A five-run 3rd, lowlighted by a three-run HR, did in A.J. Cole and the Nats for an 8-2 loss.
Cole was also stung for a solo home run in the 1st and was charged with seven runs total during his three and 2/3rds innings pitched. In four outings, he’s given up 15 runs on 16 hits (four HRs) and six walks with four strikeouts over 12⅓ innings.
Three watchlist players came off the bench:
• Rafael Bautista struck out while pinch-hitting then replacing Adam Eaton in CF.
• Brian Goodwin followed Bryce Harper in RF and led off the 8th with a flyout.
• Pedro Severino subbed for C Matt Wietersand whiffed to start the 9th.
The loss drops Washington to 7-8-3 for the spring.
The Nats switch dugouts at the BotPB to host the Mets on Thursday. Gio Gonzalez is scheduled to pitch for the Nats. The game will not be broadcast on TV, radio, or Obama’s wiretap of the Trump Towers.