Cavalli Impresses in Spring Training

0:00Washington National's stories, making news on March 6th, Cade Cavali impressed in his second spring training start for the Washington Nationals, pitching four strong innings against the Houston Astros on Friday. The right-hander, building toward his first full big league season, threw just 51 pitches while striking out six, allowing one run on one hit, and no walks. He even added an extra bullpen inning to hit his five inning goal. Here this week, Cavali dominated the first two frames with six straight outs, mostly strikeouts. He navigated a base-as-loaded threat in the third by getting a double play and a flyout, keeping damage to a minimum. His fastball averaged 97 miles per hour, topped out near 99, and he mixed in a new sweeper for a key strikeout. Manager Blake Boutera called the outing outstanding, praising Cavali's command and efficiency. Cavali credited good location with catcher Riley Adams, using his fastball and sinker to keep hitters off-balance, even if his curveball needed work.

1:03Coming off a three-year recovery from Tommy John's surgery, Cavali looked sharp after his February 24th debut. In two official grapefruit league games, he has six scoreless innings overall, with seven strikeouts, one hit, and one walk. The Nationals have not named an opening-day starter yet for March 26th at Rickley Field, but Cavali's every five-day schedule could line him. Up perfectly, he expressed excitement about competing and staying healthy for the team. This story is made possible by our sponsor, see the episode description. Podcasts hit different when the sound comes from your pillow. Once you try it, it just makes sense, S-O-L-I-S-O-L-Pillow.com.