have forced a playoff. Picking the wrong time to three-putt for the first time all week, none of the above happened.

Adding insult to injury, he shared second place with THREE OTHERS, reducing the podium return.

I hate this game.

Others to Consider (from who I have available):

Tom Kim: The Korean did everything but win last week. Splitting hairs, but I’ll take the additional power this week with 500 more yards of golf course. MC

Cameron Young: In his only appearance in 2022 he finished tied for second and posted 63 in Round 2. Firing 59 last week and holing putts should have plenty of attention on him this time. Let’s see, he broke his shaft on his driver on the back nine, missed five putts inside 10 feet, and still finished T6.

Stephan Jaeger: The German is the safest play on the board this week. With a pair of top-10 paydays over the last two seasons, I won’t talk you out of him. Steady spaghetti. Another who missed the cut, opening with 75 was a quick, painless death.

Taylor Pendrith/Davis Thompson: Big sticks and solid putters. The Canadian didn’t break 70, but the Georgia man posted the lowest score on the weekend (134) and shared second.

This Week – John Deere Classic

Bit of a dog’s breakfast this week with only six players from the top 50 OWGR in the event.

Plenty of choices for the risk-takers this week!

Eight of the last ten winners were 30 or younger, but veterans Lucas Glover and Ryan Moore also regained form.

MY CHOICE: Denny McCarthy

Others to Consider (from who I have available):

Davis Thompson

Adam Schenk

Aaron Rai

Eric Cole

Sam Stevens

Patrick Rodgers

Rocket Mortgage Classic Preview

There indeed is only one way… TO ROCK

via @VisitDetroit

Rocket Mortgage Classic

Detroit Golf Club

Detroit, Michigan

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Quick Links:

Odds OutlookDFS ReportHorses for Courses/Stats SuggestExpert Picks

Mike Glasscott: Rocket Mortgage Classic Tips

Win: Akshay Bhatia (20/1), Taylor Pendrith (28/1)

Top 10: Aaron Rai (15/4), Matt Wallace (11/2), Stephan Jaeger (16/5)

Top 20: Chandler Phillips (17/4), Troy Merritt (19/4), Jackson Koivun (11/2)

Mike Glasscott: Rocket Mortgage Classic Tips

Win: Akshay Bhatia (20/1), Taylor Pendrith (28/1)

Top 10: Aaron Rai (15/4), Matt Wallace (11/2), Stephan Jaeger (16/5)

Top 20: Chandler Phillips (17/4), Troy Merritt (19/4), Jackson Koivun (11/2)

NOW PLAYING: Rocket Mortgage Classic

Host CourseDetroit Golf Club
Yards (per official scorecard):7,370
Par:72 (36-36).
Greens:Bent/Poa at 5,150 square feet on average.
Stimpmeter:Pushing 12 feet.
Rough:Kentucky Bluegrass at four inches and growing.
Bunkers/Water Hazards/In-Play87/1/1.
Architect(s):Donald Ross (1916).
Defending Champion:Rickie Fowler
Multiple Champion(s) Entered:None.
Course Record63; Multiple players. Stephan Jaeger Round 4 2023.
72 Hole Tournament Record:262; Tony Finau (-26, 2022).
Facts of the Week:Second of four Donald Ross designs used on TOUR for 2024.

Detroit Golf Club

The Donald Ross design from 1916 has survived the test of time but will be restored after the tournament ends next summer. Using 17 holes from the North Course and just one from the South Course, the composite course, a standard Par-72, plays 7,370 yards and has been turned over in four of five previous editions.

Previous WinnersScoreParYardsRankAvg
2023 Rickie Fowler*-24727,3704969.919
2022 Tony Finau-26727,3703870.397
2021 Cam Davis*-18727,3704070.551
2020 Bryson DeChambeau-23727,3404070.051
2019 Nate Lashley-25727,3404270.113

Winner in a playoff is indicated with * – Italics = not entered this week

When the wind doesn’t blow, the soft, receptive greens, sloped from back to front in classic Ross style, can be had putting from below the hole.

Last year, the Par-5 holes produced birdies just over 50 percent of the time.

Half of the Par-4 holes measure less than 425 yards and can be attacked with wedges.

Only two of the four Par-3 holes measure over 200 yards. The other two are less than 175 yards.

The major defense is rough, four inches and growing of lush, wet, Kentucky Bluegrass, and any wind that will stymie iron play into the Bent/Poa mixed greens, smallish on average at 5,150 square feet.

There is only one water penalty area, and 87 bunkers slow down the scoring.

The course record is 63, last set in 2023 by Stephan Jaeger in Round 4. He is one of nine players to share the lowest round. 2019 winner Nate Lashley posted 63 twice during his march to a six-shot win.

Recent Winners

2023 Season Winners

EventWinner
Sentry Tournament of ChampionsJon Rahm
Sony Open in HawaiiSi Woo Kim
The AMERICAN EXPRESSJon Rahm (2)
Farmers Insurance OpenMax Homa (2)
AT&T Pebble BeachJustin Rose
WM Phoenix OpenScottie Scheffler
The Genesis InvitationalJon Rahm (3)
The Honda ClassicChris Kirk
Arnold Palmer InvitationalKurt Kitayama (first TOUR win)
THE PLAYERS ChampionshipScottie Scheffler (2)
Valspar ChampionshipTaylor Moore (first TOUR win)
Corales PuntacanaMatt Wallace (first TOUR win)
WGC – Dell Technologies MPSam Burns
Valero Texas OpenCorey Conners
MastersJon Rahm (4)
RBC HeritageMatt Fitzpatrick
Zurich Classic of New OrleansDavis Riley & Nick Hardy (first TOUR win for each)
Mexico Open at VidantaTony Finau (2)
Wells Fargo ChampionshipWyndham Clark (first TOUR win)
AT&T Byron NelsonJason Day
PGA ChampionshipBrooks Koepka
Charles Schwab ChallengeEmiliano Grillo
MemorialViktor Hovland
RBC Canadian OpenNick Taylor
U.S. OpenWyndham Clark (2)
Travelers ChampionshipKeegan Bradley (2)
Rocket Mortgage ClassicRickie Fowler
John Deere ClassicSepp Straka
Genesis Scottish OpenRory McIlroy (2)
The Open ChampionshipBrian Harman
3M OpenLee Hodges (first TOUR win)
Wyndham ChampionshipLucas Glover
FedEx St. Jude ChampionshipLucas Glover (2)
BMW ChampionshipViktor Hovland (2)
TOUR ChampionshipViktor Hovland (3)
Fortinet ChampionshipSahith Theegala
Sanderson Farms ChampionshipLuke List
Shriners Children’s OpenTom Kim
ZOZO CHAMPIONSHIPCollin Morikawa
World Wide TechnologyErik van Rooyen
Butterfield BermudaCamilo Villegas
The RSM ClassicLudvig Aberg

2024 Season Winners

EventWinner
The SentryChris Kirk
Sony Open in HawaiiGrayson Murray
The American ExpressNick Dunlap (a)
Farmers Insurance OpenMatthieu Pavon (rookie)
AT&T Pebble BeachWyndham Clark (54 holes)
WM Phoenix OpenNick Taylor
The Genesis InvitationalHideki Matsuyama
Mexico Open at VidantaJake Knapp (rookie)
Cognizant ClassicAustin Eckroat (first time)
Arnold Palmer InvitationalScottie Scheffler
THE PLAYERS ChampionshipScottie Scheffler (2)
Valspar ChampionshipPeter Malnati
Texas Children’s Houston OpenStephan Jaeger (first time)
Valero Texas OpenAkshay Bhatia
88th Masters TournamentScottie Scheffler (3)
RBC HeritageScottie Scheffler (4)
Zurich ClassicRory McIlroy & Shane Lowry
THE CJ CUP Byron NelsonTaylor Pendrith (first time)
Wells Fargo ChampionshipRory McIlroy (2)
106th PGA ChampionshipXander Schauffele
Charles Schwab ChallengeDavis Riley
RBC Canadian OpenRobert MacIntyre (first time)
The 49th Memorial TournamentScottie Scheffler (5)
124th United States OpenBryson DeChambeau
Travelers ChampionshipScottie Scheffler (6)

Rocket Mortgage Classic

The sixth consecutive event at Detroit Golf Club, three of the five previous winners are teeing it up this week.

Five previous tournaments have crowned five different winners and two were 100-1 or better before the event.

After three consecutive weeks of Signature Event-Major Championship-Signature Event, the field of 156 players includes just 10 of the 50 in the Official World Golf rankings, led by No. 16 Tom Kim.

The field will be cut to the top 65 and ties after 36 holes. The highest cut in the previous five events is three-under par 141.

Australian Cam Davis is the only international winner.

All five winners have ranked in the top 5 in Par-5 scoring and posted 23 or more birdies.

First-time winners include Davis and Lashley.

The winner will take home 500 FedExCup points plus $1.656 million from the $9.2 million purse.

There are only six weeks left to qualify for the FedExCup Playoffs!

Recent Winners – Rocket Mortgage Classic

Italics – not entered this week.

YearWinnerNotes
2023Rickie Fowler (-24*)Defeated Adam Hadwin and Collin Morikawa, both not entered, in a playoff to win for the first time in four years.
2022Tony Finau (-26)Winning by five shots, he set the tournament scoring record and won for the second consecutive week on TOUR.
2021Cam Davis (-18*)Defeated Troy Merritt and Joaquin Niemann in a playoff to win for the first time on TOUR.
2020Bryson DeChambeau (-23)Won by three shots and was five clear of Kevin Kisner in third place.
2019Nate Lashley (-25)Set the course record of 63 twice, in Rounds 1 and 3, and won by six.

One and Done

I’ll be joining Spotter’s game again this season. Now, where did I put my checkbook…

35 events.

1 player per event (plus a backup pick if your guy gets kidnapped on Wednesday night and doesn’t make it to the first tee Thursday).

1 use per year.

Add up the total money and Spotter is yer uncle!

EventSelectionEarnings
The SentryCollin Morikawa690,500
Sony Open in HawaiiCorey Conners18,592
The American ExpressAdam Hadwin310,800
Farmers Insurance OpenJason Day0
AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-AmJordan Spieth70,125
WM Phoenix OpenMatt Fitzpatrick156,200
The Genesis InvitationalMax Homa329,000
Mexico Open at VidantaTony Finau145,125
Cognizant ClassicRussell Henley32,850
Arnold Palmer InvitationalScottie Scheffler4,000,000
THE PLAYERS ChampionshipWill Zalatoris0
Valspar ChampionshipSam Burns0
Texas Children’s Houston OpenWyndham Clark54,418
Valero Texas OpenC Bezuidenhout67,735
88th Masters TournamentRory McIlroy175,500
RBC HeritagePatrick Cantlay1,160,000
Zurich ClassicNick Taylor122,375
THE CJ CUP Byron NelsonStephan Jaeger112,100
Myrtle Beach ClassicDaniel Berger20,350
Wells Fargo ChampionshipSahith Theegala47,000
106th PGA ChampionshipBrooks Koepka113,962
Charles Schwab ChallengeTaylor Moore0
RBC Canadian OpenMackenzie Hughes295,316
49th Memorial TournamentBen An200,200
124th United States OpenXander Schauffele639,289
Travelers ChampionshipBrian Harman520,000
   
Total Winnings: 9,281,437

His game has more fun stuff to it. Reach out @A340Spotter on Twitter or A340Spotter@frontier.com for more details and to join.

Recapping Last Week – Travelers Championship

The final Signature Event!

MY CHOICE: Brian Harman – T9

When you are as bad as I am, you play the SAFEST play, not the guy you believe will win.

I hate this game.

There are two theories this week. Play the hot guys or play guys who didn’t have to grind all four rounds in 90-plus-degree temperatures at Pinehurst.

To reinforce how low one must go at Travelers, Harman posted all four rounds in the 60s, played the weekend 65-62, and barely hit the top 10. His round of 62 on Sunday was not even the lowest recorded. Sepp Straka took that honor with 61.

Here are the winners from the Signature Events:

Chris Kirks (Sentry)

Wyndham Clark (Pebble Beach)

Hideki Matsuyama (Genesis)

Scottie Scheffler (Arnold Palmer)

Scottie Scheffler (RBC Heritage)

Rory McIlroy (Wells Fargo)

Scottie Scheffler (Memorial)

Scottie Scheffler (Travelers)

Pretty dominant by the OWGR No. 1

Others to Consider (from who I have available):

Hideki Matsuyama: I can’t argue his form or course form. Last time he played three weeks in a row he cashed T71. The fourth week in a row? He won The Genesis Invitational. Posting all four rounds in the 60s was good enough for T23.

Ludvig Aberg: At some point, I’ll pull the trigger. Some will argue it should be this week. I’m pointing to the demanding TPC Southwind in the first round of the FedExCup Playoffs. The ol’ 62-71 weekend ain’t gonna cut it here. T27.

Justin Thomas: Saving him for the hottest dog days of summer. One shot better than Harman and almost $200 grand wealthier. Sad! T5.

Tommy Fleetwood: Passport events only. All four rounds of 67 or better was good enough for 15th.

Keegan Bradley: The defending champion usually plays well in this part of the world. I will not talk you out of playing him, but nobody has defended the title here since Mickelson in 2001-02. T39 and Mickelson is the only player to successfully defend the title this century.

Sepp Straka: Too many good results in too many big events. All he needed was 61 on Sunday to crack the top 25! T23.

This Week – Rocket Mortgage Classic

Welcome back to the rank and file!

Those not eligible for the Signature Events or did not qualify for the U.S. Open have had three weeks off to tune up their games for the six-week run-in that starts in Detroit.

Remember, only the top 70 qualify for the FedExCup Playoffs.

MY CHOICE: Akshay Bhatia

Trending perfectly upon arrival, the winner at Valero is probably playing his last event until The Open Championship. Posting three rounds or better of 65 at the Travelers, he’s ready for another shoot-out this week. Banging fairways and greens is his foundation, which always plays in a low-scoring affair. Circling 22 birdies and an eagle last week, that is the recipe again for the RMC.

Others to Consider (from who I have available):

Tom Kim: The Korean did everything but win last week. I’m splitting hairs, but I’ll take the additional power this week with 500 more yards of golf course.

Cameron Young: In his only appearance in 2022 he finished tied for second and posted 63 in Round 2. Firing 59 last week and holing putts should have plenty of attention on him this time.

Stephan Jaeger: The German is the safest play on the board this week. With a pair of top-10 paydays over the last two seasons, I won’t talk you out of him. Steady spaghetti.

Taylor Pendrith/Davis Thompson: Big sticks and solid putters.

Travelers Championship Preview

73rd Travelers Championship

TPC River Highlands

Cromwell, Connecticut

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Quick Links:

Odds OutlookDFS ReportHorses for Courses/Stats SuggestExpert Picks

Mike Glasscott: Travelers Championship Tips

Win: Patrick Cantlay (18/1), Tony Finau (25/1)

Top 10: Brian Harman (14/5), Corey Conners (14/5)

Top 20: Keegan Bradley (13/10), Ben Griffin (23/10)

Tony Finau (-138) v Wyndham Clark

This matchup is a story of two players going in two different directions. Finau has rattled off seven consecutive cuts, including five paydays of T18 or better. After watching his on-course interview during the round on Saturday, he seems at peace with his life and game.

Clark became the first player since 2009 (Lucas Glover) to win the U.S. Open the first time he made the cut (third attempt). The defending champion has a win this season at Pebble Beach but has missed the cut in three of his last five events, including both majors and last week at Memorial. Tossing in the responsibilities of being the defending champion and the extra duties that come with all the requests before the event starts doesn’t leave much time to tune up the golf game.

Sepp Straka (-110) v Jason Day

If this was Jason Day circa 2014, I would be all over the Australian and his chances. Cashing five times in the top 10 from his first six attempts, the 2015 PGA Champion has only made two cuts in his last five starts at this major. His fantastic short game will get plenty of opportunities this week.

Straka is hotter than a match. Back-to-back T5 paydays at two of the most demanding tracks on TOUR, Muirfield Village, and Colonial added to his streak of T16 or better finishes since St. Patrick’s Day. The Austrian has not been bothered by big fields or difficult tracks and has a more well-rounded bag. 

Matt Fitzpatrick (-125) v Max Homa

I’m keeping this one simple: I’m riding with the 2022 champion at The Country Club because he’s the better driver of the golf ball and it’s not close. Ranking ninth in Total Driving to Homa’s 90th, I’ll lean on the guy who can reduce stress off the tee. The U.S. Open is not an event to spray the ball everywhere off the tee is conducive to contending. In nine previous attempts, the Englishman has played the weekend. Homa, making his fifth start, has played the weekend once (T47) and owns at 73.92 scoring average.

Bet365: Top of the Board  

Scottie Scheffler (7/2): At least it is something new and different this week! The last time the Texan finished outside the top 25 (T41 at Pinehurst) was last summer at the FedEx St. Jude Classic in the first FedExCup Playoffs event. Cashing T31, he returned the following week at The BMW Championship outside Chicago and finished T2. Last week, the books claimed their revenge for the first time since January. Our reward is getting him at the same price if we choose to play. Finishing in a share of fourth place last year, the five-time winner this season posted his best result from four visits.

Xander Schauffele (7/1): In 14 events this season, the PGA Championship winner has taken home money in the top 10 in all but three events. The 2022 champion at TPC River Highlands has never finished outside T20 in four events where he has played the weekend. With top-10 finishes in the two events after winning his first major, he does not appear distracted or satisfied.

Collin Morikawa (11/1): Returning to the event where he made his professional debut in 2019, that edition is the only one from three where he played the weekend. He won’t have to worry about the weekend this year since it’s a no-cut event, and he can focus on continuing his excellent play since the Masters. I’d expect his iron game to recalibrate and for him to contend.

Ludvig Aberg (12/1): The first two steps in a tournament that requires a low number to win are finding fairways and pinning GIR. He sits in the top 15 in SG: Tee to Green and is familiar with the track. Making his second start as a professional here last year, he cashed T24 after three rounds in the 60s.

Viktor Hovland (18/1): The Norwegian is getting closer, but missing the cut with 78-68 last week still has me scratching my head. Inconsistent iron play leads to having to scramble, and that’s not his strength. After hitting just 19 of 36 GIR last week, I’d expect a turnaround in a parkland setting.

Patrick Cantlay (18/1): Converging trends! An excellent week on approach at Pinehurst produced his best U.S. Open finish (T3) and should translate to TPC River Highlands. Last year, he cashed T4, his sixth consecutive T15 or better, yet a first top-10.

Hideki Matsuyama (25/1): The Japanese star closed 64-65-66 on debut last year for T13. Entering the week off back-to-back top-10 paydays on two difficult courses, his excellent 2024 rolls on.

Tony Finau (25/1): Over the last four events, his trend is T18-T17-T8-T3. The next step is returning to the winner’s circle. TPC River Highlands has produced up-and-down results, but as well as he is currently hitting it, I’d be surprised if he finished outside the top 10.

Players to consider for Top 10, Top 20, or Top 40 action:

Brian Harman (35/1): The 2023 runner-up picked up his sixth top-10 payday from his last nine starts. He’s the course horse this week.

Corey Conners (35/1): Last year, 17-under BARELY returned top-10 money (T9). The Canadian has had an excellent late spring and will represent his country in Paris at the Summer Olympics. Cashing in 17 straight this season, his last three (T9-T20-T6) contain both of his top-10 paydays.

Keegan Bradley (50/1): The last two winners have posted T19 in defense. The home game for the Vermont native should produce another big finish.

Cameron Young (70/1): The Westchester, New York, native will have plenty of fans in Cromwell. A home game plus a birdie fest should fire him up.

Christiaan Bezuidenhout (80/1): Sitting 13th SG: Total, he also makes plenty of birdies on Par-4 holes. Making his debut through the Aon Next 10, his form is what brought him to town.

Ben Griffin (100/1): The all-or-nothing results over his last six events explain the big number. Like Bezuidenhout, he’s an excellent putter and sits 10th in both Par-3 and Par-4 scoring.

NOW PLAYING: Travelers Championship

Host CourseTPC River Highlands
Yards (per official scorecard):6,835.
Par:70 (35-35).
Greens:Bent/Poa at 5,000 square feet on average.
Stimpmeter:Pushing 12 feet.
Rough:Kentucky Bluegrass and Fescue at four inches and growing.
Bunkers/Water Hazards/In-Play69/4/5.
Architect(s):Ross & Kearney (1928); Pete Dye (1984); Bobby Weed (1989).
Defending Champion:Keegan Bradley.
Multiple Champion(s) Entered:None.
Course Record58; Jim Furyk (Round 4, 2016).
72 Hole Tournament Record:257; 23-under; Keegan Bradley (2023).
Facts of the Week:Only one international winner (Russell Knox) since 2013.

TPC River Highlands

Since 1984, TPC River Highlands has provided the backdrop for the only annual PGA TOUR event contested in New England. Designed by Pete Dye and updated by Bobby Weed in 1989, the course underwent improvements before the 2016 edition and will have changes for 2024.

After being run over by Keegan Bradley last year, reaching 26-under-par with six holes to go before setting the tournament record at 23-under-par, the course has added features to crank up the difficulty.

The Par-5 holes, one on each nine, have added fescue-filled mounds off the fairway to challenge tee shots and approaches. Fairways have also been pinched in landing areas to reward more accurate tee shots. The tee box at No. 9 has shifted to bring the dog leg into play. The hole will play 17 yards shorter, and the square footage of the green shrank. On the back nine, Holes Nos. 11, 12, and 13 have toughened up to halt the scoring chances. The green at No. 11 has narrowed. The fairway at No. 12 now ends at 300 yards, forcing a decision. Like Hole No. 6 on the front, the Par-5 13th also has a narrowed fairway landing area and added mounds behind the bunkers to penalize wayward tee shots. The field of 156 players for the 2023 edition averaged 68.400, the easiest in history.

The last event with a winner posting single digits under par was in 1993.

Overlooking the Connecticut River, the parkland design plays up and down to only 6,835 yards. Port Royal Golf Course in Bermuda is the only track that is shorter.

The stock Par-70 features Bent/Poa mixed greens. Averaging just 5,000 square feet, only Pebble Beach and Harbour Town provide smaller targets on approach.

The return to Kentucky Bluegrass and Fescue rough at four inches and growing, plus water penalty areas on five holes, will provide different challenges than Pinehurst No. 2.

Jim Furyk set the PGA TOUR and course record of 58 in Round 4 of the 2016 event. He finished in a tie for fifth place.

Patrick Cantlay (2011), Mackenzie Hughes (2020), Denny McCarthy (2023), and Rickie Fowler (2023) have all posted rounds of 60.

Cantlay also posted 61 last year.

Bradley bested Kenny Perry’s mark of 22-under-par 258 by a shot last year.

Recent Winners

2023 Season Winners

EventWinner
Sentry Tournament of ChampionsJon Rahm
Sony Open in HawaiiSi Woo Kim
The AMERICAN EXPRESSJon Rahm (2)
Farmers Insurance OpenMax Homa (2)
AT&T Pebble BeachJustin Rose
WM Phoenix OpenScottie Scheffler
The Genesis InvitationalJon Rahm (3)
The Honda ClassicChris Kirk
Arnold Palmer InvitationalKurt Kitayama (first TOUR win)
THE PLAYERS ChampionshipScottie Scheffler (2)
Valspar ChampionshipTaylor Moore (first TOUR win)
Corales PuntacanaMatt Wallace (first TOUR win)
WGC – Dell Technologies MPSam Burns
Valero Texas OpenCorey Conners
MastersJon Rahm (4)
RBC HeritageMatt Fitzpatrick
Zurich Classic of New OrleansDavis Riley & Nick Hardy (first TOUR win for each)
Mexico Open at VidantaTony Finau (2)
Wells Fargo ChampionshipWyndham Clark (first TOUR win)
AT&T Byron NelsonJason Day
PGA ChampionshipBrooks Koepka
Charles Schwab ChallengeEmiliano Grillo
MemorialViktor Hovland
RBC Canadian OpenNick Taylor
U.S. OpenWyndham Clark (2)
Travelers ChampionshipKeegan Bradley (2)
Rocket Mortgage ClassicRickie Fowler
John Deere ClassicSepp Straka
Genesis Scottish OpenRory McIlroy (2)
The Open ChampionshipBrian Harman
3M OpenLee Hodges (first TOUR win)
Wyndham ChampionshipLucas Glover
FedEx St. Jude ChampionshipLucas Glover (2)
BMW ChampionshipViktor Hovland (2)
TOUR ChampionshipViktor Hovland (3)
Fortinet ChampionshipSahith Theegala
Sanderson Farms ChampionshipLuke List
Shriners Children’s OpenTom Kim
ZOZO CHAMPIONSHIPCollin Morikawa
World Wide TechnologyErik van Rooyen
Butterfield BermudaCamilo Villegas
The RSM ClassicLudvig Aberg

2024 Season Winners

EventWinner
The SentryChris Kirk
Sony Open in HawaiiGrayson Murray
The American ExpressNick Dunlap (a)
Farmers Insurance OpenMatthieu Pavon (rookie)
AT&T Pebble BeachWyndham Clark (54 holes)
WM Phoenix OpenNick Taylor
The Genesis InvitationalHideki Matsuyama
Mexico Open at VidantaJake Knapp (rookie)
Cognizant ClassicAustin Eckroat (first time)
Arnold Palmer InvitationalScottie Scheffler
THE PLAYERS ChampionshipScottie Scheffler (2)
Valspar ChampionshipPeter Malnati
Texas Children’s Houston OpenStephan Jaeger (first time)
Valero Texas OpenAkshay Bhatia
88th Masters TournamentScottie Scheffler (3)
RBC HeritageScottie Scheffler (4)
Zurich ClassicRory McIlroy & Shane Lowry
THE CJ CUP Byron NelsonTaylor Pendrith (first time)
Wells Fargo ChampionshipRory McIlroy (2)
106th PGA ChampionshipXander Schauffele
Charles Schwab ChallengeDavis Riley
RBC Canadian OpenRobert MacIntyre (first time)
The 49th Memorial TournamentScottie Scheffler (5)
124th United States OpenBryson DeChambeau

Travelers Championship

The Travelers Championship dates to 1952 and will play for the 73rd time this week.

Four former champions are playing this week. Bradley, Schauffele, Harris English, and Jordan Spieth have all won one title.

The invitational field of 72 players includes 43 of the 50 in the Official World Golf rankings, led by No. 1 Scottie Scheffler.

There is no cut in the eighth and final Signature Event.

There has not been an international winner since Russell Knox (not entered) in 2016.

Nine of the last 10 winners have ranked in the top 10 in SG: Tee to Green and Par-4 Scoring Average.

Ken Duke, the winner in 2013, was the last first-time winner on TOUR, completing a streak of four consecutive first-time winners from 2010 through 2013.

Jordan Spieth, champion of 2017 in a playoff, is the last player to win on debut. He is also one of two players this century to go wire-to-wire.

Usually played in June, the 2016 event was moved to August to accommodate the Rio de Janeiro Olympics.

The winner will take home 700 FedExCup points plus $3.6 million from the $20 million purse.

Recent Winners – Travelers Championship

Italics – not entered this week.

YearWinnerNotes
2023Keegan Bradley (-23)Sets the tournament scoring record and 54-hole record.
2022Xander Schauffele   (-19)Held off best friend Patrick Cantlay in the final pairing to win by two.
2021Harris English (-13*)Defeated Kramer Hickok in a playoff.
2020Dustin Johnson (-19)Won by a shot over Kevin Streelman.
2019Chez Reavie (-17)Followed up his 3rd place finish at the U.S. Open with a victory.
2018Bubba Watson (-17)Won for the third time; won by three shots.
2017Jordan Spieth (-12*)Holed a bunker shot in a playoff to beat Daniel Berger.

One and Done

I’ll be joining Spotter’s game again this season. Now, where did I put my checkbook…

35 events.

1 player per event (plus a backup pick if your guy gets kidnapped on Wednesday night and doesn’t make it to the first tee Thursday).

1 use per year.

Add up the total money and Spotter is yer uncle!

EventSelectionEarnings
The SentryCollin Morikawa690,500
Sony Open in HawaiiCorey Conners18,592
The American ExpressAdam Hadwin310,800
Farmers Insurance OpenJason Day0
AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-AmJordan Spieth70,125
WM Phoenix OpenMatt Fitzpatrick156,200
The Genesis InvitationalMax Homa329,000
Mexico Open at VidantaTony Finau145,125
Cognizant ClassicRussell Henley32,850
Arnold Palmer InvitationalScottie Scheffler4,000,000
THE PLAYERS ChampionshipWill Zalatoris0
Valspar ChampionshipSam Burns0
Texas Children’s Houston OpenWyndham Clark54,418
Valero Texas OpenC Bezuidenhout67,735
88th Masters TournamentRory McIlroy175,500
RBC HeritagePatrick Cantlay1,160,000
Zurich ClassicNick Taylor122,375
THE CJ CUP Byron NelsonStephan Jaeger112,100
Myrtle Beach ClassicDaniel Berger20,350
Wells Fargo ChampionshipSahith Theegala47,000
106th PGA ChampionshipBrooks Koepka113,962
Charles Schwab ChallengeTaylor Moore0
RBC Canadian OpenMackenzie Hughes295,316
49th Memorial TournamentBen An200,200
124th United States OpenXander Schauffele639,289
   
Total Winnings: 8,761,437

His game has more fun stuff to it. Reach out @A340Spotter on Twitter or A340Spotter@frontier.com for more details and to join.

Recapping Last Week – 124th United States Open

No need to save guys anymore.

MY CHOICE: Xander Schauffele – T7

The plan from the start of the season was to use him at Pinehurst and here we are.

With a win already under his belt and a MAJOR CHAMPIONSHIP on the mantle, he should be free to go about his business and run down Scheffler.

His amazing run of eight straight championship finishes of T14 or better continues.

I did not believe DeChambeau could bomb-and-gouge through the sandy areas, wiregrass, and repellant greens.

I was wrong.

Others to Consider:

Scottie Scheffler – T41. I’m sorry to all of you who saved this selection for Pinehurst. Amazing it was his first finish outside T17 this season. Unlucky.

Collin Morikawa – T14. Unable to string two rounds together, another big finish, but not big enough.

Brooks Koepka – The wrong LIV guy.

Matt Fitzpatrick – The ol’ 79-69 weekend never works out.

Hideki Matsuyama – Solo sixth, excellent job.

Tommy Fleetwood – Another top 20 in a major championship. Another major championship where he did not contend.

This Week – Travelers Championship

The final Signature Event!

MY CHOICE: Brian Harman

When you are as bad as I am, you play the SAFEST play, not the guy you believe will win.

I hate this game.

There are two theories this week. Play the hot guys or play guys who didn’t have to grind all four rounds in 90-plus-degree temperatures at Pinehurst.

Here are the winners from the first seven Signature Events:

Chris Kirks (Sentry)

Wyndham Clark (Pebble Beach)

Hideki Matsuyama (Genesis)

Scottie Scheffler (Arnold Palmer)

Scottie Scheffler (RBC Heritage)

Rory McIlroy (Wells Fargo)

Scottie Scheffler (Memorial)

Pretty thicc.

Others to Consider (from who I have available):

Hideki Matsuyama: I can’t argue his form or course form. The last time he played three weeks in a row he cashed T71. The fourth week in a row? He won The Genesis Invitational.

Ludvig Aberg: At some point, I’ll pull the trigger. Some will argue it should be this week. I’m pointing to the demanding TPC Southwind in the first round of the FedExCup Playoffs.

Justin Thomas: Saving him for the hottest dog days of summer.

Tommy Fleetwood: Passport events only.

Keegan Bradley: The defending champion usually plays well in this part of the world. I will not talk you out of playing him, but nobody has defended the title here since Mickelson in 2001-02.

Sepp Straka: Too many good results in too many big events.

124th United States Open

124th United States Open

Pinehurst Golf and Country Club

Course No. 2

Village of Pinehurst, North Carolina

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Mike Glasscott: 124th United States Open tips

Tony Finau (-138) v Wyndham Clark

This matchup is a story of two players going in two different directions. Finau has rattled off seven consecutive cuts, including five paydays of T18 or better. After watching his on-course interview during the round on Saturday, he seems at peace with his life and game.

Clark became the first player since 2009 (Lucas Glover) to win the U.S. Open the first time he made the cut (third attempt). The defending champion has a win this season at Pebble Beach but has missed the cut in three of his last five events, including both majors and last week at Memorial. Tossing in the responsibilities of being the defending champion and the extra duties that come with all the requests before the event starts doesn’t leave much time to tune up the golf game.

Sepp Straka (-110) v Jason Day

If this was Jason Day circa 2014, I would be all over the Australian and his chances. Cashing five times in the top 10 from his first six attempts, the 2015 PGA Champion has only made two cuts in his last five starts at this major. His fantastic short game will get plenty of opportunities this week.

Straka is hotter than a match. Back-to-back T5 paydays at two of the most demanding tracks on TOUR, Muirfield Village and Colonial added to his streak of T16 or better finishes since St. Patrick’s Day. The Austrian has not been bothered by big fields or difficult tracks and has a more well-rounded bag.  

Matt Fitzpatrick (-125) v Max Homa

I’m keeping this one simple: I’m riding with the 2022 champion at The Country Club because he’s the better driver of the golf ball and it’s not close. Ranking ninth in Total Driving to Homa’s 90th, I’ll lean on the guy who can reduce stress off the tee. The U.S. Open is not an event to spray the ball everywhere off the tee is conducive to contending. In nine previous attempts, the Englishman has played the weekend. Homa, making his fifth start, has played the weekend once (T47) and owns at 73.92 scoring average.

Bet365: Top of the Board 

Scottie Scheffler (3/1): I’m running out of things to write. Picking up his fifth win of the season last week, he’s now lifted the trophy at Jack’s Place, Arnold’s Place, Harbour Town, TPC Sawgrass, and Augusta National. That’s a great CAREER. As my buddy Jay suggests, if you’re not paying 3-1, bet your guy in the market WITHOUT SCHEFFLER. Safety first.

Xander Schauffele (10/1): The PGA Champion worked the kinks out last week at Memorial and still hit the top 10 for the 10th time in 14 events. I would give him the nod this week because of his short game and putting, but winning two major championships on the bounce is unlikely. Posting his eighth consecutive T14 or better at the U.S. Open is.

Rory McIlroy (11/1): Tuesday was a big news day at Pinehurst. Jon Rahm withdrew with an infected foot and McIlroy reconciled with his wife. The Hollywood ending for the man from Holywood, Northern Ireland, would be to win a major for the first time in almost a decade. Remember, the divorce papers were filed the Monday before the PGA Championship? Odd timing to say the least to have this all surround the middle two major championships.

Collin Morikawa (16/1): This time last week I thought he was ready to knock off Scheffler. He had a six-footer late in the round to tie the lead, but his putt went begging. I have seen nothing in his last three events that suggests smoke and mirrors.  I’m playing another win ticket with and without Scheffler on him this week.

Viktor Hovland (16/1): The short-game numbers surrounding the 2023 FedExCup winner scare me to death this week. The greens here are visited, not held very often, and getting up and down is required. 2014 champion Martin Kaymer showed the way by using the “Texas Wedge” in his eight-shot victory. The Norwegian is starting to simmer.

Bryson DeChambeau (20/1): Placing in the top 10 in the first two majors, the 2020 U.S. Open winner is one of four players to accomplish that feat in 2024. My biggest concern THIS WEEK is his errant drives will not find four inches of Bluegrass where he can muscle up recovery shots. Bunkers and sandy, waste areas filled with wire grass will be too many variables to run through his computer. Unlucky bounces, perfectly struck irons that miss their target by a yard, and super-slick BERMUDA will cause him to overheat.

Ludvig Aberg (20/1): Playing in just his third major championship, the Swede has already solved Augusta National (2nd) but did not play the weekend at Valhalla. Making his first appearance at the U.S. Open, only Francis Ouimet (1913) won on debut.

Brooks Koepka (22/1): Time to flip his favorite switch. Making his 11th start, he already has two championships and three additional finishes T5 or better. A quiet Masters (T45) and T26 and a less-than-demanding Valhalla should have his chili running hot. Pinehurst No. 2 is difficult and he should be in the mix Sunday afternoon.

Tommy Fleetwood (28/1): Over his career, he has found the top 10 three times from eight starts and has posted 63 twice. Write a top 20 ticket and get Dad something nice for Father’s Day.

Players to consider for Top 10 or Top 20 action:

Matt Fitzpatrick and Hideki Matsuyama each at 40/1 catch my eye. Both are excellent around the greens which will be a major factor in determining the champion this week. Both finished in the top 10 last week at Memorial and come into this week flying.

Cameron Smith (45/1): The Sandhills of North Carolina should remind him of the Sand Belt in his native Australia. Big landing areas off the tee will suit the weakest part of his game.

Sam Burns (66/1): Bermuda greens and a grind make for a lovely combination.

Denny McCarthy (110/1): The return to Bermuda will fit his eye. His super short game should move him up the leaderboard this week.

Harris English (125/1): Never missed in eight tries and has hit the top 10 in three of the last four.

Nick Dunlap (175/1): Won the North and South Amateur on Pinehurst No. 2 last summer. Top 25 in his last two starts on TOUR that were not majors.

JT Poston (200/1): The North Carolina native should feel at home on Bermuda. Firm and fast conditions will help the hyper-accurate driver keep up off the tee. The super putter will hole a few.

Gordon Sargent (500/1): The low amateur from 2023 returns for another crack.

Frankie Capan III (1000/1): Won the USGA Amateur Four-Ball here in 2017.

NOW PLAYING:

Host CoursePinehurst No. 2
Yards (per official scorecard):7,548.
Par:70 (35-35).
Greens:Champion UltraDwarf Bermuda at 6,500 square feet on average.
Stimpmeter:Championship speed. 13 feet plus.
Rough:None.
Bunkers/Water Hazards/In-Play117/1/1 (water is 200 yards off the tee; not in play).
Architect(s):Donald Ross (1907); Rees Jones (1999); Coore & Crenshaw (2011).
Defending Champion (event):Wyndham Clark (LACC).
Defending Champion (course):Martin Kaymer (-9).
Multiple Champion(s) Entered:Tiger Woods (2000, 2005, 2008) & Brooks Koepka (2017, 2018).
Course Record65; Martin Kaymer (Rounds 1 and 2, 2014).
72 Hole Tournament Record:271, 9-under; Martin Kaymer (2014).
Facts of the Week:Martin Kaymer has not won anywhere in the world since winning the 2014 U.S. Open.

Pinehurst No. 2

The Village of Pinehurst, set in the Sandhills of North Carolina east of Charlotte and southwest of Raleigh-Durham, is the home of the famous No. 2 course.

Completed by legendary architect and resident Donald Ross in 1907, No. 2 has hosted every major USGA event dating back to the 1936 PGA Championship, plus the annual North and South Amateur.

Hosting the United States Open for the fourth time in history and the first since 2014, the Par-70 will play two yards longer, 7,548 yards, than the last edition when Martin Kaymer steamrolled the field.  

The 2024 edition will feature Champion UltraDwarf Bermudagrass greens for the first time in the 124-year history of the event. Sturdier and more heat tolerant than Bentgrass, UltraDwarf thrives in the summer.

The green complexes, tilting slightly from back to front, have not changed and are the signature of Ross’s design. The pushed-up putting surfaces, resembling a turtle’s shell, repel shots that are not struck soundly or have the proper spin. After finding the fairways, getting a decent lie or making clean contact from the sandy waste areas littered with wire grass is the second challenge.

Bogeys will be prevalent, but short-game experts can save shots around and on the greens. There is no rough, just closely mown areas that will test the patience, putting, and chipping from shots that do not find the greenside bunkers.

The course has one water penalty area, but it is not in play for the best in the game, and there is no out of bounds.   

After 21-under par was the winning score at the PGA Championship, I would be surprised if there were 21 people at par or better this week.

The post-2011 restoration course record is 65, set in Rounds 1 and 2 by 2014 winner Martin Kaymer.

Kaymer also owns the tournament scoring record on this routing and is just one of four contestants to play 72 holes under par. The other three are Rickie Fowler and Erik Compton (-1) in 2014 and 1999 winner Payne Stewart (-1).

Recent Winners

2023 Season Winners

EventWinner
Sentry Tournament of ChampionsJon Rahm
Sony Open in HawaiiSi Woo Kim
The AMERICAN EXPRESSJon Rahm (2)
Farmers Insurance OpenMax Homa (2)
AT&T Pebble BeachJustin Rose
WM Phoenix OpenScottie Scheffler
The Genesis InvitationalJon Rahm (3)
The Honda ClassicChris Kirk
Arnold Palmer InvitationalKurt Kitayama (first TOUR win)
THE PLAYERS ChampionshipScottie Scheffler (2)
Valspar ChampionshipTaylor Moore (first TOUR win)
Corales PuntacanaMatt Wallace (first TOUR win)
WGC – Dell Technologies MPSam Burns
Valero Texas OpenCorey Conners
MastersJon Rahm (4)
RBC HeritageMatt Fitzpatrick
Zurich Classic of New OrleansDavis Riley & Nick Hardy (first TOUR win for each)
Mexico Open at VidantaTony Finau (2)
Wells Fargo ChampionshipWyndham Clark (first TOUR win)
AT&T Byron NelsonJason Day
PGA ChampionshipBrooks Koepka
Charles Schwab ChallengeEmiliano Grillo
MemorialViktor Hovland
RBC Canadian OpenNick Taylor
U.S. OpenWyndham Clark (2)
Travelers ChampionshipKeegan Bradley (2)
Rocket Mortgage ClassicRickie Fowler
John Deere ClassicSepp Straka
Genesis Scottish OpenRory McIlroy (2)
The Open ChampionshipBrian Harman
3M OpenLee Hodges (first TOUR win)
Wyndham ChampionshipLucas Glover
FedEx St. Jude ChampionshipLucas Glover (2)
BMW ChampionshipViktor Hovland (2)
TOUR ChampionshipViktor Hovland (3)
Fortinet ChampionshipSahith Theegala
Sanderson Farms ChampionshipLuke List
Shriners Children’s OpenTom Kim
ZOZO CHAMPIONSHIPCollin Morikawa
World Wide TechnologyErik van Rooyen
Butterfield BermudaCamilo Villegas
The RSM ClassicLudvig Aberg

2024 Season Winners

EventWinner
The SentryChris Kirk
Sony Open in HawaiiGrayson Murray
The American ExpressNick Dunlap (a)
Farmers Insurance OpenMatthieu Pavon (rookie)
AT&T Pebble BeachWyndham Clark (54 holes)
WM Phoenix OpenNick Taylor
The Genesis InvitationalHideki Matsuyama
Mexico Open at VidantaJake Knapp (rookie)
Cognizant ClassicAustin Eckroat (first time)
Arnold Palmer InvitationalScottie Scheffler
THE PLAYERS ChampionshipScottie Scheffler (2)
Valspar ChampionshipPeter Malnati
Texas Children’s Houston OpenStephan Jaeger (first time)
Valero Texas OpenAkshay Bhatia
88th Masters TournamentScottie Scheffler (3)
RBC HeritageScottie Scheffler (4)
Zurich ClassicRory McIlroy & Shane Lowry
THE CJ CUP Byron NelsonTaylor Pendrith (first time)
Wells Fargo ChampionshipRory McIlroy (2)
106th PGA ChampionshipXander Schauffele
Charles Schwab ChallengeDavis Riley
RBC Canadian OpenRobert MacIntyre (first time)
The 49th Memorial TournamentScottie Scheffler (5)

The 124th United States Open

The first event, held in 1895, consisted of ten professionals and one amateur and was held at the Newport Golf and Country Club in Rhode Island.

The previous 123 editions have seen four players win the event four times. Willie Anderson, Bobby Jones, Ben Hogan, and Jack Nicklaus are the members of this exclusive club.

Tiger Woods, winner of three titles, and Brooks Koepka, winner of two championships, are both in the field. Koepka is the last player who successfully defended the title.

The loaded field of 156 players includes every golfer in the top 50 in the Official World Golf Rankings, 13 previous event winners, and 28 major champions.

The top 60 and ties after two rounds, will play the final 36 holes.

There will be a two-hole aggregate playoff, if necessary, to determine a champion if there is a tie after 72 holes.

John J. McDermott, 19 in 1911, is the youngest champion.

Hale Irwin won his third title at 45 in 1990, becoming the oldest winner.

Only Francis Ouimet (1913) has won on debut and no player has ever made this event their first win on TOUR.

Wyndham Clark (2023) became the fifth consecutive champion to win their first major at this event.

Since 2010, every winner has ranked inside the top 40 in the OWGR.

The last four champions were 20-somethings.

In 1999, Payne Stewart became the last 40-year-old or older to win.

Jon Rahm, the 2021 winner at Torrey Pines, withdrew Tuesday afternoon.

The winner will take home 750 FedExCup points, the Jack Nicklaus Medal, and $3.9 million of the $20 million prize purse.

Recent Winners – U.S. Open

Italics – not entered this week.

YearWinnerNotes
2023Wyndham Clark (-10)At 29, he became the fourth consecutive winner in the 20s and just second winner since Lucas Glover to be victorious the first time making the cut.
2022Matt Fitzpatrick (-6)At 29, he became the fourth consecutive winner in the 20s and just the second winner since Lucas Glover to be victorious the first time making the cut.
2021Jon Rahm (-6)Won his first major championship at Torrey Pines.
2020Bryson DeChambeau (-6)Won his first major championship at Winged Foot and was the only player to break par.
2019Gary Woodland (-13)The last player in their 30s to win the event. Defeated Brooks Koepka by three shots at Pebble Beach.

One and Done

I’ll be joining Spotter’s game again this season. Now, where did I put my checkbook…

35 events.

1 player per event (plus a backup pick if your guy gets kidnapped on Wednesday night and doesn’t make it to the first tee Thursday).

1 use per year.

Add up the total money and Spotter is yer uncle!

EventSelectionEarnings
The SentryCollin Morikawa690,500
Sony Open in HawaiiCorey Conners18,592
The American ExpressAdam Hadwin310,800
Farmers Insurance OpenJason Day0
AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-AmJordan Spieth70,125
WM Phoenix OpenMatt Fitzpatrick156,200
The Genesis InvitationalMax Homa329,000
Mexico Open at VidantaTony Finau145,125
Cognizant ClassicRussell Henley32,850
Arnold Palmer InvitationalScottie Scheffler4,000,000
THE PLAYERS ChampionshipWill Zalatoris0
Valspar ChampionshipSam Burns0
Texas Children’s Houston OpenWyndham Clark54,418
Valero Texas OpenC Bezuidenhout67,735
88th Masters TournamentRory McIlroy175,500
RBC HeritagePatrick Cantlay1,160,000
Zurich ClassicNick Taylor122,375
THE CJ CUP Byron NelsonStephan Jaeger112,100
Myrtle Beach ClassicDaniel Berger20,350
Wells Fargo ChampionshipSahith Theegala47,000
106th PGA ChampionshipBrooks Koepka113,962
Charles Schwab ChallengeTaylor Moore0
RBC Canadian OpenMackenzie Hughes295,316
49th Memorial TournamentBen An200,200
   
Total Winnings: 8,122,148

His game has more fun stuff to it. Reach out @A340Spotter on Twitter or A340Spotter@frontier.com for more details and to join.

Recapping Last Week – 49th Memorial Tournament

I’m done overthinking everything.

So I’m not thinking, PERIOD!

MY CHOICE: Ben An – T22

Too much heat! Too much power tee-to-green!

Too many players already used!

I didn’t have the winner or solo second to choose from. I guess Adam Hadwin was making up for lost time after missing the cut at his national open the week prior.

Others to Consider:

Patrick Cantlay: The course horse this week. Giddy up, if you can. And by giddy up, I meant RUN AWAY AS FAST AS YOU CAN. MC.

Viktor Hovland: I’m never a fan of following in Tiger’s footsteps, but he isn’t concerned about that history. The 2023 FedExCup winner entered the weekend 6-under but shot 77-75 to drift to T15. He’s close.

Si Woo Kim: Risky, rewardy, but he’s rocked here since the renovation. Another top 15 (T15) payday.

Justin Thomas: If you believe he’s really, really close then fire away. I’m not crazy about any of these plays with a major championship next week. After closing with three straight bogeys, he settled for T33.

This Week – 124th United States Open

No need to save guys anymore.

MY CHOICE: Xander Schauffele

The plan from the start of the season was to use him at Pinehurst and here we are.

With a win already under his belt and a MAJOR CHAMPIONSHIP on the mantle, he should be free to go about his business and run down Scheffler.

Others to Consider:

Scottie Scheffler

Collin Morikawa

Brooks Koepka

Matt Fitzpatrick

Hideki Matsuyama

Tommy Fleetwood

Good luck! You’ll need it!

49th Memorial Preview

Pristine Muirfield Village Golf Club and host Jack Nicklaus require the world’s best to pack a lunch this week.

49th Memorial Tournament

Muirfield Village Golf Club

Dublin, Ohio

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Mike Glasscott: 49th Memorial Tournament presented by Workday tips

Win: Collin Morikawa (14/1)

Top 10: Si Woo Kim (7/2), Patrick Cantlay (11/5), Ben An (7/2)

Top 20: Billy Horschel (81/50), Kurt Kitayama (21/10), Lee Hodges (14/5)

Bet365: Top of the Board 

Scottie Scheffler (15/4): The Texan has cashed solo third in his last two visits to MVGC in 2023 and 2021. Already a winner of a legacy event (Arnold Palmer Invitational), a major (Masters), and THE PLAYERS, he’s only been beaten by nine golfers in his last SEVEN starts. If, he gets off to a slow start, the live odds might be better.

Xander Schauffele (8/1): Fresh off his first major championship at the Jack Nicklaus design at Valhalla, the Californian is looking for his first top 10 at THIS Jack Nicklaus layout. The best putter at the top of the board, the PGA Champion is no slouch tee-to-green. Winning a major championship is said to be a life-changing event. I will give him a week to get his game back in competitive order before Pinehurst No. 2 for the U.S. Open next week.

Rory McIlroy (17/2): It is not very often when the top three players at the top of the Bet365.com board have not won the event. Making his 13th start at Memorial, the Ulsterman is still looking for his first podium finish. How tough is MVGC? McIlroy has just two rounds in the 60s from his last 18 rounds yet has finished T18 or better in his last three visits, including T7 in the 2023 edition.

Collin Morikawa (14/1): I am one of many who believe that the two-time major champion returns to the winner’s circle this week. Trending beautifully after a pair of top-five paydays at the PGA Championship and Charles Schwab Challenge at Colonial, MVGC requires outstanding iron play, and that’s his calling card. Remember, the perfect greens are not difficult to putt when the approach shots are on the proper side of the hole. All aboard!

Viktor Hovland (16/1): His quote about MVGC Tuesday is a beauty: “This golf course doesn’t care about your memories or good vibes. It’s going to punish you.” The reigning champion needed 19 birdies to offset 12 bogeys last year to win. After an early season slump, he has perked back to life with T21 at the immense Quail Hollow Club and solo third at Valhalla. The Norwegian only missed 16 GIR in Louisville in his last event.

Ludvig Aberg (22/1): The Swede took off the week before the PGA Championship to assure he was ready for the test at Valhalla. He received extra rest on Saturday and Sunday after missing the cut. Playing just once in the last six weeks, I’m interested to see where his game is before the next major championship.

Justin Thomas (25/1): Like Schauffele, the Kentuckian has thrown up plenty of decent results this season but has not answered the final question. Inspired by the home crowd at Valhalla, he remarked that he’s close to breaking the winless streak that stretches back to May of 2022.

Patrick Cantlay (25/1): Ah, there he is. The 2019 winner ran solo fourth in 2018. After the renovation, he won the first edition and followed with T3 in defense. Sitting on 5-under after 36-hole last year, he closed 74-78 to fade to T30. Nobody has a better stroke average at this event (minimum 10 rounds played) than his 70.32. His best results this season are on tracks where he annually rakes in the cash, T4 at Riviera, and T3 at Harbour Town. This week qualifies.

Players to consider for Top 10 or Top 20 action:

Byeong-Hun An: Making his ninth visit, the Korean has cashed T25 or better in all five weekends he’s made the cut, including a playoff loss in 2018. Top four finishes in May at TPC Craig Ranch and Quail Hollow Club tell me he’s not searching for answers heading to MVGC.

Corey Conners: Finally! The Canadian waited until his National Open to cash his first top-10 check of the season. The momentum should continue on a track where superior iron play is the key.

Si Woo Kim: His stat profile leaves no doubt as to why he’s been around the first page of the leaderboard here over the last three years. Missing the cut at the PGA Championship is the only blemish from 15 attempts in 2024.

Billy Horschel: The 2022 winner isn’t having any swing issues this time. The winner at Puntacana cashed T8 at Valhalla before T24 at Colonial his last time out.

Sepp Straka: In his last eight events, he’s played the weekend six times and cashed T16 or better at TPC Sawgrass, the Masters, Harbour Town, Quail Hollow Club, and Colonial.

Denny McCarthy: Plenty of scar tissue here and on TOUR. Beaten in a playoff last year, he was T5 in 2022. This property fits his eye.

Kurt Kitayama: The 2023 winner at Bay Hill sits 23rd in SG: Off the Tee and 16th in SG: Approach. Ball-strikers move up the list.

Davis Riley: The winner at Colonial three weeks ago has led or shared the first-round lead here the last two seasons. A cheeky, first-round leader ticket at worst.

Lee Hodges: Cashing T12 on debut last year, the Alabama native posted three rounds of 72 or better to sit one shot off the 54-hole lead. Now he knows what it takes on Sunday to bother the leaders.

NOW PLAYING:

Host CourseMuirfield Village Golf Club
Yards (per official scorecard):7,569.
Par:72 (36-36).
Greens:L-93 007 Creeping Bentgrass; 5,000 square feet on average.
Stimpmeter:13 feet and up.
Rough:Kentucky Bluegrass, Ryegrass, and fescue at four inches plus.
Bunkers/Water Hazards/In-Play68/13/13
Architect(s):Jack Nicklaus (1974; 2020).
Defending Champion (event):Viktor Hovland (-7*).
Multiple Champion(s) Entered:Patrick Cantlay (2021, 2019).
Course Record61; John Huston (Round 2, 1996).
72 Hole Tournament Record:268, 20-under; Tom Lehman (1994).
Facts of the Week:Tiger Woods is the only winner to successfully defend the title (1999-2001).

Muirfield Village Golf Club

Built on land outside the suburb of his hometown of Columbus, Ohio, Muirfield Village Golf Club was built and designed by Jack Nicklaus with help from Desmond Muirhead in 1974.

The Dublin, Ohio, course named after Muirfield in Scotland, hosts the PGA TOUR for the 49th consecutive edition.

Joining The Greenbrier Resort, MVGC is the only other course to host the Ryder Cup and Solheim Cup. The club has also staged the 2013 Presidents Cup, the 1992 U.S. Amateur, and the 1986 Junior Amateur.

The latest, most extensive renovation came after the July 2020 edition. Every tee box, green complex, fairway, and bunker were rebuilt, and the course lengthened 151 yards.

The most dramatic change for the 2024 tournament was moving the tee box 30 yards right on the Par-3 16th. The course plays two yards shorter than 2023.

The course was rated in the top 10 in scoring average each year after the changes. The Par-5 holes also rank in the top 10 of most difficult played on TOUR annually. The 2023 edition provided the most difficult GIR and the hardest Par-3 holes. It is not an easy golf course. The last time the cut was Even par or better was in 2018.

For the fourth week in a row and the fifth time in six events, Bentgrass tests the putting acumen. The L-93 007 strain runs at just .900 of an inch, and the surfaces are in the conversation for the best on TOUR each year.

At only 5,000 square feet on average, they provide less-than-average targets on approach. Keeping the ball below the hole, whether on approach or scrambling, is a key to success.

With plenty of room off the tee to swing driver, errant rips will find four inches plus of Kentucky Bluegrass/Ryegrass and Fescue. Water penalty areas gobble up wayward shots, and the parkland of mature hardwood trees will require pitching out. It is not an easy golf course.

John Huston (Round 2, 1996) owns the course record of 61.

Tom Lehman posted 20-under 268 in 1994.

Recent Winners

2023 Season Winners

EventWinner
Sentry Tournament of ChampionsJon Rahm
Sony Open in HawaiiSi Woo Kim
The AMERICAN EXPRESSJon Rahm (2)
Farmers Insurance OpenMax Homa (2)
AT&T Pebble BeachJustin Rose
WM Phoenix OpenScottie Scheffler
The Genesis InvitationalJon Rahm (3)
The Honda ClassicChris Kirk
Arnold Palmer InvitationalKurt Kitayama (first TOUR win)
THE PLAYERS ChampionshipScottie Scheffler (2)
Valspar ChampionshipTaylor Moore (first TOUR win)
Corales PuntacanaMatt Wallace (first TOUR win)
WGC – Dell Technologies MPSam Burns
Valero Texas OpenCorey Conners
MastersJon Rahm (4)
RBC HeritageMatt Fitzpatrick
Zurich Classic of New OrleansDavis Riley & Nick Hardy (first TOUR win for each)
Mexico Open at VidantaTony Finau (2)
Wells Fargo ChampionshipWyndham Clark (first TOUR win)
AT&T Byron NelsonJason Day
PGA ChampionshipBrooks Koepka
Charles Schwab ChallengeEmiliano Grillo
MemorialViktor Hovland
RBC Canadian OpenNick Taylor
U.S. OpenWyndham Clark (2)
Travelers ChampionshipKeegan Bradley (2)
Rocket Mortgage ClassicRickie Fowler
John Deere ClassicSepp Straka
Genesis Scottish OpenRory McIlroy (2)
The Open ChampionshipBrian Harman
3M OpenLee Hodges (first TOUR win)
Wyndham ChampionshipLucas Glover
FedEx St. Jude ChampionshipLucas Glover (2)
BMW ChampionshipViktor Hovland (2)
TOUR ChampionshipViktor Hovland (3)
Fortinet ChampionshipSahith Theegala
Sanderson Farms ChampionshipLuke List
Shriners Children’s OpenTom Kim
ZOZO CHAMPIONSHIPCollin Morikawa
World Wide TechnologyErik van Rooyen
Butterfield BermudaCamilo Villegas
The RSM ClassicLudvig Aberg

2024 Season Winners

EventWinner
The SentryChris Kirk
Sony Open in HawaiiGrayson Murray
The American ExpressNick Dunlap (a)
Farmers Insurance OpenMatthieu Pavon (rookie)
AT&T Pebble BeachWyndham Clark (54 holes)
WM Phoenix OpenNick Taylor
The Genesis InvitationalHideki Matsuyama
Mexico Open at VidantaJake Knapp (rookie)
Cognizant ClassicAustin Eckroat (first time)
Arnold Palmer InvitationalScottie Scheffler
THE PLAYERS ChampionshipScottie Scheffler (2)
Valspar ChampionshipPeter Malnati
Texas Children’s Houston OpenStephan Jaeger (first time)
Valero Texas OpenAkshay Bhatia
88th Masters TournamentScottie Scheffler (3)
RBC HeritageScottie Scheffler (4)
Zurich ClassicRory McIlroy & Shane Lowry
THE CJ CUP Byron NelsonTaylor Pendrith (first time)
Wells Fargo ChampionshipRory McIlroy (2)
106th PGA ChampionshipXander Schauffele
Charles Schwab ChallengeDavis Riley
RBC Canadian OpenRobert MacIntyre (first time)

The 49th Memorial Tournament

Not many venues have hosted 49 consecutive events on TOUR. Roger Maltbie was the inaugural winner here in 1976.

Tiger Woods, not entered this week, won five times and is the only player to successfully defend the title.

Patrick Cantlay, champion in 2021 and 2019, is the only multiple winner in the field.

The invitational field of 73 players includes 44 of the top 50 in the Official World Golf Rankings and nine of the top 10.

The top 50 and ties, plus any player within 10 shots of the lead after two rounds, will play the final 36 holes.

Hideki Matsuyama, the 2014 champion at 22 years old, is the only player to win on debut outside of the inaugural edition and is the youngest player to raise the trophy.

Kentucky native Kenny Perry won this event three times. His last victory came at age 47, the oldest winner.

The 2016 winner, William McGirt (not entered), is the last champion to pick up his first win on TOUR at MVGC.

The winner will take home 700 FedExCup points plus $4 million from the $20 million purse in the final legacy invitational (Tiger Woods, Arnold Palmer, and Jack Nicklaus) this season.

Recent Winners – Memorial

Italics – not entered this week.

YearWinnerNotes
2023Viktor Hovland (-7*)Defeated Denny McCarthy in a playoff. Highest winning total since 1990.
2022Billy Horschel (-13)The last player to finish the event in double digits, the Florida man won by four.
2021Patrick Cantlay (-13*)Knocked out Collin Morikawa in a playoff to win for the second time. First event after the major renovation of 2020-2021.
2020Jon Rahm (-9)Won by three shots.
2019Patrick Cantlay (-19)Missed tying the tournament record by a shot.

Mike Glasscott: 49th Memorial Tournament presented by Workday tips

Win: Collin Morikawa (14/1)

Top 10: Si Woo Kim (7/2), Patrick Cantlay (11/5), Ben An (7/2)

Top 20: Billy Horschel (81/50), Kurt Kitayama (21/10), Lee Hodges (14/5)

One and Done

I’ll be joining Spotter’s game again this season. Now, where did I put my checkbook…

35 events.

1 player per event (plus a backup pick if your guy gets kidnapped on Wednesday night and doesn’t make it to the first tee Thursday).

1 use per year.

Add up the total money and Spotter is yer uncle!

EventSelectionEarnings
The SentryCollin Morikawa690,500
Sony Open in HawaiiCorey Conners18,592
The American ExpressAdam Hadwin310,800
Farmers Insurance OpenJason Day0
AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-AmJordan Spieth70,125
WM Phoenix OpenMatt Fitzpatrick156,200
The Genesis InvitationalMax Homa329,000
Mexico Open at VidantaTony Finau145,125
Cognizant ClassicRussell Henley32,850
Arnold Palmer InvitationalScottie Scheffler4,000,000
THE PLAYERS ChampionshipWill Zalatoris0
Valspar ChampionshipSam Burns0
Texas Children’s Houston OpenWyndham Clark54,418
Valero Texas OpenC Bezuidenhout67,735
88th Masters TournamentRory McIlroy175,500
RBC HeritagePatrick Cantlay1,160,000
Zurich ClassicNick Taylor122,375
THE CJ CUP Byron NelsonStephan Jaeger112,100
Myrtle Beach ClassicDaniel Berger20,350
Wells Fargo ChampionshipSahith Theegala47,000
106th PGA ChampionshipBrooks Koepka113,962
Charles Schwab ChallengeTaylor Moore0
RBC Canadian OpenMackenzie Hughes295,316
   
Total Winnings: 7,921,948

His game has more fun stuff to it. Reach out @A340Spotter on Twitter or A340Spotter@frontier.com for more details and to join.

Recapping Last Week – RBC Canadian Open

I’m loading up on any and all hockey players, curlers, and Tim Horton franchisees.

MY CHOICE: Mackenzie Hughes – T7

Playing in the penultimate group, the local lad birdied three of his first four on Sunday but played his final 10 holes in three over to post 70 and share seventh.

Others to Consider:

Taylor Pendrith: The Canadian produced a spectacular run of results over the last month but was halted at the PGA Championship with a MC. Winner at TPC Craig Ranch earlier this season. T21

Adam Svensson: His victory was on a Par-70 with big greens at The RSM Classic two years ago. T51.

Shane Lowry/Tommy Fleetwood: SOMEBODY HAS TO WIN THE OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP, RIGHT? T33, T21

Rory McIlroy: The angle this week is the field isn’t deep enough. The other angle is the prize pool isn’t worth it. T4 after 65-64 to close!

This Week – 49th Memorial Tournament

I’m done overthinking everything.

So I’m not thinking, PERIOD!

MY CHOICE: Ben An

Too much heat! Too much power tee-to-green!

Too many players already burned!

Others to Consider:

Patrick Cantlay: The course horse this week. Giddy up, if you can.

Viktor Hovland: I’m never a fan of following in Tiger’s footsteps, but he isn’t concerned about that history.

Si Woo Kim: Risky, rewardy, but he’s rocked here since the renovation.

Justin Thomas: If you believe he’s really, really close then fire away. I’m not crazy about any of these plays with a major championship next week.

Good luck! You’ll need it!

RBC Canadian Open

We stand on guard for thee!

RBC Canadian Open

Hamilton Golf & Country Club

Ancaster, Ontario, Canada

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Quick Links:

Odds OutlookDFS ReportHorses for Courses/Stats SuggestExpert Picks

Bet365: Top of the Board  

Rory McIlroy (4/1): The two-time champion has racked up three top-10 paydays on three different courses, including T9 at Oakdale last year. With two victories in his last three starts on TOUR, I can easily make the case for him again this week. This field is nowhere near the depth of the PGA Championship, and with only one water hazard, he is free and clear to fire away.

Tommy Fleetwood (18/1): Making his third start in Canada, the Englishman has lost in a playoff and cashed T6 in his previous two appearances. Hamilton will be his third different course in three starts, and the changes won’t be new to him.

Sahith Theegala (20/1): The 2023 is an outstanding putter and doesn’t mind new Bentgrass greens. Finishing T12 at Valhalla, he continues to produce results on unfamiliar greens. The only weakness in his game is around the greens, but he sits in the top 32 of the other Strokes Gained categories.

Corey Conners (22/1): After the drought finally broke last year, I am starting my card with an Ontario native this week. The Listowel native, a two-time winner on TOUR, will not have a nation sitting on his shoulders. Asking him to play target golf and pound greens in regulation is the perfect recipe. If he makes a few putts, away we go!

Shane Lowry (25/1): Martin Ebert also oversaw the renovation at Royal Portrush, the scene of his only major championship. Finishing seven shots behind McIlroy in the 2019 event, the Irishman has cashed T12 or better in three of five weekends. After T6 at the PGA Championship, I can’t dismiss him.

Alex Noren (25/1): Cashing T26 or better in 10 of 12 events, the days of finding any value on the Swede are long gone. Sitting fourth in SG: Total and eighth in SG: Tee to Green, it’s easy to see why. Like Fleetwood, he’s still looking for his first win in North America.

Sam Burns (28/1): The new father tends to make money with the flat stick. Maybe a few quiet nights out of the country will rejuvenate his game!

Cameron Young (28/1): One of the best drivers of the golf ball on TOUR, he’s still looking for his first win. Finishing second at a hilly, tough-driving Innisbrook makes me take a second look this week. Cashing T63 at Valhalla, his third consecutive T34 or worse payday pushes me away.

Players to consider for Top 10, Top 20, or Top 40 action:

Tom Kim (33/1): Making six cuts in a row, four have resulted in T30 or better. Something is cooking here, and I don’t want to be late.

Aaron Rai (40/1): Placing T3 and T13 the last two seasons suggests he enjoys golf in the Toronto area.

Adam Scott (40/1): Outside of a missed cut at Valhalla, the veteran has racked up T30 or better in five of his last six.

Erik van Rooyen (55/1): Cranking out frequent results of T25 or better since last fall, the South African has three top-10 paydays in his last nine.

Taylor Pendrith (60/1): The Canadian has not produced the goods on home soil, but he’s won and cashed T10 and T11 in three of his last four starts on TOUR.

Greyson Sigg (125/1): For the gamblers only! His last four starts have resulted in MC-T13-MC-T9. The 29-year-old sits 12th in SG: Approach and 30th in SG: Tee to Green.

Bud Cauley (175/1): Finishing T4 in 2012, it’s been a long road back to Hamilton. There are not many in the field this week who cashed a check in that edition. Kevin Kisner is the only other player in the field who cashed in the top 10.

Robby Shelton (225/1): Cashing T9 last week, he was second in Putting and T9 in Fairways.

David Lipsky (300/1): Finishing T9 at Colonial last week, he led the field in GIR. Now, about that putter…

Stuart McDonald (500/1): A winner on the PGA Tour Americas this spring, the Canadian played the weekend last year at Oakdale.

Mike Weir (2500/1): The Presidents Cup captain was T14 at the KitchenAid Senior PGA Championship last week in Michigan. Drop a loon on him to make the cut!

Mike Glasscott: RBC Canadian Open Tips:

Win: Corey Conners (22/1)

Top 10: Adam Scott (4/1), Shane Lowry (13/5), and Alex Noren (13/5)

Top 20: Taylor Pendrith (12/5), Greyson Sigg (15/4), and Ben Silverman (9/2)

NOW PLAYING:

Host CourseHamilton Golf & CC
Yards (per official scorecard):7,084
Par:70 (35-35).
Greens:V8 Creeping Bentgrass; 6,000 square feet on average.
Stimpmeter:11 to 12 feet.
Rough:Poa annua, Kentucky Bluegrass and Turf Tuff fescue at three inches plus.
Bunkers/Water Hazards/In-Play72/1/1
Architect(s):HS Colt (1916); Martin Ebert & Tom Mackenzie (2019).
Defending Champion (event):Nick Taylor (-17*) at Oakdale
Defending Champion (course):Rory McIlroy (-22) 2019.
Multiple Champion(s) Entered:Rory McIlroy (2022, 2019), Jhonattan Vegas (2017, 2016).
Course Record61; Rory McIlroy (Round 4, 2019), Ben Silverman (Round 2, 2019).
72 Hole Tournament Record:258, 22-under; Rory McIlroy (2019).
Facts of the Week:Every tee box, bunker, and green complex was renovated after the 2019 event.

Hamilton Golf & CC

One of just two Harry S. Colt designs in Canada, Hamilton Golf & CC opened outside Toronto in 1916. Located in Ancaster, the club has 27 holes, but the event uses the 18 holes (West and South) designed by the legendary architect Harry S. Colt.

Martin Ebert and Tom Mackenzie renovated the entire property after the conclusion of the 2019 event. The 2024 edition will play 7,084 yards (Par-70), 117 yards longer than the 2019 tournament.

The tee boxes, greens, and bunkers were reconstructed, and a new irrigation system was added. The most noticeable change will be the return to the bunkering from Colt’s original design from photographs found at the club. The penalty for finding the sandy areas, 72 total, will include increased depth, jagged edges, and fescue “eyebrows.”

New tee boxes provide additional yardage, and the expansion of the putting surfaces features pin positions new to all.

Reducing trees throughout the property added new sightlines, fresh angles of attack, and better growing conditions for the turfgrass.

The elevation changes up and down the valley requires navigating sidehill lies and properly judging yardage.

For the third week in a row and fourth time in five events Bentgrass (V8 Creeping Bentgrass) will comprise the putting surfaces. The new, expanded greens, now covering 6,000 square feet on average, will provide bigger targets to attack. The Stimpmeter will run between 11 and 12 feet.

Recent Winners

2023 Season Winners

EventWinner
Sentry Tournament of ChampionsJon Rahm
Sony Open in HawaiiSi Woo Kim
The AMERICAN EXPRESSJon Rahm (2)
Farmers Insurance OpenMax Homa (2)
AT&T Pebble BeachJustin Rose
WM Phoenix OpenScottie Scheffler
The Genesis InvitationalJon Rahm (3)
The Honda ClassicChris Kirk
Arnold Palmer InvitationalKurt Kitayama (first TOUR win)
THE PLAYERS ChampionshipScottie Scheffler (2)
Valspar ChampionshipTaylor Moore (first TOUR win)
Corales PuntacanaMatt Wallace (first TOUR win)
WGC – Dell Technologies MPSam Burns
Valero Texas OpenCorey Conners
MastersJon Rahm (4)
RBC HeritageMatt Fitzpatrick
Zurich Classic of New OrleansDavis Riley & Nick Hardy (first TOUR win for each)
Mexico Open at VidantaTony Finau (2)
Wells Fargo ChampionshipWyndham Clark (first TOUR win)
AT&T Byron NelsonJason Day
PGA ChampionshipBrooks Koepka
Charles Schwab ChallengeEmiliano Grillo
MemorialViktor Hovland
RBC Canadian OpenNick Taylor
U.S. OpenWyndham Clark (2)
Travelers ChampionshipKeegan Bradley (2)
Rocket Mortgage ClassicRickie Fowler
John Deere ClassicSepp Straka
Genesis Scottish OpenRory McIlroy (2)
The Open ChampionshipBrian Harman
3M OpenLee Hodges (first TOUR win)
Wyndham ChampionshipLucas Glover
FedEx St. Jude ChampionshipLucas Glover (2)
BMW ChampionshipViktor Hovland (2)
TOUR ChampionshipViktor Hovland (3)
Fortinet ChampionshipSahith Theegala
Sanderson Farms ChampionshipLuke List
Shriners Children’s OpenTom Kim
ZOZO CHAMPIONSHIPCollin Morikawa
World Wide TechnologyErik van Rooyen
Butterfield BermudaCamilo Villegas
The RSM ClassicLudvig Aberg

2024 Season Winners

EventWinner
The SentryChris Kirk
Sony Open in HawaiiGrayson Murray
The American ExpressNick Dunlap (a)
Farmers Insurance OpenMatthieu Pavon (rookie)
AT&T Pebble BeachWyndham Clark (54 holes)
WM Phoenix OpenNick Taylor
The Genesis InvitationalHideki Matsuyama
Mexico Open at VidantaJake Knapp (rookie)
Cognizant ClassicAustin Eckroat (first time)
Arnold Palmer InvitationalScottie Scheffler
THE PLAYERS ChampionshipScottie Scheffler (2)
Valspar ChampionshipPeter Malnati
Texas Children’s Houston OpenStephan Jaeger (first time)
Valero Texas OpenAkshay Bhatia
88th Masters TournamentScottie Scheffler (3)
RBC HeritageScottie Scheffler (4)
Zurich ClassicRory McIlroy & Shane Lowry
THE CJ CUP Byron NelsonTaylor Pendrith (first time)
Wells Fargo ChampionshipRory McIlroy (2)
106th PGA ChampionshipXander Schauffele
Charles Schwab ChallengeDavis Riley

RBC Canadian Open

Preceded by the Western Open in 1899, the RBC CO, established in 1904, is the second-oldest non-major championship.

Hosting for the seventh time in history and the fifth time this century, Hamilton Golf & CC has crowned Bob Tway (2003), Jim Furyk (2006), Scott Piercy (2012), and Rory McIlroy (2023) as champions. As of Tuesday, McIlroy is the only one entered this week.

The invitational field of 156 players includes 12 of the top 50 in the Official World Golf rankings, led by No. 3 Rory McIlroy.

After two rounds the top 65 and ties play the final 36 holes. The last two editions at Hamilton produced cuts of 2-under (2019) and 1-under (2012).

Nick Taylor, the 2023 winner at Oakdale Golf & CC after defeating Tommy Fleetwood in a playoff, became the first Canadian to win this event since 1954.

The 2019 champion, Rory McIlroy, also won the 2022 edition. No event was played in 2020 and 2021 due to the pandemic. Jhonattan Vegas won the 2016 and 2017 editions at Glen Abbey.

The winner will take home 500 FedExCup points plus $1.692 million from the $9.4 million purse.

Recent Winners – RBC Canadian Open

Italics – not entered this week.

YearWinnerNotes
2023Nick Taylor (-17*)First Canadian to win since 1954. Defeated Tommy Fleetwood in a playoff by holing a 72-foot eagle putt at Oakdale.
2022Rory McIlroy (-19)Defended his 2019 title defeating Tony Finau (not entered) at St. George’s.
2021No Event 
2020No Event 
2019Rory McIlroy (-22)Equaled the course record, 61, on Sunday to win by seven shots over Shane Lowry.

One and Done

I’ll be joining Spotter’s game again this season. Now, where did I put my checkbook…

35 events.

1 player per event (plus a backup pick if your guy gets kidnapped on Wednesday night and doesn’t make it to the first tee Thursday).

1 use per year.

Add up the total money and Spotter is yer uncle!

EventSelectionEarnings
The SentryCollin Morikawa690,500
Sony Open in HawaiiCorey Conners18,592
The American ExpressAdam Hadwin310,800
Farmers Insurance OpenJason Day0
AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-AmJordan Spieth70,125
WM Phoenix OpenMatt Fitzpatrick156,200
The Genesis InvitationalMax Homa329,000
Mexico Open at VidantaTony Finau145,125
Cognizant ClassicRussell Henley32,850
Arnold Palmer InvitationalScottie Scheffler4,000,000
THE PLAYERS ChampionshipWill Zalatoris0
Valspar ChampionshipSam Burns0
Texas Children’s Houston OpenWyndham Clark54,418
Valero Texas OpenC Bezuidenhout67,735
88th Masters TournamentRory McIlroy175,500
RBC HeritagePatrick Cantlay1,160,000
Zurich ClassicNick Taylor122,375
THE CJ CUP Byron NelsonStephan Jaeger112,100
Myrtle Beach ClassicDaniel Berger20,350
Wells Fargo ChampionshipSahith Theegala47,000
106th PGA ChampionshipBrooks Koepka113,962
Charles Schwab ChallengeTaylor Moore0
   
Total Winnings: 7,626,632

His game has more fun stuff to it. Reach out @A340Spotter on Twitter or A340Spotter@frontier.com for more details and to join.

Recapping Last Week – 78th Charles Schwab Challenge

MY CHOICE: Taylor Moore – MC

My pal Chadders thinks he has a curse. Well, I just halted a streak of 15 straight for Moore at Colonial.

What a game.

Others to Consider:

Jordan Spieth: Those of you who have been saving him, it’s time. It’s time for him to get his wrist fixed. Imagine cashing T37 but hitting 39 of 56 Fairways (T2).

Tony Finau/Collin Morikawa: I don’t love the prize pool for using either of these two, but with the new greens they should be chomping at the bit. Finau cashed T17 after imploding with 75 on Sunday. Morikawa took home solo fourth after four rounds in the 60s.

Thomas Detry/Billy Horschel: Both are sizzling recently and can get it going with the putter. It has been suggested by TOUR pro Michael Kim that the approach play will be EASIER after the renovation, but the new grass will make it play firmer this week. Reaffirming there is no reason to ever stretch in this game, Detry cashed T56 and Horschel T24.

Tom Hoge: Played at Texas Chrisitan down the street and kills it on approach. T17, solid angle and payday if you went off the grid.

Mark Hubbard: If you’re looking to zig, he’s had too many good weeks in a row. T65 Taylor Moore’d it but with $19,292.

This Week – RBC Canadian Open

I’m loading up on any and all hockey players, curlers, and Tim Horton franchisees.

MY CHOICE: Mackenzie Hughes

I was surprised to remember I have used Adam Hadwin, Corey Conners, AND Nick Taylor! Gotta go with what’s available!

Others to Consider:

Taylor Pendrith: The Canadian produced a spectacular run of results over the last month but was halted at the PGA Championship with a missed cut. Winner at TPC Craig Ranch earlier this season.

Adam Svensson: His victory was on a Par-70 with big greens at The RSM Classic two years ago.

Shane Lowry/Tommy Fleetwood: SOMEBODY HAS TO WIN THE OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP, RIGHT?

Rory McIlroy: One angle this week is the field isn’t deep enough. The other angle is the prize pool isn’t worth it.

Good luck! You’ll need it!

78th Charles Schwab Challenge

78th Charles Schwab Challenge

Colonial Country Club

Fort Worth, Texas

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Quick Links:

Odds OutlookDFS ReportHorses for Courses/Stats SuggestExpert Picks

Bet365: Top of the Board  

Scottie Scheffler (11/4): Last week, he was arrested, played a round without his regular caddie, Ted Scott, and still cashed T8. This week, he is home with his newly expanded family, sleeping in his bed, and presumably will not be going to jail. Only three players have beaten him in the last two events at Colonial.

Collin Morikawa (12/1): The disappointment of not being in the fight Sunday at Valhalla from the final group should provide the fuel this week. Cashing T4, he picked up his third top-10 result from his last four events. After the renovations on multiple greens and holes, I am leaning on the ball-strikers to lead the way.

Max Homa (22/1): I can’t get it out of my head that his worst results this season are on the smallest greens on TOUR. Cashing T9 last year, his best result from five visits has me conflicted.

Jordan Spieth (22/1): Playing across town from his Dallas home, investors are paying for his spectacular course form. The 2016 winner has cashed T14 or better in nine of 10 weekends. Cashing T10 at Valero the week before the Masters was the last time he was relevant on Sunday. If the switch is going to flip, this is the week.

Tony Finau (30/1): The man from Utah likes his golf in Texas. Missing the cut last year broke a seven-year run of T34 or better. Finishing second in 2019 and T4 in 2022, it’s obvious the layout fits his eye. A winner in Houston two years ago, his best finish of the season is T2 at Memorial Park.

Harris English (30/1): Pre-renovation, he would have had more of my interest. Super on and around the greens, he struggled last week at Valhalla tee-to-green. In six weekends, he’s never cashed out worse than T30.

Players to consider for Top 10, Top 20, or Top 40 action:

Aaron Rai (55/1): Posting T7 in Houston and T4 at THE CJ CUP Byron Nelson, the Englishman thrives on approach (10th).

Thomas Detry (55/1): Coming off T4 at the PGA Championship, all nine of his paydays this season are T28 or better, minus THE PLAYERS.

Mark Hubbard (75/1): Making his 15th start of the season, he has played all 14 weekends previously. Top 50 in approach. Top 50 in putting. Never missed the cut in five tries and was T9 last year.

Lee Hodges (80/1): His T12 result at the PGA Championship featured T9 Fairways and T8 GIR. Heater.

Robert MacIntyre (110/1): Paired with Detry at Zurich, the duo posted T8 for the week. The Scotsman shot 68-69 and missed the cut at TPC Craig Ranch before rattling off T13 at Myrtle Beach and T8 at the PGA Championship.

Sam Stevens (125/1): The last time out, he posted T10 at WFC and cashed T29 on debut here last year.

Alex Smalley (200/1): Missing the cut in a major will not erase T20, T13, and T6 in his previous three on TOUR.

Jorge Campillo (200/1): Quietly sits 32nd in SG: Tee to Green and has cashed T4, T24, and T18 in his last three starts. Vamos!

Ryan Palmer (500/1): Making his 21st start, the member at CCC is looking for his first top 10 since 2019. Start with a Top-40 ticket and work your way up! Let’s gamble!

Mike Glasscott: Charles Schwab Challenge Tips:

Win: Tony Finau (30/1)

Top 10: Jordan Spieth (23/10), Collin Morikawa (29/20), Lee Hodges (13/2)

Top 20: Alex Smalley (5/1), Mark Hubbard (13/5), Ryan Palmer (9/1), Adam Schenk (11/4)

NOW PLAYING:

Host CourseColonial Country Club
Yards (per official scorecard):7,289
Par:70 (35-35).
Greens:007XL Bentgrass; 5,000 square feet on average (T-third smallest on TOUR 2024).
Stimpmeter:12 to 13 feet. Brand-new Sub-Air system in use.
Rough:TifTuf Bermudagrass at 2.5 inches.
Bunkers/Water Hazards/In-Play64/4/6.
Architect(s):John Bredemus-Perry Maxwell (1936); Gil Hanse & Jim Wagner (2023).
Defending Champion:Emiliano Grillo (-8*)
Multiple Champion(s) Entered:Zach Johnson (2012, 2010).
Course Record61; 8 players (last 2018).
72 Hole Tournament Record:259, 21-under; Zach Johnson (2010).
Facts of the Week:Every blade of grass and every hole was modified during the 2023 renovation.

Colonial Country Club

Located in Fort Worth, Texas, the club opened in 1936. The John Bredemus-Perry Maxwell design found national acclaim by hosting the first U.S. Open in the South in 1941. The course also hosted the 1975 Tournament Players Championship and the 1991 Women’s U.S. Open.

The 2024 tournament will play to Par-70 and tips out at 7,289 yards, 80 additional paces than the 2023 edition. Gil Hanse and Jim Wagner renovated the entire property after the conclusion of play last May, above and below the soil, as part of a $20 million renovation.

The list of changes is extensive. The greens all have new 007XL Bentgrass, while the rest of the property received new TifTuf Bermuda sod (tees, fairways, rough, and approaches).

Holes were moved back while others were lowered, shifted, or both. Par-3 holes Nos. 8 and 13 had more dramatic changes and will present as they did in the 1940s.

Hogan’s Alley requires precision over power. Shaping the ball both ways off the tee and finding greens in regulation provide a solid foundation for contenders.

For the second week in a row, greens average just 5,000 square feet and are Bentgrass. The Stimpmeter will run between 12 and 13 feet. Players new to the event will not notice the changes, leveling the playing field to a degree.

The Par-3 holes stretch 194 yards or deeper, while the Par-5 holes, listed at 581 and 639 yards respectively, provide a tough scoring duo.

Hazards include 64 bunkers and four water penalty areas in play across six holes.

In 2023, the course ranked as the toughest, non-major Par-70 layout on TOUR.

The course record, 61, was last set by Kevin Na (not entered) in 2018.

Zach Johnson, the only two-time winner in the field, owns the tournament scoring record (-21, 259) in 2010.

Recent Winners

2023 Season Winners

EventWinner
Sentry Tournament of ChampionsJon Rahm
Sony Open in HawaiiSi Woo Kim
The AMERICAN EXPRESSJon Rahm (2)
Farmers Insurance OpenMax Homa (2)
AT&T Pebble BeachJustin Rose
WM Phoenix OpenScottie Scheffler
The Genesis InvitationalJon Rahm (3)
The Honda ClassicChris Kirk
Arnold Palmer InvitationalKurt Kitayama (first TOUR win)
THE PLAYERS ChampionshipScottie Scheffler (2)
Valspar ChampionshipTaylor Moore (first TOUR win)
Corales PuntacanaMatt Wallace (first TOUR win)
WGC – Dell Technologies MPSam Burns
Valero Texas OpenCorey Conners
MastersJon Rahm (4)
RBC HeritageMatt Fitzpatrick
Zurich Classic of New OrleansDavis Riley & Nick Hardy (first TOUR win for each)
Mexico Open at VidantaTony Finau (2)
Wells Fargo ChampionshipWyndham Clark (first TOUR win)
AT&T Byron NelsonJason Day
PGA ChampionshipBrooks Koepka
Charles Schwab ChallengeEmiliano Grillo
MemorialViktor Hovland
RBC Canadian OpenNick Taylor
U.S. OpenWyndham Clark (2)
Travelers ChampionshipKeegan Bradley (2)
Rocket Mortgage ClassicRickie Fowler
John Deere ClassicSepp Straka
Genesis Scottish OpenRory McIlroy (2)
The Open ChampionshipBrian Harman
3M OpenLee Hodges (first TOUR win)
Wyndham ChampionshipLucas Glover
FedEx St. Jude ChampionshipLucas Glover (2)
BMW ChampionshipViktor Hovland (2)
TOUR ChampionshipViktor Hovland (3)
Fortinet ChampionshipSahith Theegala
Sanderson Farms ChampionshipLuke List
Shriners Children’s OpenTom Kim
ZOZO CHAMPIONSHIPCollin Morikawa
World Wide TechnologyErik van Rooyen
Butterfield BermudaCamilo Villegas
The RSM ClassicLudvig Aberg

2024 Season Winners

EventWinner
The SentryChris Kirk
Sony Open in HawaiiGrayson Murray
The American ExpressNick Dunlap (a)
Farmers Insurance OpenMatthieu Pavon (rookie)
AT&T Pebble BeachWyndham Clark (54 holes)
WM Phoenix OpenNick Taylor
The Genesis InvitationalHideki Matsuyama
Mexico Open at VidantaJake Knapp (rookie)
Cognizant ClassicAustin Eckroat (first time)
Arnold Palmer InvitationalScottie Scheffler
THE PLAYERS ChampionshipScottie Scheffler (2)
Valspar ChampionshipPeter Malnati
Texas Children’s Houston OpenStephan Jaeger (first time)
Valero Texas OpenAkshay Bhatia
88th Masters TournamentScottie Scheffler (3)
RBC HeritageScottie Scheffler (4)
Zurich ClassicRory McIlroy & Shane Lowry
THE CJ CUP Byron NelsonTaylor Pendrith (first time)
Wells Fargo ChampionshipRory McIlroy (2)
106th PGA ChampionshipXander Schauffele

Charles Schwab Challenge

The 78th edition is the longest-serving, non-major championship event on the PGA TOUR.

The nickname Hogan’s Alley was contrived after native Texan and Fort Worth resident Ben Hogan won five times, including the inaugural event, and cashed 15 times in the top 10.

The invitational field of 132 players includes 21 of the top 50 in the Official World Golf rankings, including No. 1 Scottie Scheffler.

Exactly half of the field, 66 players, took part in the second major of the season, the PGA Championship, last week at Valhalla.

After two rounds, the top 65 and ties will play the final 36 holes. The only time the cut has been under par in the last decade was 2-under-par for the 2020 edition in June.

Emiliano Grillo, the 2023 winner, joined 2014 winner Adam Scott to become just the second international winner in 10 years.

No player has won this event more than twice this century.

Sergio Garcia (not entered) is the last player to win on debut (2001). He joins Keith Clearwater (1987) as the only player to win on debut since 1967.

Ian Baker-Finch (not entered) was the last player to go wire-to-wire (1989).

The winner will take home 500 FedExCup points plus $1.638 million from the $9.1 million purse.

Recent Winners – Charles Schwab Challenge

Italics – not entered this week.

YearWinnerNotes
2023Emiliano Grillo (-8*)Doubled the final hole but won a playoff on the second hole for his first win on TOUR since 2015.
2022Sam Burns (-9*)Sat 7 shots off Scheffler’s 54-hole lead, shot 65, won in a playoff beating his best buddy.
2021Jason Kokrak (-14)54-hole leader Jordan Spieth (-15) posted 73 from the final group and finished second by two shots.
2020Daniel Berger (-15*)Defeated Collin Morikawa in a playoff in a rare (COVID-19) June edition.
2019Kevin Na (-13)Knocked off Tony Finau by four shots.
2018Justin Rose (-20)Easily winning by three, the Englishman missed tying the tournament scoring record by a shot.
2017Kevin Kisner (-10)Stifled Spieth’s attempt at becoming the only repeat champion since Hogan.
2016Jordan Spieth (-17)Three-shot winner over Harris English.
2015Chris Kirk (-12)Won by a shot over Jordan Spieth, others.
2014Adam Scott (-9*)Needed extra holes to defeat Jason Dufner.

One and Done

I’ll be joining Spotter’s game again this season. Now, where did I put my checkbook…

35 events.

1 player per event (plus a backup pick if your guy gets kidnapped on Wednesday night and doesn’t make it to the first tee Thursday).

1 use per year.

Add up the total money and Spotter is yer uncle!

EventSelectionEarnings
The SentryCollin Morikawa690,500
Sony Open in HawaiiCorey Conners18,592
The American ExpressAdam Hadwin310,800
Farmers Insurance OpenJason Day0
AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-AmJordan Spieth70,125
WM Phoenix OpenMatt Fitzpatrick156,200
The Genesis InvitationalMax Homa329,000
Mexico Open at VidantaTony Finau145,125
Cognizant ClassicRussell Henley32,850
Arnold Palmer InvitationalScottie Scheffler4,000,000
THE PLAYERS ChampionshipWill Zalatoris0
Valspar ChampionshipSam Burns0
Texas Children’s Houston OpenWyndham Clark54,418
Valero Texas OpenC Bezuidenhout67,735
88th Masters TournamentRory McIlroy175,500
RBC HeritagePatrick Cantlay1,160,000
Zurich ClassicNick Taylor122,375
THE CJ CUP Byron NelsonStephan Jaeger112,100
Myrtle Beach ClassicDaniel Berger20,350
Wells Fargo ChampionshipSahith Theegala47,000
106th PGA ChampionshipBrooks Koepka113,962
   
Total Winnings: 7,626,632

His game has more fun stuff to it. Reach out @A340Spotter on Twitter or A340Spotter@frontier.com for more details and to join.

Recapping Last Week – 106th PGA Championship

MY CHOICE: Brooks Koepka – T26

I’m going to strike while the iron is hot. A winner recently, that’s what I need to see. I had earmarked Justin Thomas for this spot for almost the entire spring, but it is this week or Pinehurst in THIS FORMAT for Koepka. I’m riding the heat.

I can’t believe he missed THAT MANY putts under six feet. Posting 12-under in three rounds, 74 in Round 3 sunk my battleship.

My plan to play Justin Thomas (T8) ALL SEASON would have been better, but whatever.

With Memorial (Cantlay/Hovland), the U.S. Open (DeChambeau/Schauffele), and Memphis (JT) the big-ticket items in the States left, I’m ready. The Open Championship will depend on the draw at Royal Troon.

Others Considered:

Rory McIlroy – T12, Scottie Scheffler – T8, Xander Schauffele – WIN, Bryson DeChambeau – 2nd, and Justin Thomas – T8.

This Week – 78th Charles Schwab Challenge

Charles Schwab Field in Omaha is hosting the B1G Baseball tournament so it’s a busy week for Chuck.

I call it Colonial, sorry Chuck.

MY CHOICE: Taylor Moore

Playing the weekend in all 15 events this season, his full bag makes him a threat weekly. The native Texan, from San Angelo, shared second in Houston two weeks before the Masters, and cashed T12 last week at Valhalla.

Others to Consider:

Jordan Spieth: Those of you who have been saving him, it’s time.

Tony Finau/Collin Morikawa: I don’t love the prize pool for using either of these two, but with the new putting surfaces in play, they should be chomping at the bit.

Thomas Detry/Billy Horschel: Both have been sizzling recently and can get it going with the putter. It has been suggested by TOUR pro Michael Kim that the approach play will be EASIER after the renovation, but the new grass will make it play firmer this week.

Tom Hoge: Played at Texas Chrisitan down the street and kills it on approach.

Mark Hubbard: If you’re looking to zig, he’s had too many good weeks in a row.

Good luck! You’ll need it!

106th PGA Championship

My old Kentucky home.

Well, not mine, but you get the point

via @PGAChampionship on x

106th PGA Championship

Valhalla Golf Club

Louisville, Kentucky

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Quick Links:

Odds OutlookDFS ReportHorses for Courses/Stats SuggestExpert Picks

Thoughts on Chalk (odds via Bet365.com)

Scottie Scheffler (4/1): I’ve said this before golf is not played in a vacuum. These are human beings dealing with human being stuff. Just ask Jon Rahm! A new baby, new way of life, and new responsibilities change people. Winning the press conference this week is easier than winning the golf tournament. I don’t think he misses the cut, but I’m playing this cautiously, if at all, because there’s no value in getting it right.

Rory McIlroy (7/1): Real life is also happening in the McIlroy camp as well. Multiple outlets reported he filed for divorce TWO DAYS AGO in Palm Beach County, Florida. The winner of his last two events played on TOUR has obviously not been bothered on the golf course by this impending decision. The timing is nothing short of interesting. The reigning champion from 2014 made Valhalla his third win in a row. I’m expecting history to repeat this week.

Brooks Koepka (14/1): After T40-whocares at the Masters, I read about how he couldn’t make anything, he was not scoring, the whole bit. Then he won two weeks ago. The 2023 champ would join Tiger Woods in winning this event FOUR times with a victory this week. He would also join Woods in defending the title twice. The longer, wetter, and more demanding the layout, his value increases. It’s him or McIlroy for me this week.

Xander Schauffele (14/1): Through 54 holes last week, I thought the drought from the summer of 2022 was old news. Nope. There’s no shame in getting beaten by McIlroy on the back nine on Sunday. I wasn’t expecting Rory to have a SEVEN SHOT LEAD on the 18th tee box. Take his top 10 price, up the ante, and you should be fine again this week.

Jon Rahm (16/1): The Masters told me everything I needed to know about this version. Pass.

Ludvig Aberg (18/1): If his knee doesn’t bother him, the tight driving conditions and big ballpark will not either. After running solo second at Augusta, I can’t look away. Running 18/1, there’s little value in hoping he begins his major career with back-to-back top-10 paydays.

Bryson DeChambeau (25/1): It’s not Winged Foot, and it’s not Oak Hill, but Valhalla is similar. A previous winner at Muirfield Village GC, another Nicklaus design, I won’t talk you out of him.

Max Homa (25/1): I love the Quail Hollow Club warm-up for him. Big vibes this week after T8 at WFC. Cashing T3 at Augusta National and T10 at Royal Liverpool in his last two majors, his confidence will be sky-high. I’ll write another top-10 ticket for him this week.

Collin Morikawa (28/1): Remember, his two major championships are on courses that are less than 7,300 yards. The wetter, the worse for wear, I believe, this week. A previous winner at MVGC, his super iron play will be his superpower again this week.

Players to consider for Top 10, Top 20, or Top 40 action:

Tommy Fleetwood (35/1): If I had a win ticket on him last week in Charlotte and he cashed T13, surely I can’t abandon him this week. Finishing T13, T3, and T7 on 7,438 yards or better in three of his last four starts, I will run him out again to grind out another top 10 and top 20 finish.

Justin Thomas (50/1): No way I’m leaving the hometown star off my ticket. This number is fantastic for a recent TWO-TIME WINNER of this event. He’s flashed just enough (T21, T5) in his last two outings to inspire.

Sahith Theegala (60/1): Over the last 18 months, he’s shown the goods on every kind of grass in every kind of event. It might not be this week, but he needs to be on the radar for the biggest events. Don’t let one round of 82 last week sour his chances this week.

Shane Lowry (90/1): Too many recent big results in this event to ignore. The tougher the driving, the tougher he gets.

Corey Conners (90/1): Ran well at Kiawah Island and was in the final two groups on Sunday last year at Oak Hill. Hasn’t MC since the U.S. Open last summer.

Denny McCarthy (100/1): Beaten in a playoff at MVGC last year and defeated in a playoff last month at VTO. Never missed in four previous.

Akshay Bhatia (110/1): Won the 2018 Junior PGA Championship here.

Christiaan Bezuidenhout (150/1): Lovely top 10 and top 20 chance.

NOW PLAYING:

Host CourseValhalla Golf Club
Yards (per official scorecard):7,609.
Par:71 (35-36).
Greens:T-1 Bentgrass; 5,000 square feet (third smallest on TOUR 2024).
Stimpmeter:13 feet. Sub-Air system in use.
Rough:Tall fescue and Bluegrass at four inches.
Bunkers/Water Hazards/In-Play62/5/7.
Architect(s):Jack Nicklaus.
Defending Champion (event):Brooks Koepka
Defending Champion (course):Rory McIlroy (2014).
Multiple Champion(s) Entered:Tiger Woods (4), Brooks Koepka (3), Justin Thomas (2), Phil Mickelson (2), and Rory McIlroy (2).
18-hole Record (majors)62; Xander Schauffele (U.S. Open, 2023), Rickie Fowler (U.S. Open, 2023), and Branden Grace (The Open, 2017).
Course Record (latest):63; Jose-Maria Olazabal, 2000.
72 Hole Tournament Record:268 (Par-71); Rory McIlroy (2014). 270 (Par-72); Tiger Woods & Bob May (2000).
Facts of the Week:Valhalla is hosting the PGA Championship for the fourth time. Only Southern Hills in Tulsa has hosted more championships (5).

Valhalla Golf Club

Hosting the PGA Championship for the fourth time, Valhalla crowned champions in 2014 (Rory McIlroy), 2000 (Tiger Woods), and 1996 (Mark Brooks). The club has also hosted the 2008 Ryder Cup and the 2011 and 2004 Senior PGA Championship.

The Jack Nicklaus design, opened in 1986, originally played to a Par-72 at 7,144 for the 1996 championship.

The 2014 edition featured T-1 Bentgrass greens, shifted to Par-71 (35-36), and was extended to 7,458 yards.

For 2024, four tee boxes were extended (Nos. 1, 12, 14, and 18), and the course added 151 yards.

Zeon Zoysia fairways and tee boxes debuted in 2021. Valhalla becomes the third PGA Championship to feature Zoysiagrass fairways (2018 Bellerive, 2011 Atlanta Athletic Club). With only 23 acres of fairway snaking around doglegs that turn right and left, the four inches of tall fescue and Bluegrass will see plenty of action.

Forced carries into perched and protected greens will test shot-making and decision-making. With only 5,000 square feet to aim for, the putting surfaces, on average, ranked third smallest on TOUR behind Harbour Town and Pebble Beach.

The second major championship of the season will also test putting acumen on pure Bentgrass greens. TPC Craig Ranch is the only TOUR event this season that has featured Bentgrass surfaces on the greens.

Torrey Pines (South) and Corales (Corales Puntacana) are the only courses used this season that measure longer. Featuring six Par-4 holes that extend 472 yards or more, the four Par-3 holes range between 190 and 254 yards. The three Par-5 holes range between 570 and 597 yards.

Sub-Air systems will control the speeds on the greens.

Hazards include 62 bunkers and five water penalty areas in play across seven holes.

The 2014 championship produced the third-fewest rounds over par in PGA Championship history.

Jose-Maria Olazabal posted the tournament course record with 63 in 2000.

Tiger Woods and Bob May own the Par-72 scoring record of 270 (-18).

Rory McIlroy owns the Par-71 scoring record of 268 (-16).

Recent Winners

2023 Season Winners

EventWinner
Sentry Tournament of ChampionsJon Rahm
Sony Open in HawaiiSi Woo Kim
The AMERICAN EXPRESSJon Rahm (2)
Farmers Insurance OpenMax Homa (2)
AT&T Pebble BeachJustin Rose
WM Phoenix OpenScottie Scheffler
The Genesis InvitationalJon Rahm (3)
The Honda ClassicChris Kirk
Arnold Palmer InvitationalKurt Kitayama (first TOUR win)
THE PLAYERS ChampionshipScottie Scheffler (2)
Valspar ChampionshipTaylor Moore (first TOUR win)
Corales PuntacanaMatt Wallace (first TOUR win)
WGC – Dell Technologies MPSam Burns
Valero Texas OpenCorey Conners
MastersJon Rahm (4)
RBC HeritageMatt Fitzpatrick
Zurich Classic of New OrleansDavis Riley & Nick Hardy (first TOUR win for each)
Mexico Open at VidantaTony Finau (2)
Wells Fargo ChampionshipWyndham Clark (first TOUR win)
AT&T Byron NelsonJason Day
PGA ChampionshipBrooks Koepka
Charles Schwab ChallengeEmiliano Grillo
MemorialViktor Hovland
RBC Canadian OpenNick Taylor
U.S. OpenWyndham Clark (2)
Travelers ChampionshipKeegan Bradley (2)
Rocket Mortgage ClassicRickie Fowler
John Deere ClassicSepp Straka
Genesis Scottish OpenRory McIlroy (2)
The Open ChampionshipBrian Harman
3M OpenLee Hodges (first TOUR win)
Wyndham ChampionshipLucas Glover
FedEx St. Jude ChampionshipLucas Glover (2)
BMW ChampionshipViktor Hovland (2)
TOUR ChampionshipViktor Hovland (3)
Fortinet ChampionshipSahith Theegala
Sanderson Farms ChampionshipLuke List
Shriners Children’s OpenTom Kim
ZOZO CHAMPIONSHIPCollin Morikawa
World Wide TechnologyErik van Rooyen
Butterfield BermudaCamilo Villegas
The RSM ClassicLudvig Aberg

2024 Season Winners

EventWinner
The SentryChris Kirk
Sony Open in HawaiiGrayson Murray
The American ExpressNick Dunlap (a)
Farmers Insurance OpenMatthieu Pavon (rookie)
AT&T Pebble BeachWyndham Clark (54 holes)
WM Phoenix OpenNick Taylor
The Genesis InvitationalHideki Matsuyama
Mexico Open at VidantaJake Knapp (rookie)
Cognizant ClassicAustin Eckroat (first time)
Arnold Palmer InvitationalScottie Scheffler
THE PLAYERS ChampionshipScottie Scheffler (2)
Valspar ChampionshipPeter Malnati
Texas Children’s Houston OpenStephan Jaeger (first time)
Valero Texas OpenAkshay Bhatia
88th Masters TournamentScottie Scheffler (3)
RBC HeritageScottie Scheffler (4)
Zurich ClassicRory McIlroy & Shane Lowry
THE CJ CUP Byron NelsonTaylor Pendrith (first time)
Wells Fargo ChampionshipRory McIlroy (2)

106th PGA Championship

The PGA Championship moved to May for the 2019 edition and beyond.

The fourth PGA Championship at Valhalla will be the first one played in May.

Jack Nicklaus (5), Tiger Woods (4), and Brooks Koepka (3) have won the most stroke-play championships. Other multiple winners in the field this week include Louisville native Justin Thomas (2022, 2017), the oldest major champion, Phil Mickelson (2021, 2005), and reigning Valhalla champion from 2014, Rory McIlroy (2014, 2012).

The only all-professional major championship, the field of 156 players includes 20 PGA Club professionals and 98 of the top 100 players in the Official World Golf Rankings.

The PGA Championship evolved to stroke play for the 40th edition in 1958. The top 70 players and ties after 36 holes will advance to the final two rounds.

In the last five championships, only Collin Morikawa has won a major championship for the first time.

The last seven championships have been won by four different players. Koepka (3), Thomas (2), Mickelson, and Morikawa.

Koepka, the last player to successfully defend the championship (2018-19), also is the last player to win in wire-to-wire fashion (2019).

The only players to win on debut this century are Shaun Micheel (2003), Keegan Bradley (2011), and Collin Morikawa (2020).

Winning the 2012 edition at The Ocean Course at Kiawah Island, McIlroy set the record for margin of victory, eight shots.

Mickelson won the 2021 playing at The Ocean Course at Kiawah Island at age 51, the oldest player to win a major championship.

The field consists of 16 former champions and 34 players who teed it up in the 2014 event.

The winner will take home 750 FedExCup points.

The purse will be announced during the tournament.

Recent Winners – PGA Championship

Italics – not entered this week.

YearWinnerNotes
2023Brooks Koepka (-9)Closed with three rounds in the 60s at Oak Hill to win by two and claim his third Wanamaker Trophy.
2022Justin Thomas (-5)Equaled the largest come-from-behind victory (7 shots) to force and win a playoff at Southern Hills over Will Zalatoris.
2021Phil Mickelson (-6)Held off Koepka by two shots at Kiawah Island to become the oldest major champion at 51 years old.
2020Collin Morikawa (-13)Joined Keegan Bradley (2011) and Shaun Micheel (2003) as the only winners on debut in recent history.
2019Brooks Koepka (-8)Held off Tiger Woods while seting the 36-hole scoring record (63-65) and easily defended his 2018 title at Bethpage Black.
2018Brooks Koepka (-16)Posted 264 (-16) at Bellerive to set the majors scoring record.
2017Justin Thomas (-8)Made up two shots on Sunday at Quail Hollow Club to win by two and claim his first major championship.
2016Jimmy Walker (-14)The Texan won his only major on a soggy Baltusrol and kept Jason Day from defending the title.
2015Jason Day (-20)Set the PGA scoring record to par at a calm Whistling Straits for his only major championship.

One and Done

I’ll be joining Spotter’s game again this season. Now, where did I put my checkbook…

35 events.

1 player per event (plus a backup pick if your guy gets kidnapped on Wednesday night and doesn’t make it to the first tee Thursday).

1 use per year.

Add up the total money and Spotter is yer uncle!

EventSelectionEarnings
The SentryCollin Morikawa690,500
Sony Open in HawaiiCorey Conners18,592
The American ExpressAdam Hadwin310,800
Farmers Insurance OpenJason Day0
AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-AmJordan Spieth70,125
WM Phoenix OpenMatt Fitzpatrick156,200
The Genesis InvitationalMax Homa329,000
Mexico Open at VidantaTony Finau145,125
Cognizant ClassicRussell Henley32,850
Arnold Palmer InvitationalScottie Scheffler4,000,000
THE PLAYERS ChampionshipWill Zalatoris0
Valspar ChampionshipSam Burns0
Texas Children’s Houston OpenWyndham Clark54,418
Valero Texas OpenC Bezuidenhout67,735
88th Masters TournamentRory McIlroy175,500
RBC HeritagePatrick Cantlay1,160,000
Zurich ClassicNick Taylor122,375
THE CJ CUP Byron NelsonStephan Jaeger112,100
Myrtle Beach ClassicDaniel Berger20,350
Wells Fargo ChampionshipSahith Theegala47,000
   
Total Winnings: 7,512,670

His game has more fun stuff to it. Reach out @A340Spotter on Twitter or A340Spotter@frontier.com for more details and to join.

Recapping Last Week – Wells Fargo Championship

MY CHOICE: Sahith Theegala – T52

Sat T7 after a wonderful 65 in Round 2.

Shot 82 in Round 3.

I mean, shit.

This Week – 106th PGA Championship

MY CHOICE: Brooks Koepka

I’m going to strike while the iron is hot. A winner recently, that’s all I need to see. I had earmarked Justin Thomas for this spot for almost the entire spring, but it is this week or Pinehurst in THIS FORMAT for Koepka. I’m riding the heat.

Others to Consider:

Rory McIlroy, Scottie Scheffler, Xander Schauffele, Bryson DeChambeau, and Justin Thomas.

Look at the winners above. There is absolutely no angle to stray from the chalk this week. I will point out that the recent champions at Muirfield Village, another Jack Nicklaus design in use in two weeks, are Viktor Hovland, Billy Horschel, Patrick Cantlay (2), and Bryson DeChambeau.

LIV guys are in consideration because they will only be at the next two major championships and are essentially freerolls.

A victory for Jordan Spieth would see him join the club of players who have won the career Grand Slam.

Good luck! You’ll need it!