The Rockies have started better than the Nationals, and they beat them in the first game of the series in a tight 1-0 match-up. Neither offense is up to much so far; it is rare to have a single run at anytime in a Coors Field game. Rockies' pitcher Urena didn't pitch well in Spring Training, giving up a run an inning in his last three preseason starts. He was even worse against the Padres, allowing 4 runs in 2+ innings. Nats' starter , promising young left-hander MacKenzie Gore finished spring on a tear, and started the new season in the same way, pitching into the 6th, striking out 6, and allowing just a single run. Against the Braves' bats, so no mean feat. The Nationals have some decent arms in the pen who are pitching well in the early season.

Wins are going to be few and far between, so Washington better take advantage of Gore's starts when they come. I like the underdog's chances on Friday, but they don't hit very well. I expect Washington will at least keep this one close. Take the Nationals on the run line at +1 1/2.