The Chicago Cubs are riding a six-game winning streak and opened a three-game series with the Los Angeles Dodgers with a 2-0 win on Monday. The Dodgers have won six of their past eight without impressing at the plate, and runs will come at a premium for the visitors at Wrigley tonight.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Pitching - The Cubs hand the ball to Jake Arrieta (9-0, 1.72). Chicago has won Arrieta's last 23 starts and he threw his first career no-hitter when he struck out 12 against the Dodgers last summer. The Dodgers counter with Scott Kazmir (4-3, 4.84 ERA) who has posted a 8.02 ERA in his last four starts on the road. Kazmir struck out 12 against Cincinnati at home his last start but has struggled with his command lately giving up a total of 14 free passes in his last four outings.

2. Cubs vs. Southpaws - Chicago has the best on base percentage against left-handers in the National League with a .370 mark. The club is 4-0 in its last four home games vs. a left-handed starter and 16-5 in its last 21 games vs. left-handed starters overall.

3. X-Factor - Chicago's Ben Zobrist has hit safely in a career high-tying 16 straight games and is batting .458 in his last 23 contests.

Selection: This is a play on the Chicago Cubs (8*)