On September 7, 2024, at 1:35 PM, the Washington Nationals will take the field against the Pittsburgh Pirates at PNC Park under clear skies. The Nationals are set to start pitcher DJ Herz, who carries a 4.095 ERA into the game, while the Pirates will counter with Luis L. Ortiz and his 3.186 ERA.

In the National League East, the Nationals are currently positioned at 13th with a 62-78 record, indicating a .440 winning percentage. They have a divisional record of 19-21 and have claimed four wins in their last ten games, although they have recently experienced two consecutive losses. Their performance metrics show 32 home wins and 37 losses, along with a 30-41 record on the road and more success in day games compared to night.

Conversely, the Pirates hold the 12th spot in the NL Central with a record of 66-74, reflecting a .470 winning percentage. They have a slightly better division record of 22-20 and also boast four wins in their recent ten games, including a win in their last game. Playing at home, the Pirates have a 33-36 record and 33-38 on the road, with similar slight discrepancies between day and night games performances.

Betting odds for this matchup are intriguing, with the Nationals going in slightly as underdogs. The point spread stands at -1.5, favoring the Pirates, and the total points Over/Under is set at 8.5. Considering the money line, the Nationals are priced at -102, indicating nearly even odds, while the Pirates are somewhat favored at -116. These odds reflect a potentially tight contest between two evenly matched teams, promising an engaging battle for baseball fans and bettors alike.