Chicago Cubs could have their hands full in matchup against Washington Nationals

SAN DIEGO, CA – AUGUST 19: Stephen Strasburg #37 of the Washington Nationals pitches the ball during the 2nd inning against the San Diego Padres at PETCO Park on August 19, 2017 in San Diego, California. (Photo by Kent Horner/Getty Images)

Nationals starting rotation a true difference-maker

With or without Harper, the Nationals still have one of the best starting rotations in the MLB. Their rotation ERA of 3.46 trails only the Los Angeles Dodgers, while the Cubs rank eleventh with a 4.19 ERA.

Max Scherzer (13-5, 2.19 ERA), Stephen Strasburg (11-4, 2.90 ERA) and Gio Gonzalez (13-6, 2.58 ERA) spearhead a dominant Nationals rotation. While all three have tremendous records and ERAs, their win totals are quite low for how many starts they have made.

Scherzer, Strasburg and Gonzalez have started 26, 23 and 27 games, respectively, this season. Between their dominant numbers and how many starts they have made, one would assume they would each have a few more wins.

When at their best, the Cubs starting rotation is equally as good as the Nationals. Between Jon Lester, Jake Arrieta, Kyle Hendricks and José Quintana, the Cubs have four strong starters at their disposal. And while John Lackey has struggled at times this season, he has pitched much better in the second half.

Nationals starting rotation a true difference-maker

Schedule