The Washington Nationals, with a season record of 69-87, faced off against the Chicago Cubs, who currently stand at 80-76. The game concluded with the Cubs securing a 5-0 victory over the Nationals.

Sep 22, 2024; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Cubs catcher Miguel Amaya (9) hits a double against the Washington Nationals during the sixth inning at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images

Nationals' Offensive Efforts

Despite their efforts, the Nationals struggled to turn hits into runs. The team managed to accumulate eight hits throughout the game but failed to capitalize on these opportunities, leaving 13 runners on base. Notably, José Tena and James Wood both showcased promising performances at the plate. Tena hit an impressive .500 average for the game, while Wood also matched this batting average and led in slugging percentage at .750. Jacob Young contributed with a .333 batting average and an on-base percentage (OBP) of .333.

The Nationals had seven chances with runners in scoring position but were unable to drive any runs home. This lack of clutch hitting was pivotal in their inability to score throughout nine innings.

Sep 22, 2024; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Cubs catcher Miguel Amaya (9) runs the bases after hitting a two-run home run against the Washington Nationals during the fourth inning at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images

Cubs Capitalize Early

On the other side, the Cubs built an early lead with two runs in the first inning followed by three more runs in the fourth inning. Their pitchers effectively silenced Nationals' bats, limiting them to no runs despite eight hits.

Washington's pitching staff had moments of effectiveness but couldn't contain Chicago's offense when it mattered most. Starter Jake Irvin was charged with all five earned runs over four innings pitched, reflecting an ERA of 11.25 for this outing and highlighting his struggles against Chicago's lineup.

Sep 22, 2024; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Cubs shortstop Dansby Swanson (7) is picked-off of second base as Washington Nationals shortstop Nasim Nuñez (26) takes the throw during the seventh inning at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images

Looking Ahead

The Washington Nationals will next face off against Kansas City Royals at Nationals Park on September 24th at 6:45 PM EDT. Fans looking forward to catching this matchup can tune into MASN2 for live coverage from Washington D.C., ensuring they don't miss any action as their team looks to bounce back from this defeat.

Nationals - Baseball - Recap

Nationals Stifled by Royals in a Pitcher's Duel at Nationals Park

Nationals Shut Out by Cubs at Wrigley Field in a Pitching Dominated Game

Nationals Outshine Cubs with a Commanding Performance at Wrigley Field

Nationals Struggle at the Plate, Fall to Cubs in a Low-Scoring Affair

Nationals' Late Surge Not Enough in Tight Contest with Cubs

Nationals Stifled by Mets' Pitching Mastery in 10-0 Shutout

Nationals Stifled by Mets' Pitching, Fall 10-1 at Citi Field

Nationals' Efforts Not Enough in Extra Innings Against Mets

Nationals Edge Marlins 4-3, Strengthening Position in the Standings

Can Nationals Maintain Their Lead Over Marlins in Recent Clash?

Nationals Overcome Marlins with Precision: A 4-1 Victory at Nationals Park

Nationals Stumble Against Marlins: Late Rally Seals the Deal for Miami

Nationals Outplay Braves in a 4-1 Victory at Nationals Park

Nationals' Efforts Not Enough in 3-7 Loss to Pirates at PNC Park

Nationals Outlast Pirates in a High-Scoring Affair: A 8-6 Victory at PNC Park

Nationals Outshine Pirates in a Close 3-6 Battle at PNC Park

Nationals Outlast Marlins in a Tense 10-Inning Showdown

Nationals Overpower Marlins 6-2, Bolstering Season Record at Miami's loanDepot park

Did Nationals' Late Rally Fall Short Against Cubs at Nationals Park?

Nationals Outshine Yankees in a 5-2 Victory at Nationals Park

Nationals Overcome Yankees' Challenge, Secure Victory at Nationals Park