Cubs vs Nationals: Home Opener Showdown

0:00It's March 26. Welcome to Washington Nationals News Today, AI-powered coverage of your squad. The Chicago Cubs kick off their home season today against the Washington Nationals at 2.30 PM, Eastern Daylight Time. Matthew Boyd takes the mound for the Cubs, while Cade Cavalli starts for the Nationals, both with zero wins so far. Sportsbooks have the Cubs as heavy favorites at minus 230, with the Nationals at plus 189 and the over-underset at 8 runs. Last year, the Cubs finished strong with a 92 and 70 record overall and 50 wins at home. They averaged 4.9 runs score per game while holding opponents to 4 runs. The Nationals struggled at 66 and 96 overall, winning just 34 road games as they put up 4.2 runs but allowed 5.5. Both teams enter with key injuries, especially in pitching. The Cubs are missing guys like Justin Steele and Shelby Miller on the 60-day injured list, with elbow issues, plus Seia Suzuki out for his knee.

1:03Washington has several pitches sideline too, including Trevor Williams, Josiah Gray, and DJ Hers, all with elbow problems. Fans are buzzing about the Cubs' home advantage after their solid home record last season, but the Nationals hope to surprise as underdogs. These early injuries could shape how the rotations hold up all year. But the first pitch just hours away, this match upsets the tone for both squads right out of the gate.