Philadelphia Phillies vs
Washington NationalsPredictions & Preview

Phillies vs Nationals Season Opener: Can the Nationals Upset the Betting Favorite Phillies?

The MLB season is kicking off with the Philadelphia Phillies facing the Washington Nationals in their season opener. The Phillies, who went 9-4 against the Nationals last season, have Zack Wheeler on the mound while the Nationals will pitch MacKenzie Gore. Despite Philadelphia being the betting favorite with -170 odds, can the Nationals pull off a surprise home win? Stay tuned for the Phillies vs. Nationals prediction.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Phillies -170 | Nationals +149
• Spread: Phillies -1.5 (+105) | Nationals +1.5 (-122)
• Total: Over/Under 7 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Philadelphia will win straight-up is 63%.

Philadelphia vs Washington Stats

Philadelphia Phillies

The Philadelphia Phillies had a successful season last year, winning the NL Central but ultimately losing in the NLDS to the Mets. They have a strong veteran core and are once again considered one of the better teams in the division, along with the Mets and Braves. The team has made minimal changes to their roster, adding Jordan Romano from the Blue Jays. Ace pitcher Zack Wheeler is expected to have another impressive season after posting great numbers last year. The Phillies offense is solid, with players like Nick Castellanos and Alec Bohm contributing consistently. Last season, the team scored an average of 4.80 runs per game and had a pitching staff with a 3.89 ERA. Philadelphia is currently 0-0 this season and is ranked 5th in offense and 12th in defense.

Washington Nationals Analysis

The Washington Nationals have been rebuilding for several seasons and are aiming to be within reach of a wildcard spot this season. They have added veterans like Nate Lowe and Josh Bell to help the younger core. Mackenzie Gore, a promising pitcher, will be on the mound and has shown potential to be an ace. The team also has a strong bullpen, including Kyle Finnegan. CJ Abrams, a rising star shortstop, had a solid season last year and has performed well against certain opponents. The Nationals have a young roster with promising players like Jacob Young and Dylan Crews, and are hoping for an improved season from catcher Keibert Ruiz. Last season, the team ranked 25th in offense, scoring an average of 4.07 runs per game, and 23rd in pitching, with a 4.30 ERA. Their current power ranking is 27, with a 0-0 record. In their last three matchups, Philadelphia has won 2 out of 3 games against Washington.

Philadelphia Phillies Primed for Success with Zack Wheeler Leading Pitching Rotation

The Philadelphia Phillies are determined to improve upon last year's early postseason exit by fielding a competitive team this season. Veteran ace Zack Wheeler, who boasted an impressive 0.96 WHIP last season, will be leading the pitching rotation. Wheeler's dominant performance against the Nationals last season, with only five earned runs in 19 innings, resulted in a notable 2.29 ERA. On the other hand, Nationals pitcher Mackenzie Gore has struggled against the Phillies, with a 4.96 ERA and 1.41 WHIP in 45.1 innings. The Nationals, with a young and unproven core, experienced 91 losses last season, indicating potential challenges ahead as they work to establish themselves. Notably, the Phillies have secured four of their last five wins against the Nationals by a margin of two or more runs.

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