The Red Sox have trouble with elite teams. But they usually take care of business against weaker foes such as the Pirates. I like Boston to bounce back after getting nipped, 7-6, by the Pirates at home Monday night.

Boston has been one of the strongest offensive clubs during the early going averaging 8.2 runs in its first four games. The Pirates were hitting just .196 until last night when they edged the Red Sox.

The pitching matchup is Pirates' second-year starter Roansy Contreras versus Nick Pivetta. Contreras had a decent rookie season with a 3.79 ERA. Pitching at Fenway Park, though, against a hot hitting Red Sox lineup is not going to be fun.

Pivetta had a career-best 10 wins last year. He can be hot-and-cold, but has a good history against Pittsburgh with a 1-0 record and 2.00 ERA in four appearances.

The Pirates are 30-55 in their last 85 road games going back to last season. Boston is 45-40 in its last 85 home games going back to last season.