This is a 9* TOP NL TOTAL on the UNDER Phillies/Nationals.

While each team has seen the total fly OVER the number several times of late, I believe that tonight's contest sets up as a bit of a DUEL.

The visitors go with Aaron Nola, who is 7-7 with a 4.30 ERA. He most recently struck out seven over five innings in a win over Arizona on Friday, receiving a no-decision after allowing two runs.

Nola has posted a very respectable 3.80 ERA since the All Star break and while his home numbers are much better than his road numbers, I still believe he'll be able to build off his last outing and take advantage of this "on again, off again" Nationals' offense.

The home side goes with Paolo Espino, who is 4-4 with a 4.13 ERA. He most recently allowed one run off three hits over five innings while also striking out seven with no walks in a victory over the Mets on Friday. Through 80.2 innings he owns a decent 65:15 K:BB.

Expect these two starters to battle into the latter frames and for this one to fall UNDER once it's all said and done.

Good luck, NP