Here are a bunch of Washington Nationals game updates from today’s 4-3 victory against the Boston Red Sox at CACTI Park of The Palm Beaches.

Rutledge's Cutter Debut Part II: RHP Jackson Rutledge tried out a new pitch today according to the right-hander: The Cutter. According to the 24-year-old, this was the “second game throwing the cutter in my life,” he said. “So we’ve got to figure out how that’s going to play and just keep throwing it.” The second inning was a lot better for Ruteldge as by our estimates the 24-year-old pitcher who is looking to make the opening day roster after being called up late last season, pitched 23 pitches 6 of which were called Strikes and had 26% Called Strikes plus Whiffs Rate. [is a metric that measures a pitcher's ability to generate swings and misses.]. Fellow Washington Nationals pitcher DJ Herz also appeared today in the game and pitched 22 pitches, 4 strikes, and had a Called Strikes plus Whiffs of a CSW rate % 1 by our estimates.

Young Guns Impress: The Nationals' front office had much to discuss during today's game, especially regarding the stellar performances of their young prospects. James Wood, in particular, continued to turn heads, with both General Manager Mike Rizzo and Manager Davey Martinez acknowledging the infectious energy brought by the new wave of talent. The atmosphere at CACTI PARK reflected the team's commitment to nurturing a blend of youthful exuberance and veteran expertise. “

40 in 40: Víctor Robles

JJ • Feb 21, 2024

Editors Note: This is the latest in our player profile in our 40-man breakdown series that we have started here at the Nats Report. Check out other of our prospect player profiles.

Read full story →

Lane Thomas's Leadership Takes Center Stage: During the MASN broadcast, attention shifted to Lane Thomas and the pivotal leadership role he played in today's game. Manager Dave Martinez, speaking to Dan Kolko and Fran Kevin Frandsen, highlighted Thomas's increased communication with younger players, emphasizing a positive shift observed since late last season. Thomas's leadership on and off the field adds a layer of depth and unity to the Nationals' roster.

Other Notables:

Victor Robles: Outfielder Victor Robles had another productive afternoon as he aims to secure his spot on the opening-day roster. With four games under his belt, Robles has reached base in four of his seven plate appearances, drawing three walks, and today, he delivered an RBI single to center.

Mason Thompson: In unfortunate news, Mason Thompson is out for the season and will undergo Tommy John Surgery. According to multiple news reports, it appears that the 26-year-old pitcher, who joined the Nationals from the Padres in the 2021 Daniel Hudson trade, is set to miss the entire season due to Tommy John Surgery scheduled for Friday. Thompson, who has accumulated 106 games of MLB experience between the two clubs, was hoping to showcase his abilities while the team evaluated the prospects of many players. Unfortunately, he will now have to wait another year. Up to this point, Thompson has logged 103 1/3 innings, allowing 4.53 earned runs per nine. Although his 17.7% strikeout rate and 10% walk rate are both subpar, his 51.1% ground ball rate stands out as quite strong, establishing him as a reliable relief pitcher for the team.

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