Washington Nationals vs Baltimore Orioles Game Thread

TL;DR

The Washington Nationals face the Baltimore Orioles at Nationals Park for the first Battle of the Beltway in 2026. The game starts at 6:45 PM EST, with Curtis Mead and Pete Alonso among the key players to watch.

Key points

Nationals face Orioles for the first time in 2026
Game starts at 6:45 PM EST at Nationals Park
Curtis Mead and Pete Alonso are key players
Nationals have a hot dog promotion and a new team dog

Washington NationalsBaltimore Orioles

CINCINNATI, OHIO - MAY 13: PJ Poulin #50 and Curtis Mead #45 of the Washington Nationals celebrate after winning 8-7 in the tenth inning against the Cincinnati Reds at Great American Ball Park on May 13, 2026 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Caleb Bowlin/Getty Images) | Getty Images It was a tough loss yesterday, but the Nats still got the series win in Cincinnati. Now the Nats head home and welcome a local rival for the first time this season. It is the first edition of the Battle of the Beltway for 2026. The Nats and O’s are two teams with similar records, but different vibes. The Nats have made a few tweaks to the lineup. Curtis Mead will be in the lineup at first base, which puts Luis Garcia Jr. at DH. Jacob Young moves down to the 9 spot after spending a lot of time in the 5 hole. Jorbit Vivas will play second base over Nasim Nunez. Drew Millas will also do the catching for the second straight game. will get the start, but Andrew Alvarez should be available in a long relief role. Despite going through some serious struggles this season, remains in the leadoff spot. Last year was the struggling O’s star, but he has gotten back on track and is catching tonight. New signing will be in the heart of the O’s lineup. We will also get our first look at the O’s young slugger . The O’s went all in on , trading a lot for him and extending him. He has struggled to start the season, but will look to get back on track tonight.

Q&A

What time does the Washington Nationals vs Baltimore Orioles game start?

The game starts at 6:45 PM EST.

Who are the starting players for the Nationals against the Orioles?

Curtis Mead will play first base, and Zack Littell will be the starting pitcher.

What promotions are happening during the Nationals game?

The Nationals are hosting a hot dog promotion and introducing their new team dog, Natty.