CJ Abrams’ go-ahead RBI in a five-run fifth inning and Cade Cavalli’s fourth straight win powered the Washington Nationals to a 13-3 rout of the Colorado Rockies, extending Colorado’s losing streak to a season-worst seven games.
The Washington Nationals (62-71) cruised to a 13-3 victory over the Colorado Rockies (50-81) on Monday night at Nationals Park, handing Colorado their season-worst seventh consecutive loss. The Nationals broke the game open with a five-run fifth inning, keyed by CJ Abrams’ go-ahead RBI, while starter Cade Cavalli won his fourth straight start.
Nationals’ Offense Erupts
Washington’s bats came alive early and often, plating 13 runs on the night. The decisive blow came in the fifth inning when the Nationals scored five times, turning a close game into a rout. Abrams delivered the go-ahead RBI in that frame, and the offense never let up, adding insurance runs late. The 13-run output was their highest in the series opener and a welcome rebound after being swept by the Miami Marlins over the weekend.
Cavalli continued his strong stretch on the mound, earning his fourth consecutive victory. He kept the Rockies’ hitters off balance, allowing just three runs while working deep into the game. The Nationals’ bullpen closed out the win without drama.
Rockies’ Slide Deepens
For Colorado, the loss extends a painful freefall. The Rockies have now lost seven straight, matching their longest skid of the season, and sit at 50-81, fifth in the NL West. The offense managed only three runs, and the pitching staff struggled to contain a Nationals lineup that found its rhythm.
Compounding the on-field struggles are significant injuries. The Rockies placed left-hander Kyle Freeland on the 15-day injured list Monday with a pinched nerve, after he left his last start against the Dodgers after 3⅔ innings. Key position players Kris Bryant (60-Day IL), Hunter Goodman (10-Day IL), and Kyle Karros (7-Day IL) remain out, while shortstop Ezequiel Tovar is day-to-day. Pitcher McCade Brown is also on the 60-Day IL.
Turning Point: Five-Run Fifth Inning
The game’s pivotal moment came in the bottom of the fifth. With the score tight, the Nationals strung together hits and capitalized on Rockies’ pitching miscues. Abrams’ go-ahead RBI ignited the rally, and by the time the inning ended, Washington had a commanding lead they would not relinquish. The outburst demoralized a Colorado team already reeling from a long losing streak.
What It Means
The Nationals, despite their own injury list—James Wood (10-Day IL), Drew Millas (10-Day IL), Josiah Gray (60-Day IL), DJ Herz (60-Day IL), and Richard Lovelady (60-Day IL)—are showing signs of life, having won four straight starts from Cavalli. They are 62-71, fourth in the NL East, and looking to build momentum.
For Colorado, the season is spiraling. At 50-81, they are firmly out of contention, and the losing streak raises questions about the team’s direction. The Rockies will look to snap the skid in the second game of this four-game set Tuesday night.
- Washington Nationals defeated Colorado Rockies 13-3 on August 24, 2026.
- CJ Abrams drove in the go-ahead run in a five-run fifth inning for Washington.
- Cade Cavalli earned his fourth consecutive win for the Nationals.
- Colorado Rockies have lost seven straight, their longest skid of the season.
- Kyle Freeland was placed on the 15-day IL with a pinched nerve.
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