Washington Nationals vs Pittsburgh Pirates Prediction, Odds and Picks for Today, 04/13/26

Paul Skenes is set to take the mound on Monday night when the Pittsburgh Pirates host the Washington Nationals at PNC Park. Skenes endured a rough Opening Day start against the Mets, but he has gotten back on track with back-to-back stellar outings. However, the Nationals are off to a strong start at the plate, ranking 3rd in MLB with a .272 batting average and 3rd with a .770 OPS. Skenes always presents a challenge, but there’s enough confidence in the Washington lineup for the Nats to give him some trouble. Plus, Skenes has issued multiple walks in all 3 of his starts this season. If that trend continues, it could give Washington a bit of an offensive boost.

Opposing Skenes on the mound is Washington right-hander Cade Cavalli, who has allowed just 2 earned runs through 10.2 innings in his last 2 starts. However, he has also struggled with control early on this season. Cavalli has as many walks as strikeouts (6) in his last 2 starts, and has issued 9 walks through 14.1 innings on the season. Those control issues are going to catch up with him sooner or later. Neither bullpen has been particularly effective this season, as Pittsburgh enters this contest ranked 22nd with a 1.51 WHIP, while Washington ranks 26th at 1.55. With a low total of 7, consider a small play on the over.

Nationals vs Pirates prediction: Over 7 (-110) available at time of publishing. Playable at that number.