The post Nationals vs. Reds prediction, odds, and pick – May 4, 2025 appeared first on ClutchPoints.
It’s time to continue our MLB odds series with a prediction and pick for the Nationals versus the Reds. Discover how to watch Nationals-Reds.
Earlier this season, the Cincinnati Reds suffered three consecutive 1-0 losses. They also scored 24 runs in one game and 14 in the other. They’ve been one of the most volatile and unpredictable teams in Major League Baseball over the first five and a half weeks of the season.
That volatility and lack of consistency have been on display in this weekend’s series against the Washington Nationals. The Reds dominated the first game of the series on Friday before being crushed in the final four innings of the second game on Saturday.
The Nationals broke a 3-3 tie in the top of the sixth inning, three of which came on a home run by Amed Rosario, and won easily. In this series, the pendulum has swung dramatically on both sides. Let’s see what happens in the rubber match.
Nationals-Reds Projected Starters
MacKenzie Gore vs. Nick Martinez
MacKenzie Gore (2-3) has a 3.51 ERA heading into his first start in May. He was decent in his last outing against the Phillies, containing a potent batting order while allowing two home runs. Gore has proven that he can dominate opposing hitters, but that dominant version does not always emerge.
Let us see if Gore can take the next step in his evolution. He’s a good pitcher. Can he achieve true greatness? That is something the Nats require if they are to compete for a wild card spot.
Last start: April 29 at Philadelphia Phillies — 6 innings, 5 hits, 3 runs, 2 home runs, 0 walks, 6 strikeouts
Away Splits: 4 starts, 23 innings, 26 hits, 12 runs, 4 HR, 7 walks, 31 strikeouts.
Nick Martinez (1-3) has a 4.68 ERA heading into his first start in May. It has been a difficult journey for a pitcher who was excellent in his most recent start against the Cardinals but has yet to find a rhythm that will carry him through several consecutive starts. The Reds are looking for high-level consistency from a pitcher who has shown flashes of elite talent but has yet to put all of the pieces together on a regular basis.
Last start: April 28 against the St. Louis Cardinals — 6 innings, 5 hits, 1 run, 0 home runs, 2 walks, 3 strikeouts
Home Splits: 3 starts, 16 2/3 innings, 16 hits, 9 runs, 3 home runs, 6 walks, 12 strikeouts.
MLB Odds: Nationals-Reds Odds
Washington Nationals: -1.5 (+158)
Moneyline: -102
Cincinnati Reds: +1.5 (-192)
Moneyline: -116
Over: 8.5 (-106)
Under: 8.5 (-114)
How to Watch Nationals vs. Reds
Time: 4:10 p.m. ET/1:10 p.m. PT
TV: MASN (Nationals) | FanDuel Sports Network Ohio (Reds)
Why The Nationals Will Cover The Spread/Win
MacKenzie Gore is obviously a better pitcher than Nick Martinez. That is where the discussion begins and ends. The Reds are the slight moneyline favorite, so betting on the Nats represents excellent value. Gore should be able to contain the Cincinnati offense and leave his mark on the game.
Why The Reds Will Cover The Spread/Win
The Reds had a terrible baseball game on Saturday. They are a better team than the Nationals, which should help them overcome their pitching disadvantage. This is an excellent bounce-back spot for Cincinnati, a team that, under Terry Francona’s leadership, deserves a level of trust that it did not have and did not earn last year.
Final Nationals-Reds Prediction & Pick
Our lean is to the Nats, but this game is a toss-up. Wait for a live play here.
