Nationals’ Gore Eyes Bounce-Back Win Against Reds
The Washington Nationals are looking to ride the arm of MacKenzie Gore to close out their series with the Cincinnati Reds on a winning note. The left-hander has been one of the most stable pieces in Washington’s rotation in 2025 and will make his eighth start of the season when the two teams clash Sunday at Great American Ball Park.
Despite a 2-3 record, Gore sports a solid 3.51 ERA and has been a model of consistency, going exactly six innings in six of his seven starts this season.
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MacKenzie Gore: Poised and Progressing
Gore’s last outing came Tuesday in a narrow 7-6 loss to the Phillies. He didn’t factor into the decision, but threw six innings of three-run ball, scattering five hits.
“He understands what he needs to do to get out of jams and mix in his pitches,” said Nationals manager Dave Martinez. “He’s matured a lot.”
Originally a top-3 draft pick by the Padres in 2017, Gore came to Washington in the Juan Soto trade and has quietly established himself as a future ace. He’s 2-0 with a 2.70 ERA in four career starts against the Reds.
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Reds Counter With Nick Martinez
On the other side, the Reds will turn to Nick Martinez, who’s coming off his strongest showing of the year — a six-inning, one-run win over the Cardinals last Monday.
Martinez (1-3, 4.68 ERA) has made eight appearances against Washington, including one start, and carries a 3.55 ERA along with a save. He’s known for working quickly and around the zone, keeping defenders alert.
“It’s fun to play defense behind Nick,” said Reds second baseman Matt McLain.
Martinez and Gore were teammates with the Padres in 2022, and the familiarity may shape the tempo of Sunday’s game.
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Reds’ Santiago Espinal Catching Fire
While Cincinnati is still seeking consistency at the plate, Santiago Espinal has been a bright spot. The versatile infielder is 9-for-15 over his last four games with five RBIs and went 3-for-4 in Saturday’s 11-6 loss to Washington.
Originally a second baseman, Espinal has spent time at third base and even in left field — giving the Reds needed depth amid lineup injuries.
“He’s more valuable than the numbers,” said manager Terry Francona, “and the numbers are good.”
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Nationals Heating Up Offensively
Washington’s 11-run outburst on Saturday showed that their bats are heating up. CJ Abrams, James Wood, and Nathaniel Lowe all contributed multi-hit efforts, and the Nats are averaging over 6 runs per game over their last four contests.
While the Nationals remain in the middle of the NL East standings, improved run support for starters like Gore could push them toward wild-card contention.
Key Stats and Matchups
Player | Recent Highlight |
---|---|
MacKenzie Gore | 6+ innings in 5 straight starts |
Nick Martinez | 1.50 ERA in last two outings |
Santiago Espinal | 9-for-15, 5 RBIs last 4 games |
James Wood (WSH) | 4 hits, 2 runs Saturday vs. CIN |
Final Word
Both teams send steady starters to the mound in what could be a tightly contested rubber match. Gore’s consistent command and experience vs. Cincinnati give Washington a slight edge — but if Martinez’s last start was any indication, the Reds won’t go quietly.
Prediction: Nationals 5, Reds 4