The Texas Rangers claimed the opener of a four game set against the Kansas City Royals as they won 8-2 last night. They had defeated the Rays the day before and will be looking to record three consecutive victories for the second time of the season. That's not likely to happen if the Royals are to have a say in it, and I think we're getting the visitors on a great price here.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Pitching - The Rangers will hand the ball to Nick Martinez (2-0, 1.47 ERA) who after a terrific start to the year has looked more human of late. He has surrendered a total of eight runs (five earned) on 13 hits over 10 2/3 innings in his last two starts combined after conceding just two runs (one earned) over his first four games. This will be his first start against the Royals and I think their high-octane offense will get the better of the 24 year old. The Royals will counter with Edinson Volquez (2-3, 2.65 ERA) who allowed three runs over three innings in a 7-4 win against the Tribe Thursday before he exited due to a blister on his right thumb. He should be fit for fight again tonight, looking to build on a solid start with KC not allowing more than five hits in any of his six starts with the club so far. If his blister was to pop again the Royals can always rely on their league-best bullpen to carry out the work.

2. Offense - The Royals have the very best batting average in baseball on the season (.287) while the Rangers have the very worst, hitting .225 on the year.

3. X-Factor - Kansas City's Kendrys Morales comes in swinging a hot bat, riding a six-game hitting streak.

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