Rockies vs. Nationals Odds
| Rockies Odds | +100 |
| Nationals Odds | -120 |
| Over/Under | 9 |
| Time | 1:35 p.m. ET |
| TV | MLB.TV |
| Odds via BetMGM. Get up-to-the-minute MLB odds here. | |
The Colorado Rockies look to escape nation's capital with a split of their four-game series against the Washington Nationals. After going 1-1 in Saturday's doubleheader, the Nationals look to hope to improve upon their 8-18 home record Sunday and take the series.
The battle between two last-place teams actually means this series has been pretty competitive overall. The baseball was flying in Saturday's opener, but things cooled down for the evening contest.
Kyle Freeland looks to lead the Rockies to a series split, while Josiah Gray takes the mount with the hope of delivering the Nationals a series victory.
Honestly, I'm trying really hard to make this matchup sound exciting and it's just not working. That said, let's see where we can find some betting value.
Colorado Rockies
Despite putting up seven runs in first game of Saturday's doubleheader, the Rockies are still last in MLB in team wRC+ on the road against RHP this month.
Considering the Nationals starter from Saturday early game, Aaron Sanchez, was averaging less than two strikeouts per nine innings and the Rockies were 13th in strikeout percentage on the road against right-handed pitchers this month, it seemed the formula for offense was there for the Rockies.
However, Colorado didn't score another run after putting up seven runs against Sanchez.
Freeland seems to be the edge for the Rockies in this matchup, as he has a 1.17 ERA and a 2.81 FIP in 15 1/3 road innings this season.
Washington Nationals
The Nationals' offense has really struggled at home. Presently, they are 27th in MLB in wRC+ at home against left-handed pitchers. With the lefty Freeland on the mound, Washington has its work cut out for it.
Gray takes the hill for the Nationals and he has struggled on home soil. So far, he has posted an 8.25 ERA and a 7.02 FIP at home. And that's not good.
He's averaging 4.50 BB/9 and 3.38 HR/9 at home as well. Even though the Rockies' offense has struggled on the road against RHP as of late, the free baserunners and propensity for the long ball might Colorado the edge.
Rockies-Nationals Pick
While this contest lacks star power, clarity and any distinct advantages for either team, there seems to be a pretty clear edge in starting pitching.
Both offenses are bad, but considering Gray's struggles at home and Freeland's road success, Colorado might be able to jump out to an early lead.
The Rockies' bullpen is one of the worst in the league, but playing a poor offense with a lead might make its job easier. Additionally, the Rockies boast plus money, but have a clear advantage in terms of starting pitching.
That said, Colorado's moneyline is the play, but considering the volatility of its bullpen, the First Five Innings wager might be the safest play. It's around -105 odds as of writing and should be played to -120 odds.
Pick: Rockies — First Five Innings (-105)
