The reigning World Series champions Kansas City Royals have their work cut out for them in the second half of the season if they're to defend their title. They're currently eight games back of the Cleveland Indians who sit top of the AL Central, but I like the Royals to edge closer in the standings with a win Monday night.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Pitching - Kansas City hands the ball to Edinson Volquez (8-8, 4.85). He's 6-3 with a 4.25 ERA in 11 starts home at Kauffman Stadium this season and earned the winning decision while holding the Mariners to three runs in six innings of a 5-3 win his last start. He tossed seven scoreless innings against the Tribe here in Kansas City on June 13. The Indians counter with Corey Kluber (9-8, 3.61 ERA). Kluber was lit up for five runs on seven hits and four walks in just 3 1/3 innings of a 17-1 loss at Toronto his last road start. He surrendered eight runs in five innings last month in his last visit to Kansas City.

2. Home Cookin' - The Royals have won each of the three meetings at the K this season and they're 20-6 in Volquez's last 26 home starts. The Indians are 4-10 in Klubers last 14 road starts vs. a team with a winning record.

3. X-Factor - Cleveland will be without its starting catcher Yan Gomes who has been placed on the DL after hurting his shoulder in Sunday's 6-1 victory at Minnesota.

Selection: This is a play on the Kansas City Royals +1.5 (8*)