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The Nationals put together one of their scrappier ninth-inning rallies today to beat the Mariners and secure a sweep and their 11th win in 12 games. And as they head on a six-game road trip, they're a game over .500.
They beat the Mariners 1-0, getting a bunt single from Danny Espinosa, a break when Adam Kennedy tried to throw to third on Ivan Rodriguez's bunt and a sacrifice fly from Laynce Nix, who didn't start the game because of a strained Achilles tendon.
Jason Marquis didn't allow a run in eight innings, and Tyler Clippard pitched the ninth to get the win.
"Big sac fly by Laynce gave us the ballgame," said Washington's Jayson Werth. "Jason pitched really well, Clip came in and held them down. Once again, the pitching was good, as it's been all year, and we were able to push one across and get the win."
After the game, the joy of an extended run of good results was short-lived - manager Jim Riggleman announced he was resigning as manager of the Nats because he was unhappy with the pace of contract extension negotiations.
Werth said the Nationals had to wipe away the distraction of their manager's unexpected departure and keep focused on winning ballgames.
"We just need to keep going, obviously," Werth said. "We've got a ballgame tomorrow, and over half the season left."
