Washington Nationals vs. Chicago Cubs: Preview, Predictions and Picks for September 20, 2024

Published on:
Sep 20, 2024 6:10 AM
The Washington Nationals, fresh off a strong performance from C.J. Abrams, who notched four hits in their previous outing, head to Wrigley Field to take on the Chicago Cubs on Friday, September 20, 2024, at 2:20 PM. The Cubs currently lead the series 1-0 and hold a 4-0 advantage in their regular season matchups. Abrams and the Nationals will look to even the score against the Cubs, who are 40-35 at home this season.
Written by
Optimal Staff
Washington Nationals
Chicago Cubs

Nationals vs Cubs starting pitchers

  • Jameson Taillon for Chicago Cubs
  • Trevor Williams for Washington Nationals

Nationals vs Cubs statistics

Stat Nationals Cubs
Hits 1231 (19th) 1256 (14th)
Batting Average .243 (15th) .244 (14th)
Runs Batted In 594 (Tied-24th) 665 (12th)
Runs 632 (23rd) 705 (12th)
Home Runs 128 (29th) 163 (Tied-19th)
Walks 434 (25th) 514 (6th)
Stolen Bases 215 (1st) 138 (6th)
Strikeouts 1145 (27th) 1302 (15th)
Pitches 21479 (27th) 22702 (9th)

Chicago Cubs recent games

Game Date Opponent Result Score
9/19/24 vs Washington Nationals W 7-6
9/18/24 vs Oakland Athletics L 5-3
9/17/24 vs Oakland Athletics L 4-3
9/16/24 vs Oakland Athletics W 9-2
9/15/24 @ Colorado Rockies W 6-2

Washington Nationals recent games

Game Date Opponent Result Score
9/19/24 @ Chicago Cubs L 7-6
9/18/24 @ New York Mets L 10-0
9/17/24 @ New York Mets L 10-1
9/16/24 @ New York Mets L 2-1 F/10
9/15/24 vs Miami Marlins W 4-3

Nationals vs Cubs predictions

So, focusing on the Washington Nationals, keep an eye on CJ Abrams who's coming off a stunning 4-hit game. After that performance, expectations are high for him. His agility and batting technique might just find the weak spots in the Cubs' defense, considering his projected stats show a promising combination of hits and stolen bases. While the Nationals' pitcher, Trevor Williams, boasts an excellent ERA of 2.22 this season, he could be a key player if he maintains his form, nullifying some of the Cubs' heavy hitters.

Switching over to the Chicago Cubs, their lineup has some solid players that could make a difference. Ian Happ, their left fielder, has knocked out 25 homers this year and with his projected hitting stats, there's a good chance he could add to that tally against the Nationals. Additionally, Seiya Suzuki also shows potential for making significant contributions with his bat, potentially driving in crucial runs. Their starting pitcher, Jameson Taillon, with a respectable ERA of 3.54 and a higher strikeout count, might just have the edge over the Nationals' batting lineup.

Predicting a winner in this matchup is tough, but leaning slightly towards the Chicago Cubs seems reasonable. Their slightly better overall team performance and strong home record at Wrigley Field could give them the upper hand in this series. The Nationals are showing promise, particularly with emerging talents like Abrams, but the Cubs' experience and strength in-depth, showcased by Happ and Suzuki among others, might just tip this game in their favor.

Chicago Cubs injuries

  • Hayden Wesneski (RP): 15-Day-IL
  • Colten Brewer (RP): 60-Day-IL
  • Nick Madrigal (3B): 60-Day-IL
  • Julian Merryweather (RP): 15-Day-IL
  • Brennen Davis (CF): 60-Day-IL

Washington Nationals injuries

  • Jacob Young (CF): Day-To-Day
  • Luis Garcia Jr. (2B): Day-To-Day
  • Trevor Williams (SP): 60-Day-IL
  • Joan Adon (RP): 15-Day-IL
  • Alex Call (RF): 10-Day-IL

Nationals vs Cubs game info

Venue Wrigley Field
Location Chicago, Illinois
First pitch Fri 2:20 PM
Temperature 82°
Chance of Rain 14%

Washington Nationals vs. Chicago Cubs Betting Odds

Real-time odds powered by Optimal

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