HOUSTON – Michael Soroka stepped onto the mound, aware that this could be his final opportunity to showcase his skills ahead of the trade deadline. His performance against the Houston Astros, however, proved challenging, as he struggled to contain the potent lineup. Unable to complete four innings and finishing with a high pitch count, Soroka did not factor into the decision in the Nationals’ 7-4 loss.
From the opening pitches, the Astros’ hitters put up a formidable fight, making Soroka work hard with lengthy at-bats. The first four batters alone saw 28 pitches, with 13 fouled off. Cam Smith capitalized on his chance, securing a two-bagger down the right-field line to give Houston an early lead.
Reflecting on his performance, Soroka acknowledged the difficulty of the situation, noting, “I definitely made my job harder than it needed to be early on… they did a good job fighting off other good pitches.”
Though he faced a jam in the second inning, Soroka managed to record two crucial strikeouts. Unfortunately, after allowing a homer to Yainer Diaz, he was pulled from the game after 3 1/3 innings, marking his shortest outing this season. Manager Miguel Cairo decided to turn to the bullpen after Soroka, despite two runs and four hits allowed, struggled with commanding his pitches.
Soroka departs with a 3-8 record and a 4.87 ERA. However, his 1.131 WHIP and 87 strikeouts in just over 81 innings indicate he performed better than his overall stats suggest. “The Nationals have done really well by me,” Soroka expressed. “It’s been fun… Whatever happens, happens.”
The Nationals managed to take a brief lead thanks to a surprising home run from Luis García Jr. However, they struggled to capitalize further against Astros’ starter Jason Alexander, a pitcher who entered the game with a career 6.02 ERA. Their brief advantage evaporated as relief pitcher Andry Lara faltered, allowing a series of hits that widened the gap in the score.
Despite the loss, Cairo emphasized the importance of using the entire bullpen rather than overworking a few select pitchers. “I want to use everyone in the bullpen. I can’t be using the same guys every day. I don’t want to break their arms,” he explained.
The Nationals experienced some luck as a controversial call on a potential throwing error was ruled in their favor, a rare occurrence in their matchups against the Astros this season. Despite the disappointing outcome, Soroka’s effort amidst pressure leaves room for hope as he may find new opportunities ahead.
Overall, this game illustrated the fighting spirit of the Nationals, who, despite setbacks, continue to look for silver linings as the season progresses.