Fedde returns from IL in style as Nats take G1

WASHINGTON -- Taking the mound for the first time since May 16, right-hander Erick Fedde delivered five scoreless innings in his return from the injured list to lead the Nationals to a 2-0 win over the Giants on Saturday afternoon in Game 1 of a split doubleheader at Nationals Park.

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“It was awesome,” Fedde said. “That was a really frustrating month to miss out on, and just to be able to get out and compete again made me realize how much I missed it.”

Fedde was sidelined because of COVID-19 protocols after he threw an impressive, season-high seven scoreless frames against the D-backs. He worked his way back through a Minor League rehab start with High-A Wilmington and bullpen sessions.

“When they called me and told me, I was shocked,” Fedde said of the test result. “Obviously I’m not a scientist or anything, but I was vaccinated and I felt great. It was unfortunate, but I’m more thankful that I didn’t pass it around the team or anything.”

Fedde recorded seven strikeouts and allowed four hits over 82 pitches (51 strikes). He did not allow a walk for the first time in 19 starts, dating back to Aug. 12, 2019. Fedde mixed in his cutter (34%), sinker (34%), curveball (16%) and changeup (16%).

“It was a great performance by Fedde,” manager Dave Martinez said, adding, “Two things that stick out: one, his confidence, and two, his ability to throw all four of his pitches when he wants to and throw strikes. That’s huge.”

Kyle Schwarber gave Fedde instant offensive support with a leadoff home run against Giants starter Kevin Gausman, who entered the afternoon undefeated this season. It was the sixth leadoff homer of Schwarber’s career, and it traveled a Statcast-estimated 426 feet at an exit velocity of 111 mph.

“It was awesome Schwarber could give us the lead early,” Fedde said. “It allowed me to really pitch effectively and aggressively.”