THE RACING PRECEDENTS: Comparative dates on which the Nationals notched their 81st win (guaranteeing a .500 or better finish), each season:
2017 - 30th August (132nd match of season)
2012 - 2nd September (133rd match)
2016 - 6th September (138th match)
2014 - 8th September (142nd match)
2013 - 17th September (151st match)
2018 - 26th September (159th match)
2005 - 28th September (159th match) - final win of season
2015 - 1st October (159th match)
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2011 - finished 80-81
2007 - finished 73-89
2006 - finished 71-91
2010 - finished 69-93
2008 - finished 59-102
2009 - finished 59-103