Nats fall to Angels 6-3 on June 29, 2025, but rookie James Wood shines with a 2-for-4 day, extending his on-base streak. Is he the best rookie in MLB?
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
Another Sunday, another loss for the Washington Nationals. But while the 6-3 final score in Anaheim might look like just another bump in a rebuilding season, it obscures the most electrifying story in D.C. sports right now: the sheer dominance of James Wood. The rookie outfielder is not just good; he's becoming a phenomenon, providing a powerful silver lining even on the cloudiest of days.
James Wood leads MLB with 12 home runs hit harder than 110 MPH and 50 batted balls over 108 MPH, putting him ahead of sluggers like Aaron Judge.
While the Nats struggled to string together rallies, James Wood was a constant threat. Going 2-for-4 with a double and an RBI, he extended his on-base streak to a remarkable 14 games. This isn't just a hot streak; it's a statement. Over his last 16 games, Wood is hitting a staggering .324/.422/.675 with 19 RBI. 'James is seeing the ball really well right now,' said Manager Dave Martinez. 'He's been a spark for us at the top of the lineup.' His power is truly in a class of its own, as he now leads all of Major League Baseball in batted balls over 108 MPH, a testament to the elite bat speed that has fans and analysts buzzing.
Unfortunately, Wood's heroics weren't enough to overcome a difficult outing for starter Mitchell Parker. The lefty was tagged for five runs over 4.2 innings, unable to escape a decisive three-run fifth inning highlighted by a two-run single from Mike Trout. Parker's record fell to 5-8 on the season. The offense did show some life beyond Wood, with CJ Abrams launching a solo home run in the sixth inning to provide a brief spark. The bullpen also held its own, allowing just one run over the final 3.1 innings, but the early deficit proved too much to overcome.
The loss drops the Nationals to 34-49, but Manager Dave Martinez is focused on the recent signs of progress. 'I think, overall, we've been playing a lot better,' he commented post-game. He's not wrong. The team has been a respectable 13-13 in their last 26 road games and has shown significant offensive life since June 19, ranking second in the National League in home runs. Martinez noted the grind of the schedule, adding, 'We haven't had a day off in a while, so we'll regroup and get ready for the next series.' The quiet day on the transaction wire and in the farm system suggests the front office is content to let the current group continue to develop and find its rhythm.
As the Nats head into their next series, the story remains the same: it's all about the future. While losses like today sting, the daily spectacle of James Wood provides more than enough reason for optimism. With a much-needed day off on the horizon, the team will look to reset, hoping the rest of the roster can catch the same fire that their rookie superstar is bringing to the ballpark every single day.
