The Houston Astros won the opener of a four-game set at Progressive Field 9-4 as an underdog last night. I would not be surprised to see them win this one outright as well but see even more value for a play on the visitors on the run-line.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Pitching - The Tribe will hand the ball to Corey Kluber (3-9, 3.64 ERA) who's recorded a total of 30 strikeouts over his last three starts but to no avail as he's still surrendered 11 runs in that span. The 29 year old ace is win-less over his last six starts with a 3.86 ERA and was charged with the 2-0 loss at Houston in his season opener. The Astros will counter with Vincent Velasquez (0-0, 4.21 ERA) who's still without a decision as he'll make his sixth start in the big-leagues tonight. He's made two road-starts conceding just one run over a total of 8 1/3 innings of work and has shown good control of late giving up just one free pass in each of his last two starts overall.

2. Home Woes - The Indians are 15-24 straight up at home for the season and have covered the run-line in just 12 of their 39 home-games. The Astros on the run-line away from home have been money covering in 26 of 41 contests.

3. X-Factor - Cleveland has lost five straight with Kluber on the mound coming in as a favorite of -151 to -200.

Selection: This is a play on the Houston Astros +1.5 (8*)