Paul Skenes, the Pirates' ace and the No. 1 overall pick in the 2023 MLB Draft, will take the mound for his fourth start of the young season against the Washington Nationals. With a record of 1-1, Skenes boasts a 3.44 ERA and 0.82 WHIP through three starts. The Pirates are struggling, currently sitting at 5-11 and on a three-game losing streak, while the Nationals hold a slight edge at 6-9 after losing their last two games.

Starting for the Nationals is rookie Brad Lord, who recently delivered a strong performance against the Dodgers. Despite the Nationals being swept by the Marlins over the weekend, they previously took two of three from the powerful Dodgers. Sports betting models suggest there is value in the Nationals money line at +184, especially considering the betting interest surrounding Skenes and the Pirates. The model projects the Nationals have a 40% chance to win, slightly above their implied odds.

Brad Lord, a promising right-handed pitcher for the Washington Nationals, has made the team's opening day roster, marking a significant step in his career. Just months ago, Lord was balancing his baseball aspirations with a job at Home Depot, where he worked during the offseason. His hard work paid off, and after impressing during spring training with a fastball reaching 98 mph, he earned a place in the bullpen for the Nationals' home opener against the Philadelphia Phillies.

Drafted in the 18th round in 2022, Lord has steadily climbed through the Nationals' minor league system, culminating in his first major league camp this spring. He recorded an impressive performance in the preseason, striking out eight batters in 13.1 innings with a WHIP of 1.43. This remarkable journey from hauling mulch to making it to the big leagues exemplifies his dedication and potential, capturing the interest of fans and fantasy enthusiasts alike.