Washington Nationals Reaction: Daniel Murphy Continues to Crush Mets Pitching
By Matt Weyrich
Giolito struggles in his first road start
After throwing four scoreless innings in his major league debut on June 28 against the Mets at Nationals Park, the No. 1 pitching prospect in the minors came off eight days rest for Round 2 with the New York offense. This time, they battled under the lights in Queens in front of a crowd of 37,569.
The 21-year old righty struggled with his command, walking a batter in each of the four innings he appeared in. His curveball was wild and missed the strike zone more often than not. When he was able to keep the ball over the plate, the Mets smacked him around. Giolito left the game with two outs in the fourth, having allowed four runs on seven hits and four strikeouts.
Whether it was pitching on extra rest, facing a divisional opponent in a loud ballpark at night, or the Mets lineup simply figured him out, the reason for Giolito’s rough outing is anyone’s guess. With only two career starts under his belt, the young California native is still getting used to the pressures of pitching in the majors.
Barring a swift return from the Disabled List by right-hander Joe Ross after the All-Star Break, Giolito should get at least one more start before his eventual return to the minors. He will most likely face off against the Los Angeles Dodgers at home, his first go at making a full start at Nats Park. Hopefully for him and the Nationals, Giolito can put his rocky start at Citi Field behind him.
Next: Murphy continues crushing Mets pitching