The Washington Nationals and Cincinnati Reds are set to face off in the first game of a three-game series on May 2, 2025, at Great American Ball Park in Cincinnati, Ohio. First pitch is scheduled for 6:10 p.m. ET, with the game broadcast live on MASN2 and FDSOH.
Starting Pitchers
Washington Nationals – Mitchell Parker (3-1, 3.19 ERA)
Parker has been a solid presence in Washington’s rotation, posting a 3.19 ERA across five starts in April. He will be facing Cincinnati for the first time this season.
Cincinnati Reds – Hunter Greene (3-2, 2.70 ERA)
Greene has been dominant, ranking fifth in WHIP (.845) and 11th in strikeouts per nine innings (10.6 K/9). He has recorded four quality starts this season and is averaging six innings per appearance.
Team Form and Key Players
Washington Nationals
Washington has struggled on the road, holding a 5-11 away record. Their offense ranks 18th in MLB with 246 total hits and 15th in home runs (33).
Key Players:
- Luis García – Five doubles and two home runs this season.
- Nathaniel Lowe – Six hits in his last 40 at-bats, including three home runs.
Cincinnati Reds
Cincinnati has been strong at home, going 8-8 at Great American Ball Park. Their offense ranks 10th in batting average (.249) and 11th in home runs (35).
Key Players:
- Elly De La Cruz – Leads the Reds with five home runs and 24 RBIs.
- Gavin Lux – Batting .317, providing consistency at the plate.
- TJ Friedl – Hitting .274 with six doubles and a home run.
Key Matchups and Strategies
- Greene vs. Nationals’ Offense – Greene has held opponents to a .185 batting average, making it tough for Washington’s lineup to generate runs.
- Parker vs. Reds’ Power Hitters – Cincinnati’s lineup has been effective at slugging, ranking 14th in MLB in slugging percentage (.395).
- Bullpen Battle – Both teams have had inconsistent relief pitching, making late-game execution crucial.
- Home vs. Away Performance – Cincinnati has been better at home, while Washington has struggled on the road.
Game Odds
Washington Nationals 9
Cincinnati Reds – 185
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Thursday, May 1, 2025
