Series preview: Nationals vs. Pirates

Washington Nationals (58-82) vs. Pittsburgh Pirates (50-90), September 10-12, 2021

Location: PNC Park, Pittsburgh, PA

TV: AT&T Sports Pittsburgh

Radio: KDKA-AM

Nationals SB Nation Site: Federal Baseball

The Nationals head to Pittsburgh for three games in a battle for bragging rights.

Here’s a look at what we can expect this weekend:

Projected Starters

Friday, 6:35 p.m. EST

TBD vs. Steven Brault (0-3, 5.61 ERA)

Saturday, 6:35 p.m. EST

TBD vs. Wil Crowe (3-7, 5.94 ERA)

Sunday, 1:05 p.m. EST

TBD vs. Bryse Wilson (2-6, 4.60 ERA)

Projected Lineups

Nationals

1. Lane Thomas (R) CF
2. Alcides Escobar (R) SS
3. Juan Soto (L) RF
4. Josh Bell (S) 1B
5. Yadiel Hernandez (L) LF
6. Carter Kieboom (R) 3B
7. Keibert Ruiz (S) C
8. Luis Garcia (L) 2B
9. Starting Pitcher

Pirates

1. Ke’Bryan Hayes (R) 3B
2. Yoshi Tsutsugo (L) RF
3. Bryan Reynolds (S) CF
4. Colin Moran (L) 1B
5. Ben Gamel (L) LF
6. Jacob Stallings (R) C
7. Cole Tucker (S) 2B
8. Kevin Newman (R) SS
9. Starting Pitcher

After taking two of three from the Tigers, the Pirates look to continue the momentum against the Nationals.

The Nationals have struggled so far in September, posting just a 3-6 record. They also don’t have their rotation set for this weekend, which could lead to some minor league call-ups or bullpen days, both of which play into the Pirates’ advantage.

For the Pirates, I’m excited to see how Ke’Bryan Hayes continues to thrive in the leadoff spot. Perhaps it’s an audition for the leadoff spot in 2022.