The Beltway Series is back in action as the Washington Nationals host the Baltimore Orioles for a three-game showdown starting Friday. It's the first meeting of the season between these division rivals, and both teams are looking to gain some much-needed momentum.

The Nationals come into the series at 21-23, sitting third in the NL East. While their overall record is below .500, they've found some rhythm lately, going 6-4 in their last 10 games. Washington has been flexing at the plate, ranking fifth in the National League with 52 home runs. Shortstop C.J. Abrams has been a bright spot with nine homers, and Luis Garcia is on a hot streak, batting .375 with three doubles and two home runs over the past 10 games.

On the other side, the Orioles are 20-24 and third in the AL East. They've split their last 10 games at 5-5, but have struggled when allowing home runs, going just 11-20 in such contests. Baltimore's offense has been inconsistent, but Gunnar Henderson remains a threat with nine homers and 17 extra-base hits. First baseman Pete Alonso has also been producing lately, driving in eight runs over his last 10 games.

Friday's pitching matchup features two hurlers looking to turn things around. The Orioles will send Shane Baz to the mound (1-4, 5.48 ERA), while the Nationals counter with Zack Littell (1-4, 6.94 ERA). Baltimore enters as slight favorites at -143, with the over/under set at nine runs.

Both teams are dealing with significant injuries. Washington has seven players on the injured list, including key arms like Trevor Williams and Josiah Gray. Baltimore's list is even longer, with 13 players sidelined, including Jordan Westburg, Jackson Holliday, and Ryan Mountcastle.

With the Nationals finding their power stroke and the Orioles looking to snap out of their road funk, this series promises plenty of drama. First pitch is set for Friday, so gear up and get ready for some Beltway baseball.