MLB Game Preview: Washington Nationals (17-24) vs. Atlanta Braves (19-21)

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The Washington Nationals and Atlanta Braves are set to face off in the first game of their four-game series at Truist Park in Atlanta, Georgia. First pitch is scheduled for 7:15 PM ET.

Team Overview & Recent Form

Washington Nationals (17-24, 5th in NL East)

  • Last Five Games: Loss, Loss, Loss, Loss, Loss
  • Road Record: 7-12
  • Batting Average: .240 (16th in MLB)
  • Key Players:
  • James Wood – 10 home runs, 24 RBIs, batting .283.
  • C.J. Abrams – Seven doubles, two triples, four home runs, eight stolen bases.
  • Luis García – Five doubles, three home runs, six stolen bases.

Atlanta Braves (19-21, 3rd in NL East)

  • Last Five Games: Loss, Win, Loss, Win, Loss
  • Home Record: 10-10
  • Batting Average: .255 (10th in MLB)
  • Key Players:
  • Matt Olson – Seven home runs, 29 walks, batting .221.
  • Marcell Ozuna – Five home runs, 34 walks, batting .268.
  • Austin Riley – Eight home runs, 25 RBIs, batting .247.

Pitching Matchup

  • Nationals: Jake Irvin (RHP, 2-1, 3.94 ERA) – Has been solid, averaging 7.8 strikeouts per nine innings.
  • Braves: Grant Holmes (RHP, 2-3, 4.58 ERA) – Looking for his third win of the season, averaging 9.2 strikeouts per nine innings.

Game Analysis & Predictions

  • Nationals’ Strategy: Washington needs Irvin to deliver a strong outing while their offense capitalizes on Holmes’ inconsistencies.
  • Braves’ Strategy: Atlanta has been dominant at home, and their power-hitting lineup matches up well against right-handed pitching.

Game Odds

Washington Nationals   8.5

Atlanta Braves                  – 192

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Sunday, May 11, 2025