The Detroit Tigers walked off in an 8-7 win in 12 innings in the series opener versus Seattle last night, and they look to carry that momentum over into Game 2 tonight. The Mariners have their work cut out for them, facing a resurgent Justin Verlander.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Pitching - Verlander (7-5, 3.87 ERA) has won his last three starts, striking out 20 batters in just 20.2 innings. He's also won his last three home starts, striking out 28 batters in those three contests. The Mariners send James Paxton to the mound, and the southpaw could be in for a rough night against a Tigers team that feasts on left-handed pitching.

2. Home Cookin' - The Mariners have lost eight of their last 10 away from Safeco, and that trend seems likely to continue here in the Motor City. Verlander is 4-2 with a 3.26 ERA at home, and Miguel Cabrera is batting .385 at Comerica Park this season.

3. X-Factor - The Mariners are 3-8 in Paxton's last 11 road starts.

Selection: This is a play on the Detroit Tigers 1st 5 innings (8*)