Blake Butera did not downplay the magnitude of this series. While he said this one counts the same as the rest, the players are aware of what is at stake in this 4 game set against the Phillies. This is a major measuring stick series for this group which surprisingly finds themselves in wild card contention.
With a lefty opener, the Nats are going with a unique lineup. Luis Garcia Jr. is hitting 8th to avoid the opener, while Curtis Mead hits second. Jacob Young is back in center field after an injury scare the other day. Dylan Crews will play in left, while Daylen Lile does the DH duties. Foster Griffin will toe the slab in DC.
The top of the Phillies lineup is red hot right now. Bryce Harper just hit for the cycle and Kyle Schwarber already has 29 homers. Brandon Marsh is hitting 6th to extend what can sometimes be a top heavy lineup. Rafael Marchan will catch instead of JT Realmuto. Tim Mayza will open, while Alan Rangel will be in a bulk role.
Weather permitting, this should be one heck of a matchup. The old champion of the division takes on an up and coming challenger in the Nats. This series will be full of storylines, however it goes. Follow along in the comments down below and let’s go Nats!