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Rapid Reaction: Washington Nationals’ Offense Quiet and Scherzer Struggles

By Matt Holleran

Apr 21, 2016; Miami, FL, USA; Washington Nationals right fielder Bryce Harper (34) makes a catch during the third inning against the Miami Marlins at Marlins Park. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 21, 2016; Miami, FL, USA; Washington Nationals right fielder Bryce Harper (34) makes a catch during the third inning against the Miami Marlins at Marlins Park. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports /
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Apr 21, 2016; Miami, FL, USA; Washington Nationals starting pitcher Max Scherzer (31) throws during the third inning against the Miami Marlins at Marlins Park. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 21, 2016; Miami, FL, USA; Washington Nationals starting pitcher Max Scherzer (31) throws during the third inning against the Miami Marlins at Marlins Park. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports /

Max Scherzer Struggles 

Last season Max Scherzer had a Cy Young level season. He was dominating in every facet of the game and rarely had a poor outing. Today Scherzer had one of the worst outings of his Nationals career as he allowed five runs on eight hits through just five innings of work.

The trouble started early for Scherzer after a Bryce Harper homer gave him an early 1-0 lead. After giving up two hits to leadoff the game Scherzer gave up a three run homer to Marcel Ozuna giving away the Nationals’ early lead and making it 3-1. In the second half of last season, giving up homers was something Scherzer struggled with, and he’s struggled in that part of his game to start this season as well.

In the bottom of the second his lack of control got him into trouble. After a walk, Scherzer gave up an RBI single to Martin Prado. He didn’t have the same type of command that we have become accustomed to seeing throughout his time with the Nationals.

Scherzer gave up another run in the bottom of the fifth and that was when his outing ended. With the loss, Scherzer has had a shaky start to the season. He is now 2-1 with an alarming ERA of 4.32. He has also given up 3 homers in 4 starts this season.

Next: Offense Quiet Outside of Harper

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