The set-up: I played the Yankees on Opening night, but on the 7:10 EST game between these same clubs, I'm switching and going to back the defending champs in this particular matchup. NY hands the ball to James Paxton, who was 15-6 with a 3.82 ERA last year and who threw a SIM as his final tune-up. Paxton was solid last season, but I just think he's in over his head here facing the Nats' ace.

The pick: Stephen Strasburg was 18-6 with a 3.32 ERA last year and he gave up one run off six hits while striking out six over five innings in an exhibition vs. the Orioles on Monday. Strasburg and the Nats play with revenge here and I look for the World Series MVP to deliver a gem. Unreal value in this matchup.

8* UNDERDOG BLOWOUT BEATDOWN on the Washington Nationals.