The Nats began their season in style with a 10-4 road victory over the Cubs on a chilly Thursday afternoon. Mark (From Wrigley Field) & Al discuss the strong start for the offense, as a trio of Nationals went deep. Joey Wiemer got things going with a solo shot in the 2nd while getting the nod in RF. The other homers came courtesy of Jacob Young and Brady House in the 9th for some welcomed insurance.

(12:00) The first lineup card under Blake Butera had a few surprises, including Andres Chpparo hitting 2nd.

(16:30) The bullpen had a busy and effective afternoon as four pitchers combined for just over five innings of work. Brad Lord earned the win as the versatile pitcher is beginning this season in relief. Veteran lefty Cionel Perez notched the save in his first appearance with Washington.

(22:05) Cade Cavalli's Opening Day start only lasted into the bottom of the 4th, but he did record five strikeouts along the way. Cavalli tossed 75 pitches before handing it off the P.J. Poulin.

(25:40) CJ Abrams had a 2-run single in the 4th, but it also included a mental mistake. Abrams admired his long hit, but it did not go over the fence and it resulted in him getting thrown at 2nd base.

(31:00) Update on Josiah Gray's latest trip to the 60-day IL.

(35:30) Miles Mikolas will start on Saturday and Jake Irvin will take the mound in Chicago on Sunday.

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Al & Mark convene just a few days before the Nationals open the season at Wrigley Field on Thursday afternoon. There has been a flurry of roster activity in the past few days as Spring Training is finished and the Paul Toboni Era is underway.

(04:45) Josiah Gray was surprisingly placed on the 60- Day IL on Monday evening (Right flexor strain). Gray has not pitched for the Nats since April 2024 due to injury.

(14:35) Why was Dylan Crews demoted to AAA? Crews was sent down on Friday afternoon to the surprise of many.

(28:30) Harry Ford, acquired from Seattle in exchange for Jose A. Ferrer, will also start his season in Rochester. A few months ago it was widely expected hat Ford would be starting catcher for the Nats on Opening Day.

(31:45) Robert Hassell III, who saw time in the majors last season, also will begin the year in AAA.

(35:10) Season predictions and potential areas of optimism.

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