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Washington Nationals vs Texas Rangers Game Thread

MLB: Texas Rangers at Washington Nationals

Rafael Suanes-Imagn Images

Follow along as the Nationals face off against an old foe in Jacob Degrom, now a Texas Ranger

The Washington Nationals are facing off against an old divisional foe in Jacob Degrom. Degrom was one of the most dominant pitchers in baseball with the Mets. After a few injury plagued years, Degrom is back to dominating, even with his 37th birthday coming up this month. Luckily, the Nats got the win last night, which makes this matchup less pressure filled.

The Nats are rolling out a bit of a new look lineup. Our top two of CJ Abrams and James Wood are familiar, but after that there is some mixing and matching. Luis Garcia Jr. is in the 3 hole, while Nathaniel Lowe is lower in the lineup than usual. Keibert Ruiz is back in the lineup, but he is hitting 8th. Alex Call will get the start even with a right hander on the mound. That means Jacob Young will be on the bench. The struggling Mitchell Parker will get the start.


sixty four. pic.twitter.com/yOya30nH52

— Washington Nationals (@Nationals) June 7, 2025

The Rangers are searching for answers offensively right now, so skipper Bruce Bochy is switching things up. Corey Seager will get the day off, as he has been slumping lately. In a lineup with a lot of underperforming big names, Sam Haggerty will lead off for Texas. After a night off, starting catcher Jonah Heim will be behind the dish. As previously mentioned, Jacob Degrom will be on the mound.


deGrom Day in DC. #AllForTX pic.twitter.com/W2BHrZhNJ0

— Texas Rangers (@Rangers) June 7, 2025

Game Info:

Stadium: Nationals Park

Time: 4:05 PM EST

TV: MASN

Radio: 106.7 The Fan and DC 87.7

With the pitching matchup, the odds are not in the Nats favor. However, it would be huge if they got a win and secured a series win. The offense needs to get going again, but it will be a tough task tonight. Comment down below and let’s go Nats!

Source: https://www.federalbaseball.com/2025/6/7/24445007/washington-nationals-vs-texas-rangers-game-thread
 
Washington Nationals vs Texas Rangers Game Thread

MLB: Texas Rangers at Washington Nationals

Rafael Suanes-Imagn Images

Follow along as the Nationals take on the Rangers in a rubber match

After the Nationals shut out the Rangers in game one of the series, Texas returned the favor last night. A Jacob Degrom masterclass lifted the Rangers to a 5-0 win. The streaky Nationals offense needs to get back on track. They have been very quiet this home stand.

Davey Martinez is switching things up to try to ignite his offense. The struggling CJ Abrams is getting the day off. That means we will see the scrappy Nasim Nunez at shortstop. With a lefty on the mound, Alex Call will lead off, and Jacob Young will return to the lineup. Keibert Ruiz is really struggling and will be on the bench again for Riley Adams. Trevor Williams will take the ball in this rubber game.


sixty five. pic.twitter.com/2DVt8JzFGC

— Washington Nationals (@Nationals) June 8, 2025

The Rangers are also doing some mixing and matching to their lineup. Josh Smith is getting the start at first base with a righty on the mound. Corey Seager will be back in the lineup after a day off yesterday. The Rangers will roll with an opener today with reliever Jacob Latz starting the ball game.


Sunday's starters. #AllForTX pic.twitter.com/6LDk1ddQud

— Texas Rangers (@Rangers) June 8, 2025

Game Info:

Stadium: Nationals Park

Time: 1:35 PM EST

TV: MASN

Radio: 106.7 The Fan and DC 87.7

The Nationals have not hit well this home stand. However, with a win today, they could salvage a .500 home stand. With Trevor Williams on the mound, the bats will need to step up. Hopefully the inconsistent offense can kick back into gear. Follow along down below and let’s go Nats!

Source: https://www.federalbaseball.com/2025/6/8/24445404/washington-nationals-vs-texas-rangers-game-thread
 
Nationals Prepare for Gritty Battle Against Division Leading Mets

MLB: Texas Rangers at Washington Nationals

; Washington Nationals right fielder Alex Call (17) is congratulated by left fielder James Wood (29) after hitting solo home run against the Texas Rangers during the fourth inning at Nationals Park. | Brad Mills-Imagn Images

With playoff implications mounting, Washington aims to upset the Mets and make a statement in this intense divisional clash.

Sitting at 30-35 and third in the National League East, Washington has been right around where fans expected them to be. They’ve played solid baseball over their last ten games, going 5-5 heading into this divisional series matchup. This will be the second time these two teams meet this season, having split a four-game series in the last week of April.

Since that series, the New York Mets have taken full control of the NL East, holding a 4.5-game lead over the second-place Philadelphia Phillies. With a strong rotation and a potent lineup, New York is one of the favorites to make a run at the NL pennant, currently holding a 42-24 record.

While the postseason is still months away, this could shape up to be a fun and exciting series for both sides. New York looks to pounce on the weaker Washington Nationals, while Washington looks to knock off the top dog in the National League.

Let’s take a deeper look at the New York Mets.

Big Names Slow, Offense Rolling


The New York Mets have one of the highest payrolls in all of baseball, and much of that money is invested in a star-studded lineup. In 2025, Pete Alonso (.301/.396/.594) and Francisco Lindor (.283/.354/.488) have carried the offense, each having stellar seasons. However, others throughout the lineup have struggled, including Mark Vientos, Brandon Nimmo, and $765 million right-fielder Juan Soto.

It’s hard to say the offense is struggling, they rank in the top ten in multiple categories, but the Mets would certainly like to see better production from their highest-paid players.

TEAM STATS:

  • .249 Batting Average (13th)
  • 305 Runs (7th)
  • 83 Home Runs (6th)
  • .332 On-Base % (3rd)
  • .424 Slugging % (5th)

Mets Arms Rising to the Challenge


Heading into the season, there were plenty of questions about a thin pitching staff. With Kodai Senga (1.59 ERA, 1.18 WHIP) missing all of 2024, doubts surrounding his ability to return as a front-line starter were at an all-time high.

This rotation has silenced those concerns, posting the best team ERA in baseball. Clay Holmes (2.95 ERA, 1.19 WHIP) has been incredible in his first MLB season as a starter. Others like David Peterson (2.80 ERA), Tylor Megill (3.76 ERA), and Griffin Canning (2.90 ERA) have exceeded expectations, anchoring the back end of the rotation.

TEAM STATS:

  • 2.85 ERA (1st)
  • 46 Home Runs Allowed (2nd)
  • 1.24 WHIP (14th)
  • .226 Batting Average Against (5th)

GAME ONE – Tuesday, 7:10 EDT


WAS: LHP MacKenzie Gore (3-5) – 13 G, 2.87 ERA, 108 SO, 1.14 WHIP, 137 ERA+

NYM: RHP Griffin Canning (6-2) – 12 G, 2.90 ERA, 57 SO, 1.32 WHIP, 130 ERA+

It’s the same story every week with MacKenzie Gore: he carries the Washington rotation. In the midst of a breakout season, he’s becoming one of the best left-handed pitchers in all of baseball. His last start, arguably his most impressive, came against one of the league’s best offenses, the Chicago Cubs. In the only game Washington won in the series, Gore threw seven shutout innings, allowing just three hits while striking out seven.

After spending six seasons with the Los Angeles Angels, Canning is having a breakout season at 29 years old. With career highs across the board, he’s been a key piece in a rotation that looked shaky at the start of the year. In his last start, Canning struck out seven over six shutout innings against the powerhouse Dodgers, allowing just three hits in a statement win for New York.

GAME TWO – Wednesday, 7:10 EDT


WAS: RHP Jake Irvin (5-2) – 13 G, 4.02 ERA, 50 SO, 1.23 WHIP, 98 ERA+

NYM: LHP David Peterson (4-2) – 12 G, 2.80 ERA, 65 SO, 1.26 WHIP, 135 ERA+

Irvin has had a rollercoaster season, but overall has been a reliable arm behind Gore. He’s flashed the potential to be a long-term piece in Washington’s rotation, though inconsistency remains an issue. In his last start, Irvin lasted five innings, giving up eight hits and three earned runs in a 7-1 loss to the Cubs.

Coming off a career year in 2024, Peterson has somehow outperformed it in 2025. Already on pace for a personal best in WAR and posting career highs across the board, Peterson has been one of the most underrated left-handers in baseball. In his last outing, he threw seven innings against the Dodgers, allowing seven hits and three earned runs in a tough 6-5 loss.

GAME THREE – Thursday, 1:10 EDT


WAS: RHP Michael Soroka (3-3) – 7 G, 4.86 ERA, 35 SO, 1.11 WHIP, 81 ERA+

NYM: RHP Kodai Senga (6-3) – 12 G, 1.59 ERA, 65 SO, 1.18 WHIP, 238 ERA+

After a strong start to his career in Atlanta, Soroka has struggled with injuries. After missing the first month of the 2025 season, he’s still trying to find his rhythm in Washington’s rotation. His most recent outing was his best yet, a six-inning, seven-strikeout shutout performance against the Texas Rangers that led to a 2-0 victory.

After missing all of 2024, there were doubts whether Kodai Senga could return to his All-Star form from 2023. He has exceeded all expectations, emerging as one of the league’s top pitchers. In his last start, he threw six innings of one-run ball against the Colorado Rockies, giving up five hits and leading New York to yet another win.

Nationals Face Uphill Battle in Mets Showdown


Washington faces another tough test in a talented lineup and a dominant pitching staff. But the Nationals have shown they can compete with the best. Still in the fight for a playoff spot, this series could be a turning point in their season. Nationals fans are hoping for the best—and are eager to see some winning baseball.

Source: https://www.federalbaseball.com/202...r-gritty-battle-against-mets-division-leaders
 
Washington Nationals vs New York Mets Game Thread

MLB: Texas Rangers at Washington Nationals

Washington Nationals third baseman Amed Rosario (13) is congratulated by catcher Riley Adams (15) after scoring in the fourth inning against the Texas Rangers at Nationals Park. | Brad Mills-Imagn Images

The Nationals face the Mets in this upcoming divisional battle. Follow along for updates and key moments as the action unfolds.

After back-to-back series losses, the road doesn’t get any smoother for Washington as they head to New York to face a familiar foe. The Mets enter the series as one of the top teams in baseball and a legitimate contender to represent the National League in the World Series. Meanwhile, the Nationals sit in third place in the NL East, still searching for consistency and hoping a turnaround is on the horizon.

Abrams and Wood sit at the top of a young, confusing lineup. Fans would love the bottom half of the lineup to provide a spark outside of the dynamic duo at the top. MacKenzie Gore is going against another tough lineup, but he looked incredible against arguably the best lineup in the sport.


sixty six. pic.twitter.com/79id8Fm7fX

— Washington Nationals (@Nationals) June 10, 2025

How long will it be for Juan Soto to be comfortable in the Big Apple? Who knows. However, this lineup has been feasting with Pete Alonso and Francisco Lindor having stellar years. Griffin Canning is experiencing an out-of-body experience this season, performing the best he ever has. Can he continue this incredible stretch?


New series in Queens #LGM pic.twitter.com/u7Xb2Wzfjt

— New York Mets (@Mets) June 10, 2025

GAME INFO:


Stadium: Citi Field

Time: 7:10 EDT

TV: MASN

Radio: 106.7 The Fan, DC 87.7

Washington is searching for a spark in the lineup and hoping the offense can find its rhythm. At their best, the Nationals have played some of their most exciting baseball in years, but the lows have felt all too familiar in D.C. This series presents a chance to flip the narrative and show that the young core is truly starting to turn things around in the nation’s capital.

Source: https://www.federalbaseball.com/2025/6/10/24446941/washington-nationals-vs-new-york-mets-game-thread
 
Excellence is becoming the norm for Nationals ace MacKenzie Gore

MLB: Washington Nationals at New York Mets

Brad Penner-Imagn Images

When MacKenzie Gore takes the ball these days, the Washington Nationals faithful expects good things to happen

Despite the frustrating loss, MacKenzie Gore delivered yet another quality start where he showed off his dominant stuff. We have come to expect Gore to have lines like he did tonight, 6 innings, 2 runs, no walks and 6 strikeouts. This has become close to an average MacKenzie Gore stat line, which is very impressive.

He is blossoming into an ace before our very eyes because of his new found consistency. Gore still has the occasional stinker like he did against the O’s, but they are far less frequent. We have always seen high highs from Gore, now we are seeing less of the lows and his average starts are much better than they used to be. This comes from a more coherent plan, improved command and greater mental fortitude. The new and improved MacKenzie Gore is joining some pretty elite company.


The only LHP age-26 or younger with *more* strikeouts than MacKenzie Gore's 114 this year through the first 14 starts of a season in NL history:

Clayton Kershaw (2014)
Sandy Koufax (1962)

— nugget chef (@jayhaykid) June 11, 2025

New Weapon For Lefties:

That plan comes into especially against left handed hitters. Despite being a southpaw, same sided hitters have been an issue for Gore. This is because his curveball, arguably Gore’s best pitch is much more effective against righties. Gore has always cut down on his curveball usage against lefties.

With his best secondary pitch mostly off the table, lefties had a lot of success against Gore in 2024. They hit .282 against him, while striking out less and walking more than right handers. Gore knew that he needed to find something that could help him against same sided opponents.

He has done just that and it has made him a drastically different pitcher. Gore has found a brand new weapon, a slider. After barely using one last year, it is now his primary pitch to lefties. He is throwing it 45.6% of the time to lefties and getting great results. Left handers are hitting .140 against the pitch with 22 strikeouts and a 47.3% whiff rate. Despite being a new pitch, it is absolutely elite.

It is why left handed hitters are now just batting just .229 against him. His fastball has been quite ineffective to lefties, but the slider has been so good and so heavily used it does not matter much. Here he is dominating Juan Soto with sliders last night. Later in the game, Soto became the first lefty all year to homer off his slider, but hey that is why he gets the big bucks.


MacKenzie Gore, White Castle Special. pic.twitter.com/8sUgZWlYV3

— Rob Friedman (@PitchingNinja) June 10, 2025

Pinpoint Command:

Another reason for Gore’s climb into ace status is his vastly improved control. He is walking just 6.4% of hitters this season compared to 8.9% last year and 9.8% in 2023. Gore walked zero batters for the fourth time this season in 14 starts. Last year he only managed that feat twice in 32 starts last year.

His walks per 9 are also way down. After walking 3.52 batters per nine innings last year, he is down to 2.43 this year. He is a pitcher who is coming into his own. Gore is becoming more confident in his stuff and his mechanics. He is finding the zone more regularly and attacking hitters. That brings me to my third point about Gore’s improvement. His mental game has gotten much stronger.

More Mature Pitcher:

Unlike the first two categories, there aren’t defined statistics for a pitchers mental game. However, it is easy to see when a pitcher has matured. We never saw the green version of Max Scherzer with the Nats, but there was a time in his career when his wild passion wasn’t channeled the right way. He found a way to make it into one of his greatest strengths.

Gore doesn’t have the same animalistic mound presence Max did, but he has found his swagger on the mound. I love his post strikeout routine when he takes his glove off and kind of bobs up and down. A lot of aces kind of have a signature like that. With Max it was when he was prowled around the mound.

When you watch Gore, you don’t see a pitcher that is nervous about what can happen. He is now just ready to dominate. When Stephen Strasburg was younger, he had a habit of melting down when someone cost him in the field. Gore had a similar habit, but like Strasburg, he found a way to mature enough to relax when mistakes happen. With this poor infield defense, it is an important lesson to learn.

Last night was an average MacKenzie Gore start. However, it was still a great outing where he should have gotten a win if the bullpen didn’t blow it. Despite his 3-5 record, MacKenzie Gore is an ace. Even if his teammates are letting him down, Gore still pushes forward and gives his team the best chance to win possible. That is the sign of a true ace.

Source: https://www.federalbaseball.com/202...ecoming-norm-for-nationals-ace-mackenzie-gore
 
Washington Nationals vs New York Mets 6/11 Game Thread

IMG_7578.0.jpeg

The Daily Gazette

Nats need to bounce back after getting walked off for their third consecutive loss last night

The Nats had it all going on in the early innings last night, with MacKenzie Gore giving them 6 innings of 2 run ball and CJ Abrams and Nathaniel Lowe both hitting homers. However, it all came apart in the 8th with the Mets tying the game against Jose Ferrer and Kyle Finnegan, before walking it off in the 10th inning. Having now lost 3 in a row and in danger of dropping their 3rd straight series with another loss, the Nats need to show their resilience and bounce back tonight after a tough loss.

Jake Irvin will take the ball tonight with the responsibility of keeping the strong Mets lineup at bay. In 5 career starts, Irvin has a 3.78 vs the Mets, including his signature 8 inning performance on the 4th of July last year. Outside of two 6 run outings vs the Mets 5 days after that start and in 2023, Irvin has largely dominated the Mets, having 3 performances of 7 innings or more and 1 run or less. Andres Chaparro will get his first start of 2025 after hitting a pinch hit double last night. Luis Garcia Jr gets a rare start with a lefty on the mound, something that could become a trend with Nunez back in Rochester.


sixty seven. pic.twitter.com/f8qzE1zm7O

— Washington Nationals (@Nationals) June 11, 2025

The Mets will give the ball to left hander David Peterson tonight, who has enjoyed a nice breakout season to the tune of a 2.80 ERA over 70 2⁄3 innings pitched. Peterson has historically pitched well against the Nats, with a career ERA of 3.07 against them in 9 starts and 3 relief appearances. The lineup for the Mets is pretty typical at the top, with an interesting swap of Brett Baty at second base and Ronny Mauricio at third base for them.


Tonight's lineup! #LGM pic.twitter.com/hlAyaA7TXg

— New York Mets (@Mets) June 11, 2025

Game Info:

Stadium: Nationals Park

Time: 6:45 PM EST

TV: MASN

Radio: 106.7 The Fan and DC 87.7

Last nights game was lost because the Nats made the little errors that have continued to plague them such as baserunning goofs and bad fielding. They need to play cleaner baseball tonight if they want a shot at beating the best team in the NL by record, the Mets. Can they do it? Comment down below and let’s go Nats!

Source: https://www.federalbaseball.com/202...n-nationals-vs-new-york-mets-6-11-game-thread
 
Too little too late: The Washington Nationals rally comes up short against the Mets

MLB: Washington Nationals at New York Mets

Brad Penner-Imagn Images

The Nationals offense woke up from their slumber, but it was not enough to overcome Mets

The Nationals have now lost five straight games as their ninth inning rally came up short. For 8 innings, it was more of the same from the offense. They did absolutely nothing and looked totally lost at the plate. The boys at the top of the lineup came to life in the 9th, but the bottom of the order could not come through.

The Nationals got into a hole early when Michael Soroka gave up a 3 run homer to Jeff McNeil. There were some questionable calls by the umpire to get it to that point, but with Keibert Ruiz’s inability to frame, we are on the wrong end of borderline calls more often than not.

For the first 8 innings the offense continued their embarrassing run of form. They only had three hits in those first 8 frames, with two of them coming from James Wood. It was all doom and gloom as the Mets pitching staff carved through this lineup like butter.

Kodai Senga was putting on a clinic for the first 5.2 innings. His fastball and forkball were playing so well off of each other. I really like watching Senga pitch. He is great at using the fastball at the bottom of the zone to freeze hitters who are expecting a forkball below the zone. When guys are ready for that low heater, he will throw the forkball which just dives off the table. Here is a really pretty sequence by Senga against Robert Hassell III.


Kodai Senga K Sequence (0-1 count).

1. Ghost Fork gets a swing.
2. Ghost Fork (not falling for it again)
3. OK, well, then I'll throw a fastball that you'll take because you think I'm throwing another ghost fork (backwards K). pic.twitter.com/1tqdpWTjX2

— Rob Friedman (@PitchingNinja) June 12, 2025

However, Senga hurt his hamstring covering first base and had to leave the game. For the first couple innings, the Nats did not do any better against the Mets bullpen. Jose Castillo and Huascar Brozoban shut down the Nats as well.

However, the Nats bullpen did a good job keeping the game within striking distance. Eduardo Salazar and Zach Brzykcy delivered three scoreless innings out of the pen. There was some traffic on the bases, but they got the job done.

That led to the fateful ninth inning. The top of the Nats lineup jumped all over Ryne Stanek. It feels like they have a history of performing against Stanek over the years. CJ Abrams, James Wood and Luis Garcia Jr. all singled off of the Mets right hander.

That forced Edwin Diaz to come into the game with first and third with nobody out. He was off his game. Diaz threw seven straight balls to start his outing. After walking Nathaniel Lowe, he went to 3-0 to Josh Bell before giving up a single to him.

The bases were loaded with nobody out and it was a 2 run game. After going 2-1 to Alex Call, the Nats right fielder expanded the zone on a slider and popped up to the second baseman.

Then Jose Tena came to the plate. Things got even more interesting when Diaz threw a wild pitch to make it 4-3 and put the tying run 90 feet away. However, Tena grounded out which put the game on the line with the struggling Keibert Ruiz at the plate.

Keibert Ruiz did what Keibert Ruiz does, ground out on the first pitch. It feels like Ruiz has been such a rally killer for the Nats lately and just deflates the team. This is another instance of the catching position just killing the Nats.

At the end of the day, it was just too little too late. The offense woke up too late. We can talk about how the boys battled, but that feels a bit hollow. Where was this the first 8 innings of the game? Yes, Senga is a great pitcher, but they have been bad against most pitchers this month, not just aces.

The Marlins and Rockies are coming to town, which should provide relief. However, we have to remember what went down the last time we played those teams plus the Pirates. They were coming off series wins against Arizona and LA, before going 4-6 against the bottom of the NL. If they play like they did the first 8 innings, they will lose to these teams.

June has been really rough for the Nats, especially offensively. This home stand has the potential to turn things around, but the offense needs to build off that 9th inning.

Source: https://www.federalbaseball.com/202...n-nationals-rally-comes-up-short-against-mets
 
Washington Nationals vs New York Mets Game Thread

MLB: Washington Nationals at New York Mets

Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

Follow along as the struggling Nationals look to avoid a sweep at the hands of the Mets

The Washington Nationals offense is really sputtering right now. They got shut out last night, and have only scored 15 runs in June. It is time to get back on track. However, that will be tough with Mets ace Kodai Senga on the mound.

With the right handed Senga on the mound, the Nats will switch things up. Josh Bell, Keibert Ruiz, Jose Tena and Robert Hassell III are back in the lineup. Those guys will look to do better than the lineup that got shutout by David Peterson last night. Despite a righty on the mound, Alex Call will stay in the lineup, as he is one of the few guys swinging a hot bat. Michael Soroka will be on the mound looking to follow up his best start of the season.


sixty eight. pic.twitter.com/enCp38AjTk

— Washington Nationals (@Nationals) June 12, 2025

The Mets are making some changes to the bottom of their lineup as well. Francisco Alvarez will be in at catcher and Starling Marte will replace Jared Young as DH. Their fearsome top 4 of Lindor, Nimmo, Soto and Alonso remains unchanged. Mets ace Kodai Senga will be on the mound as the Queens crew look for a home sweep.


Thursday matinee. #LGM pic.twitter.com/flLIjQGrIg

— New York Mets (@Mets) June 12, 2025

Game Info:

Stadium: Citi Field

Time: 1:10 PM EST

TV: MASN and MLB Network (out of market)

Radio: 106.7 The Fan and DC 87.7

The Nationals need to snap out of their funk badly. This offensive production has been unacceptable, especially given the talent on the roster. It won’t be easy with Senga on the mound, but this Nats team needs to show some fight. Comment down below and let’s go Nats!

Source: https://www.federalbaseball.com/2025/6/12/24448074/washington-nationals-vs-new-york-mets-game-thread
 
Washington Nationals vs Miami Marlins Game Thread

MLB: Washington Nationals at New York Mets

Brad Penner-Imagn Images

Follow along as the slumping Nats look to snap their five game losing streak against the last place Fish

The Nationals had a tough series on the road against the Mets. They were in a couple of the games, but just couldn’t execute when it mattered. However, the Miami Marlins should be a softer touch, at least on paper. The Nats can’t take this team lightly, as we saw when they lost 2⁄3 to the Fish earlier this season.

The Nationals are running out a pretty standard lineup they use pretty often against right handed pitching lately. Nationals catchers have been brutal all month, but Keibert Ruiz will be the one behind the dish tonight. The Nats need more extra base hits from the top of their lineup. Mitchell Parker will be on the mound as he looks to conquer his first inning woes.


sixty nine. pic.twitter.com/gVIn2ZJvOV

— Washington Nationals (@Nationals) June 13, 2025

The Marlins lineup is light on big names, but they have a couple guys doing some solid work. Agustin Ramirez, Dane Myers and Kyle Stowers have been bright spots in an otherwise rough Marlins lineup. The Nats will be facing the nasty but wild Dominican Edward Cabrera.


Game Info:

Stadium: Nationals Park

Time: 6:45 PM EST

TV: MASN 2

Radio: 106.7 The Fan and DC 87.7

The Nats desperately need to snap their five game losing streak. On paper, the Marlins should give them a good opportunity to do so. However, if the Nationals are off their game, the Fish are ready to pounce and take advantage. Follow along down below and let’s go Nats!

Source: https://www.federalbaseball.com/2025/6/13/24448833/washington-nationals-vs-miami-marlins-game-thread
 
Washington Nationals Mitchell Parker has a first inning problem

MLB: Atlanta Braves at Washington Nationals

Geoff Burke-Imagn Images

The Washington Nationals big southpaw has struggled early in his outings this season

After a very fast start, Mitchell Parker has struggled since the end of April. He had a 1.39 ERA through his first five starts, but now that is up to 4.44. Parker has been better his last couple starts, but he still has one massive issue. He is getting shelled in first innings.

His numbers in the first frame are ugly. For the season Parker has an ERA of 10.38 in the first inning. The fifth inning is the only other frame where he has an ERA over 4. It has become increasingly noticeable in his last three starts.

He has allowed 7 first inning runs in his last three starts, with six of them being earned. After those first inning meltdowns, Parker has found a way to lock in, only allowing one run after the first in those three starts.

However, the damage allowed in that first frame ended up costing the Nats. Parker took the loss in all three of those outings. While they were not awful starts, giving up those first inning runs is deflating, especially now with the struggling offense. Last night, when Michael Soroka gave up three first inning runs, it almost felt like the game was over.

So what can the Nats do about this, if anything? There have been suggestions about having an opener come in for Parker’s outings. Would that really help though? Parker’s first inning problems would probably just turn into second inning problems.

In my opinion, the root of Parker’s first inning woes is command based. He throws way more uncompetitive pitches early in his outings and when he does find the zone, he tends to catch a lot of the plate.

Parker is not an overpowering guy, so he needs to spot his pitches. If he is not locating, big sluggers like Eugenio Suarez will send it a long way. The crippling blow in Parker’s start against the Diamondbacks was a 466 foot blast by Suarez, who hammered a hanging splitter.


Eugenio Suárez with a 466-foot BOMB to center pic.twitter.com/MrLZcg4NXw

— MLB (@MLB) June 1, 2025

While a guy like MacKenzie Gore can sometimes get away with challenging hitters in the middle of the plate, Parker cannot. He needs to be pinpoint, dotting corners and getting hitters to expand out of the strike zone.

However, after that first inning, we have been seeing Parker get into a flow state as the game goes on. When he gets rolling, he can be a real joy to watch. He gets so many quick outs and can just fly through innings. Even with long first innings, he can get through five or six innings with a pretty low pitch count.

However, this first inning problem is real and something he needs to address. I wonder if switching up something in his warm up routine could help out. It is clear he is not ready to go out of the gates right now.

He will have another first inning test tonight as he takes the mound against the Marlins. If he can escape that first inning with a 0, we could be in for a great night. However, he needs to prove he can do that. The Nats need Parker to step up, and solving the first inning woes would go a long way.

Source: https://www.federalbaseball.com/202...ationals-mitchell-parker-first-inning-problem
 
The Washington Nationals rebuild has hit a crisis point

MLB: Miami Marlins at Washington Nationals

Geoff Burke-Imagn Images

Things are getting ugly in the Nation’s Capital, with frustration boiling over a stalled out rebuild

The 2025 Washington Nationals just hit rock bottom last night. They dropped their seventh straight game with 4-3 loss to the Marlins. The false comebacks that come up short due are feeling increasingly hollow. Talk of how the “boys battled” has become more stale than ever. Besides the adorable Bruce the Bat Dog, there is not a whole lot to cheer for in DC.


INEFFICIENT ROUTE, BUT BRUCE THE BAT DOG GETS IT DONE

pic.twitter.com/Jx6I3BFsQB

— Washington Nationals (@Nationals) June 14, 2025

While the loss was probably the rock bottom of the season, manager Davey Martinez made sure to drag things even further down. The Nationals skipper went on a rant where he took zero accountability and said the teams struggles are “never on coaching”. It was an awful answer that can’t have gone down well in the locker room.


So for anyone who missed it, this is what Davey Martinez had to say following the Nationals’ 7th consecutive loss.

Interpret this how you will… #Natitude pic.twitter.com/UZPjqUDARx

— Bennett Lehmann (@DCBerk) June 14, 2025

The 2025 version of Davey has been different from the character Nationals fans have become accustomed to. He has felt oddly detached from the outside looking in. On numerous occasions, the camera has panned to Davey after a questionable call, but the Nationals manager is just staring into space. The answer he gave last night felt like the answer of a guy who is struggling with the burden of being on the hot seat.

We wrote about Davey’s lack of energy earlier this season, and nothing has changed since. The only people he is willing to stand up for is his coaching staff. His answer last night spoke to a culture problem that exists within the locker room. What do the young players think when they see their manager throw them under the bus like that?

That brings us to a more macro level problem. What is going on with this rebuild? The Nats are a season low 10 games under .500, and look poised for another season with a record around 71-91. With the exciting young talent on the roster, the Nats should be rising up the standings.

However, there are still so many holes on this roster. Simply put, Mike Rizzo did not have a good enough offseason. Nathaniel Lowe and Josh Bell, the two big bats Rizzo brought in both have negative WAR. Rizzo has had to release three of his bullpen additions in Lucas Sims, Colin Poche and Jorge Lopez. For the rotation, Trevor Williams has reverted to 2023 form after getting a multi-year deal. While Michael Soroka has had his moments, he has missed time and his ERA is over 5.

This was billed as a step forward season for the Nats. Something similar to the 2011 season where they showed a lot of promise and finished 80-81. However, this year has been more of the same for Nats fans who desperately want to see winning baseball again.

Barring significant changes in performances, the Nationals can’t afford to run it back with Davey Martinez next season. There have not been any new voices in the coaching staff for years, and as much as Martinez disagrees, it is clear they are needed.

Nationals fans have been very patient during this rebuild. After all, these are the same guys who brought World Series glory to DC, why can’t they do it again. However, as the years go on, it is becoming clearer that these guys cannot repeat the 2019 magic.

It was a different set of circumstances. Davey Martinez was given a veteran team who responded to him and his methods. Those methods don’t seem to be working as well with a younger team. Based on last night’s outburst, it is clear that Martinez will not be changing his methods. He is tied to the hip with a coaching staff that is struggling. Developing young players is not Davey’s strength. He is at his best when he is tasked with bringing a veteran team together like he did in 2019.

It is also a different set of circumstances for GM Mike Rizzo. In the 2010’s, ownership gave Rizzo a big budget which allowed him to take chances and be at his dealing best. Rizzo, like Martinez is not at his best when tasked with developing a younger roster. He can do it, but he is more comfortable in a gig like the one Dave Dombrowski has in Philadelphia.

Whether you blame the Lerner family, Mike Rizzo, Davey Martinez, or a combination of all three, it is clear something is not right. For the first time, it feels like the Nationals rebuild plan is well behind schedule. In 2023, the Nats were a plucky over performing team that won 71 games with an 100 loss roster. Last year, we saw corner stone guys such as James Wood and Dylan Crews debut. While they won 71 games again, it felt like a much more real 71 win team.

While the core is performing well for the most part in 2025, it is not getting them anywhere in the win column. It is kind of scary that James Wood, MacKenzie Gore and CJ Abrams are all taking big steps, yet they might lose even more games. That is a big indictment on the rest of the roster that should be supplementing those guys. Someone said that without the Soto trade, the Nats would be a White Sox or Rockies level disaster, and it is tough to disagree.


The Nationals would be the Rockies or White Sox right now if they didn't make that Juan Soto trade.

Imagine this team without James Wood, CJ Abrams, and MacKenzie Gore...

— Eric Cross (@EricCrossMLB) June 14, 2025

The Nationals have hit a crisis point in their rebuild. Their core guys are performing, but they aren’t going anywhere in the standings. It is clear they cannot run back the same triumvirate of Lerner, Rizzo and Martinez next season. The rebuild is stuck and something has got to give.

Source: https://www.federalbaseball.com/2025/6/15/24449581/washington-nationals-rebuild-hit-crisis-point
 
Marlins Sweep Nationals as Losing Streak Reaches 8 Straight and Tension Grows in the Clubhouse

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Field Level Media

Nats offense flatlines again and dismay grows in the clubhouse about Davey’s postgame comments yesterday

Despite the shakeup in lineup order which saw Alex Call leading off and CJ Abrams hitting third, the Nationals offense looked completely flat again today, going 0-9 with RISP and grounding into 2 rally extinguishing double plays as they lose 3-1 to the Marlins to complete the sweep for them. Their sole run came in the 1st on a Luis Garcia Jr groundout, and it was crickets from there.

Hope flickered for a moment in the 9th as Alex Call was hit by the pitch and seemingly ensured James Wood would hit in the inning with the tying run on, but instead Josh Bell did what Josh Bell does and grounded into a game ending double play.

This loss makes it 8 in a row for the Nats, dropping them to 30-41 on the season, and tied in the loss column with the Marlins. The offense in the month of June has continued to be horrid, with the 1 game where they scored more than 4 runs, they gave up 11 and lost. The pitching, which hasn’t been stellar this month either, at least kept them in the last 2 ballgames, but to no avail.

After the game, Andrew Golden of the Washington Post put out an article which described the players reaction to manager Davey Martinez saying failure is never on the coaches in response to a question about where the blame falls for the teams recent failures. In it, it describes how the locker room has reacted to Davey’s comment, and the answer is not well.


This excerpt from @andrewcgolden ‘s article in the Post just now is incredible.

If that’s the case, then changes have got to happen now. You can’t lose a young locker room. Not sure if it’s lost now, but Davey certainly hasn’t won them over. pic.twitter.com/Y1kTVDDlQx

— Ryan Clary (@Ryanclary11) June 15, 2025

Tensions are hitting a boiling point between coaches and players, and it’s reflecting in the results on the field. Needless to say, it feels like a change of some sort is coming, whether that’s in the coaching staff or a player call up to try and provide some kind of spark for the lineup.

The Rockies come to town for a 4 game set now, a series which, if lost, will likely bury this fanbases hopes of improvement for the rest of the year. After the Rockies, the Nats travel to play the Dodgers in LA and the Padres in San Diego, so it is absolutely critical they figure something out before they spiral in record towards the cellar of all of baseball.

In the meantime, keep your eyes peeled for some kind of roster move or coach firing in response to this embarrassing losing streak.

Source: https://www.federalbaseball.com/202...sing-streak-reaches-8-tension-grows-clubhouse
 
Washington Nationals vs Colorado Rockies Game Thread

MLB: Miami Marlins at Washington Nationals

Washington Nationals shortstop CJ Abrams (5) reacts after hitting a double against the Miami Marlins during the first inning at Nationals Park. | Brad Mills-Imagn Images

Washington is coming off four consecutive series losses and has continued to tumble down the standings, riding an eight-game losing streak. After a tough series against the Chicago Cubs, Texas Rangers, and New York Mets, Washington looked to get back on track against NL East last-place holders Miami Marlins. Three close, brutal losses later, fans are questioning who is in charge and the decisions being made internally. At home against the Colorado Rockies for a four-game series, Washington desperately needs this series as the schedule doesn’t get any easier any time soon.

Colorado has been one of the worst teams in MLB history up to this point in the season. However, they couldn’t have caught a great break playing against Washington. Colorado’s season is over; however, they would love to see some progression from the young players and hope to build on that progress into 2026.

Washington is hoping for a spark with Brady House making his MLB debut today. The most questionable spot in the field is third base and House could be the long-term answer for Washington on the hot corner. Daylen Tile could provide a spark as Robert Hassell and Jose Tena have been demoted. Lowe and Garcia out of the lineup means Washington is relying on Abrams and Wood to continue their stellar offensive seasons.


seventy two. pic.twitter.com/ETPYqFNz5q

— Washington Nationals (@Nationals) June 16, 2025

Colorado fans have been through the worst this season, and it doesn’t look to get any better any time soon. Tyler Freeman has been a pleasant surprise and could be trade bait, earning more minor league depth. Against the down-bad Washington squad, Colorado could see some success in this series.


New day, new week, new city pic.twitter.com/rsRIvEIiUZ

— Colorado Rockies (@Rockies) June 16, 2025

GAME INFO


Stadium: Nationals Park

Time: 6:45 EDT

TV: MASN

Radio: 106.7 The Fan, DC 87.7

Washington desperately needs a win today and a series win. With series against the Los Angeles Dodgers and the San Diego Padres coming after Colorado, Washington would love to create some winning momentum to try and take down two powerhouses in the NL West.

Source: https://www.federalbaseball.com/202...ton-nationals-vs-colorado-rockies-game-thread
 
Washington Nationals vs Colorado Rockies Game Thread

MLB: Colorado Rockies at Washington Nationals

Geoff Burke-Imagn Images

Can the Nats snap the losing streak or will it roll into the double digits

The Washington Nationals have lost nine straight baseball games. With Kyle Finnegan blowing a save last night, the Nats chances of an elusive win vanished into the damp DC night. However, they are back tonight and still playing the team with the worst record in baseball, the Colorado Rockies.

CJ Abrams will return to the leadoff spot tonight after a two game trial run as a three hitter. Last night’s leadoff man Alex Call will be out of the lineup, with the embattled Davey Martinez choosing an outfield of James Wood, Jacob Young and Daylen Lile. Brady House will play in his second career game tonight, starting at third base. Keibert Ruiz and Nathaniel Lowe will also return to the lineup. Michael Soroka will take the ball with the Nats looking to stop the streak.


seventy three. pic.twitter.com/HFzXyvXPlY

— Washington Nationals (@Nationals) June 17, 2025

The trio of Micky Moniak, Tyler Freeman and Hunter Goodman punished the Nats last night and they will be the first three names on the Rockies lineup card. Two of the Rockies best players from last year, Brenton Doyle and Michael Toglia have fallen on hard times and are hitting sixth and seventh. Speaking of falling on hard times, the struggling Antonio Senzatela will the take the mound.

Game Info:

Stadium: Nationals Park

Time: 6:45 PM EST

TV: MASN

Radio: 106.7 The Fan and DC 87.7

The Nationals losing streak is bad enough now, but letting it reach double digits against this Rockies team would be embarrassing. Nine games is tied for the second longest losing streak in team history. That happened in 2022. The team record is 12 from 2008. Both of those seasons they lost 100 games. If they don’t win tonight, changes must be made. Follow along and let’s go Nats!

Source: https://www.federalbaseball.com/202...ton-nationals-vs-colorado-rockies-game-thread
 
Washington Nationals brass needs to stop using 2019 as a crutch

MLB: Milwaukee Brewers at Washington Nationals

Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports

With the losses piling up, Mike Rizzo could not stop talking about 2019 in his interview yesterday

The Washington Nationals 2019 World Series win was one of the greatest moments in my life. As I was battling cancer that year, that team brought me so much light. The World Series run riveted me and inspired me to keep fighting. I will never forget the joy I felt when Daniel Hudson struck out Michael Brantley to bring the Nats their first ever World Series.

However, it is 2025 now. I am five years cancer free, there has been a global pandemic and the world has changed so much. However, whenever the Nats top brass has to face a tough question, they revert to 2019. Mike Rizzo did it consistently in his interview with the Junkies. He defended Davey saying that people wanted him out after the 19-31 start to 2019.


Mike Rizzo just now with @JunksRadio on @1067theFan:

“You guys had Davey out the door on 2019 too.. it’s built on frustration, I get it.. I’m looking at the big picture of the entirety of a season.” Said 10 days ago they were 30-32 and there are 3 months left.

Rizzo doesn’t…

— Grant Paulsen (@granthpaulsen) June 18, 2025

This just is not a satisfactory answer for me anymore. 2019 was six years ago now and not particularly relevant to the current day. There is not a single player from that 2019 roster who is currently on the team. It is a whole new situation and a whole new team.

One thing I also did not like about Rizzo’s interview was when he belittled the likes of the Pirates, Rockies and Orioles when he was asked about a managerial change. Yes, the Nationals have won a World Series far more recently than those teams, but there was a sense of unearned arrogance in the answer. After all, the Nationals have the second most losses in baseball since 2020.


Nationals GM Mike Rizzo was asked on @JunksRadio if Dave Martinez is still his guy. His answer: pic.twitter.com/gwcxXDV3rQ

— Spencer Nusbaum (@spencernusbaum_) June 18, 2025

The World Series was an outstanding achievement, but this is a what have you done for me lately business. How long of a leash does a World Series give you? It should not be six years of losing without an end in sight.

The further 2019 gets away, the more hollow Rizzo and Martinez’s points about how they have done it before get. It is becoming more questionable if they can do it again as the losses pile up.

Also, how has a coach not been held accountable for this mess. Darnell Coles and Jim Hickey were not on the staff in 2019, yet they are somehow safe from repercussions. 2019 has allowed Rizzo and Davey to do things totally their own way and tune out the rest of the baseball world.

That is why they have a hitting coach with such an antiquated approach and are so stubborn about doing things their way. As Chelsea Janes alluded to in her article, the Nationals are pretending that everything is okay and that all is going according to plan. This 11 game losing streak has has exposed the truth.

The Nationals rebuild is behind schedule. 2025 has now become a write off and it is becoming hard to imagine how this team can compete in 2026 even with some major additions. There are so many anchors that need to be replaced. Anchors on the roster and anchors on the coaching staff.

2019 was the greatest thing to ever happen to the Washington Nationals. However, the top brass are now using that success to distract from the rot that has taken hold in the Nationals organization. No matter how great something is, you can’t hold onto it forever. The Washington Nationals need to stop looking in the past and start looking towards the future. Should Davey Martinez and Mike Rizzo be part of that future, or should the team fully move on and create a new era that isn’t beholden to 2019. Right now it seems like the ladder is the better option.

Source: https://www.federalbaseball.com/2025/6/19/24452115/washington-nationals-brass-stop-using-2019-crutch
 
James Wood Beats The Rockies As Washington Nationals Stop Skid

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Nats narrowly avoid 12th straight loss thanks to James Wood late game heroics

It was looking like an all too familiar ending for the Nats as they trailed 3-2 entering the bottom of the 11th inning. That was, however, until James Wood had perhaps his biggest hit as a Nat yet, a 2-run blast to give the Nationals the 4-3 victory and avoid tying the franchise record in consecutive losses.

The Nats jumped out to a lead early as James Wood delivered a 2-run bomb to the red porch seats off Rockies starter Chase Dollander, who finished the day with a line of 6 innings pitched and 2 runs allowed.


and if we said he's an all-star? pic.twitter.com/uhwO499g2i

— Washington Nationals (@Nationals) June 19, 2025

The Rockies would counter in the top half of the 5th with 2 runs of their own, one off a Jordan Beck double and one from a Mickey Moniak single. That sinking feeling we have all become so used to returned.

Trevor Williams day would come to an end in the 6th after a Ryan McMahon single and Brenton Doyle double made it second and third with one out. His final line was 5 1⁄3 innings pitched and 2 runs allowed, his second straight respectable start which kept the club in the game. Cole Henry would then come in and slam the door on a potential Rockies rally as he struck out Sam Hilliard and Orlando Arcia. It was a good bounce back by Henry after a rough outing the other day.

Both offenses would go silent until the 11th, where Michael Toglia broke the tie with an RBI single off Ryan Loutos. Rockies closer Seth Halvorsen entered in the 11th looking to complete the sweep for the Rockies, and after a Jacob Young bunt which moved the tying runner to third and an incredible diving play by Rockies first baseman Michael Toglia to get the out and keep the runner on third, it was up to James Wood to deliver.

And deliver he did. In a 1-0 count, Halvorsen left a splitter hanging over the plate, and Wood didn’t miss it, launching it to deep center and onto the batters eye. The choice to pitch to Wood will be questioned by many, and very fairly so, but thankfully the Rockies did and saved the Nats from perhaps the most embarrassing sweep in franchise history.


WOOD YOU BELIEVE IT pic.twitter.com/mJmYlHpSta

— Washington Nationals (@Nationals) June 19, 2025

This win was so critical for the club, as they now head out to LA with some kind of momentum to take on the 46-29 Dodgers in a 3 game set. From there, it’ll be San Diego and Anaheim for them before they come home July 1st to take on the Detroit Tigers. They’re gonna need the rest of the lineup to get going soon, as James Wood scoring all your runs is a fun but not very sustainable strategy.

Source: https://www.federalbaseball.com/202...-beats-rockies-washington-nationals-stop-skid
 
Shohei Ohtani and the LA Dodgers Host Free-Falling Washington Nationals

MLB: Colorado Rockies at Washington Nationals

Washington Nationals outfielder James Wood (29) celebrates with Nationals shortstop CJ Abrams (5) after hitting a two run home run against the Colorado Rockies during the fourth inning at Nationals Park. | Geoff Burke-Imagn Images

Winners of 10 of their last 12, Los Angeles welcomes a slumping Nationals squad desperate to stop the skid, but slowing down Ohtani and company won’t be easy.

Washington is coming off their worst stretch of the season, ending an eleven-game losing streak. Young phenom James Wood walked off the Rockies in Thursday’s matchup, but that doesn’t change how fans have become worried about the current state of the organization. Things aren’t going to get easier for Washington as they head to the West Coast to take on arguably the best team in baseball, the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Heading into this series, Los Angeles has won three consecutive series against NL West rivals, the Padres and the Giants. At 46-30, Los Angeles is playing up to expectations; however, injuries have put their dominance to the test. Most of their starting rotation is injured, and their lineup is in and out on the IL. This team finds ways to win, and with superstars littered throughout their lineup, they might be one of the toughest teams to beat in all of baseball.

Earlier this season, Washington took two-of-three in a close, gritty series against the Los Angeles Dodgers. Washington fans are hoping for a mid-season turnaround, and Los Angeles fans are hoping to keep the wheels turning, beating down on worse teams.

TEAM STATS

OFFENSE


Los Angeles’ lineup is one of the best in baseball. This team ranks first in almost every offensive category and has been the driving force for this team due to the rotation injuries. Established superstars like Shohei Ohtani, Freddie Freeman, Mookie Betts, and Will Smith carry most of the load. At the same time, guys like Andy Pages, Teoscar Hernadez, and Tommy Edman have done a great job filling out the rest of the lineup. As a team, Los Angeles is batting .264 (1st), hit 116 home runs (1st), .340 on-base percentage (1st), and slugging .457 (1st).

PITCHING


In the past two seasons, Los Angeles has tried their best and created a rotation that would be considered the best in baseball if injuries did not exist. Signing Blake Snell and Roki Sasaki looked like this team would go back-to-back. However, injuries have riddled the Dodgers all season. Yoshinobu Yamamoto is experiencing a breakout season and is making a case for the NL Cy Young. As a team this season, Los Angeles has a 4.18 ERA (21st), allowed 94 home runs (23rd), 1.31 WHIP (20th), and teams are batting .242 against them (16th).

GAME ONE - Friday, 10:10 EDT


WAS: MacKenzie Gore (3-6) - 15 G, 2.89 ERA, 119 SO, 1.15 WHIP, 137 ERA+

LAD: Clayton Kershaw (2-0) - 6 G, 3.25 ERA, 20 SO, 1.30 WHIP, 122 ERA+

MacKenzie Gore has turned into one of the best left-handed pitchers in baseball. Experiencing a breakout season, Gore has shown his ace potential and has been a staple point for the Washington Nationals this season. In his last start, Gore threw six innings and allowed eight runs and two earned runs, while Washington suffered the loss.

Kershaw is a first-ballot Hall-of-Famer and will forever be remembered throughout all of baseball. Even at age 37, he is putting up a solid season, posting a 3.25 ERA through six starts. In his last start, Kershaw threw a gem against their division rival, the San Francisco Giants, throwing seven innings and allowing just three hits and no runs while striking out five batters.

GAME TWO - Saturday, 10:10 EDT


WAS: Jake Irvin (5-3) - 15 G, 4.23 ERA, 59 SO, 1.23 WHIP, 94 ERA+

LAD: Dustin May (4-4) - 13 G, 4.46 ERA, 67 SO, 1.34 WHIP, 88 ERA+

Irvin has been a rollercoaster this season. Throughout the season, Irvin has shown flashes of becoming a long-term option in Washington’s rotation and other times has looked pitiful. In his last start, Irvin threw a quality start, throwing six innings and allowing five hits and three runs as Washington suffered the loss.

Dustin May’s career has been riddled with injuries and unfortunate circumstances. Early in his career, May showed flashes of becoming a long-term ace and is now struggling since the injuries. In his last start, May threw a quality start, throwing six innings and allowing six hits and three runs while also walking four batters.

GAME THREE - Sunday, 4:10 EDT


WAS: Michael Soroka (3-5) - 9 G, 5.06 ERA, 49 SO, 1.13 WHIP, 79 ERA+

LAD: Shohei Ohtani (0-0) - 1 G, 9.00 ERA, 0 SO, 2.00 WHIP, 60 ERA+

Michael Soroka is another pitcher whose career has been dictated by injuries. After a strong start to his career, Soroka looks like a shell of his former self, displaying his potential every so often. His first year in Washington has been disappointing. In his last start, he threw six innings, allowing five hits and three earned runs in a loss for Washington.

Ohtani has dominated baseball as a designated hitter, but the main reason for his popularity is his dominant pitching, along with his hitting. He threw in his first game this season, pitching as an opener, and this was the first time on the mound in almost two years. Ohtani saw lots of success with the Los Angeles Angels and we should see something similar with the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Washington couldn’t have asked for a worse matchup after fighting off an eleven-game losing streak. While hoping the worst is behind them, Washington could see some sparks from a young, determined lineup. Development from House and Lile, and continuing the growth of James Wood and CJ Abrams, should be the main objectives for Washington. Big changes could be on the horizon with another embarrassing series.

Source: https://www.federalbaseball.com/2025/6/20/24452715/shohei-ohtani-dodgers-host-free-falling-nationals
 
Washington Nationals vs Los Angeles Game Thread

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AP

Washington finally ended an eleven-game losing streak. Currently at their lowest point in the season, things could continue to go even lower. Heading to Los Angeles to take on the stellar Dodgers, this could be the breaking point for the organization in 2025. As big of a test it is for the Washington Nationals, this is an even bigger test for MacKenzie Gore. Going up against arguably the best lineup in baseball, this is a chance to submit himself as one of the best pitchers in baseball with a stellar start tonight.

Los Angeles is red-hot coming into this series, and they have shown no signs of slowing down. Even with most of their rotation injured, their star-studded lineup has carried most of the weight this season. This series, at worst, is a slight hiccup, but this team is built for a deep playoff run come October.

MacKenzie Gore will kick things off for the Nats in LA, coming off a solid start of 6 innings and 2 runs allowed Sunday vs the Marlins. He went 6 innings and allowed runs in a start against the Dodgers back in April, and will be looking to repeat some of that success tonight. The lineup behind him remains pretty standard, without Daylen Lile and Keibert Ruiz out vs the left handed Clayton Kershaw and Alex Call and Jacob Young in.


seventy six. pic.twitter.com/lzCHTfM6YU

— Washington Nationals (@Nationals) June 20, 2025

Things are going to be tough out of the gate for MacKenzie Gore, facing Ohtani as soon as the first pitch is thrown. The top half of a lineup does not get better than this, featuring superstars like Mookie Betts and Will Smith. Freddie Freeman out of the lineup is a sigh of relief, but not much of one, seeing the rest of the lineup is healthy and playing today.


Tonight's #Dodgers lineup vs. Nationals: pic.twitter.com/m2RXL9LWsP

— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) June 20, 2025

GAME INFO


Stadium: Dodger Stadium

Time: 10:10 EDT

TV: MASN 2

Radio: 106.7 The Fan, DC 87.7

There is nothing on the line for Los Angeles, and in reality, this isn’t a big series for the Washington Nationals. What is important is the growth the development of the young stars in Washington. MacKenzie Gore, James Wood, and CJ Abrams need to continue development while the rest of the roster finds their place and role.

Source: https://www.federalbaseball.com/2025/6/20/24452943/washington-nationals-vs-los-angeles-game-thread
 
Washington Nationals vs Los Angeles Dodgers Game Thread

MLB: Washington Nationals at Los Angeles Dodgers

Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

Follow along as the slumping Nats look to tie the series against the juggernaut Dodgers

The boys battled last night, but it was not enough as the Dodgers walked away with a 6-5 win. CJ Abrams homer in the 9th made things interesting, but James Wood could not come through like he did against the Rockies. Now we are on to game two.

The Nats are switching some things up with a righty on the mound. Daylen Lile and Josh Bell will return to the lineup replacing Alex Call and Andres Chaparro. James Wood will look to bounce back from a rare tough day at the plate while the likes of CJ Abrams and Luis Garcia Jr. will look to stay hot. Jake Irvin will take the mound for the Nats.


seventy seven. pic.twitter.com/sXFxCynWco

— Washington Nationals (@Nationals) June 21, 2025

The Dodgers will roll out an intimidating lineup. Stars and big names populate the whole lineup. Shohei Ohtani leads things off, with Mookie and Freddie behind him. You know what you are getting with the Dodgers and it is scary. Jake Irvin will need to walk a tight rope. Dustin May will take the mound for the Dodgers.


Tonight’s #Dodgers lineup vs. Nationals: pic.twitter.com/PQAYpyLpHI

— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) June 21, 2025

Game Info:

Stadium: Dodgers Stadium

Time: 10:10 PM EST

TV: MASN and MLB Network (out of market)

Radio: 106.7 The Fan and DC 87.7

The Nats need to win some more ball games to make up for their awful losing streak. Just snapping it with one extra inning win over the Rockies is not enough. We need consistent performances. Comment down below and let’s go Nats!

Source: https://www.federalbaseball.com/202...-nationals-vs-los-angeles-dodgers-game-thread
 
Washington Nationals vs Los Angeles Dodgers Game Thread

MLB: Washington Nationals at Los Angeles Dodgers

Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Follow along as the Nats look to take the series against Shohei and the Dodgers

As is often the case, the Nationals are playing their best baseball against some of the best teams. The Nats have played a lot of the top teams tough, especially the ones that are not in the NL East. After a hard fought loss on Friday, the Nats evened the series with a 7-3 win late last night. Now we are on to the rubber game.

The Nats are rolling out a similar lineup to last night. The only change is Josh Bell jumping ahead of Brady House in the lineup. After struggling most of the losing streak, the Nationals lineup is finding their feet again. Guys like Nathaniel Lowe and CJ Abrams are heating up. Michael Soroka will take the mound for the Nats.


seventy eight. pic.twitter.com/grka1YqaZ1

— Washington Nationals (@Nationals) June 22, 2025

The Dodgers are having their pitcher lead off. As we know Shohei Ohtani is not just any pitcher. He will start the game, but will only go a couple innings most likely. The Dodgers are making a couple tweaks to their lineup. We will see two rookies for the first time in Hyeseong Kim and Dalton Rushing. Kim will play center field and Rushing will catch. Mainstays Teoscar Hernandez and Will Smith get days off.


Today’s #Dodgers lineup vs. Nationals: pic.twitter.com/hxjIp81PZv

— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) June 22, 2025

Game Info:

Stadium: Dodgers Stadium

Time: 4:10 PM EST

TV: MASN

Radio: 106.7 The Fan and DC 87.7

Follow along as the Nats look to take their first series in a long time. They need to make up for lost time and a series win in LA would be a major statement. While the bad taste of the losing streak will still remain, that would soothe the pain a bit. Comment down below and let’s go Nats!

Source: https://www.federalbaseball.com/202...-nationals-vs-los-angeles-dodgers-game-thread
 
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