1* free play on the Chicago White Sox...

The Chicago White Sox won nine of their final 12 games heading into the All Start break, and they get the second half started with a home series versus division leaders Kansas City. They will play a double-header on Friday, and I like the White Sox to take Game 1 at U.S. Cellular Field.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Pitching - Jeff Samardzija will be on the hill for Chicago, and he's looked sharp in recent outings. Samardzija (6-4, 4.02 ERA) tossed a complete game shutout at home against the Jays in his last start. He's 4-1 with 2.59 ERA in eight starts at home, and he's been better in day games than he has been at night. The Royals counter with Edinson Volquez, who is winless in his last three starts, allowing 10 runs on 18 hits over 15.1 innings.

2. Home Cookin' - The White Sox have a respectable home record of 23-17, and they've won seven of their last nine at home in Chicago.

3. X-Factor - The Royals are 0-5 in their last 5 road games vs. a team with a winning home record.

Selection: This is a play on the Chicago White Sox (Free)