The set-up: No upsets here early on Independence Day as I look for veteran Anibal Sanchez to ride the wave of emotion in front of the home town crowd to a solid victory. The visitors go with Elieser Hernandez.

The pitchers: Hernandez (1-2, 4.07 ERA)comes in off his first win of the year, holding the Phillies to two runs over five innings. Hernandez is scheduled to be sent to the minors once Caleb Smith returns.

Sanchez (4-6, 3.82) comes in off a gem, striking out eight and allowing one run over six innings in a 3-1 win over the Tigers last Friday.

The pick: Sanchez is the difference maker here, as the veteran is 4-0 with a 2.29 ERA and 0.91 WHIP and 32:5 K:BB over his last 35.1 innings of work. I think Hernandez takes a step back in this difficult road venue. Lay it.

Washington Nationals

5* play