This is an 8* on NY METS

After picking up a deserved win for Jacob deGrom on Friday, the Mets were promptly beaten 7-1 on Saturday. We expect them to take this rubber match though. A .500 record is good enough for first place in the NL East right now and that’s where the Mets are at (8-8). The Nationals aren’t far behind (8-10), but even after yesterday they still have the worst run differential in the National League at -20. Yesterday’s game was pretty much decided early as Washington scored in each of the first five innings while the Mets threw away some opportunities, leaving two runners on base in both the first and fourth innings. New York had the third highest OBP (.330) in the NL going into yesterday, so that’s not a problem. All 10 of Washington’s hits Saturday were singles. Pat Corbin is off a strong effort for the Nats, which was shocking considering he allowed 16 runs in 6 ⅓ his first two starts. He has a 4.25 ERA in 17 career games vs. the Mets. Taijuan Walker goes for the Mets today, looking to make it four straight starts allowing 2 ER or less to start the year. Walker was one out away from getting through four innings without giving up a hit in his most recent start. Things fell apart, but we think the eventual statline was misleading. Play on NY METS

AAA