The Washington Nationals have been under a lot of scrutiny the past 24 hours after blowing the largest lead in franchise history to the Chicago Cubs in a 10-9 loss Thursday night. The Nats had an 8-0 lead at one point and hopelessly watched it slip away until the game's ultimately devastating conclusion. On Friday night Washington hopes to put it all behind them and start anew against a struggling Colorado Rockies team in a final first-half three game series before the All-Star Break.
While the Nationals had a three-game win streak broken by a tough game to swallow, the Rockies are even in more turmoil as they roll into Washington on a five game losing streak. This should give the Nationals and starter John Lannan (5-5, 3.50 ERA) a little more aggression in taking advantage of a team on the down swing in hopes of rebooting their own confidence. Lannan has been solid for the Nationals lately. He is 3-0 in his last eight starts and is coming off a strong no-decision against the Pittsburgh Pirates where he he gave up three runs and walked none in seven innings. The Rockies will turn to Jason Hammel (4-8, 4.31 ERA) to try and get them back on the winning track.
The Washington area is supposed to experience some rainy weather Friday night and while the game is expected to get in fans are encouraged to keep watch on weather reports and prepare accordingly.
Nationals Line-Up
Roger Bernadina LF
Danny Espinosa 2B
Ryan Zimmerman 3B
Michael Morse 1B
Jayson Werth RF
Rick Ankiel CF
Wilson Ramos C
Ian Desmond SS
John Lannan SP