Opinion
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Nationals Aim to Hook the Marlins in Miami Duel

As the Washington Nationals prepare to face off against the Miami Marlins at loanDepot park, fans of the team are cautiously optimistic. The Nationals have shown a mixed bag of performances recently, but there's reason to believe they could turn the tide in their upcoming game on April 26.


Sep 3, 2023; Washington, District of Columbia, USA;  Washington Nationals pitcher Josiah Gray (40) delivers a pitch against the Miami Marlins during the first inning at Nationals Park. Mandatory Credit: Gregory Fisher-USA TODAY Sports

Looking back at their last three games, it's clear that consistency has been an issue for WSH. On April 1, despite a valiant effort and a home run contributing to their four runs, they fell short against the Pittsburgh Pirates with an 8-4 loss. Their hitting average was just .235 and they left 19 runners on base – a statistic that will need improvement if they're aiming for victory in Miami.


However, it wasn't all doom and gloom for WSH; their next game saw them notch up five runs against Cincinnati Reds. Although this wasn't enough to secure a win due to some bullpen struggles leading to six earned runs by CIN, there were positive signs with two home runs and an improved batting average of .265.


Sep 3, 2023; Washington, District of Columbia, USA;  Washington Nationals catcher Drew Millas (81) hits a single against the Miami Marlins during the seventh inning at Nationals Park. Mandatory Credit: Gregory Fisher-USA TODAY Sports

The most recent performance by WSH is perhaps what fans should be most excited about. On March 30th against CIN again, this time Nationals came out on top with seven runs scored while allowing six. Their batting average rose impressively to .314 with eleven hits including one home run – showcasing potential firepower in their lineup.


One area where WSH has excelled is base stealing; maintaining a perfect steal percentage across these games shows aggressive baserunning that could put pressure on MIA's defense.


Sep 3, 2023; Washington, District of Columbia, USA;  Miami Marlins pitcher Sandy Alcantara (22) tosses to first base to record an out against the Washington Nationals during the sixth inning at Nationals Park. Mandatory Credit: Gregory Fisher-USA TODAY Sports

The Marlins will not be easy opponents though; as hosts at loanDepot park they'll look to capitalize on any slip-ups by WSH. But if Nationals can harness some of that offensive energy from March 30th and tighten up their bullpen which showed signs of resilience despite ERA concerns – we might see them coming out ahead.


Nationals' fans should mark their calendars for April 26th at 7:10 PM ET when these two teams clash in Miami. The game promises excitement and will be available for viewing pleasure live from loanDepot park or through your local sports network broadcast.

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