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NY Mets (67-59) at Washington (51-75)
- When: Aug 21 2025, 4:05 PM
- Where: Nationals Park, Washington
- Where to watch: SNY
Mets vs. Nationals – Game Betting Preview & Prediction
Moneyline: NY Mets -149
Spread: NY Mets -1.5 (+120)
Total: 8.0
New York Mets Betting Preview
The Mets enter Thursday’s rubber match as the -149 moneyline favorite, with the total set at 8.0 runs. However, New York could be without Brandon Nimmo, who left Wednesday’s loss with neck stiffness that snapped his seven-game hitting streak. His availability looms large for an offense that has struggled for consistency, dropping 15 of its last 20 games.
Sean Manaea (1-1, 4.78 ERA) takes the ball in a matchup of lefties. The veteran has had a rocky August, giving up 13 runs and four homers across his last 14 2/3 innings, yet somehow walking away with no-decisions. He owns a respectable 3.38 ERA in five career outings against Washington, but his recent form raises plenty of betting concerns. The Mets need better run prevention if they’re going to stay alive in the wild-card race.
Washington Nationals Betting Preview
The Nationals may be buried in the standings, but they’ve fully embraced the spoiler role. Wednesday’s 5-4 win featured Josh Bell’s homer and Dylan Crews crossing the plate twice, while Paul DeJong extended his hitting streak to nine games. Their offense has shown surprising punch lately, and at home they’ve been pesky against playoff hopefuls.
On the mound, MacKenzie Gore (5-12, 4.04 ERA) has rebounded from a brutal losing streak with two strong outings, allowing just two runs over 12 innings while striking out 17. Gore has pitched well against the Mets before, tossing six innings of two-run ball back in June. If he can command his fastball early, he’s capable of shutting down New York’s sputtering lineup again.
MLB Betting Outlook & Prediction
The Mets are favorites, but their recent form and Manaea’s struggles leave bettors skeptical. Washington’s young core is playing loose and confident, and Gore has been trending up. In a tight divisional clash, the value leans toward the spoiler at home.
Score Prediction: Nationals 5, Mets 4
Pick: Washington (+127)
Total: Over 8.0 (-120)
- MLB Odds source: MyBookie Sportsbook
- Get real-time live scores & latest betting odds here!