The Cardinals (19-19) have been rolling to the tune of a five-game win streak, including a recent series sweep of the Pirates—not that impressive, but sort of! Meanwhile, the Nationals (17-21) are struggling to stay consistent and need a win to turn their season around. They face off tonight in the nation’s capitol. Below, I’ve got my preview, prediction, and best bet for this Friday night baseball game between the Nationals and the Cardinals.
Here’s how I’ll play it. I’ll be pumping out these predictions for individual games all season, with plenty of coverage here on DraftKings Network. Follow my handle @dansby_edits for more betting plays.
Nationals vs. Cardinals prediction, preview
Mitchell Parker (3-2, 3.48 ERA) takes the mound for Washington, looking to bounce back after a rough outing. Erick Fedde (2-3, 4.78 ERA) takes the hill for St. Louis, bringing his own challenges, but he’s been more reliable overall.
The Cardinals’ offense has been legit as all get-out, with Brendan Donovan leading the charge, hitting .331 with a .386 OBP and a .468 SLG. Their team’s overall .260 batting average ranks in the top half of the league, and they’ve produced 4.6 runs per game. Despite their road struggles, their offense has been potent enough to carry them. In contrast, Washington’s offense has struggled with a .242 batting average and .314 OBP, both ranking below the league average. Their inconsistency at the plate, combined with a 5.37 team ERA (27th in MLB), leaves them vulnerable. While they’ve posted an average of 5 runs per game, their inability to string together consistent at-bats leaves them relying too heavily on the long ball and timely hits.
Key players for the Nationals like James Wood and C.J. Abrams provide a flicker of hope. Wood has hit .281 with a .382 OBP and .555 SLG, placing him among the league leaders in slugging. Abrams has also been impressive, batting .286 with a .500 SLG, showing power and plate discipline as he works to lead the charge for Washington’s lineup. Still, they’ll need consistent production from the middle of the order, where players like Nathaniel Lowe and Keibert Ruiz haven’t fully delivered on their potential.
Fedde’s struggles are evident, with a 1.46 WHIP and a 4.78 ERA, but he’s a veteran capable of grinding through tough situations. Parker, while solid in his first five starts, has struggled recently, allowing 11 earned runs in his last two starts. However, his 3.48 ERA and 1.21 WHIP show his potential to control games. Opponents are hitting just .201 against him, indicating that Parker’s stuff can be effective when he’s on.
Cardinals vs. Nationals pick, best bet
The Cards have won six of their last nine against Washington, and their recent offensive surge is reflected in their .401 slugging percentage and .334 OBP. Meanwhile, the Nationals have struggled at home, with a 10-9 record at Nationals Park. Their .242 batting average makes them too reliant on their pitching, which has been a consistent issue.
With Fedde’s ability to limit damage when he’s supported and Parker’s recent struggles, I expect the Cardinals to continue their winning streak as slight dogs, here. St. Louis has been performing better in almost every offensive category, and they’re starting to click. Though Parker could give Washington a fighting chance, the Cards’ offense and Fedde’s potential will be enough to get the job done.
Oh—betting trends: Cards have covered the run line in eight of their last 10 road games against NL teams with a losing record. The Nationals, on the other hand, have struggled as favorites, especially against teams like the Cardinals, and have failed to cover in six of their last seven home games as favorites following a loss.
The streak bangs on.
Best bet: Cardinals (-104) at Nationals
Fedde Friday—tail it with me in the DKN Betting Group here!
