The Nats cruised to an 8-1 victory on Monday night in San Francisco to begin their west coast road trip. Mark (Live from Oracle Park) & Al begin with the Nationals offense knocking Blake Snell out of the affair after just three innings of work with his new team. The reigning NL Cy Young winner did not sign with the Giants until mid March and therefore missed the bulk of Spring Training.
(05:00) CJ Abrams missed a third straight game, but Mark notes that he did take infield practice in pregame. Abrams has a bone bruise in his pinky finger which likely came on a slide on Friday evening.
(06:30) Trey Lipscomb had the best game of his young career as he had not only had three hits, but also stole three bases, one of which was a steal of home on an impromptu double steal. This was well timed for Lipscomb after struggling in his first home stand.
(11:30) Lane Thomas continued his surge as he clubbed his first homer of the season, part of his three hit evening. Thomas is 7 for his past 11 after scuffling to begin the season.
(14:50) Ildemaro Vargas drew a trio of walks while filling in again for Abrams at SS. The hosts point out how the veteran consistently steps up when given the opportunity.
(19:30) Trevor Williams is 2-0 to begin his season as he only allowed one run in 5 IP on 81 pitches. Last season Williams did not record his 2nd victory until late May in what was a rough season for the right hander.
(23:30) Matt Barnes pitched the final three outs in poetic fashion as he is a UConn alum, shortly after the Huskies defeated Purdue to capture the Men's Basketball National Title.
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