The Pittsburgh Pirates are already eliminated from playoff contention since long ago, but that fact has not stopped the Bucs from winning four straight games and five of their last six. I think they'll keep it close here in the nation's capital Thursday night.

Edwin Jackson (5-6, 5.40 ERA) will toe the slab for Washington. He's 0-3 with an enormous 12.38 ERA through his last four starts, and we can note that Jackson gave up four hits and two runs in 2 2/3 innings when he took on the Pirates in his major league season debut on June 7.

The Pirates turn to Ivan Nova (11-14, 4.14 ERA) who is 1-1 with a 3.09 ERA in two starts in his career against Washington. Nova has allowed just four runs (three earned) through 11 1/3 innings of work in his last two starts combined.

The Nats are coming off back-to-back losses to the Phillies, and with the National League East wrapped up since Sept. 10 it's all about staying healthy for the postseason. Take the run on offered on the visitors.

My selection is an 8* play on Pittsburgh Pirates +1.5.