This is a 9* TOP AL TOTAL on the OVER Rangers/Orioles.

Both teams have been involved in several lower-scoring games of late, but we're expecting those trends to end this afternoon.

The Rangers have seen the total go UNDER in three of their last four, including in yesterday's 4-1 loss at the Mets.

The Orioles have seen the ottal go UNDER in eight of their last ten, including in three straight.

Two teams desperate for a win, are also eager to get back on track at the plate to open this series.

Dean Kremer (2-1, 1.29 ERA) has been great for Baltimore, but the sample size is still small. He's also coming off three straight scoreless starts spanning 18 2/3's innings. I say regression is imminent this afternoon.

The visitors counter with Dane Dunning (1-6, 4.09), who has likely pitched better than his win/loss record would indicate, but who has been nothing special overall.

Look for these starters to get chased early and expect this total to fly OVER the numer sooner, rather than later.

Good luck, NP