Nationals-Cardinals, Game 2

Yesterday was somewhat of a rollercoaster ride for the Nationals—after a rough start from Yunesky Maya, Washington struck back in the bottom of the seventh inning, scoring six runs to take an 8-6 lead that they held for the rest of the game. Shortly after that, it was announced that first baseman Adam LaRoche will be undergoing season-ending surgery to repair a torn labrum he has been struggling to rehabilitate.

Also, earlier today, the Nationals optioned Maya back to Syracuse and recalled right-hander Colin Balester to bulk up the bullpen.

Here are the lineups for game two against St. Louis:

Cardinals:

Ryan Theriot – SS
Colby Rasmus – CF
Albert Pujols – 3B
Lance Berkman – 1B
Andrew Brown – RF
Jon Jay – LF
Yadier Molina – C
Skip Schumaker – 2B
Kyle McClellan – P

Nationals:

Jayson Werth – RF
Roger Bernadina – CF
Ryan Zimmerman – 3B
Laynce Nix – LF
Michael Morse – 1B
Danny Espinosa – 2B
Ivan Rodriguez – C
Livan Hernandez – P
Ian Desmond – SS

*Despite some offensive struggles during the 2011 season, the Nationals have scored eight or more runs in a game five times since May 15, including last night’s win.

*Tonight will be the first time the Nationals have faced Kyle McClellan.

*Against the Cardinals, Livan Hernandez has pitched to a 4.71 ERA with two complete games and 86 strikeouts.