MLB Game Preview: Atlanta Braves (24-24) vs. Washington Nationals (22-27)

May 22, 2025

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Game Details

Team Overview

Atlanta Braves (24-24, 9-17 Away)
The Braves have been inconsistent this season, hovering around .500 while struggling on the road. They dropped the series opener to Washington 5-3 but have won three of five against the Nationals this season. Their offense has been solid, ranking 10th in MLB in runs scored, but their bullpen has been a weak spot, ranking 24th in fWAR.

Washington Nationals (22-27, 11-12 Home)
The Nationals have been on a roll, winning four straight games and five of their last six. Their bullpen has been a surprising strength, delivering 3 2/3 innings of one-hit relief in their last win. However, their pitching staff ranks 27th in ERA (5.24), meaning they’ll need their offense to step up again.

Key Matchups

Starting Pitchers:
- Braves: AJ Smith-Shawver (RHP) – 3-2, 2.33 ERA, 1.24 WHIP, 40 K. He has dominated the Nationals, posting a 0.00 ERA in two starts against them.
- Nationals: Trevor Williams (RHP) – 2-5, 5.91 ERA, 1.53 WHIP, 38 K. He struggled in his last outing against Atlanta, lasting only 4 1/3 innings.
Top Hitters:
- Braves: Marcell Ozuna (.266, 8 HR, 22 RBI), Matt Olson (.250, 10 HR, 26 RBI), Austin Riley (.278, 8 HR, 28 RBI).
- Nationals: James Wood (.280, 12 HR, 30 RBI), C.J. Abrams (.267, 8 HR, 18 RBI), Dylan Crews (7 HR, clutch hitting).
Bullpen Battle:

The Braves’ bullpen has struggled, ranking 24th in fWAR.
The Nationals’ bullpen has been a bright spot, shutting down Atlanta in the last game.

X-Factors

Braves’ Road Woes: Atlanta has struggled away from home, going 9-17 on the road.
Nationals’ Momentum: Washington has won four straight, giving them confidence heading into this matchup.
Smith-Shawver’s Dominance: The Braves’ young pitcher has been lights-out against Washington, which could be the deciding factor.

Game Odds

Atlanta Braves – 155

Washington Nationals 8.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Wednesday, May 21, 2025