Noah Rosenstein
Updated on: October 14, 2024 5:00 pm GMT
As the sun sets on Patrick Corbin’s tenure with the Washington Nationals, fans are reminded not just of the struggles but also of the glory days. Corbin, who signed a six-year, $140 million deal with the Nationals, will go down in history not only for his failures in recent seasons but also for the pivotal role he played in the team’s triumphant 2019 World Series run.
A Promising Start
When Patrick Corbin joined the Nationals in 2019, he was coming off a standout season with the Arizona Diamondbacks. His career numbers at the time included a respectable 3.91 earned run average (ERA) and 897 strikeouts from 945.2 innings pitched. The 28-year-old had also enjoyed an All-Star selection in 2013.
The Nationals’ management, led by General Manager Mike Rizzo, recognized Corbin’s potential and sought to solidify their pitching rotation by signing him. Along with Max Scherzer and Stephen Strasburg, Corbin formed what appeared to be a fearsome trio, leading the National League’s best rotation that year.
In his debut season in Washington, Corbin was remarkable:
- 3.25 ERA with 202 innings pitched
- 33 games started
- Winner of the Warren Spahn Award, recognizing him as the best left-handed pitcher in Major League Baseball (MLB)
His performance reached a pinnacle during the postseason, particularly in the decisive Game 7 of the 2019 World Series. Stepping up when the team needed him most, Corbin pitched three scoreless innings, propelling the Nationals to a historic victory over the Houston Astros and securing the franchise’s first championship.
The Downward Spiral
Unfortunately, what began as a promising career in Washington took a downturn in the following seasons. From 2020 to the current year, Corbin has struggled, recording a staggering 5.61 ERA over 136 starts. His decline has coincided with a significant reduction in effectiveness, marked by:
- 131 home runs allowed
- 237 walks issued
- Just 591 strikeouts in 739.1 innings
Corbin’s struggles have not only impacted his personal stats but have also cast a shadow over the Nationals’ performance, as he has often been a culprit in games that turn into blowouts. Fans began to dread his starts, limiting attendance and interest during his outings.
The Analytics Behind the Struggles
Digging into the statistics, the analytics reveal a troubling trend for Corbin. His once-dominant wipeout slider has been ineffective, and despite introducing a cutter into his arsenal, it has failed to turn around his fortunes. The downward trend raises questions about his physical condition and how he approaches games mentally.
Despite significant criticism and discontent among fans, there has been one constant throughout Corbin’s struggles: his resilience. He has continued to take the mound, never complaining and always willing to shoulder the burden.
Looking Back, Not Forgetting
As Corbin prepares for his final appearance in a Nationals uniform, it is crucial to remember his contributions to the team’s historic championship run. While he will likely not be missed in the same vein as legends like Scherzer or Strasburg, his heroics in 2019 should not be overlooked:
- Key contributor in the World Series
- Vital presence during the 2019 regular season
While his contract might be viewed as one of the worst in baseball history, especially given how significantly he has underperformed, fans should find solace in the fact that he was an essential part of a milestone in Nationals history. “We wouldn’t have won the World Series without him,” reflects one fan.
Though recent seasons have been tough to watch, especially for diehard supporters, it’s worth acknowledging the high points amid the lows. Corbin’s journey in D.C. serves as a reminder that even amidst struggle, a player can leave an indelible mark on a franchise.
Conclusion
Patrick Corbin’s time with the Nationals encapsulates the highs and lows of baseball. A triumphant 2019 will forever shadow the disappointments that followed, illustrating the unpredictable nature of sports. As he takes the mound one last time, fans can remember him not only as a struggling pitcher but also as a crucial part of a championship team—a player who lived the magic of the moment when the Nationals clinched their first World Series title.
Corbin may be saying goodbye, but the memories of his heroics in 2019 will linger long after he leaves the field. For players and fans alike, the world of baseball continues to teach us valuable lessons in perseverance and the bittersweet journey of a sports career.
Patrick Corbin has had an interesting journey with the Washington Nationals. He has faced many challenges and worked hard to improve his game. His efforts have made a big difference for the team. Fans appreciate his dedication and hope to see more great moments from him in the future.
