The Cubs roughed up Max Scherzer in an 8-6 win in Game 1 of this home series versus Washington on Friday, and they are now seven games clear of the second place Pirates in the NL Central. My money is on Chicago in Game 2.

Here are my keys to the game:

1. Pitching - The Cubs send Jason Hammel to the mound, and he is still undefeated in 2016. Hammel (4-0, 1.24 ERA) gave up two runs on five hits in five innings in a win at Pittsburgh in his last outing. The right-hander only faced the Nationals once last season, but delivered a stellar performance allowing just two runs in eight strong innings. The Cubs will counter with Gio Gonzalez, who has a history of struggling on the road.

2. Batter vs. Pitcher - Bryce Harper was 0-for-3 with a walk yesterday, and he could be in for another tough day at the plate. The National's slugger is 2-for-14 with five strikeouts lifetime versus Hammel.

3. X-Factor - The Cubs are 35-17 in their last 52 home games, and they are 10-4 in Hammels last 14 home starts versus teams with a winning record.

Selection: This is a play on the Chicago Cubs (8*)