The Nats start this steamy July 4th weekend by opening up a key 3 game set with the Pirates. These two teams are in similar spots in the standings, so this series could have real playoff implications. The Nats will turn to their ace Foster Griffin to set the tone.

Blake Butera decided to go with a lefty heavy lineup tonight. Dylan Crews is the only pure right handed bat in the lineup. Jose Tena will be in the DH spot. After not starting the last two games, the red hot Luis Garcia Jr. will be in the lineup. Jorbit Vivas will be at third over Curtis Mead. As mentioned, Foster Griffin will be on the bump.

The Nats faced the Pirates earlier this year, but there are two new bats that have added depth to their lineup. Esmerlyn Valdez and Endy Rodriguez are both red hot at the plate. Rookie phenom Konnor Griffin will be leading off and playing short. The dependable Mitch Keller will be on the mound.

Stadium: Nationals Park

Time: 6:45 PM EST

TV: Nationals.TV

Radio: 106.7 The Fan

This is a sneakily important series for the Nats. The Pirates are a potential wild card competitor, and getting a series win over them would be big. It is also a fun matchup between two young, up and coming teams. Follow along in the comments down below and let’s go Nats!