1* Free Play Washington Nationals.

Setting the scene: We had a paid selection on the Nats last night and they'd rally late for the victory. Max Scherzer struggled at hitters friendly Coors Field, but we think Gio Gonzalez will bounce back with a better effort in what is another favorable pitching matchup for Washington.

Gonzalez: He's 8-9 with a 4.24 ERA. Most recently he went five frames and fave up four runs while striking out five in a hard-fought victory over the Indians on Wednesday. It was a tough matchup, but the veteran still found a way to win. Also note that it was the shortest outing over his last eight games and the four earned runs were the most he's given up since June. Gonzalez is now in line to win three straight for the first time this year.

Chad Bettis: He's 10-6 with a 5.27 ERA. Bettis hasn't been great at home this year, posting a 5.37 ERA.

The bottom line: "Recent performance" points to Gonzalez as the correct call in this matchup. Consider a second look at the visitors in this one.

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