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 7: Reds at Nats, April 12, 2012

Craig Stammen in the middle of tossing an HOV-3 in the tenth.
The Washington Post/John McDonnell

The Nats followed up their fifteen-strikeout effort with twelve Ks in ten innings to win their home opener against the visiting Cincinnati Reds and run their record to 5-2.  Gio Gonzalez struck out seven Reds in seven innings and ran his HOV-2 count to four.  Craig Stammen earned the win after throwing an HOV-3 in the tenth inning.

First Inning: Gonzalez began the game by striking out Drew Stubbs looking and followed it up by ringing up Joey Votto to earn his first HOV-2.

Third Inning: Zack Cozart swung his way onto K Street to end the third inning.

Game 2: Nats at Cubs, April 7, 2012

Henry Rodriguez congratulated after his HOV-3.
AP

A second game, and a second win for the Nats as they downed the Chicago Cubs 7-4 and claimed their first series win of the 2012 season.  Gio Gonzalez grinned through his Nats debut, but Ryan Mattheus got the win over Kerry Wood.  Hot Rod Henry Rodriguez got the save, and the pitching staff sent thirteen Cubs down K Street.

First Inning: Gonzalez wasted no time by striking out Reed Johnson to record his first out as a Nat.

Second Inning: Gonzalez introduced his Cubs counterpart, Matt Garza, to K Street, and sent Johnson packing again to earn his first HOV-2.

Third Inning: Gonzalez added to his tally after he struck out Jeff Baker.