Venue: Citi Field, Flushing, Queens, New York
TV/Stream: WPIX / Nationals.TV (MLB.TV available in most markets; Fubo streaming option)
Starting Pitchers
Nationals: LHP Andrew Alvarez (2-3, 3.76 ERA, 1.40 WHIP, 69.1 IP, 65 K, 32 BB, 2 HR)
Mets: RHP Robert Stock (0-2, 10.13 ERA, 2.12–2.13 WHIP, limited IP, 8 K)
Alvarez has provided solid mid-rotation innings with a respectable ERA and the ability to limit hard contact in recent starts (including efficient outings in August). Stock has struggled significantly in his limited appearances this season, posting a high ERA and WHIP; he is a high-risk option for New York. Alvarez holds the clear edge on paper.
Venue and Weather Forecast
Citi Field is a neutral-to-slightly pitcher-friendly park depending on wind and weather conditions. Forecast for New York/Queens area: Mostly sunny to partly cloudy with highs in the mid-to-upper 80s°F (around 86°F). Low precipitation chance (near 0–10% during game hours). Northwest/north winds 5–10 mph (gusts possible). Comfortable evening conditions expected with lows in the upper 60s to low 70s. Excellent baseball weather with minimal delay risk.
Injury Reports
Nationals:
James Wood (OF, 10-day IL, oblique)
Drew Millas (C, 10-day IL, finger)
Connelly Early (P, 15-day IL, elbow)
Longer-term absences include Josiah Gray, DJ Herz, Mitchell Parker, Ken Waldichuk, PJ Poulin, Richard Lovelady (mostly elbow/forearm-related 60-day IL).
Mets:
Juan Soto (OF, 10-day IL, calf)
Mark Vientos (INF, 10-day IL, hand)
Austin Warren (RP, 15-day IL, forearm)
Cionel Perez (RP, 15-day IL, forearm)
Devin Williams (RP, 15-day IL, shoulder)
Extended absences include Tylor Megill, Reed Garrett, Justin Hagenman (60-day IL).
Both clubs are missing key position players and bullpen pieces; the Mets’ absences (especially Soto) are particularly impactful to the lineup.
Active rosters feature contributors such as CJ Abrams, Abimelec Ortiz (hot with recent power), and other regulars for Washington; Francisco Lindor, Bo Bichette, Carson Benge, Marcus Semien, and A.J. Ewing for New York.
Key Player vs. Player Matchups and Notes
Alvarez (LHP) will face a Mets lineup missing Soto and Vientos, which weakens the middle of the order. Lindor remains a threat (strong post-All-Star production in some reports), while Bichette and others provide contact. Stock’s elevated walk and hit rates make him vulnerable to Washington’s power-oriented offense (league-leading or near-leading HR and SLG totals).
Nationals bats like Abrams (speed + production) and recent hot hitters (Ortiz on a homer streak) should exploit Stock. Citi Field’s dimensions can suppress some power, but Washington’s overall offensive profile is superior.
Recent Team Forms
Nationals: 5-5 in last 10. Competitive fourth-place club in the NL East still dreaming of a wild-card push. Strong road record (33-27). Coming off a 7-0 shutout win over the Cubs. Offense ranks among the league’s best in runs, AVG, SLG, and HR.
Mets: 6-4 in last 10 but overall poor (fifth in NL East, struggling at home 25-34). On a three-game home skid. Offense ranks lower in most categories; pitching has been inconsistent.
Series History
Nationals lead the 2026 season series 4-3 through seven games. Prior meetings have featured high-scoring affairs and competitive contests. This is the first of three games at Citi Field in the current series (more meetings later in September). Classic NL East rivalry.
Betting Trends
Washington’s superior overall record, road form, and offensive output contrast with the Mets’ home struggles and Stock’s poor numbers. The market still slightly favors the home team, creating potential value on the road underdog. High-offense Nationals vs. vulnerable starter supports Over interest, though Citi Field can keep games in check.
Game Odds
Washington Nationals 8.5
New York Mets – 115
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Thursday, August 13, 2026
