The Padres have lost seven of their last 10, and they'll look to avoid a sweep here in Oakland this afternoon. The A's bats are on fire, and they've out-scored the Padres 31-8 in the first three games of this series. I like the A's to remain hot at home today.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Pitching - Kendall Graveman will be on the mound for Oakland, and he's looked sharp in recent outings. Graveman (3-3, 4.22 ERA) gave up one run on eight hits over eight innings in a loss at Anaheim in his last start. It was his fifth straight quality start. The Padres counter with Ian Kennedy, who hasn't impressed so far this season.

2. Batter vs. Pitcher - The A's lineup has hit .308 versus Kennedy, and Billy Butler is hitting .375 with a home run and three RBIs lifetime versus the right-hander.

3. X-Factor - The Padres are 3-8 in their last 11 inter-league games.

Selection: This is a play on the Oakland A's (8*)