Kansas City Royals at Washington Nationals Player Props, Picks and Predictions - 9/24/2024 6:45 PM EST

We have your Kansas City Royals at Washington Nationals prop betting and game preview needs covered as the Kansas City Royals hit the road to face the Washington Nationals.

Kansas City Royals at Washington Nationals Odds Info

Best Moneyline Odds: Kansas City Royals -165 (ESPN Bet) / Washington Nationals +143 (Caesars)
Best Spread Odds: 1.5 - Kansas City Royals -102 (DraftKings) / Washington Nationals -118 (DraftKings)
Best Total Odds: 8.0 - Under -110 (BetRivers) / 7.5 - Over -120 (ESPN BET)

Game Info

Date: 9/24/2024
Time: 6:45 PM EST
Location: Nationals Park (Washington, District of Columbia)
TV: MLB.TV

Historic Head-to-Head Stats and Analysis

Over the past two seasons, the Kansas City Royals and the Washington Nationals have faced each other in three games. The Nationals emerged victorious in two of these encounters, while the Royals secured a win in one. The visiting team has had the upper hand, winning two out of the three games, with the home team winning only once. In terms of betting outcomes, the Nationals have consistently covered the spread in all three games, while the Royals have not managed to cover the spread in any of their matchups. The games have leaned towards lower scoring, with the total score going under the set line twice and over once.

The most recent game between these two teams took place on May 28, 2023, where the Kansas City Royals narrowly defeated the Washington Nationals with a final score of 3-2. The Nationals initially took the lead in the fourth inning, scoring two runs, but the Royals responded with a home run by MJ Melendez in the seventh inning and another by Edward Olivares in the eighth, tying the game. The decisive moment came in the ninth inning when Michael Massey singled to right, allowing Melendez to score the winning run. The Nationals recorded eight hits and ten strikeouts, while the Royals had six hits and thirteen strikeouts. The Nationals' pitching staff had an earned run average of 2.08, slightly higher than the Royals' 2.00.

In the previous two games, the Nationals demonstrated their offensive prowess, particularly in the game on May 26, 2023, where they scored 12 runs against the Royals' 10. This high-scoring affair was the only game that went over the total score line. The Nationals' ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities was evident, as they recorded 15 hits and drew nine walks. In contrast, the Royals struggled to contain the Nationals' offense, allowing 12 earned runs. The game on May 27, 2023, saw the Nationals win 4-2, with both teams displaying solid pitching performances, resulting in the game going under the total score line. Overall, the Nationals have shown a slight edge in these matchups, both in terms of wins and covering the spread.

Kansas City Royals at Washington Nationals Preview

The Kansas City Royals are set to face the Washington Nationals in a crucial three-game series at Nationals Park, with the Royals desperately seeking to halt their recent skid. Kansas City, currently tied for the second wild-card spot in the American League, has been struggling with consistency, having endured two separate seven-game losing streaks in the past month. Their offensive woes have been a significant factor, as the team has managed a paltry .206/.273/.317 slash line while averaging just over three runs per game since August 27. The absence of Vinnie Pasquantino due to injury has been felt, but the lack of contributions from the rest of the lineup, aside from Bobby Witt Jr., has exacerbated their struggles.

Witt Jr. has been a standout performer, though his production has dipped slightly from his MVP-caliber form earlier in the season. The Royals' pitching staff, particularly the bullpen, has also faced challenges, with a 4.33 ERA and multiple blown saves in recent games. Despite these setbacks, the Royals' starting rotation remains a strength, and they will look to Cole Ragans to set the tone in the series opener. Ragans has been impressive in September, boasting a 1.42 ERA over his last three starts.

On the other side, the Washington Nationals are playing out the final stretch of a rebuilding season. With a 69-87 record, the Nationals have struggled to find consistency, particularly on the mound, where they rank 23rd in the majors with a 4.35 ERA. Rookie Mitchell Parker will take the mound for Washington, aiming to finish his season on a high note despite recent struggles. The Nationals' offense has shown flashes of potential, but they have been unable to capitalize on scoring opportunities consistently, as evidenced by their recent 0-for-7 performance with runners in scoring position against the Cubs.

As the Royals aim to solidify their playoff position, they will need to overcome their recent offensive struggles and capitalize on the Nationals' vulnerabilities. With both teams having something to prove, this series promises to be a competitive affair, with the Royals looking to regain their early-season form and the Nationals seeking to play spoiler.

Kansas City Royals at Washington Nationals Pick: Total Runs Over

As the Kansas City Royals prepare to face the Washington Nationals, the betting line for total runs is set at 7.5, and the over presents a compelling case. Despite the Royals' recent offensive struggles, their lineup has the potential to break out, especially against a Nationals pitching staff that ranks 23rd in the majors with a 4.35 ERA. The Nationals' rookie starter, Mitchell Parker, has been inconsistent, posting a 5.40 ERA over his last five starts. His recent outing against the Mets saw him surrender five runs in just 3 2/3 innings, highlighting his vulnerability on the mound.

On the Royals' side, while their offense has been underwhelming since August 27, averaging just over three runs per game, they have shown the ability to score in bunches earlier in the season. Bobby Witt Jr. remains a key offensive threat, and with the pressure of a playoff race, the Royals could find the spark needed to capitalize on Parker's struggles. Additionally, the Nationals' offense, despite their overall record, has demonstrated the ability to put up runs, as seen in their high-scoring affair against the Royals on May 26, 2023, where they scored 12 runs.

Furthermore, the Royals' bullpen has been shaky, with a 4.33 ERA and multiple blown saves in recent games, which could provide the Nationals with opportunities to score. Given these factors, the potential for both teams to exploit each other's pitching weaknesses makes the over a strong play in this matchup. With the Royals fighting to secure a playoff spot and the Nationals looking to end their season on a positive note, expect a competitive game with enough offensive production to push the total over the set line.

Kansas City Royals at Washington Nationals Top Player Prop Picks

Cole Ragans Over 6.5 Strikeouts -105 (DraftKings)

Cole Ragans has been a standout performer for the Kansas City Royals, especially in September, where he has posted a remarkable 1.42 ERA over his last three starts. His ability to dominate on the mound is further highlighted by his 20 strikeouts in 19 innings during this period. Facing a Washington Nationals lineup that has struggled with consistency, Ragans is well-positioned to exceed the 6.5 strikeouts line. The Nationals' recent offensive struggles, including a 0-for-7 performance with runners in scoring position against the Cubs, suggest that Ragans could capitalize on their vulnerabilities and rack up strikeouts.

Salvador Perez Over 1.5 Total Bases -120 (BetMGM)

Salvador Perez remains a key offensive threat for the Royals, and with the team in a crucial playoff race, his contributions will be vital. Despite the Royals' recent offensive slump, Perez's ability to deliver in high-pressure situations makes the over on 1.5 total bases an attractive proposition. The Nationals' pitching staff, ranked 23rd in the majors with a 4.35 ERA, presents an opportunity for Perez to exploit, especially against rookie Mitchell Parker, who has struggled with a 5.40 ERA over his last five starts. Perez's power and experience could be the catalyst the Royals need to ignite their offense.

Hunter Renfroe Under 0.5 Singles -145 (Caesars)

Hunter Renfroe has been a consistent power hitter, but his propensity for extra-base hits over singles makes the under on 0.5 singles a compelling choice. Renfroe's role in the lineup often sees him swinging for the fences, which aligns with his lower singles rate. Given the Nationals' pitching struggles, Renfroe may find opportunities for doubles or home runs, but the likelihood of him settling for singles is reduced. This prop bet aligns with his playing style and the current dynamics of the Royals' offensive strategy.