The set-up: I think Nick Pivetta will stumble in this inter-league contest. Conversely, the Orioles' Kevin Gausman should benefit greatly by throwing on his home field in this particular matchup.


The pitchers: Pivetta is so far 5-7 with a 4.62 ERA. Pivetta most recently allowed three runs off five hits and two walks in a no-decision against the Pirates on Friday. He'd only last 2.2 innings. In his previous start he'd be rocked for seven runs over 1.2 innings in Washington, so there's no question that he's now trending in the incorrect direction. Note that he's just 1-3 with a 5.61 ERA on the road as well.


Gausman is so far 4-6 with a 4.11 ERA. He most recently allowed three runs off five hits over five innings with five strikeouts in a no-decision to the Twins on Saturday. Gausman comes into this one on top form, having posted a 3.13 ERA and 1.15 WHIP over his last six outings.


The pick: Note that Guasman has been solid at home all year as well with the 3.56 ERA. Pivetta's recent slide is a sign of things to come in my opinion and I look for Gausman and the hungry home side to take advantage. Play on Baltimore.