The Reds won Game 1 of this home series versus Pittsburgh by a score of 3-2, but I think we should see more offense here with a couple of struggling pitchers on the mound in Game 2. Before yesterday's game, Cincinnati had gone over in five of seven during this home stand.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Pitching - Juan Nicasio will get the call for the Pirates, and he's been brutal on the road. Nicasio (3-3, 3.16 ERA) gave up four runs on eight hits and three walks in just 4.1 innings in a loss to the Cubs in his last outing. He's 0-2 with a 6.75 ERA on the road. The Reds hand the ball to Alfredo Simon, who has already lost twice to the Pirates this season.

2. Batter vs. Pitcher - Brandon Phillips comes in swinging a hot bat, he's hitting .321 with five home runs and nine RBIs over the last seven days. The Reds second baseman is 5-for-11 with a home run lifetime versus Nicasio.

3. X-Factor - Nicasio is 0-2 with a 5.15 ERA in his last three starts versus the Reds.

Selection: This is a 10* play on the Pirates@Reds to go OVER the total (1st 5 innings).