The Nats lost 7-6 in Pittsburgh, but on Wednesday morning the news became official that GM Mike Rizzo agreed to an extension with the franchise. Mark & Al spend plenty of time dissecting all facets to the news and what it means for the Rebuild. Hear what Rizzo had to say for the next phase, why Davey Martinez's deal got done first, and his commentary about the Lerner's. Is extending Rizzo the right call long-term? (29:00) The Nationals turned an early 7-2 deficit into 7-5 entering the top of the 9th. Keibert Ruiz came through with a RBI infield single, but the game ended with a pair of stranded runners. Dom Smith had a big evening as he homered and doubled and his OPS has snuck up to .701. (32:40) Jackson Rutledge pitched poorly in his MLB debut as he gave up 10 hits and 7 runs in 3.2 IP. Rutledge was drafted in the 1st Round back in 2019 and has spent part of this year in Harrisburg and Rochester. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices