Atlanta Braves vs Washington Nationals: Prediction, Preview, Picks & Odds - 4/1/2023

Time: 4:05 p.m. ET

Venue: Nationals Park, Washington, DC

Where to watch: BSSE-ATL, MASN

DraftKings: Check back later for odds

BetMGM: Check back later for odds

Caesars: Check back later for odds

Braves: 1-0

Nationals: 0-1

As the Atlanta Braves and the Washington Nationals gear up for their first matchup of the 2023 season on April 1, fans from both sides are eagerly anticipating an exciting game between two talented teams.

The Braves captured the first game of the season, 7-2, on Opening Day on Thursday. Travis d'Arnaud went 4-for-5 with a double and 2 RBI, but the bigger story was ace Max Fried leaving early due to a hamstring injury. But the Braves put up 12 hits and seven runs in the process.

“From the dugout, no one really knew what was going on,” said d’Arnaud, who served as the designated hitter. “Then once we heard some things, it’s tough news. But he’ll still be around and he’ll still cheer on the guys, and he’ll come back soon.”

On the other side of the field, the Nationals were held to just to two runs on eight hits while leaving nine on base. The lack of offense in Washington was a big problem we talked about going into this game, and that seems to be the right call.

As the two teams prepare to meet on the field, let's take a closer look at what fans can expect from this exciting matchup.

One key player to watch for the Braves is Freddie Freeman. Freeman is a former National League MVP who has been one of the most consistent hitters in the league in recent years. He led the league in hits in 2022 and will be looking to continue his strong play in the upcoming season. If Freeman can get off to a hot start in this game, it could set the tone for the Braves' offense for the rest of the season.

Another player to watch for the Braves is Ronald Acuna Jr. Acuna Jr. is a talented outfielder who has quickly become one of the most exciting players in the league. He has a rare combination of speed and power and is a threat to hit a home run or steal a base at any time. If Acuna Jr. can have a big game in this matchup, he could be a key factor in the Braves' success.

When it comes to pitching, both teams have some talented arms that could make a big impact in this game. The Nationals, meanwhile, have some talented young pitchers like Josiah Gray who could make an impact in the upcoming season.

Overall, this game promises to be an exciting matchup between two talented teams looking to make a statement early in the season. Both teams have some key players who could make a big impact on the outcome of the game, and it will be interesting to see how the two teams match up against each other.

As always, there are sure to be surprises and unexpected twists and turns in the game, and it will be up to both teams to stay focused and make the most of their opportunities on the field.

Prediction

I don't think you could call a more clear sweep coming through with Atlanta. I'm not sure what to make of this Washington team, especially now with Stephen Strasburg on the 60-day IL. Braves 8, Nationals 4

Check back later for trends.

Braves:
Ronald Acuna Jr. (R) RF
Matt Olson (L) 1B
Austin Riley (R) 3B
Ozzie Albies (S) 2B
Sean Murphy (R) C
Marcell Ozuna (R) LF
Michael Harris II (L) CF
Travis d'Arnaud (R) DH
Orlando Arcia (R) SS

Nationals:
Lane Thomas (R) RF
Joey Meneses (R) DH
Jeimer Candelario (S) 3B
Dominic Smith (L) 1B
Keibert Ruiz (S) C
Alex Call (R) LF
Luis Garcia (L) 2B
Victor Robles (R) CF
CJ Abrams (L) SS