Denard Span Returns as Nationals Face Cardinals

Apr 4, 2014; Washington, DC, USA; Washington Nationals pitcher Jordan Zimmermann (27) throws during the second inning against the Atlanta Braves at Nationals Park. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports

After a close 3-1 victory over the St. Louis Cardinals last night, the Washington Nationals will be back at it this afternoon as they take on St. Louis for the third game of a four-game series. While the Nationals have struggled mightily against the Cardinals the past couple of years and in game one of this series, things should be easier today as Denard Span returns to the lineup for the first time since last weekend.

The Nationals reinstated Span from the seven-day disabled list this morning, sending outfielder Steven Souza Jr. back to Triple-a Syracuse. Span’s return should make things somewhat easier for Nationals starter Jordan Zimmermann as he tries to keep the momentum going after a dominant outing against the Marlins on Monday, in which he allowed two runs over seven innings of work.

The Cardinals will counter with right-hander Lance Lynn, who is looking for his fourth win in as many starts. First pitch is scheduled for 1:05 p.m. and yes, it is ‘Pups in the Park’ day at Nationals Park, making today’s game all the more exciting.

Here are the lineups for today’s game:

Nationals:

Span CF

Harper LF

Werth RF

LaRoche 1B

Rendon 3B

Desmond SS

Espinosa 2B

Leon C

Zimmermann P

Cardinals:

Carpenter 3B

Jay CF

Holliday LF

Adams 1B

Craig RF

Peralta SS

Wong 2B

Cruz C

Lynn P

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