The Nationals came out on top of game 1 by a score of 5-4. They’ll be back at it against the Astros tonight in game 2 of the 2019 World Series. Here is a preview of tonight’s game:
Pitching
After two aces took the mound to start the series, game 2 will not be lacking talent from the starters. Stephen Strasburg is scheduled to start for Washington and face off against Justin Verlander.
Strasburg started his 2019 Postseason out of the bullpen in the National League Wild Card Game. He came in and pitched three scoreless innings while striking out four. The 31-year-old also allowed just one unearned run through seven innings pitched. He will have a test tonight against a talented Astros lineup.
Justin Verlander is no stranger to the Postseason. Prior to his start tonight, he has pitched 176 2/3 playoff innings. During those innings, he has a 3.26 ERA along with 196 strikeouts. He can reach 200 career Postseason strikeouts if he gets four tonight.
Players to Watch For
Washington Nationals: Juan Soto
After a rough time in the NLCS, Juan Soto got off to a successful start in game 1. He had a double, a home run as well as three RBI. The 20-year-old has certainly been playing like a veteran as he seems pretty comfortable in these big situations. Soto will try to get back at it tonight against veteran Justin Verlander.
Houston Astros: George Springer
There has been a Springer dinger in his last five World Series games. After winning World Series MVP in 2017, he’s started out hot again by going 2-for-3 with a homer, two RBI and two walks. This helped bring his career line against active Nationals pitchers to .373/.467/.784 with an OPS of 1.251. If he hits lead-off again, he can help get the offense started tonight.
Feature Image Courtesy of upi.com.
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