The Pittsburgh Pirates are going through a rough spell and have posted a 4-8 record so far in May. A four-game set home at PNC Park against the MLB-worst Atlanta Braves could be just what the doctor ordered to get back on track, and this looks like a reasonable price on the Pirates.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Pitching - The Pirates hand the ball to Jonathon Niese (3-2, 5.63) who is 9-6 behind a 3.08 ERA in 22 lifetime starts against the Braves. The left-hander was 2-0 with a 1.52 ERA in four meetings last year and Freddie Freeman, the Atlanta batter with the most experience against Niese, is just 11-for-49 in previous match-ups. The Braves counter with Williams Perez (1-0, 3.54 ERA) who will make his fifth start of the year. Perez was demoted to Triple-A Gwinnett after failing to last five innings in his first three starts, and although he pitched a gem against the Phillies on Wednesday he has yet to convince me he has turned a corner. Perez faced the Pirates twice last year, giving up nine hits and six runs in 9 2/3 innings while walking and striking out seven.

2. Atlanta's Bullpen - Perez' struggles to log innings could really come back to bite the Braves here as their bullpen's 4-11 record and 4.71 ERA are among the worst marks in the Major Leagues this season.

3. X-Factor - The Braves are 1-7 in their last eight road games vs. a left-handed starter.

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