The San Diego Padres spent plenty of money this off-season in an attempt to bolster their offense, and so far it looks like money well spent. San Diego is third in the National League in scoring, thanks to the big bats of Justin Upton and Matt Kemp. They host the Oakland A's at PETCO today, and I think the total looks a little low considering both teams rank in the top 10 in the majors in runs scored, and each team turns to the back end of their rotation.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Pitching - The Padres will send Andrew Cashner to the mound, and he's really having a tough season. Cashner (2-8, 4.16 ERA) gave up four runs on seven hits in 6.2 frames in a no-decision at Atlanta in his last outing. His last home start was a disaster, allowing six runs on 11 hits over 4.2 innings. He's still in search of his first home victory. The A's counter with Scott Kazmir, who has not been sharp on the road.

2. Kazmir On The Road - The Over is 6-1-2 in Kazmir's last 9 starts as a road favorite.

3. X-Factor - The Padres have seen the total go over at a rate of 8-2-1 in their last 11 home games.

Selection: This is a play on the Athletics@Padres to go OVER the total (10*)