The Philadelphia Phillies return to Citizens Bank Park on Monday, August 3, 2026, hosting the Washington Nationals for a 6:40 PM ET first pitch. Aaron Nola gets the ball for Philadelphia in what shapes up as a prime opportunity for the Phillies to build momentum at home. Washington has not announced a probable starter. The game airs locally on NBCSP and 94 WIP for fans not making the trip to South Philly.

Aaron Nola Starts for Philadelphia Against Washington

Nola on the mound at Citizens Bank Park is a familiar and comfortable sight for Phillies fans. The right-hander has been a cornerstone of this rotation for years, and any time he takes the ball the Phillies have a legitimate shot to control the game from the first pitch. Washington has yet to name a starter, which adds some uncertainty to the away side's gameplan heading into Monday night.

Phillies Lineup Features Harper, Schwarber, and Turner at the Top

Manager Rob Thomson has set a loaded lineup for this one. Trea Turner leads off at shortstop, followed by Kyle Schwarber at DH — a combination that gives Nola's outing immediate run-support potential. Bryce Harper slots in at cleanup candidate three, batting third and playing first base, with Alec Bohm behind him at the four hole. That is a formidable top four that can do damage against any pitching staff.

Bryan De La Cruz gets the start in right field batting fifth, with Bryson Stott at second base in the six spot. Edmundo Sosa starts in left field, Derek Hill handles center, and Garrett Stubbs catches Nola behind the plate.

Keys to Watch Monday Night at Citizens Bank Park

• Nola's command early: If Nola establishes his curveball and keeps Washington's lineup off-balance through the first three innings, the Phillies offense should have room to work.
• Washington's mystery starter: With no confirmed pitcher for the Nationals, the Phillies will need to stay disciplined regardless of who walks out to the mound. An unknown arm can be either a trap or an opportunity.
• De La Cruz in the five hole: Bryan De La Cruz batting fifth is a sign of trust from the coaching staff. His performance in the middle of the order could determine whether Philadelphia has true depth behind the big names or a soft underbelly.
• Stott and the bottom of the order: Bryson Stott, Edmundo Sosa, Derek Hill, and Garrett Stubbs make up the six through nine spots. Getting production from that group would give this offense a genuine eight-deep quality that keeps rallies alive.

Prediction

With Nola on the hill at home and a lineup that has genuine top-to-bottom quality, the Phillies are in a strong position Monday night. Washington's lack of a confirmed starter only tilts things further in Philadelphia's favor. Citizens Bank Park should be rocking for an August home game, and Nola tends to feed off that energy. Take the Phillies to win a well-pitched, relatively efficient game. Phillies 5, Nationals 2.