Zimmermann Seeks 10th Win Against Indians

After last night’s crushing walk-off defeat, the Nationals’ offense will look to get going after managing only two hits last night. The three players who drew complaints for being in the Nats’ lineup yesterday are all sitting: Roger Bernadina, Chad Tracy, and Steve Lombardozzi. In a move that many fans will be happy about, hot-hitting Anthony Rendon will be hitting second, a spot traditionally and irresponsibly filled with overmatched hitters. Rendon was benched yesterday in favor of Lombardozzi. The Nats will also start fellow rookies Jeff Kobernus in left and Chris Marrero at DH, who have had a combined 15 major league at-bats this season. Their opponent might help facilitate a bit of offense: Scott Kazmir (3-4, 5.33) has not been sharp this year, and allowed four runs in back-to-back outings. For the Nats, Jordan Zimmermann (9-3, 2.00) has been extremely sharp of late, allowing six hits over fifteen shutout innings in his last two starts. If he gets a win today, he will tie Adam Wainwrightfor the most in baseball with 10. Here are tonight’s lineups:

Jun 4, 2013; Washington, DC, USA;Washington Nationals pitcher Jordan Zimmermann (27) throws a pitch during the game against the New York Mets at Nationals Park. Mandatory Credit: Evan Habeeb-USA TODAY Sports

Washington

Denard Span CF

Rendon 2B

Ryan Zimmerman 3B

Jayson Werth RF

Adam LaRoche 1B

Ian Desmond SS

Marrero DH

Kurt Suzuki C

Kobernus LF

Cleveland

Michael Bourn CF