Nationals Rally Late with Bunts to Beat Brewers 7-3

Washington scores 4 runs in the 9th inning with a series of successful bunts.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 1:50pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A cubist, geometric painting depicting a baseball game broken down into overlapping planes of bright colors representing the uniforms of the Nationals and Brewers players.The Nationals' late-inning rally showcases their ability to adapt their offensive approach and execute small ball tactics to overcome a tough Brewers team.Washington Today

The Washington Nationals scored four runs in the top of the 9th inning, using three successful bunts to rally past the Milwaukee Brewers 7-3 on Friday night. Jorbit Vivas and Drew Millas drove in runs with their bunts as the Nationals took advantage of Milwaukee's struggles in the field to break a 3-3 tie.

Why it matters

The Nationals' late-inning comeback win over the Brewers showcases their ability to execute small ball tactics like bunting to manufacture runs, an important skill for a team looking to compete in a tight National League East division race.

The details

With the score tied 3-3 in the 9th, the Nationals loaded the bases with a hit-by-pitch, a bunt single, and an RBI single. Vivas and Millas then laid down successful sacrifice bunts, with the Brewers committing an error on one of the plays to allow two runs to score. The Nationals tacked on another run with an RBI double to take a 7-3 lead they would not relinquish.

  • The Nationals scored their four runs in the top of the 9th inning on Friday, April 11, 2026.
  • The game was played at American Family Field in Milwaukee.

The players

Jorbit Vivas

A Nationals infielder who drove in a run with a bunt in the 9th inning.

Drew Millas

A Nationals catcher who also drove in a run with a bunt in the 9th inning.

Trevor Megill

The Brewers pitcher who took the loss after failing to record an out in the 9th inning.

Jake Irvin

The Nationals starting pitcher who allowed 3 runs over 5 innings.

Aaron Ashby

The Brewers starting pitcher who gave up 2 runs in 2.1 innings.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We knew we had to find a way to get on base and manufacture some runs late. The guys did a great job executing the small ball tactics to put us in position to win.”

— Dave Martinez, Nationals Manager

What’s next

The two teams will continue their series on Saturday, with Washington's Foster Griffin facing Milwaukee's Kyle Harrison on the mound.

The takeaway

The Nationals' ability to adapt their offensive approach and successfully execute bunts in a tight game showcases their versatility and resilience as they look to contend in the NL East this season.