Nationals' A.J. Cole: Pulled in third inning Sunday versus Pirates

Cole allowed three runs on a hit and three walks across just 2.2 innings Sunday versus the Pirates. He struck out three before being ejected for throwing behind Jung Ho Kang.

Analysis:

Cole dug himself an early hole Sunday, loading the bases and allowing three runs in the first inning. He has regressed after impressing in his first handful of outings, and his 6.48 ERA over his last four outings has elevated his season mark to 5.09. He'll look to get back on track Friday versus the Marlins in his final start of the regular season, assuming he isn't suspended for the incident.