VIERA, Fla. • Rarely in spring training can one find an exhibition between dueling aces who embrace the challenge instead of downplay it.
Thursday's Grapefruit League game the Cardinals and the Nationals featured willing competitors in Adam Wainwright and Max Scherzer, but a pitcher's dual turned into a showcase of the Nationals' offense.
Washington beat St. Louis 8-2 in what will be the Cardinals' last Grapefruit League game here at Space Coast Stadium. The Nationals are relocating their spring training home to West Palm Beach next season. Their five-run fifth inning, followed by another run in the eighth, launched them from a 2-2 tie after four.