Washington Nationals overcome late assault to defeat Florida Marlins 4-3 – MLB Update
A late assault by the Florida Marlins could not help them complete a three-game series sweep over the Washington Nationals, losing 3-4 on Sunday, September 18 at Nationals Park in Washington, D.C. after comprehensively winning the first two games by a three-run
margin.
Brad Hand lost his eighth start for the Marlins after being charged for four runs amid five hits in four innings of ordinary pitching. Although he struck-out five batters in his spell of 74 pitches, they were not sufficient to counter his horrendous pitching.
Hand has won just one start thus far and will need a serious renovation to ensure a permanent spot in the rotation.
Jonny Gomes gave the Nationals an early lead in the second inning before a three-run fourth inning pushed the Marlins back in the game. Although this game had little significance as far as the postseason is concerned, a win was essential for Washington to
stay in contention for the third spot in National League East.
Ryan Zimmerman and Michael Morse scored a run each in the fourth inning before Chris Marrero expertly pierced through right-field for a double to allow Danny Espinosa a run and thus complete a four-run lead over the Marlins.
Chien Ming Wang starred for the Nationals from the mound, pitching four scoreless innings before conceding a run in the fifth to augment pressure on the visitors. This was Wang’s tenth appearance after making a comeback on July 29 this year and the longest
start since then.
Wang made his last MLB appearance in 2009 for the New York Yankees and had since been sidelined citing a shoulder surgery. Manager Davey Johnson commended Wang’s effort after coming back from a severe injury and articulated that the pitcher is now throwing
more quality pitches which is a good sign for the bull-pen.
After winning his third game, Wang appreciated the patience shown by Washington’s management and said, "Hopefully I can come back here, but the decision is made by the team. But personally, I would like to come back."
Gaby Sanchez homered down left-flank in the fifth inning for the Marlins before Brett Hayes unleashed a two-run home-run in the seventh to bring the deficit down to one-run. Drew Storen proved that there is no substitute for pace, pitching a perfect ninth
inning to save his 38th game for the Nationals under immense pressure.
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