Nationals Park
On Thursday, April 24, 2025, the Baltimore Orioles secured a 2–1 victory over the Washington Nationals at Nationals Park, ending a three-game losing streak and salvaging the final game of their three-game series. The win improved the Orioles’ record to 10–14, while the Nationals fell to 11–14.
Starting Pitching Showdown
The game featured a pitching duel between Orioles left-hander Cade Povich and Nationals southpaw MacKenzie Gore. Povich delivered a strong performance, allowing just one run over 6⅔ innings, striking out five and walking one. He improved his season record to 2–1, lowering his ERA to 5.04.
Gore, who has been a bright spot for the Nationals this season, pitched six innings, surrendering two runs on four hits, while striking out eight and walking one. Despite his solid outing, he took the loss, dropping his record to 2–3 with a 3.34 ERA.
Key Moments and Scoring Plays
The Nationals took an early lead in the bottom of the second inning. With one out, Josh Bell singled to center field, driving in CJ Abrams from second base to give Washington a 1–0 advantage.
The Orioles responded in the top of the fifth inning. With one out, Ramón Laureano doubled to left field, setting up runners at second and third. Ryan O’Hearn followed with a single to center, scoring Laureano and tying the game at 1–1. Later in the inning, Cedric Mullins delivered a go-ahead single, bringing home Jorge Mateo to put the Orioles ahead 2–1. ,
Bullpen Performance
After Povich exited the game, the Orioles bullpen took over. Clarke Schmidt pitched a scoreless eighth inning, and closer Félix Bautista secured his third save of the season with a perfect ninth inning, striking out one and preserving the Orioles’ one-run lead.
For the Nationals, reliever Cole Henry entered in the seventh inning and struck out four batters over two innings, keeping Washington within striking distance.
Game Summary
| Team | R | H | E |
|---|---|---|---|
| Orioles | 2 | 4 | 1 |
| Nationals | 1 | 5 | 0 |
Winning Pitcher: Cade Povich (2–1)
Losing Pitcher: MacKenzie Gore (2–3)
Save: Félix Bautista (3)
Postgame Analysis
The Orioles’ offense was limited to four hits, but timely hitting in the fifth inning proved to be the difference. O’Hearn and Mullins delivered crucial RBI singles, capitalizing on the scoring opportunities presented. Laureano’s double also set the stage for the rally, highlighting the importance of situational hitting.
Povich’s performance was a bright spot for the Orioles. Despite entering the game with a 6.38 ERA, he demonstrated improved command and composure, effectively navigating the Nationals’ lineup. His ability to limit damage and keep the game close allowed the Orioles’ offense to capitalize on their opportunities.
For the Nationals, the loss was a setback after winning four of their previous five games. Manager Dave Martinez expressed frustration over his hitters’ approach, citing missed opportunities and poor pitch selection. The Nationals’ struggles against left-handed pitching continued, as they now hold a .218 batting average and a .619 OPS against southpaws this season.
Looking Ahead
The Orioles will look to build on this victory as they head to Detroit to face the Tigers. Right-hander Brandon Young (0–0, 6.75 ERA) is scheduled to start for Baltimore against Tigers ace Casey Mize (3–1, 2.22 ERA) on Friday night.
The Nationals will return home to host the division-leading New York Mets in a four-game series beginning Friday night. Right-hander Jake Irvin (2–0, 3.68 ERA) is slated to start for Washington against Mets right-hander Kodai Senga (3–1, 0.79 ERA).
