Manager Jim Riggleman decided to make a few changes in the line-up Saturday night and they are unique to say the least. Sensing he wasn't getting the production needed and expected at the lead-off position (he wasn't), Riggleman switched out outfielder Roger Bernadina for Jayson Werth.
Werth will be leading off against the San Diego Padres and pitcher Clayton Richard (2-7, 4.20 ERA) and it is the first time the scruffy right fielder will lead off this season. Bernadina has been moved to batting ninth which is usually reserved for the pitcher. Pitcher John Lannan (3-5, 3.79 ERA) will actually be batting eighth in hopes that Werth has more opportunities to drive in runs. Werth isn't your typical lead off hitter, but his .345 on-base percentage is one of Riggleman's only options right now.
If only runs were given for creativity.
The line-up isn't the only thing changing tonight. The Nationals and Padres will be sporting throwback uniforms from 1936 Saturday night as part of the 75th Anniversary of the San Diego franchise's inaugural season. The Nats will be sporting their '36 Washington Senators uniforms while the Padres will be sporting the jerseys their predecessors wore in the same period. Some sort of pin stripes we hear.
Saturday's game is the third in a four-game series between the teams with first pitch at 8:35 P.M. EST. The Nationals will complete their eleven game West Coast road trip Sunday against San Diego before having an off day on Monday.