Atlanta at Washington

The Nationals have certainly held their own this season, and they will have a lot working for them as they open a series against the Braves. The Nationals have played well at home having won five straight, and are now 19-8 in their last 27 at home. They are also the second-best team in all of MLB against LHP and the moneyline as they have treated their backers to +10.67 units on the season. The fact is that the Nationals have not lost at home to a LHP with an ERA of over four since June 18! The Braves have played themselves right out of the divisional and wildcard race as they have gone 7-14 over their last 21, and own a losing record over the last three years playing in Washington. The Braves have the dubious distinction of having lost more games (32) to LHP than any team in baseball. The Braves are just 3-5 in James' last eight starts, and he has pitched to a 6.68 ERA in his last six. Matt Chico has allowed just one run in his last two starts, pitching to a 0.75 ERA. We like the Nats to take the opener.