It is the Nationals’ Josiah Gray vs Miami’s ace Alcantara in the second game of the Marlins’ home series. Gray (4.71 ERA) has pitched well in his last two starts, but has had some ugly outings this year. He has faced the Marlins twice this season, allowing 3 and 4 runs over 11 innings total, but is 4-0 on the road.

Alcantara is on a tear, with three straight victories and a sparkling 1.81 ERA. He has allowed just 1 run with 29 Ks over 24 innings in those three starts. You really couldn’t ask for more.

Both teams struggle for wins, but Alcantara tends to earn all of his. Gray has had some solid run support in a number of his victories, and that will likely not be the case today. The Marlins are hitting surprisingly well in their last 10 games, especially vs right-handers, and better than the Nationals in that period. Both bullpens have been very poor but Alcantara will very likely pitch later into the game than Gray. With some especially short outings by the Nationals’ starters lately, Washington could be in a real bind for relievers today. It seems it is an underdog day today. I am taking the Marlins on the Run line. I believe they are good for the extra runs.