"The Coach's" MLB Late Show SPECIAL
(MLB) Minnesota vs. Seattle,
Money Line: -160.00 Seattle (Home)
Result: Loss
The Seattle Mariners weren't exactly gracious hosts in the series opener versus the Twins last night, with Nelson Cruz hitting his major league leading ninth home run, and Felix Hernandez tossing a complete game shutout. The Twins might be in for some more hurt at Safeco tonight.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Pitching - James Paxton will be on the mound for the Mariners, and he's looking to bounce back from a rough start. Paxton (0-1, 8.40 ERA) clearly didn't have his best stuff, allowing seven runs on 10 hits over 2.2 innings in a loss to Texas last week. The 26 year old was 5-0 with a 1.69 ERA in seven starts at Safeco prior to this season. The Twins counter with Trevor May, who owns a career ERA of 7.26.

2. Twins Bats - Minnesota ranks dead last in the American League with just 48 runs scored over 16 games. The Mariners have scored 60 runs, despite playing at a pitcher friendly park.

3. X-Factor - Nelson Cruz is crushing the baseball right now, hitting 328, and leading the majors with nine home runs and 18 RBIs.

Selection: This is a play on the Seattle Mariners.(8*)