Nats erupt for seven runs in first inning to set tone (Nats win 7-4)

The Cardinals had to get off to a good start in Game 4 of the National League Championship Series. The Nationals, leading three games to none in the best-of-seven series, were due for a letdown.

Right?

Nope.

Left-hander Patrick Corbin struck out the side using all fastballs in the top of the first to get the game rolling.

The Nationals then went after Cards starter Dakota Hudson in the bottom of the first, scoring seven runs on six hits. Trea Turner singled and Adam Eaton doubled to begin the rally. Anthony Rendon lifted a sacrifice fly to center field to open the scoring.

Juan Soto doubled and Howie Kendrick was intentionally walked. Victor Robles delivered an RBI single. Yan Gomes connected on a two-run double to chase Hudson. Turner added a two-run single off of Adam Wainwright.

Hudson allowed seven runs (four earned) on five hits while recording one out, throwing only 15 pitches, 10 for strikes.

Corbin has recorded five strikeouts through two innings.

After two innings, the Nats lead 7-0 over the Cardinals.

Update: Corbin surrendered a solo homer to Yadier Molina in the top of the fourth. But after four frames, he has recorded 10 strikeouts. In his last two starts against the Cards, Corbin has 21 strikeouts.

After four innings, the Nats lead the Cardinals 7-1.

Update II: The Cardinals got something brewing in the fifth with two walks sandwiched around a Kolten Wong single. Tommy Edman's grounder to second scored a run. José Martínez laced a two-run double to center field. But Corbin settled down to strikeout Paul Goldschmidt and Marcell Ozuna to end the rally.

Mid-fifth, the Nats lead the Cardinals 7-4.

Update III: Daniel Hudson got the final four outs to preserve a 7-4 victory that sends the Nats to the World Series for the first time in franchise history.