Nationals Snap Slump with 4-2 Victory Over Giants
Brad Lord took the mound Saturday, delivering six strong innings that led to his first career win as a starter, as the Washington Nationals triumphed over the San Francisco Giants 4-2.
In a much-needed offensive surge, James Wood, Paul DeJong, and Josh Bell each launched home runs, marking a significant turnaround after the Nationals had been shut out in their last two outings. Wood's leadoff homer was particularly notable, as it was his first in a month.
On the Giants' side, Rafael Devers continued his power display with a home run for the second consecutive game, while Dominic Smith's double extended his hitting streak to 13 games, the longest active streak in Major League Baseball.
Lord (3-6), who previously secured two wins in relief roles, allowed just one run and four hits during his third major league start. The 25-year-old rookie navigated through several challenging situations, finishing with five strikeouts and two walks.
Konnor Pilkington came in to retire three batters, and Jose A. Ferrer recorded five outs to earn his second career save, marking his first of the season.
Wood's offensive contributions included a towering shot off Carson Whisenhunt's third pitch, bringing his season total to 25 home runs. He also added an RBI double in the sixth inning, extending the Nationals' lead to 4-0.
DeJong and Bell provided back-to-back fireworks in the third inning, both connecting for homers off Whisenhunt.
Whisenhunt (1-1) struggled through four innings, giving up three runs and three hits while striking out five and walking three. Despite being San Francisco's top pitching prospect, he faced challenges against the Nationals' lineup.
Devers' sixth-inning homer and Wilmer Flores' sacrifice fly in the eighth added to the Giants' score but were not enough to close the gap.
Ferrer capped off the eighth inning by striking out Matt Chapman with two runners on base, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure.
Interestingly, all three home runs hit off Whisenhunt came from sinkers, which has been his most effective pitch this season.
Looking ahead, Giants RHP Justin Verlander (1-8, 4.29 ERA) is set to face struggling All-Star MacKenzie Gore (4-12, 4.29) in the series finale on Sunday.
