New York Mets vs. Nationals Series Preview (Aug. 19–21, 2025)

The New York Mets (66-58) head down to the nation's capital this week for a three-game set against the Washington Nationals (50-74). With the Mets pushing for a playoff spot and the Nationals continuing their youth-driven rebuild, both sides enter this series with plenty of storylines to watch. First pitch is set for Tuesday, August 19, at 6:45 p.m. EDT from Nationals Park in Washington, D.C.

LHP David Peterson (7-5, 3.30 ERA) vs. Nationals: RHP Jake Irvin (8-7, 5.14 ERA)
First pitch: 6:45 p.m. EDT

RHP Kodai Senga (7-4, 2.35 ERA) vs. Nationals: RHP Brad Lord (3-6, 3.26 ERA)
First pitch: 6:45 p.m. EDT

LHP Sean Manaea (1-1, 4.78 ERA) vs. LHP MacKenzie Gore (5-12, 4.04 ERA)
First pitch: 4:05 p.m. EDT

The Nationals are expected to promote infielder Andrés Chaparro from Triple-A Rochester ahead of the series. A power bat with the ability to play both third base and first, Chaparro brings right-handed pop to a Washington lineup that has struggled at times to generate run production. His call-up signals another look at the Nats’ potential long-term pieces, as the organization continues to evaluate young talent.

Washington’s starting pitchers will take center stage in this series. Between Jake Irvin, Brad Lord, and MacKenzie Gore, the Nats are handing the ball to three pitchers they view as key parts of their future—whether in the rotation or as possible trade assets down the road. Facing a Mets lineup that features multiple dangerous bats, this series offers an opportunity to gauge how these arms handle pressure.

All eyes remain on Dylan Crews, the former No. 2 overall pick and centerpiece of Washington’s rebuild. Crews has brought flashes of excitement both at the plate and in the outfield, and how he performs against quality Mets pitching will be another test of his development. His ability to impact the game offensively could be a major storyline in this matchup.

The Mets come into Washington looking to solidify their grip on playoff positioning, while the Nationals continue their development-driven approach. Between young call-ups like Chaparro, the growth of Dylan Crews, and the pressure on the Nationals’ rotation, this series gives fans plenty of intriguing matchups to follow.

First pitch in the opener is set for Tuesday evening at 6:45 p.m. in the nation’s capital.