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Can the Astros Find Their Rhythm Against Nationals at CACTI Park?

The Houston Astros faced off against the Washington Nationals in a preseason matchup at CACTI Park of the Palm Beaches. The game concluded with a score of 2-1 in favor of the Nationals. This result places the Astros at 0-1 and the Nationals at 1-0 for their preseason records.


Feb 21, 2026; West Palm Beach, Florida, USA;  Washington Nationals first baseman Sam Brown (85) tags out at Justin Thomas of the Houston Astros in the sixth inning CACTI Park of the Palm Beaches. Mandatory Credit: Jim Rassol-Imagn Images

First Inning


The game began with both teams struggling to find their offensive footing. The ‘Stros were unable to register any hits or runs, while their pitching staff kept things tight, allowing no hits from the Nats.


Second Inning


Houston's offense showed signs of life as they managed to score their only run during this inning. With two hits recorded, including contributions from Nick Allen who maintained his batting average from previous performances, they took an early lead. However, Washington quickly responded with solid defense and prevented further scoring opportunities.


Fifth Inning


The middle innings saw a shift in momentum as Washington's bats came alive. They scored one run on one hit during this inning, leveling up with Houston. Despite strong pitching efforts by Logan VanWey and Miguel Ullola earlier in the game, who collectively held impressive strikeout rates previously noted in player statistics, it was not enough to keep Washington completely at bay.


Sixth Inning


Washington continued their offensive push by adding another run on another hit during this inning. The ‘Stros bullpen worked hard but could not prevent this decisive moment that ultimately led to Houston trailing behind for good.


Final Innings


Innings seven through nine saw both teams' defenses tighten up significantly; however, neither side could alter the scoreboard further despite several attempts by Houston’s hitters like Shay Whitcomb who had shown potential earlier on but couldn't break through when it mattered most.


As fans digest this post-game report Astros enthusiasts are left pondering what adjustments might be needed moving forward into future games such as against St Louis Cardinals scheduled for February 22nd at CACTI Park starting around 1:05 PM EDT broadcasted via SCHN network where they'll hope for better outcomes following today’s narrow loss captured within our comprehensive Astros vs Nationals full match report detailing every pivotal play made throughout each period played here today!


Stay tuned for more updates and share your thoughts about today's action-packed encounter!

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