Washington Nationals: 3 storylines to watch in NLDS Game 2

The Washington Nationals will look to bounce back from a rough start to the NLDS in Game 2 tonight; here are three storylines to keep an eye on.

The Washington Nationals and Chicago Cubs began their much-anticipated National League Division Series last night, with the Cubs winning 3-0. The Nats came into the series as the favorites, but certainly did not play like it in game one.

Since Max Scherzer is dealing with hamstring issues, Stephen Strasburg got the nod in game one. Despite not having pitched in a postseason game in three years, Strasburg twirled a gem.

Strasburg had all of his pitches working, and kept the Cubs’ offense guessing all night. At the end of the day, Strasburg got the loss, but pitched seven innings, allowed just three hits, struck out 10, and did not allow any earned runs.

The Nats could not have asked for more from Strasburg, but he was the only player to show up. Games are not decided on a single play, but Anthony Rendon made a costly error in the sixth, which eventually led to two runs scoring.

In addition to the error, there was hardly any offense. Bryce Harper singled in the first and Michael Taylor singled in the second, but those were the only two hits from the Nats’ offense all night. Of the Nats’ final 25 plate appearances, only three managed to reach base safely, all via the walk.

Now, the Nats look ahead to what appears to be a must-win in game two tonight. Without further ado, let’s take a look at three storylines to keep an eye on throughout game two.