The Royals have lost three straight, including back-to-back blowout losses here in Toronto. I think Wednesday's series finale has the potential to shape up as a pitcher's duel, and my money is on Kansas City as the underdog plus the runs.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Pitching - Marcos Stroman will be on the mound for Toronto, and he's coming off a solid performance in a loss to Cleveland. Stroman (6-4, 5.08 ERA) gave up a run on five hits, fanning six in 6.2 innings in a 2-1 home loss. He was terrible in June, going 1-3 with a 7.76 ERA in five starts. The Royals will counter with Ian Kennedy, who has never faced Toronto.

2. Batter vs. Pitcher - Stroman hasn't faced the Royals since last year's ALCS, and the Royals lit him up for four runs on 11 hits over 6.1 innings in that game.

3. X-Factor - Kennedy is 2-2 in his last four starts, but both losses came in games decided by just one run. He's struck out 19 batters in 12 innings in his last two starts.

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