Nationals Outfielder Joey Wiemer Etches His Name Into MLB History Books

Wiemer ties Carlos Delgado's record for longest streak to start a season in the last 75 years

Mar. 31, 2026 at 12:49am

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A cubist-style painting depicting a baseball player in motion, with their body and the field broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes and planes in a vibrant color palette.A cubist interpretation of a Nationals outfielder's historic start to the season, capturing the dynamic energy and movement of baseball in a fragmented, geometric style.Chicago Today

Washington Nationals outfielder Joey Wiemer has had an incredible start to the 2026 season, reaching base safely in his first 10 plate appearances with the team. This ties the Expansion Era MLB record set by Carlos Delgado in 2002 for the longest streak to start a season in the last 75 years.

Why it matters

Wiemer was essentially an afterthought in the Nationals' spring training camp, but his hot start has made him the early storyline for the team as they look to compete in the NL East. Tying a historic MLB record is a remarkable achievement for the outfielder, who was claimed off waivers this offseason.

The details

Batting ninth in the order, Wiemer reached base safely in his first nine plate appearances with the Nationals, including an infield single in the first inning and a single in the third inning that tied Delgado's record. Unfortunately, Wiemer was unable to break the record, grounding out to the pitcher to lead off the fifth inning.

  • On Monday, March 31, 2026, Wiemer tied the Expansion Era MLB record for longest streak to start a season in the last 75 years.
  • Wiemer reached base safely in his first 10 plate appearances with the Nationals to start the 2026 season.

The players

Joey Wiemer

A Washington Nationals outfielder who was claimed off waivers this offseason and has had an incredible start to the 2026 season, tying a historic MLB record.

Carlos Delgado

A former MLB first baseman who held the record that Wiemer tied for the longest streak to start a season in the last 75 years, set in 2002.

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What’s next

Wiemer will look to break the record in his next game against the Philadelphia Phillies.

The takeaway

Wiemer's incredible start to the season, including tying a historic MLB record, has made him an early-season storyline for the Nationals. His performance has gone from being an afterthought in spring training to etching his name in the history books, showcasing his ability to seize an opportunity and make the most of it.