Washington Nationals: 5 storylines to watch as Nats visit Marlins Park

Tanner Roark’s struggles against Miami

Tanner Roark has always been one of the most consistent pitchers in the league. After getting off to an unusually rocky start to 2017, he has turned things around and pitched much better throughout July.

While Roark has been extremely consistent and has been an integral part of the Nats’ rotation, there has been one negative consistency: his struggles against Miami.

In 20 games (14 starts), Roark is 5-8 with a 4.27 ERA. He has especially struggled against Miami this year. In two games, he has pitched to an 8.31 ERA and has allowed eight runs on nine hits in just 8.2 innings.

Some notable Marlins who have hit well against Roark in the past are Derek Dietrich (.333 average in 15 at-bats), Dee Gordon, (.389 average in 18 at-bats), Marcell Ozuna (.281 average in 32 at-bats), and J.T. Realmuto (.348 average in 23 at-bats).

Oddly enough, Roark has managed to keep Stanton and Christian Yelich in check. Against Roark, the dynamic duo are batting .233 and .242, respectively.

Look for Roark to continue his resurgence this week against Miami. He has pitched much better recently, and has exhibited much-improved control. Lots of Roark’s struggles against Miami this season can be attributed to his command issues. In his 8.2 innings pitched, he has walked a whopping four batters.

Although the Marlins have struggled this year, they have a solid lineup and will make a pitcher pay for walks and falling behind hitters. If Roark is able to maintain his improved control, he could be in for a quality start in Miami.