The Skinny: The Washington Nationals, after a long run of losing, are starting to win some ball games. The Nats have won three out of four games and four out of six games. The won today 2-0 behind the pitching of John Lannan.
The Pitching: John Lannan was the story again for the Nationals. He improved to 2-2 on the season and lowered his season ERA to 2.64. Over his last three starts, Lannan has threw 20 innings and allowed only one run. Lannan lasted seven shut out innings this afternoon, striking out three. Jon Rauch threw a perfect ninth inning to pick up his fourth save of the season.
The Hitting: The Washington offense put only four hits and two runs on the board this afternoon, but it was more than enough to carry the Nationals to the win. That Nats got both of their runs in the second inning off of Cubs starter, Ted Lilly. Wily Mo Pena and Wil Nieves each hit RBI singles to give them a 2-0 lead that would stand up the rest of the game. Ryan Zimmerman went 0-4 with three strike outs.
What’s Next?: The Nationals will take Monday off before starting a brief two game series with the Atlanta Braves. Tim Redding will start Tuesday against Tom Glavine.