Washington Nationals Wiretap

The Chicago White Sox selected UCLA shortstop Roch Cholowsky with the No. 1 overall pick Saturday, taking the consensus top prospect in this year's class despite late buzz around Grady Emerson and Vahn Lackey. Cholowsky posted a 1.088 OPS during his junior season and profiles as a well-rounded shortstop with a fast track to the majors.

The Tampa Bay Rays followed by selecting Fort Worth Christian High School shortstop Grady Emerson, the top-ranked high school position player in the draft. Emerson earned Gatorade National Player of the Year honors and fills a need for a Rays organization still searching for stability at shortstop.

The Minnesota Twins took Georgia Tech catcher Vahn Lackey third overall after he hit .397 with 20 home runs this season, continuing the school's pipeline of first-round catchers.

The San Francisco Giants then selected UC Santa Barbara right-hander Jackson Flora fourth, the top pitching prospect in a class considered thin on arms.

The Pittsburgh Pirates rounded out the top five by taking LSU outfielder Derek Curiel, a draft-eligible sophomore who batted .353 with strong instincts in center field.

2026 MLB Draft Results

First Round

1. Chicago White Sox: Roch Cholowsky, SS, UCLA
2. Tampa Bay Rays: Grady Emerson, SS, Fort Worth Christian HS (Texas)
3. Minnesota Twins: Vahn Lackey, C, Georgia Tech
4. San Francisco Giants: Jackson Flora, RHP, UC Santa Barbara
5. Pittsburgh Pirates: Derek Curiel, CF, LSU
6. Kansas City Royals: Zion Rose, LF, Louisville
7. Baltimore Orioles: Eric Booth Jr., CF, Oak Grove HS (Mississippi)
8. Athletics: Drew Burress, CF, Georgia Tech
9. Atlanta Braves: AJ Gracia, CF, Virginia
10. Colorado Rockies: Tyler Bell, SS, Kentucky
11. Washington Nationals: Chris Hacopian, 2B, Texas A&M
12. Los Angeles Angels: Jared Grindlinger, RF/LHP, Huntington Beach HS (California)
13. St. Louis Cardinals: Trevor Condon, CF, Etowah HS (Georgia)
14. Miami Marlins: Jacob Lombard, SS, Gulliver Prep HS (Florida)
15. Arizona Diamondbacks: Ryder Helfrick, C, Arkansas
16. Texas Rangers: Gio Rojas, LHP, Stoneman Douglas HS (Florida)
17. Houston Astros: Logan Hughes, LF, Texas Tech
18. Cincinnati Reds: Justin Lebron, SS, Alabama
19. Cleveland Guardians: Liam Peterson, RHP, Florida
20. Boston Red Sox: Jake Schaffner, SS, North Carolina
21. San Diego Padres: Coleman Borthwick, RHP, South Walton HS (Florida)
22. Detroit Tigers: Cameron Flukey, RHP, Coastal Carolina
23. Chicago Cubs: Cade Townsend, RHP, Mississippi
24. Seattle Mariners: Ace Reese, 3B, Mississippi State
25. Milwaukee Brewers: Trey Ebel, SS, Corona HS (California)
26. Atlanta Braves: Carter Beck, CF, Indiana State
27. New York Mets: Carson Wiggins, RHP, Arkansas
28. Houston Astros: Jack Radel, RHP, Notre Dame
29. San Francisco Giants: Carson Bolemon, LHP, Southside Christian HS (South Carolina)
30. Kansas City Royals: Taylor Rabe, RHP, Mississippi
31. Arizona Diamondbacks: Blake Bryant, RHP, Citizen's Christian HS (Georgia)
32. St. Louis Cardinals: Tegan Kuhns, RHP, Tennessee
33. Tampa Bay Rays: Taj Marchand, SS, James Island Charter HS (South Carolina)
34. Chicago White Sox: Landon Thome, SS, Nazareth Academy HS (Illinois)
35. New York Yankees: Hunter Dietz, LHP, Arkansas
36. Philadelphia Phillies: Tyler Spangler, SS, De La Salle HS (California)
37. Colorado Rockies: Daniel Jackson, C, Georgia

Second Round

38. Colorado Rockies: Logan Reddemann, RHP, UCLA
39. Toronto Blue Jays: Cole Carlon, LHP, Arizona State
40. Los Angeles Dodgers: Bo Lowrance, 3B, Christ Church Episcopal HS (South Carolina)
41. Chicago White Sox: Cole Prosek, 3B/C, Magnolia Heights HS (Mississippi)
42. Washington Nationals: Chase Brunson, OF, TCU
43. Minnesota Twins: Carson Tinney, C, Texas
44. Pittsburgh Pirates: Aiden Ruiz, SS, The Stony Brook HS
45. Los Angeles Angels: Jarren Advincula, 2B, Georgia Tech
46. Baltimore Orioles: Ty Head, OF, North Carolina State
47. Athletics: Mason Edwards, P, USC
48. Atlanta Braves: Kaiden McCarthy, P, Vermont Academy
49. Tampa Bay Rays: Ben Blair, P, Liberty
50. St. Louis Cardinals: Rocco Maniscalco, SS, Oxford HS
51. Pittsburgh Pirates: Chris Rembert, 2B, Auburn
52. Miami Marlins: Ethan Kleinschmit, P, Oregon State
53. Arizona Diamondbacks: Carson Kerce, SS, Georgia Tech
54. Texas Rangers: Connor Comeau, 3B, Anderson HS (Texas)
55. San Francisco Giants: Kaden Waechter, P, Jesuit HS (Florida)
56. Kansas City Royals: Jack Slightom, P, Lyons Township HS (Illinois)
57. Houston Astros: Wes Mendes, P, Florida State
58. Cincinnati Reds: Eric Becker, 3B, Virginia
59. Cleveland Guardians: Logan Schmidt, P, Ganesha HS (California)
60. San Diego Padres: Elliot Lascelles, SS, Upper Canada College HS
61. Detroit Tigers: Tyson LeBlanc, SS, Kansas
62. Chicago Cubs: Caden Sorrell, OF, Texas A&M
63. New York Yankees: Sean Duncan, P, Terry Fox SS (Canada)
64. Philadelphia Phillies: Caden Bogenpohl, OF, Missouri State
65. Seattle Mariners: Jake Brown, OF, LSU
66. Milwaukee Brewers: Sawyer Strosnider, OF, TCU

Competitive Balance Round B

67. Boston Red Sox: Owen Hull, OF, North Carolina
68. St. Louis Cardinals: Andrew Williamson, OF, Central Florida
69. Detroit Tigers: Evan Dempsey, P, Florida Gulf Coast
70. Cincinnati Reds: Mulivai Levu, 1B, UCLA
71. Miami Marlins: Ryan Peterson, P, Sam Houston State
72. St. Louis Cardinals: Dawson, Montesa P, West Virginia
73. Athletics: Gabe Gaeckle, P, Arkansas
74. Minnesota Twins: Brett Renfrow, P, Virginia Tech

Compensation Picks

75. Chicago Cubs: Myles Bailey, 1B, Florida State

Third Round

76. Colorado Rockies: Jack Natili, C, Cincinnati
77. Chicago White Sox: Joey Volchko, P, Georgia
78. Washington Nationals: Luke Williams SS, Franklin Regional HS (Pennsylvania)
79. Minnesota Twins: Ethan Wachsmann, P, Grandview HS (Colorado)
80. Pittsburgh Pirates: Jason DeCaro, P, North Carolina
81. Los Angeles Angels: Gavin Grahovac, 3B, Texas A&M
82. Baltimore Orioles: Dominic Voegele, P, Kansas
83. Athletics: Jacob Dudan, P, North Carolina State
84. Atlanta Braves: Jensen Hirschkorn, P, Kingsburg HS (California)
85. Tampa Bay Rays: Gavin Giese, P, Dana Hills HS (California)
86. St. Louis Cardinals: Caden Ferraro OF, Texas Tech
87. Miami Marlins: Cam Kozeal SS, Arkansas
88. Arizona Diamondbacks: Brayden Dowd OF, Florida State
89. Texas Rangers: Brody Bumila P, Bishop Feehan HS (Mass.)
90. San Francisco Giants: Peyton Bonds OF, Rutgers
91. Kansas City Royals: Maxx Yehl P, West Virginia
92. New York Mets: Aiden Robbins OF, Texas
93. Houston Astros: Keon Johnson SS, First Presbyterian HS (Georgia)
94. Cincinnati Reds: Ty Horn P, Nebraska
95. Cleveland Guardians: Tre Broussard, OF, Houston
96. Boston Red Sox: Jace Mataczynski, SS, Hudson HS (Wisconsin)
97. San Diego Padres: Ryan Lynch, P, North Carolina
98. Chicago Cubs: Carson Jasa, P, Nebraska
99. New York Yankees: Brendan Brock, C, Oklahoma
100. Philadelphia Phillies: Ruger Riojas, P, Texas
101. Seattle Mariners: Nathan Taylor, P, Cincinnati
102. Milwaukee Brewers: Kyle Jones, OF, Florida
103. Toronto Blue Jays: Ryan Cooney, SS, Oregon

Fourth Round

104. Colorado Rockies: Ben Davis, P, Mississippi State
105. Chicago White Sox: Eric Segura, P, Oregon State
106. Washington Nationals: Cooper Harris, P, Flower Mound HS (Texas)
107. Minnesota Twins: Tommy LaPour, P, TCU
108. Pittsburgh Pirates: Andruw Giles, OF, Basic HS (Nevada)
109. Los Angeles Angels: Rylan Lujo, OF, Georgia
110. Baltimore Orioles: Kevin Roberts Jr., OF, Jackson Prep HS (Mississippi)
111. Athletics: Roman Martin, SS, UCLA
112. Atlanta Braves: Cole Dennis, P, Bishop Snyder HS (Florida)
113. Tampa Bay Rays: Collin Bland, OF, Houston HS
114. St. Louis Cardinals: Dee Kennedy, SS, Kansas State
115. Miami Marlins: Wessley Roberson, OF, Glynn Academy HS (Georgia)
116. Arizona Diamondbacks: Josh McDevitt, P, Missouri
117. Texas Rangers: Hudson Calhoun, P, Mississippi
118. San Francisco Giants: Carlos Martinez, P, Hofstra
119. Kansas City Royals: Dominic Battista, OF, Oswego East HS (Illinois)
120. New York Mets: Shane Sdao, P, Texas A&M
121. Houston Astros: Kam Durnin, SS, Missouri
122. Cincinnati Reds: Ethan Norby, P, East Carolina
123. Cleveland Guardians: Kade Lewis, 3B, Wake Forest
124. San Diego Padres: Robbie Lavey, C, George Washington
125. Detroit Tigers: Dominic Pellegrin, SS, Holy Cross HS (Louisiana)
126. Chicago Cubs: Dylan Marionneaux, P, Northwestern State
127. New York Yankees: Paul Contreras, OF, Cal State Fullerton
128. Philadelphia Phillies: Deven Sheerin, P, LSU
129. Seattle Mariners: Trevor Lucas 3B, UNC Wilmington
130. Milwaukee Brewers: Julian Garcia, P, St. John Bosco HS (California)
131. Toronto Blue Jays: Will Brick, C, Christian Brothers HS (Tennessee)
132. Los Angeles Dodgers: Russell Sandefer, P, Florida

Comp Picks

133. Houston Astros: Beau Peterson, 3B, Mill Valley HS (Kansas)
134. San Diego Padres: Alex Conover, OF, Oklahoma State
135. Philadelphia Phillies: Jaxon Jelkin, P, Kentucky

Major League Baseball revealed its 2026 All-Star Game starting lineups Saturday, with Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani topping the fan vote and three teammates joining him in the National League's starting group.

Ohtani will serve as designated hitter for the NL, appearing alongside Freddie Freeman at first base, Max Muncy at third and Andy Pages in the outfield. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said Friday that Ohtani probably won't pitch in the exhibition after they altered his workload schedule.

Additional NL starters include Juan Soto of the New York Mets, Brandon Marsh of the Philadelphia Phillies, CJ Abrams of the Washington Nationals, and Atlanta Braves duo Ozzie Albies and Drake Baldwin.

American League voting leader Ernie Clement will start alongside fellow Toronto Blue Jays infielder Vladimir Guerrero Jr., though Guerrero has since withdrawn from the game. Athletics first baseman Nick Kurtz will replace him after winning the players' vote at that position.

Tampa Bay Rays third baseman Junior Caminero, Kansas City Royals shortstop Bobby Witt Jr., Athletics catcher Shea Langeliers and Houston Astros designated hitter Yordan Alvarez round out the AL infield and battery. Mike Trout, Aaron Judge and Byron Buxton comprise the American League's starting outfield.

This year's contest takes place July 14 at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia. Fans selected the starters, while a combination of league officials and current players, managers and coaches chose the reserves.

The Dodgers, Braves and Phillies each landed a league-best five All-Stars apiece. Five starters, Langeliers, Clement, Baldwin, Marsh and Pages, earned their first career selections, while Freeman and Chris Sale are making their 10th appearances.

Trout returns for his 12th All-Star nod and first since 2023, currently recovering from a hamstring injury but expected to play. MLB will feature players wearing original team uniforms this year rather than specialized event jerseys.

American League All-Stars

Starters
C: Shea Langeliers (ATH)
1B: Vladimir Guerrero Jr. (TOR)
2B: Ernie Clement (TOR)
3B: Junior Caminero (TB)
SS: Bobby Witt Jr. (KC)
OF: Mike Trout (LAA)
OF: Byron Buxton (MIN)
OF: Aaron Judge (NYY)
DH: Yordan Alvarez (HOU)

Reserves

C: Dillon Dingler (DET)
C: Adley Rutschman (BAL)
INF: Travis Bazzana (CLE)
INF: Nick Kurtz (ATH)
INF: Kevin McGonigle (DET)
INF: Ben Rice (NYY)
INF: Miguel Vargas (CWS)
OF: Randy Arozarena (SEA)
OF: Cody Bellinger (NYY)
OF: Riley Greene (DET)
DH: Yandy Díaz (TB)

Reserves

C: Dillon Dingler (DET)
C: Adley Rutschman (BAL)
INF: Travis Bazzana (CLE)
INF: Nick Kurtz (ATH)
INF: Kevin McGonigle (DET)
INF: Ben Rice (NYY)
INF: Miguel Vargas (CWS)
OF: Randy Arozarena (SEA)
OF: Cody Bellinger (NYY)
OF: Riley Greene (DET)
DH: Yandy Díaz (TB)

Starting Pitchers

RHP: Dylan Cease (TOR)
LHP: Parker Messick (CLE)
RHP: Drew Rasmussen (TB)
RHP: Joe Ryan (MIN)
RHP: Cam Schlittler (NYY)
LHP: Ranger Suarez (BOS)
RHP: Michael Wacha (KC)

Relief Pitchers

RHP: Bryan Baker (TB)
LHP: Aroldis Chapman (BOS)
LHP: Jacob Latz (TEX)
RHP: Cade Smith (CLE)
RHP: Louis Varland (TOR)

National League All-Stars

Starters
C: Drake Baldwin (ATL)
1B: Freddie Freeman (LAD)
2B: Ozzie Albies (ATL)
3B: Max Muncy (LAD)
SS: CJ Abrams (WSH)
OF: Brandon Marsh (PHI)
OF: Juan Soto (NYM)
OF: Andy Pages (LAD)
DH: Shohei Ohtani (LAD)

Reserves

C: William Contreras (MIL)
C: Hunter Goodman (COL)
INF: Luis Arraez (SF)
INF: Bryce Harper (PHI)
INF: Otto Lopez (MIA)
INF: Matt Olson (ATL)
INF: Sal Stewart (CIN)
OF: Corbin Carroll (AZ)
OF: Pete Crow-Armstrong (CHC)
OF: Jordan Walker (STL)
OF: James Wood (WSH)
DH: Kyle Schwarber (PHI)

Starting Pitchers

RHP: Chase Burns (CIN)
RHP: Max Meyer (MIA)
RHP: Jacob Misiorowski (MIL)
LHP: Eduardo Rodriguez (AZ)
LHP: Chris Sale (ATL)
LHP: Cristopher Sánchez (PHI)
RHP: Paul Skenes (PIT)
RHP: Logan Webb (SF)
RHP: Yoshinobu Yamamoto (LAD)

Relief Pitchers

RHP: Jhoan Duran (PHI)
RHP: Raisel Iglesias (ATL)
RHP: Mason Miller (SD)
RHP: Dylan Cease (TOR)
LHP: Parker Messick (CLE)
RHP: Drew Rasmussen (TB)
RHP: Joe Ryan (MIN)
RHP: Cam Schlittler (NYY)
LHP: Ranger Suarez (BOS)
RHP: Michael Wacha (KC)

Relief Pitchers

RHP: Bryan Baker (TB)
LHP: Aroldis Chapman (BOS)
LHP: Jacob Latz (TEX)
RHP: Cade Smith (CLE)
RHP: Louis Varland (TOR)

Fernando Tatis Jr. finally connected for his first home run of the season -- and it was a blast.

Tatis slugged a 451-foot solo shot to left field in the fifth inning against Washington on Saturday, although the San Diego Padres went on to lose 9-4 to the Nationals. Tatis, who has five 20-homer seasons in his career and hit 42 in 2021, had not gone deep in 240 plate appearances before this game -- the longest drought in the major leagues.

He then singled in the first inning and struck out in the third before his fifth-inning drive off Foster Griffin gave San Diego a 3-1 lead.

"I just knew right away," Tatis said. "About f---ing time."

With nearly two months of the 2026 season complete, 22 players from the preseason MLB top 100 prospect list have graduated from eligibility, reshuffling the rankings ahead of what figures to be an active trade deadline season.

Milwaukee Brewers shortstop Jesus Made, 19, moves to the top spot after posting 90th percentile exit velocities that rank among big league averages despite playing in Double-A. His ability to control the strike zone and his defensive profile stand out, though scouts note his swing produces insufficient lift to translate his raw power into home run totals. If that changes in the second half, a significant ranking jump could follow.

Among the most notable movers is Boston Red Sox shortstop Franklin Arias, who climbs from 36th to sixth after posting improved exit velocity and lift rates while maintaining contact. Athletics shortstop Leo De Vries jumps to second after his profile helped pry All-Star closer Mason Miller from Oakland. Pittsburgh Pirates right-hander Seth Hernandez rises from 49th to seventh after slider and fastball shape improvements unlocked his ceiling.

Notable graduates from the list include the previous top two prospects, Konnor Griffin and Kevin McGonigle, along with Samuel Basallo, JJ Wetherholt, Bubba Chandler, Carson Benge, Andrew Painter, and Carson Williams, among others.

Seven players currently on active big league rosters remain eligible but could graduate within weeks.

Top-50 MLB Prospects

60FV
1. Jesus Made, SS, Milwaukee Brewers (Previous: 3)
2. Leo De Vries, SS, Athletics (Previous: 11)
3. Colt Emerson, SS, Seattle Mariners (Previous: 6)
4. Max Clark, CF, Detroit Tigers (Previous: 8)
5. Sebastian Walcott, SS, Texas Rangers (Previous: 5)
6. Franklin Arias, SS, Boston Red Sox (Previous: 36)
7. Seth Hernandez, RHP, Pittsburgh Pirates (Previous: 49)
8. Eli Willits, SS, Washington Nationals (Previous: 41)
9. Kade Anderson, LHP, Seattle Mariners (Previous: 16)
10. George Lombard Jr., SS, New York Yankees (Previous: 20)
11. Travis Bazzana, 2B, Cleveland Guardians (Previous: 23)
12. Walker Jenkins, CF, Minnesota Twins (Previous: 9)
13. Trey Yesavage, RHP, Toronto Blue Jays (Previous: 14)
14. A.J. Ewing, CF, New York Mets (Previous: 28)
15. Rainiel Rodriguez, C, St. Louis Cardinals (Previous: 19)
16. Aidan Miller, SS, Philadelphia Phillies (Previous: 10)
17. Ryan Sloan, RHP, Seattle Mariners (Previous: 24)

55 FV
18. Josue De Paula, LF, Los Angeles Dodgers (Previous: 21)
19. Josuar Gonzalez, SS, San Francisco Giants (Previous: 30)
20. Ethan Salas, C, San Diego Padres (Previous: 110)
21. Ryan Waldschmidt, CF, Arizona Diamondbacks (Previous: 63)
22. Thomas White, LHP, Miami Marlins (Previous: 18)
23. Alfredo Duno, C, Cincinnati Reds (Previous: 29)
24. Connor Prielipp, LHP, Minnesota Twins (Previous: 54)
25. Caleb Bonemer, 3B, Chicago White Sox (Previous: 34)
26. Luis Pena, SS, Milwaukee Brewers (Previous: 26)
27. Ethan Holliday, SS, Colorado Rockies (Previous: 66)
28. Liam Doyle, LHP, St. Louis Cardinals (Previous: 50)
29. Tyler Bremner, RHP, Los Angeles Angels (Previous: 56)
30. Theo Gillen, CF, Tampa Bay Rays (Previous: 92)
31. Ralphy Velazquez, 1B, Cleveland Guardians (Previous: 33)
32. Jett Williams, SS, Milwaukee Brewers (Previous: 32)
33. JoJo Parker, SS, Toronto Blue Jays (Previous: 52)
34. Zyhir Hope, RF, Los Angeles Dodgers (Previous: 40)

50 FV
35. Cam Caminiti, LHP, Atlanta Braves (Previous: 53)
36. Jonah Tong, RHP, New York Mets (Previous: 31)
37. Noah Schultz, LHP, Chicago White Sox (Previous: 96)
38. Kaelen Culpepper, SS, Minnesota Twins (Previous: 79)
39. Angel Genao, SS, Cleveland Guardians (Previous: 80)
40. Gage Jump, LHP, Athletics (Previous: 42)
41. Jhonny Level, SS, San Francisco Giants (Previous: 84)
42. Emmanuel Rodriguez, CF, Minnesota Twins (Previous: 97)
43. Josh Hammond, SS, Kansas City Royals (Previous: 132)
44. Edward Florentino, CF, Pittsburgh Pirates (Previous: 78)
45. Eduardo Quintero, CF, Los Angeles Dodgers (Previous: 37)
46. Anthony Eyanson, RHP, Boston Red Sox (Previous: NR)
47. Eduardo Tait, C, Minnesota Twins (Previous: 38)
48. Didier Fuentes, RHP, Atlanta Braves (Previous: 88)
49. River Ryan, RHP, Los Angeles Dodgers (Previous: 125)
50. Jamie Arnold, LHP, Athletics (Previous: 60)

Wednesday’s NL East clash will be broadcast locally on BravesVision (Braves feed) and Nationals.TV (Washington feed). First pitch is scheduled for 6:45 PM ET. Fans can stream the game in high definition on Fubo, which offers access to regional sports networks and national MLB coverage.

The Atlanta Braves (16-8) are looking to extend their lead in the National League East this Wednesday, April 22, as they continue their road series against the Washington Nationals (11-13). Atlanta currently holds a comfortable five-game cushion atop the division, but Washington made a statement on Tuesday night by snapping the Braves' recent win streak with a dominant 11-4 victory. The Nationals hope to carry that offensive momentum into tonight’s matchup.

Atlanta’s high-powered offense is led by Matt Olson, who ranks first on the team in hits, and Dominic Smith, who enters tonight’s game on a seven-game hitting streak. Meanwhile, Ozzie Albies has recorded a hit in four straight contests. Washington will rely on their bats to repeat yesterday's success against a young Braves arm. Catch every pitch and home run live on Fubo.

The pitching matchup features a rookie right-hander against a veteran looking for a reset. The Braves turn to Didier Fuentes (0-0), who was impressive in his first start, allowing only one run over four innings. He faces Nationals righty Zack Littell (0-2), who has struggled significantly with a 7.11 ERA through his first four starts of 2026. You can witness this NL East battle streaming live on Fubo.

The defining storyline for tonight is whether Washington can capitalize on Littell's opportunity to bounce back against a team that ranks second in MLB in runs scored. For the Braves, the focus is on rookie Fuentes and his ability to navigate a Nationals lineup that proved yesterday they can erupt at any moment. Fubo is your home for the complete broadcast.

Braves vs. Nationals Betting Odds & Predictions

The Braves enter as favorites on the road. Despite their loss on Tuesday, oddsmakers are banking on the mismatch between Atlanta's elite offense and Zack Littell's early-season struggles.

Prediction: While Littell has the veteran experience, his current metrics suggest a difficult night against the Braves' middle-of-the-order. Expect Austin Riley and Matt Olson to provide plenty of run support for Fuentes. Final Score: Braves 7, Nationals 3.

Individual Matchups: Stars and Playmakers

The marquee matchup features the power of Austin Riley against the struggling Zack Littell. Riley is poised for a breakout performance against a pitcher who has allowed seven home runs in four starts.

*Stats over last 10 games.

Washington relies on their recently ignited offense to pressure rookie Fuentes early, aiming to keep the Braves' bullpen on their toes.

Stream the MLB on Fubo

Fubo is the essential destination for baseball fans. Catch regional sports networks like BravesVision and Nationals.TV, national broadcasts, and premier matchups with the most flexible streaming plans available, ensuring you never miss a highlight from the Braves or Nationals.

Fubo: New subscribers can check out current promotions to ensure they have access to local and national MLB coverage for the season. Follow the Braves as they seek another NL East title.

Frequently Asked Questions

Monday’s divisional series opener will be broadcast locally on BravesVsn (Braves feed) and Nationals.TV / MASN (Nationals feed). First pitch is scheduled for 6:45 PM ET. Fans can stream the game in high definition on Fubo, which offers access to regional sports networks and national MLB coverage.

The Atlanta Braves (15-7) head to the nation's capital this Monday, April 20, to open a four-game series against the Washington Nationals (10-12). Atlanta enters the series with one of the best records in the National League, fueled by a high-octane offense and a rotation that has remained effective despite early-season injuries. The Nationals, meanwhile, are looking to use home-field advantage to climb back toward .500 after a mixed start to April.

Atlanta’s offense is led by superstars Ronald Acuña Jr. and Matt Olson, who continue to anchor a lineup that punishes opposing rotations. They’ll face a stiff test in Jake Irvin, who is looking to bounce back from a rough outing. Washington counters with a youthful energy, highlighted by CJ Abrams and James Wood, both of whom have shown flashes of breakout potential early in 2026. Catch every pitch live on Fubo.

The individual matchups are headlined by the dominant form of Bryce Elder (RHP). Elder has been sensational for Atlanta, carrying a microscopic 0.77 ERA into tonight's contest. He faces a Washington lineup that has shown resilience at home but struggles with consistency against high-quality sinker-ballers. On the mound for the Nationals is Jake Irvin (RHP), who looks to stabilize his 6.16 ERA against a Braves team that ranks near the top of the league in home runs. You can witness this NL East battle streaming live on Fubo.

Atlanta’s ability to navigate their injury report remains a major storyline, as they wait for the return of Spencer Strider and Sean Murphy, both currently on rehab assignments. For Washington, the key will be supporting Irvin early; the Nationals are 2-2 in Irvin’s starts when they score at least three runs. Fubo is your home for the complete broadcast.

Braves vs. Nationals Betting Odds & Predictions

The Braves enter as favorites on the road. Between Bryce Elder’s elite early-season form and Atlanta’s superior record, oddsmakers are banking on the visitors to take the series opener.

Prediction: Bryce Elder has been nearly untouchable to start the year, and against a Nationals lineup that can be prone to groundouts, he should find plenty of success. Expect Atlanta's bats to provide ample run support against Jake Irvin. Final Score: Braves 6, Nationals 2.

Individual Matchups: Stars and Playmakers

The marquee matchup features the elite power of Matt Olson against the high-velocity arsenal of Jake Irvin. Olson has been a "stat-stuffer" early this season, anchoring the middle of the Atlanta order.

*Season record/stats current through April 20.

Washington relies on the speed of CJ Abrams and the raw power of James Wood to pressure opposing rotations and manufactured runs in divisional play.

Stream the MLB on Fubo

Fubo is the essential destination for baseball fans. Catch regional sports networks like BravesVsn and MASN, national broadcasts, and premier matchups with the most flexible streaming plans available, ensuring you never miss a highlight from the Braves or Nationals.

Fubo: New subscribers can check out current promotions to ensure they have access to local and national MLB coverage for the season. Follow the Braves as they aim for another NL East title.

Frequently Asked Questions

Monday’s series opener will be broadcast locally on SportsNet Pittsburgh (Pirates feed) and Nationals.TV (Nationals feed). First pitch is scheduled for 6:40 PM ET. Fans can stream the game in high definition on Fubo, which offers access to regional sports networks and national MLB coverage.

The Washington Nationals (7-8) head into PNC Park this Monday, April 13, riding a wave of momentum after an impressive weekend sweep of the Milwaukee Brewers. Washington's offense found its spark on the road, outscoring the Brewers 18-10 over three games. However, their quest to reach the .500 mark faces its toughest test yet in the Pittsburgh Pirates (9-6), who currently sit atop the NL Central.

The Pirates are sending their phenom and defending Cy Young winner, Paul Skenes, to the mound. After a shaky Opening Day, Skenes has returned to form, allowing only two runs over his last 11-plus innings. Washington counters with Cade Cavalli, who has looked sharp in the early going with a 2.51 ERA. With the Nationals' young hitters like James Wood finding their power, this matchup promises high-velocity fireworks. Catch every strikeout live on Fubo.

The individual matchups are highlighted by the power struggle between Pittsburgh's core and Washington's rising stars. Bryan Reynolds continues to be a steady force for the Bucs, while the Nationals will lean on CJ Abrams to ignite the top of the order. With both teams featuring aggressive base-running strategies, the battle on the paths will be just as critical as the one on the rubber.

The pitching duel is a showcase of elite young talent: Skenes' triple-digit heater against Cavalli's refined arsenal. You can witness this National League clash streaming live on Fubo.

Washington’s ability to navigate Skenes' dominant slider will be the game's defining storyline. For the Pirates, jump-starting an offense that has relied heavily on late-inning heroics will be key to supporting their ace. Fubo is your home for the complete broadcast.

Nationals vs. Pirates Betting Odds & Predictions

The Pirates enter the opener as the clear favorites. Between the home-field advantage and Skenes' historical dominance at PNC Park, the moneyline reflects strong confidence in a Pittsburgh victory.

Prediction: While the Nationals are hot, facing Paul Skenes is a different animal. Expect Cavalli to keep it close early, but Pittsburgh’s rotation edge should eventually pull them through. Final Score: Pirates 4, Nationals 2.

Individual Matchups: Stars and Playmakers

The marquee matchup features James Wood against Paul Skenes. Wood's massive power will be put to the ultimate test against the league's most imposing pitcher.

Pittsburgh relies on the discipline of Bryan Reynolds and the raw power of Oneil Cruz to pressure opposing rotations from the first pitch.

Stream the MLB on Fubo

Fubo is the essential destination for baseball fans. Catch regional sports networks like SportsNet Pittsburgh, national broadcasts, and premier matchups with the most flexible streaming plans available, ensuring you never miss a highlight from the Nationals or Pirates.

Fubo: New subscribers can check out current promotions to ensure they have access to local and national MLB coverage for the season. Follow the Pirates as they aim to solidify their lead in the NL Central.

Frequently Asked Questions

The slumping Milwaukee Brewers could be losing another of their top hitters for at least a little while.

Christian Yelich was pulled for a pinch hitter in the fifth inning against the Washington Nationals on Sunday because of tightness in his left hamstring. The Brewers went on to an 8-6 loss for their fifth straight defeat.

"We're most likely going to get some bad news on Yelich," manager Pat Murphy said after the game.

Murphy said the 2018 NL MVP and three-time All-Star felt a "little twinge" in his hamstring and was undergoing imaging.

Major League Baseball's average salary climbed 3.4% to a record $5.34 million on Opening Day, according to an Associated Press study, with the New York Mets topping league payrolls for the fourth consecutive year at $352.2 million.

Mets outfielder Juan Soto remains the sport's highest-paid player for the second straight season at $61.9 million annually, placing him among the highest-compensated athletes across all major North American professional sports. New York Yankees outfielder Cody Bellinger ranks second at $42.5 million, followed by Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Zack Wheeler and Mets third baseman Bo Bichette, who are tied at $42 million. Toronto Blue Jays first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. sits fifth at $40.2 million, just ahead of Yankees outfielder Aaron Judge at $40 million.

Across sports, the top of the market is converging. Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott carries an average annual value of approximately $60 million in the NFL, while Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry earns $59.6 million in the NBA this season, putting all three leagues within a narrow range at the very top of the pay scale.

The broader salary picture, however, differs considerably by sport. The NBA's average salary for roster players sits just under $14 million during the 2025-26 season, driven by smaller rosters that concentrate league revenue among fewer players. The NFL average was approximately $3.2 million in 2025, reflecting the league's significantly larger rosters. MLB's $5.34 million average falls between the two, though roster sizes in baseball and football are substantially larger than in basketball.

The Los Angeles Dodgers ranked second in MLB payroll at $316.6 million, down slightly from $319.5 million last year. Their figure would rise to $395.2 million without present-value discounting applied to deferred contracts for nine players.

MLB's average salary has grown 28 percent under the current five-year collective bargaining agreement, which expires in December, an average annual increase of 5.6%. Six clubs carried payrolls above $250 million, up from four a year ago, while eight teams fell below $100 million, an increase from five.

The Detroit Tigers posted the largest year-over-year spending increase at $64.2 million, reaching $206.7 million after signing pitcher Framber Valdez and giving a significant raise to ace Tarik Skubal through arbitration. The Minnesota Twins recorded the steepest decline, slashing $46.3 million from its Opening Day payroll to settle at $96.5 million.

The Cleveland Guardians were the MLB's lowest-spending team at $62.3 million, less than one-fifth of the Mets' total outlay.

Wednesday’s series finale will be broadcast locally on Bally Sports Midwest (Cardinals feed) and MASN (Nationals feed). First pitch is scheduled for 4:05 PM ET. Fans can stream the game in high definition on Fubo, which offers access to regional sports networks and national MLB coverage.

The St. Louis Cardinals (6-5) look to clinch a road series victory this Wednesday afternoon as they face the Washington Nationals (4-7) in a rubber match at Nationals Park. St. Louis bounced back yesterday with a 7-6 win, showcasing a resilient offense that has slowly started to find its rhythm behind a mix of veteran leadership and youthful energy.

Expect a focused performance from the Redbirds, led by standout Jordan Walker, who has been tearing the cover off the ball with a .925 slugging percentage in early April action. Washington, meanwhile, is hoping their young core, featuring James Wood and CJ Abrams, can ignite a home crowd and provide enough run support for a struggling rotation. Catch every inning live on Fubo.

The individual matchups are highlighted by the "Revenge Game" narrative for Nationals starter Miles Mikolas. The long-time Cardinal now finds himself facing his former club during a difficult start to his 2026 campaign. On the other side, St. Louis' Michael McGreevy looks to build on his strong start to the season and keep the Nationals' speedy hitters off the basepaths.

The pitching duel features St. Louis' Michael McGreevy (RHP), who brings a crisp 2.62 ERA into the contest, against Washington's Miles Mikolas (RHP). While Mikolas has struggled early, his familiarity with the Cardinals' hitters could make this a tactical chess match. You can witness this National League clash streaming live on Fubo.

St. Louis’ ability to capitalize on Mikolas's early-season Command issues will be the primary storyline. If Paul Goldschmidt and Nolan Arenado can find gaps early, it could be a long afternoon for the D.C. bullpen. However, if the Nationals can utilize their speed and force McGreevy into high-leverage counts, an upset is well within reach. Fubo is your home for the complete broadcast.

Cardinals vs. Nationals Betting Odds & Predictions

The Cardinals enter as slight road favorites. Despite the mixed results in the first two games, bettors are leaning toward St. Louis given the significant disparity in early-season pitching performance between the two starters.

Prediction: While Mikolas is due for a bounce-back, the Cardinals' lineup has shown too much plate discipline to ignore. Expect a mid-scoring affair where St. Louis’ bullpen eventually shuts the door. Final Score: Cardinals 6, Nationals 4.

Individual Matchups: Stars and Playmakers

The marquee matchup features the emerging power of Jordan Walker against the veteran experience of Miles Mikolas. Walker is currently pacing the Cardinals in almost every power category.

Washington relies on the elite athleticism of CJ Abrams and the massive potential of James Wood to disrupt opposing rotations.

Stream the MLB on Fubo

Fubo is the essential destination for baseball fans. Catch regional sports networks like Bally Sports Midwest and MASN, national broadcasts, and premier matchups with the most flexible streaming plans available, ensuring you never miss a highlight from the Cardinals or Nationals.

Fubo: New subscribers can check out current promotions to ensure they have access to local and national MLB coverage for the season. Follow the Cardinals as they aim to reclaim the NL Central crown.

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