Atlanta Braves vs Washington Nationals Picks and Predictions September 22nd 2025

Braves vs. Nationals Picks and Predictions — September 22, 2025

The Washington Nationals visit the Atlanta Braves at Truist Park on Monday, September 22, 2025, as Atlanta looks for its ninth straight victory. The Braves (73‑83) have been eliminated from playoff contention for the first time since 2017 but are finishing strong, while the Nationals (64‑92) are aiming to avoid a last-place NL East finish.

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Opening Odds: Braves ML -247 | Nationals ML +205 | Runline ATL -1.5 (-109) | Total 7.0 (O -109 / U -111)

Atlanta recently swept Detroit to close their final road trip, while Washington took two of three from the Mets. The Braves also swept the Nationals last week in a four-game set. For more on how these teams have fared lately, check the full MLB game results.

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Braves Can Win If…

Chris Sale is dealing again, and that makes the Braves dangerous despite their postseason fate. Sale struck out nine across eight scoreless innings against the Nationals just six days ago. He’s posted a 1.75 ERA since returning from injury and could break a Hall-of-Fame tie with his next strikeout.

Atlanta’s offense is also peaking, scoring 61 runs during this eight-game win streak — their most in any stretch this season. Matt Olson, Ha-Seong Kim, and Drake Baldwin are all contributing, and the team’s 8th-ranked OBP and 3rd-most walks highlight their plate discipline.

“I’m proud of how the guys have responded here late and how they’re playing the game and the enthusiasm and everything,” said manager Brian Snitker.

Nationals Can Win If…

MacKenzie Gore has handled Atlanta better than most pitchers in his young career, with a 3-2 record and 2.85 ERA in eight starts against them. He allowed just two hits in 5 1/3 innings during last week’s outing but got no run support.

Washington has a few bright bats in Josh Bell (20 HR) and rookie James Wood (27 HR, 89 RBI), and ranks top 10 in both doubles and stolen bases. If Gore keeps it close and the Nationals can scratch out early runs, this could turn into a bullpen game.

“He missed a start, but he’s been good. Hopefully, it goes smoothly and he gives us the pitches he needs to throw,” said interim manager Miguel Cairo.

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The Lean

Pick: Braves Moneyline
Projected Final Score: Braves 6, Nationals 2
Total Lean: Under 7.0

The Braves are hitting on all cylinders and just swept this same Nationals squad last week. Chris Sale is back in elite form, and Atlanta’s offense is firing early and often. With Gore still on a pitch count and Washington’s bullpen vulnerable, expect Atlanta to cover and keep the total under.

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