Nationals’ James Wood Hits 16th Homer, Ties Franchise Statcast Record

James Wood has emerged as a powerful offensive force for the Washington Nationals, highlighted by his recent streak of home runs and consistent hitting. In a recent game against the Seattle Mariners, Wood hit his second long-distance home run in as many nights, including a 435-foot blast with an exit velocity of 113.3 mph, tying a franchise record for most 112+ mph home runs in a season since 2015. His performance has drawn comparisons to past sluggers and generated excitement about his potential participation in the Home Run Derby, where he could gain broader national recognition. Wood's offensive surge has been instrumental in the Nationals' recent success, helping the team average nearly six runs per game over a 12-game stretch and contributing to a 9-0 victory over the Mariners. Manager Dave Martinez and teammates have praised Wood's hitting ability, noting his power and consistency across different ballparks. As the Nationals continue their season, Wood's rise provides a bright spot for the team and could influence its future competitiveness and appeal to free agents.