Washington Nationals at Chicago Cubs

The Washington Nationals secured a decisive 10-4 victory over the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field, a result underscored by the Nationals’ effective use of challenges and a notably consistent umpiring zone. The Nationals initiated four challenges throughout the game, achieving a 50% success rate with two calls overturned in their favor, both of which significantly altered pitch counts during critical plate appearances early and mid-game. The Cubs, meanwhile, did not pursue any calls for review.

Washington’s early intervention in the bottom of the first inning saw an initial called strike against Keibert Ruiz overturned, adjusting the count from 3-0 to 2-1 and arguably increasing offensive pressure on the pitcher at the game’s outset. Similarly, the Nationals’ challenge in the bottom of the sixth inning on a ball call against CJ Abrams shifted the count from 1-2 to 2-1, occurring as the Nationals extended their lead to 7-3 and helping to maintain their offensive momentum. A third challenge, while confirmed rather than overturned, further attested to the accuracy of the umpire's strike zone, which held steady throughout the afternoon.