Game 54: Thomas HRs Thrice in Cincy, Gray Earns the Win, & Strasburg Dominates in Rochester

The Nats won 8-5 in Cincinnati to end their four game skid. Mark & Al marvel at how not only did Lane Thomas go deep three times, but the Nationals hit five HRs overall in the victory (Nelson Cruz & Juan Soto the others).(18:55) Josiah Gray struck out nine Reds as he lasted six frames to get the win. His evening started off on the wrong foot as Tommy Pham slapped a HR off of him right away, but Gray settled in after that point. The hosts assess how the young right hander has looked on the so far this season. Tanner Rainey notched the save despite walking the lead-off hitter.(31:44) Stephen Strasburg was excellent in his third minor rehab start as he threw six scoreless frames in Rochester. Will his next start be for Washington? How important is his return to the psyche of the fan base?(40:04) Joe Girardi was fired as Phillies Manager. Al asks Mark if Girardi was ever under serious consideration to be Manager when the job was available after the 2017 season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.