Soroka Returns, Takes Loss in Nationals Start

Washington Nationals pitcher Michael Soroka was reinstated from the injured list to start Wednesday's game against the Cleveland Guardians, following a right biceps strain suffered in his team debut on March 31. In his return, Soroka pitched five innings before struggling in the sixth, ultimately allowing four runs with eight strikeouts and taking the loss in an 8-6 game. The 27-year-old, an All-Star in 2019 with Atlanta, has faced significant injury setbacks, including two Achilles tendon tears that sidelined him for the 2021 and 2022 seasons. Soroka made three minor league rehab starts, striking out 11 in his final Triple-A Rochester outing. He is expected to reclaim the fifth spot in the Nationals' rotation, with Brad Lord moving to the bullpen, and Eduardo Salazar was optioned to Triple-A Rochester to make room. Soroka is seeking his first win since 2023 after a difficult season with the Chicago White Sox.