Kansas City at Boston

For a while, it appeared that Kansas City was out of the playoff race, but the defending World Series champions suddenly got hot and has won 15 of its last 18 games. Ian Kennedy has been a big part of the resurgence as the Royals have won his last three starts. He has pitched better than his 8-9 record indicates, due to some poor run support in July. Kennedy has allowed just three runs and walked only seven batters his last five outings, including eight shutout innings in a 10-0 win over Minnesota last Saturday. Steven Wright is making his first start since August 5 due to a shoulder injury, but he had a 6.23 ERA in July. The Royals have won six of their last seven road games and 13 of their last 16 against right-handed starters. Also, Kansas City has won four of the last five meetings. Take advantage of the line value for the road underdog and play the Royals.