Nationals finally get pitching, big hit
The Washington Nationals had struggled for most of the National League Division Series to get consistent pitching and a game-changing hit.
In Game 4 on Thursday, they got both.
Ross Detwiler held the Cardinals to one run, the bullpen shut down St. Louis for three innings and Jayson Werth hit a dramatic walk-off solo homer to lift the Nationals over the Cardinals 2-1 and even the series at two games apiece.
Third baseman Ryan Zimmerman said it was a moment that Werth deserved.
"He had a rough year last year and got hurt this year," Zimmerman said. "I don't think the fans realize how good of a player Jayson is. For him to have a moment like this in front of the home fans and in front of this atmosphere, I couldn't be happier for him."
Adam LaRoche hit a solo homer in second inning that gave the Nationals their first lead at home in the postseason. But the Nationals never had a runner in scoring position and managed only Zimmerman's single before Werth won it.
Game 5 is set for Friday night with Gio Gonzalez facing Adam Wainwright. It is a rematch of Game 1, won by the Nationals 3-2.
Gonzalez said the Nationals must match the aggression of the Cardinals' lethal lineup. "We have to attack these guys as much as possible," Gonzalez said. "They are not going to let you walk all over them. They are going to go out there and compete. And that is what we got to do."
