Rain, Recent Split Set Stage for Nationals-Pirates Finale

PITTSBURGH (Interstat) — After splitting the first two games of their series in dramatically different fashion, the Washington Nationals and Pittsburgh Pirates conclude their set Wednesday at PNC Park, with rain in the forecast and momentum seemingly up for grabs.

The Nationals (8-9) evened the series with a 5-4 victory Tuesday, one day after suffering a 16-5 rout. Washington will hand the ball to right-hander Jake Irvin (1-1) as they aim for a series win. The Pirates (10-7) counter with ace Paul Skenes, who dominated the Nationals just three days ago.

Skenes was brilliant in Monday’s blowout, allowing one hit and one earned run over six innings while striking out six. The right-hander has been stellar in three of his four starts this season, posting a 3-1 record. His lone stumble came on Opening Day at the New York Mets.

Irvin takes the mound for Washington seeking more consistency. He will need to navigate a Pittsburgh lineup that erupted for 16 runs Monday but was held in check late Tuesday.

A player to watch for the Nationals is reliever Paxton Schultz. In his last outing, he was charged with the loss in Monday’s defeat, but he had provided scoreless relief in his two appearances prior. Managing the game if weather becomes a factor could increase the bullpen’s importance.

The forecast calls for 68-degree temperatures and rain at first pitch, which could lead to delays or impact playing conditions.

According to Interstat, the Pirates are projected favorites with a 59.8% probability to win. Their game simulator predicts a 7-4 Pittsburgh victory.

Following Wednesday’s contest, the Nationals return home to begin a four-game series with the San Francisco Giants on Friday. The Pirates will also stay at PNC Park to host the Tampa Bay Rays for three games starting Friday.