Washington Nationals vs
Chicago CubsPredictions & Preview

Nationals' Trevor Williams to Start Crucial Game Against Cubs After Playoff Elimination

The Chicago Cubs are hosting the Washington Nationals in game two of their four-game series. The Cubs, with a record of 78-85, are still holding onto hopes of making the playoffs, though they are currently seven games back of a wild card spot with only nine games left in the season. The Nationals, at 68-85, have already been eliminated from playoff contention. The game is set to start at 2:20 P.M. EST, with Trevor Williams starting for the Nationals and Jameson Taillon for the Cubs. The Cubs are the betting favorite with the current line at Chicago -157, opening at -164.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Nationals +143 | Cubs -157
• Spread: Nationals +1.5 (-135) | Cubs -1.5 (+120)
• Total: Over/Under 9.5 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Chicago will win straight-up is 61%.

Washington vs Chicago Stats

Washington Nationals

The Washington Nationals are currently 68-85 overall this season and have been eliminated from playoff contention. They have lost four straight games and five of their last eight. In their most recent game against the Cubs, they were defeated 7-6 with Joey Gallo hitting a three-run homer. Trevor Williams will start the next game for the Nationals, with a 5-0 record and an ERA of 2.22. Despite their struggles, Washington ranks 15th in hitting with a .243 average and has hit the second fewest home runs this season. They are currently ranked 29th in power rankings, with a 23rd rank in offense and 25th in defense.

Chicago Cubs Analysis

The Chicago Cubs are currently 78-75 overall this season and are still in contention for a playoff spot, although their chances are slim. They are currently 10 games back of the Brewers and seven games back of the Diamondbacks for the final wild card spot. In their last game, they defeated the Nationals 7-6, with strong performances from Cody Bellinger and Seiya Suzuki. Jameson Taillon will start the next game for the Cubs, with a record of 10-8 and an ERA of 3.54. The Cubs have a power ranking of 1 and rank 12th for offense and 11th for defense. They are hitting .244 as a team and have scored the 12th most runs this season. Despite recent struggles, the Cubs have shown improvement in September.

Nationals' Trevor Williams to Start Crucial Game Against Cubs After Playoff Elimination

The Washington Nationals have been eliminated from the playoffs, however they will have their best pitcher, Trevor Williams, starting the upcoming game, despite coming off an injury. Prior to his injury, the Nationals had a 9-2 record when Williams started. Meanwhile, the Chicago Cubs have shown promise recently, but their playoff hopes are on the line, which may lead to added pressure during the game. With Williams on the mound, I anticipate that the Nationals have a good chance of surpassing the Cubs. Additionally, the Cubs have been struggling with a .230 batting average during home games, which could hinder their performance. Therefore, I recommend considering the Nationals to cover in the upcoming matchup.

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