The Washington Nationals (2-6, 3-5 RL, 4-3-1 O/U) collide with the Colorado Rockies (3-5, 2-6 RL, 4-4 O/U) as the NL rivals conclude a four-game series on Sunday afternoon. The Nationals will have Chad Kuhl on the hill. The Rockies will counter with Ryan Feltner. The series is 1-1.
Chad Kuhl will make his second outing of the season in the final game of the series. Kuhl was subpar in his first start, conceding four runs in five innings against the Rays, but was able to escape with the no-decision in a game the Nationals lost 10-6. The veteran right-hander spent last season as a member of the Rockies last season and struggled, posting a 5.72 ERA and a 1.55 WHIP accompanied by a 6-11 record in 137 innings pitched. Kuhl has not had success when pitching against the Rockies in his career, going 1-3 with a 4.64 ERA in 21.1 innings.
The Nationals continue to rebuild and are struggling early this season. They lost the opening two series against the Braves and Rays. The offense has especially been an issue. They rank 30th with only four home runs and were shut out in Thursday’s series opener before rebounding with 10 runs on Fri day. They have only scored more than four runs on three occasions this season.
Alex Call introduces himself to the leadoff spot with authority. #NATITUDE pic.twitter.com/WHHEqXUtC6
— Washington Nationals (@Nationals) April 8, 2023
CJ Abrams was one of the key pieces acquired in the Soto deal. The 22-year-old shortstop is showing signs of breaking out. He is hitting .280 with three RBIs. Abrams went 3 for 9 with three RBIs against the Rockies last season and collected three RBIs in Friday’s win. He is now 5 for 8 in the series.
The Nationals are posting an average of 3.38 runs per game, pegging them 25th. The pitching staff has accrued a 5.08 team ERA, placing them 22nd.