Washington Nationals vs. Cleveland Guardians: Preview, Predictions and Picks for May 31, 2024

Published on:
May 31, 2024 6:12 AM
The Washington Nationals, holding a .500 road record, are set to take on the red-hot Cleveland Guardians at Progressive Field on Friday, May 31st at 7:10 PM. The Guardians, sporting a stellar 18-6 home record, will look to capitalize on their dominance at their home stadium. With the Guardians riding a 37-19 overall record, they'll aim to maintain their momentum against the 26-29 Nationals.
Written by
Optimal Staff
Washington Nationals
Cleveland Guardians

Nationals vs Guardians starting pitchers

  • Tanner Bibee for Cleveland Guardians
  • Patrick Corbin for Washington Nationals

Nationals vs Guardians statistics

Stat Nationals Guardians
Hits 414 (27th) 445 (17th)
Batting Average .232 (23rd) .239 (16th)
Runs Batted In 203 (Tied-25th) 265 (4th)
Runs 219 (24th) 286 (3rd)
Home Runs 47 (27th) 63 (9th)
Walks 166 (22nd) 173 (Tied-16th)
Stolen Bases 89 (1st) 55 (Tied-6th)
Strikeouts 439 (21st) 420 (26th)
Pitches 7719 (29th) 7971 (23rd)

Cleveland Guardians recent games

Game Date Opponent Result Score
5/29/24 @ Colorado Rockies L 7-4
5/28/24 @ Colorado Rockies W 13-7
5/27/24 @ Colorado Rockies L 8-6
5/26/24 @ Los Angeles Angels W 5-4
5/25/24 @ Los Angeles Angels W 4-3

Washington Nationals recent games

Game Date Opponent Result Score
5/30/24 @ Atlanta Braves W 3-1
5/29/24 @ Atlanta Braves W 7-2
5/28/24 @ Atlanta Braves L 2-0
5/27/24 @ Atlanta Braves W 8-4
5/26/24 vs Seattle Mariners L 9-5

Nationals vs Guardians predictions

When it comes to the Washington Nationals’ lineup for the upcoming game against the Cleveland Guardians, there are a few key players to watch. CJ Abrams, delivering consistent power with 9 homers already, is expected to maintain his solid performance. Alongside him, Luis Garcia, batting an average of .262, should continue to provide stability in the middle of the lineup. However, a crucial factor could be how Patrick Corbin handles his pitching duties. With an ERA over six this season, his ability to limit the damage against a strong Guardians lineup will be vital. Given his current form, he might struggle to keep the run count low.

Flipping to the Cleveland Guardians, their standout player Jose Ramirez, with a robust average and an impressive 56 RBIs, seems poised to add to his tally. Meanwhile, Tanner Bibee, shouldering the pitching responsibilities, seems like he might have a favorable outing considering his relatively strong ERA of 3.99 compared to Corbin’s struggles. His ability to strike out opponents consistently, having already notched 62 Ks this season, could prove decisive in stifling the Nationals' batting lineup.

Considering these factors, the prediction leans towards the Cleveland Guardians securing a win at home. Their batting lineup appears more robust and consistent, coupled with stronger pitching from Bibee, which should give them an upper hand. Despite the Nationals’ best efforts and quick bases, the Guardians' all-rounded strength, especially at their home ground of Progressive Field where they've been notably tough, should see them through. What do you think, will the Nationals spring a surprise, or will it be a straightforward win for the Guardians?

Cleveland Guardians injuries

  • Nic Enright (RP): Day-To-Day
  • Steven Kwan (LF): 10-Day-IL
  • Franco Aleman (RP): Day-To-Day
  • Joey Cantillo (RP): Day-To-Day
  • Carlos Carrasco (SP): 15-Day-IL

Nationals vs Guardians game info

Venue Progressive Field
Location Cleveland, Ohio
First pitch Fri 7:10 PM
Temperature 67°
Chance of Rain 0%

Washington Nationals vs. Cleveland Guardians Betting Odds

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