Washington Nationals: Takeaways From 4-3 Loss To Cubs

Check out our three takeaways from last night’s 4-3 Washington Nationals loss to the Cubs

In last night’s Washington Nationals loss to the Chicago Cubs, a trend continued from the first five games they have played in 2016. All six head-to-head matchups this season have been decided by three runs or less.

Late in the game, Cubs manager Joe Maddon went to his closer, Hector Rondon to try to get a five out save. While Rondon blew the save in the eighth, he ended up getting the win when one of Maddon’s eighth inning changes, outfielder Albert Almora, doubled to left center in the ninth to drive in the go-ahead run.

It was a well-pitched game as both starters, Gio Gonzalez and John Lackey, put together quality starts. While Gonzalez had nine strikeouts, he had his moments where he struggled against the bottom of the order for Chicago.

As for Lackey, he was able to get out of some key jams as the Nats went 1-for-5 with runners in scoring position on the night. When these two teams face other, every run and every chance to drive in a runner who is in scoring position is critical.

With Jonathan Papelbon now on the 15-day disabled list, the Washington Nationals are looking to see who will take that closer role. It’s tough to go off last night since Sammy Solis was in his second inning of work when he gave up the double. Although Solis gave up the game winning hit, he has still been one of the better relievers in the bullpen for the Nats this season.

Before Jason Hammel takes on Stephen Strasburg this afternoon (4:05 p.m ET, MASN) in the rubber game of the series, here are my takeaways from last night’s Washington Nationals 4-3 loss to the Cubs:

Next: Offense Fails To Get Timely Hit