The Los Angeles Dodgers failed to win behind their ace Clayton Kershaw on Sunday and are now running the risk of getting swept in this four-game set at PNC Park. The Pittsburgh Pirates really needed this boost of confidence after a miserable month of June, and I think they'll be determined to make the most of their current good run.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Pitching - The Dodgers hand the ball to Scott Kazmir (5-3, 4.52 ERA) who has surrendered 13 runs (12 earned) on 13 hits and five walks over 9 2/3 innings in previous meetings with the Pirates. The left-hander is winless in his last three starts with a pair of team losses and his 7.71 ERA in afternoon games this season is significantly higher than his ERA under the lights. The Pirates counter with Francisco Liriano (4-7, 5.17 ERA) who is 4-0 with a 2.73 ERA in five career starts against the Dodgers.

2. Dodgers vs . Southpaws - The Dodgers are batting .226 against left-handers this season, tied with Philadelphia for the worst mark in the majors. They're 2-6 in their last eight games vs. a left-handed starter.

3. X-Factor - Pittsburgh has won eight consecutive meetings at PNC Park and 14 of the past 17 overall.

Selection: This is a play on the Pittsburgh Pirates +1.5 (8*)