The Fredericksburg Nationals defeated the Fayetteville Woodpeckers 4-1 on July 24, 2026, at Virginia Credit Union Stadium in Fredericksburg, Virginia, evening the Single-A series at two games apiece. The victory was driven by timely offense and strong pitching performances from key players.
Fredericksburg Scores Early to Take Control
The Nationals scored the first runs of the game in the bottom of the second inning. Juan Cruz started the frame with a walk, followed by an Elian Soto single and a walk to Jordan Williams, loading the bases with no outs. Jamison Jones and Manny Cabrera delivered sacrifice flies, driving in two runs and establishing a 2-0 lead after two innings.
Pitching Leads the Way
Landon Harmon, the Washington Nationals’ third-round draft pick in 2025 and the organization’s 11th-ranked prospect, made his first start in three months. Harmon pitched two innings, allowing just one hit. Left-hander Juan Reyes made his Single-A debut for Fredericksburg and impressed by throwing five innings, permitting one run, striking out seven batters, and walking none on just 65 pitches.
The bullpen duo of LJ Waco and Jackson Dannelly closed out the final two innings, safely preserving the lead.
Elian Soto’s Two-Run Home Run Seals the Win
With the score at 2-1 in the bottom of the sixth inning, Elian Soto, a 20-year-old outfielder for the Nationals, hit his second home run of the season and first at home. The two-run blast, with Juan Cruz on base, extended the lead to 4-1, providing critical insurance runs to secure the victory.
The Fredericksburg Nationals will look to clinch a series split on July 25, 2026, when right-handed pitcher Marlon De La Cruz faces Fayetteville Woodpeckers starter Javier Perez at 6:35 p.m. from Virginia Credit Union Stadium.
Maryland Sports Blog Take
The Fredericksburg Nationals showcased a complete team effort in their 4-1 win over the Fayetteville Woodpeckers, evening the Single-A series at two games apiece. Early run production combined with strong pitching performances from returning prospect Landon Harmon and Single-A debutant Juan Reyes laid the foundation. Elian Soto’s clutch two-run home run provided key insurance in a tightly contested game. This victory highlights the depth and development of talent within the Nationals’ Single-A system. As the series moves forward, the Fredericksburg Nationals will rely on sustained pitching excellence and timely hitting to capture the series at home.
Source: Original report
