WASHINGTON -- Whenever Nationals left-hander Gio Gonzalez talks to the media after a quality start, it's like attending an award show. First, he credits the catcher behind the plate, then the solid defense behind him and the bullpen that preserved his victory. Even pitching coach Mike Maddux and manager Dusty Baker get honorable mentions.
But giving others credit is the reason Gonzalez is having a solid season in 2016. Before having his worst start this past Monday against the Mets, Gonzalez was virtually unhittable, posting a 1.86 ERA while holding opposing hitters to a .222 batting average.