In a battle of the rebuilders, the Washington Nationals (52-66) will host the Oakland Athletics (33-84) at Nationals Park. Both teams have had a tough season so far, but they are determined to turn things around. The Nationals, currently standing in 5th place in the National League East with a league standing of 14th, have won seven out of their last 10 games and will look to extend their winning momentum. On the other hand, the Athletics hold the last spot in the American League West.
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Nationals vs Athletics: Nationals Park Braces for Rebuilders
The starting pitcher for the Nationals will be Trevor Williams, who has a record of 5-7 and an earned run average (ERA) of 5.00. He will be tasked with shutting down the Athletics’ offense and giving his team a chance to secure a victory. Ken Waldichuk will take the mound for the Athletics, with a record of 2-7 and an ERA of 6.30. Both pitchers will be under pressure to deliver strong performances and help their respective teams on the path to victory.
The Nationals will rely heavily on their batting average leader, Lane Thomas, who boasts an impressive average of .284. Thomas will be a key player to watch as he looks to make his presence felt in the outfield. The Athletics, on the other hand, have several unknowns when it comes to batting average leaders, but this could present an opportunity for unexpected heroes to emerge and make an impact.
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The game is scheduled to take place on Sunday, August 13th, at 1:35 PM ET. Fans can tune in to watch the game on the MASN channel. It’s a perfect way to spend a lazy Sunday afternoon.
Exciting Storyline to Watch
– Pitching Duel: With Trevor Williams and Ken Waldichuk on the mound, fans can expect a captivating pitching duel. The pressure will be on both pitchers to keep the opposing team’s offense in check and provide a strong foundation for their respective teams.
Injuries
Washington Nationals:
– RP Thaddeus Ward (Shoulder, D15)
– SP Joan Adon (Leg, Day-to-Day)
– SP Cade Cavalli (Elbow, D60)
– CF Victor Robles (Back, D60)
– RP Hunter Harvey (Elbow, D15)
– RP Carl Edwards Jr. (Shoulder, D15)
– RP Mason Thompson (Knee, D15)
– RP Víctor Arano (Shoulder, D60)
– RP Tanner Rainey (Elbow, D60)
– SP Stephen Strasburg (Ribs/Shoulder, D60)
– RP Rico Garcia (Biceps, D15)
Oakland Athletics:
– RP Richard Lovelady (Arm, D15)
– SP James Kaprielian (Shoulder, D15)
– C Carlos Pérez (Thumb, D10)
– 1B Ryan Noda (Jaw, D10)
– SP Mason Miller (Elbow, D60)
– SP Drew Rucinski (Illness, D60)
– RP Zach Jackson (Elbow, D60)
– RP Yacksel Ríos (Finger, D60)
Remember, injuries can greatly impact a team’s performance, so keep an eye on the availability of key players mentioned above.
Main photo credits:
John Geliebter-USA TODAY Sports
Players mentioned:
Trevor Williams, Ken Waldichuk, Lane Thomas, Thaddeus Ward, Joan Adon, Cade Cavalli, Victor Robles, Hunter Harvey, Carl Edwards Jr., Mason Thompson, Victor Arano, Tanner Rainey, Stephen Strasburg, Rico Garcia, Richard Lovelady, James Kaprielian, Carlos Perez, Ryan Noda, Mason Miller, Drew Rucinski, Zach Jackson, Yacksel Rios