The Kansas City Royals are still in striking distance in the AL Central, trailing first place Cleveland by just three games. The Indians are in town for a three game series beginning Monday, and my money is on the Royals plus the runs as the home dog.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Pitching - The Indians send Carlos Carrasco to the mound, and the right-hander is coming off a loss at Seattle. Carrasco (2-1, 3.48 ERA) allowed four runs on five hits over 6 2/3 innings in that game. The Royals will counter with Edinson Volquez, who boasts a stellar 2.38 ERA in seven starts at home this season.

2. Home Cookin' - The Royals are 40-16 in their last 56 home games vs. a right-handed starter, and they've won 17 of Volquez's last 22 home starts.

3. X-Factor - The Royals bullpen is ranked 1st the majors, led by closer Wade Davis who boasts an ERA of 1.16.

Selection: This is a play on the Kansas City Royals +1.5.