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The Nationals’ dramatic comeback win over the Brewers showcases the intensity and unpredictability of the NL playoff race.Today in Milwaukee
The Washington Nationals completed a sweep of the Milwaukee Brewers with an 8-6 victory on Sunday. Keibert Ruiz’s go-ahead single in the 8th inning proved to be the difference after the Brewers had rallied to tie the game in the 7th. The Nationals erased an early 3-2 deficit with a 4-run 7th inning before the Brewers responded with a 3-run homer from Gary Sanchez to even the score.
Why it matters
The Nationals’ sweep of the Brewers is an important early-season series win as both teams look to contend in their respective divisions. The back-and-forth nature of the game also highlights the competitiveness of the matchup between these two playoff-caliber squads.
The details
In the 8th inning, CJ Abrams and Jacob Young opened with consecutive singles off Angel Zerpa. After a sacrifice bunt, Keibert Ruiz lined a 1-1 pitch up the middle to score both runners and give the Nationals the lead. Earlier, the Nationals had erased a 3-2 deficit with a 4-run 7th inning, only to see the Brewers tie it at 6-6 on a 3-run homer by Gary Sanchez in the bottom half.
The game was played on Sunday, April 13, 2026.The Nationals scored 4 runs in the top of the 7th inning to take a 6-3 lead.The Brewers tied the game at 6-6 with a 3-run homer by Gary Sanchez in the bottom of the 7th inning.Keibert Ruiz’s go-ahead single in the 8th inning gave the Nationals an 8-6 lead, which they would hold onto for the win.
The players
Keibert Ruiz
The Nationals’ catcher who delivered the go-ahead single in the 8th inning to complete the sweep.
Gary Sanchez
The Brewers’ designated hitter who hit a 3-run homer in the 7th inning to tie the game at 6-6.
Brandon Woodruff
The Brewers’ starting pitcher who retired the first 9 batters he faced before the Nationals scored twice in the 4th inning.
CJ Abrams
The Nationals’ outfielder who opened the 8th inning with a single and scored the go-ahead run.
Jacob Young
The Nationals’ outfielder who also singled to start the 8th inning rally.
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What they’re saying
“We knew this was going to be a tough series against a really good team. I’m proud of the way our guys battled back and found a way to get the sweep.”
— Dave Martinez, Nationals Manager
What’s next
The Nationals will look to build on their sweep as they continue their road trip, while the Brewers will try to end their 5-game losing skid when they return home to face another divisional opponent.
The takeaway
This hard-fought series win for the Nationals showcases the depth and resilience of their roster, as they were able to overcome a late comeback attempt by the Brewers to complete the sweep. The back-and-forth nature of the game also highlights the competitiveness of the NL playoff race this season.