Washington Nationals vs. Pittsburgh Pirates – April 14, 2025: Game Preview, Odds, and Prediction
On Monday, April 14, 2025, the Washington Nationals (6–9) will face the Pittsburgh Pirates (5–11) at PNC Park in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Both teams are aiming to reverse recent losing streaks and gain momentum early in the season.
Game Details
Date: Monday, April 14, 2025
Time: 6:40 PM ET
Location: PNC Park, Pittsburgh, PA
Broadcast: SportsNet Pittsburgh, MASN
Starting Pitchers
Washington Nationals: Brad Lord (RHP)
Record: 0–0
ERA: 1.80
Strikeouts: 4
Brad Lord, a rookie making his first career start against the Pirates, has shown promise in limited action this season. His 1.80 ERA indicates effective pitching, though he has yet to record a decision.
Pittsburgh Pirates: Paul Skenes (RHP)
Record: 1–1
ERA: 3.44
Strikeouts: 20
Paul Skenes has been a bright spot in the Pirates' rotation, leading the team with 20 strikeouts. This will be his first career start against the Nationals.
Team Statistics
Washington Nationals:
Batting Average: .235
Runs Per Game: 4.4
Home Runs: 16
Team ERA: 4.58
WHIP: 1.51
The Nationals' offense has been productive, averaging 4.4 runs per game. However, their pitching staff has struggled, with a team ERA of 4.58 and a WHIP of 1.51, indicating issues with allowing baserunners.
Pittsburgh Pirates:
Batting Average: .216
Runs Per Game: 3.5
Home Runs: 7
Team ERA: 4.35
WHIP: 1.35
The Pirates have struggled offensively, with a team batting average of .216 and averaging 3.5 runs per game. Their pitching has been slightly better than the Nationals', but still below league average.
Key Players to Watch
Washington Nationals:
Keibert Ruiz: Leading the team with a .373 batting average and 19 hits.
James Wood: Team-high 5 home runs and 11 RBIs.
Nathaniel Lowe: 15 RBIs and 4 doubles, providing consistent run production.
Pittsburgh Pirates:
Oneil Cruz: Leads the team with 2 home runs and 5 RBIs, though batting .195.
Bryan Reynolds: .263 batting average with 2 home runs and 6 RBIs.
Isiah Kiner-Falefa: Team-high .260 batting average and 4 stolen bases.
Betting Odds
Moneyline: Pirates -218 / Nationals +180
Run Line: Pirates -1.5 (+100) / Nationals +1.5 (-119)
Total Runs (Over/Under): 7 (Over -115 / Under -105)
Despite their losing record, the Pirates are favored at home, with a 66% chance of winning according to predictive models.
Prediction
Both teams are looking to end losing streaks and gain momentum. The Nationals have a slight edge offensively, while the Pirates have a marginally better pitching staff. Given the starting pitchers' performances and team statistics, this game could be closely contested.
Predicted Score: Nationals 5, Pirates 4
Best Bets:
Moneyline: Nationals +180
Total Runs: Over 7 (-115)
