In a split doubleheader opener, the Washington Nationals defeated the Pittsburgh Pirates 5-3, with rookie DJ Herz pitching five hitless innings for his first win since August. Dylan Crews contributed significantly, hitting a solo home run and an RBI double, while also drawing a walk and stealing two bases. The Nationals built a 4-0 lead before the Pirates mounted a seventh-inning rally with Rowdy Tellez's two-run homer, but ultimately fell short as Bryan De La Cruz grounded into a double play with the bases loaded. This victory marked a much-needed win for the Nationals, who had lost five of their last six games. The Pirates, who recently suffered a no-hitter, struggled offensively and faced the possibility of another as they went hitless until the seventh inning. The second game of the doubleheader was scheduled to follow later in the evening.