Washington Nationals vs
Arizona DiamondbacksPredictions & Preview

Close Matchup Expected as Nationals Face Diamondbacks in National League Showdown

On Saturday, May 31, a National League matchup between the Washington Nationals and the Arizona Diamondbacks is set to take place in Arizona. The Nationals, with an overall record of 27-30, have won five of their last eight games, including a close victory over the Diamondbacks on Friday night. Arizona, also standing at 27-30, has struggled recently, losing eight of their last nine games. Brandon Pfaadt will start on the mound for the Diamondbacks, while Michael Soroka will start for the Nationals. The first pitch is scheduled for 10:10 P.M. EST. Despite Arizona being the betting favorite with a -190 line, this matchup could be closely contested.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Nationals +170 | Diamondbacks -190
• Spread: Nationals +1.5 (-122) | Diamondbacks -1.5 (+105)
• Total: Over/Under 9 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Arizona will win straight-up is 66%.

Washington vs Arizona Stats

Washington Nationals

The Washington Nationals have a 27-30 overall record this season, placing them in third in the National League East division, nine games behind the Phillies. They have a 14-16 road record and have won five of their last eight games. In their recent 9-7 victory over Arizona, Josh Bell and James Wood hit home runs and Robert Hassell III and Bell both had three RBIs. Michael Soroka will start in the upcoming game with a 1-3 record and a 5.61 ERA in five starts this season. The Nationals rank 19th in hitting with a .242 average, 13th in runs scored, and 19th in hits. They have a power ranking of 27 and are ranked 11th in offense and 25th in defense, with a 26-30 record this season.

Arizona Diamondbacks Analysis

The Arizona Diamondbacks currently have a 27-30 record and are in fourth place in the National League West division. They are eight games back of the Dodgers for first place. The team has struggled recently, losing eight of their last nine games. In their last game against Washington, they lost 9-7 with Pavin Smith and Geraldo Perdomo leading in RBIs. Pitcher Merrill Kelly allowed four runs in 5.0 innings. Brandon Pfaadt will start the next game with a 7-3 record and a 3.90 ERA. The Diamondbacks have a .256 batting average this season, ranking sixth in the league. They have been performing well this month and have a .268 batting average in May. Overall, they have a power ranking of 16 and rank fifth in offense, scoring an average of 4.98 runs per game. Against Washington, they have a .270 batting average in four games.

Brandon Pfaadt's Stellar Pitching Sets Arizona Up for Success Against Nationals

The key factor in determining the outcome of this game is likely to be Brandon Pfaadt's pitching performance for Arizona. Pfaadt has maintained an impressive 1.78 ERA at home this season, contributing significantly to the Diamondbacks' 4-1 record when he pitches at their ballpark. Conversely, the Nationals may struggle to keep pace with Arizona's offense, particularly with Michael Soroka starting on the mound. Soroka has struggled on the road, evidenced by his 5.52 ERA, and the Nationals have a 1-4 record in games he has started. Considering these factors, it is advisable to consider selecting Arizona to cover in this matchup.

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