In a thrilling display of power and precision, James Wood, the Washington Nationals’ top prospect, hit a decisive three-run home run that led the Nationals to a 5-2 victory over the Cincinnati Reds and the weekend series sweep.
The game was evenly poised with two outs in the eighth inning when Wood stepped up to the plate. The 21-year-old rookie, who has been making waves with his power-hitting prowess, faced off against Justin Wilson. With the crowd on the edge of their seats, Wood swung at the first-pitch fastball, sending it soaring 404 feet the opposite way to left field. The crowd erupted as the ball cleared the fence, marking Wood’s second homer since his debut on July 1.
This three-run homer turned the tide in favor of the Nationals, giving them their fifth win in six games. It was a testament to Wood’s potential and a glimpse of what he brings to the Nationals’ lineup. His performance drew the Nationals even with Cincinnati in the wild-card standings as both teams are 47-53.
James Wood powered his way out of slump
Wood ripped a single earlier in the game. Before Sunday’s game, Wood had been in the middle of a slump. After a torrid start following his MLB debut, Wood’s batting average rose as high as .320. However, he had six hits in his last 36 at-bats, none for extra bases entering Sunday’s game.
Wood got dropped to seventh in the batting order. Yet, he responded with an infield single in the second. In the fourth, Wood ripped a ball 109 mph to the left field gap. Unfortunately, he got robbed by a great diving catch.
He powered a ball to the center-field warning track in his third at bat. Yet, Reds outfielder Stuart Fairchild snagged the ball just above the top of the fence. In the eighth, the game tied, Wood made sure not to give any chance to the Reds’ defense.
Wood powered Wilson’s first pitch 404 feet into the left field bleachers.
“He’s got no heartbeat, he just goes out there and competes,” Nationals manager Davey Martinez said following the game.
James Wood also has perseverance. He didn’t allow his reposition in the lineup or his slump to affect him. He kept the bat swinging, smoking every pitch he connected with on Sunday. His three-run home run was more than a game-winning hit. It was a statement by Wood for the Nats and their fans, the start of a long legacy wearing the Curly W.
