Early Nationals Surge 
Today's game against the Tampa Bay Rays started with a promising roar from our Washington Nationals. After the Rays took a two-run lead in the top of the first inning, we responded in spectacular fashion. Dylan Crews set the stage with a walk, and James Wood followed by sending one soaring into left center for a two-run homer! 
Not to be outdone, Luis García Jr. launched another homer to right, swinging the momentum firmly in our direction. Alex Call didn't let this opportunity go to waste, scoring on a double by Jose Tena. By the end of the first, we were up 4-2! 
Mid-Game Fumble 
However, the Rays were persistent and fought back in the fourth inning with a three-run homer by Jake Mangum and a solo shot from Josh Lowe. These heavy hits flipped the score to 6-4 in their favor. Our bats fell a bit silent during the next few innings as we struggled to replicate our first inning success. Despite a brief rally attempt in the fifth, with Wood doubling and eventually scoring, we ended that inning trailing 7-5.Tough Finish 
The Rays continued their offensive onslaught with more contributions from Mangum, who kept widening the gap with another home run. Our bullpen worked hard, but Tampa Bay kept finding their way on base. Heading into the final innings, the score stood at 11-5. We had opportunities in the ninth when Trey Lipscomb walked and a fielding error loaded the bases, but despite the glimmer of hope, we couldn't bring those runners home.In the end, the Nationals couldn't keep pace with the Rays’ offensive surge. We'll analyze this game and come back stronger next time! Let's keep our spirits high, Nats fans!
Scoreboard for Rays @ Nationals (March 16th, 2025)
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | R | H | E | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 5 | 8 | 0 |
| 2 | 0 | 0 | 4 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 11 | 14 | 1 |