The Cardinals lost a tough one on Monday when Bud Norris blew a two-run ninth inning lead. Norris isn't likely to pitch today and may have lost his closer role.

But I see the Cardinals bouncing back. They are going with their best pitcher, Miles Mikolas, while the Nationals are dropping completely down in class going from Monday's starter, Max Scherzer, to rookie Erick Fedde, who has looked overmatched when pitching in the big leagues.

Mikolas is 13-4 with a 2.96 ERA. He has been super consistent. Mikolas has held opponents to two earned runs or fewer in 10 of his last 13 starts. He hasn't given up more than four earned runs in a game all season.

Fedde is 1-3 with a 5.79 ERA. He has been sidelined for two months with right shoulder inflammation. His last big league appearance was on July 4. Fedde has a 6.75 ERA in six career starts at Nationals Park. The Nationals are 0-6 in those games.

The Cardinals have won 12 of their last 15 away games. The Nationals are playing for next season. They have made the decision to deal veterans and look at younger players. The Cardinals would be in the playoffs if the season ended today.