The Nats scored their 2 runs in the 1st inning and Roark and the relievers threw an 18 K combined strikeout which is a Nationals record for most team strikeouts in a game. It was also the 3rd team shutout of the year. The Nats record after this win is 13-4 which ties the Cubs at the moment for the best record in the Majors. The 13-4 mark also matches the 2012 Washington Nationals for the best starts in team history.
Ryan Zimmerman is your offensive hero as he got the clutch hit with Rendon at 3rd and Bryce at 2nd base for the 2 RBI single. Bryce Harper added 2 doubles to his stat sheet and Rendon and Ramos both tallied hits along with a pinch-hit from Matt den Dekker.
Jonathan Papelbon made quick works of the Twins with 1 K, a groundout, and a line drive out in a 1-2-3 9th inning. Oliver Perez had a Hi Lev inning with the tying run at the plate after he took on an inherited runner from Blake Treinen and Oliver Perez got Eddie Rosario on a flyout and a clutch strikeout of Joe Mauer.
That's a final! Strikeouts on strikeouts on strikeouts for #Nats pitchers as they pick up 18 & top the #Twins, 2-0! pic.twitter.com/FInJLaZcdZ
— Washington Nationals (@Nationals) April 23, 2016
WARNING: Adult language NSFW or young kids!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zbPpYLF0xW0
