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

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Scherzer’s encore

Max Scherzer is arguably the best pitcher in baseball, and is capable of doing something special every time he takes the mound. On June 21, when he last pitched against Miami, it appeared it would be one of those games.

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After throwing 7.1 no-hit innings, Scherzer allowed an infield single to A.J. Ellis, which led to one of the unluckiest innings of Scherzer’s career and a tough-luck loss. Scherzer’s final line was eight innings pitched (a complete game), two hits, two runs (neither earned), 11 strikeouts, and a loss.

Despite the fact that Scherzer was handed a loss, this was one of the best games of his career and he completely baffled Miami with nearly every pitch. He hasn’t pitched against Miami since then, but will be starting on Tuesday night.

Scherzer has been nearly unhittable this season, and appears to be the favorite to win the NL Cy Young Award. In 21 games, he has pitched to a 2.23 ERA and has racked up 201 strikeouts.

Scherzer has also enjoyed quite a bit of success against Miami throughout his career. In 11 games, he has pitched to a 3.50 ERA with 83 strikeouts in 74.2 innings.

After his last start in Miami, Scherzer will want to get revenge and get the Nats a win so this start should be a lot of fun to watch.

Next: Brian Goodwin carries trade value

The Nationals have built a huge lead in the NL East, while the Marlins haven’t lived up to expectations and are five games under .500. Bryce Harper’s mini slump, Giancarlo Stanton’s incredible season, Tanner Roark’s struggles against Miami, the Marlins’ depleted bullpen, and Max Scherzer’s encore should all be storylines to watch during what looks to be an entertaining series between the top two teams in the NL East.

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