Washington Nationals Series Preview: Nats vs. Phillies (5/22-5/24)
By Matt Weyrich
May 19, 2015; Washington, DC, USA; Washington Nationals pitcher XXXX (47) throws a pitch during the game against the New York Yankees at Nationals Park. Mandatory Credit: Evan Habeeb-USA TODAY Sports
Sunday’s Matchup
Gio Gonzalez (3-2, 4.94) vs. Aaron Harang (4-3, 1.82) – 1:35 PM ET, broadcast on MASN
While Gio Gonzalez has lacked consistency, he has pitched better as of late, not having lost a start since April 26th. The lone lefty of the Nationals’ rotation is second on the team with 43 strikeouts, and sports a respectable 0.4 HR/9. The former 20-game winner may not be able to put up his 2012 numbers, but is definitely a more than qualified No. 4 starter and should pitch better as the season goes on.
Aaron Harang has been magnificent since signing with the Phillies over the offseason. The former Brave has, like his previously mentioned teammate, vastly outperformed his career averages, posting a 1.82 ERA as opposed to 4.15. Gonzalez, a former 20-game winner, has struggled as of late, but still could put Washington in a position to win.
Advantage: They should do just that, as Washington should sweep the series and keep on rolling. If Harang keeps up his ridiculous pace and Gonzalez pitches the way he is capable of, this should be a low scoring game that the Nationals ultimately pull out.