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[Washington Nationals]

Washington Nationals at Pittsburgh Pirates game thread

Jim Rassol-Imagn Images

Follow along as the Nationals try to raise the Jolly Roger on the road

The Nationals set sail into PNC Park where they find five and eleven Pirates. Today will be the toughest tale of the four game series as they face stud pitcher Paul Skenes.

For the Nationals we still see Alex Call leading off in place of the absence of injured C.J. Abrams. Dylan Crews is back in the lineup, starting at center today. Crews in fact hit his first collegiate home run off of Skenes back in 2021. Hopefully we’ll get to see Crews do his best big league impression of that tonight.

Nasim Nuñez gets the nod at shortstop, this being his first action of the 2025 season. Called up from Rochester Nuñez was batting .192 to start the Tripe-A season. Paul DeJong slides back to third after playing shortstop yesterday. On the bump tonight is spot starter Brad Lord, he has never pitched against the Pirates.

SIXTEEN. pic.twitter.com/k7k1UmZOTl

— Washington Nationals (@Nationals) April 14, 2025​

The superstar pitcher Paul Skenes, who is widely regarded as one of the best pitchers in baseball, will be on the mound tonight. Skenes in his last outing vs St. Louis gave up the most earned runs (Five) he has ever given up in his career. Does Skenes bounce back or continue to slide?

For the lineup the Pirates have a few changes, Tommy Pham is back in left after having a day of rest. As well as utility man Isiah Kiner-Falefa who plays short today. Primary Catcher Henry Davis will rest and Endy Rodrìguez will be behind the plate.

Back home vs. the Nationals.

@SNPittsburgh
@937theFan | The PRN#LetsGoBucs x @bet365_us pic.twitter.com/hLXafQB6lx

— Pittsburgh Pirates (@Pirates) April 14, 2025​

Game Info:

Stadium: PNC Park

Time: 6:40 EST

TV: MASN

Radio: 106.7 The Fan and DC 87.7

Source: https://www.federalbaseball.com/202...n-nationals-at-pittsburgh-pirates-game-thread

 

[Washington Nationals]

Why can’t the Washington Nationals build a competent Bullpen?

Daniel Kucin Jr.-Imagn Images

The Washington Nationals never seem to have a good bullpen and I wanted to explore why that is

The Washington Nationals bullpen has been a disaster to start the season. They have the worst bullpen ERA at a staggering 6.92. The bullpen WHIP is at 1.92 and they have walked 38 batters. I wanted to explore why the bullpen is so bad and why the Nats never seem to have a good bullpen.

Not About the Money:

My first thought about why the Nats have a bad bullpen was that they just didn’t spend the money. However, when I explored this theory, it did not hold up. Yes, there are some examples of expensive bullpens being good this season.

For example, the Mets have the third best bullpen ERA and spend a hefty $37.9 million on their relievers. However, there are a number of bullpens that cost less than the Nationals $16.4 million dollar pen that are having success.

The San Francisco Giants have the second best bullpen in all of baseball. However, they are paying less money for it than the Nats are for their calamity of a bullpen. The Diamondbacks are only paying $13.3 million for their bullpen, and their unit has the lowest WHIP in the league. The Mariners, who have a top 5 bullpen are only paying $11 million to their relievers.

Now the question is how are these other teams getting so much more bang for their buck than the Nationals? It is all about finding diamonds in the rough and developing them. The Nationals had been showing some promise in that department the past couple years with guys like Kyle Finnegan, Hunter Harvey and Robert Garcia emerging from obscurity. However, they haven’t found any gems so far this season and most of the veterans they have brought in have been disastrous.

Finding Gems:

There is an art to finding undervalued relief pitchers and different teams go about it different ways. For example, teams like the Giants and Mariners have a lot of young guys with breakout potential.

A lot of those guys have hit this season for the Giants. Randy Rodriguez, Erik Miller and Hayden Birdsong have not allowed a run for the Giants in 23.2 innings combined. They make $780,000, $770,000, and $765,000 respectively. If you combine those three salaries it comes out to $2,315,000, or less than the $3 million the Nationals are paying Lucas Sims.

Why is it that the Nationals have such a tough time finding these gems, while other teams can stockpile cheap arms. Even if we accept that the Nats need to explore more in the veteran market, they can find better and cheaper options.

The Diamondbacks have a lot of veterans in their bullpen, including guys they got for cheap this offseason. Shelby Miller and Jalen Beeks are both having very good starts for the Snakes and they both got paid less than Colin Poche. Yes, it is early, but it looks like the Nats picked the wrong guys.

Historic Problem:

Even when the Nats were at their dominant best in the 2010’s, the bullpen was usually creaky, especially early in the season. It seemed like Mike Rizzo had to scramble to put together a bullpen at the deadline every year.

There is no better example of this than 2019. The Opening Day bullpen that year was Sean Doolittle, Wander Suero, Matt Grace, Trevor Rosenthal, Kyle Barraclaugh, Justin Miller, and Tony Sipp.

That thing had to be totally remade on the fly in the middle of the season. Doolittle and Suero were the only ones who were on the World Series roster, and Suero only pitched two innings all playoffs.

You have to credit Mike Rizzo for finding guys like Daniel Hudson and Tanner Rainey, but he did not build a good enough bullpen to start that season.

The problem has continued to this day, as Mike Rizzo is still struggling to build a bullpen. Like Barraclaugh and Rosenthal, it seems like Sims and Poche are dead on arrival. Both can’t find the zone and just aren’t getting outs.

While it is unlikely the Nats will be flipping prospects to get a guy like Hudson at this years deadline, they need to find a guy like 2019 Tanner Rainey on the farm to stabilize things. The Nationals also need to be aggressive picking up guys on waivers. They found Robert Garcia and Hunter Harvey on waivers.

While none of those guys are going to be sure things, they are in the Minors or on waivers for a reason, there is no downside in taking flyers. It will be hard for them to be worse than the guys they have now.

I would also like to see the Nats start to trust guys like Jackson Rutledge and Cole Henry. They should be put in the positions Poche and Sims are being trusted with right now. I really liked how Rutledge threw the ball yesterday in his first two innings. However, Davey put him out for a third inning, and his stuff did not look as sharp. That should be something the team learns from. Rutledge should be a one or two inning pitcher from now on. After all, there is a reason he is not starting anymore.

There is no excuse for the bullpen to be this bad. It is not a spending thing, Mike Rizzo just picked the wrong guys. You can find guys for cheap and turn them into very good relievers. The Nationals are just not doing that well enough.

Source: https://www.federalbaseball.com/202...-washington-nationals-build-competent-bullpen

 

[Washington Nationals]

Washington Nationals Vs Pittsburgh Pirates Game Thread

Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

Follow along as the Washington Nationals look to snap their three game losing skid

The last three games have been a real bummer for the Nats, losing twice to the Marlins and once to the Pirates. They will look to get back on track tonight as Jake Irvin faces off against the Pirates Mitch Keller on Jackie Robinson Day.

Alex Call is out of the lineup for the first time in a while, which means we will get a James Wood, Jacob Young, Dylan Crews outfield. James Wood will be in the leadoff spot today, something I wanted to see more of. Nasim Nunez will retain his spot at shortstop after a multi-hit game.

SEVENTEEN x 42 pic.twitter.com/j2MXsSSWck

— Washington Nationals (@Nationals) April 15, 2025​

There are a couple new additions to the Pirates lineup. Veterans Jack Suwinski and Adam Frazier will be in the lineup tonight. Nat killer Andrew McCutchen is out tonight. A little odd not seeing him out there on Jackie Robinson Day. The steady Mitch Keller will take the ball for the Pirates.

Our lineup for Jackie Robinson Day.

@SNPittsburgh
@937theFan | The PRN#LetsGoBucs x @bet365_us pic.twitter.com/Bj6LFl8llO

— Pittsburgh Pirates (@Pirates) April 15, 2025​

Game Info:

Stadium: PNC Park

Time: 6:40 EST

TV: MASN

Radio: 106.7 The Fan and DC 87.7

It is time to get the positivity train rolling again. We had so much fun against the Dodgers! Hopefully tonight is the night they get back on track.

Source: https://www.federalbaseball.com/202...n-nationals-vs-pittsburgh-pirates-game-thread

 

[Washington Nationals]

Washington Nationals vs Pittsburgh Pirates Game Thread

Amed Rosario and Dylan Crews celebrate after both players scored runs against the Pittsburgh Pirates during the sixth inning at PNC Park. | Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

The Washington Nationals (7-10) take on the Pittsburgh Pirates (6-12) for game three of a four-game series.

Becoming desperate for a win, Washington shut out Pittsburgh on Tuesday, 3-0, in a game where Washington dominated on the mound. Jake Irvin went deep into the game, going seven innings, giving up three hits.

James Wood led the way with a solo home run, and Nasim Nunez provided two RBIs to win for Washington.

As we head to game three of this four-game series, Washington is missing All-Star shortstop C.J. Abrams, who earlier this week was put on the 10-day IL. After a scary hit-by-pitch to the face, Washington infielder Paul DeJong is waiting to get results regarding his injury.

Pittsburgh has gotten off to a rough start and has been riddled with injuries to key position players. Infielder Nick Gonzalez, infielder Spencer Horowitz, and catcher Endy Rodriguez are some key players currently on the injured list.

With two games remaining in this series, let’s take a look at today’s lineups:

WASHINGTON: Alex Call is leading off today while James Wood slides down to the two-hole. Hot bat Nasim Nunez will be slotted as the starting shortstop for another game, potentially a short-term option, as DeJong was placed on the 10-day IL.

Mitchell Parker has gotten off to a spectacular start, posting a 1.96 ERA through the first few weeks of the season. Another great start, and he could become a long-term rotational piece for Washington.

EIGHTTEEN. pic.twitter.com/LrvGzBqUV1

— Washington Nationals (@Nationals) April 16, 2025​

PITTSBURGH: Ke’Bryan Hayes leads off this struggling Pittsburgh Pirates lineup. O’Neil Cruz, who has struggled to start the season, has been moved to the cleanup spot in the lineup. Endy Rodriguez has been placed on the 10-day IL, which gives former No. 1 overall pick Henry Davis the chance to earn the everyday starting catcher role throughout the rest of the season.

Bailey Falter has struggled on the mound this season, posting a 7.20 ERA to this point. Pittsburgh is desperate for good pitching outside of Skenes, and Falter has a chance to bounce back against an injury-riddled Washington lineup.

Game 3 vs. the Nationals.

@SNPittsburgh
@937theFan | The PRN#LetsGoBucs x @bet365_us pic.twitter.com/R1rruXYVnA

— Pittsburgh Pirates (@Pirates) April 16, 2025​

Almost three weeks into the season, Washington has struggled to stay in the win column consistently; however, with a series win over Pittsburgh, Washington could be a great spot. The rest of this series could be the series where Washington’s lineup and rotation put on a show.

Source: https://www.federalbaseball.com/202...n-nationals-vs-pittsburgh-pirates-game-thread

 

[Washington Nationals]

Early season struggles of Nationals Colin Poche

Rhona Wise-Imagn Images

Being used like a Swiss Army knife when he was built to be a scalpel

Not until the first week of February did Nationals general manager Mike Rizzo find his replacement for lefty Robert Garcia in the bullpen. He signed Colin Poche to a minor league contract.

In his five years with the Tampa Bay Rays, he was a reliable left-hander in the Rays bullpen, but was a casualty to their depth. The Rays made him available to Rizzo and the Nationals this past offseason.

So far, in his seven appearances this season, Poche looks nothing like the guy in Tampa Bay. Poche is leading Major League Baseball with a 32.1% BB rate while boasting a 16.61 ERA. Alarmingly bad, Making people ask the question... What happened?

First, let’s check the stats. The best website for such a thing, Baseball Savant, can help us dissect this struggling lefty a little bit deeper. Despite his ridiculous ERA, Poche’s Expected Batting Average (.192) and Expected Slugging Percentage (.325) show that he is not mainly getting thrashed because of pure contact.

What is hurting him is the deadly combination of walks and loud contact. His BB% has tripled from his career average and his barrel % has jumped to 15.4%. The highest of his career.

What makes things more interesting is that his HardHit% (46.2%) and Launch Angle Sweet Spot% (46.2%) are both career highs as well. This means when hitters aren’t barreling up the ball, they are still squaring it up at a dangerous rate.

While the numbers are ugly the underlying data shows that there is still a capable pitcher. The biggest problem with Colin Poche is his usage. During his time with Tampa Bay, Poche was a part of a tightly managed bullpen. He was deployed to mostly left-handed hitters in high-leverage spots that play to his strengths.

Now, with Washington, he is only one of two lefties. When he was on the Rays, he was a part of a group of four. The Nationals don’t have the luxury of shielding him, and that overexposure is beginning to show.

This logic makes sense to me when you think about Robert Garcia, who is thriving in Texas with a shiny 2.80 ERA. Garcia never quite reached that level during his time in Washington, and part of that reason could be his role.

For much of his stint with the Nationals, he was the only lefty in the bullpen, which forced him into tougher matchups, often against right-handers. It wasn’t until Jose A. Ferrer joined the bullpen that Garcia started to see more favorable, lefty-on-lefty opportunities. The Kind of matchups he is now consistently getting with the Rangers.

Sometimes, it’s not about the stuff you have. It is about the spot that you’re put in. It is going to be the main reason in my head why Poche is struggling. But that doesn't explain the high BB%.

Rocking a 32.1 BB%, after having a career low (8.5%) and leading the league is not great thing to wear. Poche not being able to find the strike zone doesn’t come from bad matchups. He is either dealing with issues mentally or with his mechanics on top of being place in unfavorable situations. Let’s hope that Poche can find a way to get out of this career low slump.

Source: https://www.federalbaseball.com/2025/4/17/24409987/early-season-struggles-nationals-colin-poche

 

[Washington Nationals]

Washington Nationals embarrassed in a listless performance

Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

The Washington Nationals looked flat today as they fall to 2-5 on the road trip

Today was a gut punch for the Washington Nationals. In fact, this whole road trip has been a massive left hook to the liver for a team coming off series wins against the Dodgers and D-Backs.

There is not a whole lot to recap in this game because frankly, not a whole lot happened. An Oneil Cruz lead off home run made up all of the scoring in this ball game. While Trevor Williams gave up a lot of base runners, he did a good job getting himself out of jams and using his veteran moxie.

Over the last two games, Nationals starters have allowed two runs in 11 innings, yet Mitchell Parker and Trevor Williams both got charged with losses. Today, you can’t even blame the often criticized bullpen. They did their job today for once. Lucas Sims came in and threw a clean inning. After him, Jose A Ferrer did a great job getting through two innings of work. The ball was jumping out of both of their hands.

However, the offense looked totally lifeless, which has been a theme these past few games. Through the first two weeks of the season, the offense looked different than the abysmal unit we watched in 2024. Yes, they struck out too much, but they were driving the ball and picking up extra base hits. It wasn’t perfect, but I appreciated that they were trying new things.

However, the offense has reverted back to type. The parade of ground ball outs and uncompetitive at bats we saw last year is back. That extra base power has also vanished. In the Nats last 25 innings, they only have two extra base hits, a Nathaniel Lowe double and a James Wood homer. The offense is back to looking like what we have seen from the Darnell Coles offenses over recent years.

One thing I really haven’t loved these last few days is the lack of energy. It looks like a lot of guys are just going through the motions out there. On paper, this team is much better than the 2023 group, but that team brought it every night. This team does not do that.

This does not look like it is going to be the step forward season everyone had hoped for. Is it still possible, of course, it is only April 17th. However, it is not a good look to go 2-5 against the supposedly bottom feeding Marlins and Pirates. If you can’t beat the bottom feeders, what does that make you?

This team has been in the basement of the National League for a long time now. 2019 is starting to feel like a distant memory, yet it has given the Nationals brain trust a seemingly limitless rope.

If the offense sputters in Colorado, there have to be consequences. Darnell Coles should have never been back to begin with, but if the offense is still lifeless against an atrocious Rockies team, he should be shown the door.

The Nationals just seem comfortable with losing right now. I truly hate to be this negative because I love the team, but it is hard to find silver linings right now.

Source: https://www.federalbaseball.com/202...nationals-embarrassed-in-listless-performance

 

[Washington Nationals]

Series Preview: Washington Nationals vs Colorado Rockies

Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

Nats travel to Colorado to take on the worst team in baseball

In the third and final road series on this road trip, the Nats will hop on a plane from Pittsburgh and ride the jet stream into Denver, Colorado. In the same way, we’ll hopefully see a James Wood homer ride the jet stream into the Coors Field seats.

The Nationals are coming off a pair of tough series on this road trip and need to take care of business against a struggling Rockies team. This is the kind of matchup they have to capitalize on. The schedule doesn’t get any easier once they return home, with the Orioles and Mets up next. Now is the time to get the offense going and stack some wins.

Pirates and Nationals clear the benches after Jorge Lopez throws a pitch near Andrew McCutchen's head. Lopez was ejected. Oneil Cruz had to hold back Tommy Pham pic.twitter.com/ZOZxmkxTLi

— Jomboy Media (@JomboyMedia) April 17, 2025​

The Rockies come into this series on a six game losing streak and tote the worst record in baseball (3-15). Little has gone right for the purple and black in the Mile High city. Starting with pitching, the Rockies are dead last in the MLB with having the worst team ERA (5.29), WHIP (1.59) and BAA (.290).

On offense, through 18 games they also sport last place in runs scored (52). While being 21st in batting average (.220) and 24th in on base percentage (.285). The only bright spot for the Rockies is Center Fielder Brenton Doyle, the former 4th round pick is red hot to start this year. Doyle has a batting average of (.315) with 3 HRs and 12 RBIs and a slugging percentage of (.537).

Friday’s game between the Nationals and Rockies has been postponed due to rain. It will now be made up as part of a doubleheader on Sunday.

PROJECTED STARTERS ​

GAME ONE: SATURDAY 4:10pm EST​

WASHINGTON: RHP Jake Irvin (1-0)

2025 Stats:

• 23.0 IP
• 3.91 ERA
• 1.22 WHIP
• 18 SO

In his last outing Irvin yielded 3 hits and 1 walk over 7 scoreless innings vs the Pirates. 58 of his 87 pitches were strikes. Facing another dud offense Irvin should produce a similar result.

COLORADO: RHP Antonio Senzatela (0-3)

2025 Stats:

• 18.1 IP
• 5.89 ERA
• 2.18 WHIP
• 7 SO

Senzatela got lit up in his last performance vs the Dodgers, giving up home runs to Mookie Betts and Shohei Ohtani. The start before that he gave up 9 runs to the Brewers. Senzatela has not been completely bad so far this season. In first two starts he had scoreless performances. Well see which Antonio Senzatela shows up to Coors Field on Sunday.

GAME TWO: Sunday 3:10pm EST ​

WASHINGTON: RHP Brad Lord (0-1)

2025 Stats:

• 9.1 IP
• 4.82 ERA
• 1.93 WHIP
• 5 SO

Against the Pirates we saw Lord go the longest in any game this year, 4.1 innings. Giving up 6 hits and walking 3 batters. Still the Nats spot starter it will be interesting to see how long the leash is against one of the worst offenses in baseball.

COLORADO: LHP Kyle Freeland (0-3)

2025 Stats:

• 24.0 IP
• 4.88 ERA
• 1.21 WHIP
• 17 SO

Freeland gave up 5 runs in his last outing vs the Padres making it through 5 innings. In his first four starts to this season he has gone at least 5 innings. So if he gets rocked at least he's eating innings for the Rockies.

GAME THREE: Sunday 8:20pm EST​

WASHINGTON: LHP Mackenzie Gore (1-2)

2025 Stats:

• 23 IP
• 3.52 ERA
• 1.26 WHIP
• 32 SO

In Gores last outing he used 105 pitches against the Marlins allowing four runs and three walks in 6 innings. Still leading the National League in strikeouts (32) Gore looks to get back to the pitcher we saw in his first couple of starts earlier this year. Especially, with this bad Rockies offense.

COLORADO: RHP Chase Dollander (1-1)

2025 Stats:

• 10.2 IP
• 5.06 ERA
• 1.22 WHIP
• 13 SO

Hollander had a decent outing in his last start against San Diego allowing two runs on three hits through 5.2 innings. The Rockies stagnate offense gave him no support in his first MLB loss.

Let’s hope the Nationals don’t fall into the trap of sipping the Colorado Kool-Aid. They have to take at least two out of three against the Rockies. With Colorado’s pitching staff struggling and the game being played in one of the most hitter-friendly parks in baseball, this series is a prime opportunity to get the offense going again. They need to take full advantage.

Source: https://www.federalbaseball.com/202...preview-washington-nationals-colorado-rockies

 

[Washington Nationals]

Washington Nationals need Josh Bell to heat up

Reggie Hildred-Imagn Images

With their lineup scuffling the Nationals need their slugging DH to go on one of his patented hot streaks

Throughout his career, Josh Bell has been a feast or famine player. Often, he is either red hot or ice cold. So far this season, Bell has been the latter, hitting .133 with a .524 OPS. For the Nats offense to go on a run, especially without CJ Abrams, Bell has to be better. The biggest question is whether Bell is just cold or is he cooked?

Josh Bell has been a slow starter in recent years. 2022 was the only year where Bell had an OPS over .705 in April. Last season, Bell had a prolonged struggle with a .645 OPS in the first half, before getting going after the break with an .885 OPS.

Hopefully for the Nationals sake, it doesn’t take Bell as long to get going. However, there are some concerning signs with the slugger that indicate he is not the same guy he was in his first stint in DC. Bell’s OPS has gone down every year since 2021. At 32, turning 33 in August, the slugger might just be over the hill.

Bell’s batted ball profile is alarming too. Despite having a reputation as a slugger, his average exit velocity is at a measly 84.8 MPH. That is in the bottom fifth percentile. Back in 2021, his average exit velocity was 92.5 MPH, an elite number. However, it seems like the slugger has lost a lot of his juice.

Bell has a history of slow starts and streaky play, so we need to give him grace for now. However, I am keeping a close eye on him. If he doesn’t heat up in May, his playing time could be at risk. This looks like a player on the back nine of his career.

It is a shame to see because after his horrific first month in 2021. Bell was a really fun player for the Nats. His powerful duo with Kyle Schwarber made me believe again, before the Nats fell apart and had to go into the full rebuild they are in now.

Josh Bell was a great servant to the Nats his first go around. His inclusion in the Juan Soto trade is reportedly a big reason why Jarlin Susana was in the deal. Susana is now one of the more electric pitching prospects in baseball.

Bell also seems like a great human being. His book club was such a great initiative his first go around. There are a lot of people getting on Bell right now. While I will get on Bell for his poor performance, I will always like the person and the player he was the first time. I am rooting for him to get hot. Even last year, he showed he has the ability to carry an offense for brief spurts.

Hopefully Josh Bell gets going because if he does not there will have to be uncomfortable conversations about a player I really loved. He has no defensive or base running value, so if the bat isn’t there, he isn’t doing anything for the team. Josh Bell needs to get going offensively and soon.

Source: https://www.federalbaseball.com/2025/4/19/24411876/washington-nationals-need-josh-bell-heat-up

 

[Washington Nationals]

Washington Nationals vs Colorado Rockies Game Thread

Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

Follow along as the Nats look to get back on track against a bottom feeding Rockies team

After losing three out of four in Pittsburgh, the Nationals got a day of respite due to the rain and snow in Denver. Today they are back in action to take on a 3-15 Rockies team that has already fired their hitting coach. The Nats are in desperate need of a series win.

James Wood is getting the job of leading off today. He has cooled off a little in the last few days, but hopefully the thin Colorado air can heat him up. Jose Tena is getting a rare start at third base as Amed Rosario gets the day off. MacKenzie Gore will take the mound after an unlucky effort in Miami last time out.

TWENTY. pic.twitter.com/YSZHGQZSlv

— Washington Nationals (@Nationals) April 19, 2025​

The Rockies will be without two of their best players. Ezequiel Tovar is injured and Brenton Doyle is on the bereavement list. Sluggers Ryan McMahon and Michael Togila will be names to watch for Gore. Chase Dollander, the ninth overall pick in the 2023 draft will be making his third career start today against the Nats. The right hander has big time stuff.

No Tovar, no Doyle, and no Veen in the lineup today for Dollander’s third big league start pic.twitter.com/a1NdT6wcsY

— DNVR Rockies (@DNVR_Rockies) April 19, 2025​

Game Info:

Stadium: Coors Field

Time: 4:10 EST

TV: MASN

Radio: 106.7 The Fan and DC 87.7

After two missed opportunities so far this road trip, the Nationals need a series win in the worst way. On paper, that should be easy to do out here in Denver. However, the games aren’t played on paper. The Nats need to go out and win them. Follow along down below and let’s go Nationals!

Source: https://www.federalbaseball.com/202...ton-nationals-vs-colorado-rockies-game-thread

 

[Washington Nationals]

Washington Nationals vs Colorado Rockies Game Thread 2/2

Isaiah J. Downing-Imagn Images

The Washington Nationals are looking for the sweep as they take on the Rockies in the second leg of a double header

The Washington Nationals go another tense one run victory in Denver this afternoon. This 3-2 win was much lower scoring than the 12-11 affair last night. However, it is now time to move onto the second leg of the double header.

The Nats are making a couple changes to the lineup. As expected, Keibert Ruiz is back in there at catcher after Riley Adams backstopped the first game. Jose Tena and Luis Garcia Jr. are also called into service with a righty on the mound for the Rockies. Josh Bell will take over at first, letting Nathaniel Lowe DH. Brad Lord will take the mound for an Easter Sunday start.

TWENTY TWO. pic.twitter.com/BmfiB6BVpw

— Washington Nationals (@Nationals) April 20, 2025​

The Rockies also made some changes. Jacob Stallings, Jordan Beck, Sean Bouchard, and Aaron Schunk will feature, after all being on the bench in game one. The Rockies will have Antonio Senzatela. The 30 year old has been a fixture in the Rockies rotation, but has missed a lot of time with injuries in recent years.

City Connect Debut

Repost for your chance to win your own City Connect jersey courtesy of @ColoLottery pic.twitter.com/o50psp6Hv7

— Colorado Rockies (@Rockies) April 20, 2025​

Game Info:

Stadium: Coors Field

Time: 8:10 EST

TV: MASN

Radio: 106.7 The Fan and DC 87.7

A sweep to salvage a .500 road trip would be massive for the Nats. The trips to Miami and Pittsburgh were really disappointing, so some positive momentum would be ideal. Comment down below and let’s get this Curly W.

Source: https://www.federalbaseball.com/202...ton-nationals-vs-colorado-rockies-game-thread

 

[Washington Nationals]

Washington Nationals vs Baltimore Orioles Series Preview

Jacob Young reacts during the game against the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field. | Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

The Washington Nationals (9-13) head home to Washington, D.C. to take on the Baltimore Orioles (9-12) in the Battle of the Beltway

After disappointing series losses against the Miami Marlins and the Pittsburgh Pirates, the Washington Nationals took care of business on the road against the Colorado Rockies, taking two of a three-game series. After a ten-game road trip, Washington currently sits in fourth place in National League East.

The Baltimore Orioles are coming off one of the worst losses of the season, losing 24-2 and dropping the series to the Cincinnati Reds. Starting the season 9-12 after back-to-back 90-plus win seasons is not ideal, and the root of this slow start could be attributed to the lack of a consistent starting rotation. However, with a deadly young lineup, Baltimore can heat up at any point during the season. Baltimore currently sits in fourth place in the American League East.

With a chance to move up in the division, Washington will try and rack up another series victory to start a seven-game home-stand.

KEY INJURIES ​

WASHINGTON:​

• 3B/SS Paul DeJong (Nose)- 10-day IL
• SS C.J. Abrams (Hip)- 10-day IL
• RHP Michael Soroka (Biceps)- 15-day IL
• RHP Cade Cavalli (Elbow)- 15-day IL

BALTIMORE:​

• OF Colton Cowser (Left Thumb)- 10-day IL
• RHP Kyle Bradish (Tommy-John)- 60-day IL
• RHP Zach Eflin (Right Lat)- 15-day IL
• RHP Grayson Rodriguez (Elbow/Shoulder)- 15-day IL

PITCHING MATCH-UPS​

GAME ONE (4/22, 6:45 EST)​

WAS: LHP Mitchell Parker (2-1)

• 1.85 ERA
• 1.11 WHIP
• 16 SO

The southpaw has become a key rotational piece for Washington, surprising fans with his incredible start in 2025. In his last start, Parker pitched well, going six innings and giving up four hits and one earned run. However, this wasn’t enough to give Washington the win, falling to Pittsburgh.

BAL: RHP Dean Kremer (2-2)

• 6.41 ERA
• 1.48 WHIP
• 13 SO

Dean Kremer has been a stable innings-eater for Baltimore over the past few seasons. Kremer threw well in his last start, going almost six innings and giving up four hits and one earned run, resulting in a Baltimore win.

GAME TWO (4/23, 6:45 EST)​

WAS: RHP Trevor Williams (1-2)

• 5.95 ERA
• 1.63 WHIP
• 16 SO

After a sensational start to the season last year, Williams hasn’t been able to perform at the same level. However, Williams showed signs of progression in his previous start, going five innings and allowing three hits and one earned run. Even with this excellent performance, Washington again fell short of a win.

BAL: RHP Tomoyuki Sugono (2-1)

• 3.43 ERA
• 1.29 WHIP
• 8 SO

Sugono is a pleasant surprise for Baltimore, a team desperate for starting pitching. In his last start, Sugono went seven innings, allowing five hits and two earned runs, resulting in a Baltimore win.

GAME THREE (4/24, 6:45 EST)​

WAS: LHP MacKenzie Gore (2-2)

• 3.41 ERA
• 1.21 WHIP
• 45 SO

MacKenzie Gore is showing signs of becoming the future ace for Washington. Even with the ups and downs, he has produced so far this season. In his last start, Gore threw six innings, allowing four hits and two earned runs while posting a season-high thirteen strikeouts.

BAL: LHP Cade Povich (0-2)

• 6.38 ERA
• 2.07 WHIP
• 18 SO

The young southpaw has struggled so far this season. Povich’s last start resulted in an ugly loss, almost throwing four innings and allowing six hits and seven earned runs, resulting in a loss.

Washington played great baseball in Colorado, resulting in their first series win since their last home series against the Los Angeles Dodgers. Heading back home should help Washington, placing them in a more comfortable environment. With the injuries piling up early in the season, Washington is just hoping veterans throughout the lineup and rotation step up against a struggling Baltimore Orioles squad.

Source: https://www.federalbaseball.com/202...on-nationals-baltimore-orioles-series-preview

 

[Washington Nationals]

Nationals Prospects: A look at how the Nats top prospects are performing

William Bretzger/Delaware News Journal / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

I wanted to check in and do a stock report on some of the Washington Nationals top prospects

Now that the Minor League season is in full swing, it is time to check in on some of the Washington Nationals top prospects. There have been some standout performers, but also some guys that are struggling. I will examine the system and find some players who’s stock is up, as well as some who need to rebound.

Stock Up:

1. Brady House, 3B (AAA)

After an underwhelming 2024 season, Brady House needed to bounce back, and so far he has. House has been raking in Triple-A, hitting .296 with an .852 OPS. He needed to be more disciplined at the plate, and he has done that, walking 9% of the time.

House is coming off a massive game where he had four hits and two home runs. The Nats have not gotten much production out of the third base position, especially offensively. With that in mind, I wonder how long it will take for Mike Rizzo to pull the trigger and call him up. House will need to keep his strikeouts in check, but he is hitting in Triple-A, something he really struggled to do last season.

First pro 4-hit game
Third pro multihomer game
110 mph single@Nationals No. 3 prospect Brady House with a game to remember for the Triple-A @RocRedWings pic.twitter.com/MRVaEpJNuR

— MLB Pipeline (@MLBPipeline) April 19, 2025​

2. Jackson Kent, LHP (A+)

2024 fourth round pick Jackson Kent has hit the ground running in his first professional season. The southpaw skipped Low-A, being sent straight to High-A Wilmington. I saw him at the Spring Breakout game. He struggled, but his stuff looked sharp, with a fastball in the low to mid 90’s, some solid breaking balls and a really nice looking changeup.

Kent has been utterly dominant in his first three professional starts. He has a 1.32 ERA with 19 strikeouts to just four walks in 13.2 innings. The southpaw is a polished arm with rotation upside. In the last couple years, the Nats have had success developing southpaws such as Mitchell Parker, MacKenzie Gore and DJ Herz. Kent could be next in line.

There is a lot of Mitchell Parker in his game. Kent could be fast tracked through the system and be a factor in the MLB rotation pretty quickly if he keeps this up. He has been the best performer of the Nats 2024 draft class so far.

.@jaxonkent22's first professional win

5 IP, 1 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 9 Ks pic.twitter.com/fQpfb9D9yb

— Nationals Player Development (@Nats_PlayerDev) April 13, 2025​

3. Jarlin Susana, RHP (AA)

Stock up might not be the right description for Susana, but he is certainly performing. More so, he is consolidating the gains he had last year. Susana has the most electric arm in the Nats organization, and maybe in the entire Minor Leagues. He sits at 100 MPH and has a filthy slider.

However, it has been all about harnessing that stuff. After a rough start in 2024, Susana seemed to flip a switch. He began to dominate Low-A and was good in his time in High-A as well.

Susana will never be a command artist, but all he needs to do is throw enough strikes to let the stuff play. While he has walked eight batters in 13.2 innings, he has also struck out 23 and has a 2.63 ERA. The stuff is as good as ever and it is overwhelming Double-A hitters.

Susana will always have the fallback of being a filthy closer, but the Nats will and should keep him as a starter. The burly right hander has shown enough promise to continue as a starter. His command still needs to come along a bit, but it has gotten better and he is only 21 years old.

Filthy K's and ️ from Jarlin Susana!

MLB's No. 75 prospect (@Nationals) matches a career-high 10 strikeouts in 4 2/3 innings for the Double-A @HbgSenators. pic.twitter.com/AGsrw9FeiE

— MLB Pipeline (@MLBPipeline) April 18, 2025​

Stock Down:

1. Seaver King, SS (A+)

It has been a really disappointing start for Seaver King, who was the 10th pick in the 2024 MLB Draft. King is only hitting .152 with a .394 OPS in High-A so far in 46 at bats. He is also striking out an alarming 40% of the time. Strikeouts were not supposed to be a big issue for King, so this is concerning.

He is also hitting the ball on the ground 57.7% of the time, so when he is making contact he is not driving the ball. King has also made four errors in just 12 games. It is still early days, but I would be lying if I said I was not concerned about King. With top prospects like Bryce Rainer, Braden Montgomery and Cam Smith taken after King, this could be a pick the Nats come to regret.

I hope it all comes together for King. He is an impressive athlete, who has shown some real flashes, but I am worried. The High-A level should not be this much of a roadblock for a college player taken with a top 10 pick. It is early days, but Seaver King’s stock has definitely taken a hit.

2. Kevin Bazzell, C (A)

Another 2024 draft pick who has stumbled out of the gates is Kevin Bazzell. I was very excited about him heading into the year after he hit well in Low-A at the end of the 2024 season. Bazzell was seen as a polished bat who was still a bit of a work in progress as a defender behind the plate.

I was surprised Bazzell got sent to Low-A instead of High-A to start the season. We are seeing why the Nats made the move as the catcher has struggled mightily in Fredericksburg. He is hitting just .146 with a .388 OPS in 41 at bats. Bazzell is only striking out 10.9% of the time, so I still think he can heat up. However, it is discouraging to see him struggle this much at a low level.

He and Caleb Lomavita were in a similar tier for me heading into the season, but Lomavita has separated from him now. Lomavita has always had more upside, but now he is performing better at a higher level too.

3. Robert Hassell III, OF (AAA)

After Spring Training there was so much excitement around Robert Hassell. He was a hitting machine in Spring Training, and it looked like he was finally the guy the Nats expected when he came over in the Juan Soto trade.

However, he has come crashing down to earth in Triple-A. He is hitting just .232 with a .578 OPS in 69 at bats. Hassell looks more like the guy who has struggled the last couple years than the Spring Training version. It looks like that was just a mirage and an outlier. That sucks for Hassell and the Nats.

He only has three extra base hits and no home runs. Hassell is also striking out 26.3% of the time, which is not good for a guy known for his pure hitting ability. The clock is ticking for Bobby Barrels.

In Flux:

I wanted to talk about three more guys who are not stock up or stock down, just intriguing guys we need to see more from.

1. Luke Dickerson, INF

Infielder Luke Dickerson has yet to make his professional debut yet. Unless it is injury related, the reason is probably that they want to give him more time to develop before making that pro debut. Dickerson was a second round pick, but $3.8 million bonus was the most ever given out to a non-first rounder.

It makes sense that Dickerson is still a bit unrefined. He was a two sport athlete, playing hockey at a high level in high school. Dickerson will almost certainly see action in Low-A sometime soon, but we are still in a wait and see game. There is a lot of mystery around Dickerson. He was a late riser in the process and was not on the showcase circuit as much as a lot of other high school guys. The upside is still massive though.

2. Travis Sykora, RHP

Travis Sykora is the Nationals top prospect now that Dylan Crews has graduated. However, he has yet to play due to offseason hip surgery. He was supposed to come back sometime in May, but we have not had any updates in a while.

I would not be surprised if Sykora misses more time than originally announced. However, he had a dominant season in Low-A last year with a 2.33 ERA and 129 strikeouts in 85 innings. Hopefully Sykora can come back sometime in the near future and pick up where he left off.

3. Alex Clemmey, LHP (A+)

The only guy in this tier that is actually playing is Alex Clemmey. The reason for this is simple, nothing about him has really changed for better or for worse. He is still dominant when he is throwing strikes, but he is still not throwing enough strikes.

Clemmey has 20 strikeouts in 11 innings and has only allowed four hits. However, he has also walked 12 batters in that time. He is still only 19, so there is plenty of time for him to develop. Like Susana, Clemmey doesn’t need to paint corners like Greg Maddux, he just needs to be around the zone.

I saw Clemmey in the Spring Breakout game. The stuff looked devastating and he was throwing a good amount of strikes that game. In the one game this season he was around the zone, he dominated. That game he struck out 10 in five scoreless innings, walking just two. It is still a holding pattern with Clemmey. We know the stuff is devastating and he can be around the zone at times. However, we need to see more strikes.

This is my early season update of the Nationals system. There have been plenty of risers, but also some disappointments. Things have been much better on the pitching side this year. Most of the top hitting prospects other than Brady House have struggled. However, it is still early and we will check to see how things unfold as the season continues.

Source: https://www.federalbaseball.com/2025/4/21/24413200/nationals-prospects-look-at-nats-top-prospects

 

[Washington Nationals]

Washington Nationals vs Baltimore Orioles Game Thread

Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

Follow along as the Washington Nationals and Baltimore Orioles reignite the Battle of the Beltway

In a road trip against three of the worst teams in the National League, the Washington Nationals stumbled, going 4-6. It was a missed opportunity for a team looking to take a step forward this season. However, they need to get back on the horse as they take on the Orioles in a rivalry game.

For the lineup, James Wood remains in the leadoff spot. He had some special moments on the road trip, but struggled with consistency. Nathaniel Lowe will bat second, which is the highest he has been in the lineup I believe. Jose Tena will get the start at third, as Mitchell Parker takes the mound looking to keep up his stellar start to the season.

TWENTY THREE. pic.twitter.com/eCGQs7Tpey

— Washington Nationals (@Nationals) April 22, 2025​

The Orioles have struggled this season, but their leadoff man Cedric Mullins has not. New Orioles Tyler O’Neill and Gary Sanchez will be in the lineup as well. Sanchez will be behind the plate while starting catcher Adley Rutschman DH’s. The O’s rotation has struggled, and tonight’s starter Dean Kramer has been no exception.

Game 1 in The District. pic.twitter.com/XmScfmRucH

— Baltimore Orioles (@Orioles) April 22, 2025​

Game Info:

Stadium: Nationals Park

Time: 6:45 EST

TV: MASN

Radio: 106.7 The Fan and DC 87.7

Both teams need this Battle of the Beltway series badly. It is time for the Nationals to come of age and beat their local rivals. Punish this ugly O’s rotation and get the W. Let’s go Nats!

Source: https://www.federalbaseball.com/202...ngton-nationals-baltimore-orioles-game-thread

 

[Washington Nationals]

A look at the Baltimore Orioles with Mark Brown of Camden Chat

Mitch Stringer-Imagn Images

As the Washington Nationals take on the Orioles, I wanted to get some inside information about Baltimore’s slow start

The Washington Nationals and Baltimore Orioles have both gotten off to slow starts. Washington is 9-13, while the O’s are 9-12. The slow start isn’t totally unsurprising for a young Nationals team struggling to come out of a rebuild. However, the Orioles are a team that has World Series aspirations, so panic is in the air in Baltimore.

I wanted to understand why things have gone wrong in Baltimore. For that, I talked to Mark Brown, the managing editor of the Orioles SB Nation page, Camden Chat. Here is what he had to say.

Q: What is going on with the Orioles and why are they struggling?

A: The problems with the Orioles are kind of a (gestures at everything) matter, but for my money it all begins with the fact that the starting rotation is a disaster area. There’s a whole rotation worth of guys who are on the injured list and the ones who are active and pitching are generally failing to go five innings while getting absolutely torched.

Placed in frequent deficits, the offense is not proving capable of overcoming the holes that the starters keep putting them in. One other aspect flowing from this is that the bullpen has barely been tested in high-leverage situations at all, with closer Félix Bautista having only two saves, so it’s 21 games into the season and we don’t really know if any of these guys can be relied upon to get the job done.

Q: What do you think of GM Mike Elias’ offseason? From afar it seems like he is struggling to go from a rebuilding GM to a contending GM.

A: What you said about Elias not adjusting to being a contending GM is a common feeling. I don’t think he’s demonstrated yet that he can consistently act to improve upon an already-good Orioles team. The best thing he’s done in that regard was last year’s trade for Corbin Burnes, which, while good, only benefited the team for one season. As for this past offseason, Elias took a cautious approach that saw him spend a lot of money on the 2025 payroll while committing almost no money to 2026 or beyond.

The one-year contracts included $15 million to 41-year-old pitcher Charlie Morton, who has an ERA over 10 (sorry, you won’t be seeing him in this series), $8.5 million for backup catcher Gary Sánchez, who’s worthless so far, and $10 million for reliever Andrew Kittredge, who was hurt after one spring training outing and then needed knee surgery.

The ostensible benefit of these moves is that it was supposed to raise the floor of the Orioles performance, but it hasn’t worked out that way and I think Elias deserves blame for aiming low and thinking he was playing it safe. For the time being, this plan is looking like it could end up as a failure.

Q: Is manager Brandon Hyde on the hot seat, there have been some rumblings about that?

A: I think that Elias has shown a lot of loyalty in keeping Brandon Hyde, his rebuilding manager, into when the team is good again. It would take something drastic to lead Elias to go for a midseason firing of Hyde and I don’t think that we’ve seen anything remotely like that yet.

As far as the idea that Hyde is on the hot seat, my opinion is this is just fans or writers projecting their own feelings onto the situation rather than something that has any real meat to it. Elias keeps his business away from the media to an almost fanatical degree. If he WAS thinking about moving on from Hyde, he’s probably only told at most three people and they’re not talking to anyone else, let alone reporters.

Q: Who are some O’s players to watch for Nationals fans?

A: The best Orioles player so far has been Cedric Mullins, who is OPSing over 1.000. If something good happens to the Orioles in this series, he’s probably going to be at the center of it.

A couple of interesting ongoing storylines involve struggling hitters. Infielder Jordan Westburg just recently snapped out of an 0-30 hitless streak with three hits in his last two games. Is his slump busted or will he keep struggling? Also down in the dumps is catcher Adley Rutschman, who’s been pretty bad at the plate since around the All-Star Break last season and whose 2025 results have not yet done enough to dispel that concern.

Q: How is the Jackson Holliday experience going in 2025?

A: From Holliday, this is basically the kind of performance that I was hoping he’d be able to do early on after he was called up in April of last year. He’s currently batting .220/.270/.373, which is not good exactly but is good enough that I can tell myself that he’s showing some quality and that with time he’ll be able to make adjustments and do as well as the other hyped young Jacksons from last year (Chourio of the Brewers and Merrill of the Padres) have been able to do in their big league careers so far. Those other guys also had struggled in their first couple of months before going on to great years.

Those are Mark Brown’s thoughts on the O’s. They seem to be kind of in a weird spot. After bursting on to the scene a couple years ago, they have not taken that next step. Rather, they have stagnated a bit. However, they are still a dangerous team, especially offensively. Their matchup with the Nats this week will be fascinating.

Source: https://www.federalbaseball.com/202...baltimore-orioles-with-mark-brown-camden-chat

 

[Washington Nationals]

Washington Nationals vs Baltimore Orioles Game Thread

Geoff Burke-Imagn Images

Follow along as the battle of the Beltway continues between the Nats and O’s

Fresh off a thundering 7-0 win over the Baltimore Orioles in the series opener, the Nationals are looking to keep the momentum going. Especially on James Wood Bobblehead Day at the park.

Manager Dave Martinez is sticking with the same lineup that got the job done yesterday. “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” though Josh Bell might still be a work in progress.

Trevor Williams takes the mound tonight, hoping for a little more luck than his last outing. Despite giving up just one run on three hits over five innings against the Pirates, he was tagged with the loss. He’ll look to turn that around and help the Nats keep rolling.

TWENTY FOUR. pic.twitter.com/spH7bufze0

— Washington Nationals (@Nationals) April 23, 2025​

The Orioles are shaking things up a bit in tonight’s lineup. Jordan Westburg slides into the DH spot, replacing Gary Sánchez. Opening the door for Ramón Urías, Baltimore’s only hitter batting above .300, to take over at third and bat ninth. Ryan Mountcastle gets the night off at first base, with Ryan O’Hearn stepping in. Meanwhile, Gunnar Henderson and Adley Rutschman flip spots in the order as the O’s look to spark the offense.

Taking the mound is Tomoyuki Sugano, who’s coming off his strongest outing of the season. He held the Guardians to just two runs on five hits across seven impressive innings and will try to carry that momentum into tonight’s game.

Wednesday night baseball. pic.twitter.com/7ZygWPtIVb

— Baltimore Orioles (@Orioles) April 23, 2025​

Game Info:

Stadium: Nationals Park

Time: 6:45 EST

TV: MASN

Radio: 106.7 The Fan and DC 87.7

Both starting pitchers enter tonight’s game feeling confident after strong outings, but something’s gotta give. Let’s just hope it’s those Baltimore crab cakes that crack. A win tonight would give the Nats the series. Go Nats!

Source: https://www.federalbaseball.com/202...on-nationals-vs-baltimore-orioles-game-thread

 

[Washington Nationals]

Cole Henry and Jackson Rutledge are what the Nationals bullpen needs

Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

Davey Martinez needs to trust guys like Cole Henry and Jackson Rutledge in high leverage over fading veterans

It has been well established that the Washington Nationals bullpen is a dumpster fire. They have the worst bullpen ERA in baseball. Newcomers like Colin Poche, Lucas Sims and Jorge Lopez just aren’t the answer out there. However, the Nationals have a couple young relievers in Cole Henry and Jackson Rutledge who could be part of the solution.

Like most relief pitchers, Henry and Rutledge are both failed starters. However, they failed for different reasons. With Henry, it was purely health related. He was dominant on the mound after being a second round pick out of LSU. However, he simply was not on the mound enough.

Since being drafted in 2020, Henry has only been able to muster 130.1 Minor League innings. Henry had to have the same Thoracic Outlet Syndrome surgery that ended Stephen Strasburg’s career. However, it looks like Henry has bounced back from the surgery and has found his stuff.

In his first three big league outings, Henry has gone 2.2 innings with four strikeouts. The stuff has looked super crisp. After Colin Poche made yet another mess of things, Henry cleaned it up and got back to back strikeouts. The fastball has a lot of life and he throws a filthy curveball off of it. Those are his two main pitches, but he has a sinker and changeup as well.

Cole Henry already has the look of at least a medium leverage bullpen arm. One thing is for certain, he is an upgrade on the likes of Lucas Sims and Colin Poche. The Nats need to monitor his work load and avoid overusing him because of that injury history, but he has always been a stud when he has pitched.

On the other hand, Jackson Rutledge is a failed starter because of poor performance. After being a first round pick in 2019, Rutledge posted an ERA above 5 in over 400 minor league innings. After a dreadful 2024 in Triple-A, the Nats decided to make the 6’8 right hander a relief pitcher.

So far this transition has been smooth for Rutledge. He has made four appearances where he has posted a 3.86 ERA with 11 strikeouts in 7 innings. The walks are high, with five, but he has time to figure that out.

The Nats have used Rutledge in a multi-inning mop up type role, but I think the Nats could use him in higher leverage situations. For me, Rutledge looks sharpest in that first inning of his outings. His breaking balls look sharper and the heater has more life. He also loses some command as he gets deeper into his outings.

Rutledge has been leaning heavily on his cutter and slider, using the breaking balls over 50% of the time. Some cutters are more like fastballs, but Rutledge’s is more like a slider in its movement profile, while the slider is almost like a sweeper. Both have generated whiff percentages over 40%.

While his heater is in the mid-90’s, it has pretty bland shape, so it is easy for hitters to pick up. That is why I love him using those breaking balls as well as a splitter. Like Henry, I think he is ready to be a middle reliever and maybe more down the road.

Jose A Ferrer and Kyle Finnegan give the Nats a solid 1-2 punch at the back of the bullpen. However, the problem has been everyone else. Jackson Rutledge and Cole Henry could provide some of the answers. Even if they are unproven, they deserve chances over guys like Sims and Poche who are both erratic and hittable. The Washington Nationals need to freshen up their bullpen, and Jackson Rutledge and Cole Henry can be part of his bullpen revival.

Source: https://www.federalbaseball.com/202...jackson-rutledge-what-nationals-bullpen-needs

 

[Washington Nationals]

Washington Nationals vs Baltimore Orioles Game Thread

Brad Mills-Imagn Images

Follow along as the Washington Nationals look to finish off a sweep of the Orioles

The Washington Nationals have a chance to inch closer to .500 and sweep the Orioles tonight. After a dominant win in game one and a razor thin victory in game two, the Nats are looking to bring out the brooms tonight.

They will send out ace MacKenzie Gore to do so. Gore is coming off a 13 strikeout performance against the Rockies. In the lineup, CJ Abrams is back and he is leading off. That pushes James Wood down to the three spot. Alex Call will get the start and bat second, which pushes Dylan Crews to center field. With a lefty on the mound, Amed Rosario will start at third base.

TWENTY FIVE. pic.twitter.com/JQysT0Y86o

— Washington Nationals (@Nationals) April 24, 2025​

The O’s are switching up some things in their lineup too. Jackson Holliday will get the day off, with speedster Jorge Mateo starting at second base. Ramon Laureano will get his first start of the series in right field. Southpaw Cade Povich will take the mound for the Orioles tonight.

Series finale. pic.twitter.com/7XmqLaSXfy

— Baltimore Orioles (@Orioles) April 24, 2025​

Game Info:

Stadium: Nationals Park

Time: 6:45 PM EST

TV: MASN and MLB Network (out of market)

Radio: 106.7 The Fan and DC 87.7

A Battle of the Beltway sweep would feel so good and would officially get the season back on track. MacKenzie Gore has a chance to show out again! We also welcome back CJ Abrams. Let’s go Nats!

Source: https://www.federalbaseball.com/202...ngton-nationals-baltimore-orioles-game-thread

 

[Washington Nationals]

Washington Nationals vs New York Mets Game Thread

Geoff Burke-Imagn Images

Follow along as Juan Soto comes to Nationals Park for the first time as a Met

Despite losing last night, the Nationals are coming off a series win against the Orioles. With back to back series wins now, the Nats look to ride that momentum into a three game series with the red hot Mets, who are an MLB best 18-7.

While he still isn’t leading off, James Wood is up to the two spot tonight, right behind CJ Abrams. Interestingly, the Nats have three lefties in a row to start the game with Nathaniel Lowe batting third.

With a right handed pitcher on the mound for the Mets, Jose Tena and Jacob Young are back in the lineup replacing Amed Rosario and Alex Call. Jake Irvin will look to keep up the good work after back to back stellar starts.

TWENTY SIX. pic.twitter.com/dH8YrysLfe

— Washington Nationals (@Nationals) April 25, 2025​

The headliner for the Mets is the $765 million dollar man Juan Soto, who is hitting second. He has not been at his best so far, but Nats fans know how good he is. One player who has been at his best is Pete Alonso, who has been one of the best hitters in baseball.

Catcher Francisco Alvarez returns from injury for the Mets tonight. He will be catching Kodai Senga who has been excellent this season after missing most of 2024.

Ready to go in D.C. #LGM pic.twitter.com/3R7yHYSjfM

— New York Mets (@Mets) April 25, 2025​

Game Info:

Stadium: Nationals Park

Time: 6:45

TV: MASN

Radio: 106.7 The Fan and DC 87.7

This will be a tough series with how the Mets are playing, but the Nats need to stay in the fight. James Wood squaring off against all the Mets stars will be very fun too. Comment down below and let’s go Nationals!

Source: https://www.federalbaseball.com/2025/4/25/24416954/washington-nationals-vs-new-york-mets-game-thread

 

[Washington Nationals]

How Nationals Jake Irvin is thriving with less velocity

Geoff Burke-Imagn Images

Jake Irvin has lost over a tick on his fastball, but he looks better than ever

Jake Irvin’s last three starts have been dominant. He has gone 20.2 innings, allowing just three runs. Irvin has 19 strikeouts to just two walks in that time. However, his velocity remains down from last season. Jake Irvin has found a way to work around that lower velocity and it is genius.

Last year, Jake Irvin’s fastball sat at 94 MPH, a solid number. The four-seamer was an effective pitch for him, with batters hitting just .205 against it. However, his heater is hovering at 92 MPH this season. As you would expect with lower velocity, the pitch is performing worse. Opponents are hitting .297 against the pitch and it is generating fewer whiffs.

How do you work around this issue? Irvin’s answer is to throw the fastball less. He is throwing his 4-seamer 29% of the time this year compared to 38% last year. That has allowed him to use his curveball more, bumping its usage from 31.3% to 38.4%.

The hook is Irvin’s best pitch and he has been weaponizing it. He can vary the shape on the pitch, with a slower get me over curve as well as a harder sharper hook to get whiffs. Despite the heavy usage, hitters still can’t figure out the pitch, hitting .150 and whiffing over 30% of the time.

Despite some of the recent success, there are still some warning signs for Irvin. His FIP and xERA are both over 4, despite his ERA sitting at 3.19. Obviously you would love to see the velocity come back because the lower velo has hurt his heaters effectiveness. However, he has found good ways to manage that.

Along with the curveball, Irvin’s command is very sharp. He is only walking two batters per nine innings. Also, models that measure location really like Irvin’s command. One model said he was the second most precise pitcher in all of baseball last night.

The command and the curveball are allowing Irvin to be at his best despite only throwing 92. I was at the game last night and one thing that stood out about Irvin was his composure. He always looked in control even when he got himself into some jams. The right hander was never afraid to throw any pitch in any count.

He was totally unbothered when guys like Soto, Lindor or Alonso came up. They were just another batter he was ready to carve up. Another great sign for Irvin was the lack of homers. This season he has had a bit of a problem with the long ball, but nobody got close to hitting one out tonight.

Jake Irvin is in control and ready to roll despite lower velocity. He is always on the attack and ready to eat innings at a high level. Jake Irvin is turning into a good, ultra-reliable rotation arm.

Source: https://www.federalbaseball.com/2025/4/26/24417764/nationals-jake-irvin-thriving-with-less-velocity

 

[Washington Nationals]

Washington Nationals vs New York Mets Game Thread

Geoff Burke-Imagn Images

The Washington Nationals (12-14) are taking on their NL East Rival New York Mets (18-8)

Coming off of back-to-back series wins, Washington has performed well as of late. Another stellar performance from Jake Irvin on Friday prevailed Washington to another close victory. Washington has won five of their last seven and looks to add to their momentum against one of the best teams in the MLB.

Let’s take a look at both teams heading into this anticipated matchup.

RHP Brad Lord has struggled this season, posting a 4.73 ERA. Lord has struggled with his command, having only one more strikeout than walks. And against a lefty-dominated lineup, Lord could have a rough outing.

Nats lineup

TWENTY SEVEN. pic.twitter.com/WW5j6yC86w

— Washington Nationals (@Nationals) April 26, 2025​

Long-time Yankees reliever Clay Holmes has transitioned to a full-time starter and has pitched well early in the season. Holmes is posting a 3.16 ERA with 34 strikeouts and has been a key part of New York’s rotation.

Mets Lineup

Saturday afternoon starters. #LGM pic.twitter.com/LJGG1HLBmx

— New York Mets (@Mets) April 26, 2025​

Game Info:​

Stadium: Nationals Park

Time: 4:05 EDT

TV: MASN

Radio: 106.7 The Fan and DC 87.7

The New York Mets are one of the best teams in baseball, so winning this series is a tall task for Washington. However, C.J. Abrams coming back can spark this offense and help Washington’s offense keep up with New York’s star-studded lineup.

Source: https://www.federalbaseball.com/2025/4/26/24417782/washington-nationals-vs-new-york-mets-game-thread