Here’s a thought you probably didn’t have at any previous point this season: The Nationals have a chance to sweep a series. Yes, it’s true. Thanks to back-to-back extra-inning wins the last two nights, they could sweep the Blue Jays this afternoon and extend their winning streak to five games. How remarkable would that be, given the state of this club only a week ago? Obviously, things have taken a significant turn for the better.
Some pregame news to report…
SEE RELATED:
— Jesus Colome, who strained his quadriceps during last night’s game, threw in the bullpen this morning in front of Manny Acta, Steve McCatty and Mike Rizzo and showed no ill-effects. He’s available to pitch again today if needed.
— Alberto Gonzalez is making his second straight start at second base. Acta was asked if there’s anything wrong with Anderson Hernandez. “Everything’s OK with Anderson,” the manager said. “Everything is just very good with Alberto right now.” Indeed, Gonzalez is hitting .333 with 12 RBI in limited action and deserves to be in the lineup, so he’s back at second base today.
— Also deserving of remaining in the lineup is Willie Harris, last night’s hero for his 12th inning walk-off homer. Harris has been equally spectacular in the field, and given the Nationals’ overwhelming defensive woes this season, Acta can’t afford not to keep Willie in his lineup.
OK, here are today’s lineups…
NATIONALS
SS Cristian Guzman
1B Nick Johnson
3B Ryan Zimmerman
LF Adam Dunn
RF Austin Kearns
SS Alberto Gonzalez
CF Willie Harris
C Josh Bard
P Shairon Martis
BLUE JAYS
SS Marco Scutaro
2B Aaron Hill
CF Vernon Wells
3B Scott Rolen
LF Adam Lind
RF Alex Rios
1B Lyle Overbay
C Rod Barajas
P Ricky Romero
