James Wood hit his 23rd HR, but the Nationals fell to the Angels 6-3 on June 28, 2025. See how Michael Soroka's tough start cost Washington the game.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
It's becoming a familiar script for the Washington Nationals in 2025: a jaw-dropping display of power from James Wood, followed by the sting of a tough loss. Saturday in Anaheim was no different, as Wood launched his 23rd homer of the season, but the Nats ultimately fell to the Los Angeles Angels 6-3, unable to overcome a shaky start from Michael Soroka.
James keeps showing why he's such a special talent. He's making adjustments every night.
The main event for Nationals fans right now is every single James Wood at-bat. The rookie sensation continued his assault on MLB pitching, crushing a solo shot to right-center in the 4th inning. The homer, his 23rd, further pads his team lead in both long balls and RBIs (64). The National League Rookie of the Year race is increasingly looking like Wood's to lose. 'James keeps showing why he's such a special talent,' Manager Dave Martinez said after the game. 'He's making adjustments every night.' It's that consistent adjustment and raw power that has become the must-see TV of the Nats' season.
While Wood provided the fireworks, the starting pitching couldn't keep pace. Michael Soroka battled through 5.1 innings but was ultimately tagged for five runs (four earned), dropping his record to 3-6. The decisive blow came in a three-run 6th inning for the Angels, capped by a two-run double from Taylor Ward that broke the game open. The Nats' bullpen allowed another run, sealing the team's fate and dropping their season record to 39-44.
Beyond Wood's heroics, shortstop CJ Abrams provided another spark. He collected two more hits, extending his current hitting streak to a solid 8 games. Abrams, who also swiped his 29th base of the season, is a model of consistency at the top of the order. 'I'm just trying to stay consistent and help the team any way I can,' he said. The team also made a move to bolster its infield depth, recalling utilityman Trey Lipscomb from Triple-A Rochester and optioning Jake Alu. Martinez pointed to a need for more infield versatility and a right-handed bat, a role Lipscomb immediately filled by pinch-hitting in the 7th.
For fans looking for more good news, the future continues to look bright down on the farm. Top pitching prospects Travis Sykora and Alex Clemmey are turning heads. Sykora dominated for Double-A Harrisburg with 8 strikeouts in 5 innings, while Clemmey was even better for High-A Wilmington, fanning 10 over 6 scoreless frames. 'It's all about preparation for these guys, and they're showing real progress,' said farm director Eddie Longosz. This pipeline of high-octane arms is a crucial piece of the Nationals' long-term plan.
Saturday's loss stings, but the narrative remains unchanged: the future is taking shape right before our eyes. With James Wood rewriting the rookie record books, CJ Abrams setting the table, and reinforcements like Lane Thomas nearing a return, the pieces are there. The challenge, as it was against the Angels, is putting it all together on the same night. The Nats will look to salvage a win in the series finale tomorrow, hoping the pitching can match the firepower that is quickly defining this team.
