Washington Nationals drubbed by St. Louis Cardinals’ offence in second game of NLDS-MLB Update
St. Louis Cardinals show their offensive class in the second game of the National League Division Series against the Washington Nationals.
After they struggled in the first game, it was easy to believe that they will continue surrendering to strong arms of the Washington Nationals and end up losing the series.
However, the Cardinals have bounced back impressively, denting Washington’s pitchers heavily with their ability to produce home-runs and massive hits.
Before the series started, Washington boasted the presence of Gio Gonzalez and Jordan Zimmermann in their rotation.
As both of them have been the cornerstone of their success throughout the regular season, it was likely that they will not allow the Cardinals to strike a great number of hits against them.
Instead the Cardinals have pounded Washington’s starters so far. They have not let them dominate.
By taking the attack to them, they are not allowing their pitchers to settle down on the mound and throw scoreless innings.
On Monday Jordan Zimmermann did not last for more than three innings as the Cardinals roughed him up right in the beginning and hurt his confidence.
Nationals are one of those teams that gave up the least number of runs during matches in the regular season.
In light of this, producing 12 runs on Monday against them by the Cardinals reflects that they are taking the pressure of the playoffs.
Washington has not experienced playing in the post-season for years which means it will take some time before they adjust and return to their best.
On the other hand the Cardinals won the World Series last season. No wonder their confidence is high despite the fact on paper the Nationals appear to be a stronger team.
The way the Cardinals slammed home-runs and managed doubles on Monday, the Nationals’ pitchers will be demoralised.
With morale down, it will not be easy for the Washington’s hurlers to get back in the groove and unleash splendours on the mound in the upcoming games.
Washington’s manager Davey Johnson will be looking to make sure players do not let the negatives settle in their mind.
He will like to see the Nationals replying back to the Cardinals strongly in the upcoming matches.
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