Game 12: Astros at Nats, April 17, 2012

Gio Gonzalez tossed his first HOV-3 of 2012.
Getty Images/Greg Fiume

Gio Gonzalez had an impressive performance and earned his first win as a Nat, and Brad Lidge saved it for him.  The Nats spun another shutout in 2012 and beat the Astros 1-0.  For their efforts, the club improved to an astounding 9-3 and guaranteed that, once again, they would not lose a series.

Second Inning: It has been reported that the Nats’ starters are very competitive with one another.  If that is true, then Gonzalez did his best to keep up with Edwin Jackson.  After Jackson pitched the first HOV-3 by a starter three days prior, Gonzalez threw his own.  He sat down Chris Johnson, Travis Buck, and Chris Snyder to keep pace.

Game 11: Astros at Nats, April 16, 2012

Stephen Strasburg sent five batters down K Street.
Getty Images/Greg Fiume

Stephen Strasburg earned his second win of the season, and the Nats took it to the Astros as they improved their record to 8-3.  For the second time in as many nights, the pitching staff struck out ten opposing batters, including their hundredth of the young season.  Henry Rodriguez earned his second save of the season.

First Inning: Strasburg finished the first inning with an HOV-2 by striking out Jed Lowrie and J. D. Martinez swinging.  Martinez became the hundredth visitor to K Street with this first trip.

Third Inning: Strasburg sat down Jordan Schafer looking.