Game result and context
Washington Nationals defeat Detroit Tigers 3-1 in 2026 regular season matchup
CJ Abrams powered the Washington Nationals to a 3-1 win over the Detroit Tigers, providing all three runs with a pair of home runs.
Final result
The Washington Nationals defeated the Detroit Tigers with a final score of 3-1 on September 22, 2026. The Nationals improved their record to 74-84, while the Tigers fell to 74-84.
Key performances
CJ Abrams led the Washington offense, finishing the game with two hits in four at-bats, both of which were home runs. He accounted for all three of the team's runs, including a solo shot in the second inning and a two-run homer in the seventh. Dylan Crews also contributed to the effort with two hits.
On the mound, Jackson Kent earned the win for Washington, pitching 4.0 innings and allowing one earned run with three strikeouts. Erik Tolman recorded his fourth save of the season, striking out three batters in a scoreless ninth inning. Riley Cornelio added 2.2 innings of scoreless relief with four strikeouts.
For Detroit, Drew Anderson took the loss, pitching 6.0 innings and allowing three earned runs while striking out five.
Season and playoff context
Both teams entered the game with identical 74-84 records. The Nationals are currently fourth in their division, 18.5 games back, and eighth in the wild-card standings, 13.5 games back. The Tigers are also fourth in their division, 8.5 games back, and eighth in the wild-card race, 7.5 games back. Both clubs have been eliminated from postseason contention.