The Washington Nationals did not have a good showing in their finale against the Cincinnati Reds on Thursday, but they still were able to come away with a series victory to get their stretch of 16 consecutive games off to a solid start.

Pitching was an issue for the Nationals during this set. While the starting pitchers were the main problem -- especially in the finale two contests -- recent waiver claim Zak Kent also gave up four earned runs across his two appearances. And now, he will spend some time with Triple-A Rochester.

According to Spencer Nusbaum of The Athletic , Washington decided to option Kent following Thursday's contest. The corresponding move will be to recall left-handed pitcher Andrew Alvarez, which will be his second stint with the big league club this year.

Nationals Upgrade Their Pitching Staff Before Homestand

Washington Nationals pitcher Andrew Alvarez | Brad Mills-Imagn Images

It will be interesting to see how Alvarez is utilized this time around.…