Nationals Defeated Tigers in Detroit Finale
The Washington Nationals beat the Detroit Tigers 3-1 at Comerica Park on Sunday.
Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in Baseball
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The Washington Nationals secured a 3-1 victory over the Detroit Tigers as CJ Abrams hit a pair of home runs. Detroit struggled offensively, failing to capitalize on runners in scoring position.
Why it matters
The loss concluded the season for Tigers pitcher Drew Anderson, who now faces an uncertain future as the team considers a $10 million option for 2027.
Drew Anderson pitched six innings on 65 pitches, throwing first-pitch strikes to 18 of 22 batters. Kevin McGonigle reached base for the 258th time this season.
The players
CJ Abrams
He is a professional baseball player for the Washington Nationals who provided the primary offense in this matchup.
Drew Anderson
He is a professional baseball pitcher for the Detroit Tigers whose season concluded with this final start.
Kevin McGonigle
He is a professional baseball player for the Detroit Tigers known for his frequent ability to reach base.
Jackson Kent
He is a professional baseball player for the Washington Nationals who recorded a wild pitch during this game.
Ben Malgeri
He is a professional baseball player for the Detroit Tigers who scored the team's only run.
The details
CJ Abrams powered the Nationals with a solo home run in the second inning and a two-run shot in the seventh. Ben Malgeri scored the only run for the Tigers in the sixth inning after a wild pitch by Jackson Kent.
Timeline
September 22, 2026: The Washington Nationals defeated the Detroit Tigers at Comerica Park.
Season Trajectory
This game marks the end of the regular season campaign for the Tigers, shifting the focus toward roster construction and contract decisions. The team must now evaluate its internal depth chart and financial commitments for the upcoming year.
The Tigers finish their season 0 for 5 with runners in scoring position, a recurring offensive struggle that impacted their win-loss record. With the season over, fans should track the front office's decision on the $10 million option for Drew Anderson.
The takeaway
The Tigers' inability to convert scoring opportunities defined this final matchup of the season. Management must now weigh the production of individual players like Drew Anderson against the cost of his 2027 team option.
Further reading
For more on local professional play, visit the Baseball section.
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