The Chicago Cubs head to Nationals Park on Tuesday, August 11, for a 6:45 PM ET matchup against the Washington Nationals. Shota Imanaga gets the ball for Chicago in what shapes up as a winnable road game against a Washington club that has not yet named a probable starter. The Cubs carry real motivation into this one — every game down the stretch of the 2026 season carries weight, and a strong outing from Imanaga could set the tone for the series. Catch the action on Marquee Sports Network or 104.3 The Score.

Shota Imanaga Starts for Chicago Cubs at Washington Nationals

Imanaga is Chicago's confirmed starter and the clear focal point of this preview. The left-hander has been one of the Cubs' most reliable arms, and his ability to generate swings and misses while keeping the ball in the zone makes him a genuine weapon in any lineup matchup. Washington has not announced a starter as of this writing, which gives the Cubs' offense a genuine advantage in preparation — they know exactly what they're getting on their side, while the Nationals are still sorting out the other half of the equation.

Washington Nationals Lineup for August 11

The Nationals come in with a lineup that leans on youth and athleticism. Here is how Washington is setting up:

• Dylan Crews, RF
• Andrés Chaparro, 1B
• Brady House, 3B
• CJ Abrams, SS
• Harry Ford, C
• Jacob Young, CF
• Daylen Lile, DH
• Nasim Nuñez, 2B
• Andrew Pinckney, LF

CJ Abrams is the name to watch in this order. Batting cleanup, the shortstop has the speed and bat to hurt a pitcher who loses focus. Crews at the top gives Washington a dynamic table-setter, and Brady House at third adds thump to the middle of the order. Imanaga will need to work through this lineup efficiently and avoid falling into deep counts.

Keys to Watch in Cubs vs. Nationals

Imanaga's Command Against a Young Nationals Lineup

Washington's lineup skews young, which can cut both ways. Young hitters can be aggressive early in counts — something Imanaga can exploit — but they can also be unpredictable. If Imanaga establishes his slider and keeps hitters off his fastball, this could be a long night for the Nationals' offense.

Cubs Offense Against an Unnamed Starter

Without a confirmed Nationals pitcher, Chicago's hitters will need to stay loose and adjust quickly. The Cubs should look to work counts early, get a read on whatever Washington throws out there, and capitalize once they have a handle on the stuff.

CJ Abrams and the Middle of Washington's Order

Abrams batting fourth is a threat Imanaga cannot take lightly. If Crews and Chaparro get on base, Abrams has the ability to do serious damage. Chicago's defense will need to be sharp behind Imanaga whenever Washington gets something going.

Prediction: Cubs Win Behind a Strong Imanaga Outing

With Imanaga confirmed and Washington still without a named starter, the Cubs hold a clear pitching edge heading into Tuesday night. Nationals Park is no Wrigley Field, but this is a game Chicago is positioned to take. Expect Imanaga to log a quality start, the Cubs' offense to do enough against an uncertain Washington arm, and Chicago to come away with the win. Cubs 4, Nationals 2.