Mets Aim to Close Out Series Strong Against Nationals
The stage is set for the final clash between the New York Mets and the Washington Nationals in their four-game series at Nationals Park in Washington, D.C., on Thursday. Coming off an exhilarating week of baseball, the Mets will look to cap off the series on a high note.
Wednesday's game saw the Nationals come from behind to secure a 7-5 victory over the Mets, a much-needed win for Washington as they attempt to steady their ship. Prior to that, New York had triumphed in back-to-back 10-inning games, showcasing their resilience and ability to perform under pressure.
Currently, the Mets hold a .500 record (42-42), placing them in the third spot in the National League East. With 14 wins in their last 19 games, they’re hitting their stride at an opportune moment. On the other hand, the Nationals, sitting fourth in the division with a 40-46 record, have struggled recently, losing seven of their last nine contests.
The first pitch is scheduled for an early 11:05 a.m. ET, with the Mets slightly favored to clinch the game, holding a money line of -114 to Washington's -105. The run line favors New York at -1.5 (+139), and the over/under for total runs is set at 9.
On the mound for New York will be Jose Quintana, who brings a season record of 3-5 with a 4.57 ERA. Quintana has been consistent, not conceding more than three earned runs in any start since May 10. His last outing saw him pitch four innings against Houston, allowing two earned runs on six hits with three walks, while striking out seven—culminating in a 7-2 win for the Mets. Quintana’s ability to keep runs in check will be pivotal for New York in this decisive game.
Opposing Quintana will be Jake Irvin for the Nationals, who boasts a 6-6 record with a 3.03 ERA. Irvin has displayed commendable form, pitching six innings and conceding just one earned run on one hit with three walks in his last outing against Tampa Bay. Another highlight was his performance against Colorado, where he allowed only three hits and one earned run while striking out ten over six innings. Irvin's poise on the mound will be crucial for Washington’s chances.
Leading the charge for the Mets’ offense is Brandon Nimmo, who is batting .248 for the season. Nimmo’s stats include 16 doubles, two triples, 13 home runs, 52 RBIs, and 54 runs scored. Over the past ten games, he has secured hits in seven, highlighting his consistent offensive contributions. Notably, Nimmo went 3-for-4 with a double, a home run, and three RBIs in a recent 10-5 loss to Houston. On Tuesday, he further showcased his prowess by going 2-for-3 with a double, two RBIs, and a run scored in the Mets’ 7-2 victory after extra innings.
The Nationals will look towards C.J. Abrams, who has been a bright spot with a .283 batting average. Abrams’ season tally includes 20 doubles, five triples, 13 home runs, 43 RBIs, and 53 runs scored over 78 games. Displaying a hot streak, Abrams has recorded four multi-hit games in the past eight, and delivered back-to-back three-hit performances against San Diego. His recent contributions include going 2-for-5 with an RBI in Tuesday's narrow loss to New York, as well as notching a double and a home run in an 8-1 win at Tampa Bay.
The all-time series between these division rivals stands tightly contested, with the Mets leading 474-468. As both teams take to the field for this early game, the pitching duel between Quintana and Irvin promises to be an engaging battle, while fans can expect fireworks from offensive catalysts like Nimmo and Abrams.