Washington Nationals vs Atlanta Braves Picks and Predictions May 21st 2025

AJ Smith-Shawver, Braves bid to slow down Nationals

The Washington Nationals are on a roll, aiming for a season-high fifth consecutive win as they take on the Atlanta Braves in a key midweek showdown. Tuesday night’s 5-3 victory over the Braves showcased the Nationals’ ability to start fast and protect leads effectively.

Red-Hot AJ Smith-Shawver to Start for Atlanta Braves

The Braves are placing their hopes on AJ Smith-Shawver, who enters with a 3-2 record and an impressive 2.33 ERA. The 22-year-old right-hander has been one of MLB’s best pitchers in May, posting a near-perfect 0.46 ERA across 19 2/3 innings. He’s limited opposing hitters to just eight hits and one earned run during that stretch, while striking out 18.

“It’s really just about trusting my stuff and getting guys out in three pitches or less,” Smith-Shawver said, crediting Triple-A catcher James McCann for the strategic mindset shift.

Smith-Shawver’s recent outing against Washington saw him allow just two hits and one unearned run over six innings, striking out six.

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Trevor Williams Struggles Ahead of Rematch Start for Nationals

Washington counters with Trevor Williams, who has endured a rough patch with a 6.86 ERA over his last four starts. He was on the losing side in last week’s matchup with Smith-Shawver, surrendering four runs (three earned) in just 4 1/3 innings.

Despite his recent struggles, Williams has a decent career record versus Atlanta: 3-2 with a 3.50 ERA in 12 appearances (eight starts). Check The latest Baseball Picks from MLB Expert Handicappers

Dylan Crews and James Wood Power Nationals Offense

• Dylan Crews homered for the second straight game Tuesday, but exited early due to left side discomfort on a check-swing. He is scheduled for an MRI.
• James Wood continued his on-base streak, reaching safely in 26 of the last 28 games and tallying hits in 15 of his last 18.

Manager Dave Martinez praised his team’s aggressive early innings:

“We talk so much about trying to beat up the starter and score first. It’s been great to see it pay off.”

Braves Offense Highlights: Olson and Albies Stay Hot

Despite the loss, Atlanta saw some bright spots:

• Matt Olson hit his fifth home run in 15 games, continuing a hot streak that includes three doubles and 10 RBIs.
• Ozzie Albies extended his hitting streak to seven games with a key RBI double.

Spencer Strider’s Return Falters in Loss

Spencer Strider, in his first start since April due to a hamstring strain, gave up four runs in 4 1/3 innings. He admitted to lacking consistency:

“Didn’t execute, stuff wasn’t consistent… Just got to be better.”

His rough outing puts added pressure on Smith-Shawver to deliver in the upcoming matchup.

Conclusion: Can Smith-Shawver Cool Off the Nationals?

Wednesday night’s game represents a critical clash of momentum versus pitching mastery. The Nationals, buoyed by emerging stars like Crews and Wood, look unstoppable. Yet, AJ Smith-Shawver’s dazzling form could be the Braves’ best shot at slowing them down.

This matchup will hinge on early innings and bullpen support—whoever seizes the early lead may well dictate the outcome.