Pirates vs Nationals Preview: Sunday Night Showdown

The Pirates have a superstar pitcher in Paul Skenes who can dominate any game. But tonight, you get Mitch Keller instead. That's not bad—Keller was an All-Star in 2023 and brings real stability to Pittsburgh's rotation. Right now, he's posting a 6.04 ERA and has just one win through three starts. This is a golden opportunity for Keller to prove he belongs in the conversation with Pittsburgh's best arms. The Pirates need steady pitching to protect leads. Keller can be that guy if he locks in against Washington tonight.

Foster Griffin takes the mound for the Nationals tonight. We don't have his full stats yet, but Washington's whole pitching staff is built on young arms trying to prove themselves. Guys like Zach Littell and Cade Cavalli are flashing talent but haven't found consistent success. The Nationals are rebuilding, which means Griffin gets a real chance to show what he can do on a big stage. Washington's bullpen has Clayton Beeter as closer, bringing former Yankees prospect credentials. This game is a measuring stick for Griffin and the young Nationals pitching staff.

Pittsburgh sits at 44-44 right now—they're perfectly balanced between wins and losses. Washington is 45-43, just barely ahead in the win column. Both teams are in the middle of the pack, and neither can afford to slip. The Pirates won their last game and are fighting to build momentum. The Nationals also won their last two games and want to keep that rolling. With the All-Star break coming soon, every single game counts. This matchup matters. Tonight at Nationals Park, somebody leaves happy and somebody leaves frustrated.

Pittsburgh is missing some key pieces. Oneil Cruz should return after the All-Star break from a hand injury. Spencer Horwitz won't play for weeks with a hamstring issue, and he was the leadoff hitter. Washington has injury problems too with Jake Irvin out and Josiah Gray still working his way back. Both teams are fighting without their full rosters. That means role players get bigger opportunities. New faces step up. Tonight's game might feature guys you haven't seen much before. That's what July baseball is all about—depth and determination.