Full Breakdown
Nationals Rally Behind James Wood's Inside-the-Park Grand Slam
5/20/2026, 11:07:52 PM
Historical Context of Inside-the-Park Grand Slams
Wood’s blast was the first inside-the-park grand slam in the majors since Toronto’s Raimel Tapia on July 22, 2022 and the ninth such slam recorded since 1994. It marked the second inside-the-park grand slam for the Washington franchise since its relocation in 2005; Michael A. Taylor hit the first at home in September 2017. Notably, three of the four inside-the-park grand slams this century have occurred at Nationals Park, underscoring the ballpark’s propensity for the unusual feat.
Key Players and Performances
- James Wood (NAT) – 23-year-old outfielder, 53rd career home run, first career grand slam.
- Nolan McLean (NYM) – Mets starter, struggled with control, surrendered nine runs (six earned) in 5 2/3 innings.
- Foster Griffin (NAT) – Nationals starter, allowed five runs over five innings.
- Bo Bichette (NYM) – Delivered two two-run homers, finishing 2-for-4 with four RBIs.
- Luis Torrens (NYM) – Caught a passed ball that allowed the go-ahead run.
- Marcus Semien (NAT) – Committed an error that produced two unearned runs.
Game Statistics and Milestones
- Final score: Nationals 9, Mets 6.
- Nationals erased a five-run deficit, the team’s first three-game losing-streak avoidance since April 22-24.
- Wood’s grand slam was the ninth inside-the-park grand slam since 1994 and the first in the majors in over three years.
- Bichette’s two-homer effort marked his 10th career multi-homer game.
- Errors by Semien and Torrens contributed two unearned runs in the fourth inning.
Official Reactions
Wood described the moment as unexpected and enjoyable, noting he “didn’t think it would be like this” and that the ball’s trajectory prompted an immediate sprint. Nationals manager Blake Butera praised the play, calling it “pretty cool” and highlighting the team’s excitement after critics doubted Wood’s power. Mets manager Carlos Mendoza attributed the misplay to center-fielder Nick Morabito’s loss of track on the ball.
Criticism and Errors
The Mets’ early lead unraveled after McLean’s loss of command and defensive lapses by the Nationals. Errors by Semien and Torrens extended the fourth inning, allowing Washington to add unearned runs. Bichette’s strong performance was largely eclipsed by the Mets’ inability to contain the Nationals’ rally.
Conflicting Reports on Pitcher Records
Sources differ on the win-loss records of the starting pitchers. ESPN lists Nolan McLean at 2-3 and Foster Griffin at 5-2, while Mets-focused coverage records McLean at 2-2 and Griffin at 4-2. Both agree on the earned-run totals and innings pitched.
Upcoming Series Outlook
Washington will start right-hander Zack Littell (2-4, 6.10 ERA) in the series finale, while the Mets will debut right-hander Zack Thornton. Both clubs aim to adjust after the dramatic swing in momentum.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I didn’t think it would be like this,” — James Wood, Outfielder, Washington Nationals
- “When I saw that, I kind of just knew it was a full-on sprint home,” — James Wood
- “He lost track of the baseball,” — Carlos Mendoza, Manager, New York Mets
- “When they get over the fence, obviously I think James enjoys that more so he doesn’t have to run as hard or as far,” — Blake Butera, Manager, Washington Nationals
- “It’s probably the biggest smile I’ve seen on his face since I’ve gotten to know him,” — Blake Butera
