The Philadelphia Phillies put together a vintage performance with Aaron Nola on the mound last night against the Washington Nationals. That isn’t to say that it was a good performance or a positive experience. In actuality, the “vintage performance” speaks to once again not giving Aaron Nola legitimate run support, save for Kyle Schwarber.
While Schwarber had his second consecutive multi-home run game for the Philadelphia Phillies (first Phillies player since Chase Utley in 2006 to do so), the rest of the lineup was held to just one hit, losing 3-2. That’s a pretty pitiful performance for Philadelphia but there’s no time to lament, they have to get right back on the field today at 4:05 pm to face the Nats yet again.
Philadelphia Phillies/Washington Nationals Pitching Matchup
This afternoon, left-handed pitcher Bailey Falter (0-2, 4.88 ERA) will take the mound for the Phillies as Joan Adon (1-11 6.97 ERA) will do so for the Nationals. It’s difficult to feel confident in any start by the winless Falter but against Adon and his near seven ERA, he just might have a chance.
Philadelphia Phillies
In his last three starts for Philadelphia, Bailey Falter has a record of 0-1, and ERA of 6.00, and a WHIP of 1.58 which should make Phillies fans anything but comfortable heading into this game. In all likelihood, the Phillies will need to rely heavily on their bullpen in this matchup. As long as Falter can go four innings and not lose the game by then, the Philadelphia Phillies can end this series on a high-note.
Washington Nationals
In his 13 starts for Washington, Joan Adon has gone 1-11, recorded a 6.97 ERA, and an honestly impressive 1.74 WHIP. It’s definitely been a struggle for the young pitcher who last pitched in the majors on June 17th against the Phillies. In that game, he gave up four runs in five innings and was sent down following the game. He once again faces the Phillies in his first game back.
While Falter has be no Cy Young Candidate, Adon has been nearly unwatchable this season. He’s young (23) so the expectation is that he will eventually improve but overtime. As for today’s matchup, the Philadelphia Phillies have a perfect opportunity to bounce back from their poor offensive performance last night.
Betting Preview
It would certainly seem smart bet to take the over with Bailey Falter and Joan Adon on the mound but that could be fools gold with the total set at 9.5 for today’s game. If you’re feeling adventurous by all means but also consider the spread at -1.5 for Philadelphia.
In seven games against the Nationals this season, the Phillies boast an average run differential of +2.4 runs. At +105 odds, that looks to be easy money.
