New York Mets vs. Washington Nationals: 5 Bold Predictions

Jon Niese Stays Cold

Aug 15, 2015; New York City, NY, USA; New York Mets pitcher Jon Niese (49) delivers a pitch during the first inning of the game against the Pittsburgh Pirates at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Gregory J. Fisher-USA TODAY Sports

Jon Niese has been a streaky pitcher this season. He started the season hot, but then hit a prolonged rough patch as he went winless for nine starts. He then got things back on track, winning four of five decisions. But, he has since fallen back into another rough patch. Despite winning once in this stretch, Niese has surrendered 18 runs in 16 ⅓ innings pitched.

That makes for a tough matchup against the Nationals for Niese. He is facing them at a poor time, as he is struggling and they are getting things going. It will equal out to another poor outing for Niese, who’s Monday afternoon start will be short lived.

Ryan Zimmerman is one player to keep an eye on Monday afternoon. He has had success against Niese in his career, hitting .400 against him in his career. He is also riding a hot streak, as his bat has finally come alive and should give the struggling Niese problems.

In his career, the Nationals are a team that Niese has struggled against, as current players on the roster are slashing a combined .326/.378/.428 against him in their careers. Niese is running into the Nationals at the wrong time, as this is not a team you want to face when you are trying to figure things out and get out of a rut. Expect to see some September call-ups in this game, as Nationals will handle business against Niese.

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