Max Scherzer (0-0, 2.57 ERA) and the Washington Nationals (3-1) meet Bud Norris (0-1, 3.86 ERA) and the Atlanta Braves (0-5) in the first of a four-game division series at Nationals Park. The Braves go into this series on a five-game losing streak. The game gets underway at 7:05 p.m. ET on Monday, Apr. 11 and will air on MAS2 and FSSO.
In his most recent outing, Scherzer pitched 7.0 innings, giving up two runs, striking out seven and walking two in a 4-3 victory over the Braves. Daniel Murphy (.462 ) continued his strong start to the season yesterday, going 2 for 2 with one run. The Braves were unsuccessful against the Nationals 3-1 the last time Norris pitched. He went 7.0 innings, allowing three runs, striking out four and walking two. Drew Stubbs (.182 ) went 1 for 4 yesterday with one run, one home run, and three RBIs.
Oddsmakers have deemed this game an even matchup and the Over/Under (O/U) is currently unavailable. They have been very patient at the plate, leading the NL with an average of 5.2 walks per game.
Atlanta is one of the top hitting teams in the league with zero extra base hits. Atlanta has an eye for the strike zone, ranking fourth in the NL with 5.0 walks per game.
So far this season, the Nationals are 2-0 against the Braves.
Predictions: SU Winner – WAS
Notes
Atlanta has lost all of its games (0-3) when leading after seven innings. However, Washington has won all of its games (2-0) when taking a late lead.
The Braves are coming off of a hot pitching game where they recorded 10 strikeouts. The Nationals have a record of 1-1 when they are struck out that many times or more.
When they outhit their opponents, the Braves are 0-1. The Nationals have a 2-0 record when outhitting opponents.
Both falling near the bottom of the league based on total runs this season, Washington ranks 27th with 15 runs and Atlanta is 26th with 17.
Ranking ninth, Washington is in the top 10 of the league in walks, notching 21 this season. Atlanta ranks in the top five with 25.
The Nationals are 1-1 in games where they hit one or more home runs. The Braves are 0-2 when they hit at least one homer.
