Nationals Host Indians in Big Series

As in other years, the MLB playoffs may not be decided until game 162 is over, and there’s a possibility teams can have the same record then as well. 2019 is no different, as the Nationals will try and secure home field advantage in the Wild Card Game this weekend, and the Indians will just be trying to win and find a Postseason spot. Here is a preview of what fans could expect to see in a big weekend for baseball:

Probable Pitchers and Game Times

Image courtesy of Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports and nj.com

Game 1: Friday, September 27 | 7:05 PM EST

Zach Plesac (8-6, 3.82 ERA) vs. Austin Voth (1-1, 3.35 ERA)

Game 2: Saturday, September 28 | 4:05 PM EST

Adam Plutko (7-4, 4.25 ERA) vs. Patrick Corbin (14-7, 3.05 ERA)

Game 3: Sunday, September 29 | 3:05 PM EST

Mike Clevenger (13-3, 2.39 ERA) vs. TBD

Players to Watch For

Cleveland Indians: Oscar Mercado

Image courtesy of letsgotribe.com

Oscar Mercado has been raking for the Indians in September. Through 22 September games, the rookie is slashing .302/.367/.570 with a .937 OPS. This includes 11 extra base hits and 19 RBIs. Mercado has been getting at-bats from the two and three spots in the lineup, which can provide him some great opportunities to put up solid numbers at the plate. The Indians would like to see a hot bat from Mercado this weekend as the team tries for a playoff spot.

Washington Nationals: Anthony Rendon

Anthony Rendon has been going crazy at the plate this season. In 68 games since the All-Star break, he has a line of .342/.435/.595 with an OPS of 1.030. Rendon is getting some recognition for his performance this season as he has been in talks for National League MVP. The 29-year-old also has hit well against active Indians’ pitchers. His slash line against them is .444/.543/.593 with a 1.135 OPS. Rendon can use this weekend as a motivator for the teams soon Wild Card Game.

Notable Injuries

Image courtesy of SPIN.

Cleveland Indians:

• Corey Kluber’s right forearm fracture has him missing this series.
• Danny Salazar has a groin injury keeping him out.
• Jason Kipnis fractured his hand and will miss the series.
• Tyler Naquin has the dreaded torn ACL and will miss the remainder of the season.

Washington Nationals:

• Jonny Venters is out for the series with a shoulder injury.
• Koda Glover has not pitched in a game for a while as he has had issues with his forearm.
• Kurt Suzuki may be eligible for the Wild Card game if his elbow is ready.

Feature Image Courtesy of AP Photo/Ron Schwane and dailymail.co.uk

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