With the acquisition of Johnny Cueto, the Royals are now the favorite to win the American League. They are 7-4 since the All Star break, and they will face a struggling Indians team in Cleveland tonight.

Here are my keys to the game:


1. Pitching - Edinson Volquez will be on the mound for Kansas City, and he's on top form. Volquez (9-5, 3.15 ERA) gave up one run on eight hits, with eight strikeouts in 7.2 innings in a home win over the Pirates in his latest start. He's limited the opposition to two runs or fewer in four straight, and Kansas City has won three of those games. The Indians counter with rookie Cody Anderson, who was shelled for four runs on 10 hits in just 2.2 innings in his last appearance.

2. Cleveland Slumping - The Indians were just swept at home, losing four straight to the last place White Sox. They own a record of 19-30 at home, the worst in the American League.

3. X-Factor - The Royals are 9-2 in Volquez's last 11 starts with 4 days of rest.

Selection: This is a play on the Kansas City Royals +1,5 (6*)