By Stephen Nover
Phillies plus $1.50 at Nationals
Clinching a wild card spot with a doubleheader sweep of the Phillies on Tuesday was extra sweet for the Nationals because of the Bryce Harper factor. The Nationals certainly are entitled to celebrate after opening the season 19-31 in their first 50 games. So I doubt the Nationals will have their full focus for today’s game. This sets up a good underdog spot with the Phillies especially at this plus price.
While Washington doesn’t have major incentive for the rest of the regular season, the situation is different in Philadelphia. Gabe Kapler is managing to keep his job. The prideful Harper and his teammates probably didn’t appreciate the Nationals going crazy after beating them Tuesday. They should be up for this game.
The pitching matchup is Drew Smyly versus Anibal Sanchez. Smyly is pitching for his big league career. He’s slowed down since originally looking good when he joined the Phillies. Still, the Phillies are 5-1 when Smyly has started on the road for them.
The Phillies have enjoyed good success against Washington’s slated starter, Anibal Sanchez, who is 0-2 with a 4.33 ERA in four starts against Philadelphia this year. The Nationals have a 5.85 bullpen ERA, the worst in the majors. Washington also carries a high bullpen fatigue rating as Nationals’ relievers worked eight innings during Tuesday’s doubleheader.
(Editor’s note: Stephen Nover is winning in every sport. He has won 69 percent of his premium/free baseball plays during the last 15 days. Stephen is a documented 41-15-2 on his last 58 premium/free NFL plays, 30-12-2 on his past 44 premium/free college football plays, 10-4 on his past 14 Canadian Football League plays and is 42-29 in the WNBA this season. If you are interested in Stephen’s sports service please email him at scriber26@gmail.com, or message him via Twitter.)
