The 1-9 Nationals lost again in their home series opener against the Braves on Thursday. They scored 4 runs, their highest production in their last 10 games. They aren’t hitting at all for average and are managing a paltry 2.45 runs per game in their last 10 starts. Their starting pitching is woeful and the pen barely average. Corbin, Friday’s starter, has given them two terrific starts in his last three, allowing 1 run in each of a 7 and an 8 inning start. He did not fare as well against the Braves in his last appearance, allowing 4 runs in 6 innings. Corbin can be very inconsistent, other than that he consistently gives up too many hits. He is a better pitcher at home.

The Nationals face a very tough Braves team, who are dominant on the road, fourth in offense at the moment, and off a series loss against the Mets. Atlanta is getting very fine starting pitching, but Friday’s starter Anderson is not one of their brighter lights. Like Corbin, he can be all over the map. His last two starts have been solid but short, five innings each. Opposing hitters tattooed him in June to the tune of .328, but that number has dropped in July. The Braves have a very strong bullpen in support of Anderson, while the Nationals’ relievers struggle.

As poor as the Nationals have been in the last few weeks, it is of note that 6 of their last 10 games were decided by one run. I am banking on a big game from Corbin, and for the Nat’s to finally get it right. It may be a tall order, but the odds are very favorable. Take the Nationals on the run line at +1 ½. 8 stars.