The Dodgers are feeling good heading into this weekend series against the Nats, riding high after Teoscar Hernández helped them avoid a deflating sweep at the hands of the Cards. Even better, the Brewers dropped their game to the Cubs last night, so the vibes are definitely lighter and freer over in L.A. Now, it’s Blake Snell on the mound for the series opener, and he’s been doing his thing since getting activated about a month ago.
Snell’s Weird Dominance: Walks Galore, But No Dingers?
This dude is absolutely living up to that Cy Young rep since coming back, even with the free passes. He’s punched out three walks in each of his last three starts. That’s a lot of free bases, right? But here’s the kicker: those walks haven’t come back to bite him. He’s given up just two runs in that entire stretch, and get this: zero home runs. Seriously, not a single dinger during those three outings. Keeping the ball in the yard has been his superpower, completely neutralizing any mistakes.
The Nats Still Bring the Firepower (and a Rookie Arm)
But don’t sleep on these Nats, even with the deadline reshuffle. Yeah, they don’t have the *exact* same lineup that led the big leagues in ISO with a .181 earlier this season. That said, this team still has serious pop. Only the Cubs have a better track record against left-handed pitching in the NL than these Nationals, entering play this weekend with a 114 wRC+ against southpaws. That’s no joke, folks. They can mash lefties.
On the flip side, the Nats are trotting out rookie lefty Jackson Kent. This kid was a fourth-round pick, and this is only his fifth start in the big leagues. Fun fact? This is the second time in two days the Dodgers have faced a rookie lefty starter. Which isn’t a lot, but it is weird that it has happened twice in a row.
So, it’s Snell’s walks versus the Nats’ power in the series opener at Dodger Stadium. Can Snell keep the ball in the park again? Or will the Nats finally make him pay for those free passes? First pitch is at 7:10 p.m. Get ready for some Friday night fireworks.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by True Blue LA.
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