The Washington Nationals fell to the Chicago Cubs last night in the opener of the first series of the season between two of the best teams in the National League. The Nats (19-9) still hold the second best record in all of baseball despite the loss, while Chicago (21-6) tightened their grip on the No. 1 overall spot.
Both teams are known for their pitching, particularly their rotations. The clubs hold the two best team ERAs in the sport, setting the stage for a low scoring series. On the offensive side, however, the Cubs are clearly the favorable team. Chicago has scored the most runs in the league so far in 2016, while the Nats sit at a meager 13th.
Of their nine losses, the Nats have failed to score more than two runs in six of them. The Cubs have scored two runs or less in three games all season. If Washington is looking to head back to D.C. with any wins in the Windy City, they’re going to have to figure out a way to push more runners across the plate.
Nats lose 5-2. Ross turned in another strong start, but the Nats offense got nothing going besides Werth 2-run HR in 9th.
— Jamal Collier (@JamalCollier) May 6, 2016
Ben Revere is slated to return from the Disabled List today after injuring himself on Opening Day. He will most likely be replacing Michael Taylor (.186/.222/.304) in center field and in the leadoff spot. Although Taylor hit his third double of the year in last night’s affair, he has not been the table setter that many believed he could be coming into the season.
What are the three biggest takeaways from last night’s loss? Read on to find out…
Next: Nats Need to Figure Things Out Offensively