The Houston Astros are slumping, coming into Game 2 in this series in Chicago as losers of five straight, yet they are still a favorite tonight. I like the home team as an underdog in this spot.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Pitching - The Astros hand the ball to Dallas Keuchel, who is coming off a loss in his last start. Keuchel (7-1, 1.85 ERA) allowed a pair of runs on six hits over six innings, failing to get a decision in a 3-2 loss to the Orioles. He was really hit hard in his last visit to U.S. Cellular Field, surrendering four runs on 12 hits over five innings in a loss. The White Sox will counter with Carlos Rodon, who allowed one run while striking out 10 in five innings in a no decision in his last start.

2. Astros Offense - Houston has scored plenty of runs this season, but owns the lowest batting average in the American League. Lately that's been preventing them from scoring, as they've totaled 13 runs during this five game losing skid.

3. X-Factor - Melky Cabrera is 4-for-11 lifetime versus Keuchel, while Avisail Garcia is 2 for 6 with a home run.

Selection: This is a play on the Chicago White Sox +1.5 (8*)