The Nats are starting Erick Feede. He's only in the rotation because Jon Lester remains in COVID protocols. Feede allowed five runs over 1 2/3 innings last Wednesday against the Braves. Washington remains without first baseman Josh Bell, second baseman Josh Harrison and left fielder Kyle Schwarber on the COVID list, and the team's offense is really struggling without them.
The STL Cards' starting pitcher is John Gant who allowed one unearned run in four innings against the Marlins last Tuesday. St. Louis has won five straight series openers.