The San Diego Padres punished the Cardinals at PETCO last night, winning by a score of 9-3. The Cardinals have lost three of their last five overall, and only the Atlanta Braves have scored fewer runs than the Cardinals in the second half of the season. I like the home team as an underdog on the runline in this spot.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Pitching - The Cardinals hand the ball to Carlos Martinez, and the 23 year old right-hander was roughed up in a hone loss to Miami in his latest outing. He allowed five runs on seven hits in just five innings, and St. Louis lost to the Fish by a score of 6-4. He's now surrendered 11 runs on 22 hits over 18 innings in his last three starts. The Padres counter with veteran Ian Kennedy, who has won three straight at home.

2. Batter vs. Pitcher - The Padres SS Alexi Amarista was 2-for-4 last night, and he's 2-for-4 lifetime versus Martinez. The Padres have hit a combined .432 in 37 at bats versus the right-hander.

3. X-Factor - The Cardinals are 3-8 in their last 11 visits to San Diego.

Selection: This is a play on the San Diego Padres +1.5 (10*)