5* RUN-LINE play Pittsburgh Pirates.

The Pittsburgh Pirates open the season as an underdog at home to the Cardinals, and history tells us that this will be a tough spot for St. Louis. The Pirates are 65-28 in their last 93 home games versus a right-handed starter, and my money is on Pittsburgh plus the runs on Opening Day.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Previous History - Pittsburgh has been one of he league's better home teams for several seasons, and they've won 44 of their last 64 overall at PNC Park. The Pirates have won 11 straight home games with Liriano as the starter, while the Cardinals have lost four straight at Pittsburgh when Wainwright starts.

2. Batter vs. Pitcher - Wainwright hasn't fooled Andrew McCutchen, who is hitting .302 with a home run and four RBIs in 43 at bats against him. Josh Harrison is 6-for-13 lifetime versus Wainwright, and Jordy Mercer has homered twice in just 15 at bats versus the righthander.

3. X-Factor - The Cardinals will be short-handed with several key players starting the season on the DL, most notably Johnny Peralta and Yadier Molina.

Selection: This is a play on the Pittsburgh Pirates RL (5*)