Will Rogers Free Pick
(MLB) Atlanta vs. LA Dodgers, 05/26/2015 6:10 PM, Score: 0 - 8
Point Spread: 1.50 | -105.00 Atlanta (Away)
Result: Loss
1* free play on the Atlanta Braves +1.5...

The Atlanta Braves are just 4.5 games out of first in the NL East, and they come into tonight's Game 2 in L.A. with a .500 record of 22-22 for the season. That's pretty impressive when you consider they traded away Jason Heyward, Justin Upton and Evan Gattis in the off-season. I like the Braves as an underdog here in this spot.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Pitching - The Dodgers hand the ball to Clayton Kershaw, who has not looked anything like himself lately. Kershaw (2-3, 4.3 ERA) allowed four runs on seven hits and two walks, losing to the Giants and Madison Bumgarner for the third time this season in his last appearance. Adding insult to injury, Bumgarner became the first pitcher to ever hit a home run off the Dodgers ace. The Braves counter with Julio Teheran, who was magnificent in his last start. Teherhan (4-1, 3.91 ERA) allowed one run on just two hits while striking out eight in seven frames in a win over the Brewers.

2. Teheran Splits - The 24 year old has been at his best under the lights, going 23-13 with a 2.91 ERA at night over the last three seasons.

3. X-Factor - Freddie Freeman has hit the ball well in L.A., batting .378 in his last nine at Chavez Ravine. He's hitting .333 with a home run lifetime versus Kershaw.

Selection: This is a play on the Atlanta Braves +1.5 (Free)