St. Louis Cardinals:

The St. Louis Cardinals come into this game with a solid 46-41 record. They are aiming to strengthen their position in the NL Central with a series win against the Nationals.

Last 5 Games:

• 7/5/24: @ WSH, W 7-6 (F/11)
• 7/4/24: @ PIT, W 3-2 (F/10)
• 7/3/24: @ PIT, L 5-4 (F/10)
• 7/2/24: @ PIT, W 7-4
• 6/30/24: vs CIN, W 2-0

Injury Report:

• Lars Nootbaar (RF): 10-Day IL, expected return July 9
• Ivan Herrera (C): 10-Day IL, expected return July 9
• Tekoah Roby (SP): 7-Day IL, expected return July 10
• Riley O'Brien (RP): 60-Day IL, expected return July 19
• Tommy Edman (SS): 60-Day IL, expected return July 19

Pitching Analysis:

Kyle Gibson will start for the Cardinals, boasting a 6-3 record with a 3.88 ERA. Gibson has been a reliable starter, providing consistency on the mound which will be crucial against the Nationals' lineup.

Batting Leaders:

• Home Runs: Nolan Gorman (17 HR)
• Batting Average: Masyn Winn (.291 AVG)
• Runs Batted In: Nolan Gorman (43 RBI)

With Nolan Gorman and Masyn Winn leading the charge, the Cardinals' offense has the potential to generate significant runs.

Washington Nationals:

The Washington Nationals, with a 41-47 record, are looking to bounce back and gain momentum in the NL East. They aim to take advantage of their home-field advantage against the Cardinals.

Last 5 Games:

• 7/5/24: vs STL, L 7-6 (F/11)
• 7/4/24: vs NYM, W 1-0
• 7/3/24: vs NYM, W 7-5
• 7/2/24: vs NYM, L 7-2 (F/10)
• 7/1/24: vs NYM, L 9-7 (F/10)

Injury Report:

No injured players.

Pitching Analysis:

DJ Herz will take the mound for the Nationals, holding a 1-2 record with a 4.67 ERA. Herz has shown potential but has struggled with consistency, which could be exploited by the Cardinals' powerful lineup.

Batting Leaders:

• Home Runs: CJ Abrams (13 HR)
• Batting Average: CJ Abrams (.279 AVG)
• Runs Batted In: CJ Abrams (45 RBI)

CJ Abrams has been a standout performer for the Nationals, leading the team in home runs, batting average, and RBIs.