The Chicago Cubs (38-22) have been on a dominant run, claiming eight of their last 10 games, including a series-opening 8-3 victory over the Washington Nationals (28-32). With momentum firmly on their side, they’ll look to extend their advantage in this second game of the series against a Nationals team with a rough 5.03 ERA. Below, I’ve got my preview, prediction, and best bet for this Wednesday night baseball game between the Nationals and the Cubs.
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. Cubs prediction, preview
The Cubs have been clicking across the board, ranking second in MLB for runs per game (5.8) and slugging percentage (.447). Meanwhile, Washington’s pitching staff has struggled, posting a 5.02 team ERA and allowing 5.25 runs per nine innings, 26th in the league. It’s clear: Chicago’s offense is primed to take full advantage of the Nationals’ vulnerabilities.
Matthew Boyd (5-2, 3.08 ERA) takes the mound for the Cubs, and he’s been sharp all season, consistently keeping opponents at bay. Boyd has been effective at limiting hard contact and limiting home runs, allowing just seven in 61.1 innings. His FIP of 3.88 reinforces his reliability. Against a Nationals lineup batting .244, Boyd’s ability to generate strikeouts and induce weak contact makes him an ideal matchup for this game. With Boyd on the hill, the Cubs’ chances improve even further.
MacKenzie Gore (2-5, 3.16 ERA) is no slouch, ranking among the league leaders in strikeouts (101 in 68.1 innings). His performance has been stellar in recent starts, boasting a 2.64 ERA at home. However, his struggles with command (1.2 WHIP) and a tendency to give up long balls, combined with the Cubs’ power-laden lineup, put him in a tough spot. Gore’s career 5.24 ERA against Chicago doesn’t inspire much confidence either. Boyd’s consistency paired with Chicago’s offensive depth presents a significant advantage in this matchup.
Pete Crow-Armstrong has been scorching, adding to his 15 home runs and 51 RBIs. He’s slashing .280 with a .870 OPS and is a constant threat on the basepaths. Kyle Tucker’s absence (finger) is concerning, but the Cubs’ depth—with Seiya Suzuki, Nico Hoerner, and a red-hot Crow-Armstrong—ensures that their offense won’t miss a beat. Chicago is a top-tier team for a reason, and despite Tucker’s day-to-day status, their collective talent provides them with an edge over Washington’s pitching staff.
But the best news for the Northsiders? Michael Busch is on fire. In Chicago’s 8-3 win over the Nationals, he went 3-for-4, including a home run, three RBIs, and two runs. Busch is batting .417 with a .833 slugging percentage over his last six games, showing serious power and consistency. With Kyle Tucker day-to-day, Busch’s hot bat becomes even more crucial to the Cubs’ offensive depth. His streak adds another layer of potency to their already dynamic lineup.
The Nationals’ lineup, led by James Wood (16 home runs) and C.J. Abrams, has been solid, but it hasn’t been enough to lift them consistently. Despite some flashes of power, Washington has a 26th-ranked bullpen and struggles to manage games when behind. With Boyd able to neutralize their most dangerous hitters and keep the game under control, the Cubs’ consistent offense will eventually overwhelm the Nationals’ pitching woes.
Cubs vs. Nationals pick, best bet
When we factor in Chicago’s 70% win rate as favorites and their 9-1 record against Washington in their last 10 matchups, this game shapes up as a clear Cubs victory. Washington has shown resilience at times, but their inconsistency—especially on the mound—stands out as the decisive factor in this game. Boyd’s ability to control the tempo and Chicago’s relentless offense will be too much for the Nationals to handle.
The Cubs are the pick here. They’ve dominated Washington historically, and their balanced attack, coupled with Boyd’s strong form, gives them a clear edge. Take Chicago at -140 to extend their dominance and notch another win. With the Cubs’ potent offense and reliable pitching, a comfortable victory is in the cards. Fly the W.
Best bet: Cubs (-140) at Nationals
Cubs are 9-1 in their last 10 against the Nats—tail it with me in the DKN Betting Group here!
