The New York Mets are gearing up for an intense showdown against the Washington Nationals in the final game of a four-game series at Nationals Park in Washington, D.C. The Thursday match promises to be a critical one for both squads, with the stakes high following a series marked by gritty performances and dramatic outcomes.
On Wednesday, the Nationals rallied for a 7-5 triumph, handing the Mets a setback after New York had secured back-to-back 10-inning victories in the previous two games. These wins, reflecting the Mets' resilience and determination, pushed their season record to an even .500 (42-42).
Currently holding third place in the fiercely competitive National League East, the Mets have been on an impressive run, claiming 14 wins in their last 19 games. This streak underscores the team's battling spirit and strategic prowess. Meanwhile, the Nationals, sitting just a notch below the Mets in fourth place with a 40-46 record, have had a rough patch, losing seven of their last nine contests.
The first pitch is slated for an early 11:05 a.m. ET start, with the Mets slightly favored to carry the day with a money line of -114 against the Nationals' -105. The over/under for total runs has been set at 9, suggesting expectations for a high-scoring affair.
Pitching Duel: Quintana vs. Irvin
Jose Quintana will be on the mound for the Mets. Quintana boasts a season record of 3-5 with a 4.57 ERA. Remarkably consistent, he has not allowed more than three earned runs in any start since May 10. In his last outing against Houston, although he pitched only four innings, he managed to concede just two earned runs on six hits and struck out seven batters. The Mets emerged victorious with a 7-2 scoreline in that match.
On the other side, Jake Irvin will pitch for the Nationals. Sporting a solid 6-6 record with a 3.03 ERA, Irvin has proven to be a formidable opponent. His recent performance includes pitching six innings against Tampa Bay, conceding only one earned run on one hit and three walks, while striking out five. Against Colorado on June 23, Irvin was exceptional, allowing just three hits and one earned run over six innings, with ten strikeouts to his name.
Key Players to Watch
For the Mets, Brandon Nimmo has been a consistent performer. Batting .248 for the season, Nimmo has accumulated 16 doubles, two triples, 13 home runs, 52 RBIs, and 54 runs scored. Over the last ten games, he has continued to deliver, recording hits in seven of them. Notably, Nimmo went 3-for-4 with a double, a home run, and three RBIs in a 10-5 loss to Houston on Sunday. He followed that up with a 2-for-3 showing, featuring a double and two RBIs, in the Mets' 7-2 10-inning win on Tuesday.
For the Nationals, C.J. Abrams stands out with a .283 batting average. Over 78 games, Abrams has tallied 20 doubles, five triples, 13 home runs, 43 RBIs, and 53 runs scored. His recent form has been stellar, with four multi-hit games in the past eight. Highlight performances include back-to-back three-hit efforts against San Diego on June 24 and 25, and a 2-for-5 game with an RBI in the Tuesday loss to New York. Abrams also shone in an 8-1 win at Tampa Bay, hitting a double and a home run.
Series Outlook
With the Mets leading the all-time series 474-468, the historical edge slightly favors New York. However, the Nationals' recent win and their competitive spirit suggest that Thursday's game could go either way. Both teams will be aiming to leverage their strengths and rectify weaknesses for this crucial clash.
The outcome of this game could have significant implications for both teams as they aim to improve their standings in the National League East. Fans can expect a highly competitive encounter, filled with strategic plays and spirited athleticism from both sides.