Nationals @ Astros - Game Preview (8/8)

Story Lines:

• Gio Gonzalez and Kurt Suzuki will be reunited since their days in Oakland.
• Armando Galarraga might sound familiar, and this is why.
• Series victory can be clinched tonight with a Nats win.

Pitching Match Up:

• Gio Gonzalez
• 13-6 with a 3.34 ERA.
• Has given up 4 runs in each of his last two starts.
• Has had a winning record in each month this season.

• Armando Galarraga
• 0-1 with a 5.23 ERA.
• Hasn't pitched more than 5.1 innings in either of his starts this season.
• He gave up 7 walks, 5 hits, and 4 runs in 5.1 innings his last start.

 Who to Watch:

• Jayson Werth
• Recorded a hit in a pinch hit appearance last night.
• Hitting .471 since returning from injury.
• Has not homered since returning.

Keys to the Game:

1. G-G-Gio Time. Look for Gio to pitch lights out with his old team mate behind the plate. 
2. Work the Count.  Galarraga has struggled with control in his first two starts of his season.
3. Harper Homer.  If Harper knocks one out of the park, the Nats are going to win tonight.