Nationals Take on Astros in Spring Training Matchup

Jake Irvin looks to solidify spot in Nats' rotation against Houston's Mike Burrows

Mar. 12, 2026 at 9:35pm

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The Washington Nationals, led by recently named Opening Day starter Cade Cavalli, take on the Houston Astros in a Spring Training matchup at CACTI Park of the Palm Beaches. Nationals pitcher Jake Irvin, who has impressed this spring, takes the mound against Astros right-hander Mike Burrows as both players look to solidify their spots on their respective teams' rosters.

Why it matters

With the Nationals' rotation spots tightening up, this game is an important opportunity for Irvin to show he has made real improvements from last season and deserves a spot in the starting rotation. Meanwhile, Burrows, acquired by the Astros in the offseason, is looking to build on his strong spring training performance so far.

The details

Irvin has thrown 5 scoreless innings with 6 strikeouts this spring, while Burrows has tossed 8.2 scoreless innings. The Nationals' lineup features their regular starters, with the exception of James Wood and Daylen Lile, who are sitting, and Robert Hassell III and Christian Franklin taking their places. Defensively, Nasim Nunez is getting the start at third base, an opportunity for him to showcase his skills at another infield position.

  • The game is taking place on March 12, 2026.

The players

Jake Irvin

A Washington Nationals pitcher who is looking to solidify his spot in the team's starting rotation with a strong outing.

Cade Cavalli

The Washington Nationals' recently named Opening Day starter, who has had an impressive Spring Training so far with 9 shutout innings and just 1 hit allowed.

Mike Burrows

A right-handed pitcher for the Houston Astros, who was acquired from the Pirates in the offseason and has thrown 8.2 scoreless innings this spring.

Nasim Nunez

A Washington Nationals player who is getting the start at third base, an opportunity for him to showcase his skills at another infield position.

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What they’re saying

“With the addition of Zack Littell, room in the Nationals' rotation is tightening, and guys like Jake Irvin are on the chopping block, making every start critical for him to show he's made real improvements from last season.”

— Paul Cubbage, Author (federalbaseball.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This game is an important opportunity for both Irvin and Burrows to solidify their spots on their respective teams' rosters, as the Nationals' rotation spots are tightening and the Astros look to build on their offseason acquisition.