It was the Mets (54-69) that came out on top last night, earning a 4-1 victory at home. It’s a crucial blow for the Nationals (60-64), barely staying alive in a crowded National League postseason race. If Washington has any plans at contention this season, evening up this series is crucial. Can New York earn a second straight win over a division rival?
The Mets are favorites (-135) over the Nationals; the over/under is set at eight runs. Below, I’ve laid out my preview, prediction, and best bet for Saturday’s showdown between Washington and New York on DraftKings Sportsbook.
Nationals vs. Mets pick, best bet today
- Both Teams to Score 2+ runs – 1st 5 Innings (+175): The Mets are beginning to turn things around on offense. That lines up perfectly for a Nationals bullpen day. On the other side, Manaea could get rocked by a Washington lineup that excels against left-handed pitching.
Nationals vs. Mets prediction, preview
The Nationals have hit a rough patch recently, losing five of 14 games this month. It’s no coincidence that the team’s slide has coincided with the loss of James Wood (oblique). The superstar outfielder has been on the injured list since August 4th. As of Saturday morning, it’s uncertain if he’ll return this weekend. In his absence, the league’s highest-scoring offense hasn’t been quite as effective. Over its last ten contests, Washington ranks sixth in baseball with 53 runs. That’s not a bad mark by any means, but it’s not at the level we’ve seen from the Nats all season. Fortunately, CJ Abrams () remains upright; the All-Star is more than capable of anchoring this offensie in Wood’s absence.
That’s the challenge awaiting Mets hurler Sean Manaea. While he isn’t a household name, the southpaw is certainly capable of holding his own this afternoon. Through 104.2 innings pitched, he’s notched a 4.13 ERA, 1.32 WHIP and 106 strikeouts (9.1 K/9). The 11th-year pro does a decent job when it comes to command (7.7 BB%). Outside of that, there’s nothing particularly impressive about his repertoire. When Manaea last faced the Nationals, he coughed up six earned runs in just 2.2 innings. Washington owns the league’s second-highest OPS against left-handed pitching (.785).
The Nats aren’t the only club taking the field without a big bat. Juan Soto (calf) is sidelined, leaving the Mets without their best hitter. With that being said, this club has done an admirable job at the plate over the past few weeks. Since the start of August, New York ranks tenth in the majors with 59 runs scored. Key to the team’s recent success has been the infield; Bo Bichette (.877 OPS) and Francisco Lindor (.852 OPS) have been raking this month. It’s worth noting that the Amazins average 4.28 runs at home, compared to 4.08 on the road.
It’s looking like the Nationals will opt for an opener in this one. That’s not exactly ideal; Washington has the fourth-highest bullpen ERA in baseball (4.91). To kick things off will be Brad Lord, making his 30th appearance of the season. So far, so good; he’s delivered a 3.79 ERA and 1.18 WHIP over 61.2 innings. Still, he’s on the hook for a middling 4.02 ERA over 15.2 career innings vs. New York. It’s unlikely the right-hander goes more than three innings maximum, so expect to see several different arms on the mound.
Best Bet: Both Teams to Score 2+ runs – 1st 5 Innings (+175)
Even if Lord is decent, an early trip to the bullpen could spell trouble for Washington tonight. Most of these arms are mediocre at best, and New York’s offense is beginning to heat up. In comparison, a middle of the road hurler such as Manaea could struggle against a Nats lineup that obliterates lefties. Don’t be shocked if these two lineups get going early on Saturday.
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