The Washington Nationals, in the midst of a disappointing season that started with World Series hopes but has seen the team fall below .500, decided to revamp their bullpen, pull Danny Espinosa, and notch their first 9th-inning, come-from-behind win of the year, beating the Mets 3-2.
The Nationals had only scored two runs in the 9th all year, but scored two runs off Mets closer Bobby Parnell (4-2). Parnell yielded a leadoff double to Ryan Zimmermann, who is hitting over .500 career against Parnell. Zimmerman then advanced to third on a wild pitch, setting up Adam LaRoche to single home Zimmerman to tie the game.
Shortstop Ian Desmond-already with a home run on the game-then doubled, setting up an intentional walk to Roger Bernadina, which was followed by a sacrifice fly by Steve Lombardozzi to end the game.
Tyler Clippard (4-1) pitched the ninth to get the win. Jordan Zimmermann pitched eight innings and gave up two runs, none earned, for the Nationals.
Earlier in the day, the Nationals designated for assignment relievers Zach Duke and Henry Rodriguez, who were each responsible for blown saves in the last week and had not pitched effectively this year. They also placed second baseman Danny Espinosa on the 15 day DL, activating Jayson Werth, rookie Anthony Rendon, and reliever Ian Krol, who the Nationals received back in the Michaael Morse trade with Seattle.
Ace Stephen Strasburg will throw a bullpen session to determine his fitness to pitch in the next turn in the rotation; Gio Gonzalez will move up on regular rest to take Strasburg’s spot.
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