The Philadelphia Phillies will face the Washington Nationals in the season opener on Thursday at 4:05 p.m. EDT at Nationals Park. The game features a pitching matchup between Zack Wheeler for the Phillies and MacKenzie Gore for the Nationals. Philadelphia enters the game as the favorites with odds at -176, while Washington sits at +148. The over/under for total runs is set at 7.
Last season, the Nationals struggled with a 71-91 record, including a 38-43 mark at home. Their offense averaged 8.1 hits per game, finishing the season with a team batting average of .243 and a slugging percentage of .375. In contrast, the Phillies had a much stronger season, posting a 95-67 overall record, with a 41-40 record on the road. Their offense was more potent, with a team slugging percentage of .425 and averaging 3.1 extra-base hits per game.
Injuries have affected the Nationals heading into the new season. Several key players are on the injured list, including Derek Law (forearm), Cade Cavalli (elbow), DJ Herz (elbow), Zach Brzykcy (quadricep), Andres Chaparro (oblique), Mason Thompson (elbow), and Josiah Gray (elbow). These injuries could significantly impact the Nationals’ chances as they look to take on a strong Phillies team in the season opener.
This game promises to be an exciting start to the season, with the Phillies aiming to build on their successful 2023 campaign, while the Nationals look to overcome their injury woes and begin the year on a positive note.
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