The Cincinnati Reds have lost eight straight heading into this Memorial Day match-up against the Rockies, and still they are a home favorite here in this game. The Rockies are coming off an eight game home stand that saw them go 4-4. I like the visitors as an underdog on the runline in this one.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Pitching - The Rockies will hand the ball to Eddie Butler, and the 24 year old has had his moments this season. Butler (2-5, 4.38 ERA) allowed four runs on six hits in just three innings in a home loss to Philly his last time out. Two of those runs were unearned, and he might have gone deeper if his defense had of helped him out a little. His splits suggest that he's at his best in early games, as he's 1-1 with a 1.74 ERA in two starts in day games this season. The Reds hand the ball to Jason Marquis, who has been torched for 15 runs on 21 hits over 12.1 innings while losing three straight starts.

2. Batter vs. Pitcher - Carlos Gonzalez is hitting .375 with a home run and six RBIs lifetime versus Marquis.

3. X-Factor - If the Rockies can't get to Marquis, they might be able to punish the Reds bullpen that ranks dead last in the majors in ERA.

Selection: This is a play on the Colorado Rockies +1.5 (8*)