This is an 8* play on WASHINGTON

The Nationals got a much needed win yesterday, 7-6 over the Mets, thereby taking that three-game set. They get a much tougher opponent this weekend, also at home, in the form of the Cubs. But they'll have Max Scherzer starting the opener Friday. Although Scherzer has a stunning 2-7 team start record this year, it's not like he's pitched that poorly. The ERA is definitely a little higher than normal (3.64) as is the WHIP (1.15). But both numbers are better at home despite an 0-5 TSR here. It's been four straight quality starts from Scherzer with 35 strikeouts in 27 innings and just nine total runs allowed. It's a tough matchup here vs. Cole Hamels, but Scherzer is 4-1 with a 2.55 ERA all-time against the Cubs, who have lost two in a row after winning six of seven. Having to sit through a rain delay last night in Cincinnati probably does them no favors for today. Play on WASHINGTON

AAA