MLB Friday: Albert on Nationals v Padres, Blue Jays v Athletics, Cubs v Diamondbacks, Indians v Astros . . . and Vladimir Guerrero Jr.

> Favorite Pick of the Day
Nationals (-180) over Padres

> Big Energy Pick of the Day
Blue Jays (-132) over Athletics

> Pick ’em of the Day
Cubs (-110) over Diamondbacks

> If You Must
Indians (+105) over Astros

> The Skinny
Any time Max Scherzer is on the bump is a good opportunity for a win. Even though the Nationals are 1-4 in Scherzer’s last five starts, they are 7-1 in Scherzer’s last eight Friday starts. Friday night lights, I suppose. . . . The Jays pick is based on no other reason than Vlad Guerrero Jr.’s first game as a big-leaguer. There’s a huge energy surrounding his arrival, which means his teammates will be eager to perform. . . . The Cubs are hot, despite their loss Thursday. But there’s good news for North Side bettors, the Cubs are 5-0 in their last five games following a loss. . . . The Indians are 8-2 in their last 10 games vs. a starter with a WHIP less than 1.15 and are 5-0 in their last five road games against a team with a winning record. Seems like any time you can get Corey Kluber on the plus side is an opportunity.