The May 20, 2025 matchup between the Atlanta Braves and the Washington Nationals at Nationals Park brings together two NL East rivals at very different points in their competitive timelines, yet both with something to prove. The Braves, who enter with a 24-23 record, are seeking to reestablish themselves as a force in the division after a streaky start to the season that has seen their offense fire in spurts while injuries tested their pitching depth. The return of Spencer Strider to the rotation is the storyline of the day for Atlanta, as the flame-throwing righty comes off the injured list with the expectation of reclaiming the dominance that made him one of baseball’s most intimidating starters. Strider, who posted a 20-5 record with 281 strikeouts in 2023, brings elite velocity and a devastating slider to the table, and if he’s anywhere near full strength, he has the potential to turn this series into a launching pad for a Braves resurgence. Offensively, the Braves remain dangerous, though not yet operating at full capacity. Austin Riley and Sean Murphy have led the charge with a combined 15 home runs and over 40 RBIs, while Matt Olson and Ozzie Albies continue to add power from the left side. Ronald Acuña Jr. hasn’t caught fire yet but remains a constant threat in the leadoff spot with his speed and plate discipline.

The Braves’ lineup is deep, with few easy outs, and if they can string together timely hits, they can pressure any pitching staff in the league. Atlanta’s bullpen has also been a stabilizing factor, locking down late leads with a solid back-end trio and posting one of the lowest bullpen ERAs in the NL. Meanwhile, the Nationals come into this matchup with a 21-27 record, showing glimpses of potential but battling the inconsistencies that come with a young and developing roster. CJ Abrams has blossomed into a capable leadoff hitter, using his speed and improving bat-to-ball skills to set the table, while James Wood is quickly making an impact with his rare mix of size, athleticism, and power potential. However, beyond those two, the offense has been erratic, often failing to capitalize on scoring chances or string together meaningful rallies. The Nationals’ biggest issue remains their pitching staff, with a rotation that rarely works deep into games and a bullpen that has been prone to collapses. Their overall team ERA sits among the league’s worst, and that mismatch could be fully exposed against Atlanta’s potent lineup. That said, Washington has performed respectably at home, holding a 5-4 record at Nationals Park and occasionally catching opponents off guard with a scrappy, aggressive style of play. For them to keep this game competitive, they’ll need a strong outing from their starter—regardless of who toes the rubber—and mistake-free defense to support them. This game presents the Braves with a prime opportunity to assert control over a lesser opponent and build on the return of their ace, while the Nationals will look to test themselves against a playoff-caliber club and play spoiler. Expect a game driven by starting pitching early, and bullpen efficiency late—with the Braves carrying a distinct advantage if Strider resembles anything close to his dominant self.