The Washington Nationals went the first 13 innings Saturday without a run. They were shut out in a 4-0 loss in the opener of a doubleheader at home against the Atlanta Braves, and they continued that scoreless streak through the first four innings of game two. But after tacking on seven hits and five runs over the final five innings, the Nats grabbed a 5-2 win to snap a three-game losing skid and maintain a 2.5-game lead over Atlanta in the N.L. East.
Starting pitcher John Lannan was credited with the win after lasting seven innings and giving up two runs.
All five of the Nats' runs came between the fifth and eighth innings. They took the lead for good in the seventh when a single from Roger Bernadina drove in catcher Sandy Leon to give them a 3-2 edge they wouldn't surrender.
Closer Tyler Clippard came on for the ninth inning to record the save.
The final game of the four-game series is scheduled for Sunday at Nationals Park at 1:35 p.m. EST.
For all things Nationals, check out Federal Baseball. For the Atlanta Braves perspective, head over to Talking Chop. Stay tuned to this StoryStream for updates throughout the series.