On April 7th, 2023, the Washington Nationals took on the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field in Denver, Colorado. The game featured two teams that have struggled in recent years but are looking to turn things around this season.
The Nationals sent Max Scherzer to the mound, while the Rockies countered with German Marquez. The game started off as a pitcher’s duel, with both pitchers throwing scoreless innings in the first three frames.
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In the top of the fourth inning, the Nationals were able to get on the scoreboard first. With runners on second and third and one out, Nationals shortstop Trea Turner hit a sacrifice fly to center field, scoring left fielder Juan Soto and putting the Nationals up 1-0.
The Rockies responded in the bottom of the fifth inning when center fielder Raimel Tapia hit an RBI single to left field, driving in catcher Dom Nunez and tying the game at 1-1.
The Nationals regained the lead in the top of the sixth inning when second baseman Starlin Castro hit a solo home run to left field, making it 2-1 Nationals. The Nationals added to their lead in the top of the eighth inning when first baseman Ryan Zimmerman hit a two-RBI double to left-center field, putting the Nationals up 4-1.
The Rockies tried to mount a comeback in the bottom of the ninth inning, scoring one run on an RBI double by left fielder Sam Hilliard, but Nationals closer Sean Doolittle was able to retire the next three batters, securing the Nationals’ victory.
One of the key factors in the Nationals’ victory was the performance of Max Scherzer. He pitched seven innings, allowing only one run on five hits and striking out nine batters. The Nationals’ bullpen also had a strong outing, with Sean Doolittle allowing only one run in the ninth inning.
The Nationals’ offense was led by Starlin Castro and Ryan Zimmerman, who both had key hits that drove in runs. Castro’s solo home run in the sixth inning gave the Nationals the lead, while Zimmerman’s two-RBI double in the eighth inning provided some insurance runs.
The Rockies’ offense struggled against Scherzer and the Nationals’ bullpen. While they were able to score two runs, they only managed six hits and left six runners on base throughout the game.
German Marquez had a solid outing for the Rockies, pitching six innings and allowing two runs on five hits while striking out six batters. However, the Rockies’ bullpen struggled in the later innings, allowing two runs on four hits and one walk.
In conclusion, the Nationals’ victory over the Rockies was a result of strong pitching and timely hitting. The Nationals will be looking to continue their winning ways in their upcoming games, while the Rockies will be looking to bounce back and even the series in their next game. This game was a reminder of the potential of both teams, and fans can expect more exciting games between them throughout the season.