The Washington Nationals and the Los Angels Dodgers are enjoying life at the top as the postseason grows closer. The Nationals currently own the best record in the National League as they sit on top of the East while the Dodgers are resting on top of the West. This Labor Day matchup could be a preview of the postseason as both clubs will be looking to reach the division championship this year.
The Dodgers might have the edge if Roberto Hernandez continues to pitch well. The veteran has beaten the Nationals twice this season without giving up an earned run in the process. He is currently 8-9 on the season with a 3.81 ERA. Just a month ago, he handed the Nationals a one run in eight innings performance as the Phillies got the win. He was traded immediately after that game.
Since being with the Dodgers, Hernandez has gone 2-1 with a 3.52 ERA in four starts. He recently gave up three runs over six innings to the Arizona Diamondbacks. He is just another piece to the strong pitching rotation that includes Clayton Kershaw and Zack Greinke who all appear destined to make the playoffs an interesting run for Los Angeles.
The Dodgers have dropped off a bit as the San Francisco Giants now battle with them in the west. The team nearly avoided a three-game sweep from the Padres and Adrian Gonzalez and Juan Uribe both drove in runs. They will need another big game as they face the bats of Washington who are surging right now.
The Nationals will send Gio Gonzalez to the mound who is 6-9 with a 3.86 ERA on the season. He is currently in the middle of a losing streak, going 0-5 with a 4.38 ERA in his last nine starts. He recently gave up three runs in six innings to the Phillies. He is also 0-1 with a 1.50 ERA against the Dodgers.
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