Atlanta (24-24) at Washington (22-27)
- When: May 21 2025, 6:45 PM
- Where: Nationals Park, Washington
- Where to watch: MLB Network
Braves at Nationals – Game Preview, Prediction and Player Props
Moneyline: Braves -155 | Total: 8.5
Atlanta Braves Outlook: Bounce-Back on the Horizon
The Braves dropped Game 1 to the Nationals, but they still have the edge heading into Wednesday night. Atlanta sends AJ Smith-Shawver (3-2, 2.33 ERA) to the mound, and the young right-hander has been lights out in May. Through three starts this month, Smith-Shawver owns a ridiculous 0.46 ERA over 19.2 innings, allowing just one earned run and holding hitters to a .123 average.
He’s already handled this Nationals lineup once just six days ago giving up two hits and no earned runs over six dominant innings. If the Braves want to put a stop to the Nationals’ four-game winning streak, this is the guy to do it.
Player Prop #1: AJ Smith-Shawver Over 5.5 Strikeouts – He’s fanned 18 batters in his last three starts and struck out six Nats just last week.
Matt Olson remains red-hot, homering Tuesday and hitting safely in 12 of his last 15 games. With five bombs and 10 RBIs during that stretch, he’s one to watch again.
Player Prop #2: Matt Olson to Record an RBI – Olson’s power has been consistent, and with Washington starting a shaky pitcher, he’ll get his chances.
Washington Nationals Outlook: Red Hot… But for How Long?
The Nats are riding a four-game win streak and showing signs of life behind big performances from Dylan Crews and James Wood. But there’s a cloud hanging over the celebration Crews left Tuesday’s game with back discomfort and is awaiting MRI results. If he’s out, Washington loses a major spark at the top of the lineup.
Trevor Williams (2-5, 5.91 ERA) gets the ball, but he’s been shaky at best. Over his last four starts, he’s got a 6.86 ERA, and he allowed three earned runs in 4.1 innings vs. Atlanta just last week. If the Nats want to keep this momentum, they’ll need the bullpen to bail them out early.
Expert Prediction and Final Score:
The Nationals have been feisty, but Atlanta’s offense and Smith-Shawver’s current form are too much to fade. Look for the Braves to even the series.
Final Score Prediction: Braves 5, Nationals 3
Lean: Atlanta RL -1.5 (+105)
Total: Under 8.5 (-110)
- MLB Odds source: MyBookie Sportsbook
