Nats Edge Braves, 9-8

Matt Skole’s leadoff double in the 7th set up the winning rally as the Nats edged the Braves, 9-8 yesterday afternoon.

Following a walk by Cutter Dykstra (1-1, 2R, BB), the two teammates at Harrisburg last summer moved up a base on sacrifice by Isaac Ballou (0-1). A wild pitch plated Skole (1-2, 2R, K and pushed Dykstra to third to set up what proved to be the game-winner: a sacrifice fly by Kila Ka’aihue (0-1, RBI).

The win went to Taylor Hill, who got the last out of the 5th and pitched a scoreless 6th, giving up a hit while striking out two. Manny Delcarmen retired the side in order in the 9th to earn the save.

Jordan Zimmermann started and went two scoreless innings, allowing a hit and a walk.

Here’s the rundown of how the notable minor-leaguers fared…
• Jeff Kobernus started in CF and batted leadoff, going 1-for-2 with a walk and a run scored
• Emmanuel Burriss subbed for Ian Desomond at SS and was 1-for-2 with a run scored
• Pedro Severino caught the 4th inning but had no defensive chances
• Spencer Kieboom caught the 9th and threw out Mallex Smith on a bunt attempt
• Sandy Leon was the DH and went 0-for-4 with a strikeout
• Matt Grace gave up leadoff single to start the 7th but stranded him at third for a scoreless inning of relief.

The Nats return to Viera this afternoon to host the Cardinals. The 1 p.m. game will be televised live on MASN while the radio broadcast will be on 1580AM. The MLB Network will rebroadcast it at 8 p.m.