The Washington Nationals dropped the opening game of a weekend three-game series to the Philadelphia Phillies on Friday night, 4-2.
For the Nats, things could be even worse as outfielder Michael Morse suffered an injury when he was hit by a pitch. He exited the game and his status for the remainder of the series isn't currently known.
Starting pitcher Edwin Jackson pitched fairly well for the Nationals, giving up three runs in six innings of work. Tyler Moore entered as a pinch hitter and hit and two-run homer for Jackson in the seventh, but it wasn't enough. Philadelphia was supported by a strong start from Kyle Kendrick, who gave up only two runs in 6 2/3 innings. He was then picked up by a large bullpen effort as six relievers came in to pitch scoreless ball the rest of the way.
The Nats will try to get back on track Saturday, when Gio Gonzalez is scheduled to face Roy Halladay.
For more on the Nationals, check out Federal Baseball. For the Phillies, head over to The Good Phight.