Washington Nationals vs
Los Angeles DodgersPredictions & Preview

Dodgers Aim to Sweep Padres as Nationals Gear Up for Weekend Showdown in LA

The Washington Nationals will face off against the Los Angeles Dodgers in the opening game of a weekend series in the City of Angels. Washington is coming off a 4-3 win against the Rockies to avoid a sweep, while the Dodgers are looking to complete a sweep of the Padres. The Nationals took two of three in the first series between these teams earlier this season. MacKenzie Gore will start for the Nationals, while Clayton Kershaw will start for the Dodgers. The Dodgers are the betting favorites in this matchup. This prediction was made prior to the conclusion of the Dodgers' game against the Padres.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Nationals +165 | Dodgers -189
• Spread: Nationals +1.5 (-125) | Dodgers -1.5 (+105)
• Total: Over/Under 8 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Los Angeles will win straight-up is 65%.

Washington vs Los Angeles Stats

Washington Nationals

The Washington Nationals ended an 11-game losing streak by winning in walk-off fashion against the Colorado Rockies. Despite their struggles, the Nationals finished the game with eight hits, with impressive performances from Luis Garcia Jr., James Wood, and CJ Abrams. Wood hit two home runs, including the game-winning shot in the 11th inning. Trevor Williams pitched well, but it was Ryan Loutos who earned the win. Looking ahead, MacKenzie Gore will start the next game for the Nationals, coming off a strong performance in his last three starts. The team currently has a power ranking of 24, with a solid offense but struggling defense, and a record of 31-44 for the season.

Los Angeles Dodgers Analysis

The Los Angeles Dodgers continue their winning streak, securing their fifth straight win and eighth in their last 10 games by defeating the San Diego Padres. With a record of 46-29, the Dodgers hold a 4.5-game lead over the Padres in the NL West race. Against San Diego, they finished with seven hits, with no player having more than one hit in the game. Will Smith hit a walk-off home run in the ninth inning to secure the victory. Clayton Kershaw will be starting in the upcoming game, with a record of 2-0 and a 3.25 ERA this season. The Dodgers have a strong offense, scoring an average of 5.53 runs per game, but their defense ranks 23rd, giving up an average of 4.54 runs per game. In their last three matchups, Washington went 1-2 against Los Angeles.

Nationals face tough challenge against red-hot Dodgers after struggling against Rockies

The Washington Nationals recently ended an 11-game losing streak, however, their performance of losing three out of four games against the struggling Rockies at home has raised concerns. The team now faces the challenge of traveling cross-country to play against the Los Angeles Dodgers, who are currently on a five-game winning streak. Washington's pitcher, Gore, has shown strong performances despite his win-loss record not reflecting this. On the other hand, Kershaw demonstrated his top form in the last game against the Giants, pitching seven scoreless innings. The Dodgers, known for their strong offense, have an impressive home record of 28-12 this season. Consequently, the Dodgers are favored to win against the Nationals in this upcoming matchup.

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