At the beginning of the season, the Nationals were a complete mess. The defection of Bryce Harper combined with a slow start killed optimism. But thanks to strong starting pitching Washington has climbed back into the playoff race. By contrast, the Braves have been among the steadiest teams in the MLB betting board. Atlanta faces skepticism about last year’s National League East title being a fluke. But the Braves have proven to be here to stay. Balance has been the key to their success. Atlanta is running away with the NL East.
Washington Nationals vs. Atlanta Braves
| Date and Time: | Sunday, July 21, 2019, 7 p.m. ET |
|---|---|
| Location: | Sun Trust Park, Atlanta, Georgia |
| Nationals vs. Braves TV Coverage: | ESPN |
Nationals vs. Braves TV Coverage: ESPN
Overview
Accordingly, the Braves are 58-38 to easily lead the NL East. Atlanta ranks seventh for run production, OPS, and home runs. Washington has an MLB betting record of 50-43. As a result, they are in second place in the NL East. Washington ranks 14th for run production and OPS. They are 18th for home runs. Certainly, second-year manager Dave Martinez has caught his share of criticism. He took over from a manger in Dusty Baker that produced consistent playoff teams. Meanwhile, Atlanta manager Brian Snitker was National League Manager of the Year for 2018.
Washington Nationals Probable Starter and Bullpen
Washington is undecided on their starter for this one. Of great concern is a bullpen that has been a definite online wagering weakness. The Nationals bullpen ranks 29th in MLB.
Atlanta Braves Probable Starter and Bullpen
Right-hander Bryse Wilson (1-1, 1.71 WHIP, 6.75 ERA, 16 K, 18.2 IP) is the probable starter for the Braves. Atlanta’s bullpen has proven to be a key MLB betting asset. To show, the Braves rank fourth-best in MLB for bullpen ERA. Luke Jackson (4-2, 17 SV, 2.87 ERA, 64 K, 47 IP) leads the unit.
Players to Watch
Overall the Braves have a deep and capable lineup. Ronald Acuna Jr (.290, 23 HR, 72 R, 55 RBI) leads. Further help comes from Freddie Freeman (.299, 25 2B, 25 HR, 72 R, 74 RBI, .963 OPS). By contrast, Washington is powered by Anthony Rendon (.312, 68 R, 25 2B, 20 HR, 64 RBI, 1.010 OPS).
Nationals and Braves ATS Stats
Nationals are:
- 8-2 in their last 10 games
- 1-9 under the total in their last 10 games
- 13-5 in their last 18 away games
- 1-6 under the total in their last seven road tilts
- 6-3 in their last nine games against Atlanta
- 5-3-2 over the total in their last 10 games with the Braves
Braves are:
- 8-2 in their last 10 games
- 3-6-1 under the total in their last 10 tilts
- 14-4 in their last 18 home games
- 1-6 under the total in their last seven games at Sun Trust Park
- 6-5 in their last 11 homes games against Washington
- 3-5-2 under the total in their last eight home games with the Nationals
Nationals vs. Braves MLB Betting Picks
In this situation, the Atlanta bullpen and lineup depth are a key matchup advantage. Additionally, Sun Trust Park has become a great home for the Braves.
Nationals vs. Braves MLB Betting Pick: Atlanta Braves
Nationals vs. Braves MLB Betting Score Prediction: Braves 5, Nationals 3
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