1* free play on the Cincinnati Reds...

The Chicago Cubs came into the season with lofty expectations, and they haven't disappointed, winning six of seven so far. The Reds were expected to be one of the worst teams in the National League, but they look good so far winning five of seven. The two teams meet in Game 2 at Wrigley tonight, and my money is on Cincinnati as a big underdog.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Pitching - The Reds will send Alfredo Simon to the mound, and he looked pretty good in his season debut. He gave up just one earned run on five hits, striking out seven in five innings of a no decision. He's had no shortage of success against the Cubs, going 4-0 with a 1.41 ERA in five starts versus Chicago over the last three seasons. John Lackey will get the nod for the Cubs, looking to get back on track after getting hit hard in his season debut.

2. Batter vs. Pitcher - Jason Heyward has been swinging a hot bat for the Cubs, batting .316 with four RBIs over the last week. He has a history of struggling versus Simon though, going 1-for-8 with four strikeouts lifetime.

3. X-Factor - John Lackey was 1-2 with a 2.91 ERA in five starts versus the Reds last season.

Selection: This is a play on the Cincinnati Reds (Free)