Miles Mikolas played a key role as the Washington Nationals secured a 10-1 victory over the Seattle Mariners on Sunday at Nationals Park, demonstrating significant progress in his pitching following offseason changes in his role and technique. The 37-year-old right-hander, who signed a one-year, $2.5 million contract with Washington this offseason, has adapted to pitching behind an opener—a strategy new to him—by consistently delivering strong performances.

The Nationals began the game with PJ Poulin allowing one run in the first inning, after which Mikolas took over to pitch seven scoreless innings. His fastball velocity reached a season-high 97.1 mph during the outing, a marked increase credited to adjustments in mechanics and training focused on recovery and flexibility. The coaching staff, led by pitching coach Simon Mathews and manager Blake Butera, highlighted Mikolas’s willingness to embrace new ideas and roles as a key factor in his recent success. Over his last six starts using the opener strategy, Mikolas has posted a 3.38 ERA, a notable improvement following a difficult April, which included a game where he conceded 11 runs.

Offensively, the Nationals provided ample support. James Wood led the scoring with his 20th home run of the season in the first inning. Washington’s lineup collectively contributed throughout the game, including a five-run fourth inning marked by aggressive hitting where the team reached base on four consecutive first-pitch swings. Additional runs came from a solo home run by Keibert Ruiz in the seventh inning, and RBIs by Jacob Young, Wood, and Dylan Crews in the eighth. Every player in the Nationals’ lineup recorded at least one hit, with Wood and Ruiz each tallying three.

Manager Butera praised both the pitching and the offense, noting the team’s consistent contribution and aggressive base running that applied pressure on Seattle’s defense. The Nationals have now won back-to-back games after the Mariners took the series opener on Friday, leaving Washington slightly above the .500 mark and holding an 8-1-1 record in their past 10 series.

Mikolas’s transformation reflects a broader trend within the Nationals’ pitching strategy under the new coaching staff, which emphasizes flexibility and adaptation. Despite challenges early in the season, Mikolas’s attitude remained steady, and his openness to adjustments has been instrumental in turning his season around. The Nationals view his recent performances as a promising development as they continue to refine their rotation and overall pitching approach.