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Struggling Nationals Aim to Upset Playoff-Bound Twins
25 Jul
Summary
- Nationals and Twins set to begin 3-game series in Minneapolis
- Nationals have 41-61 record, Twins 49-53 and in 4th place in AL Central
- Pitching matchup: Nationals' MacKenzie Gore (4-9, 3.59 ERA) vs. Twins' Zebby Matthews (1-2, 6.26 ERA)

The Washington Nationals, currently fifth in the NL East with a 41-61 record, are set to face the Minnesota Twins, who sit fourth in the AL Central with a 49-53 mark, in a 3-game series starting this Friday in Minneapolis.
The Nationals, who have struggled mightily this season, will send left-hander MacKenzie Gore (4-9, 3.59 ERA) to the mound to take on Twins right-hander Zebby Matthews (1-2, 6.26 ERA). The Twins have been inconsistent themselves, going 4-6 in their last 10 games, but they remain in the hunt for a playoff spot in the crowded AL Central.
Despite their poor record, the Nationals have shown flashes of promise, with outfielder James Wood and infielder Brady House providing some offensive firepower. The Twins, meanwhile, will look to their top performer Byron Buxton to lead the way, as he has 41 extra-base hits this season, including 23 home runs.
This series represents an opportunity for the Nationals to pull off an upset against a playoff-contending team, while the Twins aim to solidify their position in the postseason race. The outcome of this 3-game set could have significant implications for both clubs as they navigate the second half of the MLB season.