Atlanta Braves vs Washington Nationals Prediction, Odds and Picks for Today, 04/20/26

The Atlanta Braves come into this matchup riding a five-game winning streak after completing a sweep of the Philadelphia Phillies, and they’ll look to keep that momentum going against an inconsistent Washington Nationals team. Washington avoided a sweep against the Giants with a 3-0 win yesterday, but they’ll need much more to compete in this spot. Taking the mound for the Braves will be Bryce Elder who is 2-1 with a 0.77 ERA. In four starts this season, Elder has given up 17 hits and struck out 23 in 23.1 innings pitched. For the Nationals, Jake Irvin will get the nod, entering with a 1-2 record and a 6.16 ERA. 

Offensively, both teams have been productive. Atlanta ranks second in the league with a .793 OPS and is averaging 5.5 runs per game, while Washington has also been solid with a .742 OPS and the same 5.5 runs per game. However, the difference in this matchup comes from pitching – particularly depth. Irvin has yet to pitch beyond five innings this season, which likely forces Washington into early bullpen usage. That’s a major concern given the Nationals 5.37 bullpen ERA, one of the worst in the league. On the other side, the Braves bullpen has been dominant, posting a 2.69 ERA and consistently closing the door late in the game. Even if Washington finds some offensive success, it’s going to be limited, and it’s difficult to trust their pitching staff to hold up against one of the hottest lineups in baseball. With a clear edge in starting pitching, bullpen, and offense – Atlanta should be able to handle business on Monday night on the road against the Nationals. 

Braves vs Nationals best bet: Braves ML (-165) available at time of publishing. Playable at that number.