MLB Game Preview: Washington Nationals (18-27) vs. Baltimore Orioles (15-27)

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The Washington Nationals (18-27) and Baltimore Orioles (15-27) are set to face off in the series opener at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. Both teams are looking to gain momentum, with the Nationals aiming to climb out of their early-season struggles and the Orioles hoping to turn things around at home.

Starting Pitchers

Washington Nationals – MacKenzie Gore (LHP, 2-4, 3.59 ERA)

  • Gore has been solid in his last nine starts, averaging 5.8 innings per outing.
  • He has five quality starts this season and has held opponents to a .233 batting average.
  • In his most recent start against the Cardinals, he pitched 6 2/3 innings, allowing four earned runs.

Baltimore Orioles – Cade Povich (LHP, 1-3, 5.55 ERA)

  • Povich has struggled, allowing a .297 opponent batting average this season.
  • He has pitched six or more innings in four of his seven starts, but has yet to complete a game without allowing an earned run.
  • In his last outing against the Twins, he gave up five earned runs over six innings.

Key Players to Watch

Washington Nationals

  • James Wood (OF) – Leads the Nationals with 11 home runs and 25 RBIs, hitting .286 over his last five games.
  • C.J. Abrams (SS) – Batting .317, providing consistency at the top of the lineup.
  • Keibert Ruiz (C) – Has six doubles, two home runs, and a .285 batting average, making him a reliable offensive piece.

Baltimore Orioles

  • Cedric Mullins (OF) – Leads the Orioles with eight home runs and 25 RBIs, hitting .263 over his last five games.
  • Ryan O’Hearn (1B) – Batting .295 with seven home runs, providing power in the middle of the order.
  • Gunnar Henderson (SS) – Has a .268 batting average, contributing both offensively and defensively.

Game Strategy & Predictions

  • Nationals’ Game Plan:
    • Take advantage of Povich’s struggles, working deep counts to force early bullpen usage.
    • Utilize Abrams and Wood’s ability to get on base to create scoring opportunities.
    • Gore must limit hard contact, as Baltimore ranks 11th in MLB in home runs (49).
  • Orioles’ Game Plan:
  • Mullins and Henderson need to set the tone early against Gore.
  • Povich must avoid walks, as Washington has been effective at capitalizing on free passes.
  • Baltimore’s bullpen must be ready, as Povich has struggled to go deep into games.

Game Odds

Washington Nationals   9

Baltimore Orioles            – 130

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Thursday, May 15, 2025