The Washington Nationals will look to create a Jack and the Beanstalk-type of story Monday at Nationals Park as they look to topple the visiting defending World Champion San Francisco Giants in what promises to be an emotional night at Nationals Park following the death of Osama Bin Laden on Sunday night.
On the field, the Nats and Giants will complete a four-game series with the Nationals leading the series 2-1. A victory tonight would be an incredible morale boost, as the Nationals were not expected to give the Giants this much trouble.
Nationals southpaw Tom Gorzelanny (0-2, 3.97 ERA) is still searching for his first win of the season, but if history holds up, he has a good chance against the Giants. Gorzo enjoys a 3-0 record against San Francisco with a 2.33 ERA in his career. The Giants, led by Madison Bumgarner (0-4, 6.17 ERA) are hoping Gorzo doesn't continue to play the Giant Killer.
Nats outfielder Michael Morse will see time as the starting first baseman, while infielder Brian Bixler takes over duties at third base. Jerry Hairston Jr. is in left field.
To add further excitement and a national flare to the game, it is Military Appreciation Night at Nationals Park. Scores of tickets have been reserved for members of the armed forces, and there will be plenty of videos and other honorariums for the men and women serving, including a fly over by the U.S Coast Guard. As coincidence would have it, this comes less than 24 hours after a successful U.S. military operation that struck a deep blow on the War On Terror. It is expected to be a big night in Washington and at Nationals Park, with the Nats hoping to make it even bigger.
Nationals Lineup
Danny Espinosa - 2B
Rick Ankiel - CF
Jayson Werth - RF
Wilson Ramos - C
Ian Desmond - SS
MIchael Morse - 1B
Jerry Hairston Jr. - LF
Brian Bixler - 3B
Tom Gorzelanny - SP