WASHINGTON — In a pivotal seventh inning, Joey Gallo's two-out RBI single secured a 3-1 victory for the Washington Nationals over the struggling Seattle Mariners on Saturday.

Key Performances and Plays

The Nationals' offense was bolstered by Keibert Ruiz and Jesse Winker, who each had two hits. The decisive seventh inning began with Winker singling against lefty reliever Gabe Speier and subsequently stealing second base. Ruiz followed with a single, advancing Winker to third. After a series of strategic substitutions, with Victor Robles running for Winker and Ildemaro Vargas pinch-hitting, Vargas' grounder allowed Robles to score, breaking the tie. Gallo then extended the lead with his RBI single, bringing Ruiz home despite Luke Raley's throw from right field.

Pitching Prowess

Washington's pitching was stellar, with five pitchers combining to limit the Mariners to just five hits. Starter Trevor Williams was impressive, allowing one run on five hits over five-plus innings and matching his career-high with eight strikeouts. Dylan Floro (1-0) pitched a perfect seventh inning, and Kyle Finnegan closed the game for his 14th save. For Seattle, starter Logan Gilbert delivered a solid performance, giving up one run on three hits over six innings, and striking out four.

Mariners' Struggles

Julio Rodríguez's solo homer in the fifth inning was the lone highlight for the Mariners, who have now lost four straight games for the first time this season. Their offensive woes continued as they were held to five hits or fewer for the 14th time this season and struck out 12 times, marking their 35th game with double-digit strikeouts. Frustrations peaked in the ninth inning when Mariners manager Scott Servais was ejected for arguing a called third strike against Cal Raleigh.

Defensive Highlights

The game featured notable defensive plays from both teams. Mariners first baseman Ty France made a diving stop to rob CJ Abrams of a double in the sixth inning. Abrams returned the favor in the seventh with a diving stop on a hard-hit ball from France, throwing him out from his knees to keep the game tied.

Upcoming Matchup

The series finale on Sunday will see Mariners' RHP Bryan Woo (2-0, 0.57 ERA) face Nationals' LHP Patrick Corbin (1-5, 6.29 ERA).

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