The Washington Nationals announced prior to their game Friday that outfielder Rick Ankiel has been released. Ankiel, who was hitting .228 with five home runs and 15 RBIs in 68 games, was designated for assignment on July 19 before clearing waivers.

Ankiels struggles in 2012 have had little effect on the team however, as the Nationals are looking to extend their winning streak to eight games and keep control of the best record in the National League.

Here are the lineups for Friday's game.

Washington Nationals

Steve Lombardozzi 2B
Bryce Harper RF
Ryan Zimmerman 3B
Adam LaRoche 1B
Michael Morse LF
Danny Espinosa SS
Roger Bernadina CF
Sandy Leon C
Ross Detwiler P

Milwaukee Brewers

Norichika Aoki RF
Nyjer Morgan CF
Ryan Braun LF
Aramis Ramirez 3B
Corey Hart 1B
Rickie Weeks 2B
Jonathan Lucroy C
Cody Ransom SS
Mike Fiers P

For all things Nationals, check out Federal Baseball. For the Milwaukee Brewers perspective, head over to Brew Crew Ball. Stay tuned to this StoryStream for updates throughout the series. Keep up with all the trade deadline action at Baseball Nation.