Nationals Cade Cavalli matches 3-time Cy Young winner with strikeout performance

The Washington Nationals' season has not been a complete disaster this season, as they’re third in the National League East (14-17). The Nationals won't set the league on fire this season, as they’re rebuilding, but have seen growth from some of their core players. 

One of those players who has taken a step forward this season is right-hander Cade Cavalli, who after having Tommy John surgery in 2024, is putting together a solid season. 

Cade Cavalli continues to impress in his performance with the Washington Nationals 

Thanks to an explosive performance from the Nationals' offense — the Nationals scored 14 runs to route the New York Mets (two runs) — Cavalli had enough of a lead to work with to throw a gem. Cavalli threw six innings, where he allowed two earned runs, two walks and struck out 10 on 97 pitches (69 strikes). 

More News: Braves reinstate reliable lefty and DFA 17-year veteran

This was Cavalli’s second straight start in which he struck out 10 batters — Cavalli struck out 10 Atlanta Braves in five innings on April 23. According to the Nationals' communications department, the last Nationals pitcher to have back-to-back starts with 10 strikeouts was right-hander Max Scherzer on July 23 and 29 2020. 

The de facto ace of the Nationals staff after they traded left-hander MacKenzie Gore to the Texas Rangers Cavalli is on pace to surpass his career-high in games started (10). Through seven starts has a 3.82 ERA and struck out 38 in 30.2 innings.

More News: 

• Report: Giants call up familiar face amid Phillies series
• Guardians' rookie infielder is 'excited' for what is ahead of him
• Reds Elly De La Cruz makes MLB history in win over Rockies
• Phillies Jesus Luzardo rebounds in the wake of Rob Thomson firing