The New York Mets and Washington Nationals are set to face off in the second game of their four-game series on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at Nationals Park in Washington, D.C. First pitch is scheduled for 4:05 PM ET, and the game will be broadcast on MASN and SNY. The Nationals took the series opener with a thrilling 5-4 victory, and the Mets will look to bounce back and even the series.
Team Overview:
New York Mets (18-8, 2nd in NL East):
The Mets have been one of the strongest teams in the league this season, boasting the best team ERA in MLB at 2.45. However, they are currently on a three-game road losing streak, including their narrow loss in Game 1. The Mets’ offense has been led by Pete Alonso, who is hitting .333 with six home runs and 26 RBIs, and Francisco Lindor, who has been red-hot over the last 10 games with four home runs and eight RBIs. Despite their recent struggles on the road, the Mets remain a formidable opponent with a balanced lineup and strong pitching staff.
Washington Nationals (12-14, 4th in NL East):
The Nationals have been inconsistent this season but have shown resilience, particularly at home, where they hold an 8-5 record. In Game 1, the Nationals pulled off a rare triple play and scored two runs in the bottom of the ninth inning to secure the win. James Wood and Dylan Crews have been standout performers, with Wood leading the team in extra-base hits and Crews hitting .351 over his last 10 games. The Nationals will look to build on their momentum and take advantage of their home-field edge.
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New York Mets:
- Kodai Senga (3-1, 0.79 ERA): Senga has been dominant this season, allowing just two earned runs in 22 2/3 innings pitched. He is coming off a stellar outing against the St. Louis Cardinals, where he tossed 5 2/3 scoreless innings. Senga’s ability to keep hitters off balance with his splitter will be key against the Nationals’ lineup.
Washington Nationals:
- Jake Irvin (2-0, 3.68 ERA): Irvin has been solid in his first few starts, with 19 strikeouts in 22 innings pitched. He is coming off a strong performance against the Colorado Rockies, where he struck out nine batters over six innings. Irvin will need to maintain his command and limit walks to keep the Mets’ potent lineup in check.
Key Players to Watch:
New York Mets:
- Pete Alonso: Alonso leads the team in RBIs and will look to provide the offensive spark the Mets need.
- Francisco Lindor: Lindor has been in excellent form, hitting .381 over his last 10 games.
- Kodai Senga: The right-hander’s ability to dominate on the mound will be crucial for the Mets’ chances.
Washington Nationals:
- James Wood: Wood’s power and ability to drive in runs make him a key player for the Nationals.
- Dylan Crews: The rookie outfielder has been a consistent contributor at the plate.
- Jake Irvin: Irvin’s ability to navigate the Mets’ lineup will be a deciding factor in the game.
Matchup Analysis:
Offense vs. Pitching:
The Mets’ balanced offense will test Irvin, who has shown promise but lacks experience against a lineup of this caliber. Conversely, the Nationals will need to find ways to generate offense against Senga, who has been nearly unhittable this season.
Momentum:
The Nationals enter this game with confidence after their dramatic win in Game 1, while the Mets will aim to regroup and end their road losing streak.
Defense and Bullpen:
Both teams have solid defensive units, but the Nationals’ bullpen was the difference-maker in Game 1. The Mets will need their relievers to step up and provide support for Senga.
Game Odds
New York Mets – 185
Washington Nationals 9.5
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, April 25, 2025
