The Marlins and the Cardinals get the day started with Jose Fernandez taking on Lance Lynn. Ferenandez turns 21 in 3 1/2 weeks, and already established himself as a dominant pitcher. He’s strong in all aspects of the game, strikeouts, walks and home runs, pitching as well against lefties as righties. Lynn owns similar three-true outcome rates, but gets hammered by left-handed batters.

A.J. Burnett makes his first start since June 8th as the Pirates and Cubs finish their weekend series. Carlos Villanueva takes the hill for Chicago. Burnett was slipping before the injury, having given up four home runs in June after giving up four total in the previous two months. Villenueva fared better as a reliever, with a 2.04 ERA out of the bullpen versus 3.93 as a starter. Seven of his eight home runs came in a starting role.

The Dodgers and Giants offer another outstanding pitching matchup as Clayton Kershaw battles Chad Gaudin. Kershaw pitched in back luck all year, with a 7-5 record despite a 1.93 ERA. Los Angeles scored three runs or less in 11 of his 18 starts, Los Angeles 4-7 in those games. Gaudin’s ERA is much lower than his career average. He seems to be walking fewer batters, coupled with a .156 opposition BA with runners in scoring position.

Finally, ESPN showcases the Red Sox and Angels as former Angels pitcher John Lackey takes on Jered Weaver. Lackey had great success pitching at Angels Stadium, including his two starts with the Red Sox. Boston gives Weaver trouble. He’s just 3-5 against them in 13 starts with a 4.31 ERA.

Enjoy!