The Philadelphia Phillies and Washington Nationals meet for an early 11:35 AM ET showdown on Monday, August 18, 2025, at Nationals Park in Washington, D.C. The Phillies are pushing for postseason positioning, while the rebuilding Nationals look to play spoiler in the NL East. With both teams fresh off weekend series, this game provides bettors and fans with an intriguing matchup to kick off the week.
Quick Game Facts
- Kickoff: Monday, August 18, 2025 – 11:35 AM ET
- Venue: Nationals Park, Washington, D.C.
- TV/Stream: Peacock
- Odds: Phillies -175 | Nationals +150 | Total: 8.5 Runs
- Weather: 84°F, light winds out to left field
Starting Pitching Matchup
Philadelphia Phillies – Aaron Nola (RHP)
- Record: 11-6
- ERA: 3.54
- WHIP: 1.11
- Strikeouts: 164 in 148 IP
- Recent Form: Allowed just 2 ER in his last 13 innings across two starts.
Nola remains the workhorse of Philadelphia’s rotation, using his sharp curveball and pinpoint command to frustrate opposing lineups. Against the Nationals, he’s been particularly dominant, owning a career ERA under 3.00 against Washington.
Washington Nationals – MacKenzie Gore (LHP)
- Record: 8-9
- ERA: 4.12
- WHIP: 1.29
- Strikeouts: 146 in 135 IP
- Recent Form: Has alternated strong outings with rough ones, allowing 3+ ER in three of his last five starts.
Gore’s electric fastball and swing-and-miss slider give him upside, but his command can waver, especially early in counts. Against a patient Phillies lineup, he’ll need to work ahead and limit free passes.
Team Analysis
Philadelphia Phillies
Philadelphia comes into this one with a balanced attack led by Bryce Harper, Trea Turner, and Kyle Schwarber. The Phillies’ offense ranks top 5 in the NL in OPS and is capable of striking early, especially against left-handed starters. Their bullpen, headlined by José Alvarado, has steadied after some midseason hiccups.
Washington Nationals
The Nationals continue to lean on CJ Abrams and Lane Thomas as their primary offensive weapons. Washington has struggled with consistency, ranking in the bottom-third of the NL in both slugging and runs scored. Their bullpen remains shaky, often forcing starters like Gore to stretch deeper into games.
Key Matchups to Watch
- Bryce Harper vs MacKenzie Gore: Harper owns a .300+ average lifetime against Gore and thrives at Nationals Park.
- CJ Abrams vs Aaron Nola: Abrams’ speed and leadoff presence could be Washington’s spark if he gets on base.
- Phillies patience vs Gore’s control: Walks could tilt this game quickly in Philadelphia’s favor.
Prediction & Best Bets
The Phillies have the clear edge on the mound with Aaron Nola’s stability against Gore’s inconsistency. Philadelphia’s veteran lineup should generate runs early, and their bullpen is in better form than Washington’s.
Prediction: Phillies 6, Nationals 3
Best Bets:
- Phillies -1.5 (+100)
- Over 8.5 Runs (-110)
- Bryce Harper to Record an RBI (+120)
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