Nationals Get Rare Shutout Win Over Orioles

The MLB season has not been kind to the Washington Nationals. Despite having arguably the best player in the league, the team currently has the second-worst record in the National League with only 24 wins in 70 games. Washington had a chance to start a rare winning streak when they opened their short two-game series with the Baltimore Orioles on Tuesday night.

 Pitching Matchu

The Nationals sent Erick Fedde to the mound last night. Fedde has typically been a solid contributor during his career in Washington, but he just has not been able to put together many strong outings this year. He was opposed by Jordan Lyles of the Orioles. Lyles has been the ace of a weak Baltimore starting staff since coming over from Texas in the offseason.

 Bats Get Hot Early

The Nationals wasted no time before getting to Jordan Lyles. Cesar Hernandez led off the game with a double deep into right field. He scored three batters later when Nelson Cruz delivered a clutch two-out RBI double. Washington continued the offensive surge in the second inning. Keibert Ruiz started things off in the second with another double. The Nats had the bases loaded with no outs after walks by Maikel Franco and Yadiel Hernandez. After two uncharacteristically poor plate appearances by Juan Soto and Josh Bell, the team was forced to settle for only one run.

 Impressive Pitching Performance

Getting leads has never been a problem for Washington. Holding the lead has been a completely different story. Luckily, the Washington pitchers shifted the narrative on Tuesday night with their most impressive game of the season. Erick Fedde gave the team six shutout innings where he only gave up two hits. Kyle Finnegan, Carl Edwards Jr. and Tanner Rainey all pitched a scoreless inning out of the bullpen to secure the shutout victory. The Nationals ultimately won the game 3-0 after Lane Thomas added a solo home run in the ninth inning.

 What’s Next

The Nationals will go for the sweep over the Orioles on Wednesday night. Patrick Corbin will get the ball for Washington. Baltimore will send Tyler Wells to the mound.