Cubs Begin Crucial Stretch Against Nationals Amid Injury Concerns

Washington, D.C. — The Chicago Cubs are set to start a challenging stretch of 26 games over the next 27 days, with a significant portion of those games against top-ranked teams. Tonight, they face the Washington Nationals, who are not listed in the recent power rankings but have displayed improved performance in recent weeks. Despite their struggles, the Nationals have allowed the fourth-most runs in the National League this season.

Cubs pitcher Jordan Horton prepares for the game, hoping to maintain his record of limiting runs. In his four major league appearances so far, Horton has not given up more than three runs, with his best outing against the Colorado Rockies last week, where he allowed only two runs and struck out six batters.

However, Horton faces a test tonight as he takes the mound without teammate Nico Hoerner, who is sidelined with a jammed finger. The Cubs’ lineup includes Ian Happ, Cody Bellinger, and Dexter Fowler in the outfield, while Yan Gomes will catch, and Matt Mervis and Dansby Swanson will hold down the infield positions.

On the opposite mound, former Cub Trevor Williams, in a bounce-back season after injuries hampered his previous year, starts for the Nationals. Williams, who boasts a 5.69 ERA, has struggled against left-handed hitters throughout the season. He has allowed a .354 batting average to lefties, making tonight’s lineup a potentially advantageous matchup for the Cubs.

The game will begin at 5:45 PM CT and will be broadcasted on Marquee Sports Network and 670 The Score. Given the circumstances, both teams are looking to gain momentum as they enter a critical phase of the season.