Cubs veteran Jon Lester is a big-game pitcher. Even at 33, he is still going strong and he should be up to the challenge Thursday against the Nationals. Lester is just starting to round into form, with a 2.70 ERA over his last three games Nationals starter Joe Ross, a former first-round draft pick of the San Diego Padres, has great stuff. The Cubs have struggled offensively all season, while scoring just four runs per game over their last seven. Look for a tight pitching battle that sends this game Under the posted total.

The Cubs have won four straight games against NL East opponents behind Jon Lester, who has allowed the Nationals to hit just .193 against him in 140 at-bats. Chicago is hitting .364 against Washington starter Joe Ross, and I like the price to support the Cubs for getting a win and a series split Thursday.