WASHINGTON (AP) – Sometimes there’s really no explaining why a pitcher not known for strikeouts suddenly turns into a strikeout artist.
The Washington Nationals had no shortage of theories, however, after Tanner Roark fanned a career-high 15 and allowed only two hits over seven innings Saturday in a 2-0 victory over the Minnesota Twins.
Roark (2-2) twice struck out the side and fanned at least two strikeouts in four other innings. It was only the second time in 52 career starts the right-hander reached double digits in strikeouts – the other was on July 6, 2014, when he fanned 11 at San Diego.
So what happened?
“I was throwing four pitches to lefties and righties,” Roark said. “Keeping them guessing, uncomfortable at the plate.”