Sergio Alcántara gets the start at second base, shifting Ketel Marte to DH. This should do wonders for the infield defense. But, this also means that Buddy Kennedy continues to sit, despite the opposition running out an underwhelming righty, not some flamethrower to fear the platoon splits of. Hat-tip to Jack Sommers for pointing out that Alcántara has done well in the small time since his return having gone 7-for-23 with a double and a home run.
Martin will need to be careful against the heart of Washington’s order as the trio of Juan Soto, Josh Bell, and Nelson Cruz like to ambush fastballs and put them into the seats.