Gamethread: Nationals at Astros (World Series Game 6)

After storming back by taking three consecutive games on the road, the Astros have a 3-2 series lead. As a result, the Astros are on the verge of winning their second World Series title in three seasons.

The odds seem to be in the Astros’ favor, as they return home (though home teams are 0-5 in the World Series) with an outstanding pitcher in Justin Verlander on the mound. In the regular season, Verlander, had a 2.58 ERA, 3.27 FIP, 3.18 xFIP, and 6.4 fWAR. That is a remarkable season for any major leaguer, especially one at Verlander’s age (36). However, Verlander has come back down to earth this postseason, posting an ERA of 4.15, and opposing hitters have a respectable .721 OPS against him. In Game 2 of the World Series, Verlander allowed four runs (all earned) in six innings of work. Later that game, the Astros’ bullpen had an awful night, as the Nationals ran away with a 12-3 victory.

The Nationals, who are suddenly behind despite taking both games so far in Houston, will turn to Stephen Strasburg. In the regular season, Strasburg posted a 3.32 ERA, 3.25 FIP, 3.17 xFIP, and 5.7 fWAR. Strasburg has been even better in the playoffs, posting a 1.93 ERA in October. In that time, opposing hitters have a poor slash line of .234/.245/.374. In the Nationals’ Game 2 victory, Strasburg had a quality start, throwing six innings and only allowing two runs (both earned).

Here are tonight’s starting lineups:

The game will start at 7:07 CST. FOX will televise it, and ESPN Radio will have your radio coverage. Let’s enjoy what might be the final MLB game of the season.