Lane Thomas hit a three-run home run, helping the Washington Nationals win 7-2 against Atlanta on Wednesday night and spoiling Braves pitcher Spencer Schwellenbach’s debut in the major leagues.
Schwellenbach, who hadn’t played above Double-A before, pitched for five innings, giving up three runs on five hits with five strikeouts, one walk, and hitting one batter with a pitch.
In the fifth inning, Schwellenbach accidentally hit Jacob Young in the head with a fastball while Young was trying to bunt. Fortunately, Young wasn’t seriously hurt and stayed in the game. Shortly after, Thomas hit a home run, giving the Nationals a 3-1 lead. In the sixth inning, Young hit a two-run single, extending the Nationals’ lead to 5-2.
Kelbert Ruiz added two more runs for the Nationals with a single in the ninth inning.
Schwellenbach felt relieved that Young wasn’t seriously injured and credited Braves pitching coach Rick Kranitz for helping him stay focused after the incident.
MacKenzie Gore got the win for the Nationals, pitching 5 1/3 innings and allowing two runs, one of which was earned, on six hits. He struck out 10 batters and didn’t give up any walks.
Thomas had a great game, getting three hits, three RBIs, and stealing two bases. Young also contributed with a hit and two RBIs. Ruiz had two hits and two RBIs, and Joey Gallo got two hits as well. The Nationals stole five bases in the game, which tied their season high.
