Mets vs Nationals Game Preview 4/28/25

As the New York Mets (19-9) gear up to face the Washington Nationals (13-15) tonight at Nationals Park, tensions are high in this NL East showdown. Fresh off a dramatic series that saw the Nationals claim two walk-off victories on April 25 and 27, the Mets are looking to even the season series and regain momentum. Let’s break down the key storylines, stats, and players to watch in tonight’s matchup.

Pitching Matchup: Canning vs. Williams

The Mets will send Griffin Canning (3-1, 3.12 ERA) to the mound. Canning has been a steady force in the rotation, averaging 1.385 WHIP and limiting opponents to a .232 batting average over five starts . His ability to mix a sharp slider with a mid-90s fastball could neutralize Washington’s aggressive lineup.

The Nationals counter with Trevor Williams (1-2, 5.11 ERA), who has struggled with command this season (1.581 WHIP). Canning allowed 7 runs in his last outing against the Nationals in 23-24 and the Mets’ power hitters, including Pete Alonso (.282 AVG, 14 HRs this season), will look to capitalize on his tendency to leave pitches over the plate .

These games highlighted Washington’s resilience but also exposed defensive lapses

Dylan Crews’ throwing error on April 27. For the Mets, Mark Vientos (.333 AVG, 11 RBIs) and Starling Marte (25 RBIs) have been offensive bright spots .

Mets’ Offensive Execution

The Mets rank 4th in MLB with 4.2 runs per game but stranded 13 runners in their June 4, 2024, matchup against Washington . Converting with runners in scoring position will be critical. Watch Alonso, who homered in his last game against Nationals closer Kyle Finnegan , and Francisco Lindor, whose defense (14 doubles) anchors the infield .

Nationals’ Speed and Small Ball

Washington leads MLB in stolen bases and leverages aggressive baserunning. Abrams’ 9.82-second home-to-plate dash on April 25 exemplifies their threat .

Bullpen Improvments

Mets reliever Reed Garrett (2.31 ERA) has been lights-out, but closer Jorge López (8.18 ERA) struggled in the April 25 loss . Washington’s bullpen, led by Kyle Finnegan (1.88 ERA), must contain late-inning surges .

Prediction

The Mets’ lineup, ranked 4th in runs per game, should exploit Williams’ inconsistencies early. If Canning can neutralize Abrams and Wood, New York will snap its two-game skid. Final Score: Mets 6, Nationals 4.

Key Players to Watch

Pete Alonso (NYM): 3 HRs in last 5 games vs. WSH . CJ Abrams (WSH): .321 AVG, 5 SBs, and walk-off heroics this series .

First Pitch: 4:05PM ET at Nationals Park.

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