Nationals 9, Marlins 6

Washington Nationals starter Colin Balester pitched five innings allowing only one run to win his major league debut. Balester’s victory was aided by a grand slam home run by Ronnie Belliard in the top of the sixth off of Mark Hendrickson that gave the Nationals a 6-1 lead. The Marlins would battle back in the bottom of the seventh when Hanley Ramirez’ three run shot would make it 6-4. The Nats would extend their lead with a 3 run eighth. Relievers Charlie Manning and Luis Ayala struggled in the eighth, but Jon Rauch was able to pitch a scoreless inning in the 9th to earn his 17th save of the season.