Nationals complete sweep of Cardinal, advance to World Series

The Washington Nationals wrapped up a four-game sweep of the St. Louis Cardinals and are headed to the 2019 World Series. This marks the first World Series in Nationals/Expos and the first DC World Series since the Washington Senators (now Minnesota Twins) lost 4-1 to the then New York Giants. It’s been just a little bit of time.

The Nationals dominated this series, and jumped all over the Cardinals in Game 4. They put up a seven spot in the first inning, making their way through the entire lineup plus two more. Trea Turner was 2-for-2 with a run scored and two RBIs in the inning. Anthony Rendon, Juan Soto, Victor Robles, and Yan Gomes all added RBIs of their own before most people were even settled in their seats.

Patrick Corbin got the start for the Nationals, and blew through much of the first four innings. He struck out the side in the first and fourth innings, and had ten strikeouts after four. He gave up a solo home run to Yadier Molina in the fourth inning, and things got rougher in the fifth. Corbin walked Harrison Bader, gave up a single to Kolten Wong, and walked Dexter Fowler. Tommy Edman sacrificed in a run and Jose Martinez crushed a double to drive in two more and cut the lead to 7-4.

The Nationals oft-criticized bullpen came on in the sixth inning and rolled through the first seven batters. In the eighth, the Cardinals loaded the bases on a single, a hit batsman, and a walk. However, Daniel Hudson worked out of the jam, forcing Matt Carpenter to ground out to second. Hudson retired the Cardinals in order in the ninth, and it was time to celebrate.

The Nationals advance to the World Series and await the winner of the American League Championship Series, featuring the New York Yankees and Houston Astros. The Astros lead the series 2-1 with Game 4 set for Wednesday evening at 8:08 p.m. Game 1 of the World Series is set for next Tuesday, October 22nd at the site of the AL champ.