Washington Nationals: Storylines to watch in Game 1 of NLDS
By Ricky Keeler
Prediction
While I think the Washington Nationals will win this series in five games, this is not a favorable matchup for the Nats. Hendricks has proven that he can keep the offense off balance and disrupt their timing. Plus, he won’t be phased by the big stage because he did start Game 7 of the World Series in Cleveland last year.
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As for Strasburg, this is his first big game on the mound in three years. While he is not a young pitcher anymore, it will be interesting to see if he gets too pumped up because giving up a run or two early could be the difference.
Both of these teams will have a tough time scoring runs, which will go against the trend of the postseason so far. However, don’t be surprised if Joe Maddon goes to Wade Davis for a four or five out save because he has Jon Lester going for him in Game 2.
If the Cubs can get an early lead, it will make the Nats probably play tight and will quiet what should be a raucous crowd tonight. Chicago has the pressure of being the defending champions, but the bulk of the pressure is on the Nats with the Scherzer injury news and trying to get the playoff monkey off their backs.
This will be a well pitched game and Strasburg will have a much better performance this year compared to his Game 1 outing in 2014. However, I am taking the Cubs to win a close Game 1 on the road.
Next: Cubs-Nats Tale of the Tape