The Los Angeles Dodgers and the New York Mets are both second in their respective division. The two NL rivals will open a three-game set at Citi Field Friday night, and the pitching match-up suggest a big advantage for the home team.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Pitching - The Mets hand the ball to Jacob deGrom (3-1, 3.07) who is looking for his first winning decision since April 30. He pitched well against Los Angeles on May 10 allowing just two runs with no walks in seven innings of a no-decision. He was a huge factor when the Mets defeated the Dodgers in five games in the NLDS last year, surrendering two runs with 20 strikeouts in winning both starts. The Dodgers counter with left-handed rookie Julio Urias (NR) who will make his first start in the major leagues. He has impressed with Triple-A Oklahoma City, but the step to the big leagues can be a tough one.

2. Situational - The Dodgers had Thursday off following a three game sweep of the Reds. Perhaps the rest was not optimal for the Dodgers who are 2-6 in their last eight games following an off day and 1-4 in their last five road games. The Mets are 12-4 in their last 16 home games.

3. X-Factor - The Mets' relievers have the best ERA in baseball this season and their closer Jeurys Familia has converted on 32 consecutive save opportunities.

Selection: This is a play on the New York Mets (8*)