The New York Mets and Washington Nationals continue their series at Nationals Park on April 26, 2025, with both teams looking to make statements at very different stages of their seasons, as the Mets try to solidify their position atop the National League standings while the Nationals aim to claw their way back to respectability. The Mets, sitting at an impressive 18–8, are eager to rebound after a tough 5–4 walk-off loss in the series opener, where late-inning bullpen struggles and missed offensive opportunities cost them a chance to add to their momentum. New York turns to Clay Holmes, who has been effective with a 2–1 record and a 3.16 ERA, showcasing a devastating mix of sinkers and sliders that have kept opposing hitters off-balance and generated plenty of weak contact. Holmes will look to establish himself early against a young Nationals lineup that has struggled with consistency but has enough firepower to punish mistakes, led by promising stars like James Wood and CJ Abrams. The Nationals, who come into the game with a 12–14 record, are trying to build on the excitement of their dramatic walk-off win and will counter with right-hander Brad Lord, who has yet to record a victory and carries a 4.73 ERA into the start.

Offensively, the Mets welcome the return of Francisco Alvarez and Jeff McNeil, two key pieces who bring much-needed versatility, defensive stability, and timely hitting to a roster that already boasts dangerous bats like Pete Alonso, Brandon Nimmo, and Francisco Lindor. The Nationals, despite their struggles, have been scrappy at home and will look to ride the energy from Friday night’s win, but their bullpen remains a significant question mark, having repeatedly faltered in high-pressure situations this season. For the Mets, the game plan is clear: Holmes must pitch deep into the game to minimize bullpen exposure, the offense needs to jump on Lord early and force the Nationals to tap into their vulnerable middle relief, and the defense must avoid the lapses that have occasionally plagued them during tight games. For Washington, the keys are patience at the plate, pressuring Holmes by extending at-bats, taking advantage of any defensive mistakes, and finding a way to string together hits with runners in scoring position, an area where they have often come up short. Given recent head-to-head trends where the total runs have gone over in five of the last seven meetings, fans can expect an entertaining, high-scoring affair unless both starters manage to establish early dominance. With the weather expected to be ideal for hitters and both teams feeling the urgency for different reasons, Saturday’s contest promises to feature intensity, big swings, and critical moments that could shift the momentum not just of the series but of the broader outlook for both clubs moving into the final stretch of April.