By Mmesoma 
DETROIT — James Wood delivered a career performance Tuesday night, recording five hits — including his 23rd home run of the season — to lead the Washington Nationals to an 11-7 victory over the Detroit Tigers at Comerica Park.
The 21-year-old outfielder was a force at the plate, going 5-for-6 with a home run, two doubles, three RBIs, and three runs scored. His offensive explosion powered the Nationals in a game marked by heavy hitting and momentum swings.
“James was locked in from the first pitch,” said Nationals manager Dave Martinez. “He’s growing into the player we all knew he could be, and tonight was a glimpse of that star potential.”
Wood’s solo shot in the third inning broke a 3-3 tie and gave Washington a lead they wouldn’t relinquish. His fifth hit — a sharp single in the ninth — put an exclamation point on a dominant night and made him the youngest National to record a five-hit game since the team relocated to D.C.
The Nationals’ offense was relentless throughout the game, amassing 15 hits. CJ Abrams added three hits and drove in two runs, while Lane Thomas contributed a pair of RBIs.
On the mound, Patrick Corbin (3-9) earned the win despite a rocky outing. The left-hander allowed five runs on eight hits over five innings but was backed by Washington’s offensive outburst.
Detroit attempted a comeback late in the game, cutting the deficit to 9-7 in the seventh, thanks to a two-run double from Spencer Torkelson. But the Nationals answered quickly, tacking on two insurance runs in the eighth to seal the win.
Tigers starter Casey Mize (2-6) lasted just 4.1 innings, surrendering six runs on nine hits, including Wood’s home run.
With the win, the Nationals snapped a three-game losing streak and improved to 41-45 on the season.
“It feels good to get back in the win column,” Wood said postgame. “I just wanted to stay aggressive and help the team any way I could.”
The series continues Wednesday night, with Jake Irvin scheduled to take the mound for Washington.