Theoretical suggestion can be applied to games like Sunday’s. It goes like this: Since the outcome seems so apparent pregame based on the participants, the opposite outcome is almost assured, the universe working in reverse just to keep everyone awake. This is the reverse-lock theory, a builder of casinos, a damning day for the favored.
It was applicable at Nationals Park. Max Scherzer, two-time Cy Young Award winner, strikeout producer, poster boy, $210 million man, on the mound for the Washington Nationals. Austin Bibens-Dirkx, second career start, the same age as Scherzer, 32, celebrating being here in the major leagues after 12 years in the minors, debuting out of the bullpen May 17.