The St. Louis Cardinals are gearing up to take on the Washington Nationals in a highly anticipated MLB matchup at Nationals Park. As fans eagerly await the game, let's take a closer look at both teams and make some predictions on the outcome.

Starting on the mound for the Cardinals will be Lance Lynn, who boasts a solid 4-3 record this season with a 3.59 ERA and an impressive 84 strikeouts. Lynn has a favorable track record against Washington, with a 3-1 record, a 2.97 ERA, and 33 strikeouts in his last five matchups against the Nationals.

Washington, on the other hand, will rely on MacKenzie Gore as their starting pitcher. Gore currently holds a 6-7 record with a 3.47 ERA and 107 strikeouts in the season. This will be Gore's second career start against the Cardinals.

In their previous encounter, the Cardinals secured a slim 7-6 victory over the Nationals, setting the stage for an intense rematch. The win added to the Cardinals' momentum, following a series win against the Pittsburgh Pirates earlier in the week.

Nolan Arenado has been a standout player for the Cardinals this season, with 82 hits, 14 doubles, and 34 RBIs to his name. Brendan Donovan has also contributed significantly, leading the team with 84 hits and 42 RBIs, accompanied by 19 doubles. Additionally, Nolan Gorman has impressed with 17 home runs and 43 RBIs, and Masyn Winn has showcased his skills with a .291 batting average and 9 stolen bases.

The Cardinals have displayed resilience as underdogs in recent games, winning six out of their last eight matchups after playing the previous day. Meanwhile, the Nationals have faced difficulties, losing their last four games as favorites against NL Central opponents.

The Nationals aim to bounce back after their recent loss to the Cardinals, seeking to break their winless streak in series, having split their previous series with the Mets and suffered losses against the Rays and Padres.

CJ Abrams has been a force to be reckoned with for the Nationals, leading the team with 89 hits, 13 home runs, and 45 RBIs. Luis Garcia Jr. has also contributed significantly with 14 doubles, 42 RBIs, and 12 stolen bases. The Nationals possess a solid stolen base threat with Jacob Young, Lane Thomas, and Jesse Winker, each boasting over 10 stolen bases this season. Joey Meneses has added 43 RBIs to the team's offensive arsenal.

Both teams have their strengths, but the Cardinals have struggled on the road, losing seven out of their previous eight away games following an extra innings win. Comparatively, the Nationals have excelled in day games, winning eight of their last ten matchups against National League opponents in this setting.

In terms of betting predictions, industry experts are leaning towards a higher-scoring affair. The Nationals' potent offense, coupled with potential vulnerabilities in Lance Lynn's pitching, could lead to Washington putting up a significant number of runs. Furthermore, St. Louis' hitters have shown proficiency in recent games and could take advantage of MacKenzie Gore or the Nationals' struggling bullpen.

Ultimately, with all factors considered, expectations point toward a game with an over total runs. Both teams possess the potential to create offensive fireworks, leading to an exciting and high-scoring contest.

As fans eagerly await the first pitch, the St. Louis Cardinals and the Washington Nationals prepare to battle it out on the diamond at Nationals Park. This MLB matchup promises to be a thrilling showdown between two talented teams aiming to secure a crucial victory.