Washington Nationals vs. Chicago Cubs: Preview, Predictions and Picks for September 21, 2024

Published on:
Sep 21, 2024 6:10 AM
The Washington Nationals aim to snap their current skid as they face off against the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field on Saturday, September 21, 2024, at 2:20 PM. The Cubs, who lead the series 2-0 and 5-0 in the regular season, look to extend their dominance over the Nationals. Can the Nationals break their losing streak and turn the tide against their NL Central foes?
Written by
Optimal Staff
Washington Nationals
Chicago Cubs

Nationals vs Cubs starting pitchers

  • Kyle Hendricks for Chicago Cubs
  • MacKenzie Gore for Washington Nationals

Nationals vs Cubs statistics

Stat Nationals Cubs
Hits 1236 (19th) 1262 (Tied-14th)
Batting Average .242 (16th) .243 (14th)
Runs Batted In 595 (26th) 668 (13th)
Runs 633 (23rd) 708 (12th)
Home Runs 129 (29th) 164 (19th)
Walks 437 (25th) 516 (6th)
Stolen Bases 215 (1st) 139 (7th)
Strikeouts 1152 (26th) 1309 (16th)
Pitches 21602 (27th) 22824 (9th)

Chicago Cubs recent games

Game Date Opponent Result Score
9/20/24 vs Washington Nationals W 3-1
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

Washington Nationals recent games

Game Date Opponent Result Score
9/20/24 @ Chicago Cubs L 3-1
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

Nationals vs Cubs predictions

As the Washington Nationals gear up to face the Chicago Cubs, there are a few players who could really make a difference in turning things around. CJ Abrams has been showing promising signs and could be key in this matchup, potentially snagging a few hits and maybe even adding to his home run tally. On the pitching side, MacKenzie Gore needs to leverage his strikeout ability to keep the Cubs' hitters at bay. Despite a challenging season, his ERA suggests that he has the capability to deliver a solid game. Keep an eye on Luis Garcia as well; if he's healthy enough to play, he could contribute significantly at the plate given his track record this season.

Flipping over to the Chicago Cubs, their lineup has some serious potential to impact the game's outcome. Ian Happ, a reliable power hitter, could definitely be someone to watch, especially given his knack for driving in runs. Also, Seiya Suzuki has been consistent with the bat, and his ability to get on base could set the stage for scoring opportunities. Pitcher Kyle Hendricks, despite struggling with a higher ERA this season, will be crucial in limiting the Nationals' offense. His experience could play a pivotal role in controlling the pace and momentum of the game.

Considering both teams' current form and player performances, the Chicago Cubs might have a slight edge in this one, especially with the home-field advantage at Wrigley Field. The Nationals have been trying to find their rhythm, but the Cubs’ slightly better overall performance and strategic advantages might just tip the scales in their favor. However, as every baseball fan knows, the game's beauty lies in its unpredictability. So, will the Cubs extend their winning ways, or will the Nationals surprise us all? It's all to play for, and certainly, it’ll be an exciting game to watch.

Chicago Cubs injuries

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

Washington Nationals injuries

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

Nationals vs Cubs game info

Venue Wrigley Field
Location Chicago, Illinois
First pitch Sat 2:20 PM
Temperature 81°
Chance of Rain 0%

Washington Nationals vs. Chicago Cubs Betting Odds

Real-time odds powered by Optimal

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