Nationals Rally With 4-Run 9th to Beat Brewers 7-3

Washington's bunting attack in the final inning proves decisive against Milwaukee.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 3:21am

An abstract expressionist painting in vibrant neon colors, capturing the frenetic energy of a baseball player bunting the ball, with the player's form dissolving into a blur of brushstrokes.The Nationals' late-inning bunting barrage fueled their comeback victory over the Brewers, showcasing their ability to adapt their offensive strategy to the situation.Today in Milwaukee

The Washington Nationals scored four runs in the top of the ninth inning, including two runs driven in on successful bunts, to come from behind and defeat the Milwaukee Brewers 7-3 on Friday night.

Why it matters

The Nationals' comeback victory, fueled by their effective bunting strategy in the late innings, showcases their ability to adapt their offensive approach to the situation and overcome a deficit against a tough divisional opponent.

The details

With the score tied 3-3 in the ninth, the Nationals loaded the bases with a hit-by-pitch and two bunt singles. Jorbit Vivas and Drew Millas then drove in runs with sacrifice bunts, and James Wood added an RBI double to give Washington a four-run cushion. The Nationals reached base three times on bunts in the inning after attempting just one bunt in their first 12 games, while the Brewers entered the night leading the majors with six sacrifice bunts.

  • The game-deciding rally occurred in the top of the ninth inning on Friday, April 11, 2026.

The players

Jorbit Vivas

A Nationals player who drove in a run with a sacrifice bunt in the ninth inning.

Drew Millas

A Nationals player who drove in a run with a sacrifice bunt in the ninth inning.

Trevor Megill

The Brewers pitcher who failed to record an out in the ninth inning, allowing the Nationals to score four runs.

Jake Irvin

The Nationals starting pitcher who allowed three runs over five innings.

Aaron Ashby

The Brewers starting pitcher who gave up two runs over 2 1/3 innings.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The Nationals and Brewers will face off again on Saturday, with Foster Griffin starting for Washington and Kyle Harrison taking the mound for Milwaukee.

The takeaway

The Nationals' ability to adapt their offensive strategy and execute timely bunts in the late innings proved to be the difference in this back-and-forth game, showcasing their resilience and ability to capitalize on opportunities against a tough divisional opponent.