This is a 10* on WASHINGTON

This series was originally set to take place in Toronto, but when COVID-19 made that an impossibility the series was moved to D.C. Homefield didn’t help the Nationals last night, who fell to 1-4 with a 5-1 loss. The Blue Jays scored three unearned runs Tuesday night, which was a big part of the difference. But tonight Washington has Max Scherzer starting and that should ensure the World Series champs get back on track. Obviously the current situation has to be a huge distraction for the Jays as they are still working on setting up a “permanent” home in Buffalo (where their “home games” will be played this year). Scherzer did struggle on Opening Night vs. the Yankees, though he did have 11 strikeouts. Expect him to settle down and pitch even better on Wednesday. In addition to having a 2.99 career ERA here at Nationals Park, Scherzer also boasts a 2.24 ERA in nine starts vs. Toronto. The fact that Toronto is the designated “home team” for the next two days obviously means next to nothing. Tonight’s starter Nate Pearson is a touted prospect, but won’t be enough to get the job done. 10* on WASHINGTON

AAA