Cubs vs Nationals: Opening Day Showdown

0:00It's March 26th. This is MLB News today, powered by AI tracking teams, players, and standings. The Chicago Cubs kick off their new season at home against the Washington Nationals this Thursday at 2.20pm Eastern time. Kay Cavali starts for the Nationals with no record yet, while Matthew Boyd takes the mound for the Cubs. Betting odds heavily favor Chicago at minus 2.30, with Washington as plus 189 underdogs, and the over-under set at 8 runs. Last season, the Cubs finished strong at 92 wins and 70 losses overall, including 50 wins and 31 at home. They averaged 4.9 runs, scored per game, while allowing just 4.0. Meanwhile, the Nationals struggled with 66 wins and 96 losses, going 34 and 47 on the road. They put a 4.2 runs per game, but gave up 5.5. Both teams are dealing with key injuries, especially to pitchers. The Cubs have several on the injured list, including Porter Hodge, with an elbow issue,

1:02Seia Suzuki, with an e-problem, and multiple elbow cases like, Justin Steele and Shelby Miller. Washington faces similar woes with Trevor Williams, Josiah Gray, and others sideline by elbow injuries. Fans are watching closely as these squads shake off last year's results and battle early injuries, setting the tone for a competitive opener in. Chicago.