Good morning, Washington Nationals fans.

Here are the latest headlines and analyses around the Washington Nationals and Major League Baseball for today, June 28.

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Welcome to the Morning Briefing! Haden here. The Nats play the Tampa Bay Rays tonight. Let’s talk about it.

Leading this Morning's Briefing: Final leg of road trip is in Tampa

After a week on the west coast, the Nationals return to the better coast to finish their road trip. The Nats take on the Rays this weekend. The Rays haven’t had their usual waltz into the playoffs this season. They are a game below .500 with a 40-41 record, putting them four games out of a playoff spot.

It’s been a disappointing season for every facet of the Rays team. The offense is among the bottom third in runs scored with only corner infielders Isaac Parades and Yandy Diaz providing significant contributions.

Unfortunately for the Rays, they have two top prospects toiling away in Triple-A, but both are considered corner infielders by most evaluators.

The pitching across the board has been a disappointment as well. While no individual has struggled, they’ve all been around average, leading to poor numbers.

On paper though, this team is much better than a .500 record. If the pitching can get gain a tick, then the Rays have a real shot at making the playoffs.

Tonight, the Nationals will send Mitchell Parker to the mound to face RHP Zach Eflin (3-5, 4.20 ERA). First pitch is at 6:50 p.m. ET and will be televised on MASN2.

Down in the Minors

The Red Wings swept the double header against the Indianapolis Indians. Dylan Crews notched two hits, including a double. Alex Call hit a home run in game one.

The Senators lost 6-2 to the Erie SeaWolves. The Senators were forced into a bullpen game after a tough start by Michael Cuevas. Daylen Lile doubled.

The Blue Rocks beat the Hudson Valley Renegades 7-5. Kevin Made had three extra base hits, a home run and two doubles. Jeremy De La Rosa and T.J. White also homered.

The Fred Nats lost 4-0. Jarlin Susana struck out nine over five innings.

Featured Story of the Day

Finalists selected for All-Star game via MLB.com

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