Much has to go right for there to be fewer than seven runs scored in a major league game. There are three elements at play here and two of the three point to a higher-scoring game than perceived.

The starting pitching matchup does favor the Under with Carols Martinez facing Noah Syndergaard. These are elite pitchers although Martinez was more in the good than great category last season.

But even if these aces are on their game - which is asking a lot since this is the earliest start date in baseball history excluding international games - they aren't going to get stretched out. The bullpens will be taking over at some point, probably earlier than expected, and neither is good. Both teams are still searching for their sure-fire closer.

The Cardinals have a strong offense. The Mets' offense is underrated when Yoenis Cespedes is healthy, which he is now.