The Washington Nationals ended the regular season with a bang, as Jordan Zimmermann threw his first career no-hitter against the Miami Marlins. Zimmermann faced just one batter over the minimum, as he fanned 10 in a 1-0 victory. With the victory, the Nats close out the season with a 96-66 record, the best in the National League. It was the first no-hitter in the Nationals young history.
Zimmermann, who was dealing with shoulder soreness, was given a couple extra days rest before making his final start of the regular season. He retired the first 14 Marlins batters before issuing a full count walk to Justin Bour. From there he would put away the final 13 hitters, notching five strikeouts. The Nationals hurler needed only 104 pitches for his fourth career shutout.
Shortstop Ian Desmond hit a solo home run with one out in the second inning, giving Zimmermann all the support he would need. The Nationals would muster 11 hits, but were unable to push any more runs across the board. Bryce Harper continued his strong play with two hits, including a double. Even in the 9th inning, Zimmermann’s fastball was still humming in at 94-95 miles per hour.
The Nationals will play a five game series with the winner of the NL wild card game, which will feature the Pittsburgh Pirates and the San Francisco Giants. Despite some early season struggles, they will enjoy home field advantage throughout the playoffs. With a rotation that features Zimmermann, Stephen Strasburg, Doug Fister and either Tanner Roark or Gio Gonzalez, they will be very difficult to beat.
In addition, their lineup is very deep. Bryce Harper is finally healthy and rounding into form, Ryan Zimmerman is also back from the disabled list. While the Los Angeles Dodgers are also very strong, the Nationals are the favorite to advance to the World Series.
