Dodgers Face Nationals in 3-Game Series

NL West leaders visit NL East contenders for weekend matchup.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 9:25am

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a baseball game between the Dodgers and Nationals, with sharp planes of color and overlapping shapes representing the dynamic action on the field.A cubist interpretation of the high-stakes matchup between the Dodgers and Nationals, two of the National League's top contenders.Washington Today

The Washington Nationals will host the Los Angeles Dodgers for a three-game series starting on Friday. The Dodgers, currently leading the NL West division, will take on the Nationals, who are in contention in the NL East.

Why it matters

This series features two of the top teams in the National League, with the Dodgers looking to extend their division lead and the Nationals hoping to gain ground in their own playoff race. The outcome could have significant implications for the postseason picture.

The details

The Dodgers, led by star outfielder Mookie Betts, have the best record in the NL and are aiming to return to the World Series after winning it all in 2025. The Nationals, meanwhile, are fighting to stay in the playoff hunt in a competitive NL East division that includes the Mets and Braves.

  • The series begins on Friday, April 3, 2026.
  • The teams will play three games over the weekend, with the final game on Sunday, April 5.

The players

Mookie Betts

All-Star outfielder and MVP candidate for the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Washington Nationals

National League East contender looking to make the playoffs for the first time since 2023.

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What they’re saying

“We're looking forward to a tough series against the Nationals. They're a scrappy team and it should be a great matchup.”

— Dave Roberts, Manager, Los Angeles Dodgers

“This is a big series for us as we try to keep pace in the division. We'll need to bring our best effort to beat the Dodgers.”

— Dave Martinez, Manager, Washington Nationals

What’s next

The Dodgers and Nationals will play the second game of their series on Saturday, April 4, followed by the series finale on Sunday, April 5.

The takeaway

This matchup between two of the National League's top teams will provide an early-season test for both clubs as they jockey for position in their respective divisions and aim to secure a playoff spot.