Kansas City Royals vs. Washington Nationals: Preview, Predictions and Picks for September 26, 2024

Published on:
Sep 26, 2024 6:11 AM
The Washington Nationals look to snap their three-game losing streak as they host the Kansas City Royals at Nationals Park on Thursday, September 26, 2024, at 1:05 PM. The Royals currently lead the series 2-0, and the Nationals will need to turn things around to avoid a sweep. With a home record of 36-41, the Nationals will hope to capitalize on home-field advantage to get back on track.
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Optimal Staff
Kansas City Royals
Washington Nationals

Royals vs Nationals starting pitchers

  • Patrick Corbin for Washington Nationals
  • Michael Wacha for Kansas City Royals

Royals vs Nationals statistics

Stat Royals Nationals
Hits 1324 (10th) 1263 (21st)
Batting Average .250 (7th) .241 (19th)
Runs Batted In 700 (10th) 600 (26th)
Runs 723 (13th) 638 (25th)
Home Runs 167 (21st) 130 (29th)
Walks 417 (28th) 447 (25th)
Stolen Bases 131 (11th) 217 (1st)
Strikeouts 1121 (29th) 1182 (26th)
Pitches 22245 (26th) 22167 (27th)

Washington Nationals recent games

Game Date Opponent Result Score
9/25/24 vs Kansas City Royals L 3-0
9/24/24 vs Kansas City Royals L 1-0 F/10
9/22/24 @ Chicago Cubs L 5-0
9/21/24 @ Chicago Cubs W 5-1
9/20/24 @ Chicago Cubs L 3-1

Kansas City Royals recent games

Game Date Opponent Result Score
9/25/24 @ Washington Nationals W 3-0
9/24/24 @ Washington Nationals W 1-0 F/10
9/22/24 vs San Francisco Giants L 2-0
9/21/24 vs San Francisco Giants L 9-0
9/20/24 vs San Francisco Giants L 2-1

Royals vs Nationals predictions

Heading into the game against the Washington Nationals, eyes are definitely on Bobby Witt Jr. of the Kansas City Royals. With his current batting average sitting pretty at .333 and having knocked 32 homers this season, it's a safe bet to expect some solid at-bats from Witt in the upcoming game. Alongside him, Salvador Perez, another constant source of runs with his 24 home runs, is expected to make significant contributions. Given Michael Wacha's impressive skill set, evidenced by his 3.28 ERA and a WHIP standing at 1.19, pitching from the Royals should pose a tough challenge for the Nationals’ lineup.

On the flip side, the Washington Nationals have some weapons up their sleeves as well. Luis Garcia Jr., leading with a batting average of .278 and 65 RBIs, will be crucial in sparking the Nationals' offense. There's also a buzz around Joey Gallo, who, despite a lower batting average, has proved he can change the game with his power, as seen by his 20 home runs. However, much will depend on Patrick Corbin's control on the mound. With an ERA of 5.58 and a WHIP of 1.51, it’s undeniable that he’s had a rocky season, but turning things around in a key game like this could be just what he needs to regain some confidence.

Considering the form and statistics, the Royals seem to have a slight edge, primarily due to their stronger pitching and the consistent offensive threats posed by players like Witt Jr. and Perez. The Nationals have the ability to surprise, particularly if their sluggers fire on all cylinders, but the Royals’ overall balance and depth might just be too much for the Nationals to handle in this encounter. Thus, it looks likely that Kansas City will take home the win, adding another positive note to their already impressive season.

Washington Nationals injuries

  • Andres Chaparro (3B): paternity
  • Alex Call (RF): 10-Day-IL
  • Joan Adon (RP): 60-Day-IL
  • Cade Cavalli (SP): 60-Day-IL
  • Josiah Gray (SP): 60-Day-IL

Kansas City Royals injuries

  • Will Smith (RP): 15-Day-IL
  • Josh Taylor (RP): 60-Day-IL
  • Chris Stratton (RP): 15-Day-IL
  • Michael Lorenzen (SP): Day-To-Day
  • James McArthur (RP): 15-Day-IL

Royals vs Nationals game info

Venue Nationals Park
Location Washington, District of Columbia
First pitch Thu 1:05 PM
Temperature 79°
Chance of Rain 47%

Kansas City Royals vs. Washington Nationals Betting Odds

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