In Max we trust. That's really what this handicap boils down to - backing Max Scherzer against Jake Odorizzi.

Odorizzi is on his fourth team in six years. He's become a journeyman, innings-eater. He has a 4.15 ERA in two starts for the Braves since coming over from Houston. The Mets drew Odorizzi in his Atlanta debut on Aug. 6. New York got to him for three runs (two earned) in 4 2/3 innings.

Scherzer isn't slowing down at 38. The future Hall of Famer is 8-2 with a 1.93 ERA. Scherzer faced Atlanta 11 days ago. He blanked the Braves for seven innings while striking out 11 and not allowing a walk. The Braves couldn't hit Scherzer then and I'm betting they can't do it now either.