Washington Nationals vs
Cincinnati RedsPredictions & Preview

Reds Favored to Win Opening Game Against Nationals in Three-Game Series

In this article, we provide a prediction for the opening game of a three-game series between the Washington Nationals and Cincinnati Reds in Denver. The Nationals are coming off a loss to the Philadelphia Phillies, while the Reds are looking to bounce back from a series sweep by the St. Louis Cardinals. The starting pitchers will be Mitchell Parker for the Nationals and Hunter Greene for the Reds. Cincinnati is favored to win with an opening line of -160.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Nationals +143 | Reds -161
• Spread: Nationals +1.5 (-143) | Reds -1.5 (+125)
• Total: Over/Under 8.5 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Cincinnati will win straight-up is 62%.

Washington vs Cincinnati Stats

Washington Nationals

The Washington Nationals dropped their third straight game against the Philadelphia Phillies on Wednesday night, recording only five hits with no player having more than one. Their dismal road record of 4-11 has contributed to a season record of 13-18, placing them fourth in the NL East, eight games behind the Mets. Starting pitcher Jake Irvin took the loss, allowing six runs on eight hits over six innings of work. Mitchell Parker will take the mound in the upcoming game against the Reds, boasting a 3-1 record with a 2.65 ERA. Washington is ranked 17th in offense, scoring an average of 4.23 runs per game, and 27th in defense, allowing an average of 5.29 runs against per game. They currently hold a season record of 14-18 with a power ranking of 21.

Cincinnati Reds Analysis

The Cincinnati Reds were swept in a doubleheader at home by the Cardinals, being outscored 15-1 in both games. Despite the losses, the Reds entered Thursday with a 16-15 record and tied for second in the NL Central, two games behind the Cubs. In the first game, Cincinnati struggled at the plate with only three hits and no players getting more than one. They were zero for five with runners in scoring position and left six runners on base. Brady Singer took the loss, allowing one run on two hits over six innings. The Reds had a better offensive performance in the nightcap, finishing with seven hits. Santiago Espinal had three hits and an RBI while Elly De La Cruz added two hits and a run. Chase Petty was roughed up on the mound, giving up nine runs on seven hits over 2.1 innings. Hunter Greene is set to start the next game, with a 3-2 record and 2.70 ERA this season. Despite their recent losses, the Reds have a power ranking of 1 and are ranked #8 for offense, scoring an average of 4.97 runs per game. Their defense is ranked #10, giving up an average of 4.03 runs per game. Washington has lost their last three matchups against Cincinnati.

Reds vs. Nationals Thursday Matchup: Reds' Greene Expected to Stifle Washington's Lineup

Both teams will be playing on Thursday, with the Reds currently in a rain delay, potentially straining their bullpen. Washington, who has historically struggled on the road, will also be playing in the evening. Parker, who has had difficulty striking out batters this season, is coming off a game where he walked five batters without any strikeouts. Cincinnati has a strong lineup capable of scoring runs, and Greene has been effective in shutting down opponents. Therefore, it is recommended to favor the Reds in this matchup, with Greene expected to stifle Washington's lineup.

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