Nationals and Dodgers Clash as Wrobleski Makes MLB Debut

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Washington Nationals look to extend their surprising three-game winning streak against the Los Angeles Dodgers tonight at 6:45 p.m. EDT at Nationals Park. After clinching a .500 homestand against two of the league’s top teams, the Nationals have a chance for a winning week with one more victory.

Manager Davey Martinez has altered his game plan due to the injury of pitcher Michael Soroka. Tonight, 25-year-old right-hander Brad Lord will make his first career start after three appearances from the bullpen. With Lord likely limited to 45-50 pitches, Jackson Rutledge is expected to follow, poised to provide multiple innings.

“We’re excited to see Brad get this opportunity,” Martinez said. “He’s shown us flashes in relief, and we believe he can excel as a starter.”

As the game progresses, the Nationals may need to strategize their bullpen further, particularly if they find themselves vying for a win in the late innings. Martinez has indicated that Kyle Finnegan, who has pitched for three consecutive days, will not be used again, leaving questions about who will close the game.

Offensively, the Nationals have significantly improved during this homestand compared to their performance in the season’s opening week. They recently scored six runs against the Dodgers, aiming to replicate this success against Los Angeles’ fill-in starter Justin Wrobleski.

Wrobleski, 24, was called up from Triple-A Oklahoma City to replace the injured Blake Snell, who is sidelined with left shoulder inflammation. Wrobleski, the Dodgers’ 11th-ranked prospect, made six big league starts last season and enters this game after a strong showing in his first start of the season, where he pitched 5.2 scoreless innings in Triple-A.

“I’m excited to make my debut,” Wrobleski said. “I’ve been preparing for this moment, and I’ll do my best to help the team.”

This match will also serve as a pivotal moment for the Dodgers as they seek to recover from their recent losses, including the first series defeat of the year against the Philadelphia Phillies. Manager Dave Roberts is making lineup adjustments to address performance inconsistencies, notably moving Tommy Edman to the outfield.

Andy Pages, whose recent performance has raised concerns, will not start for the game. “We’re looking for consistency, and giving Andy a day off is part of that process,” Roberts explained.

With the series on the line and both teams aiming for victory, tonight’s game promises to be a closely contested battle filled with both strategic planning and raw athleticism. Fans can tune in to MASN or listen via radio on 106.7 FM.