Josh Bell put in a stunning performance by hitting three home runs in the 10th inning, leading the Washington Nationals to a big 9-3 win over the Seattle Mariners on Thursday. The designated hitter's three-run home run put the finishing touch on a record-setting offensive burst, turning what was supposed to be a close pitching battle into a remarkable home run derby. Not only was Josh Bell's big hit his eighth home run of the year, but it was also his second straight game with a long ball, showing he can come through when his team needs him the most.
Daylen Lile ignites Washington Nationals' offensive explosion in extra innings
The Washington Nationals' record-breaking rally began with rookie outfielder Daylen Lile stepping into the spotlight against Seattle Mariners reliever Collin Snider. The 22-year-old prospect delivered his first career RBI with a sacrifice fly to deep right field that came tantalizingly close to clearing the fence for his maiden major league home run.
Daylen Lile's clutch hit opened the floodgates for what would become an unstoppable offensive avalanche. Luis Garcia Jr. added two runs with a double, increasing the Nationals’ lead before Josh Bell finished it off by hitting a three-run home run that stopped the Mariners from catching up.
MacKenzie Gore dominates Seattle Mariners lineup before Washington Nationals bullpen secures victory
Washington Nationals starting pitcher MacKenzie Gore showcased why he leads Major League Baseball in strikeouts this season, recording eight punchouts across six shutout innings to increase his season total to an impressive 101.
The left-hander appeared poised for a complete game victory after James Wood provided offensive support with a two-run double in the sixth inning.
Yet, the Seattle Mariners responded in the seventh when Leody Taveras and Ben Williamson each hit RBI singles to make the score 2-2. The turning point came in the eighth inning when Washington Nationals reliever Cole Henry escaped a dangerous situation by inducing weak contact from Randy Arozarena, Miles Mastrobuoni, and Rowdy Tellez with runners in scoring position. Jose A. Ferrer ultimately earned the victory in relief, while the loss was charged to Collin Snider.
Fans can catch the Washington Nationals' next game on Friday night as they travel to face the Arizona Diamondbacks, with right-hander Jake Irvin taking the mound. The Seattle Mariners return home to begin a three-game series against the Minnesota Twins with Bryan Woo starting.
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