Riding a five-game winning streak and series sweep over the San Francisco Giants, the Los Angeles Dodgers embark on an eight-game road trip. The journey commences in our nation’s capital, as the Dodgers take on the Washington Nationals in a four-game set.
The series marks the second between the two teams this season and Thursday serves as their fourth game against each other. In their previous April meetings, the Dodgers swept the Nats at Dodger Stadium.
One unique aspect of this series is that it features the two most recent World Series champions. And while the Nationals started the season slowly, they have been one of the hottest teams in baseball over their last 10 games, posting an 8-2 record during that span.
Leadoff man Kyle Schwarber is as hot of a hitter as any in all of Major League Baseball right now. Schwarber has hammered 12 home runs in his last 10 games, tying the MLB all-time record. His 25 on the season rank third in the big leagues.
Tony Gonsolin was initially tabbed to start, but due to inclement weather and potential for a rain delay, the Dodgers instead are using Victor Gonzalez as an opener. It’s a second Major League start for Gonzalez, who began his professional career in that role before being shifted to the bullpen.
Gonsolin figures to enter the game at some point, and Dodgers manager Dave Roberts indicated the right-hander is capable of throwing upwards of 80 pitches.
Left-hander Patrick Corbin gets the starting nod against the Dodgers, who tagged him for six earned runs and a loss on April 10. Corbin is amidst one of the worst seasons of his career. Through 15 starts, he holds a 5.33 ERA and a 5-6 record.
Should the series opener not be postponed due to rain, Roberts surmised a doubleheader would be scheduled for Saturday.
Dodgers lineup
RF: Mookie Betts
SS: Chris Taylor
3B: Justin Turner
2B: Max Muncy
1B: Albert Pujols
CF: Cody Bellinger
C: Will Smith
LF: AJ Pollock
P: Victor Gonzalez
Nationals lineup
LF: Kyle Schwarber
3B: Josh Harrison
RF: Juan Soto
1B: Josh Bell
C: Yan Gomes
SS: Starlin Castro
2B: Alex Avila
CF: Victor Robles
P: Patrick Corbin
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