Nats take on Tampa Bay

The Nats get a break from the NL East for the next 15 games. They begin Interleague play tonight against the Rays at Tropicana Field. Washington is 37-38 in Interleague games and 2-1 against the Rays since relocating to DC in 2005. RHP Craig Stammen is seeking his first Major League victory.

The pitchers will get a break from the batter’s box this weekend. The Nationals will use the designated hitter for the first time this season. Here’s a look at the current Nationals who have experience serving as the DH during their careers:

BATTER AB R H HR RBI AVG

Nick Johnson 294 50 77 12 46 .262

Elijah Dukes 36 5 7 2 6 .194

Adam Dunn 36 8 10 3 5 .278

Josh Willingham 20 3 5 0 3 .250

Willie Harris 8 2 1 0 1 .125

Ryan Zimmerman 5 0 0 0 0 .000

Josh Bard 4 1 0 0 0 .000

Ronnie Belliard 4 1 1 1 1 .250

Cristian Guzman 1 0 0 0 0 .000