The Chicago Cubs failed to complete the sweep of a three-game series with the Texas Rangers yesterday as they came up short in a 4-1 loss. I think they'll rebound with a victory against the New York Mets Monday night.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Pitching - The Cubs hand the ball to Jon Lester (9-4, 3.01) who was knocked around for eight runs in 1 1/3 innings against the Mets at New York on July 3. He's 4-2 with a 2.32 ERA in eight starts home at Wrigley this season though, and he had posted a 2-0 mark with a 2.50 ERA in previous meetings with New York. The Mets counter with Steven Matz (7-5, 3.38 ERA) who worked seven innings and allowed three runs on six hits against the Nats his last start. He allowed the Cubs to score three runs in 5 1/3 innings on June 30 and he's 0-4 in his last eight starts overall.

2. Road Warriors - The Mets are 2-5 in their last seven road games and 2-7 in the last nine meetings at Wrigley Field.

3. X-Factor - The Cubs will have revenge on their mind after being swept by the Mets in four games in New York between June 30 and July 3

Selection: This is a play on the Chicago Cubs (8*)