Friday, April 4, 4:10 PM on CSCh, FSKC

Ewing M. Kauffman Stadium, Kansas City, Missouri

Chicago - (R) Johnson, E (0-0) vs. Kansas City - (R) Guthrie, J (0-0)

For Updated Odds on This Game Click Here

The White Sox look to emulate the home success they enjoyed in the opening series against the Twins as they spend the weekend in Kansas City. Erik Johnson takes on Jeremy Guthrie to kick off the 3-game set Friday afternoon. The 24-year-old Johnson was a September call-up for the White Sox a year-ago starting 5 games and compiling a 3-2 record. Johnson did allow 5 HR in just 27.2 IP but posted a solid 3.25 ERA overall.

The White Sox right-hander was rocked in Spring Training, allowing 8 runs in 4+ innings to the Angels but allowed a total of just 4 ER in 3 other starts. Manager Robin Ventura has confidence in the youngster especially after winning three straight starts to end 2013, including a 6-5 win over the Royals in Johnson's last start as he allowed 3 runs over 5.1 IP and struck out four.

Royals starter Jeremy Guthrie will earn $11 million in 2014 in the highest-paying season of his 3-year $25 million deal. It marks the start of the third season with Kansas City for the 34-year-old who seemingly gets better with age after posting a career high in wins in 2013 with 15. Guthrie also posted bests in IP (211.2) and complete games (3).

KC manager Ned Yost will see how Guthrie bounces back from the expanded workload as he makes his first start of 2014 at home against Chicago. Guthrie was 3-2 against the Sox including a complete game shutout while posting a 4.15 ERA. The White Sox hope its retooled lineup that features Jose Abreu and Adam Eaton will improve the teams .214 average against Guthrie.

Chicago Betting Trends

Chicago is 1-0-0 against the Over/Under

Run differential for Chicago is +2.0

Kansas City Betting Trends

Kansas City is 0-0-1 against the Over/Under

Run differential for Kansas City is -1.0

Injuries to Watch

Chicago 

04/02/14 1B Paul Konerko Rest questionable Twins
03/30/14 2B Gordon Beckham Oblique 15-day DL (3/21)
03/30/14 2B Jeff Keppinger Shoulder 15-day DL (3/21)

Kansas City 

03/30/14 P Louis Coleman Finger 15-day DL (3/21)
03/30/14 P Luke Hochevar Elbow 15-day DL (3/21)

Josh's Pick: Take Kansas City

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