Nats Face Phillies Test, Wiemer Bats Ninth

0:00It's March 30th. This is Washington Nationals News today, driven by AI, your team, nonstop. The Nationals are riding high after sweeping their opening series in Chicago, but now they face a real test against the Phillies, who've owned them lately. This marks their first divisional clash and the final series before the home opener at Nationals Park. Manager Blake Boutera mixed data with gut feel on the lineup. He slotting the scorching Joey Wemmer 9th in center field, even against a variety, because you don't bench that kind of heat. James Wood stays lead off. Luis Garcia Jr. hits 2nd. CJ Abrams drops the 5th, and Drew Millas is behind the plate in their catcher split. Rookie Foster Griffin makes his big league debut after shining in Japan. Over and Philly, expect those 3 ex-NATs leading off the order, plus new free agent Adalus Garcia adding firepower. Catcher J.T. Rao Muto gets the night off, while Taiwan Walker takes the hill after a solid bounce back in 2025.

1:02Fans are buzzing about Boutera's bold call on Wemmer. It shows trust in the hot hand over strict stats. The Nats need this win to build momentum against the rival that's been a thorn. Game time is 6.40pm Eastern at Citizens Bank Park, catch it on Nationals.tv or 106.7, the fan. Let's see if the new Nats keep punching up.