Washington Nationals
The Nats just weren’t good enough last time out, getting thoroughly outplayed in an 8-1 defeat. They just couldn’t get anything going offensively, managing just 4 hits as a team. I was surprised to see Patrick Corbin start as pitcher and he allowed 4 runs during his 6 innings on the mound. The 2-3-2 format means they get this game at home, which means they absolutely need a win here. Fortunately for Washington, ace Max Scherzer will take the mound in this one, relatively fresh off of a dominant display in game 1.
Houston Astros
The Astros have put in real championship performances in the last two games, emerging victorious 8-1 last time out. Alex Bregman made headlines again offensively, going for 3 hits, 5 RBI, and one epic grand slam. Jose Urquidy was also very solid as a starting pitcher, striking out 4 and allowing 0 earned runs in his 5 innings. Ace Gerrit Cole is slated to return here, having been a pillar of consistency all season.
Prediction: Nationals $2.35
Regular readers of these MLB tips will know that I rarely bet against Houston, who’ve consistently been the best side in the league this season. However, after two straight losses, I think Washington enters this one with a sense of urgency that gives them a slight edge. Especially with this being Scherzer’s last start of the season, I think this series is all but over if they don’t win here. Scherzer has been dominant all post-season and his unique pitching style caused issues for Houston in game 1. Gerrit Cole looks like he may be wearing down after a long season and may not be 100% for this one. I expect Washington to lay it all on the line in this one, making it essentially a coinflip type of game. Getting $2.35 in the coinflip scenario, I’m happy to roll the dice with the underdog here.