The set-up: This series features a number of interesting match-ups on the mound and this is one of them. For a number of different reasons though, I think this one favors the visitors. The defending champs send Dallas Keuchel to the hill, while the home side goes with Wade LeBlanc.


The pitchers: Keuchel is so far 8-9 with a 3.60 ERA. He most recently allowed three runs off six hits with two walks over five innings while striking out five in a loss to the Rangers on Friday. Note that it was just his first loss since early June. Also note that Keuchel has been sharp on the road this season with a 5-4, 3.04 ERA record.


LeBlanc is so far 6-1 with a 3.51 ERA. He most recently gave up three runs off five hits over six innings in a no-decision to the Angels on Friday. LeBlanc has looked good as well this year, but I simply believe that he's in the wrong place at the wrong time in this one.


The pick: Note as well that Keuchel is 3-1 with a 3.86 ERA in all "day" games this season, while LeBlanc has a 6.06 ERA in all day contests. I'm banking on Keuchel continuing his strong play on the road and in all daytime contests and I look for LeBlanc to finally take a step back in this difficult match-up. Lay the price, play on Houston.