The Washington Nationals will look to continue their streaky play on Saturday night in the second game of their weekend series against the Mets. A Michael Morse grand slam and a two-run homer from Bryce Harper clinched a win on Friday against Johan Santana. The pitching staff is a big reason for their strong play over the past two weeks and Ross Detwiler hurled another quality game on Friday, earning his seventh win of the season.
Edwin Jackson will now take the ball for Davey Johnson and try to clinch the series against the division rivals in game two. Jackson was a bit shaky in his last appearance in Arizona, giving up five runs in 5.2 innings. But, with the Nationals seemingly doing everything right these days, the effort was still good enough for the win. Jonathon Niese, who struck out eight and allowed just one run during his last start against the Nats, will go for the Mets.
Despite having the best record in the game, Friday marked just the first time all season Washington had their ideal lineup active and playing. That group will look to settle in during the stretch run and continue their winning ways on Saturday.
For more on the Nationals, check out Federal Baseball and stay tuned to SB Nation D.C. Head over to Amazin' Avenue and SB Nation New York for more on the Mets.