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Washington Nationals: Max Scherzer deservedly starts the All-Star Game

By Blake Finney

WASHINGTON, DC - JULY 16: Max Scherzer #31 of the Washington Nationals and the National League and Jacob deGrom #48 of the New York Mets and the National League stand in the outfield during Gatorade All-Star Workout Day at Nationals Park on July 16, 2018 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images)
WASHINGTON, DC - JULY 16: Max Scherzer #31 of the Washington Nationals and the National League and Jacob deGrom #48 of the New York Mets and the National League stand in the outfield during Gatorade All-Star Workout Day at Nationals Park on July 16, 2018 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Patrick McDermott/Getty Images) /
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On Monday afternoon, it was confirmed that Washington Nationals starter Max Scheer will take the mound for the National League in the All-Star game.

On Monday, Dave Roberts announced that Washington Nationals pitcher Max Scherzer will start on the bump for the National League. A fully deserved honor for the right-hander in his home ballpark.

It’s the second year in a row he’s drawn an All-Star game start, and third time in his career. It’s yet another row on his ever-growing future hall of fame resume.

That home team factor is likely what swung the decision for the Roberts, but Scherzer’s 2018 resume is deserving. He has a 12-5 record, with a stellar 2.41 ERA and leads the NL in strikeouts with 182.

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His main competition for the honor was Jacob deGrom of the New York Mets, who’s also having an excellent season. DeGrom so far is just 5-4, but leads MLB in ERA and pitching WAR, and could compete with Scherzer for the Cy Young.

Had the game not been in D.C. then it would’ve been an incredibly tough choice. But especially in an exhibition game, kudos to the LA Dodgers manager for making the correct choice allowing Max Scherzer to start in front of his home crowd.

Harper’s HR Derby Encore

After winning the MLB Home Run Derby on Monday night, Bryce Harper will also be starting for the NL in the All-Star game. Roberts announced that he would hit sixth for the NL

Just like he did during the HR Derby, expect the crowd to show their appreciation for the Nationals superstar outfielder. It’ll be Harper’s sixth All-Star appearance in just seven seasons, and it could be his last in a Nats jersey. We hope it’s not, but if it is, he’ll have left quite the legacy behind, and this weekend will be an excellent cherry on the cake.

Next: Five potential starting rotation targets

The Washington Nationals may not be living up to expectations this season, but it won’t stop the All-Star game being a momentous occasion for D.C. baseball. Hopefully, Max Scherzer and Bryce Harper will have performances to remember in front of the home crowd.

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