Game Details
- Matchup: Atlanta Braves (24-24) vs. Washington Nationals (22-27)
- Date: Wednesday, May 21, 2025
- Time: 6:45 PM ET
- Venue: Nationals Park, Washington, D.C.
- TV Broadcast: MLB Network
Team Overview & Recent Performance
Atlanta Braves
The Braves are looking to bounce back after a 5-3 loss to the Nationals in the series opener. Despite the defeat, Atlanta has been competitive, leading the season series 3-2. Matt Olson provided a spark in Tuesday’s game, hitting his 10th home run of the season, but the Braves’ offense went quiet after the second inning.
Atlanta has struggled on the road, posting a 9-17 away record, but they remain a dangerous team with a lineup featuring Marcell Ozuna, who has eight home runs and a .267 batting average.
Washington Nationals
The Nationals are riding a four-game winning streak, having won five of their last six games. Their bullpen was outstanding in Tuesday’s victory, delivering 3 2/3 innings of one-hit relief. Dylan Crews was the hero, breaking a 3-3 tie with a solo homer—his seventh of the season.
Washington has been better at home, holding an 11-12 record at Nationals Park. C.J. Abrams has been red-hot, going 16-for-43 with four home runs over his last 10 games.
Starting Pitchers
Atlanta Braves: AJ Smith-Shawver (3-2, 2.33 ERA)
Smith-Shawver has been dominant in May, allowing just one earned run in 19 2/3 innings. He pitched six scoreless innings against the Nationals on May 15, making him a key factor in this matchup.
Washington Nationals: Trevor Williams (2-5, 5.91 ERA)
Williams has struggled, allowing four or more runs in four consecutive starts. He’ll need to improve against a Braves lineup that can capitalize on mistakes.
Key Matchups
Matt Olson vs. Nationals’ Pitching
Olson has been Atlanta’s most consistent power hitter, and he’ll look to continue his success against Williams.
Dylan Crews vs. Braves’ Pitching
Crews has been heating up, and his clutch hitting could be a difference-maker.
Bullpen Battle
Washington’s bullpen has been excellent, while Atlanta’s relief pitching has been inconsistent. If the game is close late, the Nationals may have the edge.
Atlanta has the advantage with Smith-Shawver on the mound, but Washington’s hot streak and home-field edge could make this a close contest. Expect a tight, low-scoring battle, with the Braves having a slight edge.
Game Odds
Atlanta Braves – 162
Washington Nationals 8.5
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Tuesday, May 20, 2025
