Washington’s emergent ace struck out nine in soggy Cincinnati, and Luis García Jr.’s go-ahead homer helped the Nationals secure a 4-1 win and a series victory.

MacKenzie Gore survived the rain and mud, digging deep to keep this afternoon’s series finale under control just as it looked like it might slip away.And because the burgeoning ace was able to do that,

If left-hander MacKenzie Gore could find a way to get his results to match his consistency, he might help the Washington Nationals become a factor in the competitive National League East this season.