NEW YORK (Interstat) — The New York Mets, clinging to slim postseason hopes, return home to Citi Field on Friday to open a three-game series against the last-place Washington Nationals.

The Mets (79-74) enter the final stretch 4 1/2 games out of a National League wild-card spot after splitting a four-game set with the San Diego Padres. They are coming off a 6-1 victory on Thursday, powered by home runs from Brandon Nimmo, who drove in three, and Pete Alonso.

New York has won five of its last eight games but faces a challenging road trip to Chicago and Miami after this series.

The Nationals (62-91), long eliminated from contention, are playing for pride and evaluation. They were just swept in a three-game series by the Atlanta Braves, including a 9-4 loss on Wednesday. Outfielder Dylan Crews had an RBI single in that contest.

The season series between the two clubs has been closely contested, with each team winning five of the 10 meetings. However, the Mets have dominated at home, sweeping a three-game set from the Nationals in June. Washington took two of three from New York at home in August, including a 9-3 win in the most recent matchup on Aug. 21.

According to Interstat, the Mets are heavy favorites with a 66.1% probability to win. Their game simulator projects a 5-3 victory for New York. The Mets have been installed as a -1.5 run favorite, with an over/under of 8.5 runs.

Following this series, the Nationals continue their road trip with three games in Atlanta. The Mets embark on a seven-game trip to face the Chicago Cubs and Miami Marlins.