A Look Back at the Washington Nationals’ Opening Day History
With Opening Day just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the Washington Nationals’ history in season openers. From wins and losses to franchise legends and unforgettable moments, the Nats have had their share of ups and downs since relocating from Montreal in 2005.
Opening Day Record:
The Nationals have struggled in season openers, holding a 8-12 record in Opening Day matchups and an even worse 6-14 mark in home openers. Their 2025 campaign kicks off against the Philadelphia Phillies, a team they haven’t faced on Opening Day since 2010.
Interestingly, history suggests that winning the opener often correlates with a playoff run—with 2019 being the only year the Nats reached the postseason after losing their first game. However, it’s been a rough stretch lately, as the team has dropped three straight Opening Day contests and five of the last six. Manager Davey Martinez and his squad will look to turn things around this year.
Opening Day Regulars:
Over the years, some Nationals legends have become fixtures in Opening Day lineups:
- Ryan Zimmerman – The face of the franchise started 15 Opening Days (nine at 3B, six at 1B) from 2006-2021.
- Max Scherzer – Holds the team record with six Opening Day starts on the mound.
- Stephen Strasburg – Made four Opening Day starts, all resulting in victories for the Nats.
- Keibert Ruiz – Among current players, Ruiz has the most experience, set to make his fourth straight Opening Day start at catcher in 2025.
- Mackenzie Gore – Set to become the latest Opening Day starter, aiming to improve Washington’s record in season openers not started by Scherzer or Strasburg (currently 1-9).
The 2025 season will also mark the Opening Day debuts of highly anticipated young stars James Wood and Dylan Crews.
Memorable Opening Day Moments:
2008 – Ryan Zimmerman’s Walk-Off Home Run
The most iconic Opening Day moment in Nationals history came in the inaugural game at Nationals Park. A 23-year-old Ryan Zimmerman delivered a walk-off home run in the bottom of the ninth, marking a fairytale start for the team’s new stadium.
Other notable moments include:
- 2021 – Juan Soto walks off the Braves with a game-winning single.
- 2014 – Anthony Rendon blasts a 10th-inning home run off former Nationals pitcher John Lannan to secure a win against the Mets.
The Nationals’ Opening Day history has been filled with highs and lows, but every new season brings fresh hope. Will 2025 mark the start of something special? The answer begins tomorrow against the Phillies.
he answer begins tomorrow against the Phillies.
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