The Skinny: The Washington Nationals battled back with two runs in the 9th to tie the Florida Marlins but lost when they surrendered a walk off run in the bottom of the ninth. The 6-5 loss puts the last place Nationals at 5-13 for the season.
The Pitching: Shawn Hill started for the Nationals and was the less than stellar. Hill lasted only five innings and gave up four runs. Hill walked no one but did give up 8 hits while on the mound. Hill received a no decision for his efforts as the bullpen was actually hit with the loss Saturday night. Saul Rivera, who has been very good this year, got himself into some serious trouble in the 9th as he only got one out but allowed three base runners and the game winning run.
The Hitting: After three innings the Nats lead 3-0. They got two RBI singles in the 3rd inning from Wily Mo Pena and Johnny Estrada. After falling behind 5-3 heading into the 9th inning the Nationals got a clutch single from Austin Kearns who had a two RBI single to tie the game up at five. Overall it was a night of missed opportunities for the Nationals offense as they left 11 men on base to end innings.
What’s Next?: The Nationals wrap up their series in Miami against the Marlins at 1:00 this afternoon. Odalis Perez will get the start for Washington. Following today’s game the team will head north to start a series with the Atlanta Braves.