Wiemer's Record On-Base Streak Ignites Nats' 13-2 Rout of Phillies

WASHINGTON (AP) -- Outfielder Joey Wiemer etched his name in baseball history Monday night, tying a major league record with 10 consecutive plate appearances reaching base to open the season as the Nationals crushed the Phillies 13-2 at Citizens Bank Park.[1][2] Wiemer's hot start -- a mix of hits and walks -- sparked Washington's relentless attack, which pounded out 17 hits, all singles or doubles, for 13 runs.[1] The streak snapped in the fifth inning on a groundout, but not before Wiemer helped set the tone in the series opener.[2][3] Luis Garcia Jr. led the charge with three RBIs, including a double that cleared the bases in a pivotal third-inning rally.[1] Jose Tena added three hits and two RBIs, contributing to a lineup that dinked and dunked its way to victory with timely contact rather than power.[1][3] Starter Jake Irvin earned the win, limiting Philadelphia to two runs over six innings while the Nationals' bullpen slammed the door.[1] Philadelphia's pitching staff crumbled under the onslaught. Starter Zack Wheeler lasted just 4 2/3 innings, surrendering seven runs on 10 hits as Washington's small-ball approach exploited defensive miscues.[1] The Phillies, playing their home opener, managed only five hits and stranded key runners, dropping to 1-3.[1][2] This victory marked Washington's third win in four games, signaling early momentum under manager Davey Martinez.[1] Wiemer, acquired in an offseason trade, has emerged as an on-base machine, matching the record set by legends like Ted Williams and Barry Bonds for longest such streak to start a season.[2] The Nats' offense, dormant in recent years, showed promise with its contact-heavy barrage. For Philadelphia, the loss raises questions about their rotation depth after a strong 2025 campaign. Bryce Harper went 0-for-4, snapping an opening-series hit streak, while the bullpen blew a late chance to rally.[1] Both teams resume Tuesday, with Washington eyeing a series sweep.