Jordan Zimmermann pitched eight magnificent innings to lead the Nationals to a 5-1 win over Colorado. Zimmermann struck out nine, gave up six hits, and walked one over the course of the game.
Jun 20, 2013; Washington, DC, USA; Washington Nationals starting pitcher Jordan Zimmermann (27) throws during the second inning against the Colorado Rockies at Nationals Park. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports
Nats bats spoiled Roy Oswalt‘s return to the mound, tagging him for four runs over five innings of work. Oswalt did manage to strike out 11, including Jayson Werth three times.
Adam LaRoche led the charge offensively by going 3-4 and driving in two runs on a fifth inning triple. Ian Desmond started the Nationals scoring with a second inning solo shot to left. Kurt Suzuki kocked in a run on a fourth inning single and Jordan Zimmermann helped his own cause on a sacrifice fly that scored Stephen Lombardozzi in the sixth.
The Rockies were finally able to get to Zimmermann in the eight. D.J. LeMahieu singled to center and scored Josh Rutledge.
Nationals closer Rafael Soriano worked a scoreless ninth in a non-save situation to finish out the victory for the Nats.
The Nationals will send Stephen Strasburg to the mound Friday night to try and make it three victories in a row. The Rockies will answer with Tyler Chatwood.