JUST IN : Injury-Ridden Phillies Face Tough Battle as Nationals Look to Seize Opening Day Victory

Nationals Poised to Capitalize on Phillies’ Injuries in Season Opener

Washington, D.C. – Thursday, 4:05 p.m. EDT

Probable Pitching Matchup:

• Phillies: Zack Wheeler (0-0)
• Nationals: MacKenzie Gore (0-0)

Odds: Phillies -176, Nationals +148 | Over/Under: 7 runs

The Washington Nationals kick off the 2025 season at home against the Philadelphia Phillies, and with injuries mounting for Philadelphia, the Nats may have an opportunity to start the season strong.

Washington finished 71-91 last year, including a respectable 38-43 home record. Their offense managed 8.1 hits per game with a .243 batting average and .375 slugging percentage.

Philadelphia, coming off a 95-67 season, had a slightly above-average 41-40 road record. While the Phillies were a power-hitting team last year with a .425 slugging percentage and 3.1 extra-base hits per game, their depth could be tested with injuries affecting their roster.

Key Injuries Could Shift Momentum

As the Philadelphia Phillies prepare to open their season against the Washington Nationals, they are managing several injuries within their roster:

• Ranger Suárez (LHP): Suárez, 29, will begin the season on the 15-day injured list due to ongoing lower back soreness. He experienced tightness on March 16 after pitching in an intrasquad game and has not pitched since. The Phillies anticipate his return before the end of April. citeturn0news9
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• Matt Strahm (LHP): Strahm sustained a torn fingernail on his left middle finger while packing to leave spring training. Despite this minor setback, he is expected to be available for Opening Day. citeturn0news10
• Weston Wilson (Utility): Wilson suffered a mild oblique strain on February 21 and is projected to be out for approximately six weeks, targeting a mid-April return. citeturn0search6

Additionally, star outfielder Bryce Harper was hit on his right arm by a pitch during a spring training game on February 27. Fortunately, he only sustained a contusion in the triceps area and is expected to be fine for the season opener. citeturn0news11

Managing these injuries will be crucial for the Phillies as they commence their 2025 campaign against the Nationals.

While the Nationals have their share of injuries—including Josiah Gray, Mason Thompson, and Cade Cavalli—the Phillies’ concerns could play a bigger role in their season opener performance. With a long season ahead, the Nationals could take advantage of any early-season vulnerabilities in Philadelphia’s lineup.

With MacKenzie Gore on the mound and fresh energy in Washington’s clubhouse, the Nationals have a chance to disrupt the Phillies’ stronghold and start 2025 with a statement victory.