The Seattle Mariners are expecting to challenge the Angels for the AL West crown this season, and they will face last season's division leaders at home on Opening Day. Seattle is a favorite with their ace on the mound, and I think this looks like a favorable spot for the upstart M's.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Pitching - Felix Hernandez will get the nod for Seattle, and he's put up impressive numbers against the Halos in recent meetings. He was 3-0 with a 0.70 ERA in five starts versus LA last season. He's also never lost on Opening Day, boasting a record of 5-0, with a 1.37 ERA, starting in six straight season openers. The Angels hand the ball to Jered Weaver, who is 2-6 with a 4.21 ERA in nine starts versus Seattle over the last three seasons.

2. Batter vs. Pitcher - Robby Cano has hit .375 over 40 career at bats versus Weaver, while Dustin Ackley has hit .345 with a pair of home runs lifetime versus Weaver.

3. X-Factor - Hernandez was 10-3 with 2.07 ERA in 17 starts at Safeco in 2014.

Selection: This is a play on the Seattle Mariners(8*)