Stephen Strasburg will try to snap a career-worst three- start losing streak this afternoon when he leads the Nationals against the Marlins in the third installment of a four-game series.
The powerful right-hander, who is coming off a loss to Colorado on July 6 when he pitched six innings, has history on his side going into today's matchup. He owns a 2-0 record and has yet to allow a run while pitching in Miami, but this will be his first appearance at new Marlins Park. He's 2-1 in five career starts against the Marlins.
Ricky Nolasco, who is coming off his second consecutive win on July 6 at St. Louis, gets the ball for the Marlins. His ERA stands at 0.92 over his last three games.
The righty has posted a 9-3 record with a 3.97 ERA in 16 games (14 starts) when facing the Nationals. He has more victories against the Nationals than any other opponent, but has not beaten them in South Florida since June 29, 2009. In three home starts since then, he is 0-2 with a 6.06 ERA.
Last night, Mark Buehrle threw seven strong innings to win his fourth consecutive start, and the Marlins held off the Nationals, 2-1.
Carlos Lee and John Buck had RBI singles in support of Buehrle (9-8), who allowed six hits, walked two and struck out seven.
Steve Cishek recorded the final five outs to get his second save of the year. Roger Bernadina singled with two outs in the ninth and looked to be tagged out on the helmet by Omar Infante on a steal attempt. Bernadina was called safe, but Jesus Flores fanned on an outside pitch to end the game.
Miami snapped a three-game skid, while the NL East-leading Nationals failed to gain momentum after a 5-1 win Friday night.
Miami has won four of the last five meetings with Washington.
I dont see Miami winning today against a pitcher who i truly believe wants to finish off his season strong. Sometimes will is just not enough but in this case i hope it's true. I think Strasburg understands his team needs him right now and he will perform well today.
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