Marlins vs. Nationals: Game 148 Thread

The Marlins are on a nice little roll now, having won 12 of 16, five straight series and kicking off this four game series against the Nationals right by winning 6-4 yesterday. Unlike the Mets who have things fairly well in hand, the Nationals are fighting for their play-off lives so believe me, these losses are painful and we must revel in them dutifully. In game two today we have a doozie of a match-up as they...er, as someone probably said back in the day. Jose Fernandez vs. Max Scherzer, ace vs. ace, future Cy Young winner vs. Cy Young winner.

Pitching Matchup

Scherzer fairly handled the Marlins at home in his last start this past weekend, throwing eight scoreless innings, giving up a mere five hits, walking none and striking out six in the victory. It was his first win since July 30th, perhaps mirroring the larger fate of the Nationals ball-club as they've struggled mightily to stay in contention.

This will be Jose's second start since returning from the DL. In the first, he beat the Nationals at home (because he doesn't lose in Miami) by pitching five innings but allowing no runs on two hits, issuing one walk and striking out seven in the short outing. I would like to note as well that all year long I've been plugging in ERA/FIP numbers and the vast, vast majority of pitchers have had a FIP that is higher than their ERA, that is to say, they are pitching worse then the superficial ERA would suggest. Fernandez actually has a lower FIP then his already low ERA.* He is truly special, and we are lucky to have him.

*Scherzer, it should be noted, also has a lower FIP than ERA, barely.

If Justin Bour keeps ripping homeruns like this, there'll be no doubt who the starting 1st baseman is for the Fish in 2016. Derek Dietrich in at 3rd base to give Martin Prado a breather, he will bat 6th.

Notes:

- With 14 games left in the season, what do you want to see from the Marlins as they finish out the season?

Bold Prediction: Marlins defeat Nationals 4-1.