Nationals Vs. Mets Preview: Jordan Zimmermann Starts First Game Of Series At New York

The Washington Nationals remain three-and-a-half games ahead of the Atlanta Braves after splitting a four game series at Nationals Park over the weekend. The Nationals now take to the road to try and extend their lead in the NL East, beginning a three-game series against the New York Mets.

The Nationals will have probably their hottest starting pitcher on the mound on Monday night with Jordan Zimmermann (7-6, 2.35 ERA). In his last start on July 18 against the Mets, Zimmermann pitched six shutout innings, allowing only four hits and striking out four batters. In his last nine starts, Zimmermann has gone 4-1 with a 1.84 ERA. In his last five starts, he has a 0.84 ERA and has not allowed a run in his last two starts.

The Mets will counter with pitcher Chris Young (2-4, 4.11 ERA) who pitched against the Nationals on July 18 opposing Zimmermann. In that start, Young went six innings allowing two runs on six hits in the loss.

The Nationals are going to have to deal with the loss of all star infielder Ian Desmond, who was placed on the DL on Monday with a torn oblique muscle. Corey Brown is the player the Nationals will bring up from Triple-A Syracuse to take his place.

The game is scheduled for a 7:10 p.m. first pitch from Citi Field. Television coverage will be provided by MASN with radio coverage provided by 106.7 The Fan FM, 1500 WFED AM and 1580 WHFS AM.

For all things Nationals, check out Federal Baseball. For the New York Mets perspective, head over to Amazin' Avenue. Stay tuned to this StoryStream for updates throughout the series.