The Coach's MLB National League ANNIHILATOR
(MLB) Cincinnati vs. Pittsburgh,
Money Line: -148.00 Pittsburgh (Home)
Result: Loss
The Pittsburgh Pirates have split the first two games of this home series versus Cincinnati, and they wrap things up tonight at PNC Park. Pittsburgh has lost four of it's last five overall, and it's lineup has averaged just 2.4 runs while batting .187 during that span. We've seen a trend of low scoring games in Pittsburgh, and I wouldn't be surprised to see another pitcher's duel here tonight.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Pitching - The Pirates will send A.J Burnett to the mound, and he allowed a career high 14 hits in his last start. Burnett (6-3, 2.05 ERA) allowed just three earned runs and had seven strikeouts over 6.2 innings in that game. He's 2-2 with a 1.27 ERA in six starts in Pittsburgh this season. The Reds hand the ball to Anthony DeSclafani, who has solid numbers going 3-2 with a 2.58 ERA in seven starts on the road.

2. Home Cookin' - The Reds are 16-40 in their last 56 road games, while the Pirates are 9-4 in Burnetts last 13 home starts.
3. X-Factor- The Pirates bullpen ranks 3rd in the majors with an ERA of 2.39, while the Reds relievers are ranked near worst in the majors with an ERA of 3.95.

Selection: This is a play on the Pittsburgh Pirates (8*)