Date: May 6, 2025
Game 1: 3:35 PM ET
Game 2: 7:30 PM ET
Venue: Nationals Park, Washington, D.C.
Broadcast: Bally Sports Great Lakes, MASN
Series Overview
The Cleveland Guardians (20-14) and Washington Nationals (16-19) will play a doubleheader after Monday’s series opener was postponed due to rain. Cleveland enters the matchup having won five of their last six games, while Washington is coming off a 3-3 road trip, including a rain-soaked 4-1 victory over the Cincinnati Reds on Sunday.
With both teams looking to gain momentum, pitching depth and bullpen management will be crucial in this two-game set.
Game 1 – Probable Pitchers
Cleveland Guardians – Luis Ortiz (2-3, 4.78 ERA, 9 K)
- Last Start: 6 1/3 shutout innings vs. Minnesota (no-decision).
- Career vs. Nationals: 0-1, 6.75 ERA in two appearances.
- Analysis: Ortiz showed efficiency in his last outing, but his history against Washington suggests he’ll need to be sharp early.
Washington Nationals – Jake Irvin (2-1, 4.01 ERA, 18 K)
- Last Start: Allowed six runs on eight hits vs. Philadelphia.
- Career vs. Guardians: 1-0, 2.00 ERA in one start.
- Analysis: Irvin struggled in his last outing but has had success against Cleveland before. He’ll need to limit hard contact to keep Washington in the game.
Game 2 – Probable Pitchers
Cleveland Guardians – Ben Lively (1-2, 3.72 ERA, 15 K)
- Last Start: 5 2/3 scoreless innings vs. Minnesota (no-decision).
- Career vs. Nationals: 1-1, 3.29 ERA in two starts.
- Analysis: Lively has been solid, keeping hitters off balance. His ability to go deep into the game will be key for Cleveland’s bullpen.
Washington Nationals – Brad Lord (1-3, 4.43 ERA, 12 K)
- Last Start: 5 innings, 2 earned runs vs. Philadelphia (win).
- Analysis: Lord has been consistent, allowing only two runs in each of his last three starts. With Michael Soroka nearing a return, Lord will be looking to prove he belongs in the rotation.
Key Players to Watch
Cleveland Guardians
- José Ramírez – The All-Star third baseman continues to be Cleveland’s offensive catalyst.
- Steven Kwan – Coming off a strong series against Toronto, Kwan’s ability to get on base will be crucial.
- Emmanuel Clase – The Guardians’ closer has earned a save in each of his last three appearances.
Washington Nationals
- James Wood – The young outfielder has been a bright spot for Washington’s lineup.
- CJ Abrams – Leads the team in stolen bases and provides a spark at the top of the order.
- Keibert Ruiz – The catcher’s ability to manage the pitching staff will be key in the doubleheader.
Game Storylines & Predictions
1. Can Cleveland’s Pitching Maintain Its Momentum?
The Guardians’ starters have been efficient in recent outings, but facing Washington’s lineup twice in one day will test their endurance.
2. Nationals’ Offensive Struggles
Washington ranks 26th in MLB in ERA (5.09), but their offense has been inconsistent. If they can capitalize on scoring opportunities, they could steal a win.
3. Bullpen Management in a Doubleheader
With two games in one day, both teams will need to carefully manage their relievers. Expect starters to go deeper into games to preserve bullpen arms.
Game 1 Odds
Cleveland Guardians – 118
Washington Nationals 9
Game 2 Odds
Cleveland Guardians – 120
Washington Nationals 9.5
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Monday, May 5, 2025
