Nats win third straight

The Washington Nationals defeated the New York Mets last night 3-2 to take sole possession of second place, 2 games back from first place Philadelphia.  The Nationals have won three straight and improved to 18-14 overall.

Luis Atilano pitched 5.1 shutout innings, scattering 5 hits and recording 5 strikeouts.  Miguel Batista, subbing in for closer Matt Capps, picked up the save, but allowed a home run in 1 inning pitched.   Capps was given rest by Manager Jim Riggleman, after saving 13 of the Nats 18 wins.   I still have yet to find anything that justifies a bullpen slot for Batista.

Offensively, Ivan Rodriguez had his first 4 hit game for the nationals, going 4 for 4 and raising his batting average to .393.  Ryan Zimmerman (6) and Adam Kennedy (2) each homered for the Nationals.

The Nats send hot pitcher Scott Olsen to the mound tonight against the Mets’ Johnothon Niese.