Nationals Rally for Dramatic Win Over Phillies in MLB Opener

PHILADELPHIA: In a thrilling MLB opener at Citizens Bank Park on Friday, Daylen Lile’s RBI single in the ninth inning, followed by his score on a crucial throwing error, propelled the Washington Nationals to a stunning 5-4 comeback victory against the Philadelphia Phillies.

Trailing 4-3 in the final frame, the Nationals mounted a rally against Phillies closer Jhoan Duran (6-5). After Dylan Crews doubled with one out, Lile evened the score with a single to left field. He then stole third base and capitalized on a wild throw into left field by catcher J.T. Realmuto, securing the lead for Washington.

P.J. Poulin (1-1) claimed his first major league win with two scoreless innings in relief. Starting pitcher Cade Cavalli pitched six innings, allowing three runs on seven hits and recording four strikeouts.

Washington initially took the lead in the first inning when Riley Adams blasted a three-run home run, following a walk by Josh Bell and a single by CJ Abrams. Lile and Crews each tallied two hits and scored a run as the Nationals secured their third consecutive win.

Philadelphia responded with their own power surge. Bryson Stott tied the game in the sixth with a two-run homer, and Realmuto’s solo shot in the eighth gave the Phillies a 4-3 advantage. Nick Castellanos contributed three hits and scored twice.

After a shaky first inning, Phillies starter Taijuan Walker settled down to pitch five innings, allowing three runs on three hits while striking out five.

The Phillies, who entered the game with a four-game winning streak, were undone by late-game defensive miscues, allowing the Nationals to seize the victory.