Marlins vs. Nationals Prediction: Miami Looks to Bounce Back Behind Pérez
The Miami Marlins head to Nationals Park on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, to face the Washington Nationals in an NL East matchup. First pitch is set for 1:05 PM ET in Washington, DC.
Miami (65-74) sits third in the division, but enters on a two-game skid. Washington (55-83) has endured its struggles this season but comes in with back-to-back wins after taking the series opener.
Matchup Overview
- Venue: Nationals Park, Washington, DC
- Date: Wednesday, Sept. 3, 2025 – 1:05 PM ET
- Probable Starters: Eury Pérez (MIA) vs. Mitchell Parker (WSH)
- Betting Odds: Marlins ML -135, Nationals ML +115, Runline MIA -1.5 (+116) / WSH +1.5 (-138), Total 9.0 (O -108 / U -112)
The Marlins Can Win If…
Miami’s offense needs to find its spark after dropping Monday’s matchup 5-2. Connor Norby and Otto Lopez each had two hits in the loss, but run production stalled late. The Marlins have proven they can hit, ranking 7th in doubles (231) and 9th in batting average (.249).
Eury Pérez takes the ball with a 4.04 ERA and sharp 1.04 WHIP. His ability to limit base traffic is key, especially against a Nationals lineup that likes to swipe bags. Facing Mitchell Parker — who carries a 5.94 ERA — Miami has a clear advantage on the mound and must capitalize on that mismatch.
For more insights, check out today’s MLB Picks to see how experts are breaking down this divisional clash.
The Nationals Can Win If…
Washington enters this one with momentum. Cade Cavalli held Miami in check in Monday’s win, while James Wood belted his 27th homer and drove in two. Jacob Young also added two hits and an RBI, showing this young lineup can contribute from multiple spots.
The Nationals sit 10th in doubles and 7th in stolen bases (116), adding extra-base power and speed as pressure points. Mitchell Parker, despite his 5.94 ERA, has shown flashes with seven wins. If he can keep traffic down early, Washington has a path to another upset.
Check the latest MLB Scores and Odds for live updates on line movement and total trends before first pitch.
Betting Outlook
The Marlins are favored at -135, and projections back that up. Miami’s more balanced lineup and stronger starting pitching give them a narrow edge, with my model calling for a 5-4 Marlins win.
At a total of 9 runs, the lean is on the under (-112). Neither bullpen is airtight, but both lineups have struggled with consistency, and Pérez has the tools to contain Washington’s offense.
If you’re building your card, don’t miss the MLB Expert Betting Guide for winning strategies and matchup analysis.