The Royals had won four straight and eight of 10 heading into last night's game against Boston, but they fell 7-3 to the Red Sox in the series opener. I like the Royals to get back on track at home tonight, with a favorable match-up on the mound.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Pitching - Edinson Volquez will get the nod for the Royals, and he's coming off back-to-back wins. Volquez (6-4, 3.10 ERA) gave up two runs on six hits over five innings in a win at Milwaukee in his last start. He's 4-2 with a 2.76 ERA in seven starts at home so far. The Red Sox will counter with Rick Porcello, who is coming off five straight losses.

2. Batter vs. Pitcher - Eric Hosmer is hitting .375 with a pair of home runs and three RBIs lifetime versus Porcello.

3. X-Factor - Kansas City owns the best bullpen in the American League with an ERA of 1.97.

Selection: This is a play on the Kansas City Royals (10*)