Nats Chat

The Nats staged a thrilling win on July 4th in D.C. as Jesse Winker's pinch-hit Solo homer lifted the home team to a 1-0 triumph over the Mets. Mark & Al marvel at Jake Irvin's best start yet as he tossed eight shutout innings and point out that he seems to be rounding into the form of an "Ace". The only blemishes on Irvin's day was the walk he issued in the 2nd and the single he allowed in the top of the 3rd. Irving ended the dominant outing by retiring 17 straight New York hitters.(14:00) Derek Law was the only reliever needed as he threw a clean top of the 9th to earn the save. Law had a dramatic entrance into the game as he rode the bullpen cart while holding an American flag.(17:00) The game was scoreless until Winker's home run in the bottom of the 8th. Winker came into to replace Harold Ramirez, who was 0 for 3 as Thursday's DH.(25:00) Joey Meneses hit cleanup in the game and then afterwards was optioned to AAA-Rochester. Meneses has been with the Nationals ever since Juan Soto was traded in early August 2022. Meneses' OPS this season is just .597 and is far lower than last year when it ended at .722. What is next for the 32-year-old right handed hitter? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Nats overcame a 5-0 deficit to beat the Mets 7-5 on Wednesday evening to end their three game skid. Al & Tim begin with Luis Garcia Jr., who slugged a pair of homers in the victory. Garcia hit a 3 run HR in the bottom of the 6th and then added insurance in the bottom of the 8th with a Solo shot. He has nine homers so far this season, already equaling his career high.(07:00) James Wood's first career RBI put the Nationals ahead for good in the bottom of the 7th. He immediately followed it up with a stolen base.(15:00) Riley Adams is back in D.C. and fellow catcher Drew Millas was optioned back to Rochester. This comes after the two swapped roster spots a month ago and Adams was expected to work at 1B while in AAA.(21:00) Mitchell Parker gave up the most runs of any outing so far and a trio of homers in the process, but did make through six innings.(25:00) Hunter Harvey pitched for the third straight day and recorded a crucial strikeout of J.D. Martinez to preserve the lead. Kyle Finnegan took over in the 9th and notched his 23rd save of the season, the second most in the NL.(35:00) The Nats will continue their July 4th tradition on Thursday by hosting an 11:05AM game. Jake Irvin will take the mound as Washington looks for the series split. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Tuesday night ended eerily similar to Monday as the Mets offense teed off against the Nats bullpen in the top of the 10th. Mark & Al meet after the 7-2 loss to discuss New York scoring five runs off of Robert Garcia in extra innings. Hunter Harvey struggled again as he allowed the tying run in the top of the 8th.(16:00) DJ Herz had a solid outing as he had ten strikeouts and didn't issue any walks. Herz has made six starts since being called up and two of them have reached the double digit strikeout plateau.(21:00) James Wood went 0 for 3 and drew a walk in his second game with Washington. Wood was caught stealing at a costly time in the bottom of the 9th when the game was tied. Wood only so far has faced lefties and that will change on Wednesday evening (Christian Scott).(27:00) CJ Abrams was picked off for the 9th time this season.(30:00) Josiah Gray's rehab has been shut down due to elbow discomfort and is expected to have a new MRI this month. Gray has been on the IL since early April and has only made a pair of starts this season. Hear Mark explain why "the red flags are all over the place" in terms of Gray potentially having to get surgery.(33:00) Cade Cavalli has been sick with the flu and that is why his rehab has also been put on pause. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

James Wood made his much anticipated debut on Monday night as the Nats lost to the Mets 9-7 in ten innings in D.C.. Mark & Al start with Wood who singled, reached on an error, and drew a walk in the affair. Wood was slotted sixth in the lineup and played in LF in his first MLB game.(14:30) The offense totaled 11 hits and almost staged a major comeback in the bottom of the 10th. Following the six run Mets 10th, the Nationals scored four runs and had the go ahead run at the plate.(20:00) It was not a good night for the bullpen, but an especially bad appearance for Hunter Harvey as he gave up five runs in the top of the 10th. Harvey's ERA is now 4.24, much worse than when it was 2.68 on June 19th. The hosts express concern with Harvey's recent performance this summer.(28:00) MacKenzie Gore brought a shutout into the 6th and struck out eight Mets. Gore was lifted in that frame because of a very high pitch count and Al puts in perspective just how much of a continued issue that stat is for the lefty.(31:00) A discussion on the attendance figure of 26,719. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Nats were blanked 5-0 on Sunday afternoon to drop the series in Tampa Bay. Mark (From Tropicana Field) & Al look ahead to Monday as James Wood will make his much anticipated MLB debut in D.C. vs. the Mets. Where will he hit in the lineup?(12:00) The offense only came through with three hits and combined for 16 strike outs on Sunday. Joey Meneses was the main culprit as he struck out in all four at bats and his OPS entering July is .597.(15:00) Patrick Corbin gave up a pair of homers and four runs in the loss. Meanwhile, Josiah Gray struggled in AAA-Rochester as he allowed seven runs in just three innings. This means that Gray will make at least one more start in the minors before returning to Washington.(25:00) The Nationals begin an eight game home stand on Monday after going 3-6 in the three city road trip. The final game before the All Star Break is on Sunday July 14th. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Nats routed the Rays 8-1 on Saturday afternoon to snap their four game losing streak. Mark (From Tropicana Field) & Al convene after Jake Irvin bolstered his All-Star credentials by only allowing one hit in six innings of work. Irvin made six starts in June and gave up more than two runs in only one of those outings.(10:00) Despite the big lead, both Hunter Harvey and Kyle Finnegan threw an inning on Saturday. The hosts note this as the team will not have an off-day until the All Star Break begins on July 15th.(13:30) The offense collected thirteen hits and broke the game open with a six run top of the 7th. CJ Abrams homered and Al points out that his June is even better than his scorching April. Luis Garcia had a trio of hits and reached base four times in the victory.(25:00) Josiah Gray is pitching in Rochester on Sunday as opposed to rejoining the Nationals. Why does he need at least one more outing in the minors? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Nats lost 3-1 at the Rays on Friday night, but the main news of the day came in the afternoon. Mark (From Tropicana Field) & Al begin with the reports that James Wood will be promoted from AAA and will join the Nationals on Monday when they host the Mets. Wood played Friday night for Rochester and the hosts wonder if he should still be in the lineup in the minors this weekend.(09:00) Jesse Winker made a fantastic diving catch in the 1st inning but afterwards left the game. He is expected to be OK, but this came after most people have eyed Eddie Rosario as the player that most likely will have his roster spot taken by Wood. Rosario has an OPS of .555 so far this season and his batting average is .183.(17:00) Jacob Young had a busy Friday night as he doubled twice, stole a base, scored the lone run, committed an error, and made a base running blunder. It seems the plan is for Young to stay in CF with Wood in LF next week.(24:00) CJ Abrams yet again was picked off and it leads to wonder how much criticism should be levied at Gerardo Parra, first base coach, for this continued problem.(28:30) Mitchell Parker had an so-so start as he allowed six hits and two runs in five innings of work. Jordan Weems pitched a scoreless bottom of the 8th and has not given up a run in five of his past six appearances.(35:00) We close with a look at 3B Brady House who is currently in AA-Harrisburg. Where does he fit into the organization's plans? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Nats lost 8-5 in San Diego on Wednesday afternoon completing a three game sweep. Al & Tim discuss how this series was a humbling one for Washington as they now are four games below .500 in the standings. All the runs they scored came in the top of the 9th against the back end of the Padres bullpen.(6:00) Lane Thomas doubled in the game and continued his stretch of consistently getting on base in the month of June. Al notes that there is a potential decision for the team to make next month on Thomas ahead of the trade deadline.(15:00) DJ Herz was lifted in the bottom of the 4th after the lefty allowed six hits and four runs. Herz has made five starts this month and will likely stay in the rotation because Josiah Gray will make at least one more start in AAA.(24:00) Tanner Rainey gave up a grand slam in the bottom of the 8th to make it an eight run deficit. This was the first instance of Rainey pitching on consecutive days for the Nats since April 20th. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Nats lost 9-7 in San Diego on Tuesday night in a game that saw the benches clear in the bottom of the 1st inning. Al & Tim examine the circumstances that led to Keibert Ruiz and Jurickson Profar getting into each other faces before Profar's at bat. MacKenzie Gore then hit Profar with a pitch, but was not ejected from the game.(14:00) Gore only lasted five innings and allowed five runs in the outing. Gore has not had a stellar June as in three of five starts this month he has given up at least four runs.(18:00) Profar hit a grand slam in the bottom of the 6th when facing Derek Law to extend the Padres lead to 9-4. Law inherited all the runners from Dylan Floro, who struggled in less than an inning of work. The back end of the 'pen did pitch well in the final few frames (Jordan Weems & Tanner Rainey).(21:00) CJ Abrams had three hits and reached base five times, but inexplicably made two outs while on base.(28:00) Josiah Gray thew six innings for AAA-Rochester and only allowed one run. It is unclear if Gray's next start will come in the minors or with Washington. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Nats lost 7-6 on Monday night in San Diego after Hunter Harvey allowed four runs in the bottom of the 10th. Al & Tim start with Harvey's blown save as he could not hold onto the 6-3 lead that he inherited. A win would have put Washington at .500 on the season, but they instead fall to 38-40.(08:00) The Nationals had five extra base hits, four doubles and Nick Senzel's 2 run HR in the top of the 10th. CJ Abrams and Joey Meneses each had a trio of hits and prior to extras Meneses drove in all the team's runs.(15:00) Patrick Corbin overcame a tough 2nd inning to last seven innings on Monday. It is performances like this one that complicate the situation in the rotation once Josiah Gray returns. Who wins out between Corbin and DJ Herz?(23:00) Harold Ramirez, recently picked up from waivers, is now on the major league roster and Trey Lipscomb was sent back to AAA. Lipscomb has now been optioned to Rochester three times this season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Nats came from behind in the 9th to win 2-1 on Sunday afternoon in Colorado to take the series. Mark (From Denver) & Al begin with Kyle Finnegan, who was able to quickly move on from Saturday night's rough ending with his 22nd save of the season, which is the 2nd most in the National League.(12:00) Jake Irvin had another very good outing as he struck out ten hitters for the second time this season. Irvin has pitched himself into contention to be an All-Star next month.(20:30) The offense didn't register a hit off of Kyle Freeland until the top of the 6th and didn't plate any runs until the final frame. Lane Thomas and Joey Meneses had the big hits in the 9th inning and the other two hits in the win came from Jacob Young.(28:45) The Nationals trail the Padres by just a half game in the wildcard standings and have a three game series beginning Monday night at Petco Park. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Nats became the first team to ever lose on a pitch clock violation Saturday night in Colorado. Mark (From Denver) & Al convene after Kyle Finnegan made MLB history in an ominous way in Washington's 8-7 loss. This is not too much of a surprise as he leads all pitchers in pitch clock infractions this season and it came after the bullpen had a rough night as three relievers combined to allow four runs in the final three frames.(14:00) It was another night of poor base running as the Nats made a blunder and were thrown out three times trying to steal. The top of the 7th was particularly egregious as two runners were thrown out; thus costing the Nationals a big inning.(20:00) Jesse Winker laid down a sacrifice bunt, which of course was not popular with Al. He also was ejected a few innings later for arguing with the home plate umpire and the hosts note that Winker did not make a wise decision.(26:00) Keibert Ruiz was curiously replaced by Drew Millas after drawing a walk in the 7th. Millas made a nice defensive play later in the game and it seems like the backup catcher is getting increased playing time.(32:00) Mitchell Parker lasted six innings and gave up four runs for the first time since getting called up. The low point of his outing was a three run homer that he allowed early in the game. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Nats crushed the Rockies 11-5 on Friday night in Coors Field to move to just one game below .500. Mark (From Denver) & Al have a lot of offensive contributions to sort through as four members of the lineup collected a trio of hits.(05:00) Drew Millas was one of them and it included his first homer of the season. CJ Abrams returned to the field after a missing a few games (due to a cyst on his left wrist) and had a pair of doubles in the victory.(09:30) Lane Thomas was a homer shy of the cycle and his OPS this month is at .912. Jacob Young also had three hits and flashed leather as well in the field.(19:00) DJ Herz had a brief outing as he was removed in the bottom of the 4th. The positive note from his start is that he struck out five hitters and did not issue a walk.(24:00) Tanner Rainey recorded the final six outs and has been pitching better lately as he has not allowed a run in five June appearances. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Nats lost 5-2 to the Diamondbacks on Thursday afternoon. Al breaks down another disappointing offensive performance for the team (1:31) before discussing catcher Keibert Ruiz's poor season at the plate and behind the dish (8:42). He also talks about an unlucky start for MacKenzie Gore (11:40) and briefly discusses Jordan Weems' tough recent stretch of relief (15:48). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Nats beat the Diamondbacks 3-1 on Wednesday afternoon in D.C. Mark & Al break down a good start from Patrick Corbin and question if it might be his last start for the Nats. They also discuss the stellar performance from the bullpen this season (7:26). On the offensive side, they talk about Jesse Winker's great season and why he is the most likely player to be traded ahead of this year's deadline (10:51) as well as dissect the important role Ildemaro Vargas has held for the 2024 Nats (16:05). They end the show by discussing a rare starting lineup appearance for Rule 5 draftee Nasim Nunez (18:40). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Nats lost to the Diamondbacks 5-0 on Tuesday evening as James Wood returned to the AAA lineup while Dylan Crews made his Rochester debut. Mark & Al discuss the prospects' progress so far and break down when we might see them in the majors. They also discuss a bad offensive performance from the Nats (13:45) and what might have been Jake Irvin's worst start of the season (17:01). They end the show by talking about updates on Josiah Gray and Cade Cavalli's rehab assignments and touching on the passing of baseball legend Willie Mays (21:55). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Nats defeated the Marlins 3-1 on Sunday afternoon to complete a three game sweep and move to 7-0 this season vs. their divisional foe. Al & Mark have another dominant outing from a young pitcher to dissect as Mitchell Parker only allowed one run in six innings of work. So far during this solid stretch of pitching, Parker's biggest issue seems to be fielding as he misplayed an infield hit that led to Miami's lone run.(10:30) Who has the biggest upside between Jake Irvin, DJ Herz, and Parker? The organization is in a rare position right now of quality starting pitching that came from within the organization.(20:00) The bullpen also was in control all weekend and Kyle Finnegan tossed a scoreless top of the 9th for his 20th save of the season.(23:00) Lane Thomas homered every game during the sweep and Jacob Young joined the party on Sunday as he clubbed his first career HR. However, it was another game with multiple outs made on the bases by Washington.(37:00) Jim Callis, Senior writer for MLB.com, gives a few names the Nationals might consider in next month's draft. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Nats blanked the Marlins 4-0 on Saturday afternoon for their seventh win in the past eight games. Mark & Al dive into DJ Herz, who in his third ever MLB start, had one of the best pitching performances in franchise history. The lefty lasted six innings, fanned 13 hitters, issued zero walks, and only allowed one hit in is first career victory.(07:00) Washington has had four young pitchers perform well at the Major League level this season in Jake Irvin, Mitchell Parker, MacKenzie Gore, and now DJ Herz. Al points out how important this is in terms of the rebuild.(18:00) Jesse Winker left the game early after hurting his right knee and will get a MRI. It is likely that his roster replacement will be Harold Ramirez, recently claimed off waivers from Tampa Bay.(26:00) Joey Meneses and Lane Thomas each homered on Saturday. The Nationals is 11-8 since Thomas returned to the lineup and the conversation leads to seeing just how valuable he is to the team.(37:00) Josh Whetzel, the Voice of the Rochester Red Wings, gives an update from AAA. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Nats routed the last place Marlins 8-1 on Friday evening in D.C. Al is solo behind the mic and gives a detailed analysis of what happened in the dugout between Nick Senzel and MacKenzie Gore. It did not escalate to the same level as Jonathan Papelbon/ Bryce Harper, but was reminiscent of the 2015 incident.(09:30) Gore dominated Miami as he struck out ten batters. Gore was able to complete seven innings on 103 pitches as he earned his sixth victory of the season.(12:30) The Nationals scored seven runs in the bottom of the 3rd just one inning after the dugout fracas. Washington had eight hits in their big inning including a 3 run HR by Lane Thomas and a pair of hits by CJ Abrams.(19:30) DJ Herz will stat vs. the Marlins on Saturday afternoon for his third career MLB start. Herz is auditioning to stay in the rotation ahead of Patrick Corbin.(25:00) An update from Terry Byrom, the Voice of the AA-Harrisburg Senators. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Nats lost 7-2 in Detroit on Thursday afternoon to end their five game winning streak. Mark (From Comerica Park) & Al begin with the faltering bullpen as they allowed five runs in the bottom of the 7th. Derek Law and Robert Garcia combined to give up six runs while recording just four outs.(12:00) Patrick Corbin had a no decision and was only charged with one run in just over five innings of work. This leads to a discussion on the rehab for both Josiah Gray and Cade Cavalli. Gray is taking the mound on Friday for AA-Harrisburg and Cavalli is currently on pause.(17:00) The Nationals tied a franchise record with six sacrifice flies in a three game series. Ildemaro Vargas on Thursday had two of them, which were the only runs that the team scored in defeat.(24:00) Lane Thomas was ejected in the middle of an at-bat and it seems like Thomas got a raw deal from the home plate umpire.(30:00) All three Washington starting pitchers this weekend vs. Miami will be lefties. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Nats beat the Tigers 7-5 on Wednesday evening for their fifth win in a row, their longest win streak in three years. Washington is currently just one game back in a crowded NL wildcard race. Mark (From Detroit) & Al examine another solid outing by Jake Irvin as he only allowed one run in six innings of work.(08:00) A hat tip to Keibert Ruiz for being part of the success of the pitching staff so far this season while serving as catcher.(16:00) CJ Abrams doubled and homered in the victory. His OPS for the month of June is at .882, much higher than what he had in May (.520).(19:00) Jesse Winker reached base four times and currently has the 11th highest on base percentage in all of baseball for this season.(26:00) The Nationals tallied their 100th stolen base of the season as a team on Tuesday. Jacob Young currently leads the squad with 17 stolen bases and five players have reached double figures already.(30:00) Joey Meneses started at 1B after Joey Gallo was moved to the IL. Trey Lipscomb was the player called up from AAA-Rochester to take Gallo's spot. This is Lipscomb's third stint at the majors this year and Al discusses why he hopes that he stays at this level for the rest of the season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Nats won 5-4 in ten innings on Tuesday night in Detroit for their fourth consecutive victory. Mark (From Comerica Park) & Al begin with the clutch bullpen effort that combined for over five innings of shutout work. Hunter Harvey and Kyle Finnegan were responsible for the final nine outs.(06:30) Mitchell Parker might have had his worst start yet as he was removed in the 5th inning. Parker did himself no favors as he committed a simple error that precipitated four unearned Tigers runs. Emblematic of Parker's difficult start was that his first "swing & miss" pitch did not come until the 4th inning.(15:00) It was a quirky night for the offense as they scored five runs off just five hits, but went 0 for 5 with runners in scoring position. CJ Abrams tripled and then scored on a foul ball for a sacrifice fly, one of two sacrifice flies that Lane Thomas had on Tuesday night.(19:00) Joey Gallo left the game early due to hurting his left hamstring. There is a good chance that he lands on the IL and an infielder might be called up from AAA-Rochester to take his roster spot.(24:00) Joey Meneses has quietly not been in the lineup a lot lately and only started in three games during the homestand. Al points out his lower usage as the team figures out what to do with the Gallo injury at 1B. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Nats topped the Braves 8-5 on Sunday afternoon to end the weekend with three consecutive victories. Mark & Al discuss the Nationals second series win over Atlanta in just the past few weeks.(05:00) Keibert Ruiz had a big day as he hit a 3 run homer and knocked in four runs. Ruiz's home run was part of a seven run inning for Washington in the bottom of the 4th while facing a rookie pitcher (Hurston Waldrep).(16:00) DJ Herz had a short outing and Mark analyzes what he has seen from the lefty so far. Before the game it was announced that Patrick Corbin's next start was pushed back a few days and won't pitch in Detroit. Is this a sign that he is on way from being out of the rotation?(23:00) Kyle Finnegan was unexpectedly needed to record the final three outs as Jordan Weems struggled with a six run lead in the final inning. Weems had a bad homestand and his ERA for the year is at 7.13.(29:00) Sean Doolittle was elevated for the weekend as the pitching coach Jim Hickey was away. Will the positive press that Doolittle is garnering lead to him getting other job offers after the season? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Nats defeated the Braves 7-3 on Saturday afternoon in D.C. for their second straight win. Mark & Al have a dozen hits to sort through as the offense scored in five of the initial six frames on Saturday. It was the second time in the past few weeks that the Nationals handed a loss to Atlanta starter Charlie Morton.(07:00) Nick Senzel had a pair of doubles and hit a late homer to give Washington a comfortable lead. Al points out how Senzel's offensive production has floated below the radar this season.(17:00) MacKenzie Gore earned the win but it was another inefficient outing in terms of pitches thrown. Gore was charged with two runs in five innings of work and was replaced after his 99th pitch in the top of the 6th. Mark explains whether or not Gore is on a pitch count for this season.(24:00) Kyle Finnegan was not used and three relievers combined to record the final twelve outs. Dylan Floro threw a scoreless 8th and his ERA is at 1.15.(29:45) The horse co owned by Jayson Werth won the Belmont Stakes on Saturday (Dornoch) despite being listed at 17-1 before the race. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Nats beat the Braves 2-1 on Friday to end their four game losing streak. Al & Tim recap Jake Irvin's six shutout innings that came on 96 pitches. Irvin's ERA is at 3.12 and he has put himself into contention to make next month's All Star game.(10:00) The bullpen held onto the lead despite a few sloppy mistakes late in the game. Hunter Harvey returned to the mound just one day after giving up a trio of runs against Atlanta. Kyle Finnegan notched his 17th save of the season, which ranks fourth in MLB. Nick Senzel helped turn a pivotal double play to keep the lead intact for Finnegan in the final frame.(17:00) Both of the Nationals runs came in the bottom of the 4th and it was propelled by the running game. That element was prevalent for Washington early in the season, but has tapered off in the past month, as evidenced by CJ Abrams getting his first stolen base on Friday night since May 4th.(25:00) A wide angle lens view of the season so far that leads an examination of Keibert Ruiz's contract. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Nats scored first but ultimately fell 5-2 on Thursday night vs. the visiting Braves for their fourth straight defeat. Mark & Al have another mediocre showing from the offense to parse through as the only production came from Back to Back homers in the bottom of the 6th (CJ Abrams & Lane Thomas). Jesse Winker was the only member of the lineup to come through with multiple hits as the team collected just six in total.(09:00) Jacob Young made a great sliding catch in the middle of the game. It was additionally noteworthy as Victor Robles dropped a routine fly ball in his second game with the Mariners on Thursday.(14:00) Mitchell Parker was facing Atlanta for the second time this summer and had a no hitter going until the top of the 6th. Parker then gave up a pair of runs after Adam Duvall homered off of him to tie the game in the 7th. Parker has made ten starts so far this year and has not allowed more than three runs in any outing.(19:00) The game was tied 2-2 after entering the top of the 8th and Hunter Harvey had a rare bad outing that let the Braves pull away. It is the first appearance that Harvey allowed multiple runs in since April 23rd.(24:00) How much heat is there now on hitting coach Darnell Coles? The organization has not made a mid season change in that role since July of 2013 when Rick Eckstein was removed. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Nats were clobbered 9-1 on Wednesday afternoon for a third consecutive loss to the visiting Mets. Al & Mark begin with Davey Martinez being openly critical of CJ Abrams and his role as the team's leadoff hitter. Abrams went 1 for 7 this series and his OPS is .739 on the season. Abrams also denied the opportunity to speak with the media after the game.(14:00) The offense was only able to muster one run and that came via "Small Ball" late in a rout. There were also two more outs made on the bases as Jesse Winker was caught stealing and Luis Garcia Jr. had bad luck on a hard liner.(17:00) It was another bad Patrick Corbin outing as he was charged with six runs. What are the chances he loses his rotation spot this summer?(27:00) No off day for Washington as the Braves come to town on Thursday for a four game set. They have not a day off since Thursday May 23rd and will have to wait for this upcoming Monday to rest. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Nats lost 6-3 to the Mets on Tuesday night in D.C. for their fourth loss in the past five game. Mark & Al evaluate the news that Trevor Williams is headed to the 15-day IL due to a right flexor muscle strain (same injury as Josiah Gray). Williams' ERA so far this season is just 2.22 in 11 starts.(06:00) The nod instead went to DJ Herz, a lefty that was called up from AAA Rochester. Washington acquired Herz last summer as part of the Jeimer Candelario trade with the Cubs. Herz pitched into the the 5th and allowed four runs in his debut. The hosts look into why Herz is ahead of Jackson Rutledge in the pecking order.(14:00) Quick update on Josiah Gray as he threw a simulated game on Tuesday. Gray has been on the IL since April 9th.(17:00) Kyle Finnegan surprisingly pitched the top of the 9th as the Nationals were trailing 5-2 and allowed a run. Why did he appear in the game in that sort of situation as opposed to Tanner Rainey?(21:00) CJ Abrams and Jacob Young were each back in the lineup on Tuesday evening. Young had a an excellent game at the plate as he reached base four times and knocked in a pair of runs. This segment leads to an extended conversation on the state of the team's offense.(34:00) The Nats look to avoid getting swept on Wednesday afternoon as Patrick Corbin will take the mound, but there is rain the forecast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Nats opened the homestand with a 8-7 loss on Monday night to the Mets. Al & Mark recap the game that felt like it was from Pre Pitch Clock era as it lasted almost three and a half hours. MacKenzie Gore's pitching didn't help as he allowed six runs in just over four innings of work. It was first the bad start that Gore has had since May 5th, when he also gave up six runs.(09:00) The bullpen also struggled in the series opener as Dylan Floro and Jacob Barnes each gave up a run. Tanner Rainey pitched the 9th and it was his first appearance on the mound since May 21st.(17:00) CJ Abrams and Jacob Young were both out of the lineup and at least one of them might have to head to the IL in the near future. The offense collected 11 hits without them and it included a Joey Gallo HR.(20:00) Lane Thomas played CF again and had his fourth outfield assist of the season. Is he the best outfield arm that the franchise has ever had?(27:00) Drew Millas got the start behind the plate but went 0 for 4 and made the final out in the process. Millas came to bat in the bottom of the 9th and strick out with the tying runner standing at 3B. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Nats avoided the sweep with a 5-2 victory on Sunday afternoon in Cleveland to conclude a winning road trip. Mark (From Progressive Field) & Al have another very good Jake Irvin outing to discuss as the young right-hander lasted six innings and threw 98 pitches. Irvin has allowed three runs or fewer in six of his past seven starts.(05:00) Mark gives the latest on CJ Abrams and Jacob Young, both of which did not play on Sunday. Abrams hurt his shoulder on Friday night and Young exited Saturday with a swollen hand after being hit by a pitch.(12:00) The bullpen used three arms to finish off the win and the hosts note that there has less relief pitcher usage recently. This is a difficult stretch as the next scheduled off day is not until June 10th.(16:00) The offense came through with an early four run in the top of the 2nd. Joey Meneses had a RBI double and Ildemaro Vargas, in the lineup for Abrams, collected a RBI single. Lane Thomas had a good afternoon while playing CF as he had two RBIs.(20:00) Nick Senzel was picked off and the Nationals have now been picked off eight times in the past ten games!(23:30) Drew Millas and Riley Adams swapped roster spots on Sunday. Adams had a bad game on Saturday behind the plate and the stated reason for the demotion is to get him more at bats and to get work at 1B. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Nats lost 3-2 on Saturday afternoon in Cleveland for their second straight defeat. Mark (From Ohio) and Al have plenty of sloppy Washington play to sort through, both defensively and on the bases. All of the Guardian runs came in quirky ways when facing Mitchell Parker, including Jose Ramirez scoring from second base on a wild pitch.(14:00) This season has had plenty of instances of poor base running by the Nationals and Saturday was no different. There was a miscommunication involving the third base coach (Ricky Gutierrez) and yet another player was picked off. The team has been collectively picked off seven times in the past nine games.(20:00) Jacob Young was hit by a pitch in the third inning and a lot ensued from there. Hear the complicated explanation that led to a Davey Martinez ejection and Young being removed from the game due to swelling in his hand.(32:00) CJ Abrams was a late scratch from the lineup and Mark explains the situation surrounding that. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The weary traveling Nats lost 7-1 on Friday night in Cleveland. Mark (From Progressive Field) & Al open with the crummy logistics that preceded the Nationals for this series opener as they did not make it to their hotel room until 5 AM after flying in from Atlanta. Davey Martinez gave the team off from "BP" for additional rest.(06:00) Washington only collected four hits and Luis Garcia Jr. had three of them. Garcia cooled off a bit at the plate in May as opposed to April (.253 vs. .311).(10:00) Keibert Ruiz missed a tag on a play at the plate that brought in an early Guardians run. This leads to extended discussion on Ruiz's defense so far this season.(15:30) Not a banner night for the bullpen as they allowed five runs in just two innings of work. The bulk of trouble belonged to Jacob Barnes and he was responsible for three runs while only recording one out. Why didn't Tanner Rainey pitch the bottom of the 8th when the game was out of reach?(25:30) Patrick Corbin struck out five and allowed a pair of runs in six innings of work. Corbin continues the team's stretch of solid starting pitching.(28:00) An update on where things stand with Victor Robles and his recent "DFA". Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Nats won 3-1 on Thursday night to take three out of four games this week in Atlanta. Al & Tim begin with what has become a familiar starting point for this podcast.... solid team pitching. Trevor Williams earned the victory as he lasted into the 6th and four relievers combined for a scoreless effort. The final six outs were recorded by the dynamic duo of Hunter Harvey & Kyle Finnegan.(17:00) Joey Meneses had the hit of the night with a two run double in the top of the 3rd and came through with five hits during this series. Meneses is hitting .246 this month, which is much better than his April (.200).(20:00) Jacob Young reached base multiple times and also stole his 17th base of the season. Young's speed created a lot of havoc on Thursday and led to a Braves throwing error.(26:30) We read a pair of listener submitted email questions. Send us yours to [email protected].(33:00) As Josh Gibson's stats are very much in the sports news this week, we play a segment from our podcast's interview with Bob Kendrick in June of 2021 about Gibson. Kendrick is the President of the Negro Leagues Hall of Fame in Kansas City, MO. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Nats beat the Braves 7-2 on Wednesday night to move to 25-29 on the season, putting them on pace for 75 victories this season. Mark & Al have another solid starting pitching performance to discuss as MacKenzie Gore earned the win and did not issue a walk along the way. Gore's ERA so far this season is 2.91 through 11 starts.(14:00) The bullpen threw nearly four innings, but didn't need to use Kyle Finnegan. Hunter Harvey recorded four outs and pushed his WHIP down to 0.92.(17:00) Lane Thomas had a big game as he hit a 3 run HR, doubled, singled, stole a pair of bases, and drew a walk.(24:30) Joey Gallo was in the news on Wednesday and also had a bunt single in the top of the 8th. (https://www.tmz.com/2024/05/28/hayden-hopkins-expecting-child-mlb-player-joey-gallo-not-mark-davis/)(28:30) Major League Baseball has officially elevated Negro League statistics and the legendary Josh Gibson now owns multiple major records in baseball history. Gibson played a portion of his career in Washington D.C. while with Homestead Grays. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jake Irvin was excellent on Tuesday night in Atlanta, but the Nats were shutout 2-0. Mark & Al begin with Irvin who struck out a career high ten batters in six innings of work. This game continued a season long pattern of Irvin not getting a lot of support from his offense. Should he have returned to the mound for the 7th after he through 90 pitches?(12:00) Max Fried was also superb as he tossed eight scoreless frames. The Nationals continued making costly outs on the bases, including CJ Abrams getting doubled off to stymie a 1st inning rally. Jesse Winker also was picked off and it seems to be a daily occurrence for the team.(24:00) James Wood was placed on the 7-day IL due to right hamstring tightness. Wood has not played since he was lifted in the middle of Rochester's game on Thursday night. Will Wood make it to D.C. before the All Star Break?(27:00) Victor Robles has not yet been claimed on waivers after being DFA'd by Washington on Monday. If someone else does pick him up, will it be in the minors? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Nats opened the road trip with an 8-4 Memorial Day victory in Atlanta. Al & Tim have a crowded box score to sort through as the team collected fifteen hits and six Nationals had a multi hit afternoon. Lane Thomas was one of them as he had a pair of hits in his first game since returning from the IL. Thomas had been out since April 24th due to a sprained left MCL.(07:00) Keibert Ruiz had multiple hits for the fourth consecutive game and his batting average has shot up by 53 points since Friday afternoon (.210).(11:00) Victor Robles was the odd man out after the return of Thomas. Robles was DFA'd and the man that was chosen over him (Jacob Young) had a trio of hits in the win. What exactly went wrong for Robles?(21:00) Mitchell Parker had a shutout going until the bottom of the 7th. The hosts make the argument that he has been the most pleasant surprise so far in 2024.(27:30) Derek Law was the only reliever to struggle, but did induce a rally ending double play in the bottom of the 7th. The final six outs were recorded by the dynamic duo of Hunter Harvey & Kyle Finnegan. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Nats led 5-4 entering the top of the 8th, but the Mariners jumped on the bullpen to hand Washington a 9-5 defeat on Sunday afternoon. Mark & Al have a different Dylan Floro conversation than the day before as he gave up a pair of runs and took the loss. It was the third consecutive day that Floro took the mound and it was his worst outing of the season.(10:00) The offense came through with two homers as they came from Joey Gallo and CJ Abrams. It was the first homer for Abrams since April 29th.(14:00) Keibert Ruiz had two hits on Sunday and had six hits in the weekend series as he is playing better as of late.(16:30) Victor Robles started in CF and stole a base late in the game. Lane Thomas is expected to return from the IL on Monday and thus Sunday could have been Robles' final game with the franchise.(20:00) Patrick Corbin and the Nationals fell behind 4-0 early and the lefty made it through six innings, which has become his norm this year. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Nats beat the Mariners 3-1 on Saturday afternoon in D.C. for their second consecutive victory. Al & Mark have another fine outing by Trevor Williams to recap as he only allowed one run in five innings of work. Williams gave up a solo homer to Julio Rodriguez and it is only the second home run hit off of him this season.(9:00) The bullpen was nearly flawless as they only allowed one base runner in the final four frames. Dylan Floro earned the win after throwing a scoreless top of the 7th and his ERA is remarkably at 0.35 so for this season. Kyle Finnegan notched his 14th save of the year and the first for him since facing the White Sox on May 14th.(17:30) Mark explains a stark moment where Davey Martinez out managed his Seattle counterpart Scott Servais and it involves Ildemaro Vargas.(22:30) Keibert Ruiz had another multi hit day as he singled, doubled, and came through with a RBI sacrifice fly. Four of his past seven hits have been for extra bases in this recent stretch.(28:00) Cade Cavalli had another rehab stint in West Palm Beach and struck out eight hitters in four innings of work.(32:00) Mitchell Parker is getting an extra day of rest as the team is monitoring his workload. Are Jake Irvin and MacKeznie Gore under the same scrutiny? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Nats beat visiting Seattle 6-1 on Friday evening to open the three game series. Al & Tim begin with MacKenzie Gore who lasted seven frames for just the 2nd time in his career. Gore struck out eight Mariners and did so on just 98 pitches. He might be on the way to an All Star season as we approach Memorial Day.(09:00) Hunter Harvey and Dylan Floro each threw scoreless innings to preserve the victory for Washington. Is this the best early season bullpen in team history?(14:00) The offense came through with three home runs in the win. Luis Garcia Jr. hit a 3 run HR, Keibert Ruiz went deep for the third time this season, and Eddie Rosario's solo homer came at the expense of former Nats pitcher Austin Voth.(26:00) James Wood was pulled in the middle of AAA-Rochester's game on Thursday and it fueled tons of speculation on social media. It turns out it was due to due to right hamstring tightness and Wood was not in the lineup on Friday. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Nationals lost the series rubber match to the Twins 3-2 on Wednesday afternoon in D.C. Mark & Al run through another collectively dismal day for the team's offense. Joey Gallo made the final out and went hit-less in the loss. Gallo is hitting just .126 so far this season and 3 for 21 since returning from the IL.(09:00) CJ Abrams has had a rough May and Davey Martinez criticized his current approach at the plate after the game. Abrams is hitting .205 this month after hitting .305 in April.(18:45) Lane Thomas will be back in Washington in the near future and the hosts discuss whether this could mean a "DFA" is coming for Victor Robles.(20:30) Jake Irvin had a solid outing as he only allowed a pair of runs in 6 IP. Irvin has made ten starts this season and his ERA is currently below 4.00.(28:00) The Nats are off on Thursday and open a home series on Friday night vs. Seattle. Will James Wood get called up before then? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Nats were shutout 10-0 on Tuesday night by visiting Minnesota and it is the 3rd time in the past week that they didn't score a run in defeat. Al & Mark begin with a familiar refrain, the one where they recap terrible start by Patrick Corbin. He allowed eight runs and his ERA is now at 6.29. Mark does explain though why he feels Corbin's time might actually be running out in the starting rotation.(10:00) A look at where both Josiah Gray and Cade Cavalli are in their rehabs.(15:00) Tanner Rainey did not give up a run in the top of the 9th, but he did hit two batters.(17:00) The offense only gathered three hits and Jacob Young had two of them. CJ Abrams went 0 for 3 and he is hitting .263 so far this season.(21:30) The latest on all of the top Nationals prospects including Dylan Crews, Brady House, and James Wood. Will Wood get called up to Washington before the calendar hits June 1st? Crews is hitting .315 in the month of May and House hit his 9th homer of the season on Tuesday. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Nats routed the Twins 12-3 on Monday night in Navy Yard to end their five game losing streak. Mark & Al have a lot of positive offensive statistics to sift through for a change as they collected fourteen hits and hit a pair of homers (Luis Garcia Jr. & Jesse Winker).(04:30) Eddie Rosario continued his hot May as he had two hits, scored three runs, stole a base, and scored all the way from 1B on an errant throw to the outfield.(10:30) Keibert Ruiz singled and doubled in the victory while hitting in the bottom part of the order. He now has four hits in the past four games despite hitting just .165 on the season.(18:20) Mitchell Parker earned the win as he struck out seven Twins in six innings of work. Parker ended the outing on a good note as he wriggled out of a jam shortly after allowing a two run home run to Carlos Correa.(27:00) Dylan Floro threw a scoreless top of the 9th and his ERA is a jaw dropping 0.38 on the season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Nats lost 11-5 on Sunday afternoon in Philadelphia for their fifth consecutive defeat. Mark (From Philly) & Al discuss the Nationals being on the wrong end of a sweep and a disappointing 2-7 road trip.(05:00) One positive of the day was that the offense ended their almost week long homer drought as Eddie Rosario and Jesse Winker each cleared the fences. The team has left the yard very few times in the past couple of weeks, but Rosario has nonetheless done so five times.(12:00) Lane Thomas was seen running the bases in pregame workouts as he has been on the IL since April 24th due to a sprained left MCL.(17:00) Trevor Williams had his worst outing of the season as he did not last five innings. Williams was not pitch efficient as he needed 97 pitches to get through just 4.1 IP.(21:00) Tanner Rainey took the mound for the first time since May 4th and did not have a good outing as it included allowing three runs, issuing back to back walks, and giving up a homer to Alec Bohm. Was this his final ever appearance in a Nationals uniform? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Nats led 3-2 in the bottom of the 9th but ultimately lost 4-3 in ten innings in Philadelphia on Saturday evening. Mark (From Philly) & Al examine the final two frames that saw Kyle Finnegan blow the save in the 9th and take the loss in the 10th. Finnegan retired the first two batters in the bottom of the 9th, but then gave up a game tying solo homer to Kody Clemens (yes, he is Roger Clemens' son).(07:00) The game ended on a Bryce Harper sacrifice fly in the bottom of the 10th . There were runners on 2nd and 3rd and Al asks Mark if Davey Martinez should have intentionally walked Harper and faced Alec Bohm instead.(16:00) MacKenzie Gore pitched very well and went into the bottom of the 7th. He did not reach 100 pitches in the outing, which is an improvement from a pitch efficiency standpoint. He has not yet given up more than three earned runs in any start so far this season.(22:00) The offense collected 11 hits, but still only came through with three runs. The team has now gone five consecutive games without hitting a homer. CJ Abrams & Ildemaro Vargas each had a trio of hits on Saturday and Vargas' average is at .320 for the year. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Nats fell 4-2 in Philadelphia on Friday night and have dropped three straight games on the road trip. Mark (From Citizen's Bank Park) & Al yet again go over a struggling offense that only collected four hits. Oddly enough, all four hits were doubles. One of them came from Joey Gallo, who was just called up from AAA following his rehab stint.(12:30) Trey Lipscomb was the player sent down to AAA make room for Gallo on Friday afternoon. It is the second time this season that Lipscomb has demoted from Washington. Should Joey Meneses have been the player sent to Rochester instead?(23:00) Jake Irvin took the loss after giving up four runs in five innings of work. He threw a wild pitch and also hit two Phillies batters during the start. Mark notes how Irvin was profusely sweating during the outing.(29:00) Cade Cavalli will soon open his rehab window down in Florida. Mark explains what this means and when he might return to the mound in D.C.(32:00) An update on Josiah Gray who has been on the IL for over a month. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Nats dropped the rubber match in Chicago as they were shutout for the second straight game in a 2-0 defeat on Wednesday afternoon. Mark (From the South Side) & Al discuss the batting order, which did not include many regulars and had Ildemaro Vargas hitting 3rd. Among those not in the starting lineup were CJ Abrams, Jesse Winker, Luis Garcia Jr., and Eddie Rosario.(06:00) Keibert Ruiz went 0 for 4 and struck three times. This season has been a rough one for Ruiz and his OPS is at a startling .393.(13:00) Mark gives an update on Lane Thomas after watching him run the bases during pregame warmups. He has been out three weeks with a sprained knee.(17:20) Patrick Corbin was dealt the loss as he gave up a pair of runs off of six hits in 5.2 IP. Three bullpen arms behind arm did record the final eight outs without ceding a run.(27:00) GM Mike Rizzo was on 106.7 The Fan and was not shy about the defense's recent struggles. Vargas committed an error on Wednesday and this came a day after the team made three in the same inning. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Nats and White Sox split their doubleheader on Tuesday in Chicago. Mark (From the South Side) & Al begin with Game 2, where former National Erick Fedde threw seven scoreless innings in the 4-0 shutout vs. his old team. Fedde pitched in South Korea in 2023 and was non tendered by Washington in November of 2022.(07:00) The Nats registered ten hits in their 6-3 victory in Game 1 as Joey Meneses had four of them. The last time he had that many hits in a game was September 1st, 2022 when he hit a walk-off homer vs. Oakland.(11:00) Trey Lipscomb had a trio of hits in the win and stole a pair of bases. He did however commit his seventh error of the season as he did not play well defensively at 3B.(18:30) Eddie Rosario won NL Player of the Week and followed that up with a hit in each game on Tuesday.(20:00) Trevor Williams gave up his first homer of the season and had a no decision in his Game 1 outing as he did not have the benefit of good defense behind him. Mitchell Parker took the loss in Game 2 as he ceded three runs in five frames.(33:00) Al was mystified at how empty Guaranteed Rate Field was during Game 1. Mark gives a firsthand account of just how few people were in the stands. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Nats lost 3-2 in Boston on Sunday afternoon to lose the weekend series. Al & Tim scratch their heads at the mistakes made by Victor Robles as he dropped a routine fly ball and the next inning had inexplicable base running that led to a crucial out. Davey Martinez noted afterwards that he considered removing Robles from the game.(13:00) Robles was not the only cuprit on the bases as the Nats made multiple outs that way on Sunday. Nick Senzel was picked off in the top of 7th and Jacob Young was thrown out trying to steal 2nd for the final out of the game.(16:00) Eddie Rosario homered again as he continued his red hot start to the month of May. He is 10 for his last 22 with four homers mixed in there.(22:00) MacKenzie Gore struck out nine hitters and overall pitched well despite the loss. All of the runs he gave up came in the wacky of the bottom of the 2nd. Gore tossed a career high 111 pitches on in six frames.(30:00) The Nationals move their road trip to the White Sox for a three game series. Chicago is in last place, but recently won four straight. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Nats lost 4-2 in Boston on Saturday afternoon to return to .500 through 38 games. Al begins with Davey Martinez's decision to pitch Robert Garcia for the entirety of the bottom 8th as a tied game became 4-2 before the end of the frame.(05:00) Jake Irvin lasted a career high seven innings and exited the game when it was tied 2-2. Irvin struck out six and threw 103 pitches in the outing. Al notes how big it is that it seems that Irvin can be a long term rotation piece as it shows the improvement in the franchise's player development.(09:30) How much credit should we give Sean Doolittle for the pitching staff's performance thus far? He was hired in the off season as a "Pitching strategist".(14:00) The offense had just two solo homers and only once had a runner in scoring position. Eddie Rosario homered for the third time in May and he is hitting .409 this month after hitting .053 in April.(20:00) James Wood homered twice in Game 1 of a doubleheader on Saturday. Wood has seven homers on the season and five of them have come this week. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The Nats are back above .500 as they began their road trip with a 5-1 victory in Boston on Friday night. Al & Mark have a Patrick Corbin vwon to open with as he only allowed one run five innings of work. Corbin gave up seven hits, but was the beneficiary of great defense by Victor Robles early in the affair.(10:00) It was another busy night for the bullpen as five arms came on in relief to toss four shutout frames. Harvey made his 19th appearance of the season, which is more than half of the team's games thus far.(17:00) All of the Nationals runs came with two outs against them. Leading the charge was "Mr. May" AKA Eddie Rosario as he continued his total reversal from April. He had a pair of hits, stole a base, and scored two runs with some heads-up base running.(21:00) Robles had two hits and had a stolen base. Robles played RF in his first game back since landing on the IL early in the season as Jacob Young was in CF.(30:00) Jake Irvin takes the mound on Saturday afternoon and the Nats currently are in 3rd place all by themselves in the NL East. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.