The defending champs are just a half a game back of first place Cleveland in the AL Central, and still they are an underdog at home to the Tigers. Kansas City had won five straight prior to losing Game 1 of this home series versus Detroit, and I like the Royals to bounce back with a win in Game 2.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Pitching - Yordano Ventura has been making headlines for all the wrong reasons lately, but the last time he took the mound he was dominant. Ventura (5-4, 4.93 ERA) allowed one run on five hits, striking out 10 in seven innings in a 3-1 win over the White Sox. He has owned the Tigers, with a career record of 5-0 and a 3.86 ERA in six starts against them.

2. Royals Bullpen - The Royals still have the best bullpen in the major leagues, led by closer Wade Davis who boasts an ERA of 1.16.

3. X-Factor - The Royals are 23-7 in Ventura's last 30 home starts, and they are 39-15 in their last 54 home games vs. a right-handed starter.

Selection: This is an 8* play on the Kansas City Royals +1.5 (8*)