8* play on the Pittsburgh Pirates.

The Cincinnati Reds are coming off a three game sweep at home against the worst team in the majors. They host the Pittsburgh Pirates in Game 1 of a new series at Great American Ballpark Friday, and I think the party might be over for the Reds. My money is on Pittsburgh, with a favorable matchup on the mound.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Pitching - Francisco Liriano was very solid on Opening Day, allowing just three hits while striking out 10 in six shutout innings versus St. Louis. He was far better on the road than he was at home last season, going 8-3 with a 2.27 ERA in 14 starts away from Pittsburgh. He was 1-0 with a 1.38 ERA in two starts in Cincinnati.

2. Batter vs. Pitcher - The Reds big bats have not had much success versus Liriano. Jay Bruce is batting .167 with seven strikeouts, while Zack Cozart is just 3-for-20 lifetime versus the southpaw. Joey Votto is batting a pedestrian .208 with seven strikeouts in a career 24 at bats versus Liriano.

3. X-Factor - The Pirates have won eight of their last nine road games, while the Reds are 9-23 in their last 32 home games.

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