8* play on Oakland A's.

The Oakland Athletics failed to capitalize on the momentum from a three-game sweep of the Mariners when they lost 4-1 in the opener of a three-game series against the Los Angeles Angels last night. Tuesday's match-up on the mound should be a favorable one for the A's though, and I like the home-team to rebound with a win.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Pitching - The Halos hand the ball to Hector Santiago (0-0, 3.00 ERA) who did well in his season debut when he held the Rangers to a pair of runs over six innings home in L.A. The left-hander is usually not quite as sharp away from home though and he was 5-7 behind a 4.70 ERA over 16 outings on the road last season. He lasted only 2 2/3 innings in his lone start at Oakland last year surrendering five runs on four hits and three walks. The A's counter with Kendall Graveman who was an unlucky loser in his season opener when he held the White Sox to a pair of runs on three hits and a walk over 5 1/3 innings of work. He made two starts against the Angels last season, conceding only three earned runs over 11 frames.

2. Umpire - Alfonso Marquez will call the shots in this contest and that should provide an advantage for the A's. The Halos are 1-6 in their last seven games with Marquez behind home plate while the A's have won 11 of their past 16.

3. X-Factor - Oakland lost last night despite out-hitting the Halos 10-9 and Josh Reddick was 2-for-3 with a double. He's batting .280 for the season and is 5-for-13 in previous meetings with Santiago.

Selection: This is a play on the Oakland Athletics (8*)