The Washington Nationals and Pittsburgh Pirates are set to face off in the final game of their series at PNC Park, with both teams looking to gain momentum early in the season. The Pirates secured a 6-1 victory in their last matchup, fueled by a grand slam from Oneil Cruz and a strong pitching performance.
Game Details
- Matchup: Washington Nationals (7-11) vs. Pittsburgh Pirates (7-12)
- Date: Thursday, April 17, 2025
- Location: PNC Park, Pittsburgh, PA
- Time: 12:35 p.m. ET
- Broadcast: Regional TV, MLB Network
Recent Form & Team Outlook
The Nationals have struggled on the road, holding a 1-6 away record, while the Pirates have been slightly better at home, going 4-5 at PNC Park. Washington’s offense has been inconsistent, ranking 10th in MLB with 19 home runs, but their pitching staff has struggled, posting a 5.17 ERA, which ranks 30th in the league.
Meanwhile, Pittsburgh has had offensive woes, ranking last in MLB in batting average (.195) and slugging percentage (.293). However, their pitching staff has been solid, ranking 10th in the NL with a 4.40 ERA.
Probable Pitchers
- Washington Nationals: Mitchell Parker (2-0, 1.96 ERA, 15 strikeouts in 18.1 IP)
- Pittsburgh Pirates: Bailey Falter (0-2, 7.20 ERA, 13 strikeouts in 15.2 IP)
Parker has been a bright spot for Washington, boasting a 1.96 ERA while limiting opponents to a .214 batting average. Falter, on the other hand, has struggled, allowing a .298 batting average to opposing hitters.
Key Players to Watch
- Washington Nationals:
- James Wood – Leads the team with five home runs, providing much-needed power.
- Keibert Ruiz – Batting .351 over his last 10 games, showing consistency at the plate.
- Dylan Crews – Scored Washington’s lone run in their last game, looking to spark the offense.
- Pittsburgh Pirates:
- Oneil Cruz – Hit a grand slam in the previous game, proving to be a game-changer.
- Bryan Reynolds – Has been heating up, hitting three doubles and two home runs in his last 10 games.
- Henry Davis – Homered in the last matchup, adding another power threat.
Matchup Breakdown
- Washington’s Offense vs. Pittsburgh’s Pitching:
The Nationals have been better offensively, ranking 15th in total hits (130), while Pittsburgh’s pitching staff has been middle-of-the-pack. - Pittsburgh’s Struggles at the Plate:
The Pirates rank 28th in home runs (10) and last in batting average, making it difficult to generate runs. - Bullpen Battle:
Washington’s bullpen has been inconsistent, while Pittsburgh’s relievers have been more reliable, helping them secure wins.
Washington Nationals 8
Pittsburgh Pirates – 135
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Wednesday, April 16, 2025
