The set-up: Chicago had Thursday off and it's won seven of ten. The Cubs come in with considerable confidence after sweeping the Fish on the road. So far Kyle Hendricks has struggled for Chicago, but I think the veteran will bounce back here in this favorable matchup. The Diamondbacks have also been rolling, but after a three-game sweep in Atlanta, including a 4-1 win on Thursday afternoon, I think the visitors take a step back here with Merrill Kelly on the hill.

The pitchers: Hendricks (0-3, 5.40 ERA) has completed only five innings once in three starts this year. He is however 2-1 with a 2.49 ERA in four career starts vs. the D-Backs, allowing 17 hits over 25 1/3's frames opposed, striking out 25 and walking six.

Kelly (1-1, 3.79) has been decent, striking out 17 and walking three over 19 innings so far this year. Clearly he faces a stiff test in this difficult road venue this afternoon though.

The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but Arizona is still only 3-6 (-2.3 units) this year vs. right-handed starters, while Chicago is 69-48 the last two years after allowing two runs or less in its previous contest (shut out the Marlins twice in its series sweep.) Lay the price.

Chicago Cubs

10* play