Nationals Aim to End Skid Against Dodgers

Washington hosts Los Angeles in key early-season NL matchup

Apr. 4, 2026 at 8:03am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A fractured, multi-perspective painting in the style of Pablo Picasso, breaking a baseball game between two teams down into sharp, overlapping geometric planes of vibrant colors.A cubist interpretation of the high-stakes matchup between the Nationals and Dodgers, capturing the dynamic energy and competitive spirit of the game.Los Angeles Today

The Washington Nationals will look to snap a three-game losing streak as they host the Los Angeles Dodgers in a Saturday afternoon matchup. The Nationals, who went 66-96 overall and 32-49 at home last season, will send Jake Irvin to the mound, while the Dodgers counter with Tyler Glasnow.

Why it matters

This early-season clash between the Nationals and Dodgers could set the tone for both teams' seasons. The Nationals are hoping to bounce back from a disappointing 2025 campaign, while the Dodgers are aiming to maintain their status as one of the NL's top contenders.

The details

The Nationals will be without several key players due to injuries, including Trevor Williams, Josiah Gray, Paxton Schultz, and DJ Herz. The Dodgers also have a number of players on the injured list, including Gavin Stone, Jake Cousins, Landon Knack, and Bobby Miller.

  • The game is scheduled for Saturday, April 4, 2026 at 4:05 p.m. EDT.

The players

Jake Irvin

The Nationals' starting pitcher, who has a 1-0 record with a 3.60 ERA and 0.80 WHIP so far this season.

Tyler Glasnow

The Dodgers' starting pitcher, who has a 0-0 record with a 3.00 ERA and 0.83 WHIP so far this season.

Washington Nationals

The home team, who are looking to end a three-game losing streak and improve on their 3-4 record to start the season.

Los Angeles Dodgers

The visiting team, who have a 5-2 record to start the season and are one of the NL's top contenders.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We know the Dodgers are a tough team, but we're confident we can get back on track at home this weekend.”

— Dave Martinez, Nationals Manager

What’s next

The Nationals and Dodgers will play the second game of their three-game series on Sunday, April 5, 2026.

The takeaway

This matchup between the Nationals and Dodgers represents an important early-season test for both teams. The Nationals are looking to bounce back from a disappointing 2025 season, while the Dodgers are aiming to maintain their status as one of the NL's top contenders. The outcome of this series could set the tone for the rest of the season for both clubs.