García and Abrams hit benchmarks as Nats ride the ‘good vibes’ to a series win

By the Editorial Team · Thursday, July 9, 2026

Foster Griffin pitched seven innings allowing just one run with nine strikeouts, extending his streak of starts with one or fewer runs allowed to seven and solidifying his role as the Nationals’ most reliable pitcher this season. Meanwhile, strong offensive performances from Luis García Jr. and Riley Abrams helped secure a Nationals win, as the team prepares for upcoming games against the Yankees, Athletics, and Rockies.

Foster Griffin delivered another strong outing for the Washington Nationals on Wednesday, pitching seven innings and allowing just one run while striking out nine batters without issuing a walk. This performance marked the fifth time this season that Griffin has completed seven or more innings and extended his streak to seven consecutive starts permitting one run or fewer. The right-handed starter, who has been in the major leagues for over six years but is still considered a rookie by MLB standards, has emerged as the Nationals’ most dependable pitcher. Heading into the All-Star break, Griffin posted a 2.77 ERA, ranking 12th lowest in the league, alongside a WHIP (walks plus hits per inning pitched) of 1.02, which is ninth best. His 110 innings pitched position him sixth in MLB. The Nationals have compiled a 15-4 record in his starts this season.

“I can’t tell you how much value he’s added to us and how much he’s brought to us,” said catcher Keibert Ruiz. “He’s been outstanding. Just every time out, it feels like he’s able to pitch deep into games and give us a chance to win.” Griffin noted that he had nearly all seven of his pitches working effectively, managing to stay within the strike zone and keep hitters off balance.

Meanwhile, right-handed pitcher Jake Irvin threw 30 pitches against live hitters on Wednesday, marking his first live batting practice since being placed on the injured list on May 24 due to a right shoulder strain. The Nationals have yet to decide on his next step, although a rehab assignment is anticipated.

Offensively, Luis García Jr. continued his hot streak by hitting his career-high 20th home run in the fourth inning, a three-run blast that helped secure the Nationals’ victory. This home run was García’s 15th since June 5, highlighting a remarkable surge in production. Keibert Ruiz and James Wood’s on-base contributions set the stage for García’s impactful hit.

Riley Abrams also reached key milestones, recording his first RBI of the game with a sacrifice fly in the third inning that gave Washington an early lead. He later added his 20th home run of the season in the fifth inning and surpassed his career RBI high by driving in his 66th run. Additional runs came via a groundout by Tena and a sacrifice fly from Ruiz in the same inning.

The Nationals credited their recent offensive success to changes in coaching, which have focused on maximizing the strengths of individual hitters. Catcher Ryan Butera praised the coaching staff’s preparation and the players’ disciplined approach to the game plan. “It’s a testament to the way they prepare, the way they go about their business, the job our coaches do,” he said.

Abrams echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the positive atmosphere permeating the clubhouse. “Just absolutely good vibes in here,” he said. “We have good vibes already, coming in every day, having fun, putting in the work and it shows on the field. Stay present and keep going.”

The Nationals are scheduled to face the New York Yankees in a three-game series beginning Friday, with additional games lined up against the Athletics and Colorado Rockies later in July.

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