Washington Nationals blank Houston Astros 5-0 as Jordan Zimmermann strikes out 11 - MLB Update
The starter Jordan Zimmermann records his ninth win of the season as he leads the Washington Nationals to shut-out the Houston Astros 5-0 at Minute Maid Park, Houston, Texas on August 9, 2012 in the last game of the four match series.
The last three games that the Nationals played in the series were close because both sides were well balanced. However, Thursday’s match was one-sided as the Nationals did not let the Astros come close to winning.
Six scoreless innings from the starter Zimmermann and the 11 strike-outs in them effectively demoralised Astros from making any comeback in the game. For the same reason, when relievers stepped on the mound, they remained irresponsive to what was required
for launching a counter attack. Thus, the relievers finished their innings scoreless.
Meanwhile, the Nationals’ relief pitcher Drew Storen threw an impeccable last inning. While he was struggling earlier in the games, he is now gradually improving.
Offensively, the left fielder Michael Morse stood out in the game. He hammered two home-runs and contributed three RBIs while connecting two hits in three at-bats.
The Nationals’ manager Davey Johnson was pleased with the attacking approach followed by Morse in the game. Morse did not hold back even against the fiery fastballs as he tried to hit them for distance.
"He was attacking the fastball, and I like that in a hitter," Johnson said. "I like attack. I don't like letting fastballs pass that you can get a hold of and drive and that's what he did today and I really liked his approach. It was outstanding."
Meanwhile, Zimmermann speaks about his throws in the match and how he hoodwinked batters while striking them out.
"I was locating the fastball well and then right when they would foul a few off, I would throw the slider out of the zone and they'd chase it," Zimmermann said.
It was the last game of the series. With the way the Nationals are progressing, it is clear that they are getting better after the end of every series. Therefore, it can be certain that they will keep winning matches and get more competitive as the season
wears on.
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