Runs may be hard to come by in this one as Jose Fernandez (5-2, 3.21 ERA) and the Miami Marlins (21-20) go up against Joe Ross (3-3, 2.63 ERA) and the Washington Nationals (26-16) in the second of a three-game series at Marlins Park. The Nationals won the last game 4-1, and Washington leads the series 1-0. The game gets underway at 7:15 p.m. ET on Saturday, May. 21 and will air on FOX.
In his most recent outing, Fernandez pitched 7.0 innings, giving up one run, striking out 11 and walking three in a 5-1 victory over the Nationals. Marcell Ozuna (.301, 24 Rs, 8 HRs, 22 RBIs) went 1 for 4 yesterday with one run, one home run, and one RBI. The Nationals were unsuccessful against the Marlins 5-1 the last time Ross pitched. He went 5.2 innings, allowing five runs (two unearned), striking out three and walking two. Bryce Harper (.256, 26 Rs, 11 HRs, 29 RBIs, 7 SBs) went 1 for 3 yesterday.
Notes
Miami has won 44% (7-9) of its games when leading after seven innings. However, Washington has won 65% (11-6) of its games when taking a late lead.
The Nationals are coming into this game after allowing two walks during their last outing. The Marlins have an 8-12 record when opponents give up two walks or less.
When they are outhit, the Marlins are 4-13. The Nationals have a 4-11 record when opponents outhit them.
Ranking 23rd in home runs, Miami has hit 38 this season. Washington ranks 10th with 50 home runs.
Ranking 18th, Miami is in the bottom half of the league in walks, notching 123 this season. Washington ranks in the top five with 163.
When the Marlins hit at least one home run, they are 17-9, well-matched with the Nationals who are 20-8 when hitting one or more homers.
