The set up: The Royals were crushed Monday, 11-3 by the White Sox, a result that did their fleeting playoff hopes no favors. The way things stand now is that Kansas City is three games back of Minnesota for the final Wild Card spot in the American League. Though they've won three straight, the White Sox have the AL's worst record, so this is a series that the Royals simply MUST take advantage of, as they're only 7-7 vs. Chicago this year. It's a quick turnaround with Tuesday's game being played during the daytime.

The pitching matchup: Sam Gaviglio pitches for KC today. Things have not gone well for him as he has a 7.47 ERA his previous three starts. But that's a little bit misleading seeing as only one of those starts has come since the All-Star Break. It was exactly one week ago and Gaviglio pitched well, allowing just one run in five innings. It was the fifth time in 12 starts that Gaviglio allowed 1 or 0 runs while going at least five innings this season. He'll face off with anothe rookie today, Dylan Covey, who has yet to record a win in his big league career. His team start record is 3-5, but he's personally 0-4. His 8.13 ERA and 1.806 WHIP won't exactly bring him any sympathy. Covey last started a game in May. Since coming off the DL in August, he's been working out of the bullpen. He threw 4 2/3 innings back on 8.21 against Minnesota and the results weren't pretty as he allowed two home runs.

The pick: This is a must win for the Royals and by starting Covey, it appears as if Chicago is making it easy on them. The Sox have been a terrible road team most of the year with a 23-46 record away from home, which includes a 9-23 mark when priced between +125 and +175 (as they are here). This being a day game seems to favor the home team as well. Kansas City averages 5.0 rpg in afternoon affairs and facing Covey, they should be able to top that average with ease. Make KC an 8* play.