Chicago at Houston

Houston is certainly a step ahead from their dreadful start a year ago and Wandy Rodriguez is turning into a top of the rotation pitcher. He was knocked around by the Phillies in his 2011 debut, but bounced back strong allowing just one run in his last outing. That means since June 24th of last year, Rodriguez has held 14 of his last 20 opponents to two runs or less and 18 of the 20 to three runs or less. It gives some reliable reassurance, at the very least, Houston is in this game all the way. The Cubs have had more difficulty closing out a series than any other team as they are just 6-20 in game three over their last 26. Rodriguez has also led the Astros to a perfect 5-0 mark in his last five home starts vs the Cubs. I like Houston here.