Dodgers Vs. Nationals Recap: Hernandez Hurt By Home Runs

After a frustrating three-game series against the San Diego Padres, the Los Angeles Dodgers welcomed the Washington Nationals to Chavez Ravine on Monday for the start of a three-game set. The Nationals entered the matchup with a one-game lead over the Dodgers for the best record in the National League.

Rather than starting Sunday as initially scheduled, Roberto Hernandez was purposely pushed back one day so he could face the Nationals, who he’s pitched well against. Hernandez was in hot water early as he went to a full count against the first two batters of the game.

The Dodger starter recorded outs each time, then gave up a solo home run to Jayson Werth. With the Dodgers trailing 1-0 early, Matt Kemp pushed them ahead with a two-run opposite field home run and the Dodgers led 2-1 going to the second inning.

Hernandez fell victim to the long ball again in the third, this time to Asdrubal Cabrera, who tied the game with his solo home run. After Hernandez got Gio Gonzalez to ground out, Denard Span reclaimed the lead for the Nationals behind a solo home run to right-center.

Gordon was ruled safe on an infield single to leadoff the bottom of the third, but the call was overturned after a challenge. Gonzalez proceeded to retire the next two batters and the Nationals led 3-2 at the end of three innings.

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