James Wood’s electrifying walk-off home run in the 11th inning against the Rockies marked a significant turning point for the Washington Nationals, not only snapping an 11-game losing streak but also introducing the baseball world to a rising star in the making.
Nationals manager Davey Martinez expressed optimism, saying, “We kept saying the whole game, ‘Somehow, someway we’ll win this game. We just gotta have the right moment.’ What a moment for the kid to come up there and lift us like that and really get us out of this funk.”
With everything on the line—two outs and his team trailing 3-2—Wood, facing a 1-1 count, launched the second pitch from Seth Halvorsen a staggering 428 feet into center field. He initially wasn’t sure if it would clear the outfield, especially with Gold Glove center fielder Brenton Doyle in pursuit, but it did. “Honestly, no,” Wood said about whether he thought he hit a homer. “I knew I got it good, but I saw Doyle… But yeah, I was just ready for the fastball.”
This was Wood’s first career walk-off home run and his second homer of the game. His impressive exit velocity, recorded at 110.2 mph, signifies why he continues to attract attention in the league—he ranks in the top percentiles for average exit velocity, barrel percentage, and hard-hit percentage.
Martinez praised Wood’s abilities, stating, “Every time he gets up there, I really feel like he’s got a chance to hit a ball 100 miles an hour or plus… If he continues to do that, then the sky’s the limit for him.” Wood’s 44 walks this season already put him eighth in the National League, showcasing his maturity at the plate.
Also, Wood made history by becoming the first Nationals player to hit two homers at least 110 mph in one game, tying Kyle Schwarber’s record of 11 homers hit at that velocity in a single season. Impressively, he has 11 of his 20 home runs this season hit at least 110 mph, matching Shohei Ohtani for the most in the majors.
Trevor Williams, another teammate, expressed his admiration for Wood, highlighting his power and maturity: “It’s almost become boring that every game he’s got exit velos like 113 miles an hour… I’m looking forward to seeing him flourish at the big league level.”
With 20 home runs this season, Wood is on track to become the Nationals’ first 30-homer player since 2019, with current projections allowing him a shot at matching Bryce Harper’s 42 homers in his MVP season.
Despite the burgeoning fame, Wood remains grounded, focusing on team success rather than personal accolades. “I think it was good,” he said after the game. “It just feels good to get back in the win column.”
The positive aspect for fans is the growing potential of Wood, who can become a cornerstone player for the Nationals in the years to come. His performance is not only a reason for present celebration but a hopeful sign for the future of the franchise.