The Giants are out in front in the NL West, sitting four games clear of the second place Dodgers. The two teams meet at AT&T Park on Friday, and it should be a pitcher's duel between Clayton Kershaw and Johnny Cueto. My money is on the home underdog on the runline.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Pitching - Cueto (9-1, 2.16 ERA) gave up just one unearned run on four hits, striking out five in six innings in a 5-1 win at St. Louis in his last start. He's faced the Dodgers twice already this season, winning both those starts. A win here tonight would make him the first 10 game winner in the majors this year.

2. Batter vs. Pitcher - Kershaw has owned the Giants throughout his career, but his last start in San Francisco didn't go all that smoothly. He surrendered a pair of solo home runs of the bats of pitcher Madison Bumgarner and backup shortstop Ahire Adrianza.

3. X-Factor - The Giants are 19-7 over their last 26 overall.

Selection: This is a play on the San Francisco Giants +1.5 (8*)

The Kansas City Royals head into this series versus Chicago trailing the first place White Sox by 2.5 games in the AL Central. The Sox are a big favorite with their ace on the mound in Game 1, but Chris Sale hasn't been all that sharp lately. My money is on the Royals plus the runs.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Pitching - The Royals send Ian Kennedy to the mound, and the veteran has quietly been having a fine season in his first year in Kansas City. Kennedy (4-4, 3.44 ERA) gave up five runs on eight hits over six innings in a loss at Cleveland in his last start. Prior to that he allowed a total of four runs over 15 innings in three straight wins. Sale has surrendered a dozen runs on 23 hits in three straight losses.

2. Batter vs. Pitcher - The Royals have seen plenty of Sale, and they've had their fair share of success against the southpaw. Kansas City is batting .295 over 325 at bats versus Sale, with Lorenzo Cain leading the way hitting .348 with three home runs lifetime.

3. X-Factor - The Royals bullpen is still the best in baseball, with an ERA of 2.71.

Selection: This is a play on the Kansas City Royals +1.5 (8*)

The Pittsburgh Pirates were not at their best last night when they were forced to travel to Colorado for a rained out makeup game from April. They ended up losing the contest 11-5, but I think they'll rebound with a win Friday night as they return to PNC Park for the opener of a three-game series against the St. Louis Cardinals.  Here are my keys to the game:  1. Pitching - The Pirates hand the ball to their ace Gerrit Cole (5-4, 2.85) who is 5-3 with a 2.91 ERA versus the Cardinals. He fanned seven hitters while holding St. Louis to a pair of runs in six innings of a 10-5 win on the road on May 8. The Cardinals counter with Michael Wacha (2-6, 5.16 ERA) who has struggled all year long. He's winless over his last eight starts and yielded four runs in five innings against the Giants his last start. He's 3-2 with a 4.02 ERA in eight career starts against Pittsburgh.  2. Home Cookin' - The Cardinals are 17-12 on the road this season, but the Pirates have won seven of their past eight when hosting a team with a winning road record. They're 4-0 in Cole's last four home starts against St. Louis. 3. X-Factor - Andrew McCutchen is 12-for-22 with a pair of doubles, a triple and a homer off Wacha. Selection: This is a play on the Pittsburgh Pirates (8*)

The Cleveland Indians won the opener of this four-game set against the Seattle Mariners 3-1 on Monday, but back-to-back defeats have followed. I like them to salvage a split of the series with a win Thursday night.  Here are my keys to the game:  1. Pitching - The Mariners hand the ball to Nathan Karns (5-2, 4.23) who is coming off his worst start of the season when he was knocked around for seven runs on eight hits and five walks in four innings at Texas. Rebounding tonight might be a tough ask as he conceded five runs in just 5 1/3 innings at Cleveland earlier this season. The Tribe counters with Josh Tomlin who is 4-1 with a 3.41 ERA in five career starts against the Mariners. The Indians have won nine of his 10 starts this season and he held the Royals to one run in 6 1/3 innings of a 7-1 win his last outing.  2. Road Warriors - The Indians are 8-0 in Tomlin's last eight road starts and 4-0 in his last four starts at Seattle. 3. X-Factor - Jason Kipnis is 4-for-9 with a pair of doubles in previous meetings with Karns.  Selection: This is a play on the Cleveland Indians (8*) 

The Baltimore Orioles enter Thursday's series-opener against the Toronto Blue Jays parked at the very top of the AL East after winning seven of their past eight games. This looks like a favorable spot for the Jays though, and my money is on the home team at Rogers Centre tonight.  Here are my keys to the game:  1. Pitching - Toronto hands the ball to Marcus Stroman (5-2, 4.82 ERA). The 25 year old has been far from great in recent starts, but his numbers against Baltimore are solid. Stroman is 2-1 with a 3.24 ERA in previous meetings with the Birds, and he held them to three runs in seven innings of a 4-3 win at Camden Yards on April 19. Baltimore counters with Tyler Wilson (2-5, 4.39 ERA) who much like Stroman has struggled lately. He allowed five runs on seven hits in four innings last Saturday in an 8-6 loss to the New York Yankees. He'll have his hands full with Kevin Pillar who is 4-for-6 with a home run and three RBIs in the last two games.  2. Home Cookin' - Toronto returns home after splitting a pair of three-game series at Boston and Detroit. The Jays hitters will be excited to be back at Rogers Centre were Toronto has won five of its past six contests.  3. X-Factor - One of the Orioles big hitters, Chris Davis, did not play yesterday and his availability for tonight's contest is questionable.  Selection: This is a play on the Toronto Blue Jays (8*)

The red hot Rangers are four games clear of Seattle at the top of the AL West, and they come into Game 3 against the Astros as winners of five straight. I like Texas to complete the sweep here at home Wednesday.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Pitching - The Rangers send Yu Darvish to the mound, making just his third appearance of the season. He's been dominant in the first two outings, allowing four runs on nine hits while striking out a dozen over 10.2 innings in consecutive wins. The Astros counter with Doug Fister, who comes in riding a seven game unbeaten streak. He's facing a hot lineup on the road in a hitter's park, and that streak may well end here in Arlington.

2. Batter vs Pitcher - The big bats in the Texas lineup have not been fooled by Fister. Adrian Beltre is batting .346, Shin Soo Choo .323, while Prince Fielder is 3-for-5, and Rougned Odor is 2-for-5 with a home run.

3. X-Factor - The Astros are 12-39 in the last 51 meetings in Texas.

Selection: This is a play on the Texas Rangers (8*)

The Cincinnati Reds failed to continued their recent surge with a 7-6 win in the opener of a three-game series against the St. Louis Cardinals on Tuesday. Their bats have been on fire lately, and I think we'll see another action-packed contest involving the Reds tonight.  Here are my keys to the game:  1. Pitching - The Reds hand the ball to the struggling Alfredo Simon (2-5, 8.94). He was lucky to receive the decision last start despite surrendering four runs on five hits with three home runs in seven innings of an 11-4 win at Colorado. The Cardinals counter with Jaime García (4-5, 3.48 ERA). The southpaw has posted a 3.50 ERA over 19 career appearances (17 starts) against the Reds, and I don't like his chances of improving on that number tonight.  2. Cincinnati's Bats - The Reds have scored a total of 48 runs in their past five games. Their .614 slugging percentage here in June is the best mark in the majors for the month by quite some distance.   3. X-Factor - Billy Hamilton is on fire with three three-hit games in his last eight appearances.  Selection: This is a play on STL@CIN to go OVER the total (10*)

The Detroit Tigers came to life late in Tuesday's contest, but their sudden explosion in the bottom of the ninth was enough to clinch a 3-2 win. They've now won five on the trot, and I think they'll complete the sweep of this three-game series Wednesday afternoon.  Here are my keys to the game:  1. Pitching - The Blue Jays hand the ball to R.A. Dickey (3-6, 4.21 ERA). You rarely know what kind of performance you'll get from the knuckleballer, but he has struggled with his command all season and has issued nine walks in his last two starts alone. Dickey has an ERA of 4.30 in 12 career starts against Detroit which counters with Jordan Zimmermann (8-2, 2.58). The Tigers' ace has proven himself well worthy of the big contract he was given in the summer and he'll come in rested after missing his previous outing with a mild groin strain, something that should not bother him today.  2. Toronto's Bullpen - The Jays bullpen cost them the game last night, and that was far from the first time this season. The Toronto relievers have been tagged with 15 losses this season, tied for the worst mark with the Reds.  3. X-Factor - The Tigers rise to the occasion home at Comerica Park and have won 11 of their past 12 games when hosting a team with a winning road record.  Selection: This is a play on the Detroit Tigers (8*)

The Detroit Tigers have edged closer to the top of the AL Central with victories in four of their last five games. They handed the Toronto Blue Jays an 11-0 defeat last night, but I think the Jays will come back strong in Tuesday's match-up.  Here are my keys to the game:  1. Pitching - The Blue Jays hand the ball to Aaron Sanchez (5-1, 2.99 ERA) who shut out the Bronx Bombers covering 6 2/3 innings of a 7-0 win his last start. Sanchez is 4-0 with a 2.38 ERA in six road starts this season. The Tigers counter with Matt Boyd (0-1, 3.94). Detroit has lost each of the southpaw's three outings this season and he conceded four runs on six hits in 6 1/3 innings while taking the loss in a 5-4 setback against the Yankees his last start.  2. Situational - Toronto's 23 home runs against left-handers is the second best mark in baseball this season. They're 4-1 in their last five games vs. a left-handed starter and they'll be eager to swing the bats again after getting shut out last night.  3. X-Factor - Boyd made two starts for Toronto during his rookie season last year before getting dealt to Detroit. He took the loss while allowing five runs on seven hits in six innings against his former club later in the season.  Selection: This is a play on the Toronto Blue Jays (10*)

The St. Louis Cardinals wrapped up the weekend with a pair of wins against the Giants in which they outscored their opponent 13-7. The Cincinnati Reds have heated up in recent games, and I think we'll see plenty of action over home plate early in Tuesday's match-up.
 
Here are my keys to the game:
 
1. Pitching - The Reds hand the ball to John Lamb (1-3, 5.58) who recorded his first win of the season his last start while holding the Rockies to one run in seven innings. He had allowed 16 runs in 13 2/3 frames in his past three starts prior to that performance. The Cardinals counter with Mike Leake (4-4, 3.82 ERA) who has done well in recent outings, but a return to Great American Ballpark might bring out some bad memories. Leake posted a 4.31 ERA in 86 appearances there while with the Reds between 2010-2015.
 
2. Cincinnati's Bats - The Reds had scored a total of 33 runs over four straight victories prior to a 10-9 defeat in the series finale of a three-game set against the Nats on Sunday. Their .597 slugging percentage here in June is the best mark in the majors for the month.
 
3. X-Factor - The Cardinals' Jhonny Peralta is expected to make his season debut after injuring his thumb in Spring Training.
 
Selection: This is a play on STL@CIN 1st 5 Innings OVER (10*)

The Kansas City Royals ended the month of May on fire and recorded wins in 12 of 15 contests between May 15-31. They've won just one of six games here in June, but I think they'll give the Baltimore Orioles a run for their money here in Game 2 of a three-game set at Camden Yards.  Here are my keys to the game:  1. Pitching - The Orioles hand the ball to Ubaldo Jimenez (2-6, 6.59) who has been roughed up time and time again this season. He is 0-3 with a 9.97 ERA and 16 walks in his past five starts and the right-hander was lit up for seven runs and 10 hits in 5 2/3 innings in the lone meeting with the Royals last season. Kansas City counters with Yordano Ventura (4-3, 4.82 ERA) who held the Tribe to a pair of runs in six innings in enemy territory his last start. Ventura's best start this season came back in April when he allowed the Orioles just one run on three hits in seven frames of a 6-1 win.  2. Situational - The reigning World Champions know better than to take any game lightly, and they're 5-1 in their last six during Game 2 of a series which can be compared to Cleveland's 0-4 mark in their last four of the second game of a set. 3. X-Factor - Ventura is 4-1 with 37 strikeouts in five career starts against the Royals.  Selection: This is a play on the Kansas City Royals +1.5 (6*) 

The Atlanta Braves are tied with the Minnesota Twins for the worst record in baseball this season. Runs have not come easy for the team, but the pitching match-up in Monday's series-opener against the San Diego Padres combined with a low number makes me believe we'll see enough runs to push this game over the total. 
Here are my keys to the game: 
1. Pitching - The Padres hand the ball to Christian Friedrich (2-1, 2.53), The left-hander was rewarded with the win his last start despite surrendering four runs (three earned) on nine hits and four walks in five innings against Seattle as he was provided with plenty of run support in the 14-6 victory. He has posted a 7.36 ERA in five career relief appearances against Atlanta which counters with Williams Perez (2-1, 3.86 ERA). Perez has split two career starts against the Padres while allowed five runs (four earned) on 11 hits over 13 1/3 frames. The 25 year old conceded four runs in 5 2/3 innings his last outing.  
2. Previous Meetings - The over is 39-13-3 in the last 55 meetings in San Diego and 6-2 in the past eight overall. 
3. X-Factor - The Padres' bullpen has a 4.94 ERA on the season and Atlanta's a 4.40 ERA, both among the worst marks in the majors. 
Selection: This is a play on ATL@SD to go OVER the total 1st 5 innings (10*)

The New York Yankees have lost five of their last seven and dropped a pair of games of a three-game series against division rivals the Orioles over the weekend. They've won six of the last eight when taking on the Los Angeles Angels though, and I think the Bronx Bombers will take down Monday's series-opener.  Here are my keys to the game:  1. Pitching - The Yankees hand the ball to their ace Masahiro Tanaka (3-1, 2.78). Tanaka has posted an 0.90 ERA over three consecutive quality starts. He did not factor in the decision in his only match-up with the Angels back in 2014, a 3-2 win for New York. The Angels counter with Matt Shoemaker (3-6, 5.50 ERA) who is 2-1 with a 2.28 ERA in his last four starts. He was fortunate to not give up more than two runs his last start though as he surrendered 10 hits in seven innings of a 3-0 loss against the Tigers. 2. New York's Bats - The Yankees had won two of three while totaling 18 runs and 34 hits before losing 3-1 in Baltimore on Sunday. They're 10-4 in their last 14 games following a loss and I expect the Yankees to be more productive at the plate again tonight.  3. X-Factor - Shoemaker has a WHIP of 1.40 this season, Yankees are 9-2 in their last 11 games vs. a starter with a WHIP greater than 1.30. Tanaka has a 1.00 WHIP and the Angels are 7-21 in their last 28 games vs. a starter with a WHIP less than 1.15. Selection: This is a play on the New York Yankees (8*)

The San Francisco Giants will wrap up a lengthy road trip with Sunday's rubber match of this three-game set against the St. Louis Cardinals. They dropped a 7-4 decision on Saturday, and I think the Cardinals will prevail again tonight.  Here are my keys to the game:  1. Pitching - The Cardinals hand the ball to Carlos Martinez (5-5, 3.69) who is 1-1 with a 5.40 ERA in three career appearances against the Giants, but his only previous start in the series came in July 2014. He's coming off his best start of the year though when he threw eight shutout innings of five-hit ball in a 6-0 win at Milwaukee, fanning eight batters in the process. The Giants counter with Jake Peavy who tossed seven scoreless innings of one-hit ball at Atlanta his last outing, but he is still just 1-3 with a 7.20 ERA in five turns on the road this season. 2. The Cardinals Bats - Several Cardinals hitters are red hot at the moment. Brandon Moss has homered in three of his last six games while Brandon Crawford has three consecutive two-hit performance and six in his last 11 contests just to mention a few. 3. X-Factor - The Giants have lost each of Peavy's last eight road starts against a team with a winning record. Selection: This is a play on the St. Louis Cardinals (8*)

The Cincinnati Reds have among the worst records in baseball this season, but they've made some noise lately entering Sunday riding a four-game winning streak. The Washington Nationals can't be happy at all about the prospect of getting swept by the Reds, and I think we'll see plenty of action over home plate today.  Here are my keys to the game:  1. Pitching - The Nats hand the ball to Tanner Roark (4-4, 2.70 ERA) who has pitched pretty well lately. The right-hander has however served up home runs in four straight outings, and Brandon Phillips is 3-for-6 with a homer off Roark in previous meetings. Cincinnati counters with Jon Moscot (0-3, 7.13) who will make his second start since returning from the disabled list. Moscot was lit up for seven runs on eight hits with four (!) home runs in just two innings of a 17-4 loss at Coors Field in his comeback.   2. Trends - The over is 5-2-1 in the Nats last eight overall and 6-1-2 in the Reds'. Over is 17-5-4 in Cincy's last 26 games following a win and 6-1 in Washington's last seven following a loss. 3. X-Factor - Cincinnati has scored 31 runs over its four-game win streak.  Selection: This is a play on WAS@CIN 1st Half OVER (10*)

The New York Mets are aiming to complete the sweep of this three-game series against NL East rival Miami Marlins Sunday afternoon. The Fish should have a big advantage on the mound here at Marlins Park in the series finale though and my money is on the home team.  Here are my keys to the game:  1. Pitching - The Marlins hand the ball to Jose Fernandez (8-2, 2.53) who tied a franchise record for wins in a month with his 6-0 record in May. Fernandez has posted a 1.60 ERA in his last seven outings and the right-hander owns a 1-0 career mark with a 1.67 ERA in five starts versus the Mets who counter with Matt Harvey (4-7, 5.37 ERA). Harvey is coming off his strongest outing of the year when he held the White Sox scoreless over seven innings home at U.S. Cellular Field, but he's 2-4 with a 6.00 ERA in six road starts this season.  2. Situational - Harvey has posted a bloated 1.54 WHIP this year and the Marlins are 14-5 in their last 19 games vs. a starter with a WHIP greater than 1.30. Fernandez has a superior 1.11 WHIP and the Mets are 2-5 in their last seven when coming up against a starter with a WHIP less than 1.15. 3. X-Factor - New York's Yoenis Cespedes sat out Saturday's contest with a sore hip and he's considered day-to-day.  Selection: This is a play on the Miami Marlins (8*)

The Kansas City Royals entered this four-game set against the Cleveland Indians as winners of nine of their last 10. They've now lost back-to-back games to the Tribe to see Cleveland climb just half a game behind them for the top spot in the AL Central. I think enough is enough, and the Royals will show why they're the reigning champs with a win tonight. 

 Here are my keys to the game:  1. Pitching - The Tribe hand the ball to Josh Tomlin (7-1, 3.79) who is coming off his worst start of the year. Tomlin was roughed up for eight runs (four earned) on nine hits in 3 2/3 innings of a 9-2 home loss against Texas. He has struggled with the long ball this season, surrendering at least one in each of his last eight outings and six in his last four. The Royals counter with Ian Kennedy (4-3, 3.03 ERA) who has been very consistent this season. Kennedy has held opponents to two runs or fewer in eight of his 10 starts and allowed one run on three hits and five walks in six innings against Tampa Bay his last start, without factoring in the decision in the 6-2 win.  2. Situational - The Tribe won last night's contest 6-1. Kansas City is 8-1 in its last nine after allowing five runs or more in its previous game and 6-1 in its last seven coming off a loss. 3. X-Factor - Tomlin has posted a 5.17 ERA in 17 games against Kansas City and several of the current Royals have good numbers against the right-hander.  Selection: This is a play on the Kansas City Royals +1.5 (5*)

The Washington Nationals entered this three-game set against Cincinnati riding a four-game winning streak that came an abrupt ending in last night's 7-2 defeat. Washington is a massive favorite to rebound with a win Saturday afternoon, and I think they'll prove to be well worth the price.  Here are my keys to the game:  1. Pitching - The Nats hand the ball to their ace Stephen Strasburg (9-0, 2.69 ERA). Washington has won each of his 11 team starts this season and his last 15 starts with last season included. Strasburg has allowed only four runs on 16 hits in 18 2/3 innings in his last three outings. The Reds counter with Dan Straily (3-2, 3.43) who was lucky to pick up the win his last start despite conceding five runs on eight hits and three walks in six innings at Coors Field.  2. Road Warriors - Washington has won four of its last five on the road and each of Strasburg's last eight. The Reds are 1-6 in their last seven at Great American Ball Park. 3. X-Factor - Straily is 0-for-15 at the plate this season with 11 strikeouts and two walks. He's 0-for 63-in his career and should pose an easy out for the Nats. Selection: This is a play on the Washington Nationals (8*)

The Chicago White Sox have mustered just two wins in their past 10 games and fell hard in Friday's 10-3 defeat against the Detroit Tigers. Chicago has dropped out of the AL Central top spot and Detroit is now just 2 1/2 game behind it in the standings, but the White Sox should pick up a win today with their ace on the hill.  Here are my keys to the game:  1. Pitching - The White Sox hand the ball to Chris Sale (9-1, 2.29 ERA) as the left-hander looks to end a two-game winless drought. Sale had won nine straight decisions this season prior to the slump and he's 7-5 with a 3.02 ERA in 24 career games (14 starts) against the Tigers who counter with Mike Pelfrey (0-5, 4.96). The right-hander is 0-4 with a 6.20 ERA in eight career starts against the White Sox and has struggled with Avisail Garcia who is 6-for-15 with a double in the match-up.  2. Situational - Chicago has won 10 of Sale's last 12 starts and it's 4-1 in Sale's last five starts against Detroit. The Tigers have lost eight of their last 11 when facing a left-handed starter.  3. X-Factor - White Sox are 7-2 in their last nine games with umpire Alan Porter calling the strikes and the road team is 24-11 in Porter's last 35 games behind home plate. Selection: This is a play on the Chicago White Sox (8*)

The Tampa Rays have lost seven of their last eight overall, and sit in dead last in the AL East. The Twins are in even worse shape, with the worst record in the major leagues. The Rays should be able to take advantage of a struggling Minnesota starter tonight.

Here are my keys:

1. Pitching - The Rays will send Jake Odorizzi to the mound, and the 26 year old has been having a solid season. Odorizzi (2-3, 2.36 ERA) allowed a pair of runs on one hit, striking out six in seven innings in a 2-1 loss to the Yankees in his last start. He's been very tough on left-handed hitters, who are batting just .177 against him.

2. Batter vs. Pitcher - Ricky Nolasco will go for the Twins, and he hasn't pitched very well at all in 2016. He's 1-1 with a 6.39 ERA in his last two starts versus Tampa.

3. X-Factor - The Twins don't score a lot of runs, ranking 26th in the majors in runs scored, with a team batting average of .242.

Selection: This is a play on the Tampa Rays for the 1st 5 innings (8*)

The Toronto Blue Jays and the Boston Red Sox have already seen plenty of each other this season, this being the 11th meeting on the year. The Jays took two of three at Toronto last week to even the season-series at 5-5 but I think the Red Sox will take down the opener of a three-game set Friday night.  Here are my keys to the game:  1. Pitching - The Red Sox hand the ball to left-hander David Price (7-1, 5.11) who is 17-2 with a 2.43 ERA in his career against Toronto. He held the Jays to a pair of runs on five hits in 6 1/3 innings of a 5-3 win on May 29, not factoring in the decision. The Jays counter with R.A. Dickey who tossed opposite Price in that contest, surrendering three runs on three hits and four walks in 5 1/3 frames. Dickey is 0-2 with a 6.60 ERA with 10 walks over three meetings with Boston this season and several Red Sox batters have good numbers over a large sample against the knuckleballer. 2. Home Cookin' - Boston has won 13 of its last 16 games home at Fenway Park where they've averaged 6.00 runs per game this season. David Price is 4-0 in six starts in front of the home town crowd. 3. X-Factor - David Ortiz is batting .439 with 17 RBIs over a 10-game hitting streak. Selection: This is a play on the Boston Red Sox (8*)

The Pittsburgh Pirates will be glad to be back home to PNC Park following a disappointing 2-5 road trip. They host the Los Angeles Angels for the opener of a three-game series Friday night, and I think the Pirates will come out ahead in this interleague battle.  Here are my keys to the game:  1. Pitching - The Pirates hand the ball to Francisco Liriano (4-4, 4.63). The left-hander is 3-1 with a 1.42 ERA in four home starts this season while limiting the opposition to a .187 batting average. He has held Angels slugger Albert Pujols to one hit in 15 at bats in previous match-ups. The Angels counter with Jered Weaver (4-4, 5.40 ERA) who is 1-2 with a 5.79 ERA in four road starts this year. Weaver has struggled with the long ball in recent starts surrendering seven in his past four outings.  2. Situational - The Halos are 3-13 in their last 16 interleague games vs. a left-handed starter and 3-10 in Weaver's last 13 road starts. The Pirates are 15-2 in Liriano's last 17 home starts. 3. X-Factor - David Freese spent 2014-2015 with Weaver at Los Angeles, but he's 4-for-6 in the match-up. Freese is 9-for-24 with a pair of doubles and a homer over the past seven days.  Selection: This is a play on the Pittsburgh Pirates (8*)

The Cincinnati Reds have enjoyed some rare success on the road here in Colorado as they're in a position to take three of this four-game set against the Rockies Thursday night. The Rockies are never easy to beat home at Coors though and I think they'll even the series with a win here in the series finale.  Here are my keys to the game:  1. Pitching - The Reds hand the ball to Alfredo Simon (1-5, 9.60 ERA) who has the majors' highest ERA among those with at least 30 innings this season. He has given up 18 runs and 26 hits over 13 1/3 innings in his last three outings and the right-hander is 0-2 with an 11.25 ERA in two career starts against the Rockies. Colorado counters with Eddie Butler (2-2, 4.13 ERA) who has had some struggles of his own this season, but nowhere near the magnitude of Simon's. Butler has conceded six runs (five earned) on 15 hits and just one walk in 13 2/3 innings his his last three outings.  2. Situational - The Reds are 2-15 in their last 17 during Game 4 of a series and 2-9 in Simon's last 11 road starts. 3. X-Factor - Charlie Blackmon has gone 3-for-6 with a home run off Simon and he has batted .344 with three homers over the last seven days. Selection: This is a play on the Colorado Rockies (8*)

The Pittsburgh Pirates opened this four-game set at Marlins Park with a 10-0 victory, but they've recorded back-to-back defeats since. I think the Fish will clinch the series with another win Thursday night.   Here are my keys to the game:  1. Pitching - The Marlins hand the ball to Wei-Yin Chen (3-2, 4.37) who will face the Pirates for the second time in his career. He won his only start against Pittsburgh in 2012 and held Atlanta to one run on a pair of hits and a walk in five innings his last start. The Pirates counter with Juan Nicasio (4-4, 4.79) who is 0-3 with a 6.75 ERA in four road starts this season. He's coming off a May to forget a he posted a 6.75 ERA with a .333 batting average against in four outings.  2. Giancarlo Stanton - The Miami slugger returned Wednesday after missing seven games with soreness in his right side. He went 0-for-3 with two strikeouts and a walk but should be sharper here in his second game back. Stanton is 2-for-6, both hits for extra bases off Nicasio.  3. X-Factor - Pittsburgh has managed just three runs and has struck out a total of 23 times in the last two games. Selection: This is a play on the Miami Marlins 1st 5 innings (8*)

The Chicago Cubs boast the best record in the major leagues at 36-15 and they've won seven of their past eight games. The lone defeat was a 5-0 setback against the Los Angeles Dodgers on Tuesday, but I think the Cubs look good to clinch the four-game series with a win Thursday night.  Here are my keys to the game:  1. Pitching - The Cubs hand the ball to Kyle Hendricks (3-4, 2.93 ERA) who tossed a complete game for the second time in his career his last start. Hendricks held the Phillies to one run on five hits in a 4-1 win home at Wrigley where he's 2-1 with a 1.93 ERA this season. The Dodgers counter with Julio Urias (0-0, 10.13 ERA). The 19 year old left-hander will make his second start in the major leagues tonight. He conceded three runs on five hits and four walks in 2 2/3 innings against the Mets in his debut on May 27.  2. Home Cookin' - The Cubs are 9-2 in their last 11 home games vs. a team with a winning road record and 18-8 in Hendricks' last 26 home starts. 3. X-Factor - The Cubs are second only to Boston with an average of 5.75 runs of support for their pitching staff in 2016. Selection: This is a play on the Chicago Cubs (8*)

The Detroit Tigers came to life during a lengthy homestand in the second half of May, but they're 1-4 on their current road trip. That includes a pair of defeats here at Anaheim, and I think they'll get swept by the Halos Wednesday night.  Here are my keys to the game:  1. Pitching - The Tigers hand the ball to Michael Fulmer (4-1, 3.97 ERA). Detroit has won five of the 23 year old rookie's six starts, but it could have been so much worse. He has allowed 36 hits and 11 walks in 34 innings of work, and he'll get hit hard soon enough. The Halos counter with Matt Shoemaker (3-5, 5.96). He struggled through his first six starts of the year but the 29 year old is 2-0 with a 2.18 ERA in his last three. Shoemaker is 2-0 with a 0.46 ERA in three starts against the Tigers in his career. 2. Previous Meetings - Detroit has not enjoyed much success in recent meetings with the Angels, going 5-21 in the last 26 meetings. They've struggled enormously in the last visits to the West Coast losing, 17 of the last 19 at Anaheim.   3. X-Factor - Four of the Halos' 17 hits in last night's 11-9 win left the park.  Selection: This is a play on the Los Angeles Angels (10*)

The Milwaukee Brewers had won five of their past six before this three-game set against the St. Louis Cardinals. They've struggled with their division-rival in recent seasons, and this series has been no different. I like the Cardinals to complete the sweep in the series finale Wednesday afternoon.  Here are my keys to the game:  1. Pitching - The Brewers hand the ball to Zach Davies (2-3, 5.40 ERA). He has allowed nine runs (six earned) on 11 hits in 11 innings in his last two starts. The 23 year old has served up four home runs during that span. St. Louis counters with Jaime García (4-4, 3.47 ERA) who has a 1.45 ERA and 0.72 WHIP in five match-ups with the Brew Crew since the beginning of 2015, winning each of the last four. He tossed a complete game with just one hit allowed when the Cardinals defeated Milwaukee 7-0 on April 14.  2. Road Warriors - Garcia is 2-0 with a 3.24 ERA in four road starts this season and the Cardinals are 8-3 in Garcia's last 11 road starts. Milwaukee is 4-12 in its last 16 games when hosting a team with a winning road record. 3. X-Factor - Milwaukee's Ryan Braun is batting .204 in 54 at-bats against Garcia. Selection: This is a play on the St. Louis Cardinals (8*)

 The Chicago Cubs are riding a six-game winning streak and opened a three-game series with the Los Angeles Dodgers with a 2-0 win on Monday. The Dodgers have won six of their past eight without impressing at the plate, and runs will come at a premium for the visitors at Wrigley tonight.  Here are my keys to the game:  1. Pitching - The Cubs hand the ball to Jake Arrieta (9-0, 1.72). Chicago has won Arrieta’s last 23 starts and he threw his first career no-hitter when he struck out 12 against the Dodgers last summer. The Dodgers counter with Scott Kazmir (4-3, 4.84 ERA) who has posted a 8.02 ERA in his last four starts on the road. Kazmir struck out 12 against Cincinnati at home his last start but has struggled with his command lately giving up a total of 14 free passes in his last four outings.  2. Cubs vs. Southpaws - Chicago has the best on base percentage against left-handers in the National League with a .370 mark. The club is 4-0 in its last four home games vs. a left-handed starter and 16-5 in its last 21 games vs. left-handed starters overall. 3. X-Factor - Chicago's Ben Zobrist has hit safely in a career high-tying 16 straight games and is batting .458 in his last 23 contests. Selection: This is a play on the Chicago Cubs (8*)

The Toronto Blue Jays took two of three in the Bronx last week and defeated the New York Yankees 4-2 in the opener of a three-game series against their division rival yesterday. I think the Jays are looking good to set themselves up for a sweep with another win Tuesday night.  Here are my keys to the game:  1. Pitching - The Jays hand the ball to J.A. Happ (6-2, 3.20) who outdueled CC Sabathia in a 3-1 win at New York on May 26. Happ held the Bronx Bombers to one run on three hits seven innings in that contest and the left-hander has allowed just a pair of runs in 13 innings against New York this season. Sabathia (3-3, 2.83 ERA) conceded two earned runs in seven innings of the loss to Happ and he's been solid since returning from a groin strain, but the way the Jays are hitting right now the veteran is likely to struggle tonight.  2. Yankees vs. Southpaws - The Bronx Bombers' .239 batting average against left-handers is among the bottom third marks in baseball and their .361 slugging percentage the sixth worst. They're 6-14 in their last 20 games vs. a left-handed starter. 3. X-Factor - The Yankees' designated hitter Alex Rodriguez is 0-for-14 off Happ.  Selection: This is a play on the Toronto Blue Jays (8*)

The Seattle Mariners are a perfect 4-0 in interleague play this season and pounded the San Diego Padres 9-3 in the opener of a four-game home-and-home series last night. I think the M's will record another win home at Safeco before the series shifts to San Diego.  Here are my keys to the game:  1. Pitching - The Mariners hand the ball to Hisashi Iwakuma (3-4, 4.33). The right-hander has pitched reasonably well lately giving up a combined six runs in 13 innings in back-to-back wins. The Padres counter with James Shields (2-6, 3.06 ERA) who is 5-5 with a 3.60 ERA in 18 career starts against Seattle. The current Mariners are hitting .299 over 251 at bats against the right-hander though, and the Padres have lost eight of his 10 starts this season.  2. San Diego's Bats - Shields has received a Major Leagues worst 1.95 run support average this season. The Padres have the worst batting average and on base percentage in baseball this season.  3. X-Factor - Robinson Cano is batting .411 with five homers over 90 at bats versus Shields. He is second in the majors with 44 RBI for the year.  Selection: This is a play on the Seattle Mariners (8*)

The Chicago Cubs endured a mini-skid but are back on track with five consecutive victories. They'll host the Los Angeles Dodgers Monday afternoon, a Dodgers team that has bounced back from some adveritites of its own winning six of seven following a 1-6 stretch. Backing the Cubs home at Wrigley Field have often been a winning proposition this season though, and I think the Cubs will take down this contest.   Here are my keys to the game:  1. Pitching - The Dodgers hand the ball to Alex Wood (1-3, 4.03 ERA). The left-hander is without a winning decision in his last seven games and he's 0-3 with a 6.84 ERA in five road starts this season. The Cubs counter with Jason Hammel (6-1, 2.17) who held the Cardinals to one run on four hits in 7 1/3 frames of a 12-3 win his last turn. The Cubs have won seven of his nine starts this season and each of his three at home where Hammel is 2-0 with a 2.04 ERA.  2. Cubs Vs. Southpaws - Chicago is 5-1 in its last six home games when coming up against a left-handed starter and it has a National League best on base percentage at .366 against southpaws.  3. X-Factor - The Cubs have averaged 7.6 runs per game during their winning streak.  Selection: This is a play on the Chicago Cubs(8*)

Two reeling teams will do battle at Safeco Field for the opener of a three-game series Monday afternoon. The Seattle Mariners were swept by the AL-worst Twins over the weekend while the San Diego Padres have lost six of their past seven games. The Mariners are still just half a game back of the Rangers for the top spot in the AL West though and I expect a solid performance from the M's today.  Here are my keys to the game:  1. Pitching - The Padres hand the ball to Andrew Cashner (2-4, 4.87 ERA). He missed some time with a strained right hamstring, but the right-hander was back on the mound on May 24 giving up three runs on four hits and four walks in six innings of an 8-2 loss at San Francisco. Cashner is 1-3 with a 5.49 ERA in his last four starts. The Mariners counter with Nathan Karns (4-1, 3.53) who is 4-0 with a 3.13 ERA in eight starts since losing his season debut. The Padres are 1-10 in their last 11 contests when facing a right-handed starter. 2. Situational - The Mariners have won eight of their past series-openers and they're 9-4 in their last 13 games following a loss. 3. X-Factor - Nori Aoki is 4-for-12 against Cashner and he is 8-for-19 during a five-game hitting streak. Selection: This is a play on the Seattle Mariners (8*)

The New York Mets opened a six-game homestand with a 6-5 win against the Dodgers but lost the subsequent games of the series over the weekend. They'll be looking to rebound with a win when hosting the Chicago White Sox on Memorial Day afternoon, but I like the visitors in this contest.  Here are my keys to the game:  1. Piching - The Chicago White Sox are in a good position to end a six-game slide as they hand the ball to Jose Quintana (5-4, 2.22 ERA). The left-hander will make his first career starts against the Mets, but he has posted a 2.05 ERA in five road starts this season. The Mets counter with Matt Harvey (3-7, 6.08). He has struggled all year and even more so lately giving up 19 runs (16 earned) on 27 hits in 13 1/3 innings in three consecutive losses.  2. Situtional - The Mets will have just 14 hours of rest between their 4-2 loss to the Dodgers last night and this contest. Hardly ideal preparations for a team that has been batting .172 over its past five games.  3. X-Factor - Chicago's Austin Jackson is 8-for-16 over his last four games.  Selection: This is a play on the Chicago White Sox (8*)

 The Atlanta Braves are tied with the Twins for the worst record in baseball this season, but the weekend has been kind to them so far as they can complete the sweep of a three-game set against the Miami Marlins Sunday afternoon. The Fish are likely to struggle here against Atlanta's ace, and I'm backing the home team at Turner Field.  Here are my keys to the game:  1. Pitching - The Braves hand the ball to Julio Teheran (1-4, 2.57) who has posted a fantastic 0.89 ERA in his last six starts. The right-hander is 5-2 with a 2.71 ERA in 12 starts against the Fish, 1-0 with a 2.53 ERA in five at home. Miami counters with Tom Koehler (2-5, 4.79 ERA). The Marlins have lost each of his last five turns and seven of his nine starts this year. Koehler was ripped for six runs (five earned) and nine hits in 3 2/3 frames of a 6-4 loss against Atlanta on April 16. 2. Previous Meetings - The Marlins are the only team Atlanta has had any success against this season. The Braves have averaged 5.8 runs while going 5-0 against the Fish. Braves are 8-3 in Teheran's last 11 starts against Miami. 3. X-Factor - Tom Koehler has given up five free passes in each of his last three starts and he has just 37 strikeouts vs. 30 walks this season.   Selection: This is a play on the Atlanta Braves 1st 5 innings (8*)

The Cincinnati Reds ended an 11-game skid with a 7-6 win against the Milwaukee Brewers on Saturday. Each of the last four meetings have gone over the total and I think we'll see the two teams run up the score early in Sunday's contest.  Here are my keys to the game:  1. Pitching - The Reds hand the ball to Brandon Finnegan (1-3, 3.97 ERA) who surrendered five runs (three earned) on seven hits with three home runs in five innings of a 13-7 loss against Milwaukee on May 7 without factoring in the decision. The Brewers counter with Jimmy Nelson (4-3, 2.92 ERA) who tossed opposite Finnegan in that contest. Nelson lasted only five innings as well over which he was torched for six runs (five earned) on eight hits. 2. Poor Fielding - Only the Cardinals have committed more errors than the Reds' 41 this season. Milwaukee is also among the 10 worst in that category with 31 errors in 49 games. 3. X-Factor - Jay Bruce was 2-for-5 in Saturday's contest and he's 7-for-17 with three doubles and a pair of homers off Nelson.  Selection: This is a play on CIN@MIL 1st 5 innings to go OVER the total (8*)

The Washington Nationals have lost two of three in this set against the St. Louis Cardinals but they have a chance to earn a split of the series with a win Sunday afternoon. They're 11-0 in Stephen Strasburg's last 11 starts during Game 4 of a series, and I think the Nats look like a solid favorite today.  Here are my keys to the game:  1. Pitching - The Nats have won each of their ace Stephen Strasburg's (8-0, 2.79) 10 starts this season. He held the Cardinals to a pair of runs with nine strikeouts in seven innings of a 5-4 win at St. Louis on April 29 and has compiled a 2.76 ERA in five career meetings. The Cardinals counter with Michael Wacha (2-5, 5.04 ERA). The right-hander owns a 0.79 ERA in three career starts versus Washington, but he is going through a rough patch right now. Wacha has lost five straight decisions and he has allowed at least six runs in each of his last three starts, giving up a total of 20 runs and 24 hits in just 12 innings during that span.  2. Road Woes/Home Cookin' - The Cardinals are 1-6 in Wacha's last seven road starts. The Nationals are 13-3 in Strasburg's last 16 home starts. 3. X-Factor - Washington has hit six homers through the first three games of this series. Wacha has allowed five hits to leave the ballpark in his last six outings.  Selection: This is a play on the Washington Nationals 1st 5 innings (8*)

The St. Louis Cardinals and the Washington Nationals are tied at 1-1 in this four-game series after a 6-2 St. Louis win last night. They've won nine of the past 13 meetings at Nationals Park, and I think they're looking good to record an upset in Saturday's contest.    Here are my keys to the game:  1. Pitching - The Cardinals hand the ball to Adam Wainwright (4-3, 5.77 ERA). The Cardinals have won each of the right-hander's last six starts and he has allowed only three runs in 12 2/3 frames in his last two turns. Wainwright owns a 7-3 mark and 2.78 ERA against Washington which counters with Gio Gonzalez (3-2, 2.87). The 30 year old southpaw is coming off his worst start of the year when he was charged with seven runs and 10 hits in five innings of a 7-1 loss against the Mets. Gonzalez served up three homers in that contest and has given up five in his past four starts.  2. Batter vs. Pitcher - Gonzalez has a 1.54 ERA in five starts versus St. Louis but the current members of the Cardinals are batting a combined .320 with 15 walks over 100 at bats against the left-hander. It's unrealistic to think anything but that he's extremely lucky to own that ERA while putting that many runners on base.   3. X-Factor - Cardinals are 4-0 in Wainwright's last four starts vs. Nationals. Selection: This is a play on the St. Louis Cardinals +1.5 (8*)

The Brewers won Game 1 of this home series versus Cincinnati by a score of 9-5. I expect to see another slugfest Saturday, as two struggling pitchers take the mound in Game 2. My money is on the over for the first five innings of play.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Pitching - The Reds send Alfredo Simon to the mound, and he looks like he might be in danger of losing his spot in the rotation. Simon (1-5, 10.16 ERA) was torched for five runs on nine hits and three walks in a loss to Seattle in his last start. Before that he gave up 10 runs on 14 hits in just 4.1 innings in a loss to Cleveland. The Brewers counter with Chase Anderson, who hasn't been that much better.

2. Batter vs. Pitcher - Jonathan Lucroy was 2-for-4 with a home run last night, and he's 7-for-12 with a pair of home runs lifetime versus Simon.

3. X-Factor - The over is 8-3 in Simon's last 11 road starts.

Selection: This is a play on the Reds@Brewers 1st 5 innings OVER (8*)

The Chicago White Sox are sitting top of the AL Central division, but they haven't played like a first place team recently. The Kansas City Royals defeated the White Sox 7-5 last night and are now just one game back of Chicago in the division, and I think the Royals will take a 2-0 lead in this series with another win Saturday afternoon.  Here are my keys to the game:  1. Pitching - The White Sox hand the ball to Carlos Rodon (2-4, 4.47 ERA). The left-hander conceded two runs on eight hits in 6 2/3 innings of a 3-2 home win against Kansas City his last start, but the White Sox had lost four consecutive Rodon starts prior. Rodon has not had much success on the road lately conceding a total of 12 runs on 20 hits in 13 2/3 innings in his last two outings away from home. The Royals counter with Yordano Ventura (4-3, 4.81) who conceded three runs in six innings when he went toe-to-toe with Rodon at Chicago on May 22. He's 3-0 with a 3.57 ERA in four home starts this season.  2. Road Woes - The White Sox have won just one of their past six games on the road and they're 3-8 in the last 11 meetings in Kansas City. The Royals are 6-2 in their last eight home games vs. a left-handed starter. 3. X-Factor - Paulo Orlando was 2-for-3 against Rodon last weekend and he's 19-for-38 during a 10-game hitting streak. Selection: This is a play on the Kansas City Royals (8*)

The Arizona Diamondbacks will be looking to rebound from a three-game sweep at Pittsburgh. A date with the only team behind them in the NL West standings should prove a good opportunity, and I think the D'Backs will prove worth the money in Friday's contest against the San Diego Padres.  Here are my keys to the game:  1. Pitching - The Diamondbacks hand the ball to Robbie Ray (2-3, 4.18) who has allowed just a total of four runs on nine hit in 12 innings in his last two starts. The left-hander was 0-3 with a 4.96 ERA in three career games versus the Padres last year, but San Diego has struggled with southpaws this season and lost six of its last eight against a left-handed starter. The Padres counter with a lefty of their own in Christian Friedrich (0-1, 2.89 ERA). He has made only two starts this year and lasted just 3 1/3 innings last Friday when giving up two runs, six hits and three walks against the Dodgers.   2. Road Woes - The Padres are 2-8 in their last 10 road games vs. a team with a losing record. The D'Backs will be happy to be home at Chase Field following a week-long trip and they took two of three from the Giants their last series in Arizona.  3. X-Factor - Matt Kemp is 3-for-33 with 12 strikeouts during an eight-game slump. Selection: This is a play on the Arizona Diamondbacks (8*)

The Chicago White Sox are sitting top of the AL Central division but the team has faded after a strong start to the season. The White Sox have lost seven of their past 10 games, and I think the Kansas City Royals will prove too strong in Friday's game.  Here are my keys to the game:  1. Pitching - The pitching match-up will be the same as was scheduled for Thursday's rain-postponed contest. The means that the Royals hand the ball to Danny Duffy (0-0, 2.13) who will make his third start of the season. Duffy has pitched well out of the bullpen all season and tossed 4 1/1 innings of four-hit ball at U.S Cellular Field in Saturday's 2-1 win against Chicago, without factoring in the decision. The White Sox counter with Miguel Gonzalez (0-1, 4.57 ERA) who gave up two runs on six hits in six innings in that same contest. He is now 1-4 with a 3.66 ERA in five career starts against Kansas City.  2. Situational - The White Sox have lost five straight games when facing a left-handed starter and they're 1-4 in their past five on the road. The White Sox are 3-7 in the last 10 meetings in Kansas City. 3. X-Factor - Kansas City has won four straight series, claiming the opener each time.  Selection: This is a play on the Kansas City Royals (8*)

analysis coming soon

The Los Angeles Dodgers and the New York Mets are both second in their respective division. The two NL rivals will open a three-game set at Citi Field Friday night, and the pitching match-up suggest a big advantage for the home team.  Here are my keys to the game:  1. Pitching - The Mets hand the ball to Jacob deGrom (3-1, 3.07) who is looking for his first winning decision since April 30. He pitched well against Los Angeles on May 10 allowing just two runs with no walks in seven innings of a no-decision. He was a huge factor when the Mets defeated the Dodgers in five games in the NLDS last year, surrendering two runs with 20 strikeouts in winning both starts. The Dodgers counter with left-handed rookie Julio Urias (NR) who will make his first start in the major leagues. He has impressed with Triple-A Oklahoma City, but the step to the big leagues can be a tough one.  2. Situational - The Dodgers had Thursday off following a three game sweep of the Reds. Perhaps the rest was not optimal for the Dodgers who are 2-6 in their last eight games following an off day and 1-4 in their last five road games. The Mets are 12-4 in their last 16 home games. 3. X-Factor - The Mets' relievers have the best ERA in baseball this season and their closer Jeurys Familia has converted on 32 consecutive save opportunities. Selection: This is a play on the New York Mets (8*)

The St. Louis Cardinals are eight games back of the Cubs in the NL Central after dropping the final two games of a three game set in St. Louis. They head out on the road to play Game 1 of a new series in the nation's Capital, and I like the Cardinals as an underdog in the opener.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Pitching - Mike Leake will get the call for the visitors, and he's really turned his season around. Leake (3-3, 4.07 ERA) tossed seven scoreless innings in a win over Arizona in his last outing. The Cardinals have won his last four starts, after losing four of his first five. The Nats send Joe Ross to the mound, and the rigth-hander has lost four straight.

2. Batter vs. Pitcher - Washington slugger Bryce Harper has really cooled off, batting just .194 in the month of May. He hasn't hit a home run since early May, and he's just 2-for-10 lifetime versus Mike Leake.

3. X-Factor - The Cardinals have won 11 of their last 16 road games, and eight of their last 11 at Washington.

Selection: This is a play on the Cardinals +1.5 (6*)

The Pittsburgh Pirates opened this three-game series against the Arizona Diamondbacks with a dominant 12-1 victory last night. A win will surely not come as easy in tonight's contest, and it would not surprise me one bit to see the visitors even up the series here.  Here are my keys to the game:  1. Pitching - The Pirates hand the ball to Jeff Locke (2-3, 5.00). The left-hander is coming off his best start of the season, but he owns an 0-2 record with a 7.88 ERA in three starts against Arizona. The D'Backs counter with Rubby De La Rosa (4-4, 3.53 ERA) who struggled through the first weeks of the season and was subsequently sent to the bullpen. He has gone 3-1 with a 1.93 ERA in five starts since returning to the rotation and he is 1-0 with a 1.38 ERA in two career starts versus the Pirates.  2. Paul Goldschmidt - The Arizona slugger is 5-for-9 in previous meetings with Locke and 6-for-13 with five walks during a four-game hitting streak.  3. X-Factor - Pirates are 1-5 in their last six home games vs. a team with a road winning % of greater than .600. Selection: This is a play on the Arizona Diamondbacks +1.5 (6*)

The San Diego Padres took two of three from the Dodgers over the weekend, but they enter Wednesday's contest on the verge of getting swept by another division rival. The San Francisco Giants are riding a four-game winning streak, but I like the Padres chances of recording an upset in tonight's match-up.  Here are my keys to the game:  1. Pitching - The Giants hand the ball to Jake Peavy (1-5, 8.21) didn't even make it through the second inning his last start. Peavy was forced to surrender five runs on seven hits and a pair of walks in 1 2/3 innings of an 8-1 loss to the Cubs on Friday. He has given up 16 runs on 23 hits and 10 walks in 18 2/3 innings so far in May. The Padres counter with James Shields (2-6, 3.07 ERA) who has tossed at least six innings in each of his nine starts. He limited the Giants to one run on three hits in seven innings here at AT&T Park on April 26 and has compiled a 2.14 ERA in three road starts this season.  2. Motivational - The Giants have won each of the eight meetings this season, but the Padres must feel that this is the best opportunity they'll get to end the slide. Last night's 8-1 defeat was a close game until the Giants broke out with five runs at the bottom of the eighth.  3. X-Factor - A hamstring injury will keep San Francisco's Hunter Pence out of the starting lineup for the fifth straight game and Angel Pagan is now on the 15-day disabled list, also with a hamstring issue.  Selection: This is a play on the San Diego Padres +1.5 (8*)

The Atlanta Braves have the second-worst record in the majors at 12-31, but they've done alright lately winning three of their past five. Tuesday night's opponent the Milwaukee Brewers have just one win in their past five, and I think the Braves are looking good to improve on their record with a win here.  Here are my keys to the game:  1. Pitching - The Brewers hand the ball to Jimmy Nelson (4-3, 3.07 ERA) who conceded five hits and four walks in 7 1/3 scoreless innings against the Cubs his last start. He has however compiled a 4.41 ERA in three outings on the road this year, surrendering 14 hits and nine walks over 16 1/3 innings of work. The Braves counter with Julio Teheran (1-4, 2.73) who has posted a 1.15 ERA in his last six starts. He is 2-2 in five career starts against Milwaukee behind a 2.04 ERA. 2. Road Woes - The Brewers are batting a MLB-worst .222 on the road this season scoring an average of 3.85 runs per game. They've lost five of their past six on the road.  3. X-Factor - The Braves have won 10 of the last 13 meetings with the Brewers. Selection: This is a play on the Atlanta Braves first 5 innings (8*)

full analysis soon

The Cincinnati Reds are in free fall having lost seven straight and 10 of their past 11. The Los Angeles Dodgers have not had much fortune lately either with two wins in their past six contests, but with their ace on the mound Monday night we have every reason to expect a Dodgers win by a large margin.  Here are my keys to the game:  1. Pitching - The Dodgers hand the ball to Clayton Kershaw (6-1, 1.67) who has won each of his last four starts with just three runs allowed in 33 innings of work. He has recorded 10+ strikeouts in six straight starts. The Reds counter with Brandon Finnegan (1-2, 4.44 ERA). The Reds have lost each of his last six starts and he has surrendered 14 hits and 17 walks in 22 innings in four starts on the road this year.  2. Cincinnati's Anemic Bats - The Reds are batting .197 while striking out 33 times with just nine runs scored in their last four games. The Reds are 2-8 in their last 10 road games vs. a left-handed starter. 3. X-Factor - The Reds are in for a rough travel they played home in Cincinnati yesterday. The Dodgers meanwhile just have to do the short trip from San Diego.  Selection: This is a play on the Los Angeles Dodgers -1.5 (8*)

The Chicago Cubs started the season in a furious tempo and are still boasting the best record in baseball. This is a good time for for the St. Louis Cardinals to make up some ground in the NL Central division though with Chicago losing seven of their past 11, and I think the Cardinals can record an upset tonight.  Here are my keys to the game:  1. Pitching - The Cardinals hand the ball to Adam Wainwright (4-3, 5.92) who struggled through the first month and a half of the season, but he's coming off his best start of the year. Wainwright threw 6 2/3 scoreless innings against Colorado his last start and he has done his best work home at Busch this season. The Cubs counter with John Lackey (4-2, 3.31 ERA) who shut out his former club over seven innings on April 18. Lackey has been inconsistent on the road though, giving up six runs in two of his four starts away from home.  2. Batter vs. Pitcher - The Cardinals have won each of Wainwright's last four starts against the Cubs and he has the current members of the team limited to a .222 batting average over 117 at bats.  3. X-Factor - Stephen Piscotty has hit safely in 17 of his last 19 contests and he has recorded three multi-hit performances during a five-game streak.  Selection: This is a play on the St. Louis Cardinals +1.5 (8*)

The Los Angeles Dodgers have lost six of their past seven games and are running the risk of getting swept in this three-game set at Petco Park. Sunday's series-finale against the San Diego Padres looks like good opportunity to turn their fortune around and I'm backing the visiting Dodgers in this contest.  Here are my keys to the game:  1. Pitching - The Dodgers hand the ball to Kenta Maeda (3-3, 2.87 ERA) who needs to rebound from a couple of rocky outings home at Chavez Ravine. The rookie is 2-0 with only three runs allowed in 18 1/3 innings in his three road starts though. The Padres counter with Colin Rea (3-2, 4.37) who has posted an 0-1 record and 6.30 ERA in his last two outings. Rea has struggled in day games this year allowing 13 runs (12 earned) and 11 walks in 14 1/3 innings.   2. Previous Games - The Padres have been quite fortunate in the first two games in the series with back-to-back walk-off victories, but they can't expect to stay that lucky.  3. X-Factor - Carl Crawford has a triple and a double in four career at-bats against Rea.  Selection: This is a play on the Los Angeles Dodgers (8*)

The Blue Jays have won two of three heading into the series finale in Minnesota, and they send their ace to the mound this afternoon. The Twins are 3-13 in their last 16 overall, and I don't like their chances here against the Blue Jays.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Pitching - Marcus Stroman will get the call for the Blue Jays, and he's hoping to bounce back after suffering his first loss of the season. Stroman (4-1, 4.23 ERA) allowed seven runs on 13 hits over 5.2 innings in a home loss to Tampa. He's 3-0 with a 2.79 ERA in three starts on the road this year.

2. Batter vs. Pitcher - Phil Hughes will be on the mound for the Twins, and he's 0-4 in his last five starts. The Blue Jays have owned Hughes, hitting a combined .293 against him over 147 at bats. Edwin Encarnacion is batting .357 with a home run and six RBIs lifetime versus Hughes.

3. X-Factor - The Twins rank 27th in the major leagues in runs scored, with a team batting average of just .234.

Selection: This is a play on the Toronto Blue Jays (8*)

The New York Mets seek to complete the sweep of a three-game set against the Milwaukee Brewers Sunday afternoon. They've won 11 of their past 14 home at Citi Field, and I think the home team will prove to be worth the money today.  Here are my keys to the game:  1. Pitching - The Mets hand the ball to Noah Syndergaard (4-2, 2.19) who tossed seven scoreless innings of five-hit ball against the Nats here at Citi Field his last start. Syndergaard is 8-3 with a 2.53 ERA at Citi Field in his career. The Brewers counter with Chase Anderson (2-5, 5.32 ERA) who went 0-1 with a 4.50 ERA in two starts versus the Mets last season while with Arizona. Anderson is 0-3 with  a5.32 ERA in four road starts this year.  2. Home Cookin' - The Brewers have lost four straight meetings in New York and they're 2-6 in their last eight road games vs. a team with a winning home record. The Mets are 9-2 in their last 11 home games vs. a right-handed starter. 3. X-Factor - Syndergaard surrendered one run and three hits with five strikeouts over six innings in a 5-1 win at Citi Field on May 17, 2015 in his lone previous meeting with Milwaukee.  Selection: This is a play on the New York Mets (10*)

The Cubs handed the Giants a lopsided loss in the series opener in San Francisco last night, and I think we could see another slugfest here in Game 2 Saturday. Chicago ranks third in the major leagues in runs scored, and those big bats should be able to take advantage of a struggling San Francisco starter.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Pitching - Matt Cain will get the call for the Giants, and he's coming off a solid outing. Cain (0-5, 5.87 ERA) allowed one run on seven hits over seven innings in a no decision at Arizona in his last outing. He's 0-3 with a 5.40 ERA at home this season, and he's 0-2 with a 5.48 ERA in his last four starts against the Cubs.

2. Batter vs. Pitcher - The over is 11-4-2 in Matt Cain's last 17 starts, and the Giants have lost his last four starts versus Chicago.

3. X-Factor - These teams have gone over in seven of the last 10 meetings, and the over is 8-3-1 in the Cubs last 12 road games.

Selection: This is a play on the Cubs@Giants to go OVER the total (10*)

A cold stretch with only two victories on their past eight contests have seen the New York Mets drop 2.5 games behind the Nats for the NL East top spot. They did however defeat the Milwaukee Brewers 3-2 last night and I think we'll see an even bigger Mets win in Game 2 of this series Saturday afternoon.  Here are my keys to the game:  1. Pitching - The Mets hand the ball to Jacob deGrom (3-1, 2.50). deGrominator is 3-0 with a minuscule 0.44 ERA in his last three starts against Milwaukee and he has won each of his starts home at Citi Field this season with just one one allowed in 12 innings of work. The Brew Crew counter with Zach Davies (1-3, 5.58 ERA) who is coming off his best start of the year when he held San Diego to a pair of runs in 6 1/3 innings home in Milwaukee. Davies has struggled on the road though with an 8.59 ERA and 13 hits and six walks issued in just 7 1/3 frames.   2. Home Cookin' - The Mets are 6-2 in deGroms last eight home starts and 8-2 in their last 10 home games when facing a right-handed starter. Milwaukee has lost 10 of its past 14 on the road.  3. X-Factor - Milwaukee's Ryan Braun has missed three straight games with lower-back stiffness, and may not be much of a threat if he was to return to the lineup today as he is 0-for-10 in previous match-ups against deGrom.  Selection: This is a play on the New York Mets -1.5 (10*)

The New York Yankees can set themselves up for a sweep of this four-game set at Oakland with another win Saturday afternoon. The pitching match-up suggest a big advantage for the Bronx Bombers, and I think they'll come out of this contest with the W.  Here are my keys to the game:  1. Pitching - The A's hand the ball to Sean Manaea (1-1, 7.91). The rookie left-hander is coming off his best start in the majors when he limited Texas to one run on four hits in 6 2/3 innings. Manaea lasted just 2 2/3 innings his last start prior though as he touched for eight runs on 10 hits with a pair of homers. The Yankees counter with the reliable Masahiro Tanaka (1-0, 3.51 ERA) who has struggled through his last two starts home in the Bronx, but he has allowed only four earned runs in 19 2/3 innings on the road. Tanaka is 2-0 with juts two earned runs allowed in 13 2/3 innings in two career starts against Oakland. 2. Home Woes - The A's are 4-17 in their last 21 home games vs. a team with a road winning % of less than .400 and just 8-13 straight up at home this season.  3. X-Factor - The A's has placed Josh Reddick on the disabled list making their lineup a lot less fearful.  Selection: This is a play on the New York Yankees (8*)

The Chicago Cubs started the season in a furious fashion and are still boasting the best record in the majors despite losing three of their past four games. Losses with their ace on the mound are extremely rare though, and I like the Cubs here in the opener of a three-game set against the San Francisco Giants.  Here are my keys to the game:  1. Pitching - The Cubs hand the ball to the untouchable Jake Arrieta (7-0, 1.29 ERA) who is 18-0 with an amazing 0.84 ERA in 21 starts since his last defeat on July 25 last year. He leads the majors in ERA and has allowed only five earned runs over his last six starts. The Giants counter with Jake Peavy (1-4, 7.43) who is win-less in his last four starts and his bloated season ERA speaks for itself.  2. Batter vs. Pitcher -  Arrieta is 3-1 with a 1.69 ERA in four career starts against the Giants. Buster Posey has one hit in nine at bats and Brandon Crawford is 0-for-8 with four strikeouts.  3. X-Factor - The Cubs' Ben Zobrist is batting .405 with 20 walks in his last 23 games. He is 5-for-19 with a pair of homers against Peavy.  Selection: This is a play on the Chicago Cubs (6*)

The Toronto Blue Jays put an end to their five-game slide with a 3-2 win here at Target Field last night. The game represented the first of a four-game series and I think the Jays are looking good to take down Game 2 tonight too.  Here are my keys to the game:  1. Pitching - Minnesota hands the ball to Tyler Duffey (1-2, 1.85) who'll make his fourth start of the season. He tossed seven scoreless innings at Cleveland his last start but lasted just two innings when he was reached for six runs and five hits in a loss at Toronto on Aug. 5, 2015 in his lone meeting with the Blue Jays. Toronto counters with Aaron Sanchez (3-1, 3.29 ERA) who was lit up at Texas his last start. That was a rare mishap for Sanchez as the right-hander has held opponents to one run or fewer in five of his eight starts this year. He has allowed two runs over seven innings in two career games (one start) against the Twins. 2. Home Woes - The Twins are 6-11 home at Target Field for the year and have lost seven straight games in front of the home town crowd. The Blue Jays are 20-8 in the last 28 meetings in Minnesota. 3. X-Factor - Jose Bautista has hit Duffey with a grand slam and is 7-for-23 with six walks over the past seven days.    Selection: This is a play on the Toronto Blue Jays (10*)

The Washington Nationals ended a three-game skid when they tied this three-game series 1-1 with a 7-1 win last night. The New York Mets have struggled lately with just one win in their past six games, and I think we're getting a great price on the visitors at Citi Field here in the rubber match of this set.  Here are my keys to the game:  1. Pitching - The Mets hand the ball to Matt Harvey (3-5, 4.93) who has posted a 1.77 ERA in 10 meetings with Washington, but he was lit up for five runs on 11 hits in 5 2/3 innings at Colorado his last start. The Nats counter with Stephen Strasburg (6-0, 2.95 ERA) who has had a terrific start to the year. The Nats have won each of his eight starts and the right-hander has recorded 65 strikeouts in 55 innings. He has posted a respectable 2.78 ERA in previous meetings with the Mets.  2. Road Warriors - The Nats are 5-1 in Strasburg's last six starts at Citi Field and they've won each of his past seven starts on the road overall.  3. X-Factor - Harvey has a .311 batting average against this season.  Selection: This is a play on the Washington Nationals (10*)

The Chicago Cubs have cooled off after an flaming start to the season. They've won "only" three of their past seven games but evened out this series against the Milwaukee Brewers with a 2-1 win yesterday. They'll have a huge advantage in the mound in the series finale Thursday afternoon though and my money is on the visitors at Miller Park today.  Here are my keys to the game:  1. Pitching - The Cubs hand the ball to Jason Hammel (5-0, 1.77 ERA) who is off to the best beginning to any of his 11 seasons. The Cubs have won each of the 33 year old's six starts since a 3-2 defeat at Arizona on April 8. Hammel is 8-0 with a 2.37 ERA in 11 career starts against Milwaukee which counters with Junior Guerra (2-0, 4.00) who will make his fourth career start. The 31 year old Venezuelan conceded four runs in six innings in each of his first two starts before holding the Padres scoreless with two hits over six innings his last start. The Cubs lineup is a lot more dangerous than any he has faced so far though.  2. Chicago's Lineup - The Cubs have just the 10th best batting average in the majors but their batters have shown great patience at the plate. Chicago has the very best on base percentage at .361 and its 191 walks is 22 more than the next team.   3. X-Factor - Milwaukee's Ryan Braun is troubled with stiffness in his back and sat out yesterday's contest.  Selection: This is a play on the Chicago Cubs (8*)

 The Seattle Mariners entered this three-game set against the Baltimore Orioles on the back of three losses in Anaheim, but they managed to shut out the Birds in a 10-0 win last night to open the series. That was just their fifth win in the past 16 meetings, and I think the Orioles will reassert their dominance in the series with a win tonight.   Here are my keys to the game:  1. The Orioles hand the ball to Chris Tillman (5-1, 2.58) who is coming off seven scoreless innings of five-hit ball against the Tigers. He has now recorded five consecutive quality starts and been rewarded with the winning decision in each of the past four. Tillman is 6-0 with a 2.98 ERA in eight career starts against Seattle which counters with Taijuan Walker (2-2, 2.63 ERA). The Seattle right-hander has had a great start to the year but gave up a season-high four runs on five hits and three walks in 5 2/3 innings against the Rays his last start. Walker has conceded a total of six runs and 12 hits in 9 2/3 innings in previous meetings with Baltimore.  2. The Orioles' Bats - Baltimore has the seventh best batting average in the Major Leagues this season with a .266 mark which rises to .281 against right-handed pitchers. With just two hits recorded in last night's defeat the Orioles will come out hungry for revenge tonight.  3. X-Factor - Baltimore's bullpen has the second best ERA for the year and their relievers have combined for a Major Leagues best 10 wins.  Selection: This is a play on the Baltimore Orioles (8*)

The Los Angeles Angels have won four straight on the road, including a 7-6 win at Dodger Stadium last night in the opener of a four-game home-and-home series against their cross-town rivals. I don't like the Halos' chances of recording back-to-back upset wins though, and this looks like a reasonable price on the Dodgers. Here are my keys to the game:  1. Pitching - The Dodgers hand the ball to the fantastic Clayton Kershaw (5-1, 1.74) who has tossed three-hit shutouts in each of his last two home outings with a total of 27 strikeouts. Kershaw is 4-2 with a 2.91 ERA in eight career starts against the Angels who will counter with Jered Weaver (3-2, 6.10 ERA) who lasted only four innings of a 12-10 loss against the Cardinals his last start when he conceded eight runs on nine hits with three homers. Weaver has given up at least four runs in four of his seven starts this year. 2. The Halos' Interleague Struggles - The Angels are 2-11 in their last 13 interleague games against a team with a winning record and 2-12 in their last 14 interleague games when facing a left-handed starter. Last night's win was only the second in the past 10 meetings with the Dodgers. 3. X-Factor - The Dodgers' Trayce Thompson homered twice yesterday and has gone deep five times over his last eight contests. Selection: This is a play on the Los Angeles Dodgers -1.5 (8*)

The opener of a three-game series between the Boston Red Sox and Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium rained out last night. The teams will start the series Tuesday night instead followed by a double-header on Wednesday, and I think the Royals are looking good to record an upset here in Game 1.  Here are my keys to the game:  1. Pitching - The Royals hand the ball to Yordano Ventura (3-2, 4.62) who held the Yankees to three runs in six innings of a 7-3 win his last start. A solid performance following back-to-back losses, and Ventura is looking good to build on that outing against a team he held to one run in six innings in the lone meeting last season. The Red Sox counter with Rick Porcello (6-1, 3.11 ERA), and the right-hander has struggled mightily in recent meetings with Kansas City posting 7.20 ERA while losing his last three starts.  2. Lorenzo Cain - The Royals' center fielder is 14-for-36 during a nine-game hitting streak and he is 5-for-13 in previous at bats versus Porcello.  3. X-Factor - The reigning World Series champions have a losing record this season, but they've been solid home at Kauffman with an 11-6 record.  Selection: This is a play on the Kansas City Royals +1.5 (8*)

The New York Mets are back home in the Big Apple following a gruesome 11-game road trip. They were swept in three games at Colorado over the weekend but I think the Mets will rebound with a win Tuesday night when hosting division-rivals the Washington Nationals for the opener of a three-game series. Here are my keys to the game:  1. Pitching - The Mets hand the ball to Noah Syndergaard (3-2, 2.53) who snapped a two-game personal losing streak when he tossed eight innings of two-run ball at Dodger Stadium last Wednesday. Syndergaard has allowed two runs or fewer in five of his seven starts this year and he has posted a 1.80 ERA in previous meetings with Washington. The Nats counter with Max Scherzer (4-2, 4.15 ERA) who went the distance when he held Detroit to two runs on six hits with 20 strikeouts last Wednesday. Both of the runs were solo homers though, and Scherzer gave up seven runs (four home runs) in five innings at Wrigley Field on May 6 so it's fair to say that he's struggling with the long ball at the moment.   2. Home Cookin' - The Mets have won eight of their past 10 games at Citi Field. The Nats have lost each of their last four on the road. 3. X-Factor - New York's Yoenis Cespedes hit .321 with six extra-base hits against Washington last season and he is 3-for-9 in previous meetings with Scherzer.  Selection: This is a play on the New York Mets (10*)

The Angels and the Dodgers will face off in Game 1 of an all LA series at Chavez Ravine Monday, and these two teams appear to be trending in opposite directions. The Dodgers are just a game out first place in the NL West, while the Angels are struggling, sitting five games back of first place Texas in the AL West. My money is on the Dodgers as the home favorite.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Pitching - Kenta Maeda will get the call for the Dodgers, and he's been sharp in his rookie season. Maeda (3-2, 2.30 ERA) gave up four runs on six hits over five innings in a home loss to the Mets in his last outing. All of the damage came off the bat of Mets starter Noah Syndergaard, and Maeda was likely caught a little off guard by a pitcher with a bit of "pop" in his swing.

2. Batter vs. Pitcher - The Dodgers haven't seen a lot of Matt Shoemaker, but they did hand home a loss in his only career start against them. Carl Crawford was 2-for-3 in that game. Shoemaker has been brutal this season, going 1-5 with a 9.12 ERA in six starts.

3, X-Factor - Adrian Gonzalez was swinging a hot bat in the Dodgers home series versus the Cardinals this weekend. He was 3-for-10 with a double and a home run.

Selection: This is a play on the LA Dodgers (8*)

The Detroit Tigers ended a four-game skid and picked up their second win in 13 games when they defeated the Orioles 6-5 yesterday. I think they'll ride that momentum to another victory in the opener of a three-game series against the Minnesota Twins Monday night.  Here are my keys to the game:  1. Pitching - The Twins hand the ball to 21 year old rookie Jose Berrios (1-1, 6.28 ERA) who is set to make his fourth start in the Major Leagues. Berrios conceded three runs on eight hits in five innings of a 5-3 loss against Baltimore not factoring in the decision his last start, and he has conceded a pair of homers in each of his last two outings. The Tigers counter with their ace Jordan Zimmermann (5-2, 1.50) who has been outstanding since joining the team from Washington during the off-season. Zimmerman is 2-0 with a 0.64 ERA in two career starts versus Minnesota with 15 strikeouts in 14 innings. 2. Road Woes - The Twins are 5-17 in their last 22 road games and they have lost seven of the past 10 meetings at Comerica Park.  3. X-Factor - Both Miguel Cabrera and J.D. Martinez homered for Detroit in yesterday's win against Baltimore. Selection: This is a play on the Detroit Tigers (8*)

The Pittsburgh Pirates are going through a rough spell and have posted a 4-8 record so far in May. A four-game set home at PNC Park against the MLB-worst Atlanta Braves could be just what the doctor ordered to get back on track, and this looks like a reasonable price on the Pirates.  Here are my keys to the game:  1. Pitching - The Pirates hand the ball to Jonathon Niese (3-2, 5.63) who is 9-6 behind a 3.08 ERA in 22 lifetime starts against the Braves. The left-hander was 2-0 with a 1.52 ERA in four meetings last year and Freddie Freeman, the Atlanta batter with the most experience against Niese, is just 11-for-49 in previous match-ups. The Braves counter with Williams Perez (1-0, 3.54 ERA) who will make his fifth start of the year. Perez was demoted to Triple-A Gwinnett after failing to last five innings in his first three starts, and although he pitched a gem against the Phillies on Wednesday he has yet to convince me he has turned a corner. Perez faced the Pirates twice last year, giving up nine hits and six runs in 9 2/3 innings while walking and striking out seven. 2. Atlanta's Bullpen - Perez' struggles to log innings could really come back to bite the Braves here as their bullpen's 4-11 record and 4.71 ERA are among the worst marks in the Major Leagues this season. 3. X-Factor - The Braves are 1-7 in their last eight road games vs. a left-handed starter. Selection: This is a play on the Pittsburgh Pirates (8*)

The Texas Rangers managed to grind out a 6-5 win in extra-innings last night to tie this series against the Toronto Blue Jays 1-1. The Jays are 5-1 in their last six games following a loss, and I think they'll take down the rubber match Sunday afternoon.  Here are my keys to the game:  1. Pitching - The Rangers hand the ball to Cesar Ramos (0-2, 5.11) who will make his fifth appearance (second start) for the season. The 31 year old left-hander has taken the loss in each of his two outings home in Arlington while surrendering seven runs on 12 hits and five walks over eight innings of work. The Jays counter with Aaron Sanchez (3-1, 2.58 ERA) who has been phenomenal on the road this season, posting a 3-0 record with an 0.96 ERA and 0.96 WHIP in four starts. 2. Texas' Bullpen - The Rangers' were forced to use four relievers last night and they gave up a combined three runs on five hits in five innings. The Texas' bullpen has the worst ERA in the American League with a 5.16 mark.  3. X-Factor - Edwin Encarnacion is 3-for-6 with a home run and a double off Ramos in previous meetings.  Selection: This is a play on the Toronto Blue Jays (8*)

The Reds opened the season by sweeping the Philadelphia Phillies in a three-game series home in Cincinnati. The Phillies can return the favor with a win on Sunday after a pair of one-run victories over the Reds on Friday and Saturday, but I think the Reds will fight back in this contest.  Here are my keys to the game:  1. Pitching - The Reds hand the ball to Dan Straily (1-1, 3.47 ERA) who has pitched well since joining the rotation. He held Pittsburgh to two runs on four hits and three walks in six innings of a 3-2 win not factoring in the decision his last start. The Phillies counter with Adam Morgan (1-0, 3.94) who gave up one run and four hits over seven innings in Tuesday's 3-2 win at Atlanta. He had however conceded six runs and 11 hits over nine innings in his first two starts in place of the injured Charlie Morton and the left-hander has yet to convince me about his abilities. 2. Run-line Warriors - The Reds have lost five of their past six, but all but one of these games were decided by one run. The lone decided by more was a 13-7 extra-inning loss against Milwaukee.  3. X-Factor - The Phillies are scoring just 2.73 runs on average home at Citizens Bank Park.  Selection: This is a play on the Cincinnati Reds +1.5 (5*)

The San Francisco Giants are tied with the Dodgers at the top of the NL West, and they are two games up on Arizona as of Friday. Saturday's Game 3 will feature a tough match-up for the Giants, sending a struggling veteran pitcher to the mound. My money is on the D'Backs at home.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Pitching - Jake Peavy will get the call for the visitors, and he looks like a pitcher who's age is catching up to him. Peavy (1-4, 8.47 ERA) allowed three runs on five hits and five walks in five innings in a home loss to the Blue Jays in his last outing. He's already lost to Arizona once this year, and he came into this season with a record of 11-17 with a 4.76 ERA in 39 starts on the road since 2013.

2. Batter vs. Pitcher - The D'Backs haven't been fooled by Peavy, hitting .333 over a combined 93 at bats. Paul Goldschmidt is 3-for-9 with a home run lifetime versus Peavy.

3. X-Factor - The Giants are 0-4 in Peavy's last four starts on the road.

Selection: This is a play on the Arizona Diamondbacks (10*)

The Phildelphia Phillies came into this home series versus Cincinnati just 1.5 games out of first place in the NL East. The Reds are 12 games back in the NL Central, and they've won just twice in 12 games on the road. My money is on the Phillies in Game 2 on Saturday.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Pitching - Aaron Nola will get the call for the Phillies, and he's coming off an impressive performance. Nola (2-2, 3.13 ERA) allowed three runs on six hits, striking out five over six innings in a win at Miami. He's won four straight, and he's only surrendered four runs total in those games. Tim Adleman makes just his third career start for the Reds, and just his second start on the road.

2. Odubel Herrera - The Phillies center fielder leads the team with a .331 batting average, and he was 4-for-4 in the win over Atlanta on Thursday. He's owning right-handers, batting .348 with three home runs and nine RBIs.

3. X-Factor - The Reds bullpen ranks dead last in the Major Leagues with a 6.34 ERA so far this season.

Selection: This is a play on the Philadelphia Phillies (8*)

The Chicago Cubs punished the Pirates in the series opener at Wrigley, and they are now 7.5 games ahead of the second place Cardinals in the NL Central. Game 2 of this series looks like a complete mismatch, with Pittsburgh sending a struggling pitcher to the mound. My money is on the Cubs on the runline.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Pitching - Jeff Locke will be on the mound for the Pirates, and he's really struggled with his command so far. Locke (1-2, 4.68 ERA) allowed three runs on four hits and a pair of walks in six innings in a loss to St. Louis in his last outing. He's 1-2 with a 5.75 ERA in his last seven starts versus the Cubs. Chicago will send ace Jake Arietta to the mound, looking to remain undefeated.

2. Batter vs. Pitcher - Arrieta has owned the Pirates, holding them to a combined .221 batting average and 30 strikeouts over 136 at bats. He's 4-1 with a 1.34 ERA in his last seven starts against Pittsburgh.

3. X-Factor - The Cubs have won seven straight in this series, and all of those games were decided by more than one run.

Selection: This is a play on the Chicago Cubs -1.5 (8*)

The Minnesota Twins are the worst team in the Major Leagues with a record of 8-25. They are on the road at Cleveland Friday, and this game looks like a complete mismatch. I'll take Cleveland as a home favorite in Game 1.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Pitching - Josh Tomlin will get the call for the Tribe, and he's 5-0 with a 3.72 ERA in five starts so far in 2016. He's already beaten the Twins this season, and he was 1-1 with a 1.93 ERA in his previous four appearances versus Minnesota. The Twins will counter with veteran Ricky Nolasco, who has been torched for 12 runs on 17 hits over 10.2 innings in his last two starts (both losses).

2. Batter vs. Pitcher - Jason Kipnis comes in swinging a hot bat, he was 5-for-7 in the series finale at Houston on Wednesday. He's hitting .333 with a home run lifetime versus Nolasco.

3. X-Factor - The Twins rank dead last in the American League for runs scored, and are batting just .236 so far this season.

Selection: This is a play on the Cleveland Indians (8*)

The Chicago White Sox are coming off back-to-back losses to the Rangers in Texas, but they look good in Game 1 of a new series in the Bronx. The Yankees are struggling, sitting dead last in the AL East, and they will have to face Chicago's ace tonight.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Pitching - Chris Sale will be on the mound for the Sox, and he's been flawless so far in 2016. Sale (7-0, 1.79 ERA) gave up a pair of runs on three hits, striking out nine in seven innings in a win over the Twins in his last outing. He's 2-1 with a 1.34 ERA in his last five starts versus the Yankees.

2. Batter vs. Pitcher - Chicago's slugger Jose Abreu is having himself a fine season, batting .252 with five home runs and 22 RBIs. He was 2-for-4 in the series finale at Texas, and he's 2-for-3 lifetime versus Luis Severino.

3. X-Factor - Injuries have taken their toll on the Yankees, with Mark Teixeira missing the last two games with neck spasms, and Jacoby Ellsbury missing the last five games with a hip injury. Alex Rodriguez is on the DL with a hamstring injury.

Selection: This is a play on the Chicago White Sox (8*)

 The Baltimore Orioles have not let postponed games hamper their momentum as they return home to Camden Yards with four consecutive wins under their belts. They'll host the reeling Detroit Tigers for the opener of a four-game set Wednesday night, and this looks like a reasonable price on the home team.  Here are my keys to the game:  1. Pitching - The Tigers hand the ball to Mike Pelfrey (0-4, 6.23 ERA) who has been hit hard in each of his last four starts, conceding a total of 18 earned runs on 32 hits in just 20 2/3 frames. He has posted a 4.43 ERA in four career starts against Baltimore which counters with Ubaldo Jimenez (2-3, 4.54). The 32 year old right-hander has posted a 5-11 record with a 5.60 ERA in 19 career starts against Detroit but he is coming off eight innings of two-run ball against Oakland.  2. The Bullpens - Baltimore's relievers have combined for an MLB-best 9-2 record with a 2.33 ERA this season. Detroit's bullpen has compiled a 3.76 ERA and is one of the reasons why the Tigers have lost eight of their past nine games.  3. X-Factor - The Birds' Mark Trumbo homered twice in Wednesday's 9-2 victory at Minnesota. Trumbo is 5-for-10 with a home run in previous meetings with Pelfrey who gave up three homers in his last start.  Selection: This is a play on the Baltimore Orioles (8*)

The Kansas City Royals are still trying to shake off a World Series hangover, and they've lost four of their last six overall heading into this series finale in the Bronx. They can still salvage a split in this series versus the Yankees, and I don't think New York has any business being favored in tonight's Game 4.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Pitching - Ian Kennedy will be on the mound for the visitors, and he's looked pretty impressive since signing in Kansas City. Kennedy (4-2, 2.13 ERA) tossed seven scoreless innings, allowing just four hits and striking out seven in a win at Cleveland in his last outing. The Yankees hand the ball to Nathan Eovaldi, who has been far from consistent.

2. Previous History - The Yankees are dead last in the AL East with a record of 13-19, and four of those 13 wins came in one-run ballgames. 3. X-Factor - Injuries have taken their toll on the Yankees, with Mark Teixeira missing the last two games with neck spasms, and Jacoby Ellsbury missing the last five games with a hip injury. Alex Rodriguez is on the DL with a hamstring injury.

Selection: This is a play on the Kansas City Royals +1.5 (8*)

The Reds won Game 1 of this home series versus Pittsburgh by a score of 3-2, but I think we should see more offense here with a couple of struggling pitchers on the mound in Game 2. Before yesterday's game, Cincinnati had gone over in five of seven during this home stand.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Pitching - Juan Nicasio will get the call for the Pirates, and he's been brutal on the road. Nicasio (3-3, 3.16 ERA) gave up four runs on eight hits and three walks in just 4.1 innings in a loss to the Cubs in his last outing. He's 0-2 with a 6.75 ERA on the road. The Reds hand the ball to Alfredo Simon, who has already lost twice to the Pirates this season.

2. Batter vs. Pitcher - Brandon Phillips comes in swinging a hot bat, he's hitting .321 with five home runs and nine RBIs over the last seven days. The Reds second baseman is 5-for-11 with a home run lifetime versus Nicasio.

3. X-Factor - Nicasio is 0-2 with a 5.15 ERA in his last three starts versus the Reds.

Selection: This is a 10* play on the Pirates@Reds to go OVER the total (1st 5 innings).

The Detroit Tigers managed to end a seven-game slide with a 5-4 upset against the Washington Nationals last night. The series is now tied at 1-1, and the Tigers are looking good to give the Nats a run for their money again in the rubber-match tonight.  Here are my keys to the game:  1. Pitching - The Nats hand the ball to Max Scherzer who was torched for seven runs on seven hits and three walks while giving up three home runs over five innings of an 8-6 loss to the Cubs his last start. Scherzer spent 2010-2014 with Detroit, but has not faced the club since. The Tigers counter with Jordan Zimmermann (5-1, 1.10 ERA) who spent 2009-2015 with Washington, and he has been excellent in his first six starts with Detroit. Zimmermann has yielded a total of one run in 19 1/3 innings in three starts on the road this year. 2. Road Warriors - The Tigers are 5-1 in their last six interleague road games and Zimmerman is obviously very familiar with Nationals Park after spending seven seasons there.  3. X-Factor - Jarrod Saltalamacchia has been cold this season, but this could be a turning point as he is 6-for-15 with a homer in previous meetings with Scherzer. It's also noteworthy that six of his 15 hits this year have reached the seats with four doubles and a triple.  Selection: This is a play on the Detroit Tigers +1.5 (8*)

The Arizona Diamondbacks booked a fourth consecutive win when they defeated the Colorado Rockies 10-5 in the opener of a three game set at Coors Field last night. They'll be looking to match their longest winning streak of the season with another win tonight, but my money is on the Rockies to rebound with a win.  Here are my keys to the game:  1. Pitching - The Rockies hand the ball to Chris Rusin (1-0, 4.43) who was lit up for seven runs on 13 hits in 4 1/3 innings at San Francisco in his last start. The Rockies still won the game 17-7, but the left-hander might not need that much help from the hitters tonight as he is 2-1 with a 1.71 ERA in four career starts against the Diamondbacks. The D'Backs counter with Rubby De La Rosa (3-4, 4.60 ERA) who had his start pushed back on day as Arizona recalled Archie Bradley to toe the rubber in the opener. Arizona is 1-5 in De La Rosa's last six starts with five days of rest and the 27 year old right-hander is 1-3 with a 6.00 ERA in four road games this year. 2. Batter vs. Pitcher - Several Rockies batters have solid numbers against De La Rosa. The current roster has a combined .299 batting average against him and Carlos Gonzalez is 4-for-10 with a homer. Gonzalez was 2-for-5 with a double yesterday.  3. X-Factor - Diamondbacks are 1-5 in their last six games when coming up against a left-handed starter. Selection: This is a play on the Colorado Rockies (8*)

The Pittsburgh Pirates and the Cincinnati Reds have split six games so far this season as the teams will take Great American Ball Park for another three-game set starting Monday night. The Pirates are coming in as sizable favorites, but I think the home team has good chance of upsetting the visitors.  Here are my keys to the game:  1. Pitching - The Reds hand the ball to Dan Straily (1-1, 3.56) who logged his first win of the season his last start. Straily held the Giants to three runs on six hits in 6 1/3 innings of a 7-4 win on May 4, and he has allowed just a total of two runs on five hits in nine innings against the Pirates this year. The Pirates counter with Jonathon Niese (3-1, 5.94 ERA), and the left-hander has struggled this season. Niese has conceded a total of 15 runs on 29 hits and nine walks in just 15 1/3 innings in his past three starts, and he is 2-4 with a 4.06 ERA in seven career starts against the Reds. 2. Brandon Phillips - The Reds' second baseman has been batting .321 over the past seven days, and he has had a good amount of success in previous meetings with Niese going 9-for-21 with two home runs. 3. X-Factor - Straily has Pittsburgh's Andrew McCutchen limited to one hit with a pair of strikeouts in eight at bats.   Selection: This is a play on the Cincinnati Reds +1.5 (8*)

The Detroit Tigers are on a six-game slide after getting swept in back-to-back series against Cleveland and Texas. They travel to Washington to try and turn their fortune against the Nationals starting Monday, and I like the Tigers' chances of recording an upset tonight.  Here are my keys to the game:  1. Pitching - The Tigers hand the ball to Anibal Sanchez (3-3, 5.87 ERA) who has had a rough start to the year, but the 32 year old has been decent lately. Sanchez has held the Indians and the A's to a combined six runs with 16 strikeouts in 12 2/3 innings in his two most recent starts, and he has a good track record against the Nats going 9-1 with a 1.98 ERA in 21 career meetings. The Nats counter with Stephen Strasburg (5-0, 2.36) who has had a great start to the year, but he gave up five runs over seven innings in a 5-1 loss in his lone career matchup with the Tigers. 2. Situational - The Nats have much like Detroit struggled lately and they were swept by the Cubs in four games at Chicago in their most recent series. They lost Sunday's series-finale in the 13th inning, so they're returning home to Nationals Park with a depleted bullpen.  3. X-Factor - Detroit's Miguel Cabrera is heating up as the slugger has gone 6-for-10 in his past two games. He has batted .385 in his last 80 games against the Nats.  Selection: This is a play on the Detroit Tigers +1.5 (8*)

The San Francisco Giants will be looking to deny the Colorado Rockies a split in this four-game series at AT&T Park on Sunday afternoon. The Giants pulled off an 13th inning win yesterday, but several factors would suggest that we will see more action over the plate today.  Here are my keys to the game:  1. Pitching - The Giants hand the ball to Jeff Samardzija (4-1, 3.32) who is coming off his best start in a Giants uniform when he tossed eight innings of one-run ball at Cincinnati on Tuesday. The Shark was not quite as successful his last outing in San Francisco when he conceded five runs on five hits in 5 2/3 innings on April 27. Samardzija has made two day starts in 2016, giving up a total of eight runs in 11 innings. The Rockies counter with Eddie Butler (0-1, 6.75 ERA) as the 25 year old is set to make his third start of the year. Butler surrendered five runs on four hits with a pair of homers in a 6-3 loss at San Diego his last start.  2. Taxed Bullpens - The Rockies used six relievers in yesterday's contest while the Giants asked five pitchers to come out of the bullpen in yesterday's marathon game. Hardly ideal for today as both teams bullpens rank in the bottom third of the majors.  3. X-Factor - The over is 13-3 in the Giants last 16 overall and eight of their past 10 home at AT&T Park have gone over the total. Selection: This is a play on COL@SF to go OVER the total (8*)

  The Chicago White Sox have outscored the Minnesota Twins 14-6 over the first two games of this three-game set. The White Sox have now won five straight meetings with Minnesota, and I think they're looking good to complete the sweep of this set Sunday afternoon.  Here are my keys to the game:  1. Pitching - The White Sox hand the ball to Jose Quintana (4-1, 1.40) who has had a dominant start to the season, particularly at home where he has allowed just one run on eight hits in 15 innings. He held the Twins to one run on four hits in six innings of a 4-1 win at Minnesota on April 11. Minnesota counter with Tyler Duffey (0-1, 1.74 ERA) who was an unlucky loser his last start. The 25 year old right-hander was charged with the 4-1 loss against Detroit after conceding four runs (one earned) in his 6 1/3 innings on the mound. Duffey conceded three runs on three hits and three walks over 4 2/3 innings in a no-decision against the White Sox last year in the only previous meeting.  2. The Bullpens - The White Sox relievers boasts the best ERA in the majors this season with a 1.86 mark and the bullpen has a 4-0 record with 10 saves. Minnesota's relievers have not been quite as successful posting a 5-7 record with a 4.24 ERA, the third worst in the American League.  3. X-Factor - The Twins are 2-14 in their 16 road games this season, scoring just 3.38 runs per game on average in these contests. Selection: This is a play on the Chicago White Sox (8*)

The Los Angeles Dodgers put an end to the Toronto Blue Jays' four-game winning streak with a 6-2 win yesterday. The victory was the Dodgers' mere third in their past 11 games, and I think they'll find it hard to record a back-to-back win in the rubber match of this three-game series today.  Here are my keys to the game:  1. Pitching - The Blue Jays hand the ball to Marco Estrada (1-2, 2.64) who has had a great start to the year. Estrada has given up one run or fewer in three of his five starts and held the Rangers to one run on two hits in six innings his last start. The Dodgers counter with Ross Stripling (0-2, 4.33 ERA) who is still searching his first win in the majors. The 26 year old rookie is coming off his worst outing when he conceded five runs on seven hits in 4 2/3 innings of a 5-2 loss against the Padres.  2. Toronto's Bats - The Blue Jays' bats have come alive here in May and Kevin Pillar is 5-for-13 with six RBIs over the past three games. Russell Martin has also heated up and was hitting 5-for-15 during the Blue Jays' four-game win streak. The Blue Jays' catcher is expected to return to the lineup today after sitting out Saturday's loss.  3. X-Factor - The Blue Jays are 17-4 in their last 21 interleague home games vs. a right-handed starter while the Dodgers are 2-7 in their last nine interleague road games vs. a right-handed starter. Selection: This is a play on the Toronto Blue Jays (8*)

The Chicago White Sox are out in front in the AL Central, four games clear of Cleveland, Kansas City and Detroit, who are all tied. They host the last place Twins in a three game set this weekend, and it's going to be tough for Minnesota to avoid a sweep here. Game 2 looks particularly tough, with Chicago sending it's ace to the mound.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Pitching - Chris Sale has been unstoppable so far, boasting a 6-0 record with a stellar 1.66 ERA. The southpaw allowed just one run on five hits over 5.1 innings in a win over the Orioles in his last start. The Twins counter with Ervin Santana, who may not be 100% in his first start since coming off the DL.

2. Batter vs. Pitcher - Asvail Garcia is swinging a hot bat, going 2-for-4 with a home run in the series finale versus Boston. He's 4-for-8 with a home run lifetime versus Santana.

3. X-Factor - The Twins are 1-7 in their last 8 road games versus teams with a winning home record.

Selection: This is a play on the Chicago White Sox (8*)

full analysis soon

The Cubs roughed up Max Scherzer in an 8-6 win in Game 1 of this home series versus Washington on Friday, and they are now seven games clear of the second place Pirates in the NL Central. My money is on Chicago in Game 2.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Pitching - The Cubs send Jason Hammel to the mound, and he is still undefeated in 2016. Hammel (4-0, 1.24 ERA) gave up two runs on five hits in five innings in a win at Pittsburgh in his last outing. The right-hander only faced the Nationals once last season, but delivered a stellar performance allowing just two runs in eight strong innings. The Cubs will counter with Gio Gonzalez, who has a history of struggling on the road.

2. Batter vs. Pitcher - Bryce Harper was 0-for-3 with a walk yesterday, and he could be in for another tough day at the plate. The National's slugger is 2-for-14 with five strikeouts lifetime versus Hammel.

3. X-Factor - The Cubs are 35-17 in their last 52 home games, and they are 10-4 in Hammels last 14 home starts versus teams with a winning record.

Selection: This is a play on the Chicago Cubs (8*)

The Red Sox come into the Bronx as winners of five of their last six, including a three game sweep in a home series versus the Yankees. The Bronx Bombers have been banished to the basement in the AL East, and facing Boston's ace on Saturday looks like another tough spot for New York.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Pitching - David Price will go for Boston, and he has a history of dominating the Yankees. Price (4-0, 6.14 ERA) gave up six runs on eight hits over seven innings in an 8-7 win in last week's series. He's 4-0 with a 1.94 ERA in his last six starts at Yankee Stadium.

2. Batter vs. Pitcher - The Red Sox have hit Eovaldi extremely hard in past meetings, batting .394 over a combined 104 at bats. Big Papi is 4-for-8 lifetime versus the right-hander.

3. X-Factor - The Red Sox are 4-0 in their last four games versus a right-handed starter.

Selection: This is a play on the Boston Red Sox (8*)

The Chicago White Sox are well out in front in the AL Central, and they host the last place Twins in Game 1 of a home series on Friday. The Twins come in as losers of six of their last seven overall, and I don't like their chances against a hot White Sox starter in the opener.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Pitching - The White Sox will send Mat Latos to the mound, and he's 4-0 with a 1.84 ERA so far this season. The right-hander gave up four runs on 11 hits over five innings, but got plenty of run support in an 8-7 win over Baltimore in his last start. Ricky Nolasco will go for the Twins, and he's coming off a rough outing, giving up five runs on eight hits over 5.2 innings in a home loss to Detroit.

2. Batter vs. Pitcher - Chicago has seen plenty of Nolasco, and the right-hander hasn't fooled anyone. The Sox are batting .331 over a combined 149 at bats versus Nolasco. Catcher Dioner Navarro is 7-for-15 with a home run and four RBIs.

3. X-Factor - Chicago's bullpen owns a major league best ERA of 1.75.

Selection: This is a play on the Chicago White Sox (8*)

The Seattle Mariners are enjoying their baseball at the moment, sitting top of the AL West and coming off four consecutive wins. They won the opener of a four-game set against the Houston Astros 6-3 last night, and I think the Mariners are looking good here in Game 2 as well.  Here are my keys to the game:  1. Pitching - The Astros hand the ball to right-hander Doug Fister (2-3, 4.60) who is coming off his best start of the season but has had a tough start to the year. He conceded six runs on nine hits of 5 2/3 innings of a 6-2 loss to the Royals his lone home start and took the loss giving up three runs on four hits and seven walks in six innings at Seattle on April 25. The Mariners counter with the red hot Taijuan Walker (2-1, 1.80 ERA) who matched his career high of 11 strikeouts while holding the Astros to one run in seven innings on that same day.  2. Road Warriors - Seattle has won four straight road games overall and six consecutive when facing a right-handed starter. They're 4-1 in Walker's last five starts at Minute Maid Park. 3. X-Factor - The Mariners' Robinson Cano is 12-for-22 over his last five games and 5-for-14 lifetime against Fister.   Selection: This is a play on the Seattle Mariners (10*)

The defending AL East champions have had a rough start to the 2016 season. Toronto is heating up though, winning 4-of-6 games heading into Thursday's series finale versus Texas. They host the LA Dodgers on Friday, and I like Toronto to remain hot.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Pitching - Marcus Stroman will get the nod for the Jays, and he's coming off a fine performance. Stroman (4-0, 3.77 ERA) gave up one run on three hits, striking out nine in eight innings in a 5-1 win over Tampa in his last outing. The Dodgers will send rookie Kenta Maeda to the mound, and he was roughed up a little in his last start.

2. Home Cookin' - Josh Donaldson leads the Jays with nine home runs and 21 RBIs. He's been better in Toronto than he has been on the road, hitting .322 at Rogers Center. The Jays are 24-9 in their last 33 inter-league home games.

3. X-Factor - The Jays have won 11 of their last 16 inter-league games, and 11 of their last 14 when Stroman starts.

Selection: This is a play on the Toronto Blue Jays (8*)

The Chicago Cubs powered past the Pirates in their series finale in Pittsburgh Wednesday, completing a sweep in a three games series versus the Pirates. They host the Washington Nationals in a new series at Wrigley Thursday, and my money is on the Cubs to stay hot.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Pitching - Kyle Hendricks will get the nod for the home team, and he's pitched well so far in 2016. Hendricks (1-2, 3.52 ERA) allowed one run on two hits, fanning four over five frames in a win over Milwaukee in his last start. He's had Washington's number, going 1-0 with a 2.25 ERA in two previous meetings.

2. Batter vs. Pitcher - Washington slugger Bryce Harper hit his 10th home run of the season in Pittsburgh on Wednesday, but he hasn't had much success in previous meetings with Hendricks. He's 1-for-6 lifetime versus the right-hander.

3. X-Factor - The Cubs are 16-7 in Hendricks' last 23 home starts.

Selection: This is a play on the Chicago Cubs (8*)

The Cincinnati Reds are coming off a 7-4 win over San Francisco in the final game of a three game set at home, and they will host Milwaukee in Game 1 of a new series tonight. Cincinnati hit four home runs in last night's game, and three of the Reds last four games have seen the total reach double-digits. I expect to see another slugfest in Cincinnati tonight.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Pitching - The Reds send Alfredo Simon to the mound, still in search of his first "W" of the season. Simon (0-3, 13.50 ERA) gave up three runs on six hits and four walks over just four innings in a loss to the Pirates in his last start. The Brewers will counter with 28 year old right-hander Chase Anderson, who is 1-3 with a 5.55 ERA so far. Anderson was lit up for six runs on nine hits over 4.1 innings in a loss to Miami in his most recent appearance.

2. Batter vs. Pitcher - Milwaukee's catcher Jonathan Lucroy was 4-for-11 with a home run and four RBIs in three games against the Angels, and he's had no troubles hitting Simon. Lucroy is 6-for-10 with a pair of home runs lifetime versus the veteran.

3. X-Factor - The Reds bullpen owns a major league worst 6.44 ERA so far this season.

Selection: This is a 9* play on the Brewers@Reds to go OVER the total (1st 5 innings)

The Detroit Tigers are in second place in the AL Central, a few games up on Cleveland. These teams will meet in Game 2 of a three game set at Progressive Field Wednesday, and the Indians will be a significant favorite. My money is on Detroit as a dog on the runline.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Pitching - The Indians send Ace Corey Kluber to the mound, but the 30 year old right-hander has not pitched well in 2016. Kluber (1-3, 4.24 ERA) allowed three runs on five hits over seven innings in a 4-3 loss to Philadelphia in his last start. He's 0-2 with a 7.94 ERA at home so far. He hasn't fooled Detroit, going 1-5 with a 4.26 ERA in his last 10 starts versus Detroit.

2. Batter vs. Pitcher - Tigers slugger Miguel Cabrera absolutely owns Kluber, batting .500 with five home runs and 10 RBIs in 38 at bats against him. The lineup as a whole is batting .308 over a combined 159 at bats.

3. X-Factor - The Tigers have won 21 of the last 29 meetings at Cleveland.

Selection: This is a play on the Detroit Tigers +1.5 (8*)

The Kansas City Royals started the season strong but have won just two of their past eight games. They did however defeat the Washington Nationals 7-6 last night to even this series at 1-1, and I like the Royals chances of recording an upset in the rubber match Wednesday afternoon.  Here are my keys to the game:  1. Pitching - The Royals hand the ball to Kris Medlen (1-2, 4.87) who is coming off one of his his best starts of the season. Medlen held the Mariners to one run one one hit and five walks in 5 1/3 innings, and he is likely to build on that success today as he has posted a 2.45 ERA in 14 career appearances against Washington. The Nats counter with Stephen Strasburg (4-0, 2.25 ERA) who has had an extraordinary start to the year. His last two starts have been his worst though, allowing a total of six runs on 15 hits over 16 1/3 innings, and the Nats closer Jonathan Papelborn blew a ninth-inning two run lead yesterday. 2. Washington vs. Right-handers - The Nats .234 batting average against right-handers this season ranks in the bottom third of the major leagues. They're 18-37 in their last 55 interleague road games vs. a right-handed starters and the Royals are 5-1 in their last six interleague home games vs. a team with a winning record. 3. X-Factor - Washington's slugger Bryce Harper is ice cold going 2-for-26 over the past seven games. This could be another ugly showing as he is 2-for-13 in previous meetings with Medlen.  Selection: This is a play on the Kansas City Royals +1.5 (8*)

The Cubs are sitting in first place in the NL Central, but the second place Pirates are within striking distance. The two teams will wrap up a three game set at PNC Park on Wednesday afternoon. I like Pittsburgh as a home dog in the series finale.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Pitching - Jon Lester will go for the Cubs, and he's off to a hot start with a record of 2-1 with a 1.83 ERA in five starts. He hasn't exactly faced any powerhouse teams during that stretch, seeing Cincinnati twice, Colorado, Atlanta and the Angels. The Pirates will hand the ball to Juan Nicasio, who is 3-0 with a 1.89 ERA at home so far.

2. Home Cookin' - The Pirates are 51-25 in their last 76 home games, and they've played well lately winning six of their last eight.

3. X-Factor - The Cubs are 1-4 in Lester's last five road starts versus teams with a winning record

Selection: This is a play on the Pittsburgh Pirates +1.5 (8*)

The Orioles are coming off back-to-back home losses to the White Sox, but they may be able to get back on track against a Yankees team that has lost five straight. The Orioles are just a slight favorite in Game 1, and my money is on Baltimore with a favorable match-up on the mound.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Pitching - Chris Tillman will get the nod for Baltimore, and he's 2-1 with a 3.24 ERA so far. His last start was his most impressive, going 6.2 innings, surrendering just two hits and striking out nine at Tampa Bay. He's 1-0 with a 2.00 ERA in three starts at Camden Yards in 2016.

2. Manny Machado - The Orioles thirdbaseman is swinging a red hot bat, hitting .350 with seven home runs and 16 RBIs. He's been crushing the ball at home, batting .460 at Camden Yards.

3. X-Factor - The Orioles have won 19 of their last 26 home games, and five of their last six when Tillman starts.

Selection: This is a play on the Baltimore Orioles (8*)

The St. Louis Cardinals have lost four straight heading into Game 1 of a home series versus Philadelphia Monday. The Phillies on the other hand have won six in a row, but I think the streak is likely to end tonight at Busch Stadium where they have lost five of their last six visits. My money is on the Cards.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Pitching - Adam Wainwright will get the nod for the Cardinals, and he's coming off his first win of the season. Wainwright (1-3, 7.16 ERA) gave up for runs on seven hits over just 5.1 innings at hitter friendly Chase Field, but the Cardinals bats powered the way in an 11-4 victory. The Phillies will send Jeremy Hellickson to the mound, and he was 3-7 with a 5.23 ERA on the road last year.

2. Phillies Bats - Even though they've won six straight games, the Phillies bats haven't exactly been producing a lot of runs. Philadelphia ranks 26th in the majors in runs scored, with a team batting average of .229.

3. X-Factor - The Cardinals are 20-8 in Wainwrights last 28 home starts.

Selection: This is a play on the St. Louis Cardinals (8*)

The San Francisco Giants are locked in a three way tie for first place in the NL West, and they begin a new series in Cincinnati on Monday. The Reds have lost six of their last seven overall, and they are already eight games out of first place in the NL Central. My money is on the Giants in Game 1.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Pitching - Johnny Cueto returns to Cincinnati, now as a member of the visiting Giants. Cueto (4-1, 2.65 ERA) tossed a complete game shutout, striking out 11 in a win over the Padres in his last start. He's 18-5 with a 1.78 ERA in his last 31 starts at Great American Ballpark.

2. Batter vs. Pitcher - Angel Pagan is leading the Giants with a .315 batting average, and he might be in for a big day against Cincinnati's young left-hander today. He's batting .371 versus southpaws this season, with a pair of home runs.

3. X-Factor - The Reds bullpen has been brutal so far, ranking dead last in the major leagues with a 6.16 ERA.

Selection: This is a play on the San Francisco Giants (8*)

The Red Sox have won both the first two games of this home series versus rivals New York. They will be going for the sweep at Fenway tonight, and the Yankees could be in trouble with David Price on the mound for Boston. My money is on the Sox.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Pitching - Boston's ace is still undefeated, and he's coming off an extremely impressive performance. Price (3-0, 5.76 ERA) allowed a pair of runs on six hits, but struck out 14 batters over eight innings in a win over Atlanta in his last start. He's 3-0 with a 1.71 ERA in his last four starts versus the Yankees.

2. Batter vs. Pitcher - Nate Eovaldi will get the nod for the Bronx Bombers, and the Red Sox have crushed him in past meetings. Boston is hitting .388 over a combined 80 at bats versus the left-hander.

3. X-Factor - Big Papi has hit home runs in each of the first two games in this series, and he's 3-for-6 lifetime versus Eovaldi.

Selection: This is a play on the Boston Red Sox (8*)

analysis coming shortly

10* play on UNDER Rockies/Diamondbacks.

The Arizona Diamondbacks are a half a game back of first place San Francisco in the NL West, and only a half game up on the Colorado Rockies. Arizona lost Game 1 of this home series versus the Rockies by a score of 9-0, but we should see a much different outcome with Arizona sending it's ace to the mound in Game 2. 

Here are my keys to the game: 

1. Pitching - Zack Greinke will get the nod for the home team, and he's coming off a shaky performance. Greinke (2-2, 6.10 ERA) gave up seven runs on 11 hits over 6.2 innings in a win over St. Louis in his last start. The veteran has seen plenty of Colorado in recent seasons, and he's 6-2 with a 3.21 ERA in his last 11 starts against them. 

2. Batter vs. Pitcher - Colorado slugger Nolan Arenado hit a home run in Game 1 of this series, but he's struggled against Greinke. Arenado is 5-for-27 (.187) with three strikeouts lifetime versus the former Dodger. 

3. X-Factor - The Rockies will send Chris Rusin to the mound, and they've failed to reach the total in six of his last eight starts. 

Selection: This is a play on the Rockies@Arizona to go UNDER the total (10*)