James Wood of the Washington Nationals made history on Sunday by being intentionally walked four times in a single game against the Los Angeles Angels, marking the first time this feat has been achieved since Barry Bonds did so in 2004. This rare accomplishment highlights Wood’s remarkable hitting ability and the respect he commands from opposing teams.
Context Behind the Rare Four Intentional Walks
Before Wood, only five players in Major League Baseball history have been intentionally walked four times in the same game: Roger Maris, Garry Templeton, Manny Ramirez, Andre Dawson, and Barry Bonds. Bonds notably received four intentional walks in four separate games during 2004, the same year he posted a .362 batting average and hit 45 home runs.
Despite facing such defensive caution, Wood still managed to record a hit early on Sunday. However, the Angels chose to intentionally walk him in each of his final four at-bats, deliberately avoiding pitching to him as runners were on base during every intentional walk.
Wood’s Impact and Team Success
Wood’s performance contributed significantly to the Nationals’ 7-4 victory in an 11-inning game, securing the series after a loss the previous day. His tendency to be intentionally walked reflects his status as one of the most feared hitters this season.
Now in his second major league season, Wood ranks highly across several offensive categories. After 84 games, he is sixth in home runs with 22, fifth in RBIs at 64, and holds the seventh-best OPS at .938, proving why pitchers and teams are cautious about facing him directly.
The Larger Implications of Wood’s Record
The Angels’ strategy of walking Wood repeatedly underscores how dominant he has become at the plate. In recent years, top hitters like Aaron Judge have also faced intentional walks, but it has been rare for a player to be walked four times in one game as Wood was on Sunday.
By limiting Wood’s opportunities to swing, opposing teams reveal their strategic respect for his offensive threat, while Wood’s ability to perform under pressure validates his emerging elite status in the league. His continued success will be a key storyline as the Nationals strive for postseason contention.